Applications of diamond to improve tribological performance in the oil and gas industry

Abstract

The use of diamond in tribological applications in the oil and gas industry is reviewed. The high hardness, strength, and corrosion resistance of diamond make it an attractive option for components that are susceptible to degradation by abrasive, erosive, or adhesive wear; such components may also be prone to corrosion owing to the nature of the environments to which they are often exposed. Applications such as drill bits, bearings, and mechanical seals benefit from the use of diamond, while choke valves are the subject of research programs to assess the suitability of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond for these components. Also discussed are some of the conditions experienced by the components and how the properties of diamond enhance their operating lives.