PILOT-HOLE TOOLS FOR CONTROLLED STEERING

Pilot Bits

PDC and Roller-Cone Solutions for Accurate Pilot Drilling

DRILLNOVA pilot bits are engineered for directional drilling across changing formation conditions. PDC bits provide a fixed-cutter shearing action for suitable medium-hard and mixed formations, while tricone bits use rolling cones to crush and fracture competent rock. Select the cutting structure according to the ground profile, steering requirements and available rig capacity

Products for Pilot Drilling

2 product families · Select a pilot bit to review its applications, available configurations and technical details.
DRILLNOVA TCI tricone bit for HDD pilot-hole drilling

Tricone Bits

DRILLNOVA Tricone Bits for HDD pilot-hole drilling, available with TCI or milled-tooth cutting structures, sealed journal bearings and common API REG connections in standard 5.5–8.5 inch

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Full upright view of a yellow and dark blue PDC bit with multiple cutter blades and threaded pin.

PDC Bits

Diamond Compact PDC pilot bit engineered for stable steering and efficient penetration in hard and abrasive formations, with customizable diameter, cutter layout and connection options for

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Selecting the Right Pilot Bit

Layered formation diagram showing alternative HDD pilot-bore path selections

Use the factors below to identify whether a PDC bit or tricone bit better matches the formation profile, pilot-bore plan and available drilling equipment.

Review formation strength, abrasiveness, fracture pattern and transitions between ground layers. PDC and roller-cone cutting structures interact with the formation differently, so the expected geology should guide the initial selection.

Consider the required entry angle, bend radius, target depth and steering corrections. The pilot assembly should support controlled directional response throughout the planned bore path.

Confirm the required pilot-hole diameter, connection type and compatibility with the drill string, steering assembly and subsequent reaming plan.

Match the bit to the rig’s available torque, thrust and fluid capacity. Recommended rotational speed, loading and circulation requirements should be confirmed for the selected bit configuration.

Pilot Bit Quality Checks

DRILLNOVA checks each pilot bit before shipment. Inspection focuses on the cutting structure, critical dimensions, connection accuracy, fluid passages and overall product condition.

Cutter & Cone Condition

nspect PDC cutters or roller-cone inserts for correct placement, secure retention and visible surface defects. Confirm smooth cone rotation where applicable.

Gauge & Cutting Diameter

Verify gauge surfaces, cutting diameter and other critical measurements against the approved product specification.

Connection Dimensions

Check the thread profile, connection dimensions and contact surfaces for correct fit and compatibility with the intended drilling assembly.

Fluid Passages & Final Condition

Inspect nozzles and fluid passages for correct placement and clear flow paths, then review protective surfaces and overall finish before packing.

Compare Pilot Bits

Compare PDC and tricone cutting structures after the formation profile, pilot diameter, steering requirements and rig capacity have been established.

Request a Pilot-Bit Review

Send us your formation report, pilot diameter, bore trajectory and rig information. Our team will help you identify a suitable pilot-bit configuration.

Related Ground & Tool Categories

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Request Technical Guidance

Tell us about your ground conditions, bore requirements or tooling needs. Our HDD tool specialist will review your information and recommend the appropriate next step.

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  • Model, size and connection review
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  • Response from an HDD tooling specialist

For faster review, include the tool type, bore diameter, ground conditions, drill rig and required connection when available.

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