Importance

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Abstract

A rotary drill bit for use in drilling holes in subsurface earth formations comprises a bit body having a shank at one end for connection to a drill string and an operating end face at the other end. A plurality of first cutting structures, each comprising a preform cutting element, is mounted in the bit body at the end face thereof, and each has a superhard front cutting face. The bit body includes a plurality of protuberances projecting outwardly from the adjacent portions of the end face, the protuberances forming a plurality of second cutting structures disposed in generally trailing relation, respectively, to at least some of the first cutting structures. Each of the protuberances is impregnated with superhard particles through a significant depth measured from the outermost extremity of the protuberance. At least a major operative portion of each of the second cutting structures is circumferencially separated from the respective leading first cutting structure by an open space, and is likewise radially separatred from the nearest adjacent second cutting structure or structures.

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First Claim