Importance

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Abstract

A modulated bias unit, for use in a steerable rotary drilling system, comprises a number of hydraulic actuators spaced apart around the periphery of the unit, each having a movable thrust member which is hydraulically displaceable outwardly for engagement with the formation of the borehole, and a control valve operable to bring the actuators alternately in succession into and out of communication with a source of fluid under pressure, as the bias unit rotates. The fluid pressure supplied to each actuator may thus be modulated in synchronism with rotation of the drill bit, and in selected phase relation thereto, so that each movable thrust member is displaced outwardly at the same rotational position of the bias unit so as to apply a lateral bias to the unit for the purposes of steering an associated drill bit. To enable the biasing action to be neutralized or reduced there is provided an auxiliary shut-off valve in series with the control valve, which is operable to prevent the control valve from passing the maximum supply of fluid under pressure to the hydraulic actuators.

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First Claim