Abstract: A method for evaluating a cutting arrangement for a drill bit includes selecting a cutting element arrangement for the drill bit and calculating a score for the cutting arrangement. This method may be used to evaluate the cutting efficiency of various drill bit designs. In one example, this method is used to calculate a score for an arrangement based on a comparison of an expected bottom hole pattern for the arrangement with a preferred bottom hole pattern. The use of this method has lead to roller cone drill bit designs that exhibit reduce tracking over prior art bits.

Abstract: A method and system that can be used to automatically calculate and generate performance analysis charts, including a reliability curve is disclosed. The method and system may be used to selectively convert performance records data from a database into graphs and charts reflective of a performance analysis. The invention also provides a tool and method that can be used to predict the effective life or run time of a component, such as a drill bit, based calculated reliabilities for similar components.

Abstract: A down hole cutting tool includes a cutting element support structure. The cutting element support structure has at least one cavity formed therein. A cutting element is disposed in the cavity. Braze alloy is also disposed in the cavity between the cutting element and the cutting element support structure. The braze alloy comprises between about 0.5% and about 10% by weight of at least one selected from the group of gallium (Ga), indium (In), thallium (Tl). Methods for building a down hole tool using the braze alloy are also disclosed.