Patent ID: 6427790
Filing Date: 2002-08-06
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A rolling cutter rock drill bit body with at least one depending leg, a bearing shaft formed on said at least one leg, a rolling cutter rotatably mounted upon the bearing shaft, a bearing cavity formed in the rolling cutter, a lubricant disposed within the bearing cavity, the rolling cutter rock drill bit comprising: first and second energized rigid face seals disposed between the at least one leg and the rolling cutter; said first and second rigid face seals having opposing first and second seal faces, respectively; said first and second seal faces having opposing, engagable first and second sealing surfaces, respectively; each of said first and second sealing surfaces being constructed at least partially of generally wear-resistant material; and a distinct gap comprising a stepped geometry extending from the first and second sealing surfaces, said distinct gap in fluid communication with the bearing cavity, said distinct gap allowing the flow of lubricant from the bearing cavity to said first and second sealing surfaces.