BEARING SYSTEMS CONTAINING DIAMOND ENHANCED MATERIALS AND DOWNHOLE APPLICATIONS FOR SAME

摘要

Downhole tool bearings are provided with diamond-enhanced materials. The diamond-enhanced materials comprise diamond grains in a matrix of tungsten or silicon carbide or a silicon-bonded diamond material. A brazed diamond grit or diamond particles coated with a reactive braze may be utilized for bearing applications. Bearing rings for use in downhole tools may be formed at least in part with the diamond-enhanced material. In one embodiment, the bearing rings may be used in a positive displacement motor. In additional embodiments, the bearing rings may be used in a submersible pump.