Varel International and NewTech Services announce building completion and launch of their polycrystalline diamond (PDC) drill bit manufacturing plant located in Kurgan, Russia. Using the most advanced global technologies and tools this plant will be one of the most modern PDC plants in the world and the most modern in Russia.

 

The official opening ceremony was held in Kurgan on Aug. 2 and was attended by the Administration of Kurgan region, representatives of most of Russian oil and gas companies, and leaders of drilling and oilfield services companies.

 

The Kurgan plant is at the heart of the Varel NTS joint venture focused on manufacturing and servicing oil and gas drill bits for the Russian CIS market and beyond. The Varel NTS plant is a state-of-the art PDC manufacturing and service facility, an alliance between Varel’s high technology engineering and manufacturing and the strength of NTS in drilling technology, infrastructure, market knowledge and customer requirements.

 

“In this first phase of the venture, Varel has provided support through the transfer of our proven, reputable technology. The plant’s key personnel have been trained at our manufacturing facilities in France. In addition to our commitment to establishing the physical manufacturing equipment and technology, we are providing ongoing administrative and technology support,” said Bernard Pontneau, Varel International vice-president of Eastern Hemisphere Operations. He continued, “We are proud of this new venture and we are sure that it will become a significant part of our global manufacturing network.”

 

Mark Sadykhov, president of NewTech Services, added, “The initial phase of the two companies’ cooperation is accomplished. The plant has been built and turned into operational mode. We now have the opportunity to locally produce effective and reliable tools for the highly competitive drill bit market. We believe in the long-term success of this enterprise, the results of which will be useful for the Kurgan region, and for our customers - consumers of the plant’s production, and for both partners in this joint project.”