Choosing The Best Oilfield Equipment Manufacturer

An oilfield is a potential minefield of safety complications and environmental hazards. As project overseer, you have a responsibility to ensure that products are well chosen to appease investors and environmental lobbyists. What is your strategy for selecting oilfield equipment wisely when the competition is fierce? Here are some guidelines.

One: Ratings and Reputation

Forget product ratings for a minute and start with the company in question. Examine what industrial clients in your field have said about this firm in recent months or years. Find out how long they have been in business: longevity is a reflection of professionalism and reputation. No industrial equipment supplier will last long if their reputation is tarnished.

Two: Innovation and Environment

A firm in the oilfield equipment business had better be striving to meet higher environmental standards than ever before. There is tremendous animosity towards this industry from environmentalists. Meanwhile, the reasons for their strong feelings and the need for conservation/protection are well understood and frequently documented. Check out what equipment supply firms have to say about this topic and find out what efforts they are making to improve preservation and safety to wildlife and habitat.

Three: Guarantees and Warranties

Companies that are proud of their equipment stand behind it. They willingly provide extensive warranty on their products as long as you register each purchase. Moreover, if you are talking about machinery rather than parts, they should be willing to send staff members out to wherever you are and demonstrate items so you can see for yourself how machines will run in their intended settings. Confident companies will go to this expense and trouble.

Four: Common Sense

All of the factors above are moot if the firm selling oilfield equipment isn't certified. Check licenses and also certification on equipment. It should all carry documentation proving machines passed inspections. This is more important than competitive rates or impressive websites: safety comes first.

What are Tubular Packaging Systems?

Tubular packaging systems are highly advanced robotic devices that can package materials. The main job of a tubular packing system is to stack packages. The machine uses one of two types of pickup attachments to perform its tasks. The unit uses a magnetic or a vacuum device to pick up the materials. Tubular packing systems usually come with pre-configured programming so that they can handle a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and patterns. Business owners can accomplish a great deal by investing in a tubular packing system today.

Some of the most common items that have to go into tubular containers are meats and cookie dough. Other items that may go into a tubular package are tennis balls, beauty products, yarn, cookies, lipsticks, lotions and more. The tubular packaging system prepares such items so that store owners can put them on the shelves for the public. The system can package the above-stated items quickly and efficiently so businesses can stay stocked with popular items.

The Many Benefits of Buying Tubular Systems

Many benefits exist to purchasing a tubular packing system for a busy establishment. The main benefit of investing in such a system is the increased productivity. Tubular packing systems do not grow tired, and they can handle large workloads. They can save space with their compact designs, as well.

Furthermore, the newest tubular packing systems are designed with a high level of accuracy. The quality that one of the state-of-the-art packaging systems provides never fails nor falters. Businesses need consistency in their high-volume activities, which is why many of them are turning to robotic assistance.

The Price of Tubular Packaging Systems

The price of a tubular packaging system will vary according to the complexity of the device. An interested business owner can obtain pricing estimates from an equipment specialist.

Problems With Drillpipes In Oil And Offshore Rigs

When oil rigs and offshore oil rigs are drilling wells, there are bound to be some problems with the piping along the way. Drilling problems are expensive. Anticipating and understanding piping complications, their causes, and planning solutions, are imperative for cost control, and ultimately effectively hitting the target zone. This article addresses two major problems with drill pipes.

Pipe- Sticking

During the drilling procedure, a drill pipe is deemed stuck, if it is impossible to free and pull out of the hole, without doing damage to the pipe, or without overreaching the maximum hook load on the drilling rig. Mechanical and differential are the two different kinds of p. sticking.

Differential Pressure Pipe-Sticking

Differential pressure pipe-sticking is defined as, when a section of the drill string is surrounded with a mudcake; which forms on the pipe's wall of a porous growth while drilling. If the mudpressure grows on the outer wall of the pipe, and is more than the fluid pressure of the formation, then the pipe is considered to be differentially stuck. Some indicators of differential pipe-sticking, while drilling in depleted pressure or porous areas are; not being able to return the drill string, -sometimes while rotating it, or during uninterrupted fluid circulation of the drill or an increase of drag and torque.

Mechanical

The causes of mechanical sticking, are as follows: inadequately removing previously drilled cuttings from the annulus, and instabilities of the borehole, such as:

• Sloughing
• Hole caving
• Collapse
• Plastic shale
• Salt sections creeping or squeezing.
• Key seating.

Drillpipe Failures

Drillpipe failures can be classified into one of the following:

• Fatigue - due to mechanical cyclic loads- which may or may not have any corrosion.
• Collapsing or bursting - due to too much external or internal pressure.
• Parting - due to too much tension.
• Twistoff - due to too much torque

Pros Of Using Thread Protectors

Using thread protectors is extremely important when installing pipes in the oil and gas industry. These kinds of protectors can prevent difficult situations from happening, and save money and time. They safeguard the threads that are found on the end of pipes during transportation and storage.

The protectors keep away any pests, dirt, and dust that can surface while they are being transported or stored. They are typically made of plastic or steel; and using thread protectors significantly reduces the amount of delays and downtime on the job. In addition, they can help your operation run more properly and professionally.

Not only are damaged pipes potentially dangerous, they can also cause financial setbacks. Investing in these protectors, and otherwise ensuring that the system is handled properly, ensures the safe passage of pipes to the job site. The pitfalls of dangerous situations and delays can be avoided by simply using pipe protection technology.

In the oil and gas industry, thread protectors play a very instrumental role. They safeguard the pipes against harsh weather conditions that typically exist at oil drilling sites, as well as withstand rough handling by field workers. As it becomes necessary to store pipes for extended periods of time before using them, protectors can keep them from damage during storage periods. Similar to the protection technology used in the water industry, your oil business could save a lot of money by making an initial investment into these protective devices. Most importantly, they ensure the safe operation of the site.

Thread protectors are a necessary technology for individuals working in the oil and gas industry. Safeguarding the pipes utilized in these types of businesses is vital to consistently, safely, and efficiently providing sound products. At the same time, safety, cleanliness, and orderliness cannot be overemphasized in these industries. Pipe protection technology is necessary in achieving a reliable and smooth-running operation.

Drill Pipe Purchase and Maintenance Tips

Drill pipes are convenient tools that are commonly used in directional drilling projects. This equipment is not inexpensive though, with some pipes costing tens of thousands of dollars (based on the specification and size). This is why doing your homework before buying a pipe, and taking good care of it after you buy it, is essential.

Drill pipes come in many different shapes and sizes. Types of models on the market include the press and fit variety; along with the more popular integral forged pipes. When purchasing a drill pipe, some people consider little more than the price. However, grueling conditions can diminish the pipe's strength. If you buy a cheap pipe that is low in quality, you increase the likelihood of encountering difficulties during your project.

Indeed, it is crucial to buy a pipe that is of the correct grade. A poor quality pipe causes significant fatigue resistance. This is a key factor when it comes to drilling, because the pipe's torque limits are tested to their maximum. Furthermore, when you drill horizontally, there are many cyclical forces that come into play.

You should always ensure that the drill pipe you buy has the required strength for the specific rig or purpose you have in mind. As well as taking into account the power of the rig, you should bear in mind what type of rig you want to use the pipe with. If you purchase a pipe that is the wrong size for the rig you use, then you run the risk of experiencing various difficulties; and in turn, wasting your investment funds. 

Regular maintenance will prolong the lifespan of your drill pipe. Cleaning and inspecting the rod frequently is highly recommended. Also, the drill rods inside your rod basket should be rotated. This way, as different rods will be put into the ground initially, they wear evenly.

Protecting Pipe Investments: Pipe Protection

In the world of oil country tubular goods it is important to treat pipes as investments, taking proper care to inspect pipe throughout the whole drilling process and make sure they are protected.

Pipe problems in rigs and wells can lead not only to costly repairs and leakage, but also oil or water damage. It is important to become familiar with any potential problems to take the protection and precautionary measure to prevent any damages. 

Here are several types of issues that can occur in any pipeline project:

Corrosion

Corrosion is a common issue in the piping world, especially for copper pipes. One of the most frequent issues with copper is when the grounding and connection between the pipe corrode. Because the grounding is usually made from iron or steel it makes corrosion more frequent which can in turn, cause leaks underground which can go undetected for weeks, even months. 

Freezing Pipes

Pipes that contain well water are especially vulnerable to freezing in cold climates if they are not buried properly or deep enough. Because copper pipes conduct heat and cold, it is recommended to avoid using copper pipes in water wells and certain oil rigs. Heat and cold in the soil is often transferred to underground pipe systems which can burst depending on the temperature. By burying the pipes to the proper depth. Installing steel pipe thread protectors is also a great way to mitigate any freezing that might occur in pipe located in colder climates. 

Temperature Problems

In addition to freezing, there are some pipes that offer poor temperature resistance and are vulnerable to springing leaks when they break down. This usually happens when pipes are subjected to hot or cold temperatures over long periods of time. Sometimes the materials (Polybutylene for example) the pipes are constructed with provide poor resistance to light, certain chemicals and extreme temperatures. 

Noisy Pipes

Though not as severe as corrosion or freezing, there are times when well and rig pipes cause constant rattling and "squealing" on a frequent basis. Any squealing, rattling, shaking or pounding noises happen when the pipe flow is interrupted by closing any plumbing closures. It may be necessary to repair the water happens by installing either hammer arresters or steel pipe thread protectors. 

Joints Leak

Certain sections of underground pipes in wells and rigs are jointed and because the joints are weaker spots, there are times when leaks can spring. If pipes are experiencing any leaking, it can often be prevented by installing longer stretches of soft copper wire (instead of shorter ones) to prevent any leaking. 

Solder

One of the most important things to monitor is testing water pipes for lead. Soldering copper pipes can allow lead to leak into the water in the pipes. The only way to determine if lead was used for the pipe solders is to dig up the entire line costing time and resources. Test frequently for lead and have future pipes soldered with silver instead of lead. 


In any piping project, it is important to monitor any potential problems that may arise in the pipes. Fortunately, there are strategies and tools to help reduce any issues with piping and ways to correct the issues that happen.

If you would like more information on how to make sure your pipe projects are safe and secure, contact us to get a complete list of products and providers that are trusted and can help!

Offshore Rig Safety

Most people tend to associate ocean endeavors with high risks and adventurous dangers at the high sea, but in the oil and gas industry, surprisingly studies have shown that offshore rigs rigs are typically safer with reduced accidents and perform better at safety inspections than their on land counterparts.

One of the primary reasons that deepwater rigs frequently perform better on safety inspections with reduced accidents is the personnel manning their respective rigs. Studies have shown that offshore rigs tend to be manned by workers that have been at their positions and locations longer. This familiarity by personnel that have been in a single location helps breed job familiarity and professional competence by a staff that has spend most of their time in a set location and will be familiarized with their duties and roles.

In addition to the personnel manning offshore rigs, after the Deepwater Horizon events, there has been more safety and security efforts on platforms across the coast. To avoid costly accidents that can be harmful from an environmental, financial and PR standpoint, companies have become more rigorous in their efforts to maintain deepwater rig safety. 

Because of the cost and time needed to complete just the construction of offshore rigs, they tend to be viewed more as long term investments, rather than projects. This makes offshore platforms more immune to the thinner margins of land-based rigs that are incentivized to build fast and drill even faster. Companies tend to be more patient with the construction and extraction of offshore rigs. Safety, unfortunately often takes a backseat to the speed of a drilling projects completion due to their thinner operating margins.

Safety is a crucial element of keeping rig operations running smoothly and efficiently. Having experienced, dedicated and knowledgable crews will help operate offshore platforms safely and profitably. While on site safety is paramount to any drilling endeavor, it is also important to consider safety and the equipment that will help your operations. Protecting investments includes your pipe protection, personnel and location. 

Fracking Provides Boon in Drilling

Though fracking has seen increases in usage and publicity, it has actually been around in different levels of capacities since the early 1940s. Analysts expect that fracking will only expand in popularity over the near future with over 2.6 million wells worldwide. If addition reserves are discovered (highly likely) that number will exponentially increase the amount of fossil fuels produced from fracking. 

While there are different methods and uses with fracking, the basic process injects a mix of water, sand and chemicals into a well, creating a fluid that produces fractures in a pre-drilled well. These fractures permeate the surrounding rock bed and the mixture fills any cracks created by the water to keep it open after water flows back out. This allows natural gas and oil to flow up the wellbore through the created fractures. 

Though fracking policies, particularly in the legislative arena can be a controversial subject, the fact is that well-regulated and safe fracking procedures and technologies continue to improve the current industry standards that are continually being updated and reviewed.

Safe and responsible drilling and development of shale energy has helped drive the boom in shale oil production. It is imperative that responsible processes are followed in relation to fracking. Though certain challenges still need to be resolved and additional challenges may present itself, plenty of experienced industry experts are working constantly to help achieve positive, beneficially and responsible results with regards to fracking. 

Development of shale energy is heavily reliant on responsible operations when dealing with fracking. While certain challenges associated with fracking still need to be overcome, operators and industry experts have acknowledged such challenges and are working to help achieve lasting and positive results.

While oil production gradually declined after the 1980s, fracking has revived the industry along with other innovative techniques that have expanded oil production. This expansion provides direct economic effects that provides a boon to both domestic and the world economy.  

Stabbing Guides

There has been an explosion of exploring and drilling for natural gas and oil around the world. Like most technical professions, drilling has its own unique terms, jargon and definitions for parts, tasks and definitions.

"Stabbing" for those in the oil and gas drilling industry has a very different meaning than the term that might come immediately to mind (no, we don't advocate doing the more familiar definition to anything but food). Instead of a knife, "stabbing" in the drilling industry refers to making a connection from the male threaded end of a pipe into the female end of a pipe. 

Such joint sections are normally part of a pipe string assemble on a rig deck near a drilling site.

Another term in conjunction with the drilling definition of "stabbing" is a "stabbing guide." Made from high-grade steel or urethane, a stabbing guide is used during the make up of pipe strings to align the pin to box threads between two sections of pipes. This prevents any damages that might occur in the threading. It also helps prevent any potential connection failures.

The stabbing guide models can be custom fit to various sizes for a broad range of pipe size (usually from 1" to 18") and to use in tubing, casing, and drilling applications. A spring-loaded latch will open and close the guides from the closed position or will use a torsion spring. 

With the demands of exacting tasks in the drilling industry, stabbing guides are a critical investment that will help provide an extra measure of precision that ensures that pipe connections are secure, tight, and properly aligned.

If you would like more information on vendors and companies that provide the best selection of stabbing guides, contact us for more information. We can partner you up with reliable, trusted vendors and organizations that offer both standard and heavy duty stabbing guides.

Contact us for samples also!

Shale Energy Still Bullish for 2015

A recent study done by the IHS Global, discovered shale gas will support around 870,000 jobs in the U.S by the end of 2015.  While the numbers alone indicates shales massive contributions to the U.S. workforce, the trend also signifies a bright outlook for energy production in America.

"The report focused on the growth in investment in oil and gas transportation and storage infrastructure and the resulting economic impacts in terms of associated employment growth, contribution to GDP and tax revenue.

IHS estimates that in 2014 “$85-$90 billion of direct capital will be allocated toward oil and gas infrastructure” in the U.S. IHS further estimates that more than “$80 billion will be invested annually in U.S. midstream and downstream petroleum infrastructure.” While the IHS’s projections are impressive, the report highlights a bourgeoning interest in the U.S. in shale gas production." 

In addition to the amount of workforce that is projected to grow in 2015, shale has long been a reliable contributor to the U.S. economy and workforce.

Even as far back as 2010 over 600,000 jobs were being supported by shale gas. Despite energy production off to a volatile start for the end of 2014 and start of 2015, shale energy looks to be one industry that has a bright, reliable outlook for many American jobs!

OCTG and China's Impact

An influx in Chinese and South Korean OCTG imports and manufactured steel into an already oversaturated market has companies in Alabama worried and taking actions to offset what has been a rough start to FY 2015. Fear over potential scale-backs and even potential layoffs only adds to the economic stress.

However, the domestic markets are quickly taking action. The Jefferson Count Commission is pushing through major tax abatements in order to help OCTG manufacturers and local Alabama steel miss over the next decade, according to the Birmingham Business Journal. While the results of these actions remain to be seen, it is a positive step in the right direction to help business move forward.

Aboard, the Chinese government has tried to put a curb on their own steel manufacturing though so far these actions have done little to alleviate the impact on global steel production. While many Chinese manufacturers are struggling to find resolutions for other issues such as a needed increase in minimum wage (along with the resulting employee retention), steel production have often took a backseat.

While many U.S. steel pipe manufacturers are feeling the impact of a downturn, it is important to remember that in the OCTG industry rises will often follow falls so many individuals and businesses in the industry will be keeping a close eye on the market over the next coming quarter. 

(Source: http://www.bizjournals.com/birmingham/news/2015/03/20/chinese-steel-could-dictate-the-future-for.html?page=all)