Identify any assemblies and verify that they
have been properly made-up. Verify that sufficient quantities of
approved thread compound are available. Check for availability and
size of stabbing guide. Check pipe connections pin and coupling
for transportation damage to the connections.
ACCESSORIES
Accessories for NS Connection Technology Premium Connections are
threaded by a network of authorized threading facilities located
throughout the world. These threading facilities manufacture the
NSCT Premium Connections under a strict quality control program.
Inspection of accessories to assure proper make-up of the assemblies
can be done by verifying that the make-up stamp is properly positioned.
ELEVATORS
Single joint pick-up elevators are recommended for initially picking
up and stabbing both tubing and casing connections. Slip Type elevators
are recommended for running the NSCT Premium Connections and should
be used in conjunction with fine tooth dies in both the elevators
and slips. Fine tooth dies evenly distribute the metal to metal
contact pressure on the pipe body, and so reducing its tendency
for deep indentations.
STABBING GUIDE
Stabbing guides should be used on all premium OCTG products. The
stabbing guide should be properly sized for the product. Verification
of proper fit should be done prior to running by simply placing
the stabbing guide on the coupling of a joint of pipe.
STABBING BOARD
The use of a stabbing board is strongly recommended for casing and
tubing running operations. An operator on the stabbing board greatly
reduces the possibility of cross threading or mis-stabbing that
can result in thread damage or improperly made -up connections.
It is critical during the initial stabbing and make-up of the connection
that the pipe be maintained in true vertical alignment, and not
be swayed by the stabber. This is especially important in high winds,
rough seas or other adverse weather conditions..
THREAD COMPOUND
Verification of sufficient quantities of API Modified Thread Compound
and application brushes for the thread compound. The thread compound
should be from a non- contaminated source, no water or any foreign
bodies should be present in the thread compound. Application brushes
should be of sufficient quality that the bristles do not fall out
easily.
POWER TONGS
Although NSCT Premium Connections are not torque sensitive as many
other premium connections, accurate torque measurement is extremely
important. The power tongs should be of suitable size and design
for the tubulars being run. Drill-pipe and rig tongs are not designed
for making up tubing and casing and should not be used for this
application. Power tongs used in conjunction with an accurate torque
measurement equipment should be used. Accuracy and calibration of
the torque load cell is important.
LOAD CELL
The torque gauge and load cell should be correct for the power tong
that is being used regarding tong arm length and for the accuracy
of the torque that is being applied to the connection.
TORQUE MONITORING SYSTEMS
Many torque service companies utilize a torque turn or torque time
measurement system to monitor the make-up connections. This equipment
is an outstanding method used to monitor the torque trace of each
connection and provide a permanent record of the make-up of each
connection. Accuracy of the torque monitoring system should be better
than 1/ 100 of a turn.
THREAD PROTECTORS
Thread Protectors should be installed on all pin and box connections
during all handling, loading and pipe rolling operations. The use
of thread protectors during these operations greatly reduces the
chance for damage to the connections. Clean thread protectors should
be properly installed on unused joints prior to shipment.
CLEANING
All pin and box connections should be cleaned thoroughly at the
rig site prior to the running operation. The use of a high pressure
water blasters and a suitable detergent have proven to be very successful
in conducting this operation.
Do NOT use wire bristle brushes during the thread cleaning operations.
INSPECTION
After the threads have been cleaned, and prior to running, each
pin and box connection should be carefully visually inspected before
being taken to the rig floor. If connections have been damaged from
transportation / handling and repairs are necessary then refer to
the current NSCT field inspection and repair procedure. Connections
that are damaged and can not be field repaired should be identified
in such a way to ensure that they are not used in the running operation.
PRODUCTS WITH PTFE RINGS -K1 and FGL Version
Product modifications have been made to allow for both casing and
tubing to be lined with both plastic coatings and fiber glass. These
design modifications include the addition of rings in the coupling
/ box threaded area of the product.
NSCT Premium Connections
NSCT Premium Connections with rings are NS-CC-K1, NS-CC-FGL, NS-CT-K1
and NS-CT-FGL. When products have PTFE rings, you should :
- Drift the pipe before installation of the ring.
- Assure that the connection and ring groove is clean before installation
of the ring.
- Assure that the ring is properly sized for the application.
- Assure that the ring is not buckled or collapsed during installation.
- Apply thread compound to only the pin connection during make-up
operations in the field.
- Review and follow procedures supplied by Rice Engineering Corporation
for the running of product with DUOLINE
Liners. (NS-CC-FGL and NS-CT-FGL).
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