Thread protectors aren’t always on the minds of companies when they’re preparing for drilling operations. With so much equipment assembled and utilized on oilfield drilling sites, it’s simple to overlook small but very necessary components. For instance, high-quality thread protector products offer vital pipe protection when tubular products are transported and stored.
Types of Thread Protectors
In this article, MSI provides information about some different models, materials, and uses for pipe thread protectors.
All Plastic Thread Protectors
High-level manufacturers make protective caps and plugs for tubing, rods, and various pipe casings from polyethylene plastics from high-quality resins. They typically connect by thread engagement to pipe ends during transport and also protect the same assets during storage. They also ensure that no form of debris enters the pipe. Since MSI designs these devices with high-quality plastic, they provide durability that is also conveniently light-weight compared to composite or steel models.
Plastic thread protectors are generally affordable options for protection of such assets. This makes them great options for bulk purchasing and stock, ensuring operators aren’t forced to leave their threaded connections exposed. With plastic protectors, it’s easy to keep drilling operations on schedule and your pipe protected affordably. Here you can explore some all plastic drill pipe protectors.
Of the many advantages to using MSI’s plastic protectors, here are 3 in particular to consider:
- Our plastic materials are 100% recyclable making them extremely environmentally friendly protection options.
- Our plastic protectors are offered in standard sizes for ordering convenience.
- For companies requiring custom-designed protection, MSI can create a customized solution.
Learn more about our custom protection options now.
All Steel Thread Protectors
Many thread protectors are made of steel, which can endure extreme impact and provide superior protection. Because of harsh external environmental factors, thick steel is often seen as more protective than plastic. However, there can be some downsides to steel. First, steel is more susceptible to galling. Galling is a type of wear that can occur with steel products, where one steel product begins to transfer to another. Since this transferring can actually become bonded, the situation is far more extreme than a scratch or gouge.
To avoid this occurring with steel protectors, we recommend using a generous amount of tool joint compound for proper lubrication, as well as practicing proper storage and handling techniques for your steel protectors and tool joints. Another potential downside to steel is the cost. Since steel can be costly, especially compared to plastic, steel thread protection is typically the most expensive form of protection. However, even with the higher cost, this form of thread protection is vastly cheaper than repairing pipe damage from a lack of protection. Learn more about MSI’s drill pipe protectors.
Composite Thread Protectors
By definition, composite refers to being made up of various parts or elements. As the definition suggests, composite thread protectors are also made of combined elements: plastic and steel. Composite protectors, such as MSI’s Mega™ product line, are plastic threaded protectors complete with an outer steel shell.
These shells are adhered to the plastic protector, creating an extreme protection device that utilizes all of the best elements of both styles of protection. These protectors typically meet a lot of standards that all steel protectors meet, yet due to their reduced steel composition, they can be much less expensive. Next to all-steel models, composites are as tough as they come.
MSI offers an extensive range of thread protector options, all suited to meet your specific operating needs. Regardless of pipe size and thread connection, MSI has the protection to maintain your pipe integrity. Browse our site to learn about other thread protector lines including Tector, Titan, MaxX, and Ultra.
Count on the Experts at MSI for the Right Thread Protectors
Ultimately, the pipe that you utilize during drilling operations is only as effective as the threads connecting one joint of pipe to another. Our entire team at MSI Pipe Protection Technologies is dedicated to helping the world’s oil and gas industry find the protective products needed to keep wells operating smoothly and efficiently.
Our goal is to ensure that we’re helping you deliver protected pipe, all day, every day. Connect with us today at 1-877-276-9208, or request a quote online.
