Drill pipes are always a significant investment when it comes to production. So, if a pipe breaks or sustains damage, the cost of added expenses to your investment can become catastrophic. The drill pipes must be working optimally to keep a drilling operation up and running. A fundamental way to do this is by using drill pipe thread protectors to protect the threaded ends from physical damage and corrosion.
When Bad Things Happen to Good Drill Pipes
Drilling is hard on drill pipes. Drilling equipment rotates at high speed, which can cause rapid wear and tear. In addition, drilling often takes place in harsh outdoor conditions, such as extreme temperature, rain and snow, and bodies of saltwater. These conditions can cause premature corrosion of the drill casings, metal fatigue where two pipes are fitted together, and physical damage to the pipes or connecting parts. Threaded pipe ends are particularly vulnerable to this type of damage.
Damage to drill pipe and related equipment can have all manner of effect on a drilling operation. Broken or corroded parts may need to be fixed or replaced. Damaged parts can force a well to shut down either temporarily or permanently. Faulty equipment can even cause injury to workers.
How Drill Pipe Protectors Keep Drill Pipe Threads in Great Condition
It’s important to protect drill pipes from damage. To that end, most drilling operations today use drill pipe protectors on the ends of all exposed tubing.
Drill pipe protectors are designed to shield the threaded ends of pipes. These covers are typically made of durable plastics, although some have steel reinforcement. Many drill pipe protectors are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and harsh environments and therefore, it’s important to understand your application and environment when selecting the proper level of protection for your pipes.
These devices safeguard pipe ends while in storage and during transport by offering protection not only from abrasions, dents, and accidents but also from rust and corrosion caused by environmental factors.
Benefits of Using Drill Pipe Protectors
Why should your company use drill pipe protectors? Here are four key reasons:
- They reduce wear and damage, which means less need for replacement or repair
- Protectors lower costs by reducing the need for maintenance
- They improve safety and protect workers
- Protectors ensure compliance with all drilling industry standards
Pipe Protection that Keeps Your Equipment in Great Condition
At MSI Pipe Protection Technologies, we offer pipe thread protectors in a variety of sizes and configurations. We design our protectors to cover the entire thread and seal areas on both internal and external drill pipes. Our thread protectors are also durable, reliable, and safe – and will help protect your bottom line.