Tongs

Test Your Knowledge

Tongs Quiz:

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is the primary function of tongs in drilling and well completion?

a) To drill into the earth's formations. b) To connect and disconnect pipe sections. c) To pump oil and gas to the surface. d) To measure the depth of the well.

2. Which type of tong is specifically designed for handling casing strings?

a) Rotary tongs b) Tubing tongs c) Casing tongs d) Drill pipe tongs

3. What is the main advantage of using power tongs over manual tongs?

a) They are more lightweight and easier to handle. b) They require less maintenance. c) They provide increased torque and speed. d) They are less expensive to operate.

4. What is the primary safety benefit of using power tongs?

a) They reduce the risk of operator injury. b) They prevent leaks in the well. c) They ensure efficient oil and gas production. d) They increase the drilling speed.

5. How do tongs work to connect and disconnect pipes?

a) They use a hydraulic system to pump the pipe sections together. b) They use a pair of jaws that grip and rotate the pipes. c) They use a lever system to tighten and loosen the pipe connections. d) They use magnets to hold the pipe sections together.

Tongs Exercise:

Scenario: You are working on a drilling rig and need to connect a section of casing pipe to the existing string.

Task:

1. Identify the type of tong you would use for this task.
2. Briefly explain the steps involved in using the tongs to make up the casing connection.
3. Explain the importance of ensuring a secure connection.

Techniques

Chapter 1: Techniques

Tongs: Mastering the Connection and Disconnection

Tongs, as discussed earlier, are the workhorses of the drilling and well completion process. Understanding the techniques behind their operation is crucial for safe and efficient operations.

Making Up: Securing the Connection

• Proper alignment: Ensure the pipe sections are perfectly aligned before making up. Misalignment can lead to uneven torque and compromised connections.
• Gradual tightening: Start by applying a light torque to ensure the pipe threads engage correctly. Gradually increase torque to achieve the desired make-up torque.
• Torque monitoring: Use torque wrenches or torque indicators to monitor the applied torque and ensure it reaches the specified values.
• Lubrication: Apply a suitable lubricant to the threads to reduce friction and prevent galling.

Breaking Out: Releasing the Grip

• Reverse torque: Apply reverse torque to the pipe to loosen the connection.
• Breaking torque: Start with a moderate reverse torque and gradually increase until the connection breaks free.
• Caution with stuck pipes: If the connection is stuck, avoid excessive force. Use specialized techniques and tools to break the stuck connection.

Hand Tongs vs. Power Tongs

Hand tongs require manual effort to apply torque. They are often used for smaller pipe sizes and in situations where power tongs are not available.

Power tongs utilize hydraulic or pneumatic systems to automate the process. They offer several advantages over hand tongs:

• Increased torque: Power tongs can handle larger pipes and apply higher torque for secure connections.
• Faster operation: They significantly reduce the time required for making up and breaking out connections.
• Improved safety: They minimize the risk of operator injury by reducing manual effort.

Choosing the Right Tongs

The selection of tongs depends on the specific application:

• Pipe size: Different tongs are designed for different pipe sizes.
• Torque requirements: Select tongs capable of providing the necessary torque for the application.
• Operating environment: Consider factors like accessibility, space constraints, and temperature when choosing tongs.

Conclusion

Mastering the techniques of using tongs is essential for successful drilling and well completion operations. By understanding the fundamentals of making up and breaking out, as well as the advantages of power tongs, operators can ensure safe and efficient connections, crucial for maintaining the integrity and productivity of wells.