wickers

Understanding Wickers: A Silent Threat in Drilling & Well Completion

Wickers, a term often whispered with a mix of caution and frustration in the world of drilling and well completion, refer to the broken or frayed strands of the steel wire that make up the outer wrapping of wire rope. While seemingly small, these seemingly insignificant flaws can pose a significant threat to the integrity of vital equipment and the safety of personnel.

How Wickers Arise:

Wickers develop due to a combination of factors, including:

• Excessive Wear and Tear: Repeated use, harsh environments, and improper handling can lead to the gradual wear and tear of the wire rope, causing individual strands to fray and break.
• Improper Lubrication: Insufficient or incorrect lubrication can lead to increased friction and heat, accelerating the wear and tear process and contributing to wickers.
• Overloading: Exceeding the wire rope's rated capacity can put immense strain on the strands, leading to their breakage.
• Improper Handling and Storage: Incorrect coiling, sharp bends, and exposure to corrosive elements can weaken the wire rope and promote the formation of wickers.

Why Wickers Matter:

While individual broken strands might seem insignificant, their presence can have severe consequences:

• Reduced Strength: Wickers compromise the overall strength of the wire rope, making it more susceptible to snapping under stress.
• Increased Friction: Frayed strands can cause increased friction and wear on other equipment, leading to premature failures and costly repairs.
• Safety Hazards: Broken strands can become loose, posing a serious risk to personnel working in the vicinity of the wire rope.
• Equipment Damage: Wickers can damage other equipment, including pulleys, sheaves, and drums, leading to costly downtime and replacements.

Preventing Wickers:

Preventing wickers requires a proactive approach:

• Regular Inspection: Implement a rigorous inspection program to identify and address any signs of wear and tear on wire ropes, including the presence of wickers.
• Proper Lubrication: Ensure wire ropes are regularly lubricated with the correct type and amount of lubricant.
• Load Management: Avoid overloading wire ropes, ensuring they operate within their rated capacity.
• Safe Handling and Storage: Properly coil and store wire ropes to prevent sharp bends and exposure to harsh environments.

Identifying Wickers:

Identifying wickers requires careful visual inspection:

• Visual Examination: Inspect the entire length of the wire rope for any signs of broken or frayed strands, focusing on areas prone to wear and tear.
• Feel Test: Carefully run your hand along the wire rope to detect any sharp or uneven spots that may indicate broken strands.
• Testing Devices: Utilize specialized tools designed to measure wire rope diameter and identify broken strands, providing a more objective assessment.

In Conclusion:

Wickers, though seemingly minor, can have significant ramifications for drilling and well completion operations. By implementing proactive measures, adhering to best practices, and conducting regular inspections, operators can minimize the risk of wickers, ensuring the safety of personnel and the integrity of equipment. Ignoring this seemingly small issue can lead to costly downtime, repairs, and potentially catastrophic failures.