Monitoring torque in tubular goods
AssigneeTubular Make-Up Specialists, Inc.
InventorsDarrell L. Vincent, Larry W. Vincent
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The torque imposed on premium thread connections between tubular goods is monitored and plotted as a function of time rather than the number of turns. In this manner, the torque at which "shoulder", either by metal-to-metal sealing contact or otherwise, is achieved during make-up of the premium connection can be detected. Further, torque response of the connection after shoulder may be monitored. In addition, torque conditions during back out or disconnection may be monitored. Data obtained indicate if connections and seals are acceptable or not and often furnish evidence of the reason for certain types of unsatisfactory connections.
Claims29
A method of monitoring torque conditions during the make-up of a threaded premium tubular connection, wherein shoulder contact for metal-to-metal seal is formed in the threaded connection, comprising the steps of:
- (a) sensing the torque imposed on the connection during makeup;
- (b) monitoring the torque conditions during said step of sensing the torque to detect if a satisfactory threaded connection is obtained;
- (c) establishing a supplemental torque level for an acceptable minimum torque differential imposed after metal-to-metal seal is formed;
- (d) displaying the sensed torque as a function of time.
The method of claim, further including the step of:
- forming an alarm indication when an unsatisfactory connection is obtained.
A method of monitoring torque conditions during the make-up of a threaded premium tubular connection, wherein shoulder contact for metal-to-metal seal is formed in the threaded connection, comprising the steps of:
- (a) sensing the torque imposed on the connection during makeup;
- (b) a monitoring the torque conditions during said step of sensing the torque to detect if a satisfactory threaded connection is obtained;
- (c) establishing a shoulder torque rate indicative of obtaining shoulder contact;
- (d) displaying the sensed torque as a function of time.
An apparatus for monitoring torque conditions during the make-up of a threaded premium tubular connection, wherein shoulder contact for metal-to-metal seal is formed in the threaded connection, comprising:
- (a) means for sensing the torque imposed on the connection during makeup;
- (b) means for monitoring the torque conditions during said step of sensing the torque to detect if a satisfactory threaded connection is obtained;
- (c) means establishing a supplemental torque level for an acceptable minimum torque differential imposed after metal-to-metal seal is formed;
- and
- (d) means for displaying the sensed torque as a function of time.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.