tubular products<\/a><\/strong><\/em>\u00a0used.<\/p>\nThread connections are a vital part of these products, and a close inspection of them is crucial for safety and quality maintenance. That\u2019s why the\u00a0Visual Thread Inspection VTI\u00a0process is used to track wellbore integrity during drilling at an early stage.<\/p>\n
It allows the industry operators to take corrective measures beforehand. and thus, avoid any further complications and hazards.\u00a0VTI\u00a0can also enhance production quality by allowing operators to find out if there are any problems with connections and casing or tubing.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s discuss what Visual Thread Inspection is and what it entails in detail.
\nWhat Is Visual Thread Inspection VTI?<\/p>\n
Visual thread inspection is a procedure that allows operators to check the status of the\u00a0pin and box end threads\u00a0of equipment installed in wellbores. It involves practical inspection by trained professionals or by providing real-time video inspection footage. VTI is helpful for the early detection of\u00a0thread defects\u00a0that may arise during the drilling, installation, and completion of wells.<\/p>\n
7 Defects That Are Identified Using Visual Thread Inspection VTI<\/h4>\n
A Visual Thread Inspection is conducted to check the condition of the\u00a0threaded connections. During the VTI process, first, a trained expert removes protectors, cleans threads, and dries them. The expert then examines them for any potential hazards.<\/p>\n
The Visual Thread Inspection results allow inspectors to assess whether any repairs or rethreading are essential for the proper operation of the pipes. Repairs or rethreading are required if a potential problem is discovered on any one of the threads.<\/p>\n
The following are some problems detected during a Visual Thread Inspection:<\/p>\n
1. Mashed Threads<\/h4>\n
Mashed threads are caused by the connection and thread insert coming into contact. They may also be produced as a result of excessive external force. When there is more pressure on the connection, they manifest as wrinkles in the threads. They further spread across or around, giving it a smoothed or flattened appearance.<\/p>\n
2. Unfinished Threads<\/h4>\n
Unfinished threads\u00a0on the drill pipe are caused when the threaded connection between the drill pipe and string is not completely cut during the\u00a0thread cutting process. As a result, they appear as dark and unfinished portions along the thread crest. This can lead to many problems like galling, weakened joint strength, and failure of the joint.<\/p>\n
3. Rusting<\/h4>\n
When wellbore fluids contain moisture, iron oxides are produced as a by-product. This can cause the surface of thread inserts to rust and create pit marks. It may also result from the poor storage and maintenance of thread joints. To prevent rusting of threads, they are doped with anti-rust materials or compounds such as Kendex.<\/p>\n
4. Copper Flaking<\/h4>\n
Most premium\u00a0connections require\u00a0copper-coating\u00a0the threads to prevent galling during make-and-break operations. The red color of the copper makes it easy to spot flaws in the covering. If improperly maintained, the copper covering will oxidize and become darker grey or black. This further forms flaking and reveals the silver or steel surface beneath. Finally, it flakes off on the sealing region. If flaky\u00a0corrosion\u00a0occurs on the sealing area, thread remediation consisting of re-copper plating\u00a0is needed.<\/p>\n
5. Pitting<\/h4>\n
Pitting is a small hole with a slight depression caused by corrosion of the thread on the surface of the pipe. It can be initiated by rusting or various other reasons, such as the movement of metal ridges against each other. This may further lead to deep cavities and even bigger holes. Anti-corrosive materials are coated over the threads using the electroplating method to prevent pitting progression.<\/p>\n
6. Galling<\/h4>\n
Galling is due to the movement between two metal surfaces in contact. It results in the scraping and ridging of these surfaces. Galling also results in rough thread surfaces. Improper lubrication of the thread may lead to galling. In most cases, galling can be identified by checking if ridges have been created on the thread inserts due to excessive rubbing. Fluid seals or porous lubricant coating are used to prevent galling.<\/p>\n
7. Burrs<\/h4>\n
Burrs are small projections that may appear on the thread surface. Their rough appearance and uneven height can identify them. Burrs are usually caused by the metal ridges scraping against each other. It causes one of them to become bent or folded over, producing a rough edge along with its height. Burrs are typically present at the thread\u2019s start or the pipe\u2019s end. However, it may also be found at any point on the threading of the pipe. In case of severe burrs,\u00a0deburring\u00a0can be used to preserve the thread.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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<\/p>\n