T H Hill Associates, Inc.

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7676 Hillmont, Suite 360 • Houston, TX 77040 • (713) 934-9215 • (713) 934-9236 Fax

Date of Issue: THHA-TN-09-001 Rev 1

Technical Note Submitted: Pat Harrah
04FEB2009 Reviewed: Jack Cranfill
Pin Stress Relief Groove Measurement Approved: Keith Branch

Background

In the past there has been some confusion on how to measure Stress Relief Groove (SRG) width IAW DS-1, Vol 3,
paragraph 3.14.4.e. DS-1, Vol 3, Figure 3.14.2 shows that dimension “F” is the SRG width. API Specification 7, Section 8, Fig 16 and
API RP 7G, Section 13, Fig. 90 imply the measurement should be taken from the crest of the first thread to the Pin Shoulder.
However, due to the SRG machining process and API thread profiles, the “First Full Thread” grows to full height prior to developing
its full thread form and crest width, leading to a subjective determination of how to measure SRG width and meet the intent of the
illustrations in DS-1, API Specification 7 and API RP 7G.

Procedure

The “First Full Thread” is defined when the thread closest to the pin shoulder reaches the same height and thread profile
as the second thread. The measurement is taken by first laying a thread profile gauge on the thread taper. If light can be seen
between the thread form and profile gauge then the thread is not fully formed (Fig 1). Rotate the profile gauge until the absolute
minimum amount of light is visible between it and the first thread (Fig 2). This point is considered the “First Full Thread” and is the
point at which the SRG is measured. A machinist’s scale is then placed on the thread taper at this point, squared against the
connection shoulder and the measurement taken from the shoulder to the point directly above the First Full Thread (Fig 3).

(Fig 1) Thread not fully formed as seen
with light showing between profile gauge
and thread.
(Fig 2) Lay thread profile gauge along
thread taper and rotate around the
thread form until absolute minimum light
is visible between the profile gauge and
the first thread. Thread is fully formed
(First Full Thread).
(Fig 3) Square scale at the point of the
“First Full Thread” and take the
measurement from shoulder side of
thread profile to pin shoulder.

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