Grant Prideco Field Service

®
for Atlas Bradford Connections

• Source for purchase of extra seal rings,

T
he paradox of premium connec-
tions is that while they can seal if required.
high pressures, support extreme • Knowledge of the technical specifications
mechanical loads, and endure severe hos- and performance data of the product.
tile environments, they can be rendered • Contact with the Grant Prideco Atlas
ineffective by the slightest damage to a Bradford support infrastructure of
critical element such as a seal surface. licensed repair facilities.
The importance of careful handling of the
• Trained by and have direct access to the
pipe, of thorough inspection of the con-
Grant Prideco engineering staff.
nections at the rig, and of proper running
procedures cannot be overemphasized.
Only Grant Prideco service personnel have
been properly trained in inspection, repair,
The most important investment you can
and running of Atlas Bradford connec-
make for insuring the successful running
tions. Their training is a continuous
of your tubulars is a Grant Prideco field
process as they are provided with the lat-
service representative. For a relatively
est information on the Atlas Bradford con-
small cost, hiring a Grant Prideco field
nections. The Grant Prideco serviceman is
service representative offers the following
your direct contact to the fully integrated
benefits:
service provided by Grant Prideco. To
• A trained and experienced professional.
insure the best possible service at a com-
• Assurance that the correct running pro- petitive price, arrange your service by
cedures are followed. contacting Grant Prideco directly at our
• Professionally trained personnel to pro- 24-hour service number, 1-713-924-2832.
vide expert visual inspection of all Atlas
Bradford Products. The Grant Prideco field service representa-
• Knowledge, training, and tools required tive, offering professional service with the
to perform field repair. backup of the entire Grant Prideco sup-
• Provides a full range of rental service port network, is only a part of the TOTAL
equipment such as stabbing guides, lift VALUE obtained when you use Atlas
plugs, crossover subs for safety valves Bradford Products.
or the circulating head.
• Can supply competitively priced
consumables to the rig site such as
thread compound, moly-disulfide spray,
thread locking compound, or dope
brushes.

90 © Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved.

P R E M I U M C O N N E C T I O N S
 A T L A S B R A D F O R D

Suggestions for Running and Pulling

®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

Scope

T
his document offers suggestions to aid in
the successful running and pulling of
Grant Prideco Atlas Bradford connections.
It is designed to provide an insight to avoid the
most common causes of pipe and connection
damage resulting from improper planning, incor-
rect rig operations, and inappropriate material
handling procedures. This is not all-inclusive. It
is intended to supplement proper planning, cor-
rect rig operation, appropriate material handling
procedures, safety conscious work habits, and
common sense.

Preparations and Equipment

Accessory Equipment Handling Plugs and Safety Clamps

A H
ll accessory equipment and backup
equipment, such as cross-overs, safety
subs, float equipment and packer
assemblies, should be inspected first. Since
accessories are obtained from several sources,
care should be taken to insure that all were
threaded with the correct connection. Only
accessories threaded by Grant Prideco or one
of their licensed manufacture or repair shop
facilities should be used. Do not jeopardize
your major investment in tubulars or possibly
the entire well by using a bootleg connection.
Elevators
andling plugs are available for each
size weight and type of Atlas Bradford
connection. Handling plugs are not
designed to support more than a single
stand of pipe. Handling plug threads must be
cared for and maintained. Threads should be
cleaned, inspected, and handled so as to pre-
vent damage. To insure proper thread engage-
ment, both the handling plug and pipe box
threads should be free of any dirt, paint, storage
compound or thread compound. Plugs should
be fully made up by hand then tightened by
bumping up with a bar. Handling plugs also
provide protection of the box threads from
damage by tools or test equipment, which must

S
lip-type or spider type elevators are rec-
ommended. The slips should be set below
the box threads and not over the threads
or on the upset. Contact the Grant Prideco engi-
neering department before using collar-pull ele-
vators. Bottleneck elevators should not be used.
be run inside the pipe.
On flush joint connections, it is recommended
that a safety clamp (wedding band, dog collar)
be used in addition to the handling plug when
the pipe is in the rotary.

© Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved. 91

 Suggestions for Running and Pulling
®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

Lifting Plugs

L
ifting Plugs are designed to support the entire
weight of the string. The lifting plugs must be
fully made-up, power tight to shoulder to achieve
full rated lift capacity.

Proper handling practices and sound judgment must be

used at all times to maintain the rated lift capacity of the
plug. Damaged lifting plugs should not be used. During
lifting operations if the plug is subjected to heavy
impact loading, use of the plug should be stopped until
an inspection is performed. Additionally, due to cyclic
tensile loading of the lift plug, a wet magnetic particle
inspection should be performed on the plugs to inspect
for fatigue cracks

Power Tongs, Gauges and Torque Recorders

The tongs should be in good condition with jaws that
correctly fit the pipe.

It is imperative that the make-up torque be accurately

measured and controlled. Torque measuring equipment
should be in good working order, cover the appropriate
range and be properly calibrated. If a snub line is used
it should be set at a 90 degree angle to the arm of the
tong. If the snub line cannot be set at a 90 degree angle
to the arm of the tongs, the make-up reading should be
adjusted accordingly.

Thread Protectors and Cleaning Thread Inspection

W A
hen pipe is stored on the rack or is being
moved, the threads should be protected by
correct fitting, clean, and properly installed
thread protectors.
Prior to inspection, threads should be thoroughly
cleaned and dried. Threads should be free of all dirt,
thread or storage compound, solvent residue, water, etc.
Do not use diesel for cleaning. Do not use metallic
brushes or other methods that will scratch or abrade
thread and seal surfaces.
n authorized Grant Prideco Representative must
perform thread inspection. Inspect all thread
and seal surfaces for damage and corrosion.
Minor anomalies on thread and torque shoulder sur-
faces can be field repaired. Damage on seal surfaces,
other than very minor oxidation, is cause for rejection.
After repairs, threads must be re-cleaned and dried.
Exposed seal surfaces, such as pin nose areas, are par-
ticularly susceptible to handling damage. Special care
should be taken in inspection of these areas for dings,
dents, and/or mashed ends.

92 © Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved.

P R E M I U M C O N N E C T I O N S
 A T L A S B R A D F O R D

Suggestions for Running and Pulling

®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

Installing Seal Rings

W
here applicable, seal rings shall be installed after thread
inspection. Both the seal ring and the seal ring groove
shall be clean and dry prior to installation. Care should
be taken to insure that the ring fits properly and is firmly seated into
the groove. It is imperative that the seal ring is evaluated for proper
fit after the hump has been displaced in the groove. This evaluation
shall be conducted by using your finger and going around the entire
circumference of the groove. Any abnormal areas of the seal ring
must be corrected at this time. Movement of the seal ring axially will
assure proper installation, resulting in a snapping sound once the
seal ring is in the correct location. The seal ring must be seated the
entire circumference after it has been determined that the ring is fit-
ted properly into the groove. Seal rings should not be installed
sooner than necessary before makeup of the connection.

Installing PR Rings

P
R rings are installed in RTS-6PR and RTS-8PR upset inte-
gral joint tubing connections. The PR rings are installed to
enhance the protection provided by plastic coated pipe,
isolating the connection from the internal fluids of the well bore.
An insertion tool is required to seat the PR ring. The PR ring is
placed in the ID of the box connection. Placing the insertion
tool in the box and hitting the insertion tool with a rubber mallet
seats the PR ring.

Thread Locking Procedures

T
he pin and box connections must be cleaned, dried, and
free of contaminates. The seal ring must be removed on
connections incorporating a seal ring. Apply thread-lock to
the pin thread end only (not the seal area of the pin). This will
reduce the possibility of the thread-lock progressing into the ID.
A uniform coat should be applied, a full 360 degrees, covering all
threads. Apply thread compound to the internal seal of the box,
covering the area 360 degrees. The connection shall be made up
as soon as possible after the thread-lock and thread compound
has been applied. A torque in excess of the maximum make up
torque may be required to shoulder the connections.

© Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved. 93

 Suggestions for Running and Pulling
®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections
Running Procedures
Pipe Handling
E
xtreme care should be used when handling
pipe. Pipe should not be moved unless the
threads are protected with thread protectors
and/or handling or lifting plugs. To insure protection
of the threads, it is recommended that the pipe be
lifted with straps rather than hooks. Single joint eleva-
tors are recommended but not necessarily required. If
a soft line is used it should always be double
wrapped when picking up a joint of pipe.
Thread Compound
API 5A2 modified, high temperature, high-pressure
thread compound is recommended.
After any field repair, apply a Moly-disulfide spray,
prior to applying the thread compound. Moly-disul-
fide is not required otherwise.
Some lead-free and metals-free compounds have been
evaluated for use on some Atlas Bradford connec-
tions. Please contact your nearest Grant Prideco rep-
resentative for additional information.
94 © Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved.
P R E M I U M C O N N E C T I O N S
Compound Application
NJO, ANJO, BIG NJO Connections
A thin even coat of thread compound shall be
applied to the entire threaded area (both steps)
and seal surface of the box connection. A thin
even coat of thread compound shall also be
applied to the metal seal only on the pin. Care
should be taken to insure complete and uniform cov-
erage. Thread compound should be well worked into
the thread roots with a brush.
RTS, FL-4S, SB, BTB, HDL, BIG HDL, STL, TC-4S, and TC-II
Connections, Modified Couplings, and Secondary Products (ST-C,
ST-P, DSS-HTC, IJ-3SS, IJ-4S, RSU-6, RSU-8, DS, STC-4S, ST-FI,
ST-M, AB-TC, CQS, TC-22, (Old) NJO, (New)NJO, NJOM, FLB-4S,
FL-21 Connections).
Thread compound should be applied to the entire
thread and seal surfaces of both the pin and the
box connection. On products with seal rings, partic-
ular care should be taken to thoroughly cover the area
between the seal ring and the back of the box. Thread
compound should be worked well into the thread
roots with a brush. Thread compound should fill
approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of the thread height.
 A T L A S B R A D F O R D

Suggestions for Running and Pulling

®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

Stabbing and Thread Engagement

S
tabbing and initial thread engagement is the most
critical aspect of running Atlas Bradford premium
connections. A stabbing guide shall be used on the
pipe box thread to prevent damage to thread and seal
surfaces. The pipe must be properly positioned and
under complete control before stabbing is conducted.
The pipe must be in true vertical alignment over the
box. Movement or sway of the pipe should be limited to
the minimum extent possible. Men on the rig floor and
the stabbing board accomplish control of the pipe. Only
after the pipe is stabilized and properly positioned,
lower the pipe slowly to avoid thread damage. Once the
face of the pin is even with the face of the box, the pin
connection should be lowered very slowly into the box.
This process will allow the stab flank of the pin threads
to align with the flank threads of the box and reduce the
possibility of mis-stabbing, or cross threading.

Remove stabbing guide after stabbing, rotate the pipe by

hand to insure proper thread engagement. If the weight
of the pipe prohibits turning by hand, turn very slowly
with tongs (connection should be free running without
torque required) to assure proper thread engagement.
Cross threading and misalignment may be corrected
now. The stabber must not rock the pipe during ini-
tial stab or makeup. In case of a mis-stab, rotating the
connection counter-clockwise 1/4 to 1/2 turn will correct
the misalignment and give proper thread engagement.
Make one or two full turns by hand or slowly at about 4
to 6 RPM’s using the power tongs. Snub line shall be
slack, or backup shall be released before applying full
power for makeup.

© Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved. 95

 Suggestions for Running and Pulling
®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections
Power Makeup
P
ower tongs are required. Pipe wrenches, rig
tongs or spinning chain makeup are not rec-
ommended. Make up at a steady and con-
trolled speed, usually at 10-15 RPM’s for tubing and
8 to 12 RPM’s for casing. Make up to the recom-
mended torque value. A backup tong may be
required, until sufficient string weight is developed
to prevent the joint from turning in the slips, if the
tongs are not integral. Set the power tongs and the
backup tongs as close together as possible to pre-
vent bending during makeup. The backup tongs
should be of a sufficient width to prevent crushing
the pipe body. Do not set the backup tongs over the
box threads. Do not latch the elevators on the pipe
until the connection is made-up completely.
Make-up Torque
A
tlas Bradford Technical Specification Sheets
provide the torque values for all Atlas
Bradford premium connections that require a
specific make-up torque. The torque values on the
Technical Specification Sheet provide a minimum
and maximum recommended torque value. Torque
values are recommended and can be affected by
field conditions. For torque monitoring equipment or
target torque, the average of the two values may be
considered the optimum torque; however a connec-
tion shall be considered acceptable if the torque is
between the minimum and maximum torque value.
BTB Connections
T
here are no established torque values for BTB
connections. The BTB connection design con-
cept requires that the connection be made up
to position. Each pin connection has a “makeup
groove mark” machined around the circumference of
the pin connection. The “make up groove mark”
may not be visible 360 degrees since it is dependent
on the OD and concentricity of the pipe. Optimum
makeup is achieved when the face of the coupling is
96 © Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved.
P R E M I U M C O N N E C T I O N S
positioned midway of the “makeup groove mark”
The side of the groove facing the pin thread is the
minimum position and the side of the groove facing
the pipe O.D. is the maximum position. Torque val-
ues may be established by running ten joints and
averaging the torques. The remaining connections
may be run to that torque value, also assuring that
the face of the coupling is within the limits of the
“makeup groove mark”.
Modified Couplings
O
n the first 15 to 20 joints of tubing to be
run, mark a 1/8” wide white paint band on
the pin end. The front line of this paint
band should be at the last scratch (the L4 distance is
available from API Standard 5B) and is convenient
when the actual location of the “last scratch” is in
doubt due to chaser run-out marks.
Using extreme care, make-up each of the pre-
marked connections and record the torque necessary
to bring the paint band flush with coupling face. If
any of these connections require a torque in excess
of the API maximum torque value to reach the rec-
ommended make-up positions, break the connection
out and check threads for damage.
The average of the torque values determined above
should be considered the optimum torque value for
that product. The minimum torque should not be
less than 75% of the optimum value, while the maxi-
mum torque should not exceed 125% of the opti-
mum value.
Reference: Typical make-up torque for a modified
coupling, to achieve the correct position, is approxi-
mately 75% of the recommended torque for a non-
modified coupling.
 A T L A S B R A D F O R D

Suggestions for Running and Pulling

®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

Breakout

U
nlatch the elevators before breakout. Locate
the connection to be broken out at a com-
fortable working height above the slips. Set
the power tongs and the backup tongs or slips as
close together as possible to prevent bending during
breakout. Maintain vertical alignment and control of
pipe. This is accomplished by a man on the stabbing
pin out of the box. Do not lift the exposed pin
threads through the tongs. Before moving the pipe
further, protect the threads by installing a clean, dry
thread protector or lift plug as appropriate.
Torque Monitoring Equipment

T
he use of a computerized torque monitoring
board. Slowly apply the torque required to break the
system is not a requirement for makeup of
connection. (Never use a hammer or other hard
Atlas Bradford connections. However, the use
object to beat on a connection. The resultant
of such a system provides many benefits. These
damage could lead to a failure.) Depending on
include a permanent record of each connection's
the torque required, movement of the pipe is some-
makeup characteristics, shoulder torque and final
times initiated by the initial break. Pipe movement
torque. This information can be used to conduct
shall be stopped before additional turning of the
evaluations at the rig site or for future reference,
connection is continued.
studies and evaluations. Torque monitoring services
usually monitor torque, time and turns. To evaluate
Maintain a steady, controlled speed until the pin
the makeup characteristics of a connection, a torque
jumps inside the box. A single joint elevator is rec-
versus turn plot is preferred over that of a torque
ommended to reduce misalignment during the lifting
versus time. There are no turn criteria for acceptance
process. A weight compensator may be used to
of any Atlas Bradford connection. Major anomalies in
reduce thread galling during breakout. With the
the characteristic of the makeup curve or a shoulder
compensator load adjusted to thread loading, thread
torque that is outside of the normal range indicates
damage should be eliminated. In lieu of a compen-
that an improper makeup is suspect. Connections
sator, insure that the spring hook is adjusted to keep
displaying these characteristics should be broken
the pin from jumping out of the box.
out, inspected, repaired if necessary and remade.
Stop rotation immediately when the pin jumps inside
the box. A stabbing guide shall be used prior to lift-
ing the pin out of the box. The pin must be carefully
lifted out of the box to avoid damage. This is critical
on heavy weight pipe or when pulling doubles or
triples. Remove the power tongs before lifting the

© Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved. 97

 Suggestions for Running and Pulling
®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

Setting Up of Torque Monitoring Equipment

T
he Atlas Bradford Connection Technical
Specification Sheets provide the required min-
imum and maximum make up torque values
required for the connection.
The reference or the starting torque must be set at
100 ft-lb for tubing sizes (2 3/8” - 5”) and 5% of the
minimum torque value for casing sizes.
The minimum make up torque as specified on the
Atlas Bradford Connection Technical Specification
Sheet shall be used for the dump value torque.
Graph size and scale shall be set to produce clear
representation of a make-up signature and verifica-
tion of torque values - no more than two make-up
curves shall be displayed on a sheet of paper.
Shoulder torque values may be set at 10% to 80% of
the minimum torque value specified on the Atlas
Bradford Connection Specification Sheet.
Shoulder torque values may also be set by determin-
ing the average distribution and standard deviation of
the shoulder torque on the initial first fifty connec-
tions. The minimum value of the shoulder torque may
be set at the average shoulder torque value minus
two standard deviations and the corresponding maxi-
mum value may be set at the average shoulder torque
plus two standard deviations. The remaining connec-
tions may be run to these established values.

Disposition of Makeup Signatures

T
he intent is to provide guidelines that will The connection’s make up signatures shall be evalu-
assist in the evaluation of make up signatures. ated based on the following conditions:
Any connection’s signature that is abnormal or • If the minimum specified make up torque is not
inconsistent must be evaluated until a confidence obtained the connection shall be broken out.
level is established. It is the Grant Prideco service rep-
resentative’s responsibility for the acceptances of any
MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE
make up curves. In case of a discrepancy, the final
MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE
decision is his responsibility.
TORQUE

MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

SHOULDER TORQUE

MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

REF TORQUE

TURN/TIME

98 © Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved.

P R E M I U M C O N N E C T I O N S
 A T L A S B R A D F O R D

Suggestions for Running and Pulling

®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

• If the maximum specified make up torque is • If the rotation was interrupted during makeup (i.e.
exceeded the connection shall be broken out. tong stoppage, indication of slippage, or bumping)
the connection shall be broken out.
MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

TORQUE

MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE HIGH SHOULDER TORQUE

TORQUE
MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE
SHOULDER TORQUE

SHOULDER TORQUE
MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE
REF TORQUE MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE
TURN/TIME REF TORQUE

TURN/TIME

• If the torque shoulder does not engage (no shoul-

der) the connection shall be broken out. • If the make up signature indicates yielding or defor-
mation of the torque shoulder, the connection shall
MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE be broken and the pin and box connection shall be
MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE
rejected and marked appropriately.
TORQUE

MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

NO SHOULDER
TORQUE

MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

REF TORQUE
SHOULDER TORQUE
TURN/TIME
MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE
REF TORQUE
• If the shoulder torque is outside of the specified
TURN/TIME
torque window (below or above) the connection
shall be broken out.

MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

HIGH SHOULDER TORQUE
TORQUE

MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

LOW SHOULDER TORQUE

MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

REF TORQUE

TURN/TIME

© Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved. 99

 Suggestions for Running and Pulling
®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

Criteria for back-out evaluation and sequential make up

acceptance of an questionable make up signature:
• If the connection make up signature is rejected, the pin
shall be broken out and disassembled
• The pin and box shall be thoroughly cleaned and visu-
ally inspected and if applicable, the seal ring shall be
removed from the box connection. If no detrimental
damage (galling on the thread) is observed, and the seal
ring is not shredded as a result of make up, the connec-
tion shall be reassembled. Any connection with seal
damage shall be rejected and marked appropriately.
• If second make up signature is acceptable or simi-
lar to the first make up and the shoulder torque
and final torque are within acceptable limits, the
connection shall be considered acceptable.
• If the seal ring is shredded or dislodged from the
groove, replace the seal ring, if applicable, and
reassemble the connection. Makeup signature must be
acceptable.

Makeup signatures of this nature must always be

broken out and evaluated:
• Erratic make-up curve, build-up and drop-off in • Excessive torque build-up and drop-off prior to
torque. shouldering.
• Excessive build-up and drop off in torque prior to
MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE
shouldering.
MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE
MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE
TORQUE

MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE
SHOULDER TORQUE
TORQUE

MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE
SHOULDER TORQUE REF TORQUE

MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE TURN/TIME

REF TORQUE

TURN/TIME • Erratic torque curve prior to shouldering.

MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE

TORQUE

MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

SHOULDER TORQUE

MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

REF TORQUE

TURN/TIME

100 © Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved.

P R E M I U M C O N N E C T I O N S
 A T L A S B R A D F O R D

Suggestions for Running and Pulling

®
Atlas Bradford Premium Tubing and Casing Connections

MAXIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE • Typical make up signature, however make

MINIMUM MAKE UP TORQUE
up conditions may alter the shape of the
curve.
TORQUE

MAXIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

SHOULDER TORQUE

MINIMUM SHOULDER TORQUE

REF TORQUE

TURN/TIME

Common Causes of Thread Damage

I
nsufficient or improperly applied thread com- • Arc burning on threads during magnetic particle
pound. This is especially true for improper inspection.
thread compound application between the seal • Improper handling of pipe during storage and
ring and the back of the box. shipping.

• Misalignment from vertical during stabbing, • Lack of proper care while running or pulling
makeup or breakout. pipe.

• Rocking pipe to correct cross threading. • Use of accessories with non-authorized Atlas
Bradford type threads.
• Continued rotation of pipe after threads have dis-
engaged during pulling. • Improperly installed seal rings.

• Setting backup tongs over box threads. • Over torque.

• Dirty threads and/or dirty thread compound.

© Grant Prideco December 2000. All rights reserved. 101