Vol 5 Oct G Inspection Guidelines

CHEVRON DRILLING REFERENCE SERIES
VOLUME FIVE
OCTG INSPECTION GUIDELINES
SECTION I OVERVIEW
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.1 Guideline Organization ............................................................... I-1
1.2 OCTG Related Contacts ............................................................. I-2
1.3 The PRIME Inspection Program ................................................. I-2
1.4 Approved OCTG Mill List ............................................................ I-2
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SECTION I OVERVIEW
These Guidelines are intended to aid drilling and production engineers in development of third party
inspection programs for Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG) purchased by Chevron. This document also
contains specific procedures for inspection of OCTG for use by inspection companies contracted by
Chevron.
The Guidelines provide recommendations regarding inspection of most OCTG strings Chevron
purchases. Extreme downhole environments, highly sensitive locations, use of non-standard material
grades (corrosion resistant alloys, sour service grades, etc.), or other special cases may be beyond the
scope of this document. The CRTC Materials and QA consultants located at the Drilling Technology
Center (DTC) can provide technical consultation regarding Chevron purchasing specifications,
manufacturer recommendations, materials recommendations, and customized inspection programs for
special string requirements.
It is anticipated that the inspection listed in this guideline will be performed prior to shipping material to
the wellsite. Inspections performed on the rig floor, such as water and gas testing of pipe while it is going
into the hole, are not covered by this standard. Final decisions concerning the use of these guidelines,
including the classification of wells and the selection of inspection methods, shall be the responsibility of
the Chevron Drilling Superintendent assigned the respective well work.
Any suggestions for changes or additions should be sent to the CRTC Quality Assurance office at the
DTC (Houston).
1.1 GUIDELINE ORGANIZATION
The guidelines are composed of five (5) sections:
Section I - This overview.
Section II - Definitions of inspection methods normally applied to tubular goods and guidelines for
inspection level selection under various service conditions.
Section III -General requirements which apply to inspection methods, inspection monitoring, and
other OCTG related services performed for Chevron.
Section IV - A comprehensive set of procedural guidelines recommended by Chevron for each of the
inspection methods listed in Section II.
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Section V - Listing and description of current Chevron OCTG related specifications and a
specification reference table.
1.2 OCTG Related Contacts
The following contacts provide technical consulting services to all Chevron operating companies on
OCTG related issues:
Topic Service Company Location CTN Phone #

Casing String Design CPTC DTC 230-2655
Materials Selection CRTC DTC 230-2656
Quality Assurance CRTC DTC 230-2741 / 2744
1.3 The PRIME Inspection Program
Each year, QA reviews all applicable OCTG inspection reports, evaluates and categorizes rejects,
documents this information in a database format, and calculates relative quality ratings (classification)
of most Chevron approved OCTG mill sources. These classifications are used to determine
appropriate sampling inspection rates for upcoming third party inspection. Sample inspection rates,
justified by historic mill performance, provide a substantial economic benefit over full inspection
programs, while maintaining an acceptable amount of risk. This program is referred to as PRIME
(Performance Rating In Mill Evaluation) and is funded by Chevron Profit Centers through the Quality
Assurance annual portfolio.
The PRIME database contains extensive and detailed information on amounts and types of rejects
found in OCTG purchased by Chevron and is an extremely valuable resource for minimizing
inspection costs and providing incentive to purchase quality tubulars.
Mill classifications consist of separate body and thread ratings, allowing for different combinations of
sampling rates for each component of OCTG. Classifications are based on effective reject rates for
an individual mill in a specific year. The following table shows the association between effective
reject rate and given classification for both thread and body classes and is based on historic industry
reject ratios (percentages are on a per joint basis):
Class I Class II Class III

Body Reject Rate < .7% .7% - 2.1% > 2.1%
Thread Reject Rate <.3% .3% - .9% > .9%
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See Table 2 in Section 2 of these Guidelines for examples of how the body and thread classifications
determine inspection percentages.
1.4 Approved OCTG Mill List
Quality Assurance and the Materials Engineering Group in CRTC maintain a list of OCTG mills which
have been evaluated and approved for manufacture of tubing and casing for Chevron. Each mill is
approved for a specific size range and grade. This list is updated on request, as new mills are
evaluated and existing mills expand their capabilities and develop new products.
Evaluation of an OCTG mill consist of a review of the facility’s manufacturing and quality control
processes and verification of the mill’s ability to produce tubular goods to API and Chevron
specifications. Evaluation and approval of proprietary, non-API grades such as corrosion resistant
alloys and high collapse grades may involve review of laboratory test results by CRTC materials
expert or the CPTC Drilling Engineering Group.
Contact the Quality Assurance Group at the Drilling Technology Center for the latest revision of the
Approved OCTG Mill List or to discuss possible additions to the list.
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CHEVRONTEXACO DRILLING REFERENCE SERIES
VOLUME FIVE
SECTION II SELECTION OF TUBULAR INSPECTION PROGRAM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2.1 Scope ....................................................................................................... II-1
2.2 Inspection Methods and Abbreviations ..................................................... II-1
2.3 Definition of Terms .................................................................................... II-4
2.4 Determining the Inspection Program ........................................................ II-5
2.5 Weld-on Connectors ................................................................................ II-10
2.6 Rig Site Welding ....................................................................................... II-11
2.7 Proprietary connections ............................................................................ II-11
2.8 Limitations ................................................................................................ II-11
2.9 ChevronTexaco QA Forms Related to OCTG........................................... II-12
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SECTION II SELECTION OF TUBULAR INSPECTION PROGRAM
2.1 SCOPE
This section provides guidance regarding selection of third party OCTG inspection
programs based on assessment and management of risk. Definitions of common
inspection methods utilized and guidance for selection of the appropriate inspection level
are discussed. Also provided are example forms intended to aid in communication of
the inspection process.
The third party tubular inspection programs are intended to apply to OCTG after receipt
of tubulars from the mill or supplier. In many cases, some level of involvement in the
mill rolling and mill inspection can be substituted for (or compliment) third party
inspection performed by ChevronTexaco. See Section VI of this document for a
discussion of mill monitoring issues.
2.2 INSPECTION METHODS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Each inspection method has been assigned a three-letter abbreviation to aid in

discussion and in communicating the methods to the third party inspection company.
General Requirements
These requirements cover general items, such as marking, that apply to all the
inspection methods employed by ChevronTexaco.
Full Length Visual (FLV)
Visual inspection of pipe body for obvious body wall defects and damage.
Inspection is limited to accessible surfaces only.
Full Length Drift (FLD)
Passing a cylinder of specified diameter and length through the pipe to detect ID
restrictions. The drift diameter may be specified by API or may be a special
ChevronTexaco requirement. Drifting of casing larger than 13-3/8” OD is not
recommended unless verification of ID is critical.
Special End Area Inspection (SEA)
Dry magnetic particle or wet fluorescent magnetic particle inspection of the ID and
OD of the tube and coupling for the first 24 inches from either end. SEA inspection
also includes a full Visual Thread Inspection (VTI) of the threads. ChevronTexaco
preference is to perform SEA after threading whenever possible so that
imperfections exposed by the threading operation are identified.
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Visual Thread Inspection (VTI)
Visual examination of threads and sealing surfaces to detect mechanical damage,

corrosion and improper machining practices. This method also involves making
some linear measurements of thread length, coupling position, etc.
Electromagnetic Inspection (EMI)
An automated inspection process consisting of four independent inspection

functions applied in rapid succession to the tube body, excluding end areas. The
four EMI functions are as follows:
a. Flux leakage from a longitudinal field for transverse flaws.

b. Flux leakage from a circumferential field for longitudinal flaws.
c. Gamma ray wall thickness measurement to detect thin wall or eccentricity.
d. Eddy current grade comparator to detect gross differences in grade between
joints in an inspection lot.
Although EMI is considered a substandard inspection method as compared to

UTB, it is a valid method of inspection for less critical service in geographic areas
where UTB is not available and for wall thicknesses less than 0.400".
Full Body Shear and Compression Wave Ultrasonic Inspection (UTB)
A shear wave ultrasonic test using multiple transducers set at various angles to the
pipe surface and pipe axis. Transducers are arrayed to investigate simultaneously
for longitudinal, transverse and sometimes oblique flaws as well as to make
continuous wall thickness measurements. Tests have shown that UTB is superior
to EMI for full body inspection of most tubulars, especially heavy wall and non-
magnetic materials.
API Thread Gauging (TDG)
Mechanical measurements of five elements on API round threads or six elements

of API buttress threads. Elements include height, taper, lead, pitch diameter,
ovality and runout (buttress only). All elements are measured with API thread
gages except pitch diameter, which may be measured using proprietary gages
specifically for this purpose. TDG also includes a complete Visual Thread
Inspection (VTI). Thread gauging is normally not performed on proprietary
threads.
Rockwell Hardness Testing (HRC)
Testing of pipe intended for sour service to insure that maximum hardness levels
are not exceeded. HRC is normally limited to API grades L-80 and C-90 and
proprietary restricted yield grades and typically is only required when there is a
question regarding traceability. HRC is also useful in comparing mechanical
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properties of tube upset or swaging with those of the tube body in order to identify
improper swaging or upset operations.
Ultrasonic Weldline Inspection (UTW)
A shear wave ultrasonic inspection of the weldline on longitudinally welded (ERW)

pipe. Inspection is limited to the weldline and adjacent metal and is only intended
to detect weldline flaws.
Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI)
A technique employing penetrating dye to detect flaws open to the surface. It is

primarily used to evaluate end areas on special alloy tubulars (CRA material)
which cannot be magnetized.
Special Handling (HDL)
Certain controlled yield and special alloy materials intended for sour or critical
service can be mechanically damaged by rough handling. This damage may
reduce the material’s resistance to corrosion and hydrogen sulfide cracking. When
employed, the special handling requirements of this standard are intended to
prevent any mechanical damage due to handling.
Traceability (TRA)
Some high risk wells may require a level of quality assurance beyond normal
levels. Additional assurance is gained through traceability which involves
assignment of a unique serial number to each component, then tracking and
documenting the entire inspection process individually for each component.
Butt Weld Radiography (RAD)
Welds on large diameter casing with welded-on connectors should be examined

by the radiographic method to ensure that the weld meets minimum quality levels.
RAD works well for locating porosity, slag inclusions, lack of penetration, cracks
and lack of fusion (if the latter two are oriented parallel to the radiation beam). In
that RAD is not effective in locating tight imperfections oriented at high angles to
the radiation beam; i.e. interpass lack of fusion, cold lap, toe cracks, under bead
cracks, UBW should be used.
Ultrasonic Butt Weld Examination (UBW)
Shear wave ultrasonic examination of circumferential butt welds. The weld is

inspected from both directions using a hand-held ultrasonic unit. UBW is superior
to RAD for locating imperfections which have orientations that are not
perpendicular to the pipe axis. Good quality UBW is more dependent upon
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operator expertise than RAD, and results must be interpreted during the NDT
operation.
Inspection Monitoring (MON)
The effectiveness of the above inspections will depend on the degree of

compliance by the inspection company to the specific requirements outlined in this
and other applicable inspection standards. In some cases, on-site monitoring of
the inspection processes by a ChevronTexaco or third party representative may be
performed to insure that procedural steps are followed.
Coupling Buck-On (BUC)
This procedure outlines requirements for the correct installation of couplings and
accessories on pipe. The procedure will be applicable when these items are
installed in the shop or field facility.
2.3 DEFFINITION OF TERMS
Specific terms are used in this process description and are defined below for
clarification:
Quality Level (QL1, QL2, QL3)
Provides distinction between non-critical, standard, and critical wells. Based on

primary consequence of failure factors.
Inspection Level (L0, L1, L2, L3, L4, L5)
Determines OCTG inspection methods to be applied. Established by considering

quality level and secondary consequence of failure factors. Level is applicable to
an individual pipe string.
Inspection Plan (ex. 50% VTI, 50% SEA, 25% EMI…)
Instructs specific third party inspections to be performed on pipe by

ChevronTexaco. Includes sampling based on PRIME mill quality classifications.
Mill Monitoring (MM)
Quality Assurance activity which involves instruction and coordination of third party
surveillance of mill activities associated with pipe manufacture. Includes
development of monitoring instructions, review and approval of mill quality plan,
technical evaluation of quality issues, and review and distribution of reports.
Third Party Inspection (TPI)
Performance of specific non-destructive inspection methods by Purchaser

following receipt from mill. Inspection methods are intended to identify pipe
defects or conditions that do not meet the purchasing specifications.
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Maximum Expected Pressure (MEP)
MEP is the maximum internal pressure that the string may be subjected to during
the life of the well. This may be maximum shut-in pressure, maximum expected
gas kick, or other pressure based on design, hydrostatic conditions, future
stimulation, etc. for the specific string in question.
Tubular String Function
The function of the string in the well will help determine the recommended
inspection program. Categories grouped on the tables include 1) surface casing,
2) intermediate casing and drilling liners, 3) production casing, production liners
and tiebacks, and 4) tubing. If a casing string may be used as both intermediate
and production casing, the inspection program should be based on production
casing.
2.4 DETERMINING OF THE INSPECTION PROGRAM
The intent of this process is to provide ChevronTexaco operating companies a method

to match the type and amount of third party inspections performed to the various field
conditions and well criticality. Determining an appropriate tubular inspection program
involves consideration of factors regarding likelihood and consequences of failure.
The described process and resulting recommendations are intended to provide guidance
for determination of inspection or quality assurance activities as applicable to most
situations. If you have any questions or are unsure regarding application to your
particular circumstances, contact ERTC QA.
See Figure 2.1 for a process flowchart representation detailing activities and roles of
those involved.
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FIGURE 2.1- PROCESS FLOW
Drilling Drlg Eng 1 ERTC QA (QL3) ERTC QA ERTC QA (QL3)

Engineer Drlg Eng 1 Supplier (QL1, 2) Supplier (QL1, 2)
Determine
Quality Level
for well (Table
1) – consider
Primary
Consequences
Mill Monitor
(MM)
TPI or
MM?
Third Party Mill Monitoring

Inspection Plan developed for
(TPI) specific mill order
Using Table 2,
determine Using Table 3,
appropriate determine
Inspection Level Inspection Plan
based on MEP based on Mill
and function PRIME rating
Quality Level and Primary Consequence Factors
The establishment of a third party OCTG inspection plan for a given string of pipe
begins with consideration of primary factors impacting consequences of failure.
Primary factors that directly impact costs associated with remediation activities,
environmental damage, abandonment and personal injury are used to determine an
overall Quality Level for a well or field. These may include location of well site
(onshore/offshore), relative depth of completion, and special environmental concerns
(presence of H2S).
The Quality Level for a location or well should be the responsibility of the Drilling
Engineer or Drilling OPCO representative. See Table 2.1 for advice regarding
application of Quality Levels.
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Table 2.1 QUALITY LEVEL RECOMMENDATIONS
Location Conditions
(primary ERTC QA
consequences)
QL1 Shallow, on-shore, No ERTC QA involvement
Non-critical low psi oil
Deeper on-shore, Consult ERTC QA on an
QL2 shallow offshore as need basis. Supplier to
Standard coordinate effort unless
advised otherwise.
Critical on-shore, ERTC QA involvement and
Deep off-shore, Sour coordination
Service high strength recommended. Consider
QL3
grades ERTC Materials or EPTC
Critical
Drilling Engineering
consultation prior to
purchase.
Inspection Level and Secondary Consequence Factors
Secondary factors impact failure consequences and relate to specific string attributes
(function, maximum expected pressure). These factors are combined with the specified
Quality Level in order to provide an Inspection Level for the string of pipe. Table 2.2
provides guidance regarding determination of Inspection Levels.
Using Mill History (PRIME) to Determine Sample Inspection Plan
Once an inspection level is determined, an inspection plan is chosen based on the

performance history or mill quality classification of the mill that produced the pipe. This
classification represents relative likelihood of failure and is the product of the PRIME
OCTG mill classification program. PRIME Classifications are generated annually by
ChevronTexaco ERTC Quality Assurance based on analysis of previous year tubular
inspection data and performance results. Mills that have consistently provided pipe with
lower third party inspection reject percentages receive less overall inspection (sample).
See Section 4 of this Guideline for detailed descriptions and procedures regarding
applied inspection methods.
Table 2.3 applies the quality classifications to the inspection level and provides an
inspection plan appropriate for the OCTG string.
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Table 2.2 – RECOMMENDED OCTG INSPECTION LEVELS (L)
MAXIMUM EXPECTED PRESSURES (MEP) QUALITY LEVELS

QL1 QL2 QL3
SURFACE CASING (18-5/8” - 20”)
0 - 1,000 PSI 0 1 1
1,001 - 3,000 PSI - 1 1
3,001 - 5,000 PSI - - -
SURFACE CASING (10-3/4” – 17-5/8”)
0 - 1,000 PSI 0 1 1
1,001 - 3,000 PSI - 1 2
3,001 - 5,000 PSI - - 3*
INTERMEDIATE CASING (7” - 13-3/8”)
0 - 1,000 PSI 0 1 2
1,001 - 3,000 PSI 0 1 3*
3,001 - 5,000 PSI - 2 4*
5,001 PLUS - 4* 5*
PRODUCTION CASING (5” - 10-3/4”)
0 - 1,000 PSI 0 1 2
1,001 - 3,000 PSI 0 1 4*
3,001 - 5,000 PSI 0 2 4*
5,001 PLUS - 4* 5*
TUBING (2-1/16” - 4-1/2”)
0 - 1,000 PSI 0 1 2
1,001 - 3,000 PSI 0 2 4*
3,001 - 5,000 PSI 0 3* 4*
5,001 PLUS - 3* 4*
* For Class I or II PRIME rated mills, consider mill monitoring in place of third party inspection.
Contact ERTC QA to evaluate option based on schedule, costs and mill cooperation factors.
Notes:
1. The sampling rate of inspections will be performed as designated in the OCTG Inspection Guidelines Volume I -
Table 2.3, unless otherwise specified. Specify when 100% inspection is desired on any particular level.
2. When the pipe is ERW, UTW will be performed on level 4 (L4) and above per the EMI sampling rate, unless
UTB is performed.
3. Sampling rates are increased to 100% on an inspection method when the rejects for that inspection method
exceed 1% for Class I, 2% for Class II, and 3% for Class III.
4. The Quality Assurance Department recommends TDG on heavy strings with API connections. The table is
based on pressures and well environments alone. Weight should also be considered. When TDG is desired,
specify level 2 or above.
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Table 2.3 - Inspection Levels and Sampling Rates (1)

Insp. Body Thread FLV FLD VTI TDG SEA EMI/UTB
Level Class Class (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
No inspection performed. Pipe may need clean and re-dope prior to running based on
L0 storage and thread compound condition. Use approved mills only.
L1 I I 50% 100% 100% - - -

I II 50% 100% 100% - - -
I III 50% 100% 100% - - -
II I 75% 100% 100% - - -
II II 75% 100% 100% - - -
II III 75% 100% 100% - - -
III I 100% 100% 100% - - -
III II 100% 100% 100% - - -
III III 100% 100% 100% - - -
L2 I I 50% 100% 75% 25% - -

I II 50% 100% 50% 50% - -
I III 50% 100% - 100% - -
II I 75% 100% 75% 25% - -
II II 75% 100% 50% 50% - -
II III 75% 100% - 100% - -
III I 100% 100% 75% 25% - -
III II 100% 100% 50% 50% - -
III III 100% 100% - 100% - -
L3 I I 25% 100% 50% 25% 25% -

I II 25% 100% 25% 50% 25% -
I III 25% 100% - 100% 25% -
II I 50% 100% 25% 25% 50% -
II II 50% 100% - 50% 50% -
II III 50% 100% - 100% 50% -
III I 100% 100% - 25% 100% -
III II 100% 100% - 50% 100% -
III III 100% 100% - 100% 100% -
L4 I I 75% 100% 50% 25% 25% 25%

I II 75% 100% 25% 50% 25% 25%
I III 75% 100% - 100% 25% 25%
II I 50% 100% 25% 25% 50% 50%
II II 50% 100% - 50% 50% 50%
II III 50% 100% - 100% 50% 50%
III I - 100% - 25% 100% 100%
III II - 100% - 50% 100% 100%
III III - 100% - 100% 100% 100%
L5 ALL ALL - 100% - 100% 100% 100%
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Notes for Table 2.3 (previous page):
(1) When reject rate for an individual method exceeds 1% for Class I, 2% for Class II or 3% for Class III, the
sampling rate for that method will automatically increase to100% unless otherwise indicated by QA.
(2) FLV shall be on different pipe from EMI or UTB in Level 4. FLV is optional on tubing sizes
2-3/8” - 3-1/2”.
(3) FLD shall be 100% when oversize drift is specified. FLD not required on pipe larger than 13-5/8”.
(4) VTI shall be 100% when storage compound is replaced with thread compound. When VTI and TDG inspection
is required, VTI shall be performed on pipe that is not subject to TDG. VTI may be reduced on new connections
and VTI rejects are not being encountered.
(5) TDG always includes VTI. Substitute TDG with VTI on proprietary connections in order to have 100% coverage
between specified SEA percentage and VTI.
(6) SEA always includes VTI. Perform 100% SEA on swaged connections. SEA shall be on different pipe from
TDG in Levels 3-4, e.g., if 25% SEA and 25% TDG required then a total of 50% of threads are covered by both
methods combined.
(7) Add UTW when EMI is being performed on ERW pipe. EMI acceptable when wall thickness is less than .400".
Use full-length magnetic particle if EMI not available or casing too large for machine.
The Mill Monitoring Option
Mill monitoring may be considered as an alternative to third party inspection when

purchase order is agreed to prior to pipe manufacture. Consult ERTC Quality
Assurance to discuss the advantages of mill monitoring for a specific order or purchase
agreement.
Factors that may determine effectiveness of monitoring include performance and

sequence of mill inspection, mill PRIME classification, and schedule. Advantages of a
well-planned monitoring effort over third party inspection include less impact on delivery
and typically lower costs associated with pipe movement and inspection. For more
information regarding monitoring of OCTG manufacturing operations see Section 6 of
these Guidelines.
2.5 WELD-ON CONNECTORS
Non-destructive Inspection
Circumferential butt welds for welded-on connectors shall be inspected

radiographically (RAD). When one of the below conditions exist, consideration
should be given to ultrasonic inspection of the circumferential butt welds (UBW) in
addition to radiographic inspection.
a. Minimum specified yield strength of pipe or connectors exceeds 65,000 PSI.
b. A high incidence of cracks is revealed by radiography.
c. The depth, pressure, or service conditions indicate the need for abnormal
precaution in the opinion of the Division Drilling Manager or his designee.
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Welding Procedure Qualification
Any contractor providing casing with welded-on connectors shall provide

ChevronTexaco with the applicable written Welding Procedure Specification
(WPS) and the Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) for the welding procedure
employed. The Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) shall list the essential
variables in a format such as ASME Form QW-482 or equivalent, and shall result
in a weld that meets the minimum requirements of Section IX of the ASME Boiler
and Pressure Vessel Code. The Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) shall be in
a format such as ASME form QW-483 or equivalent. All essential variables of the
production welding process shall comply with the qualified procedure.
Welder Qualification
Each production welder performing welding on ChevronTexaco material shall be

qualified to the applicable WPS in accordance with Section IX of the ASME Boiler
and Pressure Vessel Code. The welding contractor shall maintain records of
welder qualification to the specific WPS and shall make these records available to
ChevronTexaco upon request. This requirement applies to all welding processes
used, including manual and semi-automatic processes.
2.6 RIG SITE WELDING
Contractors performing rig site welding on drive pipe or conductor pipe shall comply with
2.5 above. ERTC welding specialist may be consulted regarding evaluation or review of
any welding issues.
2.7 PROPIETARY CONNECTIONS
The use of non-API or proprietary connections usually results in modifications to the

standard recommended inspection program. Since manufacturers of these connections
do not publicize specific dimensions and tolerances, third party gauging is not possible.
If absolutely necessary, a representative of the thread manufacturer may be contracted
to perform this service, however this can be extremely expensive.
A preferred alternative is the monitoring of the threading operation by a ChevronTexaco

representative. Such a service would include verification of the threader’s adherence to
internal quality assurance procedures and gaging practices. The monitor can also help
coordinate threading with other third party inspection such as SEA after threading.
2.8 LIMITATIONS
Guidelines
These guidelines are applicable to most drilling operations undertaken by

ChevronTexaco, including sour service and pressures in excess of 10,000 PSI.
However, certain critical wells may require quality assurance levels beyond the
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scope of these guidelines. The ChevronTexaco ERTC Quality Assurance Group

should be contacted for additional assistance in establishing tubular inspection
requirements if the Division Drilling Superintendent deems that a particular well
falls beyond the scope of this standard.
User Judgment
The method selection guidelines given herein should not be considered absolute
requirements. As guidelines only, they are not intended to take the place of user
judgment in determining which inspection to apply to a string of pipe. However, the
inspection procedures given in Sections III and IV shall be considered mandatory
unless specifically excepted by an authorized ChevronTexaco QA representative
in consultation with the Division Drilling Superintendent or his designee.
2.9 CHEVRONTEXACO QA FORMS RELATED TO OCTG
Documents have been developed to aid communication of OCTG inspection information

between Purchasing, Quality Assurance, suppliers, and third party inspection companies.
It is extremely important that written instructions and documentation be used in order to
minimize the chance for communication errors and mistakes. Versions of these
documents current at the time of this writing follow this section. Contact Quality
Assurance for possible updates or revisions.
Request for QA Services (OCTG Inspection)
This document is intended to provide information to the third party inspection

company necessary for inspection of OCTG. The top portion provides a complete
description and status of the OCTG material in question while the lower portion
indicates specific inspection methods to be performed by the inspection company.
ChevronTexaco OCTG Final Inspection Report
This report format provides a concise, complete description of the inspection

results. It is designed to aid the Quality Assurance Engineer in evaluation and
input of inspection results into the PRIME database for analysis. The report
should be forwarded to the QA office immediately after inspection is completed. In
most cases a more detailed inspection report, specific to the inspection company,
will be issued with the invoice for inspection.
Reject Code Descriptions
The codes are used for coding of OCTG rejects for input into the PRIME
database. These descriptions should be referenced on the Final Inspection
Report.
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Request for OCTG Quality Assurance Services
OIL COUNTRY TUBULAR GOODS (OCTG)
OPCO/Business Unit: Chg. #: Quality Level:

1 2 3
P.O. #: Well/Loc.:
Mill: Date of Mfr.: Class: Inspection Level: L1 L2 L3 L4 L5
Required: FTG Size WT Grade Conn. SML ERW
Status: Plain end Threaded T&C Other:
Material Location Contact/Ph#:
Additional Information:
Required Date: O.T. authorized:

Vendor: Release #: Contact/Ph#:
Requested by: Date: Phone: Fax:
OCTG INSPECTION PLAN
% Full Length Visual (FLV) % Electromagnetic Insp. (EMI)

% Full Length Drift (FLD) % Full Body Ultrasonic (UTB)
% Visual Thread Insp. (VTI) % Ultrasonic Weld Line (UTW)
% Thread Gauging (TDG) %
% Special End Area (SEA) Monitoring (MON)
Note: All inspections shall be in accordance with ChevronTexaco OCTG inspection guidelines and API 5CT unless advised otherwise.
Results to be reported on the “ChevronTexaco OCTG Final Inspection Report” and on the bottom section of this form.
Inspection Location: Contact/Ph#:
Supplemental Information:
ERTC Charge Code Contract No. Contractor Req’d Sequence of Insp.
Final Results:
Total Joints Inspected: FTG: Material Location:
Total Rejected (not repaired): FTG:
Total Rejected (repaired): FTG:
Total Good Joints: FTG: Signature:
CHEVRONTEXACO OCTG FINAL INSPECTION REPORT
Supplier Release # or COMPANY Charge Code: Date of Inspection

Inspection Company: Insp. Co. Ref. #:
Ftg req’d: Size: Wt/ft.: Grade: Conn.:
Manufacturer identification stencil information:
Mfr./Mill: Date Manufactured: ERW or Seamless?
Total Joints Received:
Joints Inspected (itemized) Joints Rejected (itemized)

Not
Repaired Repaired
SEA SEA
FLD FLD
EMI EMI
UTB UTB
FLV FLV
UTW UTW
TDG TDG
VTI VTI
Total:
(1) (2)
Inspection Reject Number Number Not

Method Code* Reject Description* Repaired Repaired
* Use ChevronTexaco Reject Codes and Descriptions Total:
Total Joints Accepted: Footage Accepted:
Comments (Additional items not included in):

CHEVRONTEXACO REJECT CODE DESCRIPTIONS
FOR USE WITH THE CHEVRONTEXACO OCTG FINAL INSPECTION REPORT
PIPE BODY PIN THREAD COUPLING THREAD

2 1 1 2
(UTB,EMI,FLV,FLD,SEA ,HT,UTW) (TDG,VTI ) (TDG,VTI ,SEA ,HT)
Code Description Code Description Code Description
AP1 Pipe Thinwall - API AT1 Pin Thread Lead - API AC1 Coupling Thread Lead - API
AP2 Pipe ID Defect - API AT2 Pin Thread Height - API AC2 Coupling Thread Height - API
AP3 Pipe OD Defect - API AT3 Pin Thread Taper - API AC3 Coupling Thread Taper - API
AP4 Pipe Weld - API AT4 Pin Thread Shave/Torn - API AC4 Coupling Thread Make-up - API
AP5 Pipe OD Defect (> 5%, <12.5%) AT5 Pin Thread Burrs/Form - API AC5 Coupling Grove Dimension - API
AP6 Pipe No Drift - API AT6 Pin Thread No Chamfer - API AC6 Coupling ID or OD Defect - API
AP7 Pipe ID Defect (> 5%, <12.5%) AT7 Pin Thread Pits < 1 Year - API AC7 Coupling Leak - Hydro - API
AP8 Pipe Hardness - API AT8 Pin Thread Ring Guage - API AC8 Coupling Hardness - API
AP9 Pipe Other - API AT9 Pin Thread Other - API AC9 Coupling Thread Other - API
CP1 Pipe Thinwall - CVX CT1 Pin Thread Lead - CVX CC1 Coupling Thread Lead - CVX
CP2 Pipe ID Defect - CVX CT2 Pin Thread Height - CVX CC2 Coupling Thread Height - CVX
CP3 Pipe OD Defect - CVX CT3 Pin Thread Taper - CVX CC3 Coupling Thread Taper - CVX
CP4 Pipe Weld - CVX CT4 Pin Thread PD - CVX CC4 Coupling Thread PD - CVX
CP8 Pipe Hardness - CVX CT5 Pin Thread Ovality - CVX CC5 Coupling Thread Ovality - CVX
CP9 Pipe Other - CVX CT9 Pin Thread Other - CVX CC6 Coupling ID or OD - CVX
CC7 Coupling Leak Hydro - CVX
DP2 Pipe ID Defect - Damage DT9 Pin Thread Other - Damage CC8 Coupling Hardness - CVX
DP3 Pipe OD Defect - Damage CC9 Coupling Other - CVX
DP9 Pipe Other - Damage
DC6 Coupling ID or OD - Damage
DC9 Coupling Thread Other - Damage
1 Includes rejects found during VTI portion of SEA inspection.

2 Does not include rejects found during VTI portion of SEA.
3 CVX denotes ChevronTexaco reject
VOLUME FIVE
SECTION III GENERAL INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3.1 Scope .................................................................................................... III-1
3.2 Personnel Certification ................................................................................... III-1
3.3 Reference Documentation ............................................................................... III-1
3.4 Identification of Material .................................................................................. III-2
3.5 Material Handling ............................................................................................ III-2
3.6 Sequence of Inspection ................................................................................... III-3
3.7 Chevron Notification ........................................................................................ III-3
3.8 Evaluation of Imperfections ............................................................................. III-3
3.9 Post Inspection Requirements ......................................................................... III-5
3.10 Inspection Monitoring ...................................................................................... III-8
3.11 Coupling and Accessory Installation ................................................................ III-10
3.12 Special Handling Procedure ............................................................................ III-13
3.13 Traceability ..................................................................................................... III-17
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SECTION III GENERAL INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
INTRODUCTION
Inspection of new casing and tubing for Chevron Corporation shall conform to the requirements of the
latest edition of API RP 5A5, Recommended Practice for Field Inspection of New Casing, Tubing, and
Plain-End Drill Pipe and the requirements of this guideline. In case of any conflicts between these
guidelines and API RP 5A5, the requirements of these guidelines shall govern.
Section III consists of general requirements which apply to inspection methods, inspection monitoring,
and other OCTG related services performed for Chevron. These shall be used in conjunction
with Section IV.
Note: Within this guideline:
1. Shall is used to indicate that a provision is mandatory.

2. Should is used to indicate that a provision is not mandatory, but recommended as
good practice.
3. May is used to indicate that a provision is optional.
3.1 SCOPE
The requirements of this section apply to inspection methods and related OCTG services
performed for Chevron.
3.2 PERSONNEL CERTIFICATION
All personnel performing inspection shall be certified by the inspection company in accordance with
API RP 5A5, Section 1, unless stated otherwise in the inspection methods listed in Section IV. All
certificates shall be in writing and a copy shall be at the work location. This requirement also
applies to any temporary or contract employee performing any inspection under the supervision of
a certified inspector.
3.3 REFERENCE DOCUMENTATION
In addition to these guidelines, the latest edition of the following documents (as applicable) shall be
available, either as originally published or in copy form, on the job location:
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Inspection company standard operating procedure for the test(s) being conducted:
• API Specification 5B
• API RP 5A5
• API RP 5B1
• API Specification 5CT
If any disagreement exists between these guidelines and the above API Specifications and RPs,
THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS DOCUMENT SHALL GOVERN.
3.4 IDENTIFICATION OF MATERIAL
3.4.1 All joints in an inspection lot shall be numbered in sequence prior to any inspection. If more
than one agency inspects an order, the first agency in the sequence shall number the pipe.
These numbers shall be maintained throughout the entire inspection sequence. Numbers
shall be applied with paint approximately four feet from the coupling or box end and should
be approximately four inches high for casing and two inches high for tubing.
3.4.2 Inspection reports shall be maintained with corresponding numbers, so that the condition
and disposition of any joint can be determined from the inspection report. Inspection reports
shall include all data required in Paragraph 3.9.5.
3.4.3 Mill and previous inspection markings on pipe shall be verified prior to inspection. If any
deviation from the information noted on the work order is found, notify the Chevron
representative prior to inspection.
3.4.4 Absence of adequate identification of required API marking (size, weight, grade and/or
manufacturer)on the pipe is cause for rejection. Verify that coupling grade is identified and
that the couplings in API grades with API threads display the API monogram and/or
manufacturer name.
3.4.5 Verify that metal or metal reinforced, or approved equivalent protectors are supplied.
3.5 MATERIAL HANDLING
3.5.1 All pipe shall be handled carefully to prevent damage to the pipe. Reference to API RP 5C1,
Section 3, is recommended for proper handling procedures during transportation, inspection,
and storage. In case of special materials, refer to 12.0 of this Section for special handling
procedures.
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3.5.2 Pipe shall not be moved without properly installed thread protectors.
3.5.3 Pipe shall not be dropped under any circumstances. Forklifts, Pettibones and/or cranes shall
be required for loading and unloading trucks. Beveled or threaded end pipe should not be
lifted by hooks in the ends which do not have protectors.
3.5.4 Wooden spacers at least two inches thick shall be used to separate layers of pipe. Rack
supports should be at least 18 inches above ground level. Wooden spacers should be in
vertical alignment with rack supports to prevent uneven loading of pipe.
3.6 SEQUENCE OF INSPECTION
Due to cost considerations, a sequence of inspection methods may be specified by Chevron when
assigning inspection. Factors considered are probability of rejections versus cost of the inspection
operation; i.e., FLD, TDG, UTB. Any deviation from the specified sequence shall be approved by
the Chevron representative prior to commencement of inspection.
3.7 CHEVRON NOTIFICATION
3.7.1 Promptly notify the Chevron representative when it appears the rejection rate will exceed
1% in any specific inspection method and/or 3% overall (entire order).
3.7.2 Promptly notify the Chevron representative when it appears there will be insufficient material
to meet the order requirements and/or if the due date will not be met.
3.8 EVALUATION OF IMPERFECTIONS
3.8.1 Imperfections in a length of API pipe or on API coupling shall be evaluated per the
procedures described in Section 5, API RP 5A5, latest edition, using the acceptance criteria
in Sections 8 and 9 of API Specification 5CT (API 5CT), latest edition. The only exception to
the above is that L80-9CR and L80-13CR shall be evaluated per API 5CT Group 3
requirements.
Non-API grades of pipe shall be evaluated using the acceptance criteria specified in the
appropriate Chevron specification (See Section I).
3.8.2 Every effort shall be used to thoroughly prove up indications found by SEA, EMI, UTB,
UTW, or FLV inspection methods. Prove-up using each of the following methods is
III-3 11/95
VOLUME FIVE
mandatory: magnetic particle, ultrasonic shear wave, ultrasonic compression wave

(thickness), and optiscope. If the first method used provides required prove-up data, the
subsequent methods need not be applied. The following requirements apply when
evaluating imperfections found during any inspection.
• Thickness Calibration (Prove-Up Unit) — Hand held thickness gages used for
prove-up shall be calibrated on a step wedge at two thicknesses. The smaller
thickness shall not be more than 80% of pipe specified wall, and the larger thickness
shall not be less than 100% of specified wall. Readings on the thickness gage shall be
within .001" of the step wedge thickness. Step wedge thicknesses shall be verified with
a calibrated micrometer or caliper. Curved standards shall be used on pipe with OD's
3-1/2" and smaller.
Ultrasonic readings shall be based on the average of three ultrasonic readings taken
within 1/4" of each other. Readings are usable for averaging when they are within
.010" of each other.
• Sensitivity Calibration (Shearwave Prove-Up Unit)
a. The prove-up instrument shall be calibrated by scanning the appropriate reference

notch as referenced in Figure 7.2, page 5-4-39 for the orientation of defect
suspected (i.e., longitudinal, transverse or oblique). The notches in the reference
standard may be used or special prove-up ring with the same parameters may be
provided for convenience (contour to preclude rocking, when necessary). This
shall necessitate the use of more than one probe for prove-up. The reject control
shall be maintained in the O (Off) position during calibration and examination.
Scan the applicable ID notch (see Figure 7.2) [first half node] in the standard and
maximize the signal. Adjust the gain control to produce an 80% Full Scale Height
(FSH) signal. The reference notch shall be scanned from both sides and shall be
configured so as not to allow for greater than one db difference when scanned
from either side. Use the weaker side to set 80% FSH. Mark the position of the
signal peak on the CRT screen with a suitable marker. Without further adjustment,
scan the OD notch, maximize the signal and mark the peak of the signal. Repeat
the procedure for the ID notch on the 1-1/2 node position. Connect the marks with
a straight line on the CRT which will establish a Distance-Amplitude Curve (DAC)
to which discontinuity indications shall be evaluated.
b. The reference standard for calibrating ultrasonic shear wave equipment used for
prove-up shall contain notches only. The use of a drilled hole reference standard
to calibrate for prove-up is prohibited.
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VOLUME FIVE
When performing exploratory grinding to evaluate imperfections, always measure the

adjacent wall with mechanical calipers or a properly calibrated ultrasonic thickness
gage to make sure that at least 87-1/2 percent remaining wall is present in the area to
be evaluated. Make the grind in the apparent deepest part of an indication or near the
center of the indication if it is uniform. On long indications, it shall be necessary to
probe grind in several locations. The grind shall not break the line of the imperfection
where less than 87-1/2 percent of specified wall thickness would remain. After any
grinding, verify that the remaining wall under the deepest part of the grind is at least
87-1/2 percent of the specified wall.
All discontinuities (both linear and non-linear) which reduce the remaining wall below
87-1/2 percent of the specified wall thickness are rejectable.
Any internal imperfection found during EMI or UTB which causes a response greater
than the response from the applicable reference notch and can be shown rejectable by
magnetic particle prove up method (optiscope), shall be rejectable. Any internal defect,
as defined by API, which is inaccessible and cannot be removed, shall be rejected.
• Midwall Indications — Any imperfection which does not break the external or internal
surface but does cause responses from both sides of the defect whose average is
greater than the response from the applicable reference notch shall be rejectable.
Before rejection due to a midwall defect, the inspection company shall have made an
effort to determine if the imperfection actually breaks the internal surface.
Example: An imperfection which produces a response of 70% screen height form one
side and 85% from the other (average = 77.5%) based on a reference notch screen
height of 80% would not be a midwall reject. If it is demonstrated to hold powder on
the ID surface, then it would be an internal defect and a reject.
3.9 POST INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
3.9.1 Marking
All pipe shall be marked in accordance with the requirements in this section. (See Figure 3.1.)
Paint stencil the size, weight, grade, thread type. Reapply if original marking is not easily
readable.
Color bands denoting inspection status:
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a. Acceptable – one (1) white band in the center of the joint

b. Rejected – red band at tube center and at point of defect
c. Other banding – as required on the inspection work order
All paint bands should be approximately two inches wide and applied with a brush or roller.
Do not allow paint to cover pipe threads.
In addition to a red band adjacent to the pin or on a coupling, rejected threads shall be
permanently marked to locate the plane of the out-of-tolerance thread element.
In addition to the color banding of rejects, the operator shall write the type, location and
severity of defect, work order number, his name, and the date near the pin end of the pipe.
Permanent paint tubes or markers shall be used.
EXAMPLE: .090" seam 12' box end WO 8126 John Doe 12/16/91
Inspection Company Stencil
When pipe is inspected, a paint stencil denoting type of tests and inspection(s), date,
operator, job number, and unit number shall also be applied in the center of each joint beside
the inspection band. (See Figure 3.1.)
EXAMPLE: (Inspection Company Name)

SEA, FLD, EMI
10/91, Oper 3, WO 8126, Unit 3
Inspection markings shall not reduce legibility of manufacturer’s markings.
Chevron Stencil
A stencil describing Chevron information shall be applied as shown in Figure 3.1. The
Chevron paint stencil shall consist of:
a. Chevron
b. QA Job Number
c. Supplier's name
d. Supplier's release number
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VOLUME FIVE
Non standard items such as joints with hand tight couplings, Baker locked couplings,
crossovers, etc.. shall be identified as such with paint stick markings.
3.9.2 Reject Marking
Rejected tubes shall be marked with a red band at the tube center and at the point of reject.
Once a joint has been rejected, it shall be immediately marked and separated from the good
pipe.
3.9.3 Thread Compound/Storage Compound
When threads have been cleaned to perform an inspection, reapply thread compound after
the inspection, except when there is a continuous sequence of inspections involving the
thread (i.e., TDG after SEA). In a corrosive environment (e.g., Gulf Coast Region), exposed
threads should have thread compound reapplied overnight.
USE ONLY API modified thread compound, unless otherwise specified. In some cases a
specific brand of API modified thread compound may be required.
Do not thin thread compound for any reason. In cold weather, thread compound may need to
be warmed before it is applied. Every attempt shall be made to keep compound container
free from contaminants.
3.9.4 Application of Thread Protectors
Thread protectors shall be thoroughly cleaned, dried, and stored to prevent contamination. A
random visual check of threads of metal protectors for conspicuous defects should be
performed.
Reapply clean, dry thread protectors on all pipe, including rejected pipe, wrench tight.
3.9.5 Resolution of Records
Inspection records shall be completed at the end of the job before leaving the location.
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Figure 3.1
Pipe Inspection Markings
Prime Pipe
White band (mid tube)

White band if
oversized drifted
Inspection Co. (2’ from pin end)
Date, W/O#
Inspections Performed
Mill Stencil
Chevron
Joint #
QA Job Number
Supplier’s Name
Release Number
Rejected Pipe
Red band (mid tube)

White band if
oversized drifted
Inspection Co. (2’ from pin end)
Date, W/O#
Inspections Performed
Mill Stencil x
Reject Desc.
Supplier’s Name Red band at RW & Depth
Joint # point of reject Linear Location
Release Number
11/95 III-8
VOLUME FIVE
Make sure the final count and tallies of rejects, good joints, and total joints is correctly
reflected in the record.
Make sure each joint number shown as rejected in the record matches the joint number on
the rejected pipe. Confirm reason for rejection.
Make sure all joints have been color banded and stenciled properly.
In addition to the Chevron OCTG Final Inspection Report (See Section II), the inspection
company shall also provide their own inspection report before invoicing for services. The
inspection report shall include the following information:
a. Chevron QA Job number

b. Chevron purchase order and/or charge number and/or well number
c. Material description and name of manufacturer:
1) date(s) and location(s) of pipe manufacturer
2) coupling manufacturer (if couplings included in order)
d. Brief description of type of inspection(s) performed
e. Number of lengths and total footage inspected
f. Number of lengths and footage of prime pipe
g. Number of lengths and footage of rejected pipe by inspection method
h. Description of specific reason for rejection. Where applicable, must show
amount out-of-tolerance.
All inspection records shall be maintained by the inspection company and third party
monitoring company for at least two years after completion of inspection.
3.10 INSPECTION MONITORING (MON)
3.10.1 Scope
The requirements of this procedure apply to agency monitors which Chevron may contract to
provide assurance that inspections are carried out in compliance with these guidelines and to
coordinate inspection related services.
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3.10.2 Authority
The monitor is present to represent Chevron and assist the inspection company in the
interpretation and application of these guidelines. The monitor shall be the primary channel
of communication to Chevron regarding job status and problems.
The monitor shall not direct inspection personnel, change or create work orders, or schedule
inspections for the inspection company.
3.10.3 Responsibilities
It is the monitor’s responsibility, jointly with the inspection company, to assure that all
inspections are performed in compliance with these guidelines and other applicable API
standards.
The monitor may not waive or change the requirements of these guidelines without prior
authorization from Chevron.
The monitor shall witness the initial calibration or verify subsequent calibration checks made
on inspection equipment, such as checking drift diameter, light intensity, magnetic field
strength, etc.
The monitor shall confirm that all calipers, meters, etc., used to calibrate or check inspection
equipment are themselves in current calibration and good working order.
The monitor shall verify that the correct API or Chevron acceptance criteria is being used by
the inspectors. Any deviations shall be immediately reported to the inspection company and
to Chevron.
It is understood that the monitor may not personally witness every step of several inspectors
who may be working at different locations on the pipe rack or inspection unit. However, the
monitor shall:
a. Spot check each operation on continuous rotation.
b. Monitor each new inspector closely. The monitor shall ensure that the inspector is
qualified to work without close supervision before the monitor continues his
rotation.
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VOLUME FIVE
c. Ensure proper controls are maintained over the inspection operations, flow of
material, and marking of rejects.
d. Review each rejected joint of pipe to verify reasons for rejection are valid.
e. Stay closely involved at all times in areas requiring high levels of judgment or
subjective interpretation. Examples of these areas are shear wave UT prove-up
and thread pitting evaluation.
Review the inspection company's report for correctness and adherence to Paragraph 3.9.5.
3.10.4 Communication
Unless otherwise directed the monitor shall report to Chevron on the following schedule:
a. Daily at the completion of work, giving joint counts, job progress and estimated
completion time.
b. Upon completion of the inspection order, giving final joint count and footages for
total inspected, prime pipe, and rejections.
c. Immediately when excessive reject rates indicate that insufficient pipe may be
available to fill the order.
d. Immediately when slow or interrupted job progress indicates that delivery
requirements cannot be met.
e. Whenever a major difficulty in interpretation or application of the guidelines occurs.
f. Immediately whenever the rejection rate exceeds 1% in any specific inspection
method and/or 3% overall (entire order).
In all cases, communications from the monitor which involve a potential delay or problem
should include:
a. A brief, factual description of the situation and potential problem.

b. A brief account of the alternatives available to Chevron, including the approximate
time and cost associated with each alternative.
3.10.5 Reporting
In addition to verbal communication during the job, the monitor shall provide a written
summary at the completion of each job. This report shall summarize: joint and footage
counts of accepted pipe; joint and footage counts for rejected pipe and the cause(s) of
rejection; stenciling and marking applied to the pipe; location and disposition of accepted
and rejected footage; and rating of the inspection company(s) including non-conformances
and other pertinent information.
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VOLUME FIVE
3.11 COUPLING AND ACCESSORY INSTALLATION (BUC)
3.11.1 Scope
This procedure outlines the requirements for the makeup of couplings and accessories on
tubing and casing. It is generally applicable to components with API and premium
connections and to carbon, alloy and corrosion resistant alloy (CRA) materials. The
guidelines listed in this procedure are also generally applicable to the running of the tubular
goods at a well site.
3.11.2 Preparation
An inventory must be made to assure that all materials are on hand prior to starting the
makeup operations. Materials include tubular goods, accessories, seal rings, specified
couplings, thread compound, thread locking compound, thread protectors, etc. If not, advise
Chevron representative.
The tong jaws (dies) used on CRA and restricted yield strength materials shall be of low
stress type so that there will be no significant damage to the surface of couplings, pipe or
accessories.
Special makeup services, such as Torque-Turn, may be specified by Chevron. In these

cases, the torque monitoring equipment shall include a real time output device such as a
high speed chart recorder and may additionally have a cathode ray tube (CRT) or other
monitor. In some cases, specific equipment shall be required to be present and to be used.
Hydraulic dump valves shall be installed in both the supply and return lines of the tongs if the
connection is a shouldered type.
For each setup, the load cell shall be installed in the tong snub line, and the snub line shall
be at 90 degrees to the tong axis and perpendicular to the connection axis.
The tong arm length shall be measured, and the measurement value shall be correct for the
torque monitoring equipment used (if used).
The manufacturer’s or Chevron’s recommended thread compound, torque levels and tong
speed limits shall be available for each different type of connection to be made up. The
following format may be used for this data.
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EXAMPLE: MAKEUP DATA FOR 7", 41#, INC 825 90 KSI YS
Connection Thread Dope Ref. Min. Max. Position Tong Speed
Coupling TC-4S API Mod 315 500 11,000 12,650 N/A 5 RPM X tube
3.11.3 Cleaning & Visual Inspection
The connections shall be cleaned with a solvent such as Varsol and nylon or steel bristle
brushes. Power cleaning is acceptable. Steel brushes shall not be used on CRA or
restricted yield strength materials.
After cleaning, the connections shall be blown out with compressed air.
The threads and seals shall be visually inspected. If any damage is seen on premium
connections, a representative of the thread manufacturer, or an inspector approved by
Chevron, shall repair and/or decide the serviceability of the connection.
If the connection includes some type of seal or corrosion barrier rings, the rings shall be
removed prior to inspection and replaced after the inspection. In some instances, Chevron
may request that the seal rings be shipped separately to the rig site.
If a galling preventative compound such as molybdenum disulfide (Molykote) is to be applied,

it should be sprayed on immediately after the threads are inspected and after the seal rings
are installed.
3.11.4 Makeup Procedure
The specified thread compound shall be applied in a thin layer to the entire thread length of
the box and pin as recommended by API or the thread manufacturer. Thread locking
compound, when used, should be applied to the pin only and only on the front 2/3 of the
threaded area (measured from the pin tip).
Coupling and accessories shall be started by engaging the threads and tightening by hand
as far as possible. Additional tightening with a nylon strap wrench should be accomplished
prior to applying tongs on CRA materials. Only low gear on the tongs should be used in
making up the connections.
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For premium shouldered connections, the torque should slowly build until shoulder contact is
made and then rapidly increase. The final torque values shall be reached after shoulder
contact and shall be between the minimum and maximum allowable values provided by the
manufacturer of the connection.
For API connections and non-shouldered premium connections the specified position target
should be reached within the allowable torque range.
All suspect connections (improper standoff, low torque values) shall be broken out. Thread
elements should be gauged and the threads examined for damage or other problems which
could affect makeup. If a definite problem is found and can be corrected, the connection can
be remade. If no obvious cause of makeup problems can be found, the joint or accessory
shall be marked with a red band and laid aside.
Breakout of connections shall follow the thread manufacturer’s recommendations. If no

specific breakout recommendations are provided, breakout of connections should be
accomplished by using the torque and speed information for makeup.
The strip chart or CRT display torque curve for each shouldered premium connection
makeup shall indicate that the shoulder has made contact.
On all premium connections with internal shoulders, the final made up position of each
connection shall be verified by a representative of the thread manufacturer or an inspector
approved by Chevron.
If any slipping or gouging of the material occurs, the job shall be stopped immediately and
the tong’s dies cleaned or replaced before continuing.
Each connection shall be end drift tested after makeup to ensure that the pin has not been
distorted or over-torqued to the extent that the inside diameter is constricted.
3.11.5 Acceptance Criteria
All connections with the proper torque values and curve shape are acceptable provided that
THEY ARE ALSO SUCCESSFULLY DRIFT TESTED AFTER MAKEUP. This includes those
connections which have been broken out, repaired, remade and drift tested. Pipe shall be
drifted past the point on the tube where the backup tongs engaged the tube.
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All connections with improper torque values and/or curve shape which have not been
repaired and remade successfully shall be rejected unless otherwise directed by Chevron.
All connections which fail the drift test shall be rejected unless otherwise directed by
Chevron. Visually inspect any coupling having an internal shoulder to ensure that coupling
and pin IDs are concentric. If eccentricity is present or if the drift movement is restricted,
notify the Chevron Representative.
3.11.6 Post Makeup Procedures
When used, the strip chart for each makeup shall be marked to indicate with which
components it corresponds. For torque monitoring systems with magnetic storage of makeup
data, a copy of the data shall be provided to Chevron.
All assembled components and any leftover material shall be properly marked for
identification.
Raised die marks on all components shall be removed by light hand filing. No sharp
bottomed die marks are permitted on tubes or couplings.
Any exposed threads shall be coated with the specified thread compound and clean thread
protectors installed.
All joints of pipe and assembled accessory components shall be tallied.
3.12 SPECIAL HANDLING PROCEDURE (HDL)
3.12.1 Scope
Certain materials can be damaged by rough handling to the extent that they become
susceptible to H2S attack. This procedure outlines Chevron’s standards for special handling
of these materials for sour service and of CRA materials.
3.12.2 Equipment Handling and Hauling
Verify that crane, forklift, Pettibone and roller equipment has sufficient capacity to safely and
efficiently pickup, maneuver and lay down the maximum anticipated lift (number of joints
times length per joint times weight per foot).
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Verify that proper slings and spreader bars are available and that they have sufficient rated
lifting capacity. Plain-end tubulars may be handled with properly padded end hooks and no
spreader bar. Beveled-end and threaded-end tubulars, including those with weld-on
connectors, shall be handled with spreader bars (minimum length 12 feet) and nylon choker
slings. Forklifts with forks at maximum spacing may also be used. Do not use end hooks
under any circumstances on threaded or beveled end pipe which do not have protectors.
Forklifts should be equipped with clamps to prevent pipe rolling while on the forks. If forks
are not so equipped, extreme care shall be taken when lifting and moving pipe.
For sour service material, and all CRA material, forklift forks should be rubber coated or
padded with wood to prevent metal to metal contact. The vertical supports at the back of the
forks should also be padded.
If tubulars are to be shipped by special packaging methods, such as Drilltec RAP racks,
verify that all components are in serviceable condition and that adequate quantities of
packaging components are on hand.
Verify that adequate wood stripping and bracing materials, and rack supports are available
and are of the proper type.
All stripping material including bottom layer on truckbeds should be hard wood (e.g. Oak)
and be a minimum of four inches square. Bracing for ship, barge and boat transportation
may be made from structural grade softwood (e.g., Douglas Fir, Yellow Pine) with a
minimum cross-section of two inches by four inches, nominal.
Pipe rack supports shall lie in the same plane and elevate the lowest tier of tubes at least 18
inches above the ground level. 2 X 4 hardwood stripping or other durable padding material
shall be placed on concrete or steel rack supports.
For major movements, meetings to coordinate the actions of all parties associated with
moving and handling of the tubulars shall be held. During these meetings, all personnel shall
be made aware of their duties and equipment readiness shall be verified.
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3.12.3 In Plant Handling
Pipe handled in an inspection facility shall be protected from contacting steel racks, stops,
lifts, etc.
Movement of pipe shall be controlled at all times to prevent hard contact between joints or
with stops, lifts, etc.
3.12.4 General Procedures
Ensure that stripping, bracing and rack supports are adjacent to the loading/offloading point
prior to commencing a lift.
Load threaded-end tubulars with all the box connections at the same end of the truck, barge,
boat, racks, etc.
Ensure that thread protectors or bevel protectors are tightly in place prior to any movement.
Avoid rough handling which might dent the body or end finish of the tubes. This is especially
critical on controlled hardness and special alloy material.
Do not drop the tubes at any time or allow them to gain momentum and strike each other.
Rolling lengths shall be controlled at all times to ensure that they can be rapidly stopped and
eased into/out of a rack.
Ensure that proper types and quantities of stripping are placed between each tier of tubes at
right angles to the tubes.
Unless specified otherwise by Chevron, pipe shall not be stacked higher than ten feet or
seven tiers, whichever is less.
Stagger adjoining lengths of pipe in each tier an amount approximately equal to the coupling
or connector length.
Block the pipe by nailing chocks at each end of each piece of stripping. Ensure that the pipe
is tightly packed prior to nailing the chocks. Nails shall not be able to contact the pipe during
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transportation or storage. If stanchion posts are used as chocks, they shall be padded and
wrapped.
Maintain a count of joints (by serial number, if assigned) as they are loaded/offloaded.
All chains, tiedowns, stanchion posts, belly wraps, etc., shall be wrapped and padded or be
made of nylon or other non-metallic material.
3.12.5 Ship/Barge Offloading
Stevedore work rules or work cycles may not permit the time necessary to strip each tier of
pipe as it is offloaded from a ship onto a truck. In this case, notify the Chevron
representative who shall determine if nested (pyramiding) loading is permissible. If nested
loading is used, the tubulars shall be offloaded and inspected for shipping and handling
damage at the earliest opportunity.
If the shipment of tubulars is from overseas, proper clearance of customs shall be obtained
prior to commencement of offloading or movement from a customs controlled area.
3.12.6 Barge/Workboat Loading
In addition to stripping and blocking each tier of tubes, the entire rack shall be braced to
prevent shifting during transportation. Bracing and tie downs shall be sufficient to prevent
vertical and horizontal movement of the tubes.
To the extent possible, the tubulars should be protected from salt spray and any other
corrosive media which may be transported on the same vessel.
3.12.7 Truck Loading
Load pipe with all couplings toward the same end of the truck.
Padded chain or nylon web tiedowns are required. Additional tiedowns for the lower tier(s)
may be required to stabilize the load.
Trucks shall not be loaded beyond either their rated load capacity , the legal load limit, or the
legal extension limit.
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Truck drivers are to be instructed to re-tighten all tiedowns after 10 miles of travel from the
loading point.
3.12.8 Crane Handling
Spreader bars and nylon choker slings shall be used for all lifts except that padded end
hooks may be used to handle plain-end pipe.
Tag lines shall be used to control the swing of the tubes while they are suspended from the
crane.
Unless dictated otherwise, no more than two tubes, with separate slings should be lifted at
one time.
When unloading tubulars shipped in Drilltec RAP racks or similar packaging, the lifts shall be
made with slings or forks supporting the entire bottom layer of pipe. Lifting by using the
packaging frames shall not be attempted.
3.12.9 Forklift Handling
No more than one tier of tubes should be moved at one time.
Sudden starts and stops during loading, movement and unloading shall be avoided. Forks
shall be cautiously inserted between tiers to prevent dinging the tubes.
3.12.10 Post Load/Offload Requirements
Correlate the joint count with loading/offloading personnel.
Obtain a copy of each shipping document whether for an incoming or an outgoing shipment.
For INCOMING SHIPMENTS, perform the following visual inspection steps:
a. Visually examine each piece over the entire length and note all apparent shipping
and handling damage and any readily identifiable manufacturing flaws. Highlight
the damage with a paint pencil and record the location and description by joint
number.
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b. Closely examine the condition of the ends of each piece, especially those with
beveled and threaded ends. Note any damaged or missing bevel protectors and
thread protectors. Threaded areas and bevels which appear to have been
damaged shall be noted on the pipe with paint pencil and recorded by joint
number.
3.13 TRACEABILITY (TRA)
3.13.1 Scope
This procedure outlines the steps employed to maintain the identity (traceability) of each
piece of material throughout a series of inspection steps.
3.13.2 Purpose
Traceability may be instituted on an inspection order when a quality assurance level above
normal is required due to critical service conditions.
Traceability, when specified, applies to all inspection methods performed on an order of pipe.
3.13.3 Joint Serialization
Pipe shall be divided into groups according to specific identifying traits, such as differing
size, weight, grade, etc.
Each group shall be assigned a range of 4-digit numbers sufficient to cover the entire lot. For
example:
Group Assigned Range

1 1001 - 1XXX
2 2001 - 2XXX
3 3001 - 3XXX
Joints within each group shall be assigned individual sequential numbers, beginning with the
first number in the assigned range. On some critical service strings, each joint is assigned a
serial number in the mill to provide traceability throughout the manufacturing process. In this
case, the 2- or 3-digit manufacturer’s serial number shall be converted to a 4-digit serial
number by adding the appropriate prefix and shall be re-stenciled on the pipe per 4.3.4
below (e.g. joint 78 of group 2 becomes Joint No. 2078). If it is not practical to convert
manufacturer’s serial number to a 4-digit inspection serial number then a cross-reference
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shall be prepared that relates manufacturing serial number to the 4-digit inspection serial
number.
These numbers shall be painted in highly visible paint in characters (at least two inches high
on tubing and four inches high on casing) and applied on each end. Every joint shall have a
unique number within the assigned range for that group.
Joint numbers shall be re-applied whenever they become obscured during inspection
operations. Joint numbers may also have to be re-applied when pipe is loaded out.
3.13.4 Documentation
An Inspection Master Log document (example attached) shall be completed covering each
joint in each group. Up to 20 joints can be logged on each form.
Joint serial numbers (S/N) shall be entered along with tally length (T/L).
The inspection program shall be entered at individual 2-column headings on the form, and
the Chevron monitor shall record inspection results in the appropriate blocks whenever an
operation is completed.
The Inspection Master Log shall be maintained up to date on the job location at all times.
At completion of a given inspection, the Master Log shall be reviewed to be sure that all
operations have been satisfactorily completed on every joint.
The inspector or monitor shall conduct a physical inventory of the pipe before shipping or
during loadout to insure the following:
a. Every joint in each section is accounted for.

b. All joint numbers are legible.
c. All joints are banded with the correct color bands denoting acceptance or rejection,
as noted in Paragraph 3.9.0 of this manual.
3.13.5 Records
A copy of the Master Log shall be provided to Chevron immediately upon shipment of the
pipe after final inspection.
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The inspection company shall maintain a copy of inspection Master Log for a minimum of
two years after job completion.
Copies of the Master Log shall also be provided to Chevron with the inspection reports.
The inspection monitor shall maintain a copy of the Master Log as part of the permanent
records as specified in Paragraph 3.9.5 of this manual, except that the Master Log shall be
maintained for at least five years.
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SECTION IV INSPECTION METHODS AND PROCEDURES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4.1 Full Length Visual Inspection (FLV) ................................................................. IV-1
4.2 Full Length Drift (FLD)..................................................................................... IV-2
4.3 Visual Thread Inspection (VTI) ........................................................................ IV-4
4.4 Thread Gauging (TDG) ................................................................................... IV-9
4.5 Special End Area (SEA) .................................................................................. IV-20
4.6 Electromagnetic Inspection (EMI) .................................................................... IV-25
4.7 Full Body Shear Wave And Compression Wave Ultrasonic Inspection (UTB)... IV-30
4.8 Rack Hydrostatic Test (HYD) .......................................................................... IV-37
4.9 Portable Rockwell Hardness Testing (HRC) .................................................... IV-40
4.10 Ultrasonic Weldline (UTW) .............................................................................. IV-43
4.11 Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI)..................................................................... IV-49
4.12 Buttweld Radiography (RAD)........................................................................... IV-52
4.13 Ultrasonic Buttweld Inspection (UBW) ............................................................. IV-61
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SECTION IV INSPECTION METHODS AND PROCEDURES
INTRODUCTION
Inspection of new casing and tubing for Chevron Corporation shall conform to the requirements of the latest
edition of API RP 5A5, RECOMMENDED PRACTICE FOR FIELD INSPECTION OF NEW CASING,
TUBING, AND PLAIN-END DRILL PIPE and the requirements of this guideline. In case of any conflicts
between these guidelines and API RP 5A5, the requirements of these guidelines shall govern.
Section IV consists of a comprehensive set of procedural guidelines for each of the inspection methods
used for inspecting Chevron oil country tubular goods. Section IV shall be used in conjunction with Section
II, General Inspection Requirements.
Note: Within this guideline:
Shall is used to indicate that a provision is mandatory.

Should is used to indicate that a provision is not mandatory, but recommended as good practice.
May is used to indicate that a provision is optional.
SPECIFIC INSPECTION PROCEDURES
4.1 FULL LENGTH VISUAL INSPECTION (FLV)
4.1.1 Scope
This procedure covers full length visual inspection of the pipe surface, including couplings,
for imperfections and damage. The inside and outside surfaces of pipe and couplings are
inspected. Verification of mill markings (stencils and/or die stamps) is included.
4.1.2 Preparation
Pipe should be reasonably clean for inspection purposes. Excessive amounts of grease,
oil, rust, or mill coating should be brought to the attention of the Chevron representative
prior to inspection.
Pipe shall be on racks suitable for proper inspection and smooth rolling of the pipe. Rack
space shall be sufficient for safe pipe rolling. Rack height should allow the inspector to view
the pipe from the shortest distance possible.
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Mark each quadrant on one end of each length.
4.1.3 Visual Inspection
Verify pipe description by checking all paint stencils and several die stamps. Pipe shall be
inspected full length on each of four quadrants of the circumference; i.e., in initial position
and then rolled to the other three quadrant marks.
Inspector should visually inspect no more than one length of casing or two lengths of tubing
at one time.
Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) pipe shall be inspected by positioning the weld-line at
top center for external inspection and at bottom center for internal inspection. The weld-
line shall be closely scrutinized for cracks, excessive flash and excessive flash trim.
Pipe shall be inspected for damage and imperfections; i.e., dents, laps, cracks, pits, and
mill grinds.
When pits and mill grinds are encountered, the wall thickness shall be measured to assure
that 87 1/2 percent of the specified wall thickness remains beneath the pit or grind. ALL
MILL GRINDS SHALL BE EVALUATED PER SECTION 5, API RP 5A5, (MAGNETIC
PARTICLE INSPECTION REQUIRED).
Internal inspection for steel and/or weld-line imperfections (and debris) shall be performed
by using a high intensity light source from each end.
Imperfections shall be evaluated in accordance with the procedures in Section III,

paragraph 8.
WHEN SPECIFIED, weight gauge pipe using, in order of preference, ultrasonic thickness
gauge or deep throat micrometer/caliper. Normally two (2) readings are required at 180°
opposite each other.
4.2 FULL LENGTH DRIFT (FLD)
4.2.1 Scope
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This procedure covers full length drifting of Tubing and Casing.
4.2.2 Drift Dimensions
The drift mandrel shall be inspected to assure there is no excessive damage, metal burrs,
excessive oxidation, dirt or grease.
The outside diameter of the drift mandrel shall be measured at both ends and the midpoint,
at the beginning and end of each workday, and after each 150 lengths inspected. At least
two measurements 90° apart shall be made. The allowable tolerance on any one
measurement is -0 and +.005 inches from the specified API dimensions found in API RP
5A5, Tables 4.8a through 4.8e. A measuring device capable of reading to the nearest .001
inch shall be used.
The measuring device shall be calibrated at least every 4 months and calibration shall be
documented. Any time the drift OD falls below the allowable tolerance, all joints drifted
since the last acceptable measurement shall be re-drifted using a drift with acceptable
dimensions.
Special size drifts, when required, shall be specified by Chevron. The following table
specifies some commonly used special size drifts:
TABLE 4.1
SIZE WEIGHT (lb/ft) SPECIAL DRIFT
7” 23 6.250”
7” 29 6.125”
7” 32 6.000”
8-5/8” 32 7.875”
9-5/8” 53.5 8.500”
9-3/4” 59.2 8.500”
9-7/8” 62.8 8.500”
10-3/4” 45.5 9.875”
10-3/4” 65.7 9.504”
11-3/4” 42 11.000”
11-3/4” 60 10.625”
11-3/4” 65 10.625”
13-3/8” 72 12.250”
13-1/2” 81.4 12.250”
13-5/8” 88.2 12.250”
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Note: Tolerance - 000” + .005”
The mandrel shall be cylindrical in shape and may have attachments on one or both ends.
Disk and barbell-shaped mandrels shall not be used. The leading edge of the drift shall be
rounded to provide easy entry into the pipe.
The length of drift shall comply with API specifications.
The drift mandrel should be approximately the same temperature as the pipe being
inspected.
4.2.3 OPERATION
Remove all thread protectors.
Pass the drift mandrel completely through each length of pipe. The drift mandrel shall pass
through the pipe freely using a force that does not exceed the weight of the mandrel.
Note: The drift shall be inserted and removed carefully so that neither the threads nor the
seals are scratched or damaged in any way.
If the drift does not pass through the entire length of casing or tubing, remove and clean
the drift mandrel. The pipe may be cleaned if necessary. Check the pipe for any sagging
and provide additional support should the length require it.
Attempt the drift test again from the other end of the pipe. If the drift mandrel does not pass
through the entire length on the second attempt, the length is considered a reject and
marked immediately as a No Drift. (See Section III, paragraph 3.9.2).
Clean the drift mandrel when it becomes dirty or when it will not pass through a joint.
The box end threads shall be cleaned and re-doped after drifting.
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Drift mandrels for internally coated pipe shall be made of plastic (such as Teflon, PVC,
etc.) or hardwood and shall meet the dimensions specified in API RP 5A5, Tables 4.8d and
4.8e. Diameter tolerance for these drifts is +0.000" to -0.010". Because of the extra
thickness added by the coating, a “no-drift” coated length may not be API rejectable,
therefore the Chevron representative should be notified for instructions on marking and
disposition of the pipe.
Connections with internally shouldered couplings (such as VAM, Seal Lock, TKC, etc.)
shall be drifted with the couplings installed. The inspector shall visually inspect the inside of
the power tight coupling. If any eccentric mating of pin and coupling inside diameters is
present and/or if this condition interferes with movement of the drift, contact the Chevron
representative.
4.3 VISUAL THREAD INSPECTION (VTI)
4.3.1 Scope
This procedure covers the visual inspection of API and proprietary tubing and casing
threads. This procedure shall be performed when ordered or performed as part of Special
End Area (SEA) and/or API Thread Gauging (TDG) inspection.
4.3.2 Proprietary Threads
When Visual Thread Inspection is performed on proprietary threads, the thread inspector
shall be approved by Chevron. If a proprietary thread manufacturer’s written inspection
procedure or acceptance standards conflict with this specification, the requirements of the
proprietary thread manufacturer shall govern.
4.3.3 Cleaning and Preparation
Remove all thread protectors. Clean threads to remove dirt and pipe dope from the
threaded area. Do not use diesel. Remove solvent or cleaning powder from threads. When
light rust or corrosion is encountered, it shall be removed with soft buffing wheels.
When rolling pipe having no thread protectors, avoid any impact which may cause damage
to the threads.
All coupling or integral joint box end seal rings shall be removed prior to inspection unless
waived by Chevron. Seal ring grooves shall be completely free of thread compound or
other foreign matter during inspection (and for seal ring installation). If seal rings are
damaged or missing, notify the Chevron representative.
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Each connection shall be visually examined as indicated below by an “X”.
TABLE 4.2
TYPE THREAD
API Round API BTC Proprietary
Chamfer X X —
Starting Threads X X X
Black Crested Threads X X —
Imperfections and/or
Mechanical Damage X X X
Corrosion X X X
Plating X X X
Position Mark — X —
Power Tight Coupling X X —
Soft Seals (if present) X X X
API threads shall be inspected in accordance with RP 5A5 using the evaluation tools
specified. Other tools such as mirrors, wire buffers, soft buffers, etc., may also be required.
The metal seals and/or torque shoulders on API Extreme-Line casing and proprietary
threads shall be closely scrutinized.
4.3.5 Acceptance and Rejection
Chamfer — the following items are cause for rejection on the chamfer on the pin (field
end):
• Chamfer not present for full 360 degree circumference.

• A thread root which runs out on the face of the pipe (and not on the chamfer).
• Chamfer which is cut at such a sharp angle that it leaves a knife edge (razor edge)
on the face of the pipe.
• A starting thread with burrs on the (truncated) crest. This usually occurs where the
starting thread leaves the chamfer surface. The burrs may be removed and the
thread accepted.
Starting Threads — Examine each starting thread for compliance with the requirements
below:
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• A false starting thread may be encountered on the chamfer. It is not cause for
rejection unless it extends into the primary threads.
• On proprietary threads with two steps, starting threads on both steps should begin
on a line that is parallel to the longitudinal pipe axis.
Black Crested Threads — For 8 rd threads there are no black crested threads allowed in
the Lc (full crested thread) length. For buttress threads, two threads in the Lc length may
be black crested (exhibit the original pipe surface), but neither can be longer than 25% of
the pipe circumference. The Lc lengths for threads are listed in API Specification 5B.
Excessive black threads may indicate under-size outside diameter, in which case the
outside diameter shall be verified for compliance to API specifications.
Imperfections and/or Mechanical Damage — Visually examine threads for visible tears,
cuts, shoulder, seams, laps, pits, tool marks, dents, grinds, handling damage or any other
imperfections.
• API Threads (excluding extreme-line casing threads) — Threads within the

Lc length shall be free of any imperfections which break the thread continuity.
Superficial surface scratches, minor dings, and surface irregularities that DO
NOT affect the thread continuity may not be detrimental. As a guide to
acceptance, the most critical consideration is to ensure that there are no
detectable protrusions on the thread that can peel off the protective coating on
the coupling threads or score mating surfaces.
Imperfections in the non-Lc areas are permissible providing their depth does
not extend below the root cone of the thread, or extend beyond 12-1/2% of
specified wall (measured from the projected pipe surface) whichever is
greater. Mashes or mechanical damage in the non-Lc area severe enough to
prevent make-up are unacceptable.
Note: Refer to API RP 5A5, Section 4, for a comprehensive listing of categories of

imperfections which may cause threads to be defective.
• Proprietary Threads — Minor pitting or mechanical damage on non-sealing

threaded areas is permissible. Seal and thread areas shall be free of seams,
cracks, laps and porosity. Seal area damage and pitting should be evaluated
by the thread manufacturer’s representative.
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• API Extreme-Line Casing Threads — The pressure seal surfaces shall be

smooth, uniform, and free of all scratches, pits, cuts, seams, laps, etc., and
deformation of any kind.
The threads themselves shall be free of any laps, seams, and cracks.
Surface irregularities other than laps, seams, cracks, etc., on the flanks and
crests are not of as much concern as on round and buttress threads,
UNLESS A PROTRUSION EXISTS. Thread distortion severe enough to
prevent make-up is unacceptable.
The pin shoulders and box faces shall be free of any defects which would cause a
false standoff of the joint in the made-up position.
Corrosion
• API Threads (excluding Extreme-Line casing threads) — Thread corrosion

and thread discoloration may be encountered and may not necessarily be
detrimental. Because of the difficulty in defining corrosion and discoloration and
the degree to which they affect thread performance, no blanket waiver of such
imperfections can be established. Corrosion products or discoloration SHALL
BE REMOVED so the thread surfaces can be evaluated for any corrosion
pitting.
This mandatory removal of corrosion products ensures there will be no

protrusions above the thread surface WHICH IS ONE CRITICAL
CONSIDERATION AS A GUIDE TO ACCEPTANCE. The other critical
consideration is that NO LEAK PATH SHALL EXIST. FILING OR GRINDING
TO REMOVE PITS IS NOT PERMITTED.
• Proprietary Threads - Corrosion by-products or discoloration shall be removed

so the thread and sealing surfaces can be evaluated for any corrosion pitting.
• API Extreme-Line Casing Threads — Thread and seal corrosion and

discoloration may be encountered and may not necessarily be detrimental.
Corrosion products and discoloration SHALL BE REMOVED so the thread and
seal surfaces can be evaluated for corrosion pitting.
Pitting on thread surfaces is not as much concern as on round and buttress

threads. However, PITTING ON THE PRESSURE SEAL SURFACE IS
UNACCEPTABLE.
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Plating — Verify that API couplings have received thread coating required. There are
several types of thread coating mentioned in API 5B: zinc or tin electroplating or
phosphatizing. Coating types may be identified by their appearance:
• Zinc - Bright to dull gray finish with slightly roughened or “flaky” appearing
surface.
• Metallic Phosphate - very thin, hard coating with dark brown or gray surface,
similar in appearance to “parkerized” gun finishes.
• Tin - thicker than either zinc or phosphate coatings. Exhibits a shiny silver colored
surface when scraped. Not allowed by Chevron SR-1A due to liquid - metal
embritlement concerns at high temperatures.
Proprietary threads receive varying types of coatings. Some have both the pin end and box
end threads coated. Verify the applicable coatings have been applied.
Makeup Position Mark (Buttress only) — A triangular mark shall appear on the tube
body a fixed distance from the pipe end. This distance is given in Table 2.4, API
Specification 5B.
API Power Tight Couplings — The evaluation of power-tight couplings involves the
following steps:
• Step 1 — Measure the coupling length to assure it meets the minimum length (NL)
requirements of API 5CT. If it is less than NL proceed no further, the coupling is a
reject. If it is greater than or equal to NL, proceed to Step 2A or 2B.
• Step 2A (Buttress only) — Measure the distance from the coupling face to the tip
of the engaged pin (stand-in). If this distance is:
Less than 1/2 NL + .125", the connection is a reject (J-dimension too short).
Greater than 1/2 NL + .700" OR between 1/2 NL + .125" and 1/2 NL + .188"
check the coupling make-up. The coupling face shall be within one thread
(.200") of the triangle stamp base for minimum make-up and to the apex of the
triangle stamp for maximum make-up.
If the apex of the triangle stamp is not visible further evaluation is required.
Measure the J-dimension and, if equal to or greater than .125", the connection
is acceptable. The triangle stamp may also be mis-located. Verify apex location
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by determining length of actual pin thread engagement (actual coupling length

minus stand-in).
• Step 2B (Eight Round only) — Measure the stand-in. If this distance is:
Less than 1/2 NL + .125", the coupling is a reject (J-dimension too short).
Greater than 1/2 NL + .750", check the coupling make-up and verify the thread
length (L4) of the engaged pin.
The make-up shall be within the following limits for minimum power-tight make-
up.
Tubing - one exposed thread allowed between coupling and vanish point.
Casing - two exposed threads allowed between coupling and vanish point.
The thread length of the engaged pin shall be L4 specified in API 5B plus or
minus one thread (.125").
Between 1/2 NL + .125" and 1/2 NL + .188" measure the actual J-dimension to
assure it is at least .125".
Soft Seals -If the connection is equipped with any soft seal, such as Teflon
coupling ring or pin tip “O” ring, the seal shall be free from all mechanical damage.
It shall be firmly in place without twists or kinks. All seals in a given lot of pipe shall
be of the same material and color. No thread compound shall be underneath
behind the seal ring.
Chevron may elect to ship seals separately for installation at the rig. If seals are
absent, contact the Chevron representative to confirm that this is the case.
If some seals are damaged or missing, notify the Chevron representative giving the
approximate number of new seals required.
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4.4 THREAD GAUGING (TDG)
4.4.1 Scope
This procedure details the steps for checking the following round and buttress thread
elements:
• thread lead • thread run-out (buttress only)

• thread taper • pitch diameter*
• thread height • ovality*
* The measurement of ovality is not specifically discussed in API Standard 5B.

Pitch diameter tolerances are expressed in terms of standoff in API 5B.
This procedure also details the steps for measuring the seal-ring groove dimensions in
couplings.
4.4.2 Frequency of Checks
Unless otherwise specified, all applicable measurements shall be made on the exposed
threads of 100% percent of the product being inspected.
Prior to, or in conjunction with thread gauging, perform a visual inspection of pin and
coupling threads according to Chevron Visual Thread Inspection Procedure 4.3 of these
guidelines.
4.4.4 Calibration and Verification of Gages
Calibration is the process of determining if a dial indicator, ring gauge, or plug gauge
operates accurately. This is normally not performed in the field. Gages shall be calibrated
at least every 4 months and calibration shall be documented.
Verification is the process of determining if the dial indicator is accurate at the intended dial
reading. Verify the gauge against a setting standard at the beginning of each inspection
period, the first time an out-of-specification thread is found or after 25 pieces have been
inspected, whichever comes first. Re-verify the gauge if it is dropped or bumped.
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Verification of the accuracy of working ring and plug gages is by means of fitting the fixed
working gauge to a certified reference master gauge in accordance with API Specification
5B.
Temperature of the gauge should be as close as practical to the temperature of the product
being inspected.
4.4.5 Measurement Intervals
For inspection of external or internal threads; height, lead, and taper shall be measured
between the first and last perfect threads and on intervening threads at the following
intervals.
• At 1 inch intervals, if the total distance between first and last perfect thread is more
than 1 inch.
• At 1/2 inch intervals, if the total distance between first and last perfect threads is 1
inch or less (small diameter eight-round tubing). When 1/2 inch intervals are used,
the tolerances for lead and taper shall be adjusted accordingly. See Table 4.3.
• Cumulative lead on eight round shall be measured from the first perfect thread at
an interval length equal to the largest multiple of 1/2 inch. For buttress threads the
largest multiples of 1" should be used.
• If the last interval does not fall exactly on the last perfect thread, an overlapping
interval shall be provided, starting at the last perfect thread.
• The last perfect thread shall be located as follows
External threads — Eight Round: the L4-g distance from the end of the pin (g
= .625” for casing, .500" for tubing). Buttress: The L7 distance from the end of
the pin.
Internal threads — The J+1 thread turn distance from the center of the
coupling.
CAUTION: When measuring any thread element in couplings with seal ring
grooves, the partial threads adjacent to the groove shall be avoided.
Buttress external taper is also measured in the imperfect thread area.
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The measuring location for pitch diameter and ovality is specified in Paragraphs 4.4.11 and
4.4.12.
Mark the measurement intervals along a longitudinal line using one of the following
methods:
• Felt tip pen

• Spring clip
• Multi-point pencil
4.4.6 Tolerances
The tolerances on each specified measurement are indicated below. (Actual readings are
shown in parentheses.)
TABLE 4.3
Buttress
13-3/8 Inch 16 Inch
Measurement Eight Round and Smaller and Larger
Height +.002" - .004" ± .001" ± .001"

(.067" - .073") (.061" - .063") (.061" - .063")
Lead* ± .003" ± .002 ± .003"
Cumulative Lead ± .006" ± .004" ± .004"
Taper (.060" - .068")
External Perfect (.061" - .066") (.082" - .087")
External (.061" - .067") (.082" - .088")
Imperfect
Internal Perfect (.060" - .067") (.081" - .088")
Runout + .005" max. + .005" max.
*Lead tolerances (excluding Cumulative Lead) and Taper readings are inches per one inch interval.
An additional .002 inch beyond the readings specified above for taper is allowed on the
exposed threads of mill made power tight couplings. (Example: Eight-Round readings from
.058 – .070 inch/inch are acceptable.)
Exercise good judgment when evaluating gauge readings. To obtain repeatable readings
within .001 " shall be recognized as the absolute best that can be accomplished under field
conditions. Readings shall be at least .0005" beyond acceptable tolerance to be considered
rejectable for height and lead; .001" for all other readings.
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The tolerances for pitch diameter and ovality shall be as specified in Paragraphs 4.4.11
and 4.4.12.
4.4.7 Thread Height Measurement
Height is the distance from the thread root to the thread crest measured normal to the
thread axis. The procedures below give requirements for calibration and use of API height
gages.
Balanced Dial Gauge — Place the gauge on the setting standard with the contact point
contacting the bottom of the notch. Adjust the dial indicator to read zero.
Continuous Reading Gauge — Place the gauge on the setting standard with the contact
point contacting the bottom of the notch. The dial should be adjusted to register the
appropriate value for the thread type being inspected:
• Eight Round – .071"
• Buttress – .062"
Additionally, for eight round threads, verify gauge contact point wear by applying the
gauge to Vee notch. If the dial does not register within 0.0005" of the original setting
described above, replace the contact point and re-verify the gauge.
For buttress threads, the setting standard used on 13 3/8" OD and smaller is similar to the
standard for round threads. A step type setting standard is used on l6" OD and larger
buttress threads. This step standard is unidirectional and the gauge shall be placed on the
product in the same direction as on the setting standard.
Apply the gauge to the product. It is good practice to press the anvil of the thread height
gauge firmly to the full crested threads. Extreme caution shall be exercised when
attempting to obtain accurate height measurements of the first and last perfect threads
since the anvil MUST REST ON FULL CRESTED THREADS.
4.4.8 Lead Measurement
Lead is the distance from a specific point on a thread to the corresponding point on the
next thread measured parallel to the thread axis. The following procedure outlines
requirements for verification and use of the API lead gauge.
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Measure the contact point diameter. Contact point diameters shall fall within the
following ranges:
• Eight Round – 0.070" to 0.074"
• Buttress – 0.060" to 0.064"
Apply the gauge to the setting standard for the interval to be measured. The dial
should read zero; adjust if necessary.
For buttress lead standards, the gauge shall be adjusted so that both contact
points are in contact with the 3 degree flank simultaneously, with the movable
contact point under tension. It is possible to adjust some lead gages so that one
contact point touches the 3 degree flank, while the other touches the 10° flank;
such a setting is incorrect.
Apply the gauge to the threads. On buttress threads, force shall be applied to the
gauge so both contact points touch the 3° flanks.
Lead Measurements in Couplings with Seal Rings — When a seal-ring groove

is present in a coupling, lead measurements shall be taken as follows:
• Buttress – The fixed contact point of the gauge shall simultaneously touch
the root and the 3° flank of a full crested thread form.
• Eight Round – all contact points shall be placed where full thread forms
are on each side of the contact points.
Eight Round Cumulative Lead — Cumulative lead measurement begins at the

first perfect thread. (See 4.1 through 4.4 of API RP 5B1 for the measurement
interval.)
Buttress Cumulative Lead — For buttress threads, the cumulative lead may
include black crested threads if the black crested threads have at least 0.035 inch
depth. No cumulative lead measurement is necessary if the black crested threads
do not have a minimum of 0.035 inch depth. (See Table 4.11 of API RP 5B1 for
the measurement interval.)
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4.4.9 Taper Measurement
Taper is the rate of change in the thread pitch diameter along the thread axis. Taper is
normally expressed as inches per foot of thread length. The following procedure gives
requirements for calibration and use of the API taper gauge:
The taper gauge shall have a maximum capacity less than twice the outside diameter of
the pipe being inspected.
Measure contact point diameter. Contact point diameters shall fall within the following
ranges:
• Eight Round – 0.070" to 0.074"
• Buttress – 0.088" to 0.092"
Zero the gauge on the first interval. The indicator shall read zero at the maximum reading.
Move the gauge to the next interval. At the maximum point, the indicator should read within
the specified range.
Move to the next interval and note the indicator reading. Repeat this process until all
intervals are checked, overlapping if necessary.
Taper readings out of tolerance by .002 in/in or more from the specification limits in any
plane (e.g., taper reads .058 in/in and the acceptable specification limits are .060-.067
in/in) shall be rejected.
A taper reading out of tolerance by .001 in/in from the specification limits shall be verified
by taking another reading at 45° or 90° from the original location. If the average of the initial
reading and the verification reading is within the specified limits, the taper is acceptable.
Example: Initial reading of .059 in/in, verification reading of

in/in; average equals .060 in/in, acceptable.
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4.4.10 Buttress Thread Runout Measurement
Runout is the measurement of the abruptness with which the buttress thread is terminated
at the triangle end of the thread. The following procedure gives requirements for calibration
and use of the API runout gauge:
Measure the ball point diameter. The ball diameter shall be .055" - .059".
Zero the dial indicator on a flat machined surface. For 16" and larger the runout gauge
should be set up and zeroed using the perfect thread roots as setting standards. The
perfect thread roots shall be checked for taper within specification limits prior to setting up
the runout gauge.
Measure the distance of the LAST thread groove relative to the pin tip at the greatest
distance. Two possible thread runout conditions can occur: (1) before the apex dimension
(A1 + 0.375") of the triangle (nearer the pin end) and (2) at or beyond the apex dimension
of the triangle.
If the thread terminates before the apex dimension, the movable pointer is placed in the
last thread groove 90° prior to the thread termination and the gauge rotated clockwise until
the pointer exits the thread groove and rides on the pipe surface.
If the thread terminates at or beyond the apex dimension, place the movable pointer in the
thread groove 90° prior to the apex dimension and rotate the gauge clockwise until the
pointer reaches the apex dimension.
The runout is satisfactory if the dial indicator does not exceed +0.005" during the traverse
of the thread groove. A dial indicator reading in excess of +0.005" is not acceptable. All
readings, including negative readings, 0.005" and less are acceptable.
4.4.11 Thread Ovality
Thread ovality is the difference between the large and the small diameters of the threaded
area measured at any one plane in the perfect thread length.
Thread ovality shall be measured with either API taper gages or proprietary gages with dial
readouts, excluding paddle type gages.
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Flat spots shall be identified, differentiated from thread ovality and then evaluated. If
detrimental flat spots are present, the thread shall be rejected.
API Taper Gauge Procedure
• Measuring Intervals
Pins – The third thread in from the beginning thread (lead thread).
Couplings – The third thread in from the coupling face.
• Procedure
Place the fixed ball point of the taper gauge in the third thread groove and the ball
point on the gauge plunger in the same groove diametrically opposite. With the
fixed point held firmly in position, the plunger point is oscillated through a small arc
until the gauge is centered, this is the position where the indicator hand stops
movement to reverse. Next adjust the dial until the indicator hand is on zero. While
holding the fixed point firmly in place, revolve the plunger point in a clockwise
direction to approximately .015" reading on the dial. With the plunger point held in
position revolve the fixed point until the gauge is centered. Repeat this process
until the gauge has made 1/2 revolution around the thread circumference. Each
time the gauge is re-centered the amount the dial hand has moved from zero in
either direction must be noted. The total sweep of the dial hand is the thread
ovality. Since the gauge points are advancing 1/2 thread the taper must be
considered. If checking the internal thread ADD 1/2 taper thread to the results. If
checking the external thread SUBTRACT 1/2 taper thread from the results.
Proprietary Gages With Dial Readouts Procedure — When using proprietary gages, the
manufacturer’s procedures and recommendations for measuring ovality shall be adhered
to. Setting standards used to calibrate the gages shall be measured by the inspector to
verify that the length is correct for the size and type connections being gauged.
The thread ovality shall not exceed (to the nearest .001"):
• Sizes up to and including 13 3/8" specified thread OD; .0033" x specified thread
OD in inches.
• Sizes over 13 3/8" specified thread OD; .0043" x specified thread OD in inches.
4.4.12 Pitch Diameter
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Pitch diameter, E1 of eight round (8 rd), E7 of buttress is defined as the diameter of the
threads between the thread pitchlines measured at the hand-tight plane for 8 rd or at the
plane of perfect thread length for buttress.
All API thread elements (excluding buttress runout) plus thread ovality shall be measured
and evaluated before pitch diameter can be determined.
Pitch diameter shall be measured with either API taper gages or proprietary gages with dial
readouts, excluding paddle type gages.
Tolerances for pitch diameter measurements shall be:
TABLE 4.4
THREAD TOLERANCE
EIGHT ROUND ±.012”
BUTTRESS
≤ 13-3/8” +.008” -.004”
≥ 16” +.010” -.005”
When using proprietary gages the manufacturer’s procedures and recommendations for
measuring pitch diameter shall be adhered to. Setting standards used to calibrate the
gages shall be measured by the inspector to verify that the length is correct for the size
and type connections being gauged.
When using API taper frame for measuring pitch diameters, use the following procedures:
Eight Round Threads
• All measurements are taken a distance E1 from the pin tip with .072 inch diameter
contact points which contact on the pitch line.
• The pitch diameter setting standard is set at dimension E1 - .036 inches for pin and
E1 + .036 inches for couplings. This adjustment to E1 is to allow for .018 inch per
side of contact point which penetrates beyond pitch line.
• The taper frame is then placed on the setting standard and the dial indicator is set
at zero.
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• The hand tight plane L1 is located directly over center of the thread root. The
gage’s contact points are then placed 90° on either side of this reference point.
• The taper or helix angle for the threads causes pitch diameter readings to increase
or decrease depending on the direction you rotate the taper gauge. This change is
compensated for by ±.002" per 90° rotation.
When checking EXTERNAL THREADS, SUBTRACT correction for CLOCKWISE

ROTATION and ADD correction for COUNTER CLOCKWISE ROTATION. When
checking INTERNAL THREADS, ADD correction for CLOCKWISE ROTATION
and SUBTRACT correction for COUNTER CLOCKWISE ROTATION.
The taper gauge is rotated clockwise 90° to check for any false readings due to
ovality. Return gauge to location specified in paragraph (d). The taper gauge is
then rotated counter-clockwise to check for any false readings due to ovality.
After correcting for taper, average the high and low readings to obtain the average
pitch diameter error. (This average shall be within the tolerance specified in Table
4.4.)
Buttress Threads
• All measurements are taken at distance E7 from the tip with .090" diameter contact
points which contact on the thread root.
• The pitch diameter setting standard is set at dimension E7 -.062" for pin and E7
+.062" for coupling. This adjustment to E7 is to allow for .031" per side that the
contact point will penetrate beyond pitch line.
• The taper frame is then placed on the setting standard and the dial is set at zero.
• The perfect thread length L7 is located directly over center of thread root for pin.
Plane E7 is located directly over thread root of coupling. The gage’s contact points
are then placed 90° to both sides of this reference point.
• The taper or helix angle of the threads causes pitch diameter readings to increase
or decrease depending on the direction you rotate the taper gauge. For 13 3/8" and
smaller, this change is compensated for by ±.003" per 90° rotation. For sizes larger
than 13 3/8", this change is compensated for by ±.004", per 90° rotation.
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When checking EXTERNAL THREADS — SUBTRACT correction for

CLOCKWISE ROTATION and ADD correction for COUNTER CLOCKWISE
ROTATION. When checking INTERNAL THREADS — ADD correction for
CLOCKWISE ROTATION and SUBTRACT correction for COUNTER
CLOCKWISE ROTATION.
• The taper gauge is rotated clockwise 90° to check for any false readings due to
ovality. Return gauge to location specified in Paragraph (d). The taper gauge is
then rotated counter-clockwise to check for any false readings due to ovality.
• After correcting for taper average the high and low readings to obtain the average
pitch diameter error. (This average shall be within the tolerance specified in Table
4.4.)
Eight-Round or Buttress Threads
When there is access to master or working ring and plug gages, an alternative
method using the taper gauge as a transfer medium may also be used.
To measure the internal thread size, place the inside taper gauge on the threads of
a master/working ring gauge a given distance from the large tapered end of the
ring. After the gauge is centered, zero the dial. Remove the taper gauge and place
the gauge in the coupling threads the same given distance from the coupling face
as the ring gauge face, center the gauge and determine if the readings are the
same. The tolerances shall comply with Table 4.4.
The thread size of the external thread is measured with the same method using an
outside taper gauge set on a master/working plug gauge.
This method of measuring the thread size can be accurate if the thread ovality is
low and the thread elements are in tolerance (compensation for substantial ovality
can be made).
4.4.13 Standoff – Ring and Plug Gages
Working gages shall be checked against API certified reference master gages, as
prescribed in API Standard 5B, Section 3, before use on product threads. If requested,
documentation shall be provided that verifies this has been performed and shall include the
working gauge standoff values. Working gages shall be hardened and ground.
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In lieu of measuring the pitch diameter, ring and plug gages may be used to measure the
standoff on sizes up to 5 1/2" OD. The use of ring and plug gages on sizes greater than 5
1/2" is not recommended.
Standoff is the distance measured axially between the end of the pipe or coupling and the
reference position of the ring or plug gauge. API standoff tolerances are:
TABLE 4.5
Eight Round Buttress

Pin/Coupling Pin Coupling
Tolerance:
+ 1 thread (0.125”) +0.100” -0” +0 -0.100”
(Pin slightly over- (Coupling slightly
sized but not over-sized but not
smaller than smaller than
nominal) nominal)
Whenever standoff is measured using ring and plug gages, the effect ovality has on the
standoff reading shall be considered. Ovality always causes a ring or plug gauge to
standoff further than if the connection was perfectly round (In addition, standoff is also
affected by burrs on the threads, coupling thread coatings, taper, and lead). The use of
plug gages on coupling threads coated with zinc or tin plating is prohibited.
All API thread elements (excluding buttress runout) plus thread ovality shall be measured
and evaluated before pitch diameter can be determined.
The following ovality factors shall be used when ring and plug gauging occur:
• Eight Round Threads — Measured ovality X 8 shall be subtracted from the

standoff reading obtained.
TABLE 4.6
EXAMPLES: (1) Ovality = .020", Standoff = +.025

(+ .025) – (.020 X 8) = +.025 – .160
True Standoff = – .135" (reject)
(2) Ovality = .005", Standoff = - .025"

(–.025") – (.005" X 8) = –.025" –.040"
True Standoff = –.065" (good)
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Buttress Threads
• 13 3/8" and Smaller — same as (a.).
• Greater Than 13 3/8" — Measured ovality X 6 shall be subtracted from the

standoff reading obtained.
• Measure the ovality on each connection per Paragraph 4.4.11 and mark results on
pipe surface then ring and/or plug gauge per the following steps:
Note: A short round casing thread ring gauge may be used to inspect a long thread pin, but
requires determination of the distance the pin extends beyond the gauge end which, in turn,
requires use of a certified reference master gauge. In this situation, consult API RP 5B1,
Section 5 . Nominal standoff of the ring gauge in this case is defined by L1 (Long) - L1 (Short) -
P1.
Ring and plug gages are made in several designs, but all involve a reference point and
tolerances on either side. The various types of ring and plug gages are pictured and
described in API RP 5B1.
4.4.14 Seal-Ring Groove Gauging
The API seal-ring groove dimensions on couplings so furnished shall be measured.

Dimensions shall meet the requirements in API 5CT, Appendix B, SR 13.
The dimensions to be measured are as follows:
A location of groove from end of coupling

B groove width
C groove diameter
In addition, the concentricity of the groove with respect to the thread pitch cone shall also
be measured.
Dimension A — This dimension is usually measured using a steel ruler calibrated in 1/32".
The allowable tolerance is ±1/8" from the specified dimension.
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Dimension B — This dimension should be measured using a go-no-go instrument. The

allowable tolerance is ±0.005" from specified dimension.
Dimension C — This dimension is measured using an internal taper gauge preset to read
zero on the specified C Dimension. The taper gauge is rotated through 180° to find the high
and low tolerance readings and any ovality present (Normally ovality is very minor when
gauging grooves). Add the high and low tolerance readings and divide by two to obtain the
average C Dimension tolerance. The average C Dimension tolerance minus 1/2 ovality
equals the corrected C Dimension tolerance. This reading shall be within ±.010" of the
specified dimension.
Note: Recommend using extreme-line .105" diameter contact points on the taper gauge.
Groove concentricity is measured using a continuous reading thread height gauge with a
flat type tip (if such tips are available). With the anvil of the gauge resting on the thread
crests and the penetrator in the seal-ring groove against the side nearest the center of the
coupling, read radial depths from the thread crests to the seal-ring groove bottom on
selected increments over the circumference of the groove. Avoid placing anvil near feather-
edge fade outs. If the maximum differences in indicated reading exceed 0.020", the
coupling is rejected.
4.5 SPECIAL END AREA (SEA)
4.5.1 Scope
This procedure covers Special End Area inspection of tubing and casing in sizes 1.050 to
20 inches.
Note: Pipe racks shall be insulated and lengths shall be separated by a minimum of three
feet during the magnetization process.
4.5.2 Definitions and Method Selection
Special End Area Inspection shall consist of the following: 1) A visual thread inspection
(VTI) carried out in accordance with the requirements of 4.3 of this specification; and 2) A
residual field magnetic particle inspection of the inside and outside pipe surfaces for the
first 24 inches on each end. The magnetic particle method shall be the wet fluorescent
method if the proper facilities are available. If the wet fluorescent method is used, a facility
completely enclosing both ends of the tube and allowing viewing of inspected surfaces by
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the Chevron representative is required. Viewing under portable hoods or tarps is prohibited
unless approved by Chevron QA prior to inspection. If the proper wet fluorescent facilities
are not available, the dry visible magnetic particle method shall be used.
4.5.3 Surface Preparation
Thread protectors shall be removed in preparation for inspection.
Inside and outside surfaces of pipe (including threaded areas and couplings) shall be dry
and free of dirt, oil, thread compound, scale and any coating which would interfere with
examination.
Cleaning may be accomplished using detergents, organic solvents, descaling solutions,

paint removers, or sand/grit blasting. Diesel is not permitted.
Mill varnish which has been determined to prevent proper indications on the magnetic
particle field indicator (MPFI) shall be removed prior to continuation of inspection. Protect
threads if sandblasting method is used.
4.5.4 Preparation of Equipment — Wet Fluorescent Method
The blacklight shall be checked at the beginning of the job and after every 8 hours of
operation. Use a calibrated light meter sensitive to ultraviolet light centered on a wave
length of 365 nanometers. The light meter shall be no closer to the black light source than
the normal inspection distance. Warm the bulb for at least five minutes prior to the test.
The reading must be at least 800 microwatts/cm2.
Fluorescent particles shall be made of low retentivity, low coercive force, finely divided
ferromagnetic material.
If oil is used for the bath, it should be light, well-refined petroleum distillate of low sulfur
content. Do not use diesel or other fluids with natural fluorescence. Varsol and number 1
kerosene work well as carriers because of low natural fluorescence. Water is acceptable
provided it is treated with a surfactant (wetting agent) to allow complete wetting of the
surface (no water beads).
Make sure bath is agitated frequently before checking and during inspection. If the bath is
pump operated, let the pump motor run for several minutes to uniformly mix particles and
oil.
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Flow the bath mixture through hose and nozzle for a few moments to clear hose.
Fill a 100 ml ASTM centrifuge tube to the 100 ml line with fluid from the inspection bath. Fill
the tube with the hose rather than dipping the tube into the container.
After a minimum of 30 minutes, read the volume of the settled particles on the scale at the
bottom of the centrifuge tube. The reading should be from 0.1 ml to 0.4 ml by volume. If the
reading is higher or lower than allowable, adjust concentration and repeat the centrifuge
tube test.
Pipe ID shall be inspected using a white light for the detection of pits, underfills, etc.
Upset Underfill– Upset underfill shall be evaluated in accordance with Paragraph 5.7 of API
RP 5A5.
4.5.5 Circular Field Magnetization and Inspection for Longitudinal Defects
Magnetize the pipe ends with a circular magnetic field using the central conductor method.
The suggested current is 400 amperes per inch of pipe outside diameter, however any
current is suitable if the proper magnetic particle field indicator indication (Step 5.5.3) is
present.
The central conductor shall be properly insulated. No arcing may occur. Magnetizing by
passing current through the pipe is prohibited. Any arcing to either OD or ID pipe surfaces
is cause for rejection. DO NOT ALLOW MAGNETIZING CABLES TO DISTORT FIELDS
IN PREVIOUSLY MAGNETIZED LENGTHS.
With a magnetic particle field indicator (MPFI) on the outer pipe surface, pulse current
through the rod and apply the dry particles or particle bath to the MPFI. The residual
magnetic field strength shall show a clear indication on the MPFI. The indication shall be
oriented parallel to the pipe axis. CHECK ONE END OF THE FIRST 10 LENGTHS AND,
AS A MINIMUM, EVERY 25TH LENGTH THEREAFTER. ALWAYS CHECK THE LAST
LENGTH INSPECTED EACH DAY.
Whenever the MPFI indication on the 25th or last length of the day is not present further
BACK CHECKING IS REQUIRED. If the MPFI indication is still not present, all lengths
inspected since the last acceptable MPFI indication shall be re-inspected.
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Apply particles or bath to the OD and ID of the coupling and end areas, including the pin
threads for a minimum of 24 inches from each end. Slowly roll the pipe at least one full
revolution while examining the pipe surfaces for indications. All indications shall be
evaluated according to Section 3.8 of these guidelines.
Also inspect the ID of the pipe for pits, underfills, laps, seams, and cracks and the internal
threads using a high intensity light source and a hand magnifying mirror to view indications.
Upset underfill shall be evaluated in accordance with Paragraph 5.7 of API 5A5.
4.5.6 Longitudinal Field Magnetization and Inspection for Transverse Defects
Form a coil by looping cables, or use a prefabricated coil and magnetize the pipe on both
ends with a longitudinal field.
If the dry method is being used, take care not to over-magnetize the pipe in the longitudinal
direction. If powder furrs excessively at pipe ends, or if powder mobility is hampered, re-
magnetize the pipe at a lower ampere-turn setting with the coil reversed.
Magnetize each end of the pipe with a separate shot. DO NOT ALLOW MAGNETIZING
CABLES TO DISTORT FIELDS IN PREVIOUSLY MAGNETIZED LENGTHS
Use an MPFI on the pipe ID to verify that the residual field is strong enough to show a clear
indication which is perpendicular to the pipe axis. CHECK ONE END OF THE FIRST 10
LENGTHS AND, AS A MINIMUM, EVERY 25TH LENGTH THEREAFTER. IF MORE
THAN ONE COIL IS USED, THE MAGNETIC FIELD INDUCED BY EACH COIL SHALL
BE CHECKED. ALWAYS CHECK THE LAST LENGTH INSPECTED EACH DAY.
Apply particles or bath to the OD and ID of the couplings and end areas including threads
for a minimum of 24 inches from each end. Roll the pipe at least one full revolution while
examining the pipe surfaces for indications. All indications shall be evaluated according to
Section III, 3.8, of these guidelines.
If the dry method is being used and pipe has upset ends, use an AC yoke for the detection
of transversely-oriented defects in the upset O.D. transition area.
Also inspect the ID of the pipe for pits, underfills, laps, seams, and cracks and the internal
threads using a high intensity light source and a hand magnifying mirror to view indications.
Upset underfill shall be evaluated in accordance with Paragraph 5.7 of API 5A5.
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4.5.7 AC Yoke Inspection of Forged Upsets
Whenever the dry magnetic particle inspection method is used on tubing with forged
upsets, the use of an AC yoke and dry magnetic particles are required for the inspection of
transverse O.D. defects.
4.5.8 Demagnetization
Demagnetization may be required if the SEA IS NOT FOLLOWED BY AN EMI. This

service is performed on OCTG to reduce the longitudinal magnetic field below the values
indicated below.
Measuring Flux Density — Measurements are made on the pipe ends using a
magnetometer in contact with the pipe face. The pipe being checked should be separated
from other pipe in all directions. When using an ELECTRONIC MAGNETOMETER
(Gaussmeter), pipe which shows a residual field of more than 30 gauss shall be
demagnetized. When using a MECHANICAL MAGNETOMETER, the residual field
measurement shall not exceed approximately 10 gauss.
Flux Density Measuring Equipment Including Calibration
• Each Electronic Magnetometer (gaussmeter) shall be calibrated at least once a

year and after repair. Calibration shall be recorded on the instrument and in a log
book and shall specify the calibration date and the initials of the person who
performed the calibration.
• If a reference magnet is used to adjust gaussmeters, the reference magnet shall

be calibrated at least once a year. Calibration shall be recorded on the magnet and
in a log book and shall specify the calibration date and the initials of the person
performing the calibration.
• A calibrated Mechanical Magnetometer shall be checked for accuracy at least once

every four months and when the “zero” position deviates more than 10% of the full
scale value. The accuracy check shall be within 10% of the calibrated variable
reference magnetizing force over the entire range of the readout. The accuracy
check shall be recorded on the instrument or in a log book, and shall specify the
date of the acceptable check and the initials of the person performing the check.
• Check the first five lengths demagnetized and every tenth length thereafter using a
properly calibrated instrument. If any length checked shows excessive magnetism,
recheck the previous nine lengths and demagnetize as necessary.
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Demagnetization Methods
• OCTG up to five inches in diameter may be demagnetized longitudinally by

inducing a circular magnetic field into the pipe. This is done with an insulated
central conductor and capacitive discharge or battery powered magnetizer.
Generally a current of 3000 or more amperes applied once or twice should reduce
the longitudinal field to the acceptable level.
• OCTG in diameters larger than five inches may be demagnetized longitudinally in

the same manner, except the amount of amperes used will have to be increased
(5,000 or more amperes) in proportion to the increase in pipe diameter. The grade
of pipe, its wall thickness, and the type of magnetizer used have an effect on the
amount of current necessary. Multiple shots may be necessary if pulse times are
less than 1/4 second.
• OCTG may also be demagnetized by passing it through a circular coil energized

with alternating current (AC). As in other methods, the larger the pipe, the more
current required. Approximately 6,000 to 10,000 ampere turns should demagnetize
pipe up to 10 inches in diameter. Larger sizes may require more current,
depending on the demagnetizing system.
4.5.9 Removal of Dry Powder
Blow all iron powder and other residue completely out of each joint, taking particular care to
clean the threads thoroughly. If high pressure air is used, blow from box end to pin end.
4.5.10 Removal of Wet Particles
Clean all particles from ends and threaded areas by flushing with a clear liquid similar to
that used for the particle bath. Dry OD and ID threads by suitable means.
4.6 ELECTROMAGNETIC INSPECTION (EMI)
4.6.1 Scope
This procedure covers the electromagnetic, gamma ray, and grade comparison procedures
commonly grouped together and called EMI. The procedure is applicable on ferromagnetic
casing and tubing only. EMI inspects the full tube body except 12-18 inches from either
end, which is covered by SEA inspection.
4.6.2 Equipment Limitation
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EMI inspection shall normally consist of four separate inspection processes carried out
simultaneously by an automated inspection unit: longitudinal, transverse, wall thickness,
and grade comparison.
EMI does not inspect 12 to 18 inches from either end due to end area effect and disruption
of shoe contact. If Special End Area (SEA) inspection is not specified, a magnetic particle
end area inspection shall be included as a part of the EMI inspection. This end area
inspection shall not be considered in lieu of SEA, as it normally only includes the outside
diameter of the tube body, excluding threads.
Gamma ray wall thickness units which utilize the double wall method only are not
acceptable for inspecting new seamless material unless specifically authorized by Chevron.
Only those methods employing single wall, backscatter, chord, or other configurations
capable of detecting eccentricity shall be used on seamless material. There are no gamma
ray equipment limitations for ERW material because eccentricity almost never occurs in
material manufactured from skelp.
4.6.3 Reference Standard
The reference standard used to calibrate units for longitudinal and transverse defects shall
be prepared from a suitable length of pipe of the same diameter, wall thickness, material
surface finish, and grade as the material to be examined. The standard should be a length
of the pipe to be inspected.
Pipe used for reference standards shall be free of indications that could interfere with
normal calibration procedures.
All surfaces shall be clean and free of loose scale, dirt, grease, or any other material that
might interfere with the sensitivity of the pickup shoes or the interpretation of the readout.
A minimum of one longitudinal and one transverse notch shall be placed on the pipe
outside diameter, and one longitudinal notch shall be placed on the pipe inside diameter.
The ID notch is not required on OCTG sizes less than 4-1/2” unless specified otherwise.
Notches shall comply with the requirements of Figure 4.1. Notches shall be cut in an area
of at least 100% wall thickness. Any exception to this requirement shall be approved by
Quality Assurance.
Reference joints shall be clearly marked as such and set aside except during their use. The
standard shall be inspected full length prior to removal of the notches. After completion of
the job, all notches shall be completely removed by grinding. Ground areas shall be
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finished so that they merge smoothly with the pipe surface. Remaining wall after notch
removal shall exceed 87 1/2% of nominal. Final remaining wall shall be confirmed with a
properly calibrated compression wave ultrasonic thickness gauge.
4.6.4 EMI Equipment Calibration
Longitudinal and transverse units shall be initially calibrated with a pulser (or other means
of checking and setting the response of each individual pickup coil) and a reference
standard. Calibration checks performed during the job shall normally employ only the
reference standard unless an adjustment is required. If any adjustment is required, the
entire initial calibration shall be repeated.
Calibration shall be rechecked after any shutdown, after every 50 joints of pipe, after the
last joint has been inspected, whenever the system behaves erratically, or any element is
repaired or replaced, or when requested by the Chevron Representative.
Pulse all coils to the same calibration reference level. The reference level shall be at least
30% full scale height (FSH).
Dynamic calibration shall be achieved by running the reference standard through the
longitudinal and transverse unit at normal operating speed with the test notches rotated to
the 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions.
The indications produced by the longitudinal and transverse notches on each pass shall
have heights of at least 30% FSH with a minimum signal to noise ratio of 3 to 1. If any
notch fails to produce such an indication on any pass, the corresponding unit shall be
adjusted with the pulser until a satisfactory dynamic calibration can be achieved. If gain
adjustments are made, all gains shall be adjusted uniformly so that the calibration
reference level (height) is the same for all coils in that unit.
4.6.5 Gamma Ray Equipment Calibration
Gamma ray thickness units shall be calibrated with standards of at least two fixed known
thicknesses. The nominal thickness of the two standards shall be the same as the pipe
being inspected. The two known thicknesses must differ from one another by more than
seven percent.
As an alternative, the gamma ray unit may be calibrated with an eccentric joint of pipe from
the lot to be inspected. Wall thickness at the test spot selected on the joint shall be
measured at no fewer than 16 points to determine maximum and minimum thickness.
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Maximum and minimum thickness at the test spot shall differ from one another by more
than seven percent.
After calibration, the gamma ray unit shall have a reference point representing the specified
wall thickness, and variations above and below this point shall be proportional to a known
scale of wall thickness variation.
4.6.6 Grade Comparator Calibration
The reference joint used to set the grade comparator shall be stenciled and/or die stamped
with the correct grade designation.
4.6.7 Prohibited Adjustments
Once calibration is complete, the operator shall not adjust any electrical or mechanical
settings which could affect the calibration. Such adjustments include those made to:
• Magnetizing current levels

• Pipe Speed
• Rotating Head Speed
• Any null, zero or gain settings
• Gamma Ray Source to pipe distance
• Any other setting which affects scanning speed or unit response.
If adjustments are necessary to any of these settings, the unit shall be recalibrated at the
new setting before continuing inspection.
The operator may deviate from the mag current setting guidelines in his operating manual
to improve signal/noise ratio, but the unit shall be recalibrated with the new mag current
setting. In no case, however, may the mag current setting be reduced to less than 90% of
the level recommended in the operator’s manual.
4.6.8 Establishing Threshold Levels
The operator shall establish threshold levels for all four functions of the EMI unit. The
threshold level is that signal level which triggers further investigation of an indication by the
operator to determine if a rejectable indication exists. Threshold levels shall be based upon
the inspection company’s S.O.P. as approved by Chevron.
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4.6.9 Inspection
During inspection, investigate any indication which exceeds one of the threshold levels
established in Step 4.6.8. Be sure to examine the entire 360° surface in the region of
concern. Joint speed through the unit shall allow for 100% surface coverage, for
longitudinal and transverse systems.
If any imperfection is found evaluate its severity per Step 4.6.11.
If any indication repeatedly is judged to be caused by irrelevant factors such as caked mud
or coating on the pipe surface, the joint shall be reinspected by EMI after cleaning or
removal of the irrelevant factor.
After removal of a defect exceeding five percent of the specified wall thickness on material
inspected per notch description “B” (Figure 4.1) the joint shall either be reinspected by the
EMI unit or the area of defect removal reinspected by manual shearwave methods.
4.6.10 Limitations on Ultrasonic Wall Thickness Measurement of EMI Indication Prove-Up
Compression wave UT shall not be utilized to measure remaining wall under a sharp or
irregular bottomed pit or gouge. The UT gauge will not read accurately under these
conditions. If sharp bottomed defects of undeterminable depth occur on the pipe ID,
evaluate in accordance with Section 3.8.2 of these Guidelines.
Indications shall be evaluated in accordance with Section 3.8 of these Guidelines.
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FIGURE 4.1
ELECTROMAGNETIC REFERENCE NOTCH DIMENSIONS
The following notches are required for calibration of electromagnetic inspection equipment. (See Note
(below) for notch locations.)
L
W
d
t
NOTCH ORIENTATION* d - depth** W - width L - length

DESCRIPTION (% spec. wall) (in.) (in.)
OD Long 10%t ± 15% 0.010 1.00± 1/8
A OD Trans
ID Long
10%t ± 15%
10%t ± 15%
0.010
0.020
0.375± 1/8
1.00± 1/8
OD Long 5%t ± 15% 0.010 1.00± 1/8
B OD Trans 5%t ± 15% 0.010 0.375± 1/8
ID Long 5%t ± 15% 0.020 1.00± 1/8
* The ID notch is not required on OCTG sizes less than 4-1/2” unless specified otherwise
**minimum d of .012”± 0.002”
API 5CT Grades: API 5CT Grades: Non-API: Non-API: Specified yield strengths
H-40, J-55, K-55, C-90, T-95, L-80 Controlled yield above 95 ksi, corrosion resistant
C-95, L-80 9CR, L-80 13CR, P- grades and high alloys including 9CR, 13CR, and
(Type1), N-80 110*, Q-125 collapse grades w/ 22CR., and all sour service grades.
min. yield ≤ 95 ksi
Description A Description B Description A Description B
*P110 ordered to SR 16 requirements may be inspected using notch “A” if approved by QA prior to inspection.
Note: Notches shall be located a minimum of one foot from the tube end and have a separation which
provides for interpretation of individual signals at running speed.
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4.7 Full body shear wave and compression wave ultrasonic inspection (UTB)
This procedure covers full body ultrasonic inspection of ferromagnetic and non-ferromagnetic
casing and tubing.
4.7.1 Equipment and Materials
Instrumentation
• An ultrasonic pulsed, reflection type instrument shall be used for all examinations.
• The electronic apparatus shall contain an attenuator (accurate over its useful range
to ±10 percent of the amplitude ratio) which will allow measurement of the
indications beyond the linear range of the instrument.
• A transigate shall be used to monitor a time zone, sufficient to detect

discontinuities located on the outside and inside surfaces of the tube under
inspection.
• A multi-channel recorder, with a sufficient response rate to record the activity of

each transducer, shall be used on all inspection scans.
Search Units
• Transducer type, size, and frequency shall be selected to produce the most
favorable test results and shall be from a certified manufacturer.
• Search units having a transducer with a maximum active area of one square inch
shall be used for straight-beam scanning. Smaller diameter transducers may be
used.
• In all cases transducers shall be used at their rated frequency.
• The shearwave transducer angle shall be selected to produce coverage of both

outside and inside surfaces based on the ratio of thickness to diameter.
Transducers with an angle which would result in a skip distance multiplier greater
than 1.5 shall not be used (see Figure 4.2).
• The angle may be generated by ID-OD offset method (immersion units).
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Figure 4.2
Skip Distance Multiple Curves
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Reference Standards
The reference standard shall be prepared from a length of pipe of the same
diameter, wall thickness, material, surface finish, and heat treatment (grade) as the
material to be examined. Any exceptions must be approved by the Quality
Assurance representative. The standard should be a length of the same pipe to be
inspected.
Reference standards shall be free of indications that could interfere with calibration
procedures.
The notch dimensions are given in Figure 4.3.
Notches shall be located a minimum of one (1) foot from the tube end and have a
minimum of twelve inches of lengthwise separation. Notches shall be cut in an area
of at least 100% wall thickness.
Reference joints shall be clearly marked as such and set aside except during their
use. The standard shall be inspected full length prior to removal of the notches.
After completion of the job, all notches shall be completely removed by grinding.
Ground areas shall be finished so that they merge smoothly with the pipe surface.
Remaining wall after notch removal shall exceed 87-1/2% of nominal; final
remaining wall shall be confirmed with a properly calibrated compression wave
utrasonic thickness gauge.
Couplant — A liquid couplant, such as water, that is capable of conducting ultrasonic

vibrations from the transducers into the pipe being tested shall be used. The couplant shall
not be harmful to the pipe, the environment or personnel who may come in contact with it.
Pre-wetting the pipe prior to inspection is recommended.
4.7.2 Calibration
Distance — Both scanning and prove-up instruments should be calibrated for distance by
the use of suitable standards such as IIW or DSC calibration blocks. Screen range shall be
such that the full sound path +25% is displayed on the CRT.
Static Sensitivity Calibration (Scan Unit)
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The scan unit shall be calibrated for sensitivity by scanning the applicable notches
in the reference standard (see Figure 4.3) and adjusting (peaking out) the
transducer until maximum response is displayed from the ID and OD notches. The
angle beam should be positioned so that the ID notch indication is of greater
amplitude than the OD notch indication. ID and OD notch response shall be within
20% full screen height (FSH) of each other. The maximized signal shall then be
adjusted by use of the calibrated gain control or attenuator to 80% of full screen
height (FSH). The gain setting then becomes the “Reference Level” to which all
defect indications are evaluated. Record the gain control setting for each channel.
The gain control may be increased past reference level when scanning, but shall
not be decreased. The above procedure shall be used for each probe.
Adjust the response on the strip chart recorder so that it is linear with the CRT
response, e.g. 80% FSH = 80% full chart width. Perform this calibration on each
channel.
Note the gain settings of the ultrasonic instrument on each channel at the
completion of the calibration and record the reference level.
Static Thickness Calibration (Scan Unit)
Calibrate the scan unit thickness channel(s) by placing the thickness transducer(s)
over a block with known thickness that is within .050" of the specified wall
thickness of the pipe to be tested. Adjust the display to read the appropriate value.
Move the transducer to a point on the block .100" thicker than the first thickness
and adjust if necessary. Move the transducer to a point on the block .100" thinner
than the first thickness and adjust the controls until the proper values are
displayed. Repeat the above steps until the proper value is read on all three steps
without adjustment of the controls. In all cases, the screen distance chosen shall
be the shortest applicable size, to include at least 1/4 t beyond the thickness of the
production material to which the search unit is applied.
Adjust the strip chart recorder to give a baseline reading when the pipe nominal
thickness value is displayed on the strip chart. Place the transducer over a
thickness block .100" above and .100" below nominal and adjust the strip chart to
read the proper incremental value above or below the baseline.
A separate transducer other than the scan unit permanent transducer may be used
for the static thickness calibration provided the proper delay line is used to
compensate for water path when applicable.
Dynamic Calibration (Scan Unit)
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The reference standard shall be run through the scanning unit at the same speed
and helical advance as the pipe to be inspected. A minimum of three notch
responses from each longitudinal notch and two from each transverse and oblique
shall be received.
The thickness indication on the strip chart shall correspond to that in the wall
reduction area of the test standard. Notch response amplitude shall be at least
80% of chart width.
Record chart response for each channel. Run the calibration standard a minimum
of two times through the unit at the 6 and 12 o’clock positions from the same index
point. Repeatability shall be acceptable if the response amplitudes from the
reflectors are within 10% of each other on each run. Gain shall be increased above
reference level to provide a scanning level without producing excessive noise.
Recalibration (Periodic) — Calibration shall be performed on the appropriate reference

standards:
• At the start of a series of examinations and every 50 joints thereafter.

• At least every 8 hours of continuous testing.
• At the end of a series of examinations.
• At any time when, in the opinion of the Chevron representative or the operator,
there is doubt as to the validity of the calibration.
Calibration Changes — If a system’s sensitivity upon recalibration has decreased more

than 20% or 2 db in amplitude, or if any point on the sweep line has moved more than 5%
of full screen width:
• Void all examinations performed after the last valid calibration.

• Conduct a new calibration.
• Re-examine the material for which examinations have been voided.
• Enter proper values on a new examination record.
Recalibration (Equipment Changes) — Substitution of any of the following shall be

cause for recalibration, but past examinations need not be voided unless they are suspect.
• Search unit (shoe/transducer), cable, or power source
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• Couplant or mixture percentages thereof

• Ultrasonic instrument or recorder.
• Unit operator.
• Change of pen or stylus in recording device.
• Change in material, dimension or property, i.e., OD, wall thickness, material
velocity.
Calibration Data — Calibration data shall be recorded on an appropriate daily examination

report and shall include the following:
• Instrument – make, model, serial number and certified calibration date.

• Search Unit – brand, size, frequency and serial number.
• Calibration Joint Standard – size and serial number.
• Couplant used.
• Certification level and signature of technician.
• Type, size, thickness and grade of tubular goods under examination.
Gate Circuitry — All start and gate widths shall be set to encompass the signals received
from the OD and ID notches of the calibration standard. Gates shall be adjusted so that the
entire sound path through the pipe wall is represented. Gate alarm thresholds shall be set
a minimum of 10% below reference amplitude (notch response amplitude). Verification of
gate alarms shall be performed.
Chart Recorder — Each transducer shall be represented on the strip chart recorder. The
recorder responses shall be adjusted to correspond with the signals on the CRT screen.
4.7.3 Inspection
The pipe shall be inspected by passing each length through the scanning unit at the same
rotational speed and helical advancement as used during the calibration runs. Inspection
speed and helix shall be such that a minimum of 10% overlap of inspection is obtained.
Instrument pulse repetition rate shall be the same as that during calibration.
Pipe found containing significant indications that equal or exceed threshold amplitudes set
in dynamic calibration shall require further evaluation and be so recorded in the written
report.
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When a significant imperfection indication is received, mark the area of the noted
imperfection on the pipe surface.
Indications — Indications which equal or exceed the threshold level set during calibration
shall be proven-up by methods as outlined in Section 3.8 of these Guidelines.
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FIGURE 4.3
ULTRASONIC REFERENCE NOTCH DIMENSIONS
The following notches are required for calibration of ultrasonic inspection equipment. (See Note (below) for
notch locations.)
L
W
d
t
NOTCH ORIENTATION d - depth* W - width L - length

OD Long 10%t ± 15% 0.010 1.00± 1/8
OD Trans 10%t ± 15% 0.010 0.375± 1/8
A ID Long 10%t ± 15% 0.020 1.00± 1/8
ID Trans 10%t ± 15% 0.020 0.375± 1/8
OD Long 5%t ± 15% 0.010 1.00± 1/8
OD Trans 5%t ± 15% 0.010 0.375± 1/8
5%t ± 15% 1.00± 1/8
B ID Long
ID Trans 5%t ± 15%
0.020
0.020 0.375± 1/8
22° OD Obliques** 5%t ± 15% 0.010 1.00± 1/8
22° ID Obliques** 5%t ± 15% 0.020 1.00± 1/8
*minimum d of .012”± 0.002”
**Oblique notches shall be right and left hand. Alternate angles may be used if approved by Chevron representative.
API 5CT Grades: API 5CT Grades: C- Non-API: Non-API: Specified yield
H-40, J-55, K-55, 90, T-95, L80-9CR, Controlled yield strengths above 95 ksi, corrosion
C-95, L-80 L80-13CR, P-110*, grades and high resistant alloys including 9CR,
(Type1), N-80 Q-125 collapse grades w/ 13CR, and 22CR., and all sour
min. yield ≤ 95 ksi service grades.
Description A Description B Description A Description B
*P110 ordered to SR 16 requirements may be inspected using notch “A” if approved by QA prior to inspection.
Note: Notches shall be located a minimum of one foot from the tube end and have a separation which
provides for interpretation of individual signals at running speed. If the standard is a cut piece WHICH IS
NOT PART OF THE ACTUAL ORDER being inspected, it shall also contain a reduced wall section of 87-1/2”
of specified wall, and may also contain 1/8” or 1/16” drilled holes as applicable.
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4.8 RACK HYDROSTATIC TEST (HYD)
4.8.1 Scope
This procedure covers rack hydrotesting of API tubing and casing. Hydrotesting pipe on the
rig floor is not covered by this procedure.
4.8.2 Pressure Testing Equipment
Coupling Visibility – Hydrostatic testing units must provide unrestricted visibility of the
coupling. Units which prevent visual detection of a leak behind the coupling are prohibited.
Pressure Gauge – The hydrostatic test unit shall be equipped with an indicating pressure
gauge having a graduated dial with a range exceeding the test pressure by at least 25%.
The gauge will have sufficient accuracy and scale divisions to be easily read to within 5%
of the applied pressure.
Pressure Recorder — A pressure recording chart, which shows the test pressure of each
individual joint, shall be used in conjunction with a pressure gauge. Compare the readings
of the two instruments on the first five joints and every fifth joint thereafter. The readings
may vary from one another by no more than 5% of the applied pressure.
Calibration of Gauges — A calibration tag shall be attached to each pressure measuring

device, indicating calibration within the last six months.
4.8.3 Inspection of Test Fixtures
End Plugs — End plugs shall be cut with precision and be free from damage in order to
make up and break out without damaging the pipe threads. End plugs for proprietary
connections (Hydril, AB, etc.) which seal at the pin tip shall be equipped with “weep holes”
to insure that the primary (pin tip) seal is being tested.
Clean and inspect test plug threads (including a profile check) for defects which might
interfere with make-up or which might damage the threads on the pipe. API test plugs must
have a certification which indicates they have been thread gauged with all thread element
readings recorded. If in doubt, require that the plugs be gauged. Replace or repair
damaged plugs.
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Check proprietary test plugs to assure that “weep holes” are properly positioned in the plug
to test the primary seal on the pipe connection.
Engage pin and box plugs and test to applicable pressure for 10 seconds. No leaks are
allowed.
4.8.4 Operating Procedure
Remove thread protectors from the pipe. Clean and examine pin and coupling or box
threads on all joints before testing. Joints with damaged threads must be repaired before
testing or be rejected. Clean and examine all threads after testing for thread damage. If
any significant thread damage is found, discontinue testing until the cause is determined
and repaired.
For proprietary connections fitted with seal rings, remove the seal ring from each
connection before testing unless:
• It serves as the primary seal.
• Testing with seal ring installed is specifically required by Chevron.
Assure that the end of the pipe, opposite the fill end, is elevated.
Apply thread compound and screw the test plugs on each end of the pipe. MAKE SURE
TEST PLUGS DO NOT DAMAGE THREADS. (Chevron normally does not hydrotest
internally coated pipe. However, if pipe is internally coated, make sure end plugs do not
damage coating). VISUALLY INSPECT PLUGS (INCLUDING A PROFILE CHECK) AT
LEAST EVERY 10 JOINTS DURING JOB. Round thread pin end test plugs should cover
the threads to the plane of L1 plus four threads (maximum). Buttress pin end plugs should
completely cover the L4 area (minimum).
Connect lines and fill pipe with water. Make sure all air is purged before pressuring pipe.
Apply test pressure for the size, weight and grade being examined. Test pressures given in
Section 5 of API 5CT should be used. If more than one pressure is given, use the higher of
the two pressures. If the pressure given in the table is based on “leak resistance”, notify the
Chevron Representative (Leak resistance pressure limits are given in Section 4.8.6 of this
procedure). In the absence of specific instructions from Chevron, apply the following
guidelines:
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• Test pressure shall be the pressure which would result in the fiber stress of 80% of
specified minimum yield in the coupling or the pipe body, whichever is lower
(except H, J, and K grades, 10-3/4 inch and larger; these will be tested to 60%
of specified minimum yield stress.).
Calculations shall be based on nominal dimensions. Formulas given in API Bulletin

5C3, Paragraph 8.1 (pipe) and Paragraph 8.2.1 (couplings) shall be used to
calculate stresses.
• Test pressures based on “mill limits” are not recognized by Chevron and shall not
be used. “Mill limit” test pressures are either 3,000 or 10,000 PSI. If either of these
test pressures are encountered in the tables, contact the Chevron representative to
determine correct test pressure.
• Test pressure for premium threaded pipe will be that which causes a fiber stress of
80% of specified minimum yield of the tube body, as calculated by the formula
given in API Bulletin 5C3, Paragraph 8.1, using nominal dimensions. However, if a
lower pressure is dictated by the thread manufacturer, the lower pressure shall be
used.
Hold pressure for a minimum of 10 seconds after maximum pressure is reached while
observing the pressure gauge, threaded connections and tube.
The pressure recorder must record smoothly. Final reading must be within 5% of gauge
reading.
Release the pressure from the pipe. Remove the test plugs and drain all the water. Clean
and check each box and pin for thread damage before redoping threads.
4.8.5 Acceptance and Rejections
Leaks behind the couplings are rejectable. All leaks on shouldered (premium) connections
are rejectable. All tube body leaks are rejectable.
For round and buttress threads, light leakage past the test plugs is permissible. If a
pressure decline greater than five percent of the specified test pressure in five seconds
occurs around either test plug on round or buttress threads, the plug should be removed
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and checked for thread damage. If none, redope, reapply the plug, and retest. If the joint
continues to leak excessively, consider it rejectable.
If any leaks occur on either test plug on shouldered (premium) connections, remove the
plug, redope the threads and retest. If the leak remains, the joint is rejectable.
Immediately mark any reject in accordance with Section 3.9 of this standard.
4.8.6 Leak Resistant Pressures
The table below lists leak resistance values calculated from API 5C3 Paragraph 3.4 and
rounded to the nearest 100 PSI. If these pressures appear in the tables in Section 4 of API
5CT for the pipe being tested, consult the Chevron Representative.
TABLE 4.7
Leak Resistance (PSI)

Size (inches) STC LTC BTC
4-1/2” 17,920 17,920 17,380

5” 16,000 16,000 19,580
5-1/2” 13,160 13,160 16,100
6-5/8” 11,830 11,830 14,780
7” 9,520 9,520 11,790
7-5/8” 11,800 11,800 12,680
8-5/8” 10,380 10,380 11,230
9-5/8” 8,460 8,460 9,160
9-5/8” (P-110 & higher) 9,670 9,670 9,160
10-3/4” 6,880 - 7,450
10-3/4” (P-110 & higher) 7,860 - 7,450
11-3/4” 5,820 - 6,300
13-3/8” 4,550 - 4,930
16” 3,230 - 3,560
18-5/8” 3,150 - 3,500
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20” 2,400 - 2,320
4.9 PORTABLE ROCKWELL HARDNESS TESTING (HRC)
4.9.1 Scope
This procedure covers hardness testing by Portable Rockwell Testers. When fixed “shop
type” hardness testers are used, the procedures outlined in ASTM E-18 shall be applicable.
4.9.2 Definitions
Hardness Reading is the numerical value associated with a single hardness impression.
Hardness Value is the average of two or more hardness readings made in a single test
area.
4.9.3 Linearity Check
Each tester used shall be checked for linearity in accordance with API RP 5A5, Paragraph
3.5.
4.9.4 Setup Procedure
Examine the penetrator prior to the calibration check. If it is chipped, spalled, distorted, or
deformed, it shall be replaced.
Verify that the proper load cell has been installed and that the correct penetrator is being
used for the hardness range specified.
Range Indentor Major Load

C Diamond 150 kg
B Ball 100 kg
Verify that a standardized test block with a hardness within ±5 Rockwell numbers of the
mid-range of the material to be tested is used to check the instrument.
Test blocks are certified on one surface only. Verify that only the certified surface is used.
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Verify that the penetrator does not contact the test block closer than 1/4 inch to the edge of
the block or closer than 1/8 inch to the nearest existing impression.
Verify that the contact surfaces and/or shoulders of the test block, anvil, and penetrator are
clean and free from oil film.
4.9.5 Periodic Calibration Checks
Periodic checks shall be made at the beginning of each inspection job, whenever there are
erratic hardness readings, after every 100 tests, whenever the tester is subjected to
shock, and the end of each day.
Each periodic check shall be made on the test surface of a standardized test block having
a hardness within ±5 Rockwell numbers of the mid-range hardness level being tested.
Three readings shall be made on the standardized test block. The average of these
readings shall be within ±2 hardness numbers of the hardness written on the test block.
Any single reading shall not vary more than ±2 hardness numbers from the average of the
three readings.
If the test instrument fails to pass the periodic check, it cannot be used for further testing
and all tests made since the previous check shall be remade with an instrument which
passes the periodic check.
4.9.6 Instrument Operation
• Apply the minor load smoothly, avoiding all impact. The last adjustment shall be in the
direction of applying load.
• Set the dial pointer or dial gauge to the zero position.
• Apply the major load without shock. Return the operating lever to the minor load position.
• Use the Rockwell hardness readings from the dial with the lever in the minor load position.
4.9.7 Test Services
Before testing pipe, the test surface shall be clean and dry and free of scale, pits and
coatings. The surface area to be tested shall be ground or filed lightly to remove the
decarburized layer and surface irregularities. The area of filing or grinding should be
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approximately two (2) inches long and 0.010 inches in depth. Grinding shall be done slowly
to prevent overheating of the test surface. Prior to filing or grinding, the wall thickness (tube
only) at the test area should be verified with a calibrated ultrasonic thickness gauge.
4.9.8 Testing Procedures
Non-upset pipe with couplings shall be tested once on the coupling and once on the tube,
alternating locations between center and either end. Upset pipe shall be tested on the
coupling, on one upset (alternate ends), and in the center of the tube. Unless otherwise
indicated, every joint shall be tested in this manner. Integral joint pipe shall be tested mid-
body, and on one end (alternating box and pin ends).
Attach the instrument at the prepared test surface in accordance with the manufacturer’s
recommendations. Verify that the penetrator is perpendicular to the prepared surface.
Test the surface as described in Paragraph 4.9.6 by making two hardness readings at each
test area. The readings shall be no closer than 1/8 inch to another impression and no
closer than 1/4 inch to the edge of the prepared area. If any two of the hardness readings
differ by more than two hardness numbers, an additional reading shall be taken. The
hardness value for the test shall be the average of the two closest readings.
Mark all hardness values on the material adjacent to the test area with a permanent
marker.
Hardness testing acceptance criteria shall meet API 5CT or values specified by Chevron
Quality Assurance.
4.9.10 Post Testing Requirements
Record all hardness data for rejected joints by joint number and test area location.
The instrument serial number for each tester shall be recorded.
When specified, all hardness data for each joint shall be recorded by joint number and test
area location.
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4.10 ULTRASONIC WELDLINE (UTW)
4.10.1 Scope
This procedure covers the ultrasonic weldline and end area examination of pipe.
4.10.2 Equipment and Materials
The equipment used shall be as outlined in the following sub-paragraphs:
Ultrasonic Instruments —The ultrasonic instrumentation used shall be of the pulse echo
type.
The electronic apparatus shall contain an attenuator (accurate over its useful range
to +/-10% of the amplitude ratio) which shall allow measurement of the indications
beyond the linear range of the instrument.
A transigate shall be used to monitor a time zone, sufficient to detect

discontinuities located on the outside and inside surfaces of the tubular under
inspection.
A multi-channel recorder, with a sufficient response rate to record the activity of

each transducer, shall be used on all inspection scans.
Search Units
Transducer type, size and frequency shall be selected to produce the most
favorable test results. Search units having a transducer with a maximum active
area of 1 square inch shall be used for straight-beam scanning. In all cases,
transducers shall be used at their rated frequency.
The shearwave transducer angle shall be selected to produce coverage to both

outside and inside surfaces based on ratio of thickness to diameter. To accomplish
this, transducer angle should not exceed that which would result in a skip distance
multiplier greater than 1.5 (See Figure 4.2) .
The transducers used for inspection of the end area shall be capable of inspecting
the last inch of the pipe end excluding threads and should have sufficient near
surface resolution to be able to detect flaws close to the inspection surface.
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Couplant
A liquid couplant, such as water, that is capable of conducting ultrasonic vibrations

from the transducers into the pipe being tested shall be used. The couplant shall
not be harmful to the pipe, the environment, or personnel who may come in contact
with it. Pre-wetting the pipe prior to inspection is recommended.
4.10.3 Reference Standard for Shearwave (CRAB) Systems
The reference standard shall be prepared from a suitable length of pipe of the same
diameter, wall thickness, material surface finish, and heat treatment (grade) as the material
to be examined.
Reference standards shall be free of indications that could interfere with normal calibration
procedures.
All surfaces shall be clean and free of loose scale, dirt, grease, or any other material that
might interfere with the sensitivity of the transducers or the interpretation of the readout.
A minimum of two longitudinal notches shall be placed parallel to the weld seams, and shall
be separated by a distance sufficient to produce two separate and distinguishable signals.
One notch shall be on the OD and one shall be on the ID. (Notches shall comply with the
requirements of Figure 4.4)
If the reference standard is made from a joint of pipe to be applied to the order, the notches
shall be removed by grinding after completion of the inspection. Ground areas shall be
finished so that they merge smoothly with the pipe surface. The reference standard shall
be inspected full length prior to removal of the notches. After removal of the notches, final
remaining wall shall be confirmed with a properly calibrated compression wave ultrasonic
gauge.
4.10.4 Calibration
Shearwave (CRAB) — The system shall be calibrated for distance by using a DSC type
calibration standard or the equivalent. The CRT screen shall be calibrated to represent the
entire distance traveled by the sound beam +25%.
The system shall be calibrated for sensitivity by placing the CRAB unit on the
reference standard and adjusting (peaking out) the response from the applicable
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Figure 4.4
ULTRASONIC WELDLINE INSPECTION REFERENCE NOTCH DIMENSIONS

The following notches are required for calibration of ultrasonic weldline inspection equipment.
L
W
d
t
NOTCH ORIENTATION d - depth* W - width L - length

A OD Long 10%t ± 15% 0.040 2.00± 1/8
B OD Long 5%t ± 15% 0.040 2.00± 1/8
*minimum d of .012”± 0.002”
API 5CT Grades: API 5CT Grades: API 5L Line Pipe Non-API: Non-API: Specified yield strengths
H-40, J-55, K-55, C-90 ,T-95, L80- Grades: All Controlled yield above 95 ksi, corrosion resistant
C-95, L-80 9CR, L80-13CR, P- grades and high alloys including 9CR, 13CR, and
(Type1), N-80 110, Q-125 collapse grades w/ 22CR., and all sour service grades.
min. yield ≤ 95 ksi
Description A Description B Description A Description A Description B
notch to maximum amplitude. The maximized signal shall then be adjusted by use
of the calibrated gain control or attenuator to 80% of full screen height (FSH). The
gain setting then becomes the “Reference Level” to which all defect indications are
evaluated. Record the gain control setting for each channel; this control should be
increased past reference level when scanning, but SHALL NOT BE DECREASED.
The above procedure shall be used for each probe.
Strip Chart Recorder — The strip chart recorder shall be adjusted to produce
indication recordings of test notches equivalent to the CRT indications on each
channel, i.e. 80% FSH = 80% Full Chart Width.
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Transigate — The gates shall be adjusted to cover the full width and thickness
of the weld area being examined plus 1/8" either side of the weld. The threshold
level in the gated area shall be adjusted to activate the alarm system of the
instrument at a level 10% less than reference (70% FSH).
The sensitivity of the unit shall be verified at production scanning speeds by

moving the crab unit along the reference standard past each applicable reference
reflector notch at the normal scanning speed and observing the response from
each notch on the strip chart recorder. The response from each reflector shall be
the same height obtained during the static calibration. When signals lower than the
calibration level are obtained the gain control of that channel shall be increased to
provide the proper signal height.
End Area — (This examination shall be performed ONLY on pipe which will undergo
subsequent welding of the ends.) The end area inspection unit shall be calibrated as
follows:
The unit shall be calibrated for thickness on a step wedge within the range of
thickness of the pipe to be tested.
After the unit is calibrated for thickness, it shall be placed on a section of the pipe
to be tested and the thickness under the probe shall be verified as correct. After
verifying the thickness, the first back reflection shall be spread by use of the range
control to the right side of the screen so that the full screen width represents the
pipe wall thickness.
The amplitude of the first back reflection, from the pipe wall, shall be adjusted by
use of the gain control or attenuator to 100% FSH.
Shearwave Calibration (Prove-Up)
The prove-up instrument shall be calibrated for distance as in Paragraph 4.10.4.
The sensitivity calibration shall be accomplished by maximizing the signal obtained

from the reference standard ID notch and adjusting the maximized signal to 80%
FSH. The gain setting needed to accomplish this becomes the reference level.
With a grease pencil, mark the position of the top of the signal on the CRT screen.
Without adjusting the gain control, move the probe to obtain the maximum
response from the OD notch and mark the position of the top of this signal. Move
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the probe to a position to maximize the response from the ID notch at the 1 1/2
node position and mark as before, connect the marks with a straight line. This line
becomes the Distance Amplitude Curve (DAC) to which all indications are
evaluated. The reject control shall be set to the off position except for instruments
with linear reject in which case the reject shall be below the DAC level.
Sweep range and DAC calibration shall be performed on the appropriate reference
standard:
• Anytime there is a change in operators.

• At the start of a series of examinations.
• With any substitution of power source.
• At least every 8 hours of continuous testing.
• At the end of a series of examinations.
• At any time when, in the opinion of the Chevron representative or the
operator, there is doubt about validity of the calibration.
• After each 50 joints.
4.10.5 Calibration Changes
Changes in DAC
Perform the following if any point on the DAC has decreased more than 20% or 2
db in amplitude, or if any point on the DAC has moved on the sweep line more
than 5% of full screen width:
• Void all examinations referring to the calibration in question and

performed after the last valid calibration.
• Conduct a new calibration.
• Re-examine the area for which examinations have been voided.
Perform the following, if any point on the DAC has increased in amplitude more
than 20% or 2 db:
• Correct the calibration.
• Re-examine all indications recorded since the last valid calibration

verification.
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• Enter proper values on a new examination record.
Recalibration
Substitution of any of the following shall be cause for recalibration:
• Search unit (shoe/transducer).

• Couplant or mixture percentages thereof.
• Ultrasonic instrument or recorder.
• Examination technician.
• Change of pen or stylus in recording device.
• Change in material, i.e. OD, wall thickness, material velocity.
Calibration Data
Calibration data shall be recorded on an appropriate daily examination report and

shall include the following:
• Instrument — Make, model, serial number and certified calibration

date.
• Search Unit — Brand, size, frequency and serial number.
• Calibration Standard — Size and serial number.
• Couplant used.
• Certification level and signature of technician.
• Type, size and grade of tubular goods under examination.
• Prove-up results of indications.
4.10.6 Inspection
All surfaces shall be clean and free from all foreign material that could interfere with the
examinations.
Shearwave (CRAB) — The weld shall be scanned by centering the transducer fixture
(CRAB) over the weld seam with the transducers on either side of the weld in contact with
the pipe. Adequate couplant flow shall be established before scanning commences. The
unit shall be moved in such a manner to assure 100% coverage of the entire weld length.
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The weld shall be scanned at a speed not to exceed 60 feet per minute. The CRAB shall
include either mechanical or electronic guides or pointers to assure proper alignment for
keeping the unit centered on the weld seam. In addition, a chalk line or other suitable
means shall be used to mark the weld seam for its full length along the pipe OD surface to
assure proper alignment of the CRAB. The CRAB shall provide 100% coverage of weld
length (between threaded ends, if threaded).
Weld areas determined to have indications exceeding reference level shall be marked on
the pipe near the weld seam at the location that a transducer gave the indications.
Straight Beam (End Area) — The end areas of pipe shall be scanned with a straight
beam transducer. The entire 360° surface shall be inspected to a line one inch inside the
threads or plain end on each end. Sufficient couplant shall be applied to insure transfer of
the sound from the probe to the test material. The back reflection shall be maintained at
100% of FSH during scanning. The probe shall be maintained stable during scanning to
insure coverage of at least the first inch of the pipe.
Shearwave (Prove-Up) — The weld shall be scanned in the suspect area and six inches
on either side to assure full coverage. The probe shall be moved in a zigzag pattern to
assure coverage of the full cross section of the weld and scanning shall be performed from
both sides of the seam. The parent metal shall be scanned for laminar discontinuities in the
prove-up area for the full range of the anticipated sound path.
4.10.7 Evaluation
Shearwave (Prove-Up) — The weld area marked for prove-up shall be scanned with a
prove-up instrument properly calibrated per Paragraph 4.10.4 (Shearwave Calibration). The
angle of the prove-up transducer shall be the same as that used in the initial test. The gain
setting shall be adjusted to reference level when evaluating indications. The length and
depth of any rejectable defect as defined in Paragraph 4.10.8 shall be marked on the pipe
next to the defective area.
Straight Beam (End Area) — The end area shall be tested with an instrument properly
calibrated as in Paragraph 4.10.4 (End Area). The end shall be tested for 100% of its
circumference. Any indication exceeding 10% of FSH or areas with a loss of back reflection
of 50% or greater shall be evaluated to Paragraph 4.10.8. All defective end areas shall be
marked with a yellow paint line at the boundary of the defective area and with red paint on
the defective end.
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Shearwave (Prove-Up) — The acceptance criteria shall be per Section 3.8 of these
Guidelines, with the addition that any indication exceeding the DAC curve shall be rejected.
Straight Beam (End Area) — Laminations exceeding 1/4" in diameter or extending into
the threads (or square cut end) shall be rejected. Cracks of any detectable size shall be
rejected.
4.11 LIQUID PENETRANT INSPECTION (LPI)
4.11.1 Scope
This procedure covers fluorescent-water washable penetrant inspection of the end areas of
non-ferromagnetic tubing and casing. LPI replaces SEA inspection on this material. This
procedure is derived primarily from ASTM E-165 with modification for OCTG inspection.
Because of the complexity and slow speed of LPI, its use is not recommended when
magnetic particle inspection can be used instead.
4.11.2 Materials, Equipment, Calibration and Setup
Verify that cleaning solvent, penetrant and developer are proper for use on the parts to be
inspected.
The manufacturer’s compatibility information for the solvent, penetrant and developer shall
indicate that the materials are suitable for use as a system. Nickel base alloys shall be
inspected with materials with sulfur contents of less than 0.005 grams per 100 grams
(0.5%). For all other alloys, materials containing not more than 1% sulfur by weight shall be
used. Austenitic stainless steels, duplex stainless steels and titanium alloys shall be
inspected with materials with halogen content of less than 0.5%. All other alloys shall be
inspected with materials containing not more than 1% halogen by weight.
Verify the adequacy of the penetrant materials and of the anticipated procedural steps by
testing a cracked test piece. The test piece may be a Liquid Penetrant Comparator as
described in Section V, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code or a quench cracked 3/8
inch thick block of 2024-T3 aluminum alloy plate.
Ensure that adequately ventilated facilities are available for cleaning the material, for
observing the test in darkness and for post inspection cleaning and handling. Facilities shall
completely enclose the ends of the pipe. Viewing under portable tarps is prohibited.
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Verify that the ultraviolet light source has sufficient intensity. Recheck the light source after
every eight hours of operation and whenever it is shut down and restarted. Measure the
light intensity with a digital light meter sensitive to ultraviolet light centered on a wave
length of 365 manometers. With the light at the normal inspection distance from the meter,
the intensity shall be at least 800 microwatts per square centimeter.
If compressed air spraying is used to apply penetrant or developer, the air system shall
have adequate filtration between the compressor and the penetrant/developer reservoir.
Surface and immersion thermometers or temperature measurement devices with ranges

of at least 40-130° F shall be available to check the test surface(s) and rinse water
temperature.
4.11.3 Cleaning and Surface Preparation
Preclean the surface to be examined and all adjacent areas within one inch by using one of
the following methods:
• Solvent Cleaners — Solvent cleaners shall be readily vaporized so they will

evaporate from tight imperfections. Common types of solvents include naphtha,
paint thinner, or isopropyl alcohol. Solvent cleaning is not recommended for rust
and scale. Appropriate fire and inhalation precautions should be observed.
• Vapor Degreasing — Vapor degreasing is the preferred method for removing

organic contaminants, such as oil and grease.
• Steam Cleaning — Steam cleaning is usually best for cleaning large items.
However, it may not reach the bottom of deep imperfections. A follow-up solvent
wash is often needed.
Final clean the surfaces with acetone before inspection. Observe appropriate handling and
inhalation precautions.
Allow at least 5 minutes (or more if conditions dictate) for final evaporation. The surface
shall be completely dry.
Check for bleed back of any oil residue from imperfections. Reclean with acetone if any is
noted.
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4.11.4 Inspection Procedures
Penetrant Application, Rinse and Drying
The penetrant shall be applied by dipping, brushing or spraying for 100% coverage of the
desired inspection area. The temperature of the part surface shall be between 50° F to 80°
F. The penetrant shall not be allowed to dry. The dwell time shall be as listed below
unless the penetrant manufacturer’s recommendations are in conflict. If so, the penetrant
manufacturer’s recommendations shall govern.
TABLE 4.8
Dwell Time (Minutes)

Surface Temp. (°F) Minimum Maximum
0
60 20 30
0
80 15 25
0
100 12 20
0
120 10 15
The excess penetrant shall be removed from the surface with a low velocity water spray.
The water temperature shall not be greater than 110°F. Air dry or dry the surface by
blotting. Do not exceed a surface temperature of 120°F if using forced warm air.
Developer Application (Dry Developer)
Dry powder may be applied with soft brush, powder bulb, or powder gun. The developer
shall be applied within 5 minutes after the completion of the post rinse drying operation.
The method of application of dry developer shall provide a uniform dusting over the entire
surface being examined. No runs, excessive buildup in thread recesses, or overlapping is
permitted in the developer coat. The developing time shall be a minimum of seven minutes
and not longer than thirty minutes.
Examination
The examination shall be performed in a darkened area. Black light warm up period shall
be a minimum of five minutes. Initial examination shall be made immediately after
developer application in order to detect gross imperfections and contamination on the
surface. Final examination shall be made after a developing time of seven to thirty
minutes.
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Indication Definitions
• A linear indication is one whose length is at least three times its width.
• A relevant indication is one caused by a mechanical discontinuity in the surface of

the test piece.
• A non-relevant indication is one caused by something other than a surface

discontinuity.
• All non-relevant indications longer than 1/16 inch shall require re-inspection or
rejection of the test piece.
4.11.5 Evaluation of Imperfections
Any relevant indication in a threaded area is rejectable.
Any linear indication exceeding 1/8" in length on its major axis is rejectable unless it is
proven-up by probing, and is within either API or the manufacturer's acceptable limits.
The criteria for rejection of material with relevant indications which are probed shall be
those listed in the Section 5 of API RP 5A5 and Sections 8 and 9 of API Specification 5CT.
4.11.7 Post Inspection Requirements
All visible penetrant and developer shall be removed with a water spray.
All visible water shall be removed after final rinse.
Markup all rejectable indications with type, location, severity, operator name, job number
and company name.
Record all reject data and verify the count of all material.
If the material is threaded tubular goods, redope the threads and apply clean thread
protectors wrench tight.
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4.12 BUTTWELD RADIOGRAPHY (RAD)
4.12.1 Scope
This procedure establishes the requirements for performing radiographic examination of

weldments. It also covers the qualifications of individuals who will produce, interpret, or
record radiographs, and gives standards of weld acceptability for weld on connectors.
Records of welding procedures, procedure qualifications, and operator qualifications shall

be available for review by the Chevron representative.
4.12.2 Personnel
Personnel performing the examination, interpretation, and recording results shall be

certified to a minimum Level II in accordance with ASNT-TC-1A, Supplement A
Radiographic Testing.
Radiography shall be performed after post weld heat treatment when applicable. In general
radiography may be performed in the as welded condition. However, if surface conditions
such as ripples or other irregularities interfere with the radiographic image, they shall be
removed by a suitable mechanical process to such a degree that the radiographic contrast
due to irregularities cannot mask or be confused with the images of discontinuities.
The weld surface shall merge smoothly into the base material. Butt joints shall have
complete joint penetration and complete fusion and shall be free from undercuts, overlaps,
or abrupt ridges or valleys. To assure that the weld grooves are completely filled, weld
metal may be built up as reinforcement on each face of the weld. The weld reinforcement
on each face shall not be raised more than 1/16" above the parent metal.
4.12.4 Equipment
The following equipment is approved for use under this procedure.
Radiation Sources — A source of penetrating radiation suitable to provide the required

radiographic film density and quality level of this specification.
• Iridium 192 (100 Curie Max.)

• Cobalt 60 (100 Curie Max.)
• X-ray (150 to 400 KV)
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Film holders, filters, jigs, lead letters, penetrameters, screens, and any other miscellaneous
equipment necessary to produce a quality radiograph.
4.12.5 Film
Class I film shall be used when examining weld thicknesses up to and including one inch.
For weld thicknesses over one inch a Class II film may be used.
The brand name, company type and ASTM type shall be recorded on the radiographic
technique sheet (Example, Kodak, M. Class I). Expired radiographic film or prefogged film
is not acceptable for use.
The base density of unexposed film shall not exceed 0.30 by the H&D measuring method.
An unexposed film shall be processed if difficulty is experienced in obtaining the required
sensitivity.
All unexposed films shall be stored in a clean, dry place where the surrounding conditions
will not detrimentally affect the emulsion. If there is any question regarding the condition of
the unexposed film, sheets from the front and back of each package and/or a length of film
equal to the circumference of each original roll shall be processed without exposure to light
or radiation. If this processed film shows fog, the entire box or roll shall be discarded,
unless additional test films prove that the remaining film in the box or roll is free from pre-
exposure fog exceeding 0.30 H and D* transmitted density for transparent-based film or
0.05 H & D reflected density for opaque-based film.
* Hunter-Driffield method of defining quantitative blackening of the film.
4.12.6 Intensifying Screens
Lead screens shall be used to give improved radiographic quality. The screens shall be
free of dirt, wrinkles, scratches, cracks and oxidation. Screen thickness shall be required to
develop the required sensitivity of 2% or better. A minimum screen thickness of .010" in
front and .010" in back shall be required when isotope sources are used. Fluorescent
intensifying screens are prohibited.
4.12.7 Penetrameters
Penetrameters shall be used to demonstrate that the requirements of this specification

have been satisfied. The radiographic quality shall be evaluated by the image thickness
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(2% of the specimen thickness) and 2T essential hole or equivalent thereof. (See Table
4.9)
Penetrameters used shall meet the requirements of ASME Sec V SE-142 (latest edition).
Penetrameters shall be made of material which is radiographically similar to the material
being welded.
Radiographic sensitivity shall be according to Table 4.9.
The maximum thickness penetrameter to be used based on pipe wall or weld thickness
and its identifying number are shown in Table 4.9. If the penetrameter used is based on
weld thickness, shims shall be placed under the penetrameter. If the penetrameter used is
based on the pipe wall thickness, shims need not be used. At the option of the
radiographic contractor, penetrameters thinner than those specified above may be used
providing the required radiographic sensitivity is obtained. The images of the penetrameter
outline, identifying numbers and essential hole shall appear clearly on the radiographs.
Backing rings or strips are not to be considered as part of the weld reinforcement thickness
in penetrameter selection.
TABLE 4.9
IQI SELECTION
Penetrameter
Source Side Film Side
Nominal
Single-Wall
Material
Thickness Hole Type Essential Wire Hole Type Essential Wire
Range, in. Designation Hole Diameter, in. Designation Hole Diameter, in
Up to 0.25,
12 2T 0.008 10 2T 0.006
incl.
Over 0.25
15 2T 0.010 12 2T 0.008
through 0.375
Over 0.375
17 2T 0.013 15 2T 0.010
through 0.50
Over 0.50
20 2T 0.016 17 2T 0.013
through 0.75
Over 0.75
25 2T 0.020 20 2T 0.016
through 1.00
Over 1.00
30 2T 0.025 25 2T 0.020
through 1.50
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A shim of material radiographically similar to the weld metal shall be placed under the
penetrameter if the weld reinforcement and/or backing strip is/are not removed. The shim
thickness shall be selected so that the total thickness being radiographed under the
penetrameter is at least the same as the total weld thickness, including any reinforcement
plus backing strip (if not removed) and other thickness variations such as nozzle
geometries. When thicker shims than required are used, the plus 30% density restriction
may be exceeded, provided the required penetrameter sensitivity is displayed and the
density limitations are not exceeded.
Shim size shall exceed the penetrameter size by at least 1/8 inch on three sides.
Source side penetrameters shall be placed adjacent to the weld seam except in instances
where weld metal is not radiographically similar to the base material, or the geometric
configuration makes it impractical, in which case the penetrameter shall be placed on the
weld metal. Where inaccessibility prevents placing the penetrameter on the source side,
the penetrameter shall be placed on the film side of the part, and a lead letter “F” at least
as high as the identification number shall be placed adjacent to or on the penetrameter.
Maintain approximately 1/8" spacing between weld cap and penetrameter or shim.
At least one penetrameter shall be used for each radiograph. Each penetrameter shall
represent an area of essentially uniform radiographic density. If the density of the
radiograph anywhere through the area of interest varies by more than minus 15% or plus
30% from the density through the body of the penetrameter, then an additional
penetrameter shall be used for each exceptional area or areas and the radiograph retaken.
When calculating the allowable variation in density, the calculation may be rounded to the
nearest 0.1 within the range specified.
If the requirements are met by using more than one penetrameter, one shall be
representative of the lightest area of interest and the other the darkest area of interest.
Where one or more exposure holder/cassette is used for an exposure, at least one
penetrameter image shall appear on each radiograph except where the source is placed on
the axis of the object and a complete circumference or portion of the circumference
radiographed with a single exposure, in which case, at least three penetrameters shall be
spaced approximately 120° apart. When the source is placed on the axis of the
circumference and a portion of the circumference (four or more film locations) is
radiographed during a single exposure, additional film locations may be required around
the circumference to establish 120° penetrameter spacing, otherwise at least one
penetrameter image shall appear on each radiograph.
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Viewing Equipment and Facilities —Viewing facilities shall provide subdued background
lighting that will not cause troublesome reflections, shadows, or glare on the radiograph.
Equipment used to view radiographs shall provide light source sufficient for the essential
penetrameter hole to be visible. Viewing conditions shall be such that light from around the
outer edge of the radiograph or coming through low-density portions of the radiograph does
not interfere with the interpretation.
4.12.8 Film Processing
Radiographs shall be processed and stored so that they are interpretable for at least three
years after they are produced.
4.12.9 Film Identification
All radiographs shall be clearly identified by number, letters, and/or markers so that the part
can be quickly and accurately located. As a minimum, each film shall have the following
information:
• Job Number.
• Serial Number.
• Part Number.
• Manufacture ID symbol or name.
• Date.
• Location numbers, weld or weld seam.
• All repairs shall be identified with the letter “R” and weld number.
• Radiographic examining company identification or name.
All welds shall be identified with a permanent marker to provide traceability to the
radiographic film.
Location markers are to appear on each radiographic film. They shall be placed on the part
(not on the exposure holder/cassettes) and their locations shall be marked on the surface
of the part being radiographed. Alternatively, the part may be mapped in a manner
permitting the area of interest on the radiograph to be accurately located.
A number belt may be used to identify the entire area of a weld. It is also used to determine
if complete weld coverage has been obtained during the examination. Listed below is the
number spacing recommended for differential diameter material:
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TABLE 4.10
Material Diameter Number Spacing

3.5” OD to 12.750" OD 1 inch
over 12.750" to 20.0" OD 4 inch
over 20.0" OD 8 inch
Back Scatter Radiation — To check for back scatter, a lead symbol “B” with a minimum
dimension of 1/2 inch in height and 1/16 inch in thickness shall be attached to the back of
each film holder.
Excessive scatter shall be considered unacceptable if the image of the letter “B” appears
on the radiograph against a darker background. A dark letter “B” image on a light
background shall not be cause for rejection.
4.12.10 Quality of Radiographs
All radiographs shall be free from mechanical, chemical, or other blemishes that may mask
or be confused with the image of any discontinuity. Such blemishes include, but are not
limited to:
• Fogging
• Processing defects such as streaks, water marks, or chemical stains.
• Scratches, finger marks, crimps, dirtiness, static marks, smudges or tears.
• Loss of detail due to poor screen-to-film contact.
• False indications due to defective screens or internal faults.
4.12.11 Radiographic Film Density
Film shall be exposed so that the Hunter-Driffield density through the weld metal and the
penetrameter shall be a minimum of 1.8 for x-ray sources and 2.0 for gamma sources.
Maximum density using either source shall be 3.5. For composite viewing of multiple film
exposures, each film of the set shall have a minimum density of 1.3. A density tolerance of
0.05 is allowed for variations between densitometer readings.
If the density of the radiograph anywhere in the weld area varies by more than minus 15%
or plus 30% from the density through the body of the penetrameter, then an additional
penetrameter shall be used for each exceptional area or areas and the radiograph retaken.
11/95 IV-66
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Determination of film density shall be with a densitometer or film density strip traceable to
the National Bureau of Standards (NBS).
4.12.12 Geometrical Unsharpness
Geometric unsharpness of radiographs performed by this specification shall not exceed the
following:
TABLE 4.11
Material Ug (Geometric Unsharpness)

Thickness In. Maximum In.
Under 2 0.020
2 through 3 0.030
3 through 4 0.040
4 and up 0.070
Ug = Fd/D
Where:
Ug= geometrical unshapeness

F= Source, size, (inches): the maximum projected dimension of the radiating source
in the plane perpendicular to the distance D from the weld or object being
radiographed.*
D= distance (inches): from source of radiation to weld or object being radiographed.
d= distance (inches): from the source side of weld or object being radiographed to
the film.
* The equipment manufacturer’s certification (decay curve) of the dimensions of the

source is sufficient objective evidence of source size certification. A copy of the
certification will be maintained. A physical source size of .125” x .125” has a
maximum effective dimension of .177”. The effective dimension utilized depends
on the source position (front or side) with either position being acceptable.
4.12.13 Technique and Coverage
Radiography performed using this specification shall be the Single Wall Exposure
Technique, wherever possible. Single wall viewing for welds in pipe and tubes with a
nominal outside diameter greater than 3 1/2" shall have an adequate number of exposures
to ensure 100% coverage.
For welds in pipe or tubes with a nominal outside diameter less than 3 1/2", or where
access to the ID is not possible, double wall technique/single wall viewing may be used
provided the source is offset from the plane of the weld centerline. As a minimum, three
exposures 120° apart shall be required, and film side penetrameters shall be used.
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The complete volume of the weld and pipe shall be examined from either side of the weld
cap, for a distance “t” (one pipe wall thickness) or 0.5 inches, whichever is larger.
4.12.14 Documentation
The interpretation and evaluation of each film shall be recorded on a radiography report.
These reports shall be completed and signed by the radiographer. The reports shall be filed
and maintained with the film in a traceable manner for future reference and shall contain
the following information:
• Material thickness.
• Identification of procedure.
• Job Number.
• Weld Number(s).
• Manufacturer’s ID symbol or name.
• Date, technician’s signature and level of qualification.
• Status of weld and, if rejected, reason for rejection.
The radiography examination results shall be recorded on the Attachment Radiography

Examination Report. At the beginning of the project, these numbers shall run consecutively
from the total amount of welds. At the end of the last weld number for that job number, the
words “End of Report” shall be written directly under the final weld number. If the project
number is changed, number(s) shall start over again. If any portion of the report is not
applicable, a “N/A” should be placed in the blank(s). A copy of the examination report
should also be placed in each film envelope.
Radiographic examinations shall be performed in accordance with this specification and

acceptance standards. A radiographic shooting sketch and technique report, which details
the requirements listed below shall be available for the interpretation of the film and shall
be maintained by the Quality Control Department of the Manufacturer.
• Radiation Source — (Type of radiation source, effective source or focal spot size
and voltage rating of x-ray equipment.)
• Intensifying Screens — (Type and placement of these screens and their

thickness, if lead is used.)
• Film — Film band and/or type. Number of films in holder or cassette. For multiple
film techniques specify how film is to be viewed.)
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• Exposure Geometry — (Whether single wall exposure for single wall viewing,
double wall exposure for single wall viewing, or double wall exposure for double
wall viewing. Source or focal spot to film distance. Relative positions of film, weld,
source, penetrameter(s) and interval or reference markers. The number of
exposures required for radiography of a complete weld.)
• Exposure Conditions — (Milliampere or curie minutes, X-ray voltage and

amperage, exposure time.)
• Processing — (Automatic or manual. Time and temperature for development and

time for stop bath or rinse, fixation and washing. Drying details.)
• Materials — (Type and thickness range of material for which the procedure is
suitable.)
• Penetrameters — (Type, material, identifying number and essential hole. Shim

material and thickness.)
4.12.15 Radiation Protection
The radiographer shall be responsible for the protection and personnel monitoring of every
person working with or near radiation sources. This protection and monitoring shall comply
with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
All defects or discontinuities revealed by the examination shall be interpreted to the

requirement of ASME-VIII-UW-52, with the exception that rounded indications shall be
evaluated per ASME-VIII-UW51 Appendix 4 (latest edition). A copy of the code acceptance
criteria shall be located at the site. The acceptance criteria, reference, name, year and
addenda shall be recorded on the examination report. If the item does not meet the
requirements as specified, it shall be recorded as unacceptable on the Radiography
Report.
4.12.17 Repair or Removal of Defects
Authorization for Repairs of Defects Except Cracks — Defects, except cracks, in the
root and filler beads may be repaired with prior Chevron Authorization. Defects, except
cracks, in the cover pass may be repaired without prior customer authorization. When
repairs are made in a previously repaired area, a procedure similar to that for the repair of
cracks shall be used (See Paragraph Below).
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Removal and Preparation for Repairs of Defects — Before repairs are made, injurious
defects shall be entirely removed to sound metal. All slag and scale shall be removed.
Preheating may be required.
Testing of Repairs — Repaired areas shall be re-radiographed, or inspected by the same

means previously used. Chevron may, if it chooses, re-inspect all of a weld containing a
repair.
Authorization and Procedure for Repair of Cracks — Chevron may allow repair of
cracked welds; however, weld cracks shall be completely removed prior to weld repair.
Repair of cracked welds may be authorized provided:
• The crack is less than 8 percent of the weld length.
• A complete repair procedure has been developed and documented. The repair
procedure shall include:
-Method of exploration of the crack area.

-Method of crack removal.
-The repair groove is examined by a magnetic particle or dye penetrant
-test to assure complete removal of the crack.
-Preheat and interpass heat requirements.
-Welding procedure and type of electrodes.
-Interpass and Final Nondestructive Inspection Requirements.
-Postheat treatment.
• The repair is made under the supervision of a technician experienced in repair

welding techniques.
• The weld is made by a qualified welder.
4.13 ULTRASONIC BUTTWELD INSPECTION (UBW)
4.13.1 Scope
This procedure covers the ultrasonic inspection of circumferential welds in pipe and
includes the requirements for personnel certification and acceptance criteria. Ultrasonic
Buttweld Inspection should be used to supplement Section 12, RAD when welding
processes are used which result in fusion-type defects.
4.13.2 Equipment
Ultrasonic Instruments
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• The ultrasonic instruments used shall be of the pulse-echo type with an A-scan
presentation. Instrumentation shall be capable of examination in frequencies from
1 to 5 Mhz.
• The instrument linearity shall be within ±5% for the entire screen in both the
horizontal and vertical planes. Proof of instrument calibration shall be produced
upon request. Instruments shall be calibrated at least once every six months.
• The instrument shall contain a calibrated gain control accurate over its useful range
by ±10%.
Transducers
• Straight Beam — Straight beam transducers used to scan the parent metal shall
be 3/4" to 1 1/8" in diameter with a frequency range of 1 to 5 Mhz.
• Angle Beam Transducer — Angle beam transducers shall be 1/2 inch maximum
diameter or 1/2 inch x 1/2 inch maximum and shall have a frequency between 1
and 5 Mhz. Sound entry angle into the steel shall be between 45° and 70°. Lucite
wedges shall be contoured where necessary to prevent rocking.
Couplants — Couplants shall have good wetting characteristics and shall dry without
leaving an oily residue. The couplant shall not be harmful to the pipe, environment or
personnel. The same couplant shall be used for both calibration and inspection.
Calibration Standards
• The basic calibration standard for weldments shall be a section of pipe of the same
nominal size, weight or schedule, grade or nominal heat treatment, and acoustic
properties as the material to be inspected. Ideally, the surface finish of the
calibration standard shall be similar to the surface finish of the pipe to be
inspected.
• A 1/8" diameter hole shall be drilled through the wall of the standard to provide a
reflector for sensitivity calibration.
• The distance from the hole to one end of the calibration standard shall be at least
12 times the thickness of the standard (12t). At least 2 inches shall separate the
hole from the other end of the standard.
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4.13.3 Personnel Requirements
Personnel performing the examinations shall be certified to a minimum of Level II per

Recommended Practice ASNT TC-1A. Supplement C - Ultrasonic Testing.
The base metal on either side of the weld shall be free of weld splatter, surface
irregularities, or foreign matter that might interfere with the examination. The base metal
shall be cleaned over the entire area to be scanned.
4.13.5 Examination Procedure
Examine the entire volume of the weld seam and adjacent heat affected zone for the entire
circumference of the pipe. Examine the weld from both sides of the seam when possible.
Examine the weld subsequent to post weld heat treatment.
Straight Beam Examination — Straight beam examination of the parent metal adjacent to
the weld shall be performed prior to angle beam inspection of the weld. Straight beam
examination is performed to detect reflectors that might affect interpretation of angle beam
examination results and is not to be used as an acceptance criteria.
• Calibration — Calibration shall be performed by placing the transducer on a step

wedge and calibrating the unit to read the thickness under the transducer. After
establishing thickness calibration, place the transducer on the OD of the material to
be inspected and verify that the material thickness is correct. Adjust the instrument
to display at least two multiples. Adjust the gain control so that the first back
reflection is at 75% of full screen height. Note the gain setting as the primary
reference level. Increase the gain by 6 db for scanning purposes.
• Examination — Scan the entire volume of the parent metal through which the
angle beam must pass on both sides of the weld seam. To assure 100% coverage
transducer passes must overlap by 15%.
Angle Beam Examination
• Distance Calibration — Calibrate the instrument for distance by scanning the

appropriate radius of an IIW, DSC or similar block made from material with the
same acoustic velocity as the material to be tested. Maximize the signal from the
radius and adjust the signal to the proper position on the CRT.
Assure that the CRT screen is calibrated for the proper range to encompass the
entire sound travel distance of the material to be inspected. The sound path may
be determined by the following formula:
11/95 IV-72
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(t sin )× 2
Where: t = thickness
θ = inspection angle
• Beam Index — Establish the beam index point of the transducer wedge using the
appropriate block. Mark the index point on the wedge for use in plotting defect
locations.
• Verification of Refracted Angle — Verify the refracted angle on an IIW or DSC

block. The refracted angle must be within ±2% of the specified angle for a specific
transducer.
• Sensitivity — Establish the sensitivity by maximizing the signal from the 1/8" hole
at the first 1/2 skip position in the calibration standard. Adjust the gain control so
that the response is set at 80% of full screen height. Mark the position of the signal
peak on the CRT screen and note the gain setting. This gain is the reference gain
for the inspection. Without adjusting the gain, repeat the procedure for the full skip
and 1-1/2 skip positions. Draw a straight line between the marks to establish a
DAC curve. The DAC curve shall be utilized in evaluation of flaw indications.
• Transfer Loss Correction — Verify the difference in transfer of sonic energy into
the calibration standard and into the material to be tested, using the following
procedure: Connect two angle beam transducers to the ultrasonic instrument and
place transducers on the calibration standard facing each other. Maximize the
response from the transmitting transducer by manipulating the receiving
transducer. Adjust the response to 50% full screen height and note the gain
setting. Without changing the gain, place transducers on the part to be tested
(keeping the same transducer spacing) and repeat the procedure. Adjust the signal
to 50% screen with the gain control. Note the gain setting. Adjust the primary
reference level during examination and evaluation of discontinuities to correct for
transfer differences. Evaluate transfer loss correction of the material to be tested in
several places around the weld circumference and use the average.
• Scan the weld from both sides — Manipulate the transducer to scan for both
longitudinal and transverse flaws. Scan 100% of the volume of the weld for 100%
of the circumference where possible.
• Scan the welds at a minimum of 6 db above the reference gain level unless
limited by excessive noise. All discontinuities shall be evaluated at the reference
level after correction for transfer.
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All imperfections that produce an amplitude greater than 20% of the reference (DAC) level
shall be investigated to the extent that the operator can determine the shape identity and
location of all such imperfections and evaluate them in accordance to the following
acceptance standards.
Imperfections that are interpreted to be cracks, lack of fusion, or incomplete penetration

are unacceptable.
All other linear type imperfections are unacceptable if the amplitude exceeds the reference
level and the length exceeds:
• 1/4 inch for T up to 3/4 inch.
• 1/3 T for T from 3/4 inch to 2 1/4 inches. Where “T” is the thickness of the weld
metal being examined.
Porosity — Spherical and wormhole porosity shall not exceed 1/8" or 25% of wall
thickness whichever is less. Cluster porosity shall not exceed 1/2" sq. in. in area. Due to
the scattering effect of the sound beam of this type defect, amplitude may not exceed the
DAC curve, however, the weld may be rejected if the indication is determined to be caused
by porosity and it exceeds the dimensions given.
Accumulation of Discontinuities — Any accumulation of discontinuities having a sum

total length of more than 1" in a continuous weld length of 12" or more than 8% of the total
weld length is unacceptable.
Large Indications — Any discontinuity indication giving a response >6 db over the DAC
level shall be rejected regardless of length.
Rights of Rejection — Since nondestructive test methods give limited indications,

Chevron may reject any weld which appears to meet these standards to acceptability if, in
its opinion, the discontinuity may be detrimental to the serviceability of the weld.
4.13.7 Recalibration
Recalibration shall be necessary if any of the following conditions are met:
• A change in transducers, cable, couplant, or operator.

• A change in instrument settings other than an increase in gain above reference.
• Power supply is interrupted.
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• After 30 minutes of continuous testing.

• Each time instrument is turned on.
• At the conclusion of inspection. *
* If, at the conclusion of testing, final calibration indicates low signal amplitude, all welds tested
since the last calibration shall be retested.
4.13.8 Reporting
A report shall be generated and shall include:
• Inspector’s signature and date of examination

• Procedures and equipment identification
• Calibration data
• All rejectable discontinuities
• A sketch showing the physical outline of the specimen with dimensions.
• The customer order number, part serial number, weld number.
• Obstructions which make ultrasonic inspection not applicable should be noted.
• Vendor work order number
• Size, weight, grade, end finish, manufacturer, type weld, etc.
• Location of discontinuities along the weld length, width, and depth from the
inspection surface.
4.13.9 Marking
Welds on pipe inspected to this procedure shall be marked as follows:
Accepted — The symbols U.T., OK, the inspector’s initials, and date shall be painted
adjacent to the weld 180° apart on the O.D.
Rejected — The location of the defect shall be marked with red paint on the weld and
adjacent base metal. In addition, mark the defect depth and db above reference on the
pipe surface near the defect with a paint marker.
4.13.10 Repairs
Repaired welds shall be inspected to the same procedure as the original weld using the
same acceptance criteria.
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SECTION V GUIDE TO CHEVRON OCTG SPECIFICATIONS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
5.1. Introduction ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. V-1
5.2. API 5CT ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. V-1
5.3. SR1A - Chevron Supplementary Requirements To API 5CT Grades ........................... V-1
5.4. MCQA.01 - Supplementary Requirements for Electric Welded API 5CT
Grades P-110 And Q-125................................ ................................ ................................ .... V-2
5.5. MCQA.02 - Supplementary Requirements for API 5CT Grades C-90 and T-95 ............ V-2
5.6. MCQA.03 - Chevron Pup Joint Requirements ................................ .............................. V-2
5.7. MCQA.06 - Chevron OCTG Specification for Corrosion Resistant Nickel Based Alloys V-2
5.8. MCQA.13 - Supplementary Requirements for API 5CT Grade L-80 13 Chrome ........... V-2
5.9. MCQA.23 - Requirements For Proprietary C-110 SS Casing Intended For
Slightly Sour Service ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... V-3
5.10. Modified 13 Chrome Alloys ................................ ................................ ......................... V-3
5.11. Additions and Changes to Chevron OCTG Specifications................................ ........... V-3
Table 5.1 Application Of Chevron OCTG Requirements For API Grades............................. V-4
Table 5.2 Application Of Chevron OCTG Requirements For Non-API Grades
And Pup Joints................................ ................................ ................................ .............. V-6
V-i 12/96
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(this page blank)
12/96 V-ii
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SECTION V GUIDE TO CHEVRON OCTG SPECIFICATIONS
5.1 INTRODUCTION
A number of specifications exist regarding the manufacture and purchase of Oil Country Tubular
Goods (OCTG) for Chevron. These documents have been developed in order to define and
communicate Chevron requirements to manufacturers and suppliers of downhole tubing and casing.
This Section provides a brief discussion of industry and Chevron specifications and guidance
concerning their use.
Many Chevron specifications are a result of a specific project or Business Unit need for new materials
and/or quality assurance requirements due to special downhole environments, the availability of new
products or manufacturing methods, or new uses for standard OCTG products. Over the years, such
specifications have been generalized so that they may be useful to other Chevron locations with
similar needs.
The purpose of this Guide is to present a general overview reflecting the current Chevron
specifications and best practices regarding purchase of OCTG products. Table 5.1 is intended to
provide a quick reference regarding use of Chevron specifications and contains comments dealing
with downhole environment, availability, and use of common OCTG grades.
Some OCTG products or operating conditions may be beyond the scope of this Guide. Questions
regarding this document and OCTG inspection and materials issues may be directed toward CRTC
Quality Assurance or Metallurgy and Engineering Teams.
5.2 API 5CT
The major industry specification for the manufacture of downhole casing and tubing is API
Specification 5CT. This document defines the minimum requirements for manufacture of API grades
of OCTG and addresses pup joints, connectors, couplings, and thread protection. Also, 5CT is often
used for minimum requirements of proprietary, non-API grades. All OCTG purchased by Chevron
should meet the requirements of API 5CT unless approved by CRTC.
5.3 CHEVRON SUPPLEMENTARY REQUIREMENTS TO API 5CT GRADES - SR1A
While most technical requirements are addressed adequately in 5CT, Chevron has found that certain
issues need to be clarified and some additions made to 5CT in order to assure proper and consistent
properties and quality when purchasing tubulars. These supplementary requirements to API 5CT are
contained in the Chevron specification SR-1A.
In addition to API 5CT, SR-1A should be required on all purchases of API 5CT and proprietary grades
of OCTG. Some of the items addressed by SR-1A include:
• Clarification of Chevron’s option to perform third party inspection

• Clarification of ultrasonic, electromagnetic, and end area inspection reject criteria
• Clarification and addition of pitch diameter and ovality measurement of API threads
• SR-1A also includes Chevron requirements regarding weld-on connectors (previously SR-2A)
V-1 12/96
VOLUME FIVE
Also, as indicated in Table 5.1, J-55 and K-55 tubulars should be purchased with full body heat treat
after upset and N-80 grade material should always receive quench and temper.
5.4 MCQA.01 - Supplementary Requirements For Electric Welded API 5CT Grades P-110 and Q-125
API grades P-110 or Q-125 or proprietary equivalents manufactured by the electric weld process (EW)
should be purchased to the requirements of MCQA.01. This document specifies additional mechanical
property requirements intended to assure consistent material properties through the weld.
This specification was written as a result of Chevron concerns regarding the ductility and fracture
toughness of the EW seam. Lone Star Steel (LSS) was involved in its development. Although LSS is
currently the major manufacturer for EW P-110 and Q-125, this specification may be applied to these
products manufactured by other mills. Consult CRTC if you have questions.
5.5 MCQA.02 - Supplementary Requirements for API 5CT Grades C-90 and T-95
API grades C-90 Type 1and T-95 Type 1 are intended for use in sour service environments. Additional
materials and testing requirements are needed to assure a level of resistance to sulfide stress
cracking. MCQA.02 specifies these requirements and should be required when ordering C-90 and T-
95 grades for sour service applications. See Table 5.1 for more information regarding recommended
use of these grades.
5.6 MCQA.03 - Chevron Pup Joint Requirements
MCQA.03 defines manufacturing and quality assurance requirements for API grades of pup joints. It
has been utilized by both COPI and CPDN business units and was developed closely with a pup joint
manufacturer in Houston.
5.7 MCQA.06 - Chevron OCTG Specification for Corrosion Resistant Nickel Based Alloys
Nickel based corrosion resistant alloys including but not limited to G-50, G-3, SM2550, and C-276 may
be appropriate when high corrosion resistance and material strength are necessary due to extreme
downhole conditions. These are highly engineered alloys which require special attention regarding
manufacturing and testing issues. MCQA.06 has been used to purchase material manufactured by
Inco and Cabval mills for Gulf of Mexico wells. Possible sources for such alloys are listed in Table
5.2.
Because of the critical nature of this product, discussions of approved manufacturers, material
requirements, manufacturing procedures, and testing should be conducted with the involvement of the
CRTC Materials Engineer before purchase. Since production processes vary greatly from mill to mill,
MCQA.06 should be reviewed closely before each order.
5.8 MCQA.13 - Supplementary Requirements for API 5CT Grade L-80 13 Chrome
API grade L-80 13 Chrome tubing is commonly used by Chevron in corrosive environments as
specified in Table 5.1. MCQA.13 contains additional requirements and clarifications dealing with
12/96 V-2
VOLUME FIVE
manufacturing, testing, and handling of this grade which help assure 13 Chrome’s corrosion resistance.
5.9 MCQA.23 - Requirements For Proprietary C-110 SS Casing Intended For Slightly Sour Service
Proprietary OCTG grades often referred to as C-110 SS have been developed to provide P-110
mechanical properties with more resistance to corrosion than standard API P-110 grades. These
grades may be approved for use in slightly sour service (0.05 to 1.0 psia partial pressure H2S). The
specification MCQA.23 indicates manufacturer and product data necessary to determine the approval
of such grades and specific testing requirements.
5.10 Modified 13 Chrome Alloys
Recently, mills have produced modified versions of the API L-80 13 Chrome grade which have higher
minimum yield strengths ranging from 95 ksi to 110 ksi, yet still resist CO2 corrosion cracking. These
proprietary grades may be appropriate alternatives to conventional 13 Chrome when a longer projected
design life is desired for tubing or liner applications.
The exact composition and manufacturing processes vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and
CRTC should be consulted as to the status of approval for individual grades from each mill. Modified
13 Chrome alloys should not be used in sour service at any H2S level. These grades are not approved
by NACE MR-0175. However, as of this writing, Chevron has started to approve these grades for very
low H2S partial pressures of 0.15 psi for an individual project. Approval requires a test program
tailored to the individual well conditions.
No Chevron specification currently exist for these proprietary grades, however, material should be
ordered to the requirements of MCQA.13 and API 5CT Group 2 L-80 13 Chrome with exceptions
meeting the manufacturer’s specification (chemistry, min. yield, hardness… etc)
5.11 Additions and Changes to Chevron OCTG Specifications
The specifications discussed in this document are current as of December of 1996. As new OCTG
products are evaluated and technical requirements change, current specifications will be updated and
new ones created. Contact the CRTC Materials or the Quality Assurance Team to get the latest
specification revisions or if you have any questions regarding acceptability for service or quality issues.
V-3 12/96
TABLE 5.1
APPLICATION OF CHEVRON OCTG REQUIREMENTS FOR API GRADES
MFG. SOUR SERVICE CHEVRON SPEC.

PROCESS MAX. NACE MR-0175 (In addition to API) COMMENTS
GRADE GROUP TYPE (1) HARDNESS (1)(2) (3) (4)
H-40 1 - S or EW N/A OK For All Partial SR-1A Full body heat treatment (N, N & T or Q & T) after
Pressures of H2S upsetting is required to restore corrosion resistance.
& At All Temps.
J-55 1 - S or EW N/A OK For All Partial SR-1A Full body heat treatment (N, N & T or Q & T) after
& At All Temps.
K-55 1 - S or EW N/A OK For All Partial SR-1A Full body heat treatment (N, N & T or Q & T) after
& At All Temps
N-80 1 - S or EW N/A OK For All Partial SR-1A Q & T Only.
Pressures of H2S Full body heat treatment (Q & T) after upsetting is
& Temps > 150 °F required to restore corrosion resistance.
L-80 2 1 S or EW 23 OK For All Partial SR-1A
Pressures of H2S
& At All Temps
L-80 2 9Cr S 23 Not Acceptable SR-1A Not a common tubing alloy.
L-80 2 13Cr S 23 OK For < ½ psi SR-1A, MCQA.13

H2S & At All
Temps.
C-90 2 1 S 25.4 OK For All Partial SR-1A, MCQA.02
Pressures of H2S
& At All Temps
C-90 2 2 S 25.4 See Comments SR-1A, MCQA.02 This grade should be avoided as it is doubtful a
certifying authority would endorse for sour service.
C-95 2 - S or EW N/A OK For All Partial SR-1A Do not confuse with T-95
Pressures of H2S
& Temps > 150 °F
Continued on next page
12/96 V-4
MFG. SOUR SERVICE CHEVRON SPEC.
PROCESS MAX. NACE MR-0175 (In addition to API) COMMENTS
GRADE GROUP TYPE (1) HARDNESS (1)(2) (3) (4)
T-95 2 1 S 25.4 OK For All Partial SR-1A, MCQA.02
Pressures of H2S
& At All Temps.
T-95 2 2 S 25.4 See Comments SR-1A, MCQA.02 This grade should be avoided as it is doubtful a
certifying authority would endorse for sour service.
P-110 3 - S or EW N/A > 175 °F SR-1A, MCQA.01 EW P-110 requires special inspection according to
(EW only) API SPEC 5CT SR11.
Q-125 4 1 S or EW N/A > 225 °F SR-1A, MCQA.01 Cr-Mo chemistry
(EW only) EW Q-125 requires special inspection according to
API SPEC 5CT SR11.
Q-125 4 2 S or EW N/A No SR-1A, MCQA.01 Case-by-case approval may be obtained providing
(EW only) material is Cr-Mo chemistry.
EW Q-125 requires special inspection according to
API SPEC 5CT SR11.
API SPEC 5CT SR11.
API SPEC 5CT SR11.
1
EW pipe made for sour service will need shape control and/or low S & Ph
in order to pass NACE TM-0177 qualification test. Chevron sets no
standards. It is the manufacturer’s responsibility to set the proper
chemistry to pass these sulfide stress cracking test. Seamless = S and
Electric Welded = EW
2
The tendency for sulfide stress cracking (SSC) decreases with increasing
temperature. For each API grade that is not generally intended for sour
service, there is a minimum threshold temperature.
3
API SPEC 5CT
4
N = Normalized, N & T = Normalized and Tempered, and Q & T =
Quenched & Tempered.
V-5 12/96
TABLE 5.2
APPLICATION OF CHEVRON OCTG REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-API
GRADES AND PUP JOINTS
CHEVRON SPEC.
GENERAL SOUR SERVICE (In addition to API)
DESIGNATION SUPPLIER DESIGNATIONS (1) NACE MR-0175 (2) COMMENTS
C-110 SS Mannesmann - MW-110 SS ≤ 1 psi H2S SR-1A, MCQA.23 Consult with CRTC regarding H2S limitations
(Slightly Sour Service) Vallourec - C-110 VHS @ ambient temp
Sumitomo - SM-C110
Nippon - NT-110 SS
Kawasaki - KO-110 S
NKK - NK-AC 110 SS
TCA - 105 EHC
Nickel Based Alloy Inco - G-3, C-276 OK SR-1A, MCQA.06 Consult with CRTC regarding H2S limitations
Cabval - G-3, G-50, C-276
Sumitomo - SM-2550, SM-2050, SM-C276
Modified 13 Chrome Nippon - NT-CRS-95, NT-CRS-110 Not Approved SR-1A, MCQA.13, Consult with CRTC regarding use in H2S service
Alloy Kawasaki Steel - KO-HP13CR-110 See Comments Appropriate Mfr and acidizing issues
Sumitomo - SM13CRS-95, SM13CRS-110 Spec.
Pup Joints - Dependent on SR-1A, MCQA.03
Grade
1
Proprietary supplier designations are for information purposes only and
are not intended to indicate the supplier is approved.
2
API SPEC 5CT
12/96 V-6
VOLUME FIVE
SECTION VI MILL MONITORING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
6.1 Introduction ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ VI-1
6.2 Third Party Inspection ................................ ................................ ............................ VI-1
6.3 Mill Monitoring ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... VI-1
6.4 Mill Monitoring or Third Party Inspection? ................................ .............................. VI-1
6.5 Modified Mill Quality Plans ................................ ................................ ..................... VI-3
6.6 Monitor Responsibilities ................................ ................................ ......................... VI-3
6.7 Monitor Qualification ................................ ................................ .............................. VI-5
6.8 Conclusion ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. VI-5
VI-i 10/99
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10/99 VI-ii
VOLUME FIVE
SECTION VI MILL MONITORING
6.1 Introduction
The quality of oil country tubular goods (OCTG) continues to be an important issue for Chevron
Drilling and Production due to the potential high cost of installation problems or failure during
service. Emphasis is placed on confirmation of the quality and manufacture of the tubing and casing
used in Chevron oil and gas wells. Typically, when quality and adherence to product specification
are a concern, verification is performed utilizing third party (Chevron) inspection, mill monitoring
(surveillance), or a combination of both. The intent of this document is to provide a formal process
and recommendation for use of mill monitoring, as none exists at the time of this writing.
Tubing and casing should be purchased from previously approved mills, despite the level or method
of quality assurance. CRTC Quality Assurance should be consulted if there are any concerns
regarding approval of mills or OCTG grades.
6.2 Third Party Inspection
The Chevron OCTG Inspection Guidelines (Drilling Reference Series Volume 5) provides a
standard for Chevron third party inspection of new downhole tubing and casing. This inspection
process can be referred to as a receiving inspection or an inspection performed, often on a sample
basis, following all manufacturing processes and may include dimensional gauging of connections,
magnetic or ultrasonic inspection of the pipe body, and full length drifting. The major advantage of a
properly performed third party inspection is that it provides objective data regarding the quality
performance of the mill or manufacturer. Chevron has and continues to utilize third party inspection
to provide a level of quality assurance regarding the product inspected, and provide quality
performance data used to compare OCTG mills.
Third party inspection does require availability of qualified inspection equipment and inspection
personnel. Also, any additional material movement and schedule constraints should be considered.
6.3 Mill Monitoring
Another option utilized by Chevron Quality Assurance involves the presence of a Chevron
representative in the mill during manufacture of the tubing or casing being purchased. Qualified
personnel familiar with OCTG manufacture and the applicable specification requirements are present
during rolling, heat treat, manufacturer inspection, and shipment. The monitor’s responsibilities,
including witness points, documentation review, and reporting requirements, are clearly defined by
Chevron Quality Assurance when services are contracted. These responsibilities and scope of work
will change based on the mill’s recent performance, the criticality of the material and special
processes or testing requirements.
6.4 Mill monitoring or Third Party Inspection?
The decision to perform third party inspection, mill monitoring, or possibly both, should be based on
a combination of issues including, desired level of quality assurance, costs involved, mill schedule,
historic mill performance, and the availability of personnel or equipment. Such a decision may have
VI-1 10/99
VOLUME FIVE
to be made on a case by case basis by the responsible Drilling or Production Engineer and should
involve input from a Quality Assurance Engineer. The Chevron Purchasing representative or the
OCTG supplier may provide information regarding mill schedule and costs of material movement.
Mill monitoring is not a direct substitute for third party inspection since verification of the mill’s
activities will always be limited when compared to objective determination of the quality of the
product provided by performing third party inspection. Increased use of mill monitoring will result in
increased reliance on the mill approval process and unfamiliar or infrequently utilized mills may
require re-evaluation and process review.
Mill monitoring does provide a competitive advantage when schedule is limited and/or movement
and costs associated with third party inspection are prohibitive.
Issues that should be considered when addressing mill monitoring include:
§ Communication
§ Previous mill performance
§ Schedule
§ Offline inspection, mill inspection personnel, and procedures
6.4.1 Communication
It is important that the parties involved in the mill monitoring process maintain open
communication. Initially, the supplier should forward applicable industry and Chevron
specification and purchase order requirements to the mill for agreement before purchase.
Specifications may include API 5CT, Chevron’s SR1A, Chevron grade specific requirements
(MCQA specifications), or project specifications. The mill should use this information to develop
a quality plan that details manufacturing and testing activities and the associated requirements.
All exceptions to the specifications should be reviewed and approved by a CRTC specialist,
Chevron QA, or the Chevron Engineer. Specification requirements should be forwarded to
Chevron QA so that they can be included in the monitoring scope. Consult the Chevron OCTG
Inspection Guidelines or contact Chevron QA if they are any questions regarding applicable
specifications.
A successful monitoring process requires communication between the mill manufacturing the
pipe, the supplier, Chevron Quality Assurance, and the Chevron monitor. Since it is the
monitor’s responsibility to witness and report adherence to specifications and requirements only,
and the purchase order agreement is between the supplier and the mill, no formal instructions
can be given by the monitor to the mill without involvement by the supplier.
6.4.2 Previous Mill Performance
One of the most important questions to be answered is “Has this manufacturer consistently
provided a quality product such that monitoring of the manufacturing process by a Chevron
representative may be substituted for third party inspection?”
Chevron Quality Assurance currently maintains a database of previous year third party
inspection results, which is used to develop quality classifications of OCTG mills. The
classifications are then used to justify sample inspection programs, resulting in less inspection of
manufacturers who consistently produce fewer rejects. This program is known as PRIME
10/99 VI-2
VOLUME FIVE
(Performance Rating In Manufacturers Evaluation). Historic PRIME ratings should be

considered when evaluating monitoring effectiveness. Mills are given a tube body and thread
quality classification of I, II, or III (“I”being best).
See the attached decision flowchart for recommended use of the PRIME ratings for
determination of feasibility of mill monitoring.
6.4.3 Schedule
The mill or supplier must provide a schedule of operations related to the manufacture of the pipe
being purchased by Chevron. The schedule should be given to QA early enough to allow for a
Chevron representative to be contracted and arrive at the mill before operations to be witnessed
are performed.
Any changes in the mill schedule should be communicated to the monitor by the mill as soon as
possible. Excessive stand-by charges due to inaccurate schedule information may be borne by
the mill or supplier.
The mill should be able to identify Chevron material throughout the manufacturing process so
that the monitor can verify requirements and witness appropriate operations.
6.4.4 Offline Inspection, Mill Inspection Personnel and Procedures
Mill inspection, particularly full body unit inspection, may be performed “online” or “offline”.
Online inspection occurs as part of the production process and takes place at production speed.
When offline inspection is performed, the pipe is removed from the mill line for inspection and
evaluation. Typically, offline inspection allows for a more sensitive and thorough inspection and
is preferred. Also, offline inspection provides an ideal opportunity for monitoring inspection unit
performance and calibration activities.
Before production, the mill shall provide inspection procedures, description of inspection
equipment, and personnel training requirements for review by Chevron QA or the Chevron
representative. This information should include scan unit calibration and indication evaluation
(prove-up) procedures, which greatly influence the inspection performance and effectiveness.
6.5 Modified Mill Quality Plans
In order to provide a level of quality assurance more closely representative of third party inspection,
it may be necessary to negotiate a modified mill inspection plan before substituting monitoring for
third party inspection. Technical issues including sequence of end area inspection (following
threading is preferred) or demonstrated sensitivity of body inspection units (Chevron calibration
standards) need to be evaluated by Quality Assurance. Usually, a cooperative and capable mill can
comply with these requests with little economic impact.
6.6 Monitor Responsibilities
When a representative is contracted to monitor activities for Chevron, clearly defined responsibilities
and expectations greatly increase the effectiveness of the monitoring. Involvement in specific mill
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VOLUME FIVE
production and material testing activities should be described as well as reporting requirements and
pre-manufacture meeting attendance. Quality Assurance develops and implements such plans when
involved in purchase of any Chevron purchased items.
Frequency and format of monitor reports are also specified by Chevron QA. For small, critical
orders, daily reports may be necessary while large material orders may only require weekly reporting
with immediate advisement of problems only. Reports may be reviewed by QA for technical input
and comment before forwarding to the Chevron Engineer or Supplier Management representative.
The following table identifies common manufacturing and testing steps involved in general OCTG
production and may be used as a guide when developing the monitoring scope for specific orders:
Operation Items to address

Pre-inspection / manufacture meeting - schedule review
- specification review
- procedure and quality plan review
Steel melting and heat analysis - verification of chemistry
- frequency
Tube rolling - adherence to manufacturing specification
Heat treatment - tempering temperatures & time
- calibration records
Hot rotary straightening - verification of proper temperature
NDE (mill inspection) - operator certification
- unit calibration
- prove up/re-inspection
Magnetic particle inspection (end area) - operator certification
- field verification
- adequate coverage
Mill visual/dimensional inspection - adherence to mill procedures
Destructive testing - mechanical / chemical - verify frequency
properties - instrument calibration
- sample preparation
- NACE testing, hardness control
Hydrotesting - gauge calibration
- pressure
- duration
Coupling fabrication - traceability
- threading
- NDE
- gauging
Thread inspection - gauge calibration
- element gauging
- visual of thread/sealing surfaces
- molds/impressions/traces
Coupling make-up - verification of proper torque
- coupling stand-off
Drift, full length + ends after makeup - verify correct drift dimensions
Protector installation - dope application - verify correct/sufficient dope is applied
Measuring, marking weighing and mill coating - review markings
Packing/Loading - verify correct handling procedures
10/99 VI-4
VOLUME FIVE
Final documentation review / MTR’s - review test reports and documentation
6.7 Monitor Qualification
Contract personnel performing surveillance of any tubular manufacturing process for Chevron need
to be qualified through review of education, work history, and professional experience regarding
manufacturing, testing, and monitoring of tubular production. Chevron QA can advise regarding the
evaluation of personnel involved in surveillance activities.
6.8 Conclusion
When responsibilities are clearly defined, communication maintained, and appropriate consideration
given to historic mill performance and manufacturing issues, monitoring of OCTG production can be
utilized as an alternative to third party inspection. It is important that Chevron specialist be involved
in development of monitoring scope, manufacturing and quality plan review, and any technical issues
that arise during production.
VI-5 10/99
VOLUME FIVE
Mill Monitoring Decision Flowchart
Mill Schedule Allows

Yes No
for Mill Monitoring?
Overall Mill
Class III
Classification?
Acceptable Off-line
Class II No
Mill Inspection?
Class I
Yes
Opportunity -
Consult CRTC QA
Cost of Monitoring < Third

Party Inspection? - Consider No
availability of qualified
personnel
Yes
Perform Third
Party Inspection in
Mill monitor accordance with
the Chevron
OCTG Inspection
Guidelines
10/99 VI-6

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CHEVRON DRILLING REFERENCE SERIES

1.1 Guideline Organization ............................................................... I-1

1.2 OCTG Related Contacts ............................................................. I-2

1.3 The PRIME Inspection Program ................................................. I-2

1.4 Approved OCTG Mill List ............................................................ I-2

(this page blank)

1.1 GUIDELINE ORGANIZATION

The guidelines are composed of five (5) sections:

Section I - This overview.

1.2 OCTG Related Contacts

Topic Service Company Location CTN Phone #

1.3 The PRIME Inspection Program

Class I Class II Class III

1.4 Approved OCTG Mill List

SECTION II SELECTION OF TUBULAR INSPECTION PROGRAM

2.1 Scope ....................................................................................................... II-1

2.2 Inspection Methods and Abbreviations ..................................................... II-1

2.3 Definition of Terms .................................................................................... II-4

2.4 Determining the Inspection Program ........................................................ II-5

2.5 Weld-on Connectors ................................................................................ II-10

2.6 Rig Site Welding ....................................................................................... II-11

2.7 Proprietary connections ............................................................................ II-11

2.8 Limitations ................................................................................................ II-11

2.9 ChevronTexaco QA Forms Related to OCTG........................................... II-12

(this page blank)

SECTION II SELECTION OF TUBULAR INSPECTION PROGRAM

2.2 INSPECTION METHODS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Each inspection method has been assigned a three-letter abbreviation to aid in

Full Length Visual (FLV)

Full Length Drift (FLD)

Special End Area Inspection (SEA)

Visual Thread Inspection (VTI)

Visual examination of threads and sealing surfaces to detect mechanical damage,

Electromagnetic Inspection (EMI)

An automated inspection process consisting of four independent inspection

a. Flux leakage from a longitudinal field for transverse flaws.

Although EMI is considered a substandard inspection method as compared to

Full Body Shear and Compression Wave Ultrasonic Inspection (UTB)

API Thread Gauging (TDG)

Mechanical measurements of five elements on API round threads or six elements

Rockwell Hardness Testing (HRC)

Ultrasonic Weldline Inspection (UTW)

A shear wave ultrasonic inspection of the weldline on longitudinally welded (ERW)

Liquid Penetrant Inspection (LPI)

A technique employing penetrating dye to detect flaws open to the surface. It is

Special Handling (HDL)

Butt Weld Radiography (RAD)

Welds on large diameter casing with welded-on connectors should be examined

Ultrasonic Butt Weld Examination (UBW)

Shear wave ultrasonic examination of circumferential butt welds. The weld is

Inspection Monitoring (MON)

The effectiveness of the above inspections will depend on the degree of

Coupling Buck-On (BUC)

2.3 DEFFINITION OF TERMS

Quality Level (QL1, QL2, QL3)

Provides distinction between non-critical, standard, and critical wells. Based on

Inspection Level (L0, L1, L2, L3, L4, L5)

Determines OCTG inspection methods to be applied. Established by considering

Inspection Plan (ex. 50% VTI, 50% SEA, 25% EMI…)

Instructs specific third party inspections to be performed on pipe by

Mill Monitoring (MM)

Third Party Inspection (TPI)

Performance of specific non-destructive inspection methods by Purchaser