BJ Tubular Services has introduced its top-drive casing alignment tool, a new system that offers a simple, yet safer approach to running tubulars, the company says.
Known as the T-CAT, this tool makes it possible to run tubulars without carrying out hazardous stabbing board operations. By using the T-CAT, tubulars can be made up directly on the rig floor. Operated remotely by one technician, the operator uses the T-CAT to pick up the tubular from the catwalk. He then positions it and makes it up in the rotary, in keeping with traditional industry practice. The entire process is achieved without a stabber, and is operated from the rig floor.
BJ designed the T-CAT to handle casings of any size, so it is highly adaptable. Virtually any casing can be run directly from the drill floor, which minimizes manual handling of the casing. In addition, the T-CAT is easily rigged up and down, unlike costly conventional systems that must be permanently installed on the rig’s derrick, the company says.
Recently, BJ Tubular Services used the T-CAT to run tubulars on behalf of Talisman Energy (UK) Ltd. from the semisubmersible drilling unitSedco 714 in the North Sea.
“The T-CAT system proved to be reliable when running 13 3/8-in. buttress casing in marginal weather conditions. Casing was run with remote operation provided by a casing running technician. This eliminated the requirement for a stabber making for a less hazardous operation. Running rates were good, especially given the type of connection and weather conditions,” says Fraser Tavendale, drilling superintendent -Sedco 714 for Talisman Energy.
The T-CAT is a dramatic step forward, the company says, offering a number of key benefits.
“In addition to the fact that the T-CAT does away with the need to carry out hazardous stabbing board operations, just one technician is required to operate the T-CAT remotely from the rig floor. This means that personnel are always well out of harm’s way, which improves safety standards,” says Les Mason, sales and operations manager for BJ Tubular Services. “We designed the T-CAT to keep tubular handling to a minimum, and to manipulate the tubular with great care. As a result, the tubular is much less likely to be damaged, preventing costly repairs down the road,” he says.
null
