Protecting Your Drill String Investment
Drill pipe is one of the most critical and expensive components of the drilling operation. Operating under extreme conditions of tension, compression, torsion, internal pressure, and corrosive environments, drill pipe is constantly at risk of developing fatigue cracks, corrosion damage, and mechanical wear that can lead to costly downhole failures.
Well Guard Inspection Services provides comprehensive drill pipe inspection in accordance with DS-1 standards, covering all aspects from visual assessment to advanced NDT methods. Our inspections help clients make informed decisions about drill pipe classification, continued use, repair, or retirement.
Inspection Scope
Visual & Dimensional Inspection
Full-length visual examination for external damage, pitting, corrosion, and wear. Dimensional measurements of tool joint OD, tube body OD, and internal upset areas.
MPI of Tool Joints
Magnetic particle inspection of box and pin connections to detect fatigue cracks, stress corrosion cracking, and other surface discontinuities in the threaded area.
Ultrasonic Wall Thickness
UT wall thickness measurement of the tube body at specified intervals to detect internal wear, external wear, and general corrosion-related wall thinning.
Thread Inspection
Visual and gauge inspection of tool joint threads for proper profile, pitch diameter, lead, taper, and overall thread condition.
Hardbanding Inspection
Assessment of hardbanding condition including height, coverage, cracking, and adhesion to the tool joint surface.
Straightness Check
Checking drill pipe for straightness using visual methods or straightness gauges to identify bent joints that could cause operational issues.
DS-1 Classification Categories
Premium Class
Drill pipe that meets the most stringent dimensional and condition criteria. Suitable for the most demanding applications including extended reach and high-angle drilling.
Class 2
Drill pipe in good serviceable condition meeting specified dimensional limits. Suitable for standard drilling operations and general-purpose use.
Class 3
Drill pipe with more wear but still serviceable within specified limits. Suitable for less demanding operations or shallow well applications.
Reject / Scrap
Drill pipe that does not meet minimum acceptance criteria and must be removed from service. Clear identification and segregation from serviceable inventory.