NEW IMPROVED ATI DRILLSTRING THREAD

INSPECTION SYSTEM
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TSCs improved Automated Thread Inspection (ATI) drillstring thread
inspection system uses the Amigo ACFM inspection instrument and
special array probes to provide rapid and reliable inspection of
drillstring threads. The method is field proven in the North Sea and is
now included in the latest North Sea Drilling Inspection Standard (Ref
1). Compared to conventional inspection methods, ATI provides a
number of significant benefits, including:
Based on TSCs ACFM inspection method.
Reduced cleaning requirement compared to MT, PT.
Works on magnetic and non-magnetic components
Improved inspection reliability by reducing reliance on operator
Provides information of crack location, length and depth
Operates under Windows environment for easy interface to
other applications
All data is stored for audit, replay or review
Easy transfer of data in electronic form for review off-site if
required
Same instruments and software will accept probes for
inspection of non-threaded areas, including welds, stress relief
features, etc.
FEATURES OF THE ATI SYSTEM
The new ATI system comprises a master control unit, based around TSCs
rugged, battery-powered Amigo ACFM instrument. This is significantly lighter
than the previous system, and also supports use of a higher operating
frequency for increased sensitivity on non-ferrous components. The system is
controlled by a standard laptop PC, which can be supplied as a rugged version
if required.
ATI ARRAY PROBES
ATI array probes are available to cover a wide range of common drillstring
connection sizes. Pictured below is a probe suitable for 4tpi tapered threads.
With appropriate adapters fitted this probe can be used to inspect a variety of
pin and box threads and has been used successfully on NC38, NC 46, NC50, 4
IF, 6
5
/
8
Reg, 7
5
/
8
Reg and HT40 connectors. Probes for other thread forms
or pitches are also available.
Adapters are fitted to either side of the probe to position the thread sensors
correctly for the thread size (Pin or Box) to be inspected. Integral stainless steel
scrapers engage in the thread and closely follow the thread profile. The
scrapers remove dirt and contaminants from the thread and prevent wear to the
thread sensors which are held close to but not in contact with the thread.
4 tpi array probe with adaptors for 3.5 pin connector
Pin Threads
When the ATI probes are deployed on a pin thread, an elasticated strap can be
used to hold the probe in contact with the thread. This allows a stationary drill
pipe or tool to be inspected so no rotation of the thread is required. The
operator moves the probe by hand through one revolution around the thread to
inspect the 12 most highly loaded thread roots. An encoder tracks the probe
movement. When an inspection has been completed, the data is analysed
automatically, and any defects found are reported to the operator. Full details
of the inspection are recorded for detailed analysis or audit purposes. The
inspection cycle, end to end, takes around three minutes.
4 tpi probe inspecting 4.5 pin
Box Threads
By changing scrapers, the same ATI array probes can be used to inspect box
threads. Again the twelve most highly loaded threads are inspected. Process
indicators and controls are on the rear of the probe which allows correct use
whilst the probe is within the box thread. The ATI probes can inspect
components with or without bore-back.
4 tpi probe fitted with adaptors for box probe
4 tpi probe inspecting 3.5 box
4 tpi probe on sectioned 4.5 box
CONTROL SOFTWARE
The ATI system has been designed to reduce the requirement for skilled
operators and to allow drillstring thread inspection data to be available for audit.
One of the key features of the ATI system is its ability to detect, locate and size
defects without the need for operator interpretation. This is achieved by the use
of an advanced version of TSCs ASSIST software, which interprets the
inspection data automatically.
The software controls the data acquisition process, maintains the quality of the
data and provides the operator with a simple result detailing all defects found.
The system also provides management reports in the form of shift summaries
detailing all the inspections conducted and the result. The software also
provides for input from an inspection specialist who can set reporting thresholds
and review the detailed data not available to the site operator.
Software screen showing auto-detected and sized defects
OTHER AREAS
In addition to providing automated data interpretation using specialist probes,
the hardware and software can be configured to accommodate simple hand
held probes. These probes rely more on the operator and the data requires
interpretation by the operator. However, this can provide a very flexible
inspection capability and can be used to inspect shoulder areas, stress relief
grooves, weld areas, bearing grooves etc.
Universal thread probe with plastic shoe (left) and shoes for pin and box threads (right)
SPECIFICATION
Amigo Instrument Weight: 4.5kg
Instrument Size: 206 x 292 x 127 mm
Probe Cable Length: 5 metres standard, up to 20m by special request.
Serial Communications Cable up to: 30 metres
Operating Temperature: -20 + 40C
Environment Protection: IP54 rated. Not Ex-rated.
Battery Life*: >5 hours continuous operation with array probe, >10
hours with a single probe
Recharge Time: 4 hours
Laptop Requirements: Windows 2000 or XP. Serial comms port (or USB to
serial adapter). CD-rom drive. Floppy disc drive (or
means of transferring probe files from floppy discs).
* Note that system can be run continuously from mains supply.
For further information, please contact:
TSC Inspection Systems
6 Mill Square, Featherstone Road
Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes, MK12 5RB
UNITED KINGDOM
Tel No: +44 (0) 1908 317444
Fax No: +44 (0) 1908 220959
Email: sales@tscinspectionsystems.com
Web: www.tscinspectionsystems.com
ACFM is a registered trademark of Technical Software Consultants Ltd
Please Note: As part of its continuing programme of product improvement, TSC
reserve the right to alter specifications without prior notice.
TSC Inspection Systems is a trading name of Technical Software Consultants Ltd.