Analysis of reliability of the drill pipe in the clamping mechanism

Abstract

In oilfield equipment, a significant place is occupied by clamping mechanisms used to grip pipes during tripping operations. They are mainly divided into 2 groups. The first includes mechanisms with a forced clamping of the part. The second group includes self-clamping devices with a wedge mechanism. Here, the clamping force increases in proportion to the axial shear force. In these clamping devices, clamping jaws serve as a common element. In addition to smooth jaws, there may be jaws with notches on the inner cylindrical surface. Such notches contribute to an increase in the coefficient of adhesion when clamping cylindrical parts, in particular pipes. During the operation of clamping devices with corrugated jaws, the teeth of the notch are introduced into the pipe walls under the action of the clamping force. The shearing force can then displace the pipe relative to the jaws. The adhesion coefficient µ is the ratio of the shear force P to the clamping force Q, i.e. P/Q. Exceeding the shear force P of the limit value causes the pipe to be clamped to move. The correct choice of the place of load application is also of great importance. Optimum clamping performance can be achieved by clamping workpieces without slipping from shear forces. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure reliability, efficiency, productivity. Therefore, all factors that determine the holding capacity of clamping mechanisms should be considered. These factors include the coefficient of adhesion, the design of the working surfaces of the clamping elements, the type of notch of the corrugated jaws and the place of application of the clamping force