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NEW IMPROVED ATI DRILLSTRING THREADINSPECTION SYSTEM

T  S  C I  N S P E  C T I   ON

 S Y  S T E M S 

TSC’s improved Automated Thread Inspection (ATI) drillstring threadinspection 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 isnow included in the latest North Sea Drilling Inspection Standard (Ref 1). Compared to conventional inspection methods, ATI provides anumber of significant benefits, including:

· Based on TSC’s 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.

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FEATURES OF THE ATI SYSTEMThe new ATI system comprises a master control unit, based around TSC’srugged, battery-powered Amigo ACFM instrument. This is significantly lighter than the previous system, and also supports use of a higher operatingfrequency for increased sensitivity on non-ferrous components. The system iscontrolled by a standard laptop PC, which can be supplied as a rugged versionif required.

ATI ARRAY PROBES ATI array probes are available to cover a wide range of common drillstringconnection 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, 4½ 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 sensorscorrectly for the thread size (Pin or Box) to be inspected. Integral stainless steelscrapers engage in the thread and closely follow the thread profile. Thescrapers remove dirt and contaminants from the thread and prevent wear to thethread 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 beused to hold the probe in contact with the thread. This allows a stationary drillpipe or tool to be inspected so no rotation of the thread is required. Theoperator moves the probe by hand through one revolution around the thread to

inspect the 12 most highly loaded thread roots. An encoder tracks the probemovement. When an inspection has been completed, the data is analysedautomatically, and any defects found are reported to the operator. Full detailsof the inspection are recorded for detailed analysis or audit purposes. Theinspection cycle, end to end, takes around three minutes.

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4 tpi probe inspecting 4.5” pin

Box Threads

By changing scrapers, the same ATI array probes can be used to inspect boxthreads. Again the twelve most highly loaded threads are inspected. Processindicators and controls are on the rear of the probe which allows correct usewhilst 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

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4 tpi probe inspecting 3.5” box

4 tpi probe on sectioned 4.5” box

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CONTROL SOFTWARE

The ATI system has been designed to reduce the requirement for skilledoperators 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 sizedefects without the need for operator interpretation. This is achieved by the use

of an advanced version of TSC’s ASSIST software, which interprets theinspection data automatically.

The software controls the data acquisition process, maintains the quality of thedata and provides the operator with a simple result detailing all defects found.The system also provides management reports in the form of shift summariesdetailing all the inspections conducted and the result. The software alsoprovides for input from an inspection specialist who can set reporting thresholdsand review the detailed data not available to the site operator.

Software screen showing auto-detected and sized defects

OTHER AREASIn addition to providing automated data interpretation using specialist probes,the hardware and software can be configured to accommodate simple handheld probes. These probes rely more on the operator and the data requiresinterpretation by the operator. However, this can provide a very flexibleinspection capability and can be used to inspect shoulder areas, stress relief grooves, weld areas, bearing grooves etc.

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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 mmProbe Cable Length: 5 metres standard, up to 20m by special request.Serial Communications Cable up to: 30 metresOperating Temperature: -20º + 40ºCEnvironment Protection: IP54 rated. Not Ex-rated.Battery Life*: >5 hours continuous operation with array probe, >10

hours with a single probeRecharge Time: 4 hoursLaptop 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 Systems6 Mill Square, Featherstone RoadWolverton Mill, Milton Keynes, MK12 5RBUNITED KINGDOM

Tel No: +44 (0) 1908 317444Fax No: +44 (0) 1908 220959Email: sales@tscinspectionsystems.comWeb: 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.