5 Equipment Preparation

Slips and Elevators

Safety Clamps
Strap Wrenches
Single Joint Compensator
Stabbing Guides
Handling and Lifting Plugs
Power Tongs
7 Pre-Running Operations
Drifting
Pipe Length Measurement
Cleaning
Visual Inspection of Threads Before Make-up
Field Repair
Field Repair on Coated Pipes
Field Repair on Fiber Glass Lining Pipes
Installation of Seal-Rings
Pipes Lifting From Rack to Rig Floor
10 Running
Operations on the Rig Floor
Thread Compound Application
Recommended Thread Running Compounds
Thread Lock Application
Stabbing
Thread Engagement
Connection Make-up
Make-up Speed
13 Running Pipes With Automated Rigs
Make-up Torque Curve Pattern
14 Make-up Acceptance Criteria
15 Make-up Rejection Criteria
18 Visual Inspection after Make-up
Tubular Rig Returns
19 Connection Break-out
Inspection
Re-Running
20 Running and Pulling Recommendations
21 Specific Guidelines
Tenaris Blue
TM
Tenaris MS
TM
, MS28
TM
, Tenaris ER
TM
and Tenaris PJD
TM
Special Care for Connections with Seal Ring
Special Care for Connections with Fiber Glass Lining (FGL)
Special Care for Connections with Corrosion Barrier (CB)
Torque vs. Turns Monitoring System
Tenaris 3SB
TM
, Tenaris HW
TM
, and Tenaris EL
TM
Sec
Delta Torque Definition
Index
Running Manual 5
This manual details the recommended practices to aid in the successful
running and pulling of the Tenaris family of premium connections. It has been
designed to provide an insight to avoid the most common causes of pipe and
connection damages resulting from improper planning, incorrect rig
operations, or inappropriate material handling procedures. The following
sections detail the specific practices to be performed in each operation. This is
a general manual that must be used together with the specific guidelines of
the premium connection to be run.
Equipment Preparation
All accessory and backup equipment, such as cross-overs, safety
subs, float equipment and packer assemblies, should be inspected
to ensure they are in proper condition. Since accessories are
obtained from several sources, care should be taken to ensure
they were threaded with the correct connection. Only accessories
threaded by Tenaris or one of their licensed repair shop facilities
should be used.
Slips and Elevators
Either slip or collar type elevators may be used for casing and
tubing strings. The inserts of the slips and slip type elevators
must be clean and sharp. Extra long slips and slip type elevators
shall be used on long and/or heavy strings. lf collar-type elevators
are used, the bearing surface shall be carefully inspected to
ensure a smooth flat bearing contact perpendicular to the pulling
direction. An uneven bearing surface can damage the coupling
and lead to a premature connection failure. Spider and elevator
slips shall be examined to see that all the surfaces contact
the pipe evenly. Uneven contact can dent the pipe or cause excess
slip-cutting.
The use of high-density inserts is recommended for critical
service materials.
Safety Clamps
The safety clamp is used to suspend the column in case of
insufficient grip by the elevator. The safety clamp must be used
during the running of the first tubing and casing
connections and during the pulling out of the last tubing
and casing connection. Its condition should be
inspected and worn parts replaced at the beginning of
each operation.
Strap Wrenches
When making up corrosion resistant alloys (CRA)
pipes, strap wrenches should be used after stabbing to
make the pin up to the hand tight position or at
minimum until a secure thread start has been achieved.
All straps should be checked prior to start-up to ensure
their proper diameter capability and their cleanness.
Once straps become soiled and begin slipping, they
should be replaced.
Single Joint Compensator
A single joint compensator is recommended to be used
during running and pulling of heavy wall casing and any
CRA tubulars to reduce the compression loads on the
threads that are normally incurred during the stabbing,
make-up and pull out process.
Care must be taken to properly adjust the tension value
of this component prior to the first joint being stabbed.
This will minimize cross-thread damages and galling
during the make-up and break out process.
6 Running Manual
Stabbing Guides
Stabbing guides shall be used to guide the pin into the box and
minimize damage to the connection if the joint is misstabbed.
The stabbing guide must be checked prior to running to ensure
proper fit and condition of the elastomeric inserts.
Handling and Lifting Plugs
Handling plugs are not designed to support more than a single
stand of pipe. Handling plug threads must be cared for and
maintained. Threads should be cleaned, inspected and handled
so as to prevent damage. To ensure proper thread engagement,
both the handling plug and the pipe box threads should be free
of any dirt, paint, and storage compound. Plugs should be
doped and fully made-up by hand, then tightened by pushing it
with a bar. Handling plugs also provide protection of the box
threads from damage by tools or test equipment, which may be
run inside the pipe.
Lifting plugs are designed to support the entire weight of the
string. The lifting plugs must be doped and fully made-up and
power tight to shoulder to achieve full rated lift capacity. Proper
handling practices and sound judgement must be used at all
times to maintain the rated lift capacity of the plug. Damaged
lifting plugs should not be used. At the beginning of each
operation, as well as in case of heavy impact in the lifting plug
throughout the operation, the lifting plug must be inspected
visually and replaced in case of damage.
Power Tongs
The tongs should be in good condition, with jaws that
correctly fit the pipe.
It is recommended to use tongs with back-up. Tongs shall be
equipped with a rotation speed control and should de capable of
operating at a minimum of 3 rpm. It is imperative that the make-
up torque is accurately measured and controlled. Torque
measuring equipment should be in good working order, cover the
appropriate range, and a recent calibration certificate should be
demanded from the power tong contractor prior to starting the job.
When using tongs with built-in back-up, free motion should
be possible between tong and back-up to ensure there is
sufficient travel in the back-up to absorb the make-up loss
and there is sufficient flexibility in the tong/back-up to
compensate for a slight bend and the normal eccentricity
between pin and box.
If a snub line is used, it should be set at a 90-degree angle to
the arm of the tong.
Power Tong - upper view Load Cell Installation - side view
Running Manual 7
Drifting
It is requested that each length of the tubulars (casing, tubing,
accessories) be drifted for its entire length just before running.
Before drifting, make sure that the internal surface is clean and
free from foreign matter that can prevent the correct running
of the drift and can be mixed with make-up compound during
assembly.
If compressed air is available, apply the air jet from box to pin.
The drift shall be handled with care when inserted and when
extracted from the pipe, and drifting should be preferably
performed from the box side to the pin side to avoid damage
on threads, seals and shoulders.
It is recommended to perform drifting while the pipe is on
the rack.
Tubulars that do not pass the drift mandrel shall be
marked with a reject paint band, and laid aside for further
investigation.
For CRA and coated material, it is recommended to use non-
metallic drift or a drift coated with plastic or with Teflon.
Make sure that the drift mandrel OD conforms to the API 5CT
specifications or to the customers special drift purchase
specification.
When specified by the purchaser, casing can be "Special Drifted".
Sizes are shown in API RP 5A5 "Recommended Practice for
Thread Inspection of new Casing, Tubing and Plain End Drill
Pipe", or special drift purchase specifications.
Pre-running Operations
in. mm. in. mm.
Casing and Liners
Tubing
Smaller than 9 5/8 6 152 d - 1/8 d - 3.18
9 5/8 to 13 3/8 12 305 d - 5/32 d - 3.97
Larger than 13 3/8 12 305 d - 3/16 d - 4.76
27/8 and smaller 42 1,067 d - 3/32 d - 2.38
3 1/2 and larger 42 1,067 d - 1/8 d - 3.18
API STANDARD DRIFT MANDREL SIZE (MIN.)
d= Nominal pipe body internal diameter
PRODUCTS & SIZES () LENGTH DIAMETER
8 Running Manual
Cleaning
It is essential that no hard foreign matter is present on the
threads or seals during make-up.
Cleaning should be performed just before running in the hole
and after drift test, especially in corrosive atmosphere.
Remove thread protectors from pin and box ends.
Clean all thread or storage compounds with any suitable
cleaning process, such as non-metallic bristle brushes and hot
water or a quick-drying solvent-type cleaner (without chlorine).
Do not use diesel or "oily solvent". Use of compressed air is
advisable to dry pin and box.
Check and clean inside the tubulars to eliminate any foreign
material that may fall into the box while stabbing. If
compressed air is available, apply the air jet from box to pin.
The most desirable approach would be to clean the connection
at a temperature above 10C (50F) so as to remove all traces of
moisture and/or extraneous matter.
Clean and dry thread protectors.
If running is to be delayed, an application of some corrosion
protection over the threads should be considered. If the
connection is cleaned until twelve hours before the joint is run,
a light oil should be applied by means of a brush or a spray
applicator. If it takes more than twelve hours for a joint to be
run, some storage compound and clean thread protectors
should be re-applied.
Care must be taken to ensure that the cleaning process does
not cause environmental pollution.
Pipe Length Measurement
The length of each piece of casing and tubing should be
measured prior to running. A calibrated steel tape should
be used. The measurement should be made from the
outermost face of the coupling or box to the outermost
face of the pin nose.
The Effective Length (EL) of each joint is the Total Length
(TL) minus the Make-up loss (ML).
Before the make-up on the rig floor, all threads will be submitted
to visual inspection.
Pipe should be on a rack allowing enough space for 360
revolution for inspection to assure that each connection is:
Well cleaned
Free from rust due to a long and/or incorrect storage
Free from handling damages
Free from longitudinal cuts and scratches in the seal area
Free from burrs or wear
Minor anomalies on thread and torque shoulder surfaces can
be field repaired. Damage on seal surfaces, other than mild
oxidation, is cause for rejection (see Field Repair). After repairing,
threads must be re-cleaned and dried.
Exposed seal surfaces, such as pin nose areas, are particularly
susceptible to handling damage. Special care should be taken
in inspection of these areas for dings, dents, and/or mashed
ends.
Visual Inspection of Threads
Before Make-up
Running Manual 9
Field Repair
If necessary, slight thread repairs by # 400 emery cloth or file,
can be performed by Tenaris personnel or by certified personnel
of a thir party company.
Slight repairs can be made only on the thread or on the shoulder
area, but not on the seal area. Only mild oxidation is allowed to
be removed from the seal by means of a Scotch Brite.
Repairs must not change the shape of the original surface.
When the damages cannot be solved by field repair, the joint
must be rejected.
Field Repair on Coated Pipes
Any damage on the coatings must be repaired either by the
coating company or by certified personnel of a third party
company.
Field Repair on Fiber Glass Lined Pipes
When tubulars with fiber glass lining are to be run, no damages
are allowed to be field repaired.
Installation of Seal Rings
If required by the customer, seal rings can be installed in the mill
prior to application of thread compound and protectors.
Otherwise, seal rings must be securely packaged and forwarded
to a location designated by the customer.
Prior to installation, seal rings identification shall be verified.
Appropriate seal rings shall be obtained through the Tenaris
Licensee Support Group.
Visually inspect the seal ring groove/location for cleanliness.
Remove all grease, oil, metal shavings, or other contaminants
before the installation of a seal ring. Dry the seal ring
groove/location before installing the seal ring.
For seal rings installation, compress the seal ring with the
fingers, so that it partially collapses into the inside diameter of
the pipe. Place the collapsed seal ring into the seal ring groove
and release it. Firmly seat the seal ring into the groove by
applying direct pressure to the face of the ring for the entire
circumference (360 degrees).
A tool to seat the seal ring may be made from a hammer handle,
an axe handle, or other similar device, depending on the OD of
the connection. The end of the tool shall be shaped to contact the
face of the seal ring squarely (metallic tools are not acceptable).
Leverage the tool against the face of the box to apply pressure
to the face of the seal ring.
Seal rings installed in the seal ring grooves shall not protrude
beyond the internal diameter of the coupling or the lining. This
shall be verified with a straight edge placed on the internal
diameter.
If the seal ring pops out of the coupling internal diameter, verify
the seal ring size and seal ring groove dimensions. The seal
rings should be installed shortly before the pipes running. Seal
rings and pipes should be approximately at the same temperature
before installation.
Pipes Lifting from Rack to Rig Floor
During the transportation to the rig floor, the thread protectors
must be kept installed.
For CRA materials, the use of a pick-up/lay-down equipment
with travelling basket coated with rubber or with other soft
materials is requested. Metal to metal contact is not acceptable
for CRA materials.
For standard materials, load and unload using certified textile
slings.
Single joint elevators are recommended for all materials.
On the rig floor, the pipe string shall be sustained by a
device that must not leave incisions or dents on the external
surface of the pipe.
Seal ring (Normal and Collapsed)
10 Running Manual
Operations on the Rig Floor
While the pipe is in the travel basket or laid on the "V" door,
remove the thread protector of the box/coupling, wipe with a
clean cloth the box/coupling or blow it with a jet of compressed
air and apply the proper amount of thread compound as per
pipe manufacturer recommendations.
While the pin is lifted up in vertical position, remove the
protector and wipe the thread with a jet of compressed air.
Inspect the thread to assure that it has not been damaged and
it has been properly cleaned.
Apply the correct amount and type of thread compound as per
the pipe manufacturer recommendations.
Stab the pin into the box of the previous pipe, make them up
and run them into the hole.
Thread Compound Application
Thread storage compound shall be thoroughly removed from
the connection before applying running thread compound.
Apply an even coat of manufacturer recommended
connection thread compound (see Recommended Thread
Running Compounds) filling the full thread area and
covering the seal surface and torque shoulder of pin or box
(as per connection manufacturer recommendation). Do
not overdope, the thread pattern should still be evident
after doping.
Running
Running Manual 11
Keep the dope well mixed, and stir it very well before using. If the
compound is too thick because of the low external temperature, it
can be warmed up to a maximum of 30C and mixed up. Never
use oil or solvent to dilute the thread compound.
Keep the dope container covered in order to avoid
contamination from dust, water, or other dangerous elements.
Use new brushes with clean and soft bristle; never use metallic
brushes or spatulas. Use mustache type brush for box end and
plain type bruch for pin end.
Apply thread compound in a continuous film all over the
surface of threads and seals as per the connection manufacturer
recommendations.
When automatic dope applicator is used, try to check the
dope weight sprayed by collecting it and putting it on a
scale. Set up the dope applicator until the minimum weight is
reached. When a brush is used, weigh the minimum
requested quantity of dope with a scale, to have an idea of
the dope volume. Special care should be taken to make sure
that quantity of dope does not exceed the maximum
specified. Excessive thread dope may affect the connection
performance.
Thread Lock Application
When thread lock is required, both pin and box connections
must be cleaned, dried, and free of contaminants. Apply thread
lock compound only on the first two thirds of the pin threads
near the pipe end, excluding the seal area of the pin. A uniform
coat should be applied, a full 360 degrees.
Then, apply thread compound to the internal seal of the box,
covering 360 degrees. The connection shall be made-up as
soon as possible after the thread lock and thread compound
have been applied. A torque in excess of the maximum
make-up torque may be required to shoulder the connections.
Stabbing
Stabbing and initial thread engagement is the most critical
aspect of running premium connections. A stabbing guide shall
be used on the pipe box thread to prevent damage to thread and
seal surfaces. The pipe must be properly positioned and under
complete control before stabbing is conducted. The pipe must
be in true vertical alignment over the box. Movement or sway of
the pipe should be limited to the minimum extent possible.
Personnel on the rig floor and the stabbing board should always
control stability and movement of the pipe. Only after the
pipe is stabilized and properly positioned, lower the pipe slowly
to avoid thread damage. Once the face of the pin is even with
the face of the box, the pin connection should be lowered very
slowly into the box. This process will allow the stab flank of
the pin threads to align with the flank threads of the box and
reduce the possibility of misstabbing, or cross threading.
Recommended Thread Running
Compounds
API Modified Any certified API modified Thread
Thread Compound Compound
Environmentally Safe Jet-Lube-Enviro-Safe
Best-O-Life PTC
Total Premium Compound
Shell Malleus 0459
TYPE APPROVED TRADE MARK
RUNNING THREAD COMPOUND*
*For other running thread compounds, please consult us.
12 Running Manual
Thread Engagement
Remove stabbing guide after stabbing. Then rotate the pipe
by hand or manual wrench for a couple of turns. If the
weight of the pipe prohibits turning by hand, turn it very
slowly with tongs (connection should be free running, without
torque required) to ensure proper thread engagement. Cross-
threading and misalignment may be corrected now. The
stabber must not rock the pipe during initial stab or make-up.
In case of a misstab, rotating the connection counter-
clockwise 1/4 to 1/2 turns will correct the misalignment and
give proper thread engagement. Re make-up following the
previous indications.
When making up corrosion resistant alloys (CRA) pipes,
strap wrenches should be used after stabbing to make the pin
up to the hand tight position or at minimum until a secure
thread start has been achieved.
Connection Make-up
Power tongs are required. Pipe wrenches, rig tongs or
spinning chain make-up are not recommended. A back-up
tong may be required until sufficient string weight is
developed to prevent the joint from turning in the slips. Set
the power tong and the back-up tong as close as possible to
prevent bending during make-up. The back-up tong should
be of a sufficient width to prevent crushing the pipe body.
Do not set the back-up tong over the box threads. Do not
latch the elevators on the pipe until the connection is made-
up completely.
During power make-up operations, the torque shall be
continuously monitored. The usage of Torque vs Turns make-up
monitoring system with a valid calibration is requested. The
accuracy of turn measurement shall be higher than 1/100 of a
turn. A computer display is required to monitor the make-up, and
shall be capable of printing hard copies of make-up graphs to be
kept on file. A make-up torque graph shall be generated for every
connection. In the event a graph is not produced or is lost, the
connection shall be considered as rejected.
When combining different weights (i.e. 5 x 15 lb/ft with 5 x
18 lb/ft) or different grades (i.e. L80 and P110), use the torque
corresponding to the lightest weight and the lowest grade.
Before starting the running, the equipment must be set up with
the following values provided by the connection manufacturer:
Minimum make-up torque
Optimum make-up torque
Maximum make-up torque
Minimum shoulder torque
Maximum shoulder torque
Reference torque
The initial recommended value for the reference torque is 5%
of the minimum recommended torque. While running, the
reference torque value shall be adjusted to have 1.0 to 1.5 turn
in the display, but it shall remain between 2% to 10% of the
minimum recommended torque.
Make-up Speed
After stabbing, the first 1 or 2 turns must be performed at low
speed to assure proper made-up. Then a higher rotation speed
can be applied, and at the last 1 or 2 turns, the speed must be
reduced again to a low value.
The stabbing operation is particularly critical with
high alloy steels that have a tendency to gall.
Align the pipe with the
coupling axis
Running Manual 13
When the strings are run by means of automated rigs, the
running procedure varies due to the lack of people
operating around the rotary area. Tongs are remotely
operated from a safe distance from the working area.
Besides the pre-running operations (thread cleaning,
drifting, visual inspection, seal ring installation, pipe length
measurement), the thread compound (or thread lock) must
be applied while joints are on the racks.
After that, the arm of the automatic equipment will
pick each joint up and it will deposit them on the tray to
be transported to the rotary area.
There is no need for performing any manual operation
from this point, as the officer in charge of driving the
automatic equipment will position the pipe in a vertical
way and will make-up the connection according to the
desired rotary speed and torque value.
Make-up Torque
Curve Pattern
Running Pipes with
Automated Rigs
14 Running Manual
The make-up shall be accepted whenever the curve resulting from
the make-up operation adjusts to the patterns shown below:
Slight oscilations in thread interference length are acceptable.
Make-up
Acceptance Criteria
Running Manual 15
If the minimum specified make-up torque is not reached,
or the maximum specified make-up torque is exceeded, the
the connection shall be broken out, cleaned, inspected and
if it is not damaged, redoped and re-madeup.
Make-up
Rejection Criteria
Torque Shoulder not Defined
There is high thread/seal interference before shoulders get
in touch.
Possible reasons
Misalignment between pin and box
Threads not clean
Wrong torque
Not enough thread compound
Torque cell not properly calibrated
Consequences
Risk of leaking
Risk of accidental unscrewing
The connection shall be broken out, cleaned, inspected,
and if it is not damaged, redoped and re-madeup.
Make-up Torque Under Minimum
or Over Maximum Specified Value
16 Running Manual
This may happen when the final torque exceeds the
connection yield torque.
The connection shall be broken out and the pin and box
connection shall be rejected and marked accordingly.
Connections Plastic Deformation
There is low or high thread/seal interference.
Possible reasons
Wrong torque
Wrong thread compound
Torque cell not properly calibrated
Consequences
Risk of leaking
Risk of accidental unscrewing
The connection shall be broken out, cleaned, inspected,
and if there is no damage, redoped and re-madeup.
Torque Shoulder Below or Above
the Specified Window
Make-up process shall not be interrupted before reaching
the minimum make-up torque value.
The connection shall be broken out, cleaned, inspected, and
if there is no damage, redoped and re-madeup.
Aborted Make-up
Running Manual 17
If the maximum hump torque is higher than the maximum
shoulder torque, the connection shall be broken out, cleaned,
inspected and if it is not damaged, redoped and remade-up.
Possible cause: excessive dope amount or dope contamination. Possible cause: galling or crossthread.
Possible reasons
Non-suitable dies on tong or backup
Dirty or worn dies
Hydraulic pressure in backup too low
Possible consequences
Damage on pipe body
Wrong diagrams even with correct make-up
The connection shall be broken out, cleaned, inspected, and
if there is no damage, redoped and re-madeup.
Severe Deviations Prior to
Shouldering
Tong or Backup Dies Slipping on
Pipe Body
Possible cause: dies slipping.
General Note
Connections that do not produce an acceptable
graph within three make-ups shall be rejected
and identified accordingly. Connections that show
visible damage and that can not be field repaired
shall be rejected and identified accordingly.
18 Running Manual
Subsequent to each make-up, the area of the pipe/coupling that
was gripped by the power tongs/back-up device, as well as the slip
area, shall be visually inspected to determine if the pipe/coupling
has been damaged. lf there are excessive tong gouges on either
the pipe or couplings, the gouges shall be evaluated in accordance
with API Spec 5CT (see table).
Visual Inspection after Make-up
On those pipes that are not used or returned to stock, all con-
nections should be washed and dried to remove any corrosive
contaminants, then greased and clean protectors installed.
No connections should be left witohut storage dope and protec-
tors installed.
Pipes stock should be periodically inspected every 6-8 months
in places with gentle weather and more often in places with ex-
treme weather conditions.
Tubular Rig Returns
in. in. mm. mm. in. mm.
DIAMETER G1, G2 (EXCEPT C90 AND T95) & G3 G2 (C90 AND T95) & G4
Tubing
Casing
Smaller than 3 1/2 0.030 0.76 0.025 0.64 0.030 0.76
3 1/2 to 4 1/2" 0.045 1.14 0.030 0.76 0.035 0.89
Smaller than 6 5/8 0.035 0.89 0.030 0.76 0.030 0.76
6 5/8 to 7 5/8 0.045 1.14 0.040 1.02 0.035 0.89
Larger than 7 5/8 0.060 1.52 0.040 1.02 0.035 0.89
PERMISSIBLE DEPTH OF IMPERFECTIONS IN COUPLINGS (API 5CT)
PITS AND ROUNDED
MARKS
PRODUCTS & SIZES GRIP MARKS AND
SHARP PATTERN
ALL
G1: All casing and tubing in Grades H, J, K and N.
G2: All casing and tubing in Grades C, L, M and T.
G3: All casing and tubing in Grade P.
G4: All casing in Grade Q.
Running Manual 19
To break out the Tenaris family of premium connections, the
same equipment used to make them up will be required.
If string has been in service for some time, the break-out
torque will likely be higher than the torque required to make-
up the connections.
For coupled connections, the back-up tong should always be
set on the coupling central area during breaking-out, so it is
necessary to prepare the back-up tong die for the coupling size.
Hammering the cupling or connection is not allowed.
Connection Break-out
All connections should be broken out and rotated out in low
gear only.
To break-out the connections, unlatch the elevators before
breakout. Locate the connection to be broken out at a
comfortable working height above the slips. Set the power
tong and the backup tong or slips as close as possible to
prevent bending during breakout. Maintain vertical
alignment and control of pipe. This is accomplished by a man
on the stabbing board. Slowly apply the torque required to
break the connection. (Never use a hammer or other hard
object to beat on a connection. The resultant damage could
lead to a failure.) Depending on the torque required, the
upper end of the pipe may start moving. Pipe movement shall
be stopped before additional turning of the connection is
continued.
Maintain a steady, controlled speed until the pin jumps inside
the box. A single joint elevator is recommended to reduce
misalignment during the lifting process. A weight compensator
is recommended to be used to reduce thread galling during
break-out.
Stop rotation immediately when the pin jumps inside the box.
A stabbing guide shall be used prior to lifting the pin out of
the box. The pin must be carefully lifted out of the box to
avoid damage. This is critical on heavy weight pipe or when
pulling double or triple stands. Remove the power tong before
lifting the pin out of the box. Do not lift the exposed pin
threads through the tong. Before moving the pipe further,
protect the threads by installing a clean, dry thread protector
or lift plug as appropriate.
For flush connections, the use of safety clamps is highly
recommended.
Inspection
Once the connection is broken, a brief inspection of seal and
threads of both pin and box should be conducted.
Particular attention must be paid to:
Seals for evidence of galling;
Threads for evidence of galling;
Pipe for damage caused by power tong or back-up tong dies;
Pipe for damage caused by elevator or slip dies;
Any foreign material in the threads or in the torque
shoulder/seal area of the box member.
Re-Running
To re-run a string of Tenaris Premium Connections, the same
procedure as in the initial running should be followed.
20 Running Manual
Running
Remove thread protectors from pin and coupling ends.
Clean the connection with a non-metallic bristle brush
and steam or a quick drying solvent type cleaner (without
chlorine).
Clean and dry thread protectors. Reject damaged
protectors.
Make sure that the internal surface of the pipes is clean
and free from foreign material.
Check and clean (by air jet) inside the tubulars to
eliminate any foreign material.
Pass drift from the coupling or box end to the pin end
avoiding damages on threads and shoulders.
Tubulars that do not pass the drift mandrel shall be
marked with a reject paint band and laid aside.
For CRA and coated material, use a non-metallic drift or
a drift coated with plastic or Teflon.
Measure the Total Length of each piece of casing / tubing /
accessory.
Calculate the Effective Length of each joint by deducting
the Make-up Loss from the Total Length.
Visually inspect the connection to assure they are:
- Free from dust due to a long and/or incorrect
storage;
- Free from handling and transport damages;
- Free from burrs or wear.
Never attempt to repair the seal area of the connections.
Slight repairs can be made by # 400 emery cloth or file
only on the threads or on the shoulder area.
After repairing, threads must be cleaned again and dried.
During pipe moving to the rig floor, thread protectors
must be kept installed.
Use of weight compensator system is requested, specially
in the case of CRA grades.
Pulling
Use of weight compensator system is requested, specially
in the case of CRA grades.
For coupled connections break-out, the back-up tong shall
be set on the coupling middle position.
The break-out torque will likely be higher than the torque
required to make up the connections.
All connections should be broken out and rotated out in
low gear only.
Never use a hammer or other hard object to beat on a
connection.
Maintain a steady, controlled speed until the pin jumps inside
the coupling (avoid bumping).
Stop rotation immediately when the pin jumps inside the
coupling.
A stabbing guide shall be used prior to lifting the pin out of
the coupling.
The pin must be carefully lifted out of the box avoiding to
damage it.
Before moving the pipe further, protect the threads by
installing a clean and dry thread protector.
Once the connection is broken out, a brief visual inspection
of both pin and coupling should be conducted. Particular
attention must be paid to:
- Threads for evidence of galling;
- Pipe body for damages caused by power tong,
backup tong, elevator or slip dies;
- Any foreign material in the threads or in the
torque shoulder of the coupling.
If the string is pulled out in stands, pin thread protectors
should be on straight and tight.
Stands should be properly tied with a band to prevent
bending.
Running and Pulling
General Recommendations - Summary
Note: this section does not replace the Tenaris Running Manual.
It shall be used together with it.
Running Manual 21
TenarisBlue

Specific Guidelines
cu. cm max. cu. cm min. in. gr min. gr max.
SIZE
OD
ANY RECOMMENDED
DOPE TYPE
API MODIFIED THREAD COMPOUND
SPECIFIC GRAVITY = 1,85
2 3/8
2 7/8
3 1/2
4
4 1/2
5
5 1/2
6
6 5/8
7
7 5/8
8 5/8
9 5/8
9 7/8
10 3/8
10 3/4
11 3/4
13 3/8
13 5/8
5 7 9 13
6 9 11 16
7 11 13 19
8 12 15 22
9 14 17 25
10 15 19 28
11 17 20 31
21 27 39 50
23 30 43 55
25 32 45 58
27 34 49 63
30 39 56 72
34 43 62 80
35 44 64 82
36 47 67 86
38 48 70 89
41 53 76 98
47 60 87 111
48 61 88 113
THREAD COMPOUND RECOMMENDED AMOUNT
In order to define running compound by weight, its Specific Gravity shall be used:
Running Compound Weight = Volume (cu.cm) x Specific Gravity (gr/cu.cm)
THREAD COMPOUND DISTRIBUTION
GRADE CRA OTHERS
Pin 30% 30% 0%
Box 70% 70% 100%
Note: Do not fill the dope pocket with thread compound during its application.
Condition Mandatory Recom. Optional
22 Running Manual
Tenaris MS

, MS28

, Tenaris ER

and
Tenaris PJD

SIZE
OD
ANY RECOMMENDED DOPE TYPE API MODIFIED THREAD COMPOUND
SPECIFIC GRAVITY = 1.85
THREAD COMPOUND RECOMMENDED AMOUNT
In order to define running compound by weight, its Specific Gravity shall be used:
Running Compound Weight = Volume (cu. cm) x Specific Gravity (gr/cu. cm)
in. cu. cm gr
2 3/8 5 10
2 7/8 6 12
3 1/2 8 14
4 9 16
4 1/2 10 18
5 16 30
5 1/2 18 33
6 19 36
6 5/8 22 40
7 23 42
7 5/8 25 46
8 5/8 28 52
9 5/8 31 58
9 7/8 32 59
10 3/8 34 62
10 3/4 35 65
11 3/4 38 71
13 3/8 43 80
13 5/8 44 82
14 53 98
15 57 105
16 61 112
18 5/8 71 131
20 76 141
24 91 169
24 1/2 93 172
THREAD COMPOUND DISTRIBUTION
GRADE CRA OTHERS
Pin 30% 30% 0%
Box 70% 70% 100%
Condition Mandatory Recom. Optional
Running Manual 23
For seal ring models always dope the box area between the
seal ring and the shoulder.
Apply thread compound only on pin members.
Do not apply thread compound on the protruding nose of the connection.
Never run a pipe with damages in the ERFV lining
Special Care for Connections
with Seal Ring
When installing seal rings of FGL Models, assure that the seal
ring is properly placed in the space between the flange and the
coupling. Avoid any misalignment.
Special Care for Connections
with Fiber Glass Lining (FGL)
24 Running Manual
Note: Thread compound could be used to cover the seal area
instead of Molykote, in this case a thin, uniform film covering
the seal along the circumference (360) should be applied. Avoid
doping the small protruding nose outside Part B.
In this case each made up connection must be checked with
a Teflon drift to verify the seal ring has not been damaged
during make up.
If pipe or coupling coated area is damaged, it must be repaired
before running the string. This activity can be performed by
the coating company or by authorized and certified personnel
of a third part company.
Torque vs. Turns Monitoring System
For the making up of the Tenaris ER connection the use of a
Torque vs. Turns Monitoring System is not required.
Use Shell HTHP 72732 thread compound for make up. The
use of compound with different properties may result in
low or over torque of the connection, galling and/or leaking.
Environmental friendly compounds may be used with Tenaris
approval.
Apply thread compound only on pin members.
The use of Molykote (Molybdenum disulphide) is recommended
to cover the seal area (Part B). Use the recommended thread
compound to cover the threaded area (Part A).
Special Care for Connections
with Corrosion Barrier (CB)
Running Manual 25
Tenaris 3SB

, Tenaris HW

, and
Tenaris EL

In order to define running compound by weight, its Specific Gravity shall be used:
Running Compound Weight = Volume (cu. cm) x Specific Gravity (gr/cu. cm)
cu. cm cu. cm in. gr. gr.
SIZE ANY RECOMMENDED
DOPE TYPE
API MODIFIED THREAD COMPOUND
SPECIFIC GRAVITY = 1,85
2 3/8
2 7/8
3 1/2
4
4 1/2
5
5 1/2
6
6 5/8
7
7 5/8
8 5/8
9 5/8
9 7/8
10 3/8
10 3/4
11 3/4
13 3/8
6 9 12 17
8 11 14 20
10 14 18 25
11 15 20 28
12 17 23 32
16 24 30 45
19 27 35 50
22 40
24 32 45 60
27 32 50 60
32 38 60 70
38 43 70 80
34 49 62 90
54 100
43 80
54 100
65 70 120 130
THREAD COMPOUND RECOMMENDED AMOUNT
TENARIS 3SB
TM
OD TENARIS HW
TM
cu. cm
TENARIS EL
TM
TENARIS 3SB
TM
TENARIS HW
TM
gr.
TENARIS EL
TM
THREAD COMPOUND DISTRIBUTION
GRADE CRA OTHERS
Pin 30% 30% 0%
Box 70% 70% 100%
Note: Special care shall be taken to not over-dope the connection. Over-doping can
lead to excessive dope pressure built up and abnormal Torque vs. Turns curves.
Condition Mandatory Recom. Optional
26 Running Manual
Tenaris makes available this Manual for informational purposes only and in no way assumes responsibility or liability for any
loss, damage, or injury resulting from the use of information and data herein. The technical information contained herein
should not be construed as a recommendation. Although reasonable efforts have been made to maintain the accuracy and
reliability of its content you should only rely on its conclusions at your own risk. You should not rely on descriptive product
data or other information in this Manual without professional engineering advice.
Sec
THREAD COMPOUND DISTRIBUTION
GRADE CRA OTHERS
Pin 30% 30% 0%
Box 70% 70% 100%
Note: Special care shall be taken to not over-dope the connection. Over-doping can
lead to excessive dope pressure built up and abnormal Torque vs. Turns curves.
Condition Mandatory Recom. Optional
cu. cm max. cu. cm min. in. gr min. gr max.
SIZE
OD
ANY RECOMMENDED
DOPE TYPE
API MODIFIED THREAD COMPOUND
SPECIFIC GRAVITY = 1,85
2 3/8
2 7/8
3 1/2
4
4 1/2
5
5 1/2
6
6 5/8
7
7 5/8
8 5/8
9 5/8
9 7/8
10 3/8
10 3/4
11 3/4
13 3/8
13 5/8
10 14 18 26
11 17 21 32
14 21 26 39
16 24 30 44
18 27 33 50
25 35 46 65
28 38 51 71
30 42 56 78
33 46 61 86
35 49 65 91
38 54 71 99
43 61 80 112
48 68 9 125
49 69 91 128
52 72 96 134
54 75 99 139
59 82 109 152
67 94 124 173
68 95 126 176
THREAD COMPOUND RECOMMENDED AMOUNT
In order to define running compound by weight, its Specific Gravity shall be used:
Running Compound Weight = Volume (cu. cm) x Specific Gravity (gr/cu. cm)
Delta Torque % = x 100
Final Torque Shoulder Torque
Final Torque
Delta Torque Definition