Radial-gripping handling tools from Oil States MCS are the safest, most efficient way to lift, move and position large-diameter pilings for offshore platforms, conductor pipe for oil and gas wells, and other large-diameter tubulars. The remote-operated tools use a powerful radial-gripping action to hold heavy pipe sections securely, without costly and clumsy attachments such as weld-on pad eyes and weld-on stops and without awkward rigging and safety clamps. Both tools have radial-gripping segments that hold pipe by engaging it around its full circumference.
The hydraulic-actuated Internal Lift Tool (internal elevator) stabs into pipe sections for pick-up and lay-down and for moving them and holding them in a vertical position. Its gripping segments expand outward against the inside of the pipe.
The External Gripper, which can be either hydraulic or pneumatic, is a stationary device that supports pipe strings while sections are added or removed. Its gripping segments tighten against the outside of the pipe.
Hydraulic Conductor Jacks, with a jacking capacity of 235 tons, can run or pull an entire conductor string, using only a small platform crane to add or remove sections at the surface.
All Oil States MCS handling tools use a simple opposed-wedge design to move gripping segments in and out. The gripping action is fail-safe and weight-energized; an increase in pipe load results in an increase in the radial gripping force. The gripping action cannot be accidentally released as long as the tool is supporting pipe weight. Even if hydraulic or pneumatic pressure is totally lost, the tools will not release their grip until the weight of the pipe is otherwise supported and actuating pressure is restored.
Radial-grip handling tools distribute gripping force equally around the circumference of the pipe. The maximum number of contact points assures that the tools will hold the pipe securely without deforming or damaging it. |
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An Internal Lift Tool suspended above two side-opening External Pile Grippers.
Conductor jack for running and pulling conductor strings.
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• The tools are built to minimize the risk of project downtime caused by tool failure. Here are several
important design and fabrication features.
• Opposed-wedge design has few parts. The opposed-wedge design is the simplest possible way to
convert the axial force (from the actuating cylinders and pipe weight) into radial gripping force.
The few moving parts are all solid steel; there are no flimsy springs, levers or other failure-prone
devices.
• Protected slips. The gripping elements of both the external and internal tools are recessed and
protected from possible damage when the tools are in the released position.
• Protected cylinders. On the External Gripper, all actuating cylinders are shielded against swinging
piling and other impact damage.
• Corrosion-resistant coatings. The tools are coated with a zinc-rich epoxy primer followed by a tough
polyurethane top coat.
• Load testing. The tools are load tested to 1 1/2 times their maximum rated capacity.
• Sturdy construction. The tools are constructed for the rigors of offshore operations. They are
unaffected by impact loads during normal use and can be used underwater if necessary.
• Easy-to-replace cylinders. Actuating cylinders on the External Gripper can be replaced in a matter
of minutes, even while the tool is holding pipe.
• Quick, economical size changes. All standard Oil States MCS tools will handle a specific range of
pipe sizes. Size adjustments are accomplished quickly and easily by adding or removing standard
spacers on the radial gripping segments. The standard spacers, which are included in the purchase
price of the tools, can also be machined in any shop to adapt the tools for non-standard pipe
diameters.
Oil States MCS handling tools are available for lease or purchase. |
Oil States Industries, Inc.
Oil States International, Inc.