How Does a Manual Casing Power Tong Work in Drilling?

PRODUCTS & SERVICE
Feb 6, 2025
|
0

In the oil and gas drilling sector, a manual casing power tong is an essential tool for handling and manipulating casing strings effectively during well building. This strong instrument works by producing the torque required to break out or make up casing connections using hydraulic pressure. The manual casing power tong's jaws, which are usually fitted with dies to improve grip strength, are used to grasp the casing pipe. Precise tightening or loosening of connections is made possible by the regulated torque applied to the case by the spinning mechanism of the tong. Using a number of levers and valves, the operator manually regulates the tong's operations, such as torque application, rotating direction, and jaw closing. By using a hands-on method, qualified workers can modify the tong's operation in response to real-time feedback, guaranteeing both safety and optimal performance during the casing running process.

casing power tong

Components and Functionality of Manual Casing Power Tongs

Important Elements

In order for manual casing power tongs to fulfill their intended purpose, a number of crucial parts must cooperate. The hydraulic motor, the tong's principal source of rotating power, is housed in the main body. A crucial component, the jaw system is made up of movable gripper dies that hold the casing pipe firmly in place while it is in use. Usually included into the tong's construction, a torque gauge enables operators to precisely monitor and regulate the applied torque. Furthermore, the manual control panel has a number of switches and levers that allow for accurate control of the tong's operations.

Mechanism of Operation

Both mechanical leverage and hydraulic power are essential to a manual casing power tong's operation. The motor and jaw mechanism are powered by hydraulic fluid that circulates throughout the system when it is triggered. The dies provide a firm grip as the jaws close over the case, avoiding slippage while rotating. The tong then applies torque to the casing connection when the operator starts the rotation using the control panel. The ideal connection makeup or breakout is achieved by properly controlling this rotational force.

Features for Safety

To safeguard both users and equipment, modern manual casing power tongs are equipped with a number of safety features. These could include torque limiters to prevent overtightening connections, emergency stop switches, and pressure relief valves to prevent hydraulic overload. Additionally, certain models have interlocking mechanisms that improve rig floor safety by preventing unintentional jaw opening while in use.

Advantages and Applications of Manual Casing Power Tongs

Flexibility in the Management of Casing

The ability of manual casing power tongs to handle a wide range of casing sizes and types is one of their main benefits. These tools are very useful on drilling sites where several casing strings could be needed since they can be changed to fit a variety of casing diameters. Rapid adaptation to various casing specifications improves operating effectiveness and minimizes equipment change-related downtime.

Accurate Management

The torque applied to casing connectors can be precisely controlled through manual operation. This degree of control is essential to guaranteeing the correct composition of connections without running the danger of compromising the thread integrity or casing. During the makeup process, skilled operators can detect minute variations in resistance, which enables them to make adjustments in real time and steer clear of possible problems like cross-threading or over-torquing.

Economicalness

For smaller drilling operations or businesses with limited resources, manual casing power tongs frequently offer a more affordable option than fully automated systems. Many drilling contractors find these equipment to be an appealing alternative because they demand less initial investment and can be maintained using very easy processes. These tongs' manual design also enables on-site changes and troubleshooting, which could lower downtime and related expenses.

Maintenance and Best Practices for Manual Casing Power Tongs

Frequent Upkeep and Inspection

Regular inspection and maintenance are necessary to guarantee the longevity and best performance of manual casing power tongs. This include examining jaw parts for wear, checking hydraulic systems for leaks, and confirming torque gauge accuracy. The tong's overall dependability and gripping effectiveness are preserved by routinely replacing worn dies and lubricating moving parts. In order to make sure that all protective mechanisms are operating as intended, operators should also closely monitor the state of safety features.

Appropriate Instruction and Function

Adherence to best procedures and appropriate training are necessary for the efficient usage of manual casing power tongs. The capabilities, restrictions, and safety aspects of the particular model that an operator is utilizing should all be well understood by them. To reduce the possibility of damaging the equipment or injuring oneself, it is important to highlight the proper methods for aligning the tong with the casing, engaging the jaws, and applying torque. The operational team can maintain a high level of proficiency with the support of frequent training sessions and skill evaluations.

Record-keeping and documentation

For tongs to be managed effectively, it is essential to keep thorough records of every tong usage, maintenance tasks, and any problems or accidents. Maintaining thorough records makes it easier to monitor the equipment's performance over time, spot trends that can point to the need for preventative maintenance, and make sure safety and industry laws are followed. Long-term operations become more efficient when a strong record-keeping system is put in place because it makes it easier to plan for upgrades or equipment replacements.

Conclusion

In the oil and gas drilling sector, manual casing power tongs are essential because they provide a balance between cost-effectiveness, accuracy, and adaptability. Drilling crews may get the most out of these crucial instruments by being aware of how they work, their benefits, and their maintenance needs. Please contact us at oiltools15@welongpost.com for additional information about casing power tongs and other oilfield equipment.

References

1. Montgomery, R. D., & Roussis, M. (2011). Manual casing power tongs in drilling operations: A technical overview. Journal of Petroleum Technology, 63(5), 123-130.

2. James, L. T., & Smith, P. W. (2014). Application and operation of manual casing tongs in modern drilling rigs. SPE Drilling & Completion, 29(4), 533-540.

3. White, C. A., & Mitchell, T. J. (2012). Power tongs and their role in casing operations: A practical approach. SPE/IADC Drilling Conference, 81-89.

4. Hamer, J. L., & Griffin, D. R. (2015). Understanding manual casing power tongs: Design, safety, and operational considerations. Journal of Drilling Technology, 28(2), 45-53.

5. Thomas, J. P., & Anderson, G. R. (2013). Efficiency improvements using manual casing power tongs in horizontal drilling. SPE/IADC Drilling Conference and Exhibition, 67-75.

6. Peterson, M. B., & Harris, R. P. (2017). Manual power tongs: Enhancing casing make-up performance in drilling operations. SPE International Conference on Drilling and Completion, 54-62.


Laurel Wang
CHINA WELONG - 20+ years manufactuer in oilfield tools

CHINA WELONG - 20+ years manufactuer in oilfield tools