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Tomax AST Tool User Manual

The document is a user manual for an X-Series Anti Stick-Slip Tool (AST) that stabilizes drilling torque to prevent stick-slip. The AST contracts when high torque is encountered, momentarily reducing weight on bit to prevent further stick-slip. It then re-extends using an internal spring to restore weight on bit. The manual provides instructions on AST function, recommended placement in the bottom hole assembly, handling procedures, drilling operations, and tool checks.

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Chinyere Nkere
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631 views4 pages

Tomax AST Tool User Manual

The document is a user manual for an X-Series Anti Stick-Slip Tool (AST) that stabilizes drilling torque to prevent stick-slip. The AST contracts when high torque is encountered, momentarily reducing weight on bit to prevent further stick-slip. It then re-extends using an internal spring to restore weight on bit. The manual provides instructions on AST function, recommended placement in the bottom hole assembly, handling procedures, drilling operations, and tool checks.

Uploaded by

Chinyere Nkere
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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USER MANUAL

X-Series Anti Stick-Slip Tool (AST)

Doc.No: WI4200 Rev.No: 10.00 24h on-call support: +971 50 7649757


USER MANUAL

AST FUNCTION

The Anti Stick-Slip Tool (AST) stabilizes the drilling torque created by the bit through a direct mechanical
process where excess torque causes the tool to contract along internal helical splines. This contraction will
momentarily decrease the weight on bit (WOB) and prevent further onset of stick-slip. An internal spring is
energized in the process and will cause the tool to re-extend, restoring WOB as the torque spike subsides.
This process ensures efficient drilling is maintained and destructive torsional vibrations are removed along
with secondary effects such as lateral vibrations and axial excitation. The stroke of the tool is sufficient to
provide the desired effect without affecting depth tracking. The weight on bit is controlled from surface and
no changes to standard drilling procedures are required. This means the tool can be run without a
specialist at the well site.

This illustration shows how the AST contracts to


reduce WOB when high stick-slip is encountered.

BHA CONFIGURATION

The AST tool is typically placed in the BHA directly above the non-magnetic drill collars. If a roller-reamer or
a stabilizer is placed near the AST, then it is recommended to position the AST below it. DO NOT position
the AST in a string transition area e.g. between collars and HWDP. Avoid having the tool placed between
stiffer BHA components. In a BHA with an under-reamer, the AST must be placed above the under-reamer
and should be spaced out by a collar or pony collar to limit bending forces on the AST.

X-Series AST Page 2 of 4


USER MANUAL

AST HANDLING

The unit is robust and cannot be damaged by standard pipe-handling equipment. However under no
circumstances should any handling tools or equipment be used on chromed surface of the telescopic
extension (Illustration A).

The AST is fitted with a protective transport clamp (Illustration B). Remove the clamp in the rotary – do not
run the clamp into the mouse hole or the well. Please ensure the clamp is attached when the tool is laid
out.

Illustration A Illustration B

Protective clamp (all elastomer)

CAUTION 1: The tool can compress and rotate slightly if weight is applied during handling in the rotary table

DRILLING WITH AST

No particular steps are necessary when drilling with AST other than the cautions and notes detailed in this
manual.

NOTE 1: In boreholes with high friction, standing harmonic oscillations in the BHA can develop. Although unable
to absorb these oscillations, the AST tool will still have its function on the drill bit.

NOTE 2: In simultaneous drilling and under-reaming operations, the AST must be positioned at least 10 feet (3m)
above the under-reamer. This will prevent bending forces acting on the AST, which can create high levels
of internal friction resulting in sub-optimal performance of the AST.

X-Series AST Page 3 of 4


USER MANUAL

AST TOOL (RIG) CHECKS

A surface check must be performed every time an AST is re-run. The AST can only be re-run if the
accumulated total rotating hours do not exceed 200. The AST should also be replaced for any of the
reasons detailed in the Lay-out Procedure.

Surface Acceptance Check Procedure

1. Seals and surfaces:


a. Wipe the polished section of the mandrel dry and check for oil / mud leakage.
b. Check for mechanical damage on the polished section that may damage the seals. Junk
damage, transport damage, etc.
c. If there is leaking oil/mud or visible damage the tool must be laid out.

Downhole Check

It is possible to check the mechanical integrity of the AST (and other tools in the upper BHA) in abnormal
situations, such as when working a stuck BHA or having no drilling progress. This is done by comparing
downhole RPM from the MWD / RSS tool with surface RPM. If the average downhole RPM is the same as
the surface reading, the AST and all other components between the two measuring points have their
mechanical integrity intact.

Lay-Out Procedure

The maximum recommended rotating hours (as per IADC report) on an AST tool is 200. In practical terms,
the tool should be laid out prior to a run that will result in accumulated rotating hours beyond 200. In cases
where a tool has been subjected to abnormal conditions, e.g. excessive jarring, drilling with a ringed out or
under gauged bit, damaged under-reamer, high sand / solids content in the mud, then the AST may have
suffered accelerated wear and should be laid out sooner.

More information: tomax.no

X-Series AST Page 4 of 4

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