Weatherford´s patented* MicroGrip™ system is used in hydraulic power tong jaws to minimize die marks on
corrosion-resistant alloy (CRA) tubulars. Conventional power tong jaws are equipped with jaws and dies that penetrate the surface of the pipe when the tong jaws are engaged. These penetration points are potential sites for the initiation of stress corrosion cracking and sulfide stress cracking can compromise the integrity of the tubular string. The MicroGrip™ system inserts use serrated vertical gripping bars embedded in an elastomer. The force needed to transfer the rotational torque is equally distributed over a large of number of small gripping elements, hence the indentation of each single gripping element into the pipe surface. Extensive testing proves that use of the Micro-Grip system prevents corrosion in high CO2 and H2S concentration well environments.
Applications:
• Handling systems for high-CRA tubular
• Corrosive environments
• Long-term wellbore integrity applications
• Aluminum-coated riser systems
• Frequently used test strings (to minimize damage)
Features, Advantages and Benefits:
• Fits standard, field proven Weatherford power tongs without special modifications and standard
operating procedures for operational efficiency.
• Tubular integrity preserved against CO2 and H2S corrosion damage.
• Tong-induced load distribution causes minimal marking for less damage to tubing and casing –
preventing stress corrosion-induced failures for long-term tubular integrity.
• Power tong has no hydraulic bladders to maintain, resulting in less system downtime.
• Easy handling, no special power equipment is needed.