Casing and Tubing Pup Joint

Pup joints to API 5CT in lengths from 2 to 12 feet for adjusting casing and tubing string length, in all standard grades and connections.

  • Standard: API 5CT, API 5B, ISO 11960
  • Grades: J55, K55, N80, L80, C90, T95, P110, Q125

Specifications

Outer diameterCasing 4-1/2" - 20", Tubing 1.05" - 4-1/2"
Wall thicknessPer API 5CT weight schedule
Length2 ft, 3 ft, 4 ft, 6 ft, 8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, or custom
EndsPin and box, or pin and pin, in STC, LTC, BTC, EUE, NUE, premium
Surface treatmentSame as parent pipe, phosphate coated threads
Manufacturing processMachined from seamless pipe
Connection typeSTC, LTC, BTC, EUE, NUE, premium

Why Pup Joints Are Needed

Casing and tubing are supplied in standard length ranges R1, R2 and R3, which means the actual string length can rarely be made to match the planned setting depth exactly. A pup joint is a short length of pipe, typically 2 to 12 feet, threaded at both ends so it can be inserted into the string to adjust the total length precisely. In tubing strings a pup joint is also used to position a packer, landing nipple or gas lift mandrel at the correct depth. Because pup joints are made from the same pipe as the string, they carry the same grade, wall thickness and connection, and must be supplied with matching heat traceability so the string tally remains complete. Ordering several lengths in advance avoids rig downtime, since a pup joint that has to be sourced after the string is already running is an expensive delay.

Pin-Box versus Pin-Pin Configurations

Pup joints are supplied in two configurations. Pin and box, the more common, has one external thread and one internal thread, exactly like a standard casing or tubing joint, so it can be made up directly into the string without any additional coupling. Pin and pin has external threads at both ends and requires a separate coupling, or is used where the pup joint must mate with two internals. Pin-pin configuration is common for pup joints used with couplings and for special downhole tools. When ordering, state the configuration, the length measured from shoulder to shoulder, the connection type, grade, outside diameter and weight per foot.

What lengths of pup joint should I order?

The practical answer is a set. Most operators order a range covering 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 feet, which allows any string length to be made up to the nearest one or two feet by combining them. If the setting depth must be matched closely for a packer or landing nipple, add a 1 foot and a 3 foot pup joint. Order the pup joints at the same time as the main string so that the same heat numbers and certification are available, and so the tally is straightforward on the rig floor.

Are pup joints as strong as standard joints?

Yes, provided they are machined from pipe of the same grade and wall thickness and use the same connection. Because a pup joint is short, it is stiffer than a standard joint but its tensile capacity is the same, being governed by the connection and the pipe body cross-section. The main practical caution is handling: short joints are easy to cross-thread and are more prone to being damaged by tongs because there is less length to grip, so make-up should follow the same torque specification as the main string.

Materials

  • Seamless carbon steel
  • Alloy steel
  • 13Cr on request

Typical applications

  • Adjusting casing string length to land at correct depth
  • Adjusting tubing string length for packer setting
  • Well completion and workover
  • Landing nipples and completion accessories
  • Emergency length correction on site

Inspection & testing

  • Thread gauging to API 5B
  • Dimensional and drift inspection
  • Hydrostatic pressure test
  • Hardness testing
  • Material certification with heat traceability
  • Third-party inspection (SGS, BV, TUV)

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