uXT and uGPDS Connections
High-strength connections designed for demanding drilling applications.
The Grant Prideco™ uLtimate™ Connection Series, comprised of uXT™ and uGPDS™, is specifically designed to provide increased torque capacity. This is achieved by using high-strength materials and making up the connection to a higher torque level. Even at this higher makeup torque level, the fatigue-resistant thread form and cold-rolled thread roots increase fatigue life above that of standard GPDS™ and XT™ connections. The high-strength properties of the uLtimate Series increase performance, and the durability of these connections extends service life.
Benefits
- Increased torque capacity (+26%)
- Approximately twice the relative fatigue resistance over standard GPDS and XT connections
- Durability of these connections extends service life
Applications
- Shale plays
- As horizontal hole sections have increased in length, so has the demand for a drill string with higher torsional capacity. uXT has been one of the key technologies that has resulted in the success of shale drilling programs by providing the increased drilling torque and hydraulic performance necessary to drill these extended horizontal sections.
- Extended-reach wells
- Operators are now demanding even more torque to reach new targets. The uLtimate Series has enabled operators to expand the industry’s drilling envelope. It has helped in successfully drilling world-class ultra-extended reach wells, including several world records.
Features
- High-strength tool joints
- These connections are designed to be threaded on 130 ksi Specified Minimum Yield Strength material to increase performance.
- Cold-rolled thread roots
- A standard cold-roll process of the thread roots further enhances fatigue resistance.
- Xmark™ benchmark
- This proprietary refacing benchmark is placed on the external bevel of the connection and serves as a 360° visual reference for misaligned refacing without the removal of thread protectors.
- Fatigue-resistant thread form
- This proprietary feature reduces stress concentration in the connection, enhancing its fatigue resistance.
- Interchangeability
- uLtimate Series connections are interchangeable with their GPDS and XT connection counterparts, so current inventories of tools and accessories can still be used.
- Identification groove
- This unique identification groove visually identifies the connection as an uLtimate Series connection. It is remachined as part of the chase-and-face operation.
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