Nr.

IPRFI005-GBE
Coursebook Revision 00
Effective Date
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API Threads

ENGLISH

Created By: Revised By Approved By:

The Spanish version of this document has been signed electronically.

Important Notice (for documents printed from the Intranet): this printed document might already be invalid unless the copy shows evidence of being
controlled. If the copy is not controlled and you are not systematically alerted of changes, please check the latest applicable version posted in the LMS
before implementation.

Local legislation prevails over the contents described in this course.

 Purpose and Objectives of this Coursebook 2/50
2/50

The purpose of this coursebook is to theoretically know the main

characteristics of API threads, since how to measure threads and how to
carry out controls of each type of thread will be learnt in other specific
courses.

The objectives of this coursebook are oriented towards the compliance with the following
points:

Learning about API threads, their components, parameters and

applications.

Knowing the defects of thread ends and what must be done to

check them.

Being aware of the importance of the correct lubrication of API

threads.

It is important to understand that not knowing the concepts and principles

explained in this coursebook may impact health, safety and environment as well
as final product quality.

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CHAPTER 1 5
This coursebook shows what the main API Threads
aspects of API threads are.

CHAPTER 2 16
API Thread Types

CHAPTER 3 24
In this coursebook you can find the API Thread Dimensions
explanation of concepts, reflections and
activities, which are very useful for
learning, teamwork and for acquiring a
new approach that allows you to CHAPTER 4 31
implement improvements or changes in
your workplace. Greases

CHAPTER 5 37
Defects in API Threads

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This coursebook has small symbols that are repeated in every chapter and are a way
of organizing the information to make reading easier and more dynamic. These
symbols are called icons.

Below are descriptions of how each icon is used (i.e., when and where they may appear):

GLOSSARY REMINDER APPENDIX

Explains terms and acronyms. Reinforces a concept seen Expands the concepts.
earlier in the coursebook.

MAINTENANCE QUESTIONS NOTE

Highlights necessary Presents trigger questions. Highlights important
maintenance procedures. concepts

EXAMPLE ACTIVITY FINAL EXAM

Illustrates, using real situations, Marks the start of an exercise Marks the beginning of the
the topics being discussed. to reinforce learning. final evaluation.

END OF THE CHAPTER END OF THE COURSEBOOK

Marks the end of the Marks the end of the
chapter. Course book.

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1
API Threads

This chapter CHAPTER 1 TOPICS

describes the
concepts and
fundamental 1.1 Introduction 6
knowledge on what
a thread is, the 1.2 What is a thread? 8
different types of
threads and their
1.3 Types of threaded connections 10
parts.

1.4 Elements of threaded connections 13

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1.1 Introduction
During this course, API threads will be studied in GLOSSARY
depth. These threads are used on tubular products
for oil wells. API
The threads have two functions: American Petroleum Institute

Joining pipes resisting tension and/or compression forces, among others.

Avoiding leakage or entry of fluids into the different columns.

Every threaded connection will be able to withstand

different mechanical stresses (traction, torsion, GLOSSARY
internal and/or external pressure, torque, flexion and
thermal cycles). The design efficiency and the accuracy
of machining provide safety for the resistance Coupling
required for leakage and chemical attacks from the A device for joining two pipes and
earth. making a series of coupled pipes.
The shape and size of each thread component are
designed to interact with the other assembly
component (pipe-pipe or pipe-coupling) in order to
form a seal for the fluid (liquids and gases).

Threaded ends should be inspected in the place of manufacturing.

Normally, the inspection is carried out by sampling, statistically
designed and based on the manufacturer’s experience or on the
manufacturer’s and client’s standards. The Specifications,
Procedures, Inspection and Test Plan and the relevant Quality
Standards must be strictly followed in order to prevent an out-of-
specification pipe from leaving the plant, which could lead to the
loss of a client’s trust and losing the client.

Field inspection is usually carried out on 100% of threaded ends

but this inspection is only visual.

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INITIAL ACTIVITY. What is a thread?

The following activity is suggested to find out your knowledge
about threads.

Based on the different threads in the box, define what a thread is.

Remarks

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1.2 What is a thread?

A thread is a section of helicoidal material formed on a cylindrical

core. This section may be round, triangular, square, trapezoidal,
etc. In the case of pipes, threads are machined at both ends and
have a certain length according to the design of the thread in
particular.
Joints may be:
• Coupled: Both pipes are threaded externally and on the
couplings; machining is internal.
• Integral: One end of the pipes is threaded internally and
the other externally. In this way, pipes are joined
without needing to use couplings.

Threading in Tenaris is a machined process with metal chip removal. There are threading processes
in other industries by plastic deformation (rolling) and by abrasion.
A thread, with metal chip removal, is achieved by carving the material by means of a tool that
generates a helix produced by the combination of the rotating movement of the piece or of the
tool and other rectilinear movements, provided by the machine tool.

CNC unit

Generally, in order to produce the threading on pipes and

couplings continuously, machine tools controlled by electronic
devices or programmable computers called “Numerical control” GLOSSARY
or CNC are used.
CNC
A CNC program is composed of a sequence of alphanumeric
commands incorporated in a piece of electronic equipment, Computer Numerical
which are saved in the control unit memory to achieve Control
repeatability, continuity and accuracy when required, providing
more reliability to the productive system which has very strict
tolerances in the finish of the threaded product.

To machine pipes or couplings, the CNC sends the corresponding control signals to the machine
tool according to the sequence programmed for that product.

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Pipe threading machines are basically similar to

conventional machine tools used for the machining
of cylindrical pieces.

These machines comply with the quality standards,

making manufacturing easy for the operator, and
with the objectives required by the client.

Threads are manufactured in different models or

profiles, according to their use and to the demands
they will be subjected to.

Threading machine

ACTIVITY. What do they have in common?

The following activity is suggested to find out your knowledge
about threads.

According to the similarities and differences of the samples, analyze what they have in common
and classify them .

Remarks

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1.3 Types of threaded connections

Threaded connections used in the petroleum industry may be divided into two main groups:

• Those regulated by the API standard.

• Premium (special) threaded connections.

Below is a list of the most common threaded connections of each group.

WITHOUT METAL-METAL

PREMIUM Threads
SEAL WITH METAL-METAL SEAL
API Threads

§ Line Pipe § Tenaris Blue

§ Round § Wedge Series 500
§ Buttress § Legacy Technologies
WITH METAL – METAL SEAL § Atlas Bradford
§ Extreme Line API

Even though the Extreme Line is a connection regulated by the API standard, it has a metallic seal
and, therefore, it can be considered Premium.

Legacy Technologies comprises TSH Antares Family and NKK Family. (There are also Legacy
Technologies of Hydril, such as MAC or SLX).

The following figure shows how the contact takes place between the threads of the PIN and BOX
ends of some thread types.
0.003”/0.006”

BOX
Compound space for
housing API compound
grease

P IN

Round Thread

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0.001”/0.009”

Compound space for

housing API compound
grease

Buttress Thread

Metal–metal contact which develops contact

pressure preventing leakage

BOX

PIN

PREMIUM Thread

It can be noted that the contact between the threads is not made on the whole surface. Each
thread type is designed to concentrate the force transmitted by tightening at certain areas of the
threads. As will be seen later, the grease that remains trapped in the spaces where threads make
no contact, performs the function of sealing possible leak paths.

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TO CONSIDER … NOTE

All threads for oil piping are registered

Did you know that all API thread types are property and can only be manufactured with
manufactured given the technological capacity the authorization of their owners (API,
of Tenaris plants? Tenaris, Atlas Bradford, etc.).

Within API threaded connections, we can find two basic types:

In
In this
this case,
case, the
the coupling
coupling has
has an
an internal
internal thread
thread and
and isis threaded
threaded at
at the
the ends
ends
with the external threads of the pipes to be joined.
with the external threads of the pipes to be joined.

Coupled
Coupled

ItIt isis aa type

type of
of connection
connection that
that does
does not
not require
require aa coupling
coupling for
for itit to
to be
be
joined.
joined. ItIt isis generally
generally manufactured
manufactured on on upset
upset ends.
ends.
One
One end end of
of the
the pipe
pipe uses
uses an
an external
external thread
thread (pin)
(pin) and
and the
the other
other end end uses
uses
an
an internal
internal thread
thread (box).
(box). The
The coupling
coupling isis direct
direct between
between each
each pipe
pipe segment
segment
or
or section.
section.
Integral
Integral joint
joint

GLOSSARY

Upsetting
It is a manufacturing process in which the ends are made of a thickness higher that the pipe body.

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Here you can see the advantages and disadvantages of each API thread type.

Round Thread

Advantages Disadvantages

• Easy to manufacture. • Low resistance to tension.

• Acceptable sealability for low pressure. • Low sealability for medium and high pressure.
• Known.

60°

Line Pipe Thread

Advantages Disadvantages

• Easy to manufacture. • Low resistance to tension.

• Easy operation. • Low sealability for medium and high pressure.
• Acceptable sealability for low pressure.
• Known.

60°

Buttress Thread

Advantages Disadvantages

• Easy to manufacture. • Low sealability.

• High resistance to tension.
P

3°
10°

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Extreme Line API-PREMIUM Thread (metal-metal seal)

Advantages
Torque
Shoulder Metal-metal seal
• Good resistance to tension.
• Good response to sealing Box
Pin
gas.

Disadvantages

Pin Box
• Upset ends that increase
costs.
• Tight tolerances that
increase costs.
• Limited outer diameter
(from 5” to 10 ¾”).
6° 6°

1.4 Elements of threaded connections

The main elements of a thread are the following:

Projection of uniform section, rolled as a helix around the surface of

Thread
a cylinder or as a tapered spiral around the surface of a cone.

Surface or external part of a thread that constitutes the thread top

Crest and connects its sides or flanks. The higher diameter of a pipe
thread is found at the crest.

Surface or part of the lowest diameter (pin) or higher diameter

(box) of a thread that constitutes the bottom of the carving
Root or valley between adjacent threads and connects their sides or flanks. The
lowest diameter (pin) or the highest diameter (box) of a pipe thread
is found at the root.

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Sides Surfaces that connect the crest to the valley.

The pipe end is not cut perpendicularly in all its thickness, it is cut
Bevel or chamfer
conically.

All the pipe thickness is not beveled, the part that remains
Frontal face
perpendicular to the pipe is called the frontal face.

Thread frontal flank, that is, the flank that points to the nearest
Connecting flank
pipe / coupling end.

Thread back flank, that is, the flank that points to the pipe /
Load flank
coupling body.

Distance between a point of a thread and the corresponding point

Thread pitch
of the adjacent thread.

Thread height Distance between the thread crest and root.

Thread taper Change in the diameter along the thread.

Pitch
BOX (Coupling)
Box front

Valley
Co
nn

Crest
ec
Co

Thread height
e

tin
sid

nn

(Depth
gf
id e

ec
ad

Crest
tin

la n
Lo

ad

gf

30°
Lo

30°
la n
k

Pin front

Valley
90°
PIN
Pipe shaft

Taper of 3/4“ per foot on the diameter

3/8" 12"

Diagram of a general profile of a round thread

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ACTIVITY. Thread elements

The following activity is suggested to incorporate the
vocabulary and learn to identify each element.

In groups, study the different elements of threaded connections.

Remarks

Congratulations! You have finished chapter 1. Up next is chapter

“API Thread Types”.

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2
API Thread Types

In this chapter, the CHAPTER 2 TOPICS

characteristics of
the different API 2.1 Round Thread 17
thread types will be
studied in depth.
2.2 Line Pipe Thread 19

2.3 Buttress Thread 20

2.4 Extreme Line API-PREMIUM Thread 22

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2.1 Round Thread

A round thread is a tapered thread with an angle of 60° between flanks (30° per flank).
Its crests and roots are round and fulfill the purpose of providing a controlled light between both
surfaces (pin and box) where the grease and its constituents (lead and copper) act as sealing
elements. When assembling the joints, the clearance
existing between the valley and the crest is 0.003”.

Besides making manufacturing easier, in this thread

type, thread crests are less susceptible to suffering from
damage due to minor hits.

Resistance to internal pressures (seals) is done on both

thread flanks between the pipe and the coupling by
means of an appropriated pre-established torque. Round thread PIN

This thread is manufactured on production tubing,

external upset tubing, non-upset tubing and casing
pipes.
It is one of the oldest threads and it is used in shallow
wells with low internal pressure. It is a non-gas sealing
and it has a tendency to disconnect in the presence of
abrupt deviations in the well verticality.

Diagram of a general profile of a round thread Round thread BOX

Pitch
BOX (Coupling)
Box front

Valley
Co
nk

nn

Crest
Co

Thread height
b la

ec
nk

nn

(Depth)
tin
fla
ad

ec

gf

Crest
tin
ad
Lo

la n

30°
gf
Lo

30°
k
la n
k

Pin front

Valley

90°
PIN
Pipe shaft

Taper of 3/4“ per foot on the diameter

3/8" 12"

Round thread profile (taper of 0.0625” per inch)

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NOTE During threading, these connections have a high

interference between their flanks and cause high
friction. Therefore, to avoid thread meshing, proper
It is of vital importance to apply enough greasing of both the pin and the box is a priority.
grease on this thread, since its Owing to the configuration of this thread type,
constituents help to avoid losses of thread crests and valleys make no contact, leaving a
fluids and act as a lubricant. clearance that is filled with threading grease and
forms, in this way, its only seal.

BOX
0.003”

P IN

Clearance between thread crest and Cut of a round thread

valley

Different types may be found within round

GLOSSARY
threads:

EU
Tubing •EU: external upset External upset
(1.050” to 4 round thread.
½” /8 and
10 threads
•NU: non-upset round NU
per inch) thread. Non upset

LC
Casing Long Casing
•LC: long round thread
(4 ½” to casing.
20” /8 STC
threads per
•STC: short round Short Thread Casing
inch) thread casing.

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2.2 Line Pipe Thread

It is a V tapered thread type with an angle of 60° between flanks (30º per flank). Its crests and
roots are truncated parallel to the taper.

The radial light between crests and roots is higher than in the round thread, therefore the
grease is a very important element as a sealing factor. When the joints are assembled there is a
clearance of 0.005” between crest and valley.

As in the round thread, the sealing is done on both flanks by means of a pre-established torque.

Pitch
BOX

Valley
Box front

Co
nn
Thread height

Co

ec
(depth)
nk

nn

t in
Crest
fl a

ec

gf
nk

t in

l an
ad
f la

Crest

gf
Lo

k
l an
ad

30°
Lo

k
30°

Valley
90° PIN

Pin front
Pipe shaft

taper of 3/4“ per foot on the diameter

3/8" 12"

Line Pipe thread profile (Taper of 0.0625” per inch)

This thread is manufactured on Line NOTE

Pipes, generally with 8 and 11 ½ threads
per inch and with a taper of 0.0625” per
Owing to the thread crest shape, it tends to suffer
inch on the diameter.
damage caused by minor hits, therefore, it is
necessary to take maximum care in the handling of
pipes during and after their manufacturing.

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2.3 Buttress Thread

It is a coupled connection designed to resist high axial tension or compression loads as well as
offering leakage resistance. Owing to its high resistance to traction, it is generally used in wells of
medium or high depth.

Casing Buttress Thread

Trapezoidal shape with two flanks.

Tapered thread with a higher

resistance to the loss of fluids than the
round thread.

Asymmetrical thread angles.

Crests and roots parallel to taper.

Manufactured on couplings for casing

pipes.

When assembled, the clearance PIN

between the valley and the crest is
0.002”.

The load flank is 3° and the plug is

10°. The 3° flank offers resistance to
the disconnection under axial traction
load, while the 10º plug offers
resistance to the axial compression
load. The thread seal is produced at
the 3° flank.

The resistance to the loss of fluids is

completed with the adequate use of
grease, which is found among crests,
roots and 10° flanks during the pipe
and coupling assembly. BOX

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3°
10°

h Plug flank

Load flank

Casing Buttress

It is generally manufactured for casing pipes with 5 threads per inch, with tapers of:
• 0.0625” per inch for diameters of 4 ½” to 13 3/8”;
• 0.0833” per inch for diameters of 16” and higher.

Pitch
Box

Valley
CPLG front

Connecting Connecting
flank flank
Crest
Load flank Load flank

Thread height
10°

depth
3°

Crest

Pin front
Valley
Pin
90° 90°
Pipe shaft

For less than 16"

3/8" 12" Taper of 3/4" per foot on the diameter

Taper of 0.0625” per inch

Pitch
Box
90°
Valley
CPLG front

Connecting Connecting
Load flank
BOX thread depth

flank flank Crest

PIN thread height

Load flank
10°
3°

Crest
Pin front

Valley

90° 90° Pin

Pipe shaft

For 16"or more

Taper of 1“ per foot on the diameter
1/2" 12"

Taper of 0.0833” per inch

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2.4 Extreme Line API-PREMIUM Thread

The Extreme Line thread is an integral

type, that is, the pipe-to-pipe
connection is made without using a
coupling. In this case, threads are only
used to keep the joints connected,
since the tightening is done by the
interference of metal-to-metal seals of
the joints.

The clearance between the valley

and the crest at the assembly is
0.005” to 0.009”.

This joint is generally manufactured for upset casing

pipes with
• 6 threads per inch and a taper of 0.104” per inch
for diameters of 5” to 7 5/8”;
6° 6° • 5 threads per inch and a taper of 0.125” per inch
for diameters of 8 5/8” to10 3/4”.

Pitch

Box
Valley
Load flank
Connecting
flank
BOX depth
PIN height

Crest Load flank

6° Crest
6° Metal-metal seal
Connecting
flank
90° Valley

90° 90° Pin

Pipe shaft

6 threads per inch and a 5 threads per inch and a taper of

taper of 0.104" per inch 0.125“ per inch for diameters of
for diameters of 5" to 7 8 5/8" to 10 3/4"
3/4" 12" 5/8" 12"
5/8"

Integral joint

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ACTIVITY: Comparative chart

The following activity is suggested in order to understand the
main characteristics and differences of API threads.

In groups, make a comparative chart of the different API thread types.

ROUND
CHARACTERISTICS LINE PIPE BUTTRESS EXTREME LINE
THREAD

Congratulations! You have finished chapter 2. Up next is chapter

“API Thread Dimensions”.

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3
API Thread
Dimensions

CHAPTER 3 TOPICS
This chapter
describes the main
dimensions of each 3.1 Round and Line Pipe Thread Dimensions 25
thread type.
3.2 Buttress Thread Dimensions 26

Extreme Line API-PREMIUM Thread

3.3 29
Dimensions

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3.1 Round and Line Pipe Thread

Dimensions
Below is a description of dimensions of the Round thread and the Line Pipe thread pin end.

Pin Thread fading plane

12 Line Pipe and Casing
15 Tubing
Measurement length Last perfect thread
* (at L4-g)

60°

Lc

L4 - g g

L4

Lc L4 – g L4
It is measured parallel to Thread length with perfect It is measured parallel to
the thread shaft from the threads (parameter the thread shaft from the
beginning of the thread to measurement area). beginning of the thread
a pre-established value. (pipe end) to the fading
point of the thread tool
mark.

REFERENCES

* g
First perfect thread Minimum thread length with imperfect
threads

L4 Lc
Total thread length Minimum thread length with complete crest

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Dimensions for box end are as follows:

Box

NL/Z

*
PERFECT R.

J+1 Ø W ø Q

J+1
From the center of the coupling to one side and the other, it defines the length where
incomplete threads may be found: 5 or 6 threads for 8 and 10 threads respectively.

REFERENCIAS

NL *
Coupling length . First perfect thread

W q
Coupling outside diameter Recess length

Q b
Inside diameter at recess height Carrying surface width

3.2 Buttress Thread Dimensions

Buttress thread pin ends have a triangle stamped after the fading plane. This triangle is used as a
reference for tightening couplings on these thread types. In this way, depending on the distance
of the coupling to the triangle base, it can be determined if the tightening is correct.

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Below is a description of the dimensions of Buttress thread pin end.

Pin

1st perfect
thread
(at 9.5mm) Las t perfect
G
thread Fading plane
(at L7)

60°

Lc

L7 g

L4

Al

Lc
Two threads that represent the original pipe surface are accepted within Lc provided that
neither of them exceeds the pipe circumference by 25 % (1/4).

REFERENCES

Al
End length to the triangle base.

L4
Total thread length (from the pipe end to the
fading point).

L7
Thread length with perfect threads.

g
Minimum thread length with imperfect
threads.

lc Triangle for tightening a Buttress thread

Minimum thread length with complete crest.

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The dimensions for the box end are as follows:

Box

NL/2

Perfect *
thread b

ØW
J +1 ØQ
Bevel width

J+1
From the center of the coupling and to one side and the other, it defines the length where
incomplete threads may be found.
Casing thread: 3 threads.
Tubing thread: 12.7 mm.

REFERENCES

NL Q
Coupling length. Inside diameter at recess.

* q
Location of the first perfect thread: Recess length.
second thread root counted from the
face to the coupling center.

W b
Coupling outside diameter. Carrying surface width.

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3.3 Extreme Line API-PREMIUM Thread

Dimensions
Below is a description of the dimensions of the Extreme Line thread pin end.

Pin
L6

L5

L7

L8

MIN 1.6 mm 23,81

ZONE A ZONE B

ØM ØE
ØL ØG ØB

REFERENCES

B X
Pipe inside diameter. Minimum thickness of seal wall.

M L5
Upset outside diameter. Length up to the tangency point.

L L6
Cylinder diameter. Joint length.

G L7
Thread back diameter. Length up to the seal projection.

E L8
Threaded frontal diameter. Length up to thread end.

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Dimensions for the box end are as follows:

Box
12.7
1" 1"

ZONE A ZONE B

ØD
ØJ ØK
ØM
L1

L2

L3

L4

REFERENCES

J L1
Threaded frontal diameter. Length up to thread end.

K L2
Threaded back diameter. Length up to seal projection.

M L3
Upset outside diameter. Length up to seal end.

D L4
Cylinder inside diameter. Total threaded length.

Congratulations! You have finished chapter 3. Up next is chapter

“Greases”.

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4
Greases

This chapter CHAPTER 4 TOPICS

describes the two
types of greases that
are used for threads 4.1 Types of Greases 32
and the two
methods of 4.2 Application of Greases 35
application.

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4.1 Types of Greases

There are two types of greases that are used on ends:

Storage Running

Storage grease

Storage grease is used to protect threaded REMINDER

ends from corrosive agents. It is composed of a
powerful package of anticorrosive additives From the point of view of corrosion
protection, it is the grease that has given the
based on calcium sulfonate.
best results.
It is well-adhered to ferrous surfaces, it is not
easily drained nor washed away at storage
temperature in the open air. NOTE
It resists 2000 hrs of saline fog, which is a much
higher value than that of the AADA Storage grease is used when prolonged periods
of storage in the open air are required or at
(Argentine Association of Agrometeorology)
the client’s request, but it must be removed
(72 hrs). That is why it is used when the pipes and replaced with running grease before using
are transported and stored in areas near the the pipes in the well.

sea.

PIN and BOX with storage grease

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Running grease

Running or anti-galling grease is the API 5A3 Thread Compound. It is used to prevent coupling
and pin meshing when submitted to elevated torques.
Basically, it acts by forming a layer of lead, zinc, copper and graphite, reducing the friction
coefficient and facing two different surfaces.

Coupling It is made up of more than 60% heavy

Film formed metals:
between
flanks by • 30% Pb (lead)
grease • 12% Zn (zinc)
metals. • 3% Cu (copper)
• 18% graphite.

Pipe The remaining substances are grease, oil

and additives.

Due to the elevated concentration of solids and to the effect of thermal changes suffered by
ends stored in the open air, the oil drains over time and is replaced by water (generally rain
water), which causes a saline bridge between the different metals resulting in electrochemical
corrosion.
Because of this, chambers are formed with the protector wall and the climatic changes generate
breathing cycles, which allow the entry of rain or dew water loaded with particles from the
atmosphere and the industrial dust, which accelerate the corrosion process.

Due to the elevated size of its metallic particles, running grease does not have a good adherence,
with areas frequently remaining uncovered and eventually exposed.

REMINDER NOTE

This compound is approved by API and is

Running grease is used at the client’s request
regulated by a strict standard regarding
since it is practically not replaced at the wells.
physical and chemical tests.

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As a reception test the following is

NOTE
controlled:
• Wash with water.
• Penetration. Due to its high content of lead, running grease
• Applicability at low temperatures.
must be handled with care, gloves must be
• Separation of oils.
worn and people must not smoke when hands
• Evolution of gases.
are contaminated with grease.
• Zinc/lead/copper/graphite content.

PIN and BOX with running grease

There are variants to this grease that allow a better applicability at low temperatures. These
greases are called arctic grade.
There are also ecological anti-meshing greases. They replace heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Zn) with Teflon
particles. They are only used at the client’s request.

QUESTION

Did you know that this grease improves corrosion protection for short storage periods even though
it is not the grease that provides the best protection?

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4.2 Application of Greases

The recommended amounts of grease to be used vary depending on the pipe diameter and the
type of end.

There are three points of applications on coupled ends.

Pin field end Pin mill end Box field end

API or Storage Only API API or Storage

Manual application
Take the following steps to manually apply the grease:

1 Mix the deposit content.

Submerge a brush or woolen roller in the grease container. The container must
2 be free of foreign substances (water, displacing oil, solvent, lubricating oil).

3 Apply the grease with the roller generating a thin and continuous layer on the
entire threaded surface.

REMINDER

The grease applied on the pin side must be the necessary amount so as to produce, once the
protector is placed, a seal by a grease film between the pin side and the pipe in order to prevent the
entry of water.

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NOTE

To check that the amount applied is correct, the thread should be observed and its shape identified.

Application using a grease applicator

NOTE

The operator must verify the correct application of any type of grease on the pipe thread.

In order to control the amount of grease placed with the automatic grease applicator, mainly on
the pin side, take the following steps:

Weigh the cardboard on which the grease will be deposited (Weight B). The
1
scales used have to be calibrated once a year.

Collect the grease that comes out from the applicator tube during a greasing
2
cycle on the cardboard.

3 Weigh the cardboard together with the grease (Weight A).

Calculate the amount of grease:

4
Amount of grease = A – B.

Check the amount of grease applied comparing it with the weight table
5
considering the diameter.

6 Adjust the amount of grease by using the regulation on each machine.

Congratulations! You have finished chapter 4. Up next is chapter

“Defects in API Threads”.

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5
Defects in API
Threads

This chapter CHAPTER 5 TOPICS

describes what
defects API threads
may have, what 5.1 Main Control Parameters 38
they may cause and
what should be Verification of the possible causes of each
5.2 39
defect
checked if they
arise.

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5.1 Main Control Parameters

The main control parameters are the following:

Height, pitch and taper.

Thread diameters and ovality.

Thread lengths.

Cylindrical diameters.

Angle measurement.

Thread run-out, applicable to Buttress thread. This is the intersection of the

thread cone and the pipe external surface, located at the run-out surface where
the valley fades. To measure the thread run-out, a thread run-out gauge is used.

Thread turns.

NOTE

The visual and dimensional inspection of threads is studied in more detail in the course “Control of
Thread Parameters”.

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5.2 Verification of the possible causes of

each defect
ACTIVITY. Analysis of defective threads
The following activity is suggested in order to see the different
defects that threads may have.

In groups, analyze what defects the samples have and consider what consequences may arise from
using threads with those faults.

SAMPLE DEFECTS CONSEQUENCES

THREAD 1

THREAD 2

THREAD 3

THREAD 4

THREAD 5

THREAD 6

THREAD 7

THREAD 8

THREAD 9

THREAD 10

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Low thread height

It produces leakage because it increases the helicoidal grease channel or space between pin and
box.

Check:

• Off center comb (check the center).

• Turn the outside diameter allowed by the
equipment and with a caliper measure from the
turned diameter to the cutting edge. A
measurement will be obtained and will be
called “d”. This measurement must be equal to
half of the turned diameter. Normal Increased

Lower thread width

It produces leakage since only one flank comes into contact, not sealing the thread.

Check:

• with a comparator, the three following

possibilities and correct the one that is out of
tolerance:
- misaligned comb seat
- misaligned tool holder
- misaligned lathe tower
• Comb seat. Verify if it is deformed as well as
misaligned.
• Support plate, which may be loose or not the
appropriate one for the helix angle.
• Tool holder on the face opposite the support Increased Grease Chamber
face in the mounting place.
• Tower, radially and axially, (before making any
change) according to the procedure being used.

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Staggered thread flank

It produces assembly meshing, causing the deterioration of the pin and box end and their
removal.

Check:

• Anchoring of tool holder, in case the insert

moves when threading.
• Support of the threading insert in case it is
deformed.
• Axial shift in the program.
• Movement of shafts of the equipment in use.
Manually move on Z(-) 0.01 in each pitch until
traveling 2 mm and then return (if it is correct
return to “0”) and move 0.01 for each 0.01
requested. If it accumulates and suddenly
travels all the distance together or if it does not
accompany the movement, notify Maintenance.

Torn thread

It causes interferences or lack of material. It will cause leakage during use and joint meshing.

Check:

• Thread cutter condition.

• Cutting speed used versus the speed
recommended by supplier.
• Alignment of insert, tool holder and tower.
• Adequate well-directed coolant and correct
pressure.
• Coolant concentration.
• Material hardness.
• Thread cutter mounting.
• That the color of the metal chip is transparent
blue and allows the base metal to be seen (if it
is too dark it means that a high cutting speed is
being used).
• Overmaterial in the machining.

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Projecting thread

It may be the result of tool breakage during threading, leaving a non-usable profile because the
joint would mesh.

Check:

• Direction of coolant nozzle and pressure,

making sure the nozzle is directed to the
machining area.
• Cutting speed according to supplier’s
recommendation and type of steel.
• Alignment of thread cutter with comparator
0.01.

Grooved thread

Grooves may be caused by material welded on the tool during machining. Grooves reduce the
contact areas and the joint resistance.
The material is welded to the cutting edge because it is cut, reaching the fusion temperature of
the material that is being threaded. Coolant is probably wrongly directed or insufficient.
The tool holder may also be misaligned or deformed, cutting wrongly or off center.

Check:

• Direction of coolant nozzle and pressure,

making sure the nozzle is directed to the
machining area
• Cutting speed according to supplier’s
recommendation and type of steel.
• Alignment of thread cutter with comparator
0.01.
• Support and anchor bolt.
• Material stuck to cutting edge.
• Inadequate axial cut depth, check threading
program.

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Incomplete thread (black or worn)

It reduces the contact areas and increases the grease or seal chamber. The joint loses resistance
and the possibility that it leaks increases.

Check:

• That the appropriate overmaterial is left

according to the thread cutter.
• That 6 mm for comb and 3 mm for one-tooth
inserts are left with a taper template according
to the application procedure.

Dented thread

It meshes the joint and makes it discardable.

Check:

• Mandrel passage.
• Handling elements during transportation pipes.

Meshed thread

It may be caused by cutting thinness or cutting edge wear. It is discardable.

Check:
• Thinness of the last threading cut.
• Badly calculated axial shift, if it was applied.
• Movement on the “Z” shaft.
• Coolant pressure and direction.

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Cracked thread

It reduces joint resistance. It is discardable.

Check:

• This topic is particular and specific of the

technological phenomenon that causes it. It is
very important to assess it together with the
experts on this type of test, depending on the
lot and the actions to be taken.

Scratched thread

If material was removed it is discardable because it meshes. If the mark is only superficial it does
not affect the thread.

Check:

• Last cut thickness.

• Metal chip sweep.
• Coolant pressure, direction and efficiency.

Scaled thread

It is a fault that arises when a thread comes loose while being made causing the deterioration of
the joint.

Check:

• If a thread has come loose.

• Lot and/or casting.
• Inform the Rolling area.

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Oxidized thread

It has to be assessed whether the oxide has altered the surface rugosity.

Check:
• Protection of threads with the requested
product.
• Water displaceable oil used.
• Appropriate cleaning procedure before
application.
• Place for storing products, grease, water
displacement agent, protectors, etc.
• Protector condition.

Dented bevel
If it is external and its repair keeps the carrying surface within the standard, it is usable;
otherwise, it is discardable.
If it is internal and has not influenced the thread inlet profile, it is good; otherwise, it is
discardable.

Check:
• Loosening of any component when the
conveyor belt is automated.
• Appropriate treatment when being assembled.
• Once assembled, that the protector does not
come loose and fall due to little torque.
• Product storage place.
• Cleanness of storage area.

Abnormal bevel

If it is outside the standard and can be repaired in a way that the repair is measurable, do it;
otherwise, it is discardable.

Check:

• Centering of clamps.
• End ovality.
• Clamp inserts to see if they are broken.

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Bevel with oxide pits

They are causes of rejection since they generate areas of crack extension.

Check:

• Water displacement agent condition.

• Protection grease condition.
• Cleaning method used.

Vibration at roots and crests

A slight vibration in roots and crests is not acceptable.

Check:

• Threading of tool holder is not loose or

misaligned.
• Depth of cut according to the thread cutter.
• Tightening clamps.
• Centering of piece in process.
• Cutting speed.
• Projection of tool in use.
• Projection of piece in process.

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Vibration at flanks

It is a reason for rejection as it causes meshing when mounting pin and box.

Check:

• That the threading tool holder is not loose or

misaligned.
• Depth of cut according to thread cutter.
• Tightening clamps.
• Centering of piece in process.
• Cutting speed.
• Projection of tool in use.
• Projection of piece in process.

Thread beginning on carrying surface

It is a reason for rejection. It may be repaired if it is within tolerance.

Check:

• Position of beginning of the threading

according to the piece.
• Deficient facing.
• Excessive taper run-in.

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Interrupted thread beginning

It is not a reason for rejection unless the client requests otherwise.

Check:

• Machining ovality.
• Position of thread run-out.
• Excessive run-in taper.

Double thread run-in

Complete thread interrupted in control area

It is a reason for rejection. It reduces the contact area and resistance so increasing the possibility
of leakage.

Check:

• Rolling defect.

Thread beginning with burrs

It must not contain burrs that may come loose and be trapped between flanks causing meshing.

Check:

• In the case of automated programming, delete

and correct burr program.

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Pitch out of tolerance

Pin and coupling thread meshing during assembly in the well. It does not guarantee the
minimum mounting and dismounting amount that the standard requires. Fall of the column.

Check:
• Prolonged pitch out of tolerance.
• Anchoring of tool holder in case the insert
moves when threading.
• Support of the threading insert in case it is
deformed.
• Axial shift in the program.
• Movement of shafts of the equipment in use.
Manually move on Z(-) 0.01 in each pitch until
traveling 2 mm and then return (if it is correct
return to “0”) and move 0.01 for each 0.01
requested. If it accumulates and suddenly
travels all the distance together or if it does not
accompany the movement, notify Maintenance.
• Thread out of tolerance regarding the width.

High ovality
The coupling has deficient torque, with fluid leakage, therefore, it will not resist the traction. If it
is subjected to the maximum requirements calculated, the joint will come loose because the
coupling turn is out of tolerance.

Check:
l1 length is more than l2

• Clamp pressure.
• Clamps.
l2

l1

Chapter “Defects in API Threads” is completed. Congratulations!

You have finished the course API Threads.

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