API 7K WT Rotary Slips for 4-1/2–9-1/2 in Drill Collars

Description

Goldenman WT Drill Collar Slips are manually operated rotary slips designed to suspend and hold drill collars in the rotary-table slip bowl during drilling, tripping and bottom-hole assembly handling operations.

The available WT series accommodates drill collar outside diameters from 4-1/2 to 9-1/2 inches, with four overlapping size ranges for matching different drill collar diameters and rig-floor handling requirements.

The slips are designed for use with an API-style or No. 3 insert bowl, subject to dimensional verification of the rotary bushing and slip bowl. The current product range has a page-listed reference maximum load of 40 short tons.

Goldenman supplies WT Drill Collar Slips under the applicable API Spec 7K Rotary Slips product scope, together with inspection documentation, replacement gripping inserts and project-specific spare parts.

Product Short Description

Goldenman WT Drill Collar Slips provide a mechanical gripping interface between a drill collar and the rotary-table slip bowl.

Multiple slip segments move downward into the tapered bowl, causing the gripping inserts to contact the drill collar OD and transfer the suspended load into the rotary table.

Four models cover drill collar diameters from 4-1/2 to 9-1/2 inches. Correct model, bowl compatibility and insert condition must be confirmed before use.

Product Highlights

• Manufactured to applicable API Spec 7K requirements
• API-certified Rotary Slips product scope
• Designed specifically for drill collar handling
• Applicable drill collar OD range from 4-1/2 to 9-1/2 in
• Four WT models with overlapping size ranges
• Reference maximum load of 40 short tons
• Compatible with API or No. 3 insert bowls when dimensionally verified
• Multi-segment manual rotary-slip construction
• Replaceable gripping inserts
• Balanced load distribution around the drill collar
• Manual handles for rig-floor installation and removal
• Forged or cast load-carrying components according to approved design
• Dimensional, hardness and functional inspection
• Replacement inserts, pins, handles and related components available
• Model and bowl matching support for replacement orders

What Are WT Drill Collar Slips?

WT Drill Collar Slips are rotary-table handling tools used to temporarily support a drill collar while making or breaking connections and assembling or disassembling the bottom-hole assembly.

The slips are installed around the drill collar and lowered into the tapered slip bowl.

As the suspended load moves the slips downward:

1. The outer tapered surfaces contact the slip bowl.
2. The individual slip segments move inward.
3. The gripping inserts contact the drill collar OD.
4. The suspended load is transferred through the slip bodies and bowl.
5. The rotary bushing and rotary table carry the resulting load.

The gripping action depends on the relationship between:

• Drill collar outside diameter
• Slip model and insert size
• Slip-body taper
• Bowl taper and dimensions
• Insert tooth condition
• Suspended load
• Correct placement of all slip segments

WT slips are load-holding tools and are not intended to function as elevators or independent hoisting devices.

Main Applications

Goldenman WT Drill Collar Slips can be used for:

• Holding drill collars in the rotary table
• Making up drill collar connections
• Breaking out drill collar connections
• Bottom-hole assembly assembly and disassembly
• Running drill collars into the well
• Pulling drill collars from the well
• Handling slick drill collars
• Handling compatible heavy-wall BHA components
• Land drilling rigs
• Offshore drilling rigs
• Workover and well-servicing operations
• Replacement of worn WT rotary slips

The exact suitability for spiral drill collars, non-standard profiles or heavily hardbanded components must be reviewed before use.

WT Drill Collar Slip Specifications

Model	Applicable Drill Collar OD	Metric OD Range	Reference Weight	Compatible Insert Bowl	Reference Maximum Load
WT4-1/2-6	4-1/2–6 in	114.3–152.4 mm	49 kg / 108 lb	API or No. 3	40 short tons
WT5-1/2-7	5-1/2–7 in	139.7–177.8 mm	46 kg / 101 lb	API or No. 3	40 short tons
WT6-3/4-8-1/4	6-3/4–8-1/4 in	171.4–209.6 mm	42 kg / 92 lb	API or No. 3	40 short tons
WT8-9-1/2	8–9-1/2 in	203.2–241.3 mm	39 kg / 86 lb	API or No. 3	40 short tons

The listed weights and load are reference values from the current Goldenman product page. Final rated capacity, insert arrangement and bowl compatibility are governed by the approved product drawing, API certificate and operating manual.

API Standard and Product Classification

WT Drill Collar Slips fall within the Rotary Slips product category of API Spec 7K, which covers drilling and well-servicing equipment.

API Spec 7-1 is not the correct product standard for these slips. API 7-1 applies to rotary drillstem elements such as:

• Drill collars
• Heavy Weight Drill Pipe
• Drill stem subs
• Kellys
• Stabilizers
• Drill bits

The correct page wording is:

API Spec 7K WT Drill Collar Slips

The drill collar being handled may be manufactured to API 7-1, but the rotary slips used to hold that drill collar are manufactured under the applicable API 7K scope.

How to Select the Correct WT Slip Model

1. Measure the Actual Drill Collar OD

Model selection should use the actual outside diameter at the gripping position.

Do not rely only on the nominal drill collar description because the gripping area may be affected by:

• External wear
• Refacing or reconditioning
• Hardbanding
• Spiral grooves
• Slip recesses
• Handling recesses
• Non-standard customer dimensions

The gripping inserts must contact a suitable cylindrical surface.

2. Select the Model Range

The four WT models have overlapping OD ranges.

For example:

• A 5-3/4 in drill collar may fit WT4-1/2-6 or WT5-1/2-7.
• A 6-7/8 in drill collar may fit WT5-1/2-7 or WT6-3/4-8-1/4.
• An 8-1/8 in drill collar may fit WT6-3/4-8-1/4 or WT8-9-1/2.

An overlapping nominal range does not mean both models provide identical contact geometry.

Goldenman should confirm the preferred model using:

• Exact drill collar OD
• Insert specification
• Slip-body closing position
• Bowl dimensions
• Required contact distribution
• Existing rig-floor equipment

The selected slips should sit correctly in the bowl without being excessively open or fully collapsed.

3. Verify the Slip Bowl

The current product range is listed for use with an API or No. 3 insert bowl.

Before ordering, confirm:

• Rotary-table model
• Master bushing model
• Insert-bowl designation
• Bowl taper
• Bowl inside dimensions
• Bowl seating depth
• Existing slip model
• Bowl condition
• Manufacturer’s drawings

A slip described as suitable for an API bowl should not be installed without checking the actual bowl condition and dimensions.

4. Confirm the Suspended Load

The page lists a reference maximum load of 40 short tons.

The operating review should include:

• Weight of the suspended drill collar string
• Weight of connected BHA tools
• Buoyancy conditions
• Dynamic effects during handling
• Shock loading
• Rig inclination or movement
• Number and condition of slip segments
• Insert and bowl condition

The rated limit should not be exceeded, and the product should not be used to arrest a freely falling drillstring.

5. Check the Gripping Surface

The selected gripping position should be:

• Cylindrical
• Free from heavy mud buildup
• Free from ice or grease
• Free from severe corrosion
• Free from raised welds
• Free from damaged hardbanding
• Suitable for full insert contact

Slips should not be set directly over a connection, transition radius, spiral groove or irregular wear profile unless the design and procedure specifically permit it.

Drill Collar Slips vs Drill Pipe Slips

Comparison	WT Drill Collar Slips	Drill Pipe Slips
Main tubular	Thick-wall drill collar	Drill pipe body
Typical OD	Larger BHA diameters	Conventional drill pipe sizes
Tool geometry	Shorter and heavier slip-body configuration	Model-specific drill pipe slip length
Insert profile	Selected for drill collar gripping	Selected for drill pipe body
Main concern	Stable holding and bowl compatibility	Holding without excessive pipe-body loading
Interchangeability	Not interchangeable	Not interchangeable

A drill pipe slip should not be substituted for a WT Drill Collar Slip simply because its size range appears similar.

The slip length, taper, insert arrangement and intended load transfer may be different.

WT Slips vs Safety Clamp

WT Drill Collar Slips and safety clamps perform different functions.

The WT slips provide the primary rotary-table support inside the slip bowl.

A safety clamp may be installed around a drill collar or other non-shouldered tubular as an additional precaution during selected handling operations.

The safety clamp does not replace the correctly selected rotary slips, and the WT slips do not replace a required safety clamp.

Both products must be installed according to the rig procedure and their individual operating instructions.

Use with Slick and Spiral Drill Collars

Slick Drill Collars

WT slips are primarily suited to a cylindrical gripping surface on a slick drill collar.

The insert teeth should contact the collar evenly around its circumference.

Spiral Drill Collars

A spiral drill collar has raised lands and recessed helical grooves.

Before using standard WT slips, verify that:

• The gripping location provides sufficient cylindrical contact
• The slips do not bridge across spiral grooves
• The inserts contact the collar evenly
• The spiral lands are not damaged
• The collar has an approved slip recess, where required

Standard slips should not be assumed suitable for gripping directly over an irregular spiral profile.

Insert Selection and Replacement

The gripping inserts transfer load from the drill collar to the slip body.

Correct insert selection depends on:

• Slip model
• Drill collar OD
• Insert dimensions
• Tooth profile
• Insert material and hardness
• Retaining arrangement
• Bowl and slip geometry

Replace inserts when there is evidence of:

• Rounded or worn teeth
• Broken teeth
• Cracks
• Uneven wear
• Corrosion
• Loose fit
• Damaged retaining grooves
• Different insert types mixed in one slip set

All inserts in one slip set should have consistent type and wear condition.

Replacing only one severely worn insert may produce uneven load distribution if the remaining inserts are also worn.

Correct Installation Procedure

Before setting the slips:

1. Confirm the slip model and drill collar OD.
2. Inspect all slip segments and inserts.
3. Clean the drill collar gripping area.
4. Inspect and clean the slip bowl.
5. Position all slip segments evenly around the drill collar.
6. Lower the complete set into the bowl in a controlled manner.
7. Verify that every segment seats to a similar depth.
8. Transfer the load gradually.
9. Check for uneven seating or movement.
10. Keep hands and tools clear of pinch points.

When removing the slips:

1. Transfer the tubular load to the hoisting system.
2. Confirm that the slips are unloaded.
3. Lift all segments evenly.
4. Avoid dragging insert teeth along the collar unnecessarily.
5. Place the slips in a secure storage position.

Exact operating steps must follow the Goldenman manual and rig-site safety procedures.

Common Causes of Slippage or Uneven Holding

Wrong Slip Model

A slip outside the preferred OD range may not provide correct insert contact or seating depth.

Worn Inserts

Worn or rounded teeth reduce grip and can cause the slip to move downward unexpectedly.

Contaminated Tubular Surface

Mud, grease, scale or ice can reduce friction between the inserts and drill collar.

Damaged Slip Bowl

Wear, distortion or contamination in the bowl can prevent the slips from seating evenly.

Mixed Slip Segments

Segments from different models, sets or wear conditions should not be combined.

Irregular Drill Collar Surface

Spiral grooves, damaged hardbanding, severe wear or incorrect slip-recess dimensions can prevent uniform gripping.

Excessive or Dynamic Loading

Shock loads and loads above the rated limit can damage the inserts, slip bodies and bowl.

Inspection Before Each Use

Check:

• Correct model identification
• Slip-body cracks or deformation
• Hinge and segment connections
• Handle condition
• Insert tooth wear
• Insert retention
• Fasteners and pins
• Tapered outer surfaces
• Uneven segment wear
• Corrosion
• Product markings
• Bowl condition
• Cleanliness

A damaged or incomplete slip set should be removed from service.

Critical repairs to load-carrying components should not be performed without an approved repair procedure and subsequent inspection.

Maintenance and Storage

After use:

• Remove drilling mud and debris
• Clean the insert grooves
• Inspect the gripping teeth
• Clean the outer tapered surfaces
• Lubricate pins and moving joints as specified
• Apply corrosion protection
• Store the complete matched set together
• Prevent impact damage to the inserts
• Keep model identification visible
• Record inspection and repair history

Do not store heavy equipment on top of the slips or handles.

Replacement Compatibility

A replacement WT slip set should not be ordered using only the drill collar OD range.

Provide:

• Existing manufacturer
• Existing model
• Drill collar OD
• Rotary-table model
• Master-bushing model
• Slip-bowl designation
• Bowl taper and dimensions
• Existing insert part number
• Reference maximum load
• Number and arrangement of slip segments
• Photographs of the slips and bowl
• Existing product drawing, when available

Goldenman will review the interfaces before confirming replacement compatibility.

Manufacturing and Quality Control

Goldenman manufacturing and inspection controls can include:

• Raw-material certificate verification
• Heat-number traceability
• Chemical and mechanical property review
• Heat-treatment record verification
• Slip-body dimensional inspection
• Taper inspection
• Insert-pocket inspection
• Pin and hinge inspection
• Insert material and hardness verification
• Magnetic-particle examination of critical parts
• Visual inspection
• Assembly inspection
• Model-range verification
• Bowl fit-up verification
• Functional opening and closing check
• Load testing according to the approved procedure
• Product marking verification
• Coating and preservation inspection
• Final documentation review

The final inspection scope follows the applicable API 7K requirements, approved quality plan and purchase order.

Available Documentation

The order documentation package can include:

• API certificate
• Certificate of Conformity
• Approved product datasheet
• Assembly drawing
• Material certificates
• Heat-treatment records
• Hardness report
• NDE report
• Dimensional inspection report
• Insert inspection record
• Bowl compatibility record
• Functional inspection report
• Load-test report where applicable
• Product traceability list
• Operation and maintenance manual
• Recommended spare-parts list
• Packing list
• Third-party inspection report

Frequently Asked Questions

Are WT Drill Collar Slips manufactured to API 7K or API 7-1?

WT Drill Collar Slips are Rotary Slips manufactured under the applicable API Spec 7K product scope.

API Spec 7-1 applies to the drill collar itself and other rotary drillstem elements, not to the slips used to hold it in the rotary table.

How do I select between two overlapping WT models?

Select the preferred model from the actual drill collar OD, insert geometry, bowl dimensions and final slip seating position.

The slips should provide even contact and proper seating without being excessively open or fully collapsed.

Can WT slips be used with a spiral drill collar?

Only after confirming that the gripping position provides suitable and uniform contact.

Standard inserts should not bridge across deep spiral grooves. A dedicated slip recess or project-specific handling solution may be required.

Can the slips be used as an elevator?

No.

WT Drill Collar Slips are rotary-table holding tools. They are not intended to lift or transport the drill collar independently as an elevator.

Use an appropriately rated drill collar elevator or other approved hoisting equipment for lifting operations.

What does the 40-short-ton load mean?

It is the reference maximum load listed for the current product range.

The suspended load, dynamic effects, bowl condition, insert condition and complete equipment configuration must remain within the approved operating limit.

Can WT slips fit every API or No. 3 bowl?

Not automatically.

The bowl designation, taper, dimensions, wear condition and seating depth must be verified before compatibility is confirmed.

Why do Drill Collar Slips leave marks on the collar?

The gripping inserts must penetrate or bite sufficiently to transfer load.

Excessive marking can result from incorrect insert size, worn or damaged teeth, uneven seating, excessive load or gripping on an unsuitable surface.

Should all inserts be replaced at the same time?

Replacing inserts as a matched set is generally preferable when wear is significant or uneven.

Mixing new and heavily worn inserts can produce inconsistent contact and uneven load distribution.

What should be checked if the slips move downward under load?

Immediately secure the tubular using the approved rig procedure and inspect:

• Slip model
• Drill collar OD
• Insert wear
• Tubular cleanliness
• Bowl condition
• Segment seating
• Suspended load
• Irregular gripping surfaces

The equipment should not be returned to service until the cause has been identified.

What information is required for replacement WT slips?

Provide the existing model, drill collar OD, bowl designation, rotary table or master bushing details, load requirement, insert part number and photographs.

A dimensional drawing of the bowl and existing slips provides the most reliable replacement basis.

Information Required for Quotation

Please provide:

• Required WT model
• Drill collar outside diameter
• Slick or spiral drill collar
• Slip-recess dimensions, when applicable
• Maximum suspended load
• Rotary-table model
• Master-bushing model
• Slip-bowl designation
• API or No. 3 bowl
• Existing slip manufacturer
• Existing slip part number
• Required insert type
• Required spare inserts
• Required pins and handles
• API certificate requirement
• Inspection and load-test requirements
• Third-party inspection requirement
• Quantity
• Destination country
• Required delivery schedule

For replacement orders, also provide photographs and dimensions of the existing slips, inserts and slip bowl.

Request a Technical Quotation

Goldenman supplies API 7K WT Drill Collar Slips for drill collar sizes from 4-1/2 to 9-1/2 inches.

Available models include WT4-1/2-6, WT5-1/2-7, WT6-3/4-8-1/4 and WT8-9-1/2, with replacement inserts and related spare parts.

Send your drill collar OD, slip bowl, existing model, suspended load and spare-parts requirements to:

Email: info@goldenman.com

Goldenman will review the rotary-table interfaces and prepare the recommended WT slip model, technical datasheet and commercial quotation.