In Canada drilling rig inspection intervals and criteria is provided by the CAODC (Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors). The CAODC has a range of recommended practices for various different types of oilfield equipment. Completing routing inspections at regular intervals with qualified inspectors is one of the best ways an equipment operator can reduce downtime. Preventive and routine maintenance is an important part of equipment life cycle management.

NTI’s staff are trained on applicable and current standards, both API and CAODC RP’s that are relevant to drilling rig structures and components. Inspectors have also received CWB Level 1 Inspector tickets to improve knowledge about welding and quality control so recommendations on site come with real world expertise.

INSPECTION DOCUMENTATION

All inspection documentation should be provided to the equipment owner. The owner should maintain the inspection documentation with the equipment repair history as recommended by API.

Design Code Changes

API Specification 4F – Specification for Drilling and Well Servicing Structures has recently been updated to API 4F 4th Edition. Equipment designed and manufactured to previous API 4F editions are suitable for service. Provided that major damage or design flaws have not been identified by field use or OEM updates, it is my opinion that equipment manufactured to previous API 4F Editions are still suitable for use in accordance with original load ratings. If major changes or increases are required to load ratings, a qualified engineer should perform an analysis and the structure should be rated to API 4F 4th edition requirements.

For more info: https://nelsen.ca/inspections/