ROTATING CONTROL DEVICES: What are they? Why use Beyond Energy’s?

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Beyond Energy Services & Technology Corp. (‘Beyond’) offers a full suite of field-proven products and services. In this article, the focus will be on the Rotating Control Devices (RCDs) and Bearing Assembly models that we offer.

What is a Rotating Control Device (RCD)?

A Rotating Control Device (RCD) is a critical component in drilling MPD or UBO Operations, creating a pressure-tight barrier around the drill string to direct annular flow.

TITAN 3

TITAN 5

ATLAS

ORION

Why are RCDs essential for your drilling operations?

RCDs are most critical in allowing Operators to drill MPD or UBD successfully. From the sealing elements’ stripping rating to the bearing assemblies’ dynamic ratings. Even when used as a diverter RCDs are critical in providing added safety to personnel and drilling equipment. Most of the blowouts that occur did not have an RCD installed.

Why use Beyond’s RCDs and Bearing Assemblies?

Performance, ease of maintenance, and longevity all contribute to Beyond’s industry-leading RCD Product Lines. Rest assured, when using Beyond’s RCDs, you are reducing costs to your operations by reducing any NPT, consumable, and refurbishment costs. Beyond monitors its RCD Product Line performance constantly to ensure its product line operates as it is designed to perform.

Beyond’s API Licensed Facility, located in Red Deer, Alberta, is the only one in Canada and one of only five in North America. The team responsible for developing the RCD Product Line is comprised of some of the most experienced when it comes to RCDs from operating, training, testing, and engineering. Two team members have been active in the Sub Committee responsible for developing API 16RCD Specification Standard.

Beyond manufactures various models of bearing assemblies with dynamic pressure ratings from 1500 psi to 3000 psi, rotational speed ratings up to 200 RPM, and through bore diameters of 7 ¾” and 9”. Some bearing assembly models are available with optional upper-element attachments; these can be added to compatible bearing assemblies originally manufactured as single-element models. All Beyond bearing assemblies utilize a sealed design, with no external connections to cooling or lubricating systems required. Operating life is extended using high-quality components and lubricants. Corrosion-resistant finishing options are available across the entire model line.

ARES 1578

ARES 3078

ARES 3090

All land model (ARES) bearing assemblies, inclusive of upper element attachments, are compatible with all TITAN 5 RCD bodies; all ARES bearing assemblies without upper element attachments are compatible with all TITAN RCD bodies. All marine (POSEIDON) models of bearing assemblies are compatible with our ATLAS 5 RCD body.

All Beyond bearing assemblies are manufactured under our API SPEC 16RCD product license.

Available land model RCDs with Beyond are:

TITAN 3 – 3000 psi Static Rated design, offered standard with a Rotating Bottom Flange and Manual Clamp
TITAN 5 – 5000 psi Static Rated design, offered Standard with a Rotating Bottom Flange in both Manual and Hydraulic Clamp configurations (ORION Hydraulic Clamp)

Available marine model RCDs with Beyond are:

ATLAS – Beyond’s ATLAS Class RCD Product Line raises the bar again for RCD Performance enhancements. Designed for Surface Stacks Offshore Jackups and Platforms, Above Tension Ring installations on Floaters and Land Rigs where the 18 ¾ Passthrough is required. Static rated to 5000 psi with a standard 21 ¼ 2M top flange for tie back into the drilling rigs diverter housing. This product line carries two key patents providing added benefit to our clients. All accessories are drill pipe conveyed and designed for user-friendly operations.

For more information regarding our line of field-proven RCDs, contact our Sales team today!