LOW-TEMPERATURE STEELS
Resistance and Reliabilty in Arctic Environments
Arctic drilling is one of the most vivid examples of how the oil and gas industry is called upon to adapt to ever-increasing demand for energy resources. This evolution has driven the industry to develop more suitable drill string solutions adapted to extreme conditions, including "arctic" environments.
Proprietary arctic grades already exist for temperatures as low as –40°C. However, for high-strength drill pipe it is necessary to meet the drilling loads in arctic conditions with temperatures as low as –60°C. VAM Drilling is at the forefront of developing solutions for these types of environments.
Controlling critical manufacturing parameters is the key to reach top-of-the-range products. The parameters include:
Steel microstructure;
Chemical composition;
Cleanliness;
Heat treatment; and
Process control.
Low-Temperature Grades
Technical Name
VM-135 DP LT
Working Domain
Low Temperature
Pipe Body
Minimum Yield Strength
135,000 psi
Ultimate Tensile Strength
150,000 psi
Minimum Elongation
API formula §7.3.2
Minimum average Charpy Impact Value at –60°C (–76°F), standard size (7.5 X 10 mm²)
60J – 44 ft-lbs (100J/cm²)
Tool Joint
Minimum Yield Strength
120,000 psi
Ultimate Tensile Strength
140,000 psi
Minimum Elongation
13%
Minimum average Charpy Impact Value at –60°C (–76°F), standard size (10 X 10 mm²)
42J – 31 ft-lbs (52.5 J/cm²)
Weld Zone
Minimum Yield Strength
Stronger than the pipe body
Maximum Hardness
37HRC
Minimum average Charpy Impact Value at –60°C (–76°F), standard size (10 X 10 mm²)
