Automatic pipe feeding system
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Standard Model | Heavy-Duty Model | Offshore Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pipe OD range | 2-7/8″ – 13-3/8″ | 2-7/8″ – 20″ | 2-7/8″ – 13-3/8″ |
| Max single joint weight | 1,500 kg (3,300 lbs) | 3,500 kg (7,700 lbs) | 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs) |
| Conveyor length | 12 – 24 m (custom) | 12 – 24 m | 12 – 18 m |
| Conveyor angle | 15° – 35° (adjustable) | 15° – 35° | fixed (platform layout) |
| Conveyor speed | 0 – 1.2 m/s | 0 – 1.0 m/s | 0 – 1.5 m/s |
| V-door tilt angle | 0° – 80° | 0° – 80° | 0° – 90° |
| Hydraulic pressure | 2,500 psi | 3,000 psi | 2,500 psi (fire‑resistant fluid) |
| Power source | 45 kW hydraulic power unit | 75 kW HPU | 45 kW HPU (Ex‑rated) |
| Control voltage | 24V DC | 24V DC | 24V DC (intrinsically safe) |
| Weight (12m catwalk) | 6,500 kg | 9,000 kg | 7,500 kg |
| Operating temp | -20°C to +50°C | -30°C to +50°C | -20°C to +45°C |
| Certifications | API 8C / CE | API 8C / GOST | API 8C / DNV / ATEX Zone 2 |
Standard sensors included:
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Pipe presence / position (inductive or ultrasonic)
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Hydraulic cylinder stroke feedback (linear transducer)
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Pressure sensors (grip confirmation)
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Inclinometer on skid arm
Product Types – Automatic Pipe Feeding Systems
| Model | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| PFS-1500 | Land rigs ≤ 3,000m depth | 1,500 kg capacity, 12m catwalk, manual rack pick |
| PFS-3000 | Land rigs up to 5,000m | 3,000 kg capacity, 18m catwalk, auto finger system |
| PFS-7000 | Large land rigs / heavy casing | 3,500 kg capacity, 24m catwalk, dual-chain conveyor |
| PFS-Offshore | Jack-up / platform rigs | Compact footprint, DNV type approval, Ex‑rated |
| PFS-Retrofit | Any existing rig | Bolt-on catwalk & skid arm, integrates with existing iron roughneck & top drive |
We also offer semi-automatic versions (manual rack pick + powered catwalk) for budget-conscious customers, and fully automatic versions (robotic pipe rack stacker + full tracking) for pad drilling with walking rigs.
Applications – Where Automation Pays Off
| Operation | Without Auto Feeder | With Auto Feeder | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Making a connection (tripping in) | 4-5 min, 2-3 crew on catwalk | 2 min, 1 operator in cabin | 50% faster, safer |
| Tripping out (pipe laid down) | Manual drag to racks, high fatigue | Automatic low to rack, no handling | Eliminates back strain |
| Running casing (heavy joints) | Crane + tag lines, high risk | Skid arm lifts + catwalk feeds | No sling, no dropped objects |
| Offshore platform (crowded deck) | Manual handling in tight space | Remote operation from cabin | Space utilization improved |
| Arctic / extreme weather | Crew exposed to cold, low productivity | Heated control cabin, automation unaffected | Year-round consistent speed |
| Pad drilling (100+ wells) | Cumulative fatigue, safety incidents decline | Repetitive task automated, crew fresh for critical jobs | Lower incident rate over campaign |
Why Choose SJ Petro for Your Automatic Pipe Feeding System?
1. Designed by Rig People for Rig People
We interviewed dozens of drillers, toolpushers, and HSE managers to understand exactly where pipe handling hurts most. Our system addresses real complaints: poor visibility, heavy pipe, pinch points, and slow cycling. The result is an intuitive, rugged machine that crews actually want to use.
2. Fits Any Rig – Old or New, Any Brand
We don’t require a new rig. Our system bolts onto existing substructures, catwalks, and V-doors. We provide custom mounting brackets for Derrick, National, and other mast profiles. For rigs with limited space, we build shorter catwalks or use folding sections.
3. Safety First – Designed to API 8C & ISO 12100
Our system complies with API 8C (drilling and well servicing equipment) and ISO 12100 (safety of machinery). Features include:
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Load-holding valves on all lift cylinders
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Redundant holding brakes on conveyor drive
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Two-hand start for critical motions
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Audible alarms before movement
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Full guarding per OSHA/CSA standards
We provide a comprehensive risk assessment with every installation.
4. Fast Payback – Typically 6-18 Months
Consider the cost of one dropped pipe incident (damaged pipe, lost time, injury claim) – easily $100k+. Or the cost of a back injury claim from manual handling. Our system eliminates these risks. For high-activity rigs (making 50+ connections per day), the time savings alone can pay for the system within one year.
5. Global Support & Spares
We stock critical wear parts at regional hubs: chains, sliders, hydraulic cylinders, sensors, and power unit components. Our technicians can be on-site for installation or troubleshooting within days. Remote diagnostics via the PLC (optional cellular modem) can solve many issues without a visit.
6. Backed by Sinopec – Proven in the World’s Largest Shale Gas Field
Our automatic pipe feeding systems have been deployed on over 150 rigs in China’s Fuling shale gas pad, where rig moves and high-frequency tripping are the norm. They have collectively handled millions of pipe joints with zero lost-time incidents attributed to the system.
7. Upgrade Path to Full Automation
Start with a basic powered catwalk. Later add the automatic rack pick system, then the pipe tracking software, then integrate with the iron roughneck and top drive for a fully hands-free floor. Our control architecture supports modular upgrades.
FAQ – Automatic Pipe Feeding System
Q1: What pipe sizes can the system handle – does it require changeover parts?
A: Standard system handles 2-7/8″ to 13-3/8″ with no changeover. For 16″ to 20″ casing, we offer quick-change V-groove inserts (15 minutes to swap). For drill collars or heavy-weight pipe (up to 11″), the same grippers work because of the smooth surface. We provide a size chart for your specific pipe tally.
Q2: How long does it take to install the system on an existing rig?
A: Retrofit installation typically takes 5-7 days: 2 days for foundation prep (if needed), 3-4 days for mechanical assembly, and 1 day for electrical/PLC integration and commissioning. We work during planned rig maintenance or between wells.
Q3: Can the system be used for both tripping in AND tripping out (laying down pipe)?
A: Yes. The system works in reverse: the skid arm receives pipe from the mousehole/driller’s side, lays it horizontally onto the catwalk, and the conveyor lowers it to the rack. The pick-up fingers place it onto the pipe rack. One system handles both directions.
Q4: What is the power requirement? Can I run it from rig air?
A: It requires hydraulic power – either a dedicated hydraulic power unit (electric motor driving hydraulic pump) or tie-in to rig’s existing hydraulic system if sufficient flow (typically 40-60 L/min at 2,500 psi). We can also supply an air-over-hydraulic unit if only rig air is available (less efficient but works). Pneumatic-only systems (no hydraulics) are not available because of the high forces required.
Q5: How does the system handle different pipe lengths (Range 2 vs Range 3)?
A: The catwalk length should match your longest single joint (Range 3 = 13.5m). Our standard catwalk is 12m for Range 2; for Range 3 we offer 14m or 16m sections. The skid arm is designed to handle up to 15m pipe. Sensor gates ensure the pipe is fully on the conveyor before lifting.
Q6: Can your system integrate with an iron roughneck or top drive for fully automated connections?
A: Yes. We have a communication protocol (digital signals) that tells the roughneck/top drive when the pipe is presented and correctly aligned. We can also accept signals from those tools to index the pipe for making/breaking. This is a common upgrade for pad rigs aiming for "one-button” connections.
Q7: What maintenance does the system require?
A: Daily: visual inspection of hoses, chains, and guards; check hydraulic oil level. Weekly: grease bearings (15 points), check chain tension, inspect wear strips. Monthly: hydraulic oil sample analysis, pressure filter change, cylinder rod inspection. Annual: full hydraulic oil replacement, chain replacement (if wear exceeds 3%), PLC battery replacement. We provide a laminated maintenance chart.
Q8: What is the warranty period?
A: 18 months from shipment or 12 months from commissioning (whichever first). Extended warranty available for additional cost. We also offer a "parts-only” warranty for customers with their own maintenance teams.
Q9: Can I see a system in operation before buying?
A: Absolutely. We have demonstration units at our factory in Jingzhou. For serious buyers, we can arrange a visit to a working rig in China that uses our system (usually in Sichuan or Xinjiang). Travel support available.
Q10: Do you offer training for our crew?
A: Yes. We provide 3 days of on-site training: 1 day classroom (safety, theory, maintenance), 1 day hands-on (dry runs), 1 day live drilling/tripping with our instructor supervising. We certify your operators and mechanics. Refresher training available remotely.
