Vol. 226 No. 12

Rig Floor Equipment

Power slip is set low for safer drilling

The Gorilla Grip AS-16 air slip is the pneumatic version of the power slip.

Houston-based Cam-Tech Products, Inc., has developed a new power slip, the Gorilla Grip. The AS-16 is the pneumatic version of the power slip, which also comes in a hydraulic and spring version. The power slip handles drill pipe from 3-1/2 in. through 5-1/2 in., with a 7-in. opening for installation and removal ease during drilling.

The power slip utilizes a modified set of SDXL slips. This eliminates the need for a guide ring, and allows for regular drilling bowls to be used as back-up for the slips. It fits 27-1/2-in., 37-1/2-in. and 49-1/2-in. pin drive master bushings, which allow the slip to engage directly into the pin holes of the master bushing. The new slip utilizes the depth of the drive pin holes as part of the actuators, thus allowing the unit to set lower for added clearance and safer drilling operations. The slip fits directly over the master bushing with no panels or other equipment extending over the rotary table, preventing possible injury and allowing rig personnel movement. The power slip comes with a quick air hose disconnect that allows rotation.

The Gorilla Grip comes complete with a rig-up kit that includes an air filter, lubricator, regulator, hand or foot control valve, storage stand, and a 25-ft air hose for quick and easy installation.