ABSTRACT:

Friction stir welding and processing (FSW/P) of D2 tool steel is being developed as a hardbanding material and method of attachment. Hardbanding of wear-resistant materials to drill pipe tool joints is presently done using conventional arc welding methods. In this work, D2 tool steel was attached to the surface of an alloy steel by FSW. Microhardness tests were conducted and a modified ASTM B611 abrasion test performed. Results are encouraging for the potential use of this combination of material and application method for hardbanding applications.

INTRODUCTION

Hardfacing is the application of hard, wear-resistant materials to the surface of components to reduce component material loss in service (Davis, 1993). Hardbanding is the application of hard, wear-resistant materials to the tool joint pin and box ends of drill pipe (Fig. 1). The wear-resistant material is welded onto the tool joint. In some instances, the weld consumables applied during arc welding have both high chromium (Cr) and high carbon (C) contents and can form Cr-rich carbides. The carbides provide adequate abrasive wear resistance to drill pipe and protect against excessive casing wear (Henderson, 2003). Frequently, consumables are nickel- or steel- based and contain tungsten carbides, which are more suitable in uncased hole sections (LeBlanc, 1995). Fig. 2 shows an example of conventional hardbanding. In applications where drill pipe is running in a casing, along with abrasion resistance, it is important the hardbanding exhibit "casing friendly" characteristics. This results in minimal casing wear while the pipe spins inside the casing. Many offshore drill pipe sections have an internal polymer coating. This coating increases hydraulic efficiency, prevents corrosion, and controls the buildup of harmful scale (Pourciau, 2002). Excessive temperatures required in the pre-heat of and achieved during conventional welding of hardbanding material damage the interior pipe coating.

This content is only available via PDF.
You can access this article if you purchase or spend a download.