Description
Closed Head Power Tong for Production Tubing Make-Up, Break-Out & Workover
SGPE Closed Head Power Tong provides hydraulic make-up and break-out for production tubing during oilfield workover, well servicing, completion, recompletion and well intervention.
The XQB178/8 Closed Head Power Tong uses a closed-head structure that surrounds the tubular and keeps it close to the rotational centerline. This layout gives the jaws a stable gripping position and helps crews maintain tubing alignment during repeated connection work.
The master tong handles tubular O.D. from 1-5/16 in to 7 in / 33.3 to 178 mm, while the standard hydraulic backup tong handles 1-5/16 in to 6-1/8 in / 33.3 to 155.6 mm.
Its two-speed hydraulic drive combines fast thread spinning with stronger low-speed torque. High gear reaches up to 126 rpm, while low gear delivers up to 6000 ft-lb / 8100 N·m at approximately 2000 psi / 14 MPa.
The XQB178/8 suits production tubing work on workover rigs, service rigs and well servicing units. Common jobs include tubing running, tubing pulling, pump workover, ESP workover, tubing replacement, completion repair and mature well maintenance.
SGPE can supply the unit as a master tong only or as a complete hydraulic tubing power tong with backup tong, interchangeable jaws and dies, lift components, hoses, quick couplings and recommended spare parts.
Email: info@sgpe.com
Tel / WhatsApp: +86 186-1599-5239
XQB178/8 Closed Head Power Tong Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Closed Head Power Tong |
| Model | XQB178/8 |
| Equipment Type | Hydraulic Power Tong |
| Head Structure | Closed Head |
| Drive Type | Hydraulic |
| Main Application | Production tubing make-up and break-out |
| Typical Operation | Workover and well servicing |
| Master Tong O.D. Range | 1-5/16–7 in / 33.3–178 mm |
| Standard Backup Tong O.D. Range | 1-5/16–6-1/8 in / 33.3–155.6 mm |
| High Gear Torque | 1300 ft-lb / 1763 N·m at 2000 psi |
| Low Gear Torque | 6000 ft-lb / 8100 N·m at 2000 psi |
| High Gear Speed | Up to 126 rpm at 32 GPM / 120 L/min |
| Low Gear Speed | Up to 27 rpm at 32 GPM / 120 L/min |
| Recommended Hydraulic Pressure | 2000 psi / 14 MPa |
| Recommended Hydraulic Flow | Approx. 33.5 GPM / 127 L/min |
| Rotation | Forward / Reverse |
| Overall Dimensions | Approx. 51 × 30 × 26 in / 1295 × 762 × 660 mm |
| Approx. Weight | 1000 lb / 455 kg |
| Typical Tubular | Production tubing and selected small casing |
| Typical Rig | Workover rig, service rig, well servicing unit |
Specifications refer to a typical XQB178/8 configuration. Final jaw arrangement, hydraulic interface, backup system, lift arrangement and accessories depend on the actual tubing program and rig setup.
High-Speed Spinning and Low-Speed Torque
The XQB178/8 uses a two-speed hydraulic transmission so crews can use speed and torque at different stages of the connection cycle.
| Performance | High Gear | Low Gear |
|---|---|---|
| Torque at 2000 psi | 1300 ft-lb / 1763 N·m | 6000 ft-lb / 8100 N·m |
| Maximum Speed at 32 GPM | 126 rpm | 27 rpm |
| Main Purpose | Fast thread spinning | Final make-up / break-out |
| Thread Condition | Free-running | Higher resistance |
| Typical Use | Tubing running / spin-out | Tightening / initial break-out |
During tubing running, high gear reduces the time required to spin a free-running thread. As the connection approaches final make-up, the operator shifts to low gear and applies torque more gradually.
During tubing pulling, low gear provides the higher torque needed to break the connection free. After release, high gear can speed up the remaining spin-out.
This combination makes the XQB178/8 suitable as a tubing make-up and break-out tong for workover rigs where crews repeatedly handle production tubing.
Closed Head Power Tong Structure
| Component | Typical Arrangement | Main Function |
|---|---|---|
| Master Tong | Closed-head hydraulic tong | Grips and rotates upper tubular |
| Backup Tong | Hydraulic cylinder backup tong | Holds lower tubular against reaction torque |
| Transmission | Two-speed hydraulic drive | Provides speed and torque ranges |
| Final Drive | Roller-chain drive | Transfers power through the drivetrain |
| Clutch | Adjustable friction clutch | Helps manage changes in drivetrain load |
| Jaw System | Interchangeable jaws and dies | Matches different tubular sizes |
| Torque Reaction | High-strength torque arm | Transfers reaction load |
| Lift System | Hydraulic spring lift option | Assists vertical positioning |
| Hydraulic Control | Forward / Reverse | Supports make-up and break-out |
| Torque Monitoring | Project-dependent | Available when closer torque control is required |
| Hydraulic Interface | Project-specific | Matches workover rig or HPU |
The master tong rotates the upper tubular while the hydraulic backup tong holds the lower section against reaction torque.
This master-and-backup arrangement gives crews a practical hydraulic tubing tong system for repeated workover operations and reduces the need for separate manual backup tools during normal use.
What Is a Closed Head Power Tong?
A Closed Head Power Tong is a hydraulically driven oilfield tong used to grip and rotate threaded tubular connections.
Unlike an open-head tong, the closed-head structure surrounds the pipe. The tubular normally passes through the center opening along the well centerline.
This geometry keeps the pipe close to the rotational axis and gives the jaw system a stable gripping position. It works especially well during repetitive tubing operations where crews run or pull many joints through the same centerline.
Depending on the job, crews may also describe this equipment as a Closed Head Hydraulic Power Tong, Closed Head Tubing Tong, Workover Power Tong, Well Service Power Tong or Production Tubing Power Tong.
These terms describe the application from different angles, but the operating principle remains the same: the master tong rotates the upper tubular while the backup tong controls reaction on the lower section.
Why Use a Closed Head Power Tong on a Workover Rig?
A workover crew may handle a large number of tubing joints during a single job.
Each connection requires pipe positioning, gripping, thread spinning, torque application and tong release. Repeating these steps with manual tools can slow the tubing trip and increase rig-floor handling.
A hydraulic workover power tong combines these functions in one controlled system.
The XQB178/8 provides fast high-gear spinning, stronger low-gear torque and hydraulic backup gripping. Its closed-head geometry also helps keep the pipe near the work centerline.
This combination suits repeated tubing work on workover rigs, mobile service rigs and well servicing units.
Key Features of the XQB178/8
Closed-Head Design
The tong surrounds the tubular and keeps it close to the rotational centerline.
This helps the jaws maintain consistent contact and gives crews a repeatable gripping position during long tubing trips.
1-5/16 to 7 in Master Tong Range
The master tong handles:
1-5/16–7 in O.D. / 33.3–178 mm
This range covers many common production tubing sizes and selected larger tubular applications.
Crews can change the jaw arrangement for different diameters instead of replacing the complete tong.
Hydraulic Backup Tong
The standard backup tong handles:
1-5/16–6-1/8 in O.D. / 33.3–155.6 mm
It grips the lower tubular while the master tong rotates the upper section.
This setup controls reaction torque and reduces separate manual tong handling.
For projects that require a hydraulic power tong with backup tong, SGPE can supply the master and backup as one matched package.
Up to 126 rpm High-Gear Speed
At approximately 32 GPM / 120 L/min, high gear reaches up to 126 rpm.
This helps shorten thread spinning time during production tubing running and pulling.
Up to 6000 ft-lb Low-Gear Torque
At approximately 2000 psi / 14 MPa, low gear delivers up to:
6000 ft-lb / 8100 N·m
This output supports final make-up and initial break-out.
Used tubing may require greater break-out force because of corrosion, scale, long downhole exposure or thread compound condition. The connection manufacturer’s torque requirement should always determine the operating target.
Forward and Reverse Drive
The hydraulic drive operates in both directions, so the same tong can support make-up and break-out.
Adjustable Friction Clutch
The friction clutch helps manage changes in drivetrain load, especially when a tight connection releases during break-out.
Roller-Chain Final Drive
The roller-chain system transfers power through the tong drivetrain.
Routine inspection, lubrication and chain tension checks help maintain reliable field operation.
Torque Reaction Arm
The torque arm transfers reaction force to an approved structural point on the rig.
The reaction arrangement must be installed correctly before crews apply torque.
Hydraulic Lift Option
A hydraulic spring lift can assist with vertical tong positioning.
The final arrangement should match the suspension point, rig floor layout, well centerline and required working height.
Closed Head Power Tong Applications
Production Tubing Running and Pulling
A production tubing power tong helps crews run and retrieve tubing during workover, completion and recompletion.
During tubing running, high gear spins the free-running thread quickly. Low gear then gives the operator better control as the connection approaches the specified make-up torque.
During tubing pulling, the hydraulic backup tong secures the lower section while the master tong applies reverse torque. After the connection releases, higher speed can spin the remaining thread apart.
Typical jobs include new tubing installation, tubing replacement, leak repair, tubing inspection and production string modification.
Oil and Gas Well Workover
The XQB178/8 supports repeated tubing connection work during production tubing changeout, pump workover, leak repair and mature well rehabilitation.
Gas well service can also require tubing removal and reinstallation. The tong can support these operations when connection dimensions and torque remain within its operating range.
Service Rig and Mobile Workover Operations
Mobile service rigs frequently handle production tubing during routine well maintenance.
A service rig power tong can support tubing running, tubing pulling, pump service and production tubing replacement without changing the basic operating arrangement.
ESP and Artificial Lift Workover
ESP maintenance often requires crews to retrieve and rerun the production tubing string.
Rod pump service can also require tubing removal. The XQB178/8 handles the tubing connections while dedicated lifting and rod-handling equipment manages the artificial lift components.
Completion and Recompletion
The tong can support production tubing make-up during completion, recompletion, zone changes and tubing string replacement.
Selected Small Casing Applications
The master tong reaches 7 in O.D., so the XQB178/8 may suit selected large-tubing or small-casing work.
However, the standard backup tong only reaches 6-1/8 in O.D. Applications above this size require a separate review of the backup arrangement, gripping position and torque requirement.
Production Tubing Size and Connection Reference
The XQB178/8 covers many tubing sizes used in workover and well servicing.
| Nominal Tubing O.D. | Metric O.D. | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1.900 in | 48.26 mm | Small production tubing |
| 2-3/8 in | 60.32 mm | Common production tubing |
| 2-7/8 in | 73.02 mm | Common production tubing |
| 3-1/2 in | 88.90 mm | Larger production tubing |
| 4 in | 101.60 mm | Larger tubing applications |
| 4-1/2 in | 114.30 mm | Large production tubing |
A typical workover program may use 2-3/8 in, 2-7/8 in or 3-1/2 in production tubing. The correct jaw set depends on more than nominal pipe O.D., because the tubing coupling can be noticeably larger than the pipe body.
API EUE / NUE Coupling O.D. Reference
| Tubing O.D. | Tubing O.D. mm | NUE Coupling O.D. | EUE Coupling O.D. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.900 in | 48.26 mm | 2.200 in / 55.88 mm | 2.500 in / 63.50 mm |
| 2-3/8 in | 60.32 mm | 2.875 in / 73.02 mm | 3.063 in / 77.80 mm |
| 2-7/8 in | 73.02 mm | 3.500 in / 88.90 mm | 3.668 in / 93.17 mm |
| 3-1/2 in | 88.90 mm | 4.250 in / 107.95 mm | 4.500 in / 114.30 mm |
| 4 in | 101.60 mm | 4.750 in / 120.65 mm | 5.000 in / 127.00 mm |
| 4-1/2 in | 114.30 mm | 5.200 in / 132.08 mm | 5.563 in / 141.30 mm |
Use these dimensions as reference values for standard EUE/NUE configurations. Confirm the controlled connection drawing before final equipment selection.
For example, a 2-7/8 in tubing body measures approximately 73.02 mm, while a standard EUE coupling can reach about 93.17 mm.
A 4-1/2 in tubing body measures about 114.30 mm, while a standard EUE coupling can reach approximately 141.30 mm.
For this reason, buyers selecting an API EUE tubing power tong, API NUE tubing power tong or 2-7/8 in tubing power tong with backup should provide both:
Tubing O.D. + Coupling O.D.
Master Tong and Backup Tong Compatibility
| Tubular O.D. | Master Tong | Standard Backup Tong | Selection Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-5/16 to 6-1/8 in | Within published range | Within published range | Confirm jaws, coupling and torque |
| Above 6-1/8 to 7 in | Within master range | Outside standard backup range | Review backup arrangement |
| Above 7 in | Outside published range | Outside published range | Select another tong model |
Important Note on 7 in Capacity
The 7 in maximum refers to the master tong O.D. range.
The standard hydraulic backup tong only handles up to:
6-1/8 in / 155.6 mm
Therefore, the standard master-and-backup package does not automatically cover every connection up to 7 in.
For tubulars above 6-1/8 in, SGPE should review the pipe O.D., coupling O.D., connection type, make-up torque, expected break-out torque and backup gripping position before confirming suitability.
API EUE, NUE and Premium Tubing Connections
The XQB178/8 can handle different tubing connection systems when the connection dimensions and torque remain within the equipment limits.
| Connection Type | Typical Application | Information Required |
|---|---|---|
| API EUE | Production tubing | Tubing O.D., coupling O.D., torque |
| API NUE | Production tubing | Tubing O.D., coupling O.D., torque |
| Standard API Tubing Thread | Workover / completion | Connection designation |
| Premium Connection | High-performance production tubing | Exact connection and torque |
| Proprietary Thread | Project-specific tubing | Manufacturer drawing |
For standard API EUE and NUE tubing, pipe size, coupling O.D. and connection torque provide a good starting point.
Premium connections require more detail. Customers should provide the exact connection designation, recommended make-up torque, maximum allowable torque and any gripping or surface restrictions.
Closed Head Power Tong vs Open Head Power Tong
| Feature | Closed Head Power Tong | Open Head Power Tong |
|---|---|---|
| Head Design | Surrounds tubular | Side-opening design |
| Pipe Entry | Through center | Lateral entry |
| Centerline Control | Strong | Depends more on positioning |
| Side Access | Limited | Easier |
| Typical Work | Repetitive tubing workover | Broader tubular handling |
| Typical Rig | Workover / service rig | Drilling / casing / workover |
| Main Advantage | Stable repeated tubing handling | Faster lateral access |
A closed-head tong works well when the tubular repeatedly moves through one established well centerline.
An open-head tong may suit operations where crews need frequent lateral access to the pipe.
Hydraulic Power Requirements
Correct hydraulic supply directly affects tong speed and available torque.
| Hydraulic Parameter | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Recommended Working Pressure | 2000 psi / 14 MPa |
| Recommended Flow | Approx. 33.5 GPM / 127 L/min |
| Speed Reference Flow | 32 GPM / 120 L/min |
| Rotation | Forward / Reverse |
| Hydraulic Medium | Suitable hydraulic oil |
| Typical Power Source | Workover rig hydraulic system or compatible HPU |
| Hose Size | Project-specific |
| Quick Coupling | Project-specific |
| Return Line | Must match hydraulic system |
Hydraulic pressure mainly affects available torque, while hydraulic flow has a stronger influence on rotational speed.
Low flow can reduce tong speed. Low pressure can prevent the unit from reaching the required torque.
If you plan to use an existing hydraulic power unit / HPU, provide its continuous flow, maximum pressure, hose size, coupling type and return-line information before ordering.
Tubing Make-Up and Break-Out Process
Make-Up
| Step | Operation |
|---|---|
| 1 | Align the tubing with the well centerline |
| 2 | Position the master and backup tongs |
| 3 | Engage the correct jaws and dies |
| 4 | Spin the free-running thread in high gear |
| 5 | Shift to low gear near final make-up |
| 6 | Apply the specified connection torque |
| 7 | Release the tong and move to the next joint |
The tong’s maximum output should not become the automatic make-up setting. The connection manufacturer or approved well program defines the target torque.
Break-Out
| Stage | Operation |
|---|---|
| Initial Grip | Master and backup tongs secure the tubular |
| Break-Out | Low gear applies reverse torque |
| Thread Release | Connection breaks free |
| Spin-Out | Higher speed separates the remaining thread |
| Release | Tong opens for the next connection |
Torque Control, Jaws and Thread Protection
Correct torque helps protect the tubing connection and maintain connection integrity.
Several factors affect the required value, including connection design, tubing grade, thread compound, surface condition and the manufacturer’s procedure.
Used tubing can behave differently from new tubing. Corrosion, scale and previous downhole service may increase break-out resistance.
Too much make-up torque can damage threads, shoulders, couplings or sealing surfaces. Too little torque can also create connection problems.
The tong must also use the correct jaw and die arrangement.
| Selection Data | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Tubing O.D. | Defines gripping range |
| Coupling O.D. | Defines connection envelope |
| Tubular Material | Helps review gripping method |
| Connection Type | Affects gripping position |
| Make-Up Torque | Confirms tong capability |
| Break-Out Torque | Confirms required output |
| Surface Requirement | Important for sensitive tubulars |
| Premium Connection | May restrict tong contact |
For premium or corrosion-resistant tubulars, provide any reduced-marking or no-marking requirement before ordering.
If the project requires closer torque control, include the monitoring requirement in the RFQ.
XQB178/8 Closed Head Power Tong Configuration Options
| Item | Availability / Selection |
|---|---|
| XQB178/8 Master Tong | Main equipment |
| Hydraulic Backup Tong | Available |
| Interchangeable Jaw Sets | Based on tubular sizes |
| Tong Dies / Inserts | Based on gripping requirement |
| Hydraulic Spring Lift | Optional |
| Suspension Components | Project-specific |
| Torque Reaction Arm | System component |
| Hydraulic Hoses | According to required length |
| Quick Couplings | Match hydraulic system |
| Pressure Indication | Project-dependent |
| Torque Monitoring | Project-dependent |
| Seal Kit | Maintenance option |
| Drive Components | Spare parts option |
Customers can order the master tong alone or request a complete workover power tong package with hydraulic backup, jaws, hoses, lift components and spare parts.
The final XQB178/8 quotation depends on tubing range, backup arrangement, hydraulic interface, accessories and inspection scope.
Providing the tubing program and HPU data at the RFQ stage helps SGPE prepare a more accurate offer.
Closed Head Power Tong Spare Parts
SGPE supports routine maintenance and overhaul with replacement components for the XQB178/8 and related hydraulic tong systems.
| Spare Part Group | Typical Parts |
|---|---|
| Jaw System | Jaws, jaw holders, dies, inserts |
| Hydraulic System | Motors, valves, cylinders, seals |
| Transmission | Gears, shafts, bearings |
| Final Drive | Chains, sprockets, drive parts |
| Backup Tong | Jaws, cylinders, seals |
| Control System | Valve parts, handles, pressure components |
| Lift System | Lift cylinder and suspension components |
| Torque System | Torque arm components |
| Sealing Parts | O-rings, seals and gaskets |
| Maintenance Parts | Pins, bushings, bearings and fasteners |
For Closed Head Power Tong spare parts, send the tong model, serial number, existing part number, clear photos and required quantity.
This information helps reduce identification errors and speeds up quotation.
Inspection and Functional Checks
Relevant pre-shipment checks can include:
| Inspection Area | Typical Check |
|---|---|
| General Condition | Visual inspection |
| Dimensions | Dimensional check |
| Jaw System | Engagement and movement |
| Hydraulic Motor | Functional operation |
| Rotation | Forward and reverse |
| Transmission | High / low gear operation |
| Backup Tong | Gripping / cylinder function |
| Hydraulic Cylinders | Extension / retraction |
| Control Valve | Functional check |
| Hydraulic Circuit | Leakage check |
| Running Test | No-load operation |
| Pressure Function | Functional pressure check |
| Torque Function | Project-specific agreed check |
If the project requires a specific FAT procedure, witness inspection or documentation package, provide the requirement before order confirmation.
How to Select the Right XQB178/8 Power Tong
Selecting a Closed Head Power Tong for a workover rig requires more than nominal pipe diameter.
The correct configuration should match the complete tubing program, connection geometry, torque requirement and available hydraulic system.
| Selection Item | Information Required |
|---|---|
| Tubular Type | Production tubing / selected casing |
| Minimum O.D. | Smallest tubular |
| Maximum O.D. | Largest tubular |
| Coupling O.D. | Important for EUE / NUE |
| Connection Type | EUE, NUE, premium or proprietary |
| Make-Up Torque | Manufacturer specification |
| Break-Out Torque | Expected field requirement |
| Hydraulic Pressure | Available HPU / rig pressure |
| Hydraulic Flow | Continuous available flow |
| Hose Size | Existing hydraulic interface |
| Quick Coupling | Connection type / size |
| Backup Tong | Required / existing / special |
| Lift Requirement | Suspension arrangement |
| Hose Length | Required working length |
| Rig Type | Workover / service / completion |
| Operating Environment | Project-specific |
For example, a customer looking for a 2-7/8 in API EUE tubing power tong with hydraulic backup should provide not only the tubing size, but also the EUE coupling O.D., required torque and available HPU data.
Closed Head Power Tong RFQ Checklist
For faster technical review and quotation, provide:
| RFQ Item | Example |
|---|---|
| Application | Oil well workover |
| Tubular Type | Production tubing |
| Tubing Sizes | 2-3/8, 2-7/8 and 3-1/2 in |
| Connection | API EUE |
| Coupling O.D. | According to connection |
| Make-Up Torque | Manufacturer specification |
| Break-Out Torque | Customer requirement |
| Hydraulic Pressure | 2000 psi |
| Hydraulic Flow | Approx. 33.5 GPM |
| Backup Tong | Required |
| Hydraulic Lift | Required / Not Required |
| Hose Length | Customer requirement |
| Rig Type | Workover rig |
| Quantity | 1 Set |
| Destination | Port / City / Country |
| FAT / Inspection | Customer requirement |
| Documentation | Customer requirement |
If some values are not available yet, start with the tubing size, connection type and application.
SGPE can review the remaining technical points before preparing the quotation.
Why Choose SGPE for Closed Head Power Tong Supply?
SGPE supplies hydraulic power tongs and related tubular handling equipment for oil and gas drilling, completion, workover and well servicing.
Instead of selecting a tong from nominal pipe size alone, SGPE reviews the tubing O.D., coupling O.D., connection type, torque requirement, hydraulic pressure and flow, backup arrangement and rig layout.
This helps avoid a common selection problem: a tong may fit the tubing body but still fail to match the coupling envelope, torque requirement or existing hydraulic system.
Customers can order the XQB178/8 master tong alone or combine it with a hydraulic backup tong, interchangeable jaws and dies, hydraulic hoses, lift components, quick couplings and spare parts.
SGPE can also review project-specific inspection requirements, packing, documentation and supply scope for workover contractors, well servicing companies, completion contractors, production maintenance teams, equipment distributors and oilfield rental fleets.
Related Oilfield Power Tong Equipment
Hydraulic Tubing Power Tong
For production tubing make-up and break-out during workover, completion and well servicing.
Casing Power Tong
For larger casing sizes and higher-torque casing running operations.
Drill Pipe Power Tong
For drill pipe make-up and break-out on drilling rigs.
Sucker Rod Power Tong
For sucker rod handling during artificial lift and well servicing.
Hydraulic Backup Tong
For gripping the lower tubular and controlling reaction torque.
Power Tong Spare Parts
For maintenance, repair and overhaul of hydraulic oilfield tong systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About Closed Head Power Tongs
1. What is a Closed Head Power Tong used for?
A Closed Head Power Tong is used to make up and break out threaded production tubing during oilfield workover, well servicing, completion, recompletion and well intervention. The closed-head structure surrounds the tubular and keeps it close to the rotational centerline, which helps provide stable gripping during repeated connection work.
In practical field operations, this type of hydraulic tubing power tong is commonly used for tubing running, tubing pulling, pump workover, tubing replacement, leak repair and mature well maintenance. It is particularly suitable for workover rigs, mobile service rigs and well servicing units where crews handle a large number of tubing joints during one job.
2. What tubing sizes can the XQB178/8 Closed Head Power Tong handle?
The XQB178/8 master tong handles tubular O.D. from 1-5/16 in to 7 in / 33.3 to 178 mm. The standard hydraulic backup tong covers 1-5/16 in to 6-1/8 in / 33.3 to 155.6 mm.
This range includes many common production tubing sizes such as 1.900 in, 2-3/8 in, 2-7/8 in, 3-1/2 in, 4 in and 4-1/2 in. However, tubing O.D. alone does not determine the final tong configuration. The coupling O.D., connection type, required torque and selected jaw set must also match the application.
3. How does the XQB178/8 compare with a 58-93R Closed-Head Power Tong?
Buyers sometimes compare the XQB178/8 with a 58-93R Closed-Head Power Tong because both are used for tubing make-up and break-out during workover and well servicing, and both use high- and low-speed operating modes.
However, the two models should not be treated as automatically interchangeable. Published tubing ranges, backup tong arrangements, dimensions, hydraulic requirements and equipment weight can differ between configurations.
Before replacing a 58-93R or selecting an alternative closed-head workover tong, customers should compare the required tubular range, torque, rotational speed, available HPU capacity, backup configuration and rig layout.
4. Can the XQB178/8 handle 7 in tubing or small casing?
The master tong can accommodate tubular O.D. up to 7 in / 178 mm, so the XQB178/8 may suit selected large-tubing or small-casing applications.
However, the standard hydraulic backup tong only handles up to 6-1/8 in / 155.6 mm. Therefore, the standard master-and-backup package does not automatically cover every connection up to 7 in. For tubulars above 6-1/8 in, SGPE should review the pipe O.D., coupling O.D., connection design, make-up torque, expected break-out torque and backup gripping position before confirming the final workover tong configuration.
5. What is the maximum torque of the XQB178/8 Closed Head Power Tong?
At approximately 2000 psi / 14 MPa, the XQB178/8 provides about 1300 ft-lb / 1763 N·m in high gear and up to 6000 ft-lb / 8100 N·m in low gear.
High gear is mainly used for fast thread spinning, while low gear provides the higher torque required for final make-up and initial break-out. The maximum tong output should not be used as the automatic connection torque setting. Actual make-up torque should follow the tubing connection manufacturer’s specification or the approved well program, especially when handling premium tubing connections.
6. What is the operating speed of the XQB178/8 hydraulic power tong?
At a reference hydraulic flow of approximately 32 GPM / 120 L/min, high gear reaches up to 126 rpm, while low gear reaches up to 27 rpm.
During tubing running, high gear helps reduce the time required to spin free-running threads. As the connection approaches final make-up, the operator can shift to low gear for more controlled torque application.
During tubing pulling, low gear helps break the connection free, while high gear can speed up the remaining spin-out. This two-speed arrangement is useful during repetitive workover and well servicing operations.
7. What hydraulic pressure and flow does the XQB178/8 require?
The typical recommended hydraulic supply is approximately 2000 psi / 14 MPa at 33.5 GPM / 127 L/min. The published speed reference is based on approximately 32 GPM / 120 L/min.
Hydraulic pressure mainly affects available torque, while hydraulic flow has a stronger influence on rotational speed. If the Closed Head Power Tong will operate from an existing workover rig hydraulic system or separate hydraulic power unit / HPU, customers should provide the available continuous flow, maximum pressure, hose size, quick-coupling type and return-line information. This helps SGPE confirm compatibility before quotation.
8. What is the difference between a Closed Head Power Tong and an Open Head Power Tong?
A Closed Head Power Tong surrounds the tubular, and the pipe normally passes through the center opening along the well centerline. This design provides a stable gripping position and suits repetitive production tubing running and pulling on workover rigs and service rigs.
An Open Head Power Tong uses a side-opening structure that allows lateral pipe entry and removal. This can be useful when frequent side access is required. In general, closed-head tongs are well suited to repeated tubing work along a fixed centerline, while open-head tongs offer easier lateral access for broader tubular handling operations.
9. Can the XQB178/8 handle API EUE, NUE and premium tubing connections?
The XQB178/8 can handle API EUE, API NUE and selected premium tubing connections when the connection dimensions, required torque and gripping arrangement remain within the tong’s operating limits.
For EUE or NUE tubing, customers should provide both the tubing O.D. and coupling O.D. because the coupling can be significantly larger than the tubing body. For example, a 2-7/8 in production tubing body and its EUE coupling require different clearance considerations.
For premium connections, SGPE also recommends providing the exact connection designation, make-up torque, maximum allowable torque and any reduced-marking or gripping restrictions.
10. Can SGPE supply a Closed Head Power Tong with a hydraulic backup tong?
Yes. SGPE can supply the Closed Head Power Tong together with a hydraulic backup tong for workover, tubing running and well servicing applications.
Depending on the tubing program and rig arrangement, the package can also include interchangeable jaws and dies, hydraulic lift components, hoses, quick couplings, suspension components and recommended spare parts. Customers can order the master tong alone or request a more complete workover power tong package matched to the tubular size, coupling dimensions, connection type and available hydraulic system.
11. What Closed Head Power Tong spare parts should be kept for maintenance?
Common maintenance parts for a Closed Head Power Tong include jaws, dies, inserts, hydraulic seals, O-rings, bearings, bushings, chains, sprockets, cylinder seal kits and hydraulic valve components.
For long-term workover projects, remote drilling locations or oilfield rental fleets, keeping suitable wear parts and hydraulic seal components can reduce downtime when routine maintenance is required. For spare parts inquiries, SGPE recommends providing the tong model, serial number, existing part number, clear component photos and required quantity so the correct replacement parts can be identified more accurately.
12. What information is required for a Closed Head Power Tong quotation?
To prepare an accurate Closed Head Power Tong quotation, SGPE needs enough information to confirm the tubular range, hydraulic system and required operating configuration.
Customers should provide the tubing O.D., coupling O.D., connection type, make-up torque, expected break-out torque, available hydraulic pressure and flow, backup tong requirement, hose length, quantity and delivery destination whenever these details are available.
For example, a typical inquiry may involve 2-7/8 in API EUE production tubing, a 2000 psi HPU, a hydraulic backup tong and a workover rig application. If some technical details are not yet available, customers can first send the tubing size, connection type and operating application. SGPE can then review the requirement, confirm the appropriate configuration and provide the corresponding technical proposal and quotation.
Request a Quote for Closed Head Power Tong
Looking for a Closed Head Power Tong for workover, well servicing, tubing running or tubing pulling?
Please send your available technical requirements, including:
Tubular O.D. + Coupling O.D. + Connection Type + Make-Up Torque + Expected Break-Out Torque + Hydraulic Pressure/Flow + Quantity + Destination
For API EUE, NUE or premium tubing connections, please provide the exact connection designation or available drawing. If you plan to use an existing workover rig hydraulic system or HPU, please also include the available pressure, continuous flow, hose size and quick-coupling details.
Based on your tubing program and operating conditions, SGPE will determine the suitable master tong, hydraulic backup tong, jaw and die arrangement, hydraulic accessories, lift system and recommended spare parts.
If some technical information is not yet available, simply send us your tubing size, connection type and application first.
Email: info@sgpe.com
Tel / WhatsApp: +86 186-1599-5239
