Description
Drill Pipe Slips for Oil & Gas Drilling, Offshore Rigs & Workover
SGPE Drill Pipe Slips, also known as Rotary Slips, Manual Rotary Slips or Rotary Table Slips, provide temporary support for drill pipe at the rotary table. Drilling crews use them during drill-string tripping, connection make-up and break-out, and controlled load transfers between the slips and hoisting equipment.
The SGPE range covers three product families: SD Type, DU Type and B Type Drill Pipe Slips. Available models include SDS, SDML, SDXL, DU, DUL, SDU, B Short, B Long and X Long. Together, these configurations accommodate drill pipe outside diameters from 2-3/8 to 7 in (60.3–177.8 mm), depending on the selected assembly.
Each manual rotary slip uses high-strength alloy-steel segments, tapered wedge surfaces and replaceable gripping inserts. The segments seat inside a matching insert bowl. As the drill string transfers weight onto the slips, the inserts grip the pipe body and the tapered surfaces transfer the load into the supporting rotary table structure.
These tools support drill pipe handling on land drilling rigs, fixed offshore platforms, jack-up rigs, top-drive-equipped rigs and suitable workover units. SGPE identifies API Spec 7K as the manufacturing standard for its rotary slip range.
For new rig packages, replacement equipment or routine maintenance, SGPE can review the drill pipe size, slip body, gripping inserts and rotary table arrangement before preparing a quotation.
Email: info@sgpe.com
Tel / WhatsApp: +86 186-1599-5239
Drill Pipe Slips Technical Specifications
SGPE offers several gripping lengths and body configurations to accommodate different drill pipe sizes and drilling requirements.
General Product Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Drill Pipe Slips |
| Alternative Names | Rotary Slips, Manual Rotary Slips, Rotary Table Slips, Drill Pipe Hand Slips |
| Brand | SGPE |
| Product Category | Oilfield Drilling and Tubular Handling Equipment |
| Main Series | SD Type / DU Type / B Type |
| Available Models | SDS, SDML, SDXL, DU, DUL, SDU, B Short, B Long, X Long |
| Overall Drill Pipe OD | 2-3/8–7 in (60.3–177.8 mm), model dependent |
| Body Material | High-strength alloy steel |
| Construction | Segmented, hinged mechanical assembly |
| Operating Mechanism | Manual tapered wedge action |
| Gripping Components | Replaceable steel slip inserts / gripping dies |
| Gripping Length | Short, medium-long, long or extra-long, depending on model |
| Supporting Equipment | Compatible rotary table, master bushing and insert bowl |
| Manufacturing Standard | API Spec 7K, according to SGPE product literature |
| Primary Function | Temporary stationary drill-string suspension |
| Typical Operations | Tripping, connection handling and load transfer |
| Working Load | Subject to approved model-specific technical data |
| Supply Options | Complete slip assemblies, replacement inserts and selected spare parts |
The stated diameter range covers the complete product family rather than a single assembly. Each slip body requires the correct inserts and supporting bowl for its intended drill pipe size.
SD, DU and B Type Drill Pipe Slips Model Comparison
| Series | Model | Drill Pipe OD (in) | Drill Pipe OD (mm) | Gripping Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD | SDS | 2-3/8–5 | 60.3–127.0 | Short |
| SD | SDML | 2-3/8–5-1/2 | 60.3–139.7 | Medium Long |
| SD | SDXL | 3-1/2–7 | 88.9–177.8 | Extra Long |
| DU | DU | 2-3/8–7 | 60.3–177.8 | Regular |
| DU | DUL | 2-3/8–7 | 60.3–177.8 | Long |
| DU | SDU | 3-1/2–7 | 88.9–177.8 | Enlarged Taper Contact |
| B | B Short | 2-3/8–4-1/2 | 60.3–114.3 | Short |
| B | B Long | 2-3/8–5-1/2 | 60.3–139.7 | Long |
| B | X Long | 3-1/2–5 | 88.9–127.0 | Extra Long |
These figures show SGPE’s listed model-family ranges. Actual compatibility depends on the complete slip assembly, gripping inserts and supporting bowl. Larger-diameter SDS and SDXL configurations require verification against the relevant body-and-insert drawings.
The SD series provides three gripping lengths, while DU, DUL and SDU offer different body and taper arrangements. B Type models provide additional options for specific drilling programs.
When comparing models, engineers should consider the pipe’s outside diameter, wall thickness, material grade and expected suspended load. Gripping length affects the contact arrangement, but it does not establish the allowable load by itself.
DU, DUL and SDU Slip Body Sizes
SGPE offers several body configurations within its DU Type Rotary Slips range.
| Model | Available Slip Body Sizes | Series Drill Pipe OD | Main Design Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| DU | 4-1/2, 5-1/2 and 7 in | 2-3/8–7 in | Regular gripping body |
| DUL | 4-1/2, 5-1/2 and 7 in | 2-3/8–7 in | Extended gripping length |
| SDU | 5-1/2 and 7 in | 3-1/2–7 in | Enlarged taper contact area |
Slip body size and drill pipe OD are not interchangeable measurements. The first identifies the body configuration, while the second describes the pipe that the inserts must grip.
A slip body may accommodate several pipe diameters through different insert arrangements. Therefore, buyers should match the body, inserts and bowl as one complete assembly.
For more information about individual DU-series configurations, visit SGPE DU Type Rotary Drill Pipe Slips.
Common Drill Pipe Sizes for Rotary Slips
Oilfield contractors frequently purchase rotary slips by nominal drill pipe diameter. Common requirements include 2-7/8 Inch Drill Pipe Slips, 3-1/2 Inch Rotary Slips, 4-1/2 Inch Drill Pipe Slips, 5 Inch Drill Pipe Slips, 5-1/2 Inch Rotary Slips and 7 Inch Drill Pipe Slips.
| Drill Pipe OD | Metric Equivalent | Model Families to Review |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3/8 in | 60.3 mm | SDS, SDML, DU, DUL, B Short, B Long |
| 2-7/8 in | 73.0 mm | SDS, SDML, DU, DUL, B Short, B Long |
| 3-1/2 in | 88.9 mm | SD, DU and B Type series |
| 4 in | 101.6 mm | SD, DU and B Type series |
| 4-1/2 in | 114.3 mm | SD, DU and B Type series |
| 5 in | 127.0 mm | Selected SD, DU and B Type models |
| 5-1/2 in | 139.7 mm | SDML, SDXL, DU, DUL, SDU, B Long |
| 6-5/8 in | 168.3 mm | SDXL, DU, DUL, SDU |
| 7 in | 177.8 mm | SDXL, DU, DUL, SDU |
This table helps identify potential model families. It is not a complete body-and-insert compatibility chart.
For example, customers replacing rotary slips for 5-inch drill pipe should identify the existing body model and insert reference before ordering. The same nominal pipe diameter may require different assemblies depending on the rotary table and bowl arrangement.
For model selection: Send SGPE your drill pipe OD, suspended load and insert bowl details at info@sgpe.com.
SD Type Drill Pipe Slips – SDS, SDML and SDXL
SGPE SD Type Rotary Slips come in three gripping lengths. Each design provides a different contact arrangement for drill-string suspension and rig-floor handling.
SDS Drill Pipe Slips – Short Type
SDS Drill Pipe Slips use a short gripping body for conventional rotary table applications.
The published family range extends from 2-3/8 to 5 inches, depending on the body and insert configuration. SDS models provide temporary support during routine tripping, drill pipe connections and other stationary handling operations.
Their compact design suits applications where the required load falls within the limits of a short-body assembly.
SDML Drill Pipe Slips – Medium Long Type
SDML Rotary Slips feature a medium-long gripping body for drill pipe diameters from 2-3/8 to 5-1/2 inches.
Compared with SDS, the longer contact surface provides a different load distribution arrangement. Drilling contractors use suitable SDML configurations for repeated tripping, connection handling and medium-depth drilling programs.
SDXL Drill Pipe Slips – Extra Long Type
SDXL Rotary Slips use an extra-long gripping body for selected pipe diameters from 3-1/2 to 7 inches.
The additional gripping length makes SDXL a candidate for deep-well programs and demanding stationary drill-string suspension. However, engineers must assess the pipe’s resistance to local gripping pressure alongside the assembly’s allowable load.
SGPE also supports SDS, SDML and SDXL replacement enquiries using existing body dimensions, insert references and technical drawings.
DU Type Rotary Drill Pipe Slips – DU, DUL and SDU
The SGPE DU Type Rotary Slips family includes DU Regular, DUL Long and SDU Heavy-Duty configurations.
All three use the mechanical wedge principle, but their body dimensions and contact arrangements differ.
DU Regular Rotary Slips
DU Regular Slips provide a standard gripping arrangement for tripping, connection handling and temporary drill-string suspension.
The range includes 4-1/2, 5-1/2 and 7-inch slip body sizes. These assemblies work with specified gripping inserts and corresponding insert bowls on compatible land and offshore drilling rigs.
DUL Long Rotary Slips
DUL Rotary Slips provide longer gripping contact than DU Regular models.
SGPE lists 4-1/2, 5-1/2 and 7-inch body sizes for DUL. This design offers another contact arrangement for repeated tripping and drill-pipe-based workover operations.
SDU Heavy-Duty Rotary Slips
SDU Rotary Slips feature an enlarged taper contact area between the slip body and supporting bowl.
Available body sizes include 5-1/2 and 7 inches, with the series covering drill pipe diameters from 3-1/2 to 7 inches.
The larger taper contact area provides a different load-transfer arrangement for demanding drilling conditions. Engineers should compare the complete assembly’s allowable load with the actual drill-string requirements before selecting SDU.
Further details are available on the SGPE DU Type Rotary Drill Pipe Slips page.
B Type Drill Pipe Slips – B Short, B Long and X Long
SGPE B Type Drill Pipe Slips provide three gripping lengths for different drilling programs and drill pipe diameters.
B Type Technical Specifications
| Model | Drill Pipe OD | Metric Range | Published Well-Depth Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| B Short | 2-3/8–4-1/2 in | 60.3–114.3 mm | Up to 8,000 ft |
| B Long | 2-3/8–5-1/2 in | 60.3–139.7 mm | Up to 18,000 ft |
| X Long | 3-1/2–5 in | 88.9–127.0 mm | Up to 28,500 ft |
The well-depth values are SGPE’s published application references. They are not rated load capacities or guaranteed operating limits. Actual suitability depends on the drill-string load, pipe properties and approved equipment configuration.
B Short Drill Pipe Slips
B Short models use a compact gripping body for routine tripping and conventional shallow-well drilling.
Their shorter construction provides an option for applications that fall within the model’s specified operating limits.
B Long Drill Pipe Slips
B Long models offer greater gripping length and a wider pipe diameter range than B Short.
They provide another option for medium-depth drilling programs and repeated drill pipe handling.
X Long Drill Pipe Slips
X Long models use an extra-long gripping body for deeper drilling applications.
The extended design provides additional contact length when the drilling program calls for that arrangement and the complete assembly meets the required load.
B Type Torque-Transmitting Construction
SGPE describes a torque-transmitting structural arrangement as a feature of the B Type series.
This construction manages torsional forces through the relevant components under their intended operating conditions. It does not mean that conventional manual slips can grip a continuously rotating drill string during normal drilling.
For more information, see SGPE B Type Drill Pipe Slips.
How Do Manual Rotary Drill Pipe Slips Work?
Manual rotary slips use a mechanical wedge principle to support the drill string at the rotary table.
The assembly contains connected alloy-steel segments with gripping inserts along their inner surfaces. The tapered exterior fits a matching insert bowl.
During tripping, the hoisting system positions the drill string at the required height. The crew then sets the slips around the approved gripping section and seats them in the bowl.
As the driller transfers string weight onto the assembly, the tapered surfaces generate an inward gripping force. The inserts engage the drill pipe body, while the slip segments transfer the suspended load through the supporting bowl.
When the hoisting system takes the weight again, the crew releases the slips and continues the handling sequence.
Construction and Operating Benefits
The alloy-steel body provides structural support, while the segmented and hinged design allows manual positioning around the drill pipe. Handles and connecting hardware support the assembly’s intended handling procedure.
Replaceable gripping inserts allow maintenance crews to renew worn contact components without discarding an otherwise serviceable slip body.
The tapered wedge surfaces develop gripping force through contact with the insert bowl. Proper seating helps distribute the load through the intended supporting structure.
Unlike pneumatic or hydraulic spiders, conventional manual rotary slips do not require a powered actuator to set the gripping mechanism.
Applications of Drill Pipe Slips in Oil and Gas Drilling
SGPE rotary slips support petroleum drilling and selected well-servicing operations where crews need temporary stationary support for drill pipe.
Drill-String Tripping and Connection Handling
During tripping in and out of the hole, crews repeatedly raise and lower the drill string. Rotary slips support the lower string at connection points while personnel add or remove pipe joints and stands.
The same equipment holds the string stationary during connection make-up and break-out. Manual tongs, power tongs or an iron roughneck apply the required connection torque, while drill pipe elevators perform the hoisting function.
Onshore Drilling and Top-Drive Rigs
Manual rotary slips serve compatible land drilling rigs during exploration, development drilling, vertical well construction and multi-well drilling programs.
Top-drive-equipped rigs may also use rotary slips during stationary connection handling. The top drive rotates the drill string during drilling, while the slips support it during the appropriate load-transfer stage.
Conventional manual slips do not replace the top drive or grip a continuously rotating drill string.
Offshore Platforms and Jack-Up Drilling Rigs
Suitable assemblies support drill pipe handling on fixed offshore platforms and jack-up rigs.
Salt exposure, drilling mud, abrasive solids and repeated handling cycles place demands on rig-floor equipment. For offshore projects, contractors should review corrosion exposure, inspection requirements and compatibility with the rotary table system.
Floating units, including drillships and semi-submersibles, can introduce additional dynamic loads. The equipment and operating procedure must be suitable for those conditions.
Deep-Well, Directional and Horizontal Drilling
Deep-well and extended-reach drilling programs may involve substantial suspended loads and frequent drill-string handling.
Models such as SDXL, DUL, SDU and X Long provide different gripping arrangements for technical evaluation.
Rotary slips also support stationary handling during directional and horizontal drilling programs. Although the well trajectory changes, the slips still perform the same basic function at the rotary table.
Oilfield Workover, Fishing and Well Re-Entry
Some workover and well-intervention operations use drill pipe as a workstring.
When the unit has a compatible rotary table and insert bowl, suitable drill pipe slips can support that workstring during connection handling, fishing operations and drilling-related well re-entry.
Production tubing, casing and drill collars require equipment designed for their respective dimensions and operating loads.
Replacement Drill Pipe Slip Inserts and Rotary Slip Dies
SGPE supplies replacement drill pipe slip inserts, rotary slip dies, gripping teeth and selected spare parts for compatible oilfield handling equipment.
These replaceable components contact the pipe body directly. Their dimensions, tooth profile, backing geometry and retaining features determine how they fit the slip segments.
Common Rotary Slip Insert Series
| Insert Series | Published Nominal Pipe Size | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| W-SDS | 2-3/8–4-1/2 in | Short rotary slip series |
| W-SDML | 2-3/8–5-1/2 in | Medium-length rotary slip series |
| W-SDXL | 3-1/2–5-1/2 in | Extra-long rotary slip series |
| 3-1/2 to 5 Series | 3-1/2–5 in | Selected standard rotary slips |
| 5 to 7 Series | 5–7 in | Selected larger-diameter rotary slips |
| W3-1/2/75 and W3-1/2/125 | 2-3/8, 2-7/8 and 3-1/2 in | Selected smaller drill pipe sizes |
| W5/75, W5/125 and W5/200 | 4, 4-1/2 and 5 in | Selected larger drill pipe sizes |
These values describe SGPE’s published replacement-insert catalog ranges. They do not establish interchangeability or the full pipe-size coverage of every complete slip assembly.
For example, the W-SDS replacement catalog covers up to 4-1/2-inch pipe, while the broader SDS family lists configurations up to 5 inches. The correct replacement insert must come from the actual slip assembly specification.
How to Order Replacement Rotary Slip Inserts
For a replacement order, identify the existing slip model and actual drill pipe OD. Then compare the insert length, width, thickness, tooth direction, backing profile and retaining method.
A W-SDML insert may not fit a W-SDXL slip body, even when both assemblies handle the same pipe diameter.
SGPE also supports enquiries for matched insert sets, slip body segments, hinge pins, handles and selected retaining hardware.
Original part numbers, clear component photographs and dimensional drawings help identify suitable replacements. Buyers should also state the required number of inserts or complete sets.
Explore additional components at SGPE Tong Dies and Slip Inserts.
How to Choose the Right Drill Pipe Slips
Selecting manual rotary slips requires more than matching the nominal drill pipe diameter. The complete assembly must suit the drill pipe, suspended load and rotary table equipment.
Check Drill Pipe OD and Suspended Load
Start with the drill pipe’s outside diameter, steel grade, wall thickness and condition.
Next, establish the maximum suspended load for the intended operation. Well depth alone cannot determine the required slip capacity because different drill strings may create different loads at the rotary table.
Match the Slip Body and Gripping Inserts
Compare the SD, DU and B Type models according to their pipe-size coverage and approved load requirements.
Gripping length and insert geometry influence contact pressure on the drill pipe. A longer body may distribute force over more of the pipe surface, but it does not automatically provide a higher allowable load.
Verify Insert Bowl and Rotary Table Compatibility
Identify the rotary table, master bushing and insert bowl.
The slip body’s outside taper must fit the supporting bowl correctly. Similar-looking components may have different dimensions, tolerances or allowable load limits.
Consider Drill Pipe Slip Crushing
Drill Pipe Slip Crushing occurs when excessive gripping pressure creates local stress or deformation in the pipe body.
Heavy suspended loads, worn inserts, unsuitable tooth geometry and poor bowl fit can increase this risk.
For demanding operations, engineers should review pipe strength, wall thickness, gripping geometry and actual suspended load before selecting the final assembly.
Confirm Documentation and Spare Parts
Before ordering, establish the required drawings, material records, inspection scope and replacement-parts requirements.
For an existing rig, photographs and original equipment references can also help identify a compatible replacement.
API Spec 7K and Quality Documentation
API Spec 7K – Drilling and Well Servicing Equipment provides requirements for several categories of petroleum drilling equipment, including manual and powered rotary slips and slip bowls.
SGPE identifies API Spec 7K as the manufacturing standard for its SD, DU and B Type rotary slip range.
For procurement projects, buyers should confirm the applicable specification requirements and documentation available for the selected assembly.
Manufacturing according to API Spec 7K does not automatically establish API Monogram licensing. Customers who require API Monogram marking must separately verify the manufacturer’s licensing scope and the specific product’s eligibility.
Depending on the agreed order requirements, buyers may request material and heat-treatment records, dimensional inspection reports, applicable non-destructive examination, traceability information and third-party inspection arrangements.
SGPE can review these requirements during quotation preparation.
Drill Pipe Slips Inspection and Maintenance
Regular inspection helps crews identify worn gripping inserts and damaged components before use.
Inspect the slip bodies, inserts, hinges, handles and retaining hardware for cracks, deformation, excessive tooth wear, corrosion or missing components. Check the matching bowl for debris and damaged contact surfaces.
During operation, use the correct body-and-insert combination and follow the manufacturer’s load-transfer procedures. Avoid shock loading, excessive side loading and operation beyond the equipment’s approved limits.
After use, remove drilling mud and abrasive debris. Inspect the gripping surfaces and store the assembly under suitable conditions.
If inspection reveals suspected structural cracking, severe deformation or uncertain load-bearing condition, remove the slips from service until qualified personnel assess the equipment.
Drill Pipe Slips vs. Other Oilfield Handling Equipment
Drilling and well-servicing operations use several types of tubular handling tools. Although some share similar gripping principles, they perform different functions.
| Equipment | Main Function | Typical Oilfield Application |
|---|---|---|
| Drill Pipe Slips | Support drill pipe at the rotary table | Tripping and connection handling |
| Drill Pipe Elevators | Lift and lower drill pipe through the hoisting system | Hoisting and stand handling |
| Drill Collar Slips | Grip and support drill collars | Drill collar and BHA operations |
| Casing Slips | Support casing strings | Casing running and well construction |
| Tubing Slips | Support production tubing | Completion and workover |
| Pneumatic Spiders | Use powered actuation for tubular gripping | Model-dependent pipe handling |
| Safety Clamps | Provide additional restraint where required | Selected tubular-handling procedures |
For example, drill pipe elevators lift the string, while rotary slips hold it stationary at the rotary table. Pneumatic spiders use an air-operated mechanism, whereas manual rotary slips rely on mechanical wedge action.
Choosing the correct tool helps crews maintain the intended load path during drilling and workover operations.
Drill Pipe Slips Price, Supplier and Bulk Order Enquiries
SGPE supplies complete rotary slip assemblies, replacement gripping inserts and selected spare parts for drilling contractors, rig operators, oilfield service companies and equipment distributors.
Customers sourcing Drill Pipe Slips for Sale generally need a quotation for a specific model and equipment configuration rather than a single standard price.
The final Drill Pipe Slips price depends on the model, slip body size, gripping inserts, quantity, inspection requirements and delivery destination.
A complete SDXL or SDU assembly has a different purchasing scope from an SDS replacement insert set. For multi-rig projects, buyers can request complete assemblies and spare components under the same procurement enquiry.
SGPE also supports dimensional cross-reference requests for customers replacing existing rotary slips or sourcing hard-to-identify spare parts.
Drill Pipe Slips RFQ Information
| Required Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Slip Model | SDS, SDML, SDXL, DU, DUL, SDU, B Short, B Long or X Long |
| Drill Pipe OD | Nominal and actual outside diameter |
| Pipe Specification | Steel grade and wall thickness, where applicable |
| Maximum Suspended Load | Required operating load |
| Slip Body and Insert Bowl | Existing models, dimensions and taper information |
| Procurement Scope | Complete assemblies, inserts or spare parts |
| Quantity | Number of complete sets or individual components |
| Replacement Details | Original part numbers, drawings or photographs |
| Documentation | Material, inspection or certification requirements |
| Delivery Destination | Country, port and preferred shipping terms |
Providing this information helps SGPE identify the required configuration and prepare a more accurate quotation.
Email your specifications to info@sgpe.com for model selection, availability information and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drill Pipe Slips
1. What Are Drill Pipe Slips Used for in Oil and Gas Drilling?
Drill Pipe Slips, also known as Manual Rotary Slips, grip and temporarily suspend drill pipe at the rotary table during oil and gas drilling, drill-string tripping and connection handling. Their tapered steel segments and replaceable gripping inserts hold the pipe body as the drilling crew transfers the suspended load from the hoisting system to the matching insert bowl.
These tools support routine pipe handling on land drilling rigs, offshore platforms and jack-up rigs. They help crews maintain stationary drill-string support while adding or removing pipe joints and stands. Unlike powered drilling equipment, conventional manual rotary slips do not grip a continuously rotating drill string.
2. What Is the Difference Between Drill Pipe Slips and Rotary Slips?
Drill Pipe Slips are a specific type of Rotary Slips designed to grip and support drill pipe during drilling and tripping operations. The broader term Rotary Slips may also refer to rotary table gripping equipment for other tubulars, including drill collars and casing.
Although these tools use similar wedge-gripping principles, their body dimensions, gripping inserts and load requirements differ. Drill pipe slips work with compatible insert bowls to support the drill string during connection handling and controlled load transfers. When ordering manual rotary table slips, buyers should specify the tubular type, outside diameter, required capacity and existing rotary table equipment.
3. Which Drill Pipe Slips Are Suitable for 5-Inch Drill Pipe?
SGPE offers several 5 Inch Drill Pipe Slips configurations within its SD, DU and B Type product ranges. The published family specifications include 5-inch drill pipe options, although the correct assembly depends on the slip body, gripping inserts and supporting bowl.
For example, SDS, SDML, SDXL, DU, DUL, SDU, B Long and X Long series ranges include 5-inch pipe, but this does not mean every body and insert combination is interchangeable. Drilling contractors should also consider the drill pipe grade, wall thickness and maximum suspended load.
For new equipment or replacement rotary slips, SGPE can review the existing model, insert specifications and rotary table dimensions before recommending a suitable configuration.
4. What Is the Difference Between SDS, SDML and SDXL Drill Pipe Slips?
The main difference between SDS, SDML and SDXL Drill Pipe Slips is their gripping-body length and corresponding pipe-size coverage.
SDS Rotary Slips use a short body for conventional drill pipe handling, while SDML Rotary Slips provide a medium-long gripping surface for repeated tripping and connection operations. SDXL Rotary Slips feature an extra-long body that engineers may consider for deep-well drilling and demanding drill-string suspension.
Their published family ranges extend from 2-3/8 to 5 inches for SDS, 2-3/8 to 5-1/2 inches for SDML, and 3-1/2 to 7 inches for SDXL. Final selection depends on the approved assembly rating, pipe properties and gripping-insert compatibility.
5. What Is the Difference Between DU, DUL and SDU Rotary Slips?
DU, DUL and SDU Rotary Slips belong to the SGPE DU Type range, but they feature different gripping lengths and body-to-bowl contact arrangements.
DU Regular Slips provide a conventional gripping design for drill-string tripping and connection handling. DUL Long Slips offer extended gripping contact, while SDU Heavy-Duty Slips use an enlarged taper contact area for demanding load-transfer applications.
SGPE lists 4-1/2, 5-1/2 and 7-inch body sizes for DU and DUL, while SDU includes 5-1/2 and 7-inch bodies. These models support drilling operations on compatible land and offshore rigs. The final body and insert combination must match the drill pipe OD, suspended load and supporting insert bowl.
6. How Do B Short, B Long and X Long Rotary Slips Differ?
B Short, B Long and X Long Rotary Slips provide different gripping-body lengths and drill pipe diameter ranges for oilfield drilling operations.
B Short accommodates selected pipe sizes from 2-3/8 to 4-1/2 inches and offers a compact design for conventional drilling and tripping. B Long extends the published pipe range to 5-1/2 inches, while X Long provides extra-long gripping contact for selected pipe diameters from 3-1/2 to 5 inches.
SGPE also publishes well-depth application references for these models. However, those figures do not represent rated load capacities. Drilling contractors should select the appropriate B Type Drill Pipe Slips according to actual string loads, pipe properties and approved technical specifications.
7. Which Drill Pipe Slips Should I Choose for Deep-Well Drilling?
For deep-well drilling and drill-string tripping, engineers may evaluate longer-body rotary slip configurations such as SDXL, DUL, SDU and X Long. These models provide different gripping lengths or taper-contact arrangements for demanding stationary drill-string support.
However, well depth alone cannot determine which drill pipe slips are suitable. The maximum suspended load, drill pipe outside diameter, steel grade, wall thickness and gripping-insert geometry all affect equipment selection.
This is particularly important in deep, directional and extended-reach wells, where heavy drill strings may create substantial gripping forces. The selected slip body, inserts and rotary table bowl must meet the approved operating requirements of the complete assembly.
8. What Causes Drill Pipe Slip Crushing, and How Can It Be Reduced?
Drill Pipe Slip Crushing occurs when excessive gripping pressure creates local stress or deformation in the drill pipe body. Heavy suspended loads, worn gripping inserts, unsuitable tooth geometry and poor slip-bowl contact can increase this risk during tripping and stationary drill-string suspension.
The drill pipe’s steel grade, wall thickness and condition also influence its resistance to local gripping forces. Longer gripping contact may help distribute pressure, but it does not automatically establish a higher allowable load.
To reduce the risk, drilling operators should use properly matched rotary slips, gripping inserts and insert bowls, inspect the equipment regularly and follow the manufacturer’s approved operating procedures and load limits.
9. Can W-SDS, W-SDML and W-SDXL Drill Pipe Slip Inserts Be Used Interchangeably?
W-SDS, W-SDML and W-SDXL Slip Inserts serve different rotary slip body configurations and should not be considered interchangeable without confirming their dimensions and mounting arrangements.
SGPE’s published replacement-insert ranges cover 2-3/8 to 4-1/2 inches for W-SDS, 2-3/8 to 5-1/2 inches for W-SDML, and 3-1/2 to 5-1/2 inches for W-SDXL. These insert ranges do not necessarily represent the full diameter coverage of the corresponding complete slip assemblies.
Even when two slip models handle the same nominal drill pipe diameter, their insert length, backing profile, gripping teeth and retaining features may differ. For replacement rotary slip dies, buyers should provide the existing slip model, original part number, insert dimensions and photographs.
10. Can Drill Pipe Slips Be Used on Offshore Drilling Rigs and Workover Units?
Suitable Drill Pipe Slips support drill-string handling on land drilling rigs, fixed offshore platforms and jack-up drilling rigs. Crews use these tools during tripping, connection handling and temporary drill-string suspension at compatible rotary tables.
Top-drive-equipped rigs may also use manual rotary slips during stationary connection operations. In selected workover, fishing and well re-entry projects, compatible slips can support drill pipe used as a workstring.
Offshore operations require particular attention to corrosion, equipment inspection and rig-floor compatibility. Floating drilling units, including drillships and semi-submersibles, may introduce additional dynamic loads, so operators must verify the equipment and approved handling procedures for those conditions.
11. Are SGPE Drill Pipe Slips Manufactured According to API Spec 7K?
SGPE identifies API Spec 7K – Drilling and Well Servicing Equipment as the manufacturing standard for its SD, DU and B Type Drill Pipe Slips. The specification addresses several categories of oilfield drilling equipment, including manual and powered rotary slips and slip bowls.
For onshore drilling, offshore rig procurement and workover projects, buyers should confirm the applicable technical requirements and available quality documentation for the selected model.
Manufacturing according to API Spec 7K does not automatically establish API Monogram licensing. Customers requiring API Monogram marking must separately verify the manufacturer’s licensing scope and product eligibility. SGPE can review project-specific inspection, material traceability and documentation requirements during quotation preparation.
12. How Can I Request Drill Pipe Slips Prices and Replacement Parts?
SGPE supplies complete Drill Pipe Slips assemblies, replacement gripping inserts and selected spare parts for oilfield drilling contractors, rig operators, workover companies and equipment distributors.
The final Drill Pipe Slips price depends on the model, pipe size, insert configuration, order quantity, inspection requirements and delivery destination. To request a quotation, buyers should provide the required slip model, drill pipe OD, maximum suspended load and quantity.
For replacement rotary slips or gripping dies, original part numbers, slip body dimensions, insert bowl information, photographs and technical drawings can help identify the correct components. SGPE also welcomes bulk orders and multi-rig procurement enquiries.
Related Oilfield Drilling and Tubular Handling Equipment
SGPE supplies complementary equipment for drill-string handling, rotary table operations, well construction and selected workover projects.
For additional model details, explore DU Type Rotary Drill Pipe Slips and B Type Drill Pipe Slips.
For replacement gripping components, SGPE supplies Tong Dies and Slip Inserts. Customers handling drill collars can also review DCS Type Drill Collar Slips for suitable BHA operations.
During tripping and hoisting, Drill Pipe Elevators lift and lower the drill string. Casing Bushings and Insert Bowls provide supporting components for compatible rotary table systems.
SGPE also supplies Iron Roughneck equipment for drill pipe and drill collar connection make-up and break-out.
These related products help drilling contractors coordinate compatible rig-floor handling equipment within the same procurement project.
Request a Quote for SGPE Drill Pipe Slips
SGPE supplies SD, DU and B Type Drill Pipe Slips for oil and gas drilling, drill-string tripping, offshore rigs and workover operations. Our range includes SDS, SDML, SDXL, DU, DUL, SDU, B Short, B Long and X Long, covering selected drill pipe diameters from 2-3/8 to 7 in (60.3–177.8 mm).
We offer complete rotary slip assemblies, replacement gripping inserts and spare parts, along with model selection and dimensional matching for existing equipment.
To request pricing, please provide your drill pipe OD, required model, maximum suspended load, quantity and delivery destination. For replacement orders, include available part numbers, slip body and insert bowl details, photographs or technical drawings. Please also specify any inspection or documentation requirements.
We welcome individual orders, bulk purchases and multi-rig procurement enquiries.
Email: info@sgpe.com
Tel / WhatsApp: +86 186-1599-5239
