Basic maintenance knowledge of drilling rigs: key measures to extend the service life of equipment

Basic maintenance knowledge of drilling rigs: key measures to extend the service life of equipment

A drilling rig is an important investment, and its service life and reliability are directly dependent on the level of routine maintenance. Mastering and implementing the following key maintenance measures can effectively prevent equipment from "premature aging" and significantly reduce the failure rate. It is the most economical and effective way to extend the service life of equipment.

1. Lubrication is “blood” and must be carried out on time and with good quality.

Adequate and correct lubrication of moving parts is the first priority to reduce wear.

Operate according to the instructions: Strictly follow the lubrication cycle, lubrication points, lubricant brand and model specified in the equipment manual. Different parts (such as bearings, gears, wire ropes) may require different oils.

Keep it clean: Before adding new oil, clean the oil nozzle and surrounding areas to prevent dust and sand from being brought inside.

Observe oil quality: Regularly check whether the lubricating oil has deteriorated, emulsified or contains excessive metal debris. If abnormalities are found, they should be replaced in time.

2. Cleaning and rust prevention are the “coat” and cannot be ignored.

The working environment is harsh, and cleaning can prevent corrosion and debris damage.

Cleaning after work: After each operation, before the equipment has completely cooled down, promptly remove mud and sand from the surface of the drill pipe, drilling tools, and fuselage, especially the threaded parts, to prevent rust.

Clean key parts: Keep the radiator, air filter, and hydraulic oil radiator clean to ensure good heat dissipation and air intake.

Anti-rust for long-term storage: Apply anti-rust grease to exposed metal surfaces (such as unpainted shafts and bolts) and park the equipment in a dry place.

3. Inspection and tightening are the "muscles" to prevent structural damage

Vibration is the natural enemy of drilling rigs and can cause loose connections.

Daily inspection: Before starting up and after shutting down every day, quickly check whether key connection parts, such as anchor bolts, drill pipe joints, wire rope buckles, hydraulic pipe joints, etc., are loose.

Regular systematic tightening: Use tools to systematically inspect and tighten all important bolts every certain working time (such as 50-100 hours).

Structural inspection: Regularly check the frame and mast for deformation and cracked welds.

4. The oil and filter element are the "kidneys" to ensure the system is clean.

Cleaning of hydraulic and power systems is crucial.

Regular replacement: Replace engine oil, oil filter element, diesel filter element, air filter element, hydraulic oil and hydraulic oil filter element strictly according to the time or working hours required in the instructions. In dusty environments, the frequency of air filter replacement should be doubled.

Monitor oil level: Check whether the engine oil, coolant, and hydraulic oil levels are normal before each operation.

Prevent contamination: Use cleaning tools when refueling to ensure the oil is pure.

5. Correct operation and storage are "health preservation", and good use is also health preservation.

Good operating habits themselves are the best maintenance.

Smooth operation: Avoid rough operations such as jerking the operating lever and suddenly increasing the throttle to reduce the impact on the transmission system and hydraulic system.

Overloading is prohibited: Do not force the equipment to drill into formations that are far beyond its capabilities (such as huge hard rocks).

Standard storage: When not in use for a long time, it should be stored indoors or under a shed. Drain the water stored in the water tank and water pipes (antifreeze), thoroughly clean and lubricate the equipment, and start the engine for short periods of time regularly.

6. Establish maintenance files and professional maintenance

Keep a maintenance log: Simply record the date, items and parts replaced for each maintenance to facilitate tracking and planning.

Rely on professional services: For complex tasks such as engine overhaul and precision debugging of hydraulic systems, professional technicians should be hired. Schedule comprehensive inspections regularly.

In summary, the key to extending the life of a drilling rig is to turn maintenance into a discipline and habit. It can be simplified into a mantra: "lubricate frequently, clean and prevent rust, check for loose tightening, replace the oil filter on time, operate smoothly, and keep records." The time and small cost invested in these measures will be richly rewarded in the long-term reliable service of the equipment and the savings in overhaul costs.