Projects & products
BHA shear sub (5.5″ API axial)
Controlled, calibrated disconnection of the drill string in a stuck-in-hole event, available for sale or rent.
The MintMech shear sub is a proven bottom-hole-assembly component that parts the drill string at a defined location under a predetermined tensile load. If the bit or BHA becomes irrecoverably stuck, the operator applies a known over-tension and disconnects in a controlled, predictable way, rather than relying on ad-hoc or hazardous methods or on seabed-mounted shearing tools. It’s a productised offering that has been sold, re-sold and proven in deep-water service. We hold the design, the tooling and the critical spares, so it’s available for purchase or for rental on a campaign.
How it works
Interfering, individually-fitted shear pins and load-ring segments are designed to deform to suit one another, assuring 100% load share, which is what gives an accurate, predictable separation force. After a shear event the pins are removed with a dedicated torque tool and replaced;. We recommend end-of-service testing back at the OEM (metallurgic spectroscopy plus pull testing) to re-evaluate capacity, which also lets us extend the life of subs still in service.
| Drill string | 5.5″ FH API drill pipe |
|---|---|
| Shear capacity | 40 t (+20%) |
| Max working compressive load | 10 t |
| Working drill-string torque | 15 kN·m |
| Make-up torque | 45.3 kN·m (33,410 ft·lb) |
| Max operating temperature | 300 °C |
| Limiting internal mud pressure | 210 bar |
| Application | Deep-water, high-temperature, high-density, high-pressure geotechnical & drilling BHAs |
Downhole tooling, BHAs & drill bits
The shear sub is one part of a broader downhole capability. We design and supply bottom-hole-assembly components and downhole tooling, wear subs, float subs, crossovers, safety subs, latches and bespoke BHA elements and we undertake drill-bit and cutter design and selection, matched to the geology, diameter and duty. If you have a downhole problem, bring it to us.