Drill pipe float valves, or non-return valves, are crucial downhole safety devices that prevent the unwanted flow of fluids up the drill string. They secure the flow of fluids while the crew at the rig floor makes or breaks connections.
Choosing the right valve for each project is essential. The various types of float valves extend beyond the basic split between F-type plunger valves and G-type flapper valves.
Here’s a quick overview of the different non-return valves available:
Model F - Plunger Type Valve
The Model F Plunger Type Valve offers an immediate shutoff feature. Its piston provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for completely stopping flow-back during standard drilling operations. This model ensures a positive, instantaneous shutoff and consistent fluid control throughout the drilling process.
Model FA - Ported Plunger Type Valve
The Model FA is a variation of the F valve with a ported piston. It allows fluid to pass through the center of the valve, enabling automatic partial filling of the drill pipe during run-in. This model also facilitates monitoring of the bit head for gas pressure and differential pressure as needed.
Model FC - Plunger Type Automatic Fill Valve
This plunger type valve features a slotted valve stem that keeps the plunger open during run-in, allowing the pipe to fill from the bottom. This design saves time, reduces mess, and minimizes hazards. Once circulation starts, the valve automatically releases the plunger.
Model G - Full Flow Flapper Type Valve
The Model G is designed for abrasive drilling fluids and features an investment-cast flapper. It provides full, unobstructed flow through the valve and a quick opening mechanism to prevent shavings from entering the drill string when circulation stops. The valve fully opens when the first joint is raised from the hole, preventing the pulling of wet joints. The investment-cast flapper is case-hardened for wear resistance.
Model GA - Flapper Type Valve
The Model GA is similar to the Model G, except it has a quarter-inch carbide orifice (or tungsten-carbide orifice) that makes the flapper ported. This ported flapper enables differential pressure monitoring at the surface and allows for partial automatic filling of the drill pipe during run-in.
Model GC - Automatic Fill Flapper Type Valve
The Model GC has a self-releasing key assembly that keeps the flapper partially open during run-in, allowing the pipe to fill from the bottom, similar to the Model FC. This eliminates the need to fill the drill pipe from the top, saving time and money. Like other Model G valves, it fully opens when the first joint is raised from the hole, avoiding environmental and safety concerns related to mud on the rig floor.
Model GCA – Automatic Fill/Pressure Monitoring Flapper Type Valve
The Model GCA incorporates features from the G, GC, and GA valves. It provides an unobstructed bore, measures differential pressures, and allows for automatic partial filling of the drill pipe from the bottom.
Model GS - Flapper Type for High Flow Wells
The Model GS is designed for high-flow corrosive wells. Its cage maximizes flow while maintaining its rated pressure. The GS features a unique flapper with a relief groove and a safeguard pocket to protect the pin and spring from excessive wear caused by harsh, corrosive environments. This valve is also stackable, allowing the use of two valves simultaneously.
Discover Drill pipe float valves in RAAH Distribution
At RAAH, we understand the importance of reliable drilling equipment. Float valves are essential for successful drilling and must endure harsh environments.
RAAH distributes precision-manufactured float valves made from high-grade materials to perform optimally in demanding drilling conditions.
Discover more about our Drill Pipe Float Valves here