Shell Exploration and Production Company List of Connections Tested for Well Service Pressures >8000 psi Based on Standardized API/ISO Qualification Testing Procedures

Shell Exploration and Production Company (SEPCo) has spent millions of dollars since 1980 to qualify connections for well service pressure greater than 8,000 psi internal differential pressure. Prior to 1998, API RP 5C5(1) was used to qualify connections. Since 1998, SEPCo has been qualifying connections consistent with ISO 13679:2002(2). These connections have been qualified by testing, by product line qualification, or through extrapolation/interpolation from fully tested connections. In light of the potential for corrosion on metallic surfaces or handling damage, SEPCo requires that the connections for wells above 8,000 psi have two different types of sealing mechanisms: a metal seal and an independent resilient seal. Qualification and usage of tested connections with two proven seals has resulted in only four connection issues in wells (all attributed to incorrect rig make-up) over the last 20 years. The actual connection test data are the property of the thread design company. For details of any of the test protocols and results, the appropriate thread design company should be contacted.