Paper: API Recommended Practices Used For Testing of Float Equipment

American Petroleum Institute (API) proposed Recommended Practices (RP)' present standards of performance to be used in testing of floating equipment that is used in oil and gas well completions. Extensive laboratory testing has been done following API proposed procedures. Testing at levels beyond API standards have also been accomplished. A paper has been prepared to present data resulting from API tests conducted. Procedures used and test results gained from testing at more stringent standards are also presented. Data reported include (1) impact and pressure force tests exerted through the cementing plugs to floating equipment, and (2) flow tests in which a large volume of lost circulation material was passed through floating equipment. Subject paper also presents statistical data from an extensive body of cementing work performed in domestic operations in the United States. Many pipe sizes are represented in this information. Data include pipe size, flow rates, circulation times, and cementing times. Results presented justify the need for and the severity of the standards in the API proposed RP.