XT Connections

High-performance connections for extreme drilling conditions

The Grant Prideco™ eXtreme™ Torque (XT™) connection is a high-performance rotary-shouldered connection available for pipe sizes from 2⅜ to 6⅝ in. Incorporating a second-generation double-shouldered design with a proprietary thread profile, these connections provide improved hydraulics and more torque than connections of comparable dimensions. XT connections often enable the use of larger drill pipe for a given hole size while maintaining fishability, and they serve as the market reference for deepwater and extended reach drilling.

Proprietary thread profile

XT connections have a proprietary thread design with a larger root radius to maintain greater fatigue resistance than American Petroleum Institute (API) connections, even at increased operational torque. Cold-rolled threads further enhance their ability to resist fatigue.

Torque optimized

The XT connection is designed to deliver a higher torque rating than first-generation double-shouldered connections. Even in a more streamlined configuration, XT provides 70% more torque than API connections of comparable dimensions. This additional strength meets the required torque for drilling extended reach or in more performance-demanding environments.

Streamlined for performance

The XT connection’s increased torsional strength enables tool joint dimensional optimization that is more aligned with the pipe body torsional strength. It can be configured with a smaller OD and larger ID without sacrificing torsional capacity, which contributes to improved drill string hydraulics. XT connections facilitate the use of larger drill pipe in a set hole size, such as 5⅞ in. drill pipe with XT 57 in an 8½ in. hole size. This provides improved hydraulic efficiency, better hole cleaning, and greater buckling strength without compromising torsional strength or fishability.