Description
The Drillpipe Circulating Head is a specialized drilling connection tool designed to ensure continuous circulation of drilling fluid during drilling and casing running operations. Installed between the drill pipe and mud circulation system, it enables drilling fluid to flow down the drill string and return through the annulus, helping maintain effective hole cleaning and stable pressure control.
Product Overview
A circulating head (also known as a circulation sub) connects the drill pipe to the surface mud pumping system, allowing fluid to circulate while the drill string is being moved or rotated. This continuous circulation is crucial for maintaining wellbore stability, carrying cuttings to the surface, and minimizing the risk of stuck pipe or drilling interruptions.
Compared with simple crossover joints, this drillpipe circulating head offers multiple size options and thread flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of drilling conditions encountered in oil and gas operations.
Key Features & Advantages
Designed for Efficient Fluid Circulation
Enables uninterrupted drilling mud circulation between the surface system and drill pipe under drilling and casing running conditions.High-Strength Integral Construction
Built with high strength material and a non-welded structure for reliable performance in demanding drilling environments.Wide Size Compatibility
Available in 5-1/2″, 7″, 9-5/8″, 10-3/4″, 13-3/8″, and 20″ sizes to match most drill pipe and casing programs.Multiple Thread Options
Support for STC, LTC, and BTC thread types provides flexible connection choices on the bottom side, enhancing field adaptability.Compact and Practical Length
Standard lengths of 270 mm for most sizes and 323 mm for the 20″ model allow installation with minimal interference to rig space.
Technical Specifications
| Size (in) | Length (mm) | Outer Diameter (mm) | Thread Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-1/2″ | 270 | 139.7 | STC / LTC / BTC |
| 7″ | 270 | 177.8 | STC / LTC / BTC |
| 9-5/8″ | 270 | 244.5 | STC / LTC / BTC |
| 10-3/4″ | 270 | 273 | STC / LTC / BTC |
| 13-3/8″ | 270 | 339.7 | STC / LTC / BTC |
| 20″ | 323 | 508 | STC / LTC / BTC |
Please send us your required specifications, parameters, or technical drawings. Our expert team will help confirm the suitable model and provide a factory quotation within 24 hours.
Email: info@shangshanpetro.com
Contact: Contact Us for a Quote
Applications
The Drillpipe Circulating Head is suitable for:
Continuous drilling fluid circulation during drilling operations
Casing running where drilling fluid flow must be maintained
Wellbore cleaning and cuttings removal
Pressure control and drilling efficiency improvement
Onshore and offshore oil & gas drilling applications
This tool is especially useful in environments where uninterrupted circulation is required while connecting or tripping pipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the purpose of a drillpipe circulating head?
A drillpipe circulating head allows drilling mud to circulate between the surface system and the drill pipe, improving drilling efficiency and borehole cleaning.
Q2: What sizes are available for this model?
This circulating head is offered in sizes from 5-1/2″ to 20″ to suit various drilling programs.
Q3: What thread options does it support?
It supports STC, LTC, and BTC thread types, providing flexibility in bottom connections.
Q4: Why is continuous circulation important in drilling?
Continuous circulation helps carry cuttings to the surface, maintains wellbore stability, and reduces drilling risks by keeping mud flowing without interruption.




