The Free Point Indicator is an electro-mechanical assembly designed to accurately measure torque or stretch in harsh conditions. The basic Free Point tool assembly consists of bow spring or magnet, upper and lower anchors, and a sensor section to determine stuck point. Additional components that must be run with the Free Point tool assembly are: sinker bars to overcome the holding ability of the anchors, a collar locator (CCL) to determine depth and a slack joint to relieve weight above the tool assembly when at the correct depth for making a measurement.
Measures both torque and stretch
Identifies neutral weight at free point by plotting torque reading vs driller’s weight
Reduced friction/drag, and therefore easier to deploy in deviated wells
Controllable anchoring force instead of pre-defined force, as with springs
Faster setup time, shorter tool string
Simple maintenance, can be redressed at wellsite
Crossovers to various service company connections available
In many cases, eliminates the need for a slack joint or sinker bars
Shear pins allow for retrieval if communication to deployed tool is lost
Measures both torque and stretch
Identifies neutral weight at free point by plotting torque reading vs driller’s weight
Reduced friction/drag, and therefore easier to deploy in deviated wells
Controllable anchoring force instead of pre-defined force, as with springs
Faster setup time, shorter tool string
Simple maintenance, can be redressed at wellsite
Crossovers to various service company connections available
In many cases, eliminates the need for a slack joint or sinker bars
Shear pins allow for retrieval if communication to deployed tool is lost
