// Workers AI · dad joke modeWhat did pipe drift say? "I'm drifting away
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In oil and gas tubular specifications, pipe drift refers to the process of verifying that a cylindrical mandrel of specified diameter can pass through the full length of casing or tubing, ensuring that the internal diameter meets the minimum clearance requirements defined in ISO 11960.[1] Drift mandrels and procedures are defined in standards such as API 5CT [2] and API RP 5A5.[3]
Drifting is a process in which a cylindrical mandrel is passed through the length of a pipe to detect obstructions or deformations. It is performed both at the pipe mill and in the field to ensure that tools, pumps, smaller pipe, and other items can pass through the pipe.
References
[edit]- ↑ "ISO 11960:2020 - Petroleum and natural gas industries - Steel pipes for use as casing or tubing for wells" (International standard). ISO 11960 (6 ed.). Geneva, Switzerland: International Organization for Standardization. 2020-03-21.
- ↑ "API Specification 5CT: Casing and Tubing" (PDF). WOMIC Steel. American Petroleum Institute. 2018. Retrieved 2026-03-02.
Each length of casing and tubing shall be drift-tested throughout its entire length. Drift dimensions (length and diameter) shall comply with Tables C.31 or E.31.
- ↑ "API Recommended Practice 5A5: Field Inspection of New Casing, Tubing, and Drill Pipe" (PDF). IPGM Servicios. American Petroleum Institute. 2015. Retrieved 2026-03-02.
Casing or tubing shall be drifted using drift mandrels manufactured in accordance with ISO 11960, ISO 11961 or API Spec 5D to verify unobstructed internal passage.
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