The demand for custom oilfield parts continues to grow. As proof, research and consulting firm
Global Market Insights reports that the global oil and gas infrastructure market will reach USD
1.46 trillion by 2034. That’s roughly double its current valuation. This is why machine shops
serving the energy sector must continue to invest in state-of-the-art equipment and machine
tools.
The Custom Oilfield Parts Challenge
As any roughneck knows, components like pump pistons, liners, valves, seats, and shafts take a
beating. As a result, equipment can fail suddenly, leading to huge downtime expenses for rig
owners. In fact, some industry experts suggest unexpected downtime can cost upwards of
$100,000 per hour. Ouch.
Further, the industry continues to push for greater performance. Ultra-tough materials with high
chromium and nickel content push the limits on CNC machinery. So do custom component
designs. For example, drill collars and connectors with novel threads are only possible with
advanced turning equipment.
As a result, machine shops must meet two demands. First and foremost, they need the ability to
turn replacement parts around quickly. In addition, machinists must often grapple with the
challenging materials just mentioned. Tight tolerances and smooth finishes are also the rule, not
the exception. The result? High-quality, rigid, and dependable CNC machine tools are a must.
Meeting Roughneck Demands
One top contender is the KA-series large bore turning center from Kent CNC. With up to 400
inches of bed length and a spindle bore measuring one foot in diameter, it’s well-suited for large
mandrels, drill pipes and sucker rods. It also boasts a 35-horsepower spindle motor, a one-piece
bed, and over of 15,000 lbs. of turning capacity. That’s plenty of power for even the largest,
longest custom oilfield parts.
The KA-series is a CNC machine. A FANUC 0i-TF comes standard, although Siemens and
Fagor controls are also available. However, machine shops not ready for a full CNC might prefer
one of Kent USA’s precision teach lathes.
Its largest is the CAC-30 series precision CNC teach lathe, available with a 9-inch
spindle bore and up to 117-inches of Z-axis travel. Go ahead and crank the handles as you would
any manual lathe.
But for higher volume work and where part complexity demands, the CAC-series works just like
its KA-series counterpart. Or feel free to take a mixed-mode approach; let the CNC do the
threading or hog large quantities of metal, leaving a skilled machinist to handle the finish cuts.
It’s up to you, but either way, Kent USA is here to help. We know our way around oilfield
country.
