Forum Delivers 350th RT Torque Machine
Forum Energy Technologies, Inc. said it has designed, manufactured, tested and delivered its 350th rotational torque (RT) torque machine to TAM International, a globally recognized downhole inflatable packer leader.
The torque machine, or bucking unit as it is commonly referred, was manufactured at the Forum AMC facility in Aberdeen, U.K. This represents the sixth unit that TAM has purchased from Forum in three years, and is a testament to TAM’s growth plans, as well as their trust in Forum’s equipment and global support network. The machine will be used to make up or breakout downhole completion and drilling tools with premium threaded connections.
The machine can work autonomously to achieve a predetermined amount of rotational torque and provides an auditable report for thread inspectors, drilling contractors or casing crews. After delivery, Forum will provide TAM with maintenance and support from equipment specialists in Aberdeen and Singapore.
James Bement, Forum’s Senior Vice President of Drilling Technologies, said, “Our equipment has gone through many improvements over the past 27 years, and our 350th machine provides customers with the latest software to meet the increasing demand on make-up inspection criteria. Among other improvements, our new hydraulic power unit (HPU) is capable of improved cycle efficiencies of up to 68 percent, and reduces energy consumption by up to 31 percent. We look forward to continuing our partnership with TAM in other locations, and to seeing the next 350 machines take on our customers’ challenges.”
After witnessing and signing off on the factory acceptance test for the new unit, David Neill, TAM International, remarked, “Another quality product from a quality company. Having experienced the numerous operational benefits of Forum’s torque machine at TAM International’s Aberdeen facility, we’re pleased to add this new machine to our new Australian base in Roma.”