Huisman's AS605X Auto Slip System Automates Drill Floor Activities

Huisman has developed the AS605X Auto Slip system, a technology designed to automate drill pipe slips and streamline drilling operations. This innovation aims to reduce manual intervention during critical phases of well construction.

The AS605X Auto Slip enables faster and more consistent slip handling, supporting smoother drill floor activity in demanding offshore conditions. Its design is crucial for reducing the need for human involvement in high-pressure situations.

According to Huisman’s claims, the system can help minimize well construction interferences by up to 2.5 days per typical 60-day well. This reduction is attributed to several key factors: eliminating insert changes, uninterrupted passage of drilling tools, rapid opening and closing sequences, and safe closure on pipe in rolling and pitching offshore conditions.

The integration of the Huisman Auto Slip system with existing rig control systems allows for straightforward implementation. This seamless integration supports the industry’s focus on automation and operational consistency.

Seadrill has partnered with Huisman to deploy these new power slips and test their ability to deliver improved safety and performance. John Dady, Director of Rig Innovation and Technology at Seadrill, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration: ‘We are excited to work together with Huisman… These slips have the potential to drastically reduce human exposure in the red zone.’

A key differentiator of the AS605X is its patented roller-based clamping technology. This innovative design operates at the optimal point between pipe slipping and crushing, allowing it to handle extreme loads while maintaining tubular integrity.

The Auto Slip features a large stepless clamping range, enabling the handling of complete drill strings without changing inserts. The system can clamp tubulars ranging from 5″ to 9.5″ and open up to 19″, eliminating manual intervention during critical drilling operations.

Huisman’s Sales Manager, Ron Agterberg, emphasized: ‘The AS605X represents a significant step forward in drill floor automation… This contract reflects the industry’s growing demand for technologies that help operators deliver wells faster, safer, and with greater operational consistency.’