8 Types of Drill Pipe Float Valves

Keystone Drill Pipe Float Valves

Drill pipe float valves, or non-return valves, are downhole safety valves that create barriers to prevent unwanted flow of fluids up the drill string. The valve locks down the flow of fluids while the crew at the rigfloor is making or breaking connections.

Finding the best fit for every individual project is important, and the different types go beyond just the split between the F-type plunger valves and the G-type flapper valves. Here’s a fast primer and reminder on the differences between the types of non-return valves available.

1. Model F Plunger Type Valve

The Model F Plunger Type Valve provides an instant shutoff feature. The piston gives a reliable and economical way to completely stop flow-back when connections are being made or broken during standard drilling operations. With this model, you get a positive instantaneous shutoff with consistent fluid control throughout drilling.

2. Model FA Ported Plunger Type Valve

The Model FA pressure-monitoring valve is a version of the F valve that has a ported piston. This gives the fluid a path through the center of the valve, allowing for an automatic partial filling of the drill pipe during run in. The valve also allows for monitoring of the bit head for gas pressure and differential pressure measuring as needed.

3. Model FC Plunger Type Automatic Fill Valve

This plunger type float valve has a distinctive slotted valve stem that holds the plunger open during run-in. That allows the pipe to fill from the bottom, which can save time, reduce mess, and avoid many hazards. Once circulation begins, the valve automatically releases the plunger.

4. Model G Full Flow Flapper Type Valve

Designed for use with particularly abrasive drilling fluids, the Model G has an investment cast flapper. It allows for full unobstructed flow through the valve and it’s quick opening mechanism prevents shavings from entering the drill string when circulation stops. Additionally, the valve fully opens when the first joint is raised from the hole, preventing the pulling of wet joints. With flappers like these, the investment cast is case hardened for wear resistance.

5. Model GA Flapper Type Valve

This valve is exactly the same as the model G, except for the presence of a quarter-inch carbide orifice (or tungsten-carbide orifice) that makes the flapper ported. The ported flapper allows for differential pressure monitoring at the surface, as well as partial automatic filling of the drill pipe during run in.

6. Model GC Automatic Fill Flapper Type Valve

This flapper type valve has a self-releasing key assembly that keeps the flapper partially open during run in, allowing the pipe to fill from the bottom, similar to the Model FC. Here, you eliminate the need to fill the drill pipe from the top, saving time and money. Like with other Model G valves, the valve fully opens when the first joint is raised from the hole, stopping the pulling of wet joints and avoiding environmental and safety concerns related to getting mud on the rig floor.

7. Model GCA Automatic Fill/Pressure Monitoring Flapper Type Valve

The GCA incorporates all the features of the G, GC, and GA drill pipe float valves. It features an unobstructed bore through the valve, measures differential pressures, and allows for automatic partial filling of the drill pipe from the bottom.

8. Flapper Valve F/Dual Flapper Check Valve

The Flapper Valves F/Dual Flapper Check Valves are manufactured for today’s increasingly harsh drilling environment. All cages, flappers, & caps may be made from 17-4 bar stock to address the corrosive effects of hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S).