Definition
DS-1 — DS-1 is the widely used industry standard for drill stem inspection and specification, defining inspection procedures, acceptance criteria and dimensional classes for drill pipe, tool joints and bottomhole assembly components.
Also known as: DS-1, DS1, Drill Stem Design and Inspection standard
What DS-1 is
DS-1 (formally the T H Hill / Standard DS-1 Drill Stem Design and Inspection standard) is a comprehensive, independent specification governing the inspection, classification and design of drill stem equipment. It is one of the most widely referenced standards for rental and operator drill strings, setting out exactly how each inspection is performed, what defects are rejectable, and how a component is graded into a dimensional and remaining-wall class.
DS-1 is organized in volumes covering drill stem design, tubular inspection, and inspection of BHA and other components. It defines inspection categories (for example Category 3 to 5) that specify which methods — dimensional, EMI, MPI, ultrasonic — are applied for a given service severity.
What DS-1 covers
- Inspection methods and procedures for tubes, tool joints and connections.
- Acceptance criteria for wall loss, cracks, dimensions and connection condition.
- Classification into grades such as Premium and Class 2 based on measured condition.
Because it standardizes methods and pass/fail limits, DS-1 lets operators specify a repeatable, auditable inspection scope for their strings.
Why it matters for rentals
Reputable rental drill pipe is inspected and classified to a defined standard such as DS-1 so you know exactly what condition you are receiving. See our drill pipe and quality program, or contact us to request inspection certificates.