Definition
Pup Joint — A pup joint is a short length of drill pipe, tubing or casing — typically 2 to 15 ft — used to adjust the overall length of a string for precise space-out when a full-length joint is too long.
Also known as: pup joint, pup, short joint
What a pup joint is
A pup joint is a short joint of pipe made to the same specification and connections as the string it belongs to, but at a fraction of the standard length — commonly available in increments such as 2, 5, 10 and 15 ft. Because full-length joints come in fixed API ranges, a string can rarely be made to land at an exact depth using whole joints alone; pup joints fill the remaining gap.
Pup joints are used across drill pipe, tubing and casing strings whenever precise space-out is needed — landing a tool at an exact depth, spacing a packer, or positioning a completion.
Key points
- Space-out — adds a measured short length to hit an exact string length.
- Matched spec — same OD, weight, grade and connection as the parent string.
- Sets of lengths — kept as a graduated set so any make-up length can be built.
Renting pup joints
Pup joints are inexpensive but essential for accurate landing and are commonly rented as a matched set with the string. Explore drill pipe and workstring tubing, or contact us for the pup lengths and connections you need.