Definition
Range Length — Range length is the API classification of a tubular joint by its overall length — Range 1, 2 or 3 — with Range 2 (about 27 to 30 ft) being the standard for drill pipe and Range 3 (about 38 to 45 ft) used to speed tripping.
Also known as: range length, API range, Range 1, Range 2, Range 3, R2, R3
What range length is
Range length is the API length band a joint of pipe falls into. API defines three ranges so that tubulars of similar length can be handled and racked together:
- Range 1 (R1) — approximately 18 to 22 ft.
- Range 2 (R2) — approximately 27 to 30 ft, the standard length for drill pipe and much tubing.
- Range 3 (R3) — approximately 38 to 45 ft.
Range 2 is by far the most common for drill pipe. Range 3 joints are longer, so fewer connections are needed per stand, which reduces trip time and connection make-ups on deeper wells.
Why it matters
- Stand length — the derrick and racking board must accommodate the range used.
- Trip efficiency — longer R3 pipe means fewer connections and faster tripping.
- Space-out — pup joints fill the gaps that whole-range joints cannot.
Renting the right range
Range choice affects rig fit and trip time, so it should match your derrick and program. We rent drill pipe and workstring tubing in the appropriate API ranges — contact us to confirm what your rig can handle.