CAMTOP Pneumatic Spider Series

Air-Operated Tubular Handling Spider | API Spec 7K

The CAMTOP Pneumatic Spider Series is a robust, air-operated tubular handling system designed for drilling and workover rig operations. Engineered for safely gripping and holding drill pipe, tubing, and casing during tripping and makeup/breakout operations. Built from premium alloy steel with advanced heat treatment for maximum durability and load capacity.

  • Capacity Range: 55 Tons to 125 Tons (110,000 – 250,000 lbs)
  • Tubular Range: 1.315″ – 5.5″ (33.4mm – 139.7mm)
  • Working Pressure: 0.6 – 0.9 MPa (87 – 130 psi)
  • Standard: API Spec 7K Compliant
  • Operation: Pneumatic with Manual Safety Lock

Product Overview

The CAMTOP Pneumatic Spider is a state-of-the-art air-operated tubular handling tool engineered for the demanding requirements of modern drilling and workover operations. Designed and manufactured in compliance with API Spec 7K standards, this spider provides safe, reliable, and efficient gripping of drill pipe, tubing, and casing during tripping operations.

Available in three robust models covering tubular ranges from 1.315″ to 5.5″ with load capacities up to 125 Tons (250,000 lbs). Each model is built with high-quality alloy steel and optimized heat treatment for superior strength, rigidity, and wear resistance.

The pneumatic operation system drives dual-cylinder synchronized actuation, allowing hands-free raising and lowering of the slips. A manual safety lock mechanism prevents accidental opening when pipe is set in the slips — the safety latch must be manually released before the slips can be retracted, ensuring maximum operational safety.

Interchangeable slip inserts are available for all standard tubular sizes, with parallel guide channels ensuring every size passes through smoothly. The design also supports weight-set (casing jack) applications, making it a versatile tool for both drilling and completion operations. All CAMTOP spiders undergo rigorous load testing and inspection before shipment.

Model Specifications & Selection Guide

Parameter CAMTOP-PS55 (Light-Duty) CAMTOP-PS82 (Medium-Duty) CAMTOP-PS125 (Heavy-Duty)
Type Designation B-Type (Manual Lock) C-Type (Pneumatic) CHD-Type (Heavy-Duty)
Maximum Load Capacity 55 Tons (US)
110,000 lbs
82.5 Tons (US)
165,000 lbs
125 Tons (US)
250,000 lbs
Tubular Range 1.315″ – 3.5″
(33.4 – 88.9 mm)
1.315″ – 5.5″
(33.4 – 139.7 mm)
1.315″ – 5.5″
(33.4 – 139.7 mm)
Working Air Pressure 0.6 – 0.9 MPa (87 – 130 psi)
Cylinder Stroke 102 mm (4 inches)
Design Standard API Spec 7K
Body Material Premium Alloy Steel with Optimized Heat Treatment
Operation Mode Pneumatic Cylinder Actuation + Manual Safety Lock
Safety Feature Integrated ratchet-type manual safety lock prevents accidental slip opening
Slip Inserts Interchangeable die blocks available for all standard tubular sizes (see slip size chart)

Key Features & Design Advantages

⚙ Dual-Cylinder Pneumatic Actuation

Two symmetrically arranged pneumatic cylinders provide synchronized raising and lowering of the slips. Powered by standard rig air supply (0.6-0.9 MPa / 87-130 psi), eliminating manual effort and improving tripping efficiency.

🔒 Manual Safety Lock System

A ratchet-type manual safety lock is integrated into the design. When pipe is set in the slips, the safety lock engages automatically — the lock must be manually released before the slips can retract, providing fail-safe pipe handling.

⚖ Premium Alloy Steel Construction

All major components including the body, slips, and shafts are manufactured from high-grade alloy steel with precision heat treatment. This ensures maximum strength, rigidity, and wear resistance under continuous heavy-load conditions.

🔧 Quick-Change Slip Inserts

Interchangeable die blocks allow rapid changeover between tubular sizes. Available for all standard pipe dimensions from 1.315″ through 5.5″. Each slip set uses industry-standard bolt-on dies for easy field replacement.

🛠 Versatile Application Ready

Suitable for tripping drill pipe, tubing, and casing. Can be configured for weight-set (casing jack) applications. The parallel guide design ensures all tubular sizes pass through smoothly without hang-up.

✔ API Spec 7K Compliant

Designed, manufactured, and tested in accordance with API Specification 7K for drilling and well servicing equipment. Each unit is supplied with complete documentation including certificate of conformance, load test report, and operating manual.

Operating Principle & Structure

How It Works

The CAMTOP Pneumatic Spider employs a symmetric dual-linkage mechanism. Each of the two opposing slip assemblies is mounted on linkage arms connected to shafts (Shaft I and Shaft II). When pneumatic pressure is applied to the cylinders, the pistons drive the linkage arms to rotate the shafts, causing the slips to move radially inward (close/grip) or outward (open/release).

A ratchet-type locking bar engages with the drive gear teeth when the slips are in the closed position, preventing any backward rotation and ensuring the slips cannot accidentally open under load. To release the pipe, the operator must manually disengage the ratchet lock before activating the pneumatic open function. This dual-action safety system prevents catastrophic pipe drops.

Safety Notice: Before tripping begins, always raise the slips to their fully open position and secure the safety lock. Verify all slip inserts match the tubular OD being handled. Never use mismatched or worn dies.

Applications

⬆️

Tripping Operations

Safe gripping and holding of drill pipe, drill collars, tubing, and casing during tripping in/out

Makeup & Breakout

Holding tubulars during connection makeup and breakout on the rig floor

⬇️

Casing Jack / Weight-Set

Configured for casing running and weight-set applications on the rotary table

🔧

Workover Rigs

Compact and reliable tubular handling for mobile and trailer-mounted workover rigs

Maintenance & Care Guidelines

After Each Job

  • Thoroughly clean all slip assemblies, cylinder rods, and sliding surfaces of mud, debris, and contaminants
  • Apply grease (lithium-based or cattle grease) to all cylinder rod surfaces and mechanical linkages
  • Inspect slip surfaces for swelling, chipped teeth, or abnormal wear — replace damaged dies immediately
  • Check all bolts and fasteners for tightness

Periodic Inspection

  • Remove cylinder end caps and inspect internal cylinder walls and O-ring seals for wear or damage
  • Replace worn O-rings immediately and lubricate with grease before reassembly
  • Check ratchet lock teeth for wear — replace if engagement is compromised
  • Verify all safety lock mechanisms function properly before each trip

Storage & Transport

  • After use, apply anti-corrosion grease to all exposed metal surfaces and wrap in protective paper
  • Store in a dry, ventilated, corrosion-free warehouse environment
  • Avoid prolonged outdoor exposure — direct sunlight accelerates rubber seal aging
  • Secure during transport to prevent mechanical impact damage
  • Each spider ships with inspection report, load test certificate, and operating manual

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which pneumatic spider model should I choose for my rig?

Selection depends on your maximum tubular OD and string weight. The CAMTOP-PS55 (55T) handles 1.315″-3.5″ pipe for light workover applications. The CAMTOP-PS82 (82.5T) handles up to 5.5″ pipe for medium drilling operations. The CAMTOP-PS125 (125T) is recommended for heavy-duty drilling with the largest casing/pipe sizes up to 5.5″.

Q: What air pressure is required to operate the spider?

All CAMTOP Pneumatic Spider models operate at 0.6 – 0.9 MPa (87 – 130 psi) working air pressure. This is compatible with standard rig air supply systems. Connect the air source to the cylinder inlet fitting using appropriate air hose and fittings. Always perform a function test before commencing operations.

Q: How do I change the slip inserts for different pipe sizes?

Each slip assembly uses bolt-on die blocks. Simply remove the retaining bolts, swap the dies for the correct size (refer to the slip size chart above), and re-tighten. For tubulars 3-1/2″ and smaller, use the 3-1/2″ standard slip set. For 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″, use 4-1/2″ slips. For 4-3/4″ to 5-1/2″, use the corresponding size-specific slip assemblies.

Q: What safety features prevent accidental pipe release?

The spider incorporates a manual ratchet-type safety lock. When the slips close and grip the pipe, the ratchet lock engages automatically with the drive gear teeth, physically preventing backward rotation. The lock must be manually released by the operator before the pneumatic open function can retract the slips. Always verify the safety lock is engaged before transferring pipe weight to the spider.

Q: Is the spider compatible with various rotary table sizes?

Yes. The CAMTOP Pneumatic Spider is designed to mount on standard rotary tables. It can be secured using the rig’s spider mounting provisions. Verify the spider’s base dimensions match your rotary table opening before ordering. Contact our sales team with your rotary table specifications for compatibility confirmation.

Q: What documentation comes with each spider?

Each CAMTOP Pneumatic Spider ships with a complete documentation package including: Certificate of Conformance, Inspection & Test Report, Load Capacity Test Certificate, and Operating & Maintenance Manual. All documents comply with API Spec 7K requirements.

Ordering Information

  1. Select Model: CAMTOP-PS55 (55T), CAMTOP-PS82 (82.5T), or CAMTOP-PS125 (125T)
  2. Specify Tubular Range: Minimum and maximum pipe/tubing/casing OD to be handled
  3. Slip Insert Sizes: List all tubular sizes for which slip inserts are required (refer to slip size chart)
  4. Mounting Requirements: Rotary table size and mounting arrangement
  5. Air Supply: Specify available rig air pressure if different from standard (0.6-0.9 MPa)
  6. Spare Parts: Additional slip insert sets, O-ring seal kits, cylinder rebuild kits
  7. Documentation: Confirm API Spec 7K documentation requirements

Get a Quote for CAMTOP Pneumatic Spider

Contact our sales team for pricing, availability, and technical consultation. We provide complete after-sales support including spare parts supply, field service, and operator training.

Phone / WhatsApp

+86-18621723891

Email

SALES@CPOSL.COM

🌐

Website

www.camtop-oilfieldtools.com

CAMTOP Oilfield Tools | Professional Tubular Handling Equipment Manufacturer | API Spec 7K Certified