Drilling tube sizes

Industry Update Jul 1, 2025

Drilling Tube Sizes: Standard Dimensions

Introduction

Choosing the correct drilling tube size is essential for the success of any borewell, oilfield, mining, or geothermal project. The size directly impacts drilling depth, torque transmission, and fluid circulation. In this guide, we break down the most common drilling tube sizes, their specifications, and how to choose the right one for your application.

Focus Keyword: Drilling tube sizes
LSI Keywords: Drill pipe dimensions, Borewell tube sizes


What Are Drilling Tubes?

Drilling tubes, also known as drill rods or drill pipes, are cylindrical steel tubes used in rotary drilling operations to transmit torque and fluid pressure. Their size and grade are determined based on the drilling environment, depth, and equipment compatibility.


Standard Drilling Tube Sizes

Drilling tubes come in a range of sizes depending on the API (American Petroleum Institute) or IS (Indian Standards) specifications.

Common Outer Diameters (OD):

SizeOD (Inches)OD (mm)
2 3/8″60.3 mmLight-duty drilling
2 7/8″73.0 mmBorewells, shallow oil drilling
3 1/2″88.9 mmWater well & mining
4″101.6 mmMid-depth oil & gas
4 1/2″114.3 mmDeep oilfield drilling
5″127.0 mmHeavy-duty & offshore projects
6 5/8″168.3 mmHigh-pressure & large bore

Wall Thickness Range:

  • Light wall: 6–8 mm
  • Medium wall: 9–13 mm
  • Heavy wall: 14–18 mm or more

Drill Tube Sizes Based on Application

ApplicationRecommended Size
Domestic Borewell2 3/8″ to 2 7/8″
Water Well Drilling2 7/8″ to 3 1/2″
Oil & Gas (Onshore)3 1/2″ to 5″
Deep Geothermal Drilling4 1/2″ to 6 5/8″
Offshore Exploration5″ and above

Specifications to Know Alongside Size

  • Standard: API 5DP, API 5CT, IS 4270, or EN 10216
  • Length: Range 1 (6.10–7.32 m), Range 2 (8.84–9.75 m), Range 3 (12 m+)
  • Thread Type: NC26, NC31, NC38, NC50, DSTJ, etc.
  • Ends: Pin & Box with tool joints welded
  • Material Grades: E75, X95, G105, S135

How to Select the Right Drilling Tube Size

  • Depth of Drilling: Deeper wells need thicker and larger OD tubes.
  • Bore Diameter: Choose a tube that aligns with your drill bit and casing diameter.
  • Weight on Bit (WOB): Heavier drill pipe supports more torque and bit pressure.
  • Budget & Logistics: Larger pipes cost more and need stronger handling equipment.

Related Product Pages


Customization Options

We offer custom drilling tube sizes with options like:

  • Custom lengths up to 14 meters
  • Heavy wall thickness up to 20 mm
  • Nitrided surface or phosphated finish
  • Hardbanding & threading options

Get a Quote for Drilling Tubes

Need help selecting the correct size for your project? Our experts can assist with sizing, specification, and delivery timelines.

Phone: +91-7385863226
Email: sales@titansteel.in
Address: [Plot No. 15, Khan compound, Taloja M.I.D.C. Navi-Mumbai 410208, Maharashtra INDIA]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *