Jet Research Center  Drill Collar Severing Tool  P/N 101293224 Rev. K      
 
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Jet Research Center, 8432 South I-35W, Alvarado, Texas, 76009-9775, USA 
Telephone 1-817-761-2000; Toll Free 1-800-451-5403; Fax 1-817-783-5812; Website www.jetresearch.com 
 
 
2.  Description and Specifications 
 
Jet Research Center’s (JRC) Drill Collar Severing Tools (DCST) are designed to sever drill 
pipe, heavyweight drill pipe, and drill collars quickly and effectively.  If pipe, collars, or bits 
become stuck, it is recommended that the Severing Tool is shot above the “stuck” point so 
that the free pipe can be recovered.  These tools are also useful when restrictions preclude 
the use of conventional drill pipe and casing cutters. Select the largest O.D. severing tool 
that will pass through the minimum restriction in the drilling assembly.  It is best to have the 
appropriate size tool available in the event the restriction changes during the pipe recovery 
operation. 
 
The JRC DCST uses a unique dual end firing system, which simultaneously initiates both 
ends  of  an  explosive  column.    The  detonation  wave  fronts  collide  at  a  centrally  located 
cartridge that shapes the high energy into effective severing action. 
 
The Severing Tool incorporates safe arming procedures, utilizing detonator assemblies and 
safety assembly equipment.  An o-ring secures the detonator ground wire into a groove on 
the  mandrel,  ensuring  the  detonator  is  properly  grounded.    A  shunt  plug  maintains  the 
system  electrically  shorted  during  assembly  as  the  detonator  shunt  wire  is  removed.    A 
protective holder encompasses the detonator, shielding the Explosive Supervisor, while the 
electrical  connection  is  made  to  the  CCL.  The  DCST  uses  Resistorized  detonators, 
minimizing the chance of an accidental firing.  The DCST can also be initiated using a Top 
Fire  RED  detonator,  providing  additional  safety  enhancements  when  compared  to 
conventional Resistorized detonators. 
 
These tools can perform in hostile environments. In standard tools, the explosives allow the 
tool to function properly at temperatures up to 400°F (204°C) for one hour and at pressure 
ratings  up  to  15,000  PSI  (103  MPa).  High  Pressure  (HP)  accessories  can  be  used  to 
achieve  a  pressure  rating  of  up  to  20,000  PSI  (138  MPa).    The  DCST  tool  with  HNS 
explosive  is  rated  for  460  F  and  one  hour. In  cooler  temperatures  HMX  has  better 
performance values than HNS. The 2-1/8in High Pressure DCST can function at a pressure 
rating of up to 26,000 PSI (179 MPa).  
 
JRC’s severing tool utilizes a shock absorbing extension mandrel that minimizes damage to 
uphole tools.  The unique shock grooves dissipate the detonation shock waves transmitted 
up the tool. 
 
JRC recommends using centralizer tools to obtain maximum performance of the DCST. 
 
These tools connect back to the wireline through widely available firing heads. 
 
Avoid shooting a severing tool in or near the same place as a previous severance attempt, 
as this may reduce the optimum function characteristics for severing the target.  Six (6) feet 
is a recommended minimum distance.