Brakes and backstops for drilling rigs: RINGSPANN in Neuquén and Vaca Muerta

On a drilling or workover rig, the drawworks concentrates the mechanisms that raise and lower the drill string. There, a RINGSPANN freewheel acts as a backstop: it allows rotation in the working direction and blocks it in the opposite direction. This prevents the drawworks drum from running out of control if power is lost or the main brake fails. It is a mechanical protection that does not depend on electronics or the operator.

RINGSPANN offers freewheels in different series, such as the FN 8 and the FB 72. The series and size depend on the shaft, the torque to be transmitted and the mounting location, so it is advisable to confirm the code before ordering.

To identify the correct freewheel, measure the shaft diameter and the housing, and check whether the outer race rotates or remains fixed. A photo of the nameplate or the engraving on the body is also useful. With that data, at MR we quote the exact replacement part and tell you how to verify the direction of rotation before mounting it.

RINGSPANN industrial brakes are used on drilling rigs to stop the movement of shafts and drums. In the drawworks, a disc brake acts as a parking or emergency brake, keeping the load still even if the operator releases the controls.

Within the RINGSPANN line, there are models from the KE series such as the KE 42 FHK or the KE 47 FHK. They are selected according to the required braking torque and the space available on the rig.

When ordering a brake, state the disc diameter, the thickness, the mounting type and the available supply pressure. It is also useful to know whether the brake operates dry or in an oil bath. With that data, at MR we quote the appropriate RINGSPANN brake and advise you on adjusting the air gap for even operation.

Mud pumps are the heart of circulation in a well. The coupling between the diesel or electric motor and the pump must absorb misalignment, vibrations and torque peaks. RINGSPANN offers couplings such as the SKDZ 10 or the SKDZ 20, which are selected according to the torque and the shaft diameters.

For other applications there are models such as the RDA 0042 ESO or the REK 0048 DCO. The choice depends on the torque, the RPM and the expected misalignment between shafts.

To quote a coupling, you need the shaft diameters, the distance between ends, the torque to be transmitted and the motor RPM. If you do not have the exact torque, the power and RPM are enough. At MR we help you select the correct RINGSPANN coupling and tell you how to align the shafts so that the elastomer or the disc lasts longer.

A RINGSPANN torque limiter protects the transmission against sudden overloads. On a drilling rig, a stuck tool or a blow to the drill string generates a torque peak that can break gears or shafts. The limiter slips in a controlled manner when the set torque is exceeded, and re-engages when the load returns to normal.

RINGSPANN offers limiters such as the PA 20 or the PA 12. They are installed in the transmission, between the motor and the gearbox or between the gearbox and the drawworks drum, and are selected according to the torque to be limited.

When ordering a limiter, state the desired disengagement torque, the shaft diameter and the mounting type. If you do not know the exact torque, give us the motor power and RPM; at MR we calculate the setting value. It is also advisable to clarify whether the limiter operates dry or with lubrication, because that changes the friction coefficient and the slip torque.

Each RINGSPANN component has a code engraved on it that identifies it. On freewheels, the code is usually on the outer race or on the side cover, for example FB 37 or FB 57. On brakes, the code appears on the caliper housing, such as KE 40 FPK or KE 80 FPK. On couplings and limiters, the code is on the hub or on the flange.

If the part is very worn and the code cannot be read, you can measure the main dimensions: inner diameter, outer diameter, width and distance between mounting holes. A general photo and one of the engraving detail are also useful. With that, at MR we find the exact reference in the RINGSPANN catalog and send you the quote.

A common mistake is ordering only by shaft size, without verifying the mounting type. Another mistake is confusing the braking torque with the slip torque on a limiter. That is why it is always advisable to send as much data as possible.

On freewheels, the most frequent mistake is mounting them backwards. If the backstop is reversed, the drawworks drum can rotate freely in the lowering direction and cause an accident. Before installing, verify the free and locking directions by hand. Many RINGSPANN models have an engraved arrow indicating the working direction.

On industrial brakes, check the disc thickness and pad wear according to the manual. On couplings, align the shafts with a dial indicator within the tolerance specified by RINGSPANN.

On torque limiters, set it to the correct value according to the manual. If you notice noise or excessive heat, stop the rig and check the cause before continuing operation.

At MR we are exclusive representatives of RINGSPANN in Argentina. We handle inquiries for freewheels, industrial brakes, couplings and torque limiters for the oil industry, including operations in Neuquén and Vaca Muerta.

To quote, send us the part code via WhatsApp, for example FN 8 or PA 30, along with the shaft size and a photo if you have one. If you cannot find the code, describe the application and the dimensions; at MR we help you identify the correct replacement part. We can also quote the complete assembly if you are building a new transmission.

Our sales team is in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and responds promptly. With the code or the photo, we send you the quote for your RINGSPANN brake, backstop, coupling or limiter so that your drilling rig keeps operating safely.