5 Reasons a Flange UMG is More Durable Than a Threaded One

Posted on Mar 16, 2016 by Kathy DeGlandon


Flange Unitized Mud Gauge, Safe and Reliable Crown’s redesigned flange UMG, or unitized mud gauge, is more durable than the traditional threaded UMG. Here’s why. 1. Eight Flange UMG Threads Are Better Than One. Eight mounting holes offer 8 threads to hold the gauge securely to the pipe instead of just the one on a threaded UMG. When threading on a UMG wears, the gauge may cause a saf ...


Flange Unitized Mud Gauge, Safe and Reliable

Crown’s redesigned flange UMG, or unitized mud gauge, is more durable than the traditional threaded UMG. Here’s why.

1. Eight Flange UMG Threads Are Better Than One.

Eight mounting holes offer 8 threads to hold the gauge securely to the pipe instead of just  the one on a threaded UMG.  When threading on a UMG wears, the gauge may cause a safety hazard, if the wear is not caught in time.  During regular use, gauges have to be removed and threaded back onto the standpipe.  If the threads are cross-threaded or worn, then the gauge is less secure than it was when new.  As pressure builds and threads fail, threaded UMGs can become unsafe.  Some have even popped off the pipe! Crown’s flange UMG has 8 mounting holes that bolt securely to pipes.  This connection results in a strong seal, which in turn, results in less down time, less loss of fluid and better, more consistent pressure readings.

2. Securely Sealed System.

The engineers at Crown have redesigned the gauge housing to seal  securely to the gauge neck.  Older model unitized mud gauges have a gap that can release pressure as seals fail or wear.  Our new 360 degree housing seals completely to the neck without any gaps, offering the securest connection available.  A secure connection reduces hydraulic fluid leaks.  Air is less likely to compromise the system. And, pressure is maintained. All of these factors have been designed into this gauge to keep gauge internals clean and free from harsh drilling fluids.

 

3. Forget About the Bounce.

If you’ve seen at Type D or Type F mud gauge half-moon dial oscillate, you know it can be frustrating to get an accurate reading.  Crown’s flange mud gauge has a full-faced dial, like a traditional six inch mud gauge, and it’s easy to read at a distance of up to 60 feet away.  The built in damper assembly damps down vibration and bouncing, making the pointer stay put.  Accurate readings have never been easier for this UMG, all without that annoying pressure fluctuation oscillations.

4. No Worries, There’s a Pop-Off Connection.

Crown’s redesign also comes with a pop-off connection. In any hydraulic gauge, the most important and most costly component is the Bourdon tube. A pop off valve connected to this gauge affords the operator a way to release pressure during extreme situations, such as kicks.  Having the ability to release extreme pressure protects the gauge’s tube from being blown, protecting the most important and most expensive part of the gauge.    By incorporating this new feature into the design, the gauge will provide accurate, dependable readings without the worry of damaging the gauge internals.

5. Field Repair? No Problem.

All Crown UMGs are an all-in-one design, with the gauge protector and gauge being one unit.  Inside the gauge neck is a replaceable diaphragm cup that is easy to remove in the field and replace when it wears.  All gauges need to be inspected regularly for wear and tear to ensure accurate readings and safe operation.  During these times, the diaphragm cup will need to be inspected for tears and chips in the rubber.  This component is easy-to-replace in the field and will protect the sensitive gauge internals from harsh drilling fluids.

 

When you are ready to replace your unitized mud gauges, give us a call.  Whether you need a flange UMG or a hammer union style, Crown’s standpipe pressure gauges are durable and reliable, offering years of service.  Because, when the pressure’s on, Crown gauge’s measure up.

Have questions about our Single Pointer Pressure Gauges? Give us a call at 1-877-908-3790 or email at sales@drillinginstruments.com Our friendly, knoweledgeable staff is more than happy to help.