Drill rod grease is a grease-form product used to help protect rods and threaded connections against friction, adhesive wear, seizure and corrosion during make-up and break-out. Unlike a liquid drilling lubricant, it is not added to the drilling mud; it is applied directly to the metal surface.

Why is grease used on rod threads?

Threaded connections are exposed to high torque, axial load, vibration, mud, water, sand and repeated make-up/break-out cycles. Suitable grease forms a protective film between metal surfaces and helps reduce direct contact.

What is adhesive wear?

Under high contact pressure, metal surfaces can locally adhere and material can tear away during movement, causing serious thread damage. In the field this may appear as difficult break-out, scoring and metal transfer.

What properties should a good rod grease have?

• High adhesion to the surface,
• water resistance,
• protective film under load,
• wear and corrosion protection,
• workable consistency at field temperature.

How should grease be applied?

Where possible, remove old contaminated grease, sand, metal particles and dried mud from the thread. Then apply a thin but continuous film to the thread and contact surfaces.

Can new grease be applied over old grease?

The surface should be cleaned whenever practical. Sand or metal particles trapped in old grease can form an abrasive mixture.

What is the difference between RODGUARD and MUDOLUBE?

RODGUARD is applied directly to rod and threaded-connection surfaces. MUDOLUBE is a liquid lubricant added to the drilling mud. Downhole torque/friction and surface protection of connection threads are not the same problem.

Frequently asked questions

Is rod grease added to drilling mud?

No. It is applied directly to the metal surface.

Does grease affect connection torque?

Yes. The friction coefficient affects the relationship between applied torque and connection load. Follow the equipment manufacturer’s make-up torque and maintenance instructions.