Why Copper Plating is Critical for Premium & Non-Premium OCTG Threads

In the oil and gas industry, connection reliability is everything. Whether you're handling premium threads like VAM, JFE, and Tenaris, or non-premium API connections, the consequences of thread galling during make-up or break-out operations can be costly—leading to downtime, damaged tools, or failed integrity tests.
 

That is why Brush Copper Plating has become the industry’s trusted method for anti-galling protection, extending the life of OCTG accessories while ensuring smooth, repeatable, and damage-free make-and-break operations.

🔍 What Causes Galling in OCTG Threads?

Galling is a form of adhesive wear that occurs when metal surfaces rub under high pressure, generating frictional heat. For threaded connections—especially steel-on-steel interfaces—this can result in:

• Seizing or locking during make-up
• Torn thread surfaces and scoring
• Inability to achieve proper torque or seal
• Early rejection of otherwise usable tools

This is especially problematic for premium connections, where thread design tolerances are tighter and seal integrity is critical, and for non-premium connections that see high-frequency use in land and offshore drilling.

🛠 How Copper Brush Plating Solves the Problem

Copper is a soft, ductile metal with excellent anti-galling properties. When brush plated onto threads:

✅ It reduces friction during thread engagement
✅ It acts as a sacrificial layer, absorbing wear that would otherwise damage the base metal
✅ It enables multiple make-and-break cycles without galling or scoring
✅ It preserves the geometry and integrity of both pin and box connections
 

Our Brush Plating process allows for precise, localized application, even in narrow or complex thread profiles—which traditional tank plating often cannot achieve.

🔧 Applicable to Both Premium & Non-Premium OCTG Connections

Premium Threads:

• VAM, JFE, Tenaris, Hunting, and other patented designs
• Require copper plating for qualification, anti-galling performance, and sealing integrity

Non-Premium API Threads (e.g., 8rd, BTC, LTC):

• High-volume usage increases galling risk over time
• Copper plating extends tool life, reduces rejection rates, and ensures more reliable performance during repeated use

🌍 Trusted by the World's Leading Oilfield Companies

Our copper Brush Plating process is approved and utilized by major manufacturers and service companies including:
🔹 Tenaris, VAM, JFE, NOV, Hunting, Schlumberger, Baker Hughes, TPCO, BS-Bao Steel, and more.

With bond strengths up to 132,000 PSI and proven resistance to high torque and pressure environments, our plating holds up where others fail.

💡 Enhance Your Connection Reliability—From Shop to Rig Floor

Whether you are plating a premium connection for qualification or restoring worn threads on a reusable non-premium accessory, Brush Copper Plating provides consistent, field-proven protection.