Editorial Technical Reference

Workover Rig

This page explains how Workover Rig is classified within Repair and Installation of Machinery and Equipment. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A mobile or stationary rig used to perform maintenance, repair, and re-completion operations on existing oil and gas wells.

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Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Workover Rig

Definition
A workover rig is a specialized piece of oilfield equipment designed for well intervention operations on producing or shut-in wells. Its primary function is to pull and run tubulars (such as production tubing, rods, and casing) and downhole tools to perform tasks like well cleaning, stimulation, re-perforation, zone isolation, and equipment replacement, without the need for full-scale drilling operations. It is essential for restoring or enhancing well production and extending well life. The rig is typically mounted on a trailer or skid, making it mobile for use across multiple well sites, or it can be stationary for dedicated well servicing. Workover rigs are rated by parameters such as hook load capacity (1000–2250 tonnes), mast height (29–45 meters), drawworks power (300–1500 hp), and maximum depth capacity (3000–9000 meters). These specifications, along with operating pressure (1.0–1.6 MPa), mast load capacity (1000–2250 kN), traveling block speed (0.2–1.2 m/s), drawworks drum capacity (2000–5000 m), power system (400–1200 kW), mast erection time (15–30 min), transport dimensions (12–18 m), weight (30–80 t), operating temperature (-40–50 °C), and noise level (≤85 dB(A)), are reference values that must be verified for the specific model and application. The rig is constructed from high-strength and alloy steels to withstand the demanding loads and environmental conditions. Standards such as API 4F for hook and mast load capacities for operating pressure, and ISO 4871 for noise level are procurement and verification references, not proof of certification or compliance. For any project, it is crucial to confirm model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier to ensure the rig meets operational requirements and safety regulations.
Working Principle
A workover rig operates by using a mast or derrick to support a hoisting system, typically powered by diesel engines or electric motors. This system drives a drawworks which spools a wire rope (drilling line) over a crown block at the top of the mast and down to a traveling block. The block is connected to a hook, which lifts and lowers the tubular string or tools into the wellbore. The rig uses a rotary table or top drive to rotate the pipe when needed for tasks like milling or fishing. Hydraulic systems power the pipe handling equipment (e.g., tongs, slips, catheads) and the rig's substructure. The process involves securing the well with blowout preventers (BOPs), removing the Christmas tree, hoisting the existing tubing string, performing the required downhole operation, and then recompleting the well.
Common Materials
High-strength steel, Alloy steel
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Hook Load CapacityRequired1000–2250 tonnesThe maximum static weight the hook can support, defining the rig's lifting capability.API 4F
Mast HeightRequired29–45 metersThe vertical height of the rig's mast or derrick, determining the maximum length of pipe that can be stood in the derrick.
Drawworks PowerRequired300–1500 horsepower (hp)The power output of the drawworks engine or motor, indicating hoisting and pulling capability.
Maximum Depth CapacityRequired3000–9000 metersThe maximum well depth the rig is rated to work on, based on its hook load and mast height.
Mast Load Capacity1000–2250 kNCorresponds to hook loadAPI 4F
Traveling Block Speed0.2–1.2 m/sMax hoisting speed
Drawworks Drum Capacity2000–5000 mWireline length on drum
Power System400–1200 kWDiesel engine or electric motor
Mast Erection Time15–30 minHydraulic or mechanical erection
Transport Dimensions12–18 mLength of main trailer
Weight30–80 tTotal rig weight
Operating Temperature-40–50 °CFor hydraulic and electrical systems
Noise Level≤85 dB(A)At operator stationISO 4871

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Mast / Derrick
    Provides the structural framework to support the hoisting system, crown block, and traveling block. It stands vertically to allow pipe to be raised and lowered.
    Material: High-strength tubular steel
  • Drawworks
    The primary hoisting mechanism. It consists of a drum that spools the drilling line to raise and lower the traveling block, hook, and load.
    Material: Steel housing with alloy steel gears and drum
  • Traveling Block
    A pulley system that moves vertically within the mast. It is connected to the hook and supports the load being hoisted or lowered.
    Material: Forged alloy steel sheaves and steel frame
  • Rotary Table
    A rotating platform on the rig floor that provides torque to rotate the drill string or tubing during operations like milling or fishing.
    Material: Cast or forged steel
  • Blowout Preventer (BOP)
    A critical safety device installed on the wellhead to seal, control, and monitor the wellbore, preventing uncontrolled release of formation fluids.
    Material: High-strength steel with elastomer seals
  • Crown Block
    Fixed sheave set at the mast top that carries the drilling line.
  • Drilling Line
    Wire rope between drawworks drum and traveling block.
  • Diesel Engines
    Prime movers for the hoisting system.
  • Pipe Handling Equipment
    Tongs, slips and catheads that make and break the tubular string.

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Workover Rig.

Well Servicing Rig Pulling Unit Completion Rig

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Up to 15,000 psi working pressure for well control equipment
other spec: Hook load capacity: 50-750 tons, drilling depth capability: 3,000-25,000 ft, mud pump flow rate: 200-1,500 GPM, slurry concentration: up to 18 ppg
temperature: -20°C to 50°C (operational ambient), wellbore temperatures up to 150°C
Media Compatibility
✓ Oil-based drilling fluids ✓ Water-based completion brines ✓ Cement slurries for well repair
Unsuitable: Highly corrosive H2S (sour gas) environments without specialized metallurgy
Sizing Data Required
  • Maximum well depth and deviation angle
  • Required hook load capacity for tubulars
  • Wellhead pressure rating and BOP requirements

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Wire rope fatigue and wear
Cause: Cyclic loading during hoisting operations, combined with abrasive contact with sheaves and drums, leads to broken wires, kinking, and reduced load capacity.
Hydraulic system contamination and leakage
Cause: Ingress of particulate matter, water, or air into hydraulic fluid due to poor filtration, seal degradation, or improper maintenance, resulting in component wear, loss of pressure, and erratic operation.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Unusual metallic grinding or knocking sounds from the drawworks or rotary table during operation
  • Visible hydraulic fluid leaks around cylinders, pumps, or valves, especially if accompanied by pressure drops or erratic movement
Engineering Tips
  • Implement a strict wire rope inspection and lubrication schedule using manufacturer-recommended lubricants, and replace ropes based on wear indicators rather than time alone.
  • Use high-quality filtration systems for hydraulic fluids, conduct regular fluid analysis to monitor contamination levels, and ensure all seals and connections are properly maintained to prevent ingress.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 13534:2000 - Petroleum and natural gas industries - Drilling and production equipment - Hoisting equipment API Spec 8C - Drilling and Production Hoisting Equipment (ANSI/API Spec 8C) DIN EN 16228-1:2014 - Drilling and foundation equipment - Safety - Part 1: Common requirements

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Cylindrical bore tolerance: +/-0.025 mm
  • Structural member flatness: 1.5 mm per meter
Quality Inspection
  • Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) for critical welds
  • Ultrasonic Testing (UT) for material thickness and integrity

Manufacturers of Workover Rig

2 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Xi'an Brightway Energy Machinery Equipment Co., Ltd.
Shaanxi, CN
Founded 2012
API ISO CE IADC
Also makes: Mud Circulation System, Motor Control Center, Mud System and 9 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
View profile Send enquiry
Sovonex
Tianjin, CN
Also makes: Distillation Column, Carriage/Travelling Block, Traveling Block and 7 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
View profile Send enquiry

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
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Supply Chain Commonly Integrated Components

Mud Mixing Hopper

The Mud Mixing Hopper is a critical component of the Mud Circulation System used in drilling operations.

Explore Specs →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a workover rig?

A workover rig is used to perform maintenance, repair, and re-completion operations on existing oil and gas wells. It can pull and run tubulars and downhole tools to clean the well, stimulate production, re-perforate, isolate zones, or replace equipment, without full drilling operations.

What are typical hook load capacities for workover rigs?

Typical hook load capacities range from 1000 to 2250 tonnes, as per API 4F. However, the exact capacity depends on the specific rig model and configuration. Always verify with the manufacturer for your application.

What standards apply to workover rigs?

Relevant standards include API 4F for hook and mast load capacities, and ISO 4871 for noise level. These are reference standards for procurement and verification; they do not guarantee certification or compliance of a specific product.

How does a workover rig operate?

The rig uses a mast to support a hoisting system with a drawworks, wire rope, crown block, and traveling block. The hook lifts and lowers tubulars. A rotary table or top drive rotates the pipe when needed. Hydraulic systems handle pipe and substructure. The well is secured with BOPs, and the Christmas tree is removed before operations.
Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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