Hardbanding Solutions by Postle Industries has just introduced a new non-magnetic hardband, which is said to dramatically improve wear-resistance. The new hardband, called Ultraband™ NM, can provide up to 500% improved wear-resistance compared with ordinary non-magnetic welding alloys, such as 310 stainless steel. Additionally, it can provide up to 500% better abrasion-resistance compared with drill collar base materials.
The new hardband is perfect for oil and gas industry directional drilling applications, such as non-magnetic drill collars, stabilizers and MWD/LWD drilling tools and related components. It is made to be used on non-magnetic base materials, such as P530, AG17, 15-15LC, NMS-100 and others.
Ultraband NM can be applied directly to non-magnetic tools and over a previous layer of stainless steel. The new hardband meets API specification 7 and has a relative permeabililty less than 1.01.
Even when applied in multiple layers, the manufacturer has found no spalling issues providing the interpass temperatures are properly controlled. Ultraband NM is non-cracking and has a hardness reading of 40Rc. Deposits have proven to be smooth and free of any slag. Re-application is easy providing that the worn deposit is clean and free of defects.
For additional wear-protection, a non-magnetic ‘cast tungsten carbide’ may be dropped into the weld.