SLX • Side Door Elevators

In the oilfield, elevators are specialized lifting devices used to handle tubular goods such as drill pipe, casing, and tubing. The SLX slide load elevator and the side door elevator are two types of elevators with different designs and methods of operation. Here are the differences between the two:

Design:
• SLX Slide Load Elevator: This type of elevator has a sliding mechanism that allows the elevator to open and close along a rail system. This design makes it easy to load and unload tubulars without removing the elevator from the hoist.
• Side Door Elevator: A side door elevator has a hinge mechanism on one side that allows it to open like a door. This design allows for quick access to the tubulars, making it easy to load and unload.
Loading and Unloading:
• SLX Slide Load Elevator: The sliding action in this elevator allows for more streamlined loading and unloading of tubulars, as it can slide open and close quickly.
• Side Door Elevator: The side door elevator opens like a door, providing direct access to the tubulars for loading and unloading. This may be slightly slower than the sliding action of the SLX elevator.
Safety and Efficiency:
• SLX Slide Load Elevator: The sliding action can provide efficient handling of tubulars and minimize the risk of dropping them during operation.
• Side Door Elevator: The side door mechanism is designed for safe and efficient handling of tubulars as well, but the design may require a bit more space to open and close the elevator.
Applications:

Both types of elevators are used for handling various types of tubulars in drilling, completion, and workover operations. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the operation and the preferences of the rig crew.

Overall, both the SLX slide load elevator and the side door elevator are effective tools for handling tubulars in the oilfield, but their designs and methods of operation differ slightly. Contact Power Unit Builder & Handling Tools for details.