Side / Half Opening Elevator Oilfield Wellhead Equipment Safe Reliable Pipe String Handling

A wellhead elevator is a critical tool used in drilling and workover operations to directly suspend the pipe string (drill pipe, casing, or tubing) from the hook or traveling block. The elevator connects to the rig’s lifting system via a ring (bail), and different bore diameters accommodate different pipe sizes.

Elevators are classified in two main ways:

By pipe type:

Drill pipe elevator

Casing elevator

Tubing elevator

By structure:

Side-opening double-safety type

Half-opening double-safety type

Locking ring type (less commonly used)

We supply all types and sizes according to customer requirements. Below we focus on the two most popular designs: side-opening and half-opening elevators.

Side-Opening Elevator – Double Safety for Reliable Operation

The side-opening elevator consists of a main body and a side latch (valve) connected by a pin shaft. The side latch opens and closes the elevator assembly.

Automatic locking – When closed, upper and lower locking pins automatically engage with the main body. To open, press the lock pin handle and pull out slightly.

Double safety blocks – Located on the upper end surface of the main body. When the elevator is loaded (pipe string weight applied), the blocks prevent the side latch from opening. Only when the load is removed can the latch be opened. This design greatly reduces the risk of accidental release.

Safety pins – Each elevator includes a pair of safety pins. After the lifting rings (bails) are inserted into the ear holes on both sides, the pins secure the rings and prevent them from coming out during lifting.

Half-Opening Elevator – More Convenient Operation

Compared to the side-opening design, the half-opening elevator is easier and faster to operate. It consists of:

Left and right body halves

Pin locker (locking pin)

Safety handle

Door pin and spring

The rectangular arms on each half are designed to hang the lifting rings. The locking pin joins the two halves into a single solid unit. The safety handle ensures the pin cannot open unintentionally during drilling or lifting operations. This design is preferred when rapid pipe handling is required.

Proper Use & Maintenance

To ensure long service life and safe operation:

Before use – Store in a dry, ventilated area to prevent corrosion and damage.

After use – Remove oil, mud, and other debris. Inspect for damage.

Lubrication – The inner bore and end surfaces should be regularly oiled. Apply rust-preventive oil before storage.

Storage – Keep in a ventilated, dry indoor location.

Cleaning – Aggressive cleaning agents may be used if necessary, but always re-lubricate afterward.

Technical Specifications & Available Sizes

All models are available with rated capacities of 250 tons (2250 kN), 350 tons (3150 kN), or 500 tons (4500 kN). The table below shows the elevator aperture, corresponding drill pipe size, and neck outer diameter.

Note: “EU” and “IU” refer to thread types (external upset, internal upset). We can supply elevators for other pipe sizes and thread connections upon request.

Why Buy From Us?

Authentic, factory-traceable products – All elevators come from API-certified manufacturers with full documentation.

Competitive pricing – Long-term partnerships mean better prices than many direct channels.

Flexible logistics – We handle export paperwork, freight, and delivery to remote sites.

One-stop sourcing – Combine elevators, cementing heads, slips, and rig components in a single shipment.

After-sales support – Spare parts, warranty follow-up, and technical assistance arranged directly with the factory.

Customized solutions – Need special sizes, thread types, or capacity? We communicate your requirements precisely.

Contact us to order the right wellhead elevator for your drill pipe, casing, or tubing string – with the safety features and capacity you need.