Tubing Anchor Catchers
A tubing anchor catcher (TAC) anchors the production tubing string in tension at a set depth, preventing the tubing from moving up and down under the cyclic loads imposed by the rod lift pump. It also catches the tubing if the string parts above the tool, preventing the tubing from falling to bottom.
Proxima supplies tubing anchor catchers from two manufacturers: ChampionX and MAP Oil Tools (TAC-B model).
What a Tubing Anchor Catcher Does
The TAC is run as part of the tubing string, set just above the pump. When the tubing is pulled in tension and rotated to the right, slip segments expand outward and grip the casing wall. The tubing string is then held in tension between the TAC and the surface tubing hanger.
The catcher function activates if the tubing string parts above the tool — the slips lock against upward movement, preventing the tubing from dropping to the pump and causing a fishing job.
Why Tubing Movement Is a Problem
In a rod lift well, the pump plunger pushes fluid upward on the upstroke and drops on the downstroke. These cyclic loads cause the tubing string to stretch and contract — a phenomenon called tubing breathing. Without an anchor, tubing movement causes:
- Accelerated wear at rod guide contact points
- Fatigue at tubing connections
- Pump inefficiency from changing pump depth
- Increased risk of tubing part and dropped string
An anchored tubing string eliminates breathing, extends tubing and rod life, and improves pump volumetric efficiency.
Product Range
Proxima supplies mechanical set tubing anchor catchers for standard casing sizes. The MAP Oil Tools TAC-B is a field-proven mechanical set TAC suitable for the majority of rod lift applications in Azerbaijani oilfields.
ChampionX tubing anchor catchers cover a complementary range of sizes and configurations.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| — | — |
| Setting method | Mechanical (right-hand rotation) |
| Casing sizes | 4½” – 7″ (confirm size on order) |
| Temperature rating | Standard oilfield service |
| Release | Left-hand rotation |
| Standards | API |
Suppliers
| Supplier | Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| — | — | — |
| MAP Oil Tools | TAC-B | Mechanical set, field-proven, standard casing sizes |
| ChampionX | TAC range | Complementary sizes and configurations |
Why Source Through Proxima
Proxima stocks TAC-B units in common casing sizes for fast delivery. Our engineers confirm the correct size and configuration for your casing weight and grade before supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is a tubing anchor catcher set?
The TAC is run on the tubing string to the required depth. Surface weight is applied to compress the tool, then right-hand rotation expands the slips into the casing wall. The tool is then pulled into tension and the tubing string is landed at surface.
Q: Does the TAC need to be retrieved during workovers?
Yes. Left-hand rotation releases the slips, allowing the TAC to be retrieved with the tubing string during a workover. The tool is inspectable and reusable.
Q: What casing sizes does the TAC-B fit?
The MAP Oil Tools TAC-B is available for common casing sizes from 4½” to 7″. Confirm your casing size and weight when ordering to ensure the correct slip set.
Q: Can a TAC be used in a deviated well?
Yes. TACs are routinely used in deviated wells. In highly deviated sections, confirm the setting torque requirements with Proxima’s engineers before ordering.
