Power Swivels
A power swivel is a self-contained hydraulic or mechanical rotating device that provides rotary drive to the drill string or tubing string on a workover rig — without requiring a rotary table. It is suspended from the workover rig's travelling block and connects to the top of the tubing or drill string via a saver sub. The operator controls speed and torque from the rig floor.
What a Power Swivel Does
On a workover rig, the power swivel provides:
- Rotation — rotating tubing, casing, or drill pipe for make-up, break-out, and drilling
- Circulation — allowing fluid to be circulated through the rotating string
- Flexibility — can be used on rigs without a rotary table, or in applications where the rotary table is not practical
Power swivels are simpler and more portable than top drives, making them the standard rotating device on workover rigs and light completion rigs across the region.
Applications
- Running and rotating casing and tubing strings during completion
- Workover drilling — sidetracking and re-entry
- Milling — rotating milling tools for packer and bridge plug removal
- Fishing — rotating fishing tools
- Reverse circulation — circulating through the annulus while rotating
- Coiled tubing connector — providing rotation to coiled tubing strings
Product Range — Logan Power Swivels
Logan Industries (now part of the Premium Oilfield Technologies group following acquisition from Innovex in 2022) manufactures a well-established range of hydraulic power swivels for workover and completion service. The Logan range is field-proven across North American and international workover markets.
Logan power swivels are available in a range of torque ratings and hook load capacities to match different workover rig configurations and job requirements. Contact Proxima for the current Logan power swivel range and specifications.
Service & Overhaul
Premium Oilfield Technologies provides service and overhaul for Logan power swivels and other power swivel brands — the same OEM-agnostic service capability that covers their top drive range. Service includes:
- Hydraulic motor inspection and replacement
- Bearing inspection and relubrication
- Swivel body inspection and seal replacement
- Load testing and functional testing
- Recertification documentation
For operators with existing Logan or other brand power swivels requiring maintenance or overhaul, contact Proxima to arrange a service assessment.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| — | — |
| Drive | Hydraulic motor |
| Torque range | Multiple ratings — contact Proxima |
| Hook load | Multiple ratings — contact Proxima |
| Circulation | Through-bore fluid circulation |
| Speed range | Variable — controlled from rig floor |
| Connection | Saver sub to tubing/drill pipe thread |
Why Source Through Proxima
Proxima supplies Logan power swivels with local technical support and coordinates service and overhaul for power swivel units operating across the Caspian region. For drilling contractors and workover operators, Proxima provides a single regional contact for both equipment supply and maintenance support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a power swivel and a top drive?
A top drive is a derrick-mounted rotating system designed for a full-size drilling rig — it travels the full height of the derrick, handles heavy hook loads, and is designed for continuous high-torque drilling. A power swivel is a simpler, more portable device used on workover rigs and lighter completion rigs for applications requiring rotation without a full drilling rig setup. Power swivels are lower cost and easier to rig up, but have lower hook load and torque capacity than top drives.
Q: Can a power swivel be used for milling out packers?
Yes. Power swivels are commonly used to rotate milling tools for milling out packers, bridge plugs, and other downhole obstructions during workover operations. The correct mill type and fluid system are critical for efficient milling — contact Proxima for advice on milling programmes.
Q: Does Proxima service Logan power swivels from other operators?
Yes. Premium Oilfield Technologies provides service and overhaul for Logan power swivels regardless of the original buyer. Contact Proxima to arrange an inspection and service assessment for your unit.
