Canrig robotic systems enable automation of pipe, tool operations on the rig floor

Canrig Robotics, formerly Robotic Drilling Systems, has developed various automated systems for drilling rigs, including a robotic pipe handler, which automates the delivery of tubulars from the pipe deck to the well center. The company has also worked with its parent company Nabors Industries to integrate the robotic systems with rig control systems to enable full automation of the rig floor. In this interview with DC in Stavanger, Norway, Lars Raunholt, CEO of Canrig Robotics, speaks about the functions of the different robotic components, as well as a design philosophy that emphasizes the use of off-the-shelf products. Mr Raunholt also discusses the deployment of the Robotic Pipe Handler system on a Nabors rig in the Permian.