In modern wireline drilling, operational reliability is essential to maintain productivity and control costs.
Ezy-Latch™ core barrel heads have been specifically designed to overcome the mechanical limitations of traditional wireline head assemblies. By integrating patented technologies, they provide a safer, smoother, and more efficient solution for demanding drilling environments.

Head core barrels are critical components within any wireline coring system because they manage latching, alignment, and retrieval of the inner tube assembly. When these elements fail, drillers often face unnecessary rod pulls, lost time, and increased wear on equipment. The Ezy-Latch™ system directly addresses these challenges through intelligent mechanical design.

Patented Ezy-Latch™ linear latch movement technology

One of the main innovations of Ezy-Latch™ core barrel heads is the patented linear latch retraction mechanism. Unlike conventional systems that rely on an arc-shaped latch movement, Ezy-Latch™ uses a parallel, lateral motion. This fundamental design change significantly reduces the risk of mechanical jamming during retrieval.

In fractured, broken, or unconsolidated ground conditions, latch jamming is a frequent operational issue. It becomes even more problematic when over-drilling deforms the inner tube, causing it to bind inside the outer barrel. Traditional arc-retracting latches can lock against the outer barrel shoulder, making release impossible without pulling the entire drill string.

The Ezy-Latch™ system eliminates this risk by allowing the latches to retract smoothly in a straight, controlled motion. This ensures that the inner core barrel can be released even in difficult situations, while still maintaining a positive and secure latch during drilling. As a result, drilling operations remain efficient and downtime is significantly reduced.

Operational benefits include:

• Reduced risk of latch seizure during retrieval
• Consistent positive locking while drilling
• Faster and more reliable inner tube release
• Improved performance in unstable ground conditions

Posi-Connect™ Spearpoint System for Secure Retrieval

Ezy-Latch™ core barrel heads also incorporate the patented Posi-Connect™ spearpoint system, designed to improve engagement reliability between the spearpoint and the overshot. Traditional pivoting spearpoints are known to misalign during descent, which can prevent proper engagement during retrieval attempts.

This misalignment often occurs when the spearpoint accidentally pivots inside the drill string. When this happens, the overshot cannot seat correctly, leading to failed retrieval attempts and operational delays. The Posi-Connect™ system resolves this issue through a self-centring, spring-loaded spearpoint combined with a tapered housing.

During drilling, the spearpoint remains mechanically centralised, preventing any accidental pivoting within the borehole. When the core barrel is removed from the drill string, the system provides additional flexibility to improve handling and connection with the overshot.

Key functional characteristics include:

• Full 360-degree free rotational capability
• A 120-degree pivot arc outside the drill string
• Three indexed detent positions for controlled handling

These features ensure reliable and repeatable retrieval, even in complex drilling conditions.

Dual N/H-WL Design for Simplified Inventory Control

Another significant advantage of Ezy-Latch™ core barrel heads is the dual N/H-WL configuration. This design allows the same upper head assembly to be used with both N-size and H-size core barrels. The conversion process is simple and requires only the addition or removal of a single adaptor component.

By standardising the upper head components, drilling contractors can reduce the number of spare parts held in stock. This not only lowers inventory costs but also simplifies logistics, maintenance planning, and field operations. No additional adjustments or recalibration are required when switching between sizes.

This flexibility makes the Ezy-Latch™ system particularly valuable for operations running multiple rigs or working across different drilling programs.

Ezy-Latch™ core barrel heads engineered for durability and operational safety

Ezy-Latch™ core barrel heads are engineered to meet strict mechanical and operational requirements. Each component is designed to function reliably under high loads and repeated use. Certain sub-assemblies are supplied only as complete units to ensure correct assembly and long-term performance.

This approach guarantees consistent mechanical integrity and reduces the risk of assembly-related failures in the field. It also ensures that safety, performance, and reliability remain uncompromised throughout the service life of the equipment.

Why Choose Ezy-Latch™ head core barrels?

Selecting the right head core barrels has a direct impact on drilling efficiency, safety, and operating costs. Ezy-Latch™ technology offers clear advantages over conventional wireline head assemblies.

Key advantages include:

• Reduced downtime caused by latch jamming
• Secure and reliable overshot engagement
• Improved safety during drilling and retrieval
• Simplified inventory and maintenance management
• Proven performance in difficult ground conditions

Ezy-Latch™ core barrel heads represent a major advancement in wireline coring technology. Through patented linear latch movement, the innovative Posi-Connect™ spearpoint, and dual-size compatibility, they deliver measurable operational improvements. For drilling professionals seeking reliability, efficiency, and reduced downtime, Ezy-Latch™ provides a robust and forward-thinking solution for their wireline core barrels.