Coiled tubing counter

Abstract

A tubing counter for counting coiled tubing inserted into a well includes an outer housing having a through passage for receiving the coiled tubing therethrough. In some embodiments, pressure rated connectors at both of the ends of the outer housing sealably connect the outer housing in series between the coiled tubing injector head and the outer casing of the well. A plurality of counting wheels are rotatably supported within the outer housing for rolling engagement along coiled tubing inserted through the outer housing while a counting mechanism records a number of rotations of each counting wheel independently of the other wheels to minimize counting errors. Locating the counter below the injector head and below the tubing stripper ensures that the tubing is cleaner and less likely to slip in contact with the counting wheels while also accounting for stretching of the tubing for more accurate measurement.