What are drill pipe slips?

Drill pipe slips are specialized mechanical devices used in drilling operations to secure and support the weight of the drill string when it is being lifted or lowered into the wellbore. They are typically made of metal and feature serrated teeth that grip the drill pipe, preventing it from slipping or falling. Slips are essential during tripping operations to ensure safety and maintain control over the drill string. They are usually part of the drilling rig's rotary table or a similar assembly.