Back up

{
  "id": "MLC-T-OAG-000241",
  "term": "Back up",
  "field": "Oil and gas",
  "definition": "To hold one tubular still with a backup tong or wrench while a second tong turns the mating joint, either to make up a threaded connection or to break it out. The backup keeps the lower joint or string from rotating, so torque acts only across the connection being tightened or loosened. Breaking out is the act of unscrewing, whereas backing up is the separate holding action carried out with the second tong.",
  "subject": "Well Workover and Intervention",
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/oil-and-gas/back-up/"
}