Abstract: A slips positioning apparatus for a wellhead installation is installed in a fixed position relative to the blow out preventer and allows releasable locking of the slips relative to well center and driving movement of the slips relative to well center. The slips positioning apparatus includes a slips-mounting structure for accepting connection of the slips; an installation structure for mounting the apparatus rigidly above the blow out preventer and relative to well center. The installation structure is a plate that defines a first plane. The apparatus further includes a first and a second linear guides configured for movement of the slips-mounting structure relative to the installation structure along respective first and second directions in planes substantially parallel with the first plane; and first and second linear actuators for moving the slips-mounting structure respectively along the first and second linear guides.

Abstract: An automated rig apparatus for drilling or servicing a well is provided. The apparatus can include a motor vehicle having a frame, and a hinged derrick mast pivotally attached to the frame. The apparatus can further include a rack disposed in the mast and a carriage assembly with pinion motors configured to travel up and down the rack when the mast is raised to a vertical position. A tool carrier configured to receive a top drive unit or a power swivel unit can be attached to the carriage assembly. The apparatus can further include a movable platform and an operators cab configured to be moved to a desired position relative to the derrick mast when the mast is raised to a vertical position. The apparatus can further include a hydraulic drive assembly to operate the apparatus, and a mud pump and manifold for pumping drilling mud.

Abstract: A safety valve handling apparatus for a well operation rig includes: a mounting structure for connection to the rig; a clamp for engaging a safety valve and configured to permit rotation of the safety valve within the clamp while the safety valve remains engaged by the clamp; and an arm connected between the mounting structure and the clamp, the arm being movable and adjustable to permit movement of the clamp relative to the mounting structure. The safety valve handling apparatus can be used for controlled safety valve handling on a well operation rig, even one oriented for a slanted operation.

Abstract: A tool carrier, which is also known as a top drive or a power swivel, for a well operation rig includes link arms coupled between the rotating hook assembly and the lower pipe gripping structure, the link arms each secured to the rotating hook assembly by a first rigid connection and secured to the lower pipe gripping structure by a second rigid connection such that the link arms can extend along well center even when operating in slant. Another tool carrier includes a hinge between the mast and the main housing. The hinge permits the tool carrier to be moved into a more central position when folded onto the rig chassis for transport.

Abstract: A wrench for unthreading a well head flange from a pipe is provided. The wrench can include a pipe jaw for gripping the pipe, and a torque arm assembly for applying rotational force to the well head flange. The assembly can include a torque arm wherein one end of the torque arm can be pivotally attached to a bolt hole disposed through the well head flange. Extending a cylinder disposed between the assembly and to an opposing end of the torque arm can cause the torque arm contact and rotate the well head flange relative to the pipe.