Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method and apparatus for protecting tubular connections. In one aspect, an expandable tubular connection for use in a wellbore is provided. The tubular connection includes a tubular pin member. The tubular connection also includes a tubular box member having an end portion, wherein the tubular pin member is matable with the tubular box member to form the tubular connection. Additionally, the tubular connection includes a sleeve member disposed on the tubular pin member, wherein the sleeve member is configured to substantially protect the end portion of the tubular box member as the tubular connection is lowered into the wellbore. In yet a further aspect, a method for utilizing a tubular connection in a wellbore is provided.

Abstract: A threaded and coupled connector with tapered threads having equivalent heights (same height on pin and box threads), negative load flanks, biased tapered thread forms with a torque shoulder formed by pin noses that abut at a central point within a coupling constructed from standard coupling stock. The connection design meets the internal/external pressure performance requirements of industry standards with capabilities equal to or exceeding those of “premium” connections, with a coupling constructed from thin walled coupling stock.

Abstract: Connectors and connections that enhance mechanical and sealing engagement between the ends of tubular bodies that are radially expanded by a forging tool. The connectors are designed to maintain or restore mechanical and sealing engagement following expansion. The connections are made by joining components that exhibit different spring back characteristics following mechanical deformation. Dissimilar material may be used for the connectors or the connected components can be made of the same materials but dimensioned and configured to exert an interfering force between engaged components following expansion. In operation, a material or component with a high spring back characteristic is positioned adjacent a material or component having a lower spring back characteristic. Following passage of a forging tool, the expanded components spring back differently toward their original unexpanded dimensions to produce the enhanced seal or mechanical engagement.

Abstract: A threaded tubular connection having a sleeve seal for maintaining pressure sealing capabilities within the connection when exposed to extreme pressure and/or temperature variations. The sleeve seal forms a third part of the pin and box connection and is positioned axially intermediate the ends of the threaded engagement of the connection. The sleeve seal is constructed of a corrosion resistant metal having a Modulus of Elasticity and thermal characteristics that work with the Modulus of Elasticity and the thermal characteristics of the pin and box material to minimize leakage following exposure to extremes of pressure differentials and temperature.

Abstract: A threaded connection for improving fatigue resistance to cyclic loading is disclosed. The threaded connection basically comprises a pair of interlocking members having corresponding radially inner and radially outer spiral threads thereon, each spiral thread including a spiral compression flank and a spiral tension flank wherein at least one of the spiral compression flanks and spiral tension flanks on the inner spiral threads are in mating planar engagement with a corresponding spiral compression flank and spiral tension flank on the outer spiral thread. Axial spacing between the tension flanks and the compression flanks on the radially inner and radially outer spiral threads further define a stress reducing spiral root surface on at least one of the radially inner and radially outer threads and a corresponding crest surface on the other radially inner and radially outer spiral threads.