Suspension Means Patents (Class 166/75.14)
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Patent number: 8590626Abstract: An improved motion compensator device that includes a compensated framework for various types of well intervention operations where a stable work area is required that is stationary to the sea bed and equipment in the annulus. The device is intended for use on offshore drilling vessels that are primarily either moored or dynamically positioned and therefore subject to the motions created by the sea. The device is designed to compensate for the vertical motion of the rig by means of two steel frame assemblies, pneumatic compensating cylinders, and a load and motion transfer apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Stingray Offshore Solutions, LLCInventors: Vincent H. Barone, Trevor S. Brown
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Patent number: 8579034Abstract: A riser tensioner system maintains a tensile force in a riser having an axis and extending from a subsea wellhead assembly through an opening in a floating platform deck. The tensioner includes a plurality of tensioner legs having lower ends mounted to the deck, and upper ends having slots formed therein to receive leg attachment plates having an opening therein through which a tubular support ring passes. A plurality of cylinders extend between the tubular support ring and a tensioner ring and couple to the support ring with cylinder attachment plates through which the tubular support ring passes. An upper end of each cylinder pivots about the mounting point, and a lower end of each cylinder adjustably mounts to the tensioner ring.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2012Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: The Technologies Alliance, Inc.Inventors: Paul C. Berner, Jr., Sammy Russell Moore, William Robert Cox
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Patent number: 8567493Abstract: A system includes a tubing hanger running tool (THRT) configured to position a tubing hanger within a wellhead. The THRT includes an integrated pressure equalization system including a tube having a first end in fluid communication with an annulus of the wellhead, and a second end in fluid communication with a control line. The integrated pressure equalization system also includes a piston disposed within the tube. The piston is configured to move within the tube to balance a pressure differential between a first fluid within the annulus and a second fluid within the control line.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2010Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: David June, Claudio Santilli
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Patent number: 8567512Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for running tubulars into and out of a wellbore. A tubular handling system having a tubular gripping apparatus having a gripping mechanism and a sensor adapted to track movement of the gripping mechanism, wherein the sensor sends a signal to a controller when the gripping apparatus is in a position that corresponds to the gripping apparatus being engaged with the tubular.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2011Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Albert C. Odell, II, Richard Lee Giroux, Tuong Thanh Le, Gary Thompson, Karsten Heidecke, Joerg Lorenz, Doyle Frederic Boutwell, Jr., Michael Hayes
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Patent number: 8544537Abstract: A drilling rig with top drive assembly consisting of a traveling block housing, sheaves, with axles connected to a pair of links supporting a top drive, and a compressible extendable airbag as a thread compensator for running tubulars into a wellbore, making up tubulars, or breaking tubulars out of a wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2013Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Inventor: Larry G. Keast
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Patent number: 8534387Abstract: A drawworks device on a drill floor includes an upper pulley assembly connected to a heave-compensated or fixed mounting. In addition, the drawworks device includes a main block connected to a pipe mount. The pipe mount is laterally movable in at least one direction relative to the drilling center of the drill floor. The pulley assembly is pivotal about a horizontal first axis oriented perpendicular to the direction of lateral movement of the pipe mount.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2007Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: National Oilwell Norway ASInventor: Paal Taraldrud
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Publication number: 20130233534Abstract: A releasable latch system used to releasably couple a surface casing to a conductor casing. In one embodiment, a latch assembly for coupling a first tubular to a second tubular includes a mandrel having a plurality of key slots; a housing for receiving the mandrel; a plurality of keys radially movable into engagement or out of engagement with a respective key slot; a collet configured to engage the housing and a respective key; and a retainer ring configured to hold the plurality of keys in engagement with the respective key slot.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2013Publication date: September 12, 2013Inventor: Jose A. TREVINO
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Patent number: 8517089Abstract: A wellhead assembly having a wellhead housing, a casing hanger set within the wellhead housing, and sealing areas provided on opposing surfaces of the wellhead housing and casing hanger. The sealing areas circumscribe an axis of the wellhead assembly along respective axial distances on the wellhead housing and casing hanger. A seal is included with the wellhead assembly that has inner and outer legs that respectively engage the sealing areas and form sealing surfaces against the sealing areas. The axial distances of the sealing areas exceeds the length of the inner and outer legs, so that an original seal can be removed and replaced by a secondary seal, wherein the secondary seal engages sealing areas different from the sealing areas engaged by the original seal.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2010Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Gary Galle, Nicholas P. Gette, Ryan Herbel
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Patent number: 8511376Abstract: A slip assembly (60) for securing a tool in a well includes an upper and a lower c-ring slip body (12, 14) each including an outer gripping surface (16, 18) and inner gripping surface (20, 22). An actuator member (68) is axially movable relative to both slip bodies and includes a camming surface (70) for engagement with the upper and lower slip bodies. The slip assembly withstands high axial loads, and forces are equally distributed between the slip bodies.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2010Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Dril-Quip, Inc.Inventor: John M. Yokley
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Patent number: 8511393Abstract: A slip hanger assembly for installation of casing in a wellhead, the assembly including a slip ring capable of restraining the casing in the wellhead. The assembly including a seal assembly with an inner and outer seal. The assembly also includes a hanger assembly actuator including a load ring flange, a BOP adapter including a horizontal torque provider and the BOP adapter being connectable to the wellhead, and a seal assembly actuator. The hanger assembly actuator can set the inner and outer seals independently of each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2009Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventor: Dennis P. Nguyen
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Patent number: 8505636Abstract: A wellhead assembly includes a casing head and a tubing head that is landed within the casing head when the tubing head is landed. The casing head has top and bottom ends, and its bottom end is coupled to surface casing. The tubing head also has top and bottom ends, and its bottom end is coupled to an additional casing string, such as production casing. The tubing head can be landed on the casing head through a blowout preventer.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2011Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Inventors: Douglas Wade Schepp, Scott Travis Webster
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Publication number: 20130186614Abstract: Systems and methods are provided that may include employing a lockscrew to provide radial and axial force in connecting tubular members in a mineral extraction system. The lockscrew may be angled relative to the tubular members, at an angle that is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. Further, the lockscrew may have an end portion which mates with a slot in a locking segment, and the lockscrew and locking segment may be moved from an unlocked to a locked position. In a locked position, the lockscrew exerts force axially downward and radially inward to push the locking segment against a tubular member, locking the member in place. The interconnection between the lockscrew and the locking segment may enable easier installation and may utilize parts which may be easier to manufacture. Furthermore, the angle of the lockscrew may provide improved support for tubular members.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2013Publication date: July 25, 2013Applicant: Cameron International CorporationInventor: Cameron International Corporation
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Patent number: 8434560Abstract: Apparatus and method for isolating an annular bore below a tubing hanger body disposed in a wellhead assembly. The hanger body is characterized by at least two annulus flowby passages that are capable of fluid communication with areas outside the hanger body through the central bore of the hanger body. An integral valve piston is disposed within the central bore of the hanger body, and is operable to axially displace within the central bore between a closed and opened position. The displacement of the piston is caused by the alternating introduction of pressurizing fluid into separate actuation chambers. In the closed position, the piston is positioned so that at least one of the flowby passages is sealingly engaged in a manner that prevents fluid flow through the hanger body from outside sources such as an annulus bore located below the hanger body.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2008Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: David Baskett, Scott Stjernstrom
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Patent number: 8413730Abstract: A wellhead housing has a telescoping casing hanger with an actuator mechanism to provide for direct transfer of casing and pressure loads to the housing. The transfer of casing and pressure loads occurs even in conditions where the telescoping casing hanger may be set in a high position in the wellhead housing on a load shoulder. The transfer of casing and pressure loads also occurs in conditions where the telescoping casing hanger may be set in an earlier installed casing hanger in the wellhead housing for a larger diameter casing string.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2010Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Nicholas P Gette, Ryan Herbel, John Nelson, Armando Faz, Detrick Garner
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Patent number: 8376057Abstract: A wellhead assembly including a wellhead housing. The wellhead housing comprises a throughbore having a recessed sealing area and a tubing hanger positioned in the throughbore. A seal is positioned between the wellhead housing and the tubing hanger, the seal being positioned so as to form a gap between the seal and the wellhead housing. The wellhead assembly can further include a seal energizer capable of moving relative to the seal in a manner that forces the seal against the wellhead housing to bridge the gap. A method of installing a tubing hanger into a throughbore of a wellhead housing is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2009Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Aker Subsea Inc.Inventors: Andy Dyson, Charles Li, Oystein Mogedal, Paulo Cezar Silva Paulo, Nick Newlands
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Patent number: 8347970Abstract: Systems and methods are provided that may include employing a lockscrew to provide radial and axial force in connecting tubular members in a mineral extraction system. The lockscrew may be angled relative to the tubular members, at an angle that is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. Further, the lockscrew may have an end portion which mates with a slot in a locking segment, and the lockscrew and locking segment may be moved from an unlocked to a locked position. In a locked position, the lockscrew exerts force axially downward and radially inward to push the locking segment against a tubular member, locking the member in place. The interconnection between the lockscrew and the locking segment may enable easier installation and may utilize parts which may be easier to manufacture. Furthermore, the angle of the lockscrew may provide improved support for tubular members.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2009Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Delbert Edwin Vanderford, Kenneth Melvin Reed
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Publication number: 20120325498Abstract: Apparatus and methods for engaging and gripping a tubular, with the apparatus including a sleeve having a body defining an internal chamber therein, with the sleeve configured to receive the tubular through the internal chamber. The apparatus may also include a laterally translatable spider disposed at least partially in the sleeve and including a bore to receive the tubular.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2012Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: FRANK'S CASING CREW AND RENTAL TOOL, INC.Inventors: Jeremy Richard Angelle, Robert Thibodeaux, JR., Donald E. Mosing
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Patent number: 8327928Abstract: A method for running a tubular string in wellbore operations according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure includes providing a tubular running tool comprising gripping assembly rotationally connected to a carrier, the gripping assembly comprising a body and slips; connecting the carrier to a quill of a top drive of a drilling rig; positioning an end of a tubular for gripping with the slips; actuating the slips into gripping engagement with the tubular; and rotating the tubular with the slips in gripping engagement therewith.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2009Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental Tools, Inc.Inventors: Jeremy R. Angelle, Donald E. Mosing, Robert L. Thibodeaux, Jr.
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Patent number: 8312932Abstract: To deploy a capillary string through a wellhead to a downhole safety valve, a control port and a retention port are drilled in an adapter between a casing hanger and a gate valve or elsewhere. The capillary string is connected to a first port of a capillary hanger and installed through the wellhead. The capillary hanger is landed on a tubing hanger, and a side port on the capillary hanger communicates with the control port. Because the side port's location may not align with the control port, operators may need to measure how long the capillary hanger should be. A control line connects to the control port in the wellhead's side to communicate with the capillary line, and a retention rod inserts in the retention port to support the capillary hanger.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2009Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Richard Jones, Jean-Luc Jacob, Todd Travis, Brandon Cain, Eric Calzoncinth, Paul Perez
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Patent number: 8302678Abstract: An apparatus operatively coupled to a well having a production casing positioned therein, the apparatus including a first device having and internal bore, a second device having an internal bore, and a fracture isolation sleeve disposed at least partially within the internal bores of the first and second devices, wherein the fracture isolation sleeve has an internal diameter that is greater than or equal to an internal diameter of the production casing.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: FMC Technologies Inc.Inventors: Gerald Brian Swagerty, Brandon Matthew Cain, Huy LeQuang, Bill Albright
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Publication number: 20120273232Abstract: A casing gripper is stabbed into a casing and energized by a top drive, gripping the casing. The casing gripper includes a load bearing mandrel that has external threads. The casing gripper also includes a nut threaded over the external threads, and a wrench having a portion of the upper end of the load bearing mandrel inserted into an opening of the wrench. The wrench is configured to prevent rotation of the nut but allow axial movement while the op drive rotates the mandrel. The casing gripper includes a grapple coupled to the nut and extending along a portion of the lower end of the load bearing mandrel. The grapple moves axially with the nut an is configured to radially expand and engage a casing member.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2011Publication date: November 1, 2012Applicant: TESCO CORPORATIONInventor: Jonathan B. O'Blenes
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Patent number: 8297346Abstract: Load bearing assembly for suspending a load from a wellhead assembly, having a connector for suspending jointed production tubing therefrom and a fluid-to-air connector seals around an electrical conductor extending therethrough. The assembly has a jointed production tubing section with a first connector for connecting the tubing to the wellhead assembly connector. The assembly has a second connector for connecting the jointed production tubing section to a load bearing part of an electrical conduction section of the assembly. The load bearing part suspends the weight of the electrical conduction section and a load in a well from the second connector. The electrical conduction section includes an electrical conductor part for supplying electrical power to the load. The electrical conductor part is connected to an electrical cable which extends outside and along the jointed production tubing section away from the second connector and towards the well head in use.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: BP Exploration Operating Company LimitedInventor: Mark Joseph Denny
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Patent number: 8297366Abstract: A system for supporting tubing with an installable load shoulder. The system includes a wellhead formed with an enlarged first circumferential groove in the wall of the vertical bore of the wellhead, and a second circumferential groove extending upwardly or downwardly from the first circumferential groove. At least one opening is formed in communication with the second circumferential groove. An annular load shoulder is received within the first circumferential groove, and has an inner surface adapted to support a tubing hanger. The load shoulder is formed from at least three arc-shaped shoulder segments adapted to be received within the first circumferential groove. At least one of the shoulder segments has an engagement member configured to pass through the opening to be received within the second circumferential groove. Rotating the load shoulder such that the engagement member is out of alignment with the opening secures the load shoulder within the wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2010Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Stream-Flo Industries Ltd.Inventors: Alfred Olvera, Heinrich Lang
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Publication number: 20120227956Abstract: A wellhead assembly is provided including a casing and a tubular member mounted over the casing. A flange extends from the tubular member. A generally elongated annular member is provided in the tubular member. The generally elongated annular member has a first end portion above the tubular member and second end portion below the first end portion. A hanger may be suspended within the tubular member. In such case, a seal may be formed between the elongate annular member and the hanger.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2012Publication date: September 13, 2012Inventors: Rex E. Duhn, Robert K. Meek
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Patent number: 8240372Abstract: A casing running tool capable of handling pipe and tubing has fluid power conducting channels leading from stationary to rotating components, through a swivel. The swivel has a plurality of fluid channels, each confined by dynamic seals that rub peripherally on mating seal surfaces. The seals are carried on at least one piston that is movable, on command, to carry the seals out of contact with the peripherally rubbing surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2010Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Premiere, Inc.Inventors: Lee J. Matherne, Jr., Kris Henderson, Joseph L. Hawkins, Lee M. Robichaux
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Publication number: 20120160513Abstract: A wellhead assembly made up of a wellhead housing, a production tree mounted on the wellhead housing, tubing suspended into a wellbore from within the wellhead housing, and an annulus between the tubing and the wellhead housing. A shuttle valve is provided within a tubing hanger that supports the tubing from within the wellhead housing. An accumulator is disposed in the annulus that is in fluid communication with a closed position port on the shuttle valve. Pressure is maintained in the accumulator for closing the shuttle valve when a force for opening the valve is removed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2010Publication date: June 28, 2012Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.Inventor: William Thomas Bryson
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Patent number: 8162062Abstract: An improved motion compensator device that includes a compensated framework for various types of well intervention operations where a stable work area is required that is stationary to the sea bed and equipment in the annulus. The device is intended for use on offshore drilling vessels that are primarily either moored or dynamically positioned and therefore subject to the motions created by the sea. The device is designed to compensate for the vertical motion of the rig by means of two steel frame assemblies, pneumatic compensating cylinders, and a load and motion transfer apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2009Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Stingray Offshore Solutions, LLCInventors: Vincent H. Barone, Trevor S. Brown
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Patent number: 8157006Abstract: The disclosure provides a fracturing isolation sleeve for a wellhead assembly including a fracturing adapter and tubing head. In at least one embodiment, the sleeve can telescopic to different lengths to fit different assemblies without necessitating switching the sleeve or portions thereof. The sleeve can be coupled to the wellhead assembly by threaded and non-threaded connections. The sleeve upper portion can be threadably engaged with the wellhead assembly, and/or the sleeve lower portion can be threadably engaged with a packoff bushing rotationally coupled to the wellhead assembly through an anti-rotation mechanism. Further, the sleeve can include a retaining nut to be threadably engaged with the wellhead assembly without necessarily rotating the sleeve upper or lower portions. The sleeve can be also coupled with the wellhead assembly through a mandrel coupled to the sleeve having an actuating cam surface to actuate a lock ring with the wellhead assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: T-3 Property Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Bashir Koleilat, Sean Gresham, David Cain
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Patent number: 8136604Abstract: An isolation sleeve and plug assembly that may be used to protect a wellhead assembly from being damaged by high-pressure wellbore fracturing operations. Both the isolation sleeve and plug may be installed by the same running tool, and may be installed by lowering the running tool through an isolation valve on the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Charles E. Jennings
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Patent number: 8127836Abstract: A top drive for engagement with a travelling block with a hook can include an airlift thread compensator connected to a bail. An enclosure can be connected to the bail with an airbag disposed therein. A bail pin can be engaged through the enclosure, and can be connected to the airbag. The airbag can support weight of the top drive. Upper links can be connected to the enclosure and to a top drive housing. The top drive housing can support a stem connected to a motor, and a bearing can be disposed about the stem. Lower links can be connected to the top drive housing and to an elevator for moving tubulars. An inside blow out preventer can be connected to the stem and to a saver sub. A torque wrench assembly can be connected to the top drive housing for gripping tubulars.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2011Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Inventors: Larry G. Keast, James Strickland, Alan Shem
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Publication number: 20120048534Abstract: A system, in certain embodiments, includes a casing head and a tubing hanger disposed within the casing head and supported by a first retaining feature of the casing head. The tubing hanger is configured to support a tubing string. The system also includes a guide string hanger disposed within the casing head and supported by a second retaining feature of the casing head independent of the first retaining feature. The guide string hanger is configured to support a guide string.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: Cameron International CorporationInventors: David Joseph Hanlin, JR., Bradley Mitchell Mandziak
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Publication number: 20120043094Abstract: A packoff is located within a wellhead housing and a casing hanger. The packoff has an internal ratchet ring that engages a threaded profile on the exterior of the casing hanger thereby allowing installation of the packoff to be achieved by simply stabbing the packoff over the protruding neck of the casing hanger. This ratchet ring significantly reduces the rotation required during installation, decreasing potential for damage to seals. The casing hanger has an external lock ring that is inwardly biased. During installation of the packoff, the packoff acts to activate the lock ring to thereby force it outward. The lock ring is forced outward and into a recess formed in the interior of the wellhead housing. The lock ring and the ratchet ring locks the packoff and casing hanger into place with the wellhead housing without the need of external lockdown screws, thereby minimizing leak paths.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2010Publication date: February 23, 2012Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: David A. Anderson, James Sinnott
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Patent number: 8118090Abstract: A hybrid wellhead system for a hydrocarbon well, having a wellhead supported by a conductor; an intermediate head spool secured to the wellhead by a hammer union; and a tubing head spool secured to the intermediate head spool by a hammer union.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2011Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Stinger Wellhead Protection, Inc.Inventors: L. Murray Dallas, Bob McGuire
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Patent number: 8074724Abstract: A drilling system employs a set of bushings that protect seats used for casing hangers. The system includes one or more seat protectors that attach to a running tool. The running tool is lowered down the wellbore with the seat protectors attached and deposits a bushing at each surface to be protected. The running tool may retrieve the bushings as the running tool is withdrawn from the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Marc Minassian, Guilherme Eppinghaus, David L. Ford
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Patent number: 8042617Abstract: A system and method for deploying one or more tools in a wellbore according to which a clamp is coupled to a flexible interconnect.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2008Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: David Bowles, Patrick Mekolik
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Publication number: 20110253388Abstract: Apparatus for the insertion of a pack-off into a recess in a bore of a wellhead body comprises an activating sleeve which has a portion disposed for engagement with the pack-off for the movement of the pack-off into the recess and body portions shaped for location on a datum member within the bore. The activating sleeve includes a plurality of apertures circumferentially spaced about the activating sleeve. A running tool which is adapted to move said activating sleeve into engagement with the packoff carries spring-loaded dogs each disposed in one of the apertures. Each of a plurality of releasing pins is positioned such that it enters a respective one of the apertures when the activating sleeve has caused the packoff to be located in the recess. The entry of the pins into the apertures causes depression of the dogs out of the apertures and allows the consequent release of the activating sleeve from the running tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventor: Daniel A. WILLOUGHBY
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Publication number: 20110226490Abstract: There is provided a system and method for installing a wellhead component in a single trip. Generally, a wellhead component may be run into a wellhead using a running tool. The running tool may then be retrieved from the wellhead and replaced with a locking tool, which is also run into the wellhead. Additional tools may be used to over-pull the wellhead component and to cementing the wellhead component in place. The process of retrieving and running tools into the wellhead is both time-consuming and costly. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments include a one-trip tool configured to run a wellhead component into a wellhead, engage an internal coupling to lock the wellhead component in place, over-pull the wellhead component to ensure the internal coupling was properly engaged, and cement the wellhead component in place within the wellhead.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2010Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATIONInventor: Dennis P. Nguyen
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Patent number: 8002027Abstract: One embodiment provides an adjustable guide 10a to steer the end 90 of a pipe string 88 into position to be engaged and supported by a pipe gripping apparatus such as, for example, an externally gripping elevator assembly 10. The adjustable guide 10a may comprise a plurality of angularly distributed guide inserts 30, each having a sloped surface 30A to engage a pipe end 90. Another embodiment provides an adjustable guide 60a to steer a pipe connection into position to pass through a spider 60. The guide inserts 30, 80 of an adjustable guide may be controllably positionable to together form a guide that is concentric with the bore of the tapered bowl of an elevator assembly or a spider. One embodiment comprises a guide insert retainer 11 having a plurality of channels 28, each slidably receiving a guide insert 30 and positionable by rotation of a threaded shaft 40.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2009Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental Tools, Inc.Inventors: Jeremy R. Angelle, Donald E. Mosing, John E. Stelly
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Patent number: 7984757Abstract: A drilling rig with a top drive for engagement with a travelling block with a hook comprising an airlift thread compensator with an airlift box connected to a bail. The airlift box can have an airbag disposed therein. A bail pin can be engaged through the airlift box, and can be connected to the airbag. The airbag can support the top drive. Upper links can be connected to the airlift box and to a bearing housing. The bearing housing can support a stem connected to a motor, and a bearing can be disposed about the stem. Lower links can be connected to the bearing housing and to an elevator for moving tubulars. An inside blow out preventer can be connected to the stem and to a saver sub. A torque wrench can be connected to the bearing housing for gripping tubulars.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2010Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Inventors: Larry G. Keast, James Strickland, Alan Shem
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Patent number: 7980298Abstract: A wedge device for clamping of pipes and tools during petroleum production, this wedge device comprising an annular mounting element arranged for connection to a deck or a rotary table, where a plurality of man wedges, with associated clamps and displaceable with respect to the annular mounting element, encircle the vertical central axis of the wedge device, and where the clamp is located on an auxiliary wedge displaceably or rotatably coupled to the main wedge.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2007Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: V-Tech ASInventor: Helge-Ruben Halse
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Publication number: 20110100643Abstract: A method for opening a port through the wall of a ported sub including: providing a sub with a port through its tubular side wall; providing a hydraulically actuable valve to cover the port, the valve being actuable to move away from a position covering the port to thereby open the port; increasing pressure within the sub to create a pressure differential across the valve to move the valve toward the low pressure side, while the port remains closed by the valve; thereafter, reducing pressure within the sub to reduce the pressure differential; and driving the valve to move it away from a position covering the port.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2010Publication date: May 5, 2011Applicant: PACKERS PLUS ENERGY SERVICES INC.Inventors: DANIEL JON THEMIG, KEVIN O. TRAHAN, CHRISTOPHER DENIS DESRANLEAU, FRANK DELUCIA
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Patent number: 7934550Abstract: A wellhead assembly for an injection tubing string is provided which allows a master valve to be closed without damaging the injection tubing string while still allowing for the use of a back pressure valve to isolate the tree. Wellhead assemblies and related methods of the present invention include a flange adapted to be connected between a wellhead and a Christmas tree. The assembly also includes a mandrel adapted to being inserted into the longitudinal bore of the flange, the mandrel having a port for communicating with an injection port which extends radially through the flange. The assembly further includes a hanger adapted to connect to the upper end of the injection string, wherein the hanger is further adapted to land in the longitudinal bore of the mandrel. The hanger includes a communication passageway for facilitating fluid communication between the port of the mandrel and the injection tubing string.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2008Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: BJ Services Company, U.S.A.Inventors: Jeffrey L. Bolding, Blane Cole, Thomas G. Hill, Jr.
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Patent number: 7931079Abstract: A tubing hanger and method for reducing loads and stresses on sealing boundaries in a tubing hanger is provided. The tubing hanger has an inner cavity that is sealed with respect to an external well volume present in for example the surrounding tree architecture and wellhead. A control line extends through the inner cavity to communicate with downhole equipment. A pressure compensator is configured to adjust pressure differential between the inner cavity and the external well volume.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2008Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Joseph Allan Nicholson
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Method and apparatus to provide electrical connection in a wellhead for a downhole electrical device
Patent number: 7918271Abstract: Wellhead assembly and method for providing a power connection to a downhole electrical device, such as a heater. Pressure-containing wellhead body members enclose a vertical wellbore and support therein an isolated tubing hanger and a grounding tubing hanger. The isolated tubing hanger suspends a conducting tubing string, while the grounding tubing hanger suspends a grounding tubing string concentrically spaced from the conducting tubing string. The isolated tubing hanger has an outer housing, an inner electrically conducting portion supported by the outer housing operative to provide electrical connection with, and suspend, the conducting tubing string, and insulation between the housing and conducting portion to electrically isolate the housing portion. Hot electrical connection is made for electrical connection to the conducting portion of the isolated tubing hanger or the conducting tubing string.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2009Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Stream-Flo Industries Ltd.Inventors: Abram Khazanovich, Irina Khazanovich, Nathan Kwasniewski -
Patent number: 7905293Abstract: A hybrid wellhead system is assembled using a plurality of threaded unions, such as spanner nuts or hammer unions, for securing respective tubular heads and a flanged connection for securing a flow control stack to a top of a tubing head spool. The tubing head spool is secured by a threaded union to an intermediate head spool. The intermediate head spool is secured by another threaded union to a wellhead. Each tubular head secures and suspends a tubular string in the well bore. The hybrid wellhead system is capable of withstanding higher fluid pressures than a conventional independent screwed wellhead, while providing a more economical alternative to a flanged, or ranged, wellhead system because it is less expensive to construct and faster to assemble.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2010Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Stinger Wellhead Protection, Inc.Inventors: L. Murray Dallas, Bob McGuire
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Patent number: 7900697Abstract: An apparatus operatively coupled to a well having a production casing positioned therein, the apparatus including a first device having and internal bore, a second device having an internal bore, and a fracture isolation sleeve disposed at least partially within the internal bores of the first and second devices, wherein the fracture isolation sleeve has an internal diameter that is greater than or equal to an internal diameter of the production casing.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2009Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Gerald Brian Swagerty, Brandon Matthew Cain, Huy LeQuang, Bill Albright
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Publication number: 20110030974Abstract: A slip hanger assembly for installation of casing in a wellhead, the assembly including a slip ring capable of restraining the casing in the wellhead. The assembly including a seal assembly with an inner and outer seal. The assembly also includes a hanger assembly actuator including a load ring flange, a BOP adapter including a horizontal torque provider and the BOP adapter being connectable to the wellhead, and a seal assembly actuator. The hanger assembly actuator can set the inner and outer seals independently of each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2009Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATIONInventor: Dennis P. Nguyen
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Patent number: 7874352Abstract: Methods and apparatus for running tubulars into and out of a wellbore. A gripping apparatus is activated with an actuator having a primary actuator and a redundant safety feature. The redundant safety feature may include one or more redundant fluid operated pistons. The gripping apparatus may include an integrated safety system adapted to prevent damage to the tubulars while making and breaking out connections between the tubulars and the tubular string.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2006Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Albert C. Odell, II, Richard Lee Giroux, Tuong Thanh Le, Gary Thompson, Karsten Heidecke, Joerg Lorenz, Doyle Frederic Boutwell, Jr., Michael Hayes, Bernd-Georg Pietras
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Publication number: 20100276156Abstract: A technique is provided for installing a tubular hanger and tubular hanger seal in a wellhead. The technique comprises installing the tubular hanger with a setting tool. The tubular hanger may comprise a locking ring that is driven outward into engagement with a profile in the wellhead. The setting tool is adapted to rotate a moveable member of the tubular hanger relative to the tubular hanger body so as to drive the moveable member to expand the locking ring outward to engage a profile in the wellhead. The moveable member may be wedged between the locking ring and the tubular hanger body. The setting tool may be adapted to enable the moveable member and the tubular hanger body to be rotated independently. The annulus between the tubular hanger and the wellhead may be sealed by a seal that has a plurality of sealing elements that are coupled together by a series of catches.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2009Publication date: November 4, 2010Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Charles E. Jennings
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Patent number: 7819198Abstract: A one-shot thermally activated release mechanism, the release mechanism including a spiral or helically wound spring wrapped around a set of jaws in a manner that prevents the jaws from expanding; held in this tightened position by two wires, with one wire fixed to the body of a member of the jaws and the second wire attached to the spring, the wires bonded together by a solder or other fusible material. The jaws restrict the movement of a plunger. Heating the solder causes release of the spring and enables expansion of the jaws, allowing movement of the plunger. A bias force on the plunger assists in movement of the plunger past the expanding jaws.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2006Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Inventors: John M. Birckhead, Christopher W. Mayeu