Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for running tubulars into and out of a wellbore.

Abstract: A completions system utilizing a unique hydraulic coupling. The system includes an upper completion stinger configured for coupling to a lower completion tubular. Both the stinger and the tubular are outfitted with hydraulic lines therethrough. Thus, as the stinger is coupled to the tubular, hydraulic lines are also coupled. However, the termination of each line is sealingly covered by a slidable sleeve in advance of attaining the coupling between the stinger and tubular. Therefore, the lines are protected from contamination during potentially significant periods of well deployment that may occur in advance of completed coupling and system installation. Furthermore, the manner of hydraulic coupling between the stinger and tubular reduces the likelihood of damage to the hydraulic lines during the installation process.

Abstract: A tool wrench assembly for a blasthole drill includes a fork pivotally fixed relative to at least one actuator that moves the fork between an engaged and a disengaged position.

Abstract: A wellhead system is provided. In one embodiment, the wellhead system includes first and second wellhead components or members. An exemplary first wellhead member includes an internal bore and a first groove, while an exemplary second wellhead member is at least partially disposed within the internal bore such that a second groove of the second wellhead member is aligned with the first groove. The wellhead system may include a locking ring positioned within at least one of the first or second grooves, and a retaining ring at least partially disposed within the internal bore between the first and second wellhead members. Further, in one embodiment, the retaining ring is configured to selectively engage the locking ring to facilitate securing of the second wellhead member to the first wellhead member. Other embodiments of wellhead systems, devices, and methods of coupling the same are also provided.

Abstract: Well bore servicing equipment is provided. The well bore servicing equipment comprises a first manipulator to grip a well bore work string, to raise the work string, and to lower the work string. The well bore servicing equipment further comprises a controller to receive a work string trajectory input and to automatically control the first manipulator to raise and lower the work string substantially in conformance with the work string trajectory input.

Abstract: A tubular handling apparatus including a tubular member running tool adapted to provide load-bearing, and preferably torquing, capacity upon the gripping of a tubular is provided. The running tool includes a slotted member having a plurality of elongated slots, a recessed member associated with the slotted member and having a plurality of recesses, and a plurality of gripping elements disposed between the slotted member and recessed member. Each such gripping element is adapted to move with an engaged tubular so as to grip the tubular. A tubular member elevator associated to the running tool, as well as related floor slips, are also encompassed. Methods of casing running are also included.

Abstract: A gripping tool includes a body assembly and gripping assembly with a grip surface adapted to move from a retracted position to an engaged position to radially engage a work piece in response to relative axial displacement. A linkage is provided to act between the body assembly and the gripping assembly which, upon relative rotation in at least one direction, of the body relative to the grip surface results in relative axial displacement of the grip surface to activate the gripping elements. This tool was developed for use on drilling and service rigs having top drives, and supports rapid engagement and release, hoisting, pushing, and rotating.

Abstract: A system for deploying a string of pipe from a drilling rig into a well includes a spider for mounting on a rig floor and a pipe gripper attached to the top drive. A hydraulic safety circuit monitors hydraulic fluid pressure at an apply port of the gripper and prevents hydraulic fluid pressure from being directed to move the slips to the released position if hydraulic fluid pressure is not already present at the apply port of the gripper. The safety circuit also monitors hydraulic fluid pressure at the apply port of the spider and prevents release hydraulic fluid pressure from being directed to move the gripping members to the released position if apply hydraulic fluid pressure is not already present at the apply port of the spider.

Abstract: An isolation sleeve extends from an adapter into the bore of a tubing head to isolate high pressure frac fluid from the body of the tubing head. The isolation sleeve may be installed by a running tool that can screw the sleeve onto a packoff bushing located within the tubing head. The running tool can also retrieve the isolation sleeve by unscrewing it from the packoff bushing.

Abstract: An articulated apparatus for handling a drilling to has a base, a first set of arms pivotally connected at one end to the base and extending outwardly therefrom, a joint member pivotally connected to an opposite end of the first set of arms, a second set of arms pivotally connected at one end of to the joint member and extending outwardly therefrom, and a carrier assembly pivotally connected to an opposite end of the second set of arms. The carrier assembly is suitable for carrying the drilling tool so as to allow the drilling tool to move upwardly and downwardly. A drive system is cooperative with the first and second sets of arms so as to move the drilling tool between a stowed position and a deployed position.

Abstract: An improvement in a gripping tool having a grip surface carried by movable grip elements and cam linkages to radially move the grip surface from a retracted to an extended position. The improvement involves a tri-cam linkage with cam pairs supporting bi-rotary to axial stroke activation and further cam linkages to cause radial stroke of the tool grip surface as a function of axial stroke.

Abstract: This disclosure provides methods, systems and devices for handling drill pipe. One example embodiment includes a method for handling a drill pipe. The method includes moving the drill pipe by a crane having a grapple, wherein the crane is located on a skid. Further, the method includes receiving the drill pipe within a carriage affixed to the skid, wherein the carriage comprises vises and spinners. Finally, the method torquing and spinning the drill pipe within the carriage, whereby the method provides for rapid mating and unmating of the drill pipe for either laying in the ground or possibly into a vehicle for removal to a different location, respectively.

Abstract: Method and apparatus to make-up or break-out a threaded tubular connection using an integrated power tong and back-up tong (10). The power tong (20) may be disabled upon sensing a predetermined threshold amount of displacement of at least a portion of a back-up tong (14). The sensed displacement indicates that the back-up tong (14) is slipping, and power tong (20) rotation may be disabled to prevent damage to the pipe string (16) or surrounding equipment. A slippage sensor (40) may be disposed to sense displacement of at least a portion of the back-up tong (14) relative to a supporting frame (12). In one embodiment, the slippage sensor (40) may be operatively coupled to a valve (50) disposed in communication with a fluid line (46) supplying power fluid to the power tong (20). The power tong (20) may be disabled by impairing flow to the power tong (20) upon sensing a predetermined displacement of the back-up tong (14).

Abstract: An active, smartpipe stand (apparatus and method) for feeding and receiving pipe in a horizontal orientation to and from a pipe handling apparatus has a first pipe-lifting mechanism, a second pipe-lifting mechanism, and a pipe-rotating mechanism positioned between the first and second pipe-lifting mechanisms. The bottom of the first pipe-lifting mechanism is connected to the skid of the pipe handling apparatus. The bottom of the second pipe-lifting mechanism is connected to the skid of the pipe handling apparatus. The bottom of the pipe-rotating mechanism is connected to the skid of the pipe handling apparatus. Individual tubulars are unloaded, prepared, staged and sequenced, assembled and presented for delivery from horizontal to vertical. The pipe stand is positioned under the boom of the pipe handling apparatus when the apparatus is in the first position. The pipe stand extends within the skid structure.

Abstract: A break-out assembly includes a slide wrench assembly, and a slide wrench rotator assembly which rotates the slide wrench assembly in response to actuating first and second rotator assembly cylinders. The first and second rotator assembly cylinders are actuated in opposed directions. The break-out assembly includes a clamp assembly having opposed arm assemblies which are rotatable about separate pivot points.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for releasing a coiled tubing internal line from a bottom hole assembly. The internal line may not have strength sufficient to permit the application of a tension force at the surface to disconnect the internal line from the bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly may include a ball seat adapted to retain a ball permitting the application of a pressure differential above and below the ball seat. An anchor assembly connected to the internal line may be adapted to disconnect from the bottom hole assembly upon the application of predetermined pressure differential. A predetermined pressure differential may be used to shear a portion of the internal line releasing an upper portion of the internal line from the bottom hole assembly.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A drill stem connection system and method is shown that provides a secure hold on drill stem surfaces while unscrewing a threaded connection. Two lever arm components are adjustable to a number of possible orientations to allow for fitting the drill stem wrench in tight spaces. Concentric rotation of lever arm components facilitates connection of the lever arm components together. Configurations and methods shown provide a stable and powerful tool to loosen threaded drill stem effectively.

Abstract: A casing running tool comprising an integral elevation module and make-up/torque module. In accordance with one aspect or the invention, the tool is adapted to automatically engage a collared end of a tubular structure such as a casing string segment. The integral make-up/torque module is actuated by hydraulic control lines to exert compression force upon the outer diameter of a tubular, such as a casing string segment. This compression force is sufficient to enable torque to be applied to the tubular without slippage. In one embodiment, the make-up/torque module comprises an outer body carrying a plurality of hydraulically-actuable pistons, such that the tool is actuable from the rig floor to grasp the tubular with sufficient force that rotational force (torque) supplied via a drive motor in a top-drive rig. In accordance with another embodiment, the multifunction tool further includes an internal ball valve assembly for selectively allowing or restricting fluid flow through the tool.

Abstract: A pipe gripping assembly having a quill, an actuator and a drive assembly mounts to a top drive of a drilling rig. The quill is connected to a mandrel in the drive assembly. The drive assembly has a tapered mandrel and a set of slips that move along the taper into and out of engagement with the pipe. The actuator is connected to both the quill and a portion of the drive assembly. The actuator includes a motor and at least two sleeves that are threaded together. One sleeve has a spline on its outside diameter that mates to the motor and a gear. Power applied to the motor causes the actuator to move slips in the drive assembly into an engagement position that grips the pipe for lifting and rotating the pipe.

Abstract: A multi-function sub is connected between a top drive of a drilling rig and a casing gripper. The sub has telescoping upper and lower members that rotate with each other. A sleeve is mounted to one of the members. That sleeve is prevented from rotation with the upper and lower members by an anti-rotation device. A piston is located on the other member and reciprocally carried within the sleeve. An external pump is connected to the sleeve for supplying pressurized fluid into the sleeve to act against the piston. This fluid provides compensation for thread makeup when a new joint of casing is being secured to a string of casing.

Abstract: A drill rod spinner device includes a mount, a first base half having a first end and a second end in which the first base half at the first end is rotatably coupled to the mount and a first clamping roller operatively associated with the second end of the first base half. A second base half includes a first end and a second end in which the second base half at the first end is coupled to the mount. A second clamping roller is operatively associated with the second end of the second base half. A rotary actuator assembly is secured to the mount. A flexible belt is operatively associated with the rotary actuator assembly. An idler roller assembly maintains engagement between the flexible belt and the rotary actuator as the first base half is rotated relative to the mount.

Abstract: Extension systems for iron roughnecks are provided. These systems are equipment apparatuses and extendable/retractable supports for devices used for connecting and disconnecting tubular members (e.g. casing, tubing, pipe, or drill pipe) on drill rigs. The systems in particular relate to iron roughnecks, and methods of moving them on a drilling rig.

Abstract: An apparatus usable to apply torque to a sucker rod connection is described herein. The apparatus includes an insert for installation within a tong device configured to provide torque to a tubular, the insert adapting the tong to engage and apply torque to a sucker rod segment. The insert can include a flange secured to the tong device, a tubular body extending through the opening of the tong device and engaging gripping members of the tong, and an engagement member having a slot sized to engage a sucker rod segment. A back-up tong device can be used to retain a lower sucker rod segment while an upper sucker rod segment is torqued by the tong device. The back-up tong device and/or the tong and insert can be pivotably or rotatably movable for engaging a lower sucker rod segment that is not in rotational alignment with the upper sucker rod segment.

Abstract: A stabbing guide connects to a casing collar during makeup. The stabbing guide has a housing with a lower portion with a cylindrical interior and an upper portion with a conical interior. Upper and lower shoulders are located in the cylindrical interior, defining an annular recess between the shoulders. Each of the shoulders has an inner diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the casing collar. The housing is formed in separate segments and secured around the casing collar by a clamp.

Abstract: A top drive system with a plurality of top drive modules, which are configured to be quickly exchanged. The top drive modules may include any or all of the following: a main body module, a gearbox module, a drive motor module, a pipe handler module, an upper fluid module, a lower well control valve module, a block interface module, a retract system interface frame module, a cooling system module, a work platform guard module, and a quill saver sub module. Alternatively, the top drive may comprise a first top drive and a second top drive which are configured to be quickly exchanged.

Abstract: Well bore servicing equipment is provided. The well bore servicing equipment comprises a first manipulator to grip a well bore work string, to raise the work string, and to lower the work string. The well bore servicing equipment further comprises a controller to receive a work string trajectory input and to automatically control the first manipulator to raise and lower the work string substantially in conformance with the work string trajectory input.

Abstract: A slip spool includes radially disposed actuators for radially moving slip blocks between a loose encirclement position in which they surround the tubing string and a cached position in which the slip blocks clear an axial passage of the slip spool. The slip spool further includes axially disposed actuators for axially displacing the slip blocks between the loose encirclement position and an engagement position in which the slip blocks are seated within a slip bowl of the slip spool so that a weight of the suspended tubing string causes the slip blocks to tightly grip the tubing string. The slip spool facilitates positioning and repositioning of the tubing string in the wellbore and can be used for supporting or snubbing a tubing string in a live well bore.

Abstract: A system for conducting earth borehole operations comprising a CT carrier, a reel of CT rotatably mounted on the CT carrier, a mast carrier, separate from the CT carrier, a mast mounted on the mast carrier and movable between a lowered position for transport and a position transverse to the horizontal, a top drive carried by the mast, the top drive being longitudinally movable along the mast and a CT injector on the mast carrier.

Abstract: A casing running tool comprising an integral elevation module and make-up/torque module. In accordance with one aspect or the invention, the tool is adapted to automatically engage a collared end of a tubular structure such as a casing string segment. The integral make-up/torque module is actuated by hydraulic control lines to exert compression force upon the outer diameter of a tubular, such as a casing string segment. This compression force is sufficient to enable torque to be applied to the tubular without slippage. In one embodiment, the make-up/torque module comprises an outer body carrying a plurality of hydraulically-actuable pistons, such that the tool is actuable from the rig floor to grasp the tubular with sufficient force that rotational force (torque) supplied via a drive motor in a top-drive rig. In accordance with another embodiment, the multifunction tool further includes an internal ball valve assembly for selectively allowing or restricting fluid flow through the tool.

Abstract: A system and method for building and handling oilfield tubular stands while drilling operations are simultaneously and independently occurring with one drilling deck, one derrick, and one rotary system. An offline guided path horizontal to vertical arm lifts and moves in the same plane tubulars stored horizontally on the catwalk and positions the tubulars vertically directly into a preparation hole for assembling and disassembling tubular stands while online drilling operations are simultaneously being conducted. A stand arm lifts and lowers the tubulars into and out of the adjustable preparation hole, and transports the tubulars for storage to an auxiliary tubular racking station in the upper part of the derrick. A bridge racker crane moves tubular stands from the auxiliary tubular racking station to the top drive or another tubular racking station.

Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating the connection of tubulars using a top drive, the apparatus comprising a supporting member connectable to said top drive characterized in that it further comprises an internal tool for engaging said tubular and an external clamping device for engaging said tubular.

Abstract: A torque head for gripping tubular members, in at least some aspects, has a housing, grip mechanism secured within the housing, the grip mechanism for selectively gripping a tubular member, the grip mechanism including at least one jaw selectively movable toward and away from a portion of a tubular member within the housing, the at least one jaw having mounted thereon slip apparatus for engaging the portion of the tubular member, the slip apparatus including die apparatus movably mounted to the at least one jaw, the die apparatus movable with respect to the at least one jaw so that relative movement of the tubular with respect to the torque head is possible to the extent that the die apparatus is movable.

Abstract: A system for operating downhole equipment in a well includes a drive shaft extending from a surface of the well to a downhole location. A motor is positioned at the surface and is operably connected to the drive shaft to selectively rotate the drive shaft. A lift system is positioned at the surface and is operably connected to the drive shaft to axially lift and lower the drive shaft.

Abstract: A drill fluid collecting device, in which a space between a power tong (2) and a backup tong (4) is provided with collecting means, and in which, on their respective sides facing the space, the power tong (2) and the backup tong (4) are provided with a seal (56, 62) which is sealingly movable against a pipe (20, 22) located in the tongs and sealingly connected to its respective tong (2, 4).

Abstract: An arbor arranged for attachment to overhead support, such as a top drive or main rig hoist, is arranged to resiliently support a main body. The main body is arranged to support a wedge-lock type pipe gripper assembly on a second arbor that is resiliently supported by the main body. The two arbors are rotationally connected but only indirectly connected axially and, to a limited extent, can move independently. The actuator, or linear motor, that actuates the wedge-lock system has the ability to force release of the wedge-lock system when it has been set by massive pipe loads. The forced release actuation is independent of the load supporting features of the main body. Full range actuation of the main body linear motor will not actuate the wedge-lock release system.

Abstract: A method for reverse circulating a tool upwardly through a wellbore, the method including: providing a manipulator tool including an upper end and a lower end, conveying the manipulator tool down hole to a position adjacent a downhole tool, using the manipulator tool to manipulate the downhole tool, and reversing fluid flow through the well to create a pressure differential about at least one of the manipulator tool and the downhole tool such that the at least one of the manipulator tool and the downhole tool is lifted upwardly through the wellbore. A manipulator tool for use in a reverse circulating method is also described as are a tool catcher, a tool catching assembly and a tool catching method.

Abstract: A technique facilitates joining of coiled tubing sections. A framework has one or more movable stands with features designed to grip and manipulate an end of a coiled tubing section. The ability to hold and selectively move an end of a coiled tubing section or the ends of both coiled tubing sections enables an operator to easily prepare the coiled tubing ends and to couple the coiled tubing ends with a coiled tubing connector.

Abstract: A tool wrench assembly for a blasthole drill includes a fork pivotally fixed relative to at least one actuator that moves the fork between an engaged and a disengaged position.

Abstract: A system for coupling a pipe segment to a pipe string is provided that includes a top drive assembly having a threaded output shaft; and a pipe running tool threadingly coupled to the threaded output shaft of the top drive assembly such that the primary load of the pipe running tool is supported by the threads of the output shaft of the top drive assembly, and wherein the pipe running tool is rotatable by the output shaft and further includes a pipe engaging portion for grippingly engaging the pipe segment sufficient to transmit a torque from the top drive output shaft to the pipe segment.

Abstract: A stabilizer to suppress unwanted pivotal movement in pipe handling equipment suspended from bails. The stabilizer can contain either or both adjustable contacting members and non-adjustable contacting members which are rigidly connected to a portion of the pipe handling equipment. The adjustable contacting members contact the bails on one or both sides of the bail(s) to suppressing motion of the elevator relative to the bail.

Abstract: A tubular handling torque multiplier includes a torque input end for connection to the quill of a top drive, a torque output end for connection at least indirectly to a well tubular joint to be driven to rotate, gears for adjusting the torque output from the torque output end from that torque input at the torque input end, an axial support between the torque input end and the torque output end to allow axial stress to be communicated from the torque output end to the torque input end and a fluid circulating path open between the torque input end and the torque output end.

Abstract: A tubular running system including a torque frame, a main shaft extending through a top opening of the torque frame and rotatable by rotation apparatus, slip setting apparatus connected to the torque frame and including a levelling beam and a plurality of slip assemblies, each of the slip assemblies connected independently and pivotably to the levelling beam, and movement apparatus connected to the levelling beam for moving the slip assemblies in unison with respect to a tubular projecting into the torque frame. This Abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72 (b).

Abstract: A fluid powered pipe tong fluid supply has a shunt that fluidly connects the tong input fluid line to the tong output fluid line. A flow control valve is installed in the shunt and is open when pipe joint make-up begins. The valve is slowly closed and the resulting fluid power made available to the tong causes it to make the low-resistance turns required of the pipe during the thread run. As the valve continues to close, the resulting pipe turn increases the resistance and causes the tong motor to demand more pressure, to achieve more turn. Torque demand continues to develop as the valve continues to close. Options include computer control, a graph reader to direct the computer, a recorder, a manually set by-pass relief valve to parallel the flow control valve as a secondary pressure limit assurance.

Abstract: A torque sub for use with a top drive is disclosed. A method of connecting threaded tubular members for use in a wellbore includes operating a top drive. The top drive rotates a first threaded tubular member relative to a second threaded tubular member. The method further includes measuring a torque exerted on the first tubular member by the top drive. The torque is measured using a torque shaft rotationally coupled to the top drive and the first tubular. The torque shaft has a strain gage disposed thereon. The method further includes wirelessly transmitting the measured torque from the torque shaft to a stationary interface; measuring rotation of the first tubular member; compensating the rotation measurement by subtracting a deflection of the top drive and/or the first tubular member; determining acceptability of the threaded connection; and stopping rotation of the first threaded member when the threaded connection is complete or if the threaded connection is unacceptable.

Abstract: A system for coupling a pipe segment to a pipe string is provided that includes a top drive assembly having an output shaft; and a pipe running tool coupled to the top drive assembly and rotatable by the output shaft of the top drive assembly. The pipe running tool includes an internal gripper for insertion within an internal diameter of the pipe segment and a tapered slip cone section, which slidably receives corresponding tapered surfaces of a plurality of slips, such that a vertical force on the slips causes the slips to move radially outwardly into gripping engagement with the internal diameter of the pipe segment, and wherein the vertical force applied to the slips is sufficient to allow the gripping engagement of the slips with the internal diameter of the pipe segment to transmit a torque from the top drive output shaft to the pipe segment.

Abstract: A top drive system for wellbore operations, the top drive system including motor apparatus, a main shaft driven by the motor apparatus, the main shaft having a top end and a bottom end, a quill connected to the main shaft, a gear system interconnected with the quill and the motor apparatus, and a multi-seal system for sealing against the quill. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).

Abstract: A horizontal offline stand building system includes a substantially horizontal, elongate catwalk having a frame and a stand lifting arm. The catwalk has a top surface adapted to receive at least two tubluars aligned coaxially along a linear path in a make-up channel on said top surface. The tubulars are threaded together to form preferably at least a triple pipe stand in the make-up channel. The completed stand is then transferred laterally to a delivery channel containing the stand lifting arm. The stand lifting arm is selectively actuable lifting arm for selectively elevating a rig end of a pipe stand from said top surface of the catwalk to the deck of a drilling rig, and then for supporting the mid and rear sections as the stand is hoisted from the delivery channel up the derrick of the drilling rig.

Abstract: An arbor arranged for attachment to overhead support, such as a top drive or main rig hoist, is arranged to resiliently support a main body. The main body is arranged to support a wedge-lock type pipe gripper assembly on a second arbor that is resiliently supported by the main body. The two arbors are rotationally connected but only indirectly connected axially and, to a limited extent, can move independently. The actuator, or linear motor, that actuates the wedge-lock system has the ability to force release of the wedge-lock system when it has been set by massive pipe loads. The forced release actuation is independent of the load supporting features of the main body. Full range actuation of the main body and main arbor assembly length will not actuate the wedge-lock release system. The length of the overall assembly can be oscillated to vibrate a supported pipe string.

Abstract: A method of running a tubular string into or out of a wellbore includes the steps of moving the tubular string relative to the wellbore and making up or breaking a connection between a tubular joint and the tubular string when the tubular string is being moved relative to the wellbore.