Upper And Lower Slips Patents (Class 166/77.53)
  • Patent number: 11377914
    Abstract: A system for conducting subterranean operations is disclosed and can include a support structure, a first tubular handler coupled to the support structure, and a second tubular handler coupled to the support structure and distinct from the first tubular handler. The system can further include a tool system coupled to the support structure and adapted to perform an operation on a first tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: CANRIG ROBOTIC TECHNOLOGIES AS
    Inventors: Kenneth Mikalsen, Kjetil Naesgaard
  • Patent number: 11319769
    Abstract: A multi-intervention blowout preventer includes a body having a bore therethrough. A first pair of ram blocks may be coupled to the body and include a ram, a catcher, and a blade operationally connected to the bore via a first pair of openings in the body. The ram, the catcher, and the blade may cut a flexible line extending through the bore while holding the flexible line. A second pair of ram blocks may be coupled to the body and include a second pair of rams operationally connected to the bore via a second pair of openings in the body to seal around a tubular. A third pair of ram blocks may be coupled to the body and include a third pair of rams operationally connected to the bore via a third pair of openings in the body to seal the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: Bandar S. Almalki, Mohammed Yousef AlDaif, Ali E. Aldossary, Prasad Karunakaran
  • Patent number: 11041346
    Abstract: A system for conducting subterranean operations is disclosed and can include a support structure, a first tubular handler coupled to the support structure, and a second tubular handler coupled to the support structure and distinct from the first tubular handler. The system can further include a tool system coupled to the support structure and adapted to perform an operation on a first tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Canrig Robotic Technologies AS
    Inventors: Kenneth Mikalsen, Kjetil Naesgaard
  • Patent number: 10947793
    Abstract: A core tube handling device can be used with exploratory drilling rigs. The device can include a slew arm mounted on the rig's mast and a pivot arm mounted on the slew arm. When the slew arm is adjacent to the mast, clamping devices on the pivot arm can grasp and hold a core tube from the drill string. The slew arm can pivot away from the mast and align the pivot arm with a tray that receives and holds the tubes. The pivot arm can pivot to a position proximate the tray and release the tube. The tray can be rotatable and translatable to facilitate transfer of the tube from the pivot arm to the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: BLY IP INC.
    Inventors: Thorsten Upmeier, Christof Kruse, Trevor Zwar
  • Patent number: 10900301
    Abstract: An improved drillpipe spinner having a drillpipe spinner frame mounted to a hanging tree, a spinner arm frame assembly, two drive roller shaft assemblies, two pressure roller assemblies, two idler shaft assemblies, a single hydraulic motor, a gear cover, two spinner gripper cylinders and steel heat treated knurled rollers. A cluster of gears mounted in place, with the hydraulic motor to drive the cluster of gears, turn the steel knurled rollers. The two hydraulic cylinders are extended to engage the pressure rollers. The engaged spinner turns the drillpipe for makeup or spinout operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Inventor: Paul H Tompkins
  • Patent number: 10876196
    Abstract: A gripping tool for gripping oilfield tubulars includes a gripping element having a substrate, and at least one gripping surface configured to engage an oilfield tubular, the at least one gripping surface being formed on the gripping element. The at least one gripping surface includes a coating on an outer surface of the substrate, the coating includes a carrier and a plurality of particles at least partially embedded in the carrier. The particles each have a hardness that is greater than a hardness of the carrier and a base metal of the gripping element, and the particles extend outward from the carrier and are configured to engage a structure that is gripped by the gripping tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: FRANK'S INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: Brennan S. Domec, Jeremy R. Angelle
  • Patent number: 10774599
    Abstract: A method of deploying a jointed tubular string into a subsea wellbore includes lowering the tubular string into the subsea wellbore from an offshore drilling unit. The tubular string has a slip joint. The method further includes, after lowering, anchoring a lower portion of the tubular string below the slip joint to a non-heaving structure. The method further includes, while the lower portion is anchored: supporting an upper portion of the tubular string above the slip joint from a rig floor of the offshore drilling unit; after supporting, adding one or more joints to the tubular string, thereby extending the tubular string; and releasing the upper portion of the extended tubular string from the rig floor. The method further includes: releasing the lower portion of the extended tubular string from the non-heaving structure; and lowering the extended tubular string into the subsea wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Ram K. Bansal, Lev Ring, Don M. Hannegan
  • Patent number: 10697256
    Abstract: An electronic control system comprises a first tubular handling tool, a sensor, and a controller. The controller is configured to control actuation of the first tubular handling tool in response to an electronic signal received from the sensor that corresponds to an operational characteristic of the first tubular handling tool. The electronic control system functions as an electronic interlock system to prevent mishandling of a tubular. A method of controlling a tubular handling tool comprises measuring an operational characteristic of the tubular handling tool, communicating the operational characteristic to a controller in the form of an electronic signal, and using the controller to control actuation of the tubular handling tool in response to the measured operational characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Wiedecke, Bjoern Thiemann, Karsten Heidecke, Martin Liess, Martin Helms, John D. Hooker, II
  • Patent number: 10662724
    Abstract: A grip element for gripping a tubular CRA workpiece has a hardened grip surface carrying an array of generally pyramidic die teeth, which may have either pointed or rounded tips, with the configuration of the tooth tips being selected for effective gripping of the CRA workpiece by way of an interference grip, and without unacceptably marking the CRA workpiece. The die tooth density over the grip surface may be selected to minimize accumulation of contaminants between teeth and/or to facilitate removal of accumulated contaminants. The substrate of the grip element may comprise a stainless steel having no free iron, with the grip surface being hardened by nitriding. Optionally, the tips of the grip element may truncated after nitriding to partially expose the stainless steel substrate. In alternative embodiments, the grip element may have a carbon steel substrate with a nitrided grip surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: NOETIC TECHNOLOGIES INC
    Inventor: Maurice William Slack
  • Patent number: 10494883
    Abstract: A wired pipe joining system for joining wired pipe segments having first end, a second end, a first coupler in the first end, a second coupler in the second end, and a transmission medium in communication with the first and second couplers. The system includes: a lower clamp configured to hold a top pipe segment; a top rotation arm to guide a first end of a new pipe segment into a second end of a top pipe segment; a top coupler measurement device configured to connect to a second end of the new pipe segment and receive a signal from a second coupler in the second end of the new pipe segment; and a controller that causes the top rotation arm to move the new pipe segment to cause the signal received by the top coupler measurement to be maximized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: John D. Macpherson, Manfred G. Prammer
  • Patent number: 10435964
    Abstract: The systems, devices, and methods described herein relate to a modular gripperhead system for a drilling rig. The system includes a gripper having a first gripper arm and a second opposing gripper arm, each gripper arm having an inwardly facing gripping surface that forms at least a portion of a chamber sized to receive a portion of a cylindrical tubular, wherein the portion of the chamber has a longitudinal axis. The system also includes a grabber having a first grabber arm and a second grabber arm. Each grabber arm may be displaceable between a retracted position and an extended position in a direction along a first axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis. The first and second grabber arms may be pivotable about a first and second pivot point between an open position sized to permit a portion of a cylindrical tubular to enter between the first and the second grabber arms and a closed position sized to secure a portion of a cylindrical tubular between the first and the second grabber arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling Technologies USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Magnuson, Steven K. Deel, Predrag Radovanovic, Djuric Miodrag
  • Patent number: 10370913
    Abstract: A gripping device for gripping and spinning a pipe body of various diameters includes a gripping assembly having a pair of gripping arms for gripping the outer surface of the pipe body, and a spinning device having a pair of rollers for spinning the pipe body as it is engaged by gripping arms. The gripping device also includes a rotatable input shaft and a coupler. The coupler connects the rotatable input shaft to the gripping assembly and to the spinning device and is employed to selectively engage the gripping arms and the spinning device. A brake is provided so as to selectively prevent at least one of the gripping assembly and the spinning device from being operated upon rotating the rotatable input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: NABORS LUX 2 SARL
    Inventors: Svein Søyland, Kjetil Næsgaar
  • Patent number: 10323473
    Abstract: The systems, devices, and methods described herein relate to a modular racker system for a drilling rig. The modular racker includes transportable modules including a lower track module comprising a drilling rig floor that includes a lower track arranged and configured to accommodate a lower carriage. The lower track is permanently fixed to the drilling rig floor so as to form a part of the drilling rig floor and is transportable as part of the drilling rig floor. An upper track module comprises a fingerboard and an upper track arranged and configured to accommodate an upper carriage moveable along the upper track. The upper track is permanently fixed to the fingerboard and is transportable in a connected configuration. The lower and upper track modules are attachable to a racker column module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: NABORS INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Magnuson, Pedrag Radovanovic, Miodrag Djuric
  • Patent number: 10280697
    Abstract: Drill rod alignment devices, systems, and methods for aligning a drill rod with a drill string in a hand-free manner. A drill rod alignment device can have an arm assembly, rod engagement assembly, and a receiving channel secured to the rod engagement assembly. The arm assembly is moveable from a parked position to a deployed position, and the rod engagement assembly is moveable from an open position to a closed position. With the arm assembly in the deployed position, the drill rod alignment device contacts a drill rod and receives a portion of the drill rod within the receiving channel. The arm assembly is moveable to a closed position in which the drill rod is secured within the receiving channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: BLY IP INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Allen Wright, David Robert Ritter, Anthony Charles William Markham
  • Patent number: 10267104
    Abstract: A semi-automated drill rod handling apparatus and method is provided for a drilling rig of the type having a main winch and haul plug with adapter for assembling and disassembling the drill string and carrying drill rods between a drill rod stowage platform and the drilling rig. The apparatus comprises: an elongated boom mounted substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the platform mounted on a transverse elevated horizontal beam situated above the proximal end of the platform relative to the drilling rig and to one side of the longitudinal axis thereof, wherein the boom is position adjustable both axially and transversely on the elevated beam as well as angularly within a vertical plane perpendicular to the elevated horizontal beam; and a drill rod and winch cable guiding means longitudinally movable along said boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: EXPLORATION DRILL MASTERS CHILE S.A.
    Inventor: Ryan Craig Wall
  • Patent number: 10214977
    Abstract: An automated pipe tripping apparatus includes an outer frame and an inner frame. The inner frame includes a tripping slips and iron roughneck. The automated pipe tripping apparatus may, in concert with an elevator and drawworks, trip in a tubular string in a continuous motion. The tripping slips and iron roughneck, along with the inner frame, may travel vertically within the outer frame. The weight of the tubular string is transferred between the tripping slips and the elevator. The iron roughneck may make up or break out threaded connections between tubular segments, the upper tubular segment supported by the elevator and the lower by the tripping slips. An automated pipe handling apparatus may remove or supply sections of pipe from or to the elevator. A control system may control both the automated pipe tripping apparatus and the elevator and drawworks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: Ensco Services Limited
    Inventor: Rick Pilgrim
  • Patent number: 10087693
    Abstract: This invention relates to a manipulation tool and method for connection and operation of a controllable well device and adapter. The tool includes an elongated housing with first and second end portions, a gripping device in the first end portion provides releasable engagement with the well device controllable by means of the manipulation tool. The gripping device includes means for resisting rotational and axial movement between the housing and the well device. At least one manipulation device is axially displaceable between a first and second position along a longitudinal axis of the housing and rotatable around the longitudinal axis of the housing. A first driving device produces axial displacement of the at least one manipulation device, and a second driving device produces rotation of at least one manipulation device. The first and second driving devices are connected to a control unit for controlling energy to the driving devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: E Holstad Holding AS
    Inventor: Arnulf Bye
  • Patent number: 10011380
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus and associated devices for one or more of rucking, derucking, braking or rerucking sleeves of covering material off of and/or onto a chute body include a gripper with a stacked set of discrete gripper layers with forward facing protrusions. The grippers can have an automated stroke cycle whereby cooperating pairs of gripper assemblies can be configured to travel inwardly a distance sufficient to snugly abut an outer surface of a chute body and remain in contact with the chute body while traveling in a longitudinal and/or axial direction to contact covering and pull the covering along the chute body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: Tipper Tie, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew D. Lowder
  • Patent number: 9845653
    Abstract: A Drill-To-The-Limit (DTTL) drilling method variant to Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) applies constant surface backpressure, whether the mud is circulating (choke valve open) or not (choke valve closed). Because of the constant application of surface backpressure, the DTTL method can use lighter mud weight that still has the cutting carrying ability to keep the borehole clean. The DTTL method identifies the weakest component of the pressure containment system, such as the fracture pressure of the formation or the casing shoe leak off test (LOT). With a higher pressure rated RCD, such as 5,000 psi (34,474 kPa) dynamic or working pressure and 10,000 psi (68,948 kPa) static pressure, the limitation will generally be the fracture pressure of the formation or the LOT. In the DTTL method, since surface backpressure is constantly applied, the pore pressure limitation of the conventional drilling window can be disregarded in developing the fluid and drilling programs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Assignee: Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Don M. Hannegan, Thomas F. Bailey, Melvin T. Jacobs, Nicky A. White
  • Patent number: 9732570
    Abstract: An apparatus for tripping oil pipe and a system for automatic well workover comprises an elevator transfer device for transferring an elevator connected with an oil pipe, the elevator transfer device being structured for enabling continuous, automatic tripping operations of the oil pipe. The elevator transfer device comprises a lifting assembly used for lifting and releasing an oil pipe engaged with the elevator, and an elevator transport assembly used for transferring an elevator at a wellhead and/or an elevator on the lifting assembly. The apparatus for tripping oil pipe can lower the labor intensity and improve operation safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignees: CHINA PETROLEUM & CHEMICAL CORPORATION, RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF PETROLEUM ENGINEERING, SHENGLI OIL FIELD, SINOPEC
    Inventors: Minxuan Wang, Guangqi Gao, Lei Zhang, Huihui Song, Zeng Fu, Hui Zhang, Zhengquan Cheng, Bin Wei, Xiliang Li, Huawen Shu, Qiuhan Su, Qianwen Tang
  • Patent number: 9677352
    Abstract: An assembly to grip a tubular member in a wellbore includes a main body, a plurality of jaw assemblies, and a cover plate to retain the jaw assemblies within the main body. The main body includes a chuck ring and at least one rotation assembly. The plurality of jaw assemblies are configured to simultaneously engage the tubular member in the wellbore as the chuck ring is rotated in a first direction about an axis of the main body by the at least one rotation assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Frank's International, LLC
    Inventors: Jeremy Richard Angelle, Logan Essex Smith, Robert Thibodeaux
  • Patent number: 9206657
    Abstract: A weight-based tubular interlock apparatus adapted to determine whether a tubular is engagingly gripped by a rig-based hoisting device or a secondary gripping device is described. The apparatus includes at least two gripping mechanisms and an interlock system operatively connected that is adapted to measure a tubular load on at least one of the gripping mechanisms and to compare the tubular load to a predetermined load to deter nine whether the at least one gripping mechanism is gripping the tubular. The gripping mechanism is adapted to release the tubular only when the tubular load meets the predetermined load, upon which a release force sufficient to release the tubular from the gripping mechanism is applied to the tubular relative to the gripping mechanism. Methods of using the interlock apparatus are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: CANRIG DRILLING TECHNOLOGY LTD.
    Inventors: Beat Küttel, John B. Patterson
  • Patent number: 9033057
    Abstract: A system for securing a first tubular to a second tubular including a housing having at least one group of at least one window therein. A gripping assembly is disposed in the housing and has at least one member operatively arranged for selectably extending through the at least one window for internally gripping the first tubular. A coupling unit is included having a first clamping mechanism and a second clamping mechanism. The first clamping mechanism is operatively arranged for externally clamping the housing, and the second clamping mechanism is operatively arranged for externally clamping the second tubular component. A method of securing together two tubular components is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Gareth D. Sonnier, Stewart Barker
  • Publication number: 20150107857
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods are usable for automatically engaging and setting slips of an automatic slip setting apparatus about a tubular, when the automatic slip setting apparatus is properly positioned relative to a desired section of the tubular for gripping, lifting and/or holding, and installing and/or removing the tubular, in or out from a wellbore, while preventing slippage and/or dropping of the tubular. The automatic slip setting apparatus is usable with an elevator or spider assembly, each comprising a main body having a central opening extending therethrough, a plurality of slips, and a yoke. An arm assembly, connected to the elevator or spider assembly, moves when contacted by a tubular moving through the central opening, and a latching member, which is connected to the yoke, can be moved by the arm assembly, thereby causing the plurality of slips to move to a closed position for gripping the tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: Frank's International, LLC
    Inventors: Donald E. Mosing, Vernon J. Bouligny, John E. Stelly, Timothy Bernard, Jacob Chu, Adrian Paval
  • Publication number: 20150083391
    Abstract: A device is taught for gripping casing joints comprising one or more first cylinders and one or more second cylinders actuated by a singular hydraulic system. A second device is taught comprising a gripping system, said gripping system comprising one or more slips cammed against one or more inclined recesses when the gripping system is rotated to maintain gripping engagement of the casing. A third device is taught comprising a gripping system, said gripping system comprising one or more slips received into one or more inclined recesses. A fourth device is taught comprising one or more dies supported on one or more said slips by means of mating load transfer profiles. A fifth device is taught comprising a tubular guide means. A sixth device is taught comprising an integral fluid compensator chamber. A seventh device is taught comprising a hydraulic swivel comprising one or more sealing means having predictable seal fluid leak rates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Daniel S. Bangert, Vetsouvanh Malathong, Jonathan Ancelet
  • Patent number: 8967278
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a first housing portion comprising a first adjustable gripping system moveable between an engaged position that grips a cylindrical outer surface of a first tubular structure having a first diameter and a disengaged position that permits relative movement of the first housing portion and the first tubular structure. The apparatus also includes a second housing portion fixed relative to the first housing portion so that rotation of the first housing portion results in rotation of the second housing portion. The second housing portion includes a second gripping system to securely grip a cylindrical outer surface of a second tubular structure that is threadably attached to the first tubular structure and has a second diameter different than the first diameter. Methods of breaking tubing hanger connections are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Nabors Canada
    Inventor: Daryl Richard Sugden
  • Patent number: 8939219
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and controlling a snubbing unit having traveling slips and stationary slips are provided. Position sensors are associated with the slips for detecting opened and closed positions of the slips. Load sensors are associated with the slips for detecting load status of the slips. A control system receives input signals from the sensors, and confirms that either the traveling slips or the stationary slips are loaded before releasing or allowing the release the opposing set of slips, when transferring the pipe string load from the one set of slips to the other set of slips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Snubco Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: John Taskinen, Troy Leblanc, Shawn McKinnon, Lance Thornell
  • Publication number: 20150000934
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are disclosed herein relating to an apparatus to support a tubular member. The apparatus includes a bowl having a longitudinal axis extending therethrough, in which the bowl includes an inner wall formed about the longitudinal axis that is tapered with respect to the longitudinal axis. The apparatus further includes a plurality of slip assemblies movably disposed within to the bowl and having a tapered outer surface and a tapered inner surface with respect to the longitudinal axis. The tapered outer surface of the plurality of slip assemblies is configured to engage the tapered inner wall of the bowl. Further, the bowl may include a shoulder disposed on the inner wall that extends towards the longitudinal axis with respect to the inner wall. Each of the plurality of slip assemblies may be configured to engage the shoulder of the bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Robert Thibodeaux, JR., Jeremy Richard Angelle
  • Patent number: 8893800
    Abstract: An apparatus for, and method of, lowering items from a drilling rig to a well located below it through the use of a landing string comprised of drill pipe having an enlarged diameter section with a shoulder, in combination with upper and lower holders having wedge members with shoulders that engage and support the drill pipe at the shoulder of the enlarged diameter section, the shoulder of the drill pipe and the shoulders of the wedge members being rotatable with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Archer Rental Services, LLC
    Inventors: Burt A. Adams, Norman A. Henry
  • Patent number: 8893772
    Abstract: A modular pipe gripping assembly has a universal actuator assembly having a control fluid swivel. An external pipe gripping assembly can be attached to the actuator assembly for gripping the external surface of a section of pipe. Alternatively, the external pipe gripping assembly can be quickly and easily removed and replaced with an internal pipe gripping assembly for gripping the internal surface of a section of pipe. Control fluid pressure is trapped within the actuator assembly, but relieved from a fluid swivel, permitting high speed rotation of the modular pipe gripping assembly and preserving swivel seal life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventors: Kris Henderson, Lee J. Matherne, Jr., Lee M. Robichaux
  • Patent number: 8839852
    Abstract: An excavator is provided, in which the excavator includes a head that is slidably mounted on a leader, and a position fixture assembly slidable along the leader via the head. The position fixture includes a support plate including a groove in it top surface, with a first rod slidable within the groove. The position fixture also including a locking unit that serves to engage a base member, allowing the base member to be elevated when the head is elevated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventor: Suk-Shin In
  • Patent number: 8807230
    Abstract: A well tubing installer includes a base having a tubular connector extending downward for connection to an upper end of a blowout preventer. A support floor having support slips is mounted to hydraulic cylinders at a fixed distance above the base. A traveling slip base containing traveling slips is mounted to upper ends of piston rods of the hydraulic cylinders. A pipe lifting assembly is supported by the base for lifting and positioning an additional joint of tubing to be added to the string of tubing. A pipe make-up mechanism is supported by the base for rotating the additional joint into threaded engagement with the string of tubing. A control line supply source for supplies control line to and alongside the string of tubing at a point between the base and the support floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Tesco Corporation
    Inventor: Errol A. Sonnier
  • Patent number: 8776898
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a tubular handling apparatus is provided with a wedge lock release mechanism that creates a clearance to allow movement by the mandrel having mating wedge surfaces relative to the tubular to release the wedge slips. In another embodiment, a tubular handling apparatus for handling a tubular includes a mandrel; a carrier coupled to the mandrel; a gripping element for engaging the tubular; an engagement member coupled to the carrier for engaging an upper portion of the tubular; and an abutment device adapted to engage the engagement member, wherein a length of the abutment device is adjustable to allow movement of the engagement member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Liess, Bernd-Georg Pietras
  • Patent number: 8720542
    Abstract: A tubular member handling apparatus is a gripping tool (100) in the form of a body (110) having a longitudinal axis (202) and formed by a plurality of sleeves (750) connected end to end, each sleeve including a frusto-conical bore 752 centered on said longitudinal axis; a clamp member (700) in each sleeve formed by clamp-segments (740), each having side faces (168), end faces (743), a frusto-conical exterior surface (741) adapted to match said frusto-conical bore, and a cylindrical interior surface (745); cage-segments (220) connected to said interior surface and having a plurality of windows (222) partially closing recesses (214) in said interior surface, which recesses are elongate in said longitudinal direction, house a roller (230) and have a base (236) inclined in said longitudinal direction so that, at a lower end (232) of each recess the roller protrudes through said window and at an upper end (234) thereof the roller protrudes less or not at all; a bias mechanism 780, urging said clamp-segments apart
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: First Subsea Limited, Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Paul Anthony Hughes, Faisal J. Yousef
  • Patent number: 8720541
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: Canrig Drilling Technology Ltd., First Subsea Limited
    Inventors: Brian Ellis, Craig Weems, Faisal J. Yousef, Beat Küttel
  • Patent number: 8708055
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a tubular handling apparatus is provided with a wedge lock release mechanism that creates a clearance to allow movement by the mandrel having mating wedge surfaces relative to the tubular to release the wedge slips. In another embodiment, a tubular handling apparatus for handling a tubular includes a mandrel; a carrier coupled to the mandrel; a gripping element for engaging the tubular; an engagement member coupled to the carrier for engaging an upper portion of the tubular; and an abutment device adapted to engage the engagement member, wherein a length of the abutment device is adjustable to allow movement of the engagement member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Liess, Bernd-Georg Pietras
  • Patent number: 8640767
    Abstract: A support structure for use on a rig floor and for supporting a unit used to manipulate tubular components through a wellhead comprises a support plate adapted to securely mount the support structure to said unit, a passage in the support plate of sufficient diameter to allow tubular components to pass therethrough, a plurality of rig engaging members and at least one tensile member mount. The unit used to manipulate tubular components through a wellhead may be a compact snubbing unit or may be a push/pull unit. The support structure may further comprise a worker platform to support a worker above the rig floor. Various push/pull system embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Team Snubbing Services Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Tucken
  • Patent number: 8636087
    Abstract: A Drill-To-The-Limit (DTTL) drilling method variant to Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) applies constant surface backpressure, whether the mud is circulating (choke valve open) or not (choke valve closed). Because of the constant application of surface backpressure, the DTTL method can use lighter mud weight that still has the cutting carrying ability to keep the borehole clean. The DTTL method identifies the weakest component of the pressure containment system, such as the fracture pressure of the formation or the casing shoe leak off test (LOT). With a higher pressure rated RCD, such as 5,000 psi (34,474 kPa) dynamic or working pressure and 10,000 psi (68,948 kPa) static pressure, the limitation will generally be the fracture pressure of the formation or the LOT. In the DTTL method, since surface backpressure is constantly applied, the pore pressure limitation of the conventional drilling window can be disregarded in developing the fluid and drilling programs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Don M. Hannegan, Thomas F. Bailey, Melvin T. Jacobs, Nicky A. White, Carel W. Hoyer
  • Publication number: 20130327545
    Abstract: A technique facilitates use of frangible components. The frangible components may comprise components of a gripping tool, e.g. anchor, used in a variety of applications, including well related applications. The tool is provided with a plurality of gripping members which each comprise a frangible structure. The gripping members may be selectively deployed to provide the desired gripping within a tubular structure, e.g. an open wellbore or well casing. The frangible structure in each gripping member is designed to break down into smaller portions after being exposed to a predetermined input, thus facilitating removal of the tool from the tubular structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Manuel P. Marya, Timothy R. Dunne
  • Patent number: 8601910
    Abstract: An apparatus for making and/or breaking a threaded connection between a first tubular and a second tubular includes a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative to the second tubular; a zero-side-load (“ZSL”) device operable to relieve the transverse force induced on the threaded connection in response to the spinner spinning the first tubular; a torque wrench operable to rotate the first tubular relative to the second tubular; and a back-up wrench operable to grip the second tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental Tools, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian D Begnaud
  • Patent number: 8561685
    Abstract: A hydraulic workover rig including a base structure, a derrick extending from the base structure, a hydraulic lift cylinder connected to the upper end of the derrick, a lower slip assembly connected to the base structure, an upper slip assembly, and at least two snub cylinders connected to the base and the upper slip assembly. A distal end of a piston rod of the lift cylinder is connectable to a pipe string extendable through the upper and lower slip assemblies such that both a lifting force and a snubbing force may be applied simultaneously to the pipe string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Rodgers Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Troy A. Rodgers
  • Publication number: 20130248205
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus, and methods for longitudinally moving or running a tubular, with the system including an elevator suspended from a rig. The elevator includes a body defining a bore to receive a tubular and wedges defining channels therebetween, with the wedges being configured to engage the tubular. The system may also include a spider including a body defining a bore to receive the tubular and wedges defining channels therebetween. The wedges of the spider may be configured to engage the tubular, and the wedges of the elevator may be configured to slide axially at least partially in the channels of the spider. The wedges of the spider may be configured to slide axially at least partially in the channels of the elevator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: FRANK'S CASING CREW AND RENTAL TOOLS, INC.
    Inventors: Jeremy Richard Angelle, Robert Thibodeaux, JR., Tyler J. Hollier
  • Publication number: 20130232750
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for preventing damage to the surface of metal tubulars or work pieces when force to turn or support the tubulars is applied by the serrated surface of a die or insert. A woven fabric made from a polymer and having a selected thickness and structure is maintained between the die and the surface to be protected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: EXPRESS ENERGY SERVICES OPERATING, LP
    Inventor: Russell N. Pullins
  • Publication number: 20130220637
    Abstract: A slip device includes a housing forming an axial bore, an upper set of slips spaced axially above a lower set of slips, and a rack and pinion actuator radially moving the upper set of slips and the lower set of slips between a retracted position and an extended position to grip a tubular disposed in the bore. The upper set of slips and the lower set of slips can be oriented to resist downward movement of the gripped tubular and to permit upward movement of the gripped tubular. One of the upper set of slips and the lower set of slips can be oriented to resist upward movement of the gripped tubular and the other of the upper set of slips and the lower set of slips can be oriented to resist downward movement of the gripped tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Bastion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Bastion Technologies, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8517090
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods may be used to prevent an operator from inadvertently dropping a string into a wellbore during assembling and disassembling of tubulars. Additionally, the apparatus and methods may be used for running in casing, wellbore components, or a drill string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventor: David M. Haugen
  • Patent number: 8505635
    Abstract: A device for a top drive drilling machine, in which a drive shaft (14), which is arranged for releasable connection to a drive (12) and to a first end portion (51) of a drill pipe (5), is provided with a center bore (141) extending therethrough and arranged for fluid communication between the drilling mud plant (6) and a fluid bore (53) in the drill pipe (5). First and second releasable, drive-shaft-surrounding, respectively drill-string-surrounding, pressure seals (1311c, 1321) and a valve (133) which is arranged to provide, in an open position, a passage (1331) for the drill pipe (5) or drive shaft (14), form a first and a second chamber. A drilling mud inlet (1323) is arranged for the second chamber (132) and is arranged for fluid communication between the drilling mud plant (6) and connection housing (13). A method for the continuous supply of drilling mud to a drill string (4) by the use of the drilling machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Per A. Vatne
  • Publication number: 20130192842
    Abstract: A jack system may provide subsea or surface operation. The jack system includes a top plate and a base plate with at least two pistons disposed between the base and top plate. The pistons are extendable to increase a separation distance between the base and top plate, and said pistons are retractable to decrease the separation distance between the base and top plate. The jack system also includes a bottom slip bowl assembly, a top slip bowl assembly, and rotary assembly. The top slip bowl and rotary assembly are rotateably coupled to the top plate wherein the rotary assembly and the top slip bowl assembly rotate relative to the top plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: CUDD PRESSURE CONTROL, INC.
    Inventors: Charles Curtis Overstreet, Scott Michael Cunningham, J.E. Skip Ward
  • Publication number: 20130146311
    Abstract: In order to overcome the need to completely disassemble a dual or even possibly a multiple string packer on the rig floor and avoid the delays and potential for failure that such a rebuild entails, a dual string packer may be provided with a crossover module located such that fluid communication may be provided from any tubular bore to the internal shifting chamber without completely disassembling the dual string packer. an indexing cassette may be attached to the through tubing mandrels at or near the bottom or lower end of the dual string packer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Joe Butler Hathcoat, Tri Thien Nguyen, Anthony Charles Machala
  • Publication number: 20130133900
    Abstract: A slip bowl load transfer system includes a first slip bowl assembly and a second slip bowl assembly. The first slip bowl assembly, adapted to engage and release a tubular member, includes a first slip bowl coupled to a second slip bowl. In an engaged state, the first slip bowl assembly imparts a compressive force on a portion of the tubular member between the first slip bowl and the second slip bowl. The second slip bowl assembly is adapted to engage and release the tubular member and is aligned with the first slip bowl assembly. When the second slip bowl assembly is engaging the tubular member in a second engaged state, the second slip bowl assembly is prevented from releasing the tubular member if the first slip bowl assembly is not in the engaged state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Herwig Michael Sredensek
  • Patent number: 8439121
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Tesco Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin J. Nikiforuk, Dave C. Andrews