Abstract: A tubing hanger for use in a wellhead. The wellhead includes a throughbore, a landing seat positioned in the throughbore, a landing groove positioned above the landing seat in the throughbore, and a locking groove in the throughbore. The tubing hanger comprises an expandable landing ring positioned on the tubing hanger for engaging the landing groove and a landing mechanism for expanding the landing ring radially outward from the tubing hanger. A locking ring for engaging the locking groove can be positioned on the tubing hanger. The tubing hanger can further include a locking mechanism for expanding the locking ring radially outward from the tubing hanger body and locking it into the locking groove.

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.

Abstract: An apparatus for connecting an outer tubular (236) and an inner tubular (218) on a well platform by applying a crimping force to the outer tubular (236) when the outer tubular (236) is disposed about the inner tubular (218) and the inner tubular (218) is suspending from the well platform. The apparatus includes a support assembly (244) operably associated with the well platform and a crimping assembly (242) operably associated with the support assembly (244). The crimping assembly (242) is operable to mechanically deform the outer tubular (236) into contact with the inner tubular (218).

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 subsea connection apparatus to allow connecting a surface blowout preventer stack and riser to a subsea wellhead is disclosed. The subsea connection apparatus uses a single cavity blowout preventer with a set of shearing blind rams. Hydraulically actuated wellhead connectors are secured to the top and bottom of the blowout preventer to allow connection to a subsea wellhead below the subsea connection apparatus and a well head hub profile on the lower end of a riser above the apparatus. A control system can operate both of the hydraulically actuated connectors and the blowout preventer independently. A frangible bore protector is disposed in the bore of the blowout preventer to protect the shearing blind rams from pipe, tools, and fluids being passed through the blowout preventer and can be sheared by the shearing blind rams along with any drill pipe in the bore.

Abstract: An apparatus for connecting or disconnecting a threaded connection of a first tubular member and a second tubular member at a wellhead has a frame movable between a first position adjacent the wellhead and a second position away from the wellhead, a first gripping member connected to the frame and extending outwardly therefrom so as to apply a torque to the first tubular, and a second gripping member movably connected to the frame so as to be movable between a first position away from the wellhead and a second position at the wellhead. The second gripping member is suitable for applying an opposing torque to the second tubular.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for directionally disposing an elongated flexible member in a pressurized conduit. The method includes inserting a bent end portion of an elongated hollow body through an opening in fluid communication with a well valve and defined by a pressurized conduit, the bent end portion being disposed in a pre-determined direction and location within the pressurized conduit; inserting a lead portion of an elongated flexible member into a fluid passageway defined by a primary valve, the fluid passageway of the primary valve being in sealed fluid relationship with the elongated hollow body which, in turn, is in sealed fluid relationship with the pressurized conduit, so that the lead portion of the elongated flexible member is inserted through the bend end portion and into the pressurized conduit by a pre-determined distance; and thereafter retaining in place the inserted elongated flexible member, whereby the elongated flexible member is directionally disposed in the pressurized conduit.

Abstract: Disclosed is an assembly for disconnecting portions of a downhole tubular string, such as a drill stem or drill string, and removing an upper portion of the tubular string from the lower stuck portion in a well. The disconnect assembly includes a connection between joints of two portions of the tubular string. The assembly includes two tubular members and an inner sleeve having two splines each with different angular pitches or teeth counts. The assembly may include a rotary shouldered threaded connection, wherein the two tubular portions are disconnectable at the rotary shouldered threaded connection in the assembly. The assembly may include a sleeve lock, a selective no-go for landing in a profile, and a selectively deployable unlocking and unblocking tool for activating the assembly. The assembly may include connectable cylindrical members other than downhole tubulars.

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 system for running a string of casing into a well utilizes a casing gripping assembly. The casing gripping assembly connects to a top drive and has radially movable gripping elements. A pair of links have upper ends pivotally connected to the casing gripping assembly. A casing elevator is mounted below the casing gripping assembly to lower ends of the links. A guide is mounted to the links between the elevator and the casing gripping assembly. The guide has a vertically extending central opening that has a lower portion that defines a flared entrance to the opening.

Abstract: A control line running system includes a control line storage unit and a guiding system having a guiding device and a guide rail for guiding a control line from the control line storage unit toward a well center. The system may also include a control line manipulator assembly for moving the control line toward a tubular and a control line clamp for attaching the control line to the tubular.

Abstract: A lubricator for use with a coiled tubing injector comprising an elongated housing having a first end and a second end. There is a guide system disposed in the housing for guiding coiled tubing passing through the housing, a first director proximal the first end of the housing to direct the coiled tubing in a first direction and a second director proximal the second end of the housing to direct the coiled tubing in a second direction.

Abstract: Apparatus for rotationally locking the swivel of a drillstring during downhole backoff, directional drilling, and similar operations, and for continuous monitoring of the torque level in the drillstring. A first member has a collar which attaches to one side of the swivel, the collar having a main plate attached thereto and extending outwardly from the swivel. A second member is suspended from the plate, and has a set of jaws which can be closed to grip the swivel and thereby rotationally lock the swivel. A means for measuring forces between the first and second members is disposed between the first and second members, and in combination with appropriate processing and controls permits monitoring of torque on the drillstring while the drillstring is raised and lowered as desired.

Abstract: A downhole assembly, such as a toe-to-heel gravel pack assembly, has a body with a body passage, outlet ports for slurry, and screens for fluid returns. An inner string deploys in the body to perform the toe-to-heel gravel packing. A telescoping adjustment device allows the inner string to space out properly when deployed to the toe of the assembly. Sealing surfaces or seats of a locating device in the body separate a sealable space and seal against seals on the inner string movably disposed therein. Fluid pumped in the string produces a pressure buildup when the string's port communicates with the sealable space. The pressure buildup indicates that the tool is positioned at a first location in the assembly, and other positions for placement of the tool can then be calculated therefrom.

Abstract: An internally gripping tong to rotate tubular segments comprising a central cam body rotatably disposed within a housing having a plurality of windows. The cam body is surrounded by a plurality of angularly distributed gripping jaws slidably received within the windows. The tong is disposed within a bore of a tubular segment, and rotation of the housing relative to the cam body deploys the gripping jaws radially outwardly within the windows to engage the interior wall of the tubular segment. The tong may be self-energizing in both the make-up and the break-out modes of operation. The tong may be deployed to grip the tubular segment using a device to frictionally couple the housing to the tubular segment that cooperates with the top drive assembly, or by an internal actuator that imparts rotation to the housing relative to the cam body.

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 stabbing apparatus having a substantially planar plate member with a central bore and at least one remote actuated cylinder assembly connected to a single joint elevator or similar clamp. The at least one cylinder assembly can be used to axially align the joint of pipe, and raise or lower the pipe into mating relationship with a set of elevators, fill-up tool, stabbing connection or the like.

Abstract: A method of running casing into a well utilizes a load sensor to avoid dropping the casing string accidentally. The rig has a spider at the rig floor that suspends a casing string in the well when in a gripping position. A casing lifting mechanism will place a new joint of casing on the casing string suspended in the spider. The new joint of casing is rotated to make up with the casing string. After makeup, the casing lifting mechanism lifts the new joint of casing and the casing string. The operator releases the spider to allow the casing string to be lowered further into the well. Before releasing the spider, a load sensor will send a signal indicating that the casing lifting mechanism is supporting a minimum amount of weight.

Abstract: A system comprises a progressive cavity pump including a helical rotor disposed within a mating stator. In addition, the system comprises a rod string having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end coupled to the rotor. Further, the system comprises a rotation retarding device coupled to the first end of the rod string, wherein the rotation retarding device retards the rotation of the rod string relative to the stator. Still further, the system comprises a lifting device coupled to the rotation retarding device, wherein the lifting device is operable to apply an axial lifting force to the rotor.

Abstract: A connection apparatus for coupling a top drive to a tubular gripping member comprises a body having a first joint coupled to the top drive and a second joint coupled to the tubular gripping member, wherein the body is adapted to allow fluid communication between the top drive and the tubular gripping member and to allow relative movement between the top drive and the tubular gripping member.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A method for connecting a lower marine riser package to a lower blowout preventer stack. The method includes lowering a frame of the lower marine riser package toward a frame of the lower blowout preventer stack such that a first half of a feed-thru component contacts a second half of the feed-thru component; floating at least one of the first half of the feed-thru component or the second half of the feed-thru component while the frame of the lower marine package is further lowered toward the frame of the lower blowout preventer stack; and engaging the first half of the feed-thru component to the second half of the feed-thru component after further lowering the lower marine riser package toward the lower blowout preventer stack.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus for supporting tubular goods that can be used to perform down-hole operations in oil and gas wells. The lifting apparatus has push and pull capability, a minimal footprint, and requires minimal surface area to operate. The support apparatus can be used to jack and remove casing and other pipe, such as during plugging and abandonment operations, and to perform other rig-less downhole well operations.

Abstract: A method to interchangeably connect a plurality of Lower Marine Riser Packages with a lower BOP stack includes engaging a Lower Marine Riser Package connector of the Lower Marine Riser Package, with a Lower Stack mandrel connector of a Lower Stack, thereby aligning the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack axially about a vertical axis, engaging at least one ring alignment pin of the Lower Marine Riser Package with at least one alignment plate of the Lower Stack, thereby rotationally aligning the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack within a specified angle about the vertical axis, and engaging feed-thru connections between the Lower Marine Riser Package and the Lower Stack.

Abstract: A method for conducting a wellbore operation includes disconnecting a radially projecting member from a first sub without uncoupling a second sub from the first sub. The method may include also coupling the first sub to the second sub with a connector that includes an electrical connection. An associated apparatus may include a sub having at least one conductor connected to a connector; and at least one radially projecting member removably coupled to the sub.

Abstract: A multi-lock adapter used to inject high-pressure well stimulation fluids through an independent screwed wellhead includes an adapter pin having a central passageway with an internal diameter at least as large as a passageway through the wellhead. A lockdown flange secures the adapter pin to a casing mandrel of the wellhead. The lockdown flange ensures that stress on connection points to the screwed independent wellhead due to elevated fluid pressures used for well stimulation procedures does not exceed engineered specifications.

Abstract: A drilling operation suspension spool system which operates to provide a dual sealing barrier for a well during suspension of drilling operations. The system includes a spool having a spool adapted to be secured in fixed relation to a wellhead and a dummy hanger adapted to be matedly inserted into the spool. The dummy hanger includes an annular sleeve and a removable axial plug disposed within the annular sleeve insert. A plurality of extendable and retractable locking pins secure the dummy hanger in place.

Abstract: A pipe guide apparatus for guiding a pipe during snubbing of the pipe includes a pair of hydraulic cylinders and cylinder rods; a stationary guide affixed between a bottom jack plate and a top jack plate, comprising a stationary pipe guide; a travelling jack plate affixed to the cylinder rods; a travelling pipe guide in sliding engagement with the cylinder rods and connected to the travelling jack plate by a lift rod. The stationary pipe guide and the travelling pipe guide each define a pipe opening and has a flexibly resilient guide member having an opening with a diameter closely matching the outside diameter of the pipe being snubbed.

Abstract: Devices and methods for applying axial force for such uses as running and releasing tools or other articles within a wellbore. An installation system is described that includes a force generator used to generate axial forces. The installation system also releasably secures an article and is capable of releasing the article once it has been emplaced or installed with the force generator.

Abstract: A system for installation of a subsea module of great length by means of a vessel, using a cable for its installation and/or retrieval, and methods applied therein. The system allows transporting the subsea module on the vessel to a location in the sea and descending the subsea module into the sea at a vertical position for installation on the seabed.

Abstract: A technique for securing a subsea well that has had some of its components damaged as a result of a storm or other catastrophic event. The techniques utilizes a casing head assembly that may secured to the casing of the damaged well by tightening a plurality of set screws to drive slips into the casing. The casing head assembly may also comprise a tubing hanger. Tubing head set screws may then be tightened to activate the tubing hanger to secure the production tubing to the casing head. The casing head assembly may also comprise a latch-lock connector that may be secured to the casing head by stabbing the latch-lock connector into the casing head and rotating the connector approximately one-quarter turn. A corrosion cap may then be secured to the latch-lock connector to cover the end of the production tubing.

Abstract: A pipe setting tool includes a tool shaft, a coupler mounted on a first end of the tool shaft, and a tool sleeve affixed to the tool shaft defining a space therebetween. An outside diameter of the tool sleeve ensures close conformity to a borehole to position a geothermal pipe mounted thereto in close proximity to the outside diameter of the borehole. A moveable seal cap may be mounted on the tool shaft, moveable between a first position spaced-apart from the tool sleeve during down-hole movement of the tool to permit fluid flow through the space and a second position against the tool sleeve during up-hole movement of the tool to establish a seal with the tool sleeve to prevent fluid flow through the space. A second end of the tool shaft may receive a pipe hook to attach a geothermal pipe to the pipe setting tool.

Abstract: The present application is directed to an assembly for controlling an annulus between tubulars. The assembly comprising a first annular member securable to the outer tubular; a second annular member securable to the first annular member; wherein each of the first and second annular members have eccentric bores therethrough.

Abstract: Wellhead control line deployment involves replacing the seat/retainer plate of a master valve of the wellhead with a modified retainer plate. The retainer plate defines a first port communicating from a central opening of the plate to outside the plate. A modified bonnet installs on the master valve, and the bonnet has two ports, one communicating with the first port in the retainer plate and the second communicating with a needle valve port. The communication ports are linked by a tube with outside diameter seals that inserts between the retainer plate and the bonnet. A control line hanger can be retained by locking into an adapter sleeve or directly in the back-pressure valve threads of a tubing hanger. The adapter sleeve can be attached to the retainer plate or have a collet to snap into the back-pressure valve threads of the tubing hanger.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing a string of casing from a well bore. The method and apparatus include a plurality of drill bits substantially aligned with each other for drilling a plurality of holes in the string of casing. The plurality of holes can be used to lift the string in casing from the well bore via a series of incremental casing sections.

Abstract: A control line running system includes a control line storage unit and a guiding system having a guiding device and a guide rail for guiding a control line from the control line storage unit toward a well center. The system may also include a control line manipulator assembly for moving the control line toward a tubular and a control line clamp for attaching the control line to the tubular.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus for setting a plug in, or retrieving a plug from, a horizontal xmas tree. The apparatus comprises a housing with a throughbore adapted to be releasably connected at a first end to a horizontal xmas tree, the housing including an at least one axially moveable member which also includes an at least one radially moveable element and a tool deployable within the housing throughbore by an elongate support and adapted to be releasably connected to the plug. The tool has an outer surface portion profiled to releasably engage with an engagement surface the at least one radially moveable element whereby, in operation, engagement of the at least one radially moveable element with the tool outer surface portion permits the plug, connected to the tool, to be set in the horizontal xmas tree or retrieved from the horizontal xmas tree by axial movement of the at least one axially moveable member.

Abstract: A tool is provided for installing a mandrel in a wellhead assembly. The tool includes an assembly having multiple independently translatable and rotatable members. The tool includes an inner member disposed in an inner sleeve. The inner member may be disposed in a first position and second position, such that in the first position the inner sleeve freely rotates and in the second position rotation of the inner sleeve causes rotation of the inner member. An outer sleeve is disposed over the inner sleeve and may be coupled to a hold down ring. The inner member may be coupled to mandrel. The tool may be inserted into a wellhead assembly and the outer rotated to engage the hold down ring, the inner and outer sleeve may be translated axially to allow rotation of the inner member to disengage the tool from the mandrel.

Abstract: A self propelled or trailer frame is provided with a cradle on which the tool for subterranean use can be assembled preferably in a shop protected from the weather. The tool is transported to a well site and the truck is positioned for deployment. The cradle is on a sub-frame that can translate off the end of the truck bed to get an end of the tool closer to the wellhead. The truck has a hydraulic linkage to upend the nearest end to the wellhead to a point close to where a hook in a derrick that is over the wellhead can be attached to the tool for hoisting the tool up so as to lift it off the cradle with minimal side loading on the derrick as the tool lower end leaves the cradle. The tool can be an electric submersible pump and can be used for delivery as well as removal of the tool through a wellhead.

Abstract: A method for gripping a tubular with a tubular gripping mechanism includes the steps of moving the tubular gripping mechanism adjacent the tubular, positioning a jaw assembly of the tubular gripping mechanism around the tubular, applying a force by an actuator onto the jaw assembly of the tubular gripping mechanism such that the jaw assembly moves so as to clamp onto the tubular, removing the force from the actuator onto the jaw assembly such that the jaw assembly remains clamped onto the tubular. The clamping force is directed to surfaces of the tubular gripping mechanism away from the actuator.

Abstract: A subsea well assembly has a tubing hanger that lands and seals in a wellhead housing. A tree block is lowered through the drilling riser into engagement with the tubing hanger. The tree block has a lower portion that inserts and latches into the bore of the wellhead housing. The drilling riser is disconnected, and a module is lowered onto the tree block, the module having a choke and controls for controlling the well. The master valve for production is the downhole safety valve in the tubing. The wing production valve is a ball valve located in the flow passage of the tree block.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for positioning and supporting the work platform of a mobile workover rig is disclosed. The work platform of the preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a unique support structure and automated positioning system for positioning the work platform at the desired height above the wellhead equipment. The preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a specialized automated “pinning” system that secures the work platform at the desired height. Additionally, the present invention utilizes one or more support cylinders to position and support the work platform in the horizontal position over the wellhead equipment. The automated positioning and pinning system of the present invention is a unique system that significantly reduces the time required to position the work platform of a mobile workover rig in the operating position, as well as significantly reduces the risk of injury to rig personnel assisting in the positioning operations.

Abstract: A hydraulic connector to provide a fluid tight connection between a fluid supply and a downhole tubular includes an engagement assembly configured to extend and retract a seal assembly disposed at a distal end of the hydraulic connector into and from a proximal end of the downhole tubular, and a valve assembly operable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the valve assembly is configured to allow the fluids to communicate between the fluid supply and the downhole tubular through the seal assembly when in the open position, and wherein the valve assembly is configured to prevent fluid communication between the fluid supply and the downhole tubular when closed position.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A pipe handling system includes a lifting mechanism coupled to an upper end of a pipe above a free end of the pipe, and a guide system operable to engage the pipe and control lateral movement of the pipe as it is moved between a storage position and a well center position, the guide system including a pair of support members including extendable end portions and a flexible pipe guide coupled between the extendable end portions. In some embodiments, the guide system includes a pair of rotatable support arms having first pivot ends and second ends and an expandable pipe guide connecting the second ends.

Abstract: The apparatus for an automated drill pipe casing stabbing arm includes a telescopic tube assembly, a movable roller bracket assembly, a movable arm assembly, a mounting assembly, an apparatus actuator, and a PLC portable remote control device. An actuator mechanism positions the gripping arm assembly and the roller bracket assemble relative to one another in order to capture and grip the casing therebetween to support and grip the casing on the circumference thereof from opposing diametric sides. The automated stabbing arm is installed on a rig's mast or derrick. In a working position, the apparatus is oriented horizontally to provide radial support and guidance to the casing. A rig worker on the rig floor controls the apparatus by the portable remote control device.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for positioning a tool at a well site. The apparatus includes a first arm rotationally connected to a guide on a column. The apparatus further includes a second arm rotationally connected to the first arm. The second arm is also connected to a tool attachment member at a pivot point, wherein the pivot point is offset from the centerline of the tool. Additionally, the apparatus includes a flexible tension member having one end operatively connected to the guide and another end connected to the tool attachment member at a location closer to the centerline of the tool than the pivot point, wherein the flexible tension member is configured to maintain the tool in a specific orientation around the pivot point during the positioning operation. In a further aspect, a method of positioning a tool at a wellsite is provided.

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 interconnected to the carrier assembly and 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: A single or multi-bowl wellhead may be positioned in a diverter housing over the wellbore. An overshot running tool protects the wellhead during placement and certain operations. Protrusions on the wellhead may be installed after the diverter housing is removed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a moving a floor structure relative to a base structure is provided. The apparatus includes a base structure having an opening for a well head, a floor structure coupled to the base structure by a plurality of support members, and a drive mechanism disposed on the floor structure, the drive mechanism providing motive force to the support members for moving the floor structure relative to the base structure in a single first direction.