Abstract: An extension drilling system for use with a semiautomatic drilling rig. The drilling system includes a plurality of extension rods constituting a drill rod string and having cooperating male and female threaded couplings therebetween, and being right-hand rope threaded couplings. A reversible drive chuck of a drilling rig drives (either directly, or via an adaptor), the outside of the female threaded end of an associated extension rod. A gripper grips one of the extension rods to hold the drill rod string stationary when the chuck is driven in reverse. The gripper is located such that only one threaded coupling is disposed between the chuck and grippers and to ensure that when the chuck is rotated in reverse, only the desired coupling is uncoupled. The drill rods have axial passages therethrough in communication with each other and through which flushing fluid is delivered to an associated drill bit and a non-return valve is incorporated in the passage through at least one of the drill rods.

Abstract: A downhole tool catcher which includes a bottom hole assembly formed of an inner tubular in an outer tubular, an external housing connected to the outer tubular, and a washpipe extending from the inner tubular into the external housing, the washpipe having an external shoulder located uphole of an internal shoulder on the external housing, the external shoulder and internal shoulder being configured to engage each other upon movement of the external housing in an uphole direction in relation to the washpipe. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bottom hole assembly includes a mud motor.

Abstract: A flightless rock auger For drilling postholes through rock without the use of hydraulic pressure. The rock auger has a plurality of teeth extending downwardly at a selected angle from the edge of a cylinder connected to a quick connect shaft. The rock auger is utilized for drilling through rock and used in combination with a conventional flighted auger used for drilling postholes in dirt and clay. During a posthole drilling operation, the rock auger is substituted for the flighted auger as needed for drilling through and remove rock or other hard material such as concrete fron the posthole. The rock auger is designed for use at very low revolutions per minute and utilizes only the weight of the auger and shaft and does not require any additional hydraulic pressure for cutting a circular hole through the rock and forming a plug which is to be lodged in the cavity of the rock auger cylinder to be removed from the posthole.

Abstract: A blade support assembly for use with a casing cutter to cut through casing or pipe downhole in a well. A tubular body fits over the casing cutter, with slots aligned with the pivoting cutter blades. Support plates next to each slot provide support for the blades during cutting operations. Torque keys and matching torque slots in the blade support assembly and the casing cutter body transfer torque from the casing cutter body to the blade support assembly, and thence to the blades.

Abstract: A rock drill for percussive drilling includes a shank, a collar connected to a front end of the shank, and a rod portion which at one end connects to the collar while the other end carries a rock cutting means. A central flush channel extends from the front free end of the shank in a direction towards the front end. The central flush channel has a substantially constant diameter (d) along essentially its entire length; a ratio of the diameter (d) to a smallest outer cross sectional width (D) of the rod portion being in the range of 0.35 to 0.43.

Abstract: A torque transmitting device for use with a rotary drill bit connected to a drill collar, comprises a first member connected to the drill collar, a second member connected to the drill bit, and coupling means connecting the two members together for rotation about a common central axis. The coupling means permits limited relative rotation between the members about the axis, but provides a resistance to rotation of the first member relative to the second member in a forward drilling direction which is greater than its resistance to relative rotation in the reverse direction. The comparatively lower resistance to rotation in the reverse direction prevents momentary reverse rotation of the drill collar, due for example to torsional oscillations, being transmitted to the drill. bit. This reduces the likelihood of damage to the cutters on the drill bit, which might otherwise result from such momentary reverse rotation of the bit.

Abstract: A rock drilling rod is manufactured by placing free ends of first and second hollow rod components in abutment, and establishing relative rotation between the free ends to friction weld those free ends together. The first component comprises a thread and a clearance portion disposed adjacent the thread. The first component has a hot hardness value of at least about 170 HV1 at 600.degree. C. Prior to friction welding the components together, the thread, clearance portion and central passage of the first component are heat treated against corrosion fatigue. Then, the thread is high frequency hardened to a depth at least as great as the heat treated layer. Following the welding, the weld is cooled while keeping a core hardness of the respective portions of the first and second components disposed immediately adjacent the weld no lower than 390 HV1.

Abstract: The present invention provides a disconnect which has the internal integrity to make it as strong as the rest of the drill string. The present invention can disconnect when desired, despite the fact that the apparatus is at that time subjected to significant tensile or compressive loads. The invention allows for disconnection by alternative methods. Accordingly, in one version of the tool, a ball can be dropped or pumped to a seat to facilitate disconnection. In another version of the tool, that may employ an internal wireline precluding the use of a ball, disconnection can be accomplished by compression of a stack of Bellville washers, in response to a tensile force, to release a collet-locking mechanism. Either design features a rotational locking component.

Abstract: A subassembly electrical isolation connector for interconnecting adjacent tubular drill rods of a drilling system used in drilling bore holes in earth formations electrically isolates the inner connection of the drill rods. The connector comprises a housing, a mandrel, a connector for connecting the housing to a first tubular drill rod, a connector for connecting a mandrel to a second tubular drill rod and a device for interconnecting the housing and the mandrel in a manner to electrically isolate the housing from the mandrel with the housing overlapping at least a portion of the mandrel. The housing has an isolated end which is electrically isolated from the mandrel and the connector for connecting the mandrel to a second tubular drill rod. The mandrel has a conical tapered body portion which is located within the housing and the housing has a corresponding conical tapered inner surface. The conical taper for the housing and the mandrel converge inwardly away from the housing isolated end.

Abstract: A tubular actuator component (20) for use in a drill-string is disclosed and which comprises a main tubular outer body (6) within which a clutch mechanism, mandrel (2), and pad mandrel (7) are located. The clutch mechanism comprises a lower stationay clutch component (4), secured upper clutch component (12) and an intermediate clutch component (1) such that application of fluid aetuating pressure to the interior of the tubular component axially displaces intermediate clutch member (1) between positions of co-operative engagement with one or the other of the lower stationary clutch component (4) and the secured upper clutch component (12).

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to an improved drill collar having pin and box connection in an elongate hollow member. In cross-section, the drill collar is formed of a square billet defining three rectangular corners. The fourth corner is rounded thereby reducing the weight in that area and thereby creating an eccentered center of mass and mass moment of inertia. A cutter is located along one of the edges so that the cutter scuffs against the well borehole during rotation to thereby enhance circular configuration and to reduce key seating or deviation.

Abstract: A down hole hammer assembly comprising a reverse circulation hammer (11) having a drill bit (12) mounted to one end of a housing which accommodates a percussive hammer, the other end of the housing being adapted to be mounted to a drill string, the assembly further comprising a support member (14) receivable on the lower end of a bore hole casing (13) which is receivable over the drill string, the support (14) comprising a first part (15) adapted to be fixed to the lower end of the casing and a second part (16) rotatably received on the first part (15) and capable of limited axial slidable movement thereon, the second part (16) being engagable with the drill bit (12) to be rotatable with the drill bit (12) on rotation of the drill bit (12) in one direction and to be movably axially with the drill bit (12) the drill bit (12) being disengagable with the second part (16) to be able to be movable axially relative to the second part (16), flow passageways being provided between the drill bit and the second part to

Abstract: An improved drilling pipe for directional boring uses a frictionally welded threaded coupling attached to pipe ends for connecting multiple pipes in a drill string. A stress spreader of the end coupling crosses the frictionally welded region to modify stresses on the weld. A weld flash receiving groove positioned beneath the weld allows the insert to be in place during the inertial welding operation and to be closely coupled to the interior pipe surfaces to receive forces therefrom.

Abstract: The present invention relates to composite material structures having reduced signal attenuation properties. In particular, the invention relates to composite drillstring components with electromagnetic properties and acoustic properties that enable the use of electromagnetic, acoustic and nuclear sensing equipment to obtain data from a wellbore from within a drill pipe. In a specific embodiment, a composite tube is incorporated with end-fittings which enable its incorporation into a drillstring thereby permitting the use of logging equipment from within the composite tube.

Abstract: A rock drilling rod is manufactured by placing free ends of first and second hollow rod components in abutment, and establishing relative rotation between the free ends to friction weld those free ends together. The first component comprises a thread and a clearance portion disposed adjacent the thread. The first component has a hot hardness value of at least about 170 HV1 at 600.degree. C. Prior to friction welding the components together, the thread, clearance portion and central passage of the first component are nitrocarburized against corrosion fatigue. Following the nitrocarburizing, the core hardness is at least 440 HV1. Following the welding, the weld is cooled while keeping a core hardness of the respective portions of the first and second components disposed immediately adjacent the weld no lower than 390 HV1.

Abstract: The present invention provides a disconnect which has the internal integrity to make it as strong as the rest of the drill string. The present invention can disconnect when desired, despite the fact that the apparatus is at that time subjected to significant tensile or compressive loads. The invention allows for disconnection by alternative methods. Accordingly, in one version of the tool, a ball can be dropped or pumped to a seat to facilitate disconnection. In another version of the tool, that may employ an internal wireline precluding the use of a ball, disconnection can be accomplished by compression of a stack of Bellville washers, in response to a tensile force, to release a collet-locking mechanism. Either design features a rotational locking component.

Abstract: A reverse circulation, pneumatic drilling assembly wherein the bit assembly is operatively connected to a dual wall pipe assembly. A supply of compressed air is conducted through the annulus of the dual wall pipe assembly to a down hole pneumatic hammer. Exhaust air from the down hole hammer is directed to the bit assembly for continuous removal of drilling debris through a central evacuation tube of the dual wall pipe assembly. Sections of the dual wall pipe are joined by hex head couplings which are quickly and easily engaged and disengaged.

Abstract: A pipe joint for self aligning a drill string, tubing string or casing string of the type comprising a plurality of drill pipe, tubing or casing sections arranged in end to end relation from a location above the ground to a lower location adjacent a tool connected to a bottom end of the string and wherein the adjacent ends of the sections are connected to each other to form a plurality of spaced joints extending downwardly from the ground to the tool, the improvement wherein each joint comprises an upper section having at least one downwardly projecting extension and a lower section having a corresponding recess for receiving the extension and wherein the extension and the recess can fit together in only one way.

Abstract: The present invention relates to composite material structures having reduced signal attenuation properties. In particular, the invention relates to composite drillstring components with electromagnetic properties and acoustic properties that enable the use of electromagnetic, acoustic and nuclear sensing equipment to obtain data from a wellbore from within a drill pipe. In a specific embodiment, a composite tube is incorporated with end-fittings which enable its incorporation into a drillstring thereby permitting the use of logging equipment from within the composite tube.

Abstract: A rotatable cutting bit-chuck assembly wherein the cutting bit has an axially forward end an axially rearward end with at least one cutting insert at the axially forward end. The cutting bit contains a cavity defined by a cavity wall. The chuck has an axially forward end and an axially rearward end. Upon assembling the cutting bit on the chuck, the cavity of the cutting bit receives the axially forward end of the chuck wherein there is a variable resistance retention member between the chuck and the cavity wall.

Abstract: An apparatus for joining one pipe section that contains a pressurized fluid, such as a pipe section formed from a non-metallic material in the sensing section of a drill string, to another pipe section so as to minimize the pressure gradient acting across the joint. An inner sleeve is installed within the pipe section so as to extend across the joint, thereby forming an annular chamber between the inner sleeve and the joint. Seals at the ends of the inner sleeve prevent the fluid flowing within the pipe section from flowing into the annular chamber. A vent hole allows fluid flowing outside the pipe section to enter the annular chamber and pressurize it to the same pressure as the fluid, thereby equalizing the pressure across the joint. Alternatively, the annular chamber can be filled with an incompressible fluid and a pressure balancing piston used to equalize the internal and external pressures acting on the joint.

Abstract: A dual acting hydraulic jarring tool which includes dual acting metering devices and is particularly well suited for coiled tubing application. A common annular chamber is formed between reciprocating cylindrical assemblies and dual engaging and metering devices are used to engage and meter hydraulic fluid at a predetermined rate flowing from one chamber to another chamber defined within the annular space. An improved retarding and metering mechanism is also disclosed which serves to retard relative telescoping movement of one cylindrical assembly relative to the other cylindrical assembly and meter the hydraulic fluid at the predetermined rate. The present invention is particularly well suited for coiled tubing application due to its low load requirements, minimal overall length and enlarged interior bore for the passage of downhole tools; however, the present invention is well suited for use with conventional drilling strings as well.

Abstract: For coupling anchor bars (2) of injection anchors, the anchor bars are screwed with their outer threads (4) into a coupling sleeve (1) provided with a corresponding inner thread (5). One of the two anchor bars (2) screwed into the coupling sleeve (1) has a chamfered surface (8) formed by an end chamfer and lies on a break (6) of the inner thread (5) of the coupling sleeve (1). The second anchor bar (2) is screwed into the coupling sleeve (1) until its end face (9) lies completely on the end face (9) of the other anchor bar (2). This ensures an advantageous transmission of forces during drilling and prevents the coupling sleeve (1) from turning during drilling.

Abstract: A mechanism for arients and maintains a key in a sub for guiding directional measurement equipment of a directional drilling assembly with respect to the drillbit. The orienting sub has an outer sleeve which is supported on an inner shoulder in the orienting sub. An inner sleeve which holds the key has an outer wedged profile which follows the shape of the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve can be longitudinally, obliquely, or spirally segmented and has a thread on one end so that a jam nut can be installed to advance the inner sleeve with the key until a wedging action occurs between the inner and outer sleeves and the sub. At that point, the key is oriented without any bores through the wall of the sub. Provisions can be made in the assembly to provide a biasing force on the inner sleeve which holds the key to compensate for vibrational loads on the assembly.

Abstract: A quick release locking drill rod includes a hollow sleeve having opposite first and second end portions and components for quick release locking the first end portion of the sleeve of one rod to the second end portion of the sleeve of another rod. The first end portion of the sleeve of one rod receives therein the second end portion of the sleeve of another rod. The quick release locking components connect the first end portion of the sleeve of one rod to the second end portion of the sleeve of another rod and include an internal cross pin and pair of diametrically opposed L-shaped slots. The internal cross pin is disposed in the first end portion of the sleeve and is spaced inwardly from the open first end. The internal cross pin spans the first diameter and has opposite ends attached to opposite sides of the first end portion of the sleeve. The diametrically opposed L-shaped slots are defined in respective opposite sides of the second end portion of the sleeve.

Abstract: A cutting bit assembly which includes a driven member and a cutting bit detachably connected to the driven member by a retainer. The retainer includes a magnetic pin that removably engages at least one of the cutting bit and the driven member.

Abstract: A drill rod suitable for a hydraulic drilling apparatus, at the drilling end (I) of which there is a drilling device (1), that includes at least drilling equipment (2) and hammering equipment (5) as well as preferably flushing equipment (10) also, to drill a hole by use of the drilling equipment (2) by a feeding motion along the longitudinal axis (s) of the drilling device (1) and by a rotational motion (w) around the longitudinal axis (s) as well as by a to-and-from or a like hammering motion (t). The drilling device (1) has jointing equipment (3) for fastening of a drill rod (4) preferably in a removable way to increase the drilling depth of the drilling apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus for joining one pipe section that contains a pressurized fluid, such as a pipe section formed from a non-metallic material in the sensing section of a drill string, to another pipe section so as to minimize the pressure gradient acting across the joint. An inner sleeve is installed within the pipe section so as to extend across the joint, thereby forming an annular chamber between the inner sleeve and the joint. Seals at the ends of the inner sleeve prevent the fluid flowing within the pipe section from flowing into the annular chamber. A vent hole allows fluid flowing outside the pipe section to enter the annular chamber and pressurize it to the same pressure as the fluid, thereby equalizing the pressure across the joint. Alternatively, the annular chamber can be filled with an incompressible fluid and a pressure balancing piston used to equalize the internal and external pressures acting on the joint.

Abstract: A downhole drill bit drive motor assembly which provides a bilateral low resistance path from the upper end of a downhole drill bit drive motor to the lower end of such a motor by employing an insulated wire or group of several wires through the rotor of the motor. The drive motors provide a drive torque to a drill bit based on the flow of drilling fluids through the motor and includes an outer case, a motor stator, a motor rotor, a coupling to connect the motor rotor to an output shaft and a bearing to support both axial and radial loads. Fixed electrical contacts are provided at the upper end of the drill bit drive motor to provide connection to wireline for transmission of data from that point to the surface or other higher points. Rotary electrical contacts that provide continuous electrical contact as a rotary portion rotates with respect to a stationary portion are provided at the upper, lower, or both ends of the rotor.

Abstract: A drill pipe (10, 100, 220, 200, 210, 250) is disclosed which includes a cylindrical pipe section (12), a box end (14), a pin end (16) and a hydraulic hose assembly (202, 18) or tube (212, 90, 260) inserted between the box and pin ends and extending within the cylindrical pipe section. All, or the majority of drilling fluid passes through the hydraulic hose assembly (202, 18) or tube (212, 90, 260). The interior surface of the cylindrical pipe section (12) may or may not be exposed to the drilling fluid but any corrosion generated by metal-to-fluid contact is generally trapped between the hose or tube and the pipe section. The reduced volume of the hydraulic hose assembly (202, 18) or tube (212, 90, 260) relative to conveying the drilling fluid through the interior of the cylindrical pipe section reduces significantly the waste of drilling fluid, allows the fluid to be pressurized more rapidly to initiate drilling operation, and limits fluid spill damage to the environment.

Abstract: A bi-rotational coupling system that provides separate transmission components for the weight forces and the torque forces and allows rotation in either direction without decoupling. The weight support component provides vertical connection of rotating members. The torque transfer component, that is functionally independent from the weight support component, provides for transmission of the torque forces between the rotating members. A stabilizer that has a plurality of protrusions extending therefrom prevents contact between the coupler and rotating members and the surrounding tubing. Functionally applying this apparatus affords a method of providing bi-rotational coupling and of reducing component wear.

Abstract: A drill pipe has a central axis and comprises a first end and a second end with a portion of the second end being substantially triangular in the lateral cross-section and having three faces. At least one concave wrench recess is located in each of the three faces of the substantially triangular portion of the second end. Each of the recesses has a surface with an axially extending center line. The center line is located a predetermined distance from the central axis, with this predetermined distance being less than the distance from the central axis of all other axial lines on the surface of the recess.Each of the recesses may be comprised of two adjoining planes having exterior surfaces, the cross-section of the two adjoining planes forming an angle of less than 180 degrees as measured between the exterior surfaces of the two adjoining planes. Alternatively, the recesses can be comprised of three adjoining planes. Finally, the recesses may be comprised of an arcuate segment.

Abstract: A drilling apparatus having cuttings removal structure to reduce balling thereof comprising an apparatus body having a connection thereon, and structure for contacting cut potions of the earth formation. The contacting structure may include chip breakers, flexible cables, rotating nozzle assemblies, rotating turbine wheel assemblies, rotating vane assemblies, flails or combinations of these. The apparatus may include elastomeric portions and/or movable potions. The drilling apparatus may comprise a drill bit, drilling stabilizer, drill collar, reamer, downhole motor, etc.

Abstract: A downhole sub for use in directional drilling with a bent sub attached to a drill bit. The drill bit is operated by a downhole motor. The downhole sub includes upper and lower tubular sections whose centers are offset from one another in the bend direction of the bent sub. The downhole sub includes an intermediate tubular section disposed between the upper and lower tubular sections, with the bore of the intermediate section included within overlap between extensions of each of the bores of the upper and lower tubular sections. The axes of the upper and lower tubular section are parallel and offset between about 1/4 inch and 2 inches. The intermediate section grades gradually into the upper and lower tubular sections. The downhole sub is used by incorporation into a drill string above the bent sub and spaced from the bend sufficiently to allow the drill string to use the downhole sub as a lever to force the drill bit into the wall of the borehole.

Abstract: A drill bit for drilling subterranean formations includes a device to provide a "universal" effect between the shank and crown for self alignment of the crown with the bore hole in the formation. The bit is suitable for down-hole assemblies configured for straight drilling, directional drilling and navigational drilling. The device can be incorporated into both drag bits and roller-type "rock" bits. Preferred embodiments include a flexible sub connecting the crown to the shank portion and having reduced stiffness relative to the drill string. Alternatively, a spherical universal joint or trunnion type universal is used. Replaceable lugs increase durability and reliability of the universal. The device equalizes the loads on cutters while reducing wear, average loads, and impact loads on cutters. Bore hole diameter and chatter of the bit in the bore hole are reduced, promoting maximum efficiency and rate of penetration as wobble and precession are minimized.

Abstract: A reinforced boring rod assembly and a method for producing the same includes a boring rod including an arrangement for mounting a rod end thereto, a rod end for mounting to the boring rod, a generally annular collar telescopically mounted around the boring rod adjacent the mounting arrangement with the collar including a plurality of crimps formed circumferentially thereabout and extending into the rod a sufficient distance to initiate gripping action on the rod end. Stainless steel welds cover the crimps as well as the junctions of the rod end and the collar, as well as the collar and the boring rod. A method for constructing the same is also disclosed.

Abstract: A fluid-actuated, percussive, down-the-hole drill having a piston slidingly supported in a casing and passageways for transmitting flow of percussive fluid to actuate the piston is provided with self-lubricating bearings and self-lubricating seals within the drill to provide a drill requiring no oil lubrication.

Abstract: An apparatus for drilling curved sections of well holes is described which includes a first tubular member having a bulbous first end, a second end, an exterior surface and an interior surface defining an interior bore. A plurality of pockets form a first annular ring in the exterior surface at the bulbous first end of the first tubular member. A second tubular member is provided having a first end, a second end, an exterior surface and an interior surface defining an interior bore. A socket is formed to accommodate the bulbous first end of the first tubular member at the second end of the second tubular member. The first end of the first tubular member extends into the interior bore of the second tubular member until the bulbous first end engages the socket. The bulbous first end of the first tubular member is capable of omnidirectional pivotal movement within the socket.

Abstract: A mechanism (10) is disclosed for securing a drill pipe (14) to a saver sub (16) for joint rotation. A slidable collar (24) is provided which has a pair of opposed lugs (28) which slide on opposed flats (18) on the saver sub to insure that the slidable collar rotates with the saver sub at all times. The drill pipe (14) has a pair of opposed flats (30) which are engaged by a portion of the lugs (28) when the slidable collar (24) is moved into the engaged position to insure rotation of the drill pipe with the saver sub.

Abstract: A flexible drill pipe includes a plurality of hollow tubular pipe segments, having a longitudinal centerline, the segments being flexibly connected together, each connecting joint a type of joint that permits a limited universal movement between a portion of one pipe segment within in a portion of a second pipe segment, whereby the drill pipe can bend and also can withstand torque loads from rotation during drilling and pullback loads during removal of the drill pipe from a drillhole. An elastomeric seal in each connecting joint provides fluid tight sealing in the joints. A mobile drilling platform includes a powered reel and drill tower for raising and lowering the flexible drill pipe into and out of a drill hole. Pressurized fluid is fed through the drill pipe to drive a down-the-hole drill.

Abstract: A rotary drill bit having a head portion with at least two hard surfaced inserts having domed working surfaces and being oppositely oriented to face in the direction of rotation at positive rake angles, and a mounting adapter for removably securing the drill bit to a drilling machine.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for disconnection and connection of tubular members, by remote pressure means, includes: First tubular housing having a male extension, second tubular housing having a mating female recess, latch blocks disposed radially in openings of the male extension, slotted piston for operating the latch blocks, pilot piston, detent lock-out mechanism operated by pilot piston movement, pilot piston shear pins, and piston bias/return springs.The hydraulic disconnect is typically installed in a tubular work string where remote disconnection may be required. Latch blocks, extending radially through openings of the male extension and into annular grooves of the mating female recess, connect the first and second housings together. Fluid flow is permitted through axial bores of the first tubular housing, pilot piston, slotted piston and second tubular housing.

Abstract: A downhole coiled tubing latch for positive latching to a drill pipe while pumping fluids. The apparatus comprises a housing positioned in the drill pipe with a slidable mandrel positioned in the housing. The apparatus further comprises a latch stinger which can be lowered on a coiled tubing and sealingly engaged with the mandrel and the housing. When weight is set down, the stinger and mandrel are moved downwardly which actuates latch fingers on the mandrel which latchingly engage a groove on the stinger to positively hold the stinger in place while fluids are pumped therethrough. One or more pressure balance pistons are used to help hold the apparatus in a latched position when pressure is applied. When weight is picked up, a spring returns the mandrel to the unlatched position so that the stinger may be removed.

Abstract: An adjustable bent housing for use in downhole drilling which includes a housing, mandrel, ring and locking mechanism. The housing has a housing central axis, a downward facing end face defining a plane whose normal is offset from the housing central axis, and an inner shoulder parallel to the downward facing end face. The mandrel has a mandrel central axis, a first end dimensioned to fit inside the housing and having a downward facing outer shoulder defining a plane whose normal is offset from the mandrel central axis. The ring is axially slidable on the mandrel, with a ring central axis and an upward facing end face defining a plane whose normal is offset from the ring central axis. A locking mechanism, a mandrel head threaded onto the mandrel, engages and disengages the upward facing end face of the ring with the downward facing end face of the housing and simultaneously engages and disengages the inner shoulder of the housing with the outer shoulder of the mandrel.

Abstract: The invention relates to a directional drilling tool for use in controlled directional drilling. The drilling tool comprises two parts which are moveable relative to each other either in the horizontal or vertical planes. Cam surfaces are provided between the two parts for adjustments to the drilling direction in the vertical plane. A slot and groove mechanism is provided between the two as an example of adjustments in the horizontal plane. In each case hydraulic pressure is the preferred means of controlling the adjustments said controlling means being independent of the other well operations.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transporting a tool through a drill string in slimhole drilling operations is disclosed. A fluid passage such as a groove is formed in the inner wall of the pipe joint to permit the passage of fluid from one pipe section to an adjacent pipe section as a tool is transported through the pipe joint. In one embodiment of the invention, the tool can comprise a core barrel for retrieving a core sample from the wellbore.

Abstract: A tubular connector for connecting a drilling tool assembly to a drill string for use in CTD operations. The connector has a fluid flow passage therethrough, and comprises: a first part connected to the drill string and a second part connected to the drilling tool assembly; inter engaging formations such as splines provided on the first and second parts such that, when engaged, the formations do not prevent relative axial movement of the first and second parts but prevent relative rotation thereof; a threaded collar provided around adjacent end portions of the first and second parts for axial location thereof when connected. The connector can also include a non-return valve assembly located in the fluid flow passage; a pressure actuated piston device in the fluid flow passage for disconnecting the drilling tool assembly from the chill string; and a pressure actuated valve which, when operated, allows fluid communication between the fluid flow passage and an exterior region of the connector.

Abstract: A flexible steering sub is disclosed for flexible drilling of horizontal oil and gas wells, horizontal storage wells, geothermal drilling for electric power generation; earth sciences study of and monitoring of earth movement with respect to fault movement; environmental science cleaning up of inaccessible polluted areas; coring to test rock strength prior to large scale constructions such as dams; introduction of chemicals for solution mining logging while drilling short radius well bores, and the like. The flexible sub comprises an elongated housing having a plurality of housing sections connectable at one end to an orientation sub for a PDM drill and connectable at the other end to a wire line connector. An electronics assembly including guidance directional guided sensors, directional probe and logging while drilling probe is positioned in a plurality of the housing sections, interconnected electrically, and connected at one end to the wire line connector.

Abstract: A system of apparatus for arcuate drilling into the earth is disclosed which comprises a drill string extending into a well bore in the earth and a fluid operated drill motor and drill bit operated thereby secured on the bottom end of the drill string. The drill motor is connected at its upper end to the drill string and at its lower end to the drill bit for rotating the drill bit independently of rotation of the drill string. The drill motor has a tubular drive section housing constructed of non-magnetic material, preferably a Beta-C titanium alloy containing titanium, aluminum, vanadium, chromium, zirconium and molybdenum in the proportions Ti-3Al-8V-6Cr-4Zr-4Mo. The longitudinal axis of the drill motor housing has its upper and lower ends angularly displaced from the longitudinal axis of its central portion end for directing the axis of rotation of the drill bit such that it is angularly displaced from the axis of the drill string for effecting a curved path for the wellbore.

Abstract: A soft excavator (10, 90, 110, 130) is disclosed which utilizes a jet of high velocity fluid flow such as air or water flow, preferably supersonic, through a nozzle (48, 92, 112) to excavate a material, such as the ground. A second passage for air flow is provided which is directed by an evacuator skirt (52, 102) in a direction along the excavator generally opposite the direction of discharge of the high velocity excavating flow to entrain the material excavated for disposal.