Abstract: Clamping device (1) for axially blocking an axial-symmetrical body (CA); the clamping device (1) comprising at least a support (10) of given angular extension, provided with a plurality of laminar bodies (20) extending longitudinally in a given direction (D), each of which being incorporated in a substantially cylindrical interface (22) (23) made of deformable material so as to copy the outer shape of the axial-symmetrical body (CA) and to generate the tangential force in radial manner; each laminar body (20) having a toothed transverse face (24) to interact superficially with the axial-symmetrical body (CA); the laminar bodies (20) being carried by the support (10) through elongated members (30)(30?).

Abstract: A tubular gripping apparatus includes a housing having a bore and a plurality of gripping members movable between a gripping position and a release position. The apparatus may also include a shield having a tubular inner body movable relative to an outer body. The tubular inner body is movable between a retracted position, in which the tubular inner body is positioned above the plurality of gripping members, and an extended position, in which the inner body is at least partially positioned interiorly of the plurality of gripping members.

Abstract: Apparatus for gripping a tubular member where the apparatus includes a die and a die holder, and where at least one of the die or the die holder, on its portion facing the other, has at least two axially formed ridges that complementary fit in valleys in the other of the die or the die holder. The ridges have a larger bottom width than top width. The centre lines of the die ridges are substantially parallel at a distance, and the die, when unengaged, is radially movable between abutment of the die ridges to the die holder and abutment of the die to at least one stop member of the die holder.

Abstract: A slip for a downhole sealing device includes a plurality of slip segments angularly disposed about a central axis, each slip segment including, a body, and a plurality of engagement members molded or cast at least partially within the body, wherein each of the slip segments are releasably coupled to one another.

Abstract: A slips assembly for a drilling rig and methods. The slips assembly includes a body, a plurality of slips disposed within the body and configured to extend radially inward to engage a tubular, and to retract radially outward to form a gap between the tubular and the plurality of slips, and sensors configured to detect a force on the plurality of slips generated by the plurality of slips engaging the tubular.

Abstract: An external trap apparatus (70) and a method for safely controlling drilling tool string components during oil field drilling operations includes a collar clamp (72) affixed to a drilling tool string lubricator (80) and configured with laterally spaced first and second vertical rails (120, 122) depending therefrom and configured to support a coaxially aligned guide plate (232) and a reinforced catcher plate assembly (164) carrying a tool-end receiving funnel receptacle (202) and first and second energy absorbing crush cylinders (160, 162). When the drill string (82) is raised or withdrawn from the well (28), the funnel receptacle (202) can be rotated into coaxial alignment to catch the drill string's end or downhole tool, in the event of an inadvertent loss of control of the drill string (82).

Abstract: The invention provides a pipe coupling configured for coupling pipes over a range of diameters including a gripping and sealing assembly comprising a ring of circumferentially linked carrier members (1) the circumferentially discontinuous members are interlinked by means of a tongue and groove connection between a groove (2) on a first member and a tongue (3) on an adjacent member, the opening of the groove which receives the tongue facing in a plane not in alignment with a tangent of the circumferential plane of the carrier and each tongue is attached to its member by a resiliency deformable arm whereby to provide stability of the circumferential links in the absence of any additional support.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an insert in a clamping device or gripping apparatus. The insert may include a gripping element having an elongated body and a plurality of contact features, a first member formed from a hard material, wherein the first member contacts the gripping element in one or more locations, and a second member formed from an elastic material, wherein the second member contacts the gripping element along the elongated body.

Abstract: A slip insert is disclosed that includes a body having a curved face for receiving a tubular member, a plurality of first threads formed in a first direction on the face, and a plurality of second threads formed in a second direction on a portion of the first threads, the second direction being opposite of the first direction.

Abstract: A retention system for limiting axial and radial movement of a wellbore lock ring. The retention system includes pins for resisting axial movement of the lock ring and assemblies for limiting radial outward movement of the lock ring. The lock ring circumscribes and couples to a wellbore hanger. The pins project radially from the hanger into the lock ring and into slots, where the slots extend a distance along the inner surface of the lock ring. The assemblies also project radially into the hanger and each have a portion that registers with a channel on a lower end of the lock ring. Lock ring outer radial movement is limited by contact between the portions of the assemblies and inner surfaces of the channels.

Abstract: An interlock device for connection within a load path of a tubular support device to lock the tubular support device in a closed position in response to detecting a load suspended from the tubular support device. The interlock device includes a first member moveably connected to a second member and a biasing mechanism operationally connected to the first member and the second member providing a load setting resisting movement of the first member and the second member relative to one another. The first and the second member may be rotationally locked with one another to transmit rotation across the interlock device to the elevator.

Abstract: A rotary table has a non-circular drive recess in the central opening which carries an assembly of mounting structures and slip carriers that when joined together fit in the non-circular drive recess. The plurality of slip carriers are distributed about the periphery of the drive recess are extended down into the central opening of the rotary table. A slip and die arrangement is situated on each slip carrier. Slip manipulation drive cylinders, are distributed about the assembly periphery and move a synchronizer plate that moves the slips vertically to grip or release pipe extending through the opening of the rotary table.

Abstract: The invention relates to a drilling vessel (1) comprising a drilling tower (2) and a tubular string support structure (3) for supporting a tubular string in the firing line (4a, 4b) of the drilling tower. The tubular string support structure comprises two parallel rails (11) and two carts (13, 14) supported by those rails. Both carts have a hanger body (14, 15), comprising a central passage (16), for supporting a tubular, and each cart (13, 14) can be moved between a central support position (18) for supporting a tubular in the firing line, and a secondary position (19) adjacent the central support position. When both carts (13, 14) are located in their secondary position (19), the carts are located on opposite sides of the firing line, such that between the carts there is a passage for passing through large objects along the firing line.

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.

Abstract: A feedthrough insulator is characterized by the fact to comprises: >-a central rod (10) which extends longitudinally with respect its longitudinal axis (10y); >-a sleeve (20) positioned coaxial around said rod of connection (10) with the respective circular shell (21) radially spaced (D-21) with respect to the central rod (10); >-a sensor (30) of electric field and/or of magnetic field, positioned in proximity of the inner surface (22) of said shell (21) of the sieeve (20); and >-a carrying body (40) formed by dielectric material able to contain and to embed said central rod (10), said sieeve (20) and said sensor (30) of electrical field and/or of magnetic field.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus to guide a tubular member are described herein. The apparatus includes a bore with a longitudinal axis extending therethrough and configured to support a tubular member, the apparatus having a first opening formed at a first side thereof, a second opening formed at a second side thereof, and an inner wall extending from the first opening to the second opening. The apparatus further includes a first guiding member disposed adjacent to the first opening of the bowl and a second guiding member disposed adjacent to the second opening of the bowl.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for facilitating running or pulling tubulars from a well bore whereby the functions of a surface mounted traditional spider/elevator are replaced by an FMS which may also be remotely controlled. The FMS comprises a main body consisting of upper and lower plates assembled in a bolted and welded configuration, a slip assembly each said slip assembly comprising a slip back, a slip, one or more die inserts, a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder and multiple sized die blocks to conform to the tubular OCTG diameter.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for facilitating running or pulling tubulars from a well bore whereby the manual operations or functions normally performed by a human are undertaken by the THD and may including remote control or manipulation. The THD comprises an elevator assembly (THD) with a main body consisting of upper and lower plates, a scissor assembly and multiple sized die blocks to conform to the tubular diameter. The THD can be used as a transfer elevator to position the tubular for engagement by the make-up assembly, can be outfitted to perform as a safety clamp or restraining device and also configured as a tubular stabbing arm as required by the operation.

Abstract: A die set for crimping operations includes first and second die members having raised areas including a plurality of knurls and character areas. The die set combining knurls and character areas on the operative areas of the die members allows a single die set to be used to condition a surface for crimping operations as well as crimping connectors and marking them with relevant indicia without having to change die sets.

Abstract: An elevator for raising and lowering a string in a wellbore includes left and right bodies hinged together that selectively open and close. The elevator can be a tubing elevator, and the string can be a tubing string, casing, or drill string. Semi-circular channels on an inner surface of each of the bodies face one another when the bodies are in the closed position and define a circular collar for engaging the string. A retainer on one of the bodies selectively pivots into latching engagement with a lug on the other body to hold the bodies in the closed position. A boss projects radially inward from an inner surface of the retainer and a retainer pin selectively is moveable adjacent the boss to lock the retainer in its latching engagement with the lug. The pin moves to adjacent the boss when the elevator contacts a collar.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus to guide a tubular member are described herein. The apparatus includes a bore with a longitudinal axis extending therethrough and configured to support a tubular member, the apparatus having a first opening formed at a first side thereof, a second opening formed at a second side thereof, and an inner wall extending from the first opening to the second opening. The apparatus further includes a first guiding member disposed adjacent to the first opening of the bowl and a second guiding member disposed adjacent to the second opening of the bowl.

Abstract: A casing spear may comprise a mandrel, and a slip assembly comprising at least one slip. The at least one slip may comprise a generally wedge-shaped surface positioned and configured to cause the at least one slip to move radially outwards relative to the mandrel in response to a rotation of the mandrel and a torque acting on the slip assembly, the torque opposing the rotation of the mandrel. Additionally, a method of operating a casing spear may comprise inserting a casing spear into a casing, rotating a mandrel of the casing spear, applying a torque to a slip assembly of the casing spear with the casing, opposing the rotation of the mandrel, and applying a force in a radial direction to at least one slip of a slip assembly of the casing spear in response to the torque.

Abstract: An apparatus for installing and removing a rotary control device insert or an element thereof has a first clamp with a receptacle suitable for receiving a flange of the rotary control device insert therein, a second clamp having an interior suitable for extending around a pipe, and a plurality of lines extending between the first clamp and the second clamp. The first clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. The second clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. Each of the clamps includes a first jaw and a second jaw connected to the first jaw by a hinged connection.

Abstract: An apparatus for installing and removing a rotary control device insert or an element thereof has a first clamp with a receptacle suitable for receiving a flange of the rotary control device insert therein, a second clamp having an interior suitable for extending around a pipe, and a plurality of lines extending between the first clamp and the second clamp. The first clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. The second clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. Each of the clamps includes a first jaw and a second jaw connected to the first jaw by a hinged connection.

Abstract: A slip assembly for gripping against the external surface of a section of pipe or other tubular goods and supporting axial loading has multiple sets of cooperating wedge-like slip members movably mounted within a slip bowl. A first set of slip members having a smaller taper angle (that is, having a greater vertical component) exerts a predetermined and limited radial gripping force on the pipe or other tubular good. Thereafter, a second set of slip members having a larger taper angle (that is, having a lesser vertical component) takes over and exerts additional radial gripping force on the pipe or other tubular good.

Abstract: A pile clamp assembly to clamp a pile that consists of the following main components; top pile clamp device, the bottom pile clamp device, a plurality clamp wedges and a plurality vertical hydraulic clamps which combines to make a flat clamp wedge contact with the surface of a deviated and twisted pile. This clamping mechanism reduces bending in the driven pile by enabling the next adjoining pile to conform as much as possible to the alignment of the existing driven pile and gradually corrects the pile's vertical alignment and twist as it penetrates the ground through interactions of the unique swiveling clamp wedges.

Abstract: A centraliser (10) for centralising a tubular (12) within a conduit is described. The centraliser comprises a centraliser body, at least one finger (14) pivotally mounted to the body and at least one collar (20), the/each collar being moveable with respect to the at least one finger. Relative movement between the/each collar and the body pivots the at least one finger from a run-in configuration to an extended configuration.

Abstract: An apparatus for gripping a cylindrical member is provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a clamping device having clamping dies that enable the clamping device to grip a tubular string. The clamping dies have clamping faces configured to adapt to curvature of the tubular string when the clamping dies engage the tubular string via the clamping faces to facilitate use of the clamping device with tubular strings of different external diameters. Additional devices, systems, and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A grapple for controlling, monitoring and stopping the flow of oil, natural gas and the like from a broken, flanged pipe. A housing encloses a ring of material that is more ductile than the broken pipe flange. The force applied by a weight, presses a driving device against the broken pipe flange periphery, the force so applied distorts the ductile ring, thereby establishing a fluid-tight seal between the flange and the housing.

Abstract: Clamping die (15) in a device for engagement with a cylindrical body (4), which clamping die (15) includes a gripping surface (153) that is arranged to be able to extend in parallel with the center axis of the cylindrical body (4), wherein a groove (154) is provided in each of two side surfaces (151) adjacent to the gripping surface (153) and in close proximity to the gripping surface (153), said groove (154) extending substantially in parallel with the gripping surface (153).

Abstract: Methods for connecting drill pipe sections together using a support unit comprising an opening, a wall extending around the opening, a plurality of movable slips deployed in the opening, and a plurality of lever assemblies, each lever assembly pivotally attached to the wall and having a proximal end operably associated with at least one of the slips. A first pipe section is rotated against a second pipe section. Upward and downward movement of distal ends of said levers cause the slips to move between extended and refracted positions. In some embodiments, the second pipe section is held stationary while the extended slips, and thus the first pipe section, rotates.

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: One embodiment provides an adjustable guide 10a to steer the end 90 of a pipe string 88 into position to be engaged and supported by a pipe gripping apparatus such as, for example, an externally gripping elevator assembly 10. The adjustable guide 10a may comprise a plurality of angularly distributed guide inserts 30, each having a sloped surface 30A to engage a pipe end 90. Another embodiment provides an adjustable guide 60a to steer a pipe connection into position to pass through a spider 60. The guide inserts 30, 80 of an adjustable guide may be controllably positionable to together form a guide that is concentric with the bore of the tapered bowl of an elevator assembly or a spider. One embodiment comprises a guide insert retainer 11 having a plurality of channels 28, each slidably receiving a guide insert 30 and positionable by rotation of a threaded shaft 40.

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

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an apparatus for supporting a tubular that more evenly distributes stress along the contact length of a tubular. In one embodiment, an apparatus for supporting a tubular is provided. The apparatus includes a bowl having a longitudinal opening extending therethrough and an inner surface for receiving a gripping member. The gripping member is movable along the surface of the bowl for engaging the tubular. The apparatus is configured so that an upper portion of the gripping member will engage the tubular before the rest of the gripping member engages the tubular.

Abstract: One embodiment provides an adjustable guide 10a to steer the end 90 of a pipe string 88 into position to be engaged and supported by a pipe gripping apparatus such as, for example, an externally gripping elevator assembly 10. The adjustable guide 10a may comprise a plurality of angularly distributed guide inserts 30, each having a sloped surface 30A to engage a pipe end 90. Another embodiment provides an adjustable guide 60a to steer a pipe connection into position to pass through a spider 60. The guide inserts 30, 80 of an adjustable guide may be controllably positionable to together form a guide that is concentric with the bore of the tapered bowl of an elevator assembly or a spider. One embodiment comprises a guide insert retainer 11 having a plurality of channels 28, each slidably receiving a guide insert 30 and positionable by rotation of a threaded shaft 40.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a segmented bottom guide for directing the top of a tubular member into and through a bore in the bottom of a tapered bowl so that the tubular member can be engaged by pipe slips. One embodiment of the segmented bottom guide of the present invention comprises a bottom guide retainer having a plurality of chambers for being disposed intermediate the top of a bell guide and the bottom of the tapered bowl. The bottom guide segments are radially received into, and securable in, the retainer to therein and together form a generally conical frustum generally aligned with and intermediate the top of the bell guide and the opening of the tapered bowl.

Abstract: One embodiment provides an adjustable guide 10a to steer the end 90 of a pipe string 88 into position to be engaged and supported by a pipe gripping apparatus such as, for example, an externally gripping elevator assembly 10. The adjustable guide 10a may comprise a plurality of angularly distributed guide inserts 30, each having a sloped surface 30A to engage a pipe end 90. Another embodiment provides an adjustable guide 60a to steer a pipe connection into position to pass through a spider 60. The guide inserts 30, 80 of an adjustable guide may be controllably positionable to together form a guide that is concentric with the bore of the tapered bowl of an elevator assembly or a spider. One embodiment comprises a guide insert retainer 11 having a plurality of channels 28, each slidably receiving a guide insert 30 and positionable by rotation of a threaded shaft 40.

Abstract: A wedge device for clamping of pipes and tools during petroleum production, this wedge device comprising an annular mounting element arranged for connection to a deck or a rotary table, where a plurality of man wedges, with associated clamps and displaceable with respect to the annular mounting element, encircle the vertical central axis of the wedge device, and where the clamp is located on an auxiliary wedge displaceably or rotatably coupled to the main wedge.

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

Abstract: The invention relates to a grip head for an earth boring unit, comprising a hollow shaft (3), wherein a sleeve (1) is arranged coaxially on the hollow shaft (3) to slide relative thereto, said sleeve having at least one end region (1b) widening particularly at the bottom thereof particularly in the form of a cone and at least two clamp jaws (2) which can be displaced radially relative to the hollow shaft (3) are arranged in the hollow shaft (3) and/or on the sleeve (1), comprising stop faces (2b) cooperating with the widening end region (1b), such that on movement of the end region (1b) over the clamp jaws (2) said jaws may be pressed inwards and a first tensioning mechanism and form a first tensioning device for an upper end of a casing (9) which may be introduced from below into the sleeve, in particular such that a cooperation between clamp jaws (2) and casing (9) permits transmission of a torque between ween the hollow shaft (3) and casing (9) and a second tensioning mechanism is provided in the hollow sh

Abstract: Clamping die (15) in a device for engagement with a cylindrical body (4), which clamping die (15) includes a gripping surface (153) that is arranged to be able to extend in parallel with the centre axis of the cylindrical body (4), wherein a groove (154) is provided in each of two side surfaces (151) adjacent to the gripping surface (153) and in close proximity to the gripping surface (153), said groove (154) extending substantially in parallel with the gripping surface (153).

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a gripping apparatus for supporting a tubular. The gripping apparatus may include a housing, a slip assembly disposed in the housing, and a leveling ring operable to move the slip assembly in the housing. The gripping apparatus may further include a guide member and a mating member operable to couple the slip assembly to the leveling ring. The longitudinal movement of the leveling ring directs the mating member along the guide member to radially displace the slip assembly relative to the housing.

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

Abstract: A gripping tool having at least one body, including an associated load adaptor adapted to be connected to and interact with one of a drive head or reaction frame. A gripping assembly, carried by the body, has a grip surface adapted to move from a retracted position to an engaged position to radially engage one of an interior surface or an exterior surface of a work piece upon relative axial displacement of the body relative to the grip surface in at least one axial direction. A grip activation assembly acts between the body and the grip surface to increase a grip ratio of radial load upon the gripping assembly relative to axial displacement of the body relative to the grip surface. The grip activation assembly includes a motor driven load screw to create relative axial displacement of the body relative to the grip surface.

Abstract: Retrievable bridge plug used in oil and gas wells comprises a setting and anchoring mechanism, a locking and releasing mechanism and a sealing and anti-adhering mechanism. The bridge plug in which a self-lock mechanism is placed can be lowered through an coiled tubing or wireline, and provide reliable bi-directional sealing, and can be taken out by a specific tool after setting, in order to be used repeatedly after simple maintenance. By replacing its mandrel, the bridge plug can be refitted into a squeezing bridge plug, a conventional one and a hook-wall bridge plug to be used in a temporary/permanent and selective blocking operation. Also, the bridge plug can be associated with other downhole tools to perform well test, layer protection and snubbing.

Abstract: The present invention allows for the connection of multiple sections of drill pipe in a mouse hole by securing a given section of pipe in the hole and delivering a rotational force to secure that pipe section to another section of drill pipe placed above it over the mouse hole. In some embodiments, the rotational force may be provided by the support unit of the present invention. In alternative embodiments, the rotational force may be provided by an outside source such as an iron roughneck, with the support unit of the present invention holding the drill pipe section in a stationary position as such force is delivered. The unit then allows the connected pipe sections to be lowered and secured so the process can be repeated to connect multiple sections of drill pipe together in the mouse hole. The multiple sections of drill pipe may then be retrieved as a unit, and attached to the pipe string already being used to drill the well.

Abstract: The spider has a body with a slip bowl of extended vertical length to enable gripping diameters having a gripping range of at least twenty percent greater than the minimum diameter to be gripped. A plurality of slips are distributed about the slip bowl surface, each slip carrying a plurality of dies vertically distributed on and affixed on the slip. Each die has a vee shaped surface, each face of the vee shaped surface provided with the equivalent of teeth to engage the outer surface of pipe to be gripped. The vee shaped dies, collectively, provide pipe contact lines about equally spaced about the outer periphery of gripped pipe.

Abstract: An apparatus for handling pipes, the apparatus, in certain aspects, having a body having a tapered surface and at least a first slip and a second slip slidable on the tapered surface, a slip actuator for setting said at least first slip and said second slip, said first slip and said second slip having interengaging elements such that upon actuation of said slip actuator, said first slip is set and said second slip is set by the interengaging elements transferring setting force from the slip actuator through said first slip to said second slip; and methods for using such an apparatus.

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