U.S. patent application number 10/556902 was filed with the patent office on 2007-01-04 for internal running elevator.
Invention is credited to Matheus Christensen.
Application Number | 20070000668 10/556902 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 19914769 |
Filed Date | 2007-01-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070000668 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Christensen; Matheus |
January 4, 2007 |
Internal running elevator
Abstract
The invention relates to a lifting tool for handling of a
pipe-string pipe length for joining and lowering or lifting and
disassembly of conductor, casing, risers, drill string, or similar
in a bore hole or well. The invention also relates to a lifting
system for lifting or lowering pipe length and pipe-string, for
joining and lowering or lifting and disassembling of conductor,
casing, risers, drill string, or similar in a bore hole or well.
The lifting system comprises a lifting tool with a lifting part and
a support part connected to an elevator apparatus which is mounted
to a top drive and where the lifting tool lifting part shall
operate in conjunction with a power slip which is configured to
receive and hold in a fixed position a standing pipe length or
pipe-string. Finally the invention comprises a method for lifting
of pipe length for joining of pipe length to a pipe-string,
including conductor, casing, risers, or similar for use in a bore
hole or well with the use of a lifting system and lifting tool
according to the invention.
Inventors: |
Christensen; Matheus;
(Sogne, NO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ROTHWELL, FIGG, ERNST & MANBECK, P.C.
1425 K STREET, N.W.
SUITE 800
WASHINGTON
DC
20005
US
|
Family ID: |
19914769 |
Appl. No.: |
10/556902 |
Filed: |
May 14, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
May 14, 2004 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/NO04/00146 |
371 Date: |
November 15, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
166/380 ;
166/77.52; 175/85 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E21B 19/06 20130101;
E21B 19/155 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
166/380 ;
175/085; 166/077.52 |
International
Class: |
E21B 19/18 20060101
E21B019/18 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 15, 2003 |
NO |
20032220 |
Claims
1-87. (canceled)
88. A lifting tool for handling of a pipe-string (2) and pipe
sections (3,4) during joining and lowering or lifting and
disassembly of conductors, casings, risers, drill strings or
similar in a bore hole (160) or a well (161), the lifting tool
comprising a lifting part (20) comprising a coaxial, rod (47) and a
connection part (5) for connection to and receiving lifting force
from a drive unit or top drive (60) or derrick crane (60); and a
hydraulic system (40) arranged for retaining and holding the
lifting part (20) against either or both of the outer or inner
surface of an end of the pipe sections (3,4) or the pipe string
(2); a lifting nipple (32) with a hollow coaxial lifting nipple
axle (36), a lifting nipple cone (37), and a lifting nipple flange
or collar (33) which is located between the lifting nipple axle
(36) and the lifting nipple cone (37) and further arranged for
transfer of load to the lifting tool, in which the lifting nipple
(32) is arranged concentric about the piston rod (47) and arranged
for movement along the piston rod (47), in which the lifting nipple
(32) is arranged for carrying the entire or part of the weight of
the pipe section (3,4) or the resulting pipe-string (2), and in
which the lifting nipple cone (37) is provided with external
generally horizontal grooves or external central threads (34) and
arranged for screwing into and out of the end of a pipe section
(3,4), characterized in that the lifting part (20) is arranged for
rotation about the central axis of the piston rod (47), such that
the lifting part (20) with the pipe section (3,4) is arranged for a
controlled joining of the pipe section (3,4) with a generally
upright pipe section or pipe string (2) located below preferably
joining by screwing the pipe section (3,4) into the end of the pipe
section or pipe string (2); that the lifting part (20) after the
joining of the pipe section (3,4) with the pipe string (2) is
arranged for supporting the entire or part of the weight of the
resulting pipe string (2); and that the lifting part (20) is
pivotable about a horizontal axis and arranged for grasping a pipe
section (3,4) from a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal
position.
89. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting part
(20) is arranged for circulation of drilling fluid, drilling mud,
cement or other fluid or fluid mixture via a flexible hose (7) on
the connection part (5) of the lifting tool and via the piston rod
(47) in the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool.
90. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting part
(20) also comprises a coaxial guide tube (38) arranged concentric
about the piston rod (47).
91. A lifting tool according to claim 90, in which the lifting
nipple (32) is arranged concentric about the coaxial guide tube
(38), and in which the lifting nipple (32) is arranged for movement
along the coaxial guide tube (38) during screwing into and screwing
out of the pipe section (3,4).
92. A lifting tool according to claim 90, in which external threads
(38a) are arranged on the coaxial guide tube (38) for engagement
with internal, generally horizontal grooves or threads (35) on the
lifting nipple (32).
93. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting part
(20) further comprises a housing (16) with a top plate unit (17) or
a top plate (21), and in which the housing (16) comprises a main
lifting shoulder (18) and a base plate (19).
94. A lifting tool according to claim 93, in which the top plate
unit (17) comprises at least one, preferably two disc shaped plates
(17a,b), each with a central opening, one or more web sections
(17c) arranged for stiffening the top plate unit (17) and oriented
generally normal to and between the top plates (17a,b), and in
which the web sections (17c) are fixed to the top plates (17a,b)
preferably by a welded connection; a mounting plate (149) arranged
on an outside of the upper plate (17a); and a self lubricating
bushing arranged between a lifting collar (48) on the piston rod
(47) and the other top plate (17b).
95. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting part
(20) further comprises a nipple rotation system (90) arranged for
screwing into and screwing out of the lifting nipple cone (37) of
the lifting nipple (32) in a threaded portion of an end of the pipe
section (3,4) to be lifted or loosened.
96. A lifting tool according to claim 95, in which the nipple
rotation system (90) comprises one or more hydraulic motors (91),
each provided with a gear sprocket (93) on a gear axle (94).
97. A lifting tool according to claim 95, in which the top plate
unit (17) comprises a cylinder (17d) with a spindle system (17e)
for inlet (95), outlet (96) and case drain (97) passages for
hydraulic oil connection to the nipple rotation system (90), in
which the cylinder (17d) is arranged concentric about the piston
rod (47) and axially centered in the top plates (17a,b).
98. A lifting tool according to claim 92, in which the lifting
nipple axle (36) of the lifting nipple (32) is provided with
external vertical grooves or splines (36a) and arranged for
engagement by and for being rotated by one or more gear sprockets
(93) in the nipple rotation system (90).
99. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting part
(20) also comprises an adapter (6) which is connected to a high
pressure hose (7) with a swivel (7a) by means of a union (7a), for
application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid
or fluid mixture from the drive unit or top drive (60), a bolted
goose neck connection (8), preferably with a swivel, for conveying
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix
to the piston rod (47) in the lifting part (20), connected to a
manifold or wear adapter (9) for venting of air during application
of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mixture from the drive unit or top drive (60).
100. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting
part (20) is pivotably arranged in an elevator apparatus (70) which
is arranged about the piston rod (47), preferably in a recess or
lifting shoulder (13) on the piston rod (47).
101. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting
part (20) further comprises a tilting arm (10) with one end (10a)
arranged concentric about the piston rod (47), and the other end
(10b) is connected to a telescopic hydraulic lifting cylinder (61),
preferably by means of a chain connection or other suitable
attachment means.
102. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting
part (20) comprises an entry cone or expanding packing or mud
packer (140), preferably an elastomer packing (140), arranged
concentric about the piston rod (47), and arranged for entry in one
end of the pipe section (3,4) or pipe string (2) and for expansion
against the inner surface of the pipe section (3,4) or pipe-string
(2) upon activation of the lifting tool, in which the entry cone
(140) is attached to the piston rod (47) by means of a bolted
connection (143,144); and a funnel shaped entry guide (141) with a
compliant support ring (146), in which the entry guide (141) is
arranged for receiving and encompassing the end of the pipe section
or pipe string (2,3,4), and to contact and clamp against the
external surface of the pipe section or pipe string (2,3,4).
103. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the piston rod
(47) comprises a hollow fluid passage (147) for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mixture and a hollow fluid passage (148) for venting of air during
application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid
or fluid mixture.
104. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the hydraulic
system (40) is a double acting or bi-directional piston cylinder
mechanism which includes a hydraulic cylinder (42) with a piston
cylinder base (44), a piston cylinder plate (41) and a hydraulic
piston (43) which is arranged concentric about and fixed to the
axial piston rod (47).
105. A lifting tool according to claim 104, in which the hydraulic
system (40) also comprises: an inlet fluid passage (51) for
hydraulic oil connection to one side of the hydraulic piston (43)
in the hydraulic cylinder (42); and an outlet fluid passage (52)
for hydraulic oil connection to the other side of the hydraulic
piston (43) in the hydraulic cylinder (42); in which the inlet
passage (51) and the outlet passage (52) run through the piston rod
(47) from the manifold (9).
106. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting
part (20) of the lifting tool comprises a wedge system which is
arranged for grasping and holding the pipe section or pipe string
(2,3,4) to be lifted, and in which the wedge system includes at
least one set of opposing outer (24) and inner (29) wedge segments
or wedge rings, preferably with a sealing segment or sealing ring
(29a) arranged on one side of the wedge ring or wedge segment (29)
facing the external surface of the pipe section or pipe string
(2,3,4), and where the inner surface of the pipe section or pipe
string (2,3,4) is engaged by the entry cone (140).
107. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the lifting
part (20) further comprises a coaxial bearing cylinder (22) with a
top plate (22a) and a guide or stop plate (22b), where the coaxial
bearing cylinder (22) is arranged for guiding the lifting nipple
(32) into the correct position during screwing into the pipe
section (3,4).
108. A lifting tool according to claim 107, in which the main
lifting shoulder (18) is arranged for positioning adjacent to the
guide or stop plate (22b) when the lifting tool is activated, and
in which the guide or stop plate (22b) is arranged for positioning
adjacent to the lifting nipple flange or collar (33) when the
lifting nipple (32) is screwed into the threaded section of one end
of the pipe section (3,4).
109. A lifting tool according to claim 107, in which the nipple
rotation system (90) is attached to the coaxial bearing cylinder
(22) by means of one or more mounting brackets (92).
110. A lifting tool according to claim 90, in which the coaxial
bearing cylinder (38) is connected to a spring system (39) for
compensating and equalizing the tension forces between the external
horizontal grooves or threads (34) of the lifting nipple cone (37)
and internal horizontal grooves or threads (3a) in one end of the
pipe section (3,4), and between the internal horizontal grooves or
threads (34) of the lifting nipple (32) and the external horizontal
grooves or threads (38a) on the coaxial bearing cylinder (38).
111. A lifting tool according to claim 109, in which the spring
system (39) comprises two or more helical springs (38) or helical
collar (38).
112. A lifting tool according to claim 110, in which the hydraulic
cylinder (42) with the piston cylinder base (44) is attached to one
side of the top plate (22a) bearing cylinder (22), and in which the
spring system (39) with the coaxial guide tube (37) is attached to
the top plate (22a) of the coaxial bearing cylinder (22) on the
opposite side of the hydraulic cylinder (43) and piston cylinder
base (44).
113. A lifting tool according to claim 88, where one or more
independent sensors (15) is arranged in the lifting part (20) of
the lifting tool, preferably spring loaded pressure sensors, to
determine the position of the lifting nipple (32) with respect to
the end of the pipe section (3,4), and where each sensor (15) is
connected to a limit switch (14).
114. A lifting tool according to claim 93, where the housing (16)
comprises one or more inspection openings.
115. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which one or more
lugs are arranged on the lifting nipple flange (33) of the lifting
nipple (32), for manual operation of the lifting nipple (32),
preferably with the use of a lever or crow-bar.
116. A lifting tool according to claim 104, in which hydraulic oil
is supplied by a preferably radial inlet (50) on the support part
(5) and via a generally vertical passage (51) for hydraulic oil
through the piston rod (47) and with a radial outlet for hydraulic
oil from the piston rod (47) under the piston (43) to move the
piston (43) upwards.
117. A lifting tool according to claim 116, in which hydraulic oil
is supplied from the upper part of the hydraulic cylinder (42)
above the piston (43) to drive the inner wedge rings (29) downward
such that the outer wedge segments (24) with friction surface (27)
retract from and release the inner wall of the pipe section or pipe
string (2,3,4).
118. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the piston rod
(47) comprises a fluid passage (147) arranged for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mixture, and a fluid passage (148) configured for venting of air
during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or
other fluid or fluid mixture.
119. A lifting tool according to claim 88, in which the piston rod
(47) comprises a lifting collar (48) arranged for transfer of load
from the piston rod (47) of the lifting tool to the lifting part
(20) of the lifting tool.
120. A lifting tool according to claim 101, in which lifting part
(20) of the lifting tool comprises a locking mechanism for the
lifting tool, in which a slotted hub (5a) is arranged concentric
about and attached to the piston rod (47), and in which the tilting
arm (10) is compliant, preferably with a spring loaded joint (10a)
in the tilting arm (10), and where the compliant tilting arm (10,
10a) is arranged for movement from an initial position and
passively downwards into one of the slots in the slotted hub (5a)
to an operating position, for locking of the entire lifting tool
against rotation of the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool.
121. A lifting tool according to claim 120, where the spring loaded
joint (10a) is arranged for release of the tilting arm (10) upon
retraction of the spring loaded joint (10a) from a position where
the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool has been rotated from the
initial position and back to the initial position.
122. A lifting tool for handling of a pipe string (2) and pipe
sections (3,4) during joining and lowering or raising and
disassembling of conductors, casings, risers, drilling strings or
similar in a bore hole (160) or well (161), in which the lifting
tool comprises a lifting part (20) which comprises an axial piston
rod (47) arranged through, and a connection part (5) for connection
to and receiving lifting force from a drive unit or top drive (60)
or derrick crane (60); and a hydraulic system (40) which is
arranged for retaining and holding the lifting part (20) against
the inner surface of an end of the pipe section (3,4) or pipe
string (2); a wedge system with inner wedge segments or inner wedge
rings (29) attached to the piston rod (47), in which the inner
wedge segments or wedge rings (29) are arranged for movement in an
axial direction inwards under ramped surfaces of the outer wedge
segments (24) and thereby press the outer wedge ring segments
radially outward, characterized in that the outer wedge segments
are provided with a radially oriented friction surface (27) to
engage the inner surface of the pipe section (2,3,4), that the
outer clamping ring-segments (24) is arranged for being forced
directly or indirectly downwards by a top plate (21) with a
hydraulic cylinder (42) connected to the top plate (21), the
hydraulic piston (43) of the cylinder (42) being attached to the
piston rod (47), which is arranged for forcing the inner wedge
rings (29) upwards in relation to the outer wedge segments (24) and
thereby expands the friction surface (27) outwards to grip the
inner diameter of the casing (2), that the lifting part (20) is
arranged for rotation axially about the piston rod (47), such that
the lifting part (20) with the pipe section (3,4) is arranged for a
controlled joining of the pipe section (3,4) with the a generally
upright pipe section or pipe string (2) located below, preferably
joining by screwing into the pipe section (3,4) into a the pipe
section or pipe string (2), that the lifting part (20) after the
joining of the pipe section (3,4) with the pipe string (2) is
arranged for supporting the entire or part of the weight of the
resulting pipe string (2), and the lifting part (20) is pivotable
about a horizontal axis and arranged for grasping a pipe section
(3,4) from a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal
position.
123. A lifting tool according to claim 122, where the inner wedge
rings (29) are attached to the piston rod (47) via a coaxial
bearing cylinder (22), which itself is attached to a coaxial base
plate (39), and which in turn is attached to the piston rod (47)
with a lower intermediate piece (48) and locked by a hex nut
(143,144).
124. A lifting tool according to claim 122, where the outer wedge
segments (24) and inner wedge rings (29) of the lifting part (20)
are arranged in pairs in several levels between the base plate (30)
and top plate (21).
125. A lifting tool according to claim 124, where outer wedge
segments (24) of the lifting part (20) are separated in the axial
direction by spacer rings (26).
126. A lifting tool according to claim 122, where the hydraulic
system (40) is a double acting or bidirectional piston cylinder
mechanism which includes a hydraulic cylinder (42) with a piston
cylinder base (44), a piston cylinder plate (41) and a hydraulic
piston (43) which is arranged concentric about and attached to the
axial piston rod (47).
127. A lifting tool according to claim 126, in which hydraulic oil
is supplied via a preferably radial inlet (50) on the connection
part (5) and via a generally vertical passage (51) for hydraulic
oil through the piston rod (47) and further including a radial
outlet for hydraulic oil from the piston rod (47) under the piston
(43) for activating the the piston (43) to move upwards.
128. A lifting tool according to claim 127, in which hydraulic oil
is supplied from the upper portion above the piston (43) to the
hydraulic cylinder (42) so as to drive the outer wedge rings (24)
downward such that the inner wedge segments (29) with packing or
packing ring (29a) retract from and release the inner wall of the
pipe section or pipe string (2,3,4).
129. A lifting tool according to claim 122, in which the lifting
part (20) is arranged for circulation of drilling fluid, drilling
mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mixture via a flexible hose (7)
on connection part (5) of the lifting tool and via the piston rod
(47) in the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool.
130. A lifting tool according to claim 122, in which the lifting
part (20) further comprises an adapter (6) which is connected to a
high pressure hose (7) with a union (7a), for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mixture from a drive unit or top drive (60), and a bolted goose
neck connection (8), preferably with a swivel, for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mixture to the piston rod (47) in the lifting part (20), connected
to a manifold or wear adapter (9) for venting of air during
application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid
or fluid mixture from the drive unit or top drive (60).
131. A lifting tool according to claim 122, in which the lifting
part (20) is pivotably arranged in an elevator apparatus (70)
arranged about the piston rod (47), preferably in a recess or
lifting shoulder (13) on the piston rod (47).
132. A lifting tool according to claim 122, in which the lifting
part (20) further comprises a tilting arm (10) with one end (10a)
arranged concentric about the piston rod (47), and the other end
(10b) is connected to a telescopic hydraulic lifting cylinder (61),
preferably by means of of a chain connection or other suitable
attachment means.
133. A lifting tool according to claim 122, where the lifting part
(20) comprises an entry cone or expanding packing or mud packer
(140), preferably an elastomer packing (140), arranged concentric
about the piston rod (47), arranged for entry in one end of the
pipe section (3,4) or pipe string (2) and for expansion against the
inner surface of the pipe section (3,4) or pipe string (2) upon
activation of the lifting tool, where the entry cone (140) is
attached to the piston rod (47) by means of a bolted connection
(143,144).
134. A lifting tool according to claim 122, in which the piston rod
(47) comprises a fluid passage (147) arranged for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mixture, and a fluid passage (148) arranged for venting of air
during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or
other fluid or fluid mixture.
135. A lifting tool according to claim 122, in which the lifting
part (20) of the lifting tool further comprises an indicator system
arranged for one or more independent sensors (15) in the lifting
part (20) of the lifting tool, preferably spring loaded pressure
sensors, for determining position of the entry cone (140) with
respect to the end of the pipe section (3,4), and where each sensor
(15) is connected to a limit switch (14).
136. A lifting tool according to claim 132, in which the lifting
part (20) of the lifting tool comprises a locking mechanism for the
lifting tool, in which a slotted hub (5a) is arranged concentric
about and attached to the piston rod (47), and in which the tilting
arm (10) is compliant, preferably with a spring loaded joint (10a)
in the tilting arm (10), in which the compliant tilting arm (10,
10a) is arranged for movement from an initial position and
passively downwards into one of the slots in the slotted hub (5a)
to an operating position, for locking of the entire lifting tool
against rotation of the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool
(20).
137. A lifting tool according to claim 136, in which the spring
loaded joint (10a) is arranged for release of the tilting arm (10)
upon retraction of the spring loaded joint (10a) from a position in
which the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool has been rotated
from an initial position and back to the initial position.
138. A lifting tool for handling of pipe strings and pipe sections
(2,3,4) during joining and lowering or raising and disassembling of
conductors, casings, risers, drilling strings or similar in a bore
hole (160) or well (161), in which the lifting tool comprises a
lifting part (20) comprising an axial piston rod (47), and a
connection part (5) for connection to and receiving lifting force
from a drive unit or top drive (60) or derrick crane (60); a
hydraulic system (40) which is arranged for retaining the lifting
part (20) against the outer surface of one end of the pipe section
(3,4) or pipe string (2) a wedge system in the lifting part (20) of
the lifting tool with one or more sets of inner wedge segments (29)
and outer wedge segments or wedge rings (24), in which the lifting
part (20) with the wedge system is arranged for grasping about the
end of the pipe section (3,4) or pipe string (2) below the threaded
section of the end of the pipe section (3,4) or pipe string (2);
characterized in that the wedge system is arranged to be self
locking such that the weight of the pipe section (3,4) or pipe
string will act to increase the gripping and locking effect of the
lifting force, thus ensuring secure gripping/locking in the event
of the loss of hydraulic fluid pressure, that the lifting part (20)
is arranged for rotation axially about the piston rod (47), such
that the lifting part (20) with the pipe section (3,4) is arranged
for a controlled joining of the pipe section (3,4) and a generally
upright pipe section or pipe string (2) located below, preferably
by screwing the pipe section (3,4) into the end of pipe section or
pipe string (2), that the lifting part (20) after the joining of
the pipe section (3,4) with the pipe section or pipe string (2) is
arranged for supporting the entire or part of the weight of the
resulting pipe string (2), and that the lifting part (20) is
pivotable about a horizontal axis and arranged for grasping a pipe
section (3,4) from a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal
position.
139. A lifting tool according to claim 138, in which the lifting
part (20) is arranged for circulation of drilling fluid, drilling
mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mixture via a flexible hose (7)
on the connection part (5) of the lifting tool and via the piston
rod (47) in the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool.
140. A lifting tool according to claim 138, in which the hydraulic
system (40) is a piston hydraulic system (40) having a hydraulic
piston (43) connected to the piston rod (47) and arranged in a
hydraulic cylinder (42), an in which the lifting part (20) of the
lifting tool further includes an outer housing (16) with a top
plate (21), and where the housing (16) comprises a lifting shoulder
(18) and a base plate (19) with a central opening for a pipe
section or pipe string (2,3,4) to be grasped; a coaxial bearing
cylinder (22) with a guide or stop plate (22b), a bearing cylinder
plate (22d) with a central opening, a center plate (22e) and an
inner bearing cylinder (22f); in which the pressure under the
piston (43) upon application of hydraulic fluid pressure forces the
piston (43) with the piston rod (47) and the outer housing (16)
upwards together with the base plate (19) of the outer housing (16)
and the outer wedge segments or rings (24), such that the bearing
cylinder (22) and the stop plate (22b) with the inner wedge
segments (29) is forced downwards with respect to the outer wedge
segments or rings (24) with the result that inner wedge segments
(29) are forced inwards to engage and grasp the outer surface of
pipe section (2,3,4).
141. A lifting tool according to claim 138, where the piston rod
includes a lifting collar (48) arranged for transfer of load from
the piston rod (47) of the lifting tool to the lifting part (20) of
the lifting tool.
142. A lifting tool according to claim 140, where the outer housing
(16) includes a top plate unit (17).
143. A lifting tool according to claim 142, in which the top plate
unit (17) comprises at least one, preferably two disc shaped plates
(17a,b), each with a central opening, one or more web sections
(17c) arranged for stiffening the top plate unit (17) and oriented
generally normal to and between the top plates (17a,b), and where
the web sections (17c) are fixed to the top plates (17a,b)
preferably by a welded connection; a mounting plate (149) arranged
on an outside of the upper plate (17a); and a self lubricating
bushing arranged between the lifting collar (48) on the piston rod
(47) and the second top plate (17b).
144. A lifting tool according to claim 138, in which the lifting
part (20) also comprises an adapter (6) which is connected to a
high pressure hose (7) with a swivel (7a), for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mixture from a drive unit or top drive (60), a bolted goose neck
connection (8), preferably with a swivel, for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix
to the piston rod (47) in the lifting part (20), connected to a
manifold or wear adapter (9) for venting of air during application
of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mix from the drive unit or top drive (60).
145. A lifting tool according to 138, in which the lifting part
(20) is pivotably arranged in an elevator apparatus (70) arranged
about the piston rod (47), preferably in a recess or lifting
shoulder (13) on the piston rod (47).
146. A lifting tool according to claim 138, in which the lifting
part (20) further comprises a tilting arm (10) with one end (10a)
arranged concentric about the piston rod (47), and the other end
(10b) is connected with a telescopic hydraulic lifting cylinder
(61), preferably by means of a chain connection or other suitable
attachment means.
147. A lifting tool according to claim 138, in which the lifting
part (20) comprises a funnel shaped entry guide (141) with a
compliant support ring (146), in which the entry guide (141) is
arranged for receiving and encompassing the end of the pipe section
or pipe string (2,3,4) and to contact and clamp against the
external surface of the pipe section or pipe string (2,3,4).
148. A lifting tool according to claim 138, where the piston rod
(47) comprises a fluid passage (147) arranged for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid
mixture, and a fluid passage (148) arranged for venting of air
during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or
other fluid or fluid mixture.
149. A lifting tool according to claim 138, in which the hydraulic
system (40) is a double acting or bidirectional piston cylinder
mechanism which includes a hydraulic cylinder (42) with a piston
cylinder base (44), a piston cylinder plate (41) and a hydraulic
piston (43) which is arranged concentric about and attached to the
axial piston rod (47).
150. A lifting tool according to claim 149, in which hydraulic oil
is supplied by a preferably radial inlet (50) on the connection
part (5) and via a generally vertical passage (51) for hydraulic
oil through the piston rod (47) and with a radial outlet for
hydraulic oil from the piston rod (47) under the piston (43) for
activating the the piston (43) to move upwards.
151. A lifting tool according to claim 149, in which the hydraulic
system (40) also comprises: an inlet fluid passage (51) for
hydraulic oil to one side of the hydraulic piston (43) in the
hydraulic cylinder (42); and an outlet fluid passage (52) for
hydraulic oil to the other side of the hydraulic piston (43) in the
hydraulic cylinder (42); in which the inlet passage (51) and the
outlet passage (52) run through the piston rod (47) from the
manifold (9).
152. A lifting tool according to claim 149, where hydraulic oil is
supplied from the upper part of hydraulic cylinder (42) above the
piston (43) to drive the outer wedge segments or rings (24)
downward such that the inner wedge segments (29) with packing or
packing ring (29a) retract from and release the inner surface of
the of the pipe section or pipe string (2,3,4).
153. A lifting tool according to claim 138, in which the lifting
part (20) of the lifting tool further comprises an indicator system
arranged for one or more independent sensors (15) in the lifting
part (20) of the lifting tool, preferably spring loaded pressure
sensors, to determine position of the lifting part (20) with
respect to the end of the pipe section (3,4), and where each sensor
(15) is connected to a limit switch (14).
154. A lifting tool according to claim 146, where the lifting part
(20) of the lifting tool comprises a locking mechanism for the
lifting tool, in which a slotted hub (5a) is arranged concentric
about and attached to the piston rod (47), and where the tilting
arm (10) is compliant, preferably with a spring loaded joint (10a)
in the tilting arm (10), in which the compliant tilting arm (10,
10a) is arranged for movement from an initial position and
passively downwards into one of the slots in the slotted hub (5a)
to an operating position, for locking of the lifting tool against
rotation of the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool.
155. A lifting tool according to claim 138, in which the spring
loaded joint (10a) is arranged for release of the tilting arm (10)
upon retraction of the spring loaded joint (10a) from a position to
which the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool (20) has been
rotated from an initial position and back to the initial
position.
156. A lifting system for lifting or lowering pipe section (3,4)
and a pipe-string (2), during joining and lowering or lifting and
disassembly of conductors, casings, risers, drill strings, or
similar in a bore hole (160) or well (160), wherein the lifting
system comprises a lifting tool with a lifting part (20) and a
connection part (5) connected to an elevator apparatus (70) which
is connected to a top drive (60) and in which the lifting part (20)
of the lifting tool shall co-operate with a power slip (150) which
is arranged for receiving and supporting a generally upright pipe
section or pipe-string (2); characterized in that the lifting part
(20) of the lifting tool is arranged for removable installation in
an elevator apparatus (70); that the elevator apparatus (70) is
arranged for controlling the orientation of lifting part (20) of
the lifting tool such that the lifting tool may engage and grip the
end of a pipe section (3,4) and be activated; that the elevator
apparatus (70) and lifting tool upon application of lifting force
to and activation of the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool are
arranged to lift the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool (20)
with the pipe section (3,4) for joining with or connecting to the
generally upright pipe section or pipe-string (2) below; and the
lifting part (20) of the lifting tool is arranged for being
pivotable about a horizontal or generally horizontal axis in the
elevator apparatus (70), so as to grasp an end of a pipe section
(3,4) arranged in a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal
position, and be engaged against the inner surface, the outer
surface or both the inner and outer surface of one end of the pipe
section (3,4).
157. A lifting system according to claim 156, wherein the lifting
part (20) of the lifting tool is arranged for removable
installation in the elevator apparatus (70) on an upper part or
lifting shoulder (13) on a piston rod (47) included in the lifting
tool (20).
158. A lifting system according to claim 156, wherein the lifting
tool and the connection part (5) of the lifting tool (20) are
arranged for application or circulation of drilling fluids,
drilling mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mix to the bore hole
or well (160).
159. A lifting system according to claim 156, wherein the lifting
system further comprises a rotation apparatus (power tongs) (80)
which is arranged for rotation of the lifting part (20) of the
lifting tool (20) with the pipe section (3,4) about the piston rod
(47), to achieve a controlled in-screwing of the pipe section (3,4)
in the generally upright pipe section or pipe-string (2) located
below, and in which the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool (20)
after the joining of the pipe section (3) with the pipe-string (2)
is arranged for to supporting the entire or part of the weight of
the resulting pipe-string (2).
160. A lifting system according to claim 156, wherein the lifting
tool is arranged for receiving lifting force from the top drive
(60) for activating the lifting tool, such that the lifting tool
after activation of the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool (20)
against the inner surface, the outer surface, or both the inner and
outer surfaces of the pipe section (3,4), is enabled to lift the
pipe section (3,4) or pipe-string (2,3,4), and move to a rotary
table (161) for joining of the pipe section (3,4) with the
generally upright pipe string (2) located below.
161. A lifting system according to claim 156, wherein the lifting
system further comprises a tube feeding machine for feeding of pipe
section (3,4) to the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool.
162. A lifting system according to claim 161, wherein the lifting
system comprises a manipulator arm (170) for moving the far end of
the pipe section (3,4) from the tube feeding machine (180) to a
vertical position over the generally upright pipe section or
pipe-string (2).
163. A lifting system according to claim 159, wherein the rotation
apparatus (80) comprises a clamping apparatus, or a first set of
power tongs (81) which are arranged for retaining the pipe section
or pipe string (2) in a fixed position, and a torque apparatus or a
second set of power tongs (82) arranged for rotation of the lifting
part (20) and pipe section (3,4) for joining with the pipe section
or pipe string (2) by means of a torque or rotation motor.
164. A method for lifting of pipe sections for joining of pipe
sections (3,4) to a pipe string (2), such as conductors, casings,
risers or similar, for use in a bore hole or well (160) by means of
a lifting system and a lifting tool according to the preceding
claims 1-76, in which the method comprises the following steps: the
pipe section (3,4) is brought to the start position in proximity to
the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool (20); the lifting part
(20) of the lifting tool grasps the end of the pipe section (3,4)
which is or will become the upper end of the pipe section (3,4);
the lifting part (20) is activated for engagement with at least one
of the inner or outer surfaces of pipe section (3,4) by means of a
hydraulic system (40); a drive unit, top drive or derrick crane
(60) lifts the lifting tool with the pipe section (3,4) to the
vertical or nearly vertical position over a generally upright pipe
section or pipe-string (2) arranged below; the second, opposite end
of the pipe section (3,4) is joined with the generally upright pipe
section or pipe string (2) below, thus forming an extended
resulting pipe string (2); the resulting pipe-string (2) is lowered
and retained in place by means of a wedge system (power slip) (150)
which is arranged for to retaining the pipe section or pipe string
(2) in a drill floor; the resulting pipe-string (2) is released
from the wedge system or power slip (150) such that it is suspended
from the drive unit or top drive (60) and the lifting tool; the
resulting pipe string (2) is lowered and again retained in place by
the wedge system or power slip (150); and the lifting tool is
released from the end of the resulting pipe string (2);
characterized in that the step of grasping the lifting part (20) of
the lifting tool (20) involves that the lifting tool is arranged in
an elevator apparatus (70), and that the lifting part (20) of the
lifting tool is rotated about a generally horizontal axis in the
elevator apparatus (70), by means a tilting arm (10) which in one
end is fastened to the connection part (5) of the lifting tool and
in the other end connected to a lifting cylinder (61) mounted on
the drive unit or top drive (60), from a generally vertical initial
position to an engagement position with the pipe section (3,4)
which is arranged in a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal
position.
165. A method according to claim 164, wherein the method further
comprises the following step: the connection part (5) of the
lifting tool is removably arranged in the elevator apparatus (70),
preferably in an upper part or lifting shoulder (13) on the piston
rod (47), prior to the pipe section (3,4) being brought to the
lifting tool.
166. A method according to claim 164, where the method also
comprises the following step: the pipe section (3,4) is moved
forward to the lifting tool lifting part by means of a tube feeding
machine and into engagement with the lifting part (20) of the
lifting tool (20) prior to activating the lifting part (20) of the
lifting tool (20).
167. A method according to claim 166, wherein the method also
comprises the following step: as the pipe section (3,4) is moved
forward on the tube feeding machine, the opposite end of the pipe
section (3,4) is moved into position above the generally upright
pipe section or pipe string (2) by a manipulator arm (170); and the
lifting tool and the pipe section (3,4) is lowered to the generally
upright pipe section or pipe string (2) arranged below for joining
with the pipe section or pipe string (2).
168. A method according to claim 164, wherein the method further
comprises the following step: joining of the pipe section (3,4) and
the pipe string (2) is achieved by screwing the opposite, lower end
of the pipe section (3,4) into a threaded section of the upper end
of the generally upright pipe section or pipe string (2) through
rotation of the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool with the pipe
section (3,4) about the central axis of the lifting tool by means
of a rotation system (80).
169. A method according to claim 164, wherein the method further
comprises the following step: upon activation of the lifting tool,
a wedge system (24,29) in the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool
is engaged against one or both of the inner and outer diameters of
the pipe section (3,4) by means of a piston hydraulic system
(40).
170. A method according to claim 169, wherein the method further
comprises the following step: upon activation of the lifting tool,
an entry cone (140) or expanding packing (140) is forced against
inner wall of the pipe section (3,4).
171. A method according to claim 166, wherein the method also
comprises the following step: screwing of a lifting nipple (32)
into a threaded section of the upper or following upper end of the
pipe section (3,4), preferably by means of a nipple rotation system
(90).
172. A method according to claim 169, wherein the method also
comprises the following step: upon release of the lifting tool from
the pipe section or pipe string (2), the wedge system (24,29) in
the lifting part (20) of the lifting tool is disengaged from the
end of the pipe section or pipe string (2) by means of a hydraulic
system (40), such that the lifting tool may be moved to the finish
or standby position.
173. A method according to claim 171, wherein the method also
comprises the following step: upon release of the lifting tool from
the section or pipe string (2), the lifting nipple (32) is
unscrewed from the threaded end of the pipe-string (2), preferably
by means of a nipple rotation system (90), or manually by means of
a manual release system for the lifting nipple (32), and thereafter
the wedge system (24,29) is released from the end of the pipe
section or pipe string (2).
174. A method according to claim 164, wherein the method also
comprises the following step: progress of entering the pipe section
(3,4) into the lifting part (20) is monitored by a sensor system,
preferably with one or more independent sensors (14,15), each being
connected to a limit switch, which serves to stop the movement of
the pipe section (3,4) at the proper moment for avoiding damage to
the the pipe section, and for indicating proper centering of the
lifting part (20) of the lifting tool with respect to the end of
the pipe section (3,4) to be engaged by the lifting tool.
Description
[0001] This invention relates to a system and tool for handling and
lifting oil & gas well casing sections/strings during
connecting and installation or extraction and removal of
casing/conductor, production casing, risers, drill strings, or
other tubular goods, in a well/bore hole. This invention also
encompasses a method for use of a lifting tool for this
purpose.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Lifting and joining of pipe lengths to a standing pipe
string with current technology is a time consuming and complicated
task. Existing solutions require that a lifting apparatus for pipe
lengths, to be installed on a top drive mounted pipe handling
machine or derrick crane, and removed for each pipe length to be
joined. Between lifting operations a drilling fluid, for example
drilling mud, is circulated with special purpose equipment to
maintain pressure in the bore hole. After each lifting operation
and removal of the lifting tool, drilling circulation equipment
must be installed on the top drive or derrick crane. When the next
casing section shall be lifted into place, the drilling fluid
circulation equipment must be removed and the lifting tool
re-installed. This is a costly time consuming process, which
commonly requires 4-5 hours to complete.
[0003] There is a need for a lifting system and tool, which reduces
the time required to complete the lifting and joining procedure to
an absolute minimum, where the lifting and joining operation is
performed with the same tool. There is also a need for the ability
to circulate drill fluids via the lifting tool without the
requirement to install additional equipment. Furthermore there is a
need for a lifting tool which can handle varying pipe
sizes/diameters.
DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART
[0004] Known methods of lifting and joining pipe lengths utilise a
primitive chain and hook system for grasping and lifting the
connecting nipple. A nipple is configured for connection to and
from a threaded end of a pipe length to be lifted. The pipe section
together with the installed nipple can be lifted by a chain and
hook system as illustrated in FIG. 15, which shows a nipple
installed and removed at the top of a threaded pipe length.
[0005] FIG. 16 illustrates a lifting clamp of known art positioned
near the upper end of a casing length which is equipped with a
protecting nipple at the top and coupling at the bottom. The nipple
and coupling are removed from the casing held in place in the drill
deck before lowering of the casing section.
[0006] FIG. 17 illustrates how a casing section end is grasped with
a clamp according to known art and how the casing length and casing
string are screwed together with power tongs. The applicants'
Norwegian patent, NO. 307876, relates to a lifting tool for lifting
of pipe lengths/lengths. The lifting tool according to NO. 307876
encompasses a separate entry section or
elastomer/elastomer-composite packing which expands upon activation
of the lifting tool against the inside diameter of the casing
section to be lifted. This lifting tool however is not configured
for rotation about its' axial axis or for circulation of drilling
fluids.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The invention includes three versions of a lifting tool for
handling of a pipe length during joining, lowering, or removal and
disassembly of conductor, casing, risers, drill strings or similar
in a bore hole or well as stated in claims 1, 37 and 55.
[0008] The invention also encompasses a lifting system for lifting
or lowering pipe lengths (3,4) and drill string (2), during joining
and lowering or removal and disassembly of conductor, casing,
risers, drill strings or similar in a bore hole (160) or well (160)
as stated in claim 74.
[0009] Finally the invention includes a method for lifting of pipe
lengths for joining such (3,4) to a pipe string (2), similarly for
casing, risers, drill strings or similar in a bore hole or well
(160) as stated in claim 82.
[0010] The lifting system and lifting tool according to the
invention have several advantages; the ability to lift a pipe
length for joining with a standing pipe string, the ability to
rotate about the tool axis for joining of the pipe length with the
pipe string, and the possibility of filling or circulating drilling
fluid to the bore hole via the lifting tool. The lifting tool can
also be used with several different pipe dimensions.
[0011] Additional advantages and details of the invention are
stated in the listing of dependent claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The drawings (figures) illustrate a lifting tool according
to the invention in a first version where the lifting tool is
oriented within the inner diameter of the pipe length to be lifted
(Internal Running Elevator, IRE), a second version where the
lifting tool includes an internal running nipple (Internal Running
Nipple Thread Elevator, INTRE) and a third version where the
lifting tool is external running (External Running Elevator,
ERE).
[0013] FIG. 4a-b to FIG. 12a-b, where the method for lifting and
joining of a pipe length and pipe string are illustrated, show the
IRE and INTRE configurations of the lifting tool. The method can be
illustrated with similar figures for the ERE configuration of the
lifting tool.
[0014] FIG. 1a--is a schematic partial section view of the lifting
tool according to the invention, here shown in the internal running
configuration (IRE)
[0015] FIG. 1b--is a schematic partial section view of a part of
FIG. 1a which shows the details of a central piston rod and
hydraulic passages for the lifting tool.
[0016] FIG. 2a-b--is a schematic partial section view of another
configuration of the lifting tool according to the invention, here
shown in a configuration where the lifting tool encompasses a
lifting nipple which is threaded into the end of a pipe length to
be lifted (INTRE). FIG. 2a shows a lifting tool in the deactivated
condition, ready to grip the end of a pipe length, and FIG. 2b
shows a lifting tool in the activated condition.
[0017] FIG. 3a-c--is a schematic section view of another
configuration of a lifting tool according to the invention, here
shown in a configuration where the lifting tool has a chuck (wedge)
mechanism which grips the pipe length end on the outside diameter.
FIG. 3a shows the lifting tool in the deactivated condition ready
to grip the end of a threaded pipe length, FIG. 3b shows the
lifting tool in the activated condition.
[0018] FIG. 4a-b--is a schematic partial section view of a lifting
tool according to the invention, where the lifting tool positions
of engagement (near horizontal) and vertical are shown.
[0019] FIG. 5a-b--is a schematic partial section view showing the
lifting tool in the deactivated condition, and a pipe length which
is to be joined with another section or string, where the section
to be joined is positioned in a tube feeding machine (TFM) and
ready for engagement of the lifting tool.
[0020] FIG. 6a-b--is a schematic partial section which illustrates
a lifting tool ready for engagement with the end of a pipe
length.
[0021] FIG. 7a-b--is a schematic partial section view of the
lifting tool activated with the end of a pipe length, achieved by
moving the pipe length forward in the sub-horizontal position and
into the end of the lifting tool.
[0022] FIG. 8a-b--is a schematic partial section view of the
lifting tool in the activated condition with a magnified partial
section view of the lifting tool.
[0023] FIG. 9a-b--is a schematic partial section view of the
lifting tool lifting the end of the pipe length such that the
opposite end slides toward another section or string (2).
[0024] FIG. 10a-b--is a schematic partial section view where the
lifting tool has lifted the pipe length to an almost vertical
position where it can be made ready for joining with the other
section or string (2).
[0025] FIG. 11a-b--is a schematic partial section view showing how
the first pipe length is joined with the other section with the
help of the lifting tool according to the invention.
[0026] FIG. 12a-b--is a schematic partial section view which shows
the pipe length in the lowered position held by a Power Slip in the
drill floor. The lifting tool can then be disengaged from the pipe
length, and positioned to receive the next pipe length from the
pipe handling machine.
[0027] FIG. 13--is a schematic view of a top-plate-unit according
to the invention embodiment of lifting tool with lifting
nipple.
[0028] FIG. 14--is a schematic section view of one possible
configuration of the piston rod, where the lifting tool encompasses
an internal running lifting nipple. The piston rod in this
configuration has hydraulic oil passages connecting the nipple
rotation system to the lifting tool hydraulic system, a passage for
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluids, and a passage
for venting of air during the fluid circulation process.
[0029] FIG. 15--shows an installed and removed nipple of known art
on the end of a threaded pipe length, and a primitive chain and
hook system for grasping and lifting of the nipple.
[0030] FIG. 16--illustrates a lifting clamp of known art, placed
near the upper end of a pipe length, where the pipe length is
equipped with a protective nipple on the top and a coupling on the
bottom, where the coupling on the bottom is removed and the nipple
on the top of the standing pipe length in the drill floor is
removed prior to lowering.
[0031] FIG. 17--shows how a pipe length is held in position with
the help of a clamp of known art and how the pipe length and string
are screwed together with the help of power tongs.
[0032] The invention will now be described with reference to the
attached drawings listed above.
[0033] Detailed description of the invention, with preferred
embodiments.
Lifting Tool with Internal Running Lifting Nipple (INTRE)
[0034] FIG.______ shows a schematic partial section view of a
configuration of the lifting tool according to the invention, here
shown in a configuration where the lifting tool encompasses a
lifting nipple which is screwed into the end of a pipe length to
lifted (INTRE). FIG. 2a shows the lifting tool in the
inactive/deactivated condition, ready to connect to the threaded
end of a pipe length, and FIG. 2b shows the lifting tool in the
activated condition.
[0035] The lifting tool can manipulate and lift oil & gas well
casing strings (2) and sections (3,4) during connecting and
installation or extraction and removal of casing or conductor,
casing, risers, drill strings, or other tubular goods, in a well
(160) or well bore (160). The lifting tool consists of a lifting
part (20) with a coaxial piston rod (47), a mounting interface part
(5) for connection to a top drive (60) providing lifting force, or
derrick crane (60), and a hydraulic system (40) which is designed
to hold the lifting part (20) fixed to either the inner or outer
diameter of the end of the pipe length (3).
[0036] The novel aspects of this lifting tool are the lifting
nipple (32) with a coaxial multi-passage tubular lifting nipple
axel (36), a lifting nipple cone (37), and a lifting nipple flange
(33), which is positioned between the lifting nipple axel (36) and
the lifting nipple cone (37) and designed to transfer load to the
lifting tool. The lifting nipple (32) is situated concentrically
about the piston rod (47) and arranged for movement along the
piston rod (47). Furthermore the lifting nipple (32) is arranged to
carry all or part of the weight of the pipe length (3,4) or the
resulting joined pipe string (2).
[0037] The lifting nipple (32) entering cone or lifting nipple cone
(37) is equipped with external helical threads (34) such that it
can be threaded in or out of the end of the pipe length (3,4).
[0038] The lifting part (20) in a preferred embodiment can be
arranged for rotation about the piston rod (47) axis, such that the
lifting part (20) with the pipe length (3,4) is capable of a
controlled threading of the pipe length (3,4) into a standing pipe
length or pipe-string (2), and where the lifting part (20) after
the pipe length (3,4) joining with the pipe-string (2) is designed
to hold the completed pipe length-sting (2) total weight.
[0039] An additional advantage provided by the lifting tool
according to the invention is that the lifting part (20) can be
rotated about a horizontal axis and configured for connection to a
horizontal or nearly horizontal pipe length (3,4). The rotational
movement of the lifting tools lifting part can be achieved by
fixing the lifting tool in a rotary bearing in the lifting device
(70), which engages the piston rod (47), preferably in a recess or
lifting shoulder (13) on the piston rod (47). A tilting arm (10)
can facilitate rotation of the lifting part (20). The tilting arm
(10) in one embodiment has one end (10a) arranged concentrically
around the piston rod (47), and the other end (10b) which is
connected to a telescoping hydraulic lifting cylinder (61) mounted
on the top drive (60), preferably with a chain or other suitable
connection.
[0040] The lifting tool lifting part (20) can preferably include a
locking mechanism, where locking slots (5a) are oriented
concentrically around and connect to the piston rod (47), where the
tilting arm (10) is movable under pressure, preferably with a
spring loaded joint (10a) in the tilting arm (10), and where the
movable tilting arm (10,10a) is arranged for movement from an
initial unlocked position passively engaging upon rotation of the
lifting part (20) in one of the locking slots in the slotted flange
(5a) to a locked position, preventing rotation of the entire
lifting tool.
[0041] The spring loaded joint (10a) is arranged for unlocking the
tilting arm (10) upon retraction of the spring loaded joint (10a)
from a position where the lifting tool lifting part (20) has moved
from an initial position and returned to the initial position.
[0042] An additional advantage provided by a lifting tool according
to the invention is that circulation of drilling fluids, cement or
other fluids to the bore hole or well (160), can be achieved via
the lifting tool. Drilling fluid can for example be supplied via a
flexible hose (7) at the lifting tools support anchor (5) and via
the piston rod (47) within the lifting tool lifting part (20). The
lifting tool lifting part (20) can for this purpose encompass a
connector (6) which is attached to the flexible hose (7),
preferably a high pressure hose (7) with the help of a union (7a)
and a bolted goose neck connection (8), preferably with a swivel,
for transfer of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid
to the piston rod (47) in the lifting part (20), connected to a
manifold or adapter (9) for venting of air during application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid form the top
drive (160).
[0043] FIG. 14 shows a section view of one embodiment of the piston
rod (47) in the lifting tool, where the piston rod encompasses an
axial cylindrical passage (147) designed for flowing drilling
fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid and another axial
cylindrical passage (148) for venting of air during the application
of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid.
[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lifting tool
lifting part (20) encompasses an additional housing (16) with a top
plate unit (17) or top plate (21). This housing (16) is arranged
with a main lifting shoulder (18) and a bottom plate (19). The top
plate unit is shown in FIG. 13, and can in one possible embodiment
include at least one, and preferably two circular plates (17a,b),
each with a center hole, with one or more web sections (17c)
arranged to stiffen the top plate unit (17) and arranged
principally normal to and between the top plates (17a,b), and where
the web sections (17c) are attached to the top plates (17a,b) by
welding, a mounting plate (149) arranged on the outside of the
upper top plate (17a), and a self-lubricating bushing (21a)
arranged between a lifting flange (48) on the piston rod(47) and
the other top plate (17b). The lifting flange (48) is among others
arranged to transfer load from the lifting tool piston rod (47) to
the lifting tool lifting part (20).
[0045] To rotate the lifting nipple (32), the lifting tool lifting
part (20) can include a nipple rotation system (90), which is
arranged for screwing the lifting nipples' (32) nipple cone (37) in
and out of the threaded end of a pipe length (3,4), which is to be
lifted or loosened. The nipple rotation system (90) can include one
or more hydraulic motors (91), each equipped with a gear sprocket
(93) mounted on a gear sprocket axle (94).
[0046] The lifting nipples' (32) lifting nipple axle (36) can also
be arranged with external splines (36a) and engaged by one or more
gear sprockets (93) of the nipple rotation system (90) to provide
rotation.
[0047] The top plate unit (17) can include a cylinder (17d),
preferably with a rotary hydraulic port coupling (17e), for inlet
(95), outlet (96) and case drain (97) for hydraulic oil from the
nipple rotation system (90), where the cylinder (17d) is arranged
concentric to the piston rod (47) and radially centered in the end
plates (17a,b). The lifting part (20) can also include a
cylindrically formed coaxial bearing cylinder (22) with a top plate
(22a) and a steering/stop plate (22b), where the coaxial bearing
cylinder (22) is arranged to guide the lifting nipple (32) into the
correct position for screwing into the pipe length (3,4). The main
lifting shoulder (18) on the lifting tool housing (16) is
preferably arranged to rest against the steering/stop plate (22b)
when the lifting tool is activated, and where the steering/stop
plate (22b is arranged to rest against the lifting nipple flange
(33) when the lifting nipple (32) is screwed in to the threaded end
of the pipe length (3,4).
[0048] The nipple rotation system (90) can be attached to the
coaxial bearing cylinder (22) with the use of one or more
attachment brackets (92).
[0049] For centering of the lifting tool in the pipe length (3,4),
the lifting tool lifting part (20) can also include a coaxial guide
tube (38), which is arranged concentric to the piston rod (47). The
lifting nipple (32) then can be arranged concentric to the coaxial
guide tube (38) and the lifting nipple is then arranged to move
along the coaxial guide tube (38) during the in and out screwing of
the pipe length (3,4). There can be arranged external threads (38a)
on the coaxial guide tube (38) to engage with the internal threads
(35) on the lifting nipple (32).
[0050] The coaxial guide tube (38) can be attached to a spring
compensation system (39) to accommodate tension forces between the
lifting nipple cone (37) external threads (34) and the internal
threads (3a) in the end of the pipe length (3,4), and between the
lifting nipple (32) internal threads (34) and the external threads
(38a) on the coaxial guide tube (38). The spring system (39) can
for example consist of two or more helical springs (39) or a spring
flange (38).
[0051] The lifting tool lifting part (20) can also encompass an
entry cone or expanding packing (142) (mud packer), preferably
consisting of an elastomer element (140), arranged concentrically
about the piston rod (47), configured for entry into the end of a
pipe length (3,4) and to expand against the internal diameter of
the pipe length (3,4) upon activation of the lifting tool. The
entry cone (140) can be attached to the piston rod with the use of
a bolted connection (143,144) or another appropriate attachment
method. The lifting part can also include an entry cone (141) with
a pliable support ring (146), where the entry cone (141) is
configured to enclose the end of the pipe length (3,4) or
pipe-string (2,3,4), contact and clamp the outside diameter of the
pipe length or pipe-string (2,3,4).
[0052] The lifting tool hydraulic system (40) is preferably a
double acting hydraulic cylinder mechanism consisting of a
hydraulic cylinder (42) with a cylinder base (44) and cylinder head
(41) and a piston (43) arranged concentric and attached to the
axial piston rod (47).
[0053] Activation of the lifting tool can by accomplished by
supplying pressurised hydraulic oil via a preferably radial inlet
(50) in connection with the anchor part (5) and via a primarily
vertical hydraulic passage (51) for hydraulic oil through the
piston rod (47) and with a radial outlet for the hydraulic oil from
the piston rod (47) under the piston (43) to activate the piston
(43) upwards. Similarly, deactivation is achieved when pressurised
hydraulic oil is supplied from the hydraulic cylinder (42) upper
part over the piston (43) to drive the internal clamp rings (29)
downwards such that the outer clamp segments (24) with friction
coating (27) are retracted from and release their grip on the inner
diameter of the pipe length (3,4).
[0054] The hydraulic system can also include a supply passage (51)
for hydraulic oil to one side of the hydraulic piston (43) in the
hydraulic cylinder (42), and an outlet passage (52) for hydraulic
oil to the other side of the piston (43) in the hydraulic cylinder
(42), where the inlet passage (51) and the outlet passage (52) run
through the piston rod (47) from the manifold (9).
[0055] The hydraulic cylinder (42) with the cylinder base (44) is
preferably connected to one side of the bearing cylinder (22) top
plate (22a), and where the spring system (38) with the coaxial
guide tube (37) is connected to the bearing cylinder (22) top plate
(22a) on the opposite side of the hydraulic cylinder (43) and
cylinder base (44).
[0056] The lifting tool lifting part (20) includes a clamp system
which is arranged to grip a pipe length or pipe-string (2,3,4)
which is to be lifted, and where the clamp system consists of at
least one set of opposing outer clamping ring segments (24) and
inner clamp ring segments (29), preferably with a sealing segment
or seal ring (29a) arranged on one side of the inner clamping
segment (29), which seal against the outer diameter of the pipe
length or pipe-string (2,3,4), and where the pipe length or
pipe-string (2,3,4) inner diameter is engaged by the entry cone
(140).
[0057] There can be arranged an indicator or sensor system as a
part of the lifting tool lifting part (20). The lifting part (20)
can for example include one or more independent sensors (15),
preferably spring loaded pressure sensors, for determination of the
lifting nipple (32) position with reference to the end of the pipe
length (3,4), and where each sensor (15) is connected to a limit
switch (14).
[0058] The outer housing (16) can also include one or more
inspection ports. This can be an advantage both for normal
inspection and in the event of a mechanical failure in the nipple
rotation system (90) or the lifting nipple (32) has become stuck or
jammed. Should the lifting nipple become stuck a manual release
system can be used. This system encompasses one or more lugs or
slots on the lifting nipple flange (33), for manual manipulation
with the use of pry bars or levers.
Internal Running Lifting Tool(IRE)
[0059] FIG. 1a is a schematic partial section of a version of a
lifting tool according to the invention, here shown as a lifting
tool with internal running lifting part (IRE). FIG. 1b is a
magnified schematic section view of FIG. 1a, which shows details of
a central piston rod (47) and a part of the hydraulic system (40)
of the lifting tool.
[0060] The lifting tool can manipulate and lift oil & gas well
casing strings (2) and sections (3,4) during connecting and
installation or extraction and removal of casing or conductor,
risers, drill strings, or other tubular goods, in a well (160) or
bore hole (160). The lifting tool consists of a lifting part (20)
with a coaxial piston rod (47), a mounting interface part (5) for
connection to a top drive (60) providing lifting force, or derrick
crane (60), and a hydraulic system (40) which is designed to hold
the lifting part (20) fixed to the inner diameter of the end of the
pipe length (3).
[0061] The novelty of this lifting tool is that the lifting tool
lifting part (20) includes a clamping system with internal clamping
segments or clamping rings (29) attached to the piston rod (47),
where the internal clamping segments or clamping rings (29) are
configured to move in an axial direction inwards under the outer
clamping segments (24) and thus press the outer clamping segments
(24) radially outward, where the outer clamping segments are
equipped with radially oriented friction surface (27) to grip the
inner diameter of the pipe length (2), where the outer clamping
segments (24) are pressed directly or indirectly by a top plate
(21) which a hydraulic cylinder (42) connected to the top plate
(21), and where the hydraulic cylinder (42) piston (43) is fixed to
the piston rod (47) which itself drives the inner clamping rings
(29) upwards in relation to the outer clamping segments (24) and
thus causing the friction surface (27) to expand outwards and grip
the inner diameter of the casing section (2).
[0062] The lifting tool lifting part (20) in the preferred
embodiment is configured for rotation about the axial piston rod
(47), such that the lifting part (20) with the pipe length (3,4) is
configured for a controlled treading of the pipe length (3) onto a
standing pipe-string (2), and where the lifting part (20) is
configured for carrying part or all of the weight of the standing
pipe-string (2).
[0063] The lifting part (20) inner clamping rings (29) can be
attached to the piston rod (47) via a bearing cylinder (22), which
is attached to a coaxial base plate (30), which in turn is fixed to
the piston rod (47) with an adapter (48) and locked in place with a
hex nut (143,144).
[0064] The lifting part (20) outer clamping segments (24) and inner
clamping rings (29) are preferably arranged in pairs in several
levels between the base plate (30) and top plate (21). The outer
clamping segments (24) can also be separated axially by spacing
rings (26).
[0065] The lifting tool hydraulic system (40) is preferably a
double acting hydraulic cylinder mechanism consisting of a
hydraulic cylinder (42) with a cylinder base (44) and cylinder head
(41) and a piston (43) arranged concentric and attached to the
axial piston rod (47).
[0066] Activation of the lifting tool can by accomplished by
supplying pressurised hydraulic oil via a preferably radial inlet
(50) in connection with the anchor part (5) and via a primarily
vertical hydraulic passage (51) for hydraulic oil through the
piston rod (47) and with a radial outlet for the hydraulic oil from
the piston rod (47) under the piston (43) to activate the piston
(43) upwards.
[0067] Deactivation of the lifting tool is achieved when
pressurised hydraulic oil is supplied from the hydraulic cylinder
(42) upper part over the piston (43) to drive the internal clamp
rings (29) downwards such that the outer clamp segments (24) with
friction coating (27) are retracted from and release their grip on
the inner diameter of the pipe length (3,4).
[0068] The lifting part (20) is preferably capable of rotation
about a horizontal axis and configured for grasping a horizontal or
near horizontal laying pipe length (3,4).
[0069] An additional advantage provided by a lifting tool according
to the invention is that circulation of drilling fluids, cement or
other fluids to the bore hole or well (160), can be achieved via
the lifting tool. The lifting tool can be configured for
circulation of drilling fluids via a flexible hose (7) connected to
the lifting tool support (5) and via the piston rod (47) in the
lifting tool lifting part (20).
[0070] The lifting tool lifting part (20) can for this purpose
encompass a connector (6) which is attached to the flexible hose
(7), preferably a high pressure hose (7) with the help of a union
(7a) and a bolted goose neck connection (8), preferably with a
swivel, for transfer of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or
other fluid to the piston rod (47) in the lifting part (20),
connected to a manifold or adapter (9) for venting of air during
application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid
form the top drive (60).
[0071] The lifting tool lifting part (20) can be hung free to
rotate from the elevator device (70) from the piston rod (47),
preferably via a shoulder or recess on the piston rod (47).
[0072] A tilting arm (10) can facilitate rotation of the lifting
part (20). The tilting arm (10) in one embodiment has one end (10a)
arranged concentrically around the piston rod (47), and the other
end (10b) which is connected to a telescoping hydraulic lifting
cylinder (61) mounted on the top drive (60), preferably with a
chain or other suitable connection.
[0073] The lifting tool lifting part (20) can preferably include a
locking mechanism, where locking slots (5a) are oriented
concentrically around and connect to the piston rod (47), where the
tilting arm (10) is movable under pressure, preferably with a
spring loaded joint (10a) in the tilting arm (10), and where the
movable tilting arm (10,10a) is arranged for movement from an
initial unlocked position passively engaging upon rotation of the
lifting part (20) in one of the locking slots in the slotted flange
(5a) to a locked position, preventing rotation of the entire
lifting tool. The spring loaded joint (10a) is arranged for
unlocking the tilting arm (10) upon retraction of the spring loaded
joint (10a) from a position where the lifting tool lifting part
(20) has moved from an initial position and returned to the initial
position.
[0074] The lifting tool according to claim 37, where the lifting
part (20) encompasses an entry cone or expanding packing (140) (mud
packer), preferably an elastomer packing (140), arranged concentric
to the piston rod (47), arranged for entering the end of a pipe
length (3,4) and to expand against the pipe length (3,4) inner
diameter upon activation of the lifting tool, and where the entry
cone (140) is fixed to the piston rod via a bolted connection
(143,144).
[0075] The piston rod (47) can in one embodiment (see FIG. 14)
encompass a passage for application of drilling fluid, drilling
mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mix, and another passage (148)
for venting of air during application of drilling fluid, drilling
mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mix.
[0076] The lifting tool lifting part (20) can also be configured
for one or more independent sensors (15), preferably spring loaded
pressure sensors, for determination of the entry cone (140)
position with reference to the end of the pipe length (3,4), and
where each sensor (15) is connected to a limit switch (14).
External Running Lifting Tool (ERE)
[0077] FIG. 3a-b are schematic views of another embodiment of a
lifting tool according to the invention, here shown in a
configuration where the lifting tool encompasses a clamping system
which grips the outside diameter of one end of a pipe length or
pipe-string. FIG. 3a shows a lifting tool in the inactive or
deactivated condition, ready to grip the top of a threaded pipe
length, FIG. 3b shows the lifting tool in the activated or engaged
condition.
[0078] The lifting tool can manipulate and lift oil & gas well
casing strings (2) and sections (3,4) during connecting and
installation or extraction and removal of casing or conductor,
risers, drill strings, or other tubular goods, in a well (160) or
bore hole (160). The lifting tool consists of a lifting part (20)
with a coaxial piston rod (47), a mounting interface part (5) for
connection to a top drive (60) providing lifting force, or derrick
crane (60), and a hydraulic system (40) which is designed to hold
the lifting part (20) fixed to the outer diameter of the end of the
pipe length (3).
[0079] The novelty of this lifting tool is that the lifting tool
lifting part (20) includes a clamping system with one or more pairs
of internal clamping segments or clamping rings (29) and outer
clamping segments (29), where the lifting part (20) with the
clamping system is configured to grip the outer diameter of the end
of a pipe length (3,4) below the threaded section of the pipe
length (3,4), and where the clamping system is configured to be
self locking such that the pipe length (3,4) own weight will
increase the clamping force and thus prevent any loss of grip on
the pipe length (3,4) in the event of hydraulic system failure.
[0080] The lifting part (20) is preferably capable of rotation
about a horizontal axis and configured for grasping a horizontal or
near horizontal laying pipe length (3,4); and where the lifting
tool lifting part (20) in the preferred embodiment is configured
for rotation about the axial piston rod (47), such that the lifting
part (20) with the pipe length (3,4) is configured for a controlled
threading of the pipe length (3) onto a standing pipe-string (2),
and where the lifting part (20) is configured for carrying part or
all of the weight of the standing pipe-string (2).
[0081] One of the many advantages provided by a lifting tool
according to the invention is that circulation of drilling fluids,
cement or other fluids to the bore hole or well (160), can be
achieved via the lifting tool. The lifting tool can be configured
for circulation of drilling fluids via a flexible hose (7)
connected to the lifting tool support (5) and via the piston rod
(47) in the lifting tool lifting part (20).
[0082] The piston rod (47) can encompass a lifting flange (48)
configured to transfer load forces from the lifting tool piston rod
(47) to the lifting tool lifting part (20). The piston rod (47) can
also include a passage to accommodate the addition of drilling
fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix and
another passage for venting of air during the addition of drilling
fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix.
[0083] The lifting part (20) can encompass a connector (6) which is
attached to a high pressure hose (7) with a union (7a), for the
addition of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or
fluid mix from the top drive (60); and a bolted goose neck
connection (8), preferably with a swivel, for application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix
to the piston rod (47) in the lifting part (20), connected to a
manifold or adapter (9) for venting of air during application of
drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix
from the top drive (60).
[0084] The lifting tool lifting part (20) is hung free to rotate
from the elevator device (70) from the piston rod (47), preferably
via a shoulder or recess (13) on the piston rod (47).
[0085] A tilting arm (10) can facilitate rotation of the lifting
part (20). The tilting arm (10) in one embodiment has one end (10a)
arranged concentrically around the piston rod (47), and the other
end (10b) which is connected to a telescoping hydraulic lifting
cylinder (61) mounted on the top drive (60), preferably with a
chain or other suitable connection.
[0086] For gripping the pipe length (3,4) the lifting part (20) can
encompass an entry cone (141) with a compliant support ring (146),
where the entry cone (141) is configured to envelope an end of the
pipe length or pipe-string (2,3,4) and clamp against the outside
diameter of the pipe length or pipe-string (2,3,4).
[0087] The lifting tool hydraulic system (40) is preferably a
double acting hydraulic cylinder mechanism consisting of a
hydraulic cylinder (42) with a cylinder base (44) and cylinder head
(41) and a piston (43) arranged concentric and attached to the
axial piston rod (47).
[0088] Activation of the lifting tool can by accomplished by
supplying pressurised hydraulic oil via a preferably radial inlet
(50) in connection with the anchor part (5) and via a primarily
vertical hydraulic passage (51) for hydraulic oil through the
piston rod (47) and with a radial outlet for the hydraulic oil from
the piston rod (47) under the piston (43) to activate the piston
(43) upwards.
[0089] Deactivation of the lifting tool is achieved when
pressurised hydraulic oil is supplied from the hydraulic cylinder
(42) upper part over the piston (43) to drive the internal clamp
rings (29) downwards such that the outer clamp segments (24) with
friction coating (27) are retracted from and release their grip on
the inner diameter of the pipe length (3,4).
[0090] The lifting tool hydraulic system (40) can also include a
supply passage (51) for hydraulic oil to one side of the hydraulic
piston (43) in the hydraulic cylinder (42), and an outlet passage
(52) for hydraulic oil to the other side of the piston (43) in the
hydraulic cylinder (42), where the inlet passage (51) and the
outlet passage (52) run through the piston rod (47) from the
manifold (9).
[0091] There can be arranged an indicator or sensor system as a
part of the lifting tool lifting part (20). The lifting part (20)
can for example include one or more independent sensors (15),
preferably spring loaded pressure sensors, for determination of the
lifting nipple (32) position with reference to the end of the pipe
length (3,4), and where each sensor (15) is connected to a limit
switch (14).
[0092] The lifting tool lifting part (20) can preferably include a
locking mechanism, where locking slots (5a) are oriented
concentrically around and connect to the piston rod (47), where the
tilting arm (10) is movable under pressure, preferably with a
spring loaded joint (10a) in the tilting arm (10), and where the
movable tilting arm (10,10a) is arranged for movement from an
initial unlocked position passively engaging upon rotation of the
lifting part (20) in one of the locking slots in the slotted flange
(5a) to a locked position, preventing rotation of the entire
lifting tool. The spring loaded joint (10a) is arranged for
unlocking the tilting arm (10) upon retraction of the spring loaded
joint (10a) from a position where the lifting tool lifting part
(20) has moved from an initial position and returned to the initial
position.
[0093] The lifting tool preferred embodiment comprises: [0094] a
lifting part (20) which encompasses a coaxial piston rod (47), and
a support part (5) for attachment to and receive lifting power from
a top drive or derrick crane (60) [0095] a hydraulic system (40)
which is configured to lock the lifting part (20) to the outer
diameter of the end of a pipe length (3,4), where the hydraulic
system (40) with a hydraulic piston (43) connected to the piston
rod (47) and arranged in a hydraulic cylinder (42) [0096] a
clamping system I the lifting tool lifting part (20) with one or
more pairs of inner (24) and outer clamping segments (29), where
the lifting part (20) with clamping system is configured to grasp
the end of a pipe length (3,4) [0097] an outer housing (16) with a
top plate (21), and where the outer housing (16) encompasses a main
lifting shoulder (18) and base plate (19) with a central opening
for receiving a pipe length (2,3,4) to be grasped [0098] a bearing
cylinder (22) with a guide or stop plate (22b), a bearing cylinder
base (22d) with central opening, a center plate (22e) and an
internal bearing cylinder (22f); where the pressure on the piston
(43) upon application of hydraulic pressure pushes the piston (43)
and the piston rod (47) and the outer housing (16) upwards together
with the outer housing base plate (19) and the outer clamping
segments (24), such that the bearing cylinder (22) and the stop
plate (22b) with the inner clamping segments (29) are pushed
downwards in relation to the outer clamping segments (24) with the
result that the inner clamping segments (29) are forced inwards to
clamp against the pipe length (3,4) outer diameter.
[0099] The outer housing (16) can also include a top plate unit
(17), for example as described earlier for the INTRE and IRE. The
outer housing top plate unit (17) can include at least one and
preferably two plates (17a,b), each with a central opening; one or
more web sections (17c) configured for stiffening of the top plate
unit (17) and oriented primarily normal to the and between the top
plates (17a,b), and where the web sections (17c) are attached to
the top plates (17a,b) preferably with a welded connection; a
mounting plate (149) arranged on the outside of one of the plates
(17a); and a self lubricating bushing arranged between a lifting
flange (48) on the piston rod (47) and the other top plate
(17b).
[0100] A major advantage of this embodiment is that the clamping
system is self-locking wand will develop increased locking force as
the weight carried by the lifting tool increases (weight energised
locking).
Lifting System
[0101] FIGS. 4a-b to 12a-b illustrates how a lifting system
according to the invention can function.
[0102] The lifting system can lift or lower pipe length (3,4) and a
pipe-string (2), during joining and lowering or lifting and
disassembling of conductor, casing, riser, drill string or similar
in a bore hole (160) or well (160). The lifting system consists of
a lifting tool with a lifting part (20) and a support part (5)
connected to an elevator device (70) which is mounted in a top
drive (60) and where the lifting part (20) shall work in
conjunction with a power slip (150) which is configured to receive
and hold a standing pipe length length or pipe-string (2);
The novelty of the lifting system is described as follows:
[0103] the lifting tool lifting part (20) is configured for easy
installation and removal from an elevator device (70); [0104] the
elevator device is configured to orient the lifting part (20) such
that the lifting tool can engage the end of a pipe length (3,4) and
be activated; [0105] the elevator device (70) and the lifting tool
upon the application of lifting force and activation of the lifting
tool lifting part (20) is configured to lift the lifting tool
lifting part (20) with the pipe length (3,4) for joining with or
mounting on the pipe-string (2) below; and [0106] the lifting tool
and lifting tool support part (5) are configured for application or
circulation of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid
or fluid mix to the bore hole or well (160).
[0107] The lifting tool lifting part (20) can be configured for
replaceable/removable use in the elevator device (70), preferably
in an upper section or lifting shoulder (13) of the piston rod
(47). The lifting tool lifting part (20) can also be configured for
about a horizontal or near horizontal axis, in the elevator device
(70), to engage an end of a horizontal or near horizontal pipe
length (3,4), and to grip the inner or outer diameter of the end of
the pipe length (3,4).
[0108] The lifting system in another embodiment of the invention
encompasses a rotation apparatus (power tongs) (80) which is
configured for rotation of the lifting tool lifting part (20) with
the pipe length (3,4) about the piston rod (47), for a controlled
threading of the pipe length (3,4) together with the standing
pipe-string (2), and where the lifting tool lifting part (20) is
configured to carry all or part of the resulting load of the
resulting pipe length (2).
[0109] The rotation apparatus (80) can for example include a
clamping device, or a pair of power tongs (81) which are configured
to hold fixed a pipe length or pipe-string (2), and a torque device
or second set of power tongs (82) configured for rotation of the
lifting part (20) and pipe length (3,4) for joining with the
pipe-string with the help of a torque or rotation motor.
[0110] The lifting tool can be configured to receive lifting force
from a top drive (60) for activation of the lifting tool, such that
the lifting tool after activation of the lifting tool lifting part
(20) against the pipe length (3,4) inner or outer diameter, is
capable of lifting the pipe length (3,4) or pipe-string (2,3,4),
and directed to a rotary table (161) for joining of the pipe length
(3,4) with the pipe-string (2) below.
[0111] A pipe handling machine (tube feeding machine) can be
arranged for placing pipe length (3,4) in position for engagement
by the lifting tool lifting part (20).
[0112] The lifting system can also include a manipulator arm (170)
for placing the far end of a pipe length (3,4) from the pipe
handling machine (180) to the vertical position over the standing
pipe-string (2) below.
[0113] The elevator device can be of any type. One example us such
an elevator device appropriate for use is the BX-Elevator,
manufactured by VarcoBJ, USA, which has replaceable adapters for
differing pipe length diameters, however other types of elevators
can be used. On such elevator device (70) can include and elevator
(71), where the elevator (71) is mounted capable of rotation in two
link arms (75), where a hydraulic motor is used for rotation of the
elevator (71) about the axis defined by the link arm supports, and
which is held by a clamping mechanism, preferably a parallel link
(76), such that the link arms do not rotate in relation to each
other. The elevator (71) encompasses adapters (74) for varying pipe
length diameters and the elevator itself is available in different
sizes.
Method for Lifting of Pipe lengths for Joining to a Pipe String
[0114] The method for lifting of pipe length (3,4) for jointing to
a pipe-string (2), as well as conductor, casing, risers, or similar
for use in a bore hole or well (160) with the use of a lifting
system and lifting tool is illustrated in FIG. 4a-b to 12a-b. The
method includes the following steps: [0115] the pipe length (3,4)
into position with the lifting tool lifting part (20) [0116] the
lifting tool lifting part (20) engages one end of the pipe length
(3,4) which will be the upper end of the pipe length (3,4) [0117]
the lifting part is activated by a hydraulic system (40) to clamp
the inner or outer diameter of the pipe length (3,4) [0118] a top
drive or derrick crane (60) lifts the lifting tool with the pipe
length (3,4) to the vertical or near vertical position over a
standing pipe length or pipe-string (2) [0119] the lower end of the
now vertical or near vertical pipe length (3,4) is joined with the
standing pipe-string (2) below to create a lengthened pipe-string
(2) [0120] the resulting pipe-string (2) is lowered and held in
position by a power slip (150) which is configured to hold the
pipe-string (2) in the drilling deck [0121] the resulting
pipe-string (2) is released from the power slip (150) such that it
hangs from the top drive (60) and lifting tool [0122] the resulting
pipe-string (2) is lowered and again held in place by the power
slip (150); and [0123] the lifting tool is released from the end of
the resulting pipe-string (2)
[0124] The method can also include the following step: [0125] the
lifting tool support part (5) is placed or held in the elevator
device (70), preferably it an upper part or lifting shoulder (13)
on the piston rod, prior to the pipe length (3,4) being positioned
for engagement by the lifting tool
[0126] The method can also include the following step: [0127] the
lifting tool lifting part (2) is rotated about a predominantly
horizontal axis in a elevator device (70), with the help of a
tilting arm (10) which in one end is fixed to the lifting tool
support part (5) and in the other end to a lifting cylinder (61) if
the top drive (60), from a predominantly vertical initial position
to a position ready for engagement with the horizontal or near
horizontal pipe length (3). [0128] the pipe length (3) is moved
forward and into the lifting tool lifting part with the help of a
tube feeding machine (TFM) for activation of the lifting tool
lifting part (20)
[0129] The method can also include the following step: [0130] as
the pipe length (3) is moved forward on the tube feeding machine
(TFM), the other end of the pipe length (3) is moved to the
standing pipe-string (2) by a manipulator arm (170); and [0131] the
lifting tool and pipe length (3) are lowered to the standing
pipe-string (2) for joining with the standing pipe-string (2)
[0132] The method can also include the following step: [0133]
joining of the pipe length (3) and the pipe-string (2) is
accomplished by threading of the opposite end of the pipe length
(3) into the threaded end of the pipe-string (2) through rotation
of the lifting tool lifting part in the upper end of the pipe
length (3) about the lifting tool main axis with the use of a
rotation system (80).
[0134] The method can also include the following step: [0135] upon
activation of the lifting tool a clamping system (24,29) in the
lifting tool lifting part (20) clamps against one or both of the
pipe length (3,4) inner and outer diameters with the use of a
piston hydraulic system (40).
[0136] The method can also include the following step: [0137] upon
activation of the lifting tool an entry cone or expanding packing
(140) is pressed against the pipe length (3,4) inner diameter.
[0138] The method can also include the following step: [0139]
threading of a lifting nipple (32) into the threaded end of the
upper or next upper end of the pipe length (3,4), preferably with
the help of a nipple rotation system (90).
[0140] The method can also include the following step: [0141] upon
release of the lifting tool from the pipe-string (2), the clamping
system (24,29) in the lifting tool lifting part (20) is released
from the pipe-string (2) end with the help of the hydraulic system
(40), such that the lifting tool can be moved to a start
position.
[0142] The method can also include the following step: [0143] upon
release of the lifting tool from the pipe-string (2), the lifting
nipple (32) is screwed out of the threaded end section of the
pipe-string (2), preferably with the help of the nipple rotation
system (90), or manually with the help of a manual release system
for the lifting nipple, and thereafter release the clamping system
(24,29) from the pipe-string (2) end.
[0144] The method can also include the following step: [0145]
progress in the feeding of the pipe length (3) is monitored by an
indicator system, preferably with on or more independent sensors
(14,15) each connected to a limit switch, which ensure that the
feeding of the pipe length is stopped at the appropriate moment to
avoid damage to the end of the pipe length, and which indicates
centering of the lifting tool lifting part (20) in the end of the
pipe length (3,4) to be grasped by the lifting tool. Example of
Method for use of a Lifting System According to the Invention,
Where the Lifting Tool Encompasses an Internal Running Lifting
Nipple
[0146] The following describes an example of the method for joining
of pipe length (3,4) and pipe-string (2).
[0147] The lifting tool hangs from an elevator and is swung/tilted
up with the help of a lifting cylinder (61) to the desired angle,
such that the angle between the lifting cylinder (61) and the
vertical axis of the rotary table (161) matches the angle between
the horizontal plane and the central axis of the pipe length (3)
laying ready for the tube feeding machine (TFM). Thereafter the
pipe length (3) is driven into the lifting tool until the indicator
or sensor system (14,15) shows that the pipe length has come into
the proper position. Furthermore the lifting tool is activated by a
hydraulic system (40). A clamping system with outer clamping
segments (24) and inner clamping segments (29,29a) clamp about the
pipe length (3) outer diameter with the required force. An internal
running entry cone, or elastomer packing or cylinder (140) expands
outward against the inner diameter of the pipe length (3) such that
the required holding force is generated, and the lifting tool is
centered in the pipe length (3). Should the lifting tool fail to be
properly centered in the pipe length, there is a risk that the
lifting nipple (32) could be subjected to an amount of bending due
to its own weight, which can result in damage to the threaded end
section of the pipe length. This can result in the requirement that
the pipe length must be removed and replaced, which is a time
consuming and expansive operation.
[0148] The lifting nipple (32) is screwed into the threaded end
section of the pipe length with the help of the nipple rotation
system 90.
[0149] When the lifting tool is engaged into the end of the pipe
length (3), there is an automatic locking of the lifting tool to
the tilting arm (10) to prevent rotation of the pipe length (3)
during the threading in of the lifting nipple (32) while the pipe
length lays in the tube feeding machine.
[0150] The lifting process begins with the top drive providing
lifting force to and lifting the elevator device (70) with the
lifting tool and the pipe length (3), simultaneously the tube
feeding machine (TFM) drives the pipe length towards the rotaty
table or rotary table axis (161). The hydraulic system for the top
drive (60) lifting cylinder (61) and elevator device is released.
The pipe length is thereafter lifted to the primarily vertical
position. A manipulator arm holds and leads the opposite end of the
pipe length (3) to be handled in the rotary table (161).
[0151] When the lifting tool has lifted the pipe length (3) into
the primarily vertical position for joining with the standing
pipe-string (2) below held in place by the power slip (150), the
connection between the lifting tool and the lifting cylinder (61)
is loosened such that the lifting tool lifting part (20) with the
pipe length (3) is free to rotate about the primary axis of the
lifting tool.
[0152] A power tong set (81) is placed on the pipe-string (2) which
is held by the power slip or clamping arrangement and holds the
pipe-string (2) in the fixed position, to prevent rotation of the
pipe length or pipe-string. A second set of power tongs (82) engage
the opposite end of the pipe length (3) which is to be screwed into
the pipe-string (2) which is held by the power slip or clamping
arrangement (150), and begins threading the pipe length (3) onto
the pipe-string (2) held by the clamping arrangement or power slip
(150).
[0153] The resulting pipe-string (2) is lifted such that the power
slip can release its grip on the pipe-string (2). Thereafter the
resulting pipe-string (2) is lowered to a position where it can
again be held in place by the power slip (150).
[0154] The lifting tool is released by un-screwing the lifting
nipple (32), and subsequently operating the hydraulic piston (43)
on the piston rod (47) in the hydraulic cylinder (42) downwards
such that the clamping system in the lifting part (20) and the
entry cone (141) are released from the pipe-string (2) outer
diameter, and the entry cone (140) is disengaged from the
pipe-string (2) inner diameter and returns to its original form.
The lifting tool can now be lifted to the desired standby position.
A new pipe length is fed forward, and the process can start again
as needed.
[0155] The lifting system with a lifting tool according to the
invention has several advantages; it can lift a pipe length (3) for
joining with a standing pipe-string (2) below, the lifting tool
lifting part (20) can rotate about the piston rod (47), and it is
possible to fill or circulate drill fluid via the lifting tool to
the bore hole, for example drilling mud, to maintain pressure in
the bore hole or well (160). The lifting tool can also be used with
varying pipe length dimensions. The lifting nipple in the lifting
tool with internal running lifting nipple (32) can be manufactured
with varying thread types, while the lifting nipple flange (33)
threads are matched to the lifting shoulder on the lifting
tool.
LIST OF PART NUMBER REFERENCES
[0156] 1 lifting tool [0157] 2 a second pipe length or pipe string
[0158] 3 the first length of pipe to be lifted and joined with pipe
length or pipe string (2) [0159] 4 a third pipe length to be joined
with the first pipe length (3) [0160] 5 connection piece [0161] 6
adapter for supply of drilling fluid, drilling mud [0162] 7 high
pressure hose for drilling fluid, drilling mud [0163] 8 bolted
goose neck connection, preferably with swivel [0164] 9
manifold/adapter for hydraulic fluid and venting of air [0165] 10
tilting arm for lifting assistance [0166] 11 compensating joint,
for example a spring loaded joint [0167] 10b locking system for
prevention of rotation of lifting part (20) during in-threading of
lifting nipple [0168] 11 internal threads in the end of a pipe
length (3,4) or pipe string (2) [0169] 12 external threads in the
other end of a pipe length (3,4) [0170] 13 recess/lifting shoulder
on the piston rod (47) [0171] 14 limit switch [0172] 15 indicator
or sensor system to verify that the lifting tool has the proper
position with respect to the pipe length to be lifted; can be a
spring loaded indicator to determine when the lifting nipple is in
the correct position for lifting, preferably one or more sensors
which are independent of each other where each sensor is connected
to a limit switch (14) [0173] 16 housing for internal running
lifting tool with threaded nipple or clamping system, in fixed
position [0174] 17 top plate unit for lifting part (20) [0175]
17a,b circular disks/plates with central hole [0176] 17c web
stiffeners welded into position between 17a,b to stiffen the top
plate unit 17 [0177] 17d cylinder with spindle system for inlet
(95), outlet (96) and case drain (97) of hydraulic oil for the
nipple rotation system (90) [0178] 17e spindle system [0179] 18
main lifting shoulder [0180] 19 base plate for top plate unit (17)
[0181] 20 lifting part [0182] 21 top plate of lifting part (20)
[0183] 21a self lubricating bushing positioned between the top
plate unit (17), or top plate (21), and lifting flange (48) on the
piston rod (47) [0184] 21b [0185] 22 bearing cylinder [0186] 22a
top plate for bearing cylinder (22) [0187] 22b guide or stop plate
with lifting flange (22c) [0188] 22c lifting flange [0189] 22d
bearing cylinder plate with central hole [0190] 22e central plate
[0191] 22f inner bearing cylinder [0192] 23 metal inserts [0193] 24
outer clamping segments or outer clamping rings [0194] 25 mounting
ring for bolts (31a) which hold base plate (30) [0195] 26 distance
pieces/spacing rings [0196] 27 friction coating [0197] 28 metal or
composite friction inserts [0198] 29 inner clamping segments or
inner clamping ring [0199] 29a gasket on the inner clamping
segments or inner clamping ring [0200] 30 base plate for lifting
part [0201] 31a bolts which fasten base plate (30) [0202] 31b bolts
which fasten entry cone (140) [0203] 31c bolts for fixing ring
(146) [0204] 32 lifting nipple [0205] 33 lifting nipple flange
[0206] 34 external threads on the lifting nipple cone (36) [0207]
35 internal threads on the lifting nipple [0208] 36 hollow coaxial
lifting nipple axle [0209] 36a external threads on lifting nipple
axle [0210] 37 lifting nipple cone [0211] 38 coaxial guide tube
[0212] 38a external threads on the coaxial guide tube (38) [0213]
38b internal threads on the coaxial guide tube (38) [0214] 39
spring system, spiral springs or spiral krans [0215] 40 hydraulic
piston [0216] 41 piston cylinder plate [0217] 42 hydraulic cylinder
[0218] 43 piston [0219] 44 piston cylinder base [0220] 44a base
gasket in the hydraulic cylinder (42) [0221] 45 bolts for fastening
of the hydraulic cylinder (42) to the piston cylinder base (44)
[0222] 46a,b first and second o-rings [0223] 47 piston rod [0224]
48 lifting flange on piston rod (47) [0225] 48a spacer [0226] 49
piston rod hex nut for base plate [0227] 50 inlet for hydraulic oil
[0228] 51 inlet passage for hydraulic oil to one side of the piston
(43) in the hydraulic cylinder (42) [0229] 52 outlet passage for
hydraulic oil from the other side of the piston (43) in the
hydraulic cylinder [0230] 53 [0231] 60 torsionally rigid
support/derrick crane/drive unit/top drive/drilling machine [0232]
61 telescopic hydraulic driven lifting cylinder with chain
connection to tilting arm (10) [0233] 62 support arrangement for
mud/hydraulic hose [0234] 64 support for link arms which are
capable of rotation about a horizontal axis [0235] 65 bearing
[0236] 66 [0237] 67 [0238] 68 [0239] 70 elevator device, for
example a BX elevator where there is an arrangement of removable
adapters for differing pipe diameter, where the adapters can
include lifting shoulders. Found on most drill rigs/production
ships. [0240] 71 elevator [0241] 72 hydraulic motor for rotation of
elevator (71) [0242] 73 [0243] 74 removable adapters for elevator
(71) [0244] 75 link arms, one or more capable of rotation anchored
in the elevator (71) [0245] 76 clamp/parallel link for holding link
arms such that they do not rotate with respect to each other [0246]
80 rotation apparatus [0247] 81 power tongs/clamping device one or
more sets, first to hold lowered pipe string (2) [0248] 82 power
tongs/clamping device one or more sets, second to rotate lifting
tool with pipe string (2) [0249] 83 torque/rotation motor for
rotation of lifting part (20) and pipe length (3,4) to be joined
with lowered pipe string (2) [0250] 90 nipple rotation system
[0251] 91 hydraulic motor [0252] 92 mounting bracket for hydraulic
motor [0253] 93 gear sprocket for rotation of lifting nipple [0254]
94 axle for gear sprocket (93) [0255] 95 inlet passage for
hydraulic oil to hydraulic motor (91) [0256] 96 outlet passage for
hydraulic oil from hydraulic motor (91) [0257] 97 case drain
passage [0258] 100 [0259] 110 swing damper [0260] 120 inspection
opening [0261] 121 lugs for manually loosening lifting nipple (32)
for example with the use of a lever/bar, in the event that it is
required, for example a fault in the nipple rotation system
hydraulic passages. [0262] 130 [0263] 140 entry cone [0264] 141
entry guide [0265] 142 expanding elastomer or rubber seal/mud
packer [0266] 143 fastening bolt for piston rod [0267] 144 distance
pieces/spacer washers for fastening bolt (143) [0268] 145 seal
plate between piston rod (47) and [0269] 146 backing ring [0270]
147 passage for drilling fluid, drilling mud [0271] 148 passage for
venting of air [0272] 149 mounting plate for disk on top of top
plate unit [0273] 150 power slip, clamping system in the drill
floor which is configured for holding a pipe length or pipe string
(2) [0274] 151 inner clamping ring in power slip [0275] 152 outer
clamping ring in power slip [0276] 153 rotary support table [0277]
154 hydraulic motor which control opening and closing of rotary
support table (153) [0278] 155 doors in the power slip (150) [0279]
160 bore hole or well [0280] 161 rorsenter [0281] 170 manipulator
arm [0282] 180 tube feeding machine
* * * * *