DE202012004882U1 - Pipe guiding device, pipe slide and roller block - Google Patents

Abstract

Pipe guiding device for guiding a pipe to be inserted into a subsurface, comprising a main frame for holding the components of the pipe guiding device and at least two guide elements for engaging and guiding a pipe, the at least two guiding elements defining a through opening, the through opening having an axial axis, which corresponds to an axial direction of the tube, characterized in that the pipe guiding device further comprises an auxiliary frame, the at least two guide elements being attached to the auxiliary frame, the auxiliary frame being attached to the main frame and the auxiliary frame in relation to the main frame about an axial axis is rotatable.

Description

The present invention relates to a pipe guide device for guiding a pipe. A pipe guide device is, for example, a bracket for supporting and guiding a pipe or a pipe slide for exerting an axial thrust force on a pipe. With the pipe guide device, a method for laying a pipe in a substrate can be performed.

EP 2,192,259 discloses in the name of the same Applicant a pipe pusher for use in a horizontal directional drilling (HDD) process. The pipe pusher comprises a frame provided with support members for placing it on a ground, and at least three drivable endless conveying elements drivably connected to the frame and together defining a feedthrough opening for a production pipeline. The endless conveying elements are configured to exert a thrust on the delivery pipe if the delivery pipe is passed through the passage opening. The disclosed pipe gate is particularly suitable when introducing pipes susceptible to damage such as PE piping. The endless conveying elements have relatively large friction surfaces, which allows a high thrust to be advantageously applied to the delivery pipeline in the axial direction without the need for high force pressing the endless conveying elements in the radial direction against the delivery pipeline. This prevents slippage, and the production tubing remains undamaged and undeformed due to the more evenly distributed feed forces. It is easier for the production tubing to go through bends at the original beginning and end of the excavated shaft.

In practice, it has been found that the known pipe slide is not completely satisfactory. A disadvantage of the known pipe slide of EP 2,192,259 In this context, when using the pipe slide, damage such as cracks or scratches on some special piping may still occur. In particular, when installing product pipes, such as PE pipes, these pipes are prone to damage.

Numerous methods and devices have been developed in the past for laying pipelines in wellbores and thus traversing sensitive regions on the surface of the earth for which laying in open trenches was not feasible or advisable for technical, environmental, legal or economic reasons , Such trenchless laying may be useful, for example, if the surface in the relocation region can not be crossed by heavy construction machinery (eg wetlands, waters), or if, under the ecological aspect, no building permit can be granted (for example in nature reserves) or if the use of conventional laying techniques would be too expensive (in case of large laying depths and high groundwater level, for example).

The literature provides detailed information about these laying methods that have already been used and tried and tested. In this context, a classification of the processes on the basis of the controllability (controlled, uncontrolled procedures), the soil treatment (soil displacement, soil removal), the transport of cuttings (mechanical, hydraulic) and the number of operations (pre-drilling, Nachräumen, Nachführungs- or Plug-in operation) has been established. Other distinguishing features are, for example, the basic geometric configuration of the drilling axis (straight, curved) and the pipe materials (for example, concrete, PE, cast iron, steel, etc.), which are to be laid using the respective method.

DE 10 2006 020 339.9 discloses a so-called "direct pipe"("DP") process for introducing large diameter gas and oil piping into the earth. A gas or oil pipeline is checked for leaks at a workstation at the starting point and then continuously fed into the ground in one piece. With this single-phase laying process, steel pipelines up to a length of about 1,500 meters and a pipe diameter between about 800 mm and 1,400 mm can be installed. The DP process is a straightforward process in that it is a one-step process in which the separate operations of pipe segment assembly, pre-drilling, post-scouring and relocation operation are all eliminated and by one step of pushing a pipeline as a whole be replaced in a continuous step in the earth.

A first disadvantage of the DP process is that it requires a large workstation at the starting point for the drilling apparatus and the length of the entire pipeline. Another disadvantage is that the method is specifically intended for large gas and oil pipelines having a diameter of at least 800 mm. In particular, the achievable laying lengths are very limited (about 80-250 m) for mechanical reasons (over-earth supply of hydraulic power to the drill head) for smaller pipe diameters. In addition, the surveying and the Operation of the control and drilling relatively complicated. This high technical complexity in the DP process also requires a large investment in mechanical equipment.

The general object of the present invention is to at least partially overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages and / or to provide a usable alternative. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a pipe guiding device for carrying out a method for laying pipes, which method can be carried out more efficiently and in a shorter time interval. In particular, it is an object to provide a pipe guiding device for carrying out a method for laying pipes with a small diameter.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a pipe guiding device according to claim 1.

The invention provides a pipe guiding device for guiding a pipe. The pipe guiding device can be a supporting device, also called a block, or a driven feeding device, also called a pipe slide.

The pipe guiding device is suitable for use in a method of guiding a pipe to be inserted into a ground. A subsurface may be soil in a land application or a seabed in an offshore application. Specifically, the piping device is used in a method of laying a pipe in a ground in which the pipe is installed in a substantially horizontal position, as in HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling), and from a first position Surface level extends to a second position at ground level. In particular, the pipe guiding device according to the invention can be used in a method for laying a cable or a cable sheath in a wind farm. The cables may extend from the entry point to the access point at a seabed level between at least two wind turbine foundations.

The pipe may be a complete pipe or only a pipe segment of a pipe. Typically, the tube is a product tube such as a gas or oil pipeline or a cable sheath. The tube may be a removable drill string for drilling a pilot hole. Typically, the tube has a diameter of at least 50 mm, in particular at least 100 mm up to at most 800 mm, in particular at most 400 mm.

The pipe guiding device according to the invention comprises a main frame for holding the components of the pipe guiding device.

Furthermore, the pipe guiding device according to the invention comprises at least two guide elements for engaging and guiding a pipe. The at least two guide elements define a passage opening. The passage opening has an axial axis corresponding to an axial direction of the pipe during operation.

According to the invention, the pipe guiding device is improved insofar as the pipe guiding device further comprises an auxiliary frame. The at least two guide elements are attached to the auxiliary frame. The auxiliary frame is mounted on the main frame, wherein the auxiliary frame is rotatable relative to the main frame about an axial axis. The guide elements are provided in a rotating arrangement about the axial axis of the passage opening with respect to the main frame. In operation, the at least two guide elements rotate together with the auxiliary frame with respect to the main frame.

Advantageously, the rotating arrangement of the guide members relative to the main frame reduces friction when a pipe is rotated. Hereby, a rotation of the tube with a consumption of less energy can be performed. In addition, the reduced friction allows a more accurate rotational positioning of the tube.

In particular, the pipe guiding device according to the invention is advantageous when it is used in a method for introducing a pipe into a substrate, wherein the pipe is guided by a rotation of the pipe through the ground. In such a method, a bit, in particular a drill bit, is provided at a distal end of the tube. A firm connection is provided between the bit and the tube. The entire tube can be steered by rotating the tube at a controlled angle and thus changing a rotational position of the bit. The tube can be rotated at a proximal end to direct the tube and guide it through the subsurface. By turning the proximal end of the tube, the tube will twist along its length. The rotating arrangement of the guide members relative to the main frame reduces the friction that occurs during rotation of the tube. This reduces the torsion of the tube, which can result in a more accurate rotational positioning of the bit. As a result, the feeding and steering of the tube can have increased controllability.

In one embodiment of the pipe guiding device according to the invention, the guide elements are arranged in rotational symmetry about the passage opening. In particular, the pipe guiding device comprises at least three guide elements, which are arranged in rotational symmetry about the passage opening. During a rotational movement of the tube, the tube is supported by the guide elements. By positioning the guide elements in a rotational symmetry, a weight of the tube is evenly distributed over the guide elements during rotation of the tube. It can prevent peak load, which could cause cracks or damage the pipe in other ways.

In one embodiment of the pipe guiding device according to the invention, at least one of the guide elements is adjustable with respect to the subframe in a direction transverse to the grommet opening. In particular, the at least one of the guide elements is adjustable in a radial direction. Hereby, the passage opening can be easily adjusted to a changing size of a pipe. In particular, the leadthrough opening can be set for a pipe size of at least 100 mm up to a maximum of 800 mm, in particular up to a maximum of 400 mm.

In one embodiment of the pipe guiding device according to the invention, the pipe guiding device is a block. The block is arranged to support and guide a pipe free. The auxiliary frame of the trolley is pivotally connected to the main frame of the trestle. Specifically, the auxiliary frame is freely rotatable with respect to the main frame about the axial axis of the passage opening. The lead through the box is passive, and the box has no motor to drive a guide. The pipe guiding device according to the invention as a trestle offers an advantage in that the trestle allows both a friction-restricted shift and a friction-reduced rotation of the pipe. The block may include a first roller bearing for supporting a sliding movement of a tube and a second roller bearing for carrying a rotational movement of the tube. Instead of sliding friction, the roller bearings ensure rolling friction during movement of the tube. This reduces friction between the pipe and the trestle.

In one embodiment of the pipe routing device of the invention, the block has an auxiliary frame drive for driving the auxiliary frame in rotation with respect to the main frame about the axial axis. Hereby, the block can be used as a tube rotation unit for driving the tube in rotation about its longitudinal axis. The tube may be rotated by the block before commencing another shift of the tube to direct the tube in a desired direction. The auxiliary frame drive block may be located at a proximal end of the tube to rotate the tube.

In one embodiment of the invention, the guide element of the trestle is arranged as a roller. The roller guides the tube during conveyance in an axial direction of the tube and engages an outer surface of the tube. The roller rolls around a roller axis, wherein the roller axis is directed tangentially to the passage opening. The roller advantageously reduces friction and can prevent damage to an outer surface of the tube during a shift in the axial direction.

In a particular embodiment of the trestle according to the invention, the role as a guide element has a diabolo-form. Advantageously, the diabolo-shaped roller reduces the friction in the axial direction and also encloses a received tube in the passage opening. Advantageously, the pipe guiding device can be arranged with at most two diabolo-shaped rollers as guide elements.

In one embodiment of the trestle according to the invention, the auxiliary frame of the trestle comprises an at least partially encircling ring, the ring being supported in rotation about the axial axis of the lead-through opening by the main frame. Advantageously, the collar allows the auxiliary frame to rotate relative to the main frame. In one embodiment, the collar may be carried by a groove of the main frame. The garland may be slidably disposed in the groove. Alternatively, the collar may be carried by a group of aligned roller members connected to the main frame for rotatably supporting the auxiliary frame with respect to the main frame.

In a particular embodiment of the trestle according to the invention, the rim of the auxiliary frame comprises a removable rim portion to an opening for radially inserting a tube into the auxiliary frame. After inserting the tube into the auxiliary frame of the trestle, the ring can be enclosed around the tube to allow complete rotation of the auxiliary frame relative to the main frame. Advantageously, a pipe can easily be taken up by the block, and a method for introducing a pipe into a ground can be carried out more expediently.

In one embodiment of the pipe guiding device according to the invention, the pipe guiding device is arranged as a pipe slide. The pipe pusher is arranged to exert a pushing force on a pipe to move the pipe in an axial direction. The pipe slide can be used to push a pipe into the ground or to pull a pipe out of the ground.

In one embodiment of the pipe slide according to the invention, the auxiliary frame of the pipe slide is arranged freely rotatable with respect to the main frame. Advantageously, the auxiliary frame may be rotated during operation in a method of inserting, clamping or retracting a pipe into or out of a ground together with a pipe. This allows for a method of inserting a pipe, wherein the pipe must be rotated at a controlled angle to be routed in the ground.

In one embodiment of the pipe slide according to the invention, the auxiliary frame can be rotated relative to the main frame about the axial axis of the passage opening. The pipe pusher includes an auxiliary rack drive for driving the auxiliary rack in rotation. The subframe drive can rotationally connect the subframe to the mainframe. In particular, the auxiliary frame is pivotally connected to the main frame such that the auxiliary frame is pivotable or can make a complete rotation about the axial axis. The pipe pusher can be used to simultaneously rotate a pipe about its axial axis and push the pipe in the axial direction. Advantageously, the pipe slide, except as a pushing unit, also be used in a method for introducing a pipe into a substrate as a drilling unit or steering unit.

In one embodiment of the pipe pusher according to the invention, the auxiliary frame of the pipe pusher is tiltable with respect to the main frame to place a pipe at an inclination angle with respect to a ground. The subframe is tiltable about a pitch axis that extends transversely to the axial axis in a substantially horizontal direction. Advantageously, a pipe can be inserted into the ground at the angle of inclination. In detail, the angle of inclination is between at least zero degrees and at most 40 °, in particular at most 30 °, but preferably at most 20 °. Advantageously, a pipe from a position above the ground, in particular at ground level, are introduced into a substrate. The pipe slide can be installed above ground level.

In one embodiment of the tube pusher according to the invention, the auxiliary frame has a cylindrical shape, wherein the cylindrical shape has a longitudinal axis and at the two ends comprises a bearing to connect the auxiliary frame to the main frame. The cylindrical shape means that the auxiliary frame has opposing walls arranged in parallel, which surround the passage opening. The walls of the subframe may be open scaffold walls, in particular a steel scaffold. Specifically, the subframe includes an outer framework that defines an interior space for passage of a pipe. The outer framework has a passage opening at both ends to pass a pipe.

In one embodiment of the pipe pusher according to the invention, at least one of the guide elements is a pusher to push the pipe in an axial direction of the pipe to convey the pipe in the axial direction through the passage opening. The at least one pusher element includes a frictional surface for imparting a thrust in an axial direction of the tube to the tube during operation to convey the tube through the passageway. The at least one thrust element is connected to a thrust drive for driving the thrust element. Specifically, the at least one endless conveying element and the thrust drive are configured to apply together a thrust of at least 5000 kN to the conveyor tube. Specifically, the thrust drive can be activated to adjustably vary the speed and thrust of the endless conveyor elements.

In one embodiment of the pipe slide according to the invention, the at least one pushing element is an endless conveying element. In detail, the pipe slide comprises three push elements. The pushers comprise three endless conveyor elements, which are each arranged with a longitudinal part around the passage opening. Each endless conveyor element is arranged to be driven in rotation via at least two head rollers. The aforementioned longitudinal part of each endless conveying element extends between the head rollers along the passage opening in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the tube. In detail, the longitudinal parts of the endless conveying elements extend substantially in the horizontal direction on the side of the passage opening.

In one embodiment of the pipe slide according to the invention, the endless conveyor elements are formed by caterpillars. Alternatively, the endless conveyor elements may be profiled rubber bands. Advantageously, the caterpillars or the profiled rubber bands a Ensure sufficient grip on the pipe to provide thrust and convey the pipe.

In particular, it may be advantageous to use the pipe guiding device according to the invention in a method wherein a product pipe into a substrate, d. h., the earth or the seabed, is introduced. Specifically, the method is a method for laying pipes with the pipes laid below a subsurface level, the pipes extending from a first point at the surface level to a second point at the surface level. Specifically, the method is a method of laying cables, laying pipes for the insertion of the cables.

The product tube may be made of plastic or may have a vulnerable coated outer surface that needs to be protected from scratches and cracks. By using a pipe guiding device according to the invention in connection with such product pipes, the torques on the product pipe can be more evenly distributed, which can prevent cracks, and the product pipe can be smoothly guided, which can prevent further damage to the product pipe.

The pipe guiding device according to the invention can thus be used in a method for laying a pipe in a substrate. After installation, the tube extends substantially horizontally between a first position and a second position at a surface level. Specifically, the first position is a start or entrance position, also called an insertion position, and the second position is an end position, also called an exit position. There may be a work area at the first position and at the second position to install equipment necessary to carry out the process.

The method comprises the step of providing a pipe routing device according to the invention. The tube is received in the passage opening of the pipe guide device. During operation, the tube guide means may hold the tube in a substantially horizontal direction. In one step of the method, the pipe can be pushed into the ground by a pipe guiding device according to the invention, which is arranged as a pipe slide. In one step of the method, the tube is rotated about its longitudinal axis. Preferably, the pushing and the rotation of the pipe are performed by the pipe slide simultaneously. Advantageously, the rotation of the tube is hardly hindered by the pipe guiding device according to the invention. The tube guiding device greatly reduces the counteracting frictional forces during rotation of the tube. The pipe guide means, which is arranged as a block, supports the pipe during rotation of the pipe and allows movement in the axial direction. The pipe guiding device, which is arranged as a pipe slide, allows rotation of a pipe passed through while the pipe is pushed in the axial direction.

In one embodiment of the method, the first position is an insertion position for inserting a pipe into the ground. The insertion position includes an entry point for inserting the tube into the ground. At the insertion position, a shaft is provided. The entry point is located in the shaft. The method includes a step of filling the well with a lubricating fluid. In particular, the lubricating fluid is a bentonite mixture, also called bentonite sludge or drilling mud based on bentonite. The shaft is filled to a level with the entry point below the level. The well is filled to cover the entry point with lubricating fluid such that during introduction the lubricating fluid is introduced into the substrate together with the tube. Advantageously, the filled shaft provides an efficient way to lubricate an insertion of a pipe. Additionally, the filled well may obviate a seal at the entry point. The filled shaft performs the function of the seal at the entry point, with returned lubricating fluid simply returning to the shaft.

In this application, the filled shaft is presented in connection with a method in which an inserted tube is rotated. However, it may be advantageous to provide a shaft filled with lubricating fluid for another method for laying a pipe in a substrate.

In one embodiment, the method comprises a step of anchoring the pipe guiding device, in particular the pipe slide. The pipe guiding device can be arranged at ground level or in a shaft. The pipe guide means may be a pipe slide to exert a thrust on the pipe. To withstand counter forces, the pipe pusher can be fixed in position by anchoring the pipe pusher at ground level or anchoring the pipe pusher within the manhole.

In one embodiment of the method, the method for laying a pipe underground is a direct drilling method. In the direct drilling method, the laid pipe is a product pipe. In detail, the product tube is a cable sheath. at In the direct drilling method, the borehole has an entry point and an exit point. The borehole passes between these two points along a bore track through a subsurface. Specifically, the method is performed on land, with the ground being soil. Alternatively, the process may be carried out offshore where the subsurface is a seabed.

The product tube has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end, also called the front end, is provided with a rigid drill string. The rigid drill string is connected to the distal end of the product tube. The rigid drill string comprises at least one angle piece, a measuring tube and a chisel, in particular a drill bit. The borehole is created by the drill string along a planned bore track.

In one embodiment, the elbow is immovably connected to the distal end of the product tube. Hereby, the pipeline to be laid is immovably connected to a (angled) drill string. The elbow is rigidly connected in rotation with the distal end of the product tube such that the elbow rotates with the product tube during operation. The elbow may be an elongate member and may have a tubular shape with the elongate member bent. The elbow may be an angled forward portion of the product tube. The angle piece can be an angled coupling part for coupling the bit. at an angle to the distal end of the product tube to couple. The elbow may be integrated into the product tube to obtain a steerable product tube. The bit may be a non-directional drill bit, also called a non-steerable drilling device, because the product tube may be steerable by the angle piece attached to the product tube.

In an alternative embodiment, the elbow may be integrated into the bit by providing a wedge-shaped front portion at the front portion of the bit. By sliding the product tube in a forward direction, the wedge-shaped portion of the bit deflects the product tube about a curved path. The chisel moves the product tube away from a straight line. By rotating the product tube about its axial axis about a controlled angle, the wedge-shaped section can be passed, and the product tube can be guided along a desired bore path.

The measuring tube is present to detect a deviation from the desired bore track. In case of deviation, the progression of the product tube can be corrected by rotating the product tube.

In the direct drilling method, a drilling device is provided which comprises a pushing unit and a pipe rotation unit. The borehole is created by the drill string along the planned bore track, by the fact that a thrust force is exerted for the drilling operation by the thrust unit. The push unit is also called pipe slide. The thrust is transmitted via the product tube to the drill string that encloses the elbow. The steering of the product tube is accomplished by the fact that the product tube and the drill string including the elbow are rotated together through the tube rotation unit. Turning the product tube changes the working direction of the bit. The control of the bit and consequently the guidance of the product tube is achieved by the rotation of the tube (and thus of the drill string) by means of the drilling device.

The direct drilling method is called "direct" because the product pipe is laid simultaneously with the creation of the wellbore in the wellbore. Advantageously, a preparatory step in which a pilot hole is created by a drill string, is superfluous, and the drilling method can be carried out in a relatively short time frame. The product tube immediately follows the drill string through the wellbore until the leading end of the product tube has reached the exit point of the wellbore. After performing the direct drilling method, the product tube extends from the point of entry of the borehole along the bore track to the exit point of the borehole.

In one embodiment of the method, the drill string includes a drilling motor, wherein the drill bit is driven by the drilling motor. The drilling motor can recover its energy from a drilling fluid that is supplied through the product tube. The drilling fluid may be supplied to the drilling motor through a separate feed line extending within the product tube. The soil present along the bore track is loosened by the drill bit and can be removed through an annular space around the product tube by this drilling fluid exiting the drill bit. Continuous flushing through the annular space can be achieved. In comparison with the known direct pipe method, the direct drilling method is advantageous in that the direct drilling method has no power supply and no steering cables extending to the drill bit. In the direct drilling method, necessary energy for advancing and directing the product pipe outside the borehole is generated by means of the thrust unit and the pipe rotation unit. Advantageously, the direct drilling method is hereby suitable for being carried out for pipe products having a relatively small diameter of at most 400 millimeters, in particular at most 300 millimeters, preferably at most 200 millimeters.

In one embodiment of the method, the bit has an outer contour that is at least 10 percent, in particular at least 20 percent, but preferably at least 35 percent larger than an outer diameter of the laid product tube. The bit provides an overcut with respect to the product tube. The dimensions of the outer contour of the bit with respect to the maximum outside diameter of the product tube determine the dimensions of the annular space around the product tube in the bore hole. The dimensions of the annular space are important to ensure flow of drilling fluid to the proximal end of the product tube.

In one embodiment of the method, the drill bit and the drill motor are connected by a gear mechanism. The gear mechanism is provided between the drill bit and a drilling motor. The transmission mechanism may be attached to the elbow through a transmission mount.

In one embodiment of the method, the drill bit is a grave chisel for digging through the ground. The grave chisel has fixed components. The grave chisel is a fixed chisel. For example, the grave chisel has at least one rinse nozzle to wash away surrounding soil. The grave chisel is particularly advantageous for soft ground. Advantageously, the burial chisel may have a relatively small configuration, permitting the introduction of tubular products having a small diameter of at most 300 millimeters, preferably at most 200 millimeters.

In one embodiment of the method, the drill string may include a measuring tube that includes a measuring probe for transmitting the measurement data to the control station at the ground surface via a cable extending within the product tube. Alternatively, the measuring probe can transmit the measurement data wirelessly to the control station on the earth's surface. Advantageously, the wireless transmission of the measurement data also allows the laying of relatively small product tubes.

In one embodiment of the method, the product tube is prepared in one piece at the surface of the earth prior to commencement of laying. The laid pipe may be an oil-gas pipeline, in particular an oil-gas pipeline having a small diameter of at most 300 millimeters. Advantageously, the product tube can be checked for leaks prior to insertion into the ground.

In one embodiment of the method, the product tube comprises at least two individual parts. The product tube comprises at least two product tube segments. By providing product pipe segments, the direct drilling process is carried out in several steps. At the beginning of drilling, the first product tube segment is attached to the drill string. In a first step, the first product tube segment is introduced into the substrate. After insertion of the first product tube segment into the ground and after its length has been drilled out, in a next step the second product tube segment is attached to the first product tube segment before the drilling operation is continued in a subsequent step. The product tube is assembled by connecting a product tube segment to a proximal end of an already inserted product tube segment through a connection station. The connection station may be located at the insertion position. The connection station can be a welding station. This is how the introduction will be. the product tube regularly interrupted to couple the second or another product tube segment to the proximal end of the first product tube segment. The use of product tube segments offers the advantage that a necessary work area can remain relatively small. The product tube segments can be stacked and stored at the work area. A crane may be used to lift the product tube segments and bring the product tube segments together to perform coupling through the connection station at the insertion position.

Specifically, the product tube includes at least two product tube segments each having a substantially equal length. The product tube may comprise three product tube segments, each product tube segment having a length of about one-third of a total length of the product tube. In particular, the product tube segment has a length of at least 50 meters, but preferably at least 100 meters. The pipe jacket is capable of being segmented because the pipe jacket does not require a pressure test.

It should be noted that the direct drilling method differs in several ways from known drilling methods. First and foremost, the combination of the features described above by none of the existing methods for trenchless laying of pipes in wells Fulfills. This applies both to the direct pipe method and to the known HDD method.

The method differs from the direct pipe (DP) method, among other things, in the fact that the structure, the control and the drive of the drill string are of a much simpler construction. The DP process essentially uses the drill strings known from microtunnor propulsion or controlled pipe driving, the drilling of the drill bit being accomplished via hydraulic motors and the control of the drill head via hydraulic cylinders. These structural parts are relatively sensitive and complicated in terms of their control. In addition, they must be connected to a suitable hydraulic circuit (pressure-volume requirements), i. e., either the hydraulic drive unit is located directly in the drill string (larger diameter of the tubing, at least about 800 mm, necessary) or it is fed from above ground through corresponding tubing connections (length limited to about 80-250 m). Both variants are susceptible to interference and are complicated in structure and operation.

The method also differs from the DP method (as well as the HDD method) by the rotatable attachment of the pipe to the surface of the earth, whereby the pipe can be used not only for the power transmission for the drilling operation but also for the control of the drill string.

Another important distinguishing feature with regard to the DP method concerns the fact that the method can lay diameter / length combinations that can not be covered by the DP method (small pipe diameters, large bore lengths).

The method thus differs from the DP technique, in particular with regard to the laying lengths and the pipe diameters, as well as the control of the drill string. The basic advantages of the invention are environmental friendliness (small space requirements, only one workplace), speed (only one working cycle), economy (low investment in machinery and equipment), safety (permanent well support), robustness (use of proven and simply constructed individual components) ,

Further preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. The drawings show a practical embodiment according to the invention, which should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Specific features may also be considered separately from the embodiment shown, and may be considered in a wider context as a limiting feature, not only for the embodiment shown, but for all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims, wherein:

1a in a front view of a pipe guide device according to the invention, arranged as a block for supporting a pipe, shows

1b the buck of 1a in a cross-sectional plan view around a line AA,

1c the pipe guide device of 1a in a cross-sectional side view,

2a - 2c a pipe guide device according to the invention, arranged as a pipe slide for exerting a push on a pipe, show

3 1 shows a schematic view of a method for introducing a pipe into a substrate, including a pipe slide with an integrated rotation unit according to the invention, FIG.

4 in a schematic view the method as in 3 including a separate tube slide and a separate tube rotation unit located at a tube end,

5 shows an illustrative representation of the drill string for small pipes (up to about 300 mm in diameter),

6 an illustrative representation of the drill string for larger pipes (greater than about 300 mm diameter) shows.

The same reference numbers will be used in the drawings to identify identical or similar components.

1a shows in a front view of a pipe guide device according to the invention. The pipe guide device is as a block 22 for supporting a pipe 10 arranged. The Bock 22 is part of a drilling rig for drilling a pipeline into a subsurface. The Bock 22 is a passive component. The buck has no internal drive and supports and guides the pipe only.

The pipe guiding device comprises a main frame 29 , The main frame is a Steel framework. The main frame 29 Provides a floor support and has at least one main leg stand 291 at a lower part of the main frame 29 to position the main frame on a surface, ie the ground. Usually the buck is 22 placed at ground level. The main frame may include at least one anchoring element for anchoring the main frame to a work surface.

Furthermore, the buck includes 22 an auxiliary frame 30 , The auxiliary frame has a cylindrical outer contour. The auxiliary frame 30 has a circular outer wreath 33 , The outer wreath 33 encloses the auxiliary frame 30 Completely. The auxiliary frame 30 gets through the main frame 29 carried. The main frame 29 has a warehouse 292 for carrying the auxiliary frame 30 , The warehouse 292 is shaped as a groove. The warehouse 292 is open in an upward direction to accommodate the auxiliary frame. The auxiliary frame 30 can from the top of the warehouse 292 be lowered. The circular outer wreath 33 of the auxiliary frame 30 will be in the warehouse 292 added. The circular outer wreath 33 can in terms of the bearing 292 be moved. Herewith is the auxiliary frame 30 slidable on the main frame 29 appropriate. The auxiliary frame 30 is rotatable about an axial axis L with respect to the main frame 29 appropriate. The auxiliary frame 30 is mounted on the main frame such that the auxiliary frame 30 in relation to the main frame 29 is rotatable.

In one embodiment of the trestle 22 can the outer wreath 33 have a removable rim portion to provide an opening in the collar for radially inserting a tube.

The auxiliary frame 30 of the buck 22 includes at least two guide elements 32 for guiding a pipe 10 , The at least two guide elements 32 are through a frame section 31 on the outer wreath 33 appropriate. The at least two guide elements 32 are arranged on an outer surface of a pipe 10 intervene. The at least two guide elements 32 are arranged opposite each other to enclose a pipe. The at least two guide elements 32 together form a duct opening 301 for picking up a pipe 10 , The passage opening has a diameter of at least 50 mm and at most 800 mm, in particular, the passage opening has a diameter of at least 100 mm, at most 400 mm. The passage opening defines the axial axis L. The axial axis is a central axis which coincides with a longitudinal axis of a tube passed therethrough.

The at least two guide elements 32 are arranged at the same distance around the passage opening. Specifically, the auxiliary frame includes 30 , Also called a roller block turntable, in particular three, but preferably four guide elements 32 to give a substantially equal distribution of a load of a pipe 10 to reach over the guide elements. The roller block turntable includes roller mounts 31 for holding the rollers. Here is the guide element 32 a role. The roller ensures rolling friction instead of sliding friction between the roller and the tube. The roller has a longitudinal roller axis which extends in a tangential direction with respect to the passage opening. The roll rolls around the roll axis. As shown, the roller is cylindrically shaped and has a constant diameter. Alternatively, the roller may have a cylindrical shape with a varying diameter, in particular including a reduced diameter at a central portion of the roller to enclose a tube. Preferably, the roller has a shape of a diabolo to partially enclose a tube. The guide member may have an outer coating of a soft material to prevent scratches or other damage to the tube.

1b shows in a cross-sectional view of the buck 22 from 1a around a cross-section line AA. A pipe 10 will be in the implementation opening 301 of the buck 22 added. The pipe 10 has a longitudinal tube axis, with the axial axis L of the passage opening 301 matches. The guide element 32 grabs the pipe 10 to support and position the pipe. Further shows 1b the outer wreath 33 which is in the grooved bearing 292 is held. The inclusion of the outer wreath 33 in the warehouse 292 prevents displacement movement of the auxiliary frame in an axial direction, but permits rotational movement about the axial axis L of the auxiliary frame with respect to the main frame 29 , This is the goat 22 arranged for a substantially horizontal pipe 10 to support and guide.

1c shows in a cross-sectional side view of the block 22 from 1a from a page indicated by the arrow B. The pipe 10 will be in the implementation opening 301 of the buck 22 added. The pipe 10 is through the auxiliary frame 30 completely enclosed and by the guide elements 32 enclosed.

1a Figure c shows an example of an embodiment of a roller block 22 representing both axial movement of the tube 10 as well as rotational movements of the tube 10 allowed. The invention provides a device wherein the product tube 10 on the earth's surface in such a way on a roller block 22 can be attached that an axial movement and rotation of the product tube 10 in the roller block 22 to be executed at the same time can. The pipe 10 is here on rolls 32 attached by roller holders 31 on the roller block turntable 30 be worn. This roller block turntable 30 is rotatable within the roller block frame 29 appropriate. The roles 32 thus allow the displacement movement of the pipe 10 through the roller block 22 while the roller block turntable 30 a rotation of the tube 10 allows.

2a C show an alternative embodiment of the pipe guiding device according to the invention, the pipe guiding device acting as a pipe slide 14 is arranged. The pipe slide 14 is arranged to thrust in an axial direction on a pipe 10 exercise. The pipe slide 14 is arranged to push a tube in a substantially horizontal position in a ground or pull out of the same. The pipe slide 14 can be used in a drilling process for inserting a pipe, such as HDD (horizontal directional drilling). In particular, the pipe slide 14 suitable for use in a direct drilling method, wherein the pipe must be rotated to steer the pipe through the ground.

2a shows in a perspective view a pipe slide 14 , which is a main frame 29 and an auxiliary frame 30 includes. The auxiliary frame 30 is rotatable with respect to the main frame 29 appropriate. 2 B shows the pipe slide 14 in a front view. 2c shows the pipe slide 14 in a top view.

The main frame 29 is a steel scaffolding that at a lower area a platform 291 for positioning the main frame. The platform is constructed of welded L-profiles. The platform provides a flat surface for positioning the mainframe on a floor surface. The platform may include adjustable mainframe feet to align the pipe pusher with a pipe or to tilt the pipe pusher with respect to the bottom surface to insert a pipe into the ground at an inclination defined by an angle of inclination. Similarly, the main frame may include a main upper frame part and a lower main frame part, wherein the upper main frame part may pivot with respect to the lower main frame part.

Furthermore, the main frame has two upright wall elements 293 , The wall elements are arranged opposite one another. Each wall element takes a bearing 292 on. The bearings arranged opposite each other 292 define a centerline operative in operation with a longitudinal axial axis of a received tube 10 matches in the pipe slide. The center line extends in a length direction of the pipe slide. The upright walls are supported by a plurality of spars, which are arranged around the upright walls and attached to the platform.

The auxiliary frame 30 is arranged between the wall elements. The auxiliary frame is rotatable about the axial axis with the main frame 29 connected. The auxiliary frame is at the two ends by a front and a rear bearing 292 of the main frame 29 carried. The auxiliary frame 30 extends in a substantially horizontal position. The subframe is mounted to the mainframe such that the subframe is capable of pivoting at least 180 °, in particular at least 270 °, but more particularly, complete rotation about its longitudinal axis relative to the mainframe.

The auxiliary frame 30 is cylindrically shaped, in particular, the auxiliary frame is socket-shaped. The auxiliary frame has an outer framework. The outer framework is constructed of welded steel profiles. The outer framework 310 limits an inner space. At the two ends has the auxiliary frame 30 a passage opening 302 for passing a pipe through the inner space of the auxiliary frame. The outer framework 301 takes at least two guide elements 32 on. Here includes the pipe slide 14 four guide elements 32 , The guide elements 32 are arranged at the same distance around the passage opening. The guide elements 32 limit the size of the implementation opening. The guide elements 32 are in the inner space of the auxiliary frame 30 arranged. The at least two guide elements 32 are arranged to engage a pipe and provide thrust to the pipe 10 exercise.

At least one of the guide elements 32 is a pusher for applying a thrust force to a pipe 10 , The pusher is an active component and is powered by a linear actuator 322 driven to actuate the thrust element. The remaining guide members of the pipe pusher may be a passive component as a support member and may be arranged to hold the pipe in engagement with the pusher member. The passive guide elements may be arranged to clamp the tube to the active push element.

As shown, this is at least one pushing element 32 an endless conveyor element 321 , The endless conveyor element 321 has a longitudinal part for engaging a pipe. The longitudinal part of the endless conveyor element 321 is arranged tangentially at the passage opening and extends in an axial direction. The endless impeller 321 extends between two head rollers. The linear actuator 322 is connected to a head roll to the endless conveyor element 321 to drive to exert a pushing or pulling force on a pipe.

The guide elements 32 are adjustably arranged in a radial direction to adjust a size of the passage opening, By changing a size of the passage opening, the pipe slide can be adapted to a smaller or a larger pipe diameter. The passage opening is adjustable, for example, from at least 50 mm to at most 400 mm. The guide elements 32 are pivotable with respect to the outer framework 301 arranged and can pivot to or from the center line. At least one guide element actuator, in this case a hydraulic cylinder, is provided in order to actuate the guide element.

2a shows a pipe slide, which includes a freely rotatable auxiliary frame. The auxiliary frame can rotate freely together with an inserted tube. 2c shows a pipe slide, which includes a rotatably driven auxiliary frame. The subframe may be driven in rotation relative to the mainframe by an auxiliary frame drive 294 for applying a torque to a pipe. Hereby, the pipe pusher is capable of exerting both a thrust force for moving a pipe along its longitudinal axis and a torque for rotating the pipe about its longitudinal axis to a pipe. The invention relates to a device for use in a drilling method for laying a pipe in a subsurface, in particular for a direct drilling method, wherein a thrust unit and a tube rotation unit are mounted in a drilling device such that axial movement and rotation of the product tube are performed at the same time can. Advantageously, the thrust and the torque can be exerted simultaneously.

In 3 For example, the elements of a direct drilling method are presented as an example with its mechanical devices. A pipe or a so-called pipeline 10 , in particular a product ear, prepared on the surface of the earth 19 , is here by a drilling device 13 along a planned bore track 4 from an entry point 2 to an exit point 3 pushed. The floor 16 , the underground, along the bore track 4 is present, by a chisel 6 , in particular a drill bit, loosened. The drill bit 6 is here by a drill motor 7 powered by his energy from a flowing drilling fluid 17 , especially a drilling mud, wins. This drilling fluid 17 is from a pump 27 through a tube 28 , a turning passage 12 , a cable channel 11 , the pipe 10 and a measuring tube 9 and an elbow 8th pumped. The in the measuring tube 9 arranged measuring probe 21 transmits the position data via a cable 25 that inside the tube 10 runs, to the control station 26 at the earth's surface 19 , The one by the drill bit 6 loose ground 16 gets through the drilling fluid 17 on the drill bit 6 in the borehole 1 enters, through the annular space 18 to the entry point 2 promoted. The necessary for the Bohroperation feed forces are by the drilling device 13 generated and over in the drilling device 13 arranged thrust unit 14 to the pipe 10 forwarded. For steering the drill bit 6 along the bore track 4 it is necessary, the working direction of the drill bit 6 to change. This is done by small rotational movements of the tube 10 , performed by the tube rotation unit 15 within the drilling device 13 , The rotational movements of the pipe 10 become the drill string here 5 forwarded, immovable with the pipe 10 is connected and in which the elbow 8th is arranged. At the end of the tube is the cable channel 11 attached, from which the cable without draining the drilling fluid from the pipe 10 to be led. The connection between the pipe 10 and the tube 28 is about the turning execution 12 realized.

In 4 the structure of the method is presented again in a basic representation (analogous to 3 ) with its mechanical devices. As a further advantageous construction, however, here is a two-part embodiment of the drilling device 13 shown, wherein the thrust unit 14 again near the entry point 2 is constructed while the tube rotation unit 15 at one end of the pipe 10 (between the cable duct 11 and the rotating execution 12 ) is installed. During the part of the drilling device 13 that's the push unit 14 is configured immovable and exerts a thrust during operation, moves the other part of the drilling device 13 that is the tube rotation unit 15 for exerting a torque on the pipe during the laying works freely in displacement with the pipe 10 , The push unit 14 is a pipe guide device according to the invention and can be considered as a pipe slide, which has a freely rotatable auxiliary frame to allow a free rotation of a pipe. The tube rotation unit 15 is a pipe guide device according to the invention and can as a block 22 5, wherein the block includes an auxiliary frame drive to drive a tube in a rotational direction. As a result of this separation can be the simultaneous transmission of shear forces and torques on the pipe 10 be realized in a structurally particularly simple manner. The invention provides a device, wherein the drilling device comprises two parts, wherein the thrust unit 14 near the entry point 2 is installed and the tube rotation unit 15 at one end of the product tube 10 is installed.

In 5 For example, a drill string for smaller tubes (up to about 300 mm in diameter) is illustrated. The drill bit 6 is at the front end of the drill string 5 arranged what the ground 16 , along the bore track 4 is present, loosens in a substantially mechanical manner, aided by the drilling fluid 17 on the drill bit 6 is delivered. This drilling fluid 17 take the loosened ground 16 and carries him through the annular space 18 through the borehole 1 , The drill bit 6 is through the drill motor 7 powered by his energy from the drilling fluid 17 which flows through him. The drill motor 7 is immovable with an elbow 8th connected. Depending on the drill radius of the intended bore track 4 has this elbow 8th an angular deflection of at least 0.5 ° to at most 2.5 °. By a rotation of the drill string 5 (and therefore the elbow 8th ) becomes the working direction of the drill bit 6 changed and consequently a steering of the drill string 5 allows. Behind the elbow 8th is the measuring tube 9 added in which the measuring probe 21 is arranged. In a preferred embodiment, the measuring probe becomes 21 provided by means for detecting the respective position of the drill string 5 in the ground 16 This device is known from the HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) method. The measurement method of this measuring probe can use as reference parameter both the magnetic field and the gravitational field of the earth, but it can also be based on the measuring principle of a gyrocompass. Similarly, it is possible that the measuring probe is based on the receiver principle, as it is equally known from the HDD industry. The invention provides a device, wherein the measuring probe 21 within the gearbox attachment 24 and outside the drill motor 7 is arranged.

In 6 a drill string for larger pipes (greater than about 300 mm in diameter) is shown. In this case, the torques are from commercially available drilling motors 7 sometimes inadequate to the drill bit 6 to drive (for example in rock drilling), so that between the drill motor 7 and the drill bit 6 a gear mechanism 23 is provided, which is the rotational speed of the drill motor 7 reduces and at the same time that to driving the drill bit 6 available torque increases. The transmission mechanism 23 is through a transmission mount 24 with the elbow 8th connected so as to be able to do so in the transmission mechanism 23 to absorb generated torques. In a preferred embodiment, the measuring probe is 21 in the gearbox attachment 24 integrated, reducing the spatial distance to the drill bit 6 is reduced and the accuracy of the positioning of the drill bit 6 is increased. The drilling fluid 17 is here via a supply line 20 that are inside the pipe 10 runs, the drill motor 7 fed. The transmission of the measuring data of the measuring probe 21 is analogous to the corresponding description in relation to 5 realized. The measuring data of the measuring probe 21 can connect again via a cable connection 25 be transmitted.

Numerous variants are possible in addition to the embodiment shown. The buck of 1 For example, it may include an auxiliary frame drive to drive the auxiliary frame in rotation about the axial axis. Hereby, the block can serve as a tube rotation unit.

Although the invention has been disclosed with reference to particular embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate from a reading of this specification a modification or modification which may be possible from a technical point of view, but which is not within the scope of the invention as described above and is protected by the claims below. Modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the embodiments disclosed in the above detailed description, but that the legal protection of the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

well

2

entry point

3

exit point

4

drilling path

5

drill string

6

drill bit

7

drill motor

8th

elbow

9

measuring tube

10

pipe

11

Cabel Canal

12

rotating execution

13

drilling

14

thrust unit

15

Pipe rotation unit

16

underground

17

drilling fluid

18

annular space

19

earth's surface

20

supply line

21

Measuring probe

22

Rollenbock

23

transmission mechanism

24

transmission mount

25

electric wire

26

control station

27

pump

28

tube

29

main frame

291

platform

292

camp

293

wall element

30

subframe

301

outer framework

302

Through opening

31

roll holder

32

roll

321

impeller

322

pusher

33

outer wreath

294

Subframe drive

L

axial axis

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 2192259 [0002, 0003]
• DE 102006020339 [0006]

Claims (13)

Pipe guiding means for guiding a pipe to be inserted into a substrate comprising a main frame for holding the components of the pipe guiding means and at least two guide members for engaging and guiding a pipe, said at least two guide members defining a passage opening, said through opening having an axial axis, which corresponds to an axial direction of the tube, characterized in that the tube guiding device further comprises an auxiliary frame, wherein the at least two guide elements are mounted on the auxiliary frame, wherein the auxiliary frame is attached to the main frame and wherein the auxiliary frame relative to the main frame about an axial axis is rotatable. Pipe guiding device according to claim 1, wherein the guide elements are arranged in rotational symmetry about the passage opening. Pipe guiding device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the guide elements is adjustably arranged with respect to the subframe in a direction transverse to the grommet opening. Pipe guiding device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pipe guide means is a support for supporting a pipe, wherein the auxiliary frame of the trolley is freely rotatably arranged about the axial axis with respect to the main frame. The pipe guiding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pipe guide means is a block, the auxiliary frame of the trolley having an auxiliary rack drive for driving the auxiliary rack in rotation about the axial axis with respect to the main rack. Pipe guiding device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the guide element is a support element, in particular a roller, for supporting a pipe. Pipe guiding device according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the auxiliary frame of the trestle comprises a circumferential rim, wherein the rim is rotationally supported around the axial axis by the main frame. A pipe guide device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pipe guide means is a pipe spool for applying a thrust force to a pipe to move the pipe in an axial direction. Pipe guiding device according to claim 8, wherein the auxiliary frame can be driven by an auxiliary frame drive in rotation about the axial axis of the passage opening with respect to the Hauptgestellt. Pipe guiding device according to claim 8, wherein the auxiliary frame of the pipe slide is arranged freely rotatable with respect to the main frame. The pipe guiding device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the auxiliary frame is tiltable with respect to the main frame to arrange a pipe at an inclination angle with respect to a ground. A pipe guide device according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein at least one of the guide members is a pusher member for pushing the pipe in an axial direction of the pipe, the pusher member being capable of being driven by a pusher to move the pipe in the axial direction through the passage opening to transport. Pipe guiding device according to claim 12, wherein the at least one pushing element is an endless conveying element, in particular a track or a profiled rubber band.

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