EP3228811B1 - Extended range single-joint elevator - Google Patents
Extended range single-joint elevator Download PDFInfo
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- EP3228811B1 EP3228811B1 EP17167413.8A EP17167413A EP3228811B1 EP 3228811 B1 EP3228811 B1 EP 3228811B1 EP 17167413 A EP17167413 A EP 17167413A EP 3228811 B1 EP3228811 B1 EP 3228811B1
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- elevator
- tubular segment
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- slip
- bore
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- 210000005069 ears Anatomy 0.000 claims description 16
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 claims description 11
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- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 1
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B19/00—Handling rods, casings, tubes or the like outside the borehole, e.g. in the derrick; Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables
- E21B19/02—Rod or cable suspensions
- E21B19/06—Elevators, i.e. rod- or tube-gripping devices
- E21B19/07—Slip-type elevators
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Geology (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
- Types And Forms Of Lifts (AREA)
- Earth Drilling (AREA)
- Lining And Supports For Tunnels (AREA)
- Lift-Guide Devices, And Elevator Ropes And Cables (AREA)
- Mutual Connection Of Rods And Tubes (AREA)
Description
- In the oil and gas industry, wellbores are drilled into the Earth using drilling rigs, where tubulars are threaded together to form long tubular strings that are inserted into the wellbore to extract the desired fluid. The tubular string is generally suspended in the borehole using a rig floor-mounted spider, such that each new tubular segment or stand may be threaded onto the end of the previous tubular just above the spider. A single-joint elevator is commonly used to grip and secure the segment or stand to a hoist to lift the segment or stand into position for threading the tubular together.
- For installing a string of casing, single-joint elevators generally include a pair of hinged body halves that open to receive a tubular segment and subsequently close to secure the tubular segment within the elevator. Single-joint elevators are specifically adapted for securing and lifting tubular segments having a conventional connection, such as an internally-threaded sleeve that receives and secures an externally-threaded end from each of two tubular segments to secure the segments in a generally abutting relationship. The internally-threaded sleeve is first threaded onto the end of a first tubular segment to form a "box end." The externally-threaded "pin end" of a second tubular segment is then threaded into the box end to complete the connection between the two segments. When the elevator is in the closed position, i.e., when the hinged body halves are secured shut, the internal diameter of the elevator is less than the outer diameter of the box end. Consequently, the circumferential shoulder formed by the elevator engages the tubular segment at a corresponding shoulder formed by the end of the sleeve, thereby preventing the tubular segment from slipping through the elevator.
- At least one challenge encountered by typical single-joint elevators is that they are designed to catch a very small range (e.g., outside diameter) of casing. With numerous integral and upset connections currently being used in the field, there are often times variances in the outside diameter of the box end of the casing that prohibit the use of a solitary singlejoint elevator. Instead, two or more single-joint elevators are required to accommodate the varying outside diameters of the pipes and/or connections encountered.
- What is needed, therefore, is a multi-range, single-joint elevator capable of being secured to tubulars having a range of deviations in the outside diameter thereof.
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US3422506 discloses an elevator slip assembly with slips having a tapered back surface adapted to mate with a correspondingly tapered bowl inner wall.US2009/0120649 discloses a slip assembly for gripping pipe during well drilling operations, which has movable slip segments that are located in pockets of a housing.US2010/0200221A1 discloses a shoulder-type elevator that supports a ring-shaped body having an inwardly tapered interior surface and a timing ring supports a plurality of shoes curvilinearly arrayed around the interior surface of the body. - Embodiments of the disclosure may provide an oilfield elevator. The elevator may include first and second body halves pivotally-coupled at a hinge and moveable between an open position and a closed position, and one or more slips slidably received within one or more corresponding downwardly-tapered slots defined in respective inner circumferential surfaces of the first and second body halves, the one or more slips being configured to translate vertically within the one or more tapered slots and, at the same time, translate radially with respect to the first and second body halves. The elevator may also include first and second timing bars coupled to the one or more slips, and first and second tension handles pivotally-coupled to the first and second body halves, respectively, and moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the first and second tension handles each having a body that terminates at a connection point. The elevator may further include first and second biasing members each having a first end coupled to the connection point of the first and second tension handles, respectively, and a second end coupled to the first and second timing bars, respectively, wherein the first and second biasing members impart a downward force on the one or more slips via the first and second
timing bars when the first and second handles are in the locked position, and wherein the first and second biasing members reduce the downward force on the one or more slips via the first and second timing bars when the first and second handles are in the unlocked position. - Embodiments of the disclosure may further provide a method for engaging a tubular segment. The method may include positioning an elevator adjacent the tubular segment, the elevator including first and second body halves having slips slidably received within corresponding tapered slots defined in the first and second body halves, wherein a first timing bar is coupled to the slips in the first body half and a second timing bar is coupled to the slips in the second body half, and closing the first and second body halves around the tubular segment. The method may further include moving first and second tension handles from an unlocked position to a locked position, the first and second tension handles being pivotally coupled to the first and second body halves, respectively, and each tension handle having a body that terminates at a connection point, and applying a downward force on the first and second timing bars with first and second biasing members having a first end coupled to the connection point of the first and second tension handles, respectively, and a second end coupled to the first and second timing bars, respectively. The method may also include transmitting the downward force from the first and second timing bars to the slips, the slips being configured to translate vertically within the tapered slots and, at the same time, translate radially with respect to the first and second body halves in response to the downward force, wherein the slips translate vertically and radially until coming into contact with an outside surface of the tubular segment.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may further provide an apparatus for engaging a tubular segment. The apparatus may include first and second body halves pivotally-coupled at a hinge and moveable between an open position and a closed position, one or more slips slidably received within downwardly and inwardly-tapered slots defined in the first and second body halves, the one or more slips being configured to translate within the tapered slots, and first and second timing bars coupled to the one or more slips. The apparatus may also include first and second tension handles pivotally-coupled to the first and second body halves, respectively, and moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position, each tension handle having a body that is coupled to a connection point, and first and second biasing members, each having a first end coupled to the connection point of the first and second tension handles, respectively, and a second end coupled to the first and second timing bars, respectively, the first and second biasing members being configured to impart a downward force on the first and second timing bars when the first and second handles are in the locked position, thereby forcing the one or more slips to translate within the tapered slots until coming into contact with the outside surface of the tubular segment.
- Embodiments of this disclosure may further provide an elevator to manipulate a tubular segment, the elevator including an elevator body with a bore formed therethrough having an axis therein, the elevator body including a plurality of openings extending from an outer surface of the elevator body to the bore of the elevator body, and a base member coupled to a bottom surface of the elevator body, the base member having a guide portion that directs the tubular segment into the bore of the elevator body. The elevator also includes a plurality of slip assemblies disposed inside the plurality of openings and coupled to the elevator body, each of the plurality of slip assemblies including an actuator body coupled to the elevator body, a slip, the slip including an engagement surface disposed orthogonal to the axis of the bore of the elevator body that engages the tubular segment, and a guide surface adjacent to a bottom surface of the elevator body that is angled such that the tubular segment slides through the bore of the elevator body until the tubular segment is engaged by the engagement surface, and a powered actuator coupled to the slip and the actuator body, in which the powered actuator is configured to retract the slip from the center of the bore of the elevator body.
- Embodiments of this disclosure may further provide a method to manufacture an elevator that engages a tubular segment, the method including forming a bore in an elevator body of the elevator, and forming a plurality of openings in the elevator housing that extend from an outer surface of the elevator body to the bore of the elevator body, assembling a plurality of slip assemblies. Assembling each of the plurality of slip assemblies includes coupling a powered actuator to an actuator body, and coupling the powered actuator to the slip, in which the powered actuator is configured to retract the slip from the biased position and toward the actuator body. The method to manufacture also includes disposing the plurality of slip assemblies inside the plurality of openings of the elevator body, and coupling the plurality of slip assemblies to the elevator body, wherein the plurality of slip assemblies are configured to automatically engage the tubular segment.
- Embodiments of this disclosure may further provide a method to add a tubular segment to a drilling string of pipe, the method including rotating the tubular segment up from a non-vertical position to a substantially vertical position and grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with an elevator. Grasping the tubular segment includes lowering the elevator over an upper end of the tubular segment, separating a plurality of slips from a closed position to an open position by the upper end of the tubular segment, wherein the plurality of slips are biased toward the closed position, and automatically enclosing the plurality of slips about an outer diameter of the tubular segment, wherein a shoulder on the upper end of the tubular segment rests on upper surfaces of the plurality of slips. The method to add a tubular segment also includes lifting the tubular segment with the elevator, positioning the tubular segment over the drilling string of pipe, threading the tubular segment onto the drilling string of pipe by rotating the tubular segment using the elevator, and releasing the tubular segment from the elevator by retracting the slips from the outer diameter of the tubular segment.
- The present disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying Figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.
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Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary elevator, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of the elevator ofFigure 1 with tension handles in the unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view of the elevator ofFigure 1 in an open position, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 4 illustrates a close-up view of a throat of the elevator ofFigure 1 , with the tension handle in the unlocked position, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 5 illustrates a close-up view of the throat of the elevator ofFigure 1 , with the tension handle in the locked position, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary elevator grasping a tubular segment, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 7 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary elevator grasping a tubular segment, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method for engaging a tubular segment, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figures 9A and9B illustrate isometric views of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 10 illustrates a top view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figures 11A and11B illustrate cross-sectional views of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 12A illustrates an isometric view of an elevator, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. -
Figure 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the elevator shown inFigure 12A . - It is to be understood that the following disclosure describes several exemplary embodiments for implementing different features, structures, or functions of the invention. Exemplary embodiments of components, arrangements, and configurations are described below to simplify the present disclosure; however, these exemplary embodiments are provided merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various exemplary embodiments and across the Figures provided herein. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various exemplary embodiments and/or configurations discussed in the various Figures. Moreover, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. Finally, the exemplary embodiments presented below may be combined in any combination of ways, i.e., any element from one exemplary embodiment may be used in any other exemplary embodiment, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- Additionally, certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, various entities may refer to the same component by different names, and as such, the naming convention for the elements described herein is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, unless otherwise specifically defined herein. Further, the naming convention used herein is not intended to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. Additionally, in the following discussion and in the claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to." All numerical values in this disclosure may be exact or approximate values unless otherwise specifically stated. Accordingly, various embodiments of the disclosure may deviate from the numbers, values, and ranges disclosed herein without departing from the intended scope. Furthermore, as it is used in the claims or specification, the term "or" is intended to encompass both exclusive and inclusive cases, i.e., "A or B" is intended to be synonymous with "at least one of A and B," unless otherwise expressly specified herein.
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Figures 1-3 illustrate anexemplary oilfield elevator 100, according to one or more embodiments disclosed. Theelevator 100 is moveable between a closed position, as shown inFigures 1 and 2 , and an open position, as shown inFigure 3 . In one embodiment, theelevator 100 may be a single-joint elevator configured to grasp onto and position a singular tubular segment, such as a drill pipe or casing, for coupling to a tubular string. Theelevator 100 may include afirst body half 102a and asecond body half 102b pivotally connected at ahinge 104. Eachbody half 102a,b may have alifting ear elevator 100 during tubular makeup operations. - The
elevator 100 is moveable between the open and closed positions by pivoting eachbody half 102a,b about the axis of thehinge 104. To help accommodate this movement, one or more positioning handles 111 may be attached to the exterior of the first andsecond halves 102a,b to be grasped by a user to manipulate their general position. In other embodiments, the positioning handles 111 may be omitted and an automated opening/closing system (not shown) may be implemented to mechanically open/close theelevator 100. For example, theelevator 100 may be opened/closed using mechanical devices such as hydraulics, servos, gearing, etc., without departing from the scope of the disclosure. - The
elevator 100 may be secured in the closed position with alocking apparatus 108 pivotally-coupled to thefirst body half 102a with apivotal coupling 110. In other embodiments, thelocking apparatus 108 may be pivotally coupled to thesecond body half 102b, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In one embodiment, thepivotal coupling 110 may be spring loaded. A locking handle 112 projects from thelocking apparatus 108 and may be grasped by a user to manually bring thefirst body half 102a into proximity of thesecond body half 102b. Once the first andsecond body halves 102a,b are proximally aligned, thelocking mechanism 108 may be configured to extend over a latch 114 (best seen inFigure 3 )
integrally-formed with thesecond body half 102b. Thelatch 114 may define a perforation 116 (Figure 3 ) adapted to receive a pin 118 (partially shown). Thepin 118 may be extendable through corresponding perforations (not shown) defined in thelocking mechanism 108 and into theperforation 116 to secure thelocking mechanism 108 in the closed position. As illustrated, thepin 118 may be attached to a cord orcable 120 that is anchored to thelocking mechanism 108 at ananchor point 122. - The first and
second body halves circumferential surface elevator 100 is in the closed position, the innercircumferential surfaces 124a,b cooperatively define a generally circular opening orthroat 126 that may be configured to receive and secure a tubular or casing segment. The innercircumferential surfaces 124a,b may further define a series of taperedslots 128; one slot is 128 shown inFigures 1 and 2 , and twoslots 128 are shown inFigure 3 . The term "tapered" as used herein refers to theslots 128 being inclined to the axis of thethroat 126, such as being downwardly and inwardly-tapered with respect to the axis of thethroat 126. - The
tapered slots 128 may be equidistantly-spaced from each other about the innercircumferential surfaces 124a,b. In one embodiment, each innercircumferential surface 124a,b may define a total of twoslots 128, but in other embodiments more or less than twoslots 128 may be provided. Moreover, the number ofslots 128 defined in either innercircumferential surface 124a,b does not necessarily have to be equal, but may vary depending on the application. - Each
slot 128 may be adapted to slidably receive a slip 130, such asslips 130a, 1 30b, 130c, and 130d (only slips 130a,b,c are shown inFigure 1 ). As illustrated, theslots 128 defined in the first innercircumferential surface 124a may slidably receive thefirst slip 130a and thesecond slip 130b, while theslots 128 defined in the second innercircumferential surface 124b may slidably receive thethird slip 130c and thefourth slip 130d. Eachslip 130a-d may be partially cylindrical and configured to engage the outside surface of a tubular segment, as will be described in more detail below. - During
elevator 100 operation, theslips 130a-d may be able to translate vertically within theirrespective slots 128. To facilitate this vertical translation, eachslot 128 may include one or more rails 129 (Figures 2 and3 ) configured to seat arespective slip 130a-d. Therails 129 may be configured to extend through a portion of the respective slip 1 30a-d, thereby providing a fixed translation path for eachslip 130a-d. In at least one embodiment, eachrail 129 may be encompassed by a compression spring 152 (Figure 4 ) adapted to continuously bias therespective slip 130a-d upward and into an "open" position. In other embodiments, the compression springs 152 may be separate from therails 129 but nonetheless work in concert therewith to facilitate the vertical translation of theslips 130a-d. - Each
slip 130a-d may be maintained within itsrespective slot 128 using aretainer plate 131 fastened to the first orsecond body halves 102a,b adjacent the upper end of eachslot 128. Theretainer plates 131 may be fastened to the first orsecond body halves 102a,b by any known method including, but not limited to, mechanical fasteners. - A
first timing bar 132a may be used to moveably couple thefirst slip 130a to thesecond slip 130b, such that when thefirst slip 130a moves, thesecond slip 130b moves as well, and vice versa. Asecond timing bar 132b may be used to moveably couple thethird slip 130c to thefourth slip 130d such that when thethird slip 130c moves, thefourth slip 130d moves as well, and vice versa. One or more mechanical fasteners 134 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) may be used to secure the timing bars 132a,b to therespective slips 130a-d. In other embodiments, however, the timing bars 132a,b may be attached to therespective slips 130a-d via other attachments, such as welding, brazing, adhesives, or combinations thereof, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. - The
elevator 100 may further include first and second tension handles 140a and 140b pivotally coupled to the first andsecond body halves Figure 1 shows the tension handles 1 40a,b in a "locked" position, andFigures 2 and3 show the tension handles 140a,b in an "unlocked" position. In the locked position, eachtension handle 140a,b may rest or otherwise be seated within a recessed pocket defined in the outer circumferential surface of eachbody half 102a,b, respectively. Moreover, eachtension handle 140a,b may include a springloaded body fixture 136 (Figure 1 ) adapted to bias thetension handle 140a,b into its respective recessed pocket. - To unlock the tension handles 140a,b, a user may pull radially-outward on the
tension handle 140b (or 140a), as indicated by arrow A inFigure 1 , to remove it from the recessed pocket. Once removed from the recessed pocket, thetension handle 140b may swivel downward and back toward thebody half 140b, as indicated by arrow B. Locking the tension handles 140a,b back in place within the recessed pockets can be accomplished by a reversal of the above-described steps. - Referring now to
Figures 4 and5 , with continuing reference toFigures 1-3 , illustrated are isometric views of theelevator 100 with the tension handles 140a,b in the unlocked (Figure 4 ) and locked (Figure 5 ) positions, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Although only thefirst body half 102a, including thefirst tension handle 140a, is shown inFigures 4 and5 and described below, it will be appreciated that the following description is equally applicable to the components of thesecond body half 102b, especially including thesecond tension handle 140b, but will not be discussed herein for the sake of brevity. - As illustrated, the
first tension handle 140a may include abody 138 that extends generally into thethroat 126 through anopening 139 defined in thefirst body half 102a. Theopening 139 may generally extend from the outer surface of thefirst body half 102a to the innercircumferential surface 124a. Thebody 138 may terminate at aconnection point 142 configured to be coupled to a biasingmember 144, for example, at afirst end 146 of the biasingmember 144. In one embodiment, the biasingmember 144 may be a tension spring, as illustrated. In other embodiments, however, the biasingmember 144 may be any other device capable of providing a biasing force such as, but not limited to, pneumatic devices, hydraulic devices, servo devices, electromagnets, or combinations thereof. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
connection point 142 includes a ring structure, but in other embodiments theconnection point 142 may include any other type of structure capable of being coupled to the biasingmember 144. The biasingmember 144 may also include asecond end 148 configured to be coupled to thefirst timing bar 132a. In one embodiment, thefirst timing bar 132a may define one ormore holes 150 for receiving or otherwise securing thesecond end 148 of the biasingmember 144. It will be appreciated, however, that thesecond end 148 may be secured to thefirst timing bar 132a in any known manner, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. - When the
first tension handle 140a is in the unlocked position (Figure 4 ), the biasingmember 144 is able to retract, at least partially, and thereby reduce the downward force exhibited on thefirst timing bar 132a. As the downward force on thetiming bar 132a is removed or otherwise diminished, the compression springs 152 are able to expand and force the first andsecond slips 130a,b vertically-upward and into the open position within theirrespective slots 128. Since theslots 128 are inclined to the axis of thethroat 126, upward axial movement of theslips 130a,b simultaneously results in a radial movement of theslips 130a,b away from the center of thethroat 126. Consequently, in the open position theslips 130a,b provide thelargest throat 126 area. - When the
first tension handle 140a is returned to its locked position (Figure 5 ), theconnection point 142 pulls down on and engages the biasingmember 144 which transmits a generally downward force on thefirst timing bar 132a. As a result, thefirst timing bar 132a conveys a generally downward force on the first andsecond slips 130a,b and their accompanying compression springs 152, thereby causing the axial downward movement of theslips 130a,b. Moreover, because of the tapered disposition of theslots 128, downward axial movement of theslips 130a,b simultaneously results in a radial movement of theslips 130a,b toward the center of thethroat 126. Consequently, in the closed position theslips 130a,b present thesmallest throat 126 area for theelevator 100. - Referring to
Figure 6 , illustrated is a cross-sectional view of theexemplary elevator 100 as it engages a casing ortubular segment 602, according to one or more embodiments. In one embodiment, thetubular segment 602 may include asleeve 604 coupled thereto. In other embodiments, thesleeve 604 may be a collar or other upset that is integrally-formed with thetubular segment 602. Thesleeve 604 may include acircumferential shoulder 606 adapted to engage theelevator 100 at eachslip 130a-d (only the second andthird slips Figure 6 ). - The
slips 130a-d may engage the taperedsurface 608 of therespective slot 128 with a correspondinginclined surface 610. Via this sloping engagement between thetapered surface 608 and theinclined surface 610, the radial movement of theslips 130a-d toward or away from the center of theelevator 100 is realized. Consequently, the collective radial circumference of theslips 130a-d is able to increase and/or decrease over a fixed range, thereby manipulating the radius of thethroat 126 and enabling theelevator 100 to receive and properly securetubular segments 602 having a varied and increased range of an outside diameter Od. As will be appreciated, this may be achieved without requiring any adjustment to or replacement of theelevator 100. - With the
elevator 100 in the open position, as shown inFigure 3 , thetubular segment 602 may enter thethroat 126. Once theelevator 100 is closed, the tension handles 140a,b (Figures 1-3 ) may be moved into the locked position, as shown inFigure 5 . Moving the tension handles 140a,b into the locked position applies a spring force on theslips 130a-d that results in the axial-downward and radial-inward movement of theslips 130a-d. As illustrated inFigure 6 , the second andthird slips 130b,d will move axially-downward and radially-inward until eventually engaging theoutside surface 612 of thetubular segment 602. The weight of thetubular segment 602 may shift thetubular segment 602 vertically until thecircumferential shoulder 606 engages theslips 130b,d, thereby impeding its further downward progress. Via this sloping engagement between thetapered surface 608 and theinclined surface 610 of eachslip 130b,d, any increased force in the downward direction against theslips 130b,d only tightens the engagement with the slips 130b1d on the outside diameter Od of thetubular segment 602. - Once the
tubular segment 602 is properly coupled to a tubular string or otherwise securely captured by another lifting mechanism, the tension handles 140a,b may be unlocked in preparation for receiving anew tubular segment 602. Unlocking the tension handles 140a,b releases the spring forces on theslips 130a-d and allows theslips 130a-d to move axially-upward and into the open position, thereby releasing thetubular segment 602 from engagement with theelevator 100. - Referring to
Figure 7 , illustrated is an isometric view of theexemplary oilfield elevator 100 engaged with atubular segment 702, according to one or more embodiments disclosed. As described above, the elevator may be engaged to thetubular segment 702 at asleeve 704. Those skilled in the art will recognize the several advantages provided by theelevator 100. For example, theelevator 100 is able to securely grasp onto multiple outside diameters within anominal tubular segment 702 size. As a result, significant savings in money and time may be gained that would otherwise be spent in removing and replacing theelevator 100 or adjusting the settings for different outside diameters. - As used herein, the term "single-joint elevator" is intended to distinguish the elevator from a string elevator that is used to support the weight of the entire pipe string. Rather, a "single-joint elevator" is used to grip and lift a tubular segment as is necessary to add or remove the tubular segment to or from a tubular string. Furthermore, a pipe or tubular "segment", as that term is used herein, is inclusive of either a single pipe or tubular joint or a stand made up of multiple joints of a pipe or other tubular that will be lifted as a unit. In the context of the present disclosure, a tubular segment does not include a tubular string that extends into the well.
- Referring now to
Figure 8 , illustrated is amethod 800 for engaging a tubular segment. In one embodiment, themethod 800 may include positioning an elevator adjacent the tubular segment, as at 802. The elevator may include first and second body halves that have slips that are slidably received within corresponding tapered slots. The corresponding tapered slots may be defined in the first and second body halves. Moreover, a first timing bar may be coupled to the slips in the first body half and a second timing bar may be coupled to the slips in the second body half. Themethod 800 may further include closing the first and second body halves around the tubular segment, as at 804. - First and second tension handles may then be moved from an unlocked position to a locked position, as at 806. In one embodiment, the first and second tension handles may be pivotally-coupled to the first and second body halves, respectively, and each tension handle may have a body that terminates at a connection point. The
method 800 may further include applying a downward force on the first and second timing bars with first and second biasing members, as at 808. The first and second biasing members may each have a first end coupled to the connection point of the first and second tension handles, respectively, and a second end coupled to the first and second timing bars, respectively. The downward force may then be transmitted from the first and second timing bars to the slips, as at 810. The slips may be configured to translate vertically within the tapered slots and at the same time translate radially with respect to the first and second body halves in response to the downward force. Accordingly, the slips may translate vertically and radially until coming into contact with an outside surface of the tubular segment. - Referring now to
Figures 9A and9B , anelevator 900 according to one or more embodiments is shown. In one or more embodiments, theelevator 900 may include anelevator body 910,slip assemblies 920, and abase member 930. Theelevator body 910 may have abore 913 formed therethrough with alongitudinal axis 950 defined therethrough. In one or more embodiments, thebore 913 formed through theelevator body 910 may receive a tubular segment (not shown), and theelevator 900 may be used to secure and lift the tubular segment. In one or more embodiments, the tubular segment may include a tubular segment and may be part of a string of tubular segments. As such, in one or more embodiments, theelevator 900 may be used to secure and lift a string of tubular segments. - Further, in one or more embodiments, the
elevator body 910 may have a pair of liftingears 915 disposed thereon. For example, as shown, the liftingears 915 may be formed on atop surface 911 of theelevator body 910, and the liftingears 915 may be configured to bear the entire load of theelevator 900 and the tubular segment (not shown) when lifting the tubular segment. Additionally, in one or more embodiments, theelevator body 910 may have aguide portion 916 formed on thetop surface 911 of theelevator body 910. In one or more embodiments, theguide portion 916 may be adjacent to thebore 913 and may direct a tubular segment into thebore 913 of theelevator body 910. In one or more embodiments, theguide portion 916 may include a tapered surface formed on theelevator body 910 configured to direct a tubular segment into thebore 913 of theelevator body 910. In one or more embodiments, theguide portion 916 of theelevator body 910 may be a tapered surface that extends from atop surface 911 of theelevator body 910 toward a center of theelevator body 910, e.g., toward theslip assemblies 920, such that a diameter of thebore 913 decreases from thetop surface 911 of theelevator body 910 to the center of theelevator body 910. - Still referring to
Figures 9A and9B , in one or more embodiments, theelevator body 910 may have a plurality ofopenings 917 formed therein, in which each of theopenings 917 may be configured to receive a slip assembly, e.g., aslip assembly 920. In one or more embodiments, the plurality ofopenings 917 may be formed through theelevator body 910, e.g., from anouter surface 914 of theelevator body 910 to thebore 913 of theelevator body 910. - In one or more embodiments, each of the
slip assemblies 920 of theelevator 900 may include anactuator body 921, apowered actuator 922, a biasing member (not shown), and slips (not shown). In one or more embodiments, theslip assemblies 920 may be disposed within theopenings 917 of theelevator body 910. Further, in one or more embodiments, theactuator body 921 of each of theslip assemblies 920 may be coupled to theelevator body 910 to maintain theslip assemblies 920 within theopenings 917 of theelevator body 910. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, thepowered actuator 922 of each of theslip assemblies 920 may be coupled to theactuator body 921. In one or more embodiments, thepowered actuator 922 of each of theslip assemblies 920 may include a hydraulic cylinder and may be connected to theactuator body 921. For example, in one or more embodiments, thepowered actuator 922 of each of theslip assemblies 920 may include a hydraulic cylinder connected to theactuator body 921 by a pin (not shown). However, other powered actuators known in the art may be used. Further, other means of coupling known in the art may be used to connect thepowered actuator 922 to theactuator body 921. - Further, in one or more embodiments, the
base member 930 may be coupled to abottom surface 912 of theelevator body 910, and thebase member 930 may have a bore (not shown) formed therethrough and a guide portion (not shown) formed thereon. In one or more embodiments, the bore of thebase member 930 may be substantially aligned with thebore 913 of theelevator body 910. Further, in one or more embodiments, the guide portion of thebase member 930 may be configured to direct the tubular segment (not shown) into thebore 913 of theelevator body 910. For example, the guide portion of thebase member 930 may include a tapered surface formed on thebase member 930 configured to direct a tubular segment into the bore of thebase member 930. In one or more embodiments, the guide portion of thebase member 930 may taper in a direction that is substantially opposite to a direction theguide portion 916 of theelevator body 910 tapers. - Referring to
Figure 10 , a top view of anelevator 1000 havingslips 1024 in a closed position are shown in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. In one or more embodiments, theelevator 1000 may include at least anelevator body 1010 having abore 1013 formed therethrough andslip assemblies 1020 coupled thereto. Further, in one or more embodiments, theelevator body 1010 may have a pair of liftingears 1015 disposed on atop surface 1011 of theelevator body 1010 that may be configured to bear the entire load of theelevator 1000 and the tubular segment (not shown) when lifting the tubular segment. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, theelevator body 1010 may have aguide portion 1016 formed on thetop surface 1011. In one or more embodiments, theguide portion 1016 may include a tapered surface, and theguide portion 1016 may be adjacent to thebore 1013 and may direct a tubular segment into thebore 1013 of theelevator body 1010. - Further, in one or more embodiments, the
elevator body 1010 may have openings (not shown) in which theslip assemblies 1020 may be disposed and coupled. In one or more embodiments, each of theslip assemblies 1020 may include anactuator body 1021, a powered actuator (not shown), theslip 1024, and a biasing member (not shown). As discussed above, in one or more embodiments, theactuator body 1021 may be coupled to theelevator body 1010 such that theslip assemblies 1020 are maintained within openings (not shown) of theelevator body 1010. Further, in one or more embodiments, the powered actuator may be coupled to theactuator body 1021. Moreover, in one or more embodiments, the powered actuator may also be coupled to theslip 1024 such that the slips may be retracted from thebore 1013 of theelevator body 1010, e.g. in a direction away from thelongitudinal axis 950 shown inFigure 9A . In addition, in one or more embodiments, the biasing member may be coupled to theslip 1024 such that theslip 1024 is biased toward the center of thebore 1013, which is a closed position. In other words, in one or more embodiments, the biasing member may be coupled to theslip 1024 such that theslip 1024 is biased in a direction toward thelongitudinal axis 950 shown inFigure 9A . Alternatively, one or more embodiments may not include a biasing member. In one or more embodiments, the weight of the slip acting on an inclined surface of the opening 1017, in which theslip 1024 is disposed, 1024 may cause theslip 1024 to be biased toward a closed position without the use of a biasing member. As such, in one or more embodiments, the plurality ofslips 1024 may be configured to automatically set, e.g., engage with a tubular segment, by way of the biasing member or without the use of the biasing member. In one or more embodiments, theslips 1024 may contactadjacent slips 1024. - In one or more embodiments, each
slip 1024 may include anengagement surface 1025 and a guide surface (not shown). In one or more embodiments, theengagement surface 1025 may be cut on each of theslips 1024 such that theengagement surface 1025 is orthogonal to an axis, e.g.,axis 950 as shown inFigure 9A , formed by thebore 1013. In one or more embodiments, theengagement surface 1025 may be configured to engage a portion of a tubular segment, e.g., a shoulder of a segment of shouldered pipe. Theslips 1024 according to one or more embodiments will be discussed in greater detail below. - Referring to
Figures 11A and11B , cross-sectional views of anelevator 1100 according to one or more embodiments are shown. As shown, in one or more embodiments, theelevator 1100 may include anelevator body 1110,slip assemblies 1120, and abase member 1130. - As discussed above, the
elevator body 1110 may have abore 1113 formed therethrough and alongitudinal axis 1150 defined therethrough. In addition, in one or more embodiments, theelevator body 1110 may include a pair of lifting ears 1115 (only one shown inFigure 11 ) formed on atop surface 1111 of theelevator body 1110. Further, the elevator body may have aguide portion 1116 formed on thetop surface 1111 of theelevator body 1110 adjacent to thebore 1113 that directs a tubular segment (not shown) into thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110. In one or more embodiments, theguide portion 1116 may include a tapered surface formed on theelevator body 1110 configured to direct a tubular segment into thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110. - Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the
elevator body 1110 may includeopenings 1117 formed therein. In one or more embodiments, theopenings 1117 may be configured to receive theslip assemblies 1120. In one or more embodiments, theopenings 1117 formed in theelevator body 1110 may extend from anouter surface 1114 of theelevator body 1110 to thebore 1113. In one or more embodiments, a cross-section of the openings may be configured to fit an outer profile of theslip assemblies 1120. For example, in one or more embodiments, a cross-section of theopenings 1117 may be relatively square in shape, and theopenings 1117 may start near thetop surface 1111 on theouter surface 1114 and finish near abottom surface 1112 in thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110. - In one or more embodiments, the
slip assemblies openings 1117 and may be coupled to theelevator body 1110. As discussed above, each of theslip assemblies actuator body 1121, apowered actuator 1122, and aslip 1124. As discussed above, in one or more embodiments, eachactuator body 1121 may be coupled to theelevator body 1110 such that theslip assemblies 1120 may be maintained within theopenings 1117. Further, in one or more embodiments, eachpowered actuator 1122 may be coupled to theactuator body 1121 such that thepowered actuator 1122 may be maintained within theopening 1117 and such that thepowered actuator 1122 extends toward thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110. In one or more embodiments, apin 1123 may be used to couple thepowered actuator 1122 to theactuator body 1121. However, other means of coupling known in the art may be used to connect thepowered actuator 1122 to theactuator body 1121. - Furthermore, referring to
Figures 11A and11B , in one or more embodiments, thepowered actuator 1122 may be coupled to theslip 1124 such that theslip 1124 may move within theopening 1117 of theelevator body 1110 between a closed position and an open position. In one or more embodiments, the closed position may be one in which theslips 1124 are extended from theopening 1117 within thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110 until thepowered actuator 1122 is fully stroked. In one or more embodiments, the open position may be one in which theslips 1124 are retracted from thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110 into theopenings 1117 such that theslips 1124 may not retain a tubular segment (not shown). However, in one or more embodiments, the closed position may be a position in which theslips 1124 are extended from the opening 117 within thebore 1113 and contact a portion of a tubular segment. As such, the closed position of theslips 1124 according to embodiments disclosed herein is not necessarily limited to a position of theslips 1124 in which thepower actuator 1122 is fully stroked. In one or more embodiments, apin 1127 may be used to couple theslip 1124 to thepowered actuator 1122. However, other means of coupling known in the art may be used to connect thepowered actuator 1122 to theactuator body 1121. - In one or more embodiments,
powered actuator 1122 may include a hydraulic cylinder, in which hydraulic fluid may be introduced into/withdrawn on opposite sides of ahydraulic piston 1135 through one or morehydraulic ports powered actuator 1122 through an "opening"port 1137 in order to withdraw the slip 1124 (connected topiston 1135 through rod 1141) away frombore 1150 and into one or more positions between fully open and fully closed. Similarly, hydraulic fluid may be introduced into thepowered actuator 1122 through an "closing"port 1139 in order to extend theslip 1124 towardbore 1150 and into one or more positions between fully open and fully closed. As would be understood by those having ordinary skill, introducing fluid into openingport 1137 may require removal of fluid from closingport 1139 and vice versa. In alternative embodiments, a biasing member (e.g., a spring) may biaspiston 1135 toward either a fully open or a fully closed position, such that loss of hydraulic power to either or bothports piston 1135 through rod 1141) to move in a default or "failsafe" direction. Alternatively, the weight of theslip 1124 itself may bias thepiston 1135 andslip 1124 assembly into a desired failsafe direction within opening 1117 absent additional biasing members. - For example, as shown in
Figure 11B , theslip assembly 1120A includes a biasingmember 1128. In one or more embodiments, the biasingmember 1128 may be disposed within thepowered actuator 1122. In one or more embodiments, the biasingmember 1128 may be disposed outside of the powered actuator but within theslip assembly 1120A such that a portion of the biasingmember 1128 is engaged with theactuator body 1121 and another portion of the biasingmember 1128 is engaged with theslip 1124. In one or more embodiments, the biasingmember 1128 may be a coil spring and may be configured to bias theslip 1124 in a direction toward thebore 1113, e.g., toward a closed position. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the biasingmember 1128 may be configured to bias theslip 1124 in a direction away from thebore 1113, e.g., toward a fully open position. - Additionally, referring to
Figures 11A and11B , in one or more embodiments, each of theslips 1124 may include anengagement surface 1125 and aguide surface 1126. In one or more embodiments, theengagement surface 1125 may be disposed on an upper surface of theslip 1124. In one or more embodiments, theengagement surface 1125 of theslips 1124 may be configured to engage a portion of a tubular segment (not shown) and may be configured to hold the tubular segment by a shoulder (not shown) of the tubular segment. In one or more embodiments, theengagement surface 1125 may extend in a direction that is orthogonal to thelongitudinal axis 1150 of thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110. As such, theengagement surface 1125 of theslips 1124 may be configured to engage a shoulder of a shouldered tubular segment, which may allow the shoulder of a shouldered tubular segment to be supported by theslips 1124. - Further, in one or more embodiments, the
guide surface 1126 may be a tapered surface formed on a bottom surface of theslip 1124. Theguide surface 1126 may be disposed such that a tubular segment (not shown) that is inserted into theelevator 1100 may exert a force on theslip assemblies 1120 in order to overcome the biasing force imposed on theslips 1124 and to separate theslips 1124 to allow the tubular segment to pass through thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110. In other words, theguide surface 1126 of each of theslips 1124 may be configured to guide a tubular segment within theelevator 1100 and may allow the tubular segment to be secured and supported within theelevator 1100. - Still referring to
Figures 11A and11B , in one or more embodiments, atop surface 1132 of thebase member 1130 may be connected to thebottom surface 1112 of theelevator body 1110 such that thebase member 1130 may direct a tubular segment (not shown) into thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110. In one or more embodiments, thebase member 1130 may have abore 1131 formed therethrough. Further, in one or more embodiments, thebase member 1130 may include aguide portion 1134 that may be configured to direct a tubular segment into thebore 1113 of theelevator body 1110. In one or more embodiments, theguide portion 1134 of thebase member 1130 may be a tapered surface that extends from abottom surface 1133 of thebase member 1130 to thetop surface 1132 of thebase member 1130 such that a diameter of thebore 1131 decreases from thebottom surface 1133 to thetop surface 1132. - One or more aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a method to manufacture an elevator that engages a tubular segment. In one or more embodiments, the method to manufacture may include forming a bore in an elevator body of the elevator, forming a plurality of openings in the elevator housing that extend from an outer surface of the elevator body to the bore of the elevator body, and assembling a plurality of slip assemblies. In one or more embodiments, assembling each of the plurality of slip assemblies may include coupling a powered actuator to an actuator body, and coupling the powered actuator to the slip, in which the powered actuator is configured to retract the slip from the biased position and toward the actuator body. In one or more embodiments, the method to manufacture may also include disposing the plurality of slip assemblies inside the plurality of openings of the elevator body, and coupling the plurality of slip assemblies to the elevator body, in which the plurality of slip assemblies are configured to automatically engage the tubular segment.
- In one or more embodiments, assembling the plurality of slip assemblies may also include coupling a biasing member to a slip such that the slip is biased away from the actuator body toward a biased position. Further, in one or more embodiments, the method to manufacture may also include coupling a base member to a bottom surface of the elevator body, in which the base member is configured to direct the tubular segment into the bore of the elevator body.
- In one or more embodiments, a tubular segment having at least two distinct outer diameters such that a shoulder exists may be raised to stand vertically and may be added to a string of pipes. In one or more embodiments, an elevator, as described above, may be lowered over an end of the tubular segment that is standing vertically. While the elevator is lowered over the end of the tubular segment, a base member of the elevator, e.g., a guide portion of the base member, may direct the tubular segment into a bore of an elevator body of the elevator.
- Further, in one or more embodiments, slips that are biased toward a center of the bore of the elevator body may be separated away from each other by the tubular segment, which may allow the tubular segment to pass through the bore of the elevator body. For example, referring back to
Figure 10 , theslips 1024 may be biased toward a center of thebore 1013 of theelevator body 1010. In one or more embodiments, a tubular segment (not shown) may be disposed in thebore 1013, which may engage theslips 1024, e.g., engage with the guide surface of 1126 shown inFigure 11A , which may cause theslips 1024 to be separated away from each other. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the biasing force imposed on the slips, e.g., by way of a biasing member or by way of the weight of each of the slips disposed on an inclined surface of theopenings 1117, may cause the slips to collapse around the smaller diameter of the outer diameters of the tubular segment. As such, in one or more embodiments, the slips may collapse around the smaller diameter of the outer diameters of the tubular segment such that the shoulder on the tubular segment may rest on and be held by an engagement surface of the slips. - In one or more embodiments, the tubular segment grasped by the elevator may be lifted by lifting ears, e.g., the lifting
ears 915 shown inFigure 9A , on a top surface of the elevator body and may be positioned above a string of tubular segments. Further, in one or more embodiments, the elevator may engage the tubular segment with the string of tubular segments and may rotate such that the tubular segment is threaded to the string of tubular segments. Once the tubular segment is connected to the string of tubular segments, powered actuators may retract the slips away from the tubular segment, and the elevator may be raised off of the string of tubular segments. - As such, one or more aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a method to add a tubular segment to a drilling string of pipe. In one or more embodiments, the method for adding a tubular segment to a drilling string of pipe may include rotating the tubular segment up from a non-vertical position to a substantially vertical position and grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with an elevator. In one or more embodiments, grasping the tubular, segment in the vertical position with an elevator may include lowering the elevator over an upper end of the tubular segment, separating a plurality of slips from a closed position to an open position by the upper end of the tubular segment, in which the plurality of slips are biased toward the closed position, and automatically enclosing the plurality of slips about an outer diameter of the tubular segment, e.g., by way of a biasing member or by way of the weight of each of the slips acting on an inclined surface of the opening in which the slips is disposed, in which a shoulder on the upper end of the tubular segment rests on upper surfaces of the plurality of slips. In one or more embodiments, the method may also include lifting the tubular segment with the elevator, positioning the tubular segment over the drilling string of pipe, threading the tubular segment onto the drilling string of pipe by rotating the tubular segment using the elevator, and releasing the tubular segment from the elevator by retracting the slips from the outer diameter of the tubular segment.
- In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of slips are retracted by a powered actuator. Further, in one or more embodiments, lifting the tubular segment with the elevator may include lifting the elevator by a pair of lifting ears disposed on the elevator, in which the pair of lifting ears are configured to bear a load of the tubular segment. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of slips may not be engaged with the tubular segment in the open position. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of slips may be engaged with the tubular segment in the closed position. In one or more embodiments, an engagement surface of the plurality of slips may be engaged with the tubular segment in the closed position.
- Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with the elevator further may include guiding the tubular segment along a guide surface of the plurality of slips. Moreover, in one or more embodiments, grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with the elevator further may include guiding the tubular segment along a guide portion of a base member of the elevator.
- Referring now to
Figures 12A and12B , multiple views of anelevator 1200 according to embodiments disclosed herein are shown. As shown, theelevator 1200 may include an elevator body including afirst elevator segment 1210A and asecond elevator segment 1210B. In one or more embodiments, thefirst elevator segment 1210A may be coupled to thesecond elevator segment 1210B by way of afirst pin 1240 and asecond pin 1241. In one or more embodiments, thefirst pin 1240 and thesecond pin 1241 may connect thefirst elevator segment 1210A to thesecond elevator segment 1210B. As such, in one or more embodiments, each of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B may each include bores formed therethrough, in which the bores formed through thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B are configured to receive thefirst pin 1240 and thesecond pin 1241. - In one or more embodiments, each of the
first pin 1240 and thesecond pin 1241 may be removable, which may allow thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B to be separated from each other. For example, in one or more embodiments, thefirst pin 1240 may be removed from engagement with thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B, which may result in thefirst elevator segment 1210A being able to pivot relative thesecond elevator segment 1210B about thesecond pin 1241. As such, in one or more embodiments, thefirst pin 1240 may be removed from engagement with thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B, which may allow thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B to pivot about thesecond pin 1241 and receive a tubular segment (not shown) by separating thefirst elevator segment 1210A from thesecond elevator segment 1210B, and then closing thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B around the tubular segment, and then re-inserting thefirst pin 1240. In one or more embodiments, each of thefirst pin 1240 and thesecond pin 1241 may be attached to thefirst elevator segment 1210A and/or thesecond elevator segment 1210B, e.g., by way of a cord or tether. - In one or more embodiments, the
elevator 1200 may includehandles 1243 disposed on each of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B. In one or more embodiments, thehandles 1243 may provide a gripping surface for an operator and may assist the operator in pivoting each of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B about a pivot point, e.g., about thefirst pin 1240 and/or about thesecond pin 1241. As such, thehandles 1243 may assist an operator in opening and closing theelevator 1200 around a tubular segment by removing thefirst pin 1240, pulling/pushing thehandle 1243 of one of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B to pivot one of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B about a pivot point, and then pushing/pulling thehandle 1243 to close one of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B around a tubular segment. - Further, in one or more embodiments, the
elevator 1200 may have a pair of liftingears 1215 disposed thereon. For example, as shown, the liftingears 1215 may be formed on a top surface of each of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B, and the liftingears 1215 may be configured to bear the entire load of theelevator 1200 and the tubular segment (not shown) when lifting the tubular segment. - Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the elevator body 1210 may have a
guide portion 1216 formed on the top surface of each of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B. In one or more embodiments, theguide portion 1216 may be adjacent to a bore 1213 formed between thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B and may direct a tubular segment into the bore 1213 of theelevator 1200. In one or more embodiments, theguide portion 1216 may include a tapered surface formed on each of thefirst elevator segment 1210A and thesecond elevator segment 1210B configured to direct a tubular segment into the bore 1213 of theelevator 1200. - Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the
elevator 1200 may include a plurality ofslip assemblies 1220. In one or more embodiments, theslip assemblies 1220 may include aslip 1224 disposed within anopening 1217. In one or more embodiments, theopening 1217 may include an inclined surface, and the weight of theslip 1224 may cause theslip 1224 to be biased toward a closed position, e.g., in a direction toward alongitudinal axis 1250 defined through theelevator 1200. Further, in one or more embodiments, each of theopenings 1217 may include aport 1242 formed therein, in which lubricant may be introduced into theopenings 1217 through theport 1242. Introducing lubricant into theopenings 1217 may preserve the ability of theslips 1224 to be biased toward the closed position by minimizing the coefficient of friction between theslips 1224 and theopenings 1217. In one or more embodiments, theports 1242 may be sealed, e.g., by way of a cap or plug, such that materials are selectively introduced into theopenings 1217. - Optionally, in one or more embodiments, one or more of the
slip assemblies 1220 may also include a biasingmember 1228. In one or more embodiments, the biasingmember 1228 may be a spring that may engage a portion of theopening 1217 and a portion of theslip 1224 such that theslip 1224 is biased toward the closed position. The biasingmember 1228 may reinforce the movement of theslip 1224 induced by the weight of theslip 1224 acting on the inclined surface of theopenings 1217 and may further ensure that theslips 1224 may automatically be biased toward the closed position. - In one or more embodiments, the
slip 1224 may include anengagement surface 1225 configured to engage with a portion of a tubular segment (not shown). In one or more embodiments, theengagement surface 1225 may be cut on each of theslips 1224 such that theengagement surface 1225 is orthogonal to thelongitudinal axis 1250 of theelevator 1200. In one or more embodiments, theengagement surface 1225 may be configured to engage a portion of a tubular segment, e.g., a shoulder of a segment of shouldered pipe. - The present application is a divisional application stemming from
EP 15830070.7 PCT/US2015/043619 ).
Claims (15)
- An elevator (900, 1000, 1100) to manipulate a tubular segment, the elevator (900, 1000, 1100) comprising:an elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) with a bore (913, 1013, 1113) formed therethrough having an axis (950, 1150) therein, the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) comprising:
a plurality of openings (917, 1117) extending from an outer surface (914, 1114) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) to the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110);a plurality of slip assemblies (920, 1020, 1120) disposed inside the plurality of openings (917, 1117) and coupled to the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110), each of the plurality of slip assemblies (920, 1020, 1120) comprising:an actuator body (921, 1021, 1121) coupled to the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110);a slip (1024, 1124), the slip (1024, 1124) comprising:an engagement surface (1025, 1125) disposed orthogonal to the axis (950, 1150) of the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) that engages the tubular segment; anda guide surface (1126) adjacent to a bottom surface (912, 1112) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) that is angled such that the tubular segment slides through the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) until the tubular segment is engaged by the engagement surface (1025, 1125);a powered actuator (922, 1122) coupled to the slip (1024, 1124) and the actuator body (921, 1021, 1121), wherein the powered actuator (922, 1122) is configured to retract the slip (1024, 1124) from the center of the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110); anda base member (930, 1130) coupled to the bottom surface (912, 1112) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110), the base member (930, 1130) having a guide portion (1134) that directs the tubular segment into the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110). - The elevator (900, 1000, 1100) of claim 1, each of the plurality of slip assemblies (920, 1020, 1120) further comprising a biasing member (1128) coupled to the slip (1024, 1124), wherein the biasing member (1128) biases the slip (1024, 1124) toward a center of the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110).
- The elevator (900, 1000, 1100) of claim 2, wherein the biasing member (1128) is a coil spring engaged with the slip (1024, 1124).
- The elevator (900, 1000, 1100) of claim 1, wherein the powered actuator (922, 1122) is coupled to the slip (1024, 1124) by a pin (1127), and wherein the powered actuator (922, 1122) is coupled to the actuator body (921, 1021, 1121) by a pin (1123).
- The elevator (900, 1000, 1100) of claim 1, wherein the powered actuator (922, 1122) is a hydraulic cylinder.
- The elevator (900, 1000, 1100) of claim 1, the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) further comprising a pair of lifting ears (915, 1015, 1115) disposed on a top surface (911, 1011, 1111) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110).
- The elevator (900, 1000, 1100) of claim 6, wherein the pair of lifting ears (915, 1015, 1115) are configured to bear a load of the tubular segment.
- The elevator (900, 1000, 1100) of claim 1, the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) further comprising a guide portion (916, 1016, 1116) formed on a top surface (911, 1011, 1111) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110) adjacent to the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110).
- The elevator (900, 1000, 1100) of claim 1, wherein the guide portion (916, 1016, 1116) comprises a tapered surface configured to direct the tubular segment into the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110).
- A method to add a tubular segment to a tubular string of pipe, the method comprising:rotating the tubular segment up from a non-vertical position to a substantially vertical position;grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with an elevator according to any preceeding claim (900, 1000, 1100),
wherein grasping the tubular segment comprises:lowering the elevator (900, 1000, 1100) over an upper end of the tubular segment;guiding the tubular segment into a bore (913, 1013, 1113) formed through a body (910, 1010, 1110) of the elevator (900, 1000, 1100) with a guide surface (1126) adjacent to a bottom surface (912, 1112) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110), the guide surface (1126) being angled such that the tubular segment slides through the bore (913, 1013, 1113) of the elevator body (910, 1010, 1110);separating a plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120) from a closed position to an open position by the upper end of the tubular segment, wherein the plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120) are biased toward the closed position; andautomatically enclosing the plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120) about an outer diameter of the tubular segment, wherein a shoulder on the upper end of the tubular segment rests on upper surfaces of the plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120);lifting the tubular segment with the elevator (900, 1000, 1100);positioning the tubular segment over the drilling string of pipe;threading the tubular segment onto the drilling string of pipe by rotating the tubular segment; andreleasing the tubular segment from the elevator (900, 1000, 1100) by retracting the slips (920, 1020, 1120) from the outer diameter of the tubular segment. - The method of claim 10, wherein each of the plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120) are retracted by a powered actuator (922, 1122).
- The method of claim 10, wherein lifting the tubular segment with the elevator (900, 1000, 1100) comprises lifting the elevator (900, 1000, 1100) by a pair of lifting ears (915, 1015, 1115) disposed on the elevator (900, 1000, 1100), wherein the pair of lifting ears (915, 1015, 1115) are configured to bear a load of the tubular segment.
- The method of claim 10, wherein grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with the elevator (900, 1000, 1100) further comprises guiding the tubular segment along a guide surface (1126) of the plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120).
- The method of claim 10, wherein grasping the tubular segment in the vertical position with the elevator (900, 1000, 1100) further comprises guiding the tubular segment along a guide portion of a base member (930, 1130) of the elevator (900, 1000, 1100).
- The method of claim 10, wherein, in the open position, the plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120) are not engaged with the tubular segment and wherein, in the closed position, the plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120), e.g. an engagement surface (1025, 1125) of the plurality of slips (920, 1020, 1120), are engaged with the tubular segment.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/452,432 US9140078B2 (en) | 2011-05-01 | 2014-08-05 | Extended range single-joint elevator |
EP15830070.7A EP3177799B1 (en) | 2014-08-05 | 2015-08-04 | Extended range single-joint elevator |
PCT/US2015/043619 WO2016022565A1 (en) | 2014-08-05 | 2015-08-04 | Extended range single-joint elevator |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP15830070.7A Division EP3177799B1 (en) | 2014-08-05 | 2015-08-04 | Extended range single-joint elevator |
EP15830070.7A Division-Into EP3177799B1 (en) | 2014-08-05 | 2015-08-04 | Extended range single-joint elevator |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3228811A2 EP3228811A2 (en) | 2017-10-11 |
EP3228811A3 EP3228811A3 (en) | 2017-10-18 |
EP3228811B1 true EP3228811B1 (en) | 2019-04-24 |
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Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP17167413.8A Active EP3228811B1 (en) | 2014-08-05 | 2015-08-04 | Extended range single-joint elevator |
EP15830070.7A Active EP3177799B1 (en) | 2014-08-05 | 2015-08-04 | Extended range single-joint elevator |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP15830070.7A Active EP3177799B1 (en) | 2014-08-05 | 2015-08-04 | Extended range single-joint elevator |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
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EP (2) | EP3228811B1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2015301250B2 (en) |
BR (1) | BR112017002341B1 (en) |
CA (2) | CA2957022C (en) |
MX (1) | MX2017001534A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2016022565A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10570679B2 (en) | 2017-11-08 | 2020-02-25 | Forum Us, Inc. | Elevator with securing apparatus and method of moving tubulars |
CA3210510A1 (en) * | 2021-04-19 | 2022-10-27 | Gregory WIEDMER | Locking clamp and tubular elevator assembly |
CA3233306A1 (en) * | 2021-09-28 | 2023-04-06 | Raul Patricio Bizama Almendras | Variable-diameter guide bushing device for drilling equipment, for changing the drilling tool |
Family Cites Families (14)
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US2048209A (en) * | 1933-03-08 | 1936-07-21 | Nat Superior Co | Slip elevator |
US2563851A (en) * | 1946-12-02 | 1951-08-14 | Byron Jackson Co | Well pipe elevator |
US3197835A (en) * | 1962-07-02 | 1965-08-03 | Cicero C Brown | Power-operated elevator devices for well pipe |
US3422506A (en) * | 1967-12-26 | 1969-01-21 | Byron Jackson Inc | Convertible elevator |
US4415193A (en) * | 1981-02-27 | 1983-11-15 | Hughes Tool Company | Slip setting ring |
CA1252384A (en) * | 1985-04-04 | 1989-04-11 | Stephen H. Barkley | Wellhead connecting apparatus |
US5992801A (en) * | 1996-06-26 | 1999-11-30 | Torres; Carlos A. | Pipe gripping assembly and method |
GB2362401B (en) * | 2000-05-19 | 2003-11-19 | Fmc Corp | Tubing hanger landing string with blowout preventer operated release mechanism |
US7762343B2 (en) * | 2004-05-01 | 2010-07-27 | Varco I/P, Inc. | Apparatus and method for handling pipe |
US7303021B2 (en) * | 2005-09-20 | 2007-12-04 | Varco I/P, Inc. | Wellbore rig elevator systems |
US7992634B2 (en) * | 2007-08-28 | 2011-08-09 | Frank's Casing Crew And Rental Tools, Inc. | Adjustable pipe guide for use with an elevator and/or a spider |
US7681649B2 (en) * | 2007-11-08 | 2010-03-23 | Tesco Corporation | Power slips |
US8146671B2 (en) * | 2009-02-06 | 2012-04-03 | David Sipos | Shoulder-type elevator and method of use |
CA2834880C (en) * | 2011-05-01 | 2016-04-12 | Frank's Casing Crew And Rental Tools, Inc. | Extended range single-joint elevator |
-
2015
- 2015-08-04 AU AU2015301250A patent/AU2015301250B2/en active Active
- 2015-08-04 CA CA2957022A patent/CA2957022C/en active Active
- 2015-08-04 EP EP17167413.8A patent/EP3228811B1/en active Active
- 2015-08-04 CA CA3036030A patent/CA3036030A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2015-08-04 WO PCT/US2015/043619 patent/WO2016022565A1/en active Application Filing
- 2015-08-04 BR BR112017002341-5A patent/BR112017002341B1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2015-08-04 EP EP15830070.7A patent/EP3177799B1/en active Active
- 2015-08-04 MX MX2017001534A patent/MX2017001534A/en unknown
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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None * |
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MX2017001534A (en) | 2017-08-02 |
BR112017002341A2 (en) | 2018-01-16 |
EP3228811A2 (en) | 2017-10-11 |
EP3228811A3 (en) | 2017-10-18 |
WO2016022565A1 (en) | 2016-02-11 |
EP3177799A4 (en) | 2017-10-18 |
EP3177799A1 (en) | 2017-06-14 |
CA2957022C (en) | 2020-10-27 |
AU2015301250B2 (en) | 2018-05-10 |
EP3177799B1 (en) | 2019-04-24 |
CA3036030A1 (en) | 2016-02-11 |
CA2957022A1 (en) | 2016-02-11 |
AU2015301250A1 (en) | 2017-02-23 |
BR112017002341B1 (en) | 2018-12-04 |
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