US20170314349A1 - Top drive powered differential speed rotation system and method - Google Patents
Top drive powered differential speed rotation system and method Download PDFInfo
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- US20170314349A1 US20170314349A1 US15/499,648 US201715499648A US2017314349A1 US 20170314349 A1 US20170314349 A1 US 20170314349A1 US 201715499648 A US201715499648 A US 201715499648A US 2017314349 A1 US2017314349 A1 US 2017314349A1
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- sprocket
- clamping mechanism
- open mouth
- tubular
- sprockets
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 26
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims description 138
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 22
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005755 formation reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005219 brazing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK 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
- E21B19/16—Connecting or disconnecting pipe couplings or joints
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK 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
- E21B19/16—Connecting or disconnecting pipe couplings or joints
- E21B19/161—Connecting or disconnecting pipe couplings or joints using a wrench or a spinner adapted to engage a circular section of pipe
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B17/00—Drilling rods or pipes; Flexible drill strings; Kellies; Drill collars; Sucker rods; Cables; Casings; Tubings
- E21B17/02—Couplings; joints
- E21B17/04—Couplings; joints between rod or the like and bit or between rod and rod or the like
- E21B17/042—Threaded
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of drilling and processing of wells. More particularly, present embodiments relate to a system and method for connecting or disconnecting lengths of tubular.
- Top drives are typically utilized in well drilling and maintenance operations, such as operations related to oil and gas exploration.
- a well is typically drilled to a desired depth with a drill string, which includes drill pipe and a drilling bottom hole assembly (BHA).
- BHA drilling bottom hole assembly
- the drill string may be supported and hoisted about a drilling rig by a hoisting system for eventual positioning down hole in a well.
- a top drive system may rotate the drill string to facilitate drilling.
- the drill string may include multiple lengths of tubular that are coupled to one another by threaded connections or joints. In traditional operations, the lengths of tubular are coupled together and decoupled from one another using hydraulic tongs.
- a system in a first embodiment, includes a first clamping mechanism configured to couple to a first tubular, wherein the first clamping mechanism comprises a first opening extending from a first outer circumference of the first clamping mechanism to a first central passage of the first clamping mechanism, a second clamping mechanism configured to couple to a second tubular, wherein the second clamping mechanism comprises a second opening extending from a second outer circumference of the second clamping mechanism to a second central passage of the second clamping mechanism, and a coupling mechanism coupling the first and second clamping mechanism, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a gear assembly having a speed ratio greater than 1.
- a method in a second embodiment, includes radially receiving a first tubular and a second tubular with a joint rotation system, rotating the first tubular at a first angular velocity in a radial direction with a top drive such that a first clamping mechanism of the joint rotation system coupled to the first tubular is rotated, rotating a first sprocket of the joint rotation system, the first sprocket engaged with the first clamping mechanism and configured to rotate as a result of rotating of the first clamping mechanism, rotating a second sprocket of the joint rotation system, the second sprocket fixedly coupled with the first sprocket and configured to rotate as a result of rotating of the first sprocket, rotating a second clamping mechanism of the joint rotation system, the second clamping mechanism engaged with the second sprocket and configured to rotate as a result of rotating the second sprocket, and rotating the second tubular at a second angular velocity in the radial direction, the second angular velocity being different from the
- a system in a third embodiment, includes a joint rotation system.
- the joint rotation system includes a housing, a first clamping mechanism configured to clamp to a first pipe, wherein the first clamping mechanism comprises a first open mouth sprocket, a second clamping mechanism configured to clamp to a second pipe, wherein the second clamping mechanism comprises a second open mouth sprocket, and wherein the first and second pipes are coupled by a threaded connection, a first chain-driven sprocket configured to be driven by rotation of the first clamping mechanism, and a second chain-driven sprocket fixed to the first chain-driven sprocket, wherein a speed ratio of the first and second chain-driven sprockets is greater than one, and the second chain-driven sprocket is configured to drive rotation of the second clamping mechanism, wherein the housing supports the first clamping mechanism, the second clamping mechanism, the first chain-driven sprocket, and the second-chain driven sprocket.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic of a drilling rig, illustrating a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques
- FIG. 2 is a schematic of a portion of a drilling rig, illustrating a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques
- FIG. 3 is an upper perspective view of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques
- FIG. 4 is a lower perspective view of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques.
- FIG. 5 is a side view, taken within line 5 - 5 of FIG. 2 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional axial view, taken along line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional axial view, taken along line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional axial view, taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 5 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques
- FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional axial view, taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 5 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques
- FIG. 10 is a top view of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques.
- FIG. 11 is a top view of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward a joint rotation system to enable assembly and disassembly of lengths of tubular to and from one another on a drilling rig.
- the joint rotation system may be used to thread and unthread sections of drill pipe to and from one another to assemble or disassemble a drill string.
- the joint rotation system is geared to grip and rotate two lengths of tubular at different speeds while a top drive or other rotational system rotates one of the lengths of tubular.
- the relative rotations (e.g., differential speeds) of the two lengths of tubular enable engagement (e.g., threading) or disengagement (e.g., unthreading) of the lengths of tubular to or from one another.
- the joint rotation system includes two or more clamping mechanisms configured to clamp the two lengths of tubular to be threaded or unthreaded.
- the clamping mechanisms may have openings (e.g., enclosable openings) that enable efficient coupling of the joint rotation system to the two lengths of tubular to be connected or disconnected from one another.
- the configuration of the clamping mechanisms discussed below enables the joint rotation system to be quickly and readily engaged and disengaged with lengths of tubular to be connected or disconnected from one another.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic of a drilling rig 10 in the process of drilling a well in accordance with present techniques.
- the drilling rig 10 features an elevated rig floor 12 and a derrick 14 extending above the rig floor 12 .
- a supply reel 16 supplies drilling line 18 to a crown block 20 and traveling block 22 configured to hoist various types of drilling equipment above the rig floor 12 .
- the drilling line 18 is secured to a deadline tiedown anchor 24 , and a drawworks 26 regulates the amount of drilling line 18 in use and, consequently, the height of the traveling block 22 at a given moment.
- a drill string 28 extends downward into a wellbore 30 and is held stationary with respect to the rig floor 12 by a rotary table 32 and slips 34 .
- a portion of the drill string 28 extends above the rig floor 12 , forming a stump 36 to which another length of tubular 38 may be added.
- a top drive 40 hoisted by the traveling block 22 , may engage and position the tubular 38 above the wellbore 30 .
- the top drive 40 may then lower the coupled tubular 38 into engagement with the stump 36 and rotate the tubular 38 such that it connects with the stump 36 and becomes part of the drill string 28 .
- the top drive 40 includes a quill 42 used to turn the tubular 38 or other drilling equipment.
- the top drive 40 may be utilized to disconnect and remove sections of the tubular 38 from the drill string 28 , as is illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- the drill string 28 may include multiple sections or lengths of threaded tubular 38 that are threadably coupled together using techniques in accordance with present embodiments. It should be noted that present embodiments may be utilized with drill pipe, casing, or other types of tubular. After setting or landing the drill string 28 in place such that the male threads of one section (e.g., one or more lengths) of the tubular 38 and the female threads of another section of the tubular 38 are engaged, the two sections of the tubular 38 may be joined by rotating one section relative to the other section (e.g., in a clockwise direction) such that the threaded portions tighten together. Thus, the two sections of tubular 38 may be threadably joined.
- one section e.g., one or more lengths
- the two sections of the tubular 38 may be joined by rotating one section relative to the other section (e.g., in a clockwise direction) such that the threaded portions tighten together.
- the two sections of tubular 38 may be threadably joined.
- a joint rotation system 50 may be used to decouple multiple lengths of the threaded tubular 38 as the drill string 28 is removed from the wellbore 30 . More specifically, in the manner described below, the top drive 40 and the joint rotation system 50 are used to rotate two lengths of tubular 38 coupled to one another at different speeds such that the relative rotations result in disengagement of the two sections of the tubular 38 .
- the joint rotation system 50 is geared (or coupled together and driven at a ratio) to facilitate rotation of the two sections of tubular 38 at different speeds, thereby breaking or disconnecting the threaded coupling between the two sections of tubular 38 .
- the joint rotation system 50 may be employed in reverse to coupled separate lengths or sections of tubular.
- FIG. 1 is intentionally simplified to focus on the top drive 40 and the joint rotation system 50 .
- Many other components and tools may be employed during the various periods of formation and preparation of the well.
- the orientation and environment of the well may vary widely depending upon the location and situation of the formations of interest.
- the well in practice, may include one or more deviations, including angled and horizontal runs.
- the well while shown as a surface (land-based) operation, the well may be formed in water of various depths, in which case the topside equipment may include an anchored or floating platform.
- FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic of a portion of the drilling rig 10 , illustrating the joint rotation system 50 for use in coupling, joining, breaking, or disconnecting threaded couplings between sections or lengths of tubular 38 .
- the drill string 28 is in the process of being removed from the wellbore 30 .
- multiple lengths of tubular 38 which are threadably connected to one another at tubular connections 52 , are being removed from the wellbore 30 .
- the multiple sections or lengths of tubular 38 are rotated in the same direction but at different speeds relative to one another using the top drive 40 and the joint rotation system 50 in order to disconnect the tubular connections 52 .
- one length of tubular 38 may essentially be rotated counter-clockwise (e.g., in a direction opposite a direction 54 ) relative a second length of tubular 38 , thereby disconnecting the tubular connection 52 of the two lengths of tubular 38 .
- both lengths of tubular 38 are being rotated in the same direction, because one is being rotated faster than the other, the length rotating faster is rotating in the direction 54 relative to the length being rotated slower.
- tubular 38 When the drill string 28 is removed from the wellbore 30 , it may be desirable to disconnect sections of tubular 38 that include multiple lengths of tubular. In other words, several lengths of tubular 38 may be left connected by the tubular connections 52 when the drill string 28 is removed from the wellbore 30 in sections (e.g., lengths of tubular 38 that are left connected to one another after removal from the wellbore 30 and drill string 28 ). For example, it may be desirable to remove sections of tubular 38 that each includes two or three lengths of tubular 38 that remain coupled together and thus limit trip times. The length of each section of tubular 38 kept intact (not decoupled at every tubular connection 52 ) may be limited by the rig height.
- every second, third, or fourth tubular connection 52 may be broken or disconnected depending on individual tubular 38 lengths and the height of the drilling rig 10 .
- sections of tubular 38 including multiple tubular connections 52 that remain connected may be set aside for later use with the drilling rig 10 .
- this practice may result in faster re-assembly of the drill string 28 , when the drill string 28 is assembled for use within the wellbore 30 at a later time.
- the joint rotation system 50 may be used. As mentioned above, the joint rotation system 50 is geared (or coupled together or driven at a ratio greater than one) to rotate two sections or lengths of tubular 38 at different speeds while the top drive 40 provides the motive force. Three lengths of tubular 38 are shown in FIG. 2 (e.g., a first length of tubular 56 , a second length of tubular 58 , and a third length of tubular 60 ).
- first and second lengths of tubular 56 and 58 are joined by a first threaded connection 62 (e.g., a tubular connection), and the second and third lengths 58 and 60 are joined by a second threaded connection 64 (e.g., a tubular connection).
- first threaded connection 62 e.g., a tubular connection
- second threaded connection 64 e.g., a tubular connection
- the joint rotation system 50 is positioned to disconnect the second threaded connection 64 as the three lengths 56 , 58 , and 60 of tubular 38 are rotated by the top drive 40 , while maintaining the connection of the first threaded connection 62 .
- the joint rotation system 50 creates a rotating speed differential between the second and third lengths 58 and 60 of tubular, thereby breaking or disconnecting the second threaded connection 64 .
- the joint rotation system 50 increases the rotational torque applied by the top drive 40 and applies the increased torque to the third length 60 of tubular 38 .
- the third length 60 of tubular 38 rotates in the clockwise direction 54 faster than the second length 58 of tubular 38 rotates in the clockwise direction 54 , thereby unthreading the second threaded connection 64 and decoupling the second and third lengths 58 and 60 of tubular 38 .
- the first threaded connection 62 may not be at risk of becoming disconnected or unthreaded.
- present embodiments of the joint rotation system 50 include clamping mechanisms, each of which is configured to grip one of the lengths of tubular 38 of the drill string 28 .
- the joint rotation system 50 may have a first clamping mechanism configured to grip the second length 58 of tubular 38 and a second clamping mechanism configured grip the third length 60 of tubular 38 .
- each clamping mechanism may have an opening (e.g., an enclosable opening) that enables efficient and engagement and disengagement of the joint rotation system 50 to and from the drill string 28 .
- the openings of the clamping mechanisms may be open to receive the second and third lengths 58 and 60 of tubular 38 when the joint rotation system 50 is coupled to the drill string 28 .
- the clamping mechanisms may have a clasp or latch that encloses the openings once the joint rotation system 50 is positioned about the drill string 28 . Thereafter, the joint rotation system 50 may be used to unthread the second length 58 of tubular 38 from the third length 60 of tubular 38 . Once the tubular connection 50 is broken (e.g., unthreaded), the clamping mechanisms may be reopened, and the joint rotation system 50 may be readily removed from the drill string 28 for later use.
- the joint rotation system 50 is supported by an exterior lifting frame 66 , which may enable efficient and ergonomic placement of the joint rotation system 50 about and/or away from the drill string 28 when desired.
- the exterior lifting frame 66 may include linkages, tracks, bars, hinges, pulleys, and/or other components to enable manipulation of the joint rotation system 50 toward and away from the drill string 28 .
- FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views of an embodiment of the joint rotation system 50 .
- joint rotation system 50 includes a first clamping mechanism 100 and a second clamping mechanism 102 , which are coupled together by a gear assembly 104 (e.g., a sprocket assembly). While the illustrated embodiment describes the gear assembly 104 , other embodiments may have any coupling assembly that couples (e.g., mechanically couples) the first clamping mechanism 100 and the second clamping mechanism 102 (e.g., at a drive ratio greater than one).
- a housing or outer frame 106 of the joint rotation system 50 supports the first clamping mechanism 100 , the second clamping mechanism 102 , and the gear assembly 104 .
- the first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 are configured to fixedly couple to respective lengths of tubular 38 that are joined to one another by the tubular connection 52 (e.g., a threaded connection).
- the first clamping mechanism 100 may fixedly couple to the second length 58 of tubular 38 shown in FIG. 2
- the second clamping mechanism 102 may couple to the third length 60 of tubular 38 shown in FIG. 2 .
- the first clamping mechanism 100 couples to the top tubular 38 of the tubular connection 52
- the second clamping mechanism 102 couples to the bottom tubular 38 of the tubular connection 52 .
- the joint rotation system 50 would operate to disengage the second threaded connection 64 shown in FIG. 2 .
- the clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 may include various grips, braces, or other systems configured to secure the joint rotation system 50 to the joints of tubular 38 .
- the clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 include hydraulic cylinders 108 .
- the clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 may each have a plurality of hydraulic cylinders 108 disposed about a central passage 110 of the joint rotation system 50 through which the lengths of tubular 38 may extend when the joint rotation system 50 is disposed about the drill string 28 .
- the illustrated embodiment shows a first hydraulic cylinder 112 of the first clamping mechanism 100 and a second hydraulic cylinder 114 of the second clamping mechanism 102 .
- the hydraulic cylinders 108 are configured to actuate radially inward (e.g., relative to a central axis of the drill string 28 ) to grip one of the lengths of tubular 38 .
- each of the first and second clamping mechanism 100 and 102 may have 2, 3, 4, 5, or more hydraulic cylinders 108 disposed about the central passage 110 to cooperatively grip the respective tubular 38 .
- the clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 include hydraulic cylinders 108
- hydraulics hoses may be run to the joint rotation system 50 to enable actuation of the hydraulic cylinders 108 with hydraulic fluid.
- the housing 106 of the joint rotation system 50 may include flanges 116 or other structural features (hooks, coil drums, etc.) that may enable and/or improve spatial management of the hydraulic hoses.
- the clamping mechanism 100 and 102 may include other actuation or gripping mechanisms that are actuated pneumatically, electrically, magnetically, and so forth.
- the flanges 116 may be used to similarly manage hoses, cables, wires (e.g., communication or feedback wires), or other tubes that are run to the joint rotation system 50 .
- each of the first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 also includes one or more open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the first clamping mechanism 100 has a first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118
- the second clamping mechanism 102 has a second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the first and second pluralities 120 and 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 are axially separated by a divider plate 123 , which may be fixed to the housing 106 .
- Each of the open mouth sprockets 118 includes a plurality of teeth 124 arrayed about an outer circumference 126 of the respective open mouth sprocket 118 .
- the open mouth sprockets 118 of the first and second pluralities 120 and 122 may be approximately the same size and have approximately the same number of teeth 124 .
- each open mouth sprocket 118 includes an opening 128 extending from the respective outer circumference 126 of the open mouth sprocket 118 to the central passage 110 of the joint rotation system 50 .
- the joint rotation system 50 may quickly and efficiently be placed about the drill string 28 . Indeed, the joint rotation system 50 may be quickly placed about the drill string 28 , the first clamping mechanism 100 may be radially aligned with one tubular 38 coupled by the tubular connection 52 (e.g., the second length 58 of tubular 38 shown in FIG. 2 ), and the second clamping mechanism 102 may be radially aligned with another tubular 38 coupled by the tubular connection 52 (e.g., the third length 60 of tubular 38 shown in FIG. 2 ). Thereafter, the respective hydraulic cylinders 108 may be actuated to grip the tubulars 38 coupled by the tubular connection 52 .
- the first clamping mechanism 100 may be radially aligned with one tubular 38 coupled by the tubular connection 52 (e.g., the second length 58 of tubular 38 shown in FIG. 2 )
- the second clamping mechanism 102 may be radially aligned with another tubular 38 coupled by the tubular connection 52 (e.g., the third length 60
- the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118 may be rotationally fixed to one another.
- the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118 is also rotationally fixed to the hydraulic cylinders 108 of the first clamping mechanism 100 (e.g., first hydraulic cylinder 112 ).
- the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 may be rotationally fixed to one another, and the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 is also rotationally fixed to the hydraulic cylinders 108 of the second clamping mechanism 102 (e.g., second hydraulic cylinder 114 ).
- first clamping mechanism 100 when the first clamping mechanism 100 is coupled to one of the lengths of tubular 38 coupled via the tubular connection 52 , rotational movement of the tubular 38 (e.g., driven by the top drive 40 ) will be transferred to the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- rotation of the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118 is transferred to the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 via the gear assembly 104 (e.g., at a gear ratio greater than one).
- rotation of the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 is transferred to the other length of tubular 38 coupled at the tubular connection 52 via the hydraulic cylinders 108 of the second clamping mechanism 102 (e.g., second hydraulic cylinder 114 ).
- the gear ratio of the gear assembly 104 enables differential speed of rotation between the two tubulars 38 to enable disengagement of the tubular connection 52 .
- the gear assembly 104 contained within the housing 106 joins the first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 (e.g., at a gear ratio greater than one).
- the gear assembly 104 may be a sprocket assembly having sprockets, gears, chains, belts, and/or other components.
- the gear assembly 104 is configured to increase the rotational speed generated by the top drive 40 and apply the increased rotational speed to one of the lengths of tubular 38 (e.g., the lower of the two lengths of tubular 38 ) joined by the tubular connection 52 .
- the joint rotation system 50 is configured to increase the rotational speed of the third length 60 of tubular 38 shown in FIG. 2 relative to the rotational speed of the second length 58 of tubular 38 shown in FIG. 2 . In this manner, the second threaded connection 64 would be broken, and the second and third lengths 58 and 60 would decouple from one another.
- the gear assembly 104 (e.g., sprocket assembly) includes a top portion 130 and a bottom portion 132 .
- the top portion 130 includes a first sprocket 134 , a second sprocket 136 (e.g., an idler sprocket), and a third sprocket 138 , which are drivingly coupled to one another by a first chain 140 (e.g., a multi-link chain).
- the bottom portion 132 of the gear assembly 104 includes a fourth sprocket 142 and a fifth sprocket 144 , which are drivingly coupled to one another by a second chain 146 (e.g., a multi-link chain).
- one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sprockets 134 , 136 , 138 , 142 , and 144 may include multiple sprockets (e.g., stacked on top of one another) to improve or increase transfer of rotational movement between the other respective sprockets in the top portion 130 or bottom portion 132 via the first and/or second chains 140 and 146 .
- the first sprocket 134 of the top portion 130 of the gear assembly 104 and the fourth sprocket 142 of the bottom portion 132 of the gear assembly 104 are rotationally fixed to one another at a gear ratio greater than one.
- first sprocket 134 and the forth sprocket 142 may be integrally formed as one piece, may be connected to one another by a rod, or otherwise rotationally fixed to one another. As such, the first sprocket 134 of the top portion 130 will rotate at the same speed as the fourth sprocket 142 of the bottom portion 132 .
- the first sprocket 134 and the fourth sprocket 142 are not the same size (e.g., same diameter). In particular, the first sprocket 134 is smaller (e.g., has fewer teeth) than the fourth sprocket 142 .
- the top portion 130 of the gear assembly 104 engages with the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118
- the bottom portion 132 of the gear assembly 104 engages with the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118
- the first chain 140 of the top portion 130 engages with the teeth 124 of the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the first, second, and third sprockets 134 , 136 , and 138 are arranged (e.g., in a generally triangular arrangement) within the housing 106 such that the first chain 140 engages with a minimum portion (e.g., minimum arc length) 150 of the circumference 126 of the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the minimum portion 150 may be approximately 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, or more of the circumference 126 of the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the position of the third sprocket 138 is also adjustable to enable tension adjustment of the first chain 140 and/or an amount of contact between the first chain 140 and the first plurality 120 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the third sprocket 138 may be coupled to a threaded knob 152 that extends through a slot 154 formed in the housing 106 .
- the threaded knob 152 may be loosened and translated or slid along the slot 154 to a position that provides a desired tension in the first chain 140 .
- the threaded knob 152 may be tightened (e.g., against the housing 106 ) to hold the third sprocket 138 in the desired position.
- the second sprocket 136 may additionally or alternatively be adjustable to enable adjustment of the tension in the first chain 140 .
- the second chain 146 of the bottom portion 132 engages with the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the second chain 146 of the bottom portion 132 engages with the teeth 124 of the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the fourth and fifth sprockets 142 and 144 are also arranged within the housing 106 and the second chain 146 is sized such that the second chain 140 engages with a minimum portion (e.g., minimum arc length) 156 of the circumference 126 of the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the minimum portion 160 may be approximately 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, or more of the circumference 126 of the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the fifth sprocket 144 may also be position-adjustable to enable adjustment of tension in the second chain 146 of the bottom portion 132 (e.g., via a threaded knob extending through a slot in the housing 106 ) and/or to adjust an amount of contact between the second chain 146 and the second plurality 122 of open mouth sprockets 118 .
- bottom portion 132 does not include an idler sprocket (e.g., an additional sprocket similar to the second sprocket 136 of the top portion 130 ), other embodiments of the gear assembly 104 may include an additional idler sprocket in the bottom portion 132 , and the additional sprocket may also be adjustable to further enable tension adjustment of the second chain 146 .
- an idler sprocket e.g., an additional sprocket similar to the second sprocket 136 of the top portion 130
- the gear assembly 104 may include an additional idler sprocket in the bottom portion 132 , and the additional sprocket may also be adjustable to further enable tension adjustment of the second chain 146 .
- the illustrated embodiment includes the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sprockets 134 , 136 , 138 , 142 , and 144 of the gear assembly 104
- the gear assembly 104 may include other sprockets, rollers, and so forth to enable adequate contact between the first and second chains 140 and 146 and the respective open mouth sprockets 118 .
- Such components may also further enable tension adjustment of the of the first and second chains 140 and 146 to facilitate removal of the first and second chains 140 and 146 from the gear assembly 104 and/or to adjust a level or amount of contact between the first and second chains 140 and 146 and the respective open mouth sprockets 118 .
- each of the open mouth sprockets 118 includes the opening 128 to enable efficient and ready positioning of the joint rotation system 50 about the drill string 28 , but the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 do not include any mechanism or feature to enable enclosure of the opening 128 in each sprocket 118 .
- other embodiments of the joint rotation system 50 may include a mechanism or feature, such as a latch or clasp, which may be selectively positioned to enclose the opening 128 of each sprocket 118 (e.g., once the drill string 28 is positioned within the central passage 110 of the joint rotation system 50 . Examples of such embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 6-11 .
- FIG. 5 is a side view of an embodiment of the joint rotation system 50 , illustrating operation of the joint rotation system 50 .
- the joint rotation system 50 is breaking or unthreading a threaded connection 180 (e.g., a connection between two lengths of tubular 38 ), which couples a first length 182 of tubular 38 (e.g., a top length) and a second length 184 of tubular 38 (e.g., a bottom length).
- a threaded connection 180 e.g., a connection between two lengths of tubular 38
- a first length 182 of tubular 38 e.g., a top length
- a second length 184 of tubular 38 e.g., a bottom length
- the torque applied to the first length 182 by the top drive 40 may be expressed as
- T td A / B C / D ⁇ T ds + ( 1 - A B C D ) ⁇ T j ( 1 )
- Equation (1) may be expressed as
- T td D B ⁇ T ds + ( 1 - D B ) ( 2 )
- the torque acting on the second length 184 may be approximately 0 as frictional torque will arise once motion actually begins.
- the torque acting on the second length 184 i.e., T ds
- the torque acting on the second length 184 may not affect the top drive 40 output torque (i.e., T td ) during the initial breaking or unthreading of the threaded connection 180 . Consequently, Equation (2) reduces to
- T td ( 1 - D B ) ⁇ T j ( 3 )
- the top drive 40 may only experience the frictional torque, which may be expressed by
- T td D B ⁇ T ds ( 4 )
- D/B may be considered the overall drive or speed ratio of the gear assembly 104 .
- the drive or speed ratio may be greater than one, thereby enabling faster rotation of the second length 184 relative to the first length 182 , which results in the unthreading of the threaded connection 180 .
- the gear or speed ratio of the gear assembly 104 e.g., between the first sprocket 134 and fourth sprocket 142 ) may be between approximately 5:4 and 2:1.
- the first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 may be engaged with the first and second lengths 182 and 184 , respectively to initially break the threaded connection 180 by rotating top drive 40 in a first direction. After the threaded connection 180 is partially broken (e.g., not completely unthreaded), the first clamping mechanism 100 may be disengaged from the first length 182 while leaving the second clamping mechanism 102 engaged with the second length 184 . Then, the top drive 40 may be rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction to fully disengaged (e.g., unthread) the first length 182 from the second length 184 .
- FIGS. 6-11 illustrate an embodiment of the joint rotation system 50 having first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 with enclosable openings.
- the illustrated embodiments include first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 having open mouth sprockets 118 where each open mouth sprocket 118 has a latch 200 (e.g., a hinged latch) that may be used to enclose the respective opening 128 of the open mouth sprocket 118 .
- a latch 200 e.g., a hinged latch
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional axial view of the joint rotation system 50 , taken along line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 , illustrating one of the open mouth sprockets 118 of the first clamping mechanism 100 .
- the open mouth sprocket 118 shown in FIG. 6 has the latch 200 , which is pivotably connected to a main portion 202 (e.g., a disk) of the open mouth sprocket 118 .
- the latch 200 is shown in an open position.
- the latch 200 includes a base portion 204 that is coupled to the main portion 202 of the open mouth sprocket 118 .
- the base portion 204 may be pivotably coupled to the main portion 202 via a hinge, pin, or other mechanism that enables pivoting of the latch 200 .
- the latch 200 also includes a toothed segment 206 coupled to the base portion 204 .
- a first side 208 of the toothed segment 206 is coupled to the base portion 204 (e.g., via pins, brazing, or other mechanical coupling), and a second side 210 of the toothed segment 206 includes teeth 212 .
- the toothed segment 206 is a sized to fit within a radially outer space 214 of the opening 128 of the open mouth sprocket 118 . More specifically, the toothed segment 206 is a sized to occupy or fill the radially outer space 214 of the opening 128 .
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional axial view of the joint rotation system 50 , taken along line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 , illustrating the latch 200 of FIG. 6 shown in a closed position.
- the latch 200 may be moved from the open position shown in FIG. 6 to the closed position shown in FIG. 7 after the joint rotation system 50 is positioned about the tubulars 38 to be connected or disconnected.
- the latch 200 may be held in the closed position by a friction fit, interference fit, protuberance, or other feature disposed at a distal end 218 of the base portion 204 of the latch 200 .
- the second side 210 of the toothed segment 206 aligns (e.g., circumferentially aligns) with the outer circumference 126 of the open mouth sprocket 118 to form a fully-toothed full circumference 220 of the open mouth sprocket 118 .
- teeth e.g., teeth 124 and 212
- the full circumference e.g., circumference 126
- this fully-toothed configuration enables improved transfer of rotational movement between the open mouth sprocket 118 and the first chain 140 when rotational movement is transferred from the first clamping mechanism 100 to the gear assembly 104 .
- the minimum portion 150 e.g., minimum arc length
- the circumference 126 engaged with the first chain 140 will be fully arrayed with teeth (e.g., teeth 124 and/or 212 ), thereby improving transfer of rotational movement from the first clamping mechanism 100 to the gear assembly 104 .
- FIGS. 8 and 9 are cross-sectional axial views of the joint rotation system 50 , taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 5 , illustrating one of the open mouth sprockets 118 of the second clamping mechanism 102 .
- the open mouth sprocket 118 of the second clamping mechanism 102 shown in FIG. 8 also has the latch 200 , which is pivotably connected to the main portion 202 (e.g., a disk) of the open mouth sprocket 118 and is shown in an open position.
- the latch 200 includes the base portion 204 that is coupled to the main portion 202 of the open mouth sprocket 118 , and the base portion 204 may be pivotably coupled to the main portion 202 via a hinge, pin, or other mechanism that enables pivoting of the latch 200 .
- the latch 200 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 includes similar elements and element numbers as the latch 200 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 .
- the latch 200 includes the toothed segment 206 coupled to the base portion 204 , where the toothed segment 206 has teeth 212 .
- FIG. 9 shows the latch 200 in a closed position to enclose the opening 128 in the open mouth sprocket 118 .
- the second side 210 of the toothed segment 206 aligns (e.g., circumferentially aligns) with the outer circumference 126 of the open mouth sprocket 118 to form a fully-toothed full circumference 220 of the open mouth sprocket 118 , which enables improved transfer of rotational movement between the open mouth sprocket 118 and the second chain 146 when rotational movement is transferred from the gear assembly 104 to the second clamping mechanism 102 .
- FIGS. 10 and 11 are top views of an embodiment of the joint rotation system 50 .
- the illustrated embodiment includes the first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 with open mouth sprockets 118 having latches 200 for selectively enclosing the respective openings 128 of the sprockets 118 .
- the latches 200 of the open mouth sprockets 118 for the first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 are shown in the open position.
- the latches 200 of all open mouth sprockets 118 of the first clamping mechanism 100 may be hinged on the first side 252
- the latches 200 of all open mouth sprockets 118 of the second clamping mechanism 102 may be hinged on the second side 256 .
- the latches 200 of the first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 may hinge to their respective open mouth sprocket 118 on alternating sides (e.g., alternating first side 252 and second side 256 ) from a top of the joint rotation system 50 to a bottom of the joint rotation system 50 .
- all latches 200 are shown in the closed position to enclose the openings 128 of the open mouth sprockets 118 .
- the housing 106 includes slots 260 extending through the housing 106 from a top to a bottom of the housing 106 on opposite lateral sides 262 of the joint rotation system 50 .
- the external lifting frame 66 may further enable ergonomic manipulation of the joint rotation system 50 toward and/or away from the tubulars 38 .
- one or more components of the external lifting frame 66 may extend through the slots 260 to support the joint rotation system 60 with the external lifting frame 66 .
- the joint rotation system 50 may be configured to slide along the external lifting frame 66 extending through the slots 260 to enable axially positioning the joint rotation system 50 relative to the tubulars 38 to be coupled or decoupled using the joint rotation system.
- FIGS. 10 and 11 Another feature shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 is motor and/or spring assembly 270 disposed on a top surface 272 of the housing 106 .
- the motor and/or spring assembly 270 may be configured to rotate the open mouth sprockets 118 when the first and second clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 are disengaged from the tubulars 38 . More specifically, the motor and/or spring assembly 270 is configured to rotate each of the open mouth sprockets 118 to an open or “home” position.
- each of the open mouth sprockets 118 of the first clamping mechanism 100 and second clamping mechanism 102 is axially aligned (e.g., relative to a central axis of the joint rotation system 50 ) with the other openings 128 .
- the joint rotation system 50 may be readily removed from the tubulars 38 and/or drill string 28 .
- embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward the joint rotation system 50 to enable assembly and disassembly of lengths of tubular 38 to and from one another on a drilling rig.
- the joint rotation system 50 may be used to thread and unthread lengths of drill pipe to and from one another to assemble or disassemble the drill string 28 .
- the joint rotation system 50 is geared to grip and rotate two lengths of tubular 38 at different speeds while the top drive 40 or other rotational system rotates one of the lengths of tubular 38 .
- the joint rotation system 50 transfers rotational movement of one of the lengths of tubular 38 (e.g., driven by the top drive 40 ) to another length of tubular 38 at a gear or speed ratio greater than one to enable differential speed rotation of the other length of tubular 38 relative to the first length of tubular 38 .
- the relative rotations (e.g., differential speeds) of the two lengths of tubular 38 enable engagement (e.g., threading) or disengagement (e.g., unthreading) of the lengths of tubular 38 to or from one another.
- the joint rotation system 50 includes two or more clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 configured to clamp the two lengths of tubular 38 to be threaded or unthreaded.
- the joint rotation system 50 may include the first clamping mechanism 100 to grip a top tubular 38 and a second clamping mechanism 102 to grip a bottom tubular 38 .
- the clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 may have openings 128 (e.g., enclosable openings) that enable efficient coupling of the joint rotation system 50 to the two lengths of tubular 38 to be connected or disconnected from one another.
- the configuration of the clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 discussed above enables the joint rotation system 50 to be quickly and readily engaged and disengaged with lengths of tubular 38 to be connected or disconnected from one another.
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Abstract
Description
- This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/329,889, entitled “TOP DRIVE POWERED DIFFERENTIAL SPEED ROTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD,” filed Apr. 29, 2016, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of drilling and processing of wells. More particularly, present embodiments relate to a system and method for connecting or disconnecting lengths of tubular.
- Top drives are typically utilized in well drilling and maintenance operations, such as operations related to oil and gas exploration. In conventional oil and gas operations, a well is typically drilled to a desired depth with a drill string, which includes drill pipe and a drilling bottom hole assembly (BHA). During a drilling process, the drill string may be supported and hoisted about a drilling rig by a hoisting system for eventual positioning down hole in a well. As the drill string is lowered into the well, a top drive system may rotate the drill string to facilitate drilling. The drill string may include multiple lengths of tubular that are coupled to one another by threaded connections or joints. In traditional operations, the lengths of tubular are coupled together and decoupled from one another using hydraulic tongs.
- In a first embodiment, a system includes a first clamping mechanism configured to couple to a first tubular, wherein the first clamping mechanism comprises a first opening extending from a first outer circumference of the first clamping mechanism to a first central passage of the first clamping mechanism, a second clamping mechanism configured to couple to a second tubular, wherein the second clamping mechanism comprises a second opening extending from a second outer circumference of the second clamping mechanism to a second central passage of the second clamping mechanism, and a coupling mechanism coupling the first and second clamping mechanism, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a gear assembly having a speed ratio greater than 1.
- In a second embodiment, a method includes radially receiving a first tubular and a second tubular with a joint rotation system, rotating the first tubular at a first angular velocity in a radial direction with a top drive such that a first clamping mechanism of the joint rotation system coupled to the first tubular is rotated, rotating a first sprocket of the joint rotation system, the first sprocket engaged with the first clamping mechanism and configured to rotate as a result of rotating of the first clamping mechanism, rotating a second sprocket of the joint rotation system, the second sprocket fixedly coupled with the first sprocket and configured to rotate as a result of rotating of the first sprocket, rotating a second clamping mechanism of the joint rotation system, the second clamping mechanism engaged with the second sprocket and configured to rotate as a result of rotating the second sprocket, and rotating the second tubular at a second angular velocity in the radial direction, the second angular velocity being different from the first angular velocity, wherein the second tubular is rotated by the second clamping mechanism of the joint rotation system via coupling of the second clamping mechanism with the second tubular.
- In a third embodiment, a system includes a joint rotation system. The joint rotation system includes a housing, a first clamping mechanism configured to clamp to a first pipe, wherein the first clamping mechanism comprises a first open mouth sprocket, a second clamping mechanism configured to clamp to a second pipe, wherein the second clamping mechanism comprises a second open mouth sprocket, and wherein the first and second pipes are coupled by a threaded connection, a first chain-driven sprocket configured to be driven by rotation of the first clamping mechanism, and a second chain-driven sprocket fixed to the first chain-driven sprocket, wherein a speed ratio of the first and second chain-driven sprockets is greater than one, and the second chain-driven sprocket is configured to drive rotation of the second clamping mechanism, wherein the housing supports the first clamping mechanism, the second clamping mechanism, the first chain-driven sprocket, and the second-chain driven sprocket.
- These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
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FIG. 1 is a schematic of a drilling rig, illustrating a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic of a portion of a drilling rig, illustrating a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 3 is an upper perspective view of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 4 is a lower perspective view of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 5 is a side view, taken within line 5-5 ofFIG. 2 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional axial view, taken along line 6-6 ofFIG. 5 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional axial view, taken along line 6-6 ofFIG. 5 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional axial view, taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 5 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional axial view, taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 5 , of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; -
FIG. 10 is a top view of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques; and -
FIG. 11 is a top view of a joint rotation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present techniques. - Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward a joint rotation system to enable assembly and disassembly of lengths of tubular to and from one another on a drilling rig. For example, the joint rotation system may be used to thread and unthread sections of drill pipe to and from one another to assemble or disassemble a drill string. As described in detail below, the joint rotation system is geared to grip and rotate two lengths of tubular at different speeds while a top drive or other rotational system rotates one of the lengths of tubular. As the joint rotation system rotates the two lengths of tubular at different speeds, the relative rotations (e.g., differential speeds) of the two lengths of tubular enable engagement (e.g., threading) or disengagement (e.g., unthreading) of the lengths of tubular to or from one another. As discussed below, the joint rotation system includes two or more clamping mechanisms configured to clamp the two lengths of tubular to be threaded or unthreaded. Additionally, the clamping mechanisms may have openings (e.g., enclosable openings) that enable efficient coupling of the joint rotation system to the two lengths of tubular to be connected or disconnected from one another. In other words, the configuration of the clamping mechanisms discussed below enables the joint rotation system to be quickly and readily engaged and disengaged with lengths of tubular to be connected or disconnected from one another.
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FIG. 1 is a schematic of adrilling rig 10 in the process of drilling a well in accordance with present techniques. Thedrilling rig 10 features an elevatedrig floor 12 and aderrick 14 extending above therig floor 12. Asupply reel 16 suppliesdrilling line 18 to acrown block 20 and travelingblock 22 configured to hoist various types of drilling equipment above therig floor 12. Thedrilling line 18 is secured to adeadline tiedown anchor 24, and adrawworks 26 regulates the amount ofdrilling line 18 in use and, consequently, the height of thetraveling block 22 at a given moment. Below therig floor 12, adrill string 28 extends downward into awellbore 30 and is held stationary with respect to therig floor 12 by a rotary table 32 andslips 34. A portion of thedrill string 28 extends above therig floor 12, forming astump 36 to which another length of tubular 38 may be added. During operation, atop drive 40, hoisted by thetraveling block 22, may engage and position the tubular 38 above thewellbore 30. Thetop drive 40 may then lower the coupled tubular 38 into engagement with thestump 36 and rotate the tubular 38 such that it connects with thestump 36 and becomes part of thedrill string 28. Specifically, thetop drive 40 includes aquill 42 used to turn the tubular 38 or other drilling equipment. Also, during other phases of operation of thedrilling rig 10, thetop drive 40 may be utilized to disconnect and remove sections of the tubular 38 from thedrill string 28, as is illustrated inFIG. 1 . - The
drill string 28 may include multiple sections or lengths of threaded tubular 38 that are threadably coupled together using techniques in accordance with present embodiments. It should be noted that present embodiments may be utilized with drill pipe, casing, or other types of tubular. After setting or landing thedrill string 28 in place such that the male threads of one section (e.g., one or more lengths) of the tubular 38 and the female threads of another section of thetubular 38 are engaged, the two sections of the tubular 38 may be joined by rotating one section relative to the other section (e.g., in a clockwise direction) such that the threaded portions tighten together. Thus, the two sections of tubular 38 may be threadably joined. Furthermore, as thedrill string 28 is removed from thewellbore 30, the sections or lengths of thetubular 38 may be detached by disengaging the corresponding male and female threads of the respective sections of the tubular 38 via relative rotation of the two sections in a direction opposite than used for coupling. In accordance with presently disclosed embodiments, ajoint rotation system 50 may be used to decouple multiple lengths of the threaded tubular 38 as thedrill string 28 is removed from thewellbore 30. More specifically, in the manner described below, thetop drive 40 and thejoint rotation system 50 are used to rotate two lengths oftubular 38 coupled to one another at different speeds such that the relative rotations result in disengagement of the two sections of the tubular 38. Indeed, thejoint rotation system 50 is geared (or coupled together and driven at a ratio) to facilitate rotation of the two sections of tubular 38 at different speeds, thereby breaking or disconnecting the threaded coupling between the two sections of tubular 38. In some embodiments, thejoint rotation system 50 may be employed in reverse to coupled separate lengths or sections of tubular. - It should be noted that the illustration of
FIG. 1 is intentionally simplified to focus on thetop drive 40 and thejoint rotation system 50. Many other components and tools may be employed during the various periods of formation and preparation of the well. Similarly, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the orientation and environment of the well may vary widely depending upon the location and situation of the formations of interest. For example, rather than a generally vertical bore, the well, in practice, may include one or more deviations, including angled and horizontal runs. Similarly, while shown as a surface (land-based) operation, the well may be formed in water of various depths, in which case the topside equipment may include an anchored or floating platform. -
FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic of a portion of thedrilling rig 10, illustrating thejoint rotation system 50 for use in coupling, joining, breaking, or disconnecting threaded couplings between sections or lengths of tubular 38. In this illustrated embodiment, thedrill string 28 is in the process of being removed from thewellbore 30. Specifically, multiple lengths of tubular 38, which are threadably connected to one another attubular connections 52, are being removed from thewellbore 30. As such, the multiple sections or lengths of tubular 38 are rotated in the same direction but at different speeds relative to one another using thetop drive 40 and thejoint rotation system 50 in order to disconnect thetubular connections 52. Due to the different speeds of rotation, when disconnecting two sections or lengths oftubular 38, one length oftubular 38 may essentially be rotated counter-clockwise (e.g., in a direction opposite a direction 54) relative a second length oftubular 38, thereby disconnecting thetubular connection 52 of the two lengths oftubular 38. In other words, although both lengths oftubular 38 are being rotated in the same direction, because one is being rotated faster than the other, the length rotating faster is rotating in thedirection 54 relative to the length being rotated slower. - When the
drill string 28 is removed from thewellbore 30, it may be desirable to disconnect sections of tubular 38 that include multiple lengths of tubular. In other words, several lengths oftubular 38 may be left connected by thetubular connections 52 when thedrill string 28 is removed from thewellbore 30 in sections (e.g., lengths of tubular 38 that are left connected to one another after removal from thewellbore 30 and drill string 28). For example, it may be desirable to remove sections of tubular 38 that each includes two or three lengths of tubular 38 that remain coupled together and thus limit trip times. The length of each section oftubular 38 kept intact (not decoupled at every tubular connection 52) may be limited by the rig height. For example, when removing thedrill string 28 from thewellbore 30, every second, third, or fourthtubular connection 52 may be broken or disconnected depending on individual tubular 38 lengths and the height of thedrilling rig 10. In this manner, sections of tubular 38 including multipletubular connections 52 that remain connected may be set aside for later use with thedrilling rig 10. As will be appreciated, this practice may result in faster re-assembly of thedrill string 28, when thedrill string 28 is assembled for use within thewellbore 30 at a later time. - To enable the disassembly of certain
tubular connections 52 when thedrill string 28 is removed from thewellbore 30, thejoint rotation system 50 may be used. As mentioned above, thejoint rotation system 50 is geared (or coupled together or driven at a ratio greater than one) to rotate two sections or lengths of tubular 38 at different speeds while thetop drive 40 provides the motive force. Three lengths oftubular 38 are shown inFIG. 2 (e.g., a first length oftubular 56, a second length oftubular 58, and a third length of tubular 60). Additionally, the first and second lengths oftubular third lengths - In the illustrated embodiment, the
joint rotation system 50 is positioned to disconnect the second threadedconnection 64 as the threelengths tubular 38 are rotated by thetop drive 40, while maintaining the connection of the first threadedconnection 62. In particular, as thetop drive 40 rotates the threelengths tubular 38 in theclockwise direction 54, thejoint rotation system 50 creates a rotating speed differential between the second andthird lengths connection 64. Specifically, as the threelengths tubular 38 are rotated in theclockwise direction 54, thejoint rotation system 50 increases the rotational torque applied by thetop drive 40 and applies the increased torque to thethird length 60 oftubular 38. In this manner, thethird length 60 oftubular 38 rotates in theclockwise direction 54 faster than thesecond length 58 oftubular 38 rotates in theclockwise direction 54, thereby unthreading the second threadedconnection 64 and decoupling the second andthird lengths tubular 38. Furthermore, as the first andsecond lengths tubular 38 are both rotated in theclockwise direction 54 and at the same speed, the first threadedconnection 62 may not be at risk of becoming disconnected or unthreaded. - As mentioned above, present embodiments of the
joint rotation system 50 include clamping mechanisms, each of which is configured to grip one of the lengths oftubular 38 of thedrill string 28. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, thejoint rotation system 50 may have a first clamping mechanism configured to grip thesecond length 58 oftubular 38 and a second clamping mechanism configured grip thethird length 60 oftubular 38. As described in detail below, each clamping mechanism may have an opening (e.g., an enclosable opening) that enables efficient and engagement and disengagement of thejoint rotation system 50 to and from thedrill string 28. For example, the openings of the clamping mechanisms may be open to receive the second andthird lengths tubular 38 when thejoint rotation system 50 is coupled to thedrill string 28. In certain embodiments, the clamping mechanisms may have a clasp or latch that encloses the openings once thejoint rotation system 50 is positioned about thedrill string 28. Thereafter, thejoint rotation system 50 may be used to unthread thesecond length 58 of tubular 38 from thethird length 60 oftubular 38. Once thetubular connection 50 is broken (e.g., unthreaded), the clamping mechanisms may be reopened, and thejoint rotation system 50 may be readily removed from thedrill string 28 for later use. In the illustrated embodiment, thejoint rotation system 50 is supported by anexterior lifting frame 66, which may enable efficient and ergonomic placement of thejoint rotation system 50 about and/or away from thedrill string 28 when desired. For example, theexterior lifting frame 66 may include linkages, tracks, bars, hinges, pulleys, and/or other components to enable manipulation of thejoint rotation system 50 toward and away from thedrill string 28. -
FIGS. 3 and 4 are perspective views of an embodiment of thejoint rotation system 50. In the illustrated embodiment,joint rotation system 50 includes afirst clamping mechanism 100 and asecond clamping mechanism 102, which are coupled together by a gear assembly 104 (e.g., a sprocket assembly). While the illustrated embodiment describes thegear assembly 104, other embodiments may have any coupling assembly that couples (e.g., mechanically couples) thefirst clamping mechanism 100 and the second clamping mechanism 102 (e.g., at a drive ratio greater than one). A housing orouter frame 106 of thejoint rotation system 50 supports thefirst clamping mechanism 100, thesecond clamping mechanism 102, and thegear assembly 104. The first andsecond clamping mechanisms first clamping mechanism 100 may fixedly couple to thesecond length 58 oftubular 38 shown inFIG. 2 , and thesecond clamping mechanism 102 may couple to thethird length 60 oftubular 38 shown inFIG. 2 . In other words, thefirst clamping mechanism 100 couples to thetop tubular 38 of thetubular connection 52, and thesecond clamping mechanism 102 couples to thebottom tubular 38 of thetubular connection 52. As such, thejoint rotation system 50 would operate to disengage the second threadedconnection 64 shown inFIG. 2 . - The clamping
mechanisms joint rotation system 50 to the joints oftubular 38. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the clampingmechanisms hydraulic cylinders 108. The clampingmechanisms hydraulic cylinders 108 disposed about acentral passage 110 of thejoint rotation system 50 through which the lengths oftubular 38 may extend when thejoint rotation system 50 is disposed about thedrill string 28. The illustrated embodiment shows a firsthydraulic cylinder 112 of thefirst clamping mechanism 100 and a secondhydraulic cylinder 114 of thesecond clamping mechanism 102. Thehydraulic cylinders 108 are configured to actuate radially inward (e.g., relative to a central axis of the drill string 28) to grip one of the lengths oftubular 38. As such, each of the first andsecond clamping mechanism hydraulic cylinders 108 disposed about thecentral passage 110 to cooperatively grip therespective tubular 38. - As will be appreciated, in embodiments where the clamping
mechanisms hydraulic cylinders 108, hydraulics hoses may be run to thejoint rotation system 50 to enable actuation of thehydraulic cylinders 108 with hydraulic fluid. As shown inFIG. 5 , thehousing 106 of thejoint rotation system 50 may includeflanges 116 or other structural features (hooks, coil drums, etc.) that may enable and/or improve spatial management of the hydraulic hoses. In other embodiments, theclamping mechanism flanges 116 may be used to similarly manage hoses, cables, wires (e.g., communication or feedback wires), or other tubes that are run to thejoint rotation system 50. - Referring back to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , each of the first andsecond clamping mechanisms open mouth sprockets 118. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, thefirst clamping mechanism 100 has afirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118, and thesecond clamping mechanism 102 has asecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. The first andsecond pluralities open mouth sprockets 118 are axially separated by adivider plate 123, which may be fixed to thehousing 106. Each of theopen mouth sprockets 118 includes a plurality ofteeth 124 arrayed about anouter circumference 126 of the respectiveopen mouth sprocket 118. In certain embodiments, theopen mouth sprockets 118 of the first andsecond pluralities teeth 124. Additionally, eachopen mouth sprocket 118 includes anopening 128 extending from the respectiveouter circumference 126 of theopen mouth sprocket 118 to thecentral passage 110 of thejoint rotation system 50. Thus, when each of theopen mouth sprockets 118 is similarly aligned or oriented, as shown inFIGS. 4 and 5 , thejoint rotation system 50 may quickly and efficiently be placed about thedrill string 28. Indeed, thejoint rotation system 50 may be quickly placed about thedrill string 28, thefirst clamping mechanism 100 may be radially aligned with one tubular 38 coupled by the tubular connection 52 (e.g., thesecond length 58 oftubular 38 shown inFIG. 2 ), and thesecond clamping mechanism 102 may be radially aligned with another tubular 38 coupled by the tubular connection 52 (e.g., thethird length 60 oftubular 38 shown inFIG. 2 ). Thereafter, the respectivehydraulic cylinders 108 may be actuated to grip thetubulars 38 coupled by thetubular connection 52. - The
first plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 may be rotationally fixed to one another. Thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 is also rotationally fixed to thehydraulic cylinders 108 of the first clamping mechanism 100 (e.g., first hydraulic cylinder 112). Similarly, thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 may be rotationally fixed to one another, and thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 is also rotationally fixed to thehydraulic cylinders 108 of the second clamping mechanism 102 (e.g., second hydraulic cylinder 114). Thus, when thefirst clamping mechanism 100 is coupled to one of the lengths of tubular 38 coupled via thetubular connection 52, rotational movement of the tubular 38 (e.g., driven by the top drive 40) will be transferred to thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. In the manner described below, rotation of thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 is transferred to thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 via the gear assembly 104 (e.g., at a gear ratio greater than one). Thereafter, rotation of thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 is transferred to the other length oftubular 38 coupled at thetubular connection 52 via thehydraulic cylinders 108 of the second clamping mechanism 102 (e.g., second hydraulic cylinder 114). As mentioned above, the gear ratio of thegear assembly 104 enables differential speed of rotation between the twotubulars 38 to enable disengagement of thetubular connection 52. - The
gear assembly 104 contained within thehousing 106 joins the first andsecond clamping mechanisms 100 and 102 (e.g., at a gear ratio greater than one). For example, thegear assembly 104 may be a sprocket assembly having sprockets, gears, chains, belts, and/or other components. Thegear assembly 104 is configured to increase the rotational speed generated by thetop drive 40 and apply the increased rotational speed to one of the lengths of tubular 38 (e.g., the lower of the two lengths of tubular 38) joined by thetubular connection 52. For example, thejoint rotation system 50 is configured to increase the rotational speed of thethird length 60 oftubular 38 shown inFIG. 2 relative to the rotational speed of thesecond length 58 oftubular 38 shown inFIG. 2 . In this manner, the second threadedconnection 64 would be broken, and the second andthird lengths - In the illustrated embodiment, the gear assembly 104 (e.g., sprocket assembly) includes a
top portion 130 and abottom portion 132. Thetop portion 130 includes afirst sprocket 134, a second sprocket 136 (e.g., an idler sprocket), and athird sprocket 138, which are drivingly coupled to one another by a first chain 140 (e.g., a multi-link chain). Thebottom portion 132 of thegear assembly 104 includes afourth sprocket 142 and afifth sprocket 144, which are drivingly coupled to one another by a second chain 146 (e.g., a multi-link chain). In certain embodiments, one or more of the first, second, third, fourth, andfifth sprockets top portion 130 orbottom portion 132 via the first and/orsecond chains first sprocket 134 of thetop portion 130 of thegear assembly 104 and thefourth sprocket 142 of thebottom portion 132 of thegear assembly 104 are rotationally fixed to one another at a gear ratio greater than one. For example, thefirst sprocket 134 and theforth sprocket 142 may be integrally formed as one piece, may be connected to one another by a rod, or otherwise rotationally fixed to one another. As such, thefirst sprocket 134 of thetop portion 130 will rotate at the same speed as thefourth sprocket 142 of thebottom portion 132. However, thefirst sprocket 134 and thefourth sprocket 142 are not the same size (e.g., same diameter). In particular, thefirst sprocket 134 is smaller (e.g., has fewer teeth) than thefourth sprocket 142. - To transfer rotational motion from the
first clamping mechanism 100 to thesecond clamping mechanism 102, thetop portion 130 of thegear assembly 104 engages with thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118, and thebottom portion 132 of thegear assembly 104 engages with thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. Specifically, thefirst chain 140 of thetop portion 130 engages with theteeth 124 of thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. To enable this engagement, the first, second, andthird sprockets housing 106 such that thefirst chain 140 engages with a minimum portion (e.g., minimum arc length) 150 of thecircumference 126 of thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. For example, theminimum portion 150 may be approximately 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, or more of thecircumference 126 of thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. - In the illustrated embodiment, the position of the
third sprocket 138 is also adjustable to enable tension adjustment of thefirst chain 140 and/or an amount of contact between thefirst chain 140 and thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. Specifically, thethird sprocket 138 may be coupled to a threadedknob 152 that extends through aslot 154 formed in thehousing 106. To adjust the position of thethird sprocket 138 within thehousing 106, and thus adjust the tension in thefirst chain 140, the threadedknob 152 may be loosened and translated or slid along theslot 154 to a position that provides a desired tension in thefirst chain 140. Thereafter, the threadedknob 152 may be tightened (e.g., against the housing 106) to hold thethird sprocket 138 in the desired position. In some embodiments, thesecond sprocket 136 may additionally or alternatively be adjustable to enable adjustment of the tension in thefirst chain 140. - Similar to the
first chain 140 and thefirst plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118, thesecond chain 146 of thebottom portion 132 engages with thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. Specifically, thesecond chain 146 of thebottom portion 132 engages with theteeth 124 of thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. The fourth andfifth sprockets housing 106 and thesecond chain 146 is sized such that thesecond chain 140 engages with a minimum portion (e.g., minimum arc length) 156 of thecircumference 126 of thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. For example, the minimum portion 160 may be approximately 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, or more of thecircumference 126 of thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. As similarly discussed above with respect to thetop portion 130, thefifth sprocket 144 may also be position-adjustable to enable adjustment of tension in thesecond chain 146 of the bottom portion 132 (e.g., via a threaded knob extending through a slot in the housing 106) and/or to adjust an amount of contact between thesecond chain 146 and thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118. While the illustrated embodiment of thebottom portion 132 does not include an idler sprocket (e.g., an additional sprocket similar to thesecond sprocket 136 of the top portion 130), other embodiments of thegear assembly 104 may include an additional idler sprocket in thebottom portion 132, and the additional sprocket may also be adjustable to further enable tension adjustment of thesecond chain 146. - Furthermore, although the illustrated embodiment includes the first, second, third, fourth, and
fifth sprockets gear assembly 104, other embodiments may include other or additional components. For example, thegear assembly 104 may include other sprockets, rollers, and so forth to enable adequate contact between the first andsecond chains open mouth sprockets 118. Such components may also further enable tension adjustment of the of the first andsecond chains second chains gear assembly 104 and/or to adjust a level or amount of contact between the first andsecond chains open mouth sprockets 118. - As mentioned above, each of the
open mouth sprockets 118 includes theopening 128 to enable efficient and ready positioning of thejoint rotation system 50 about thedrill string 28, but the embodiments shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 do not include any mechanism or feature to enable enclosure of theopening 128 in eachsprocket 118. However, other embodiments of thejoint rotation system 50 may include a mechanism or feature, such as a latch or clasp, which may be selectively positioned to enclose theopening 128 of each sprocket 118 (e.g., once thedrill string 28 is positioned within thecentral passage 110 of thejoint rotation system 50. Examples of such embodiments are discussed below with reference toFIGS. 6-11 . -
FIG. 5 is a side view of an embodiment of thejoint rotation system 50, illustrating operation of thejoint rotation system 50. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, thejoint rotation system 50 is breaking or unthreading a threaded connection 180 (e.g., a connection between two lengths of tubular 38), which couples afirst length 182 of tubular 38 (e.g., a top length) and asecond length 184 of tubular 38 (e.g., a bottom length). - As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the torque applied to the
first length 182 by thetop drive 40 may be expressed as -
- where AB is the gear ratio between the
first plurality 120 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 and thefirst sprocket 134, C/D is the gear ratio between thesecond plurality 122 ofopen mouth sprockets 118 and thefourth sprocket 142, Ttd is the torque acting on thefirst length 182 oftubular 38, Tds is the torque acting on thesecond length 184 of tubular 38 (e.g., the drill string 28), and Tj is the torque acting on the threadedconnection 180. As mentioned above, the first andsecond pluralities open mouth sprockets 118 may be approximately the same size and have approximately the same number ofteeth 124. Therefore, Equation (1) may be expressed as -
- When breaking or unthreading the threaded
connection 180, the torque acting on the second length 184 (i.e., Tds) may be approximately 0 as frictional torque will arise once motion actually begins. As a result, the torque acting on the second length 184 (i.e., Tds) may not affect thetop drive 40 output torque (i.e., Ttd) during the initial breaking or unthreading of the threadedconnection 180. Consequently, Equation (2) reduces to -
- Similarly, once the threaded
connection 180 begins to unthread and the threadedconnection 180 torque (i.e., Tj) disappears, thetop drive 40 may only experience the frictional torque, which may be expressed by -
- As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, D/B may be considered the overall drive or speed ratio of the
gear assembly 104. Indeed, the drive or speed ratio may be greater than one, thereby enabling faster rotation of thesecond length 184 relative to thefirst length 182, which results in the unthreading of the threadedconnection 180. For example, in certain embodiments the gear or speed ratio of the gear assembly 104 (e.g., between thefirst sprocket 134 and fourth sprocket 142) may be between approximately 5:4 and 2:1. - In certain embodiments, the first and
second clamping mechanisms second lengths connection 180 by rotatingtop drive 40 in a first direction. After the threadedconnection 180 is partially broken (e.g., not completely unthreaded), thefirst clamping mechanism 100 may be disengaged from thefirst length 182 while leaving thesecond clamping mechanism 102 engaged with thesecond length 184. Then, thetop drive 40 may be rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction to fully disengaged (e.g., unthread) thefirst length 182 from thesecond length 184. -
FIGS. 6-11 illustrate an embodiment of thejoint rotation system 50 having first andsecond clamping mechanisms second clamping mechanisms open mouth sprockets 118 where eachopen mouth sprocket 118 has a latch 200 (e.g., a hinged latch) that may be used to enclose therespective opening 128 of theopen mouth sprocket 118. - For example,
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional axial view of thejoint rotation system 50, taken along line 6-6 ofFIG. 5 , illustrating one of theopen mouth sprockets 118 of thefirst clamping mechanism 100. Theopen mouth sprocket 118 shown inFIG. 6 has thelatch 200, which is pivotably connected to a main portion 202 (e.g., a disk) of theopen mouth sprocket 118. In the illustrated embodiment, thelatch 200 is shown in an open position. Thelatch 200 includes abase portion 204 that is coupled to themain portion 202 of theopen mouth sprocket 118. Thebase portion 204 may be pivotably coupled to themain portion 202 via a hinge, pin, or other mechanism that enables pivoting of thelatch 200. - The
latch 200 also includes atoothed segment 206 coupled to thebase portion 204. Specifically, afirst side 208 of thetoothed segment 206 is coupled to the base portion 204 (e.g., via pins, brazing, or other mechanical coupling), and asecond side 210 of thetoothed segment 206 includesteeth 212. Thetoothed segment 206 is a sized to fit within a radiallyouter space 214 of theopening 128 of theopen mouth sprocket 118. More specifically, thetoothed segment 206 is a sized to occupy or fill the radiallyouter space 214 of theopening 128. For example,FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional axial view of thejoint rotation system 50, taken along line 6-6 ofFIG. 5 , illustrating thelatch 200 ofFIG. 6 shown in a closed position. As shown, when thelatch 200 is closed, theopening 128 of theopen mouth sprocket 118 is enclosed. As will be appreciated, thelatch 200 may be moved from the open position shown inFIG. 6 to the closed position shown inFIG. 7 after thejoint rotation system 50 is positioned about thetubulars 38 to be connected or disconnected. In certain embodiments, thelatch 200 may be held in the closed position by a friction fit, interference fit, protuberance, or other feature disposed at adistal end 218 of thebase portion 204 of thelatch 200. - Additionally, when the
latch 200 is in the closed position, thesecond side 210 of thetoothed segment 206 aligns (e.g., circumferentially aligns) with theouter circumference 126 of theopen mouth sprocket 118 to form a fully-toothedfull circumference 220 of theopen mouth sprocket 118. In other words, when thelatch 200 is in the closed position, teeth (e.g.,teeth 124 and 212) are arrayed about the full circumference (e.g., circumference 126) of theopen mouth sprocket 118. As will be appreciated, this fully-toothed configuration enables improved transfer of rotational movement between theopen mouth sprocket 118 and thefirst chain 140 when rotational movement is transferred from thefirst clamping mechanism 100 to thegear assembly 104. In particular, for any given angular position of theopen mouth sprocket 118, the minimum portion 150 (e.g., minimum arc length) of thecircumference 126 engaged with thefirst chain 140 will be fully arrayed with teeth (e.g.,teeth 124 and/or 212), thereby improving transfer of rotational movement from thefirst clamping mechanism 100 to thegear assembly 104. -
FIGS. 8 and 9 are cross-sectional axial views of thejoint rotation system 50, taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 5 , illustrating one of theopen mouth sprockets 118 of thesecond clamping mechanism 102. As similarly discussed above with reference toFIGS. 6 and 7 , theopen mouth sprocket 118 of thesecond clamping mechanism 102 shown inFIG. 8 also has thelatch 200, which is pivotably connected to the main portion 202 (e.g., a disk) of theopen mouth sprocket 118 and is shown in an open position. Thelatch 200 includes thebase portion 204 that is coupled to themain portion 202 of theopen mouth sprocket 118, and thebase portion 204 may be pivotably coupled to themain portion 202 via a hinge, pin, or other mechanism that enables pivoting of thelatch 200. Thelatch 200 shown inFIGS. 8 and 9 includes similar elements and element numbers as thelatch 200 shown inFIGS. 8 and 9 . For example, thelatch 200 includes thetoothed segment 206 coupled to thebase portion 204, where thetoothed segment 206 hasteeth 212.FIG. 9 shows thelatch 200 in a closed position to enclose theopening 128 in theopen mouth sprocket 118. As discussed above, when thelatch 200 is in the closed position, thesecond side 210 of thetoothed segment 206 aligns (e.g., circumferentially aligns) with theouter circumference 126 of theopen mouth sprocket 118 to form a fully-toothedfull circumference 220 of theopen mouth sprocket 118, which enables improved transfer of rotational movement between theopen mouth sprocket 118 and thesecond chain 146 when rotational movement is transferred from thegear assembly 104 to thesecond clamping mechanism 102. -
FIGS. 10 and 11 are top views of an embodiment of thejoint rotation system 50. The illustrated embodiment includes the first andsecond clamping mechanisms open mouth sprockets 118 havinglatches 200 for selectively enclosing therespective openings 128 of thesprockets 118. InFIG. 10 , thelatches 200 of theopen mouth sprockets 118 for the first andsecond clamping mechanisms first latch 250 of one of theopen mouth sprockets 118 of thefirst clamping mechanism 100 hinged and open on afirst side 252 of theopening 128, and asecond latch 254 of one of theopen mouth sprockets 118 of thesecond clamping mechanism 102 hinged and open on asecond side 256 of theopening 128 opposite thefirst side 252. In certain embodiments, thelatches 200 of allopen mouth sprockets 118 of thefirst clamping mechanism 100 may be hinged on thefirst side 252, while thelatches 200 of allopen mouth sprockets 118 of thesecond clamping mechanism 102 may be hinged on thesecond side 256. In other embodiments, thelatches 200 of the first andsecond clamping mechanisms open mouth sprocket 118 on alternating sides (e.g., alternatingfirst side 252 and second side 256) from a top of thejoint rotation system 50 to a bottom of thejoint rotation system 50. InFIG. 11 , all latches 200 are shown in the closed position to enclose theopenings 128 of theopen mouth sprockets 118. - The embodiments shown in
FIGS. 10 and 11 also include other features of thejoint rotation system 50. For example, thehousing 106 includesslots 260 extending through thehousing 106 from a top to a bottom of thehousing 106 on oppositelateral sides 262 of thejoint rotation system 50. As mentioned above, theexternal lifting frame 66 may further enable ergonomic manipulation of thejoint rotation system 50 toward and/or away from thetubulars 38. In certain embodiments, one or more components of theexternal lifting frame 66 may extend through theslots 260 to support thejoint rotation system 60 with theexternal lifting frame 66. Thejoint rotation system 50 may be configured to slide along theexternal lifting frame 66 extending through theslots 260 to enable axially positioning thejoint rotation system 50 relative to thetubulars 38 to be coupled or decoupled using the joint rotation system. - Another feature shown in
FIGS. 10 and 11 is motor and/orspring assembly 270 disposed on atop surface 272 of thehousing 106. The motor and/orspring assembly 270 may be configured to rotate theopen mouth sprockets 118 when the first andsecond clamping mechanisms tubulars 38. More specifically, the motor and/orspring assembly 270 is configured to rotate each of theopen mouth sprockets 118 to an open or “home” position. In the open or “home” position, theopening 128 of each of theopen mouth sprockets 118 of thefirst clamping mechanism 100 andsecond clamping mechanism 102 is axially aligned (e.g., relative to a central axis of the joint rotation system 50) with theother openings 128. Thus, in the open or “home” position, thejoint rotation system 50 may be readily removed from thetubulars 38 and/ordrill string 28. - As discussed above, embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward the
joint rotation system 50 to enable assembly and disassembly of lengths of tubular 38 to and from one another on a drilling rig. For example, thejoint rotation system 50 may be used to thread and unthread lengths of drill pipe to and from one another to assemble or disassemble thedrill string 28. As described above, thejoint rotation system 50 is geared to grip and rotate two lengths of tubular 38 at different speeds while thetop drive 40 or other rotational system rotates one of the lengths oftubular 38. Specifically, thejoint rotation system 50 transfers rotational movement of one of the lengths of tubular 38 (e.g., driven by the top drive 40) to another length oftubular 38 at a gear or speed ratio greater than one to enable differential speed rotation of the other length oftubular 38 relative to the first length oftubular 38. As thejoint rotation system 50 rotates the two lengths of tubular 38 at different speeds, the relative rotations (e.g., differential speeds) of the two lengths of tubular 38 enable engagement (e.g., threading) or disengagement (e.g., unthreading) of the lengths of tubular 38 to or from one another. Thejoint rotation system 50 includes two ormore clamping mechanisms joint rotation system 50 may include thefirst clamping mechanism 100 to grip a top tubular 38 and asecond clamping mechanism 102 to grip abottom tubular 38. Additionally, the clampingmechanisms joint rotation system 50 to the two lengths of tubular 38 to be connected or disconnected from one another. In other words, the configuration of the clampingmechanisms joint rotation system 50 to be quickly and readily engaged and disengaged with lengths of tubular 38 to be connected or disconnected from one another. - While only certain features of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the present disclosure.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (2)
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US15/499,648 US20170314349A1 (en) | 2016-04-29 | 2017-04-27 | Top drive powered differential speed rotation system and method |
PCT/US2017/030148 WO2017190021A1 (en) | 2016-04-29 | 2017-04-28 | Top drive powered differential speed rotation system and method |
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US201662329889P | 2016-04-29 | 2016-04-29 | |
US15/499,648 US20170314349A1 (en) | 2016-04-29 | 2017-04-27 | Top drive powered differential speed rotation system and method |
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US20170314349A1 true US20170314349A1 (en) | 2017-11-02 |
Family
ID=60157039
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US15/499,648 Abandoned US20170314349A1 (en) | 2016-04-29 | 2017-04-27 | Top drive powered differential speed rotation system and method |
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US (1) | US20170314349A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2017190021A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11313185B2 (en) * | 2020-02-10 | 2022-04-26 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Differential iron roughneck |
Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4334444A (en) * | 1978-06-26 | 1982-06-15 | Bob's Casing Crews | Power tongs |
US20060179980A1 (en) * | 1999-11-26 | 2006-08-17 | Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. | Wrenching tong |
US20140121048A1 (en) * | 2012-10-30 | 2014-05-01 | Tesco Corporation | Top drive powered differential speed rotation system and method |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4442892A (en) * | 1982-08-16 | 1984-04-17 | Domenico Delesandri | Apparatus for stabbing and threading a safety valve into a well pipe |
GB2356591B (en) * | 1999-11-26 | 2003-10-15 | Weatherford Lamb | Wrenching tong |
-
2017
- 2017-04-27 US US15/499,648 patent/US20170314349A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2017-04-28 WO PCT/US2017/030148 patent/WO2017190021A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4334444A (en) * | 1978-06-26 | 1982-06-15 | Bob's Casing Crews | Power tongs |
US20060179980A1 (en) * | 1999-11-26 | 2006-08-17 | Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. | Wrenching tong |
US20140121048A1 (en) * | 2012-10-30 | 2014-05-01 | Tesco Corporation | Top drive powered differential speed rotation system and method |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11313185B2 (en) * | 2020-02-10 | 2022-04-26 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Differential iron roughneck |
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