Rotating control device

Abstract

An RCD includes a housing, a seal assembly package, and a seal tube assembly. The seal tube assembly includes a seal tube, a seal, a first bearing, and a second bearing. The seal is coupled between the first and second bearings. The first bearing includes a flow path between the interior of the seal tube and the annular space between the seal and the seal tube. The SAP includes an SAP outer body positioned within the housing and fluidly sealed thereto. The RCD may include a running tool coupled to the SAP having one or more grippers for engaging a tool string passing through the RCD.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD / FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0001]The present disclosure relates to managed pressure drilling devices, and specifically to rotating control devices.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]When drilling a wellbore, fluids in the underground formation surrounding the wellbore are under pressure. In order to prevent their flow into the wellbore, drilling fluid, commonly known as drilling mud, is introduced into the wellbore. The hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud against the wellbore may be used to prevent the fluid from entering the wellbore. When the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud equals the formation pressure, the drilling operation is typically referred to as balanced. Typically, a wellbore is drilled slightly overbalanced, such that the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud is higher than the formation pressure.[0003]However, if the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud falls below the formation pressure, an underbalanced condition, fluid from the format...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is for a rotating control device (RCD) that has a seal assembly package (SAP) and a seal tube assembly. The SAP forms a fluid seal against the housing and includes a seal tube with a first bearing and a second bearing. The seal tube assembly is coupled to the SAP to mechanically protect it during use. The RCD also includes an activation ring that can be slid into a run in position and locked position. Additionally, the RCD has a running tool that includes a body and a gripper pivotably coupled to it. The gripper can be moved from a gripping position when the activation ring is in the run in position to a released position when the activation ring is in the locked position. The technical effects of this invention include improved sealing efficiency, better protection of the seal assembly package, and improved operability of the running tool.

Problems solved by technology

Typically, a wellbore is drilled slightly overbalanced, such that the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud is higher than the formation pressure.

However, if the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud falls below the formation pressure, an underbalanced condition, fluid from the formation may flow into the wellbore.

If a kick is not contained, a blowout may occur.

Kicks may be caused by insufficient mud weight, improper hole fill-up during trips, swabbing, gas cut mud, or lost circulation.

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