Sensor sub configuration

Abstract

A sensor sub is provided for use in a tubular handling system, the sensor sub being located adjacent to and removably connected to a saver sub pin connection. The sensor sub collects raw data relating to operation of the tubular handling system, digitizes the raw data and transmits the raw data to a remote receiver. The sensor sub is powerable by one or more commercially available lithium batteries. A battery holder is also provided having a housing for housing batteries in a hazardous environment, wherein the batteries are replaceable within the battery holder while the battery holder remains in the hazardous environment. Finally, a method of replacing a battery in a hazardous environment is also provided.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION The present disclosure relates to improvements in a sensor sub used in conjunction with oil and gas well drilling and completion operations.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]Oil and gas wells are first drilled using sections of drill pipe progressively threaded together forming a drill string with a drilling bit always at the bottom. During drilling, the top drive provides rotational torque to the drilling bit by way of the drill string. After the initial well is drilled, the drill string is removed and tubing or casing strings, are similarly threaded together and lowered down the wellbore for the purposes of performing operations or producing oil or gas from the well.[0002]During the drilling phase, there is required a means to monitor the forces being applied to the drill string and the drilling bit to ensure that the well is being drilled as efficiently as possible. Primary forces to be monitored include torque applied by the top drive, rotational speed, fluid p...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes various sensor sub systems and a battery holder for use in a tubular handling system. The sensor sub collects and transmits data about the system, while the battery holder is designed to safely replace batteries without exposing them to hazardous environments. The technical effects of this invention include improved monitoring and control of the tubular handling system and improved safety for battery replacement.

Problems solved by technology

The most commonly faced problem with previous sensor sub deployments is fitting the sub onto an existing top-drive.

Increasing the torque arrestor length is costly, and further makes the arrestor difficult to install, as well as the fact that such extended torque arresters are not available for all top drive models.

Power consumption by typical sensor subs in data collection and processing is also traditionally very high, requiring either custom, high power batteries or frequent battery changing, which leads to frequent stoppage in make up operations.

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