Adjustable tubular slip

Abstract

In an example, a tubular slip for a drill rig can include a plurality of size adjusting systems which can be radially arranged about a well access hole of the drill rig and can be configured to cooperate to adjust a diameter of a through opening of the tubular slip to accommodate various tubular sizes. The tubular slip can also include a slip component which can include a wedge arranged on a radially inner portion of each of the size adjusting systems and can be configured to cooperate to further constrict the diameter of the through opening when a drill string is suspended by the tubular slip.

Description

ADJUSTABLE TUBULAR SLIPCLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Application Serial No. 18 / 626,981, filed April 4, 2024, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to drill rigs. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to tubular slips.BACKGROUND

[0003] The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventor, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure.

[0004] Operating a drill rig can involve a range of activities, such as drilling wells, installing well casings, tripping of the drill string (e.g., during which drill pipes are lowered into (tripping in (e.g., running into hole (RIH))) or pulled out of (tripping out (e.g., pulling out of hole (POOH))) a well), etc. A tubular slip can be used to grip a drill pipe, such as to suspend a drill string when the drill string is not suspended by an elevator. A tubular slip can be positioned in or on the floor of a drill rig, and can be configured to impinge on the drill string to support the drill string from the drill rig floor. The tubular slip can be manually engaged or disengaged. During drilling operations (e g., tripping operations, such as to change a drill bit or install a casing), a variety of pipe sizes can be used. Moreover, drill collar can have a larger diameter than drill pipe even though they each form a part of the same drill string. Separate, differently sized, tubular slips or parts (e g., size components) may need to be used (e.g., during various operations) to accommodate the different sizes.SUMMARY

[0005] In an example, a tubular slip for a drill rig can include a plurality of size adjusting systems which can be radially arranged about a well access hole of the drill rig and can be configured to cooperate to adjust a diameter of a through opening of the tubular slip to accommodate various tubular sizes. The tubular slip can also include a slip component which can include a wedge arranged on a radially inner portion of each of the size adjusting systems and can be configured to cooperate to further constrict the diameter of the through opening when a drill string is suspended by the tubular slip.

[0006] In an example, a tubular slip for a drill rig can include two or more slip assemblies, which can be arranged around a perimeter of a well access hole of the drill rig. One or more of the slip assemblies can include an outer wedge, which can be generally fixed relative to the well access hole, where a radially inward portion of the outer wedge can include a first inclined plane facing radially inward, where a bottom portion of the first inclined plane can be radially inward compared to a top portion of the first inclined plane. One or more of the slip assemblies can also include an intermediate wedge, where a radially outward portion of the intermediate wedge can be slidably engaged with the first inclined plane, where the intermediate wedge can move towards a center axis of the well access hole when the intermediate wedge slides downward, where a radially inward portion of the intermediate wedge can include a second inclined plane facing radially inward, where a bottom portion of the second inclined plane can be radially inward compared to a top portion of the second inclined plane. One or more of the slip assemblies can also include an inner wedge, where a radially outward portion of the inner wedge can be slidably engaged with the second inclined plane, where the inner wedge can move towards the center axis of the well access hole when the inner wedge slides downward.

[0007] In an example, a method of using a tubular slip can include positioning, using an elevator, a drill string at a specified position within the tubular slip while the tubular slip can be in a released configuration, engaging three slip assemblies of the tubular slip with the drill string, centering the drill string within a well access hole, and disengaging the elevator to transfer a weight of the drill string to the tubular slip.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] In the drawings, which may not be drawn to scale, like numerals may describe substantially similar components throughout one or more of the views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of substantially similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example but not by way of limitation.

[0009] FIG. 1 shows an example of portions of a drill rig including a tubular slip.

[0010] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the tubular slip engaging a drill string.

[0011] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an example of a slip assembly of the tubular slip of FIG. 2.

[0012] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an example of the slip assembly of FIG. 3 with the size adjusting system configured for a smaller tubular size as compared toFIG. 3.

[0013] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an example of the slip assembly of FIG. 3 with the size adjusting system in the same position as FIG. 4 and with the slip component further constricting the through opening.

[0014] FIG. 6 shows a cutaway perspective view of an example of the tubular slip engaging a drill string.

[0015] FIG. 7 shows a cutaway perspective view of an example of portions of a guide for use with the slip of FIGS. 3-5.

[0016] FIG. 8 shows a diagram depicting an example of portions of a method of operating a tubular slip.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] A tubular slip that can handle a range of tubular sizes (e.g., drill collar, drill pipe, well casing) can provide one or more benefits such as a reduction in human contact with the drilling process (e g., any operation undertaken using a drilling rig, such as tripping, increasing a size or depth of a well bore, etc.), a reduction in human physical exertion during drilling, an increase in the speed of operation of a drill rig These benefits can arise because the tubular slip does not need to be swapped out or adjusted to handle a range of tubular sizes. Additionally, a tubular slip that is at least partially automated can provide one or more benefits, such as a reduction in humancontact with the drilling process, a reduction in human physical exertion during drilling, an increase in the speed of operation of a drill rig, or an increase or other adjustment of the precision of the tubular slip. The tubular slip can be operated manually, by another power source, or both. The tubular slip can provide position feedback, which can include an indication of whether or not a tubular is engaged with the tubular slip. The tubular slip can grip a range of tubulars, such as without having to change size components (e.g., slips, inserts). The tubular slip can be at least partially automated (e.g., capable of being controlled remotely), which can help to remove the need for personnel to be near the center of the drill floor (e.g., in the red zone).

[0018] Turning now to FIG. 1, a drill rig 100 of the present disclosure is shown. The drill rig 100 may be configured for onshore oil drilling in some embodiments. However, in other embodiments, other drilling rigs of the present disclosure may be configured for other drilling operations, including offshore drilling. The drill rig 100 may be configured to be a mobile or stationary rig. The drill rig 100 may generally have a drill floor 102, a mast 104, and a pipe handling system.

[0019] The drill floor 102 may include a platform positioned above or over a well and supported by a support structure 103. As shown, the drill floor 102 may be configured to provide a working space for drilling operations and / or a storage space for equipment and drill pipe. The drill floor 102 may have an opening arranged at or near well center (e.g., the well access hole 122) for accessing the well during drilling or tripping operations.

[0020] The mast 104 may extend from the drill floor with a height suitable for accommodating and / or building single, double, triple, quadruple, or other sized drill pipe stands. For example, the mast 104 may have a height of up to 50 feet, 100 feet 150 feet, 200 feet, or more. In other embodiments, the mast 104 may have any other suitable height or height range.

[0021] The lifting system may be configured for supporting the load of a pipe stand and / or drill string during drilling, tripping in, tripping out, and / or other pipe handling operations. A pipe elevator 120 configured for coupling to a drill pipe may extend from the traveling block 118. In some embodiments, the pipe elevator 120 may beincorporated into a top drive, which may be coupled to the traveling block 1 18 via a hook dolly or the pipe elevator 120 may be more directly coupled to the traveling block 118 via a hook dolly. In either case, the traveling block 118 may be configured to raise and lower the pipe elevator 120, so as to raise and lower a length or stand of pipe, between the drill floor 102 and the crown block. The traveling block 118 may include one or more sheaves through which the main drill line may be reeved.

[0022] The drill rig 100 can also include a tubular slip 130. The tubular slip 130 may be arranged in or on the drill floor 102. For example, the tubular slip 130 can be positioned in the well access hole 122. The well access hole 122 can be an opening (e.g., a hole) of any shape in the drill floor 102. During operation of the drill rig, operators may insert, feed, or otherwise pass a drill string 140 through the tubular slip 130, the well access hole 122, or both. The use of a tubular slip of the present disclosure is believed to apply, at least in part, to any drill rig configuration, and is not limited to the drill rig shown in FIG. 1.

[0023] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an example of portions of a tubular slip 130 engaging a drill string 140. The tubular slip 130 can be configured to grasp one or more cylindrical objects, such as a tubular (e.g., a drilling pipe, a drill casing, a pipe string, or any number of tubulars employed in operations on a drill rig). The tubular slip 130 can be configured to carry a portion or all of the weight of the drill string, such as when the drill string is released from an elevator, which can transfer the weight (e.g., the load) of the drill string to the tubular slip. The tubular slip 130 can include two or more slip assemblies 230. The slip assemblies 230 can be arranged around a perimeter of a well access hole 122 of the drill rig 100. The tubular slip 130 can also include a housing 232, such as can be configured to interface with the well access hole 122 and the slip assemblies 230.

[0024] The tubular slip 130 can include two slip assemblies 230, three slip assemblies 230, four slip assemblies 230, five slip assemblies 230, six slip assemblies 230, seven slip assemblies 230, 8 slip assemblies 230 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2), or 9 or more slip assemblies 230. The slip assemblies 230 can be equally spaced radially around the perimeter of the tubular slip 130 (e.g., 3 slip assemblies 120 degrees apart,8 slip assemblies 45 degrees apart), or the slip assemblies 230 can be distributed radially in any other fashion.

[0025] A slip assembly 230 can include a size adjusting system and a slip component. The tubular slip 130 can include a plurality of slip assemblies 230 (e.g., a plurality of size adjusting systems, each with a corresponding slip component), which can be radially arranged about the well access hole 122 of the drill rig 100. The size adjusting systems can be configured to cooperate to adjust the diameter of a through opening (e.g., the diameter formed by the radially inward most portion of the plurality of slip components. The plurality of size adjusting systems can help allow the tubular slip to accommodate various tubular sizes. The slip component can include a wedge arranged on a radially inner portion of each of the size adjusting systems. The slip components can be configured to cooperate to further constrict the diameter of the through opening when a drill string is suspended by the tubular slip.

[0026] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an example of portions of a slip assembly 230. FIG. 3 includes an arrow indicating the radially inward direction. The slip assembly can be configured to one or more of (1) clamp or release a drill string 140, such as at least partially automatically (e.g., at the command of a processor or other controller) or (2) adjust a size of tubular that the tubular slip 130 is configured to engage with. The slip assembly 230 can be configured such that the slip assembly 230 clamps the drill string 140 with a force that increases as a weight of the drill string carried by the tubular slip 130 increases (e.g., a force proportional to the weight of the drill string). The slip assembly 230 can include an outer wedge 310, an intermediate wedge 320, and an inner wedge 330. The outer wedge 310 and the intermediate wedge 320 can be included in the size adjusting system. The inner wedge 330 can be included in the slip component.

[0027] The outer wedge 310, can be generally fixed relative to the well access hole 122. For example, a radially outer portion of the outer wedge 310 can be fixed to the housing 232 or more directly to the drill floor. The outer wedge 310 can be configured to provide a mounting connection for the slip assembly 230, and can be configured to provide a surface for the intermediate wedge 320 to interface with. A radially inward portion of the outer wedge 310 can include a first inclined plane 314 facing radiallyinward (e.g., the open face of the first inclined plane 314 is oriented at least partially towards the well access hole 122, such as directly facing the well access hole, or at an angle of less than 90 degrees from the radially inward axis). A bottom portion of the first inclined plane 314 can be radially inward compared to a top portion of the first inclined plane 314 (e.g., the first inclined plane 314 is facing upward and sloping radially inward). The outer wedge 310 can be one piece of material (e.g., a cast or machined part), or can include two or more parts fastened together.

[0028] The intermediate wedge 320 can be configured to interface with the outer wedge 310. Together, the portions of the outer wedge 310 (e.g., all of the outer wedge 310), portions of the intermediate wedge 320 (e.g., all of the intermediate wedge 320), and optionally one or more other components can form a size adjusting system. The size adjusting system can be configured to adjust a size of tubular that the tubular slip 130 is configured to engage with (e.g., adjusting a size of the opening formed by the plurality of slip assemblies 230), engage or release a tubular (e.g., by moving the slip assembly 230 into or out of contact with the tubular), or both. A radially outward portion 322 of the intermediate wedge 320 can be slidably engaged with the first inclined plane 314. The size adjusting system can be configured such that the intermediate wedge 320 moves towards a center axis of the well access hole 122 when the intermediate wedge slides downward, such as due to the configuration of the first inclined plane 314. This motion towards the center of the well access hole 122 can help to provide one or more functions of the size adjusting system, such as adjusting a diameter of the well access hole or engaging and releasing a tubular. The intermediate wedge 320 can be one piece of material (e.g., a cast or machined part), or can include two or more parts fastened together.

[0029] A radially inward portion of the intermediate wedge 320 can include a second inclined plane 324 facing radially inward. A bottom portion of the second inclined plane 324 can be radially inward compared to a top portion of the second inclined plane.

[0030] The slip assembly 230 can also include one or more actuators 312, such as can form a portion of the size adjusting system. An actuator 312 can be configured to extend and retract longitudinally (e.g., a linear actuator). The actuator 312 can includea hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, a screw drive, a rack / pinion, an electrical cylinder, a linear motor, or another type of linear actuator. A first end of the actuator 312 can be coupled to the outer wedge 310 and a second end of the actuator 312 can be coupled to the intermediate wedge 320. In an example, the first end of the actuator 312 can be coupled to the housing 232. The actuator 312 can be configured to adjust a position of the intermediate wedge 320 along the first inclined plane 314 of the outer wedge 310, such as to adjust the size adjusting system. In an example, the slip assembly 230 can include a second actuator 312 configured similarly to the first actuator 312 on the opposite radially tangential side of the slip assembly 230 (e.g., not visible in FIG. 3). In an example, the actuator 312 can be positioned between the first inclined plane 314 and the radially outward portion 322.

[0031] In an example, the first inclined plane 314 can include two parallel but offset faces, as shown in FIG. 3. The radially outward portion 322 can include two parallel but offset faces configured to interface with the two faces of the first inclined plane 314. The outer wedge 310, the intermediate wedge 320, or both, can include one or more features configured to keep the first inclined plane 314 from separating from the radially outward portion 322, such as the retaining groove 316. A portion of the intermediate wedge 320 (e.g., a retaining pin 616, shown in FIG. 6, attached to the intermediate wedge 320) can be configured to interface with the retaining groove 316.

[0032] The inner wedge 330 can form a portion or all of a slip component. The slip component can be configured to further constrict a diameter of the through opening of the well access hole 122 when the drill string 140 is suspended by the tubular slip 130. The inner wedge 330 can be configured to interface with the intermediate wedge 320. A radially outward portion 332 of the inner wedge can be slidably engaged with the second inclined plane 324. The inner wedge 330 can be configured to move towards the center axis of the well access hole 122 when the inner wedge 330 slides downward. The inner wedge 330 and the intermediate wedge 320 can be configured so that the second inclined plane 324 does not separate from the radially outward portion 332. The inner wedge 330 can be one piece of material (e.g., a cast or machined part), or can include two or more parts fastened together.

[0033] A radially inner surface 334 of the inner wedge 330 (e.g., the slip component) can be configured to engage with the drill string 140. The radially inner surface 334 can include teeth or other texture to increase or otherwise tailor a friction or grip force against the drill string 140. The radially inner surface 334 can include a curvature when viewed from above or below (e.g., FIG. 3 shows two friction portions arranged pointing radially inward) to provide a larger area of contact with the drill string 140. In an example, the radially inner surface 334 can include one or more alloy strips (e.g., CuNiAl , which can be configured to be wear resistant, provide a specified level of friction, or both. For example, the allow strips can provide a replaceable wear surface The tubular slip 130 can be configured to engage with a range of tubular sizes ranging from at least 1-1 / 8 inches (e.g., the tubulars are at least 1-1 / 8 inches different in diameter), at least two inches, at least four inches, at least six inches, at least eight inches, or at least 12 inches. In an example, the tubular slip 130 can engage with a range including a nominal size down to a smaller size (e.g., having a range of 4” and a set nominal of 14” grips from 14” down to 10,” such as without size component swap out). In an example, the tubular slip 130 (e.g., including the slip assemblies 230) can be configured so that the radially inner surface 334 of the inner wedge 330 is generally parallel to the drill string 140 across the range of tubular sizes. In an example, the tubular slip 130 can be configured to engage with a mix of casing sizes, for example, a 9-5 / 8 inch casing as well as a 10-3 / 4 inch thick wall casing.

[0034] In an example, one or more portions of the slip assembly 230 can be replaced to accommodate a different range of tubular sizes. For example, one configuration of the tubular slip 130 can accommodate tubulars from 3 and 1 / 8 inch to 7 and 5 / 8 inch (e.g., measured in diameter of the outer surface of the tubular). The tubular slip 130 can be reconfigured to accommodate a range from 5 and 1 / 2 inch to 10 inch or a range from 9 and 1 / 2 inch to 14 inch. For example, one or more of the outer wedge 310, the intermediate wedge 320, or the inner wedge 330 can be exchanged for a corresponding outer wedge 310, intermediate wedge 320, or inner wedge 330 of a different size. In an example, the entire slip assembly 230 can be replaced. In an example, the size adjusting system can be replaced, and the inner wedge 330 can be reused. In an example, the housing 232 is used across multiple tubular size ranges. Inan example, the housing 232 is replaced to accommodate one or more tubular size ranges. In some examples, the housing 232 may be omitted where the size adjusting system is secured directly to the drill floor. In an example, the entire tubular slip 130 can be replaced to accommodate a different tubular size range.

[0035] In an example, one or more portions of the tubular slip 130 can be configured differently. For example, the size adjusting component of the slip assembly 230 can include a hydraulic cylinder that is faced generally radially inward. The radially outward portion of the hydraulic cylinder can be mounted to the housing 232 or directly to the drill floor. The inner wedge 330 can be mounted on the radially inward portion of the hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder can be configured to adjust a size of the through opening. The hydraulic cylinder can be configured to carry a portion of the weight of the drill string 140 (e.g., the hydraulic cylinder is braced to be substantially rigid when the downward load of the drill string 140 is applied to the inner wedge 330 In other examples, a worm drive may be used in lieu of a hydraulic cylinder or another non-reversing device may be provided.

[0036] In an example, the housing 232 can be a closed (e.g., continuous) ring. In an example, the housing 232 can be a hinged split ring, such as can allow for removing the tubular slip 130 while a drill string 140 is passing through or arranged within the tubular slip 130.

[0037] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 show a perspective view of an example of portions of a slip assembly 230. In use and operation of the tubular slip 130, one or more of the plurality of size adjusting systems can be configured to travel between a retracted position, where the respective slip components may not be contacting the drill string, and an engaged position, where the respective slip components can be contacting the drill string. For example, the actuator 312 can be configured to control a position of the intermediate wedge 320 along the first inclined plane 314. The actuator 312 can control the slip assembly 230 between a retracted position, where the slip assembly may not be contacting a drill string, and an engaged position, where the slip assembly can be contacting the drill string. In an example, the movement of the size adjusting systems can serve the function of engaging and disengaging the drill string, accommodating various tubular sizes, or both.

[0038] FIG. 3 shows the slip assembly 230 in a retracted position, which can include a fully retracted position. FIG. 4 shows the slip assembly 230 in an engaged position, which can include an engaged position at the end of a configured travel of the size adjusting system. In an example, the slip assembly 230 can contact the drill string 140 before reaching the end of travel. The actuator 312 can apply a force against the drill string 140 (e.g., an inward force). In an example, the force provided by the actuator 312 can be small compared to the force caused by the operation of the slip component, such as can include one half as large or less, one tenth as large or less, or one hundredth as large or less.

[0039] FIG. 5 shows an example where the size adjusting system is engaged and a portion of the weight of the drill string 140 has been shifted to the tubular slip 130. FIG. 5 shows that the inner wedge 330 has moved downward, applying an increased inward force on the drill string 140, such as can increase a frictional force against the drill string 140, such as can allow the drill string 140 to be suspended by the tubular slip 130. FIG. 5 shows that the intermediate wedge 320 has not moved from the position shown in FIG. 4. In an example, the intermediate wedge 320 can move slightly or significantly in response to the drill string 140 loading the tubular slip 130.

[0040] The inner wedge 330 can be biased in an upward direction along the second inclined plane 324, such as by a spring 618 (e.g., shown in FIG. 6). The spring 618 can return the inner wedge 330 to the initial position when the tubular slip 130 is not suspending the drill string 140. From the initial position, the inner wedge 330 can be configured to engage the drill string 140, such as to provide a full clamping travel of the inner wedge 330. The bias force of the spring 618 can be configured to be overcome by the weight of the drill string 140 (e g., the spring 618 can support the weight of the inner wedge 330 but not the weight of the inner wedge 330 in addition to the downward force applied by the drill string 140) when the weight of the drill string 140 is transferred to the tubular slip 130.

[0041] FIG. 6 shows a cutaway perspective view of an example of portions of a tubular slip 130 engaging a drill string 140. FIG. 6 shows that the tubular slip 130 can include a guide 640. The guide 640 can be configured to receive the drill string 140 generally centered along a center axis 610 of the well access hole 122. The guide 640can be configured to prevent the drill string 140 from contacting the slip components when the slip assemblies 230 are in the retracted position. The guide 640 is discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 7 below.

[0042] FIG. 6 shows that a radially outer portion of the housing 232 can be configured to engage with a portion 620 of the drill floor 102 of the drill rig 100 defining the well access hole 122. A radially inner portion of the housing 232 can be configured to engage with a radially outer portion of the size adjusting systems (e.g., the outer portion of the outer wedges 310). In an example, being generally fixed relative to the well access hole 122 can include being generally fixed with respect to a turntable of the drill rig 100 (e.g., a turntable of a Kelly drive system).

[0043] FIG. 6 shows that the inner wedge axis 612 of the second inclined plane 324 relative to the center axis 610 of the well access hole can form a second angle 613. The intermediate wedge axis 614 of the first inclined plane 314 relative to the center axis 610 can form a first angle 615. In an example, the second angle 613 is less than the first angle 615 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6). In an example, the second angle is between 9 and 14 degrees, or between 10 and 12 degrees, or 11 degrees. In an example, the first angle is between 14 and 35 degrees, or between 20 and 30 degrees, or between 23 and 28 degrees, or 25 degrees. In an example, the first angle 615 is 10 degrees and the second angle 613 is 20 degrees.

[0044] When a portion of the weight of the drill string 140 is suspended by the slip assembly 230, there can be a generally upward force (e.g., acting on an axis between the inner wedge axis 612 and the intermediate wedge axis 614) acting on the intermediate wedge 320 as a result of the configuration of the slip assembly 230. The upward force on the intermediate wedge 320 can be caused by the differing angles of the first inclined plane 314 and the second inclined plane 324. In an example, the slip assembly 230 can be configured such that the frictional forces acting on the intermediate wedge 320 (e.g., the frictional force acting to hold the intermediate wedge 320 stationary) exceed the upward force acting on the intermediate wedge 320. For example, the interfaces between the outer wedge 310 and the intermediate wedge 320, the intermediate wedge 320 and the inner wedge 330, or both, can be configured to increase a frictional force (e.g., using surface roughness, using materials with alarge coefficient of friction). In an example, a force from one or more actuators 312 can at least partially offset (e.g., completely offset, less than completely offset) the upward force acting on the intermediate wedge 320.

[0045] FIG. 7 shows a cutaway perspective view of an example of portions of a guide 640. FIG. 7 shows that the guide 640 can include one or more openings 702, which can be configured to allow one or more of the slip assemblies 230 to pass through the opening 702. In an example, the guide 640 has a number of openings 702 matching the number of slip assemblies 230. The guide 640 can have a rim on the top, bottom, or both (e.g., as shown in FIG. 7), which can provide structure to the guide 640, prevent the drill string 140 from contacting the slip assemblies 230, or both. In an example, the guide 640 can be sized to be used with a range of pipe sizes, such as a size range spanning approximately 4 inches, such as without requiring changing of size components. In an example, the guide 640 can be configured to be used with a single pipe size. In an example, the guide 640 can be replaceable, such as to accommodate a different pipe size or range of pipe sizes.

[0046] FIG. 8 shows a diagram depicting an example of portions of a method 800 of operating a tubular slip (e.g., the tubular slip 130). At step 802, using an elevator, a drill string can be positioned at a specified position within the tubular slip while the tubular slip is in a released configuration. For example, the slip assemblies 230 can be positioned so that the slip assemblies 230 do not contact the drill string 140, which can include the size adjusting systems being fully retracted. In an example, the drill string 140 can contact the guide 640 when the elevator is lifting or lowering the drill string 140, but the guide 640 can prevent the drill string 140 from contacting the slip assemblies 230.

[0047] At step 804, two or more slip assemblies of the tubular slip can be engaged with the drill string. For example, two opposing slip assemblies 230 can move to contact the drill string 140, or three radially spaced slip assemblies 230 can move to contact the drill string.

[0048] At step 806, the drill string can be centered within the well access hole. The drill string can be centered in the well access hole using the slip assemblies engaged in step 804. In an example, centering the drill string within the well access hole caninclude monitoring respective positions of the slip assemblies. For example, a position of one or more actuators can be monitored, such as through position feedback from a sensor on the actuator. In an example, a servo technique can be used, which can enable position control of the actuator. The servo technique can include a feedback system configured to monitor a position of the actuator and drive the actuator towards a specified position (e.g., a new position, maintaining the same position). Monitoring a position of the slip assemblies (e.g., the three slip assemblies) can include monitoring respective actuators of the three slip assemblies, such as the actuators 312. In other examples, a leveling beam can be used to monitor the position of the slip assemblies 230.

[0049] Centering the drill string can also include adjusting the two or more slip assemblies so that the drill string is centered within the well access hole. For example, if one slip assembly is determined to be in a different position from one or more other slip assemblies, the slip assemblies can be adjusted to approximately match positions. In an example, position monitoring may not be used when three slip assemblies are used to center the drill string.

[0050] In an example, centering the drill string within the well access hole can include one or more of engaging the three slip assemblies so that each of the slip assemblies starts a specified distance from a center axis of the well access hole or travels at a same rate toward the center axis of the well access hole. For example, the actuators 312 can be configured to all travel at a constant rate such as using one or more of proportional valves, flow divertors, or a servo technique. The slip assemblies 230 can start from the fully retracted position (e.g., the same position). In an example, the slip assemblies 230 can start from a preset position, such as relative to the pipe size to be engaged, such as can reduce the closing or opening cycle time. In this example, because the slip assemblies 230 start in the same position and travel at the same rate (e.g., due to proportional valves and / or position feedback), their positions continue to match, which can center the drill string. In an example, the method 800 can include engaging one or more additional slip assemblies following centering the drill string within the well access hole. For example, three slip assemblies can be used to center the drill string, and then three or more additional slip assemblies can beengaged with the centered drill string. In an example, the guide 640 can help to center the drill string. In an example where two or more actuators share a hydraulic power supply, the pressure in all of the actuators can match, which can result in a force in all actuators matching. When using proportional valves, the pressure in one or more actuators can differ from a pressure in one or more other actuators. When using a servo technique, respective actuators can travel to their specified position, such as can include traveling to their respective positions using different force levels (e.g., the forces may not match between two or more actuators).

[0051] At step 808, the elevator can be disengaged to transfer the weight of the drill string to the tubular slip. The method can also include performing one or more tasks while the tubular slip is supporting the drill string 140, such as adding or removing a pipe section. The method can also include transferring the weight from the tubular slip back to the elevator, and moving the tubular slip to a released position.

[0052] The shown order of steps is not intended to be a limitation on the order the steps are performed in. In an example, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or at least partially concurrently.

[0053] The following, non-limiting examples, detail certain aspects of the present subject matter to solve the challenges and provide the benefits discussed herein, among others.

[0054] Examples:

[0055] Example l is a tubular slip for a drill rig, comprising: a plurality of size adjusting systems radially arranged about a well access hole of the drill rig and configured to cooperate to adjust a diameter of a through opening of the tubular slip to accommodate various tubular sizes; a slip component comprising a wedge arranged on a radially inner portion of each of the size adjusting systems and configured to cooperate to further constrict the diameter of the through opening when a drill string is suspended by the tubular slip.

[0056] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes wherein each of the plurality of size adjusting systems are configured to travel between a retracted position, wherein the respective slip components are not contacting the drillstring, and an engaged position, wherein the respective slip components are contacting the drill string.

[0057] In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 optionally includes wherein the movement of the size adjusting systems serves the function of both: engaging and disengaging the drill string; and accommodating various tubular sizes.

[0058] In Example 4, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 2-3 optionally include a guide, configured to receive the drill string generally centered along a center axis of the well access hole, wherein the guide is configured to prevent the drill string from contacting the slip components when the size adjusting systems are in the retracted position.

[0059] In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-4 optionally include wherein a radially inner surface of the slip component is configured to engage with the drill string, wherein the tubular slip is configured to engage with a range of tubular sizes spanning at least 4 inches.

[0060] In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 optionally includes wherein the radially inner surface of the slip component is configured to be generally parallel to the drill string across the range of tubular sizes.

[0061] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-6 optionally include a housing, wherein a radially outer portion of the housing is configured to engage with a portion of a drill floor of the drill rig defining the well access hole, wherein a radially inner portion of the housing is configured to engage with a radially outer portion of the size adjusting systems.

[0062] In Example 8, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-7 optionally include the drill rig, the drill rig comprising: a drill floor supported by a support structure, wherein the tubular slip is arranged on the drill floor.

[0063] Example 9 is a tubular slip for a drill rig, the tubular slip comprising: two or more slip assemblies, arranged around a perimeter of a well access hole of the drill rig, each of the slip assemblies including: an outer wedge, generally fixed relative to the well access hole, wherein a radially inward portion of the outer wedge includes a first inclined plane facing radially inward, wherein a bottom portion of the first inclined plane is radially inward compared to a top portion of the first inclined plane;an intermediate wedge, wherein a radially outward portion of the intermediate wedge is slidably engaged with the first inclined plane, wherein the intermediate wedge moves towards a center axis of the well access hole when the intermediate wedge slides downward, wherein a radially inward portion of the intermediate wedge includes a second inclined plane facing radially inward, wherein a bottom portion of the second inclined plane is radially inward compared to a top portion of the second inclined plane; and an inner wedge, wherein a radially outward portion of the inner wedge is slidably engaged with the second inclined plane, wherein the inner wedge moves towards the center axis of the well access hole when the inner wedge slides downward.

[0064] In Example 10, the subject matter of Example 9 optionally includes wherein the slip assemblies comprise an actuator, wherein a first end of the actuator is coupled to the outer wedge and a second end of the actuator is coupled to the intermediate wedge, wherein the actuator is configured to control a position of the intermediate wedge along the first inclined plane between a retracted position, wherein the slip assembly is not contacting a drill string, to an engaged position, wherein the slip assembly is contacting the drill string.

[0065] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 optionally includes a spring element, configured to bias the inner wedge in an upward direction along the second inclined plane.

[0066] In Example 12, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 9-11 optionally include wherein a second angle of the second inclined plane relative to the center axis of the well access hole is less than a first angle of the first inclined plane relative to the center axis of the well access hole.

[0067] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 optionally includes wherein the second angle is between 9 and 14 degrees and wherein the first angle is between 14 and 35 degrees.

[0068] In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 9-13 optionally include wherein the slip assemblies are configured such that frictional forces acting on the intermediate wedge exceed an upward force caused by differing angles of the first inclined plane and the second inclined plane.

[0069] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 9-14 optionally include wherein being generally fixed relative to the well access hole includes being generally fixed relative to a turntable of the drill rig.

[0070] Example 16 is a method of using a tubular slip, the method comprising: positioning, using an elevator, a drill string at a specified position within the tubular slip while the tubular slip is in a released configuration; engaging three slip assemblies of the tubular slip with the drill string; centering the drill string within a well access hole; and disengaging the elevator to transfer a weight of the drill string to the tubular slip.

[0071] In Example 17, the subject matter of Example 16 optionally includes wherein centering the drill string within the well access hole includes: monitoring respective positions of the three slip assemblies; and adjusting the three slip assemblies so that the drill string is centered within the well access hole.

[0072] In Example 18, the subject matter of Example 17 optionally includes wherein monitoring a position of the three slip assemblies includes monitoring respective actuators of the three slip assemblies.

[0073] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 optionally includes wherein centering the drill string within the well access hole includes engaging the three slip assemblies so that each of the slip assemblies starts a specified distance from a center axis of the well access hole and travels at a same rate toward the center axis of the well access hole.

[0074] In Example 20, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 16-19 optionally include engaging one or more additional slip assemblies following centering the drill string within the well access hole.

[0075] Example 21 is at least one machine-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by processing circuitry, cause the processing circuitry to perform operations to implement of any of Examples 1-20.

[0076] Example 22 is an apparatus comprising means to implement of any of Examples 1-20.

[0077] Example 23 is a system to implement of any of Examples 1-20.

[0078] Example 24 is a method to implement of any of Examples 1-20.

[0079] Each of the non-limiting aspects above can stand on its own or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other aspects or other subject matter described in this document.

[0080] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific examples that may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples may include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0081] All publications, patents, and patent documents referred to in this document are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety, as though individually incorporated by reference. In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and those documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in the incorporated reference(s) should be considered supplementary to that of this document; for irreconcilable inconsistencies, the usage in this document controls.

[0082] In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the terms “or” and “and / or” are used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0083] The term “about,” as used herein, means approximately, in the region of, roughly, or around. When the term “about” is used in conjunction with a numerical range, it modifies that range by extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set forth. In general, the term “about” is used herein to modify a numerical value above and below the stated value by a variance of 10%. In one aspect, the term “about” means plus or minus 10% of the numerical value of the number with which it is being used. Therefore, about 50% means in the range of 45%- 55%. Numerical ranges recited herein by endpoints include all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.90, 4, 4.24, and 5). Similarly, numerical ranges recited herein by endpoints include subranges subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1-1.5, 1.5-2, 2-2.75, 2.75-3, 3-3.90, 3.90-4, 4-4.24, 4.24-5, 2-5, 3-5, 1-4, and 2-4).

[0084] Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable medium or machine- readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Such instructions can be read and executed by one or more processors to enable performance of operations comprising a method, for example. The instructions are in any suitable form, such as but not limited to source code, compiled code, interpreted code, executable code, static code, dynamic code, and the like.

[0085] Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.

[0086] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other examples may be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment. The scope of the examples should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A tubular slip for a drill rig, comprising: a plurality of size adjusting systems radially arranged about a well access hole of the drill rig and configured to cooperate to adjust a diameter of a through opening of the tubular slip to accommodate various tubular sizes; a slip component comprising a wedge arranged on a radially inner portion of each of the size adjusting systems and configured to cooperate to further constrict the diameter of the through opening when a drill string is suspended by the tubular slip.

2. The tubular slip of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of size adjusting systems are configured to travel between a retracted position, wherein the respective slip components are not contacting the drill string, and an engaged position, wherein the respective slip components are contacting the drill string.

3. The tubular slip of claim 2, wherein the movement of the size adjusting systems serves the function of both: engaging and disengaging the drill string; and accommodating various tubular sizes.

4. The tubular slip of claim 2, comprising a guide, configured to receive the drill string generally centered along a center axis of the well access hole, wherein the guide is configured to prevent the drill string from contacting the slip components when the size adjusting systems are in the retracted position.

5. The tubular slip of claim 1, wherein a radially inner surface of the slip component is configured to engage with the drill string, wherein the tubular slip is configured to engage with a range of tubular sizes spanning at least 4 inches.

6. The tubular slip of claim 5, wherein the radially inner surface of the slip component is configured to be generally parallel to the drill string across the range of tubular sizes.

7. The tubular slip of claim 1, comprising a housing, wherein a radially outer portion of the housing is configured to engage with a portion of a drill floor of the drill rig defining the well access hole, wherein a radially inner portion of the housing is configured to engage with a radially outer portion of the size adjusting systems.

8. The tubular slip of claim 1, further comprising the drill rig, the drill rig comprising: a drill floor supported by a support structure, wherein the tubular slip is arranged on the drill floor.

9. A tubular slip for a drill rig, the tubular slip comprising: two or more slip assemblies, arranged around a perimeter of a well access hole of the drill rig, each of the slip assemblies including: an outer wedge, generally fixed relative to the well access hole, wherein a radially inward portion of the outer wedge includes a first inclined plane facing radially inward, wherein a bottom portion of the first inclined plane is radially inward compared to a top portion of the first inclined plane; an intermediate wedge, wherein a radially outward portion of the intermediate wedge is slidably engaged with the first inclined plane, wherein the intermediate wedge moves towards a center axis of the well access hole when the intermediate wedge slides downward, wherein a radially inward portion of the intermediate wedge includes a second inclined plane facing radially inward, wherein a bottom portion of the second inclined plane is radially inward compared to a top portion of the second inclined plane; and an inner wedge, wherein a radially outward portion of the inner wedge is slidably engaged with the second inclined plane, wherein the inner wedge moves towards the center axis of the well access hole when the inner wedge slides downward.

10. The tubular slip of claim 9, wherein the slip assemblies comprise an actuator, wherein a first end of the actuator is coupled to the outer wedge and a second end of the actuator is coupled to the intermediate wedge, wherein the actuator is configured to control a position of the intermediate wedge along the first inclined plane betweena retracted position, wherein the slip assembly is not contacting a drill string, to an engaged position, wherein the slip assembly is contacting the drill string.

11. The tubular slip of claim 10, comprising a spring element, configured to bias the inner wedge in an upward direction along the second inclined plane.

12. The tubular slip of claim 9, wherein a second angle of the second inclined plane relative to the center axis of the well access hole is less than a first angle of the first inclined plane relative to the center axis of the well access hole.

13. The tubular slip of claim 12, wherein the second angle is between 9 and 14 degrees and wherein the first angle is between 14 and 35 degrees.

14. The tubular slip of claim 9, wherein the slip assemblies are configured such that frictional forces acting on the intermediate wedge exceed an upward force caused by differing angles of the first inclined plane and the second inclined plane.

15. The tubular slip of claim 9, wherein being generally fixed relative to the well access hole includes being generally fixed relative to a turntable of the drill rig.

16. A method of using a tubular slip, the method comprising: positioning, using an elevator, a drill string at a specified position within the tubular slip while the tubular slip is in a released configuration; engaging three slip assemblies of the tubular slip with the drill string; centering the drill string within a well access hole; and disengaging the elevator to transfer a weight of the drill string to the tubular slip.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein centering the drill string within the well access hole includes: monitoring respective positions of the three slip assemblies; and adjusting the three slip assemblies so that the drill string is centered within the well access hole.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein monitoring a position of the three slip assemblies includes monitoring respective actuators of the three slip assemblies.

19. The method of claim 18, comprising: wherein centering the drill string within the well access hole includes engaging the three slip assemblies so that each of the slip assemblies starts a specified distance from a center axis of the well access hole and travels at a same rate toward the center axis of the well access hole.

20. The method of claim 16, comprising engaging one or more additional slip assemblies following centering the drill string within the well access hole.

Images