| Entries |
| Document | Title | Date |
|---|
| 20080217062 | Drilling apparatus and system for drilling wells - A device for boring a well with casing. The device is attached to a motor that has a power shaft for imparting rotational movement. The device comprises a driver operatively connected to the power shaft, with the driver containing a cylindrical body, a first bit having a first end connected to the driver so that rotational movement of the driver is imparted to the first bit, and a sleeve disposed about the power shaft, and wherein the sleeve has a radial shoulder. The device further includes casing attached to the sleeve, and wherein the casing is designed to be permanently placed within the well once the boring is completed. The device further comprises a housing disposed about the driver, a second bit attached to the housing, and a planetary gear anchored to the radial shoulder, and wherein the planetary gear is adapted for imparting rotation from the driver to the housing in a counter radial direction. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080217063 | In-situ molded non-rotating drill pipe protector assembly - A non-rotating drill pipe protector sleeve is molded in situ around a drill pipe tubing. The inner surface of the molded protector sleeve can be shaped to form a fluid bearing during use. Fixed stop collars may be molded in situ in the same mold and bonded to the tubing at opposing ends of the molded sleeve. Alternatively, a flexible sleeve liner made from a material having a hardness less than that of the sleeve's molding material can be used as a mold insert around the tubing. The liner can be bonded to the molded sleeve material when the sleeve is molded around the liner. The interior surface of the liner can be shaped to form a fluid bearing for the inside surface of the molded sleeve. Reinforcing inserts and wear pads can be placed in the mold region of the sleeve. Chemical and/or mechanical bonding is provided between the liner reinforcement and the material from which the sleeve is molded. Reinforcing inserts and wear pads also can be placed in the mold regions for the stop collars. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080230274 | Top drive washpipe system - A top drive system for wellbore operations, the top drive system, in at least certain aspects, including a motor, a main shaft driven by the motor, the main shaft having a top end and a bottom end, a speed reduction system interconnected with the main shaft, a washpipe shaft interconnected with the speed reduction system for driving the washpipe shaft at a speed of rotation less than a speed of rotation of the main shaft. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter 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, 37 C.P.R. 1.72(b). | 09-25-2008 |
| 20080230275 | Impact Excavation System And Method With Injection System - A system and method according to which at least one vessel injects a suspension of liquid and a plurality of impactors into a formation to remove at least a portion of the formation. | 09-25-2008 |
| 20080236893 | DOWNHOLE CUTTING TOOL AND METHOD - Disclosed herein is a downhole cutting tool. The downhole cutting tool including, a cutting member mounted on a rotatable shaft, a shaft-deflecting device in operable communication with the shaft, and a motor in operable communication with the shaft. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080236894 | Hydraulic Jar and an Overpressure Relief Mechanism Therefor - A hydraulic jar for a drilling assembly is disclosed. In some embodiments, the hydraulic jar includes a tubular housing, a mandrel disposed in the housing, an annulus between the mandrel and the housing, and a pressure relief mechanism disposed in the annulus. The pressure relief mechanism generally divides the annulus into first and second portions. The pressure relief mechanism includes first and second annular members in engagement with one another when the pressure in the second annulus portion is less than a predetermined value and a fluid flow path between the first and second annulus portions. The fluid flow path has a first size when the pressure in the second annulus portion is less than the predetermined value, and a second size that is larger than the first size when the pressure in the second annulus portion becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined value. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080245571 | Earth drilling device - The invention relates to an earth drilling device comprising an auger, an encasing tube that surrounds the auger, a rotary drive for driving at least the auger in a rotating manner about a drilling axis, an ejecting device for discharging drill spoil from the auger, wherein the ejecting device has a discharge line for the drill spoil, and a mast element along which the auger can be moved together with the ejecting device. The invention is characterized in that a device for changing the length of the discharge line is provided. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080245572 | Well Jet Device and the Operating Method Thereof - Well jet device comprises a packer mounted on a pipe string provided with a central channel embodied therein and jet pump. The pump has channels supplying a working medium to a nozzle, removing the media mixture and supplying a medium pumped from the well, respectively. Said nozzle is connected to the annular space by the channels and the channel is connected to the pipe string internal cavity through the channel on the side, where the diffuser of the pump enters and exits. A working medium flow switch is arranged in the body. An annular channel communicating with the channel via the channel and the nozzle is above said abutment flange and the steady bush comprises bypass holes and mounting seat for mounting a sealing unit with a hole for passing a logging cable with instruments therethrough or for arranging a depression insert provided with a return valve. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080245573 | Thread Retention - The invention relates to an earth boring device including a housing which has at least one portion with an inner thread, and a threaded element which has a corresponding outer thread, wherein the threaded element is slotted and has a receptacle for a securing element which increases the outer diameter of the threaded element and the contact pressure of the threaded connection between threaded element and housing, when inserted in the receptacle. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080245574 | DRILLING AND HOLE ENLARGEMENT DEVICE - An expandable drilling apparatus is deployed upon a distal end of a drillstring and includes a cutting head and a substantially tubular main body adjacent the cutting head providing a plurality of axial recesses configured to receive arm assemblies configured to translate between a retracted and an extended position. A flow switch actuates the arm assemblies when a drilling fluid pressure exceeds an activation value and the drilling apparatus includes a biasing member to reset the arm assemblies when the drilling fluid pressure falls below a reset value. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080251293 | CIRCUMVOLVE CUTTERS FOR DRILL BIT - A drill bit comprising a cutter assembly, further comprising a planar table and a cutter substrate coupled to the planar table, wherein the cutter substrate has a cutter body axis and wherein the planar table is operable to rotate about the cutter body axis. The planar table may be exposed to the rock formation for cutting purposes but may rotate to reduce the time that any specific portion of the cutting edge is exposed to the formation to extend the life of the planar table, among other benefits. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080251294 | Self Actuating Underreamer - An underreamer for well drilling comprises pivotally extendible roller cutters that extend slightly beyond the diameter of the pilot drill bit but are retained in their retracted position by the casing. Upon encountering an obstruction, the underreamer is pushed out of the casing, allowing the outer edges of the cutters to contact the obstruction. Continued downward pressure of the drill stem causes the roller arms to pivot outward to a fully extended position in which the cutters enlarge the hole to a diameter larger than the casing by rotation of the drilling stem. The advance of the casing relative to the underreamer forces the cutters to retract into the casing. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080251295 | UNDERREAMING AND STABILIZATION TOOL FOR USE IN A BOREHOLE AND METHOD FOR ITS USE - An underreaming tool may include may include a tubular body, a drive tube, at least one blade element (“the blade element”), at least one wedge element (“the wedge element”), and a stop mechanism. The drive tube may include at least one longitudinal groove (“the longitudinal groove”) axially disposed along a length of the drive tube. The wedge element may include a first side having at least one lateral projection (“the lateral projection”) configured to axially slide into the longitudinal groove to couple the wedge element to the drive tube. The stop mechanism comprises a threaded sleeve configured to screw onto the drive tube to lock the wedge element in the longitudinal groove once the lateral projection is slid into the longitudinal groove. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080271924 | Drilling Method and Apparatus - Apparatus for drilling a borehole from a first subterranean location to a second subterranean location, comprises a casing ( | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080289877 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING A DRILLING OPERATION IN AN OILFIELD - The invention relates to a method for performing a drilling operation at a wellsite having a drilling rig configured to advance a drilling tool into a subsurface. The method steps include obtaining a well trajectory associated with a first volume, obtaining information related to a first subsurface entity associated with a second volume, using a three-dimensional relational comparison to determine that the first volume intersects the second volume to define a first intersection information, updating the well trajectory, based on the first intersection information, to obtain an updated well trajectory, and advancing the drilling tool into the subsurface based on the updated well trajectory. | 11-27-2008 |
| 20080302571 | Fluid actuated circulating sub - A downhole device used to divert fluid flow out of a work string into an annulus. The downhole device is activated by the movement of a plurality of pistons within the downhole device. Fluid flow through a restriction of the downhole device creates an increase in fluid pressure causing the movement of the pistons. The pistons move a flow tube between various locations within the device. In one location, the flow tube prevents fluid flow to the annulus while in another location the flow tube allows fluid flow to be diverted into the annulus. The downhole device may include a locating sleeve having a continuous j-track allowing the flow tube to be selectively retained at the various locations within the downhole device. Fluid flow through the downhole is used to cycle the device between diverting fluid flow to the annulus and forcing fluid flow down the work string. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080302572 | Drill Bit Porting System - In one aspect of the present invention a drill bit has a jack element with a distal end extending beyond a working face. A porting mechanism within the bore comprises first and second discs contacting along a flat interface. The first disc is attached to a turbine which is adapted to rotate the first disc with respect to the second disc. The discs comprise a first set of ports adapted to align and misalign with each other as the first disc rotates. The first set of ports is adapted to route a drilling fluid to extend the jack element. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080302573 | DRILLING TOOL FOR REDUCING CUTTER DAMAGE WHEN DRILLING THROUGH FORMATION CHANGES, AND METHODS OF DESIGN AND OPERATION THEREOF - A drilling tool including at least two cutting elements (e.g., redundant or upon a selected profile region) sized, positioned, and configured thereon so as to contact or encounter a change in at least one drilling characteristic of a subterranean formation along an anticipated drilling path prior to other cutting elements thereon encountering same is disclosed. Methods of designing a drilling tool are also disclosed including placing such cutting elements upon the cutting element profile in relation to a predicted boundary surface along an anticipated drilling path. Methods of operating a drilling tool so as to initially contact a boundary surface between two differing regions of a subterranean formation drilled with at least two cutting elements is disclosed. The cutting elements configured on drilling tools and methods of the present invention may be designed for limiting lateral force or generating a lateral force having a desired direction during drilling associated therewith. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080314641 | Directional Drilling System and Software Method - A software method for directionally drilling a plurality of wells capable of providing directional drilling services to hundreds of wells. The software method may comprise steps from determining a BHA for a portion of a well, determining a deviation between the desired trajectory of the well bore and an actual trajectory of the well bore as measured at the nonmagnetic measurement portion of the bottom hole assembly, determining a dogleg of the actual trajectory, and determining a correction trajectory to reduce the deviation between the desired trajectory and the actual trajectory which produces a dogleg less than a predetermined value. The trajectory may be projected to the bit even though the nonmagnetic measurement portion of the bottom hole assembly is often separated therefrom by significant distances. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20080314642 | Tubular Member Connection - In some embodiments, an apparatus and a system, as well as a method and an article, may operate to couple, in a substantially fluid-tight manner, a first tubular member ( | 12-25-2008 |
| 20090020334 | NOZZLES INCLUDING SECONDARY PASSAGES, DRILL ASSEMBLIES INCLUDING SAME AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - Nozzles for a drilling tools, such as rotary-type drag bits and roller cone bits, a drilling tool and drilling assembly comprising nozzles, and methods of conveying drilling fluid through a nozzle for use in drilling subterranean formations are provided. A nozzle may include a substantially cylindrical nozzle body having an axis and an inlet port with a primary passage extending therethrough, and at least one secondary passage that diverges from the primary passage at an exit port. | 01-22-2009 |
| 20090025981 | Method for drilling with casing - A method for drilling boreholes using casing as the drill string and for removing a drilling assembly from the wellbore while leaving the casing in the well bore. In the method, the drilling assembly is prepared for removal from the wellbore by launching a release tool and manipulating the drilling assembly using the release tool. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090032306 | Method of Drilling a Stable Borehole - A method of drilling a stable borehole in a formation containing a stress field having a direction of maximal stress, whereby the borehole is drilled with an elongated non-circular cross sectional contour along an axis of elongation and whereby a directional component of the axis of elongation is kept oriented substantially parallel to the direction of maximal stress. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090050371 | Pulsed Electric Rock Drilling Apparatus with Non-Rotating Bit and Directional Control - The present invention provides for pulsed powered drilling apparatuses and methods. A drilling apparatus is provided comprising a bit having one or more sets of electrodes through which a pulsed voltage is passed through a mineral substrate to create a crushing or drilling action. The electrocrushing drilling process may have, but does not require, rotation of the bit. The electrocrushing drilling process is capable of excavating the hole out beyond the edges of the bit with or without the need of mechanical teeth. | 02-26-2009 |
| 20090050372 | Downhole Turbine - In one aspect of the present invention, a drill bit has a jack element that is substantially coaxial with an axis of rotation of the drill bit and the jack element has an asymmetrical distal end that extends beyond a working face of the drill bit. A turbine is located within a bore formed in the drill bit and a flow valve is actuated by the turbine. The flow valve is adapted to route a drilling fluid in the bore into a porting mechanism adapted to extend the jack element farther beyond the working surface of the drill bit. The turbine is also adapted to rotate the jack element at variable speeds. | 02-26-2009 |
| 20090057014 | Method of using a Drill In Sand Control Liner - A liner rotates a bit to make more hole. The liner has openings with inserts in them to lend torque resistance to the liner. The inserts have a passage with a send control media in the passage and a seal so that the liner can hold pressure for run in to get proper circulation through the bit. When sufficient hole is made, the liner is hung off an existing cemented tubular and the seal for the passages with the sand control media is removed by a variety of techniques so that the formation can be produced in a single trip. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090057015 | Apparatus And Methods For Drilling Wellbores That Utilize A Detachable Reamer - An apparatus for use in a wellbore is provided that in one aspect includes: a drilling assembly configured to carry a first drill bit at an end thereof, a second drill bit disposed uphole of the first drill bit, and a connection device that is configured to selectively connect the second drill bit to the drilling assembly and disconnect the second drill bit from the drilling assembly. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090057016 | Downhole Turbine - In one aspect of the present invention, a drill bit has a jack element that is substantially coaxial with an axis of rotation of the drill bit and the jack element has an asymmetrical distal end that extends beyond a working face of the drill bit. A turbine is located within a bore formed in the drill bit and a flow valve is actuated by the turbine. The flow valve is adapted to route a drilling fluid in the bore into a porting mechanism adapted to extend the jack element farther beyond the working surface of the drill bit. The turbine is also adapted to rotate the jack element at variable speeds. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090065256 | Method and Rock Drilling Rig for Hole Drilling - The invention relates to a method and a rock drilling rig for drilling a hole in a rock. In the method the hole is drilled with a so-called top-hammer rock drilling rig including a drill rod and a cone roller bit at the end of the drill rod. During drilling with the percussion device, stress pulses of low amplitude are produced at a high frequency of at least 200 Hz. In the rock drilling rig, the cone roller bit ( | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090065257 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR UTILIZING A DOWNHOLE DEPLOYMENT VALVE - Methods and apparatus for utilizing a downhole deployment valve (DDV) to isolate a pressure in a portion of a bore are disclosed. The DDV system can include fail safe features such as selectively extendable attenuation members for decreasing a falling object's impact, a normally open back-up valve member for actuation upon failure of a primary valve member, or a locking member to lock a valve member closed and enable disposal of a shock attenuating material on the valve member. Actuation of the DDV system can be electrically operated and can be self contained to operate automatically downhole without requiring control lines to the surface. Additionally, the actuation of the DDV can be based on a pressure supplied to an annulus. | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090071720 | Mobile Land Drilling Rig and Method of Installation - A highly mobile and capable oil, gas and geothermal well drilling rig is shown which provides for the rapid placement, assembly, disassembly, and repositioning of various rig components of the drilling rig The drilling rig includes a support base and working floor which is trailerable and which can be rapidly erected to a working height at the well site. A special drawworks trailer both transports the drawworks and the rig derrick. Hydraulic cylinders on the drawworks trailer are used to move the derrick from a horizontal, transport position to a vertical, working position. At the same time, the weight of the derrick is off-loaded from the drawworks trailer to the base support structure. The selection and arrangement of the various rig components provides a faster set up and take down operation than was previously obtained. | 03-19-2009 |
| 20090078463 | Swell set wet connect and method - A connector including a housing, a contact, and a swellable material in operable communication with the contact and with the housing, the contact being displaceable upon swelling of the swellable material and method. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090095532 | SELF SHARPENING CUTTING STRUCTURE FOR EXPANDABLE EARTH BORING APPARATUS USING IMPREGNATED AND MATRIX MATERIALS - A tool for enlarging a borehole that includes an elongated tubular body; at least one movable arm affixed to the tubular body, the at least one movable arm comprising an outer surface formed of at least one of a matrix material and an abrasive material; and at least one actuating member for expanding at least one movable arm from the collapsed state to an expanded state is disclosed. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090101413 | DTH-hammer drilling device and overburden drilling method - The invention relates to a DTH-hammer drilling device, comprising a down-the-hole- (DTH-) hammer ( | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090107727 | Method and Device at Rock Drilling - Slacking off device ( | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090126998 | HYBRID DRILL BIT AND DESIGN METHOD - A hybrid earth-boring bit comprising a bit body having a central axis, at least one, preferably three fixed blades, depending downwardly from the bit body, each fixed blade having a leading edge, and at least one rolling cutter, preferably three rolling cutters, mounted for rotation on the bit body. A rolling cutter is located between two fixed blades. | 05-21-2009 |
| 20090133933 | Method and device for drilling, particularly percussion or rotary percussion drilling, a hole in soil or rock material - The invention relates to a method and device for drilling, particularly percussion or rotary percussion drilling, a hole in soil or rock material and for producing an anchoring. According to the invention, a drill bit ( | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090133934 | Method and device for releasing a block on a bore crown during a boring process - The invention relates to a method and a device for releasing a block or blockage on a bore-crown or drill bit ( | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090133935 | Olefin Metathesis for Kerogen Upgrading - A method for chemically-upgrading shale-bound kerogen comprises contacting shale-bound kerogen comprising carbon-carbon double bonds with a quantity of alkene species in the presence of an olefin metathesis catalyst. A catalyzed metathetical reaction occurs between the shale-bound kerogen and the alkene species and smaller kerogen-derived molecular species are formed. The smaller kerogen-derived molecular species are recovered. | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090139769 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A HYDRAULIC DIAPHRAGM DOWNHOLE MUD MOTOR - A downhole motor to drill a wellbore including a pumping apparatus having a first chamber configured to receive a first fluid and a second fluid, and a first flexible diaphragm disposed with the first chamber configured to separate the first and second fluid, wherein the first flexible diaphragm is configured to transfer a hydraulic energy between the first fluid and the second fluid. In addition, the downhole motor includes a motor portion coupled to the pumping apparatus and configured to receive the second fluid and convert the hydraulic energy of the second fluid into a mechanical energy, thereby creating a torque. Further, the downhole motor includes a bit shaft coupled to the motor portion, configured to receive the torque from the motor portion and the first fluid from the pumping apparatus. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20090145662 | DRILLING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A drilling system comprising a pipe comprising a first end and a second end; a drill bit near a first end of the pipe, adapted to drill a hole in a formation; a pipe rotator near a second end of the pipe adapted to rotate the pipe; and a pump connected to the pipe between the first end and the second end, the pump adapted to transport a fluid from the first end of the pipe to the second end of the pipe, the pump comprising a first portion adapted to rotate with the pipe and a second portion adapted to remain stationary relative to the pipe. | 06-11-2009 |
| 20090145663 | Drill Bit Having Enhanced Stabilization Features - A drill bit for drilling a borehole in earthen formations comprising a bit body having a bit axis and a bit face. In addition, the drill bit comprises a primary blade extending radially along the bit face, the primary blade including a cutter-supporting surface that defines a blade profile in rotated profile view extending from the bit axis to an outer radius of the bit body. The blade profile is continuously contoured and includes a plurality of concave regions. Further, the drill bit comprises a plurality of cutter elements mounted to the cutter-supporting surface of the primary blade. Each cutter element on the primary blade has a forward-facing cutting face with a cutting edge adapted to penetrate and shear the earthen formation. | 06-11-2009 |
| 20090159338 | Reamer With Improved Hydraulics For Use In A Wellbore - A reamer bit for use in earth boring operations comprising a body, mounting elements on the bit body having rolling cutters, and nozzles configured to emit a cleaning spray that is angled with respect to the well bottom. The cleaning spray may be angled up to about 20° with respect to the well bottom. The reamer may further include a pilot bit on a drill pipe extending downward from the reamer body. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090173543 | SLIM-HOLE PARASITE STRING - A system for drilling a well having a wellbore includes a first pipe string positioned in the wellbore with a first annulus being present between the first pipe string and the wellbore. A second pipe string, smaller in diameter than the first pipe string, is positioned within the first pipe string to form a second annulus between the first pipe string and the second pipe string. The second pipe string is configured to be attached to a drill bit. A first rotator is operably associated with the first pipe string to rotate the first pipe string in a first direction at a first speed, and a second rotator is operably associated with the second pipe string to rotate the second pipe string in a second direction at a second speed. | 07-09-2009 |
| 20090183918 | Methods and systems for drilling auxiliary holes - Systems and methods for drilling auxiliary holes such as conductor holes, ratholes, and mouseholes useful in drilling operations. In certain aspects, the systems and methods include the use of a portable drilling apparatus that is selectively mountable on a rig's drill floor and is removable after an auxiliary hole has been drilled. In one aspect, a movable drive unit is pulled down by a cable system forcing the drive unit down and thereby facilitating drilling of the auxiliary hole. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter 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, 37 C.F.R. 1.72( | 07-23-2009 |
| 20090183919 | Downhole Percussive Tool with Alternating Pressure Differentials - A downhole percussive tool is disclosed comprising an interior chamber and a piston element slidably sitting within the interior chamber forming two pressure chambers on either side. The piston element may slide back and forth within the interior chamber as drilling fluid is channeled into either pressure chamber. Input channels supply drilling fluid into the pressure chambers and exit orifices release that fluid from the same. An exhaust orifice allows additional drilling fluid to release from the interior chamber. The amount of pressure maintained in either pressure chamber may be controlled by the size of the exiting orifices and exhaust orifices. In various embodiments, the percussive tool may form a downhole jack hammer or vibrator tool. | 07-23-2009 |
| 20090183920 | Downhole Percussive Tool with Alternating Pressure Differentials - A downhole percussive tool is disclosed comprising an interior chamber and a piston element slidably sitting within the interior chamber forming two pressure chambers on either side. The piston element may slide back and forth within the interior chamber as drilling fluid is channeled into either pressure chamber. Input channels supply drilling fluid into the pressure chambers and exit orifices release that fluid from the same. An exhaust orifice allows additional drilling fluid to release from the interior chamber. The amount of pressure maintained in either pressure chamber may be controlled by the size of the exiting orifices and exhaust orifices. In various embodiments, the percussive tool may form a downhole jack hammer or vibrator tool. | 07-23-2009 |
| 20090188719 | DRILLING APPARATUS HAVING IN-LINE EXTENDING WINGS AND DRIVING METHOD THEREOF - The present invention relates to a borehole drilling apparatus with in-line extending wings and driving method thereof. The drilling apparatus comprises a guide device rotating while moving upwardly and downwardly in a casing to fit into a borehole, extending wings for extending the diameter of a drilled hole, and a pilot bit installed at a lower portion of the guide device to strike the bottom of the borehole, wherein spiral projections formed at a lower surface of the guide device slidably engage with guide grooves formed at a side of the extending wings to each other, and a window is formed at a side of the pilot bit for advancing and retracting the extending wings so that they can spread and return linearly from the center of the pilot bit. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090200081 | SHEAR CUTTER DRILL BIT - A shear cutter drill bit for drilling a subterranean formation is provided having a bit body; a bit face on the bit body having at least a center zone, an efficiency zone, and an outer zone, the efficiency zone being located between the center zone and the outer zone; and a plurality of cutters having a backrake angle located on the bit face; wherein a majority of the cutters located in the efficiency zone of the bit face have a more aggressive backrake angle than a majority of the cutters located in the center zone of the bit face and a majority of the cutter located in the outer zone of the bit face. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090205870 | INSERTABLE DEVICES FOR RETENTION SYSTEMS, STRUCTURES FOR ATTACHMENT AND METHODS OF USE - Insertable devices include a body and at least one substantially circumferential groove in an outer surface of the body. An aperture in a receiving device comprises at least one annular recess extending radially into a sidewall thereof. At least one resilient split ring fits partially into both the at least one substantially circumferential groove of the insertable device and the at least one annular recess in the aperture. Methods of inserting the insertable device into a receiving device and of removing the insertable device from a receiving device are also disclosed. | 08-20-2009 |
| 20090211813 | DRILLING RIG AND METHOD FOR INTRODUCING ONE OR MORE DRILLING PIPES INTO AN UNDERBALANCED WELL USING SAME - A drilling rig includes a mast to be placed above or close to a well and a device connected to the mast for carrying drill pipes to be lowered into the well, which carrying device includes at least three carriers which are connected at different heights to the mast and displaceable in height direction therealong and which are adapted to exert a pulling force or a pressing force as required on the drill pipes. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090211814 | DRILL STRING FLOW CONTROL VALVES AND METHODS - Drill string flow control valves and more particularly, drill string flow control valves for prevention of u-tubing of fluid flow in drill strings are provided. Drill string flow control valves may comprise a valve housing, a valve sleeve axially movable within a valve housing from a closed position to an open position, a piston axially movable within said valve housing and bearing against the valve sleeve, a biasing mechanism for biasing the valve sleeve into the closed position, a static pressure port for actuating said piston utilizing internal fluid pressure within said valve and a plurality of dynamic pressure ports for allowing a differential pressure to be exerted on the valve sleeve during dynamic flow conditions. The differential pressure exerted on the valve sleeve may be the result of an upstream pressure and a downstream pressure during fluid flow through said valve. By allowing a differential pressure resulting from a fluid flow to act on the valve sleeve, u-tubing in a drill string can be prevented or substantially reduced. Methods of use are also provided. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090218137 | Drilling rig drawworks installation - Methods and systems for installing a drawworks on a drilling rig, the method, in certain aspects, including moving a drawworks on movement apparatus on the ground adjacent a drill floor of a rig, connecting the drawworks to the drill floor, moving the movement apparatus away from the rig, and raising the drill floor with the drawworks thereon using raising apparatus of a rig substructure supporting the drill floor. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter 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, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b). | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090218138 | Drilling rig structure installation and methods - A method for installing rig structure (e.g. cabin, house, a doghouse) on a drilling rig, the method including: connecting support apparatus to a substructure of a drilling rig, supporting a drilling floor; moving a movement apparatus supporting a rig structure to position it adjacent the support apparatus, by moving movement apparatus on ground adjacent the substructure, moving the support apparatus into a connecting orientation with respect to the structure; connecting raising apparatus to the structure, the raising apparatus connected to the support apparatus; raising the structure up to the drill floor with the raising apparatus; and securing the structure to the support apparatus. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter 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, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b). | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090218140 | Reamer With Balanced Cutting Structure For Use In A Wellbore - A reamer bit for use in earth boring operations comprising a body, four cutter mounts, rolling cutters on each mount, and cutting elements disposed on each cutter arranged so adjacent cutting swaths formed by the bit are created by cutting elements on cones of oppositely disposed cutter mounts. The swaths are generally curvilinear, wherein the outermost swaths are formed by cutting element rows on the outer portion of the cutters. The reamer bit can further comprise a pilot bit. | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090218141 | Method and System for Helicopter Portable Drilling - There is provided a system for helicopter portable drilling comprising: a drill frame, a drill mast affixed a first end of the drill frame, a drill operatively coupled to the drill mast and operable using one of compressed air, pressurized hydraulic fluid and both compressed air and pressurized hydraulic fluid and a unified power source for providing compressed air and pressurized hydraulic fluid coupled to the drill, the total operating weight of the system being approximately 3000 pounds for allowing a single-pick move by a helicopter. A method of seismic line drilling comprising the steps of placing a first single-pick drilling system at a first location with a single pick, placing a second single-pick drilling system at a second location with a single pick, when finished drilling, moving the first single-pick drilling system to a third location with a single pick, when finished drilling, moving the second single-pick drilling system to a fourth location with a single pick. | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090242275 | STABILIZER AND REAMER SYSTEM HAVING EXTENSIBLE BLADES AND BEARING PADS AND METHOD OF USING SAME - Drilling systems and methods for enlarging a borehole that include an expandable reamer and an expandable stabilizer axially coupled above the expandable reamer. The expandable reamer includes a tubular body having a longitudinal axis and a drilling fluid flow path therethrough, a plurality of generally radially and longitudinally extending blades carried by the tubular body, and a cutting structure carried by at least one blade of the plurality of blades, wherein at least one blade of the plurality of blades is movable outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis. The expandable stabilizer includes a tubular body having a longitudinal axis and a drilling fluid flow path therethrough, a plurality of generally radially and longitudinally extending bearing pads carried by the tubular body, wherein at least one bearing pad of the plurality of bearing pads includes an up-hole cutting structure carried thereupon and is movable outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090242276 | Pump Mechanism for Cooling of Rotary Bearings in Drilling Tools - A bearing for a wellbore tool includes a flow device. The flow device may be a pump such as a positive displacement pump or a hydrodynamic pump. In arrangements, a pump stator connects to a wellbore wall. A pump rotor rotates with a drilling motor, and/or a drill string. Rotation of the pump rotor may generate a pressure differential to displace the fluid. The pump may be configured to flow fluid across a gap between a rotating section and a non-rotating section of the bearing. The fluid may be drawn from a wellbore annulus and also returned into the wellbore annulus. The bearing may support thrust loadings and/or a radial loadings. In embodiments, inserts in the bearing may be used to filter the fluid. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090242277 | COMPOUND ENGAGEMENT PROFILE ON A BLADE OF A DOWN-HOLE STABILIZER AND METHODS THEREFOR - A blade for a stabilizer configured with a compound engagement profile for reducing a tendency toward whirl and other vibrational effects when rotated within a borehole of a subterranean formation is provided. A method for stabilizing down-hole components is also provided. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090260882 | BRAKING DEVICES AND METHODS FOR USE IN DRILLING OPERATIONS - A braking device for drilling operations in a borehole includes a brake retainer having a plurality of brake connector openings defined therein, a body member having a tapered surface having a first diameter and a second diameter, the second diameter being larger than the first diameter, at least one brake element positioned at least partially between the brake retainer and the body member and in communication with the tapered surface and at least one of the brake connector openings, and a bias member configured to exert a biasing force on the body member to move the body member toward the brake retainer to move the brake element from contact with the first diameter of the tapered surface toward contact with the second diameter. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090266613 | FORCE BALANCING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH A WELL BORE TOOL - A method and apparatus for a system for use with a well bore tool that is adapted to decouple the weight of the drill string from the operation and utilizes instead hydraulic or pneumatic pressure to advance a drilling tool into a well bore. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090266614 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLIES INCLUDING REAMER WITH VARYING EFFECTIVE BACK RAKE - Reamer bits have cutters with different effective back rake angles. Drilling systems include a pilot bit and a reamer bit, wherein cutters in shoulder regions of the reamer bit have a greater average effective back rake angle than cutters in shoulder regions of the pilot bit. Methods of drilling wellbores include drilling a bore with a pilot bit, and reaming the bore with a reamer bit having cutters in shoulder regions of the reamer bit that have an average effective back rake angle greater than that of cutters in shoulder regions of the pilot bit. Methods of forming drilling systems include attaching pilot and reamer bits to a drill string, and positioning cutters in shoulder regions of the reamer bit to have an average effective back rake angle greater than that of cutters in shoulder regions of the pilot bit. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090277687 | ELECTRO-MECHANICAL THRUSTER - A drilling system, including: a drill bit; and a thruster to apply a force to the drill bit. The thruster may include: an inner tubular member disposed within and configured to axially move within an outer tubular member; a thrust piston to transmit a hydraulic force to the inner tubular member, the thrust piston separating an upstream fluid chamber and a downstream fluid chamber between the inner and outer tubular members; at least one pressure switch fluidly connected to the downstream fluid chamber to control flow of a fluid to and from the downstream fluid chamber via at least one fluid inlet and at least one fluid outlet. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090277688 | SONIC WIRELINE DRY SLOUGH BARREL - Slough removal assemblies and methods for removing slough from boreholes are described. A slough removal assembly containing a slough barrel is lowered into a borehole having excess slough, driven into the slough to cause the slough to enter the slough barrel, and the slough removal assembly is then removed along with the excess slough. The slough removal assembly may contain a shoe coupled to the slough barrel and configured to be driven into the slough, a retainer positioned between the shoe and the slough barrel to retain slough inside of the slough barrel, and a driving mechanism (such as a drop hammer) to drive the slough assembly into the slough. The slough removal assembly may be coupled either to a wireline system or to a drill string for insertion into and removal from the borehole. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090277689 | ACTIVATING DEVICE FOR A DOWNHOLE TOOL - An activating device is mounted in a drill string to control the activation and deactivation of an enlargement tool used for enlarging a bore hole. In order to assemble the activating device, pistons are mounted in passages and spline bars, in which plates are screwed, are then slid along T-slots of the body, through apertures of the pistons. In order to deploy the pistons and cutters, pressurized drilling fluid is applied to the inner faces of the pistons. When a pre-determined pressure level is reached, screws break and the pistons move from the inward position to the outwardly deployed position. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090283324 | Mobile drilling rig - Mobile drilling rigs and methods for moving drilling rigs are disclosed which, in one aspect, include wheel assemblies connected to a rig which wheel assemblies are selectively movable from a rig drilling position to a rig movement position. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter 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, 37 C.F.R. 1.72( | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090283325 | Polycrystalline Diamond Compact Drill Bit Blade Design and Nozzle Placement - A rotary drag bit for use in subterranean earth boring operations, the drag bit having blades, rows of cutters on the blades, and nozzles disposed within the rows. The nozzles are configured to discharge fluid during drilling. The nozzle placement enhances bit cooling and detritus removal, thereby reducing the likelihood of bit balling. | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090288882 | HYDRAULIC HEAD CLAMP ASSEMBLY FOR MOBILE DRILL RIG - A hydraulic head clamp assembly is integral with a drill head mounted on a mobile drill rig. A side-shift carriage is provided for shifting the drill head from side-to-side relative to a centerline of a drill rod string. The clamp assembly includes a rigid jaw mounted on the side of the drill head, and a movable jaw mounted adjacent to said rigid jaw with a space between the jaws for receiving the drill rod string. The movable jaw is connected to a pair of hydraulic cylinder actuators that are actuated via a hydraulic circuit to control the clamp action between the rigid jaw and the movable jaw. The clamp assembly can be used to retract a drill rod string from the ground without limiting access to the inner diameter of the drill rod, and can also be used to advance the drill rod into the ground via a static push. | 11-26-2009 |
| 20090288883 | SWIVEL FOR USE IN INSTALLING LARGE DIAMETER CASING - The invention includes a pair of swivels for use with an auger boring machine. One of the swivels allows for rotation of a first auger of a first auger assembly connected to the trailing end of a pilot tube without rotating the pilot tube. The other swivel allows for rotation of a larger diameter second auger connected to the trailing end of the first auger assembly without rotating the first auger. Each of the swivels includes a thrust bearing. | 11-26-2009 |
| 20090294176 | Hollow Charge Liners Made of Powder Metal Mixtures - The invention relates to inserts for hollow shots made of cold pressed powder mixtures, which can, for instance be used in the oil and gas extraction industries in well blasting. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090294177 | BACKUP SAFETY FLOW CONTROL SYSTEM FOR CONCENTRIC DRILL STRING - A technique is presented for providing a double-barrier to formation fluids during drilling operations with a concentric drill string having an inner bore and an annulus. A primary flow control system is used to provide a first barrier to formation fluids in the inner bore and annulus of the drill string. A backup flow control system is used to provide a second barrier to formation fluids. The backup flow control system comprises a backup inner bore shutoff valve and a backup annulus shutoff valve. The backup inner bore shutoff valve is dropped from the surface through the inner bore of the drill string. The backup inner bore shutoff valve has spring-biased tabs that are configured to extend outward to contact an inner surface profile of the inner bore of the drill string. The backup annulus shutoff valve may be provided with the profile to receive the spring-biased tabs from the backup inner bore shutoff valve. When the tabs of the backup inner bore shutoff valve are disposed opposite the profile, the tabs of the backup inner bore shutoff valve are extended outward into the profile by a spring assembly, securing the backup inner bore shutoff valve within the drill string. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090294178 | STABILIZER AND REAMER SYSTEM HAVING EXTENSIBLE BLADES AND BEARING PADS AND METHOD OF USING SAME - Drilling systems and methods for enlarging a borehole that include at least one expandable reamer and at least one expandable stabilizer axially spaced therefrom in a tubular string such as a drill string, the at least one expandable reamer and the at least one expandable stabilizer being independently actuatable by different-sized actuation devices. A relatively lower tool is actuatable by a smaller actuation device, such as a drop ball, which passes through a relatively higher tool in the drill string without triggering the higher tool. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090308658 | LATCH SYSTEM FOR FRICTION-LOCKED TUBULAR MEMBERS - A technique for securing drilling riser joints in a drilling riser string is presented. The drilling riser joints have a tubular housing that has a box configuration on one end and a pin configuration on the other end. The drilling riser string is assembled by connecting the pin end of one drilling riser joint to the box end of an adjoining drilling riser joint. A moveable ring is used to connect adjoining drilling riser joints. The moveable ring is used to drive a fastener, such as a dog, of one drilling riser joint against the adjoining drilling riser joint. The moveable ring is driven axially from a first position, where the fastener is not engaged against the adjoining drilling riser joint, to a second position where the fastener is engaged against the adjoining drilling riser joint. A latch is used to prevent the moveable ring from moving inadvertently from the second position. This prevents the drilling riser joints from disconnecting inadvertently. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090314547 | Construction apparatus with extendable mast and method for operating such a construction apparatus - The invention relates to a construction apparatus having an extendable mast with an upper mast element and a lower mast element, whereby the upper mast element is longitudinally displaceable relative to the lower mast element. The apparatus according to the invention is designed with a linear drive for displacement of the two mast elements relative to each other, whereby the linear drive has an upper drive part which can be actuated in a linear manner relative to a lower drive part of the linear drive, and with a locking device for locking the two mast elements in an extended mast position. In accordance with the invention provision is made for the upper drive part of the linear drive to be fixed to the upper mast element, for the lower drive part of the linear drive to be displaceable longitudinally of the lower mast element and for a securing device to be provided on the lower mast element, with which the lower drive part of the linear drive can be secured in a releasable manner to the lower mast element for displacement of the upper mast element. The invention further relates to a method for operating a construction apparatus with an extendable mast, which can be carried out in particular with a construction apparatus in accordance with the invention. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090314548 | Reaming and Stabilization Tool and Method for its Use in a Borehole - In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a drilling tool includes a tubular body defining a longitudinal axial cavity extending therethrough and defining at least one cutter element recess. The drilling tool also includes a cutter element at least partially disposed within the at least one cutter element recess and includes at least first and second cutting arms at least substantially disposed within the cutter element recess in a retracted position. The first and second cutting arms are operable to move from the retracted position to an extended position in which the first and second cutting arms extend at least partially beyond a periphery of the tubular body. The first and second cutting arms and the tubular body enclose a space when the first and second cutting arms are in the extended position. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090321134 | Auger downforce unit for use on tractor 3-point hitch mounted earth augers - We have invented a way to create mechanical downforce for using post hole augers or other implements on tractor 3-point hitches. Our invention allows the user to switch the post hole auger from conventional mode to downforce mode by removing one hitch pin and inserting two others. Our invention makes it possible to create downforce sufficient for digging in hard, rocky or frozen soils without resorting to unsafe methods. The invention creates a secondary pivot point and a variable attachment point, resulting in the lifting force of the tractor's hitch being reversed into usable downforce at the auger bit. The invention permits the user of a tractor-driven earth auger to generate mechanical downforce at the auger, without the use of additional hydraulics for easier digging in hard or rocky soils. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090321135 | ROCKET RIG DRILLING APPARATUS - A well drilling apparatus includes multiple, transportable, modular, pre-assembled sections which include a substructure and multiple mast sections. These pre-assembled sections allow for a quicker complete rig-up of the well drilling apparatus at ground level in a horizontal direction, without the use of a crane. Once the assembly has been completed at ground level, the mast is raised to its vertical operating position via mechanisms for raising and lowering dog tails. During transport, the guide rails are built-in to the mast sections and the crown block is attached to the traveling block, thereby facilitating the rigging-up process. The mast may be lowered after the drilling operation has been accomplished without interfering with any blow-out preventer devices that may have been placed on the wellhead while the structure was at its raised operational level. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090321136 | Drilling apparatus and method for drilling wells - A device for boring a well. The device is attached to a motor that has a power shaft for imparting rotational movement. The device includes a driver operatively connected to the power shaft, with the driver containing a cylindrical body, a first bit having a first end connected to the driver so that rotational movement of the driver is imparted to the first bit, and a sleeve disposed about the power shaft. The device further includes a housing disposed about the driver, and a second bit attached to the housing. Through engagement of cogs and pinions, rotation of the first bit in a first direction using the driver causes counter rotation of the second bit in an opposite direction, significantly reducing or eliminating reactive torque produced during drilling. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100000793 | DOWNHOLE POWER GENERATOR AND METHOD - A generator ( | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100006339 | ON DEMAND ACTUATION SYSTEM - A downhole tool includes a tubular body having an upper connection and a lower connection and an axial borehole therethrough, wherein the upper and lower connections are configured to connect to a drilling assembly. The downhole tool further includes at least one expandable component coupled to the tubular body and configured to selectively extend radially therefrom and an actuation mechanism configured to selectively extend the at least one component in response to a change in a circulating fluid pressure in the axial borehole. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100006340 | Downhole reservoir effluent column pressure restraining apparatus and methods - Apparatus and methods disclosed herein utilize a seal within a well borehole annulus to re-direct forces generated by a column of effluents from a well-drilling bit assembly to a point above the bit assembly during drilling operations. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100012380 | Percussion Drilling Assembly and Hammer Bit with an Adjustable Choke - A percussion drilling assembly for drilling through earthen formations and forming a borehole. In an embodiment, the percussion drilling assembly comprises a fluid conduit including a tubular body having a first end, a second end, a through passage extending between the first end and the second end, and an inlet port in fluid communication with the through passage. In addition, the percussion drilling assembly comprises an adjustable choke at least partially disposed in the through passage and including a first bypass port. The adjustable choke is adapted to decrease the volumetric flow rate of a compressed fluid through the first bypass port. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100018771 | Rotary Drill Bit - A rotary drill bit ( | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100025113 | Method of Circulating While Retrieving Downhole Tool in Casing - Retrieving a down hole tool at a lower end of a string of casing can be performed with drill pipe during a casing-while-drilling operation. The operator suspends the casing in the well from a drilling rig floor opening. A string drill pipe is lowered into the casing while the casing is suspended for engaging and retrieving the down hole tool. When circulation is desired, the operator secures a circulation tool to an upper end of the drill pipe, then lowers the drill pipe and the circulation tool to close off an upper end of an inner annulus between the drill pipe and the casing. The operator circulates fluid down the circulation tool and the drill pipe and back up an outer annulus surrounding the casing. The connection between the circulation tool and the casing allows the operator to reciprocate the casing. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100025114 | PCD Percussion Drill Bit - An insert for a percussion drill bit for drilling a hole in rock comprises a cylindrical portion and domed cutting surface. The domed cutting surface that comprises polycrystalline diamond has a tip radius that is between 0.3 and 0.4 times that of the diameter of the cylindrical portion. The diameter of the cylindrical portion is preferably greater than the gauge diameter of hole multiplied by 0.2. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100038139 | COMPLIANTLY COUPLED CUTTING SYSTEM - A drill bit system for a drilling assembly is disclosed. The drill bit system may include a chassis, a head, and a first plurality of gauge pads. The head may include a first plurality of cutters coupled with an end of the head, and the head may be movably coupled with chassis. The first plurality of gauge pads may include a second plurality of cutters, and the first plurality of gauge pads may be fixedly coupled with the chassis. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100038140 | MOTOR BIT SYSTEM - A drill bit system for a drilling assembly is disclosed. The drill bit system may include a chassis, a head, and a first plurality of gauge pads. The chassis may be configured to be operably coupled with a first rotational motion source. The head may include a first plurality of cutters coupled with an end of the head, and the head may be rotatably coupled with chassis. The head may be configured to be operably coupled with a second rotational motion source. The first plurality of gauge pads may include a second plurality of cutters, and the first plurality of gauge pads may be fixedly coupled with the chassis. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100038141 | COMPLIANTLY COUPLED GAUGE PAD SYSTEM WITH MOVABLE GAUGE PADS - A drill bit system for a drilling assembly is disclosed. The drill bit system may include a chassis, a head, and one or more gauge pads. The head may include a first plurality of cutters coupled with an end of the head, and the head may be coupled with chassis. The one or more gauge pads may include a second plurality of cutters, and the one or more gauge pads may be movably coupled with the chassis. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100051348 | ROCK DRILLING EQUIPMENT AND A METHOD IN ASSOCIATION WITH SAME - A rock drilling machine with a first control means ( | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051349 | FORCE BALANCED ASYMMETRIC DRILLING REAMER - A force balanced asymmetric drilling reamer comprising a plurality of blades, each blade having at least one cutter section and a gage section. The cutter section is designed to have a plurality of cutting devices for cutting through swelling formations and cutting free sloughing formations. The gage section has a full bore diameter with gage elements flushly coupled to gage section's outer surface. The blades may be curve/concave shaped or boomerang/chevron shaped, which thereby agitate the cutting beds. At least a portion of the drilling reamer's diameter is incrementally force balanced, starting from the outermost diameter, so that the net radial force is less than 10% of weight on bit with respect to the center of rotation. This balancing allows a greater cutter longevity and provides for a better wellbore condition. Optionally, at least a portion of the drilling reamer's surface may be treated by nitriding for repelling the cuttings. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100059280 | FEED MECHANISM FOR DRILLING SYSTEMS - A cartridge feed screw nut includes a body having a tubular threaded opening defined therein and having side portions. The side portions include a plurality of lateral surfaces and a plurality of end surfaces. The lateral surfaces and the end surfaces form a profile shaped to prevent rotation of the cartridge feed screw nut relative to a front washer cylinder through engagement between at least one of the lateral surfaces or the end surfaces with the front washer cylinder. | 03-11-2010 |
| 20100065331 | AUGER BORING MACHINE - The present disclosure relates to an auger boring machine for boring through the earth. The auger boring machine includes a cutting head for engaging a working face of the earth to cut a bore. The cutting head is rotatable about a drive axis so as to cut the earth at the working face. The auger boring machine further includes an auger that is rotatable about the drive axis for transporting spoil resulting from the operation of the cutting head away from the cutting head. Additionally, the auger boring machine includes a casing housing the auger which is urged to move into the bore behind the cutting head. The cutting head and the auger are movable along the drive axis relative to the casing. Furthermore, the auger boring machine includes a steering member positioned near the cutting head for directing movement of the casing into the bore in a steered direction transverse to the drive axis. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100065332 | Method for Drilling with a Fixed Bladed Bit - In one aspect of the present invention, a downhole fixed bladed bit comprises a working surface comprising a plurality of blades converging at a center of the working surface and diverging towards a gauge of the bit, at least on blade comprising a cutting element comprising a superhard material bonded to a cemented metal carbide substrate at a non-planer interface, the cutting element being positioned at a positive rake angle, and the superhard material comprising a substantially conical geometry with an apex comprising a curvature. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100078218 | DRILLING AND OPENING RESERVOIRS USING AN ORIENTED FISSURE TO ENHANCE HYDROCARBON FLOW - A system and method for increasing hydrocarbon production from a subsurface reservoir by utilizing an intersection of two well bores and a flexible linear cutting device, such as a segmented diamond wire saw, to form a fissure beginning at the intersection of the well bores and extending along a specified the length of the well bores. The ends of the cutting device can be actuated above ground. The shape of the fissure can be a substantially ruled surface defined between the two bores between which the fissure is formed. Configurations for the well bores include both bores extending from the surface and, alternatively, a first bore extending from the surface and a second bore extending from a whipstock in the first bore. The fissure may be located and oriented to maximize the extent of the fissure formed within the hydrocarbon bearing horizon and to intersect with a maximum number of natural and/or previously formed fractures. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100078219 | JET MOTOR - An exemplary embodiment of the jet motor includes a control sleeve, and power shaft having at least one opening thereon. The power shaft is rotatable in relation to the control sleeve. The power shaft has a central longitudinal shaft axis and upper and lower ends. The at least one opening in the power shaft generates rotational torque when acting in cooperation with the control sleeve. The jet motor connects to a member that is in fluid communication with the source of drilling or cleaning fluid. Drilling or cleaning fluid pressure is directed to the at least one opening in the power shaft. The power shaft having at least one opening having an opening axis and an interior opening. The at least one opening may be acutely oriented with respect to a plane extending along the power shaft's central longitudinal axis wherein the plane intersects the opening axis at the interior opening. The at least one opening may be oriented toward the upper end of the power shaft to provide downward force. An alternative embodiment with a drill bit functionally connected to the power shaft wherein the drill bit contains drill bit nozzles that provide both rotational and forward force when a fluid is passed therethrough. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100089647 | Drilling Method - A drilling method comprises controlling operation of a drill string to maintain at least a portion of the drill string in forward whirl. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100089648 | Fixed Bladed Bit that Shifts Weight between an Indenter and Cutting Elements - In one aspect of the present invention, a downhole fixed bladed bit comprises a working surface comprising a plurality of blades converging at a center of the working surface and diverging towards a gauge of the bit, at least on blade comprising a cutting element comprising a superhard material bonded to a cemented metal carbide substrate at a non-planer interface, the cutting element being positioned at a positive rake angle, and the superhard material comprising a substantially conical geometry with an apex comprising a curvature. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100096188 | REAMER ROLLER CONE BIT WITH STEPPED REAMER CUTTER PROFILE - A bottom hole assembly including a pilot bit for initially forming an unconfined inner sidewall of a wellbore and a reamer tool above the pilot bit and comprising a first cutter ring to expand the unconfined inner sidewall, and a second cutter ring located above and outwardly of the first cutter ring to expand the unconfined inner sidewall as expanded by the first cutter ring. The reamer tool may further comprise a third cutter ring located above and outwardly of the second cutter ring to expand the unconfined inner sidewall as expanded by the second cutter ring. The first cutter ring may be located on a first roller cone, the second cutter ring may be located on a second roller cone, and the third cutter ring may be located on a third roller cone. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100101863 | SONIC DRILL ROD WITH EXTERNAL SURFACE FEATURES - Drill rods and systems for use in drilling processes, as well as methods for making and using such drill rods and systems. A drill rod configured for sonic drilling operations can include a cylindrical body having an interior surface and an exterior surface. A first connector may be located on a first end of the cylindrical body and a second connector may be located on a second end of the cylindrical body. The first connector and the second connector can be complementary. The drill rod can include a helical feature and a corresponding helical channel on the exterior surface of the cylindrical body. The helical feature and corresponding helical channel can be configured for moving material displaced during a drilling operation in an axial direction away from one end of the drill rod to the other. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100108390 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING FLUID FLOW IN A ROTARY DRILL BIT - An apparatus for drilling a borehole in an earth formation is disclosed. The apparatus includes: an earth-boring rotary drill bit including a bit body having a plurality of cutters engagable with a subterranean earth formation; a fluid conduit disposed in the bit body, the fluid conduit being in fluid communication with a source of drilling fluid and configured to receive a portion of the drilling fluid; a nozzle extending between the fluid conduit and a surface of the bit body, the nozzle configured to apply a stream of the portion of the drilling fluid to a first location of the surface; and a valve assembly including an actuator and a valve, the actuator configured to move the valve and divert a flow path of the portion of the drilling fluid, thereby diverting at least part of the stream to a second location on the surface. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100108391 | DRILL BIT ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF PERFORMING AN OPERATION IN A WELLBORE - A drill bit assembly comprising a bit body connectable to a tubular drill string, and provided with a longitudinal passageway for an operating tool; an externally removable closure element for closing the passageway for the operating tool; and a passage tool attached to or connectable to the closure element in its closing position, wherein the passage tool comprises a lower part to which the closure element is attached or connectable, which lower part is arranged so that it can be moved out of the bit body together with the closure element, and an upper tubular part which is arranged so that it can be moved along the passageway in the bit body, the upper tubular part forming a passage with a downstream opening for the operating tool when the lower part of the passage tool has been moved out of the bit body. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100122848 | HYBRID DRILL BIT - A method for optimizing drill bit design and several embodiments of an optimized drill bit for drilling a well in an earth formation. In one embodiment, the optimized drill bit comprises a diamond impregnated bit body with one or more cutting elements, the cutting element comprising a cutting table and a substrate. The substrate preferably comprises a material that will support the cutting table during normal drilling operations and wear when exposed to the earth formation, thereby limiting the effects of wear flat areas on drilling efficiency. Alternatively, or additionally, the cutting elements may be placed, or spaced, so as to limiting the effects of wear flat areas on drilling efficiency. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100122849 | System and method for preventing slippage and rotation of component along a tubular shaft - Systems and methods for preventing slippage and rotation of components installed along a rotatable tubular shaft and/or in a tubular housing member during drilling operations are disclosed herein. The housing and/or rotatable shaft include a shoulder disposed proximate to one end. An adjustable member is secured proximate to the opposite end. One or more components are installed, covering a first portion of the surface between the adjustable member and shoulder. One or more spacing members are installed to cover substantially all of the remaining surface. The adjustable member is tightened such that the adjustable member and the shoulder apply a compressive axial load to the components and spacing members, causing frictional forces between adjacent objects greater than the torque acting on the housing and/or tubular shaft, causing each component to remain stationary with respect to the surface to which it is secured. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100126771 | Methods and Apparatus For Controlling Cutting Ribbons During A Drilling Operation - Drill bits are provided. The drill bits are of the fixed-cutter, rotary-type. The drill bits have a plurality of blades having cutting elements disposed therealong. Junk slots are formed between the respective blades. A knife opening is formed in at least two of the junk slots. Preferably, the knife openings are disposed substantially transverse to a longitudinal axis of the drill bit. The drill bit also has one or more ribbon cutters. The ribbon cutters cyclically protrude through knife openings in the junk slots in order to facilitate the fragmentation of cuttings ribbons moving through the junk slots during a drilling operation. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100126772 | HYDRO-PERCUSSIVE MECHANISIMS FOR DRILLING SYSTEMS - A down-the-hole assembly includes a housing assembly having a head end and a bit end. The housing assembly further includes an inlet joint having an inlet channel defined therein, a sealing portion positioned toward the bit end relative to the inlet joint, and an outlet portion positioned toward the bit end relative to the sealing portion. A hammer assembly including a piston has a piston channel defined therein that includes an inlet in fluid communication with the inlet channel and an outlet in fluid communication with the housing assembly. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100126773 | Drilling apparatus and system for drilling wells - A device for boring a well is provided, the device being attached to a motor having a power shaft for imparting rotational movement responsive to a fluid flow. The device includes a driver operatively connected to the power shaft, the driver having a tubular body with an internal bore for accommodating fluid flow, a first bit connected to the driver at a first end so that rotational movement of the driver is imparted to the first bit, and an inner bore. A second bit is attached to housing about the first bit. A nozzle communicating the internal portion of the tubular body with an outer portion thereof, the nozzle being oriented to deliver a portion of the fluid flow to the second bit. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100133011 | Drill string with modular motor units - A turbine for use in a downhole drill string including an elongated casing defining an interior and a plurality of motor units in the interior. Each motor unit has a rotor and a stator. A torque transmission couplings connects each of the plurality of motor units to the drill string. The torque transmission couplings having flexible linkages. As a result, the power section has tight tolerances for the clearance at the tips of the rotors because the motor units are relatively stiff. The flexing normally obtained by bending the rotor shaft is accomplished and absorbed in the flexible linkages. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100139978 | Deep water drilling with casing - Methods and apparatus are provided to place a conductor pipe and a casing in a subsea environment. In one embodiment, a conductor pipe is jetted or drilled into the subsea floor. Thereafter, a casing drilling assembly comprising a drill casing and a drilling assembly is connected to the drill pipe using a crossover. The drilling assembly urged into the seafloor until a casing latch on the drilling assembly is engaged with a casing profile of the conductor pipe. During drilling, instrumentation in the drilling assembly may be used to measure geophysical data. The measured data may be used to optimize the drilling process. After the drill casing is engaged with the conductor pipe, cementing may be performed to set the drill casing. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100139979 | Percussion Drilling Assembly With Annular Locking Member - A percussion drilling assembly for boring into the earth. In an embodiment, the assembly comprises a tubular case having a central axis and a lower end. In addition, the assembly comprises a driver sub having an upper end threadingly engaged with the lower end of the case. Further, the assembly comprises a annular locking member disposed about the driver sub. The annular locking member engages the case and the driver sub and restricts the rotation of the driver sub relative to the case about the central axis. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100163310 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING AND REPAIRING FIXED-CUTTER DRAG-TYPE ROTARY TOOLS WITH CUTTING CONTROL STRUCTURES - A rotary tool for drilling subterranean material is disclosed. The rotary tool includes a tool body having a distal crown end comprising a circumferential series of raised cutting blades with recessed junk slots therebetween. Cutting elements are located proximate a leading peripheral edge of the raised cutting blades and cutting control structures are located interiorly of the cutting elements at a leading surface of an adjacent junk slot. Cutting control structures are releasably secured to the tool body in the adjacent junk slot whereby a used rotary tool is refurbishable by removing worn cutting control structures without degradation to the tool body and replacing the worn cutting control structures by installing new cutting control structures in the worn cutting control structures' locations. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100181112 | DRILLING ASSEMBLIES INCLUDING ONE OF A COUNTER ROTATING DRILL BIT AND A COUNTER ROTATING REAMER, METHODS OF DRILLING, AND METHODS OF FORMING DRILLING ASSEMBLIES - Drilling assemblies include a drill bit and a reamer apparatus in which the drill bit is configured to rotate in rotational direction about a longitudinal axis of a drill string and the reamer apparatus is configured to rotate in an opposite rotational direction about the longitudinal axis. Methods of forming a drilling assembly include configuring a drill bit to drill a subterranean formation when rotating in a counter-clockwise direction and configuring a reamer apparatus to ream a wellbore within the subterranean formation when rotating in a clockwise direction. Methods of drilling wellbores in subterranean formations include rotating a drill bit in a first rotational direction about a longitudinal axis of a drill string to drill a wellbore and rotating a reamer apparatus in an opposite rotational direction about the longitudinal axis of the drill string to ream the wellbore. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100187009 | ADJUSTABLE DOWNHOLE MOTORS AND METHODS FOR USE - The present invention relates to systems and methods for controlling downhole motors and drilling systems incorporating such systems and methods. One aspect of the invention provides a downhole drilling system including: a downhole motor, a transmission coupled to the downhole motor, and a drill bit coupled to the transmission. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of drilling a borehole in a subsurface formation including the steps of: providing a drill string including a downhole motor, a transmission coupled to the downhole motor, and a drill bit coupled to the transmission; and rotating the drill string while flowing a fluid through the drill string to the downhole motor, thereby powering the downhole motor, thereby rotating the transmission and the drill bit. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100187010 | PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR SUBTERRANEAN DRILLING - A method and apparatus for drilling a subterranean formation or material utilizing a drilling apparatus which includes a drill string having a leading end and a trailing end and having a bottom hole assembly connected with the leading end. The bottom hole assembly includes a drill bit and an externally threaded screw section. In operation, the drill bit is rotated, forming material cuttings and an opening in the subterranean formation, and the threaded screw section is rotated within the opening, forming a helical groove in the subterranean formation. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100187011 | CUTTING STRUCTURES FOR CASING COMPONENT DRILLOUT AND EARTH-BORING DRILL BITS INCLUDING SAME - An earth-boring tool includes a bit body having a face on which two different types of cutters are disposed, the first type being cutting elements suitable for drilling at least one subterranean formation and the second type suitable for drilling through at least one elastomeric component of a casing string, as well as a casing shoe and cement. Methods of drilling with an earth-boring tool include engaging and drilling an elastomeric component using at least one abrasive cutting structure. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100193247 | Track and Sprocket Drive for Drilling - A drilling rig includes a mast base and a mast having a structural frame extending from the mast base. The structural frame includes a first track extending along the length of the structural frame and a second track extending along the length of the structural frame spaced from and parallel to the first track. The drilling rig also includes a top drive carriage assembly having at least one sprocket arrangement operatively engaged with one of the first track and the second track. The first track and the second track each include a plurality of bushings equally spaced apart and attached to spaced apart track plates. The at least one sprocket arrangement has a plurality of teeth configured to operatively engage the plurality of bushings such that the top drive carriage assembly moves along the length of the structural frame of the mast. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100193248 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND TOOL ASSEMBLIES FOR DISTRIBUTING WEIGHT BETWEEN AN EARTH-BORING ROTARY DRILL BIT AND A REAMER DEVICE - Methods, systems, and tool assemblies for distributing weight between a bit and a reamer device are disclosed. For example, at least one of the drill bit and the reamer may be configured to selectively distribute a weight-on-bit between the drill bit and the reamer, such as within a predetermined range. Additionally, methods of drilling wellbores may include selectively distributing a weight-on-bit applied to a bottom hole assembly between a drill bit and a reamer of the bottom hole assembly. Also, a reamer may be configured to exhibit a first maximum rate-of-penetration into a relatively hard formation, and a drill bit may be configured to exhibit a second maximum rate-of-penetration into a relatively soft formation that is less than the first maximum rate-of-penetration. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100200298 | Downhole tool - The present invention relates to downhole tools, and in particular an underreamer tool for use in a wellbore of an oil or gas well and a method of actuation. In an embodiment, the underreamer tool has body having a longitudinal axis and a fluid conduit, a tool element and an actuation device configured to urge the tool element relative to the body from a first configuration into a second configuration. In this embodiment, a portion of the tool has a curved actuation surface and the tool element is urged across the curved actuation surface the tool element is moved radially with respect to the body of the tool. Typically, the actuation device may include a piston driven by pressure of fluid circulated through the fluid flow conduit. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100200299 | DEVICE FOR A TOP DRIVE DRILLING MACHINE FOR CONTINUOUS CIRCULATION OF DRILLING MUD - A device for a top drive drilling machine, in which a drive shaft ( | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100206634 | Reamer and Methods for Directional Drilling - A reamer for underground boring is provided. The reamer includes at least: (a) a center mandrel, wherein the center mandrel defines a mandrel axis; (b) a plurality of radial members extending radially from the center mandrel; (c) a plurality of cutting heads, wherein each of the cutting heads: (i) is supported by at least one of the radial members; (ii) is arcuately spaced-apart around the center mandrel from the other cutting heads; (iii) has a rounded surface; and (d) a plurality of cutting teeth on the rounded surface of each of the cutting heads. A method of horizontal drilling with the reamer is also provided. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100212964 | Drill Bit With Adjustable Cutters - A drill bit is provided that in one embodiment may include a blade profile having a cone section and one or more cutters on the cone section configured to retract from an extended position when an applied load on the drill bit reaches or exceeds a selected threshold. The drill bit is less aggressive when the cutters are in the retracted position compared to when the cutters are in the extended position. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100218995 | BEARING APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS INCLUDING SAME, AND RELATED METHODS - In an embodiment, a bearing apparatus comprises a first bearing assembly including a plurality of circumferentially-spaced first bearing elements each of which includes a first bearing surface. The bearing apparatus further includes a second bearing assembly including a plurality of circumferentially-spaced second bearing elements each of which includes a second bearing surface oriented to engage the first bearing surfaces of the first bearing assembly during operation. At least one of the second bearing elements may be circumferentially spaced from an adjacent one of the second bearing elements by a lateral spacing greater than a lateral dimension of the at least one of the second bearing elements. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100224413 | Method of Selecting a Drilling Motor for a Casing Drill String - A method for selecting a drilling motor for rotating a drill bit relative to a drill string made up of casing accounts for a tendency for the casing to elongate as the internal pressure increases. The increase in pressure in the casing string increases the weight on the drill bit, the amount of which may be calculated based on the size and type of the string of casing. The ratio of bit torque over the weight on the bit may be assumed to be a constant number based on empirical measurements or a theoretical model. The increase in the weight on the drill bit can be expressed in terms of the bit torque versus the casing pressure, which is a linear slope. This linear slope may be compared to the delivery torque of candidate motors. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100224414 | CHIP DEFLECTOR ON A BLADE OF A DOWNHOLE REAMER AND METHODS THEREFORE - An expandable reamer apparatus for drilling a subterranean formation includes a tubular body, one or more blades, each blade positionally coupled to a sloped track of the tubular body having a hardfacing material on a portion thereof, a push sleeve and a drilling fluid flow path extending through an inner bore of the tubular body for conducting drilling fluid therethrough. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100230167 | TENSION/COLLAR/REAMER ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS - The present invention provides drilling assembles and methods that are especially useful for a bottom hole drilling assembly for drilling/reaming/or other operations related to drilling a borehole through an earth formation. In one embodiment, the drilling assembly utilizes standard drill collars which are modified to accept force transfer sections. In another embodiment, the drilling assembly comprises a tension inducing sub which creates a force that may be used to place the bottom hole assembly or portions thereof in tension. In another embodiment, a reaming assembly is held in tension to provide a stiffer reaming assembly. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100230168 | UNDERGROUND BORING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING UNDERGROUND BORING - A method and system for controlling a horizontal directional drilling machine having a boring tool. A rate of rotation and a rate of thrust are selected by an operator. Controls allow an automatic boring operation mode to be initiated to maintain the selected rate of rotation and thrust without further input from the operator. Periodically, when the rotation and thrust are interrupted, such as to modify the drill string, the automatic boring operation mode is interrupted. The automatic boring operation mode may be resumed without requiring the operator to select the rate of rotation and rate of thrust. The rate of rotation is resumed before the rate of thrust to reduce drill string shock loads and increase drilling performance. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100236829 | STABILIZER FOR DRILL STRINGS - Apparatus and methods for using the drilling apparatus to increase the linear direction of the drilling action are described. The drilling apparatus contains a drill rod that is fitted with a reinforcing sleeve that is located on the drill rod as close as possible to the drill bit. The outer diameter of the sleeve is configured to be substantially the same as the bit diameter and, if necessary, just slightly smaller than the bit diameter. The sleeve reinforces the drill rod next to the drill bit and reduces and substantially eliminates the gap between the drill rod and the borehole in the vicinity of the drill bit. The sleeve, therefore, reduces the wobble of the drill bit in the borehole and reduces the drill bit from wavering from a straight linear drilling direction. The reinforcing sleeve can contain helical channels for moving material displaced by the drilling process away from the drill bit. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100243327 | HYDRAULIC CONTROL SYSTEM FOR DRILLING SYSTEMS - A hydraulic control system includes a first motor, a second motor, a pump operatively associated with the first motor, a first coupling valve operatively associated with the second motor, first parallel valves operatively associated with the second motor, and a first switching valve operatively associated with the first coupling valve and the first parallel valves. The first switching valve is configured to switch the first coupling valve between a first coupling state and a second coupling state opposite the first coupling state and to switch the first parallel valves between a first parallel state and a second parallel state opposite the first parallel state. While the first parallel valves are in the first parallel state a portion of the output of the first motor drives the second motor while the first parallel valves are in the second parallel state, the output of the pump drives the second motor. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100252327 | Drill Bits With Cutters to Cut High Side of Wellbores - A drill bit is disclosed that in one aspect includes a cutting device on a selected section of the drill bit, which cutting device is configured to cut formation on the high side of a wellbore during drilling of the wellbore. In one aspect, the cutting device comprises a cutting element disposed on a substantially non-rotating member placed around the selected section. In another aspect, the selected section may be a gage section of the drill bit. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100258352 | System And Method For Drill String Vibration Control - A drilling assembly includes a derrick, a swivel assembly coupled to the derrick, and a drill string coupled to the swivel assembly. The drill string includes a plurality of pipe sections, each having an insert providing a material and/or geometrical discontinuity in the pipe section, the plurality of pipe sections forming periodic cells collectively operative to selectively block propagation of vibrations in the drill string. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100263932 | BIT RETAINER ASSEMBLY FOR A DOWN-HOLE DRILL - A retainer device for a drill bit, an earth-boring drill assembly and methods of retaining a drill bit and operating drill assembly. The earth-boring drill assembly includes a casing having a central axis, the bit having a generally cylindrical head. The retainer device includes an annular sleeve connectable to the casing and a retainer assembly provided between the sleeve and the bit. The retainer assembly includes an axial slot defined by one of the sleeve and the bit, the slot having an axially-extending side wall defining an opening and an axial end wall, and a lug supported on the other of the sleeve and the bit, the lug being positionable in the slot through the opening in the side wall, the lug being engageable with the end wall to restrict axial movement of the bit from the sleeve and away from the casing. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100270077 | DRILL BITS AND TOOLS FOR SUBTERRANEAN DRILLING, METHODS OF MANUFACTURING SUCH DRILL BITS AND TOOLS AND METHODS OF OFF-CENTER DRILLING - Drill bits for subterranean drilling comprising a bit body including at least one blade that includes a blade face comprising a contact zone and a sweep zone are disclosed. In particular, drill bits including at least one blade that extends at least partially over a nose region of the bit body, a shoulder region of the bit body and a gage region of the bit body and that include a sweep zone that rotationally trails the contact zone with respect to a direction of intended bit rotation about a longitudinal axis of the bit body and include a contact zone that defines a range of about 90% to about 30% of the blade face surface area is disclosed. Additionally, drill bits comprising a sweep zone located at least partially within a gage region are disclosed. Also, methods of off-center drilling and methods of manufacturing drill bits are disclosed. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100270078 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO THWART BIT BALLING OF DRILL BITS - Disclosed herein is a drill bit. The drill bit includes, a body of the drill bit having at least two blades defining a junk slot therebetween, at least one cutter positioned on at least one of the at least two blades, and at least one diverter positioned downstream of the at least one cutter defined by a direction of travel of the cuttings, the at least one diverter configured to divert cuttings to travel along a trajectory more parallel to a profile of the junk slot. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100276199 | EXPANDABLE REAMER APPARATUS - An expandable reamer apparatus and methods for reaming a borehole, wherein a laterally movable blade carried by a tubular body may be selectively positioned at an inward position and an expanded position. The laterally movable blade, held inwardly by blade-biasing elements, may be forced outwardly by drilling fluid selectively allowed to communicate therewith by way of an actuation sleeve disposed within the tubular body. Alternatively, a separation element may transmit force or pressure from the drilling fluid to the movable blade. Further, a chamber in communication with the movable blade may be pressurized by way of a downhole turbine or pump. A ridged seal wiper, compensator, movable bearing pad, fixed bearing pad preceding the movable blade, or adjustable spacer element to alter expanded blade position may be included within the expandable reamer. In addition, a drilling fluid pressure response indicating an operational characteristic of the expandable reamer may be generated. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100276200 | BEARING BLOCKS FOR DRILL BITS, DRILL BIT ASSEMBLIES INCLUDING BEARING BLOCKS AND RELATED METHODS - Methods of drilling subterranean formations include coupling at least one bearing block having an initial thickness to a drill bit, engaging a formation with the drill bit within an initial depth of cut range, and reducing the initial thickness of the bearing block by contacting the formation to cause the initial depth of cut range to be at least partially increased. Methods of forming drill bits for drilling subterranean formations include forming at least one rubbing surface of at least one bearing block from at least one material exhibiting a reduced coefficient of friction and coupling the at least one bearing block to the drill bit. Drill bit assemblies include at least one bearing block having a distal portion configured to provide an initial depth of cut range and a base portion configured to provide an increased depth of cut range greater than the initial depth of cut range. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100276201 | SECONDARY CUTTING STRUCTURE - In one aspect, embodiments disclosed herein relate to a secondary cutting structure for use in a drilling assembly, the second cutting structure including a tubular body and a cutter block, extendable from the tubular body, the block including at least three rows of cutting elements. In another aspect, embodiments disclosed herein relate to drilling a borehole, the method including disposing a drilling tool assembly in the borehole, wherein the drilling tool assembly includes a primary cutting structure and a secondary cutting structure, and wherein the secondary cutting structure ahs a cutter block having at least three rows of cutting elements. The method also includes actuating the primary cutting structure, drilling a first portion of the borehole with the primary cutting structure, actuating the secondary cutting structure, and drilling a second portion of the borehole with both the primary and secondary cutting structures. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100288557 | EXPANDABLE REAMER FOR SUBTERRANEAN BOREHOLES AND METHODS OF USE - An expandable reamer apparatus and methods for reaming a borehole are disclosed, including at least one laterally movable blade carried by a tubular body selectively positioned at an inward position and an expanded position. The at least one laterally movable blade, held inwardly by at least one blade-biasing element, may be forced outwardly by drilling fluid selectively allowed to communicate therewith or by at least one intermediate piston element. For example, an actuation sleeve may allow communication of drilling fluid with the at least one laterally movable blade in response to an actuation device being deployed within the drilling fluid. Alternatively, a chamber in communication with an intermediate piston element in structural communication with the at least one laterally movable blade may be pressurized by way of a movable sleeve, a downhole turbine, or a pump. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100294568 | Drawworks device on a drill floor - A drawworks device on a drill floor which includes an upper pulley assembly) connected to a heave-compensated or fixed mounting, and a main block connected to a pipe mount which is laterally movable in at least one direction relative to the drilling centre of the drill floor, the pulley assembly pivotal about a horizontal first axis which is perpendicular to the direction of lateral movement. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100300757 | ROTARY DIGGING AND COMPRESSION ENLARGING DRILLER AND BORING METHOD - A compression enlarging driller comprises a vehicle body; a pole; an outer drilling rod; an inner drilling rod disposed within the outer drilling rod and moveable in a longitudinal direction; a windlass; a connecting lever having an upper end connected with a lower end of the inner drilling rod; a rotary digging bucket connected with a lower end of the connecting lever; a rotary enlarging device; a driving device; and a first hydraulic cylinder. When the driller bores a hoe, it can bore and enlarge the hole without changing a drill bit. A pile constructed by the driller has a high bearing capacity, the number of required piles is decreased, costs lower, and efficiency is improved. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100307829 | CUTTING ELEMENTS INCLUDING CUTTING TABLES WITH SHAPED FACES CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE CONTINUOUS EFFECTIVE POSITIVE BACK RAKE ANGLES, DRILL BITS SO EQUIPPED AND METHODS OF DRILLING - A cutting element for a drag-type earth-boring drill bit includes a cutting table with a face including a region that is configured cut into a formation at an effective positive back rake angle and to direct formation cuttings, or chips, that have been cut from the earth formation toward the hydraulics of the drill bit. Drill bits that include one or more cutting elements that have been configured in this manner are also disclosed. Such a drill bit may also include a wear pad for limiting the depth to which a cutting element penetrates a surface of a bore hole in an earth formation. Such a wear pad may have a substantially constant thickness. Methods for removing material from earth formations are also disclosed. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100314170 | Method of excavation of oil and gas-producting wells - A method of opening oil- and gas productive layers has the steps of cutting of two slots in one plane so as to form a partition of rock between them and so that stresses from surfaces of slots are redistributed onto the partition and create in it additional pressure, and selecting widths of the slots and the partition such that the partition becomes so stressed that it self-destructs, and as a result a single slot is formed with a length which is equal to lengths of both initial slots and the partition. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100314171 | Method of excavation of oil and gas-producting wells - A method of opening in a well of oil or gas containing layers having a plurality of cracks extending in a predetermined direction, includes forming in a layer a slot intersecting cracks, and orienting the slot so that it extends substantially perpendicular to the direction of the cracks so that the direction of the cracks and the direction of the slot are oriented in a cross-shaped manner. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100314172 | SHAFT CATCH - A turbodrill includes a housing having a central axis, a motor assembly disposed within the housing and comprising non-rotating stator vanes fixed to the housing, and a rotor assembly having rotating vanes fixed to a shaft of the turbodrill, a locking clutch configured to selectively transmit torque from the turbine housing to the rotor by preventing rotation of the housing and the rotor relative to each, and a catch device configured to retain a severed lower section of the shaft with the turbodrill. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100314173 | METHODS OF DRILLING WITH A DOWNHOLE DRILLING MACHINE - A drilling system and method are provided. The drilling system comprising a tool body, a drill bit, a mechanism for applying weight to the drill bit (“WOB”), and a control system for controlling the rate of rotation of the drill bit (“RPM”) and the weight applied to the bit during drilling. The control system is configurable to a first mode in which RPM and WOB are controlled to maintain power on the drill bit at a predetermined maximum, and a second mode in which RPM and WOB are controlled to maintain a predetermined depth of cut (“DOC”). In use, the control system is adapted to switch between the first and second modes depending on drilling conditions. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100314174 | FLOW DIVERTER FOR DRILLING - An apparatus for drilling a borehole in a well is provided. The apparatus comprises a tubular conveyance system; a drilling system connected to one end of the tubular conveyance system and comprising a bottom hole assembly; and a flow diverter positioned in the tubular conveyance system and comprising a first flow channel configured to receive fluid from inside the conveyance system and at least two side flow channels configured to direct fluid from the first flow channel out of the tubular conveyance system. The fluid flow between the first flow channel and each side flow channels is controlled by a valve which is operable to divert fluid out of the tubular conveyance system or to maintain the fluid in the tubular conveyance system. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100319995 | SELF-CIRCULATING DRILL BIT - A drilling system comprising a drive shaft having a fluid flow conduit extending therethrough; a drill bit mounted for rotation by the drive shaft and having a bit face which, in use, contacts a formation to be drilled, and including a fluid flow passage with an outlet near the center of the bit face; a first fluid flow line extending from the outside of the drive shaft to the flow passage in the drill bit; and a second fluid flow line extending from the outside of the drive shaft to the flow conduit. A method of drilling a well using such a system comprise positioning the system in a borehole; rotating the drive shaft to rotate the bit; urging the bit against the formation to be drilled; and pumping drilling fluid down the borehole so as to pass though the first flow line and to exit the fluid flow passage in the drill bit via the outlet, flow over the bit face and pass into the fluid low conduit via the second fluid flow line. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100319996 | MILLING CAP FOR A POLYCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND COMPACT CUTTER - A PDC cutter includes a diamond table layer and an underlying substrate layer. A cap structure for the PDC cutter includes a first portion overlying, but not attached to, a front face of the diamond table layer and a second portion extending perpendicularly from the first portion which is overlying and attached to an outer peripheral surface of the underlying substrate layer. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100319997 | WHIPSTOCK ATTACHMENT TO A FIXED CUTTER DRILLING OR MILLING BIT - An assembly is provided to attach a whipstock to a mill/drill bit. The assembly includes an upper collar adapted for installation around a shank of the mill/drill bit. At least one connecting member is mounted at a first end to the upper collar. The connecting member extends downwardly from the upper collar and is adapted to fit within a junkslot of the mill/drill bit to which the upper collar is attached. A whipstock attachment structure is mounted to a second end of the at least one connecting member. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100326728 | MINERAL-BASED DRILLING FLUID AND DRILLING METHOD - A high-temperature drilling fluid is disclosed based on brine and on a mixture of solids of controlled grain size, with water, dissolved salts and insoluble mineral solids comprising at least in part a weighting material of a grain size such that its D50 ranges between 1 and 25 μm and in part colloids of a grain size such that its D50 ranges between 0.2 and 2 μm. The total volume fraction of the solids ranges between 30 and 50% in relation to the total volume, and the total volume comprises at least 10% by volume of the colloids. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326729 | CASING BITS, DRILLING ASSEMBLIES, AND METHODS FOR USE IN FORMING WELLBORES WITH EXPANDABLE CASING - Casing bits include an expander for enlarging an inner diameter of expandable casing at least partially disposed within a body of the casing bits. Drilling assemblies include a casing bit attached to an end of expandable casing, and an expander disposed in proximity to the casing bit and a distal end of the expandable casing. Methods of forming casing bits include positioning an expander in proximity to a body of a casing bit. Methods of forming drilling assemblies include positioning an expander in proximity to a body of a casing bit and a distal end of expandable casing, and attaching the casing bit to the end of the expandable casing. Methods of casing a wellbore include one or both of drilling and reaming a wellbore using a casing bit attached to a distal end of expandable casing, and forcing an expander through the expandable casing. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326730 | Sealing System and Bi-Directional Thrust Bearing Arrangement for a Downhole Motor - A bearing assembly for a downhole motor comprises a housing having an upper end, a lower end, a radially inner surface, and a radially outer surface. In addition, the bearing assembly comprises a mandrel rotatably disposed within the housing. Further, the bearing assembly comprises an upper seal assembly, a lower seal assembly, and a thrust bearing assembly, each radially positioned between the housing and the mandrel. The bearing assembly also comprises a lubricating fluid radially disposed between the housing and the mandrel. The lower end of the housing comprises a first check valve radially positioned between the radially inner surface and the radially outer surface of the housing. The check valve is in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid and is adapted to allow at least a portion of the lubricant to exit the bearing assembly at a predetermined pressure differential. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326731 | STABILIZING DOWNHOLE TOOL - Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a downhole tool and a method to abate vibration with the downhole tool. The downhole tool may include a first stabilizing member, a second stabilizing member, a flexible member, and/or a dampening member, in which the downhole tool may be disposed downhole within a wellbore. The flexible member may enable the first stabilizing member and the second stabilizing member to articulate with respect to an axis of the downhole tool. The dampening member may enable vibration received by the downhole tool to be dampened. Further, the first stabilizing member and the second stabilizing member may be rotatable with respect to each other about the axis of the downhole tool. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326732 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MAKING BOREHOLES IN THE GROUND, THE CROSS SECTIONS OF WHICH BOREHOLES PARTIALLY INTERSECT - An apparatus for making a second borehole in the ground, a cross section of which second borehole partially intersects a cross section of an existing first borehole, includes a boring device and a guide device operatively connected to the boring device. The guide device includes at least a first guide element configured to interact with a wall of the existing first borehole and a direction-influencing device configured to influence a direction of the second borehole while the second borehole is being made. The guide device is configured to guide the boring device relative to the existing first borehole. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110000714 | STABILIZING MEMBERS FOR FIXED CUTTER DRILL BIT - A drill bit for drilling a borehole in an earthen formation. In an embodiment, the bit comprises a first blade having a cutter-supporting surface. In addition, the bit comprises a plurality of primary cutter elements with cutting faces mounted to the cutter-supporting surface. The cutting profiles of the cutting faces define an outermost cutting profile P | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110005836 | STABILIZER SUBS FOR USE WITH EXPANDABLE REAMER APPARATUS,EXPANDABLE REAMER APPARATUS INCLUDING STABILIZER SUBS AND RELATED METHODS - An expandable reamer apparatus and stabilizer sub having at least one rib thereon attached thereto for drilling a subterranean formation. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110005837 | FIXED CUTTER DRILL BIT FOR ABRASIVE APPLICATIONS - The invention provides a fixed cutter drill bit for drilling through unconsolidated, highly abrasive formations. The bit includes a bit body having a cutting face and a side portion. The bit body comprising carbide matrix material. A plurality of blades azimuthally spaced about the cutting face and a plurality of cutters disposed along the blades. At least one gage pad is disposed along a side of the bit body and includes wear resistant gage elements formed of a material more wear resistant than the matrix material forming a portion of the gage pad. The wear resistant elements have a rounded surface and are embedded in gage pad material proximal a leading edge of the gage pad to provide a rounded wear-resistant edge or surface proximal the leading edge. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110011645 | CROSSLINKED GLYCEROL OR OLIGOGLYCEROL ESTERS, AND USE THEREOF AS AN ADDITIVE IN DRILLING FLUIDS - The present invention relates to a crosslinked glycerol or oligoglycerol ester which can be obtained by crosslinking a non-crosslinked glycerol or oligoglycerol ester which can be obtained by reacting an
| 01-20-2011 |
| 20110017513 | DRILLING UNIT, METHOD FOR SLOT DRILLING AND SLOTTING DEVICE - A slotting device ( | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110024193 | Optimized central cutter and method - A central cutting structure for use with a drill bit includes a plurality of cutters, of which at least one overlaps the center of a supporting member from which the cutters extend. Each cutter has a side rake angle that provides an overlapping relationship with at least one other cutter to provide an aggressive cutting surface for penetrating hard formations. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110024194 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ONE-TRIP HOLE ENLARGEMENT OPERATIONS - A drilling assembly for simultaneous hole enlargement operations comprises a drill bit, an adjustable diameter reamer, and a hole opener. The reamer is coupled with, and positioned uphole from the drill bit. The reamer is adjustable between a first diameter and a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter. The hole opener is coupled with, and positioned uphole from the reamer. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110031021 | Anti-Tracking Spear Points for Earth-Boring Drill Bits - Described herein are roller cone drill bits and modified roller cones for use in drilling subterranean earth formations, and more specifically roller cone drill bits and roller cones having optimized spear point designs and blade orientations on at least one of the roller cones for reduced tracking and/or increased drilling performance during bit use. The roller cone drill bits include a bit body with a longitudinal axis, one or more bit legs depending from the body, and at least one roller cone attached to each of the bit legs and able to rotate with respect to the bit body, wherein at least one of the roller cones includes a spear point at the cone apex having two or more cutting blades, the cutting blades being oriented at a variety of non-equal, asymmetric angles about a central cone axis with respect to each other, such that tracking during drilling using the drill bit is minimized or eliminated. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110036631 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING DOWNHOLE ROTATIONAL RATE OF A DRILLING TOOL - A downhole rotational rate control apparatus, adapted for coupling to the lower end of a drill string, includes a progressive cavity (PC) motor, a driveshaft, a mud flow control valve, and an electronics section. Drilling mud flowing downward through the drill string is partially diverted to flow upward through the PC motor and out into the wellbore annulus, with the mud flow rate and, in turn, the PC motor speed being controlled by the mud flow control valve. The control valve is actuated by a control motor in response to inputs from a sensor assembly in the electronics section. The PC motor drives the driveshaft and a controlled downhole device at a specific zero or non-zero rotational rate. By varying the rotational rate of the PC motor relative to the rotational rate of the drill string, the tool face orientation or non-zero rotational speed of the controlled device in either direction can be varied in a controlled manner. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110042142 | Spindrill - The disclosure describes, in part, apparatuses and methods for installing structures (e.g., foundations, footings, anchors, abutments, etc.) at work sites, such as difficult-access work sites. In some instances, a rotating drill assembly is assembled over a target location in order to excavate a radial array of batter-angled shafts associated with the target location in preparation for the installation of a radial array of micropiles. An operator utilizes the rotating drill in combination with a foundation pile schedule/decision matrix to design and install the radial array of batter-angled micropiles. This disclosure also describes techniques for designing, fabricating and installing structural caps to be coupled to the installed radial array batter angled micropiles. These structural caps are lightweight and, thus, more portable to difficult-access sites where they are coupled to the micropiles forming a foundation for structure to be installed at the difficult-access site. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110048803 | DRILLING CUTTINGS MOBILIZER - A rotating drill string sub redistributes wellbore drill cuttings into the drilling fluid flowstream to improve the efficiency of the drilling operation. Standoff elements are located on each side of an agitator, all configured on a relatively short section of drill pipe. The agitator comprises a plurality of alternating blades standing radially outward from and arranged helically about the axis of the sub, and grooves located between pairs of adjacent blades, each groove comprising a flow channel that is open at both ends of the agitator. The standoff elements contain abutment surfaces having an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of the agitator, so that the agitator is prevented from contacting the wall of the wellbore and therefore does not experience the forces that the standoff elements experience. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048804 | DRILLING DEVICE AND DRILLING METHOD - The invention relates to a drilling device and a drilling method for drilling inside a casing tube with a drilling apparatus, which has a supporting frame with a fastening means for fixation with respect to the casing tube and a drilling tool, which is driven in a rotating manner via a telescopic rod by means of a drill drive arranged on the supporting frame. At the upper end of the casing tube a receiving part is arranged in accordance with the invention, onto which the supporting frame can be fastened. The receiving part is adjustably supported between a drilling position and an offset position, in which the receiving part is laterally offset with respect to the casing tube. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048805 | DRILLING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR WORKING THE GROUND - The invention relates to a drilling apparatus for working the ground comprising a drill drive for driving a drill string in a rotating manner and a rotary feedthrough for passing a construction material from a construction material hose into the interior of the drill string, whereby the rotary feedthrough has a first line connection for the construction material hose and a second line connection, rotatable relative to the first line connection, for the drill string. In accordance with the invention provision is made for the rotary feedthrough to have a rotary device for actively rotating the second line connection relative to the first line connection. The invention also relates to a method for working the ground, which can be carried out, in particular, by means of a drilling apparatus according to the invention. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048806 | Apparatus and Methods for Controlling Bottomhole Assembly Temperature During a Pause in Drilling Boreholes - A method for reducing temperature of a bottomhole assembly during a drilling operation is disclosed, that, in one aspect, may include: drilling a borehole using a drillstring including a bottomhole assembly by circulating a fluid through the drillstring and an annulus between the drillstring and the borehole, pausing drilling, continuing circulating the fluid through the dill string and the annulus. The method further includes diverting a portion of the fluid from the drillstring into the annulus at a selected location above the drill bit to reduce temperature of the bottomhole assembly. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110056751 | Ultra-hard matrix reamer elements and methods - Reamer elements for use with roller reamers and other types of reamer apparatuses, methods for forming such reamer elements, and methods for performing drilling operations using such reamer elements are disclosed. The reamer element includes a body formed from a matrix of tungsten carbide and at least one binding metal, and can include a tube disposed therethrough. In use, the body resists compressive forces, while the tube resists tensile forces, thereby preventing deformation of the reamer element. The matrix material of the body provides increased wear resistance, decreased magnetic interference, decreased yield, and increased weight on a drill bit when compared to conventional steel components. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110056752 | METHODS AND AQUEOUS BASED WELLBORE FLUIDS FOR REDUCING WELLBORE FLUID LOSS AND FILTRATE LOSS - Embodiments disclosed herein relate to aqueous based wellbore fluids for preventing wellbore fluid loss downhole containing at least one copolymer formed from at least one natural polymer monomer and at least one latex monomer, and an aqueous base fluid. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110061936 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DRILLING DIRECTIONAL WELLS BY PERCUSSION METHOD - A drilling tool assembly may include a housing, a piston disposed in the housing, and a clutch assembly coupled to the housing and the piston. The clutch assembly may be configured to facilitate rotation of the piston relative to the housing. A cutting assembly may be coupled to the piston in a manner that it is rotatable relative to the piston. A method of forming a wellbore may include positioning a drilling tool in the wellbore, the drilling tool comprising a housing, a piston, a clutch assembly, and a drill head. The method may further include reciprocating the piston axially within the housing, rotating the piston relative to the housing the clutch assembly, rotating the drill head relative to the housing and the piston, and forming the wellbore. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110067923 | Method of Drilling a Subterranean Borehole - A method of drilling a subterranean well bore using a tubular drill string, the method including the steps of injecting a drilling fluid into the well bore via the drill string and removing said drilling fluid from an annular space in the well bore around the drill string via a return line, wherein the method further includes oscillating the pressure of the fluid in the annular space in the well bore, and monitoring the rate of flow of fluid along the return line. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067924 | IMPREGNATED CUTTING ELEMENTS WITH LARGE ABRASIVE CUTTING MEDIA AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - Implementations of the present invention include impregnated drill bits having a plurality of relatively large abrasive cutting media, such as polycrystalline diamonds, embedded therein. According to some implementations of the present invention, the relatively large abrasive cutting media can be dispersed in an unorganized arrangement throughout at least a portion of the crown. Additionally, one or more implementations can include a second plurality of relatively small abrasive cutting media. Implementations of the present invention also include drilling systems including impregnated drill bits having a plurality of relatively large abrasive cutting media embedded therein, methods of using such impregnated drill bits, and methods of forming such impregnated drill bits. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110073369 | EARTH-BORING TOOLS, METHODS OF MAKING EARTH-BORING TOOLS AND METHODS OF DRILLING WITH EARTH-BORING TOOLS - Earth-boring tools comprise a body having a face at a leading end. A plurality of cutting elements are disposed over the face and configured as a plurality of kerfing pairs comprising two or more cutting elements disposed at substantially the same radial position relative to a bit axis, wherein each of the at least two cutting elements follows substantially the same cutting path when the bit is rotated about its axis. Earth-boring tools are further configured so that a summation of a lateral force generated during drilling by each cutting element of the plurality of cutting elements is directed toward a side of the body. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073370 | EARTH-BORING TOOLS HAVING EXPANDABLE CUTTING STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF USING SUCH EARTH-BORING TOOLS - Expandable reamers for enlarging wellbores include a tubular body and one or more blades configured to extend and retract. A sleeve member within the tubular body has open ends to allow fluid to flow therethrough. A fluid port extends through a wall of the sleeve member. A restriction member within the sleeve is movable between first and second positions. In the first position, fluid flow through the downhole end of the sleeve is generally unimpeded, and fluid flow through the fluid port is generally impeded. In the second position, fluid flow through the downhole end of the sleeve member is generally impeded, and fluid flow through the fluid port is generally unimpeded. The restriction member may be configured to move responsive to changes in the rate of fluid flow through the sleeve member. Methods of using such reamers are also disclosed. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073371 | TOOLS FOR USE IN DRILLING OR ENLARGING WELL BORES HAVING EXPANDABLE STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING SUCH TOOLS - Expandable reamers for enlarging boreholes in subterranean formations include a tubular body at least one member positioned in openings in the tubular body. The at least one member is configured to move between retracted and extended positions. A push sleeve is disposed at least partially within the tubular body and coupled to the at least one member. The push sleeve moves axially upward to move the member to the extended position in response to a pressure of drilling fluid passing through a drilling fluid flow path in the tubular body. The push sleeve moves axially downward to move the member to the retracted position in response to a pressure of drilling fluid upon a restrictive element disposed within the fluid passageway. The restrictive element disposed within the fluid passageway may be discarded from the fluid passageway by increasing the flow rate through the drilling fluid flow path. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110079432 | Method and device for core drilling - A method in core drilling, wherein a tubular drill bit ( | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110079433 | PUMP-IN SEAL - An assembly may be disposed within a drill string. The assembly may be moved within and along the drill string using hydraulic pressure. A core sample may be collected within the assembly, and the assembly may be retrieved to obtain the core sample. The assembly may include a seal that may be configured to form a seal with different inner diameters of a variable-diameter drill rod of the drill string. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110079434 | DRILL PIPE HANDLING AND MOVING SYSTEM - A pipe handling system includes a frame removably coupled to a drilling mast, a gripping arm moveably coupled to the frame, and a grip jaw extending from the gripping arm to engage a drill pipe, wherein the gripping arm and the grip jaw are operable to move a drill pipe from within the drilling mast to a pipe storage area adjacent the drilling mast. Other embodiments include a pipe racker and a setback handling system disposed below the pipe racker to engage a lower end of the drill pipe, the setback handling system including a moveable pipe guide and a rotating table supporting the pipe guide. In some embodiments, the rotating table also supports a pipe mover for moving the drill pipe to desired storage positions in a setback rack. Pipe handling methods are also disclosed. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110083900 | DOWNHOLE DRILLING SYSTEM - A drilling system for drilling a borehole. The system comprising a drilling assembly including a drilling motor; a drill bit mounted on the drilling assembly to be rotated by the drilling motor, an axial drive mechanism connected to the drilling assembly for moving the drilling assembly through the borehole and operable to provide weight on the bit (WOB) during drilling, and a drill string connected to the drilling assembly. The drill string is a flexible conduit to convey fluid between the surface and the drilling assembly and the WOB and torque on bit (TOB) are provided downhole by the drilling assembly. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110088950 | CUTTING ELEMENTS CONFIGURED TO GENERATE SHEAR LIPS DURING USE IN CUTTING, EARTH BORING TOOLS INCLUDING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS, AND METHODS OF FORMING AND USING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS AND EARTH BORING TOOLS - Cutting elements for earth-boring tools may generate a shear lip at a wear scar thereon during cutting. A diamond table may exhibit a relatively high wear resistance, and an edge of the diamond table may be chamfered, the combination of which may result in the formation of a shear lip. Cutting elements may comprise multi-layer diamond tables that result in the formation of a shear lip during cutting. Earth-boring tools include such cutting elements. Methods of forming cutting elements may include selectively designing and configuring the cutting elements to form a shear lip. Methods of cutting a formation using an earth-boring tool include cutting the formation with a cutting element on the tool, and generating a shear lip at a wear scar on the cutting element. The cutting element may be configured such that the shear lip comprises diamond material of the cutting element. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110094800 | Method for Control of a Drilling Operation - A method for controlling a drilling operation, in particular in production or exploration drilling for hydrocarbons, in which a drill bit is arranged on an end of a drill string and, by rotation and pressure against an underground formation, is arranged to form a borehole, and in which a drilling fluid is circulated through a pipe bore into the borehole at the drill bit to convey cuttings out of the borehole. The method comprises the steps of: providing data on the particle size distribution of the cuttings; comparing the provided particle size distribution with data for the desired particle size distribution when drilling in the underground formation of interest; and adjusting the critical control parameters of the drilling operation with the aim of achieving a cuttings particle size distribution which corresponds, to the greatest extent possible, to the desired particle size distribution. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110100714 | BACKUP CUTTING ELEMENTS ON NON-CONCENTRIC EARTH-BORING TOOLS AND RELATED METHODS - An apparatus for engaging a subterranean borehole includes a bi-center bit having backup cutting elements thereon. The bi-center bit includes a pilot bit section and a reamer bit section adjacent to the pilot bit section. The pilot bit section includes at least one primary cutting element and at least one backup cutting element rotationally trailing and laterally offset from the at least one primary cutting element. Methods of drilling a subterranean borehole include engaging a first portion of a borehole with a reamer bit section of a drill bit and simultaneously engaging a second, opposing portion of the borehole with a pilot bit section adjacent to the reamer bit section. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110108326 | Drill Bit With Recessed Center - A drill bit configured for boring holes or wells into the earth include a plurality of blades configured with a recessed center such that the blades cut a core therebetween. Cutting elements in the recessed center are configured to cut and remove the core. The recessed center has a first diameter at a height from the cutting elements in the recessed center and a second diameter smaller than the first diameter such that the confining stress on the core is relieved prior to being cut by the cutting elements in the recessed center. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110114387 | ANNULUS PRESSURE CONTROL DRILLING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - In one embodiment, a method for drilling a wellbore includes an act of drilling the wellbore by injecting drilling fluid through a tubular string disposed in the wellbore, the tubular string comprising a drill bit disposed on a bottom thereof. The drilling fluid exits the drill bit and carries cuttings from the drill bit. The drilling fluid and cuttings (returns) flow to a surface of the wellbore via an annulus defined by an outer surface of the tubular string and an inner surface of the wellbore. The method further includes an act performed while drilling the wellbore of measuring a first annulus pressure (FAP) using a pressure sensor attached to a casing string hung from a wellhead of the wellbore. The method further includes an act performed while drilling the wellbore of controlling a second annulus pressure (SAP) exerted on a formation exposed to the annulus. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110120773 | SWITCHABLE CIRCULATING TOOL - A circulating tool for use in drilling a bore hole, the tool including a plurality of pistons which, by the activation of fluid pressure, move between a first configuration in which a side port of the tool is covered by a piston and a second configuration in which two adjacent pistons separate across the port to allow fluid to jet from the port. In the first configuration, the tool has a continuous cylindrical bore to allow the passage of other tools through the tool, while a flapper valve closes the bore in the second configuration to achieve maximum jetting of fluid from the tool. A third or intermediate configuration is also described so that the tool is operable to switch multiple times between the configurations via an indexing mechanism. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110120774 | Drill Bit and Method for Inserting, Expanding, Collapsing, and Retrieving Drill Bit - A drill bit comprising a bit body connectable to a drill string at an first end, which bit body is provided with a longitudinal passageway extending from an opening at the first end to a port at a second end a closure element for closing the passageway, when the closure element is in a closing position, which closure element is removable, and wherein the closure element comprises a first and a second member which are movable relative to each other between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration, in which collapsed configuration, the closure element is retractable through the passageway to the first end. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110127085 | MODULAR CONNECTOR AND METHOD - A modular tool for use in subterranean formations includes a first module, a second module and one or more connectors for connecting the first and second modules. In particular, the first module includes a first collar that at least partially defines an exterior of the tool and that includes a first engagement mechanism at a first end of the collar and a second engagement mechanism at a second end of the collar. The first module also includes a fluid passageway for passing drilling fluid therethrough. The second module has a similar configuration as includes similar architecture. The one or more connectors facilitate the connection of at least one flowline fluidly connected to an exterior of the tool, and an electrical pathway for transmitting power and/or data between the modules. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110127086 | HELICAL DRILLING APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - A down-the-hole assembly includes a housing having a central axis and a mechanical gear box positioned within the housing. The mechanical gear box is coupled to the housing such that rotation of the housing at a first rotational rate provides a rotary input to the mechanical gear box. A rotary cutting bit is coupled to the mechanical gear box. The mechanical gear box is configured to rotate said rotary cutting bit at a second rotational rate in response to that rotary input from the housing. The second rotational rate is greater than the first rotational rate. The mechanical gear box is also further configured to cause the rotary cutting bit to orbit about the central axis of the housing. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110132664 | DRILL MAST ARTICULATION ASSEMBLY - A jib assembly for use with a drill rig includes a jib boom having a first end and a second end. The jib boom is to rotate about the first end and the second end is configured to be coupled to a mast assembly mount. The jib assembly also includes an articulation assembly having at least one variable length link having a first end and a second end. The first end of the variable length link is offset from the jib boom and the second end is configured to be pivotingly coupled to the mast assembly mount. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110139511 | METHOD FOR INTRODUCING A VERTICAL SHAFT AND SHAFT DRIVING MACHINE - The invention relates to a method for introducing a vertical shaft underground and to a shaft driving machine set up particularly for performing the method, wherein a cutting wheel is rotated solely about a horizontal axis until a penetration trough having a predetermined penetration depth is formed, and the cutting wheel is then also rotated about a central vertical axis until a shaft foot is dug out to the penetration depth. A relatively high sinking rate is thereby achieved for the shaft. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110147085 | ROTATION INHIBITING APPARATUS - Embodiments disclosed herein relate to methods and apparatus to inhibit rotation within a drilling rig. The apparatus may include a first member connected to a first component of the drilling rig, and a second member connected to the first member and connected to a second component of the drilling rig, the second component configured to move vertically with respect to the first component. The first member is configured to move vertically with respect to the second member and the first member and the second member substantially inhibit rotation between each other. The apparatus may include a rotational adjustment system, in which the rotational adjustment system is used to connect with one of the components of the drilling rig. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110147086 | DOWNHOLE TOOLS WITH ELECTRO-MECHANICAL AND ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC DRIVES - An apparatus to be conveyed into a wellbore is provided, wherein the apparatus includes a housing configured to be conveyed downhole and a drive member located in the housing. The apparatus further includes a drive unit configured to actuate movement of the drive member by selectively coupling to the drive member, wherein the coupling of the device to the drive member is controlled by applying an energy to a selected material in the device. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110155465 | Retractable Underreamer - An underreamer is provided in which the cutting elements are retracted into the tool body during run in, extensible for the performance of cutting operations, and retractable into the body of the tool afterwards. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110168447 | REAMING TOOL - A reaming tool for use in reaming a bore includes a body adapted for location in a bore. The body defines a rotor of a rotary drive arrangement. A shaft adapted for location is disposed in the body. The shaft defines a stator of the rotary drive arrangement. A seal element is disposed between the shaft and the body. The seal element defines a bearing surface for permitting sealed relative rotation of the rotary drive arrangement. The tool includes a reaming member, wherein relative rotation between the body and the shaft facilitates reaming of the bore by the reaming member. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110174542 | TUBULAR MEMBER ADAPTOR APPARATUS - Apparatuses, systems, and methods in accordance with the present disclosure are disclosed herein. The system includes a gripping tool operatively connected to and suspended from the top drive assembly, in which the gripping tool includes an axis defined therethrough and a gripping member, and an adaptor apparatus having a first end and a second end. The at least one gripping member engages the adaptor apparatus, and the second end includes a connection member to connect with the tubular member. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110180326 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CUTTING A WELLBORE - An apparatus for cutting a wellbore includes a motor with a stator and a rotor. The rotor includes an output shaft connected to a cutting structure to drive the cutting structure in use. The stator and rotor are spaced radially outwardly of the axis of the rotor such that at least one of the stator and the rotor has an access bore that extends through the motor to a position adjacent the cutting structure and through which a further object can pass without obstruction from the stator and rotor. The further object includes a further cutting structure. The motor workings are radially outward of the output shaft and the further cutting structure so as not to obstruct passage of the further cutting structure toward the cutting structure, such that the motor workings do not require drilling or removal to allow the further cutting structure access to the cutting structure. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110186354 | METHODS OF ATTACHING A SHANK TO A BODY OF AN EARTH-BORING TOOL INCLUDING A LOAD BEARING JOINT AND TOOLS FORMED BY SUCH METHODS - Earth-boring rotary drill bits including a bit body attached to a shank assembly at a joint. In some embodiments, the joint may be configured to carry at least a portion of any tensile longitudinal and rotational load applied to the drill bit by mechanical interference at the joint. In additional embodiments, the joint may be configured to carry a selected portion of any tensile longitudinal load applied to the drill bit. Methods for attaching a shank assembly to a bit body of an earth-boring rotary drill bit include configuring a joint to carry at least a portion of any tensile longitudinal and rotational load applied to the drill bit by mechanical interference. Additional embodiments include configuring a joint to carry a selected portion of any tensile longitudinal load applied to the drill bit by mechanical interference. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110186355 | DRILL STRING MOUNTED ROTATABLE TOOL AND CLEANING METHOD - A method of drilling and cleaning a wellbore whilst rotating the drill string after full drilling depth is reached without running the drill string out the bore to install a clean up work string is disclosed wherein a drill string having a drill bit at one end includes at least one near bit selectively activatable cleaning tool ( | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110198127 | METHODS OF BRAKING CORE BARREL ASSEMBLIES - A braking device for drilling operations in a borehole includes a brake retainer having a plurality of brake connector openings defined therein, a body member having a tapered surface having a first diameter and a second diameter, the second diameter being larger than the first diameter, at least one brake element positioned at least partially between the brake retainer and the body member and in communication with the tapered surface and at least one of the brake connector openings, and a bias member configured to exert a biasing force on the body member to move the body member toward the brake retainer to move the brake element from contact with the first diameter of the tapered surface toward contact with the second diameter. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110198128 | EARTH-BORING TOOLS INCLUDING ABRASIVE CUTTING STRUCTURES AND RELATED METHODS - A drill bit includes a bit body having a face on which two different types of cutters are disposed, the first type being cutting elements suitable for drilling at least one subterranean formation and the second type being at least one of an abrasive cutting structure and an abrasive cutting element suitable for drilling through a casing shoe, reamer shoe, casing bit, casing or liner string and cementing equipment or other components, as well as cement. Methods of forming earth-boring tools include disposing at least one abrasive cutting structure or element on the earth-boring tool. Methods of drilling with earth-boring tools including drilling with at least one abrasive cutting structure or element. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110203848 | Reverse Circulation Apparatus and Methods of Using Same - In one aspect, an apparatus for drilling a wellbore into an earth formation is disclosed, which apparatus, according to one embodiment, may include a drill string configured to be conveyed into a wellbore, wherein an annulus is formed between the drill string and a wellbore wall, a first flow device configured to circulate a first fluid from an annulus to a bore of the drill string, and a second flow device positioned downhole of the first flow device, the second flow device configured to circulate a second fluid from the bore of the drill string to the annulus. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110203849 | Expandable Reamers for Earth Boring Applications - An expandable reamer apparatus for drilling a subterranean formation includes a tubular body, one or more blades, each blade positionally coupled to a sloped track of the tubular body, a push sleeve and a drilling fluid flow path extending through an inner bore of the tubular body for conducting drilling fluid therethrough. Each of the one or more blades includes at least one cutting element configured to remove material from a subterranean formation during reaming. The push sleeve is disposed in the inner bore of the tubular body and coupled to each of the one or more blades so as effect axial movement thereof along the track to an extended position responsive to exposure to a force or pressure of drilling fluid in the flow path of the inner bore. The apparatus is provided with a caliper for measuring the actual borehole size. Remedial action may be taken based on a comparison of the actual borehole size and the intended size. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110203850 | METHODS OF DRILLING USING DIFFERING TYPES OF CUTTING ELEMENTS - A drill bit includes a bit body having a face on which two different types of cutting elements are disposed, the first type being cutting elements suitable for drilling at least one subterranean formation and the second type being cutting elements suitable for drilling through a casing bit disposed at an end of a casing or liner string and cementing equipment or other components, if such are disposed within the casing or liner string, as well as cement inside as well as exterior to the casing or liner string. The second type of cutting elements exhibits a relatively greater exposure than the first type of cutting elements, so as to engage the interior of the casing bit and, if present, cementing equipment components and cement to drill therethrough, after which the second type of cutting elements quickly wears upon engagement with the subterranean formation material exterior to the casing bit, and the first type of cutting elements continues to drill the subterranean formation. The first type of cutting elements may comprise superabrasive cutting elements and the second type of cutting elements may comprise abrasive or superabrasive cutting elements comprising a plurality of configurations. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110214918 | Excavation Apparatuses and Methods - Excavation apparatus are provided that can include a fixed portion configured to couple with a first conduit, a rotatable extendible portion movably coupled to the fixed portion, and a coiled conduit associated with extendible portion and in fluid communication with the first conduit. Excavation methods are provided that can include extending an excavating tool from an excavation apparatus to within an excavation site while rotating the excavating tool in relation to a fixed portion of the excavation apparatus, and maintaining fluid communication between the fixed portion and the excavating tool. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110214919 | Dual top drive systems and methods - Systems and methods for wellbore operations using a dual top drive system with two top drives; the top drives positioned with one above the other; the two top drives in certain aspects movable separately or in unison; in one aspect the top drives operational to counter each other's reactive torque; and in other aspects the wellbore operation being one of drilling, casing, casing while drilling, casing drilling, reaming, underreaming, joint make-up, joint breakout, milling, managed pressure drilling, underbalanced drilling, tubular running, tubular running with continuous circulation, controlling bit face orientation during operations with a bit, conducting well operations based on mechanical specific energy considerations, and automatic drilling. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110214920 | Universal drilling and completion system - Methods and apparatus are described to drill and complete wellbores. Such wellbores include extended reach horizontal wellbores, for example in shales, deep subsea extended reach wellbores, and multilateral wellbores. Specifically, the invention provides simple threaded subassemblies that are added to existing threaded tubular drilling and completion equipment which are used to dramatically increase the lateral reach using that existing on-site equipment. These subassemblies extract power from downward flowing clean mud, or other fluids, in an annulus to provide additional force or torque on tubular elements within the wellbore, while maintaining circulation, to extend the lateral reach of the drilling equipment and completion equipment. These added elements include combinations of The Leaky Seal™, a Cross-Over, The Force Sub™ and The Torque Sub™. The use of such additional simple elements allow lighter drilling equipment to be used to reach a given lateral distance, therefore reducing drilling costs. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110220413 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CREATING A DEEP BOREHOLE - The invention relates to a method for creating a deep borehole, in particular in an emission-sensitive region, and to a device therefor. The invention is based on the object of providing a drilling method and a drilling device allowing deep boreholes to be created even in regions which are sensitive to emissions, such as inner-city buildings or in nature regions to be protected, and at the same time of reducing significant damage to these regions when creating deep boreholes. This object is achieved in that a shaft structure ( | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110220414 | MULTI-COUPLING REDUCED LENGTH MEASURE WHILE DRILLING APPARATUS - A downhole drilling apparatus for measure while drilling including a housing defining a longitudinal housing axis, wherein the housing has an upper end and a lower end. A motor includes a rotor, wherein the rotor is adapted to be driven by drilling fluids. A first drive coupling is coupled between the rotor and a first driven rod. A second drive coupling is coupled between the driven rod an a connecting shaft. A third drive coupling is coupled between the connecting shaft and a second driven rod. A fourth drive coupling is coupled between the second driven rod and a motor bearing section, wherein the connecting shaft extends through an offset bore in the housing and transmits power from the motor to the drill bit. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110220415 | ULTRA-LOW FRICTION COATINGS FOR DRILL STEM ASSEMBLIES - Provided are drill stem assemblies with ultra-low friction coatings for subterraneous drilling operations. In one form, the coated drill stem assemblies for subterraneous rotary drilling operations include a body assembly with an exposed outer surface including a drill string coupled to a bottom hole assembly, a coiled tubing coupled to a bottom hole assembly, or a casing string coupled to a bottom hole assembly and an ultra-low friction coating on at least a portion of the exposed outer surface of the body assembly, hardbanding on at least a portion of the exposed outer surface of the body assembly, an ultra-low friction coating on at least a portion of the hardbanding, wherein the ultra-low friction coating comprises one or more ultra-low friction layers, and one or more buttering layers interposed between the hardbanding and the ultra-low friction coating. The coated drill stem assemblies disclosed herein provide for reduced friction, vibration (stick-slip and torsional), abrasion, and wear during straight hole or directional drilling to allow for improved rates of penetration and enable ultra-extended reach drilling with existing top drives. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110220416 | Centralized Bi-Center Reamer and Method of Use - This apparatus provides an underreamer and a reamer or hole opener to enlarge an existing pilot hole thereby permitting further operation to be carried out in a well bore. The underreamer can be inserted down a well bore in the unexpanded condition and, since the radius of the eccentrically mounted cutters of the reamer or hole opener added to the radius of the unexpanded underreamer equals the pass through diameter (the inner diameter of the restriction), the entire assembly or apparatus can be inserted to the position requiring enlarging. The underreamer is expanded to engage the adjacent wall of the well bore and stabilize the reamer as it enlarges the hole. Since movement resulting from the lateral forces are restrained by the centralizer/underreamer as well as the bullnose or smaller pilot hole drill bit, the bi-center reamer can readily open the well bore to the desired diameter without lateral deviation. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110226532 | INSERT FOR AN ATTACK TOOL, METHOD FOR MAKING SAME AND TOOLS INCORPORATING SAME - The invention relates to an insert for an attack tool, the insert comprising a super-hard cap having a volume and bonded to a substrate at an interface, the super-hard cap having an average Young's modulus of greater than 900 GPa and the substrate characterised in that it comprises a reinforcing bolster portion as a means for stiffening a region of the substrate proximate the interface, the reinforcing bolster portion having an aggregate volume that is greater than that of the super-hard cap and an average Young's modulus at least 60% that of the super-hard cap. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing such an insert and a method for using such an insert. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110232968 | Borehole Drilling Optimization With Multiple Cutting Structures - A method of optimizing a drilling operating parameter or a drilling system parameter for a drilling assembly employing at least first and second distinct cutting structures includes entering at least one design parameter for each of the cutting structures into a trained artificial neural network. At least one of the design parameters of the first cutting structure may be optionally combined with at least one of the design parameters of the second cutting structure. The combined design parameter may also be entered into the artificial neural network. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232969 | DOWNHOLE TOOL DEACTIVATION AND RE-ACTIVATION - A downhole tool including a tubular body having an upper connection and a lower connection and an axial borehole therethrough, wherein the upper and lower connections are configured to connect to a drilling assembly, at least one expandable component coupled to the tubular body and configured to selectively extend radially therefrom, and an actuation assembly configured to selectively actuate, deactuate, and reactuate the at least one component. A method of selectively actuating a downhole tool, wherein the downhole tool comprises a tubular body with an axial borehole therethrough and at least one component, the method including circulating a drilling fluid in the axial borehole of the downhole tool, actuating the at least one component, deactuating the at least one component, and reactuating the at least one component. An actuation assembly including a mandrel having an actuation chamber port, at least one drop device, a piston disposed within the mandrel and configured to move to open the actuation chamber port, at least one dart, a sleeve disposed within the mandrel and configured to move to close the actuation chamber port; and at least one biasing member configured to exert a force on the sleeve in an upstream direction. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232970 | COILED TUBING PERCUSSION DRILLING - A method of drilling a subterranean wellbore can include extending coiled tubing into the wellbore, and actuating an impact tool interconnected to the coiled tubing, thereby delivering impacts to a drill bit. A coiled tubing drilling system for drilling a subterranean wellbore can include coiled tubing, a drill bit, and an impact tool which delivers impacts to the drill bit. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110240366 | Inner Bit Disposed within an Outer Bit - In one aspect of the present invention, a drill bit assembly for downhole drilling comprises an outer bit comprising a central axis and an outer cutting area and an inner bit disposed within the outer bit and comprising an inner cutting area. The outer bit comprises a first plurality of cutting elements and the inner bit comprises a second plurality of cutting elements wherein an average distance of each cutting element in the first plurality to the central axis forms a first moment arm and an average distance of each cutting element in the second plurality to the central axis forms a second moment arm. A ratio of the inner cutting area to the outer cutting area is substantially equal to a ratio of the outer moment arm to the inner moment arm. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240367 | Milling Tool for Establishing Openings in Wellbore Obstructions - A milling tool which includes a nose cutting portion, a cutting section having a plurality of hardened cutters and a shaft portion. A wear pad is disposed on the cutting section and shaft portion. Upon the shaft portion, the wear pad extends radially outwardly to an engagement diameter that exceeds the maximum cutting diameter of the cutters. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110253450 | CUTTING DEVICE FOR PRODUCING VERTICALLY RUNNING TRENCHES IN THE GROUND - The invention relates to a cutting device for producing vertically running trenches in the ground, comprising a trench wall cutter which has a cutting frame, a first cutting wheel arrangement and a second cutting wheel arrangement, whereby the cutting wheel arrangements are arranged adjacent to each other on the underside of the cutting frame in order to remove ground material underneath the cutting frame. The invention is characterized in that the trench wall cutter has an adjusting means, with which the first cutting wheel arrangement is adjustable in a direction lying obliquely underneath the second cutting wheel arrangement. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253451 | Borehole Impact Rock Breaker - A device used to break rock from within a predrilled borehole through the use of impact pins which strike against the interior sides of a drilled hole. The device is loaded into a drilled hole and then activated by a percussive hammer located above the hole, providing percussive energy to the device which is then transferred to the sidewall of the drilled hole. The device includes an inner piston assembly which includes a driving surface for causing impact pins to strike the interior sidewall of the drilled hole in a rapid percussive manner so as to greatly improve the ability to break and shatter surrounding rock or concrete. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110259641 | Apparatus and Method for Modifying the Sidewalls of a Borehole - The present invention concerns an apparatus ( | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110259642 | CUTTING ELEMENTS FOR EARTH-BORING TOOLS, EARTH-BORING TOOLS INCLUDING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS AND RELATED METHODS - Cutting elements, earth-boring drill bits having such cutting elements and related methods are described herein. In some embodiments, a cutting element for an earth-boring tool may include a diamond table having an indentation in a cutting face thereof and a shaped feature in a substrate at the interface between the diamond table and the substrate, the shaped feature corresponding to the indentation in the cutting face of the diamond table. In further embodiments, a cutting element for an earth-boring tool may include a sacrificial structure positioned within an indentation in a diamond table. In additional embodiments, a method of forming a cutting element may include positioning a sacrificial structure in a mold, positioning a powdered precursor material over the sacrificial structure, and pressing and sintering the powdered precursor material to form a diamond table having an indentation in a cutting face formed by the sacrificial structure. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110259643 | CASING AND LINER DRILLING SHOES HAVING SPIRAL BLADE CONFIGURATIONS, AND RELATED METHODS - A casing bit, which may comprise a composite structure, for drilling a casing section into a subterranean formation, and which may include a portion configured to be drilled therethrough, is disclosed. Cutting elements and methods of use are disclosed. Adhesive, solder, electrically disbonding material, and braze affixation of a cutting element are disclosed. Differing abrasive material amount, characteristics, and size of cutting elements are disclosed. Telescoping casing sections and bits are disclosed. Aspects and embodiments are disclosed including: at least one gage section extending from the nose portion, at least one rotationally trailing groove formed in at least one of the plurality of blades, a movable blade, a leading face comprising superabrasive material, at least one of a drilling fluid nozzle and a sleeve, grooves for preferential failure, at least one rolling cone affixed to the nose portion, at least one sensor, discrete cutting element retention structures, and percussion inserts. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110266058 | PDC Sensing Element Fabrication Process and Tool - A Polycrystalline Diamond Compact (PDC) cutter for a rotary drill bit is provided with an integrated sensor and circuitry for making measurements of a property of a fluid in the borehole and/or an operating condition of the drill bit. A method of manufacture of the PDC cutter and the rotary drill bit is discussed. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110266059 | POLYCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND COMPACTS, CUTTING ELEMENTS AND EARTH-BORING TOOLS INCLUDING SUCH COMPACTS, AND METHODS OF FORMING SUCH COMPACTS AND EARTH-BORING TOOLS - Methods of forming a polycrystalline diamond compact for use in an earth-boring tool include forming a body of polycrystalline diamond material including a first material disposed in interstitial spaces between inter-bonded diamond crystals in the body, removing the first material from interstitial spaces in a portion of the body, selecting a second material promoting a higher rate of degradation of the polycrystalline diamond compact than the first material under similar elevated temperature conditions and providing the second material in interstitial spaces in the portion of the body. Methods of drilling include engaging at least one cutter with a formation and wearing a second region of polycrystalline diamond material comprising a second material faster than the first region of polycrystalline diamond material comprising a first material. Polycrystalline diamond compacts and earth-boring tools including such compacts are also disclosed. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110266060 | EXPANDABLE EARTH-BORING WELLBORE REAMERS AND RELATED METHODS - Expandable reamer tools include an outer body, a fluid passageway extending through the outer body, and at least one blade configured to slide relative to the outer body between a refracted position and an expanded position in a direction oriented at an acute angle of less than ninety degrees (90°) to a longitudinal axis of the outer body. In some embodiments, the tools may include a moveable inner sleeve member configured to selectively allow hydraulic fluid pressure within the fluid passageway to act directly on the at least one blade. Methods for enlarging a borehole using such expandable reamer tools and methods for removing such expandable reamer tools from a borehole are also disclosed. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110278068 | REGENERATIVE DRIVE MECHANISM FOR HYDRAULIC FEED CYLINDERS IN HYDROSTATIC OR HYDRAULIC CIRCUITS - Methods and systems for storing kinetic energy in a fluid-base power circuit. A regenerative control valve manifold diverts fluid flow from a hydraulic device performing a first operation into an accumulator. The accumulator stores a fluid volume sufficient to perform a second operation. The regenerative control valve manifold connects the accumulator to the power circuit providing a fluid flow and charge pressure sufficient to perform the second operation. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110278069 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DOWN-THE-HOLE DRILLING - A method and apparatus for down-the-hole drilling. The drilling is carried out by a drilling device including a casing and a drilling unit. The drilling head includes a first drill for drilling a center hole, a second drill for reaming the center hole and a flushing flow arrangement including a first flusher for leading a flushing medium onto a drilling surface and a second flusher for returning of the flushing medium and drilling waste inside the casing. The first drill is removably coupled with the second drill to enable removal thereof from the hole. The casing is arranged to be drawn into a hole to be drilled by the drilling unit. The flushing medium is brought onto the drilling surface and returned therefrom by axially directed flow arrangements disposed in a cross-section view on an outer periphery of the first drill and/or in an inner periphery of the second drill. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110284291 | Tension/Collar/Reamer Assemblies And Methods - The present invention provides drilling assembles and methods that are especially useful for a bottom hole drilling assembly for drilling/reaming/ or other operations related to drilling a borehole through an earth formation. In one embodiment, the drilling assembly utilizes standard drill collars which are modified to accept force transfer sections. In another embodiment, the drilling assembly comprises a tension inducing sub which creates a force that may be used to place the bottom hole assembly or portions thereof in tension. In another embodiment, a reaming assembly is held in tension to provide a stiffer reaming assembly. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110290562 | INTEGRATED GEOMECHANICS DETERMINATIONS AND WELLBORE PRESSURE CONTROL - Well pressure control is integrated in real time with geomechanics determinations made during drilling. A well drilling method includes updating determinations of properties of a formation surrounding a wellbore in real time as the wellbore is being drilled; and controlling wellbore pressure in real time as the wellbore is being drilled, in response to the updated determinations of the formation properties. Another well drilling method includes obtaining sensor measurements in a well drilling system in real time as a wellbore is being drilled; transmitting the sensor measurements to a control system in real time; the control system determining in real time properties of a formation surrounding the wellbore based on the sensor measurements, and the control system transmitting in real time a pressure setpoint to a controller; and the controller controlling operation of at least one flow control device, thereby influencing a well pressure toward the pressure setpoint. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290563 | DEVICE FOR PERFORMING DEEP DRILLINGS AND METHOD OF PERFORMING DEEP DRILLINGS - Device for performing deep drillings, especially geothermal, may include a surface base, a borehole in a geological formation, filled with fluid, and a robotic multi-functional underground drilling platform, which contains especially a block ( | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110297443 | EXPANDABLE REAMER APPARATUS AND RELATED METHODS - An expandable reamer apparatus and methods for reaming a borehole, wherein a laterally movable blade carried by a tubular body may be selectively positioned at an inward position and an expanded position. The laterally movable blade, held inwardly by blade-biasing elements, may be forced outwardly by drilling fluid selectively allowed to communicate therewith by way of an actuation sleeve disposed within the tubular body. Alternatively, a separation element may transmit force or pressure from the drilling fluid to the movable blade. Further, a chamber in communication with the movable blade may be pressurized by way of a downhole turbine or pump. A ridged seal wiper, compensator, movable bearing pad, fixed bearing pad preceding the movable blade, or adjustable spacer element to alter expanded blade position may be included within the expandable reamer. In addition, a drilling fluid pressure response indicating an operational characteristic of the expandable reamer may be generated. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110308860 | Continuous Circulating Sub for Drill Strings - A system and method for maintaining continuous flow through a drill string during drill pipe connection includes establishing drilling fluid flow axially through the length of a tubular sub attached to the top of a drill string. The sub is then engaged with a collar disposed at least partially around the perimeter of the sub so as to define an exterior flow path along the exterior of the sub. Radial flow is then initiated into the sub through said collar and along said exterior flow path. Axial flow is then terminated through the length of the tubular sub while maintaining radial flow into the sub. A pipe joint is then attached to the top of the tubular sub, axial flow is reestablished through the length of the tubular sub, radial flow is terminated into the sub, and the collar is disengaged from the sub. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308861 | EXPANDABLE REAMERS FOR SUBTERRANEAN DRILLING AND RELATED METHODS - An expandable reamer apparatus and methods for reaming a borehole are disclosed, including at least one laterally movable blade carried by a tubular body selectively positioned at an inward position and an expanded position. The at least one laterally movable blade, held inwardly by at least one blade-biasing element, may be forced outwardly by drilling fluid selectively allowed to communicate therewith or by at least one intermediate piston element. For example, an actuation sleeve may allow communication of drilling fluid with the at least one laterally movable blade in response to an actuation device being deployed within the drilling fluid. Alternatively, a chamber in communication with an intermediate piston element in structural communication with the at least one laterally movable blade may be pressurized by way of a movable sleeve, a downhole turbine, or a pump. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110315447 | Downhole cutting tool having center beveled mill blade - Downhole cutting tools such as blade mills comprise a body having a first end for connection with a rotating component of a drill string and a cutting end for rotation in unison with the body. The cutting end comprises at least two blades, each of the at least two blades comprising a front sidewall surface, a back sidewall surface, an inner end, an outer end, and at least one beveled portion disposed along the front sidewall surface toward the inner end of each of the at least two blades. At least one of the beveled portions comprise at least one cutting element disposed thereon that is disposed across a center point of the face of the cutting end to provide for cutting away an object disposed in a wellbore to occur across a center point of the cutting end. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315448 | Cutting Elements for Cutting Tools - Cutting elements for downhole cutting tools comprise a top surface having a cutting surface portion and a cutting profile disposed across the top surface. The cutting elements comprise first and second longitudinal side surfaces and first and second lateral side surfaces, each having a respective cross-section. The cutting profile can be disposed on the cutting surface either asymmetrically or symmetrically. Asymmetrical disposition permits two cutting elements to be arranged facing each other to cover a center point of a cutting tool. The cutting edge of asymmetrical or symmetrically disposed cutting profiles can have a shape that facilitates self-sharpening during cutting. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315449 | Retention of cutters in bore hole tools - A cutter retention method which uses brazed material placed in cutter pockets and cutter pocket grooves or recesses to allow braze material between the cutters and cutter pockets and in said grooves and overlapping onto the top of the cutters to better retain the cutters in the cutting bore hole tool apparatus for enhanced cutter retention and extended drilling or boring time of drill bits, underreamers, section mills hole openers, casing cutters or other down hole tools used in bore hole drilling and completion operations. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20120000708 | Surfactant Additives Used to Retain Producibility While Drilling - Of the many embodiments provided herein, one embodiment includes a method comprising: providing a drilling fluid comprising: an aqueous fluid; and a surfactant; and drilling a well bore in a subterranean formation comprising an oleaginous fluid using the drilling fluid, wherein the surfactant forms a micelle within the well bore; and removing an oil block in the formation. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120012390 | DRILLING DEVICE AND DRILLING METHOD - The invention relates to a drilling device and a drilling method for drilling inside a casing tube, wherein the drilling apparatus has a supporting frame with a fastening means for fixation with respect to the casing tube and a drilling tool, which is driven in a rotating manner via a telescopic rod by means of a drill drive arranged on the supporting frame. An emptying station for attachment to the upper end of the casing tube is provided, wherein the supporting frame of the drilling apparatus can be fastened on the emptying station. For emptying the drilling tool of drill cuttings the emptying station has an unloading means, which is adjustable for receiving the drill cuttings. The unloading means is designed for conveying the drill cuttings away from the emptying station. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012391 | DRILLING DEVICE FOR EXECUTING DIAPHRAGM WALLS AND METHOD THEREOF - A drilling method and device is for the execution of diaphragm walls by cutters, ( | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120018221 | Drill String Tooling Joint - A joint connecting a pair of members rotatable about a common axis end to end includes a first member having a threaded end portion and a non-circular exterior surface rearwardly of the threaded end portion, a second member having a threaded socket wherein the threaded end portion of the second member can be engaged, and a non-circular exterior surface, a ground engagement sleeve having a non-circular profile on an inner surface thereof whereby the sleeve can be slidably mounted on the non-circular exterior profiles of the first and second members when such profiles are brought into alignment by rotation of one member relative to the other in a manner effective to pass torque from one member to the other by means of the non-circular profiles, a first pair of alignable holes in the sleeve and first member to receive a fastener to secure the sleeve to the first member and a hole in the second member penetrating the threaded socket and positioned to receive a fastener to secure the second member to a third member in place of the first member, the third member having a hole in a threaded end portion thereof alignable with the hole in the second member. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018222 | Inflatable Restraint System - A racking board for retaining tubulars is disclosed having a first finger, a second forger positioned generally parallel to the first finger and with a gap between the fingers serving as a storage area for tubulars. A first inflatable member is supported adjacent to the first finger and a second inflatable member is supported adjacent to the second finger, the inflatable members adapted to expand radially into the gap upon inflation so as to capture and retain the tubular. In some embodiments, a single inflatable member in employed to expand into the gap and retain the tubular. A method of racking tubulars is disclosed using elongate, inflatable restraints. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018223 | POLYCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND CUTTING ELEMENT AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A polycrystalline diamond cutting (PDC) element of a drill bit of a downhole drilling tool is provided. The PDC element having a substrate, a diamond table and at least one pattern. The diamond table has an initial cutting edge along a periphery thereof. The pattern integrally formed within the diamond table. The pattern(s) defining at least one discontinuity about the diamond table that, in operation, selectively breaks away upon impact to create new cutting edges in the diamond table whereby a sharp cutting edge is continuously exposed to a material being cut. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120024602 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR MUD CLEANING APPARATUS - Techniques for controlling drilling fluid cleaning apparatus that reclaim lost circulation material from spent drilling fluid are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system includes a tank, a density separation device, and a fluid density control system. The tank holds spent drilling fluid containing drilling fluid, lost circulation material, coarse solids and fine solids. The density separation device is coupled to an outlet of the tank. The density separation device provides an overflow stream and an underflow stream. The overflow stream contains less dense material than the underflow stream. The fluid density control system is configured to adjust the density of the spent drilling fluid provided to the density separation device by recirculating a portion of the underflow stream into the tank. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024603 | APPARATUS FOR A PIPE STRING OF A GEOLOGICAL DRILL HOLE, PIPE STRING, METHOD FOR OPERATING A GEOLOGICAL DRILLING GEAR AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A PIPE STRING FOR A GEOLOGICAL DRILL HOLE - The invention relates to an apparatus for a pipe string of a geological drill hole, with a pipe string element and a fluid supply line which is arranged outside the pipe string element, extends along the pipe string element and is connected to a fluid injection device on the pipe string element, by means of which a fluid supplied through the fluid supply line can be introduced into an inner space of the pipe string element. The invention furthermore relates to a pipe string of a geological drill hole, in particular of a geothermal drill hole, a method for operating a geological drilling machine and a method for producing a pipe string for a geological drill hole. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024604 | FIXED CUTTER DRILL BIT FOR ABRASIVE APPLICATIONS - The invention provides a fixed cutter drill bit for drilling through unconsolidated, highly abrasive formations. The bit includes a bit body having a cutting face and a side portion. The bit body comprising carbide matrix material. A plurality of blades azimuthally spaced about the cutting face and a plurality of cutters disposed along the blades. At least one gage pad is disposed along a side of the bit body and includes wear resistant gage elements formed of a material more wear resistant than the matrix material forming a portion of the gage pad. The wear resistant elements have a rounded surface and are embedded in gage pad material proximal a leading edge of the gage pad to provide a rounded wear-resistant edge or surface proximal the leading edge. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024605 | DRILL HOLE PLANNING - Forming a sequence plan for a machine to travel to a series of specified locations is described. An initial cost table ( | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120031671 | Drill Bits With Rolling Cone Reamer Sections - A drill bit for drilling a borehole in earthen formations comprises a bit body having a central bit axis, a first end adapted to be connected to a drillstring, and a second end opposite the first end. In addition, the bit comprises a pilot bit extending from the second end of the bit body. Further, the bit comprises a reamer section extending radially from the bit body and axially positioned between the first end of the bit body and the pilot bit. The reamer section comprises a rolling cone cutter rotatably mounted to a journal shaft extending from the bit body. Moreover, the rolling cone cutter has a cone axis of rotation, a backface proximal the bit body, and a nose opposite the backface and distal the bit body. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031672 | Apparatus and Methods for Real Time Communication in Drill Strings - A drill pipe made according to one embodiment includes a number of serially connected tubulars with a communication device placed between the connecting ends of the tubulars, wherein the communication device provides a direct data communication link between the adjoining tubulars. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031673 | LOCKABLE REAMER - A downhole tool comprises a body, an extendable cutting member operable to cooperate with a hydraulically actuated cam member, and a cam member lock. The lock is configurable to be activated downhole to restrict movement of the cam member relative to the body and prevent extension of the cutting member. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031674 | SHAPED CUTTING ELEMENTS FOR EARTH-BORING TOOLS, EARTH-BORING TOOLS INCLUDING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS, AND RELATED METHODS - A cutting element for an earth-boring tool. The cutting element comprises a substrate base, and a volume of polycrystalline diamond material on an end of the substrate base. The volume of polycrystalline diamond material comprises a generally conical surface, an apex centered about a longitudinal axis extending through a center of the substrate base, a flat cutting surface extending from a first point at least substantially proximate the apex to a second point on the cutting element more proximate a lateral side surface of the substrate base. Another cutting element is disclosed, as are a method of manufacturing and a method of using such cutting elements. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031675 | Abrasive Compact of Superhard Material and Chromium and Cutting Element Including Same - Cutting elements having a substrate and a layer of superhard material sintered to the substrate are disclosed. The layer includes a working surface at a first surface. From the interface of the layer with the substrate, a reaction zone extends into the layer toward the working surface and a binder metal depletion zone extends into the substrate toward a base surface. The layer of superhard material has a composition including chromium or an alloy thereof. Also disclosed is an abrasive compact having a body with a composition including (i) a superhard material, (ii) a metal from a grain growth inhibitor or a metal from a metallic carbide other than WC, and (iii) an iron group binder metal. Cutting elements incorporating the abrasive compact, and drill bits incorporating abrasive compacts and cutting elements are also disclosed as well as methods of manufacture and methods of cutting material. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120037425 | BEARING ASSEMBLY INCLUDING BEARING SUPPORT RING CONFIGURED TO REDUCE THERMAL WARPING DURING USE, BEARING APPARATUSES USING THE SAME, AND RELATED METHODS - Various embodiments relate to a bearing assembly including a support ring configured to reduce thermal warping under operational temperature conditions, a bearing apparatus that may utilize such a thrust-bearing assembly, and applications that incorporate the disclosed bearing apparatuses such as downhole motors in subterranean drilling systems, directional drilling systems, and many other apparatuses. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly includes a plurality of superhard bearing elements distributed circumferentially about an axis. The thrust-bearing assembly further includes a support ring having the plurality of superhard bearing elements mounted thereto. The support ring includes at least one thermal-warping-reducing feature configured to reduce a radial moment, compared to if the at least one thermal-warping-reducing feature were absent from the support ring, which is thermally induced in the support ring when the support ring and the plurality of superhard bearing elements are exposed to operational temperature conditions. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037426 | Downhole Tool - The present invention relates to downhole tools, and in particular an underreamer tool for use in a wellbore of an oil or gas well and a method of actuation. In an embodiment, the underreamer tool has body having a longitudinal axis and a fluid conduit, a tool element and an actuation device configured to urge the tool element relative to the body from a first configuration into a second configuration. In this embodiment, a portion of the tool has a curved actuation surface and as the tool element is urged across the curved actuation surface, the tool element is moved radially with respect to the body of the tool. Typically, the actuation device may include a piston driven by pressure of fluid circulated through the fluid flow conduit. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120043134 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CEMENTING DRILL STRINGS IN PLACE FOR ONE PASS DRILLING AND COMPLETION OF OIL AND GAS WELLS - The steel drill string attached to a drilling bit during typical rotary drilling operations used to drill oil and gas wells is used for a second purpose as the casing that is cemented in place during typical oil and gas well completions. Methods of operation are described that provide for the efficient installation a cemented steel cased well wherein the drill string and the drill bit are cemented into place during one single drilling pass down into the earth. The normal mud passages or watercourses present in the rotary drill bit are used for the second independent purpose of passing cement into the annulus between the casing and the well while cementing the drill string into place during one single pass into the earth. A one-way cement valve is installed near the drill bit of the drill string that allows the cement to set up efficiently under ambiently hydrostatic conditions while the drill string and drill bit are cemented into place during one single drilling pass into the earth. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120043135 | METHOD OF FORMING A BORE - A method of forming a supported subterranean well bore in which, in one disclosed embodiment, a first drill bit is mounted on a first string of casing tubulars via a steerable tool, and the drill bit is used to form a first bore. Upon reaching the required depth the casing string is cemented in place to support the formed bore and a second drill bit is mounted on a second casing string and is inserted into the first casing string. The second drill bit is used to drill through the wall of the first casing string and proceed to form a second, deeper bore. Once the second drill bit has reached the required depth, the second casing string is cemented in place to support the second bore. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120055712 | DRILLING APPARATUS - An apparatus for drilling a wellbore ( | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055713 | Drill Bit with Adjustable Side Force - A drill bit according to one embodiment includes a center member configured to rotate at a first speed and an outer member disposed outside the center member, wherein the outer member is configured to rotate at a second speed. The drill bit also includes a first cutter disposed on the center member and a second cutter disposed on the outer member, wherein the first speed and second speeds are configured to control a resultant side force of the drill bit. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055714 | UNDER REAMER - An under-reamer includes a body and extendable cutters mounted on the body. The under-reamer is configured to be cycled between a first configuration in which the cutters are retracted and a second configuration in which the cutters are movable between retracted and extended positions. A control mechanism is provided and is configurable to prevent the under-reamer cycling between the first and second configurations and thus maintains the under-reamer in a selected one of the first and second configurations. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055715 | METHODS OF CONTROLLING HYDRAULIC MOTORS - A hydraulic control system includes a first motor, a second motor, a pump operatively associated with the first motor, a first coupling valve operatively associated with the second motor, first parallel valves operatively associated with the second motor, and a first switching valve operatively associated with the first coupling valve and the first parallel valves. The first switching valve is configured to switch the first coupling valve between a first coupling state and a second coupling state opposite the first coupling state and to switch the first parallel valves between a first parallel state and a second parallel state opposite the first parallel state. While the first parallel valves are in the first parallel state a portion of the output of the first motor drives the second motor while the first parallel valves are in the second parallel state, the output of the pump drives the second motor. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120061142 | DRILLING APPARATUS - A drilling apparatus including a hydraulically powered hammer having a piston to impact a drill bit; a shuttle valve to control reciprocation of the piston; and an accumulator for hydraulic fluid; at least one drill rod having a first connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the connection valve of the hammer; and a second connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the first connection valve of a like drill rod or to a rotation device. The piston and shuttle valve are positioned substantially in-line to the axis of movement of the hammer. The accumulator is positioned proximate to the shuttle valve; and the first connection valve, and second connection valve having at least one poppet valve positioned proximate to a corresponding valve seat. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120061143 | Guide Wire for Ranging and Subsurface Broadcast Telemetry - A managed bulk drilling system that employs a guide wire for ranging and crosswell telemetry. Some system embodiments include multiple drilling assemblies operating in the vicinity of a reference well that contains an electrical cable. The electrical cable is coupled to a surface control system. The control system uses the electrical cable as part of an antenna to receive uplink signals from the drilling assemblies and to broadcast down-link signals to the drilling assemblies. The uplink signals can include position data and the downlink signals can include individual steering commands to adjust the trajectories of each drilling assembly. The cable can also generate a guidance field for the drilling assemblies to detect and follow. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120061144 | MULTI-RAM DRILL RIG AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A drill rig ( | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120061145 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DRILLING LARGE-DIAMETER HOLE IN GROUND - The present invention relates to method and apparatus for drilling a large diameter hole in the ground. The present invention comprises a hammer drill ( | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120073876 | Apparatus and Method for Drilling Wellbores - In an aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore includes a tubular and a drilling assembly configured to carry a drill bit at an end thereof, wherein the drilling assembly is configured to be positioned within the tubular, wherein the tubular and drilling assembly are configured to be run in the wellbore together. The apparatus also includes an actuation device in the tubular configured to selectively extend the drilling assembly from and retract the drilling assembly into the tubular. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120073877 | HARDPAN AUGER - Taught is an auger having a working head ( | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120080230 | BEARINGS FOR DOWNHOLE TOOLS, DOWNHOLE TOOLS INCORPORATING SUCH BEARINGS, AND METHODS OF COOLING SUCH BEARINGS - Bearings for downhole tools including a first bearing member and a second bearing member, at least one of the first and second bearing members having a channel formed therein. Methods of cooling bearings of downhole tools comprise flowing a fluid within a channel formed in at least one bearing member. Heat is transferred from at least the at least one bearing member to the fluid. The fluid is flowed away from the at least one bearing member. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080231 | REMOTELY CONTROLLED APPARATUS FOR DOWNHOLE APPLICATIONS AND RELATED METHODS - An expandable apparatus may comprise a tubular body, a valve piston and a push sleeve. The tubular body may comprise a fluid passageway extending therethrough, and the valve piston may be disposed within the tubular body, the valve piston configured to move axially within the tubular body responsive to a pressure of drilling fluid passing through the fluid passageway and configured to selectively control a flow of fluid into an annular chamber. The push sleeve may be disposed within the tubular body and coupled to at least one expandable feature, the push sleeve configured to move axially responsive to a flow of fluid into the annular chamber extending the at least one expandable feature. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080232 | Emulsion-Based Cleaning Composition For Oilfield Applications - The present invention relates to an emulsion, consisting of an oil phase and an aqueous phase and comprising as emulsion components (α1) 15 to 40% by weight of at least one water-immiscible organic solvent as solvent of the oil phase, (α2) 15 to 40% by weight of water as solvent of the aqueous phase, (α3) 10 to 40% by weight of at least one surfactant, (α4) 10 to 40% by weight of an alkoxylated fatty alcohol and (α5) 0 to 25% by weight of at least one other additive, wherein the quantities by weight of the components (α1) to (α5) are each relative to the total weight of the emulsion, and together add up to 100% by weight. The invention further relates to a method for producing an emulsion, to the emulsion which can be obtained from said method, to the use of an emulsion, to a method for cleaning the surfaces of well holes, drilling devices or drillings, to a method for producing a well bore, and to a method for producing an oil or a gas. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120090894 | LOCKING DEVICE FOR A DRILLING DEVICE - Latching device for a drilling device comprising a latching body mountable in an outer tube, an unlatching tube slidably mountable around the latching body, two latches attached to the latching body and pivotable between a deployed position in which the latch cooperates with the outer tube in order to latch the latching body to said outer tube and a retracted position for unlatching the latching body from the outer tube, a piston sliding around the latching body and secured to the unlatching tube, and a compression spring mechanism pressing the piston towards the latches in order to maintain the latches in their deployed position, a pulling force exerted on the unlatching tube compressing the spring mechanism to prevent the piston from pressing against the latches which position themselves in their retracted position. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120090895 | METHOD OF REINFORCING A STRUCTURE AND APPARATUS THEREFOR - Disclosed is a method of reinforcing a structure ( | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120090896 | AUGER FOR DIGGING HOLES - An auger for digging holes that minimizes the amount of loose dirt excavated in and around the dug hole. The auger comprises an elongated shaft body whose axial longitudinal center is disposed in a parallel offset position from the axial engagement line of orientation with the driving source for rotationally driving the auger. The shaft body of the auger revolves in an eccentric lateral orbit as the auger rotates which digs the hole by pushing and widening the dirt in the hole rather than cutting and scraping. The distal end of the auger has a tapered configuration for initial penetration into the ground. The eccentric movement of the shaft body of the auger helps to compact the walls of the hole being dug. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120097454 | Apparatus and Method of Handling Rod-Shaped Components - The invention relates to a device and a method for handling rod-shaped elements on drilling gear. The safety is inter alia increased by a device and a method wherein rod-shaped elements are placed on a placement device in defined positions and under defined conditions, the rod-shaped elements are separated on the placement device while being monitored, their safe support on a gripper is checked and once the elements are handed over to an elevator this action is confirmed. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120103690 | Drill Bit with Electrical Power Generation Devices - A drill bit made according to one embodiment includes a first member including one of a magnet and a coil, and a second member that moves relative to the first member, the second member including the other of the magnet and the coil, wherein the relative motion causes the generation of an electrical charge in the coil. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120103691 | METHODS OF COUPLING COMPONENTS OF DOWNHOLE TOOLS, DOWNHOLE TOOLS AND COMPONENTS OF DOWNHOLE TOOLS - Methods of coupling a bearing assembly to a downhole tool include forming at least a portion of a downhole component from a diamond-enhanced material, applying a metal material to a surface of the downhole component using an ultrasonic molten metal process, and coupling at least a portion of the surface of the downhole component to at least another component of the downhole tool. Downhole tools include at least one component of a bearing assembly that is configured to move relative to a portion of the downhole tool. The at least one bearing component comprises a diamond-enhanced material and is coupled to a portion of the downhole tool by an ultrasonic molten metal process. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120103692 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DRILLING USING GAS AS A DRILLING FLUID - A system and method of drilling. The method may generally include providing a drilling system including a rotary motor operable to rotationally drive a drill bit and providing a supply of compressible drill fluid, the supply producing an operating volumetric flow rate of fluid in a normal operating condition. The rotary motor operates at a rotational operating speed under a first volumetric flow rate of fluid, and the supply provides a volumetric flow rate of fluid greater than the first volumetric flow rate of fluid. The method further includes supplying the first volumetric flow rate of fluid from the supply to the rotary motor, and diverting a portion of fluid flow from the supply through a jet sub. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120111634 | EARTH BORING APPARATUS - An earth boring apparatus includes a drill rod, a source for a drill fluid, and a voltage source. The drill rod has a hollow rod casing provided for throughflow of the drill fluid, and a conductor located within the rod casing, with the voltage source being connected with the conductor and the rod casing. The voltage source is so connected as to prevent the electric conductor to act as anode in the event the drill fluid establishes an electrically conductive connection between the rod casing and the conductor. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120118640 | UNDERGROUND DRILLING APPARATUS - A drilling apparatus is adapted for connection to a drill string such that the drill string rotates the drilling apparatus in a rotational cutting motion. The drilling apparatus includes a sonde housing having a distal end and a proximal end. The sonde housing includes a top platform positioned adjacent the distal end of the sonde housing and further includes a tongue positioned on the top platform. The drilling apparatus further includes a rotary cutting tool mounted to the distal end of the sonde housing. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118641 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING SPRING PRELOAD IN A DOWNHOLE TOOL - Apparatus and method for adjusting spring preloading in a downhole tool. In one embodiment, a mechanism includes a nut and a piston. The nut is configured to axially compress a spring in the downhole tool. The piston is coupled to the nut. Extension of the piston causes the nut to rotate and compress the spring. The nut is configured to maintain compression of the spring after the piston retracts. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118642 | METHODS OF MAKING EARTH-BORING TOOLS AND METHODS OF DRILLING WITH EARTH-BORING TOOLS - Method of making an earth-boring tool comprise forming a body comprising a face including a plurality of radially extending blades thereon and a cone region, a nose region, and a shoulder region. A plurality of cutting elements may be disposed on the blades at least in the cone region, the nose region, and the shoulder region. Some of the cutting elements may be configured to form kerfing pairs comprising at least two cutting elements disposed on different blades of the plurality of radially extending blades at least substantially at the same radial position from a central axis of the body. At least one of the blades and orientations and exposures of the plurality of cutting elements may be configured so that a summation of a lateral drilling force generated by each cutting element of the plurality of cutting elements is directed toward a lateral side of the body. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120125687 | Hard Rock Rotary Drill Bit and Method of Drilling Using Crowned Cutter Elements - This rotary drill bit provides a plurality of spaced polycrystalline diamond compact cutter elements arranged at spaced 120° concentric rings around the face of the drill bit and a secondary, redundant deeper set polycrystalline diamond compact cutter elements placed to commence scuffing the face of a bore upon wear of the primary cutter element, thereby providing extended continuous service in hard rock drill applications previously unattainable with conventional PDC bits. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125688 | ICE WORTHY JACK-UP DRILLING UNIT SECURED TO THE SEAFLOOR - The invention relates to an ice worthy jack-up rig that may extend the drilling season in shallow water off shore Arctic or ice prone locations. The inventive rig would work like a conventional jack-up rig while in open water with the hull jacked up out of the water. However, in the event of ice conditions, the legs are held in place by cans embedded in the sea floor to resist lateral movement of the rig and the hull is lowered into the water into an ice defensive configuration. The hull is specifically shaped with an ice-bending surface to bend and break up ice that comes in contact with the hull while in the ice defensive configuration. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125689 | Drill Pipe Tubing and Casing Protector - An assembly and method for protecting a pipe string movable within a wellbore. A generally annular body ( | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120132470 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING OR LIMITING ROTOR ORBIT IN MOVING CAVITY MOTORS AND PUMPS - A moving cavity motor or pump, such as a mud motor, comprising: a rotor, a stator, and one or more apparatus for constraining (i.e., controlling or limiting) the movement of the rotor relative to the stator. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120138365 | SHOULDER DURABILITY ENHANCEMENT FOR A PDC DRILL BIT USING SECONDARY AND TERTIARY CUTTING ELEMENTS - A PDC bit includes a plurality of blades. A blade includes a primary cutter row and a secondary cutter row. Primary PDC cutters on the primary cutter row are set in accordance with a single set methodology. Backup PDC cutters on the secondary cutter row are set in accordance with a methodology wherein a radial position of each backup PDC cutter in the secondary cutter row is offset from a radial position of each primary PDC cutter in the primary cutter row. The blade further includes a tertiary cutter row. Additional backup PDC cutters on the tertiary cutter row are set in accordance with a methodology wherein a radial position of each additional backup PDC cutter in the tertiary cutter row is offset from a radial position of each primary PDC cutter in the primary cutter row. The backup cutter setting methodology is effectively radially positions the included backup PDC cutters (in the secondary cutter row and/or tertiary cutter row) between primary PDC cutters in the primary cutter row. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120138366 | Method for Cooling a Rotating Control Head - A system and method for reducing repairs to radial seals used in a rotating control head used while drilling is disclosed. Also, a system and method to detect leaks in the rotating control head and a latching system to latch the rotating control head to a housing is disclosed. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120145460 | Vertical drilling system for controlling deviation - Systems and methods for controlling deviations during drilling operations include securing a plurality of stabilizers to a lower portion of a drill string. The stabilizers can have a substantially triangular cross-sectional area oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the drill string, and a plurality of blades secured to the stabilizer at points associated with corners of the triangular cross-sectional area. The resulting system can exhibit improved stability and stiffness, an improved flow area, a reduced annular velocity, an increased penetration rate, and a longer usable life. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120152619 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR POSITION-SENSITIVE PIPE PROVISIONING IN TOP-DRIVE DRILLING - The invention relates to a handling device for drill pipes ( | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120160561 | SEMI-SEALED BLAST HOLE BIT AND METHOD FOR DRILLING - A drill tool includes a bit body, at least one bearing shaft extending from the bit body, and a cone mounted for rotation on the bearing shaft. A first sealing system includes a first annular seal gland formed in a cylindrical surface of the cone and a seal ring retained within the first annular seal gland and compressed against a cylindrical surface of the bearing shaft. A second sealing system includes a second annular seal gland formed in a radial surface of the cone and a Belleville spring retained within the second annular seal gland and compressed against a radial surface surrounding the bearing shaft. A set of non-pressure compensated lubrication channels are configured to supply lubricant to an interstitial volume defined between the cone and bearing shaft, the lubricant retained within the interstitial volume by the first and second sealing systems, the lubrication channels further supporting open air circulation through the bearing when the sealing systems fail and lubricant is lost. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120160562 | EARTH REMOVAL MEMBER WITH FEATURES FOR FACILITATING DRILL-THROUGH - An earth removal member with features for facilitating drill-through is provided for drilling with casing or liner applications. In one embodiment, the casing bit includes a tubular body; a nose attached to one end of the tubular body, wherein the nose includes a blade support and comprises a drillable material; a blade attached to the blade support using mating profiles; cutters disposed along the blade; and a nozzle disposed in the nose. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120168227 | DRILL ROD GUIDE - Implementations of the present invention include a drill rod guide configured to align a first drill rod and a second drill rod. The drill rod guide includes a cylindrical section and a tapered or frusta-conical section. The cylindrical section is sized and configured to concentrically surround a first drill rod. The tapered or frusta-conical section is sized and configured to guide a second drill rod into the cylindrical section and into alignment with the first drill rod. The drill rod guide may include first and second guide members that form symmetrical halves of the drill rod guide. The first and second guide members may be connected to first and second jaws of the clamp. The guide may include a window configured to allow a user to visually confirm that the first and second drill rods are aligned. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120168228 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DRILLING A WELLBORE USING CASING - Apparatus and methods for drilling with casing. In an embodiment, methods and apparatus for deflecting casing using a diverter apparatus are disclosed. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a motor operating system disposed in a motor system housing, a shaft operatively connected to the motor operating system, the shaft having a passageway, and a divert assembly disposed to direct fluid flow selectively to the motor operating system and the passageway in the shaft. In another aspect, methods and apparatus for directionally drilling a casing into the formation are disclosed. Methods and apparatus for measuring the trajectory of a wellbore while directionally drilling a casing into the formation are also described. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120175168 | DOWNHOLE EXPANDABLE ROLLER BEARING APPARATUS - A downhole expandable roller bearing apparatus is described. The apparatus comprises a plurality of roller assemblies comprising at least one roller rotatably mounted between pistons. A retaining member such as a spline bar is removably mounted in a keyway formed in the body. Each piston comprises an aperture through which the spline bar projects in both the inwardly retracted and outwardly deployed positions of the pistons. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120181084 | System and Methods for Continuous and Near Continuous Drilling - The present disclosure provides a drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme and methods using two or more systems that operate simultaneously and continuously in a synchronized manner such that the feeding of tubulars into or out of a well bore is achieved with continuous or near continuous movement, without the need for periodic interruptions. The drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme is also able to rotate the tubulars in the well bore with continuous speed and torque sufficient for both drilling and back-reaming operations. The drilling and tripping equipment package and control scheme is additionally able to circulate drilling fluid into the internal bore of the tubulars with sufficient pressure and flow to facilitate both drilling and back-reaming operations, with minimal interruption to circulation. | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120186875 | Hydraulic Drilling Method with Penetration Control - A system and method for hydraulic drilling is provided. A whipstock having a bore can be sealingly engaged at a distal end of a workstring. A drilling apparatus having drill tubing and a flow through device for routing drilling fluid into the drill tubing can be connected to the end of a connection string and inserted down into the work string so that the drill tubing extends through the bore in the whipstock device. Pressurized drilling fluid can then be inserted into the annulus formed between the work string and the connection string so that the pressurized drilling fluid passes through the flow through device into the drilling tube and is discharged out the distal end of the drilling tube as a cutting jet. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120186876 | CORE DRILL BIT - An abrasive drill bit includes: a hollow tubular body having a rotation axis and being configured to be rotated by a drill about the rotation axis; and a plurality of teeth disposed around the periphery of a distal end of the tubular body and extending distally from the tubular body, each of the plurality of teeth supporting a drilling abrasive, wherein the distal extension of the teeth relative to each other varies cyclically along the periphery of the distal end of the tubular portion such that when the drill bit is rotated about the rotation axis and advanced along the rotation axis into a surface of a drilled material, at least one distal-most tooth maintains contact with the surface and at least one least distally extending tooth does not contact the surface. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120186877 | Modified Cellulosic Polymer for Improved Well Bore Fluids - In one embodiment, the invention provides a method comprising: providing a drilling fluid, completion fluid, or workover fluid comprising an aqueous base fluid and a nonionic cellulose ether polymer having hydroxyethyl groups and being further substituted with one or more hydrophobic substituents, and placing the drilling fluid, completion fluid, or workover fluid in a subterranean formation. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120186878 | DOWNHOLE TOOL - A downhole tool including a fluid-actuated piston and a motor-driven valve. The fluid-actuated piston is operatively associated with a reciprocating mass. The motor-driven valve is configured to supply actuating fluid sequentially to drive the piston downwards and upwards. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120186879 | Drill Bit Having Enhanced Stabilization Features and Method of Use Thereof - A drill bit for drilling a borehole in earthen formations comprising a bit body having a bit axis and a bit face. In addition, the drill bit comprises a primary blade extending radially along the bit face, the primary blade including a cutter-supporting surface that defines a blade profile in rotated profile view extending from the bit axis to an outer radius of the bit body. The blade profile is continuously contoured and includes a plurality of concave regions. Further, the drill bit comprises a plurality of cutter elements mounted to the cutter-supporting surface of the primary blade. Each cutter element on the primary blade has a forward-facing cutting face with a cutting edge adapted to penetrate and shear the earthen formation. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120186880 | Invert Emulsion Fluids With High Internal Phase Concentration - An invert emulsion wellbore fluid may include an oleaginous external phase; a non-oleaginous internal phase, wherein a ratio of the oleaginous external phase and non-oleaginous internal phase is less than 50:50; and an emulsifier stabilizing the oleaginous external phase and the non-oleaginous internal phase, wherein an average diameter of the non-oleaginous internal phase ranges from 0.5 to 5 microns. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120199395 | Cutting elements having a pre-formed fracture plane for use in cutting tools - Cutting elements for cutting tools comprise a pre-formed fracture plane disposed in at least one surface of the cutting elements. The pre-formed fracture plane can comprise a groove cut into one of the surfaces of the cutting element, or the pre-formed fracture plane can be formed by using a laser or other heat concentrating source to weaken a portion of one of the surfaces of the cutting element so that the cutting element will break along the pre-formed fracture plane. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120199396 | DRILL RIG AND ASSOCIATED DRILL RIG TRAVERSE SYSTEM - A drill rig | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120199397 | System and Method for Determining Pressure Transition Zones - A method and apparatus for estimating a pressure transition zone in a borehole is disclosed. A parameter indicative of formation fluid pressure at a plurality of borehole depths is measured. A global trend of the parameter is determined over a first depth interval and a local trend of the parameter is determined over a second depth interval. A relation is determined between the global trend and the local trend, and the pressure transition zone is determined from the determined relation between the determined global trend and the determined local trend. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120199398 | WELLBORE COMPLETION SYSTEM WITH REAMING TOOL - A completion system comprises tubular components coupled together to form a completion string. In-flow control devices are provided to permit selective fluid communication between an internal bore of the completion string and the annulus. A reaming tool is provided at a leading end of the completion string and the reaming tool is run into the borehole with the completion string. The reaming tool comprises a fluid-powered drive unit, a reaming body and a reaming nose. In use, the completion string is located in the borehole and fluid is directed to the reaming tool to facilitate reaming of the borehole. A second tubular in the form of a washpipe may extend through an internal bore of the completion string for providing fluid to the reaming tool. The reaming tool is operable at a fluid pressure below a pressure which would activate the in-flow control devices. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120205157 | TOOLS FOR USE IN SUBTERRANEAN BOREHOLES HAVING EXPANDABLE MEMBERS AND RELATED METHODS - Expandable apparatus for use in subterranean boreholes include at least one member configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. Components of the expandable apparatus may include at least one surface for removing debris proximate to the tubular body. Components of the expandable apparatus may be configured to enable the expandable apparatus to increase a diameter of a subterranean borehole by greater than twenty percent. Components of the expandable apparatus may be configured to restrict fluid flow to nozzle assemblies. The expandable apparatus may include a protect sleeve having a push sleeve disposed therein. Methods of operating an expandable apparatus may include removing debris with a surface of the expandable apparatus. Methods of operating an expandable apparatus may also include selectively flowing fluid to nozzle assemblies. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120205158 | DOWNHOLE MOTOR BEARING ASSEMBLY WITH AN INTEGRATED THRUST SHOCK ABSORBER FOR DOWNHOLE DRILLING AND METHOD THEREOF - In one embodiment, a downhole assembly includes a motor that is operatively coupled to a transmission, wherein the transmission is operatively coupled to an upper shaft disposed within a housing. The upper shaft is supported by a first radial bearing assembly disposed within the housing. A thrust bearing assembly including a ball bearing disposed between two races is provided. The upper shaft extends through and is supported by the first radial bearing. A distal end of the upper shaft has a first set of mating splines disposed thereon. A lower shaft supported by a second radial bearing assembly is disposed within the housing, wherein the lower shaft has a second set of mating splines disposed thereon. The second set of mating splines are adapted to mate with the first set of mating splines and the lower shaft is telescopically extendable from the upper shaft. A catch is machined on an internal surface of the lower shaft to limit the extent of travel of the lower shaft. A biasing mechanism is disposed adjacent the ball bearing, wherein the biasing mechanism biases the lower shaft in an extended position with respect to the upper shaft, wherein the biasing mechanism comprises a series of disc springs. A drill bit that is operatively coupled to the lower shaft. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120211280 | INTEGRATED REAMING AND MEASUREMENT SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - A downhole reaming system includes a tubular body having a drill bit disposed on a distal end thereof, and a central bore therethrough, wherein the tubular body is attached to a drillstring, an expandable reamer having cutter blocks coupled thereto and configured to selectively expand radially therefrom, a near-bit reamer disposed proximate the drill bit, the near-bit reamer having cutter blocks coupled thereto and configured to expand therefrom, and a measurement sub configured to measure at least one characteristic of an interior wall of an enlarged wellbore. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120211281 | LOW HEADROOM CONFINED SPACE GEOEXCHANGE DRILLING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A low headroom confined space drilling system is disclosed, comprising a low headroom drilling apparatus, a drilling fluid supply system, a drilling fluid collection system, and a drilling fluid recycling apparatus for supplying a recycled drilling fluid to the drilling apparatus. A method of installing a geoexchange borehole in an interior space of a building is also disclosed, comprising installing a borehole access chamber in a floor slab of a building, positioning a low headroom floor mounted rotary drilling apparatus over the borehole access chamber, providing a pressurized drilling fluid to the drill rod string and powering a rotary downhole drilling device attached to the drill rod string to advance the borehole to a desired depth, recovering a drilling fluid and drill cuttings from the borehole, removing drill cuttings from the recovered drilling fluid using the drilling fluid recycling apparatus and returning a recycled drilling fluid to the drilling apparatus. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120217066 | LINK CARRIER APPARATUS FOR A DRILLING RIG - Embodiments disclosed herein relate to an apparatus, a system, and a method to secure a link in a drilling rig. The apparatus includes a carrier configured to removably secure at least a portion of the link therein, in which the carrier is configured to have a first end of the link accessible outside of the carrier. Further, the system includes a tool having a link ear and suspended within the drilling rig, the link ear configured to attach a first end of the link thereupon, and a carrier configured to removably secure at least a portion of the link, in which the first end of the link is accessible to attach to the link ear. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120217067 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING DRILLING EFFICIENCY - A method for drilling a borehole in an earthen formation comprises (a) providing a drilling system including a drillstring having a longitudinal axis, a bottom-hole assembly coupled to a lower end of the drillstring, and a drill bit coupled to a lower end of the bottom-hole assembly. In addition, the method comprises (b) rotating the drill bit at a rotational speed. Further, the method comprises (c) applying weight-on-bit to the drill bit and advancing the drill bit through the formation to form the borehole. Still further, the method comprises (d) pumping a drilling fluid down the drillstring to the drill bit. The drilling fluid has a flow rate down the drillstring. Moreover, the method comprises (e) oscillating the rotational speed of the drill bit during (c). The method also comprises (f) generating non-steady state conditions in the borehole during (e). | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120228029 | Method and Device for Reducing Friction Between Helical Members of a Downhole Damper - A method for reducing friction between interconnected outer and inner helical members of a downhole damper where the damper includes an outer damper body and an inner damper body, and where the outer and inner damper bodies are telescopically movable relative each other, the outer and inner damper bodies being biased in the extending direction, and where one of the outer and inner damper bodies are connected to a drill bit workable at a borehole face, and where the other of the outer and inner damper bodies is connected to a torque and force transmitting member, and where the outer and inner helical parts are arranged so as to retract the bit from the face when torque applied by the torque and force transmitting member exceeds a preset value, wherein the method includes letting a relative movement between the inner and outer body force lubricant to flow between the helical members. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120228030 | Subsea Solids Processing Apparatuses and Methods - In a dual-gradient drilling apparatus, a subsea solids processing unit includes a housing, a solids processing mechanism disposed in the housing between a drilling mud inlet and a drilling mud outlet, and a flushing mechanism configured to flush the solids processing mechanism with a flushing fluid. A subsea solids processing unit may be controlled by rotating the solids processing mechanism in a forward direction and increasing a drive torque when a measured speed of the solids processing mechanism is below a desired rotation speed. The desired rotation speed may be decreased when a measured torque exceeds a selected maximum and a rotation direction of the solids processing mechanism may be reversed when the measured speed falls below a selected minimum. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120234600 | Downhole Rebound Hardness Measurement While Drilling or Wireline Logging - A method and apparatus for estimating a rock strength profile of a formation is disclosed. A tool having a testing surface is conveyed into a wellbore in the formation. The testing surface is propelled to impact the formation at a plurality of depths in the wellbore. A measurement of hardness of the formation is obtained from a rebound of the testing surface from the formation at the plurality of depths. The rock strength profile of the formation is estimated using the obtained measurements of hardness at the plurality of depths. A parameter for drilling the wellbore can be affected using the estimated rock strength profile. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120234601 | BIT BREAKER - A bit breaker for loosening or tightening a drill bit on a drill string incorporating a mud motor permits rotation of the drill bit while the bit box is held stationary. The bit breaker has a lower body which is held stationary on the rig floor and an upper body which houses the drill bit and which is connected to the lower body through a rotational connection. An actuator connected between the upper and lower bodies causes the upper body to rotate relative to lower body for co-rotating the drill bit. The bit box of the mud motor is held stationary using the lower tong of a conventional make-and-break unit. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120234602 | Method and means for installing geothermal heat loops - A method is described for installing a geothermal heat loop in the ground so that the heat loop extends downwardly and outwardly into the ground from a pit dug in the ground. The method also includes the utilization of means for extending the heat loop through a drilled bore hole. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120234603 | Mud motor assembly - A longer-lasting, lower cost, more powerful, all metal, mud motor than the presently available progressing cavity type mud motors for drilling boreholes into the earth. A mud motor apparatus possessing one single drive shaft that turns a rotary drill bit, which apparatus is attached to a drill pipe which provides high pressure mud to the mud motor, wherein the drive shaft receives at least a first portion of its rotational torque from any high pressure mud flowing through a first hydraulic chamber within the apparatus, and receives at least a second portion of its rotational torque from any high pressure mud flowing through a second hydraulic chamber within the apparatus. The mud motor apparatus possesses two hydraulic chambers, each having its own power stroke, and return stroke, and acting together in a controlled fashion, provide continuous power to a rotary drill bit. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120247834 | CUTTING ELEMENT HAVING MODIFIED SURFACE - A cutting element including a cutting face and a longitudinal axis passing through the cutting face. The cutting element includes at least a first portion of the cutting face that is angled at an angle of about 81 to about 89 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the cutting element. The cutting element can further include a substrate, a superabrasive an interface between the substrate and superabrasive layer. Further, the cutting face is provided with a surface roughness of 40 microinches or less. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120247835 | METHOD FOR THE DRILLING, IN PARTICULAR PERCUSSION OR ROTARY PERCUSSION DRILLING, OF HOLES IN SOIL OR ROCK MATERIAL AND DEVICE THEREFOR - In a method for drilling holes in soil or rock material, wherein a borehole is formed by a drill bit by a percussive and/or rotational movement, a casing adjoining the drill bit is introduced into the borehole and material that is removed is introduced into the annular space formed between the outer circumference of the drill rod and the inner circumference of the casing via at least one passage opening formed between the drill bit and the casing, and is discharged from the borehole, the impact energy of the drill rod is applied to the drill bit via an adapter cooperating with the drill bit and a drill rod, and that the impact energy is applied to the drill bit partially via an impact shoulder of the adapter and partially via a threaded connection between the adapter and the drill bit. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120247836 | MINING MACHINE WITH BOOMS PROVIDING ENHANCED RIB ACCESS - An apparatus for use by an operator in forming boreholes in an underground mine passage including ribs and a roof. The apparatus includes a base and first and second booms pivotally mounted to the base for swinging toward and away from the adjacent lib. A drill is mounted to the base independent of the first and second booms. An actuator including first and second independently movable rods may be used to move the drill relative to the boom. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120255783 | ROTATING CONTROL DEVICE WITH POSITIVE DRIVE GRIPPING DEVICE - A rotating control device can include a rotatably mounted seal which sealingly engages a drill string, and a gripping device which grips the drill string and thereby forces the seal to rotate with the drill string. A drilling method can include positioning a drill string in a rotating control device, gripping the drill string with a gripping device of the rotating control device, and rotating the drill string, gripping engagement between the gripping device and the drill string causing a seal of the rotating control device to rotate along with the drill string. A well system can include a drill string, and a rotating control device including a seal which sealingly engages the drill string and a gripping device which grippingly engages the drill string. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120255784 | Apparatus for Controlling Drill Bit Depth of Cut Using Thermally Expandable Materials - In an aspect, drill bit for use in drilling a borehole is provided that includes a body including a side, face section and a passage in the body. The drill bit further includes a rubbing member disposed in the face section and configured to control a depth of cut for the drill bit, wherein the rubbing member comprises a thermally responsive material in thermal communication with the passage configured to control a position of the rubbing member with respect to the face section | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120255785 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COUPLING A DRILL BIT TO A WHIPSTOCK - A system and method facilitate drilling of a lateral wellbore by eliminating one or more trips downhole. The system comprises a drill bit optimized for the drilling operation. The drill bit is coupled to a whipstock via a connector, which minimizes interference with the cutting elements of the drill bit. The connector includes a separation device which facilitates disconnection of the drill bit from the whipstock after the whipstock is anchored at a desired downhole location. The separation device is disposed in the connector to minimize the remaining portions of the connector existing after separation of the drill bit from the whipstock which must be milled by the drill bit prior to drilling the lateral wellbore. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120255786 | Method and Apparatus for Reaming Well Bore Surfaces Nearer the Center of Drift - A well bore reaming device and method are disclosed. The device includes a drill string, a bottom eccentric reamer coupled to the drill string, and a top eccentric reamer coupled to the drill string, wherein the bottom and top eccentric reamers have a prearranged spacing and orientation. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120267170 | TAPERED THREAD CONFIGURATION WITH IMPROVED DURABILITY - Underground drilling operation often requires connecting a drill tool (e.g., drill bit, backreamer, etc.) to a drill string. It is desirable to connect the drill tools to a drill string in a manner that facilitates quick and easy assembly and disassembly. Low torque coupling, commonly referred to as “torque-less” connection, can provide such functionality. The useful life and strength of such connections can be improved upon. The present disclosure provides a low torque coupling with improved strength and durability. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120273275 | Method and apparatus for dual speed, dual torque drilling - A drilling unit for drilling a borehole and having an outer drill bit being rotationally driven by a primary rotary drive mechanism about a primary axis of rotation and having an outer bit cutting face disposed for drilling engagement with formation material. The outer drill bit defines an inner bit passage intersecting the outer bit cutting face. An inner drill bit is rotationally driven within the inner bit passage by a secondary rotary drive mechanism and has a secondary axis of rotation that can be the same or can be laterally offset from the primary axis of rotation. An inner bit cutting face is defined by the inner drill bit and is located within the inner bit passage. Rotation of the outer drill bit for borehole drilling causes orbital rotation of the inner drill bit about the primary axis of rotation simultaneously with rotation of the inner drill bit about the secondary axis of rotation for continuously cutting away formation material at the central region of the borehole being drilled. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120285744 | PRESSURE AND FLOW CONTROL IN DRILLING OPERATIONS - A well drilling system includes a flow control device regulating flow from a rig pump to a drill string, the flow control device being interconnected between the pump and a standpipe manifold, and another flow control device regulating flow through a line in communication with an annulus. Flow is simultaneously permitted through the flow control devices. A method of maintaining a desired bottom hole pressure includes dividing drilling fluid flow between a line in communication with a drill string interior and a line in communication with an annulus; the flow dividing step including permitting flow through a flow control device interconnected between a pump and a standpipe manifold. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120292112 | APPARATUS FOR DRILLING FASTER, DEEPER AND WIDER WELL BORE - An apparatus and method for drilling deeper and wider well bores is provided. The apparatus includes a motorized drill head for cutting and shredding ground material; a separate excavation line; a separate fluid delivery line; and a separate close loop engine cooling line. The excavation line consists of multiple connected stationary segments of the main pipe with periodical segments of an in-line excavation pump. Alternatively, in another embodiment, excavation line consists of multiple connected segments of the main stationary pipe with rotating continues screw inside. The close loop cooling line consists of one heat exchanger in the motorized drill head and one on the ground surface in the binary unit where fluid is cooled and in process electricity produced which can be used as a supplement for powering drill head, pumps, equipment, etc. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120292113 | Vortex Controlled Variable Flow Resistance Device and Related Tools and Methods - A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120292114 | Method and Arrangement for Lubricating Drill Shank of Rock Drilling Machine - A method for lubricating a drill shank ( | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120298422 | CORRODIBLE TRIGGERING ELEMENTS FOR USE WITH SUBTERRANEAN BOREHOLE TOOLS HAVING EXPANDABLE MEMBERS AND RELATED METHODS - Expandable apparatus include a triggering element comprising an at least partially corrodible composite material. Methods are used to trigger expandable apparatus using such a triggering element and to form such triggering elements for use with expandable apparatus. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120305316 | EARTH DRILLING APPARATUS AND METHOD - Well drilling and well casing placement are carried out by a process in which a drill string and surrounding casing are advanced while being rotated, preferably in opposite directions. The process is preferably carried out using a drill rig having a mast that is movable along its direction of elongation and a casing rotation table fixed to the mast. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120305317 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LIMITING WINCH OVERRUN - A retrieval system for a wireline drilling system having a winch, a wireline rope connected to the winch, and a core sampler connected to the wireline rope. The retrieval system includes a radio-frequency identification (RFID) transponder and a controller that, in response to receiving a wireless signal from the RFID transponder, automatically adjusts a speed at which the winch retrieves the core sampler. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120312599 | CUTTING ELEMENTS COMPRISING SENSORS, EARTH-BORING TOOLS HAVING SUCH SENSORS, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A cutting element for an earth-boring tool includes an elongated body having a longitudinal axis, a generally planar volume of hard material attached to the elongated body, and a sensor affixed to the elongated body. The sensor may be configured to sense at least one of stress and strain. An earth-boring tool includes a cutting element disposed at least partially within a pocket of a body. Methods of forming cutting elements comprise securing a generally planar volume of hard material to an elongated body, attaching a sensor to the elongated body, and configuring the sensor. Methods of forming earth-boring tools comprise forming a cutting element and securing the cutting element within a recess in a body of the earth-boring tool. Methods of forming wellbores comprise rotating an earth-boring tool comprising a cutting element and measuring at least one of stress and strain. | 12-13-2012 |
| 20120318580 | EARTH-BORING TOOLS INCLUDING RETRACTABLE PADS, CARTRIDGES INCLUDING RETRACTABLE PADS FOR SUCH TOOLS, AND RELATED METHODS - An earth-boring tool may comprise at least one cavity formed in a face thereof. At least one retractable pad residing in the at least one cavity may be coupled to a piston located at least partially within the at least one cavity. Additionally, a valve may be positioned within the earth-boring tool and configured to regulate flow of an incompressible fluid in contact with the piston through an opening of a reservoir. A cartridge may comprise a barrel wall defining a first bore, and a piston comprising at least one retractable pad positioned at least partially within the first bore. The barrel wall and the piston may define a first reservoir within the first bore, and a valve may be positioned and configured to regulate flow through an opening to the first reservoir. Related methods and devices are also disclosed. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120318581 | FORMING A SHAFT FOR AN UNDERGROUND MINE - In forming a mine shaft for an underground mine, earth excavated by a boring machine may be transported upwardly by a handling unit to a transfer station where it may be transferred into skips, which may be raised and lowered along skip guides within the shaft hole for transport of the excavated material to an earth surface region. The transfer station may be moved downwardly as excavation progresses. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120325557 | WATER/SLURRY CONTAINMENT DEVICE - A water/slurry containment device for core drilling can contain and allow water/slurry to be extracted while the coring is occurring rather than allowing a puddle to form with more extensive cleanup required afterward. The device contains the water/slurry mix so that none escapes the confines of the device, so that water can be used in the core drilling. Water is essential to the life of the diamond coated bit and it keeps dust and noise to a minimum. The device includes a base plate with a collector ring that can rest on a surface to be core drilled. A notch can be cut in the collector ring and/or base plate to allow water and slurry to be removed from the device while core drilling. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20120325558 | Rock Drill Bit, a Drilling Assembly and a Method for Percussive Rock Drilling - A rock drill bit for percussive drilling comprising a bit head configured to be attached at an end of a drill element of a drilling assembly and having a diameter larger than that of a said drill element. The bit head has at a front end as seen in the intended drilling direction a generally frusto-conical shape defined by a substantially circumferential ring provided with a plurality of gauge buttons distributed along the extension of the ring for engaging material to be crushed. A central flush channel extends through the bit head and has at least one flushing hole opening at said front end to conduct flushing medium to said front end. At least one peripheral flushing hole of said at least one flushing hole opening at said front end opens in said substantially circumferential ring. At least two peripheral flushing holes open in said substantially circumferential ring. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130000982 | Erosion Resistant Hard Composite Materials - A hard composite composition may comprise a binder and a polymodal blend of matrix powder. The polymodal blend of matrix powder may have at least one first local maxima at a particle size of about 0.5 nm to about 30 μm, at least one second local maxima at a particle size of about 200 μm to about 10 mm, and at least one local minima between a particle size of about 30 μm to about 200 μm that has a value that is less than the first local maxima. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130000983 | DRILL ROD SHOCK TOOL - Shock tools can include a rotary top drive box in threaded connection with an outer tube. A center plate tube can run through the center of the shock tool to provide a pathway for drilling fluid and/or mud to flow to the drill bit. A bottom tube socket box holding head can be attached to the outer tube and the center plate tube can be connected to a bottom drive socket. The bottom tube socket box holds a portion of the bottom drive socket within the outer tube. The center plate tube can be slidably engaged with the rotary top drive box. Multiple compression plates separated by compression pads are located in the tool to dampen the shock load by distributing the load across each of the multiple pads, thereby minimizing the load on any individual pad. This arrangement allows for higher load dampening lower failure rates. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130020132 | Downhole Motors with a Lubricating Unit for Lubricating the Stator and Rotor - In aspects, the disclosure provides a drilling motor that includes a lubricating unit that selectively supplies a lubricant to the drilling fluid before the drilling fluid passes through the drilling motor so as to lubricate the stator and/or the rotor to reduce friction between the stator and the rotor and to reduce wear of the motor. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130020133 | MULTI-AXIS MODULATION OF CUTTERS - A method of prolonging the life of a PDC cutter having a substantially cylindrical shape centered about a rotational axis, and an apparatus for multi-axis modulation of a PDC cutter, the method including imparting linear modulation to the cutter in at least one direction and imparting rotary modulation to the cutter about the rotational axis, the rotary modulation being synchronized with, and facilitated by, the linear modulation. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130025941 | METHODS OF COATING WELLBORE TOOLS AND COMPONENTS HAVING SUCH COATINGS - A method for forming a coating upon a wellbore tool includes forming a pattern of features supported by a body and forming a coating over the pattern of features. Forming the pattern of features includes forming a first feature and forming a second feature spaced from the first feature by a first width at a first elevation and by a second width at a second elevation, the second width being different than the first width, and the first elevation being further from an interior region of the body than the second elevation. Also disclosed is a wellbore tool comprising a coating covering a pattern of features and a method of utilizing a wellbore tool in a subterranean formation, the method including forming a pattern of features, forming a coating over the pattern, and disposing the wellbore tool in a borehole. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130025942 | ROTARY DRILL - In a rotary drill, the drill is provided with at least one groove, of which one groove has a center lying on the axis of rotation of the drill. The two end points of the groove define a groove width, and the drill is provided with two or more cutting edges. Two cutting angles are defined. The groove has a left side and a right side. The rotary drill may further be used in a rotary drilling machine. The drill may be provided with a drill bit. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130032405 | Offshore Drilling Rig Fingerboard Latch Position Indication - A fingerboard latch assembly includes a latch configured for operational engagement with a fingerboard for lockingly retaining at least one tubular to the fingerboard. The latch is movable within a range of motion extending from at least a locked position to an unlocked position. A positioner operatively engaged with the latch is communicably couplable to a process control network (PCN), and is sized and shaped for receipt within a latch channel of the fingerboard. The positioner is configured to move the latch within the range of motion in response to signals received from the PCN, to capture position data for the latch, including the position of the latch at a plurality of points within the range of motion, and to communicate the captured position data to the PCN. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130032406 | Systems and Methods for Drilling Boreholes with Noncircular or Variable Cross-Sections - In a pulsed-electric drilling system, a nonrotating bit is given a noncircular shape to drill a correspondingly-shaped borehole, e.g., triangular, rectangular, polygonal, oval, or a more complex shape. Some embodiments employ a reconfigurable bit that deploys extensions as needed to dynamically vary the cross-section of the borehole at selected locations. In this fashion, a driller is able to create borehole with a preferred cross-sectional shape to, e.g., drill the smallest possible hole while simultaneously providing additional clearance for equipment or instrumentation, additional surface area for well inflow, channels for improved borehole cleaning, teeth for improved cementing, reduced contact area to reduce drag on the drillstring, or any other benefits achievable by customizing the borehole cross-section. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130037325 | LOST CIRCULATION MATERIAL FROM DRILLING FLUID PACKAGING - Drilling fluid used in borehole drilling is supplemented with a particulate additive obtained by shredding the packaging material in which the drilling fluid is supplied, for use as lost circulation material. This reduces the materials costs, shipping costs, and waste disposal costs associated with borehole drilling. | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130037326 | DEVICE FOR UNCOUPLING A DRILL STRING, DRILLING SYSTEM COMPRISING SUCH A UNCOUPLING DEVICE, AND USE OF SUCH A SYSTEM - A device for uncoupling a drill string, the device including, in a longitudinal direction: a first structure that is intended to be attached to a drill string tube; a second structure that is intended to hold a cutting tool for drilling and is translatable relative to the first structure; and a thruster assembly between the first structure and the second structure. The thruster assembly is configured to exert a thrusting force on the second structure to separate the second structure from the first structure, the thrusting force being constant for every position of the second structure relative to the first structure. | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130043075 | DRILLING APPARATUS AND METHOD - The present disclosure provides a drilling method and drill. According to a disclosed method, multiple reciprocating rock-breaking elements, including a hammer drill bit, are used. The elements are moved in alternation to each other such that the net volume displacement by the moving parts is reduced for reducing compression work and thus for losing useful energy from the available amount from the drill bit engine for rock breaking. If desired, a small component of the net volume displacement is kept for enhancing PVW for enhancing rock chipping by tensile strength. The method also includes synchronizing the peak of the pressure depression wave with that of the impact moment of the drill bit's reciprocating motion to enhance, rather than hamper, rock breaking by the creation of PVW. | 02-21-2013 |
| 20130056274 | UNDERWATER STUFFING BOX AND METHOD FOR RUNNING A DRILL STRING THROUGH THE STUFFING BOX - The invention relates to a stuffing box consists of an outer housing, an upper set and a lower set of support plates for a sleeve-shaped, flexible sealing element enclosed by a liquid filled, pressurised annulus The sets of support plates in the top and bottom of the housing respectively have an opening in the middle, exceeding the diameter of the tool joint. The inner sealing element seals radially against the drill string and axially against the support plates with pressure assistance from the annulus between the sealing element and the middle stuffing box housing. When the sealing element is rotated by the drill string the ends of the sealing element abut the upper and lower support plate set respectively and seals against the pressure from the well and outside seawater pressure. Each of the upper and lower support plate sets comprise two halves connected to an actuator each arranged for radial displacement of the halves. Each of the support plate halves comprise a cut-out arranged to be able to encircle the inside and the ends of the sealing element comprise cast-in, ceramic elements. | 03-07-2013 |
| 20130056275 | PULL-DOWN METHOD AND EQUIPMENT FOR INSTALLING WELL CASING - A drilling rig having a top drive has a pipe gripper with a mandrel having an upper end for connection to and rotation with a drive string extending downward from the top drive. The pipe gripper has gripping elements that move radially into engagement with a string of pipe. A pull-down mechanism is mounted to the rig and secured to a non-rotating portion of the pipe gripper for exerting a downward force on the mandrel. A sensor is operatively coupled to the top drive to sense weight being supported by the top drive. A controller is linked to the sensor and the pull-down mechanism for controlling the downward force exerted on the mandrel by the pull-down mechanism in response to the weight sensed by the sensor. | 03-07-2013 |
| 20130068527 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GRAVITY-INDEPENDENT GRIPPING AND DRILLING - Systems and methods for gravity independent gripping and drilling are described. The gripping device can also comprise a drill or sampling devices for drilling and/or sampling in microgravity environments, or on vertical or inverted surfaces in environments where gravity is present. A robotic system can be connected with the gripping and drilling devices via an ankle interface adapted to distribute the forces realized from the robotic system. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130068528 | Through The Drill String or Core Bit DST System - A drill stem test conducted through the drill string of a wireline coring system using a downhole tool comprising test zone packers, a valve packer, a latching assembly with a clump valve and main valve, all of which are conveyed on the wireline with a communications cable and inflation tube, to seat in the core barrel. Gas pressure drives the liquid level in the drill string down to a suitable test level which is retained by inflating the packer system to seal a valve packer within the drill string, and isolating the test zone using single or dual packers. The compressed gas is relieved from the drill string leaving it unpressurised and with a depressed liquid level therein. A valve can be opened by raising the drill string to induce inward fluid flow, and after a flow period the valve is shut by lowering the drill string. A pressure recovery process then takes place, in which the pressures are measured by downhole transducers and transmitted to surface via the communications cable. Prior to deflation, the drill string is filled with a liquid and the inflation pressure is relieved by pulling on the wireline to open the dump valve in the downhole tool and relieve packer inflation pressure. After a deflation period the wireline is pulled further, thereby releasing the latch assembly and allowing the tool to be pulled to the surface by the wireline, together with the inflation tube and communications cable. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130075162 | ROLLER CONE BIT - A roller cone bit is described. The roller cone bit includes a body having concave sides. Legs are attached or integral to the body. Roller cones are rotatably engaged to the legs. The concave sides are positioned adjacent the legs. A nozzle is positioned in an approximately central portion of the body. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130075163 | MANDREL LOADING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The present disclosure relates to mandrel loading techniques for downhole tools. In One embodiment, a downhole tool field connection segment a chassis extending between field connection ends. The field connection segment includes first and second collars each including a chassis portion. A collar connector is coupled to each of the collars and compresses a first axial load device disposed in the first collar. A second axial load device is disposed in the second collar. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130081876 | Optical power for self-propelled mineral mole - Exemplary methods, systems and components disclosed herein provide propagation of light signals from an external source to a borehole mining mole which includes an optical/electric transducer configured to provide propulsive power for the borehole mining mole and its associated mineral prospecting tools. Some embodiments include one or more umbilicals connected from a remote source location to an onboard reel incorporated with the borehole mining mole. The umbilicals are spooled outwardly or inwardly from the onboard reel during traverse of the borehole mining mole along a path in an earthen environment. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130081877 | EXTENDABLE PILOT BIT FOR BARREL CUTTER - A system and method for boring a hole in rock with a digger derrick; which utilizes a hollow stem auger, a kelly bar, and a core barrel with a top support member with a hole therein for receiving the kelly bar with a detachable central pilot bit thereon which is translatable up and down with respect to the core barrel as the kelly bar and auger are manipulated. The kelly bar is selectively positionable with respect to the auger so as to allow the ability to retract the pilot bit inward into the core barrel and to shorten the separation between the pilot bit and the auger. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130098687 | WEAR AND BUCKLING RESISTANT DRILL PIPE - The present invention describes a drill pipe in which various sections of the pipe are strengthened, or their shape is altered, in order to improve the wear and buckle resistance of the drill pipe. The sections are strengthened using various hardening methods such as heat treatment processes and/or expansion techniques. A sleeve can also be applied to the strengthened portions. Surface enhancers, such as hardbanding, can be applied to the strengthened portions or the sleeve in order to provide abrasion resistance or to reduce friction. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130112480 | BOREHOLE DRILL BIT CUTTER INDEXING - For drill bit cutter indexing, a housing is disposed in a drill bit. An indexing cog is in physical communication with a cutter and interlocks with the housing in a first index position of a plurality of index positions in response to a first compressive load applied to the cutter. A motivator disengages the indexing cog from the housing and positions the indexing cog to interlock with the housing at an initial second index position in response to a removal of the compressive load from the cutter. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112481 | DRILL MEMBERS FOR MINE ROOFS - A drilling system for drilling vertical holes in a mine roof includes a chuck configured to be driven in rotation by a motorized drill head. The chuck is cylindrical has a bore having a first polygonal inside perimeter. A drill member has an elongated hollow body with a cross section defining a circular outside perimeter over most of its length and a constant, second polygonal inside perimeter along substantially the entire length of the drill member. The drill member has at least one end region having a first polygonal outside perimeter that is sized to fit into the first polygonal inside perimeter to rotationally engage the drill member with the chuck. Drill bits having a bit fixture having a cross section with a second polygonal outside perimeter are sized and configured to fit snugly inside the second polygonal inside perimeter to be mounted to the drill member opposite the chuck. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112482 | Apparatus and Process For Drilling A Borehole In A Subterranean Formation - An apparatus and process is disclosed for drilling a borehole into a subterranean formation with reverse circulation of drilling fluid. A tubular drill pipe extends into a subterranean formation. A bottom hole assembly connected to the drill pipe includes a drill bit for excavating the subterranean formation. A downhole motor is adapted for receiving electrical power from a cable extending into the subterranean formation. A downhole pump is powered by the motor and is configured for reverse circulating drilling fluid from the annular space surrounding the drill pipe to the interior space of the drill pipe. The drilling fluid is pumped upwards in the drill pipe by the downhole pump to carry excavated cuttings upwards through the interior space of the drill pipe. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130118811 | Drilling Apparatus Including Milling Devices Configured to Rotate at Different Speeds - In one aspect, an apparatus for forming a borehole is provided that in one embodiment may include a first milling device configured to rotate at a first rotational speed in a first direction, and a second milling device around the first milling device configured to rotate at a second rotational speed in a second direction, wherein the rotational first speed is greater than the second rotational speed. In another aspect, the first and the second milling devices may be configured to rotate in the same direction at different speeds. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130133950 | Apparatus and Methods Utilizing Progressive Cavity Motors and Pumps with Rotors and/or Stators with Hybrid Liners - An apparatus for use downhole is disclosed that in one embodiment may include a rotor having an outer lobed surface disposed in a stator having an inner lobed surface, wherein the inner lobed-surface or the outer-lobed surface includes a sealing material on a first section thereof and a metallic surface on a second section thereof. | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130133951 | Erosion Resistant Hard Composite Materials - A hard composite composition comprises a binder, and a polymodal blend of matrix powder In an embodiment, the polymodal blend of matrix powder has at least one local maxima at a particle size of 30 μm or less, at least one local maxima at a particle size of 200 μm or more, and at least one local minima between a particle size of about 30 μm to about 200 μm that has a value that is less than the local maxima at a particle size of 30 μm or less. | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130140090 | Cutting Element, Cutter Tool and Method of Cutting Within a Borehole - A cutting element includes a modified gilmoid having two planes defining a plurality of cutting edges thereon, and a first support extending from a central area of a first of the two planes and a second support extending from a central area of a second of the two planes. The supports are sized and positioned such that when the cutting element is resting against a planar surface such that one of the plurality of cutting edges and the first support are in contact with the planar surface the first plane forms an acute angle with the planar surface. | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130140091 | CONSTRUCTION WORK UNIT AND METHOD FOR ERECTING A MAST - A drilling unit, with a carrier vehicle, a mast rotatably mounted on the carrier vehicle about a pivot axis, which mast can be pivoted between an erect operating position and an inclined transport position, and at least one erection cylinder for pivoting the mast between the operating position and the transport position. For pivoting the mast in addition to the at least one erection cylinder an erection cable is provided which is guided via a cable deflection pulley arranged on the mast, on the carrier vehicle or on a carriage which can be moved along the mast, and in that in order to apply a pulling force to the erection cable via the cable deflection pulley an erection force can be transferred to the mast in the direction of its operating position. The invention further relates to a method for erecting a mast of a construction work unit. | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130146361 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR STABILIZING DOWNHOLE TOOLS - A secondary cutting structure for use in a drilling assembly includes a tubular body, and a block, extendable from the tubular body, the block including a first arrangement of cutting elements disposed on a first blade, a first stabilization section disposed proximate the first arrangement of cutting elements, a second arrangement of cutting elements disposed on the first blade, and a second stabilization section disposed proximate the second arrangement of cutting elements. A method of drilling includes disposing a drilling assembly in a wellbore, the drilling assembly including a secondary cutting structure having a tubular body and a block, extendable from the body, the block including at least three blades, actuating the secondary cutting structure, wherein the actuating includes extending the block from the tubular body, and drilling formation with the extended block | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130153300 | SELECTIVELY ACTUATING EXPANDABLE REAMERS AND RELATED METHODS - Expandable reamers are configured to operate in a first, retracted state in which a plurality of blades is in a retracted position when a sliding sleeve is in a first sleeve position and a seat is in a first seat position, to operate in a second, extended state in which the plurality of blades is movable to an extended position when the sliding sleeve is in at least a second sleeve position and the seat is in the first seat position, and to operate in a third, retracted state in which the plurality of blades is returned to the retracted position when the sliding sleeve is in the at least a second position and the seat is in a second seat position. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130161099 | Downhole Cutting Tool - A tool for reaming a borehole includes a tubular body having a central axis, an uphole reamer section mounted to the body, and a downhole reamer section mounted to the body. Each reamer section includes a first blade extending radially from the body. Each blade has an uphole end, a downhole end opposite the uphole end, and a formation-facing surface. The formation facing surface of the first blade of the uphole reamer section is disposed at a radius R | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130175093 | Apparatus and Methods Utilizing Progressive Cavity Motors and Pumps with Independent Stages - In one aspect, a drilling apparatus is disclosed, that includes a progressive cavity device that includes a plurality of linearly coupled rotors, each rotor disposed in a separate stator, wherein adjoining stators are separated by a coupling device configured to provide lateral support to the rotors. In another aspect, the stators may be enclosed in a common housing. In yet another aspect, the adjoining stator sections may be rigidly connected to each other. | 07-11-2013 |
| 20130175094 | Safety Mechanism For A Well, A Well Comprising The Safety Mechanism, And Related Methods - A safety mechanism comprising: an obstructing member moveable between a first position where fluid flow is permitted, and a second position where fluid flow is restricted preferably blocked; a movement mechanism; and a wireless receiver, often an acoustic transceiver, adapted to receive a wireless signal; wherein the movement mechanism is operable to move the obstructing member from one of the first and second positions to the other of the first and second positions in response to a change in the signal being received by the wireless receiver. Embodiments of the invention thus provide a safety mechanism for a well such as a valve, packer, plug or sleeve, which can be operated wirelessly and so may allow operation of safety mechanisms in a well even when emergency situations have occurred. | 07-11-2013 |
| 20130186689 | DOWNHOLE TOOL WITH EXTERNAL HOUSING TORQUE TRANSFER - A downhole tool comprises a first connector sub coupled to an outer housing. A mandrel is disposed in the outer housing and is coupled to a mandrel. The second connector sub is slidably engaged with the outer housing so that torque loads are transferred from the first connector sub to the second connector sub through the outer housing independently of the mandrel. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130186690 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING TORQUE TRANSFER FROM ROTATING EQUIPMENT - Systems and methods for reducing the amount of torque transferred to the Bottom Hole Assembly and the drill string during drilling operations are disclosed. The drill string includes an optionally non-rotatable portion. A rotational hold down system is positioned at a first position on the drill string where it is not rotationally coupled to the drill string. The rotational hold down system is then moved to a second position on the drill string where it is rotationally coupled to the optionally non-rotatable portion of the drill string. In the second position, one or more bars on the rotational hold down system substantially prevent rotation of the optionally non-rotatable portion of the drill string. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130192895 | Device and Method for Drilling with Continuous Tool Rotation and Continuous Drilling Fluid Supply - A device is for a drilling rig for forming of a bore hole in a subterranean structure. The drilling rig comprises a first, top driven drilling machine arranged vertically displaceable along a guide track, where a second drilling machine is arranged between the first drilling machine and the bore hole, vertically displaceable along a guide track and provided with a rotary table arranged to be able to take the weight of a pipe string. A rotary drive unit is arranged for continuous rotation of the pipe string. A fluid chamber is arranged to, in a fluid communicating way, be able to connect a pipe string end portion with a drilling liquid plant. As the fluid chamber is provided with pipe string ports comprising means arranged to, in a fluid sealing way, be able to close the pipe string ports. A power tong is arranged for continuous rotation of an element connected to the pipe string, as the power tong is arranged in the fluid chamber. Also, a method is for drilling with continuous tool rotation and continuous drilling liquid supply. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130192896 | Method for colling a rotating control device - A system and method for reducing repairs to radial seals used in a rotating control head used while drilling is disclosed. Also, a system and method to detect leaks in the rotating control head and a latching system to latch the rotating control head to a housing is disclosed. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130192897 | Downhole Tool Activation - An apparatus for use in controlling first and second downhole tools includes a first cyclical indexing mechanism associated with a first downhole tool, and a second cyclical indexing mechanism associated with a second downhole tool, wherein the first indexing mechanism defines at least three sequential indexing positions within a cycle and the second indexing mechanism defines at least two sequential indexing positions within a cycle. The apparatus includes at least one actuator for actuating the first and second indexing mechanisms in response to a common stimulus to cause said first and second indexing mechanisms to advance between respective indexing positions so as to permit co-ordination of the operational states of the associated first and second downhole tools. The apparatus may be used for controlling first and second under reamers or for controlling an under reamer and a corresponding stabilizer. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130199849 | IMPULSE-TYPE UNDERGROUND SUPERCHARGED JET DRILLING METHOD AND DEVICE - An impulse-type underground supercharged jet drilling method and device is provided. The impulse-type underground supercharged jet drilling method uses up and down vibrations of a drill string or weight on bit variation during the drilling process, so that an upper joint connected to the drill string drives a housing and a supercharging cylinder block to move up and down relative to a supercharging piston, while the supercharging piston, a high pressure line, and a drive shaft disposed outside the high pressure line make a reciprocally retractable movement relative to the housing. As a result, some working fluid entering the supercharging cylinder block is intermittently supercharged, and discharged from a high pressure fluid passage disposed in the supercharging piston and the high pressure line. The present disclosure can effectively perform an underground supercharging to parts of the drilling fluid, thus improving the rock breaking efficiency and the drilling speed. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130220702 | Fluid Conveyed Thruster - The present invention is directed to a fluid conveyed thruster for use in combination with a bottom hole assembly connected to a drill string during drilling operations. The fluid conveyed thruster comprises a continuous passage comprising a narrowed portion and an intersection. Fluid passing through the continuous passage of the fluid conveyed thruster accelerates as it passes through the narrowed portion and the intersection. The acceleration of fluid exiting the fluid conveyed thruster urges the tool forward and in turn urges the bottom hole assembly forward within a wellbore. The fluid conveyed thruster extends the reach of the bottom hole assembly and the drill string within the wellbore. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130228376 | FLOW DIVERTER RING FOR MUD SAVER VALVES - A valve assembly includes a main housing having a central bore therethrough, an upper valve subassembly disposed within the main housing, the upper valve subassembly including an upper seat configured to contact a corresponding lower seat of a lower valve subassembly, and a flow diverter ring disposed proximate the upper seat of the upper valve subassembly, wherein the flow diverter ring is configured to direct a fluid flow radially away from the upper seat of the upper valve subassembly. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130228377 | ROCK DRILLING RIG AND METHOD FOR TRANSMISSION OF ROCK DRILLING RIG - A rock drilling rig and to a method for transmission thereof is provided. The rock drilling rig includes a carriage that is movable by drive equipment in a mine. The rock drilling rig includes a hydraulic drilling system for which pressure energy is generated by a hydraulic pump. The rock drilling rig is electrically driven and includes an electric motor that is connected to drive both the drive equipment and the hydraulic drilling system. The mechanical drive transmission included in the drive equipment and the hydraulic pump of the hydraulic drilling system may be connected and disconnected independently of one another by means of clutches. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130228378 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONSTANT DEPTH OF CUT CONTROL OF DRILLING TOOLS - In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of configuring a depth of cut controller (DOCC) of a drill bit comprises determining a first desired depth of cut for a first radial swath associated with a bit face of a drill bit. The first radial swath is associated with a first area of the bit face. The method further comprises identifying a first plurality of cutting elements located on the bit face that each include at least a portion located within the first radial swath. The method additionally comprises configuring a first depth of cut controller (DOCC) for placement on the bit face within the first radial swath. The first depth of cut controller is configured based on the first desired depth of cut for the first radial swath and each portion of the first plurality of cutting elements located within the first radial swath. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130233620 | Stabilizer with Drilling Fluid Diverting Ports - Described are drilling subs that may be connected in a drill string for reducing the accumulation of debris on the exterior of the drill string or otherwise facilitating the return of drilling fluid during drilling operations. A plurality of radially spaced stabilizing blades protrude from an exterior surface of the drilling subs to define exterior flow channels therebetween through which drilling fluid returning to the surface may is directed. Diverting nozzle passages are provided that extend between an inner axial passage of the drilling subs and the exterior surface of the drilling subs. The diverting nozzle passages exhibit a radial spacing corresponding to a radial spacing of the exterior flow channels such that drilling fluid discharged from the diverting nozzle passages is directed toward the exterior flow channels. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130233621 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONSTANT DEPTH OF CUT CONTROL OF DRILLING TOOLS - According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of configuring a blade of a drill bit comprises determining a first desired depth of cut for a first radial swath associated with a bit face of a drill bit. The first radial swath is associated with a first area of the bit face. The method further comprises identifying a first plurality of cutting elements located on the bit face. Each of the cutting elements includes at least a portion located within the first radial swath. The method additionally comprises configuring a first blade surface of a blade. The first blade surface is located within the first radial swath and configured based on the first desired depth of cut for the first radial swath. The blade surface is also configured based on each portion of the first plurality of cutting elements located within the first radial swath. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130248252 | Reaming Shoe for Increased Borehole Clearance - An articulated reaming tool is provided in casing or liner drilling on or through the tubular wall with the articulation occurring from within the tubular. Outer limit travel stops are contemplated to optionally be used to retain the elements or blades to the tubular. In the case of liner drilling the drill string has an exterior protrusion to engage the movable components that ream and extend them to increase the clearance for the tubular as the tubular advances when more hole is made. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130256034 | EXPANDABLE REAMERS HAVING SLIDING AND ROTATING EXPANDABLE BLADES, AND RELATED METHODS - Expandable reamers for enlarging a borehole in a subterranean formation include a tubular body, at least one curved blade track carried by the tubular body, and at least one blade engaged with the at least one blade track and configured to slide along the curved blade track along a curved path between a first retracted blade position and a second expanded blade position. To form such an expandable reamer, a tubular body having at least one curved blade track carried by the tubular body may be formed, and at least one blade may be engaged with the blade track. The blade and blade track may be configured such that the blade slides along the blade track along a curved path between a retracted position and an expanded position. Such expandable reamers may be used to enlarge boreholes in subterranean formations. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130256035 | EXPANDABLE REAMERS AND METHODS OF USING EXPANDABLE REAMERS - Expandable reamers comprise a housing and at least one blade supported by the housing. The at least one blade is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The at least one blade is in the retracted position when a travel sleeve is in a first sleeve position and a trigger sleeve is in an unobstructed position. The at least one blade is movable to the extended position when the travel sleeve is in a second sleeve position and the trigger sleeve is in the unobstructed position. The at least one blade is in the retracted position when the travel sleeve is in the second sleeve position and the trigger sleeve is in an obstructed position. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130256036 | CUTTING STRUCTURES, TOOLS FOR USE IN SUBTERRANEAN BOREHOLES INCLUDING CUTTING STRUCTURES AND RELATED METHODS - Cutting structures for use with downhole tools in subterranean boreholes include a blade, a plurality of primary cutting elements coupled to the blade, and at least one secondary element rotationally leading the plurality of primary cutting elements in a direction of intended rotation of the cutting structure. The at least one secondary element is coupled to the blade proximate a leading surface of the blade and comprises at least one of a rubbing surface and a cutting surface. An exposure of at least one primary cutting element of the plurality of primary cutting elements is greater than an exposure of the at least one secondary element. Downhole tools such as reamers include cutting structures. Methods of enlarging a subterranean borehole include reaming a borehole with cutting structures. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130264119 | Hammer Drill - A downhole apparatus connected to a workstring within a wellbore. The workstring is connected to a bit member. The apparatus includes a mandrel operatively connected to a downhole motor mechanism, an anvil member operatively formed on the bit member, the anvil member being operatively connected to the mandrel, a radial bearing housing unit operatively connected to the workstring, with the radial bearing housing unit being disposed about the mandrel, and a hammer member slidably attached to the radial bearing housing unit. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130270010 | DRILL BITS HAVING DEPTH OF CUT CONTROL FEATURES AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - A drill bit for drilling a borehole in an earthen formation may include a bit body having a bit axis and a direction of rotation about the bit axis; at least two blades extending azimuthally from the bit body; and a plurality of cutting elements disposed on the at least two blades; the plurality of cutting elements forming a cutting profile in a rotated profile view, each cutting element having a radial distance from the bit axis. At least one blade, at its formation facing surface, may include, between two radially adjacent cutting elements on the at least one blade, a raised depth of cut feature for each cutting element on the other of the at least two blades that are at radial distances from the bit axis intermediate the radial distances from the bit axis of the radially adjacent cutting elements on the at least one blade. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130277116 | MUD MOTOR WITH INTEGRATED PERCUSSION TOOL AND DRILL BIT - A downhole tool having a progressive cavity mud motor with an impact generator disposed within the mud motor rotor or bearing assembly. In one embodiment, the impact generator includes a mud turbine connected to a eccentric ring that encircles and periodically strikes an anvil surface of a percussion shaft. The eccentric ring is pivotable between an engaged striking position and a disengaged non-striking position. The percussion shaft is coupled to a drill bit though a splined connector that provides limited slip for transmitting rotation of the mud motor rotor to the drill bit and for transmitting percussion strikes against the anvil to the drill bit without the need to accelerate the entire drill string. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130277117 | METHOD FOR INTRODUCING A VERTICAL SHAFT AND SHAFT DRIVING MACHINE - The invention relates to a method for introducing a vertical shaft underground and to a shaft driving machine set up particularly for performing the method, wherein a cutting wheel is rotated solely about a horizontal axis until a penetration trough having a predetermined penetration depth is formed, and the cutting wheel is then also rotated about a central vertical axis until a shaft foot is dug out to the penetration depth. A relatively high sinking rate is thereby achieved for the shaft. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130284515 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COUPLING AN EARTH PIPE INTO THE GROUND, USING A SOLIDIFYING MASS - A method for coupling an earth pipe into the ground when utilizing an apparatus that has a drilling device including a casing part and a drilling unit inside thereof. The drilling unit includes a first drilling member for drilling a center hole and a second drilling member for reaming the center hole for the casing part. The casing part is arranged to be drawn into the hole by the first and/or second drilling member. After drilling a hole for the earth pipe and lifting up the first drilling member, a solidifying mass is led to the bottom of the hole to couple the earth pipe to the surrounding ground. The solidifying mass is brought in the casing part utilizing a flow-through assembly at a lower end of the casing part into a space between an outer surface of the casing part and the hole. Also an apparatus operating. | 10-31-2013 |
| 20130299243 | Mud Motor Bearing Assembly and Method - A mud motor bearing assembly for use in drilling a hydrocarbon well. The bearing assembly includes a bearing section containing stationary bearing rigs and rotating bearing rings in stacked arrangement. The bearing rings have wedge-shaped projections. The wedge-shaped projections of two adjacent stationary bearing rings form a recess to accommodate the projection of a rotating bearing ring in sliding engagement. The bearing assembly is capable of bearing both radial and axial loads. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130299244 | DRILLING RIG EMPLOYING TOP DRIVE - An apparatus includes a carriage movable along a drilling tower, a linking member pivotally coupled to the carriage, at least one actuator extending between the carriage and the linking member to pivot the linking member between first and second pivot positions, and a top drive pivotally coupled to the linking member. According to another aspect, an apparatus includes a drilling tower, a carriage movably coupled to the drilling tower, a linking member pivotally coupled to the carriage to permit the linking member to pivot between first and second pivot positions, and a top drive extending longitudinally in a parallel relation to the drilling tower, the top drive being pivotally coupled to the linking member to permit the top drive to continue to extend longitudinally in a parallel relation to the drilling tower when the linking member pivots between the first and second pivot positions. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130299245 | DOWNHOLE TOOLS HAVING ACTIVATION MEMBERS FOR MOVING MOVABLE BODIES THEREOF AND METHODS OF USING SUCH TOOLS - Expandable reamers for enlarging wellbores include a tubular body and one or more blades configured to extend and retract. A sleeve member within the tubular body has open ends to allow fluid to flow therethrough. A fluid port extends through a wall of the sleeve member. A restriction member within the sleeve is movable between first and second positions. In the first position, fluid flow through the downhole end of the sleeve is generally unimpeded, and fluid flow through the fluid port is generally impeded. In the second position, fluid flow through the downhole end of the sleeve member is generally impeded, and fluid flow through the fluid port is generally unimpeded. The restriction member may be configured to move responsive to changes in the rate of fluid flow through the sleeve member. Methods of using such reamers are also disclosed. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130313021 | Hybrid Drill Bits Having Increased Drilling Efficiency - An earth boring drill bit is described, the bit having a bit body having a central longitudinal axis that defines an axial center of the bit body and configured at its upper extent for connection into a drillstring; at least one primary fixed blade extending downwardly from the bit body and inwardly toward, but not proximate to, the central axis of the drill bit; at least one secondary fixed blade extending radially outward from proximate the central axis of the drill bit; a plurality of fixed cutting elements secured to the primary and secondary fixed blades; at least one bit leg secured to the bit body; and a rolling cutter mounted for rotation on the bit leg; wherein the fixed cutting elements on at least one fixed blade extend from the center of the bit outward toward the gage of the bit but do not include a gage cutting region, and wherein at least one roller cone cutter portion extends from substantially the drill bit's gage region inwardly toward the center of the bit, the apex of the roller cone cutter being proximate to the terminal end of the at least one secondary fixed blade, but does not extend to the is center of the bit. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130319769 | WELLBORE REAMING TOOL HAVING LOCKING CLUTCH FOR DRILL OUT AFTER RUNNING WELLBORE TUBULARS - A reaming tool for use while inserting tubular components into a wellbore includes a motor housing configured to be coupled to one end of a string of tubular components. A motor is disposed in the housing. An output shaft is rotationally coupled to the motor. the output shaft is configured to be coupled to a cutting structure at one end thereof. A lock is selectively engageable to rotationally fix the output shaft to the motor housing. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319770 | DRILL BIT SEAL AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A seal for a rolling cutter drill bit is provided. The seal has a ring shaped seal body having an inside diameter and an outside diameter, and a mud lobe and a grease lobe extending from the inside diameter of the seal body. The seal body has an asymmetrical, longitudinal cross-section such that, when positioned in a seal groove of the drill bit and compressed therein under downhole pressure, the mud lobe and grease lobe are maintained in contact with a seal land of the seal groove. The seal body may be provided with a garter spring and/or a textured pattern. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130341096 | Transportable single operator rig apparatus and method for optimizing drilling and/or completion - A transportable rig apparatus provides single operator control for moving pipe into and out of a wellbore. A transportable control van houses the operator. A rig carrier is utilized to transport the mast. A pipe tong is mounted in the mast and is remotely operable from the control van. Rig blocks which move up and down in the mast are remotely operable from control van. A skid mounted pipe moving member moves pipe to the mast assembly and away from the mast assembly. The pipe moving member remotely is operable from the control van. A pipe tub stores pipe and a pipe tub transfer system is operable for moving pipe from the pipe tub to the pipe moving member and for moving pipe from the pipe moving member to the pipe tub. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130341097 | Cutting Element, Tool and Method of Cutting Within a Borehole - A cutting element includes a body having two planes, each of the two planes defining a plurality of edges, and a support extending from a first of the two planes. The support and the body are configured such that when at least one of the plurality of edges and the support are in contact with the planar surface, edges of the plurality of edges on a second of the two planes form cutting edges and the second of the two planes forms an acute angle with the planar surface. The second of the two planes of the cutting element has a recess formed therein sized and positioned to be receptive to a support of a second cutting element similar to the cutting element when the first of the two planes of the second cutting element is butted against the second of the two planes of the cutting element. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20140008128 | LARGE GAUGE CONCENTRIC UNDERREAMER - A downhole tool and associated methods. The downhole tool includes a body with a throughbore; at least one extendable cutting member; and an actuation member. The actuation member is operatively associated with the extendable cutting member and movable relative to the body to extend the cutting member laterally from the body along an extension axis. The extension axis is offset from a radius of the body. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140014412 | Polycrystalline diamond percussion drill bits using low thrust and torque for application with small diameter drill bits - A polycrystalline diamond drill bit for percussion drilling uses very low torque and thrust that is formed of very specific insert and bit body dimensions to achieve maximum penetration rates and bit life when drilling very hard, high silica ground. The bits are made using a double chisel design, or a modified double chisel design, in the placement of the inserts on the face of the drill bit. The inserts are set into the body are very specific angles. The inserts have specific length to cut clearance for the bit body. The cutting angle and radius on the tip of the inserts are of very specific dimensions. The diameter of the inserts is of a specific diameter to retard the inserts from shearing off. The thrust and torque settings on the drill when using these PCD bits is less than 20 bar. When assembled in the manner as described this provides a system for use and application of PCD drill bits in hard rock drilling. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140027180 | Drill Bit with Hydraulically-Activated Force Application Device for Controlling Depth-of-Cut of the Drill Bit - In one aspect, a drill bit is disclosed that in one embodiment includes a pad configured to extend and retract from a surface of the drill bit, a pad on a face of the drill bit configured to extend and retract from the face, and a force application device configured to extend and retract the pad, the force application device including a hydraulically-operated rotating member coupled to speed reduction device configured to apply force on drive unit that applies force on the pad to cause the pad to extend from the drill bit face. In one aspect, the hydraulically-operated rotating member is a propeller operated by a fluid flowing through the drill bit. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140027181 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DRILLING BOREHOLES - A system for drilling a borehole according to the present invention includes a control system and a drill rig, including a water injection system and an air injection system. The control system receives information from the drill rig that relates to at least one drill parameter. The control system processes information relating to the drill parameter, determines whether to implement a hole defect mitigation routine, including a drilling phase defect mitigation routine or a retraction phase defect mitigation routine following completion of the drilling phase. The control system determines whether the drill parameter is within a predetermined specification for the monitored drill parameter, chooses a hole defect mitigation routine based on the monitored drill parameter when the monitored drill parameter is outside the predetermined specification, and controls the drill rig to implement the chosen hole defect mitigation routine. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140034390 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SIMULATION OF DOWNHOLE CONDITIONS IN A WELL SYSTEM - A method for simulating downhole conditions is described. The method includes receiving configuration information about a well system in a production configuration, the well system including annular fluids disposed therein and receiving heat source information associated with a heat source disposed within the well system. The method also includes simulating temperature transfer in the well system during a production scenario based at least on the configuration information and the heat source information and predicting pressure buildup in the annular fluids based on the simulated temperature transfer in the well system. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034391 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DRILLING AND LINING A WELLBORE - Apparatus for drilling and lining a wellbore is described herein. A method of drilling and lining a wellbore is also described herein. A liner hanger is provided, secured in use on a liner. The liner hanger is operable selectively to be set and unset. The liner hanger is adapted to support the liner within an existing casing when set and to release the liner from the casing when unset. A liner hanger setting tool is provided, secured in use on a drill string. The liner hanger setting tool is actuatable selectively to set and unset the liner hanger. The liner hanger setting tool is operable selectively to be activated and deactivated. The liner hanger setting tool is adapted to attach to the liner and/or liner hanger when activated, to support the liner, and to release from the liner and/or liner hanger when deactivated. The method comprises the following steps: (a) setting the liner hanger by actuating the liner hanger setting tool; (b) deactivating the liner hanger setting tool; (c) extending the borehole using the drill string; (d) returning the drill string to its position at the setting step or the deactivating step; (e) activating the liner hanger setting tool; (f) unsetting the liner hanger by actuating the liner hanger setting tool; and (g) lowering the liner down the extended borehole on the drill string. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034392 | Hydrocarbon Well Completion System and Method of Completing a Hydrocarbon Well - The present apparatus and method of use allows a blow out preventer to be installed as a unit with a section of casing, and does not require the blow out preventer to be removed as subsequent strings of casing are installed, thus efficiently utilizing drilling rig time. The present invention further allows a casing string to be landed and cemented in place, and then the drilling rig may move off the location, without a permanent wellhead housing attached to the well. The primary apparatus utilized in the invention is a tubular connector which suspends a string of casing during cementing, and which receives a casing plug for sealing the well when drilling operations have been completed. When completion operations commence, a permanent wellhead housing is attached to the tubular connector utilizing a unique metal to metal seal. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140041942 | High-Speed Triple String Drilling System - A drilling system for boring into ground includes a bottom hole assembly having a rotatable casing shoe, an independently rotatable driveshaft disposed within the casing shoe, and a bearing housing interdisposed between the driveshaft and the casing shoe to control a distance between a centerline of the driveshaft and a centerline of the casing shoe. The driveshaft includes a bit disposed at a distal end thereof, extending beyond the casing shoe distal end. The driveshaft centerline and the casing shoe centerline are substantially parallel and radially offset. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140041943 | DRILLING MOTOR VALVE AND METHOD OF USING SAME | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140048333 | DRILL PIPE PERFORATOR APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE - This disclosure is related to a perforator tool and a method of using the perforator tool to perforate a formation. The perforator tool can include a first and second sleeve and optionally a third sleeve. The perforator tool can also include at least one perforation opening and at least one circulation port. The sleeves are slidably disposed within the perforator tool and can be displaced to permit perforation of the formation, block the perforation openings and open circulation ports. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140054086 | SHEARABLE DRILL PIPE AND METHOD - The method of shearing drill collars used in the drilling of oil and gas wells, comprising providing an outer sleeve of a first material for carrying structural loads, providing a second material within the outer sleeve which is lower in shear strength and is greater in unit weight than the first material, and providing a hole in the second material for the circulation of fluids. | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140060934 | CUTTING INSERT FOR A ROCK DRILL BIT - A cutting insert for a rock drill bit having a ridge formed on a cutting face that splits extrudate formed during drilling thereby reducing the mechanical specific energy that may be expended to move the extrudate across the cutting face. The cutting insert may have a cutting edge which forms the extrudate during drilling and a face having two opposing, generally symmetrical, concave regions that define an elongated ridge therebetween. The ridge may extend across a substantial portion of the face. | 03-06-2014 |
| 20140069722 | HAMMER BIT - A hammer bit is herein described with tapered lateral sides and a modified face section. The tapered lateral sides taper inward towards a rear portion of the hammer bit. The modified face section includes a gauge portion and a larger angled or heel portion. The hammer bit provides improved penetration and directional control for drilling into the earth. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140069723 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PENETRATING PARTICULATE SUBSTRATES - A method or corresponding apparatus in an example embodiment of the present invention relates to penetrating a particulate substrate using a compact, lightweight, low-energy, reversible, and dynamic device for burrowing through particulate substrates. In one preferred embodiment, the apparatus includes at least one vessel and a displacement module coupled with the vessel. The actuation of the displacement module fluidizes the particulate substrate proximate to the vessel and thereby reduces resistance of the particulate substrate to movement of the vessel and causes further penetration of the apparatus through the particulate substrate. The example embodiment utilizes volume contraction and localized fluidizing to efficiently move through substrates. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140069724 | Turbine Speed Control System for Downhole Tool - Systems, methods, and devices are provided to generate a stable supply of electrical power in a drill string. In one example, a downhole turbine generator includes a turbine, a speed governor, and an alternator. The turbine may transform hydraulic power of a first fluid medium into rotational power of a rotating shaft. The speed governor may reduce the rotational power of the rotating shaft in a variable amount that depends on the speed of the rotating shaft. Specifically, weighted arms may shear a second fluid medium more when the speed is higher and less when the speed is lower. The shearing of the second fluid medium may generate a countervailing torque on the rotating shaft to reduce the rotational power of the rotating shaft. The alternator then may produce a generally stable supply of electrical power from the rotational power of the rotating shaft. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140083776 | METHOD FOR INITIATING FLUID CIRCULATION USING DUAL DRILL PIPE - A method for operating a dual drill string disposed in a wellbore, the string having a shutoff valve for at least a fluid return drill string therein proximate a bottom end thereof includes pumping fluid into the fluid return string such that a pressure therein is substantially equal to a fluid pressure in the wellbore. Circulation of fluid in the wellbore is initiated by pumping fluid into a fluid supply string of the dual drill string such that the shutoff valve on the fluid return string opens to enable the fluid leaving the wellbore to enter the fluid return string. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140090892 | Apparatus and methods for controlling drill string vibrations and applying a force to a drill bit - Apparatus and methods for controlling drill string vibrations and applying a force to a drill bit include a body having a first piston at an uphole end in association with a drill string and a second piston at a downhole end in association with a drill bit. A first biasing member urges the first piston outward to provide a first force in an uphole direction to the drill string. A second biasing member urges the second piston outward to provide a second force in a downhole direction to the drill bit. When vibration from the drill string compresses the first biasing member, the first force resists the vibration and maintains the apparatus and drill bit in a consistent orientation. When an uphole force from the drill string or the drill bit compresses the second biasing member, the second force prevents movement of the drill bit in an uphole direction. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140097024 | DRILL BITS HAVING DEPTH OF CUT CONTROL FEATURES AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - A downhole cutting tool for drilling a borehole in an earthen formation may include a tool body having a tool axis and a direction of rotation about the tool axis; at least two blades attached to the tool body, the at least two blades having a leading face facing the direction of rotation of the tool body about the tool axis, a trailing face facing away from the direction of rotation of the tool body about the tool axis, and a formation facing surface extending between the leading face and the trailing face; and a plurality of cutting elements disposed on the at least two blades, each cutting element having a radial distance from the tool axis; wherein at least one blade, at its formation facing surface, comprises, between two radially adjacent cutting elements on the at least one blade, a raised depth of cut feature for each cutting element on the other of the at least two blades that are at radial distances from the tool axis intermediate the radial distances from the tool axis of the radially adjacent cutting elements on the at least one blade. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140102796 | Method And Apparatus For Protecting Downhole Components With Inert Atmosphere - Methods and systems are provided that enable the removal or reduction of moisture and any other volatile substances within downhole tools. A purging gas can be allowed to flow into the downhole tool, where it begins to interact with and dry the moisture present as well as dilute the gaseous environment therein. Then purging gas then can exit the tool, thereby removing the moisture and any other potentially polluting or corrosive gases in the tool. A vacuum pump and desiccant jar assembly also can be used to further remove moisture from the tool. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102797 | SELECTIVE DEPLOYMENT OF UNDERREAMERS AND STABILIZERS - A downhole tool for increasing a cross-sectional area of a wellbore is provided. The downhole tool may include a first drilling assembly including a first reaming tool for selectively increasing the cross-sectional area of the wellbore. A first ball seat may receive a first ball. At least one of the first ball seat and the first ball may deform to allow the first ball to pass through the first ball seat when a predetermined pressure is applied thereto. A first piston may be coupled to the first ball seat. The first ball seat and the first piston may stroke when the first ball is received within the first ball seat, thereby actuating the first reaming tool between an active state and an inactive state. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102798 | STABILIZING MEMBERS FOR FIXED CUTTER DRILL BIT - A drill bit for drilling a borehole in an earthen formation. In an embodiment, the bit comprises a first blade having a cutter-supporting surface. In addition, the bit comprises a plurality of primary cutter elements with cutting faces mounted to the cutter-supporting surface. The cutting profiles of the cutting faces define an outermost cutting profile P | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140110175 | Downhole Activation System using Magnets and Method Thereof - A downhole activation system within a tubular. The system includes an axially movable mover. A first magnet attached to the mover. The first magnet axially movable with the mover. A second magnet separated from the first magnet. The second magnet magnetically repulsed by the first magnet. A biasing device urging the second magnet towards the first magnet; wherein movement of the first magnet via the mover towards the second magnet moves the second magnet in a direction against the biasing device. Also included is a method of activating an activatable member in a downhole tubular. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140116780 | Hybrid Bearings for Downhole Motors - A bearing assembly for use in a down-hole drilling apparatus includes a bearing housing configured for connection to a drill string and a mandrel disposed at least partially within the bearing housing. The mandrel is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis extending therethrough. A hybrid thrust bearing package is provided and disposed radially between the bearing housing and the mandrel. The hybrid thrust bearing package includes a plurality of ball bearings movable through at least one race, an annular stator supported by the bearing housing and an annular rotor ring supported on and rotatable with the mandrel. The annular stator and rotor rings define first and second flat PDC bearing surfaces engaged with one another at a bearing interface oriented generally orthogonally with respect to the longitudinal axis. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140116781 | Reciprocating and Rotating Section and Methods in a Drilling System - An apparatus including a stationary section having a first central fluid passage and operably connected to a drilling fluid inlet and a conduit, a rotating and reciprocating section having a second central fluid passage and operably connected to a tubular, wherein the rotating and reciprocating section reciprocates along a longitudinal axis and rotates in conjunction with the tubular and the conduit, and a third section having a third central fluid passage in fluid communication between the first and second central fluid passages, where the third section is operably disposed between the first and rotating and reciprocating sections to permit the rotating and reciprocating section to slide axially even during rotation and to permit only rotational motion at an end adjacent the stationary section. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140116782 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SHAPING A WELL HOLE - A method of shaping a wellbore comprising attaching a drilling apparatus to a drill string, which has a side cutting sub-assembly with both cutting and gauging surfaces; a fluid circulating sub-assembly which has nozzles directing fluid up the wellbore and past the cutting surfaces; and a bullnose assembly with forward pointing nozzles and a bullnosed front end to prevent catching in ledges of a rough drilled wellbore. The drilling apparatus is then passed through the wellbore such that the side cutting sub shears arch wellbore walls of dog legs to ease the turns and smooth the bore wall in preparation for running liner/casing or other down hole assemblies which previously may have had difficulty going in hole. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140131107 | Device and method usable in well drilling and other well operations - Systems and methods usable for drilling wells and performing other well operations include a drilling tool having inner and outer, counter-rotating drill bits. Opposing reactive torques generated by the inner bit and the outer bit can reduce or cancel the net reactive torque transmitted upwell, through the drill string. Counter rotation of the inner and the outer drill bits can be achieved by a gear system, which transfers torque from a single rotating tubular shaft to a tubular sleeve positioned concentrically about the tubular shaft. The gear system transfers torque from a first gear to a second gear, at a one-to-one rotation/torque ratio, but with an opposite direction of rotation. Tools connected to the tubular sleeve and tubular shaft can thereby be provided with opposing rotational motion. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140131108 | UNDERREAMER FOR INCREASING A WELLBORE DIAMETER - An underreamer for increasing a diameter of a wellbore. The underreamer includes a body having an axial bore extending at least partially therethrough. A sleeve is arranged and designed to move a first axial distance within the body. A cutter block is movably coupled to the body. The cutter block is arranged and designed to move at least the first axial distance with respect to the body to contact the sleeve in response to hydraulic pressure in the bore. The cutter block moves from a first outer diameter to a second outer diameter as the cutter block moves the first axial distance. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140131109 | ADJUSTABLE DIAMETER UNDERREAMER AND METHODS OF USE - An underreamer for increasing a diameter of a wellbore. The underreamer includes a body having an axial bore extending at least partially therethrough. An annular sleeve may be coupled to the body and adapted to move with respect to the body. The sleeve may include a plurality of grooves formed therein that are circumferentially offset from one another. A pin may be coupled to the body. The sleeve may be adapted to move with respect to the pin to transition the pin from a first groove in the sleeve to a second groove in the sleeve. The sleeve may be in a first axial position with respect to the body when the pin is positioned in the first groove, and the sleeve may be in a second axial position with respect to the body when the pin is positioned in the second groove. The underreamer also includes one or more cutter blocks. The radial cutting diameter of the one or more cutter blocks depends on the axial position of the one or more cutter blocks and may be determined therefrom. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140131110 | Make-Up/Break-Out Device For Drilling Hammers - A make-up/break-out device for use with a hammer used in horizontal directional drilling operations. The hammer comprises a drill bit assembly and a housing that are connected via low helix angle threads. The make-up/break-out device is used with the hammer to tighten or loosen the connection between the drill bit assembly and the housing. The make-up/break-out device comprises a vise arm, a lever arm, and drive arm. The drive arm reacts torque on both the vise arm and the lever arm which in turn react torque on the drill bit assembly and the housing | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140131111 | TWO-CENTRE ROTARY BORING BIT AND METHOD FOR DEEPENING AN EXISTING WELL - Two-centre rotary boring bit for boring wells, comprising, on the one hand, a pilot tool ( | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140144705 | Hydraulic Percussion Apparatus and Method of Use - A hydraulic percussive apparatus is disclosed for generating vibrating forces to a pipe string. The apparatus is attached to the pipe string a central bore through which fluid may be introduced into the apparatus. The apparatus has a tubular housing, an anvil surface with an irregularly profiled surface, and a rotor with an irregularly profiled hammer surface that is urged to move axially toward and away from the anvil surface. The rotor has a longitudinally extending fluid bore and a tangentially oriented fluid port in communication with the longitudinal fluid bore of the rotor. Fluid entering the rotor's fluid bore and exiting the rotor's tangentially oriented fluid port rotates the rotor, and thus the irregularly profiled hammer surface on the irregularly profiled anvil surface, moving the hammer surface toward and away from the anvil producing intermittent impact forces. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140144706 | ROTATING CONTINUOUS FLOW SUB - A method for drilling a wellbore includes drilling the wellbore by advancing the tubular string longitudinally into the wellbore; stopping drilling by holding the tubular string longitudinally stationary; adding a tubular joint or stand of joints to the tubular string while injecting drilling fluid into a side port of the tubular string, rotating the tubular string, and holding the tubular string longitudinally stationary; and resuming drilling of the wellbore after adding the joint or stand. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140144707 | DRILLING MACHINE AND METHOD - The present disclosure provides a machine capable of drilling into the ground at a wide range of angles relative to the ground surface. The present disclosure also provides novel drilling methods. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140151126 | DRILLING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A BOREHOLE - The invention relates to a drilling device for producing a borehole in the ground with a drilling tool driven in a rotating manner for removing ground material and a container for receiving the removed ground material, wherein the container has a lower feed opening, through which the removed ground material can be introduced into the container. It is envisaged that the drilling tool comprises at least one drill flight arranged below the container and that in an inlet area to the container between the drill flight and the feed opening an inlet section is provided, the pitch of which is increased with respect to a pitch of the drill flight. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140151127 | CONTROL MECHANISM - The use in a drillstring of a positive displacement motor (PDM) with both an output upwardly and an output downwardly to devices spaced at least by the PDM. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140158431 | DRILLING WASTE TREATMENT - A method transferring drill cuttings, the method comprising transferring the drill cuttings from a pressurized transference device to a pressurized container; transferring the drill cuttings from the pressurized container to a land-based pit discharging station; and discharging the drill cuttings into the land-based pit discharging station. Also, a system for transferring drill cuttings while drilling, the system comprising a pressurized transfer device; a pressurized container in fluid communication with the pressurized transfer device; a conduit disposed between the pressurized transfer device and the pressurized container; and a land-based pit discharging station in fluid communication with the pressurized container. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140166365 | COMPRESSIBLE BEARING ASSEMBLY FOR DOWNHOLE TOOLS AND METHODS OF OPERATION OF SAME - Bearing assemblies for downhole tools include a compensator member operatively associated with a slidable member and a bearing member. The slidable member is movable longitudinally relative to the bearing member. Such movement of slidable member occurs when a force acts upwardly on the downhole tool. Thus, the slidable member facilitates absorption of the upward force acting on the downhole tool. During movement of the slidable member, the compensator member is moved from its expanded position to one of its plurality of compressed positions. As a result, the compensator member becomes biased or further biased toward the expanded position. After the upward force dissipates, the compensator member releases some of its stored energy to move from a compressed position toward the expanded position. Longitudinal movement of the slidable member facilitates maintaining engagement of the downhole tool in its working position so that interruptions of operations are minimized. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140174827 | Drilling Systems and Fixed Cutter Bits with Adjustable Depth-of-Cut to Control Torque-on-Bit - A drill bit for drilling a borehole in an earthen formation includes a connection member having a pin end. In addition, the drill bit includes a bit body coupled to the connection member and configured to rotate relative to the connection member about a central axis of the bit. The bit body includes a bit face. Further, the drill bit includes a blade extending radially along the bit face. Still further, the drill bit includes a plurality of cutter elements mounted to a cutter-supporting surface of the blade. Moreover, the drill bit includes a depth-of-cut limiting structure slidably disposed in a bore extending axially from the cutter-supporting surface. The depth-of-cut limiting structure is configured to move axially relative to the bit body in response to rotation of the bit body relative to the connection member. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140182937 | ROLLER CONE DRILL BIT - A roller cone drill bit having a bit body. The bit body has a journal bearing coupled to an end portion thereof. A roller cone is coupled to the journal bearing. A first cutting element is coupled to the roller cone. A ratio of a radius of curvature of a crest portion of the first cutting element to a diameter of the first cutting element is between about 0.3:1 and about 0.8:1. A second cutting element is coupled to the roller cone. A ratio of a radius of curvature of a crest portion of the second cutting element to a diameter of the second cutting element is between about 0.05:1 and about 0.3:1. A height of the second cutting element is greater than the height of the first cutting element h between about 0.1 mm and about 6 mm. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182938 | PISTON STRIKE FACE AND BIT INTERFACE FOR PERCUSSION HAMMER DRILL - A percussion drilling assembly includes a housing with a hammer bit disposed in the lower end portion thereof and configured to move longitudinally within the housing. The hammer bit includes an annular bit shank having a bit strike face and a cutting structure at a lower end portion thereof. An annular piston having a piston strike face arranged and designed to strike the bit strike face is also disposed in the housing. At least one of the bit strike face and the piston strike face has a toroidal curvature profile. A method includes one or more of lowering the percussion drilling assembly into a borehole, engaging the cutting structure with a formation, and impacting the bit strike face of the annular bit shank with the piston strike face of the annular piston. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182939 | PERCUSSION DRILL BIT WITH CONICAL CUTTING ELEMENTS - A percussion drill bit for drilling a borehole. The drill bit includes a bit body having a bit face disposed on an axial end portion thereof. First and second cutting elements are disposed on the bit face. A cutting plane is defined in tangential contact with crest portion of the first and second cutting elements. A third cutting element on the bit face is at least partially positioned between the first and second cutting elements. The third cutting element is at least partially conical, and a crest portion of the third cutting element is offset from the cutting plane. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182940 | Underreamer for Increasing a Bore Diameter - An underreamer for increasing the diameter of a bore. The underreamer includes a substantially cylindrical body having an axial bore therein. A mandrel may extend axially through the axial bore. One or more cutter blocks are movably coupled to the body. A ratio of a height of the cutter block to a diameter of the body is between about 0.35:1 and about 0.50:1. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140196953 | Drilling apparatus - A drilling apparatus comprised of a multiplicity of subassemblies for drilling an open-hole extension from within an existing cased borehole located in a geological formation for the production of oil and gas. In one embodiment, one subassembly includes a motor located within a cased section of the borehole that rotates a drill pipe segment attached to a rotary drill bit in the open-hole to drill the open-hole extension of the well. In another embodiment, a shroud encloses the motor located within the cased portion of the well that is used to control the mud flow to and from the bit in the open-hole during the drilling process. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140196954 | JETTING TOOL - A jetting tool includes a tubular housing having: couplings formed at each longitudinal end thereof, and one or more ports formed through a wall thereof and in fluid communication with an upper portion of a bore of the housing. The jetting tool further includes a valve mechanism isolating the housing bore upper portion from a lower portion thereof in a closed position and operable to an open position where the valve mechanism provides fluid communication between the housing bore portions. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140196955 | Direct Torque Helical Displacement Well and Hydrostatic Liquid Pressure Relief Device - A helical displacement well with preassembled segments includes a preassembled shaft-forming penetrator tube including helical plates mounted to its exterior that may be rotated to propel the casing into the ground. A hydraulic drill motor rotates the penetrator tube and as it moves deeper into the ground. Extension tubes may be added to and coupled to the penetrator tube. A hydraulic drill motor is attached to the upper end of the extension tubes in order to continue the rotation of the assembled helical displacement well. The filter screen and the piping are installed concurrently with the addition of the extension tubes at the surface of the ground. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140202767 | CONTINGENT CONTINUOUS CIRCULATION DRILLING SYSTEM - A method for deploying a tubular string into a wellbore includes: injecting fluid through a top drive and flow sub into a top of the tubular string and lowering the tubular string into the wellbore. The flow sub: connects the tubular string top to a quill of the top drive, is in a top injection mode, and has a closed port and an open bore. The method further includes halting injection of the fluid through the top drive and lowering of the tubular string. The method further includes, while injection and lowering are halted: disconnecting the flow sub from the tubular string top; adding one or more tubular joints to the tubular string and connecting the flow sub to a top of the added joints. The method further includes resuming injection of the fluid through the top drive and lowering of the tubular string. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202768 | BIDIRECTIONAL DOWNHOLE ISOLATION VALVE - An isolation valve for use in a wellbore includes: a housing; a piston longitudinally movable relative to the housing; a flapper carried by the piston for operation between an open position and a closed position, the flapper operable to isolate an upper portion of a bore of the valve from a lower portion of the bore in the closed position; an opener connected to the housing for opening the flapper; and an abutment configured to receive the flapper in the closed position, thereby retaining the flapper in the closed position. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202769 | X-Y-Z Pipe Racker for a Drilling Rig - Apparatus and methods include an x-direction support structure extending in the same direction as a line extending between a well center and a V-door on a drilling rig and include a y-direction support structure moveable along the x-direction support structure. The y-direction support structure extends on a drilling rig in a direction transverse to the line extending between the well center and the V-door on the drilling rig. A racker device is carried by the y-direction support structure and is configured to connect to and carry a tubular stand used in a well drilling process, the racker device being moveable along the y-direction support structure from a position inline with the line extending between the well center and the V-door on the drilling rig to a position offline from the line to provide space for additional drilling processes along the line extending between the well center and the V-door on the drilling rig. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202770 | DOWNHOLE ASSEMBLY, TOOL AND METHOD - A reaming tool includes a body having a longitudinal axis and an upper end opposite a lower end and a blade located on said body, the blade including a reaming surface having one or more reaming inserts disposed on at least a portion thereof and a cutting surface having one or more cutters disposed on at least a portion thereof. One or more of said cutters are configured (a) so that an extended longitudinal axis of said cutter is positioned at an angle θ between 5 degrees and 85 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of said body, or (b) on said cutting surface at a radial distance from said longitudinal axis less than said radial distances between said reaming inserts and said longitudinal axis. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202771 | HYBRID DRILL BIT AND DESIGN METHOD - A hybrid earth-boring bit comprising a bit body having a central axis, at least one, preferably three fixed blades, depending downwardly from the bit body, each fixed blade having a leading edge, and at least one rolling cutter, preferably three rolling cutters, mounted for rotation on the bit body. A rolling cutter is located between two fixed blades. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140216817 | SLIP DEVICE FOR SUSPENDING A DRILL OR CASING STRING - An apparatus for gripping a cylindrical member is provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a clamping device having clamping dies that enable the clamping device to grip a tubular string. The clamping dies have clamping faces configured to adapt to curvature of the tubular string when the clamping dies engage the tubular string via the clamping faces to facilitate use of the clamping device with tubular strings of different external diameters. Additional devices, systems, and methods are also disclosed. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140231143 | Pressure Compensation System for a Motor Bearing Assembly - In an oil-sealed bearing assembly in the bearing section of a mud motor, in which a mandrel is rotatably disposed within a cylindrical housing, a cylindrical sleeve is disposed coaxially within the mandrel with the sleeve being non-rotatably mounted to an inner surface of the mandrel, thereby forming an annular piston chamber forming part of a generally annular oil reservoir. An annular piston is axially movable within the piston chamber without rotation relative to either the mandrel or the sleeve. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140231144 | Downhole Rotational Lock Mechanism - The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, a method that includes a downhole rotational lock mechanism including a tubular housing having a longitudinal bore with an internal wall. A driving gear is disposed in the longitudinal bore of the tubular housing and has a peripheral edge secured to the internal wall of the longitudinal bore of the tubular housing. The driving gear has an upper portion including a plurality of gear teeth arranged around a central longitudinal bore through the driving gear. A driven gear is movably disposed in the longitudinal bore of the tubular housing, and has a central longitudinal bore and a lower portion including a plurality of gear teeth. An output drive shaft is disposed longitudinally in the longitudinal bore of the tubular housing and in the longitudinal bore of the driven gear. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140238746 | ACTUATION MECHANISMS FOR DOWNHOLE ASSEMBLIES AND RELATED DOWNHOLE ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS - Actuation mechanisms for downhole assemblies in earth-boring applications may comprise a housing comprising an internal bore defining a flow path through the housing. An actuation member may be supported within the housing. A movable sleeve may be located within the internal bore and may be movable between a first position and a second position responsive to changes in flow rate of fluid flowing through the flow path. The movable sleeve may be biased toward the first position. The actuation member may be in an initial, pre-actuation position when the movable sleeve is initially located in the first position. The actuation member may be movable to a subsequent, pre-actuation position when the movable sleeve is located in the second position. The actuation member may be released from the actuation mechanism when the movable sleeve is returned to the first position. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140238747 | Auger stand for a utility truck and method of using same - An auger stand is provided for a utility truck with a boom, motor and auger to install telephone poles. The stand securely holds the nine foot, 350 pound auger in an upright position to facilitate its detachment from and reattachment to a drive shaft of the motor. Without laying the auger down, the truck boom and motor are then used to install pole anchors or perform other tasks. The auger stand has a base with several radially extending legs that form a stabile platform that rests on the ground. A collar is secured near the top of the auger shaft. Several ratchet straps join the outer ends of the legs to the auger collar to form a stable pyramid structure that holds the auger upright. The legs folds up to facilitate transport and storage. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140238748 | SLOTTED LINER DRILLING - Drilling assemblies, systems and methods enable a wellbore to be drilled and lined with a slotted liner. A drilling system includes a liner assembly with a drill string in a bore thereof. The drill string and the liner assembly can be selectively coupled together to restrict relative motion between the liner assembly and the drill string. The liner assembly includes a slotted liner portion through which fluid may flow. As the drilling system is used to drill a wellbore, the liner assembly is simultaneously positioned within the wellbore. Once the wellbore is drilled to a desired depth, the drill string can be disengaged from the liner assembly and retrieved from the well. Production fluids such as oil and gas may then be transferred uphole through the liner assembly. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140238749 | DRILLING TOOL AND METHOD FOR EARTH DRILLING - The invention relates to a drilling tool for earth drilling with a drill rod element which can be connected to a rotary drive and can be driven in a rotating manner about a drilling axis, a frame-like housing and at least one removal tooth which is supported in a radially adjustable manner in the housing between a retracted position in the housing and an operating position, in which the at least one removal tooth projects radially from the housing. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140238750 | TUBULAR DRILL STEM COMPONENT AND METHOD FOR TENSIONING A COMMUNICATION TUBE MOUNTED IN SAID COMPONENT - A tubular component for a drill stem, for drilling a hole, the component including a first end section including a first threading, a second end section including a second threading, and a substantially tubular central section, a hole being provided in at least one of the first and second end sections, and a tensioner for a communications tube disposed in the hole, the tensioner operating by deformation of a regular section of the communications tube, the tensioner being disposed in a housing provided in at least the section, at a distance from the ends of the communications tube, the housing intersecting with the hole. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140246239 | Liner Top Cleaning Method Prior to BHA Removal in Drilling with Advancing Liner Systems - In a steerable drilling liner system the liner running tools that support the bottom hole assembly have the capability of sealingly latching into the liner to allow circulation through the drill bit as the hole is made and reamed. Before removing a seal in a polished bore receptacle inside the liner, the BHA is picked up to confirm release from the liner while leaving the seal in the polished bore. Picking up a second time allows dogs to extend so that setting down weight opens a circulation port to allow debris removal from near the top of the liner along with continued circulation through the BHA. After removal of the BHA and leaving the liner in the hole, the redressed BHA with the spring loaded dogs retained enters the liner and sealingly latches to the liner so that drilling can resume. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140246240 | DOWNHOLE DRILLING TOOL - A directional drilling tool includes a housing defining a central cavity for enabling the transmission of drilling fluid through the drill string. A motor contained in the housing includes a rotor-stator assembly, and produces eccentric motion of the rotor. An inverter or shock absorbing assembly disposed along the housing upstream from the motor functions to expend and contract the central cavity in response to fluid pressure changes produced by the drilling fluid flow. A valve assembly, comprising a multi-port flow head that rotates under influence of the motor and a multi-port flow restrictor, creates a varying pattern of pressure spikes in the drilling fluid as the ports of the flow head move into and out of alignment with the ports of the flow restrictor, which in turn induces a percussive effect and axial movement in the drill string. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140251691 | Method and Apparatus for Improving the Efficiency of a Positive Displacement Motor for Drilling and Oil or Gas Well - A method and apparatus for improving the efficiency of a drill string that includes drilling pipe, a dump valve, a positive displacement motor and a rotary drill bit driven by the motor utilize a dump valve that does not depend upon a pressure loss to maintain the dump valve in a position which closes communication between the drilling string and the annulus between the drilling string and the well bore or casing. The dump valve includes a flow sleeve that is axially moved to close outlet passages to the annulus by the flow of fluid through the outlet passages rather than a pressure drop across the flow sleeve. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140251692 | ROTATING DRILLING STABILIZER - A stabilizer and method for use in a wellbore are disclosed. The apparatus can include a rotary body disposed about a tubular and configured to rotate and axially-translate with respect to the tubular. The apparatus can also include a first anti-rotation device disposed axially adjacent the rotary body and configured to resist rotation and axial translation with respect to the tubular. The rotary body can be configured to engage the first anti-rotation device and rotationally lock therewith. The apparatus can also include a biasing member configured to bias apart the rotary body and the first anti-rotation device. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140262518 | SELF-ELEVATING PLATFORM EMPLOYING ACTUATORS - A method including arranging a plurality of actuators into an operating position, arranging a first upper frame and a second upper frame proximate the actuators, attaching a support to the first upper frame and the second upper frame, wherein the support is located above the actuators, and extending the actuators to engage the support. The method also includes extending the actuators to raise the support, the first upper frame, and the second upper frame to a first position, arranging a first middle frame below the first upper frame and a second middle frame below the second upper frame, retracting the actuators to lower the support, the first upper frame, and the second upper frame to a second position, and attaching the first upper frame to the first middle frame and attaching the second upper frame to the second middle frame. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262519 | SELF-ELEVATING MAST EMPLOYING DRIVE CARRIAGE - A method includes attaching a carriage support to a platform, the platform comprising a platform floor having an opening therein, with the carriage support located proximate the opening, attaching a drive carriage to the carriage support, and operably coupling to the drive carriage a first mast section of a mast comprising a plurality of mast sections, and wherein the first mast section is located above the opening. The method also includes arranging a second mast section below the first mast section, lowering, using the drive carriage, the first mast section through the opening, attaching the first mast section to the second mast section, and raising, using the drive carriage, the first mast section and the second mast section through the opening. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262520 | SELF-ELEVATING MAST EMPLOYING DRAW WORKS - A method comprising attaching a first mast section to a support structure using a first plurality of fasteners located on the support structure, wherein a lower portion of the support structure is connected to and located above an opening in the platform comprising a platform floor, and wherein the first mast section has a line, a hook, and a pulley, with the line operably coupled to the pulley and connected to a hoist attached to the platform. The method also comprises lowering the hook, using the hoist, in a downward direction away from the pulley and through the opening, attaching the hook to a second mast section located below the platform floor, raising the hook and the second mast section, using the hoist, in an upward direction towards the pulley and through the opening, and connecting the first mast section to the second mast section. Additionally, the method comprises securing the first mast section and the second mast section with an overhead support located above the first mast section and connected to the first mast section, detaching the first mast section from the support structure, raising the first mast section and the second mast section away from the platform floor, using the overhead support, and attaching the second mast section to the first plurality of fasteners. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262521 | Top Drive Main Shaft with Threaded Load Nut - A top drive system is provided. In one embodiment, a top drive includes a drive stem and a load nut with mating threaded surfaces that enable the drive stem to be threaded through the load nut and to support weight of a connected drill string via the load nut. One or both of the mating threaded surfaces may have a threadform with one or more undercut thread roots. Additionally, a portion of the mating threaded surfaces, such as thread roots of the drive stem, can be shot-peened. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262522 | AXIALLY SEPARATING DRILL BUCKET - The current application provides an Axially Separating Drill Bucket for drilling large holes in the earth by which a drilling operator can perform the drilling operation with the Axially Separating Drill Bucket and remove the excavated material in one operation. The unit can be raised to the surface where the bucket portion is separated from the drill head to empty the excavated material. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262523 | UNDERREAMER FOR INCREASING A WELLBORE DIAMETER - An underreamer for increasing a diameter of a wellbore. The underreamer may include a body with first and second cutter blocks coupled to the body. The first cutter block may have a recess formed therein, and the second cutter block may be positioned in the recess. The first and second cutter blocks may move between retracted and expanded states. In the retracted state, the first and second cutter blocks may have an outer diameter less than or equal to an outer diameter of the body. In the expanded state, the first and second cutter blocks may have different outer diameters, with each being greater than the outer diameter of the body. A method may include running the underreamer into a wellbore, expanding the first and second cutter blocks, and moving the underreamer axially in the wellbore to increase the diameter of the wellbore. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262524 | DOWNHOLE TURBINE MOTOR AND RELATED ASSEMBLIES - A turbine drive may include a rotor that includes multiple turbine blades arranged in one or more turbine stages, as well as a stator cooperating with the rotor to direct fluid against the turbine blades and convert hydraulic, kinetic energy into rotational energy. The rotor may be fixed to the shaft to rotate synchronously therewith. The stator may be formed of multiple components that can be coupled together to define the stator and encompass the turbine blades of the turbine stages of the rotor. Two stator halves may each include vanes for positioning above and below a corresponding turbine stage, to direct fluid against the turbine blades. The stator may also be connected to a housing that encompasses the stator. Longitudinal slots and tabs on the stator and housing may hold the stator stationary relative to the housing. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262525 | UNDERREAMER FOR INCREASING A WELLBORE DIAMETER - An underreamer for increasing a diameter of a wellbore. The underreamer may include a body having an axial bore extending at least partially therethrough. An electromagnetic activation system may be disposed at least partially within the bore of the body. A valve may be disposed within the bore of the body and coupled to the electromagnetic activation system. The valve may include a mobile element and a static element. The mobile element may be coupled to the electromagnetic activation system and move from a first position where the mobile element obstructs fluid flow through the valve to a second position where the mobile element permits fluid flow through the valve. A cutter block may be movably coupled to the body and move radially-outward as the mobile element moves from the first position to the second position. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140262526 | TUBULAR HANDLING APPARATUS - In one embodiment, a tubular handling assembly for use with a top drive includes a mandrel coupled to the top drive; a gripping assembly for gripping and releasing a tubular, the gripping assembly coupled to and rotating with the mandrel; and an actuation assembly for actuating the gripping assembly, wherein the gripping assembly is rotatable relative to the actuation assembly. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140284108 | DRAWWORKS SYSTEM - An example drawworks may include an electrical drive motor and an output shaft driven by the electrical drive motor. A worm gear may be coupled to the output shaft and a bull gear may be engaged with the worm gear. A wireline drum may be coupled to the bull gear and receive rotation from the electrical drive motor through the bull gear. The electrical drive motor, worm gear, and bull gear may comprise a drive unit that is removably coupled to the wireline drum. The wireline drum may form a drum unit with at least one spigot coupled to the drum, which may be removable coupled to the drive unit. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140284109 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REAMING WELL BORE SURFACES NEARER THE CENTER OF DRIFT - A well bore reaming device and method are disclosed. The device includes a drill string, a bottom eccentric reamer coupled to the drill string, and a top eccentric reamer coupled to the drill string, wherein the bottom and top eccentric reamers have a prearranged spacing and orientation. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140291026 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THE INSTALLATION OR REMOVAL OF A ROTARY CONTROL DEVICE INSERT OR A COMPONENT THEREOF - An apparatus for installing and removing a rotary control device insert or an element thereof has a first clamp with a receptacle suitable for receiving a flange of the rotary control device insert therein, a second clamp having an interior suitable for extending around a pipe, and a plurality of lines extending between the first clamp and the second clamp. The first clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. The second clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. Each of the clamps includes a first jaw and a second jaw connected to the first jaw by a hinged connection. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140291027 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THE INSTALLATION OR REMOVAL OF A ROTARY CONTROL DEVICE INSERT OR A COMPONENT THEREOF - An apparatus for installing and removing a rotary control device insert or an element thereof has a first clamp with a receptacle suitable for receiving a flange of the rotary control device insert therein, a second clamp having an interior suitable for extending around a pipe, and a plurality of lines extending between the first clamp and the second clamp. The first clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. The second clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. Each of the clamps includes a first jaw and a second jaw connected to the first jaw by a hinged connection. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140299380 | DRILL STRING TUBULAR COMPONENT - A drill string tubular component for use in an oil or gas well, in the form of a tubular having a central bore and a mechanism for mobilising drill cuttings comprising at least one radial impeller ( | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140305707 | Fuel Tank - A fuel tank for a fuel-operated down-the-hole drill including a drill bit, is provided. A largest rotation diameter of the fuel tank is provided at or in connection with drilling equipment and is sufficiently small in order to be able to insert the fuel tank into a drill hole. | 10-16-2014 |
| 20140311804 | Isolation Adapter For Using Multiple Power Sources In A Bottom Hole Assembly - The present disclosure relates to a power isolation adapter which can enable the use of multiple power sources in a bottom hole assembly (BHA) by isolating the power sources on a tool bus while maintaining a communication bus across the BHA. Such power sources may be part of a measurement-while-drilling (MWD) module, such as a mud turbine generator, providing power as a DC signal. The power isolation adapter isolates the power sources by blocking DC signals, but maintains an AC communication bus across the BHA. The ability to use multiple power sources in a BHA thus allows for more complex BHA configurations that normally could not be powered using a single power source. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140326508 | Downhole Tool Impact Dissipating Tool - An impact dissipation tool for supporting a downhole tool in downhole applications. The tool includes a base and a housing. The tool also includes a carriage located within the housing and coupled to the base, the carriage being movable relative to the housing upon a predetermined impact force. A dissipator disposed inside the housing is collapsible due to the relative movement of the carriage and the housing. The collapse of the dissipator dissipates the impact force transferred to the downhole tool. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140326509 | PIPE IN PIPE BHA ELECTRIC DRIVE MOTOR - A pipe in pipe electric motor assembly comprising: a drilling string comprising an inner pipe and an outer pipe and an electric motor; wherein the electric motor is provided with power supplied by the inner pipe and the outer pipe acting at least as conductors and associated methods. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140332271 | EARTH-BORING TOOLS INCLUDING MOVABLE FORMATION-ENGAGING STRUCTURES AND RELATED METHODS - Earth-boring tools may have a body, a cutting element attached to the body at a first location, and a formation-engaging structure attached to the body at a second location. The formation-engaging structure may be movable during a drilling operation between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the formation-engaging structure may be located rotationally behind the cutting element at a first radial distance from a longitudinal axis of the body at which the cutting element will at least initially shield the formation-engaging structure from engaging a formation. In the second position, the formation-engaging structure may be located at a different second radial distance from the longitudinal axis of the body at which the formation-engaging structure will engage a formation. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332272 | INSULATED CONDUCTOR FOR DOWNHOLE DRILLING EQUIPMENT - A downhole drilling tool includes a tubular housing having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, and a stator disposed in the tubular housing, said stator defining an internal cavity passing there through. The stator includes at least a first protective electrically insulated layer, a second protective electrically insulated layer, and an electrically conductive layer disposed between the first and second protective layers. The electrically conductive layer coupled at a first end to a first electrical device and coupled at a second end to a second electrical device. A rotor is operatively positioned in the internal cavity to cooperate the stator. In some implementations, the stator may provide electrical connectivity through the stator without significantly impacting the physical operational integrity of the drilling tool components. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332273 | CUTTING ELEMENT, TOOL AND METHOD OF CUTTING WITHIN A BOREHOLE - A cutting element includes, a body having two planes, each of the two planes defining a plurality of edges, and a support extending from a first of the two planes. The support and the body are configured such that when the cutting element is resting against a planar surface such that at least one of the plurality of edges and the support are in contact with the planar surface, the second of the two planes forms an acute angle with the planar surface. Additionally, a protrusion extends laterally from at least one face of the body and an indentation is formed in at least one face of the body. The protrusion and the indentation are complementary to one another such that the protrusion of a first of the cutting elements is positionable within the indentation of a second of the cutting elements. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332274 | CUTTING ELEMENTS CONFIGURED TO GENERATE SHEAR LIPS DURING USE IN CUTTING, EARTH-BORING TOOLS INCLUDING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS, AND METHODS OF FORMING AND USING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS AND EARTH-BORING TOOLS - Cutting elements for earth-boring tools may generate a shear lip at a wear scar thereon during cutting. A diamond table may exhibit a relatively high wear resistance, and an edge of the diamond table may be chamfered, the combination of which may result in the formation of a shear lip. Cutting elements may comprise multi-layer diamond tables that result in the formation of a shear lip during cutting. Earth-boring tools include such cutting elements. Methods of forming cutting elements may include selectively designing and configuring the cutting elements to form a shear lip. Methods of cutting a formation using an earth-boring tool include cutting the formation with a cutting element on the tool, and generating a shear lip at a wear scar on the cutting element. The cutting element may be configured such that the shear lip comprises diamond material of the cutting element. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332275 | Positive Displacement Motor With Radially Constrained Rotor Catch - A moving cavity motor or pump, such as a mud motor, comprising: a rotor, a stator, and one or more apparatus for constraining (i.e., controlling or limiting) the movement of the rotor relative to the stator, where the apparatus for constraining is operable with the rotor catch. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332276 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLASTIC PIPE DRILLING - A drilling method and apparatus. A drilling device includes a plastic casing part and a drilling unit arranged essentially inside the casing part. The drilling unit includes a first drilling part for drilling a center hole and a second drilling part for reaming the center hole for the casing part. The drilling parts are arranged at a drilling head. The drilling parts are coupled in a power transmitting manner or in a radially contractable manner in connection with the casing part. A casing shoe is mounted at an end of the casing part. In coupling of the casing shoe at an end of the casing part, a casing shoe is used that includes a working member. The casing shoe is mounted at the end of the casing part by treating the casing part to provide a joint between the casting part and the casing shoe that transmits pulling. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332277 | DRILL STRING CHECK VALVE - A drilling method comprising running a drill string ( | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332278 | EXTENDED REACH DRILLING - Apparatus, methods and uses that allow extended reach drilling by virtue of the provision in the drillstring and to downhole tools collective vibrations, not tuned specifically to a single resonant frequency, from a hammer assembly that provides vibrations of different frequency ranges. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140338978 | WELLBORE PERCUSSION ADAPTER AND TUBULAR CONNECTION - A percussion adapter that is driven to generate a percussive axial motion on a wellbore structure. One percussion adapter includes a drive connection to mechanically convert rotational drive to axially directed percussive motion. Another percussion adapter employs a valve that creates back pressure causing axially directed percussive motion. A wellbore tubular connection is also disclosed that transitions torque to resist back off when left hand or right hand torque is applied. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140338979 | Reamer With Replaceable Rolling Cutters - A reamer for use in underground drilling back-reaming operations. The reamer comprises a body comprising a plurality of pockets. The pockets are configured such that an arm, a rolling cutter, and a retainer may fit within each of the pockets. Each of the rolling cutters is connected to each of the arms via a spindle. The rolling cutters are held on the spindle and connected to each of the pockets via a retainer. Each of the arms are secured to each of the pockets via a plurality of fasteners. A mechanical lock is used to secure at least one of the fasteners in place. Each of the arms comprise a grease passage and a pressure compensation system. The rolling cutters are replaceable with rolling cutters of like size or rolling cutters of different sizes and shapes. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140338980 | Systems and Methods for Limiting Torque Transmission - A drill string for drilling a subterranean wellbore includes a shaft connectable to a first drill string portion and a housing connectable to a second drill string portion. A torque relief section is disposed between the shaft and housing. The torque relief section includes a slip section operable to slip and release torque buildup when torque applied between the shaft and housing exceeds a threshold torque. The threshold torque of the torque relief section is selected to be within the range of about 110% and 150% of the operating torque and below the peak operating torque for the drill string. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140338981 | TOOLS FOR USE IN SUBTERRANEAN BOREHOLES HAVING EXPANDABLE MEMBERS AND RELATED METHODS - Expandable apparatus for use in subterranean boreholes include at least one member configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. Components of the expandable apparatus may include at least one surface for removing debris proximate to the tubular body. Components of the expandable apparatus may be configured to enable the expandable apparatus to increase a diameter of a subterranean borehole by greater than twenty percent. Components of the expandable apparatus may be configured to restrict fluid flow to nozzle assemblies. The expandable apparatus may include a protect sleeve having a push sleeve disposed therein. Methods of operating an expandable apparatus may include removing debris with a surface of the expandable apparatus. Methods of operating an expandable apparatus may also include selectively flowing fluid to nozzle assemblies. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140353039 | CORE BARREL VALVE ASSEMBLY - A valve assembly for use in an inner tube member of a core barrel head assembly positionable within a drill string of a drilling apparatus. The valve assembly works using two separate surfaces A and B and a biasing element with a force F | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140353040 | METHODS OF FABRICATING CUTTING ELEMENTS FOR EARTH-BORING TOOLS AND METHODS OF SELECTIVELY REMOVING A PORTION OF A CUTTING ELEMENT OF AN EARTH-BORING TOOL - Cutting elements for use with earth-boring tools include a cutting table having at least two sections where a boundary between the at least two sections is at least partially defined by a discontinuity formed in the cutting table. Earth-boring tools including a tool body and a plurality of cutting elements carried by the tool body. The cutting elements include a cutting table secured to a substrate. The cutting table includes a plurality of adjacent sections, each having a discrete cutting edge where at least one section is configured to be selectively detached from the substrate in order to substantially expose a cutting edge of an adjacent section. Methods for fabricating cutting elements for use with an earth-boring tool including forming a cutting table comprising a plurality of adjacent sections. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140353041 | CAM MECHANISM FOR DOWNHOLE ROTARY VALVE ACTUATION AND A METHOD FOR DRILLING - A method of drilling a wellbore with a downhole tool having a cam piston, and a rotary piston includes providing a first flow of fluid to the downhole tool. The first flow of fluid causes the cam piston to move axially downward, thereby rotating a rotary valve of the rotary piston, which in turn places the downhole tool in a compressed position to activate a secondary tool. Next the formation may be drilled with the downhole tool in a compressed position. A second flow of fluid may be provided to the downhole tool to move the cam piston axially downward thereby rotating the rotary valve and deactivating the secondary tool. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140360783 | PRESSURE CONTROL CHECK VALVE FOR A DOWN-THE-HOLE DRILL HAMMER - A down-the-hole drill hammer for optimizing air consumption. The down-the-hole drill hammer includes a housing, a backhead connected to the housing, and a pressure control check valve assembly mounted within the housing. The pressure control check valve assembly includes a first check valve and a second check valve. The first check valve controls a flow of working fluid through the backhead. The second check valve is mounted to the first check valve and controls a flow of working fluid through the first check valve. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140367171 | HIGH-PRODUCTIVITY DRILL BITS - Drill bits having flushing channels and surface features that cooperate to evacuate cuttings. The surface features can be provided as flutes, fins, and/or ribs defined in a body portion of the bits. Optionally, the surface features can define back-cutting edges the permit back reaming. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140374163 | ACTUATING A DOWNHOLE TOOL - A downhole tool includes a body having a bore extending, at least partially therethrough. A component is disposed within the bore and arranged and designed to move axially from a first position to a second position within the bore. An axial end portion of the component has a first contact surface that is oriented at an angle from about 1° to about 45° with respect to a longitudinal axis extending through the component. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20140374164 | System and method for formation detection and evaluation - Provided are a system and method for identifying planned markers while drilling a borehole. In one example, the method includes obtaining a plan containing planned markers that each corresponds to a baseline marker from an existing well. Each of the baseline markers corresponds to a waveform from a log file obtained from the existing well and is associated with a waveform representation of the corresponding waveform. Each of the planned markers is associated with an estimated true vertical depth (TVD) value. A second log file corresponding to the borehole is obtained that contains waveforms representing formation information detected within the borehole. The second log file is scanned for a planned marker based on the estimated TVD value and the waveform representation of the baseline marker corresponding to the planned marker. At least one match may be identified and reported for the planned marker. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150008040 | DRILLING DEVICE AND DRILLING METHOD - A drilling device and method with a drill rod which can be driven in a rotating manner and has an internal line, a support rope, a rotary joint between the drill rod and the support rope and has a holding member which is in connection with the support rope and a rotary member which is in connection with the rotatable drill rod, a line and a rotary feed-through which is designed for the passage of fluid and/or data between the line and the internal line of the drill rod, wherein the rotary feed-through has a rotor connected to the drill rod and a non-rotating stator, to which the line is attached. Provision is made for the support rope to be designed in a torsion-proof manner and for a rigid connecting element to be arranged as a torque support between the stator of the rotary feed-through and the torsion-proof support rope. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150008041 | High Stiffness Tool For Expanding A Wellbore - A downhole tool may be used to enlarge and widen a wellbore. The downhole tool may include a reamer with a mandrel that includes a rib extending radially outward from a cylindrical body of the mandrel. The rib may define one or more grooves. A cutter block or other expandable member may be positioned adjacent the rib and may include one or more extensions that mate with the grooves. The rib and cutter block may be positioned within a slot of a housing. The housing may also include one or more grooves on a surface along the slot. The grooves along the slot and the grooves on rib may mate with extensions on opposing sides of the expandable member to define a path by which the expandable member moves between expanded and retracted positions. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150008042 | FRICTION REDUCING WEAR BAND AND METHOD OF COUPLING A WEAR BAND TO A TUBULAR - In one embodiment, a wear band comprises a rotating element having a bore receivable on a tubular, the bore comprising first and second bore portions slidably receiving first and second sleeve bearings. Outer surfaces of the sleeve bearings slidably engage the bore portions and the bores of the sleeve bearings slidably engage the tubular. A first stop collar and a second stop collar may be received on the tubular to together straddle the rotating element and sleeve bearings to longitudinally secure the rotating element in a position on the tubular. The tubular may be included within a tubular string run into a borehole or into the bore of an installed casing, such as in casing while drilling. The rotating element provides stand-off between a tubular and the wall of a bore, reduces frictional resistance to longitudinal sliding and also to rotation of the tubular string within the bore. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150008043 | Rotary Steerable Push-the-Bit Drilling Apparatus with Self-Cleaning Fluid Filter - A steerable drilling apparatus includes a control system inside a cylindrical housing connected to a drill bit having radially-extendable pistons. A fluid-metering assembly directs a piston-actuating fluid into fluid channels leading to respective pistons. The control system controls the fluid-metering assembly to allow fluid flow to selected pistons, causing the actuated pistons to temporarily extend in the opposite direction to a desired wellbore deviation, thereby deflecting the drill bit away from the borehole centerline. An upper member in the fluid-metering assembly can be moved to stabilize, steer, and change TFA within the drill bit. The control system and drill bit are connected so as to facilitate removal to change the drill bit's steering section and cutting structure configuration or gauge simultaneously. The apparatus may incorporate a fluid filter module mounted to the control system. The pistons may incorporate auxiliary cutting elements to provide near-bit reaming capability. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150014059 | CV Joint for Down Hole Motor and Method - An apparatus for transmitting torque to a down hole motor in a down hole drilling assembly. The apparatus includes a center rod having a distal protuberance and a proximal protuberance, a transmission adapter having a first end connected to the down hole motor, and a transmission socket formed within a second end of the transmission adapter and configured to receive the proximal protuberance. A material bridge may be provided for the protuberances. The apparatus may also include a bearing adapter operatively connected to the center rod, with the bearing adapter having a bearing socket therein, and wherein the transmission adapter is configured to connect to an output of the down hole motor and the bearing adapter is configured to connect to an input of a bearing assembly in the down hole assembly for drilling the well. The adapters may contain external threads and the caps may contain cooperating internal threads. A method of drilling a well is also disclosed. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150014060 | Tricone Bit Construction - A roller cone drill bit having detachable rotatable arms. The arms are connected at a mounting pad to the bit body. Each arm has its own grease delivery system to provide lubrication to the interface between the arms and rolling elements at an end of each arm. The forward-facing contact surface between the bit body and the arms is at an angle, relative to the central axis of the bit, that is ninety degrees or more. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150014061 | HYDRAULIC ACTUATION OF A DOWNHOLE TOOL ASSEMBLY - A downhole tool assembly is configured for repeated and selective hydraulic actuation and deactuation. A piston assembly is configured to reciprocate axially in a downhole tool body. The piston assembly reciprocates between a first axial position and second and third axial positions that axially oppose the first position. The downhole tool is actuated when the piston assembly is in the third axial position and deactuated when the piston assembly is in either of the first or second axial positions. A spring member biases the piston assembly towards the first axial position while drilling fluid pressure in the tool body urges the piston assembly towards the second and third axial positions. Downhole tool actuation and deactuation may be controlled from the surface, for example, via cycling the drilling fluid flow rate. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150021095 | MODULAR DRILLING RIG SYSTEM - Modular transfigurable drilling rig system composed of multiple components, which system is transfigurable between a transport mode in which the components of the system are transportable and an operational mode in which the components are assembled to a drilling rig which is adapted to drill into a well centre in the ground. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150027780 | One Trip Drill and Casing Scrape Method and Apparatus - A drilling assembly is tripped in a cased hole to make more open hole. The assembly features retracted scrapers and a closed circulation sub so that the drilling can commence with string pressure delivered to bit nozzles due to the circulation sub being in a closed position. When drilling is done and the bit is to be removed, an object lands on a seat on a sleeve that acts as a piston to break scraper retainers for casing scraping deployment and to open the circulation port. A bypass opens around the seated ball when the sleeve shifts to allow flow around the seated ball for circulation while scraping. Drilling and casing scraping are accomplished in a single trip. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150027781 | MUD LIFT PUMP FOR DUAL DRILL STRING - A mud lift pump for a dual drill string includes an energy input and an energy output in fluid communication with a fluid return flow passage in the dual drill string. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150034388 | DOWNHOLE MOTOR COUPLING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A drilling system includes a drillstring and a power section further including a stator having a stator axis and a rotor within the stator. The rotor rotates eccentrically within the stator in response to fluid flowing therebetween. Additionally, the system includes a coupling section including first, second, and third rotation members having a first, second, and third axes, respectively. The third rotation member is coupled to the first and second rotation members. The third rotation member is configured to move radially relative to the first and second rotation members as the first, second, and third rotation members rotate about the first, second, and third axes, respectively. Further, the system includes an input shaft coupled to the rotor and first rotation member. The input shaft and first rotation member rotate with the rotor eccentrically to the stator axis and the second rotation member rotates concentrically about the stator axis. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150041217 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CREATING A PRESSURE PULSE IN DRILLING FLUID TO VIBRATE A DRILL STRING - A pressure pulse generating method and apparatus for use with a drill string includes a top and bottom subs for attaching the apparatus within the drill string; a power section comprising a rotor/stator; a drive assembly; and a nozzle sub which includes a nozzle assembly comprising a nozzle holder and a replaceable nozzle; and a nozzle housing having pulse openings. The nozzle holder has fluid ports which periodically align with the pulse openings as the nozzle holder rotates within the nozzle housing to achieve a desired pulse amplitude, frequency and waveform. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150047905 | DRILLING SYSTEMS AND MULTI-FACED DRILL BIT ASSEMBLIES - A drill bit assembly that includes a shank including a shank axis, first and second ends, a drill bit seat at the second end and a central flow bore extending axially from the first end. Additionally, the assembly includes a sleeve disposed about and translatable axially relative to the shank and a drill bit rotatably coupled to the sleeve. The drill bit includes a first bit face having a first cutting structure configured to engage an earthen formation, and a second bit face having a second cutting structure configured to engage the earthen formation. The drill bit is configured to rotate about the about the shank axis in a cutting direction, and to rotate about an axis of rotation being orthogonal to the shank axis to selectively expose the first or second cutting surface to the earthen formation. The seat is configured to receive the first or second bit face. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150047906 | Efficient and Eco-friendly Oil Drilling System and Method - An efficient and eco-friendly oil drilling system includes at least one storage tank, an initial surface drilling system and a subsequent drilling system, a plurality of rig mud pumps, and a drilling rig. The plurality of rig mud pumps is in fluid communication with the drilling rig as the drilling rig is in fluid communication with the at least one storage tank. The initial surface drilling system that drills a surface hole for an oil well and the subsequent drilling system that drills a borehole for the oil well are selectively in fluid communication with the plurality of rig mud pumps, where the initial surface drilling system is utilized prior to the subsequent drilling system to optimize the efficiency of the drilling process. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150047907 | WRAP-AROUND BAND TOOL CONNECTOR AND METHOD OF FORMING - A downhole tool including a body configured to be positioned on an outer surface of a tubular. A flexible member may extend circumferentially around the body more than once. The body may be positioned radially-between the outer surface of the tubular and the flexible member, and a tension force on the flexible member may cause the flexible member to apply a radially-inward gripping force on the body and the tubular. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150047908 | BI-DIRECTIONALLY RAISABLE DRILLING RIG MAST - A substructure of a drilling rig is positioned above a first wellbore at a first wellbore location, a drilling rig mast is pivotably attached to the substructure and raised from a first mast position wherein an upper end of the drilling rig mast is oriented in a first direction toward a first side of the substructure to a first raised drilling position, after which a first drilling operation is performed on the first wellbore. The substructure is moved to a second wellbore location and positioned above a second wellbore, the drilling rig mast is pivotably attached to the substructure and raised from a second mast position wherein an upper end of the drilling rig mast is oriented in a second direction toward a second side of the substructure to a second raised drilling position, after which a second drilling operation is performed on the second wellbore. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150060144 | TURBINE BLADE FOR TURBODRILLS - A turbodrill having a housing having a bore extending at least partially therethrough, a rotatable shaft disposed in the housing bore and rotatable relative to the housing, the housing, the housing bore and the rotatable shaft having a common longitudinal axis; and a plurality of turbine blades disposed at least partially within the housing bore, at least one turbine blade of the plurality of turbine blades including a first blade profile disposed at a first point along a blade span and a second blade profile disposed at a second point along the blade span, the second blade profile differing from the first blade profile. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150068807 | Drill Head Clean Out Apparatus - A drill head clean out device having a clean out tool, a first bar having a first end and a second end, wherein the clean out tool is adapted to be positioned on the first end of the first bar, a coupling member having a first aperture adapted to receive the first bar when the first bar is in a vertical orientation, a second bar having a first end and a second end, wherein the coupling member has a second aperture adapted to receive a first end of the second bar when the second bar is in a horizontal orientation, and wherein the second end of the second bar is adapted to be positioned within an aperture in a base of a drill rig. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150068808 | Electric Horizontal Directional Drilling Machine System - An electric horizontal directional drilling machine. An electric horizontal directional drilling machine is powered by an electric power assembly. The power assembly is made up of a fuel cell and inverter, or multiple fuel cells with synchronized inverters. The electric motor operates hydraulic pumps or works independently to rotate, advance and retract a drill string and downhole tool through the earth and operate various machine functions. Mechanical functions of the drilling machine may also be satisfied through the use of electric rotary actuators (e.g., motors) and linear actuators (e.g., linear motors and solenoids). | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150075868 | SUBSURFACE DRILLING TOOL - The present invention relates in general to subsurface drilling tools, and more specifically, to a drill bit comprising a ball shaped cutting tool. The drill bit is configured so that a plurality of cones, forming the ball shaped cutting tool, rotate in opposite directions around an axle while the drill bit is drilling or cutting through the ground, rock, or other material. The drilling or cutting is accomplished by a plurality of blade inserts that fit inside and protrude therefrom a plurality of holes covering the exterior of the ball shaped cutting tool. The purpose of the present invention is to provide a new and improved subsurface drilling tool that will efficiently drill hard rock formations. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150083496 | POSITIONABLE DOWNHOLE GEAR BOX - The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, a tool string positionable in a wellbore that includes a spur gear driven by a source of input rotation, a planetary gearbox having an attachment structure to connect to the spur gear. The gearbox includes a central sun gear, a collection of planet gears disposed in a planet gear carrier disposed around the central sun gear, and a ring gear disposed around the planet gears and planet gear carrier. The attachment structure drives a hydraulic pump or electrical generator at a rotational speed different than a rotational speed of the source of input rotation. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083497 | HYDRAULIC ACTIVATION OF MECHANICALLY OPERATED BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLY TOOL - A method of hydraulically activating a mechanically operated wellbore tool in a bottom hole assembly includes: holding moveable elements of the wellbore tool in an unactivated position using a shear pin; inserting one or more drop balls into a drilling fluid; and flowing the drilling fluid with the drop balls to a flow orifice located in or below the wellbore tool. The flow orifice is at least partially plugged with the drop balls to restrict fluid flow and correspondingly increases the hydraulic pressure of the drilling fluid. The hydraulic pressure is increased to a point beyond the rating of the shear pin, thereby causing the shear pin to shear and allowing the moveable elements of the tool to move to an activated position. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083498 | ELECTRICAL CONDUCTOR SUBASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE - The invention provides an electrical conductor subassembly and a method of constructing an isolated electrical connection comprising a set of the connected electrical conductor subassemblies. Each subassembly is connectable with other of the subassemblies into a conductor string while being fed into an opening in a hole or pipe, thereby enabling an electrical connection along the conductor string that is electrically substantially isolated from external fluids in the hole or pipe. Each conductor subassembly comprises: a conductor segment with a conductor core surrounded by an insulating layer; two connectors attached to opposite ends of the conductor segment, having two respective conductor engagement elements attached to corresponding ends of the conductor core. The connectors of adjacent conductor subassemblies are connectable securely against forces in the hole or pipe and so as to electrically join their corresponding conductor engagement elements and seal them from contact with the external fluids. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083499 | METHODS FOR CONSTRUCTING UNDERGROUND BOREHOLE CONFIGURATIONS AND RELATED SOLUTION MINING METHODS - Disclosed are methods for solution mining of evaporite minerals, such as trona, comprising drilling an access well and at least two lateral boreholes; injecting a fluid; circulating the fluid through the lateral boreholes with a controlled fluid flow; and collecting a pregnant solution. Also disclosed are methods of solution mining that include injecting an aqueous solution into an underground trona cavity at a temperature sufficient to maintain at least a portion of the solution in the cavity in the Wegscheiderite solid phase region; removing aqueous solution from the cavity; and recovering alkaline values from the removed aqueous solution. Also disclosed are methods of solution mining that include injecting an aqueous solution into an underground trona cavity; removing aqueous solution from the cavity, wherein the temperature of the removed aqueous solution is at about the TWA point temperature; and recovering alkaline values from the removed aqueous solution. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150090499 | MINING VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR ITS ENERGY SUPPLY - The mining vehicle has a carriage, driving equipment for moving the carriage, at least one mining work device, an electric motor for supplying power to the mining work device, a connection for supplying electric power to the electric motor from an electrical network of the mine, and an energy source. The electric motor has at least a primary stator winding and a secondary stator winding galvanically isolated from each other. When the mining vehicle is connected to the electrical network of the mine via the primary stator winding, the electric motor is arranged, at least for a period of time, to supply power to the at least one mining work device and, at least for a period of the time, to supply power via the secondary stator winding for charging the energy source. A method for energy supply of a mining vehicle is also provided. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150096807 | ANTI-STALL BYPASS SYSTEM FOR DOWNHOLE MOTOR - A flow control valve for use with a downhole motor includes a housing with at least one port and a sleeve with at least one opening. The sleeve is movable within the housing to align and offset the ports and openings. A first biasing member associated with a first portion of the sleeve and a second biasing member associated with a second portion of the sleeve bias the sleeve in a first direction, while pressure applied to the sleeve due to fluid flow moves the sleeve in an opposing second direction. Movement of the sleeve in the second direction compresses the first and second biasing members, disengages the first portion of the sleeve from the first biasing member, and aligns the openings with the ports to permit transmission of the pressure through the openings and ports. | 04-09-2015 |
| 20150107904 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING FORCED AXIAL VIBRATION OF A DRILLSTRING - Systems and methods for producing forced axial vibration of a drillstring. Systems include a cam housing positioned above a drill bit in a drillstring, a rotatable cam positioned internal of the cam housing, the rotatable cam having at least one cam surface exhibiting reciprocating axial movement upon rotation of the rotatable cam, and a non-rotatable cam follower positioned internal surface of the cam housing and having at least one cam follower surface engaging the cam surface. The cam follower transfers the reciprocating axial movement to the drill bit. The rotatable cam is rotated by a fluid-powered positive displacement power section positioned above and mechanically attached to the rotatable cam in the drillstring to effect the rotation of the rotatable cam, and thus effect the reciprocating axial movement of the drill bit. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150107905 | HYDRAULIC BOREHOLE MINING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A hydraulic borehole mining system controlled and operated above-ground includes a high-pressure cutting nozzle that is delivered to an underground resource body through a relatively small diameter borehole. A series of water and air fluid streams at various pressures are delivered to the resource body, and the target resource is disaggregated and/or fluidized and conveyed back to surface via the hydraulic borehole mining pipe which serves as the conveyor of the system. The mining pipe is used to transport a high-pressure stream of combined air and water fluids that have been directed and aligned into laminar flow to a focused water jet cutting head. The central bore of the mining pipe brings the slurrified resource to the surface. The mining pipe transports the slurry via hydraulic airlift, fluid eduction or both. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150114717 | WALKING DRILLING RIG - An improved walking drilling rig is disclosed. The walking drilling rig includes a preassembled substructure that includes a first skid beam disposed parallel and spaced apart from a second skid beam. A plurality of crossbeams couple the first skid beam to the second skid beam, and a plurality of extendable legs are supported by the first and second skid beams. An elevateable drill floor is coupled to the plurality of extendable legs and includes a rotary table disposed between a pair of lateral platforms. Each lateral platform has a retracted position and an extended position. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150114718 | Drillable Debris Barrier Tool - A drillable debris barrier tool is positioned under a stage tool to protect tools therebelow from contamination with debris from the stage tool, as it is drilled out. The debris barrier tool includes features that facilitate drill up of stage tool debris and reduce the size of debris generated from removal of the barrier tool. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150122549 | HYDRAULIC TOOLS, DRILLING SYSTEMS INCLUDING HYDRAULIC TOOLS, AND METHODS OF USING HYDRAULIC TOOLS - A hydraulic tool includes a rotor rotatably disposed within a stator. At least an inner portion of the stator and/or at least an outer portion of the rotor is configured to be installed in a drill string in either of two inverted orientations along a longitudinal axis of the hydraulic tool. The rotor is configured to rotate within the stator in either of the two orientations. A method includes disposing a rotor within a cavity defined by a stator, passing a fluid through the stator to rotate the rotor, and reversing the stator or the rotor. A drilling system includes a fluid source, a hydraulic tool, a drive shaft operatively associated with the rotor of the hydraulic tool, and a drill bit operatively associated with the drive shaft. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150129308 | Coating Of The Piston For A Rotating Percussion System In Downhole Drilling - A system and method of fabricating a percussion tool that includes one or more coatings applied onto a piston, casing, and/or flow tube. The percussion tool includes a piston positioned in sliding contact within a casing. The piston includes an inner wall and an outer wall, where the inner wall defines a passageway extending longitudinally therethrough. The outer wall is positioned in close fitting relationship with an internal surface of the casing. One or more coatings are disposed on at least one of the casing's internal surface and/or the piston's outer wall. A flow tube may be placed through the passageway such that an outer wall of the flow tube is in a close fitting relationship with the piston's inner wall. One or more coatings can be disposed on at least one of the piston's inner wall and/or the flow tube's outer wall. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150129309 | Downhole Stabilizer - A stabilizer for use in a wellbore string, comprising: an elongate body having an upper end for connection to the wellbore string and a lower end for connection to a wellbore string, a long axis between the ends and an outer surface; and a first cutting ring mounted on the elongate body and exposed on the outer surface with an annular outer surface of the first cutting ring encircling the elongate body. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150129310 | BOREHOLE DRILL BIT CUTTER INDEXING - For drill bit cutter indexing, a housing is disposed in a drill bit. An indexing cog is in physical communication with a cutter and interlocks with the housing in a first index position of a plurality of index positions in response to a first compressive load applied to the cutter. A motivator disengages the indexing cog from the housing and positions the indexing cog to interlock with the housing at an initial second index position in response to a removal of the compressive load from the cutter. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150136490 | STEERABLE WELL DRILLING SYSTEM - A steerable dual drilling bit having an outer reamer bit defining a central opening and having an inner core removal bit being rotatably driven by a mud motor that is supported within a tubular housing by the outer reamer bit. The dual drilling bit is capable of being threaded to the bit box of a rotary drill string or a straight or bent housing drilling system. The dual drilling mechanism is of sufficiently limited length that it is capable is being efficiently steered for directional drilling. The reamer and core removal bits are arranged to continuously cut away a formation core and to employ the core for rotational stabilization of the reamer bit during drilling. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150136491 | Hydraulically Operated Polished Rod Clamp - A polished rod clamp includes a clamp housing having a central passage passing through a tapered bore. A wedge lock is arranged in the tapered bore such that a first surface of the wedge lock is in sliding engagement with a tapered surface of the tapered bore and a second surface of the wedge lock grips a rod in the central passage in a lock position. A first reciprocating piston is arranged to apply a first force to the wedge lock that effects a relative sliding motion between the wedge lock and the tapered surface in a first direction corresponding to the lock direction of the wedge lock. A second reciprocating piston is arranged to apply a second force to the wedge lock that effects a relative sliding motion between the wedge lock and the tapered surface in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150292265 | MUD MOTOR ASSEMBLY - A longer-lasting, lower cost, more powerful, all metal, mud motor than the presently available progressing cavity type mud motors for drilling boreholes into the earth. A mud motor apparatus possessing one single drive shaft that turns a rotary drill bit, which apparatus is attached to a drill pipe which provides high pressure mud to the mud motor, wherein the drive shaft receives at least a first portion of its rotational torque from any high pressure mud flowing through a first hydraulic chamber within the apparatus, and receives at least a second portion of its rotational torque from any high pressure mud flowing through a second hydraulic chamber within the apparatus. The mud motor apparatus possesses two hydraulic chambers, each having its own power stroke, and return stroke, and acting together in a controlled fashion, provide continuous power to a rotary drill bit. | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150292277 | System and Method For Handling Drill Pipe Using A Vacuum Handler - A system and method for moving directional drill pipe with vacuum power. The system is used with a vacuum beam mounted on a boom. It has a vacuum pad that is pivotally attached at one end by a hinge to the vacuum beam. The other end of the vacuum pad is attached to the vacuum beam via a hydraulic cylinder. Operation of the hydraulic cylinder causes the vacuum pad to rotate about the hinge and change the angle of the vacuum pad relative to the vacuum beam. Lateral movement of the vacuum pad relative to the vacuum beam is provided by one or more pinned connections located adjacent to the hinge. Vacuum pressure from the vacuum pad is used to grasp and release drill pipe. | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150300091 | COLLAPSIBLE SUBSTRUCTURE FOR A MOBILE DRILLING RIG - A collapsible drilling rig substructure is transported to a drilling site while in a collapsed transportation configuration wherein a raisable floor of the substructure is in a lowered transportation position relative to a fixed drill floor such that an upper surface of the raisable floor is positioned at a first height level above a base of the substructure while an upper surface of the fixed drill floor is positioned at a second height level above the base that is greater than the first height level. The substructure is positioned adjacent to a wellbore location at the drilling site and reconfigured from the lowered transportation configuration to a raised operating configuration by raising the raisable floor to an operating position laterally adjacent to the fixed drill floor while maintaining a height level of the upper surface of the fixed drill floor at the second height level. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150300093 | Expandable Bi-Center Drill Bit - A downhole tool for enlarging a borehole, the tool including a body having a central axis, an uphole end, a downhole end, a bore extending from the uphole end, and an aperture extending radially from the bore to a radially outer surface of the body. Additionally, the tool includes a mandrel disposed in the bore, the mandrel having a first end, a second end, a radially outer surface, and a radially inner surface. The mandrel outer surface includes an inclined surface. Further, the tool includes a first blade disposed in the aperture. The first blade has a radially retracted position and a radially extended position configured to engage with a borehole sidewall to enlarge the borehole. The mandrel is configured to translate axially relative to the body to slide the inclined surface along the first blade to transition the first blade between the radially refracted and extended positions. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150300095 | IMPROVED CUTTERS FOR DRILL BITS - Disclosed are improved cutters for fixed-cutter rotating drill bits. One cutter includes a substrate defining a slot therein and being configured to be coupled to a middle portion of a blade of the drill bit, and a cutting element secured within the slot and having at least a portion of the cutting element extending out of the slot, the cutting element further having a first face and a second face, wherein portions of the first and second faces are supported by the substrate within the slot. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150300103 | Radial Clamping/Sealing System and Drilling System Provided Therewith for (Semi)-Continuous Drilling a Borehole, Drilling Rig Comprising Such System, and Method There For - Invention relates to a system and associated method for continuous and/or semi-continuous drilling a borehole, comprising:—a first stationary housing;—a rotatable housing comprising a longitudinal opening for receiving a drill string; and—a radial clamping system configured for holding and clamping the box end of the drill string in substantially radial direction with respect to the rotatable housing;—a first direct sealing system in use arranged between drill pipe and the rotatable housing;—a second indirect sealing system in use arranged between the rotatable housing and the stationary housing;—a mechanical and/or hydraulic transmission configured for radial activation of the radial clamping system; and—a first drive configured for rotating the rotatable housing with the drill string. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150308196 | CASING DRILLING UNDER REAMER APPARATUS AND METHOD - A method to drill a wellbore includes positioning a cutting structure proximal to a distal end of a drilling string, deploying a bottom hole assembly through a central bore of the distal end of the drilling string and the cutting structure, engaging the cutting structure with the bottom hole assembly, and rotating the cutting structure with the bottom hole assembly. An under reamer assembly includes a reamer shoe positioned proximal to a distal end of a drilling string and a cutting structure coupled to the reamer shoe, wherein the cutting structure is configured to be engaged by a bottom hole assembly, and wherein the cutting structure is configured to enlarge a pilot bore cut by a drill bit of the bottom hole assembly. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150315846 | DOWNHOLE DRILLING ASSEMBLY WITH MOTOR POWERED HAMMER AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A drilling assembly assembly includes a hammer motor, a shaft, a driver, and a hammer ( | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150315863 | UNIVERSAL DRILLING AND COMPLETION SYSTEM - Methods and apparatus are described to drill and complete wellbores. Such wellbores include extended reach horizontal wellbores, for example in shales, deep subsea extended reach wellbores, and multilateral wellbores. Specifically, the invention provides simple threaded subassemblies that are added to existing threaded tubular drilling and completion equipment which are used to dramatically increase the lateral reach using that existing on-site equipment. These subassemblies extract power from downward flowing clean mud, or other fluids, in an annulus to provide additional force or torque on tubular elements within the wellbore, while maintaining circulation, to extend the lateral reach of the drilling equipment and completion equipment. These added elements include combinations of The Leaky Seal™, a Cross-Over, The Force Sub™ and The Torque Sub™. The use of such additional simple elements allow lighter drilling equipment to be used to reach a given lateral distance, therefore reducing drilling costs. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150322737 | DRILLING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A BORE - A boring apparatus for producing a bore within a support tube in the ground. The boring apparatus comprises a housing which is introducible into the support tube and is non-rotatably fixable to the support tube, a cutting device for removing ground material, a rotary drive for driving the cutting device in rotation and a feeding device, by way of which a flushing fluid can be fed into a region of the cutting device. Arranged above the cutting device is a receptacle, into which removed ground material is deliverable by way of the flushing fluid. Provided in the receptacle is at least one stirring element for mixing the removed ground material with the flushing fluid. The removed ground material is upwardly dischargeable out of the receptacle together with the flushing fluid by means of a discharging device. The invention also relates to a method for producing a bore in the ground. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150337598 | Pressure Booster for Rotary Steerable System Tool - Aspects of the disclosure can relate to a drill assembly that includes a body for receiving a flow of drilling fluid. The body includes a crushing implement and/or a cutting implement and defines a nozzle that allows the drilling fluid to exit the body proximate to the crushing implement and/or the cutting implement. The drill assembly also includes an extendable displacement mechanism coupled with the body and powered by the flow of the drilling fluid. The drill assembly further includes a drive mechanism for driving a pump mechanism disposed in the body. The pump mechanism increases the pressure of a fraction of the flow of the drilling fluid, and the fraction of the flow of the drilling fluid is furnished to the extendable displacement mechanism. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337610 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PERFORMANCE OF SUBTERRANEAN OPERATIONS USING DUAL STRING PIPES - Methods and systems for improving delivery and retrieval of fluids to and from a downhole location are disclosed. A dual string pipe ( | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150345221 | DOWNHOLE DRILLING ASSEMBLY HAVING A HYDRAULICALLY ACTUATED CLUTCH AND METHOD FOR USE OF SAME - A downhole drilling assembly includes a drill string having an inner fluid passageway. A fluid motor disposed within the drill string has a rotor operable to rotate relative to a stator in response to a circulating fluid received via the inner fluid passageway. A drive shaft and drill bit are operably associated with and operable to rotate with the rotor. A hydraulically actuated clutch disposed within the drill string has a first configuration, wherein a first clutch assembly is disengaged from a second clutch assembly such that the drive shaft and drill bit rotate relative to the drill string and, a second configuration, wherein the first clutch assembly engages the second clutch assembly responsive to hydraulic pressure generated by rotation of the drill string such that the drive shaft and drill bit rotate with the drill string. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150354283 | EROSION RESISTANT HARD COMPOSITE MATERIALS - A hard composite composition may comprise a binder and a polymodal blend of matrix powder. The polymodal blend of matrix powder may have at least one first local maxima at a particle size of about 0.5 nm to about 30 μm, at least one second local maxima at a particle size of about 200 μm to about 10 mm, and at least one local minima between a particle size of about 30 μm to about 200 μm that has a value that is less than the first local maxima. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354285 | POINTED WORKING ENDS ON A BIT - In one aspect of the present invention, a drill string has a drill bit with a body intermediate a shank and a working face. The working face has a plurality of blades converging at a center of the working surface and diverging towards a gauge of the working face. At least one blade has a cutting element with a carbide substrate bonded to a diamond working end with a pointed geometry. The diamond working end also has a central axis which intersects an apex of the pointed geometry. The axis is oriented between a 25 and 85 degree positive rake angle. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354311 | POLY-L-LACTIC ACID SOLID-STATE EXTRUSION MOLDED ARTICLE, METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE SAME, AND USE APPLICATIONS OF THE SAME - A poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) solid-state extrusion molded article having a weight average molecular weight of from 100,000 to 380,000 and a melt viscosity of from 20 to 2,000 Pa·s (at a temperature of 240° C. and a shear rate of 120 sec | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150368976 | FIXED-CUTTER DRILL BITS GENERATING CORES - A drill bit includes a bit head having a front face, a plurality of blades extending along at least a portion of the front face, the blades comprising cutters, a cavity for forming a core, the cavity being approximately centrally located in the front face of the bit between adjacent end portions of the plurality of blades, and a removable core breaking device disposed within the cavity. The core breaking device is configured to project toward the front face a distance to engage and destroy the so formed core into multiple smaller fragments prior to a core length exceeding a core diameter, or project toward the front face a distance to engage and break the so formed core into a substantially unitary core sample. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150368979 | DRILL BIT - A drag bit includes a blade extending from the bit body and supporting inner cutters proximate the longitudinal axis and outer cutters spaced from the longitudinal axis. The inner cutters are rotationally offset from the outer cutters. During operation the inner cutters deposit cut material in a channel that is contiguous with a channel that receives material cut by the outer cutters. The cutters and the contiguous channels flush agglomerating material from the slots. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150368985 | Mud Motor Bearing Pack Lower End With Catch Ring - It is desirable to secure a lower end of a down hole assembly in the event of a down hole failure, such as a fractured drive shaft, enabling recovery of the bottom hole assembly and drill bit. To secure the lower end of the down hole assembly, a catch apparatus according to embodiments herein may be used, the catch apparatus including a rotating bearing having a distal end threadably coupled to a distal portion of a drive shaft. The apparatus may also include a stationary bearing having a proximal end threadably coupled to a distal end of an outer housing. A catch ring may be threadably coupled to a proximal end of the rotating bearing, the catch ring having a shoulder radially overlapping a shoulder of the stationary bearing. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150376948 | DOWN HOLE HARMONIC DRIVE TRANSMISSION - A drilling assembly positionable in a well bore includes a turbine motor couplable to a drill string and a harmonic drive transmission coupled to the turbine motor. The harmonic drive transmission includes a circular spline, a wave generator, a flexspline, and a sealing subsystem. The sealing subsystem defines a substantially sealed volume containing the circular spline, wave generator, and flexspline, and isolates the circular spline, wave generator, and flexspline from drilling fluid exiting the turbine motor and flowing through the harmonic drive transmission. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150376950 | DOWNHOLE TOOL USING A LOCKING CLUTCH - A downhole tool may be operated using a locking clutch. The downhole tool may include an upper downhole motor having a rotor. The downhole tool may also include a lower downhole motor having a shaft. Both the rotor and shaft may rotate relative to the housing. The locking clutch may be coupled to the rotor and the shaft, and may transmit a torque from the rotor to the shaft. The locking clutch may include at least one locking pawl configured to move from an engaged position to a disengaged position when the shaft rotates above a disengagement speed. In the engaged position, the upper downhole motor may provide a torque boost to limit sticking or stall of a drill bit coupled to the downhole tool. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150376952 | DOWNHOLE UNDER-REAMER AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A downhole under-reamer for use in reaming a downhole bore. The under-reamer comprises a body and a plurality of cutters mounted on the body. The cutters are mounted on the body so as to be extendable from a retracted position to at least two extended positions. The at least two extended positions comprise reaming positions at respective first and second reaming diameters. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160010022 | HIGH-TEMPERATURE LUBRICANTS COMPRISING ELONGATED CARBON NANOPARTICLES FOR USE IN SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION OPERATIONS | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160010397 | CUTTING ELEMENTS COMPRISING PARTIALLY LEACHED POLYCRYSTALLINE MATERIAL, TOOLS COMPRISING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS, AND METHODS OF FORMING WELLBORES USING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160017660 | DUAL-TYPE SPEED CONTROL MECHANISM FOR A TURBINE - According to aspects of the present disclosure, systems and methods for controlling the speed of a fluid-controlled drive mechanism are described herein. An example system may include a housing, a variable flow fluid pathway disposed within the housing, an electromagnet coupled to the housing, a fluid-controlled drive mechanism in fluid communication with the variable flow fluid pathway, and a load-generating assembly coupled to the fluid-controlled drive mechanism. An example method may include altering a variable flow fluid pathway disposed within a housing, wherein the variable flow fluid pathway is in fluid communication with a fluid-controlled drive mechanism, and generating an electrical current through an electromagnet, wherein the electromagnet is coupled to the housing. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160017662 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INDUCING LONGITUDINAL OSCILLATIONS IN SUBTERRANEAN DRILLING STRING - A cavitation apparatus (CHRS) for use in subterranean drilling with a drilling rig, the rig having a drill bit and a drilling string mounted thereto through which a drilling fluid flows to the drill bit. The cavitation apparatus (CHRS) is adapted to be mounted in-line with the drilling string through which the drilling fluid flows. The CHRS has no moving parts and produces controlled low frequency, longitudinal fluctuations of at least a portion of a drill string to enhance the drilling rate of penetration (ROP). Optionally the entire drill string can be subjected to such controlled low frequency, longitudinal fluctuations. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160017666 | HOLE OPENER AND METHOD FOR DRILLING - The present document describes a drill-bit which achieves both the rigidity and a fast rate of penetration. The drill-bit comprises a cone shaped central portion comprising a plurality of ribs protruding from the central portion and defining a plurality of blades. The blades are curved along a direction of a longitudinal axis of the cone to facilitate insertion into a hole when rotating in a first direction, and exit from the hole when rotating in a second direction opposite the first direction. The drill-bit comprises a plurality of polycrystalline diamond cutters (PDC) on the blades provided in a first position for cutting the hard structure as the drilling-bit rotates in the first direction, and a plurality of up-drill PDC cutters provided in a second position for cleaning the hole as the drill-bit rotate in the second direction to exit the hole. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160017677 | RELEASE VALVE USED IN AN INNER TUBE ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH A CORE BARREL - An inner tube assembly releasably latchable with a core barrel of a core drilling apparatus. The inner tube assembly includes a valve housing having a fluid flow port and a position guide to control a position of the valve body within the valve housing to open and close the port in response to a fluid pressure acting on the valve body. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160017695 | Downhole Actively Controlled Power Generation Mechanism - Aspects of the disclosure can relate to a system that includes an input shaft to be driven by a variable fluid flow, and an output shaft coupled with the input shaft to drive a generator. The generator can be an alternator, and the input shaft can be coupled with a turbine to be driven by drilling fluid or another fluid. The system also includes a drive mechanism mechanically coupling the input shaft to the output shaft to drive the generator at a predetermined rotational speed. The system further includes a secondary input mechanically coupled with the drive mechanism, where the secondary input is driven at a variable input speed to drive the generator at the predetermined rotational speed. The drive mechanism can be a full freedom epicycloids gear train, and the secondary input can be a speed correction motor, a mechanical actuator driven by variable fluid flow, and so forth. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160024850 | HYDRAULIC CONTROL OF DRILL STRING TOOLS - A drill string tool has a control mechanism to switch the tool between an inactive condition and an active condition in response to operator-performance of a predefined trigger sequence comprising variations in a drilling fluid pressure differential. The trigger sequence comprises multiple cycles of (a) raising the predefined trigger sequence into, but not above, a predefined pressure range, and (b) lowering the predefined trigger sequence below a lower threshold of the pressure range. Raising of the pressure difference above an upper pressure range threshold results in automatic interruption and resetting of the predefined trigger sequence. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160032655 | EARTH-BORING TOOLS, METHODS OF FORMING EARTH-BORING TOOLS, AND METHODS OF FORMING A BOREHOLE IN A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION - An earth-boring tool comprises a body having a face at a leading end thereof, blades extending from the body and comprising primary blades and secondary blades, and cutting elements on the blades and arranged in groups each comprising neighboring cutting elements. Some of the groups are disposed only on the primary blades in a first spiral configuration. Others of the groups disposed only on the secondary blades in a second, opposing spiral configuration. Methods of forming an earth-boring tool, and methods of forming a borehole in a subterranean formation are also described. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160032689 | DRILL ROD GUARD AND SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING SAME - A drill rod guard having a feed shaft assembly that supports a feed shell for receiving a drill rod. First and second shafts are respectively pivotally coupled to opposed sides of the feed shaft assembly. A plurality of guard elements are operatively coupled to the first and second shafts, and opposed guard elements are selectively engageable with one another. Upon engagement between the opposed guard elements, the guard elements cooperate with the feed shell and/or the feed shaft assembly to substantially enclose the portion of the drill rod within the feed shell to thereby prevent contact with the drill rod. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160047182 | DRILLING HEAD DRIVING DEVICE, SPRAGGING MECHANISM AND DRILLING METHOD - The object of the invention is a spragging mechanism for application in a tube. It is provided with a band and clamping means. The clamping means are arranged within the tube, outside of which the band is provided. The object of the invention is also a system for guiding bore head, provided with an spragging mechanism, head, means transferring the pressing force to the bore head, and also a curled tube fed from the drum into the wellbore. The curled tube ( | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160053540 | Drilling apparatus - A drilling apparatus comprised of a multiplicity of subassemblies for drilling an open-hole extension from within an existing cased borehole located in a geological formation for the production of oil and gas. In one embodiment, one subassembly includes a motor located within a cased section of the borehole that rotates a drill pipe segment attached to a rotary drill bit in the open-hole to drill the open-hole extension of the well. In another embodiment, a shroud encloses the motor located within the cased portion of the well that is used to control the mud flow to and from the bit in the open-hole during the drilling process. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053547 | DRILL BITS WITH STICK-SLIP RESISTANCE - A drill bit includes a bit body and one or more cutters positioned on the bit body at select locations. At least one vibrational device is positioned on the bit body to impart vibration to the bit body and thereby mitigate stick-slip. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053551 | DRILL BIT WITH SELF-ADJUSTING PADS - In one aspect, a drill bit is disclosed, including: a bit body; a pad associated with the bit body; a rate control device coupled to the pad that extends from a bit surface at a first rate and retracts from an extended position to a retracted position at a second rate in response to external force applied onto the pad, the rate control device including: a piston for applying a force on the pad; a biasing member that applies a force on the piston to extend the pad at the first rate; a fluid chamber associated with the piston; and a pressure management device for controlling a fluid pressure within the fluid chamber. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160069134 | DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR PERCUSSION ROCK DRILLING - A drill bit for percussion rock drilling. An impact portion includes an impact surface for striking against rock in an impact direction. An engagement portion includes a holder configured to hold the drill bit axially in a drill head of a drill string, and a rotation engagement member configured to connect the drill bit with the drill head for rotating the drill bit. An anvil surface is directed opposite to the impact direction for receiving shock waves from a striker rod of the drill string. A flushing channel is configured to transfer flushing fluid to the impact surface. The holder and the anvil surface are inside a holder recess having an opening that is directed opposite to the impact direction. Also a drill string component, a system and a method. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160069136 | Drill String Rotation Brake - A rotation brake for stopping rotation of a spindle assembly on a horizontal directional drill. The rotation brake comprises a brake lock that is actuated by a cylinder and spring to interact with a non-rotating brake cap and a rotating pinion, thereby stopping rotation of the pinion. The brake lock is removed from the pinion by applying pressurized fluid to a cylinder such that a cylinder rod moves the brake lock out of a cavity between the brake cap and the pinion. Upon removing fluid pressure from the cylinder, a compressed spring moves the brake lock back to into the cavity, preventing rotation. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160076321 | Method of Solids Control and Fluid Recovery in Drilling Operations - A method of processing mud laden cuttings from a rig's wellbore comprising collecting the cuttings from a plurality of shale shakers into a hopper, feeding the collected cuttings to an improved vertical dryer, continually recirculating the fluids from the dryer until ready for further processing, mixing the fluids with flocculates and diluting them before processing through high speed centrifuge and barite recovery centrifuges. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160076368 | METHOD OF DETERMINING WHEN TOOL STRING PARAMETERS SHOULD BE ALTERED TO AVOID UNDESIRABLE EFFECTS THAT WOULD LIKELY OCCUR IF THE TOOL STRING WERE EMPLOYED TO DRILL A BOREHOLE AND METHOD OF DESIGNING A TOOL STRING - A method of determining when tool string parameters should be altered to avoid undesirable effects that would likely occur if the tool string were employed to drill a borehole includes, modeling portions or an entirety of the tool string in the borehole under steady state loading conditions, identifying deflections of the tool string with the modeling when buckling would occur for specific tool string parameters, and calculating whether whirl exhibiting similar deflections of the tool string to those identified during buckling would be undesirable. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160084022 | SOLIDS IN BOREHOLD FLUIDS - Solid polymer objects have size at least 0.5 mm in each of three orthogonal dimensions and shape such that each object has one or more edges, points or corners and/or has a plurality of projections which extend out from a core portion. Such objects may be included in a drilling fluid as a lost circulation additive intended to bridge fractures and mitigate fluid loss. Their angular shape features make it harder for them to slide over fracture faces or each other and helps them to bridge a fracture. A method of making these objects provides a travelling endless belt made of elastomer and defining mould cavities. The mould cavities are filled with a polyerisable liquid composition, which is cured in the mould as the belt advances, and the cured objects are ejected from a mould as the belt bends around a roller. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160090786 | A TOP DRIVE WELL DRILLING INSTALLATION - A top drive well drilling installation comprising a drilling tower, vertical rails supported by the drilling tower, a trolley guided along said one or more vertical rails, and a hoisting device for moving the trolley up and down. The installation further comprises a tubular stem which is to be connected to the upper end of a drill string for rotation therewith about an axis of the drill string, and a top drive unit including a motor adapted to rotate the tubular stem and thereby the connected drill string to drill a well, wherein the top drive unit is supported by the trolley. Furthermore an elevator is provided which is adapted to—in an operative position—suspend the drill string, e.g. during tripping, and an elevator support assembly is provided which is adapted to absorb the load of the suspended drill string and adapted to move the elevator between an operative position on the drill string axis and a retracted position. According to the present invention, the elevator support assembly is embodied as a direct drill string load bearing connection between the elevator and the trolley, independent | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160102498 | ROTATION UNIT, ROCK DRILLING UNIT AND METHOD FOR ROCK DRILLING - The disclosure relates to a rotation unit, rock drilling unit and method for rock drilling. The rotation unit includes a main shaft that is rotated around its longitudinal axis by a rotating motor. The main shaft includes a tubular outer shaft and an inner shaft arranged inside the outer shaft. The outer shaft is supported by a body of the rotation unit and is configured to transmit axial forces, whereas the inner shaft is configured to transmit rotation and torque. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160102502 | UNDERREAMER WITH ADJUSTABLE CUTTER BLOCK EXPANSION - An underreamer for increasing a diameter of a wellbore. The underreamer includes a body having an axial bore extending at least partially therethrough. A sleeve is arranged and designed to move a first axial distance within the body. A cutter block is movably coupled to the body. The cutter block is arranged and designed to move at least the first axial distance with respect to the body to contact the sleeve in response to hydraulic pressure in the bore. The cutter block moves from a first outer diameter to a second outer diameter as the cutter block moves the first axial distance. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160108674 | HAMMER DRILL - A downhole apparatus connected to a workstring within a wellbore. The workstring is connected to a bit member. The apparatus includes a mandrel operatively connected to a downhole motor mechanism, an anvil member operatively formed on the bit member, the anvil member being operatively connected to the mandrel, a radial bearing housing unit operatively connected to the workstring, with the radial bearing housing unit being disposed about the mandrel, and a hammer member slidably attached to the radial bearing housing unit. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108677 | UP DRILL APPARATUS AND METHOD - An apparatus including a rotating segment having a first radial surface, a non-rotating segment having a second radial surface, a housing disposed around the first and second radial surfaces, and one or more rolling elements disposed between and in contact with the first and second radial surfaces for transferring the non-rotating segment in an axial direction upon rotation of the rotating segment. The non-rotating element may be a second rotating element that rotates at a different rotational rate than the rotating element. Each rolling element moves 360 degrees along a circular path relative to the first radial surface and the second radial surface. The first or second radial surface has a tapered section. A downhole apparatus includes a power mandrel having a first end connected to a power section member and a second end having a rotating cam surface; a rotating element engaging the rotating cam surface; an anvil sub attached to a workstring, with the anvil sub having a stationary cam surface configured to engage with the rotating cam surface. Rotation of the rotating cam surface moves the anvil sub and the workstring axially within the wellbore. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108678 | BORING APPARATUS AND METHOD - An apparatus for boring a wellbore, including a bit body having a first end, an inner cavity, and a second end. The first end is connected to a workstring that is configured to deliver a rotational force to the bit body. The inner cavity contains a profile having a first radial cam surface. The second end includes a working face containing a cutting member. The apparatus also includes a pilot bit rotatively connected within the inner cavity. A second radial cam surface is contained on a first end of the pilot bit. The first and second radial cam surfaces are operatively configured to deliver a hammering force. A second end of the pilot bit may include an engaging surface configured to engage a formation surrounding the wellbore. The bit body rotates relative to the pilot bit. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108680 | REVERSE CIRCULATION HYBRID BIT - A hybrid rotary drill having at least one fixed blade and at least one rolling cutter assembly is configured for reverse fluid flow from the annulus, through junk slots and into a fluid pathway system located substantially centrally to the bit body. The fluid pathway system may be located underneath a portion of the at least one fixed blade. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108719 | CYCLICAL SENSOR ARRAY - A non-straight sensor array within a gravity field, within a surface and cyclically surrounding a medial axis. The sensor array includes rigid bodies holding gravimetric tilt sensors, the rigid bodies being connected by flexible joints. The flexibility of the joints is constrained to two degrees of freedom. The shape of the path, the surface, and the medial axis are measured in at least two dimensions, using the tilt sensor data and the geometrical constraints of the joints. The cyclical geometry permits simultaneous measurement of lateral and axial deformations in deployments varying from axially vertical to axially horizontal, as well as improved fit of the array to surrounding surfaces. The field of use includes geotechnical measurements of soil and civil structures. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160115738 | DOWNHOLE DRILLING MOTOR AND METHOD OF USE - A downhole drilling motor comprises a first elastomer stator molded to an inner surface of a housing in a drillstring where the first elastomer stator has a first number of lobes. A dual purpose, helical shaped hollow member is positioned within the first elastomer stator, where the dual purpose hollow member has a second number of lobes formed on an external surface to form a first rotor. The second number of lobes is one less than the first number of lobes. A second elastomer stator is adhered to an inner surface of the dual purpose helical shaped hollow member, where the second elastomer stator has a second helical shaped cavity with the second number of lobes. A second helical shaped rotor is positioned within the second helical cavity, and has a third number of lobes one less than the second number of lobes. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160123083 | Downhole Adjustable Bent Motor - A bent sub for use in a bottom hole assembly, between the power section of a mud motor and the drill bit, which can have its bend angle altered from the surface while remaining downhole, and a method for adjusting the bend of a bent sub. A biasing mechanism includes a number of linear actuators radially positioned about the tool centerline and oriented for axial motion. The linear actuators are connected to travelling blocks, which engage the upper end of the inner race a pivoting bearing assembly. The lower end of the inner race is connected to the mud motor bearing assembly. The linear actuators and can be actuated in coordination to tilt the inner race, and hence, the mud motor bearing assembly, to various selectable angles in any radial direction for control of tool face. In an embodiment, the actuators are battery-powered motor-driven lead screws. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160123098 | DOWNHOLE TOOL AND METHOD TO BOOST FLUID PRESSURE AND ANNULAR VELOCITY - A disclosed embodiment of a downhole tool includes a pump that is powered by rotation of the drill string to increase fluid pressure during downhole circulation. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160123101 | Head Assembly and a Valve System for Use in a Core Drilling System - A valve system for an inner tube assembly is described. The inner tube assembly is arranged to be used in a drilling system to retrieve a core sample, and is arranged to be insertable into a drill string of the drilling system at a first end of the drill string. The valve system is arranged to be configurable in a first closed configuration, an open configuration, and a second closed configuration. The valve system moves to the first closed configuration when fluid is pumped along an interior region of the drill string towards the inner tube assembly in a direction from the first end of the drill string to the inner tube assembly. The valve system is arranged such that, when in the first closed configuration, a pressure of the fluid increases to facilitate deploying the inner tube assembly towards a second end of the drill string. The valve system moves to the open configuration in response to the inner tube assembly reaching a vicinity of the second end of the drill string and being prevented from moving further towards the second end of the drill string. The valve system is arranged such that, when in the open configuration, fluid can flow to a drill bit located at or near the second end of the drill string. The valve system moves to the second closed configuration when fluid is pumped along the interior region of the drill string towards the inner tube assembly in a direction from the second end of the drill string to the inner tube assembly. The valve system is arranged such that, when in the second closed configuration, the pressure of the fluid increases to facilitate retrieving the inner tube assembly from the vicinity of the second end of the drill string. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160130883 | BRAZED POLYCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND COMPACT - A thermally stable polycrystalline diamond compact is created by (i) preforming an annular thermally stable polycrystalline from a diamond plate, (ii) preforming a substrate with a projection that has an interfacial mating surface that is a negative topology of the annular thermally stable polycrystalline, (iii) and brazing the two components together. The resulting polycrystalline diamond compact can be made thermally stable because cobalt and other catalysts can be leached out of the thermally stable polycrystalline. The thermally stable polycrystalline can be attached to the substrate by brazing, which due to the topology of the thermally stable polycrystalline and the substrate with a projection will unexpectedly have sufficient blaze shear strength to be used in demanding applications. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160130942 | DEVICE FOR SINKING A SHAFT AND METHOD FOR SINKING A SHAFT - A device and method for sinking a shaft during a sinking cycle, in which a support unit is moved once and a boring unit is moved at least twice by means of support cylinders and displacement cylinders. Due to such configuration, an efficient sinking operation is obtained. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160145954 | MODULAR TOP DRIVE - A modular top drive for construction of a wellbore includes a rail for connection to at least one of: a floor and a derrick of a drilling rig; and a motor unit. The motor unit includes: a first body; a drive motor having a stator connected to the first body; a trolley connecting the first body to the rail; and a first latch for selectively connecting either a drilling unit or a casing unit to the motor unit. The top drive further includes a bracket for holding any one of the drilling, casing, and cementing units and movable relative to the rail between a standby position and a connection position. The unit held by the bracket is aligned with the motor unit in the connection position and clear of the motor unit in the standby position. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160153236 | PERCUSSION HAMMER BIT | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160153242 | EXPANDABLE REAMERS AND METHODS OF USING EXPANDABLE REAMERS | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160153243 | ROLLING ELEMENT ASSEMBLIES | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160159986 | Polyarylethersulfone Oil and Gas Recovery Articles, Method of Preparation and Method of Use - An oil and gas recovery article comprising at least one part made of a poly(arylether sulfone) polymeric material comprising at least one poly(arylether sulfone) polymer, wherein said (t-PAES) polymer comprising more than 50% moles of recurring units (R | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160160564 | MUD MOTOR ASSEMBLY - A longer-lasting, lower cost, more powerful, all metal, mud motor than the presently available progressing cavity type mud motors for drilling boreholes into the earth. A mud motor apparatus possessing one single drive shaft that turns a rotary drill bit, which apparatus is attached to a drill pipe which provides high pressure mud to the mud motor, wherein the drive shaft receives at least a first portion of its rotational torque from any high pressure mud flowing through a first hydraulic chamber within the apparatus, and receives at least a second portion of its rotational torque from any high pressure mud flowing through a second hydraulic chamber within the apparatus. The mud motor apparatus possesses two hydraulic chambers, each having its own power stroke, and return stroke, and acting together in a controlled fashion, provide continuous power to a rotary drill bit. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160160569 | ROTARY DRILL BIT AIR/WATER SEPARATOR - An air/water separator including a first hollow member configured to receive a flow including an air and water mixture and a second hollow member configured to receive the flow from the first hollow member. An exit of the first hollow member extends into an opening of the second hollow member such that the exit of the first hollow member axially overlaps the opening of the second hollow member, thereby creating a first flow path from the interior of the first hollow member to the outside of the second hollow member including two turns about the exit of the first hollow member and opening of the second hollow member, and a second flow path from the first hollow member through the second hollow member. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160160583 | Earth drilling device - An earth drilling device with a slide to move a drill string along a feed axis and a frame, wherein the slide is movable backwards and forwards within the frame, and a tilting device exists in the frame which causes the slide to incline relative to the feed axis when moving backwards. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160160584 | Drive of an earth drilling device, earth drilling device, and a method for driving an earth drilling device - A drive of a slide which can move back and forth of an earth drilling device to move a drill string, wherein a rod, which can move relative to a cylinder, and tension transmitting means are provided in a frame and act on the slide, wherein the rod is connected to the frame, and deflection rollers are provided for the tension transmitting means on the frame and on the cylinder. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160160585 | Drive of an earth drilling device, earth drilling device, and a method for driving an earth drilling device - The invention relates to a drive of a slide of an earth drilling device having a rotary drive and a pinion that is driven by the rotary drive and can be engaged with a rack, wherein the rotary drive is engaged with another pinion which can be engaged with the rack. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160168913 | ENHANCING TORQUE ELECTRIC MOTOR DRIVE AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEM | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160177215 | HIGH-TEMPERATURE LUBRICANTS COMPRISING ELONGATED CARBON NANOPARTICLES FOR USE IN SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION OPERATIONS | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160177627 | MUD MOTOR ASSEMBLY | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160177630 | EXTENDED OR RAISED NOZZLE FOR PDC BITS | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160186504 | DOWNHOLE APPARATUS AND METHOD - There is provided a method of stabilising at least a portion of downhole toolstring, and associated apparatus. The method comprises stabilising the portion of downhole toolstring whilst an apparatus and/or the portion of downhole toolstring is/are in and/or passing through a soft formation with hard inclusions. The method comprises reaming the hard inclusions with a reaming portion ( | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160194919 | DOWNHOLE ASSEMBLY, TOOL AND METHOD | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160194921 | CUTTING ELEMENTS HAVING LATERALLY ELONGATED SHAPES FOR USE WITH EARTH-BORING TOOLS, EARTH-BORING TOOLS INCLUDING SUCH CUTTING ELEMENTS, AND RELATED METHODS | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160194927 | Control of Multiple Hydraulic Chokes in Managed Pressure Drilling | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160195087 | Motor Control System | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160201398 | Drilling Tools Having Matrices With Carbide-Forming Alloys, And Methods Of Making And Using Same | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160201413 | OFF BOTTOM FLOW DIVERTER SUB | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160251898 | MIXED FORM TUBULAR CENTRALIZERS AND METHOD OF USE | 09-01-2016 |
| 20160251902 | Hybrid Drill Bits Having Increased Drilling Efficiency | 09-01-2016 |
| 20160376845 | MULTILEVEL FORCE BALANCED DOWNHOLE DRILLING TOOLS INCLUDING CUTTING ELEMENTS IN A STEP PROFILE CONFIGURATION - A downhole drilling tool designed for drilling a wellbore is disclosed. The drilling tool includes a bit body, and a first plurality of blades and a second plurality of blades on exterior portions of the bit body. A first group of cutting elements is located on exterior portions of the first plurality of blades. A second group of cutting elements is located on the second plurality of blades and under-exposed with respect to the first group of cutting elements. The first and second plurality of blades and the first group and second groups of cutting elements cooperate with each other to form a composite bit face profile such that each respective group of at least three neighbor cutting elements on the composite bit face profile is force balanced with respect to each other. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20170234079 | DRILLING RIG AND METHOD OF USE | 08-17-2017 |
| 20180023346 | AUTOMATED DRILLING/SERVICE RIG APPARATUS | 01-25-2018 |
| 20180023347 | DOWNHOLE ADJUSTABLE DRILLING INCLINATION TOOL | 01-25-2018 |
| 20190145186 | Dual Motor Bidirectional Drilling | 05-16-2019 |
| 20220136329 | HIGH SPEED DRILLING SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USING SAME - A method comprises rotating a drill bit of a drilling system at at least 1000 rpm. The drill system can comprise a drill feed, a drill head comprising a motor and coupled to the drill feed, a drill string, comprising at least one drill rod, operatively coupled to the drill head so that the drill head is configured to axially and rotationally drive the drill string, and the drill bit coupled to the bottom end of the drill string. | 05-05-2022 |
