USOO86O1910B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 8,601,910 B2

Begnaud (45) Date of Patent: Dec. 10, 2013
(54) TUBULAR JOININGAPPARATUS 4,972,741. A 1 1/1990 Sibille
5,060,542 A 10, 1991 Hauk
(75) Inventor: Brian D Begnaud, Youngsville, LA (US) 5,081,888
5,092.399 A
A 1/1992
3/1992 Schulze-Beckinghausen
Lang et al.

(73) Assignee: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental SE A 33 sts: E. et al.

Tools, Inc., Lafayette, LA (US) 5,174,175 A 12/1992 Bouligny
5,386,746 A 2, 1995 Hauk
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 3.3%
w 4
A ck 38 Sh vetal." 81 (57.33
Ouligny et al.
patent 1s ity gisted under 35 5,845,549 A 12/1998 Bouligny
U.S.C. 154(b) by 385 days. 5,868,045 A 2/1999 Hauk
6,142,041 A 11/2000 Buck
(21) Appl. No.: 12/852,194 6,263,763 B1 7/2001 Feigel, Jr. et al.
6,318,214 B1 1 1/2001 Buck
(22) Filed: Aug. 6, 2010 6,334,376 B1 1/2002 Torres
6,505,531 B2 1/2003 Stogner
O O 6,634,259 B2 10/2003 Castille
(65) Prior Publication Data 6,682,101 B2 1, 2004 Watts
US 2011/0030512 A1 Feb. 10, 2011 6,722,231 B2 4/2004 Hauk et al.
(Continued)
Related U.S. Application Data OTHER PUBLICATIONS
(60) Provisional application No. 61/207,891, filed on Aug. International Search Report and Written Opinion, PCT/US2010/
6, 2009. 044702; Mailed Oct. 6, 2010.
(51) Int. Cl. (Continued)
B25B 7/00 (2006.01)
(52) U.S. Cl. Primary Examiner — Alicia Torres
USPC ......... 81/57.1681/57.2, 81/57.33:81/57.34 (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Winstead PC
166/77.51; 166/77.53
(58) Field of Classification Search (57) ABSTRACT
USPC ............... 81/57.15. 37.35; 173/164; 175/162; An apparatus for making and/or breaking a threaded connec
166/77.51, 85.1, 77.53 tion between a first tubular and a second tubular includes a
See application file for complete search history. spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative to the second
tubular; a zero-side-load (“ZSL) device operable to relieve
(56) References Cited the transverse force induced on the threaded connection in
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
response to the spinner spinning the first tubular; a torque
wrench operable to rotate the first tubular relative to the
3,500,708 A 3, 1970 Wilson second tubular; and a back-up wrench operable to grip the
4,023,449 A * 5/1977 Boyadjieff ................... 81,57.16 second tubular.
4,348,920 A * 9/1982 Boyadjieff ................... 81 (57.25
4,843,924 A 7, 1989 Hauk 28 Claims, 13 Drawing Sheets
 US 8,601,910 B2
Page 2

(56) References Cited National Oilwell Varco, AR5000—Automated Iron Roughneck,

circa 2006.
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS Blohm + Voss Tools, LLC, Floorhand Wrench & Spinner Combina
tion Tool, circa 2009.
6,752,044 B2 6/2004 Hawkins, III Hawk Industries, HAWKJAW Junior, May 13, 2009.
6,776,070 B1 8, 2004 Mason et al. Hawk Industries, HAWKJAW Senior, May 13, 2009.
6,814,149 B2 11/2004 Liess et al. Patriot Mechanical Handling, Inc., IR1000 & 2000.
6,829,968 B2 12/2004 Hauket al. National Oilwell Varco, IR3080 Iron Roughneck 55" Arm, circa
7,013,759 B1 3/2006 Childress, II 2006.
7,028,585 B2 * 4/2006 Pietras et al. ................ 81,57.16 Patriot Mechanical Handling, Inc., IR80 Roughneck.
7,036,396 B2 5, 2006 Moe et al.
7,062,991 B1* 6/2006 West et al. ................... 81,57.16 National Oilwell Varco, Iron Roughneck IR-3080.
7,114,235 B2 10/2006 Jansch et al. National Oilwell Varco, LPT-200 HydraTong, May 23, 2006.
7,117,938 B2 10/2006 Hamilton et al. National Oilwell Varco, HITECANational Oilwell Technology Iron
7,121,166 B2 10/2006 Drzewiecki Roughneck, May 13, 2009.
7,188,547 B1 3/2007 West et al. Patriot Mechanical Handling, Inc., Drilling Systems & Equipment
7,191,686 B1 3/2007 Angelle et al. Solutions, circa 2007/2008.
7,313,986 B2 1/2008 West et al. Rogers Oil Tool Services, Utility Drill Pipe Tong Model 10, circa
7,413,398 B2 8/2008 Bangert et al. 2002.
7,455,128 B2 11/2008 Belik National Oilwell Varco, ST-80 Iron Roughneck, circa 2005.
7,527,304 B2 5, 2009 Mallis et al.
2005, 0160880 A1 7/2005 Schulze-Beckinghausen et al. National Oilwell Varco, ST-80C Iron Roughneck, circa 2006.
National Oilwell Varco, ST-120 Iron Roughneck, circa 2009.
OTHER PUBLICATIONS Hawk Industries, Inc., T-WREX.
Weatherford, TorkWinder Tong, circa 2003.
Aker, Drill Floor Equipment, circa 2008. Access Oil Tools, Pedestal Mounted TwisterSpin Model 108, circa
National Oilwell Varco, AR3200–Automated Iron Roughneck, 2004.
circa 2006. Weatherford, TorkWrench 10-100 Iron Roughneck, circa 2009.
National Oilwell Varco, AR4500—Automated Iron Roughneck,
circa 2006. * cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 1 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2

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U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 2 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2

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U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 3 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2

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U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 4 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2

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U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 5 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2

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U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 6 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2

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U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 8 of 13
U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 9 of 13
U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 10 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2
U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 11 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2
U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 12 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2
U.S. Patent Dec. 10, 2013 Sheet 13 of 13 US 8,601,910 B2
 US 8,601,910 B2
1. 2
TUBULARUONINGAPPARATUS only a time-consuming and expensive process but it also can
damage the tubular and/or result in an insufficient connection
RELATED APPLICATIONS that may result in a string failure and or galling of the threads.
During assembly (e.g., make-up) and disassembly (e.g.,
This application in a non-provisional patent application 5 break-out) of the threaded connection there is no requirement
and claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application for lateral (e.g., side, transverse, normal to the tubular axis)
No. 61/207,891 filed on Aug. 6, 2009. forces to be applied to the connection and, in fact such forces
can have serious detrimental effects. Frictional forces due to
BACKGROUND lateral forces cause false torque readings and can cause pre
10 mature thread galling. The lateral forces can actually bend the
The speed of connecting and disconnecting hundreds of tubular. Application of lateral forces during tightening can
wellbore tubulars makes a great difference in the time also cause the connection to tighten off center, which can
required to drill and bring a well onto production. For result in loss of the connections fluid seal. The prior art
instance, it is normally necessary to insert and remove the tubular joining devices impose linear, lateral (e.g., side-load)
drill string several times during the drilling process wherein 15 forces on the threaded connection.
numerous threaded connections of the wellbore tubulars (e.g., There is a continuing desire to provide a tubular make and
drilling pipe) have to be made or broken. Due to the high cost break device that promotes tubular connection efficiency. It is
of drilling (e.g., rig time), it is desirable to make or break a a desire to promote higher torque spinning cycles. It is a
connection as quickly as possible. further desire to minimize side loading on the threaded con
One style of devices for making and breaking wellbore nection during the spinning cycle and/or the torque cycle. It is
tubulars includes a frame that Supports up to three power a still further desire to minimize box distortion while spinning
wrenches and a power spinner each aligned vertically with up the tubular connection. It is a further desire to provide
respect to each other. Examples of such devices are disclosed continuous rotation during the torque-cycle.
in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,722,231; 6,634,259; 5,386,746; and 5,060,
542 which are incorporated herein by reference. Additional 25 SUMMARY
examples described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,455,128; 7,114,235:
and 6,776,070 are also incorporated herein by reference. An apparatus for making and/or breaking a threaded con
These devices spin one tubular with the power spinner at a nection between a first tubular and a second tubular according
relatively high speed but at a relatively low torque while to one or more aspects of the present disclosure may include
holding another tubular fixed with one of the power wrenches. 30 a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative to the
Traditionally, when making tubulars, the spin process contin second tubular: a zero-side-load (ZSL) device operable to
ues until the two threaded tubulars shoulderup, e.g. untilapin relieve the transverse force induced on the threaded connec
shoulder engages the box shoulder. After shouldering up, the tion in response to the spinner spinning the first tubular, a
power spinner is stopped and two of the power wrenches are torque wrench operable to rotate the first tubular relative to
used to apply high torque to the connection or joint so that the 35 the second tubular, and a back-up wrench operable to grip the
joint is securely fastened and sealed. The application of high second tubular.
torque rotates the tubulars with respect to each other but at a Another example of an apparatus for making and/or break
very low speed of rotation. Once the tubulars are shouldered ing a threaded connection between a first and a second tubular
it is only necessary to rotate a relatively small amount So the according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure
low speed of rotation does not slow the process down. Like 40 may include a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative
wise when breaking tubular connections (e.g., pipe joints), to the second tubular; a torque wrench; a back-up wrench; and
two power wrenches apply a high torque to initially break the a torsion device connected to the torque wrench and the
connection. Then the power spinner spins the top tubular with back-up wrench, wherein the torsion device is operable to
respect to the lower tubular held by a power wrench until the relieve a transverse force induced by rotating the torque
threaded connection is completely disconnected. In this man 45 wrench and first tubular relative to the back-up wrench.
ner, the connectors can be quickly made or broken to save An example of a method for making-up a threaded connec
considerable time and money while drilling a well. tion between a first tubular and a second tubular according to
Traditional drill pipe threaded connections facilitated one or more aspects of the present disclosure may comprise
shouldering the pin and the box utilizing the high rotation and providing a tubular joining device comprising a spinner, a
low-torque spinners. However, current wellbore tubular 50 torque wrench and a back-up wrench: gripping the second
threaded connections and wedge thread designs require tubular with the back-up tong; spinning the first tubular via
increasing torque as the pin advances into the box to shoulder the spinner to advance the pin relative to the box, relieving a
the connection. Examples of newer wedge thread connections transverse force induced on the threaded connection in
are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,527,304 and 6,682,101. The response to spinning the first tubular, gripping the first tubular
result is that the high-speed spinner cannot fully advance the 55 with the torque wrench; and rotating the first tubular with the
pin into the box requiring additional rotation of the tubular in torque wrench to complete the threaded connection.
the torque cycle with the power wrench. For example, a The foregoing has outlined some of the features and tech
torque cycle for a historically utilized drill pipe may require nical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the
rotation of the tubular of approximately 20 to 45 degrees, detailed description that follows may be better understood.
wherein the newer tapered thread connections may require 60 Additional features and advantages will be described herein
rotation in the torque cycle of about one-hundred and fifty after which form the subject of the claims of the invention.
degrees to about two-hundred degrees or more to achieve the
proper torque utilizing the prior make and break devices. The BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
increased rotation required in the torque-cycle often requires
multiple grip and release operations to achieve the total rota 65 The present disclosure is best understood from the follow
tion required. Gripping the tubular, rotating, releasing the ing detailed description when read with the accompanying
grip, repositioning the tong and repeating the process is not figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with standard
 US 8,601,910 B2
3 4
practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to Tubular 3 is depicted as the add-on tubular or upper tubular
scale. In fact, the dimensions of various features may be relative to the other tubular and the well and second tubular 5
arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion. is depicted suspended in the well and being held by spider 8.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to Each tubular may include a single tubular joint or multiple
one or more aspects of the present disclosure. tubular sections that form a stand and/or string. Tubulars 3
FIG.2 is an elevation view of an apparatus according to one and 5 are described for purposes of example as drill pipe,
or more aspects of the present disclosure. however, apparatus 10 may be utilized with other wellbore
FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a tong assembly tubulars including without limitation, tubing, casing, and lin
according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. ers. The threaded connection comprises a threaded pin 4
FIG. 4 is a schematic elevation view of the tong assembly 10 adapted to mate with box 6 depicted with second tubular 5.
of FIG. 3 according to one or more aspects of the present Apparatus 10, depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, includes a spinner
disclosure. 12, a wrench 14 (e.g., torque wrench, power tong), and a
FIG. 5 is a schematic view the tong assembly of FIGS. 3 back-up wrench 16. Torque wrench 14 and back-up wrench
and 4 along the line I-I of FIG. 4 according to one or more 16 are also referred to herein as tong assembly 20 herein.
aspects of the present disclosure. 15 Depicted in FIG. 1, torque wrench 14 is part of a power tong
FIGS. 6A-6C are schematic top views of prior art lead 19 which includes rotary drive 18 and torque wrench 14 (e.g.,
tongs illustrating force vectors during make-up of a threaded jaws). In the depicted embodiment, torque wrench 14 is pro
tubular connection. vided in connection with, but exterior of the rotary drive 18.
FIGS. 7A-7C are schematic perspective views of prior art As described further below, torque wrench 14 may be incor
tong assemblies illustrating transverse loads induced on the porated into rotary drive portion 18. In some embodiments,
threaded connection. torque wrench 14 may be rotated continuously. In some
FIG. 8 is a schematic elevation view illustrating transverse embodiments, torque wrench 14 may rotate the first tubular
loads on a tubular connection. greater than about 180 degrees relative to the second tubular
FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view from the front of a without releasing the grip of torque wrench 14. In some
spinner without a Zero-side-load device according to one or 25 embodiments, torque wrench 14 may rotate the first tubular at
more aspects of the present disclosure. least about 270 degrees or greater relative to the second tubu
FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view from the back of a lar without releasing the grip of torque wrench 14. In some
spinner without a Zero-side-load device according to one or embodiments, torque wrench 14 may rotate the first tubular at
more aspects of the present disclosure. least about 360 degrees relative to the second tubular without
FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of a spinner without a 30 releasing the grip of torque wrench 14. Tongassembly 20 may
Zero-side-load device according to one or more aspects of the comprise a torsional-load transfer device, further described
present disclosure. below, to relieve (e.g., prevent, reduce, minimize, eliminate)
FIG. 12 is a schematic exploded view of a portion of a the side-load forces applied during make-up of the pipe joint
spinner comprising a Zero-side-load device according to one connection at pin 4 and box 6. The torsional-load transfer
or more aspects of the present disclosure. 35 device, also referred to as a zero-side load (“ZSL) device, is
FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of a spinner comprising generally denoted by the numeral 22.
a Zero-side-load device according to one or more aspects of Spinner 12 according to one or more aspects of the present
the present disclosure. disclosure may also include a Zero-side-load device which is
FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view of a spinner comprising a not visible in FIGS. 1 and 2. AZSL device 86 according to one
Zero-side-load device according to one or more aspects of the 40 or more aspects of the present disclosure is described below
present disclosure. with reference to FIGS. 12-14. Apparatus 10 may comprise a
stabber 24 to aide in positioning of tubular 3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION Apparatus 10 is adapted for movement to and from the well
(e.g., wellbore, borehole). For example, in FIGS. 1 and 2.
It is to be understood that the following disclosure provides 45 spinner 12 and tong assembly 20 are connected within a
many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing cassette 26 (e.g., frame) which is disposed and connected
different features of various embodiments. Specific examples with a carriage 28 (e.g., frame). In this example, carriage 28
of components and arrangements are described below to sim and apparatus 10 are transported to and from the well and
plify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely tubulars 3, 5 on rails 30. In FIGS. 1 and 2, actuators 32 are
examples and are not intended to be limiting. In addition, the 50 provided to move apparatus 10 and cassette 26 vertically
present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or let relative to carriage 28 and thus the well. Other devices and
ters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose structures may be utilized to position apparatus 10 as
of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a rela required.
tionship between the various embodiments and/or configura FIG.3 is a perspective view of a tong assembly 20 accord
tions discussed. Moreover, the formation of a first feature 55 ing to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is
over or on a second feature in the description that follows may a side view of tong assembly 20 depicted in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is
include embodiments in which the first and second features a view of tong assembly 20 along the line I-I of FIG. 4. In the
are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodi depicted example, tong assembly 20 includes torque wrench
ments in which additional features may be formed interpos 14 (including rotary drive 18) and back-up wrench 16. Torque
ing the first and second features, such that the first and second 60 wrench 14 and rotary drive 18 are operationally connected as
features may not be in direct contact. a power tong 19. In this embodiment, torque wrench 14
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an apparatus 10 for making carries the jaws or gripping member (not shown) for grasping
and/or breaking tubular connections (e.g., pipe joint connec the tubular (e.g., tubular 3 of FIG. 2). An adapter 36 (FIG. 4)
tions) according to one or more aspects of the present disclo transfers the torque from rotary gears 34 of drive 18 to torque
sure. FIG. 2 is a schematic view of apparatus 10 positioned at 65 wrench 14. An example of gripping members, and of a torque
the surface of a well for making and/or breaking threaded wrench 14, is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,549, which is
connections between a first tubular 3 and a second tubular 5. incorporated herein by reference.
 US 8,601,910 B2
5 6
Torque wrench 14 may be incorporated into drive portion the torque (e.g., wrenching) cycle it is typically desired for
18 of the tong. An example of a wrench incorporated into the back-up wrench 16 to maintain a significantly greater clamp
rotary gears to provide continuous rotation is disclosed in ing force on box 6 then during the spinning cycle. In some
U.S. Pat. No. 5,150,642, which is incorporated herein by embodiments, back-up wrench 16 is adapted for applying a
reference. In the depicted embodiments it is desired to pro 5 first gripping pressure to box 6 during the spinning cycle and
vide substantially continuous rotation of the add-on tubular for applying a second gripping pressure to box 6 during the
while applying torque. Depicted power tong 19 may be oper torque cycle. An example of a dual gripping force wrench is
able to provide continuous rotation of torque wrench 14 (e.g., disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,634.259 which is incorporated
360 degrees). As depicted in FIGS. 3-5, torque wrench 14 is herein.
limited to about 270 degrees of continuous rotation without 10 During assembly (e.g., make-up) and disassembly (e.g.,
releasing the grip of torque wrench 14 due to the hydraulic break-out) of a threaded connection there is no requirement
connections. For example, hydraulic hoses 38 to torque for lateral (e.g., side, transverse, normal to the tubular axis)
wrench 14 and hydraulic hoses 40 to back-up wrench 16 limit forces to be applied to the connection and, in fact, Such forces
the continuous rotation of the gripping components of torque can have serious detrimental effects. Frictional forces due to
wrench 14 (FIG. 3). True continuous rotation of torque 15 lateral forces cause false torque readings and can cause pre
wrench 14 may be provided by various hydraulic hose routing mature thread galling. The lateral forces can actually bend the
and connection schemes and/or via statically powered grip tubular. Application of lateral forces during tightening can
ping torque wrench 14. For example, utilizing an accumulator also cause the connection to tighten off center, which can
to maintain hydraulic pressure at torque wrench 14 may be result in loss of the connection's fluid seal. The undesirable
utilized. In another example, a fluid grip type system such as lateral forces (e.g., side-load) are described further with ref
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,174,175, incorporated by refer erences to FIGS. 6A-6C, 7A-7C and 8 below and in U.S. Pat.
ence herein, may be utilized. Nos. 4,972,741 and 5,099,725, which are incorporated herein
Torque wrench 14 and back-up wrench 16 may utilize the by reference.
same type or different tubular gripping mechanisms. Refer When a lead wrench is operated, a rotary element con
ring in particular to FIG. 5, a gripping mechanism with ref 25 tained within the wrench grasps a first threaded tubular. A
erence to back-up wrench 16 is described. Back-up wrench 16 motor, usually hydraulic, associated with the lead wrench
is depicted having three gripping jaws 42 engaging the outer generates a “driving torque' which is applied to the rotary
circumference of lower tubular 5 (FIG. 2). In particular, jaws element to rotate it, and the first threaded member therein, in
42 are gripping box 6 of tubular 5. In some embodiments it is the desired direction. By operation of Newton's third law of
desired to utilize three gripping members 42, although more 30 physics (that is, in essence, “for every force there exists an
or fewer may be used to distribute the gripping force and limit equal and opposite force'), creation of the “driving torque'
or eliminate the ovalization of the box connection. For (which is applied to the threaded member) results in a "reac
example, Some embodiments may utilize two opposed grip tion torque', which is applied to the lead wrench in the oppo
ping members. The arrangement of gripping jaws 42 are site direction. This reaction torque must be counteracted, to
schematically shown for purposes of description and may be 35 secure the lead wrench body from spinning about the tubular
arranged in various configurations and manners. In the rather than driving the tubular itself.
depicted example of FIGS. 3-5, two of the gripping members It is common practice in tubular joining devices to secure
42 are referred to as dead members and the third gripping the lead wrench against rotation about the tubular by use of a
member 42 is a live member. The dead gripping members are snubbing line or a “reaction bracket' which rigidly cooper
non-powered members and the live gripping member is pow 40 ates with the back-up wrench, or multiple members which
ered and moveable. Although not illustrated in the schematic rigidly (or resiliently) cooperate with the back-up wrench. All
views of FIGS. 3-5, torque wrench 14 and/or back-up wrench of these conventional reaction devices produce linear, later
16 may include doors 44 (FIGS. 1 and 2) for closing the ally directed and unpaired force vectors on the lead wrench.
entrance to the opening 43 of the respective wrenches. The lead wrench tends to move laterally in response to the
In FIGS. 1 and 2, wrenches 14 and 16 include similar types 45 linear force vectors, which said lateral movement is resisted
of pipe gripping mechanisms. In this embodiment, wrenches by the tubular.
14, 16 each include a door 44 for closing access to the With reference to back-up wrenches, a similar phenom
wrenches. In these embodiments, the live gripping member is enon occurs. Devices commonly used to secure back-up
located in door 44 and is hydraulically actuated. For example, wrenches from rotating with the tubular result in a lateral
three gripping members may be provided and spaced 50 force being applied to the second threaded member. The
approximately 120 degrees apart when door 44 is closed. In lateral force vector applied to the second threaded member is
one example, the two-dead gripping members 42 would be equal in magnitude, but opposite in direction to the lateral
positioned at the back of opening 43 (FIG. 5) relative to door force induced by the lead wrench above. A combination of the
44 (FIGS. 1 and 2). The third gripping member is a live lateral force imposed on the upper tubular by the lead wrench
member and located in door 44. When door 44 is hydrauli 55 and on the lower tubular by the back-up wrench produces a
cally closed, the third live gripping member is rotated onto the bending moment across the tubular joint being tightened or
tubular at about 120 degrees to the two dead gripping mem loosened.
ber. With reference to FIG. 6A, showing prior art, it is seen that
Back-up wrench 16 may grip the box connection during the when a lead wrench is operated it produces a driving torque,
spinning cycle and/or during the torque cycle. In some opera 60 T, which acts on a rotary element which is grippingly
tions, back-up wrench 16 may be utilized to grip tubular 5 so engaged to a first threaded member (e.g., the upper tubular).
as to stabilize and position spinner 12 centered over tubular 5 In response to the driving torque, T., a reaction torque, T, is
(e.g., the wellbore) and/or to restrain the second tubular from imposed on the wrench in the direction opposite to that of
rotating. When back-up wrench 16 is gripping the box con tubular rotation. The lead wrench must be secured against
nection during the spinning cycle it may be desired for back 65 rotation about the tubular axis, in response to T, otherwise
up wrench 16 to maintain a relatively low clamping force on the wrench would simply rotate about the tubular rather than
box 6 to avoid distorting the box (e.g., ovalization). During rotating the tubular itself.
 US 8,601,910 B2
7 8
With reference to FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C, showing prior art, Similarly, right lateral strut 49 is pivotedly connected to bell
it is seen that conventional devices for securing a lead wrench crank 47 at lateral pivot 57 and to back-up wrench 16 at pivot
against rotation in response to T, whether by a Snubbing line point 61. The connection of lateral struts 48, 49 between
(FIG. 6A), reaction bracket (FIG. 6B) or multiple rigid inter back-up wrench 16 at pivots 60, 61 and lateral pivots 56, 57
connects to the back-up wrench (FIG. 6C) all involve lateral, 5 forms a parallelogram. Note that in some embodiments, one
linear forces, F, being imposed on the wrench. In response to lateral strut 48, 49 may be connected at a wrench pivot to
F, the wrench tends to move laterally. The lateral movement torque wrench 14 and the other connected at a wrench pivot to
of the wrench causes deflection of the tubular, which gives back-up wrench 16.
rise to P, which then counteracts F. Therefore, while both Cross strut 50 (e.g., load cell strut) is connected to bell
rotational and linear equilibrium of the wrench is achieved by 10 crank 46 at pivot 58 connection and to bell crank 47 at pivot
the reaction device(s), it is at the expense of lateral deflection 59 connection. Torque post 52 extends from torque wrench 14
of the tubular. As driving torque, T, increases; the reaction via drive 18 of the depicted power tong 19. Bell cranks 46, 47
torque, T, also increases; as does the force required to secure are connected to torque wrench 14. For example, bell cranks
the wrench against rotation, F, and as does the force, P. 46, 47 are connected at pivot connections 54, 55 located at
which is developed by the tubular in response to lateral 15 opposing ends of a member, identified as tong span 53 that
deflection. extends from torque post 52.
With reference to FIGS. 7A,7B and 7C, showing prior art, When making-up a connection, back-up wrench 16 is
it is seen that a similar (but opposite direction) reaction occurs urged to rotate clockwise with the tubular, said rotation is
at the level of the back-up wrench. The driving torque of the resisted by parallel lateral struts 48, 49. Left lateral strut 48 is
lead wrench, T, is transferred through the threaded members 20 in tension and right lateral strut 49 is in compression. Lateral
to the back-up wrench which is grippingly engaged to the struts 48, 49 are spaced equal distances for the center of the
second threaded member (e.g., the lower tubular). The back rotated tubular and the forces in the lateral struts are equal and
up wrench therefore tends to rotate with the second threaded opposite one another. The longitudinal forces of struts 48, 49
member, instead of securing the second member against rota cancel out and the moments between the tubulars torque and
tion, unless the back-up wrench is restrained against rotary 25 struts 48, 49 cancel out; thus, the loads are completely bal
movement. One conventional device to secure a back-up anced without generating a transverse load to the treaded
wrench against rotation involves use of a rearwardly attached connection.
snubbing line (FIG. 6A). Other prior art devices to secure a The moments and force are resolved on back-up wrench 16
back-up wrench against rotation involves use of a reaction bar with lateral struts 48, 49. The forces of lateral struts 48, 49 are
(FIG. 7B) or use of multiple rigid interconnects (FIG. 7C). 30 resolved into back-up wrench 16. When strut 48 is intension,
These prior art devices impose lateral (e.g., side-load) forces, the longitudinal force is transferred to bell crank 46. The
F on the back-up wrench, which causes lateral deflection of longitudinal forces on lateral strut 48 and the transverse load
the tubular, which gives rise to P. While rotational andlinear from cross strut 50 are resolved into tong pivot 54. Recall that
equilibrium of the back-up wrench is achieved, again, it is pivots 54, 56 and 58 form a ninety-degree triangle, thus, tong
achieved at the expense of lateral deflection of the tubular. 35 pivot 54 is subject to the resultant of both longitudinal and
The application of lateral forces on a tubular joint during transverse forces. The tension force in strut 48 tends to rotate
tightening or loosening can have serious undesirable effects. bell crank 46 counterclockwise about tong pivot 54 and cross
Extra, and uneven, friction forces (see FIG. 8) caused by such strut 50 applies an opposing moment to bell crank 46, which
side-loading may result in poor fluid sealing at the threaded in turn remains stationary.
connection, inadequate tightening at the threaded connection, 40 Meanwhile, right lateral strut 49 is in compression and its
and/or a mechanical failure at the threaded connection. longitudinal force is transferred into right bell crank 47. The
Apparatus 10 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 comprises a device, compression forces in strut 49 tend to rotate bell crank 47
referred to generally torsion control device 22, or as a Zero clockwise about tong pivot 55. Cross strut 50 applies an
side load (“ZSL) device, connecting torque wrench 14 to opposing moment to bell crank 47, which in turn remains
back-up wrench 16 in Such a manner that no single, unpaired 45 stationary.
force, but rather only "couples’ (paired forces of equal mag Cross strut 50 reacts in compression against bell cranks 46,
nitude, but opposite direction) are created by torsion control 47. Since the opposingends of cross strut 50 are being loaded
device 22. A novel torsion control device 22 according to one by bell cranks 46, 47 inwardly, cross strut 50 is statically
or more aspects of the present disclosure is now described balanced. A load cell 62, electric or hydraulic, may be adapted
with reference to FIGS. 3-5. Depicted torsion control device 50 at cross strut 50 to identify the make-up torque applied. As
22 may be referred to as a bell crank type of device. Torsion noted, torsion control device 22 relieves the transverse load at
control device 22 may comprise a pair of bell cranks 46, 47: the threaded connection and may provide for measuring the
spaced apart lateral struts 48, 49; a cross (e.g., cell) strut 50: true torque (e.g., pure torque) applied to making-up the con
a torque member (e.g., post) 52; and tong span 53. nection at cross strut 50.
Each bell crank 46, 47 may comprise three pivot points at 55 Bell cranks 46, 47 are statically balanced by the strut 48, 49
which members are pivotedly connected. The pivot connec and cross strut 50 reaction moments. Tong pivots 54, 55
tions (e.g., pivot points) form a ninety-degree triangle in the experience the longitudinal loads form the lateral struts 48, 49
depicted embodiment. The pivot connections are identified and the transverse loads from cross strut 50. When cross strut
respectively as tong pivot connections 54, 55; lateral pivot 50 is in compression, tong pivots 54, 55 apply equal and
connections 56, 57 and cross pivot connections 58, 59. In 60 opposite tension along in span 53. Torque post 52 is fixedly
FIGS. 3-5, the pivot connections are depicted as pins. As is connected (e.g., welded) to tong span 53. The internal tension
known in the art, other pivot connections may be provided forces in span 53 are not transmitted into torque post 52. The
including bearing and non-bearing connections. longitudinal loads from tong pivots 54, 55 are not transferred
Lateral struts 48, 49 are equal in length and maintained to torque post 52 as the longitudinal loads from lateral struts
parallel to one another. Lateral strut 48, identified as the left 65 48, 49 are canceled out.
side of FIGS. 3-5, is pivotedly connected to bell crank 46 at A moment couple is transferred from lateral struts 48, 49
lateral pivot 56 and to back-up wrench 16 at wrench pivot 60. into torque post 52. The difference between the transverse
 US 8,601,910 B2
10
distance from post 52 to left tong pivot 54 and the transverse nated “R” and the forces are shown by the arrows designated
distance between post 52 and right tong pivot 55 is inconse “F”. The clamping force 82 is resisted by the horizontal
quential. A moment may be resolved with an opposing components of force vectors (“F”) 83 on rollers 72. The
moment applied anywhere on the body. The lateral struts 48. torque to spin tubular 3 is applied as rotation “R” on rollers
49 transmit a pure torque through torque post 52 into tong 19. 72. Due to fraction of rollers 72 on tubular 3, each roller
Consequently, torque wrench 14 of tong 19 will apply zero assembly 68, 70 is subject to a moment “M”. In this embodi
side-loads (e.g., transverse, lateral force) to the connection, ment, reaction pin 80 may be the only restraint preventing
and the output torque is resolved with equal and opposite spinner 12 from rotating about tubular 3. The location of
torque through post 52. Note that pure, or true, torque is the reaction member 80 relative to tubular 3 means that the torque
torque actually being applied to the connection. Traditional 10
will be reacted as a side load 84, shown by an arrow, on
torque measurements may include the forces lost in the reac reaction member 80. In order to balance the transverse forces
tion torque and the transverse force. the normal loads on rollers 72 must become unbalanced as
Torsion control device 22 and tong assembly 20 is briefly
described with reference to breaking a threaded tubular con illustrated by force vectors 83.
nection. Torsion control device 22 generally experiences a 15 FIG. 12 is a perspective, exploded view of a portion of a
reversal of loading when breaking connections. Torque spinner 12 comprising a ZSL device, generally denoted 86.
wrench 14 will typically apply a counterclockwise torque. according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
Lateral strut 48 is put into compression and tries to rotate bell FIGS. 13 and 14 are schematic views of ZSL spinner 12
crank 46 clockwise. Lateral strut 49 is in compression and according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
tries to rotate bell crank 47 counterclockwise. The result is The depicted ZSL spinner 12 is adapted from a slider-type
that bell cranks 46, 47 place cross strut 50 in tension. spinner as illustrated in FIGS. 9-11. ZSL device 86 is depicted
FIGS. 9 and 10 are perspective views of an example of a as a bell crank type of apparatus in FIGS. 12 and 13. FIG. 12
spinner 12, in isolation, that does not include a torsional is a view from the right, back, relative to access to the tubu
transfer device (e.g., Zero-side-load). Apparatus 10 of FIGS. lars, of the right side of spinner 12. Other types of spinners
1 and 2 may utilize a convention spinner according to one or 25 may be adapted in accordance to one or more aspects of the
more aspects of the present disclosure. The depicted example present disclosure.
is of a slider-style spinner utilizing rollers 72. Other types of ZSL spinner 12 may include one actuator 78 or more actua
spinners and spinner drives may be utilized including without tors to move the spinner assemblies 68 into contact with the
limitation chain spinners. Elements of spinner 12 may be tubulars. In the depicted example, ZSL spinner includes two
acquired from Blohm & Voss Oil Tools, LLC. Spinner 12 30 actuators illustrated by actuator 78a connected to assembly
includes a centerframe 64 which may be connected to torque 68. Actuator 78a and its counterpart actuator (not shown) are
wrench 14 (shown as a unitary power wrench in this adapted to each push the respective assembly into contact
example). Slide rods 66 and 67 are connected in a parallel with the tubular to be spun. Hydraulic actuators are more
fashion by frame 64. A first and a second roller assembly 68, efficient when pushing than when pulling, thus it may be
70 are slidably connected on opposite sides of frame 64 to 35 desired to utilize push actuators to increase the clamping
slide rods 66, 67. Each roller assembly 68, 70 include rollers force of the rollers on the tubular.
72 and a motor 74 (e.g., hydraulic motor). Roller assemblies The embodiments of ZSL spinner 12 depicted in FIGS. 1,
68, 70 each comprise a frame 76. Frame 76 may include 2 and 12-14 in particular, ZSL spinner 12 is connected to
sleeves (e.g., tubes) 77 disposed on rods 66, 67 to facilitate cassette 26 (e.g., frame) above tongassembly 20 (FIGS. 1 and
movement and aid in providing a clamping force on the tubu 40 2) and it is not attached to either of wrenches 14, 16. It is
lar as depicted for example in FIG. 11. An actuator 78 (e.g., common in prior systems for the spinner to be connected to at
hydraulic cylinder) may be connected between the first and least one of the power wrench or the back-up wrench. Accord
second roller assemblies 68, 70 to move the assemblies lat ing to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, wrenches
erally relative to one another along slide rods 66, 67. In the 14, 16 transmit torque into each other but neither transmits
conventional spinners, such as depicted in FIGS.9 and 10, the 45 torque into the cassette; and spinner 12 transmits torque into
torque reaction is often accomplished with a semi-rigid cassette 26 but does not transmit torque into torque wrench 14
mounting of frame 64 through reaction pin 80 to torque or back-up wrench 16.
wrench 14, for example. In the embodiments depicted in ZSL device 86 comprises bell cranks 90,91, 92,93; elon
FIGS. 1, 2 and 12-14, in particular, spinner 12 is not con gated torque members 94, 96 (e.g., struts, tubes, rods etc.);
nected to torque wrench 14 or back-up wrench 16 and the 50 synchronizing link 98 and reaction member 108 (e.g., plate).
torque from the spinner is transmitted into the cassette and not Each bell crank comprises three pivot connections (e.g., pivot
into either of torque wrench 14 or back-up wrench 16. points) identified respectively as inboard pivot connection
Refer to FIG. 11 wherein a top view of a conventional 102, outboard pivot connection 104 and synchronizing con
spinner 12, without a ZSL device, is illustrated. Actuator 78 nection 106. Bell cranks 90,91, 92, and 93, synchronizing
may be operated to move roller assemblies 68, 70 laterally 55 link 98 and elongated torque members 94, 96 form a ZSL, or
into contact with tubular 3 as shown by the dashed line. torque, frame 87 (FIG. 13). Torque frame 87 comprises a
Motors 74 are energized rotating rollers 72. The friction Substantially rectangular frame (e.g., parallelogram struc
between tubular 3 and rollers 72 torques tubular 3 clockwise ture) having bell cranks 90,91, 92, and 93 positioned at the
to make a connection and counter-clockwise (depicted) to corners by longitudinal torque members 94, 96 and vertical
break a connection. Rollers 72 continue to rotate until the 60 synchronizing links 98. Torque frame 87 may be substantially
tubulars shoulder up and then stalls. Rollers 72 will continue rigid in that the bell cranks are maintained in a constant
to spin after the clamping force of rollers 72 is overcome by spaced relationship to one another. In the depicted embodi
the friction forces unless the motors stall. ment, slide rods 66, 67 are capped with a plate 88. Torque
Torque reaction in a conventional spinner installation is frame 87 pivotedly connects spinner 12 via the spinner's
now described when breaking a threaded connection with 65 frame (e.g., slide members 66, 67) with cassette 26 in the
reference to FIG. 11 in particular. The moments are shown by depicted embodiment, which may be connected to carrier 28
arrows designated “M,” the rotations by the arrows desig (FIGS. 1 and 2).
 US 8,601,910 B2
11 12
Reaction plate 108 may include rollers 110 adapted to be The back-up wrench may be operable to grip the second
disposed in channel 27 of cassette side rails 26a for vertical tubular with a first grip pressure when the spinner is spinning
movement within cassette 26. An actuator 109 is connected to the first tubular and operable to grip the second tubular at a
reaction plate 108 to suspend reaction plate 108 and spinner second grip pressure when the torque wrench is rotating the
12, for example from cassette 26 (FIG. 1)), for thread com- 5 first tubular. The first grip pressure and the second grip pres
pensation during make-up and break-out. Other actuating Sure may be the same pressure. The apparatus may include a
devices may be utilized, including springs and/or counter torsion device connected to the torque wrench and the back
weights. In this embodiment, reaction plate 108 is connected up wrench
at outboard pivot connections 104 (e.g., torque reaction axis) The torque wrench may be a continuous wrench. The
of ZSL device 86. 10 torque wrench may be operable to rotate the first tubular more
Torque member 94 is connected between upper bell cranks than about 180 degrees relative to the second tubular without
90, 91 longitudinally spacing the bell cranks apart. Torque releasing the grip of the torque wrench on the first tubular. The
member 96 is similarly connected between bell cranks 92.93 torque wrench may be operable to rotate the first tubular more
longitudinally spacing them apart. A synchronizing link98 is than about 270 degrees relative to the second tubular without
connected between pivot connections 106 of bell crank 90 15 releasing the grip of the torque wrench on the first tubular.
and bell crank 92 spacing the bell cranks vertically apart. The ZSL device may pivotedly connect the spinner to an
Similarly, a synchronizing link 98 is connected between pivot external frame. The external frame may be a cassette. The
connections 106 of bell cranks 91 and 93. Each bell crank is ZSL device may comprise a parallelogram structure having
connected to a respective reaction plate 108 at outboard pivot bell cranks positioned at four corners. For example, two pairs
connection 104. On the right side depicted in FIG. 13, cap 20 oftop bell cranks may be spaced apart longitudinally and the
plate 88 is connected between bell cranks 91.93 at the respec bell cranks of each pair may be vertically spaced apart. Each
tive inboard pivot connections 102. Similarly, on the right bell crank may comprise a first pivot point, a second pivot
side a cap plate 88 connects bell crank 91 and bell crank 92 at point and a third pivot point. The first pivot point may be
the respective inboard pivot connections. pivotedly connected to the spinner and the second pivot point
An example of operation of ZSL spinner 12 is now 25 may be pivotedly connected to an external frame. A link may
described with reference to FIGS. 12-14. Assemblies 68, 70 be connected to the third pivot point of the respective verti
are actuated laterally along members 66, 67 to engage rollers cally spaced apart bell cranks. An elongated member may
72 on tubular 3. In the depicted spinner, the torque on tubular connect to the respective laterally spaced apart bell cranks.
3 is exerted on rollers 110 of reaction plate 108 as opposed to Another example of an apparatus for making and/or break
reacting member 80 in FIG. 11. In other words, the torque 30 ing a threaded connection between a first and a second tubular
reaction axis is at outboard pivot connections 104. Moments, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure
designated 112 in FIG. 14, are taken up by a pair of equal and may include a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative
opposite longitudinal forces 114, 115. to the second tubular; a torque wrench; a back-up wrench; and
ZSL spinner 12 is float complaint in the embodiments a torsion device connected to the torque wrench and the
depicted in FIGS. 1, 212 and 13, meaning that spinner 12 is 35 back-up wrench, wherein the torsion device is operable to
capable of moving fore and aft for alignment with the tubular. relieve a transverse force induced by rotating the torque
Inboard pivot connection 102 hangs under outboard pivot wrench and first tubular relative to the back-up wrench and
connection 104, due to gravity. Synchronizing link 98 con the second tubular from acting on the threaded connection.
nected at pivot connections 106 is in compression and may The torsion device may comprise a pair of struts pivotedly
keep the assembly from pitching forward. Rotation of bell 40 connected to the torque wrench and the back-up wrench by a
cranks 90,91, 92, 93 allows for longitudinal compliance. pair of bell cranks. The back-up wrench is operable to grip the
Gravity moves spinner 12 back to a nominal centered posi second tubular with a first grip pressure when the spinner is
tion. The torque frame 87 provided by the connection of spinning the first tubular and operable to grip the second
torque members 94,96 with the respective bell cranks 90,91 tubular at a second grip pressure when the torque wrench is
and 92.93 prevent unsynchronized movement of members 88 45 rotating the first tubular.
(interconnecting members 66, 67). If a force 114 and 115 The apparatus may comprise a zero-side-load (“ZSL)
occurs, the motion may be canceled by torque member 94 or device connected to the spinner. The ZSL device comprises a
96 in torsion as depicted in FIG. 13. Note that FIG. 13 is parallelogram structure having bell cranks positioned at the
exaggerated for purposes of description. Because reaction corners. The ZSL device is pivotedly connected to the spinner
forces 114, 115 cancel the longitudinal components of one 50 and an external frame.
another, while cancelling moments 112, the balanced normal The ZSL device may comprise a parallelogram structure
loads on rollers 72 are retained whether statically clamping having bell cranks positioned at each corner, each bell crank
tubular3 or spinning tubular 3 under heavy torque loads. With comprising a first pivot point, a second pivot point and a third
equal torque being applied to each roller72, and equal normal pivot point. The first pivot point may be pivotedly connected
55 to the spinner and the second pivot point may be pivotedly
loads applied to tubular 3 through all rollers 72, the efficiency
of spinner 12 is improved over standard torque reaction connected to an external frame. A link may be connected to
devices. the third pivot point of the respective vertically spaced apart
An apparatus for making and/or breaking a threaded con bell cranks. An elongated member may connect to the respec
nection between a first tubular and a second tubular according tive laterally spaced apart bell cranks.
to one or more aspects of the present disclosure may include 60 The back-up wrench may be operable to grip the second
a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative to the tubular with a first grip pressure when the spinner is spinning
second tubular; a Zero-side-load (“ZSL) device operable to the first tubular and operable to grip the second tubular at a
relieve the transverse force induced on the threaded connec second grip pressure when the torque wrench is rotating the
tion in response to the spinner spinning the first tubular, a first tubular.
torque wrench operable to rotate the first tubular relative to 65 An example of a method for making-up a threaded connec
the second tubular, and a back-up wrench operable to grip the tion between a first tubular and a second tubular according to
second tubular. one or more aspects of the present disclosure may comprise
 US 8,601,910 B2
13 14
providing a tubular joining device comprising a spinner, a force induced on the threaded connection in response to rotat
torque wrench and a back-up wrench: gripping the second ing the torque wrench relative to the back-up wrench.
tubular with the back-up tong; spinning the first tubular via 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ZSL device piv
the spinner to advance the pin relative to the box, relieving a otedly connects the spinner to an external frame.
transverse force induced on the threaded connection in 5 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the external frame is
response to spinning the first tubular, gripping the first tubular a Cassette.
with the torque wrench; and rotating the first tubular with the 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ZSL device com
torque wrench to complete the threaded connection. prises a parallelogram structure having bell cranks positioned
Relieving (e.g., preventing, reducing, eliminating, mini at four corners.
mizing) a transverse force may comprise connecting a Zero- 10 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the ZSL device con
side-load (“ZSL) device to the spinner. Relieving a trans nects the spinner to an external frame.
verse force may comprise connecting a Zero-side-load 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ZSL device com
(“ZSL) device to the spinner and a cassette, wherein the ZSL prises:
device may comprise a parallelogram structure, for example, a parallelogram structure having bell cranks position at
comprising bell cranks positioned at each corner, each bell 15 each corner, each bell crank of the ZSL device compris
crank comprising a first pivot point, a second pivot point and ing a first pivot point, a second pivot point and a third
a third pivot point, wherein the first pivot point is pivotedly pivot point, wherein the first pivot point is pivotedly
connected to the spinner and the second pivot point is pivot connected to the spinner and the second pivot point is
edly connected to the cassette; a link connected to the third pivotedly connected to an external frame;
pivot point of the respective vertically spaced apart bell 20 a link connected to the third pivot point of the respective
cranks; and an elongated member connected to the respective Vertically spaced apart bell cranks; and
laterally spaced apart bell cranks. an elongated member connected to the respective laterally
Rotating the first tubular with the torque wrench may com spaced apart bell cranks.
prise relieving a transverse force induced on the threaded 9. An apparatus for making and/or breaking threaded con
connection in response to rotating the torque wrench relative 25 nections between a first and a second tubular comprising:
to the back-up wrench. a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative to the
Gripping the second tubular with the back-up tong may second tubular,
comprise gripping the box end of the second tubular with a a torque wrench operable to rotate the first tubular greater
first gripping pressure when spinning the first tubular with the than about 180 degrees relative to the second tubular
spinner, and gripping the box end of the second tubular with 30 without releasing the grip of the torque wrench on the
a second gripping pressure when rotating the first tubular with first tubular;
the torque wrench. a back-up wrench; and
The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so a torsion device connected with the torque wrench and the
that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects back-up wrench, wherein the torsion device is operable
of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should 35 to relieve a transverse force induced in response to rotat
appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as ing the torque wrench relative to the back-up wrench.
a basis for designing or modifying other processes and struc 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the torsion device
tures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the comprises a pair of struts pivotedly connected to the torque
same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. wrench and the back-up wrench by a pair of bell cranks.
Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equiva- 40 11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the back-up wrench
lent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of is operable to grip the second tubular with a first grip pressure
the present disclosure, and that they may make various when the spinner is spinning the first tubular and operable to
changes, Substitutions and alterations herein without depart grip the second tubular at a second grip pressure when the
ing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. torque wrench is rotating the first tubular.
45 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the torsion device
What is claimed is: comprises a pair of struts pivotedly connected to the torque
1. An apparatus for making and/or breaking a threaded wrench and the back-up wrench by a pair of bell cranks.
connection between a first tubular and a second tubular com 13. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a zero
prising: side-load (“ZSL) device connected to the spinner.
a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative to the 50 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the ZSL device
second tubular, comprises a parallelogram structure having bell cranks posi
a Zero-side-load (ZSL) device operable to relieve the tioned at the corners.
transverse force induced on the threaded connection in 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the ZSL device is
response to the spinner spinning the first tubular, pivotedly connected to the spinner and an external frame.
a torque wrench operable to rotate the first tubular greater 55 16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the back-up wrench
than about 180 degrees relative to the second tubular is operable to grip the second tubular with a first grip pressure
without releasing the grip of the torque wrench on the when the spinner is spinning the first tubular and operable to
first tubular; and grip the second tubular at a second grip pressure when the
a back-up wrench operable to grip the second tubular. torque wrench is rotating the first tubular.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the back-up wrench is 60 17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the ZSL device
operable to grip the second tubular with a first grip pressure comprises:
when the spinner is spinning the first tubular and operable to a parallelogram structure having bell cranks positioned at
grip the second tubular at a second grip pressure when the each corner, each bell crank comprising a first pivot
torque wrench is rotating the first tubular. point, a second pivot point and a third pivot point,
3. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a torsion 65 wherein the first pivot point is pivotedly connected to the
device connected to the torque wrench and the back-up spinner and the second pivot point is pivotedly con
wrench, the torsion device operable to relieve a transverse nected to an external frame;
 US 8,601,910 B2
15 16
a link connected to the third pivot point of the respective wherein the first pivot point is pivotedly connected to the
vertically spaced apart bell cranks; and spinner and the second pivot point is pivotedly con
an elongated member connected to the respective laterally nected to the cassette:
spaced apart bell cranks. a link connected to the third pivot point of the respective
18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the back-up wrench 5 Vertically spaced apart bell cranks; and
is operable to grip the second tubular with a first grip pressure an elongated member connected to the respective laterally
when the spinner is spinning the first tubular and operable to spaced apart bell cranks.
grip the second tubular at a second grip pressure when the
25. The method of claim 24, wherein the rotating the first
tubular with the torque wrench comprises relieving a trans
torque wrench is rotating the first tubular. 10 Verse force from being induced on the threaded connection in
19. A method for making-up a threaded connection response to rotating the torque wrench relative to the back-up
between a first tubular and a second tubular, comprising: wrench.
gripping the second tubular with a back-up wrench of a 26. An apparatus for making and/or breaking a threaded
tubular joiner device comprising a spinner, a torque connection between a first tubular and a second tubular, com
wrench and the back-up wrench: prising:
15 a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative to the
spinning the first tubular via the spinner to advance a pin of second tubular;
the first tubular relative to a box of the second tubular; a zero-side-load (“ZSL) device operable to relieve the
gripping the first tubular with the torque wrench: transverse force induced on the threaded connection in
rotating the first tubular greater than about 180 degrees response to the spinner spinning the first tubular;
without releasing the grip of the torque wrench on the a torque wrench rotate the first tubular relative to the sec
first tubular to complete the threaded connection; and ond tubular; and
relieving a transverse force induced on the threaded con a back-up wrench grip the second tubular:
nection in response to spinning the first tubular. wherein the ZSL device comprises:
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the relieving a trans a parallelogram structure having bell cranks positioned
verse force comprises a zero-side-load (“ZSL) device con 25 at each corner, each bell crank comprising a first pivot
nected to the spinner. point, a second pivot point and a third pivot point,
21. The method of claim 19, wherein the relieving a trans wherein the first pivot point is pivotedly connected to
verse force comprises a zero-side-load (“ZSL) device con the spinner and the second pivot point is pivotedly
nected to the spinner and a cassette, the ZSL device compris connected to an external frame;
1ng: 30 a link connected to the third pivot point of the respective
a parallelogram structure comprising bell cranks posi Vertically spaced apart bell cranks; and
tioned at each corner, each bell crank comprising a first an elongated member connected to the respective later
pivot point, a second pivot point and a third pivot point, ally spaced apart bell cranks.
wherein the first pivot point is pivotedly connected to the 27. The apparatus of claim 26, further comprising a torsion
spinner and the second pivot point is pivotedly con 35 device comprising a pair struts pivotedly connected to the
nected to the cassette; torque wrench and the back-up wrench by a pair of bell
cranks.
a link connected to the third pivot point of the respective 28. An apparatus for making and/or breaking threaded
vertically spaced apart bell cranks; and
an elongated member connected to the respective laterally connections between a first and a second tubular comprising:
spaced apart bell cranks. 40 a spinner operable to spin the first tubular relative to the
22. The method of claim 19, wherein the rotating the first second tubular;
tubular with the torque wrench comprises relieving a trans a torque wrench;
Verse force induced on the threaded connection in response to a back-up wrench; and
rotating the torque wrench relative to the back-up wrench. a torsion device connected to the torque wrench and the
23. The method of claim 19, wherein the gripping the 45 back-up wrench to relieve a transverse force induced in
second tubular with the back-up wrench comprises: response to rotating the torque wrench relative to the
gripping the box end of the second tubular with a first back-up wrench, wherein the torsion device comprises:
gripping pressure when spinning the first tubular with a span member pivotedly connected at a first end to a first
the spinner; and bell crank and pivotedly connected at a second end to
gripping the box end of the second tubular with a second 50 a second bell crank;
gripping pressure when rotating the first tubular with the a first lateral strut pivotedly connected to the first bell
torque wrench. crank and pivotedly connected to the back-up wrench:
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the relieving a trans a second lateral strut pivotedly connected to the second
verse force comprises a zero-side-load (“ZSL) device con bell crank and pivotedly connected to the back-up
nected to the spinner and a cassette, the ZSL device compris 55 wrench; and
1ng: a post extending vertically from the torque wrench, the
a parallelogram structure comprising bell cranks posi post connected to the span member between the pair
of bell cranks.
tioned at each corner, each bell crank comprising a first
pivot point, a second pivot point and a third pivot point,