САМОПОДЪЕМНОЕ БУРОВОЕ МОРСКОЕ ОСНОВАНИЕ ЛЕДОВОГО КЛАССА С ОДИНОЧНОЙ КОНИЧЕСКОЙ ОПОРОЙ НА СВАЙНОМ ОСНОВАНИИ И УСТАНОВОЧНЫМИ ГНЕЗДАМИ

Группа изобретений относится к системам для бурения на нефть и газ и для добычи нефти и газа в потенциально ледовых условиях на прибрежных морских площадях и к способам бурения скважины в водах, подверженных появлению льда. Технический результат заключается в защите от ледовых воздействий и взаимодействии буровой установки с одиночной конической опорой. Система содержит: буровую установку, имеющую плавучий корпус с относительно гладкой палубой в своей верхней части и выгибающую лед форму в своей нижней части, проходящую вниз и внутрь вокруг периметра корпуса, где выгибающая лед форма проходит от зоны корпуса вблизи уровня палубы и проходит вниз к зоне вблизи днища корпуса; участок ледового дефлектора, проходящий вокруг периметра днища корпуса для направления льда вокруг корпуса, а не под корпус; по меньшей мере, три опоры, установленные внутри периметра днища плавучего корпуса, при этом опоры выполнены с возможностью подъема от морского дна для осуществления буксировки буровой установки ...

СЪЕМНАЯ БУРОВАЯ КОРОНКА САМОВСПЛЫВАЮЩЕГО БУЯ ДЛЯ БУРЕНИЯ ЛЬДА СНИЗУ ВВЕРХ

Изобретение относится к буровой коронке самовсплывающих подповерхностных океанографических буйковых станций, которые при всплытии могут быть использованы для бурения льда снизу вверх на покрытых льдом акваториях, преимущественно в условиях Арктики. Съемная буровая коронка самовсплывающего буя для бурения льда снизу вверх является комплексной приемопередающей антенной с проблесковым маячком и съемным буровым инструментом, устанавливаемым на буровые системы для бурения различной толщины морского льда из подводного положения снизу вверх. Съемная буровая коронка содержит металлическую трубу с вырезами, имеющую внутри запаянные в герметичную сплошную композитную радиопрозрачную бесцветную массу спутниковую и радиоантенну с проблесковым маячком, с одной стороны имеющую резьбовую втулку с проходящим через нее герметичным кабелем для вкручивания в буровую колонну и соединения с основным кабелем связи, а с другой стороны - несущую втулку с перьевым наконечником на винтовом несущем стержне. По наружной ...

БУРОВОЕ СУДНО С ДВУМЯ БУРИЛЬНЫМИ ЦЕНТРАМИ

Группа изобретений относится к области шельфового бурения. Буровое судно содержит первый бурильный центр, включающий в себя хранилище для хранения первых водоотделительных колонн, второй бурильный центр для бурения второй скважины с того же самого судна, включающий в себя хранилище для хранения вторых водоотделительных колонн. Вторые водоотделительные колонны имеют меньший диаметр, чем первые водоотделительные колонны. Судно содержит два противовыбросовых превентора для второго бурильного центра. Способ бурения предусматривает создание бурового судна с двумя раздельными и различными бурильными центрами, каждый из которых способен выполнять бурение скважины; обеспечение водоотделительных колонн для каждого из бурильных центров; диаметр водоотделительных колонн для одного из бурильных центров меньше диаметра водоотделительных колонн для второго из бурильных центров; обеспечение двух противовыбросовых превенторов в соответствии с меньшим диаметром водоотделительной колонны вспомогательного ...

СПОСОБ РЫТЬЯ ШАХТЫ ДЛЯ ЛИНИИ БУРОВОГО РАСТВОРА ПРИ ПОДВОДНОМ БУРЕНИИ СКВАЖИН

Изобретение относится к области подводного бурения. Способ рытья шахты для буровой скважины заключается в том, что погружают устройство для рытья, имеющее в своем составе облицовку шахты, на дно водоема, причем устройство для рытья содержит прижимные башмаки, прикрепленные к шарнирным плечам, выполненным с возможностью выдвижения и втягивания для выборочной фиксации устройства для рытья в нужном положении в облицовке шахты, первый двигатель, соединенный с буровым долотом и прикрепленный к устройству для рытья с помощью поворотного элемента, работой которого управляют таким образом, чтобы угол расположения первого двигателя относительно продольной оси устройства для рытья можно было регулировать в процессе работы, средства для перемещения устройства для рытья вверх и вниз, и второй двигатель, прикрепленный к устройству для рытья, обеспечивающий возможность поворота первого двигателя относительно продольной оси, роют шахту скважины путем приведения в действие устройства для рытья, одновременно ...

ПАРАЛЛЕЛЬНОЕ БУРЕНИЕ И ЗАВЕРШЕНИЕ ДЛЯ ПЛАВУЧЕЙ ДОБЫВАЮЩЕЙ ПЛАТФОРМЫ С ИЗИЛИРОВАННОЙ ФОНТАННОЙ АРМАТУРОЙ

... 1. Плавучая платформа для выполнения бурения при разработке месторождения одновременно с завершением скважины или добычей углеводорода, содержащая корпусную конструкцию, включающую в себя палубу и первое и второе отверстия, каждое из которых обеспечивает доступ через палубу к морскому дну, первую буровую вышку, закрепленную на палубе над первым отверстием, и предназначенную для бурения для разработки месторождения через первое отверстие, и завершающую буровую вышку, подвижно размещенную на палубе над вторым отверстием, способную перемещаться горизонтально относительно палубы и предназначенную для завершения скважины и добычи через второе отверстие, при этом завершающая буровая вышка и буровая вышка способны работать одновременно. ! 2. Плавучая платформа по п.1, в которой второе отверстие предназначено для приема множества отверстий добывающих трубопроводов. ! 3. Плавучая платформа по п.1, в которой первая буровая вышка способна размещать и управлять буровой колонной через первое отверстие ...

Подводный буровой модуль

Изобретение относится к буровым модулям, предназначенным для бурения нефтяных и газовых скважин на шельфах морей. Техническим результатом является обеспечение режима непрерывного бурения и непрерывной циркуляции бурового раствора, а также транспортировки, установки и замены устьевого оборудования без привлечения дополнительных технических средств. Подводный буровой модуль содержит открытую рамную конструкцию, бурильную машину, закрепленную на буровой вышке, которая снабжена механизмом горизонтального перемещения бурильной машины, обеспечивающим возможность подачи и установки бурильных труб, подъемный механизм, служащий для вертикального перемещения буровой вышки. Дополнительно подводный буровой модуль снабжен средствами для соединения/отсоединения бурильных труб в процессе добавления или удаления бурильных труб в/из бурильной колонны, элементами системы буровых сточных вод и элементами системы циркуляции бурового раствора, механизмом удержания, перемещения и установки устьевого оборудования ...

СИСТЕМА СГЛАЖИВАНИЯ ПУЛЬСАЦИЙ ОБОРУДОВАНИЯ НИЗА БУРИЛЬНОЙ КОЛОННЫ (ВНА)

Recreational flying, drilling and agricultural machine

In the case of this flying machine, a curved supporting jacket which is provided with a flexible trimming is supported centrally and such that it can pivot about a mast which at its head end carries a drive unit with adjustable rotor arms and is constructed in a tubular shape for holding fuel, while its base end, during landing, drills into the ground using the rotor force or is used as a keel on water. The drilling process is used with the aid of extension pipes for bore holes in the ground and is used with the aid of agricultural implements in agriculture.

Drill carriage for undersea prospecting

Legs with adjustable powered feet support the carriage and drill on the seabed floor with draw works and power supply in a surface vessel. The drive and carriage have breaks to admit extension rods from the surface vessel once a nipping fork pair have been actuated, bottom and top respectively to accept the pre-assembled rod length from the vessel. An adapter is used to join the fresh rods to those in the hole. A flushing string can be inserted and linked to a flushing head. A diving bell can be used to enclose top of the carriage in deep water and provided access and the same extension facilities.

Methods and apparatus for drilling with a multiphase pump

An offshore drilling rig and a method of operating the same

Anchor for vehicle,vehicle and anchor in combination,and method of using the anchor

A seabed anchor (20) is fixed to and deployable from an ROV (10) for positively anchoring the ROV (10) to the seabed (100). The seabed anchor (20) comprises three nested telescoping tubes (26, 28, and 30). The upper end of the outermost tube (26) is fixed to the ROV (10). A rotary drill bit (38) is carried on the output shaft of a motor (34) that is mounted on the lower end of the innermost tube (30). The nested assembly of three telescopic tubes (26, 28, 30) can be controllably extended and retracted by controlled operation of a hydraulic ram or other linear actuator coupled between the outer tube (26) and the inner tube (30). Each of the tubes (26, 28 and 30) carries a respective one or two pairs of inflatable packers (40, 42, and 44) that are normally uninflated and lie quiescent within respective recesses in the sides of the tubes where the packers do not interfere with telescopic relative movements of the tubes. To set the seabed anchor (20), the drill bit (38) is rotated and forced ...

Improvements relating to underwater wells

... 1,058,110. Boring earth; wells. PAN AMERICAN PETROLEUM CORPORATION. Nov. 5, 1964 [Feb. 7, 1964], No. 45226/64. Heading E1F. Apparatus for conducting operations in an underwater well comprises a floating vessel positioned directly above the well, an elongated element extending from the vessel into the well, sensing means positioned to bear against the element when the vessel is laterally displaced a predetermined distance and to provide an indication of the displacement. The element is a drill string 28. which passes through a rotary table 30 on the vessel 11. The indication of the displacement is a measure of the stress in the string and indicates when the vessel should be relocated to maintain the stress in the string at a safe level. The well 13 has a surface casing 18 supporting a conductor pipe 16 including blow-out preventers 21, a spool 22 and a flexible joint 26 and connected to the vessel by cables 17. The spool encloses a sleeve 31 and carries the sensing means 23, the arrangement ...

A structure for use in sinking and setting a well casing in an underground formation in which the sinking involves hydraulic jetting of the formation

... 1,029,729. Sinking of well casing by jetting. TEXACO DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. Dec. 2, 1964 [Dec. 4, 1963], No. 49090/64. Heading E1F. During sinking of a well casing into the ground the casing is detachably secured according to its diameter to the appropriate one of a number of concentrically disposed skirts on the lower surface of a vertically movable support through which extends a conduit for supplying liquid under pressure to a jetting pipe secured to the underside of the support concentrically of and between the conduit and the innermost of the sleeves to adjacent the lower end of the casing. When the casing has been sunk by the jetting away of soil from the foot of the casing the support is uncoupled from the casing and removed with the jetting pipe from the casing. During the sinking of the casing jetted away soil is carried by the liquid up between the jetting pipe and the casing through openings in the support.

mechanically coupling a bearing assembly to a rotating control device

Methods and apparatus for drilling with a multiphase pump

Method of planning and/or performing an offshore well operation

AN OFFSHORE DRILLING RIG AND A METHOD OF OPERATINGTHE SAME

PROCESS FOR CONSTRUCTING A WELL FOR EXPLOITING A RESERVOIR UNDER A SEA-BED OR OCEAN-BED

Subsea processor for underwater drilling operations

AN OFFSHORE DRILLING RIG AND A METHOD OF OPERATINGTHE SAME

Multi-activity offshore exploration and /or development drilling method and apparatus.

A multi-activity drillship (30) method and apparatus having a single derrick (40) and multiple tubular activity stations within the derrick (40) wherein primary drilling activity may be conducted from the derrick (40) and simultaneously auxiliary drilling activity may be conducted from the same derrick (40) to reduce the length of the primary drilling activity critical path.

PROCESS FOR CONSTRUCTING A WELL FOR EXPLOITING A RESERVOIR UNDER A SEA-BED OR OCEAN-BED

Communications systems and methods for subsea processors

Flow stop valve

Method of protecting a flexible riser and an apparatus therefor

Drilling method and apparatus

Subsea processor for underwater drilling operations

AN OFFSHORE DRILLING RIG AND A METHOD OF OPERATINGTHE SAME

A floating offshore facility and a method for drilling a well

Flow stop valve.

High definition drilling rate of penetration for marine drilling

Method of protecting a flexible riser and apparatus therefor.

High definition drilling rate of penetration for marine drilling

Improvements with the drilling of underwater wells.

Multi-activity offshore exploration and/or development drilling method and apparatus

PROCESS FOR CONSTRUCTING A WELL FOR EXPLOITING A RESERVOIR UNDER A SEA-BED OR OCEAN-BED

A floating offshore facility and a method for drilling a well

Drilling method and apparatus

A floating offshore facility and a method for drilling a well

Communications systems and methods for subsea processors

Subsea processor for underwater drilling operations

Communications systems and methods for subsea processors

TUBING INSTALLATION FOR OFFSHORE DRILLING PLATFORM.

PROCEDURE FOR THE PRODUCTION ONE DIVIDES CKS FROM A ST TZSTREBENGLIED A HIGH SEA LBOHRPLATTFORM

IMPROVEMENTS IN THE PURCHASE TO THE UNDERWATER BORING OF BOREHOLES

DRILLING FIXTURE AND DRILLING PROCEDURE

System for coupling between a bend stiffener and a bell mouth comprising a plurality of locking mechanisms

The present invention provides a system for coupling between a bend stiffener (1) and a bell mouth (2) comprising a plurality of locking mechanisms (3), wherein each locking mechanism (3) is secured externally to the bell mouth (2) and comprises a movable lug (30) positioned such as to slope downwards, in which the lug (30) accesses the interior of the bell mouth (2) and is actuated by an elastic element (34) designed to exert pressure on the lug (30) in the direction of the interior of the bell mouth (2).

PIPE FLARING

Downhole swivel apparatus and method

Flow stop valve

Downhole swivel apparatus and method

Offshore universal riser system

An offshore universal riser system. A riser system includes a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device releasably secures the valve module in the flow passage. A method of constructing a riser system includes the steps of installing the valve module in the flow passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the flow passage. The annular seal module is operative to prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the flow passage. Drilling methods include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, is dimensioned for installation through a rotary table.

Method of and system for building structures and drilling oil and gas wells in arctic, inaccessible or environmentally sensitive locations

Predictive vibration models under riserless condition

Systems and methods provide a mechanism to provide enhanced features for riserless drilling. Various embodiments may include wellbore analysis to predict and quantify vibrations for riserless conditions. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.

Apparatus and method for data transmission from a rotating control device

Process for constructing a well for exploiting a reservoir under a sea-bed or ocean-bed

A process for constructing a well (1) for exploiting an oil or gas reservoir, comprising the following operations: (A) drilling a formation submerged by a water head, at least 3, 600 meters deep or more, reaching the formation from the surface of the water with a drilling riser (7), and a drilling tool which passes internally through the drilling riser; and evacuating through the drilling riser (7) at least one of the circulating drilling fluid, the oil or natural gas coming from the formations and the resulting drilling materials. The drilling riser (7) has an external diameter equal to or smaller than 17 inches and reaches a wellhead (3) having an internal diameter equal to or smaller than 18.75 inches, and positioned in correspondence with or close to the seabed submerged which covers the formation.

A drilling or work-over rig comprising an operational control and/or state unit and a computer-implemented method of providing operational control and/or state

... a drilling or work-over vessel (10) is disclosed comprising a number of operational equipment (300), wherein the drilling or work-over vessel comprises at least one operational control and/or state unit (100) comprising at least one processing unit (102), wherein the at least one operational control and/or state unit (100) comprises or are in connection with a memory and/or storage (103), and at least one sensor unit (200), wherein the at least one sensor unit (200) is adapted to obtain one or more measured physical values and to provide data representing the one or more measured physical values and/or derived values thereof to the at least one operational control and/or state unit (100), the memory and/or storage (103) comprises a data representation of a computational physics model of at least a part of the drilling or work-over rig, and the at least one processing unit (102) is adapted to derive data representing an estimation of one or more physical states (such as defined by limits ...

Shallow draft floating offshore drilling/producing structure

OFFSHORE DRILLING SYSTEM

According to one or more aspects of the invention, a method for drilling an offshore wellbore into a seabed from a platform positioned proximate to the water surface comprises making-up a first tubular string with a first conveyance assembly and running the first tubular string into the wellbore with the first conveyance assembly, wherein the first tubular string enters the wellbore from the water column at an entry position proximate to the seabed; performing a wellbore task with the first tubular string; while the wellbore task is being performed with the first tubular string, making-up a second tubular string in the water column from a second conveyance assembly; withdrawing the first tubular string from the wellbore with the first conveyance assembly once the wellbore task is completed; and running the second tubular string with the second conveyance assembly into the wellbore at the entry point from the water column.

DEVICE FOR SUBMERGED DRILLING OF FOUNDATIONS

L'invention est relative à un dispositif pour le forage immergé de fondations, comprenant au moins une fraise et une pompe de refoulement des déblais, et des moteurs hydrauliques pour entraîner ladite fraise et ladite pompe. Il comprend une turbine hydraulique susceptible de fonctionner à l'aide d'un fluide tel que l'eau de mer, et une centrale hydraulique entraînée par ladite turbine et agencée pour alimenter lesdits moteurs hydrauliques.

METHOD FOR MAINTAINING FLOATING STRUCTURE IN SUBSTANTIALLY FIXED POSITION IN THE PRESENCE OF MOVING ICE, AND APPARATUS UTILIZING SUCH A METHOD

A DRILLING OR WORK-OVER VESSEL WITH CONTROL SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING OPERATIONAL CONTROL AND/OR STATE

... a drilling or work-over vessel (10) is disclosed comprising a number of operational equipment (300), wherein the drilling or work-over vessel comprises at least one operational control and/or state unit (100) comprising at least one processing unit (102), wherein the at least one operational control and/or state unit (100) comprises or are in connection with a memory and/or storage (103), and at least one sensor unit (200), wherein the at least one sensor unit (200) is adapted to obtain one or more measured physical values and to provide data representing the one or more measured physical values and/or derived values thereof to the at least one operational control and/or state unit (100), the memory and/or storage (103) comprises a data representation of a computational physics model of at least a part of the drilling or work-over rig, and the at least one processing unit (102) is adapted to derive data representing an estimation of one or more physical states (such as defined by limits ...

CORING SYSTEM AND METHOD

A system and method for obtaining soil samples is described. A coring system includes a suction carrier, a pump and a corer. The suction carrier comprises a body defining a cavity and a top portion having an aperture. The pump is positioned adjacent to the aperture and constructed and arranged to deliver fluid from the cavity. The corer is constructed and arranged to releasably engage with the suction carrier.

MANAGED PRESSURE DRILLING SYSTEM HAVING WELL CONTROL MODE

A method of drilling a subsea wellbore includes drilling the subsea wellbore and, while drilling the subsea wellbore: measuring a flow rate of the drilling fluid injected into a tubular string; measuring a flow rate of returns; comparing the returns flow rate to the drilling fluid flow rate to detect a kick by a formation being drilled; and exerting backpressure on the returns using a first variable choke valve. The method further includes, in response to detecting the kick: closing a blowout preventer of a subsea pressure control assembly (PCA) against the tubular string; and diverting the flow of returns from the PCA, through a choke line having a second variable choke valve, and through the first variable choke valve.

LARGE-WIDTH/DIAMETER RISER SEGMENT LOWERABLE THROUGH A ROTARY OF A DRILLING RIG

This disclosure includes auxiliary-line riser segment assemblies (e.g., with isolation units) that are suitable for managed pressure drilling (MPD) and that can be lowered (e.g., when connected to other riser segment assemblies) through a rotary of a drilling rig. Some embodiments are configured to have portions of the auxiliary lines connected (e.g., without welding) below the rotary.

ICE WORTHY JACK-UP DRILLING UNIT WITH GAS AGITATION AND LEG ICE SHIELDS

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.

STRUCTURE-SUPPORTED JACKUP SYSTEM

The present invention provides a structure-supported Jackup system comprising a Jackup drilling unit with a main deck structure and a plurality of legs movably coupled with the main deck structure, two or more support base structures disposed on seabed, and a plurality of movable supports, wherein each of the plurality of movable supports is securely coupled with either the main deck structure or one of the two or more support base structure. The present invention also provides a process for assembling the structure-supported Jackup system.

METHOD, HANDLING UNIT AND STAND FOR ACQUIRING A SAMPLE FROM A SEABED TOP LAYER

Handling unit equipped to acquire a sample from a seabed top layer by retracting and retrieving a piston corer holding the sample from a seabed, and to remove the sample from the piston corer, wherein the handling unit is a standalone unit arranged for mounting on a vessel and for re-trieval of a sample from the piston corer while it remains vertical. The handling unit comprises a container with dimen-sions and/or lifting points and/or connections as provided on a standard sea freight container. It also comprises a lifting device which is foldable out of and back into a container of the handling unit.

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Einfüllen eines Kunststoffgranulats mittels Druckluft in die Formen einer Kunststoff-Formmaschine

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR UNDERWATER DRILLING

СПОСОБ И СИСТЕМА ДЛЯ СТРОИТЕЛЬСТВА МОДУЛЬНЫХ ПЛАТФОРМ, С КОТОРЫХ ПРОИЗВОДИТСЯ БУРЕНИЕ НЕФТЯНЫХ И ГАЗОВЫХ СКВАЖИН

Предложены способ и система для строительства модульных платформ, с которых производится бурение и обслуживание нефтяных и газовых скважин. Множество легко транспортируемых многофункциональных платформенных модулей сочленяют на точке бурения с образованием цельной конструкции платформы. Сочлененные платформенные модули поднимают над поверхностью грунта и устанавливают на одну или несколько опор, присоединенных по меньшей мере к одному из платформенных модулей. Поднятые сочлененные платформенные модули обеспечивают осуществление буровых и производственных операций на точках бурения, расположенных на наземных, прибрежных, арктических, труднодоступных и экологически чувствительных участках.

深水导管下入过程中水力喷射参数的模拟方法及系统

... 本发明公开了一种深水导管下入过程中水力喷射参数的模拟方法及系统，该方法包括：基于目标海底区域的土体分布地质特征，模拟配制相似的实验用的分层土体；构建具有喷射下入装置的模拟系统，维持预定的实验条件，通过调整所述射流泵的泵压调节水力喷射参数；采集预定的参考信号，包括：表示所述喷射下入装置的提拉力大小的拉力信号，表示所述喷射下入装置的导管下入距离的位移信号、表示所述分层土体内压力大小的压力信号；根据采集的所述参考信号，选取在预定的实验条件下深水导管下入过程中的目标水力喷射参数。本发明提供的深水导管下入过程中水力喷射参数的模拟方法及系统，能够对深水导管下入过程的水力喷射参数进行室内实验模拟和评价。 ...

Process and apparatus of anchoring of a marine structure

Method for drilling a well under water

Process of underwater drilling per flexible stem and device for its implementation

Box and wellhead assembled for drillings under the water and their process of installation

Stabilising boring rod strings - esp for dynamic-penetration test boring

SUBSEA PROCESSOR FOR UNDERWATER DRILLING OPERATIONS

해저 최상층에서 샘플을 획득하기 위한 방법, 핸들링 유닛 및 스탠드

... 해저에서 샘플을 수용하는 피스톤 코어러를 철수하고 회수함으로써 해저 최상층에서 샘플을 획득하고, 피스톤 코어러에서 샘플을 제거하도록 구성되는 핸들링 유닛이 개시되며, 핸들링 유닛은 선박 위에 장착되고, 피스톤 코어러가 부유식 선박에 수직으로 매달려 있는 동안, 피스톤 코어러에서 샘플을 회수하도록 구성되는 독립형 유닛이다. 핸들링 유닛은 표준 해상 화물 컨테이너 상에 구비된 것과 같은 치수 및/또는 리프팅 포인트 및/또는 연결을 갖는 컨테이너를 포함한다. 이는 또한 핸들링 유닛의 컨테이너 외부로 그리고 다시 내부로 접힐 수 있는 리프팅 장치를 포함한다.

FLOATING OFFSHORE STRUCTURE

The present invention relates to a floating offshore structure which comprises: an upper hull in which various facilities are installed in an upper deck and an internal space to drill, produce, or treat sea bottom resources; an intermediate hull enabling the upper hull to float on the sea, and provided with a sea bottom resource storage tank and a ballast tank; and a lower hull reducing vertical shaking of the intermediate hull. Moreover, compared to a cross-section area of the intermediate hull, cross-section areas of the upper hull and the lower hull are formed to be larger. COPYRIGHT KIPO 2018 ...

sistema desviador de fluido para uma instalação de perfuração

sistema de acoplamento entre um enrijecedor de curvatura e uma boca de sino compreendendo uma pluralidade de mecanismos de travamento

DRILLING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING EQUIVALENT CIRCULATING DENSITY DURING DRILLING OF WELLBORES

A drilling system for drilling subsea wellbores includes a tubing-conveyed drill bit (130) that passes through a subsea wellhead. Surface supplied drillng fluid flows through the tubing (121), discharges at the drill bit, returns to the wellhead through a wellbore annulus (122), and flows to the surface via a riser extending from the wellhead. A flow restriction device (164) positioned in the riser restricts the flow of the returning fluid while an active fluid device controllably discharges fluid from a location below to just above the flow restriction device in the riser, thereby controlling bottomhole pressure and equivalent circulating density ("ECD"). Alternatively, the fluid is discharged into a separate return line (206) thereby providing dual gradient drilling while controlling bottomhole pressure and ECD. A controller (180) controls the energy and thus the speed of the pump in response to downhole measurement(s) to maintain the ECD at a predetermined value or within a predetermined ...

Shear laser module and method of retrofitting and use

There is provided a high power shear laser module, which can be readily included in a blowout preventer stack. The shear laser module as the capability of delivering high power laser energy to a tubular within a blowout preventer cavity, cutting the tubular and thus reducing the likelihood that the tubular will inhibit the ability of the blowout preventer to seal off a well.

DRILLING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A directional drilling system that includes a drill bit that drills a bore through rock. The drill bit includes an outer portion of a first material and an inner portion coupled to the outer portion. The inner portion includes a second material.

Riser fluid handling system

A fluid handling system comprising an annular sealing device and a flow control system to divert fluid flow from an annulus of a riser package to a control system located on a rig. A method of installing a fluid handling system on a riser package from a rig comprises connecting the fluid handling system to an upper end of a riser string, supporting the fluid handling system and the riser string using a first tubular handling device, and lowering the fluid handling system and the riser string to an operating position.

Drilling apparatus

СПОСОБ СООРУЖЕНИЯ СКВАЖИНЫ ДЛЯ РАЗРАБОТКИ МЕСТОРОЖДЕНИЯ ПОД ДНОМ МОРЯ ИЛИ ОКЕАНА

Изобретение относится к области сооружения скважин на большой и сверхбольшой глубине. Способ сооружения скважины (1) для разработки месторождения нефти или газа, включающий следующие этапы: бурение скважины в пласте, расположенном под водой на глубине по меньшей мере 3600 м, достигая указанного пласта с поверхности воды с помощью бурильной водоотделяющей колонны (7) и бурильного инструмента, проходящего внутри указанной бурильной водоотделяющей колонны; установку в пласт эксплуатационной колонны, называемой также эксплуатационным кожухом (300Е); извлечение через бурильную водоотделяющую колонну (7) по меньшей мере одного из следующего: циркулирующую бурильную текучую среду, нефть или природный газ, поступающие из указанных пластов, и образовавшиеся в результате бурения материалы. Эксплуатационный кожух (300Е) имеет наружный диаметр не менее 7 дюймов (177,8 мм). Бурильная водоотделяющая колонна (7) имеет наружный диаметр не более 17 дюймов (431,8 мм) и проходит до устья (3) скважины, имеющего ...

САМОПОДЪЕМНОЕ БУРОВОЕ МОРСКОЕ ОСНОВАНИЕ ЛЕДОВОГО КЛАССА С ГАЗОВЫМ ПЕРЕМЕШИВАНИЕМ И ЛЕДОВЫМИ ЭКРАНАМИ ОПОР

Изобретение относится к области буровой техники. Самоподъемная буровая установка ледового класса содержит плавучий корпус, участок ледового дефлектора, опоры ферменной конструкции, устройство самоподъема, ледовые экраны опор и газовую систему перемешивания воды. Плавучий корпус имеет гладкую палубу в верхней части и выгибающую лед форму в нижней части. Участок ледового дефлектора проходит вокруг периметра днища корпуса. Опоры выполнены с возможностью их подъема от дна. Устройство самоподъема имеет возможность подъема опор от дна и опускания опор к дну для выталкивания корпуса из воды. Газовая система выполнена с возможностью перемешивания воды для уменьшения проблем ото льда вблизи опор. Обеспечивается возможность продления сезона бурения на мелководье у берегов Арктики или в местах, подверженных появлению льда. 3 н. и 17 з.п. ф-лы, 6 ил.

Установка для глубоководного бурения и способ глубоководного бурения

Группа изобретений относится к области глубоководного бурения и может быть использована при структурно-картировочном, поисковом и разведочном бурении. На подготовительном этапе, предусматривающем спуск забойного механизма, бурение под кондуктор, его установку и цементирование и установку райзера и соединение верхней его части с судном, а нижней - с кондуктором, используют устройство для бурения с бурильной колонной, составленной из бурильных труб с резьбовыми соединениями. На этапе углубки скважины используют устройство, в котором в качестве бурильной колонны использована колонна ГНТ. Перед началом работ устройство для каждого из этапов находится в своем исходном положении. Перед началом подготовительного этапа бурения устройство для этого этапа перемещают по раме и фиксируют в рабочем положении. После выполнения подготовительного этапа колонну бурильных труб извлекают, устройство для подготовительного этапа бурения возвращают по раме в исходное положение и фиксируют. Размещают и фиксируют ...

Технологический комплекс для морского кустового бурения

Изобретение относится к области глубоководного бурения с морских судов и может быть использовано при кустовом поисковом, разведочном и добычном бурении. Технологический комплекс для морского кустового бурения размещен на судне, выполненном в виде понтонного модуля, содержащего по крайней мере два корпуса, соединенных межкорпусной жесткой конструкцией, которая является основанием для размещения бурового оборудования. На каждой из поперечных рам установлена буровая рама, размещенная на компенсаторах колебаний. В корпусах понтонов предусмотрены буровые шахты. В поперечных и буровых рамах выполнены устьевые отверстия над буровыми шахтами. Предусматривается бурение скважины в два этапа - подготовительный и этап углубки скважины. По крайней мере на одной из буровых рам над устьевыми отверстиями размещены буровые установки - установка для подготовительного этапа бурения с бурильной колонной из труб с разъемными соединениями и установка для углубки скважины с бурильной колонной из гибких непрерывных ...

БУРОВОЙ ИНСТРУМЕНТ

Vorrichtung zum Anschliessen eines Bohrlochkopfes einer Unterwasserbohrung

Method of, and apparatus for, connecting a pipe string in a well to a wellhead assembly

... 984,061. Wells. SHELL INTERNATIONALE RESEARCH MAATSCHAPPIJ N.V. Nov. 19, 1962 [Nov. 20, 1961], No. 43724/62. Heading E1F. A pipe string in a well is connected to the wellhead by cutting the string at a point below the landing surface of the wellhead, withdrawing the top portion of the string from the well, running into the well a pipe section, hanging the section in the wellhead with a lower portion in telescopic relationship with the top of the portion of the string remaining in the well, and anchoring the top of the string remaining in the well to the pipe. A casing 32 stuck in an underwater well is cut at 41, the upper portion 32a being removed from the well and the top of the remaining portion sinking to 41a. A hanger 42 including the pipe section 50 is lowered by a running tool 61 over the top of the remaining portion of the casing. The remaining portion is tensioned by a spear 63, and when the spear is withdrawn the remaining portion is supported by the hanger which in turn is supported ...

An apparatus and method for killing a subsea well

Offshore universal riser system

An offshore universal riser system may include a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device may releasably secure the valve module in the passage. A method of constructing a riser system may include the steps of installing the valve module in the passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the passage. The annular seal module may prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the passage. Drilling methods may include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, may be dimensioned for installation through a rotary table.

Method and Apparatus for Drilling Multiple Subsea Wells From an Offshore Platform at a Single Site

A floating, offshore drilling and/or production platform is equipped with a rail-mounted transport system that can be positioned at a plurality of selected positions over the well bay of the vessel. The transport system can move a drilling riser with a drilling riser tensioner system and a blowout preventer from one drilling location to another without removing them from the well bay of the vessel. Using the transport system, the drilling riser is lifted just clear of a first well head and positioned over an adjacent, second well head using guidelines. The transport system may then move the upper end of the drilling riser (together with its attached tensioner and BOP) to a second drilling location. A dummy wellhead may be provided on the seafloor in order to secure the lower end of the drilling riser without removing it from the sea while production risers are being installed. 1connecting a drilling riser equipped with a drilling riser tensioner and a blowout preventer at a first end thereof to a first wellhead at a second, subsea end thereof using one or more guidelines attached to the drilling riser;moving a guideline to a second subsea well location;disconnecting the drilling riser from the first wellhead;lifting the drilling riser together with its tensioner and blowout preventer by an amount sufficient to clear the first wellhead while maintaining the second end of the drilling riser in the vicinity of the seafloor;selectively tensioning the guideline while moving the first end of the drilling riser in a substantially horizontal direction such that the first end of the riser is more nearly vertically aligned with the second wellhead;applying selected tension to the guideline sufficient to align the second end of the drilling riser with the second wellhead; andlowering the drilling riser together with its tensioner and blowout preventer sufficiently to engage the second wellhead.. A method for drilling a plurality of subsea wells from a substantially stationary ...

Rotating and reciprocating swivel apparatus and method

What is provided is a method and apparatus wherein a rotating and reciprocating swivel can be detachably connected to an annular blowout preventer thereby separating the drilling fluid or mud into upper and lower sections with the mandrel of the swivel being comprised of double box end joints and using double pin end subs to connect a plurality of such mandrel joints together.

System and Method for Managing Heave Pressure from a Floating Rig

A system compensates for heave induced pressure fluctuations on a floating rig when a drill string or tubular is lifted off bottom and suspended on the rig, such as when tubular connections are made during MPD, tripping, or when a kick is circulated out during conventional drilling. In one embodiment, a liquid and a gas interface moves along a flow line between a riser and a gas accumulator as the tubular moves up and down. In another embodiment, a pressure relief valve or adjustable choke allows the movement of fluid from the riser when the tubular moves down, and a pump with a pressure regulator moves fluid to the riser when the tubular moves up. In other embodiments, a piston connected with the rig or the riser telescoping joint moves in a fluid container thereby communicating a required amount of the fluid either into or out of the riser annulus. The system also compensates for heave induced pressure fluctuations on a floating rig when a riser telescoping joint located below a RCD is moving while drilling. 1. A system for managing pressure from a floating rig heaving relative to an ocean floor , comprising:a riser in communication with a wellbore and extending from the ocean floor;a tubular suspended from the floating rig and heaving within said riser;an annulus formed between said tubular and said riser;a drill bit disposed with said tubular, wherein said drill bit is spaced apart from said wellbore;a fluid container for receiving a volume of a fluid when said tubular heaving in said riser toward said wellbore;a line for communicating said annulus with said first fluid container; anda first valve in said line movable between a closed position when said drill bit is contacting said wellbore and an open position when said drill bit is spaced apart from said wellbore to manage pressure from the floating rig heaving relative to the ocean floor.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an annular blowout preventer having a seal claim 1 , said annular blowout ...

RISERLESS, POLLUTIONLESS DRILLING SYSTEM

The invention provides a drilling system for drilling subsea wells from a floating mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU), the system comprising a subsea BOP. The system is distinctive in that the subsea BOP has relative small weight and size, the system includes no marine riser but the system comprises: flexible choke and kill lines arranged between the subsea BOP and the MODU, means for drill string guidance and cleaning, for guiding when inserting or taking out a drill string from the BOP and for drill string cleaning when pulling the drill string out from the BOP, means for controlled leakage of seawater into a recovery funnel arranged below the means for drill string cleaning but above the BOP, and means for return from the recovery funnel to the MODU of drilling fluid and seawater leaked into the recovery funnel. 1. Drilling system for drilling subsea wells from a floating mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU) , the system comprising:a subsea BOP having relatively small weight and size, the BOP not being connected to the MODU by a marine riser;flexible choke and kill lines arranged between the subsea BOP and the MODU,a drill string guiding and cleaning apparatus, configured for guiding a drill string when inserting or taking out the drill string from the BOP, the guiding and cleaning apparatus being further configured for drill string cleaning when pulling the drill string out from the BOP,a seawater leakage control system configured for controlled leakage of seawater into a recovery funnel arranged below the drill string guiding and cleaning apparatus, but above the BOP, anda fluid return system configured for return from the recovery funnel to the MODU of drilling fluid and seawater leaked into the recovery funnel.2. System according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid return system includes separate drilling fluid and polluted water pumps and return lines.3. System according to claim 1 , wherein the seawater leakage control system includes a seawater leak-in slot ...

Offshore Well Drilling System With Nested Drilling Risers

An offshore well drilling system for drilling a subsea well, including a floating platform, an external riser extending from the subsea well, and an internal riser extending from the subsea well to the platform. The internal riser is nested within the external riser. The system also includes an external riser tension device to apply tension to the external riser. The system also includes an internal riser tension device, separate from the external riser tension device, to apply tension to the internal riser. 1. An offshore well drilling system for drilling a subsea well , including:a floating platform;an external riser extending from the subsea well;an internal riser nested within the external riser and extending from the subsea well to the platform;an external riser tension device to apply tension to the external riser; andan internal riser tension device, separate from the external riser tension device, to apply tension to the internal riser.2. The system of claim 1 , further including well pressure control equipment located on the platform and connected with the internal riser claim 1 , the well pressure control equipment being the only well pressure control equipment for the well.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the internal riser is free to move within the external riser.4. The system of claim 1 , further including the internal riser tension device to tension the internal riser independently of the external riser.5. The system of claim 1 , further including the external riser tension device to tension the external riser independently of the internal riser.6. The system of claim 1 , further including the internal riser connectable with the external riser such that the external riser is capable of applying tension to the internal riser in tension.7. The system of claim 1 , further including the external riser connectable with the internal riser such that the internal riser is capable of applying tension to the external riser.8. The system of claim 1 , further ...

HIGH DEFINITION DRILLING RATE OF PENETRATION FOR MARINE DRILLING

Two sensors may be installed on a marine drill to improve measurements used for monitoring and operating the marine drill. The sensors may be installed in a differential configuration with one sensor located on a top block of the marine drill and a second sensor located on a drilling floor of the marine drill. Various calculations may be performed using measurements obtained from the two sensors such as, for example, rate of penetration of the marine drill, drilling level bubble for the marine drill, out of-straightness values for the marine drill, and vibration motion for the marine drill. 1. A method , comprising:receiving first information from a first sensor located on a drill floor of a marine drill;receiving second information from a second sensor located on a top drive of the marine drill; andcalculating: a physical parameter based, in part, on the first information received from the first sensor and the second information received from the second sensor.2. The method of claim 1 , in which the marine drill is a mobile offshore drilling unit.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising generating a time synchronization pulse to co-ordinate receiving the first information from the first sensor and receiving the second information from the second sensor.4. The method of claim 1 , in which the step of calculating claim 1 , comprises calculating a rate of penetration for the marine drill.5. The method of claim 1 , in which the step of calculating comprises calculating a drilling level bubble for the marine drill.6. The method of claim 1 , in which the step of calculating comprises calculating an out-of-straightness value for the marine drill.7. The method of claim 1 , in which the step of calculating comprises calculating vibration motion for the marine drill.8. The method of claim 1 , in which the step of calculating comprises calculating a spatial location and dynamics of a block of the marine drill.9. A computer program product claim 1 , comprising: code to ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING PRESSURE IN A WELLBORE

A method for drilling a subsea well from a rig through a subsea wellhead below the rig includes employing a single gradient or dual gradient drilling system that includes a drill string that extends from the rig into the well and surface mud pumps for pumping drilling fluid through the drill string and into a well annulus of the well. The drilling system includes a subsea rotating device for conducting the drilling fluid from the well annulus and through a solids processing unit. A subsea pump then conducts the drilling fluid from the solids processing unit to a return line back to the rig. The surface mud pump and subsea pump are staged in coordination to trap pressure and/or remove pressure in the well annulus to maintain a selected pressure gradient in the well annulus. 1. A method for drilling a subsea well from a rig through a subsea wellhead below the rig , the method comprising: a drill string extending from the rig into the well;', 'at least one surface pump at the rig, the surface pump for conducting the drilling fluid through the drill string from the rig to a drill bit in the well;', 'a riser having one end operably coupled to the wellhead and another end coupled to the rig, the riser internally receiving the drill string such that a riser annulus is defined between the drill string and the riser;', 'a well annulus extending from the bottom of the well to a subsea rotating device, the well annulus being separated from the riser annulus by the subsea rotating device and adapted to conduct fluid away from the well annulus;', 'a solids processing unit coupled to the subsea rotating device, wherein the solids processing unit receives the fluid conducted away from the well annulus below the subsea rotating device; and', 'a subsea pump having an inlet operably coupled to the solids processing unit and an outlet operably coupled to a return line for conducting the fluid from the solids processing unit to the surface pumps;, 'employing a drilling system ...

REMOTELY OPERABLE UNDERWATER DRILLING SYSTEM AND DRILLING METHOD

A drilling system including a drill head. The drill head defines a drill head bore and includes a drill head bore closure device. An inner core barrel and an inner core barrel retrieval device may be passed through the interior of the drill string and the drill head bore when the drill head is connected with the drill string and the drill head bore closure device is actuated to an open position. A method of wireline core drilling which includes passing an inner core barrel retrieval device through the drill head bore and into the interior of the drill string when the drill head is connected with the drill string, and removing an inner core barrel and the inner core barrel retrieval device from the interior of the drill string through the drill head bore when the drill head is connected with the drill string. 1. A remotely operable underwater drilling system for use with a drill string comprising at least one drill rod and for use with an inner core barrel which is adapted to be contained within an interior of the drill string , the drilling system comprising:(a) a frame;(b) a deployment connector attached to the frame, for connecting the drilling system with a deployment cable so that the drilling system may be suspended from the deployment cable in a body of water;(c) an adjustable support mechanism attached to the frame, for enabling the drilling system to be supported on an underwater ground surface at a substantially level orientation;(d) a mast structure mounted on the frame, wherein the mast structure defines a drilling axis for the drill string; (i) a drill head connector for connecting the drill head with the drill string along the drilling axis; and', '(ii) a drill head bore closure device adjacent to the upper drill head end, wherein the drill head bore closure device is actuatable between a closed position in which the drill head bore is closed and an open position in which the drill head bore is open, and wherein the inner core barrel may be inserted ...

SHEAR LASER MODULE AND METHOD OF RETROFITTING AND USE

There is provided a high power shear laser module, which can be readily included in a blowout preventer stack. The shear laser module as the capability of delivering high power laser energy to a tubular within a blowout preventer cavity, cutting the tubular and thus reducing the likelihood that the tubular will inhibit the ability of the blowout preventer to seal off a well. 150-. (canceled)51. An offshore drilling rig having a laser assisted subsea blowout drilling system , for performing activities near a seafloor , the system comprising:a. a riser capable of being lowered from and operably connected to an offshore drilling rig to a depth at or near the seafloor;b. a blowout preventer capable of being operably connected to the riser and lowered by the riser from the offshore drilling rig to the seafloor;c. the blowout preventer comprising a shear laser module and a ram preventer;d. the shear laser module comprising a laser cutter;e. a high power laser in optical communication with the laser cutter; and,f. the laser cutter operably associated with the blowout preventer and riser, whereby the laser cutter is capable of being lowered to at or near the seafloor and upon activation delivering a high power laser beam to a tubular that is within the blowout preventer.5253-. (canceled)54. A method of drilling subsea wells by using a laser assisted blowout preventer and riser , the method comprising:a. lowering a laser assisted blowout preventer from an offshore drilling rig to a seafloor using a riser, wherein the riser has an inner cavity, and wherein the laser assisted blowout preventer comprises a shear laser module having an inner cavity;b. securing the blowout preventer to a borehole in the seafloor, whereby the borehole, the shear laser module cavity and the riser cavity are in fluid and mechanical communication; and,c. wherein, the shear laser module has the capability to perform laser cutting of a tubular present in the laser assisted blowout preventer cavity.55. ...

Flow stop valve

A flow stop valve ( 20 ) positionable in a downhole tubular ( 6 ), and a method, are provided. The flow stop valve ( 20 ) is in a closed position when a pressure difference between fluid outside the downhole tubular ( 6 ) and inside the downhole tubular ( 6 ) at the flow stop valve ( 20 ) is below a threshold value, thereby preventing flow through the downhole tubular. The flow stop valve ( 20 ) is in an open position when the pressure difference between fluid outside the downhole tubular ( 6 ) and inside the downhole tubular ( 6 ) at the flow stop valve ( 20 ) is above a threshold value, thereby permitting flow through the downhole tubular ( 6 ).

UNDERWATER DRILLING ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR MAKING A BORE IN A BED OF A WATER BODY

The invention relates to an underwater drilling arrangement and a method for making a bore in a bed of a lake, sea or river, having a service platform which can be lowered for positioning on the lake, sea or river bed, a guide tube which is mounted so that it can be rotated, axially moved as well as fixed on the service platform, a drill rod with drill head which is arranged in the guide tube and can be driven via a drill drive, and a guide tube drive which is arranged on the service platform for incorporation of the guide tube in the lake, sea or river bed. In order to reduce the friction which arises upon incorporation of the guide tube between the outer shell surface of the guide tube and the earth material of the lake, sea or river bed, the guide tube has a sliding support means. 1. Underwater drilling arrangement for creating a bore in a bed of a water body , havinga service platform which can be lowered for positioning on the bed of the water body,a guide tube which is mounted so that it can be rotated and axially moved as well as fixed on the service platform,a drill rod with drill head which is arranged in the guide tube and can be driven via a drill drive anda guide tube drive which is arranged on the service platform for incorporating the guide tube into the bed of the water body,wherein the guide tube comprises a sliding support means for reducing the friction arising during incorporation of the guide tube between the outer shell surface of the guide tube and the earth material of the bed of the water body.2. Underwater drilling arrangement according to claim 1 , whereinthe sliding support means comprises at least one feed means for feeding a friction reducing fluid into a region of the outer shell surface of the guide tube.3. Underwater drilling arrangement according to claim 2 , whereinthe feed means comprises at least one supply line which is arranged within the guide tube and comprises at least one outlet opening in the wall of the guide tube.4. ...

UNDERWATER DRILLING ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR MAKING A BORE

The invention relates to an underwater drilling arrangement for making a bore in the bed of a lake, sea or river with a platform which can be lowered for positioning on the bed of the lake, sea or river, a drill drive which is arranged on the service platform and a drill rod with drill head which can be driven in rotation via the drill drive. It is provided that the service platform comprises a guide tube, on the inner side of which at least one linear guide is arranged, along which at least one part of the drill drive is guided axially displaceably and the guide tube is held so that it can be adjusted and fixed in a mount of the service platform. The invention further relates to a method for creating a bore in the bed of a lake, sea or river. 10. Method for making a bore in a bed of a water body claim 1 , in particular with an underwater drilling arrangement according to claim 1 , whereina service platform with a guide tube is lowered and positioned on the bed of the water body,a drill rod with drill head is arranged and axially guided in the guide tube, whereby the drill rod is driven in rotation by means of a drill drive,after creating the bore, the service platform with the guide tube is removed and raised from the bed of the water body again. The invention relates to an underwater drilling arrangement for making a bore in a bed of a water body according to the preamble of claim . The invention further relates to a method for creating a bore in a bed of a water body according to claim .The underwater drilling arrangement comprises a service platform which can be lowered for positioning on the bed of a water body, like a lake, sea or river bed, a drill drive which is arranged on the service platform, and a drill rod with drill head which can be driven in rotation by means of the drill drive.The underwater drilling arrangement and the drilling method serve in particular for the creation of foundations or foundation piles in the bed of a lake, sea or river, for ...

RIG WITH CLOG FREE HIGH VOLUME DRILL CUTTING AND WASTE PROCESSING SYSTEM

A drilling rig with rig buffer storage and optional surge tank for receiving and processing drill cuttings and waste made of a drilling rig, having a tank in a frame with an inlet and an outlet, a moveable weir for expanding to accommodate additional drill cuttings, a central sweep member for cutting the drill cuttings and waste opposite a peripheral outer ring with peripheral cutting members, a controller for controlling rates of flow into and out of the rig buffer storage and the central sweep member rotation via a motor with reduction gear and wherein a first transportation system moves waste from the well bore to the rig buffer storage and a second transportation system moves cut waste and cut drill cuttings to a post treatment system, a skip, or a vessel for transport to another location. 1. An oil and natural gas drilling or production rig with a clog free waste removal system for removing waste or drilling cuttings from a wellbore at the rate equivalent to the rate of penetration , wherein the rig comprises:a. an offshore drilling derrick with a deck;b. a crown block on the derrick;c. a drawworks with cable for communicating with sheaves on the crown block to a traveling block;d. a top drive attached to the traveling block;e. a tubular attached to the top drive;f. a drill bit secured to the tubular opposite the top drive for drilling a wellbore;g. a blowout preventer connected between the drill bit and the top drive;h. a mud pump connected to a mud reservoir for flowing drilling mud to the top drive, through to tubular to the drill bit, then back up the wellbore to a solids removal system for separating drill cuttings and waste from the drilling mud;i. a rig power generation plant connected to the mud pump, drawworks, and top drive;a first incoming transportation system mounted to the deck for receiving the separated drill cuttings, waste, or combinations thereof, from the solids removal system wherein the incoming transportation system comprises a dense ...

Dry Tree Semi-Submersible With Reduced-Height Drilling Floor

A floating, semi-submersible offshore drilling vessel has a blowout preventer located on the semi-submersible instead of on the seabed. The mud return housing is attached directly to the blowout preventer without the use of a slip joint. This configuration allows for a significantly reduced drill floor height and, consequently, a lower vertical center of gravity for the rig. 1. A dry-tree , semi-submersible , offshore drilling vessel comprising:a support structure;a riser tensioner attached to the support structure;a drilling riser attached to the riser tensioner;a blowout preventer having a first end attached to the drilling riser and an opposing second end; and,a control head attached to the second end of the blowout preventer and having a central axial channel and a drilling fluid conduit in fluid communication with the central axial channel.2. The semi-submersible vessel recited in wherein the control head is attached to the blowout preventer without the use of a slip joint.3. The semi-submersible vessel recited in wherein the control head is attached to the blowout preventer with a fixed-length connector.4. The semi-submersible vessel recited in wherein the control head is attached to the blowout preventer with a connector having a fixed axial dimension.5. The semi-submersible vessel recited in further comprising a pump attached to the drilling fluid conduit on the rotating head.6. The semi-submersible vessel recited in wherein the pump is an in-line claim 5 , progressive cavity pump.7. The dry-tree claim 1 , semi-submersible claim 1 , offshore drilling vessel recited in wherein the support structure comprises an upper deck and a lower deck and drilling fluid processing equipment is mounted on the main deck.8. The dry-tree claim 7 , semi-submersible claim 7 , offshore drilling vessel recited in wherein the drilling fluid processing equipment comprises a shale shaker.9. The dry-tree claim 7 , semi-submersible claim 7 , offshore drilling vessel recited in wherein ...

Subsea Overpressure Relief Device

Systems and methods for relieving pressure from a subsea transport line are provided. The system can include a vessel having a bottom end that can be at least partially open and in fluid communication with a subsea environment. The vessel can also include one or more relief lines each having a first end and a second end. The first end can be coupled to one or more subsea transport lines coupled to one or more subsea production units and the second end can be coupled to a top end of the vessel. The relief line can include one or more pressure relief devices at least partially disposed therein.

TENSION FRAME

A tension frame () for its application in a riser system for hydrocarbon exploration and production. The tension frame is () installed on a well control unit () atop at least one riser () in said riser system. The frame is adapted to receive a pressure control unit and hold it in line with the centre of the riser. The tension frame () houses at least two pre-installed pressure control equipment units () of which one at a time is adapted to be hold at an active position, in which the unit is in line with the centre of the riser, and the other is adapted to be kept in a parked position within the frame. 1. A tension frame for its application in a riser system for hydrocarbon exploration and production , the tension frame being installed on a well control unit atop at least one riser in said riser system , the tension frame receiving a pressure control unit and hold it in line with a centre of the riser , said tension frame houses at least two pre-installed pressure control equipment units of which one at a time is adapted to be hold at an active position , in which the unit is in line with the centre of the riser , and the other is adapted to be kept in a parked position within the frame.2. The tension frame according to claim 1 , wherein the at least two pressure control equipment units comprise:at least a wire line pressure control equipment unit;a coiled tubing pressure control equipment unit; andwherein the wire line pressure control equipment unit and the coiled tubing pressure control equipment unit have a parking position within said tension frame on either side of the riser center.3. The tension frame according to claim 1 , wherein when said wire line pressure control equipment unit is held in said active position claim 1 , said coiled tubing pressure control equipment unit is arranged to be in the parked position claim 1 , on one side of said riser center.4. The tension frame according to claim 1 , wherein in when said coiled tubing pressure control equipment ...

MANAGED PRESSURE DRILLING SYSTEM HAVING WELL CONTROL MODE

A method of drilling a subsea wellbore includes drilling the subsea wellbore and, while drilling the subsea wellbore: measuring a flow rate of the drilling fluid injected into a tubular string; measuring a flow rate of returns; comparing the returns flow rate to the drilling fluid flow rate to detect a kick by a formation being drilled; and exerting backpressure on the returns using a first variable choke valve. The method further includes, in response to detecting the kick: closing a blowout preventer of a subsea pressure control assembly (PCA) against the tubular string; and diverting the flow of returns from the PCA, through a choke line having a second variable choke valve, and through the first variable choke valve. 1. A method of drilling a subsea wellbore , comprising: injecting drilling fluid through a tubular string extending into the wellbore from an offshore drilling unit (ODU); and', 'rotating a drill bit disposed on a bottom of the tubular string, wherein:', 'the drilling fluid exits the drill bit and carries cuttings from the drill bit,', 'the drilling fluid and cuttings (returns) flow to a subsea wellhead via an annulus defined by an outer surface of the tubular string and an inner surface of the wellbore, and', 'the returns flow from the subsea wellhead to the ODU via a marine riser;, 'drilling the subsea wellbore by measuring a flow rate of the drilling fluid injected into the tubular string;', 'measuring a flow rate of the returns;', 'comparing the returns flow rate to the drilling fluid flow rate to detect a kick by a formation being drilled; and', 'exerting backpressure on the returns using a first variable choke valve; and, 'while drilling the subsea wellbore closing a blowout preventer of a subsea pressure control assembly (PCA) against the tubular string; and', 'diverting the flow of returns from the PCA, through a choke line having a second variable choke valve, and through the first variable choke valve., 'in response to detecting the kick2. ...

TACHOMETER FOR A ROTATING CONTROL DEVICE

A rotating control device (RCD) includes: a tubular housing having a flange formed at each end thereof; a stripper seal for receiving and sealing against a tubular; a bearing for supporting rotation of the stripper seal relative to the housing; a retainer for connecting the stripper seal to the bearing; and a tachometer. The tachometer includes a probe connected to the retainer and including: a tilt sensor; an angular speed sensor; an angular acceleration sensor; a first wireless data coupling; and a microcontroller operable to receive measurements from the sensors and to transmit the measurements to a base using the first wireless data coupling. The tachometer further includes the base connected to the housing and including: a second wireless data coupling operable to receive the measurements; and an electronics package in communication with the second wireless data coupling and operable to relay the measurements to an offshore drilling unit. 1. A rotating control device (RCD) for use with an offshore drilling unit , comprising:a tubular housing having a flange formed at each end thereof;a stripper seal for receiving and sealing against a tubular;a bearing for supporting rotation of the stripper seal relative to the housing;a retainer for connecting the stripper seal to the bearing; and [ a tilt sensor;', 'an angular speed sensor;', 'an angular acceleration sensor;', 'a first wireless data coupling; and', 'a microcontroller operable to receive measurements from the sensors and to transmit the measurements to a base using the first wireless data coupling;, 'a probe connected to the retainer and comprising, a second wireless data coupling operable to receive the measurements; and', 'an electronics package in communication with the second wireless data coupling and operable to relay the measurements to the offshore drilling unit., 'the base connected to the housing and comprising], 'a tachometer, comprising2. The RCD of claim 1 , wherein:the stripper seal is an upper ...

UNDERWATER DRILLING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROCURING DRILL CORES OF A BED OF A BODY OF WATER

The invention relates to an underwater drilling device and to a method for procuring drill cores of a bed of a body of water, wherein an underwater drilling device with a base frame is lowered in a body of water and placed on a bed of a body of water. A drill string consisting of at least one tubular drill string element is drilled out into the bed of the body of water in a first drilling step with a drill drive, with a drill core being formed in a receptacle in the tubular drill string element and being received in a core barrel in the drill string element. According to the invention, the drill core is enclosed in pressure-tight manner in a receiving container on the basic cradle under water. 115.-. (canceled)17. Underwater drilling device according to claim 16 ,whereinthe receiving container is formed by the core barrel or a drill string element, the barrel ends of which can be closed by means of the closing means.18. Underwater drilling device according to claim 16 , the underwater drilling device comprises a bearing device,', 'spaced apart from the drilling axis there is provided the storage means for the at least one closable receiving container for the drill core, the receiving container being designed in cartridge-like manner with a receiving opening for introducing the drill core,', 'a manipulating means is arranged which is designed to introduce the drill core into the receiving container, and', 'the closing means is designed to close the receiving opening of the receiving container once the drill core has been received., 'wherein'}19. Underwater drilling device according to the claim 16 ,whereinthe closing means has at least one rotary drive which is designed to turn a closure cap with screw thread relative to the receiving container, in which case a suitable thread being arranged on the barrel ends or the receiving opening.20. Underwater drilling device according to the claim 16 ,whereinthe core barrel can be pulled out of the drill string by means of a ...

SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE DRILLING VESSEL, E.G. FOR USE IN A HARSH ENVIRONMENT

A semi-submersible drilling vessel has a deckbox structure, one or more pontoons, and multiple support columns extending upward from the one or more pontoons and supporting thereon the deckbox structure. An annular riser joints storage caisson extends downwardly from the deckbox structure, wherein the storage caisson delimits an annular storage space configured for storage therein of an annular array of riser joints in vertical orientation thereof. A riser joints carousel device is provided in the annular storage space, which riser joints carousel device is configured to carry an annular array of riser joints in vertical orientation thereof in a mobile manner relative to the annular storage caisson so that the array of riser joints is movable along an annular path through the storage spaced between the inner and outer wall of the storage caisson. The deckbox structure is provided with a riser joint transfer passage at a riser joint transfer location above the annular path of the riser joints carried by the riser joints carousel device through the storage space. The vessel is provided with a riser joint vertical transfer device configured to lift and lower a riser joint out of and into the riser joints carousel device, passing therein vertically through the riser joint transfer passage of the deckbox structure. 126.-. (canceled)27. A semi-submersible drilling vessel , comprising:a deckbox structure having an upper deck and a box bottom;one or more pontoons;multiple support columns extending upward from the one or more pontoons and supporting thereon the deckbox structure;a drilling installation with a drilling tower that is erected above the upper deck of the deckbox structure, the drilling installation being adapted to perform drilling operations along at least one firing line through the moonpool; anda mobile working deck arranged, as seen in a vertical projection, above the moonpool, the working deck being vertically movable, and in a lower stationary resting ...

OFFSHORE DRILLING RIG AND A METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

An offshore drilling rig includes a drill deck, at least one work center arranged in the drill deck; a diverter system operatively connectable at least to a riser extending towards the seafloor; a hoisting system adapted for raising or lowering tubular equipment through the work center; wherein the offshore drilling rig includes a first positioning system configured for positioning at least the work center and/or the diverter system and/or a riser tensioning system selectively at a first horizontal position and a second horizontal position, different from the first horizontal position; and wherein the hoisting system is operable to raise or lower tubular equipment through the work center when said work center is positioned at said first horizontal position. 179-. (canceled)80. An offshore drilling rig comprising:a drill deck;a first work center arranged in the drill deck;a diverter system operatively connectable to a riser extending towards the seafloor;a first hoisting system adapted for raising or lowering tubular equipment through the first work center;a second work center arranged in the drill deck horizontally spaced apart from the first work center;a second hoisting system adapted for raising or lowering tubular equipment through at least the second work center;a first positioning system configured for positioning at least the diverter system selectively at a first horizontal position and a second horizontal position, different from the first horizontal position; anda riser tensioning system operable to provide tension to said riser; wherein the first positioning system is further configured to position the riser tensioning system selectively at the first horizontal position and the second horizontal position;wherein the first hoisting system is operable to raise or lower tubular equipment through the first work center and through said diverter system at least when said diverter system is positioned at said first horizontal position and the drilling rig is ...

BOOST SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DUAL GRADIENT DRILLING

Boost system and method for dual gradient drilling where a marine riser () has a mud return line () connected at a first connection position () below the lowest foreseeable mud level () in the marine riser (), and where a mud return pump () is connected to the mud return line (), and where a recirculation line () that has a recirculation pump (), is connected to the marine riser () at a second connection position () below the lowest foreseeable mud level () in the marine riser (), and at a third connection position () on the marine riser () below said second connection position (). 11141812116142022124128126124. Boost system for dual gradient drilling where a marine riser () has a mud return line () connected at a first connection position () below the lowest foreseeable mud level () in the marine riser () , and where a mud return pump () is connected to the mud return line () , characterized in that a recirculation line () that has a recirculation pump () , is connected to the marine riser () at a second connection position () below the lowest foreseeable mud level () in the marine riser ) , and at a third connection position () on the marine riser () below said second connection position ().2262016. Boost system for dual gradient drilling according to claim 1 , characterized in that the lower third connection position () of the recirculation line () to the marine riser () is near the sea bed ().3130303414163034. Boost system for dual gradient drilling according to where the marine riser () is equipped with a boost line () and the boost line () is closable by use of a boost line valve () claim 1 , characterized in that the mud return line () claim 1 , downstream the mud return pump () claim 1 , is connected to the boost line () above the boost line valve ().420223034. Boost system for dual gradient drilling according to claim 3 , characterized in that the recirculation line () claim 3 , downstream the recirculation pump () claim 3 , is connected to the boost line ...

DOWNHOLE SWIVEL APPARATUS AND METHOD

What is provided is a method and apparatus which can be detachably connected to an annular blowout preventer thereby separating the drilling fluid or mud into upper and lower sections and allowing the fluid to be displaced in two stages, such as while the drill string is being rotated and/or reciprocated. In one embodiment the sleeve can be rotatably and sealably connected to a mandrel. The swivel can be incorporated into a drill or well string and enabling string sections both above and below the sleeve to be rotated in relation to the sleeve. In one embodiment the drill or well string does not move in a longitudinal direction relative to the swivel. In one embodiment, the drill or well string does move longitudinally relative to the sleeve of the swivel. 118-. (canceled)19. A swivel insertable into a drill or work string comprising:(a) a mandrel having upper and lower end sections rotatable with upper and lower drill or work string sections, the mandrel including a longitudinal passage forming a continuation of a passage in the drill or work string sections;(b) a sleeve being rotatably and reciprocably with respect to the mandrel;(c) a plurality of packing units between upper and lower end portions of the mandrel and the sleeve, the plurality of packing units preventing leakage of fluid between the mandrel and the sleeve, at least one of the packing units in the plurality of packing units comprising a rope seal.201. The swivel of claim , wherein the sleeve is reciprocable between the upper and lower end sections of the mandrel.221. The swivel of claim , wherein the non-rope seal comprises metal filled teflon.231. The swivel of claim , wherein the non-rope seal comprises bronze filled teflon.24. A method of performing operations in a wellbore , the method comprising the following steps:(a) attaching a swivel to a drill string, the swivel including a mandrel having a longitudinal axis and a sleeve, the sleeve being rotatably connected to the mandrel with the sleeve ...

DOWNHOLE STINGER GEOTECHNICAL SAMPLING AND IN SITU TESTING TOOL

Offshore system for delivering geotechnical tools to seafloor is described. The system includes a carrier tube that includes an upper end and a lower end, wherein the carrier tube is characterized by an outer diameter and an inner diameter and wherein the inner diameter of the carrier tube defines a hydraulic cylinder; a landing sub shaped or installed at or near the upper end of the carrier tube, wherein inner diameter of the landing sub is smaller than the inner diameter of the carrier tube; a drill bit shaped or installed at or near the lower end of the carrier tube; an extension tube extending upward from the upper end of the carrier tube; an upward seal that seals top portion of the extension tubes; a compression system for introducing compressed fluid under the upward seal; a fixed rod that runs through the hydraulic cylinder; a hydraulic piston disposed in the hydraulic cylinder, wherein the hydraulic piston is moveable along the fixed rod; one or more shear pins configured to restrict displacement of the hydraulic piston until a sufficient fluid pressure is built up; and an inner tube disposed between the carrier tube and the hydraulic piston, wherein lower portion of the inner tube includes a cone penetrometer that is ballistically inserted into the soil during downward displacement of the hydraulic piston. 1. An offshore system for in situ testing of soil comprising:a) a carrier tube comprising an upper end and a lower end, wherein the carrier tube is characterized by an outer diameter and an inner diameter and wherein the inner diameter of the carrier tube defines a hydraulic cylinder;b) a landing sub shaped or installed at or near the upper end of the carrier tube, wherein inner diameter of the landing sub is smaller than the inner diameter of the carrier tube;c) a drill bit shaped or installed at or near the lower end of the carrier tube;d) a series of extension tubes extending upward from the upper end of the carrier tube;e) an upward seal that seals ...

Drill Apparatus for a Floating Drill Rig

A drill string () for a floating drill rig, the drill string () comprising: a bore () running the length of the drill string () and configured to receive a drilling fluid; and a controllable dynamic flow restriction () in the bore, wherein the controllable dynamic flow restriction () is operable to restrict flow of the drilling fluid through the bore () and thereby generate excess pressure in the drill string when the drill string () moves down, and to allow additional drilling fluid to be pushed through the bore () and out of the fluid connection under the excess pressure generated when the drill string () moves upward. 1. A drill apparatus for a floating drill rig , the apparatus comprising:a drill string including a bore running the length of the drill string and configured to receive a drilling fluid;a fluid connection that allows for transfer of drilling fluid from within the drill string to outside of the drill string; anda controllable dynamic flow restriction in the bore, wherein the controllable dynamic flow restriction is operable to restrict flow of the drilling fluid through the bore when the drill string moves down, and to allow additional drilling fluid to be pushed through the bore and out of the fluid connection under the excess pressure generated when the drill string moves upward, whereby the transfer of drilling fluid from within the drill string to outside of the drill string is controllable via the controllable dynamic flow restriction.2. A drill apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the drill string comprises a first end for connection to the floating drill rig claim 1 , and a second end for connection to a drill bit claim 1 , and the controllable dynamic flow restriction is located closer to the second end than to the first end.3. A drill apparatus according to wherein the controllable dynamic flow restriction is provided less than 500metres from the second end.4. A drill apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the controllable dynamic ...

SUBSEA PROCESSOR FOR UNDERWATER DRILLING OPERATIONS

A subsea processor may be located near the seabed of a drilling site and used to coordinate operations of underwater drilling components. The subsea processor may be enclosed in a single interchangeable unit that fits a receptor on an underwater drilling component, such as a blow-out preventer (BOP). The subsea processor may issue commands to control the BOP and receive measurements from sensors located throughout the BOP. The subsea processor may relay information to the surface for recording or monitoring. The subsea processor may also be programmed with a model from which to base operation of the BOP, such as in emergency conditions. 1. An apparatus , comprising: a physical receptor configured to receive a first processor unit;', 'an inductive power device configured to transfer power to the first processor unit through the physical receptor; and', 'a wireless communications system configured to communicate with the first processor unit through the physical receptor., 'an underwater drilling component, in which the underwater drilling component comprises2. The apparatus of claim 1 , in which the apparatus further comprises sensors claim 1 , in which the wireless communications system is configured to convey signals from the sensors to the first processor unit.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:a second physical receptor for a second processor unit; anda third physical receptor for a third processor unit.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , in which the first processor unit claim 3 , the second processor unit claim 3 , and the third processor unit are configured to control the apparatus according to a majority voting scheme.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , in which the underwater drilling component is a blow-out preventer (BOP).6. An apparatus claim 1 , comprising:a processor;an inductive power device coupled to the processor and configured to receive power for the processor; anda wireless communications system coupled to the processor and configured to ...

DUAL GRADIENT DRILLING SYSTEM

A dual gradient drilling system comprises a primary riser that is coupled to a drilling rig and a subsea wellhead and an auxiliary riser that is coupled to the drilling rig and to the primary riser by a fluid conduit that is disposed at a point between the drilling rig and the wellhead. The fluid conduit provides fluid communication between the primary riser and the auxiliary riser. A pump system is disposed within the auxiliary riser and is in fluid communication with the fluid conduit. A drive string is disposed within the auxiliary riser and is coupled to the pump system so as to operably couple the pump system to the drilling rig. 1. A dual gradient drilling system comprising:a primary riser coupled to a drilling rig and a subsea wellhead;an auxiliary riser coupled to the drilling rig and to the primary riser by a fluid conduit that is disposed at a point between the drilling rig and the wellhead, wherein the fluid conduit provides fluid communication between the primary riser and the auxiliary riser;a pump system disposed within the auxiliary riser and in fluid communication with the fluid conduit; anda drive string disposed within the auxiliary riser and coupled to the pump system, where the drive string operably couples the pump system to the drilling rig.2. The dual gradient drilling system of claim 1 , wherein the drive string is rotatably coupled to the pump system so that rotation of the drive string operates the pump system.3. The dual gradient drilling system of claim 2 , wherein the drive string is rotated by a top drive mounted on the drilling rig.4. The dual gradient drilling system of claim 1 , wherein the drive string provides a conduit for the supply of a pressurized working fluid from the drilling rig to a fluid motor of the pump system.5. The dual gradient drilling system of claim 1 , wherein the pump system returns a drilling fluid from the primary riser to the drilling rig through the auxiliary riser.6. The dual gradient drilling system of ...

Downhole swivel apparatus and method

What is provided is a method and apparatus which can be detachably connected to an annular blowout preventer thereby separating the drilling fluid or mud into upper and lower sections and allowing the fluid to be displaced in two stages, such as while the drill string is being rotated and/or reciprocated. In one embodiment the sleeve can be rotatably and sealably connected to a mandrel. The swivel can be incorporated into a drill or well string and enabling string sections both above and below the sleeve to be rotated in relation to the sleeve. In one embodiment the drill or well string does not move in a longitudinal direction relative to the swivel. In one embodiment, the drill or well string does move longitudinally relative to the sleeve of the swivel.

Connector

A connector for connecting two subsea well assembly components; wherein the connector is arranged such that it can be preloaded in both tension and compression concurrently. The connector includes a tension part which in use can be in tension and a compression part that in use can be in compression. The tension part has an adjustable length and/or the compression part has an adjustable length. There is also provided a subsea well assembly, that includes a first subsea well assembly component; and a second subsea well assembly component; wherein the first subsea well assembly component and the second subsea well assembly component are connected to each other to provide a well conduit therebetween. The first subsea well assembly component and the second subsea well assembly component are connected such that forces can be transmitted both in tension and compression between the two components without going through the well conduit.

PRE-POSITIONED CAPPING DEVICE FOR SOURCE CONTROL WITH INDEPENDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Systems and methods contain fluids discharged from a subsea well or at the surface by capping the well blowout with a pre-positioned capping device. The capping device includes at least one blind shear ram and is separate from a blowout preventer. Different personnel offsite of a rig drilling the well may have access and control to operate the device. 1. A system with a pre-positioned capping device attached to a wellhead for a drilling rig , comprising:at least one blind shear ram;an independent power source to operate the ram without relying on rig power; andan independent management system offsite of the rig and that receives wellbore data from an independent control system and sends command signals to the independent control system in order to actuate the ram without use of the rig.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the independent control system forms part of a digital acoustic control system.3. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the independent control system forms part of a digital acoustic control system with the command signals sent via sound.4. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the command signals are sent via sounds and the independent control system operates the blind shear ram in response to the sounds by operating valves to stored hydraulic pressure.5. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the power source includes pressurized tanks located off the rig to supply hydraulic pressure for operation of the ram.6. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the wellbore data includes at least one of pressure information and temperature information.7. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the independent management system functions concurrent with a rig interface also capable of actuation of the ram.8. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the ram is operable independent of a separate blowout preventer stack.9. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the drilling rig is an offshore rig and the independent management system ...

PRE-POSITIONED CAPPING DEVICE AND DIVERTER

Systems and methods contain fluids discharged from a subsea well or at the surface by capping the well blowout with a pre-positioned capping device and diverting flow of hydrocarbons to a secondary location for disposal/handling in situations where casing integrity is compromised preventing ability to close in the flow of the hydrocarbons. The capping device includes at least one blind shear ram and is separate from a blowout preventer. Different personnel offsite of a rig drilling the well may have access and control to operate the device. 1. A pre-positioned capping and diverter assembly , comprising:at least one blind shear ram disposed between a wellhead and a blowout preventer stack;a control system that sends wellbore data offsite of a rig coupled for drilling through the wellhead and actuates the ram without use of the rig upon receiving command signals from offsite of the rig; anda conduit coupled to receive flow from the wellhead and output the flow to a location offset in a lateral direction from the rig with the ram actuated to close a fluid pathway to the rig.2. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein an outlet of the conduit includes a flare.3. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein an outlet of the conduit includes a flare maintained at the location by a buoy.4. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein an outlet of the conduit includes a flare maintained at the location by a buoy with a containment boom surrounding the flare.5. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein an outlet of the conduit couples to a containment module at the location to hold a quantity of the flow being output.6. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the conduit includes a riser to take the flow above a sea surface.7. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the conduit includes a riser to take the flow above a sea surface and the riser is coupled at a first end to a weight on a sea floor and is coupled at a second end to a buoy moored to the sea floor.8. ...

DRILLING SYSTEM AND METHOD

A system for drilling a subterranean bore at a subsea location is provided, the system comprising a drilling unit for location on the seabed and remotely operable from the water surface to drill a bore using a drill string; a transport assembly moveable between the water surface and the drilling unit when at the location on the seabed, wherein the transport assembly comprises a receptacle for receiving a downhole tool; first transfer means for transferring a first downhole tool from the drill string to the transport assembly; and second transfer means for transferring a second downhole from the transport assembly to the drill string; whereby the first and second transfer means are operable to recover from the drill string a first downhole tool and deliver to the drill string a second downhole tool in a single deployment of the transport assembly from the water surface to the drilling unit. A method for drilling a subterranean bore at a seabed location comprises providing a drilling unit on the seabed; conducting a drilling operation using a drill string by remote operation of the drilling unit from a surface location, the drill string having therein a first downhole tool; transporting a second downhole tool from the surface to the drilling unit by means of a transport assembly; recovering the first downhole from the drill string to the transport assembly; transferring the second downhole tool from the transport assembly to the drill string; transporting the first downhole tool to the surface by means of the transport assembly; and continuing the drilling operation using the second downhole tool. The system and method are especially useful in the recovery, transport and deployment of an inner tube for holding a core sample. 1. A system for drilling a subterranean bore at a subsea location , the system comprising:a drilling unit for location on the seabed and remotely operable from the water surface to drill a bore using a drill string;a transport assembly moveable ...

OFFSHORE DRILLING RIG AND A METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

An offshore drilling rig comprising a drill deck, at least one primary well center and a diverter system arranged below the primary well center, a drilling support structure extending upwardly from the drill deck and above the primary well center and the other work center and a first and a second hoisting system supported by the drilling support structure and being adapted for raising or lowering a first and a second load carrier, respectively, and where the offshore drilling rig comprises a positioning system adapted for selectively positioning at least the first load carrier in at least a first or a second horizontal position different from the first horizontal position, where the first load carrier in the first horizontal position is positioned above the primary well center, and in the second horizontal position is positioned above the other work center. 123-. (canceled)24. An offshore drilling rig comprising;a drill deck;at least two work centers arranged in the drill deck horizontally spaced apart from each other, and where at least one of the work centers is a primary well center;a diverter system arranged below the primary well center;a drilling support structure extending upwardly relative the drill deck;a first and a second hoisting system supported by the drilling support structure, the first hoisting system being adapted for raising or lowering a first load carrier, and the second hoisting system being adapted for raising or lowering a second load carrier;at least one top drive suspended from the first load carrier, and where the offshore drilling rig comprises a positioning system adapted for positioning at least the first load carrier selectively in at least a first and a second horizontal position different from the first horizontal position, where the first load carrier in the first horizontal position is positioned above the primary well center, and in the second horizontal position is positioned above the other work center.25. An offshore drilling ...

DEFLECTION ABSORBING TENSIONER FRAME

An example deflection absorbing tensioner frame for a platform of an offshore vessel may include at least one metal beam supporting a tensioner. A deflection absorber may be coupled to at least one metal beam. The deflection absorber may be configured to absorb axial, rotational, and lateral deflections in a platform deck coupled to the deflection absorber. 1. A deflection absorbing tensioner frame for a platform of an offshore vessel , comprising:at least one metal beam supporting a tensioner; anda deflection absorber coupled to the at least one metal beam, the deflection absorber configured to absorb axial, rotational, and lateral deflections in a platform deck coupled to the deflection absorber.2. The deflection absorbing tensioner frame of claim 1 , wherein the deflection absorber comprises at least one dynamic element to allow relative motion between the metal beam and the platform deck.3. The deflection absorbing tensioner frame of claim 2 , wherein the at least one dynamic element comprises flexible material that is layered or laminated with shims.4. The deflection absorbing tensioner frame of claim 2 , wherein the at least one dynamic element comprises a spring.5. The deflection absorbing tensioner frame of claim 4 , whereinthe deflection absorber comprises a base configured to couple to the platform deck and transmit forces and deflections from the platform deck to the spring; andan elastomeric bearing is positioned between an end of the spring and the base.6. The deflection absorbing tensioner frame of claim 4 , wherein the spring comprises at least one of a hydraulic and a pneumatic cylinder with at least one of a gas or metal spring.7. The deflection absorbing tensioner frame of claim 6 , wherein the at least one hydraulic and pneumatic c cylinder is coupled to a fluid manifold to control deflection of the metal beam.8. The deflection absorbing tensioner frame of claim 4 , whereinthe deflection absorber comprises a base configured to couple to the ...

Offshore Well Drilling System With Nested Drilling Risers

An offshore well system for a subsea well includes an internal riser tension device configured to apply tension to an internal riser and an external riser tension device configured to apply tension to an external riser such that the external riser is supported at least partially independent of the internal riser tension device. 1. An offshore well system for a subsea well , comprising:an internal riser tension device configured to apply tension to an internal riser; andan external riser tension device configured to apply tension to an external riser such that the external riser is supported at least partially independent of the internal riser tension device.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:a platform;the external riser extending from the subsea well;the internal riser nested within the external riser and extending from the subsea well to the platform; andthe external riser tension device configured to apply tension to the external riser such that the external riser is supported independent of the platform.3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising well pressure control equipment located on the platform and connected with the internal riser claim 2 , the well pressure control equipment being the only well pressure control equipment for the well.4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the internal riser is free to move within the external riser.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the internal riser tension device is configured to apply tension to the internal riser such that the internal riser is supported at least partially independent of the external riser tension device.6. The system of claim 2 , wherein the internal riser is configured to connect with the external riser such that the external riser is capable of applying tension to the internal riser.7. The system of claim 2 , wherein the internal riser tension device is configured to place the internal riser in tension dynamically.8. The system of claim 2 , wherein the external riser tension device ...

OFFSHORE DRILLING SYSTEM, VESSEL AND METHOD

An offshore drilling vessel includes a floating hull having a moonpool, a drilling tower positioned on the hull at or near the moonpool, a tubular string main hoisting device including a main hoisting winch and main cable connected to the main hoisting winch, a crown block mounted on the drilling tower, a travelling block suspended from the crown block in a multiple fall arrangement of the main cable, a mobile working deck and an integrated heave compensation system including a main cable heave compensation sheave in a path of the main cable between the main hoisting winch and the travelling block, a hydraulic sheave compensator connected to the main cable heave compensation sheave to provide a heave compensated motion of the travelling block, and a hydraulic deck compensator connected to the hull and to the mobile working deck to provide a heave compensated motion of the working deck relative to the hull within the heave compensation motion range. 1. An offshore drilling vessel for performing subsea wellbore related activities , wherein the drilling vessel comprises:a floating hull comprising a moonpool;a drilling tower positioned on said hull at or near said moonpool; a main hoisting winch and main cable connected to said main hoisting winch,', 'a crown block mounted on said drilling tower, and', 'a travelling block suspended from said crown block in a multiple fall arrangement of said main cable, which travelling block is adapted to suspend a tubular string therefrom along a firing line through said moonpool;, 'a tubular string main hoisting device comprisinga mobile working deck positioned above the moonpool and movable with respect to the drilling tower along said firing line within a motion range including a heave compensation motion range;an integrated heave compensation system configured to provide a heave compensation of the travelling block as well as of the mobile working deck,wherein the heave compensation system comprises a main cable heave compensation ...

AN OFFSHORE DRILLING RIG AND A METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME

An offshore drilling rig comprising a drill deck, at least one work center arranged in the drill deck; a diverter system operatively connectable at least to a riser extending towards the seafloor; a hoisting system adapted for raising or lowering tubular equipment through the work center; wherein the offshore drilling rig comprises a first positioning system configured for positioning at least the work center and/or the diverter system and/or a riser tensioning system selectively at a first horizontal position and a second horizontal position, different from the first horizontal position; and wherein the hoisting system is operable to raise or lower tubular equipment through the work center when said work center is positioned at said first horizontal position. 1. An offshore drilling rig comprising:a drill deck;a first work center arranged in the drill deck;a diverter system operatively connectable to a riser extending towards the seafloor;a first hoisting system adapted for raising or lowering tubular equipment through the first work center;a second work center arranged in the drill deck horizontally spaced apart from the first work center;a second hoisting system adapted for raising or lowering tubular equipment through at least the second work centerwherein the offshore drilling rig comprises a first positioning system configured for positioning at least the diverter system selectively at a first horizontal position and a second horizontal position, different from the first horizontal position; and wherein the first hoisting system is operable to raise or lower tubular equipment through the first work center and through said diverter system at least when said diverter system is positioned at said first horizontal position and the drilling rig is operable to raise or lower tubular equipment through the diverter system by means of at least the second hoisting system when the diverter system is positioned at said second horizontal position.2. An offshore drilling ...

DRILLING SYSTEM HAVING SLOT FOR UNDERWATER STORAGE OF BOP ASSEMBLY

A drilling system includes a derrick installed on a platform of a stationary floating structure. An activity forms a borehole in a sea-bed, and carries out installation of a casing pipe assembly and a BOP assembly in the formed borehole. A BOP trolley forms the BOP assembly together with the activity, and moves while supporting the formed BOP assembly thereon. A slot is formed on a work stand of a moon pool for underwater storage of the BOP assembly so as to extend parallel with the direction of movement of the BOP trolley, and suppresses shaking of risers when the BOP assembly positioned underwater is moved by the BOP trolley and the BOP assembly is moved to an underwater storage position. 1. A drilling system comprising:{'b': '110', 'a derrick () which is installed on a platform of a stationary structure or a floating structure;'}{'b': 120', '110', '220', '210, 'an activity () which is installed on the derrick (), forms a borehole in a sea-bed, and carries out installation of a casing pipe assembly () and a blow out preventer (BOP) assembly () in the formed borehole;'}{'b': 130', '110', '210', '212', '211', '120', '210, 'a BOP trolley () which is installed to be positioned on the lower part of the derrick (), forms the BOP assembly () by assembling a plurality of risers () and BOPs (), in cooperation with the activity (), and moves while supporting the formed BOP assembly () thereon; and'}{'b': 140', '141', '130', '210', '210', '130', '210, 'a slot () which is formed on a work stand () of a moon pool for underwater storage of the BOP assembly so as to extend parallel with the direction of movement of the BOP trolley (), and suppresses shaking of the risers that are extended from the BOP assembly () when the BOP assembly () positioned underwater is moved by the BOP trolley () and the BOP assembly () is moved to an underwater storage position.'}2142140140. The drilling system according to claim 1 , wherein a damper () is further installed on an inner surface of the ...

OFFSHORE SYSTEM COMPRISING A RIG AND A CANTILEVER

An offshore system with a rig and a cantilever having a rigid cantilever structure with an operational end. The rig is provided with a first support rail which extends along a side of the deck supporting structure. Travelling and swivelling assemblies are arranged between the first support rail and the cantilever beams. The rig is provided with one or more second support rails that extend over the deck in a direction transverse to the first support rail. The system has a cantilever inner end carrier device travels over and engages on said one or more second support rails. This device is connected via a vertical pivot axis swivel to a connector part of the rigid cantilever structure at or near its inner end to provide a rotation axis at a fixed location relative to the structure for the rotational motion of the cantilever, the cantilever inner end carrier device holding the cantilever inner end relative to the deck. 123.-. (canceled)24. An offshore system comprising:a rig having a deck supporting structure provided with a deck, said deck supporting structure having a side,a cantilever having a rigid cantilever structure with an operational end, said operational end including a drilling station or being adapted to receive a mobile drilling station, said rigid cantilever structure having an inner end opposite the operational end and said rigid cantilever structure having one or more cantilever beams in the longitudinal direction of the cantilever,wherein the cantilever is mounted on the deck so as to be movable in longitudinal direction of the cantilever, in rotational direction, and in combinations thereof, allowing to move the cantilever between a retracted position and extended positions wherein the operational end of the cantilever extends over said side beyond the deck supporting structure,wherein the rig is provided with a first support rail which extends along said side of the deck supporting structure,wherein one or more travelling and swivelling assemblies are ...

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR DRILLING A SUBTERRANEAN WELLBORE

A method of drilling a subterranean well bore comprising, monitoring the well bore for influx of formation fluid into the well bore, and, on detection of an influx, a) stopping any pump pumping fluid into the well bore, b) operating a first blow out preventer so that it closes within a first period of time, c) operating a second blow out preventer so that it closes within a second period of time, the second blow out preventer being located below the first blow out preventer, the second period of time being longer than the first period of time, d) circulating the influx out of the well bore via a flow line extending from below the second blow out preventer. 140-. (canceled)41. A method of drilling a subterranean well bore comprising , monitoring the well bore for influx of formation fluid into the well bore , and , on detection of an influx:a) stopping any pump pumping fluid into the well bore;b) operating a first blow out preventer so that it closes within a first period of time;c) operating a second blow out preventer so that it closes within a second period of time, the second blow out preventer being located below the first blow out preventer, the second period of time being longer than the first period of time; andd) circulating the influx out of the well bore via a flow line extending from below the second blow out preventer.42. The method according to wherein the second blow out preventer is capable of containing fluid at a higher pressure than the first blow out preventer.43. The method according to wherein there is a flow spool provided between the first blow out preventer and second blow out preventer with a fluid flow line hereinafter referred to as a pressure relief line extending from the flow spool claim 41 , the pressure relief line containing a pressure relief valve which is normally closed so as to substantially prevent flow of fluid along the pressure relief line claim 41 , and the method further includes the step of claim 41 , after the closing of ...

Method for Collecting Geological Samples and Attitude-Controllable Work Apparatus

A work apparatus that can collect core samples of a seabed ground at a desired angle in a stable manner includes a body four flippers rotatably disposed at left and right of a front section of the body and at left and right of a rear section of the body and a coring mechanism disposed on the body as basic features. An inclination sensor that detects inclinations in a front-rear direction and in a left-right direction is disposed on the body A load sensor is attached to a support structure rotatably supporting the flippers A controller controls rotations of the four flippers based on information on inclination from the inclination sensor and information on landing of the flippers from the load sensor to make the body assume a desired attitude, which is a horizontal attitude, for example, and to land at least three flippers After the attitude control, the controller activates the coring mechanism to collect the core samples from the seabed. 1. A method for collecting geological samples comprising:preparing a geological sample collecting apparatus, the apparatus comprising a body, four flippers and a coring mechanism disposed on the body, the flippers rotatably disposed at left and right of a front section of the body and at left and right of a rear section of the body;landing at least three of the four flippers and making the body assume a desired attitude by rotating the four flippers;coring into the ground by the coring mechanism; andcollecting the geological samples.2. The method for collecting geological samples according to claim 1 , wherein a direction of coring by the coring mechanism is orthogonal to a plane on which rotational axes of the four flippers are disposed claim 1 , and when the body is in the desired attitude claim 1 , the plane is horizontal.3. A work apparatus comprising:a body;four flippers rotatably disposed at left and right of a front section of the body and at left and right of a rear section of the body;an inclination sensor disposed on the ...

IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO WELL OPERATIONS USING FLEXIBLE ELONGATE MEMBERS

A method is for performing work in a well and on a vessel. A wellbore assembly such as a tool string is suspended on a first flexible elongate member from the vessel. The wellbore assembly is used to perform work in the well. The wellbore assembly such as a tool string is suspended on a second flexible elongate member from the vessel. The wellbore assembly on the first flexible elongate member is removed from the well, and after the removal, the wellbore assembly on the second flexible elongate member is inserted into the well. The inserted wellbore assembly in the well can then be used to perform further work. The wellbore assemblies may be deployed and retrieved on independently operable wirelines. A related vessel and apparatus is also described. 133.-. (canceled)34. A method of performing work in a subsea well , the method comprising the steps of:(a) providing a vessel;(b) suspending a wellbore assembly, e.g. a tool string, on a first flexible elongate member from the vessel, using the wellbore assembly to perform work in the well;(c) suspending a wellbore assembly, e.g. a tool string, on a second flexible elongate member from the vessel;(d) removing the wellbore assembly on the first flexible elongate member from the well;(e) after step d, inserting the wellbore assembly on the second flexible elongate member into the well; and(f) using the inserted wellbore assembly in the well to perform further work.35. The method as claimed in claim 34 , wherein step (c) comprises locating the wellbore assembly on the second flexible elongate member in the sea claim 34 , and the wellbore assembly on the second flexible elongate member is located in the sea during a period of time claim 34 , and in said period of time claim 34 , the wellbore assembly on the first flexible elongate member is: used in the well; used in an access system of the well; located in the sea but obstructs or restricts access to the well; and/or inserted into the well or the access system; wherein the ...

Riser Fluid Handling System

A fluid handling system comprising an annular sealing device and a flow control system to divert fluid flow from an annulus of a riser package to a control system located on a rig. A method of installing a fluid handling system on a riser package from a rig comprises connecting the fluid handling system to an upper end of a riser string, supporting the fluid handling system and the riser string using a first tubular handling device, and lowering the fluid handling system and the riser string to an operating position.

MOVABLE WELLBAY ASSEMBLY

A mobile offshore drilling unit is converted to provide drilling, completion and workover access to multiple dry tree wells from a drilling derrick to allow production and export of oil and gas from high pressure, high temperature reservoirs in deep offshore waters. Existing practice has been for the drilling derrick on a production platform supporting dry tree wells to be moved over a fixed well slot. The present invention provides a movable wellbay that supports multiple top-tensioned subsea well tieback risers, which may be positioned directly below the derrick's rotary table and/or beneath another operating device. The use of top-tensioned subsea well tieback risers supported by the movable wellbay allows the converted facility to drill, complete, maintain, improve and produce from subsea wells through dry trees. 1. A movable wellbay assembly for use in a facility for oil and gas well drilling , evaluation , completion , improvement , maintenance , intervention and/or production , the movable wellbay assembly comprising:a) components allowing the movable wellbay assembly to move laterally and transversely, the components located at least partially in an opening in a deck of the facility that allows vertical access to and passage of components therethrough, wherein the entire wellbay assembly is configured to be laterally and transversely movable at least for aligning at a single location a top end of a first riser of a set of two or more risers and then aligning at the single location a second riser of the set of two or more risers below a primary operating device of a drilling derrick of the facility; andb) at least two sets of riser tensioners in an array of structurally distinct slots, and wherein each of the at least two sets of riser tensioners is designed and built to hold one of the set of two or more risers in tension.2. The movable wellbay assembly of claim 1 , further comprising structure and equipment for enabling operations on and production from and ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SOLID-STATE FLUIDIZED MINING OF NATURAL GAS HYDRATES IN SHALLOW SEABED

Disclosed is a device for solid-state fluidized mining of natural gas hydrates in a shallow seabed, including: a sea surface support system, a pipeline delivery system, and an undersea drilling system. The sea surface support system includes a hydrate drilling vessel floating on seawater. The pipeline delivery system includes a continuous double-layer oil pipe, a recyclable conduit installed in a sediment cover, an open-hole steering packer installed outside the recyclable conduit. The undersea drilling system includes a hydrate slurry separator, a single screw pump, a hydraulic motor, a jet head and a differential pressure sliding sleeve close to the hydrate drill bit. The present invention has the following beneficial effects. The device achieves a multi-directionally horizontal drilling and production in the hydrate reservoir with a single well head, improving the drilling efficiency and single well production. 1. A device for solid-state fluidized mining of natural gas hydrates in a shallow seabed , comprising:a sea surface support system;a pipeline delivery system; andan undersea drilling system;wherein the sea surface support system comprises a hydrate drilling vessel floating on seawater, a hydrate storage tank, a high-pressure pump set and a continuous double-layer oil pipe storage device arranged on the hydrate drilling vessel;the pipeline delivery system comprises a continuous double-layer oil pipe, a recyclable conduit installed in a sediment cover, an open-hole steering packer installed outside the recyclable conduit; the continuous double-layer oil pipe penetrates the recyclable conduit; a head end of the continuous double-layer oil pipe is fixed on the continuous double-layer oil pipe storage device, wherein an inner channel of the continuous double-layer oil pipe is connected to the hydrate storage tank, and an outer channel of the continuous double-layer oil pipe is connected to an outlet port of the high-pressure pump set; and a tail end of the ...

WELLBORE DRILLING USING DUAL DRILL STRING

A method and apparatus are disclosed for drilling a wellbore using a concentric dual drill string. Multiple individually selectively isolable crossover ports intervaled may be provided along the length of the drill string thereby facilitating pumping a well control fluid within a wellbore annulus without the need to run-in or trip-out the drill string. Multiple one way check valves may be included at various points within an inner pipe of the dual drill string to minimize settling of particulate matter during long periods of non-circulation. In an offshore arrangement, the drill string may be used without a marine riser. A rotating control device is provided, and a hydraulic power unit is located at the seafloor for controlling and lubricating the rotating control device. A pump may be located at the seafloor for managing wellbore annulus pressure via the rotating control device. 1. A drilling system comprising:a wellhead on a seafloor of a body of water, the wellhead defining a passage;a rotating control device having a housing carried atop the wellhead, the housing defining a passage in fluid communication with the passage of the wellhead;an offshore platform disposed above a surface of the body of water;a concentric dual drill pipe string carried by the platform and extending through the passage of the rotating control device into the passage of the wellhead, the wellhead and the string defining an annulus therebetween, the rotating control device including a sealing element that dynamically seals against an outer wall of the string so as to fluidly isolate the annulus from the body of water, the outer wall of the string above the rotating control device being in contact with the body of water;a hydraulic power unit near the seafloor and coupled to the rotating control device so as to supply a lubricant to the sealing element;a source of pressurized fluid selectively fluidly coupled to the annulus; andat least one communication link operable between a location at ...

Integrating Wells In Towable Subsea Units

A drilling conductor supported within a suction anchor is installed by lowering the suction anchor through the top of a frame of a subsea processing unit. The base of the frame defines a landing area for the suction anchor and supports a fixing system for fixing the suction anchor to the frame. When the suction anchor has been embedded into the seabed beneath the processing unit, the frame is fixed to the suction anchor to form a structural unit that includes the conductor, the suction anchor and the frame. Additional equipment such as a blow-out presenter or a Christmas tree is lowered through the top of the frame and onto the conductor that is supported by the embedded suction anchor. 131-.(canceled)32. A method of installing a drilling conductor for a subsea well , the method comprising:providing a suction anchor that is arranged to support the conductor within;lowering the suction anchor toward a subsea processing unit at a seabed location, the processing unit having a frame defining a base that lies on the seabed and a top spaced from the base to accommodate equipment within the processing unit;lowering the suction anchor into the processing unit through the top of the frame;embedding the suction anchor into the seabed beneath the processing unit;fixing the frame to the embedded suction anchor to form a structural unit that comprises the conductor, the suction anchor and the frame;lowering additional equipment through the top of the frame and onto the conductor that is supported by the embedded suction anchor; andclosing an opening in the frame above the additional equipment on the conductor.33. The method of claim 32 , comprising lowering and embedding the suction anchor with the conductor already supported within.34. The method of claim 32 , further comprising the preliminary steps of:towing the processing unit to an offshore installation site; andlanding the processing unit onto the seabed at the installation site.35. The method of claim 32 , comprising ...

Three-dimensional hydraulic oscillator

A three-dimensional hydraulic oscillator includes an upper casing, a lower casing screwed with the upper casing, an upper joint screwed with the upper casing, a lower joint screwed with the lower casing and a screw. An upper rotating shaft is mounted in the upper casing. A turbine group is mounted on the upper rotating shaft. An upper cam is fixed to the upper rotating shaft. A lower cam is movably mounted in the upper casing. The upper cam contacts with the lower cam. The screw is mounted in the upper casing and fixed to the lower cam. A lower rotating shaft is mounted in the lower casing. An eccentric block is fixed on the lower rotating shaft. A lower roulette is fixed to the lower rotating shaft. A shaft cap is disposed above the lower roulette. An upper roulette is mounted on the screw and meshed with the lower roulette.

Method For Motion Compensation Using Wired Drill Pipe

A method for motion compensation includes obtaining measurements related to heave at a surface of a rig, transmitting the measurements to a processor, automatically transmitting a control signal from the processor to a motion compensation component in response to the measurements wherein the motion compensation component is a slip joint and is attached to a drill string located in the wellbore, activating the motion compensation component to compensate for motion in response to the signal, and preventing axial or rotational movement of a portion of the drill string below the motion compensation component. 1. A method for motion compensation downhole in a wellbore , the method comprising:obtaining measurements related to heave at a surface of a rig;transmitting the measurements to a processor;automatically transmitting a control signal from the processor to a motion compensation component in response to the measurements wherein the motion compensation component is a slip joint and is attached to a drill string located in the wellbore;activating the motion compensation component to compensate for motion in response to the signal; andpreventing axial or rotational movement of a portion of the drill string below the motion compensation component.2. The method of further comprising:performing a station measurement downhole during a heave.3. The method of wherein the station measurement comprises obtaining a formation sample.4. The method of wherein the motion compensation component substantially resists elongation or contraction.5. The method of wherein the motion compensation component generates an electromagnetic field.6. The method of wherein the control signal is automatically transmitted from the processor to the motion compensation component using a wired drill pipe.7. A method for motion compensation downhole in a wellbore claim 1 , the method comprising:obtaining measurements related to heave at a surface of a rig;transmitting the measurements to a processor; ...

Tender Barge for Drillship Operating in Environmentally Sensitive Areas

A tender barge for a drill ship includes a hull internally segmented into compartments. The compartments are for storing wellbore drilling consumables and wellbore drilling waste. The hull has an opening therein for positioning under a moon pool of a drill ship. The barge hull further includes a support structure for contacting a bottom of a hull of a drill ship when the drill ship is positioned over the barge hull. The barge has a mooring system having capacity to either hold the barge in position or hold both the barge and the drill ship when the drill ship is fully supported by the barge out of the water over a wellbore location.

METHOD FOR DRILLING WITH A BUOYANT STRUCTURE FOR PETROLEUM DRILLING, PRODUCTION, STORAGE AND OFFLOADING

A method for drilling with a buoyant structure having a hull, a planar keel defining a lower hull diameter, a lower cylindrical portion connected to the planar keel, a lower frustoconical portion disposed above the lower cylindrical portion with inwardly-sloping wall at a first angle, an upper frustoconical portion directly connected to the lower frustoconical portion. The method uses a ballasted chambered buoyant storage ring which is either dockside and connected to the buoyant structure for drilling at a subsea location, or the ballasted chambered buoyant storage ring is preinstalled at a subsea location and then the buoyant structure is mounted to the ballasted chambered buoyant storage ring at sea. 1. A method for drilling with a buoyant structure comprising: (i) a hull defining a vertical axis, whereby the hull has an outer hull side connected to an inner hull side, and the outer hull side is characterized by an outer hull side shape selected from the group: circular, elliptoid, and geodesic in horizontal cross sections at all elevations; and the hull has an upper hull diameter and the inner hull side characterized by a shape selected from the group: circular, elliptoid, and geodesic;', '(ii) a planar keel defining a lower hull diameter;', '(iii) a lower cylindrical portion connected to the planar keel, wherein a lower cylindrical portion diameter is identical to the lower hull diameter, and the lower hull diameter is the largest diameter of the hull, and further wherein the lower cylindrical portion diameter is from 105 percent to 130 percent of the upper hull diameter;', '(iv) a lower frustoconical portion disposed above the lower cylindrical portion formed with an inwardly sloping wall at a first angle ranging from 50 degrees to 70 degrees with respect to the vertical axis;', '(v) an upper frustoconical portion directly connected to the lower frustoconical portion, the upper frustoconical portion with an outwardly sloping wall sloping at a second angle with ...

FORCED SEPARATION DEVICE FOR SUBMARINE DRILLING MACHINE AND DRILLING TOOL

A forced separation device for a submarine drilling machine and a drilling tool comprises a transmission shaft, a main shaft, an electromagnetic transmission mechanism, a blasting separation mechanism and a pressure-resistant cabin, a gland is fastened to the upper portion of the pressure-resistant cabin, the electromagnetic transmission mechanism is provided with a driving sucker and a driven sucker, the driving sucker is connected with the transmission shaft, the driven sucker is connected with the main shaft, the gland is welded with the transmission shaft, and the driven sucker is welded with the lower portion of the pressure-resistant cabin; the blasting separation mechanism is provided with explosive packages and detonators, a plurality of explosive packages are distributed between the gland and the top surface of the pressure-resistant cabin, and each explosive package is connected with the corresponding detonator respectively; and the pressure-resistant cabin is further internally provided with a storage battery. 1. A forced separation device for a submarine drilling machine and a drilling tool , comprising a transmission shaft , a main shaft , an electromagnetic transmission mechanism , a blasting separation mechanism and a pressure-resistant cabin , wherein a gland is fastened to the upper portion of the pressure-resistant cabin , the electromagnetic transmission mechanism is provided with a driving sucker and a driven sucker which are attracted with each other , the driving sucker is connected with the transmission shaft , the driven sucker is connected with the main shaft , the gland is welded with the transmission shaft , and the driven sucker is welded with the lower portion of the pressure-resistant cabin;the blasting separation mechanism is provided with a plurality of explosive packages and detonators, the explosive packages are distributed between the gland and the top surface of the pressure-resistant cabin, and each explosive package is connected ...

Drillhead assembly with chambered sonde housing

A drill assembly with a drill body coupled to a drilling string and a sonde body having a least one chamber defined therein for receiving locating electronics therein. In disclosed embodiment, the one or more chambers may be provided and the electronics can include a battery, a sensor, a transmitter, an antenna and connecting wires. One or more secure windows may be provided in the sonde body to allow the locating electronics to wirelessly transmit outside of the sonde body. The electronics may be potted within the chamber with a solidifying potting agent to improve durability of the electronics in a drilling environment.

RISERLESS WELL SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A riserless well abandonment system includes a surface vessel, a first mast extending from the surface vessel, a second mast extending from the surface vessel, wherein the second mast is spaced from the first mast, a running tool extending from the first mast, wherein a subsea intervention device is coupled to the running tool, and a concentric drill string extending from the second mast, wherein the concentric drill string includes an inner drill pipe disposed within an outer drill pipe. 1. A riserless well abandonment system , comprising:a surface vessel;a first mast extending from the surface vessel;a second mast extending from the surface vessel, wherein the second mast is spaced from the first mast;a running tool extending from the first mast, wherein a subsea intervention device is coupled to the running tool; anda concentric drill string extending from the second mast, wherein the concentric drill string comprises an inner drill pipe disposed within an outer drill pipe.2. The riserless well abandonment system of claim 1 , wherein the subsea intervention device comprises:a ram blowout preventer configured to seal a bore of the subsea intervention device;an annular blowout preventer; anda rotating control device configured to seal against the concentric drill string when the drill string extends through the subsea intervention device and is rotating relative to the subsea intervention device.3. The riserless well abandonment system of claim 1 , wherein the concentric drill string comprises an inner drill pipe disposed within an outer drill pipe.4. The riserless well abandonment system of claim 3 , wherein the subsea intervention device is coupled to a wellhead disposed on the sea floor.5. The riserless well abandonment system of claim 3 , wherein:when the concentric drill pipe extends into a borehole extending from the wellhead, an inlet fluid flowpath is formed between an annulus disposed between the inner drill pipe and the outer drill pipe and the borehole; ...

Well Safety Equipment

An independently operable disconnect device remotely disconnectable from an LMRP to reveal a riser profile compatible with a capping device connecter. A capping device including a capping device connector to be coupled to said riser profile. The capping device includes at least one blow-out preventer operable to stop the overflow of petroleum products from a well. Thus, a drilling marine riser may be fully disconnected from an LMRP in an emergency. Then the well may be subsequently capped.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SUBSEA DRILLING

A subsea drilling method and system controls drilling fluid pressure in the borehole of a subsea well, and separates gas from the drilling fluid. Drilling fluid is pumped into the borehole through a drill string and returned through an annulus between the drill string and the well bore and between the drill string and a riser. Drilling fluid pressure is controlled by draining fluid out of the riser or a BOP at a level between the seabed and the surface in order to adjust the hydrostatic head of drilling fluid in the riser. The drained drilling fluid and gas is separated in a subsea separator, where the gas is vented to the surface through a vent line, and the fluid is pumped to the surface via a subsea pump. A closing device and a choke line and valve can release pressure after a gas kick in the well. 1. A system for drilling subsea wells from a Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU) , comprising;a marine drilling riser extending from the MODU to a seabed located Blow Out Preventer (BOP);a drill string extending from the MODU through the marine drilling riser and BOP and further down a wellbore, an annulus being formed between the drill string and the drilling riser, and between the drill string and the wellbore, said annulus being filled with drilling mud to a low mud level where an interface is formed between the drilling mud and either gas or liquid that extends in the annulus above the drilling mud;at least one closing devise located either in the marine drilling riser, integral with the BOP, or in a high pressure part of the system below the BOP, the closing device being adapted to close the annulus;at least one mud return outlet and mud conduit fluidly connected to the annulus either at a lower part of the marine drilling riser or below the drilling riser, said mud return outlet and mud conduit being connected to the annulus at a level below the low mud level and above said closing device, said mud return outlet and mud conduit being adapted to enable drilling ...

Floating Oil and Gas Facility with a Movable Wellbay Assembly

A mobile offshore drilling unit is converted to provide drilling, completion and workover access to multiple dry tree wells from a drilling derrick to allow production and export of oil and gas from high pressure, high temperature reservoirs in deep offshore waters. Existing practice has been for the drilling derrick on a production platform supporting dry tree wells to be moved over a fixed well slot. The present invention provides a movable wellbay that supports multiple top-tensioned subsea well tieback risers, which may be positioned directly below the derrick's rotary table and/or beneath another operating device. The use of top-tensioned subsea well tieback risers supported by the movable wellbay allows the converted facility to drill, complete, maintain, improve and produce from subsea wells through dry trees.

MODULAR SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SUBSEA OPERATIONS

The invention concerns a modular system for controlling subsea operations. The modular system comprises a control room structure at a top side location, the control room structure is provided with a fixed modular connection assembly. The interior of the control room structure is prepared for accommodation f a set of replaceable control modules comprising at least one dedicated control module provided for controlling a corresponding operational well tool. The said set of replaceable control module(s) is selected in accordance with a chosen subsea operation for accommodation in the control room structure. The said set of replaceable control module(s) accommodated in the control room structure is connected to the fixed modular connection assembly for establishing communication between the at least one dedicated control module and its corresponding operational well tool. The invention also concerns a method for controlling subsea operations. 1. A modular system for controlling subsea operations , comprising:a control room structure which is positioned at a top side location, the control room structure being provided with a fixed modular connection assembly;wherein an interior of the control room structure is configured to accommodate a set of replaceable control modules comprising at least one dedicated control module for controlling a corresponding operational well tool, the said set of replaceable control modules being selected in accordance with a chosen subsea operation;wherein the said set of replaceable control modules is connected to the fixed modular connection assembly to thereby establish communication between the at least one dedicated control module and its corresponding operational well tool.2. The modular system for controlling subsea operations in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the control room structure comprises a compartment unit having storage space for the set of replaceable control modules.3. The modular system for controlling subsea operations ...

Bend Stiffener

The invention concerns a bend stiffener () for locally protecting an elongate flexible member () from excessive curvature when the elongate flexible member is deployed in water. The bend stiffener comprises an elongate stiffener body () which has a root end, a free end, and a passage () extending through the stiffener body from the root end to the free end for receiving and embracing the flexible member. A coupling () at or toward the root end of the stiffener body serves to mount the stiffener body. The stiffener body is sufficiently flexible to curve somewhat along with the flexible member when the flexible member suffers a bending load and carries a sensor module which is located proximate the free end of the bend stiffener and is configured to sense inclination and/or orientation and/or movement of the free end of the bend stiffener. 1. A bend stiffener for locally protecting an elongate flexible member from excessive curvature when the elongate flexible member is deployed in water , the bend stiffener comprising an elongate stiffener body which hasa root end,a free end, anda passage extending through the stiffener body from the root end to the free end for receiving and embracing the flexible member,the bend stiffener further comprising a coupling at or toward the root end of the stiffener body for mounting the stiffener body,the stiffener body being sufficiently flexible to curve somewhat along with the flexible member when the flexible member suffers a bending load and carrying a sensor module which is proximate the free end of the bend stiffener and is configured to sense inclination and/or orientation and/or movement of the free end of the bend stiffener.2. The bend stiffener as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the sensor module is a self-contained device with a sealable housing claim 1 , an onboard power supply and a memory for logging sensor data.3. The bend stiffener as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the sensor module is removably mounted to the stiffener body ...

OFFSHORE UNIVERSAL RISER SYSTEM

An offshore universal riser system. A riser system includes a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device releasably secures the valve module in the flow passage. A method of constructing a riser system includes the steps of installing the valve module in the flow passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the flow passage. The annular seal module is operative to prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the flow passage. Drilling methods include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, is dimensioned for installation through a rotary table. 1100-. (canceled)101. A riser system , comprising:multiple longitudinally spaced apart seals which sealingly engage a tubular string positioned in a flow passage extending through the riser string while the tubular string rotates, the seals being positioned in the riser string between opposite end connections of the riser string, wherein each one of the multiple seals includes an engagement surface which sealingly engages the tubular string, and wherein the tubular string rotates relative to the engagement surfaces of the seals.102. The riser system of claim 101 , wherein the seals remain stationary within the riser string while the tubular string rotates.103. A drilling method claim 101 , comprising:rotating a tubular string in a riser string; andsealingly engaging the tubular string with multiple seals, wherein each one of the multiple seals includes an engagement surface which sealingly engages the tubular string, and wherein the engagement surfaces remain stationary relative to the riser string while the tubular ...

OFFSHORE DRILLING VESSEL

An offshore drilling vessel includes a main deck, a moonpool a firing line hoist system having a tower, a BOP transport system and a pivotally supported U-shaped working deck. The U-shaped working deck can be pivoted between an active position, in which it extends in a substantially horizontal direction such that it covers a portion of the moonpool, and a non-active position, in which it extends in a substantially vertical direction such that it provides room for a BOP to be moved by the BOP transport system from a storage position adjacent the moonpool into a launch position above the moonpool, in which launch position the BOP is located between the tower and the working deck. 1. An offshore drilling vessel comprising:a hull having a moonpool;a main deck, which main deck is supported by the hull; a tower, which tower is arranged at said moonpool, and which tower has a top and a base, a first side and a second side, and wherein the base of the tower is connected to the hull of the drilling vessel at the moonpool such that the first side of the tower faces the moonpool; and', 'a hoisting device, which hoisting device comprises a load attachment device displaceable supported by the tower, one or more cables and one or more associated winches to manipulate the position of the load attachment device relative to the tower in a vertical direction along a firing line, which firing line extends on the outside of and adjacent to the first side of the tower and through the moonpool, and the hoisting device is adapted for raising and lowering a BOP to the seabed;, 'a firing line hoist system, which firing line hoist system is supported by the hull, the firing line hoist system comprising a BOP transport track, which BOP transport track comprises two parallel guide rails that are supported by the hull such that they bridge the moonpool in a lateral direction thereof; and', 'a BOP transport cart, which transport cart is movably supported by the guide rails; and, 'a BOP transport ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SUBSEA DRILLING

A subsea drilling method and system controls drilling fluid pressure in the borehole of a subsea well, and separates gas from the drilling fluid. Drilling fluid is pumped into the borehole through a drill string and returned through an annulus between the drill string and the well bore and between the drill string and a riser. Drilling fluid pressure is controlled by draining fluid out of the riser or a BOP at a level between the seabed and the surface in order to adjust the hydrostatic head of drilling fluid in the riser. The drained drilling fluid and gas is separated in a subsea separator, where the gas is vented to the surface through a vent line, and the fluid is pumped to the surface via a subsea pump. A closing device and a choke line and valve can release pressure after a gas kick in the well. 1. A subsea drilling method , comprising:pumping drilling fluid down into a borehole through a drill string,returning the drilling fluid back through an annulus, said annulus being formed between the drill string and the well bore, and between the drill string and a drilling riser surrounding the drill string above the seabed;draining drilling fluid out of the drilling riser at a level between the seabed and the sea surface through an outlet to a subsea mud lift pump that is fluidly connected to a mud processing plant above the sea surface, thereby creating a drilling fluid interface below the sea surface between the drilling fluid in the annulus within the drilling riser and either gas or liquid extending in the annulus above the drilling fluid, a height of the drilling fluid interface thereby controlling and regulating a pressure of the drilling fluid in the annulus within the wellbore; andproviding a wiper or rotary closing element to seal off the annulus between the drill string and the riser above the outlet; andventing gas from the riser to a gas destination at atmospheric pressure.2. The subsea drilling method according to claim 1 , wherein a seabed BOP is kept ...

Method for riser string handling and an offshore drilling vessel

A method for riser string handling on an offshore drilling vessel, the offshore drilling vessel including a multiple firing line hoist system, a riser tensioner system arranged in the second firing line, and a suspended riser transfer device. The method including the steps of lowering a riser string in the first firing line, and simultaneously assembling and preparing a riser tensioner system in the second firing line, wherein the riser hang-off assembly displaces the riser string, leaving the top end of the riser string exposed, from the first firing line to the second firing line to be connected to the riser tensioner system.

Apparatus and method for cleaning rock debris when deep-water surface drilling is done

The present disclosure provides an apparatus and method for cleaning rock debris when deep-water surface drilling is done. The apparatus for cleaning rock debris when deep-water surface drilling is done comprises: an open barrel having an open through groove which is axially provided; a plurality of debris cleaning mechanisms connected to the open barrel at an interval in a circumferential direction of the open barrel, wherein each of the debris cleaning mechanisms comprises: a fixed block connected to an outer wall of the open barrel; a debris cleaning leg having one end rotatably connected to the fixed block, and the other end provided with a debris cleaning impeller; and a pull rod having one end connected to the outer wall of the open barrel above the fixed block, and the other end movably connected to the debris cleaning leg. The present disclosure not only cleans a large amount of rock debris accumulated around the seabed surface conduit while drilling is done in the deep-water surface drilling process, but also achieves the purpose of continuous working in the deep-water surface drilling process, without the need of frequent tripping in and out in midway to adjust the position of the apparatus for cleaning rock debris when deep-water surface drilling is done.

Triple Activity Drilling Ship

A triple activity drilling ship may be provided with two separate drilling centers, each including drilling apparatus. In addition, a trolley that is capable of supporting tubulars may be positioned between a first position within one of said drilling centers and a second position outside that drilling center. As a result, the trolley may be used to hold assembled tubulars while other activities are ongoing in one or more of the drilling centers.

SURFACE LAYER CONDUCTOR RUNNING TOOL FOR DEEP-WATER WELL DRILLING

The present invention relates to offshore oil and gas exploration drilling field and, in particular, to a surface layer conductor running tool for deep-water well drilling, which is used to run a conductor to a designated position, so that the drill stem can be released and the drilling can be continued. The surface layer conductor running tool for deep-water well drilling comprises a mandrel, an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve, and a main body, wherein the inner sleeve, the outer sleeve, and the main body are fitted over the mandrel sequentially; the inner sleeve can slide up and down but cannot rotate in relation to the mandrel, the outer sleeve and the inner sleeve are connected via a transmission thread pair, and the main body is situated on the inner sleeve; a retaining pawl penetrating the main body and radially slidable in horizontal direction; and an anti-rotation pin penetrating the main body and the outer sleeve, so that the outer sleeve can move up and down in the main body only, but cannot rotate. 1. A surface layer conductor running tool for deep-water well drilling , comprising: a mandrel , an inner sleeve , an outer sleeve , and a main body , wherein the inner sleeve , the outer sleeve , and the main body are fitted over the mandrel sequentially; the inner sleeve is configured to slide up and down but is configured to not rotate in relation to the mandrel , the outer sleeve and the inner sleeve are connected via a transmission thread pair , and the main body is situated on the inner sleeve; at least one retaining pawl penetrating the main body and radially slidable in horizontal direction; and an anti-rotation pin penetrating the main body and the outer sleeve , so that the outer sleeve is configured to move up and down in the main body only , but is configured to not rotate;the main body and the inner sleeve form a cavity in which the outer sleeve is located; the main body has eight flow-back holes distributed symmetrical along the circumference, a ...

Integrated Managed Pressure Drilling Transient Hydraulic Model Simulator Architecture

A system is described herein for performing off shore field operations. The system includes a number of process measuring devices that measure real-time process data. The system can further include a wellhead stack positioned at a sea floor, where the wellhead stack performs managed pressure drilling (MPD) as part of the field operations. The system can also include a dynamic process module executing on a hardware processor and providing first real-time output during the MPD using the real-time process data, where the dynamic process module includes a first off-the-shelf software package communicably coupled to a first model. The system can further include a dynamic integration engine executing on a hardware processor and receiving a first real-time output from the first model of the dynamic process module. 1. A system for performing off shore field operations , the system comprising:a plurality of process measuring devices that measure a plurality of real-time process data;a wellhead stack positioned at a sea floor, wherein the wellhead stack performs managed pressure drilling (MPD) as part of the field operations;a dynamic process module executing on a first hardware processor and providing first real-time output during the MPD using the plurality of real-time process data, wherein the dynamic process module comprises a first off-the-shelf software package communicably coupled to a first model; anda dynamic integration engine executing on a second hardware processor and receiving a first real-time output from the first model of the dynamic process module.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:a plurality of drilling operation measuring devices that measure a plurality of real-time drilling operation data;a drilling module executing on a third hardware processor and providing real-time drilling data during the MPD, wherein the drilling module comprises a second off-the-shelf software package communicably coupled to a second model,wherein the real-time ...

INSTALLATION SYSTEMS AND METHODOLOGY FOR HELICAL STRAKE FINS

An apparatus and method for helically installing a vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression fin about a tubular. The apparatus may include an outer ring member dimensioned to encircle an underlying tubular and an inner ring member positioned concentrically inward from the outer ring member. The inner ring member is configured to rotate with respect to at least one of the outer ring member or the tubular as the outer ring member moves along the tubular. The apparatus may further include a fin guide configured to receive a fin and helically position the fin along the tubular as the inner ring member rotates. A method of installing a vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression fin about a tubular may include removably attaching a VIV suppression fin to an installation member. The installation member may be positioned along a tubular and moved about the tubular to helically position the fin around the tubular. 1. An apparatus for helically installing a vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression fin about a tubular , the apparatus comprising:a first member dimensioned to encircle an underlying tubular, the first member configured to move axially with respect to the tubular;a second member positioned concentrically inward or outward to the first member, the second member configured to rotate with respect to at least one of the first member or the tubular as the first member moves axially along the tubular; anda fin guide member connected to the first member, wherein the fin guide member is configured to receive a fin and helically position the fin along the tubular as the first member rotates.2. The apparatus of wherein the first member is an outer ring member and the second member is an inner ring member claim 1 , and the outer ring member is concentrically outward to the inner ring member claim 1 , and the outer ring member is fixedly attached to a support deck such that the fin is helically positioned around the tubular by rotating the inner ring member while the ...

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.

Seabed drilling system

The present disclosure relates generally to a well boring apparatus, and associated components, for drilling wellbores without the necessity of traditional well drilling equipment. The well boring apparatus operates on similar principles as a tunnel boring apparatus. The well boring apparatus is self-propelled, steerable, and can be launched from a topside vessel or directly from a seabed installation. The well boring apparatus is fully instrumented and capable of analyzing the surrounding environment including the temperature, pressure, acidity and the presence of particular chemicals. The well boring apparatus is highly modular such that it can be configured for different tasks. The well boring apparatus can include components to case/line the wellbore during drilling, eliminating the need for running casing/lining. Further, the well boring apparatus can be incorporated in a drilling system in which cuttings are processed at the seabed, thereby removing the need for a drilling riser.

METHOD OF ASSEMBLY OF A STRING OF ELEMENTS FOR DEEPWATER DRILLING AND ULTRADEEP OBSTRUCTION ELEMENT AND CORRESPONDING USE OF THE SAME IN SAID DRILLING STRING

A method of assembly is for a string of drilling elements for deepwater drilling. Each drilling element includes an axial through hole, through which drilling mud can flow, and two connection portions for connecting it in series in the string. The method includes assembling a lower portion of the string, assembling a first drilling element with other drilling devices to create a first section of the string. These steps are repeated until the lower portion is proximate the blowout preventer or the bottom. Assembly of second drilling elements begins while executing a drilling cycle for creating at least a second section of the string. The assembly step is repeated until the second section extends equal to a desired drilling depth. After assembling the lower portion and before assembling the first drilling element, a third drilling element is assembled, which includes an obstruction element for preventing backflow in the string. 115.-. (canceled)17. The method according to claim 16 , wherein claim 16 , during execution of the sequence of steps b)-d) claim 16 , carrying out at least one further step comprising assembling at least one third drilling element claim 16 , which comprises at least one obstruction element.18. The method according to claim 17 , wherein said further step is carried out at regular intervals.19. The method according to claim 18 , wherein said further step is carried out after the execution of at least two steps b).20. The method according to claim 16 , wherein a distance between two third drilling elements is between 28 m and 500 m.21. The method according to claim 16 , wherein said at least one further step is also carried out before said step a) claim 16 , by positioning a third drilling element as a first module of the string.22. The method according to claim 16 , comprising a further check step claim 16 , prior to the check step;in said further check step, verifying if the assembly of said first drilling elements has reached an extension which ...

PROCESS FOR DETERMINING REAL TIME RISK, RELIABILITY AND LOSS MITIGATION POTENTIAL FOR ULTRA DEEPWATER WELL CONTROL EQUIPMENT USED FOR OFFSHORE DRILLING OPERATIONS

A risk/reliability assessment tool for ultra-deepwater well control equipment used for offshore drilling operations is disclosed. Embodiments take into consideration all of the processes required for competent risk/reliability assessment for loss mitigation. In an exemplary embodiment, the system provides a simulation tool which evaluates equipment components and simulates the various failure modes for each component and the effect on the other components in the equipment being evaluated. 1. A process performed by a computing device simulating risk and loss mitigation in well control equipment for ultra-deepwater drilling , displayed in a user interface system , comprising:displaying a connection of components in the well control equipment displayed across a plurality of user interface modules;receiving a user selection of one of the components;running a simulation by the computing device evaluating the failure mode for the user selected component;displaying a simulated effect of the user selected component in the failure mode;displaying effects on other components connected to the user selected component in the failure mode; andproviding a risk assessment of the evaluated failure mode for the user selected component and for the other components connected to the user selected component.2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the step of displaying effects on other components connected to the user selected component in the failure mode includes animating the effects on other components.3. The process of claim 2 , further comprising:displaying an identification number of another component in proximity to the user selected component, wherein the another component is displayed in a second user interface module that is different than a first user interface module displaying the user selected component;attaching the identification number to a link in the first user interface module, wherein the link includes a pointer to a position of the another component in the second user ...

SELF SEALING JETTING VALVE

An apparatus for use in marine platform jacking is disclosed herein. In one aspect, a jetting valve includes a valve body with a piston assembly disposed therein. The piston assembly is selectively operated to open and close the valve. A biasing member is coupled to the piston assembly. The piston assembly includes a first piston and a second piston. The dual pistons, in cooperation with the biasing member, allow the valve to self-seal thereby preventing entry of a fluid which is external to the valve. 1. A jetting valve for a seabed operation , comprising:a valve body including a port and an inner chamber; and a shaft moveably disposed in the port, the shaft including a first end and a second end;', 'a first piston disposed in the inner chamber and disposed between the first end and the second end of the shaft; and', 'a second piston disposed at the second end of the shaft, wherein the second piston blocks the port in the retracted position and unblock the port in the extended position., 'a piston assembly moveable from a retracted position to an extended position including2. The jetting valve of claim 1 , wherein the second piston and second end of the shaft protrude from a bottom surface of the valve body n the extended position.3. The jetting valve of claim 1 , wherein the valve body includes a housing and a cap.4. The jetting valve of claim 1 , further comprising:a shaft guide including at least one aperture disposed in the valve body, wherein the shaft is moveably disposed in the shaft guide.5. The jetting valve of claim 1 , further comprising: at least one aperture establishing fluid communication between the first volume and the second volume when the first piston is in the extended position; and', 'wherein the first piston blocks fluid communication between the first volume and the second volume through the at least one aperture in the retracted positon., 'an inner housing disposed in the inner chamber and dividing the inner chamber into a first volume and ...

METHOD FOR DETECTING WELLBORE INFLUX

A method for detecting an influx in a wellbore with first and second pressure transmitters arranged in a fixed vertical distance in relation to each other. The method includes calculating an expected density of a return flow between the first and second pressure transmitters, continuously measuring an actual density of the return flow based on a measured pressure at the first and second pressure transmitters, comparing the calculated expected density of the return flow and the measured actual density of the return flow to determine the influx in the wellbore, and predicting a probability of hydrates forming in the well by measuring a temperature via a temperature transmitter arranged in a section of the well adjacent to the first and/or the second pressure transmitter, and using the temperature together with the measurements from the first and second pressure transmitters. 114-. (canceled)15. A method for detecting an influx in a wellbore with at least one first pressure transmitter arranged in a first position in a well and at least one second pressure transmitter arranged in a second position in the well , the at least one first pressure transmitter and the at least one second pressure transmitter being arranged in a fixed vertical distance in relation to each other , the method comprising:calculating an expected density of a return flow between the at least one first pressure transmitter and the at least one second pressure transmitter by measuring or predicting a mud or sacrificial fluids density, a rock density, a first flow rate, a true vertical depth, a rate of penetration, and a wellbore diameter);continuously measuring an actual density of the return flow based on a measured pressure at each of the at least one first pressure transmitter and the at least one second pressure transmitter, the actual density being computed based on a vertical distance between the at least one first pressure transmitter and the at least one second pressure transmitter as ...

ROTATING CONTROL DEVICE DOCKING STATION

A system and method is provided for converting a drilling rig between conventional hydrostatic pressure drilling and managed pressure drilling or underbalanced drilling using a docking station housing mounted on a marine riser or bell nipple. This docking station housing may be positioned above the surface of the water. When a removable rotating control device is remotely hydraulically latched with the docking station housing, the system and method allows for interactive lubrication and cooling of the rotating control device, as needed, along with a supply of fluid for use with active seals. 1. A method for remote operation of an oilfield device , comprising the steps of:positioning a first sensor for sensing the oilfield device removably positioned in a housing;detecting data of said oilfield device with said sensor;transmitting said detected data of the oilfield device to a remote location;signaling in response to the transmitted data; andproviding interactive operation of the oilfield device resulting from the steps of transmitting and signaling.2. The method of wherein said first sensor comprises an electrical sensor.3. The method of wherein said first sensor comprises a mechanical sensor.4. The method of wherein said first sensor comprises a hydraulic sensor.5. The method of wherein the step of positioning further comprises the step of:positioning said first sensor with said housing.6. The method of wherein the step of detecting data further comprises the step of:detecting the type of oilfield device that is removably positioned in said housing.7. The method of wherein said oilfield device is a rotating control device.8. The method of wherein the step of detecting data further comprises the step of:detecting the revolutions per minute of a rotating seal of said rotating control device.9. The method of further comprising the step of:providing fluid to said rotating control device responsive to said detected revolutions per minute.10. The method of wherein the ...

CORING SYSTEM CONSIDERING TILTING OF CORING PART AND METHOD OF COMPENSATING DEPTH OF CORING PART USING THE SAME

The present invention relates to a coring system considering a tilt of a coring part and a method of compensating for a depth of a coring part using the same. A coring system according to the present invention includes: a coring part with a core to be filled with an object to be cored; a driving unit controlling upward/downward movement of the coring part; a rope connecting the coring part with the driving unit; and a tilt meter measuring a tilt of the coring part. 1. A coring system comprising:a coring part with a core to be filled with an object to be cored;a driving unit controlling upward/downward movement of the coring part;a rope connecting the coring part with the driving unit; anda tilt meter measuring a tilt of the coring part.2. The coring system of claim 1 , further comprising a depth meter measuring a depth of the coring part.3. The coring system of claim 2 , wherein the coring part includes a weight having an internal space claim 2 , andthe tilt meter and the depth meter are disposed in the internal space.4. The coring system of claim 3 , wherein the weight includes a plurality of C-shaped sub-weights claim 3 , andat least any one of the tilt meter and the depth meter is disposed through the sub-weights.5. The coring system of claim 3 , wherein the weight is a single part.6. The coring system of claim 2 , further comprising a depth compensating unit that compensates for the actual depth of the coring part claim 2 , using data of the tilt meter and the depth meter.7. A method that compensates for a tilt of a coring part in a coring system including a coring part with a core to be filled with an object to be cored claim 2 , a driving unit controlling up-down movement of the coring part claim 2 , and a rope connecting the coring part with the driving unit claim 2 , the method of compensating a depth comprising:measuring a tilt and a depth of the coring part; andcompensating for the actual coring depth of the coring part on the basis of the measured tilt ...

CORING SYSTEM INCLUDING TENSIOMETER AND METHOD OF DECIDING ACCURATE CORING USING THE SAME

The present invention relates to a coring system and a determining method that can determine whether accurate coring was achieved. A coring system according to the present invention includes: a coring part with a core to be filled with an object to be cored; a driving unit controlling upward/downward movement of the coring part; a rope connecting the coring part with the driving unit; and a tensiometer measuring tension in the rope. 1. A coring system comprising:a coring part with a core to be filled with an object to be cored;a driving unit controlling upward/downward movement of the coring part;a rope connecting the coring part with the driving unit; anda tensiometer measuring tension in the rope.2. The coring system of claim 1 , further comprising a determining unit that determines whether accurate coring was achieved by the coring part on the basis of a measurement result by the tensiometer.3. The coring system of claim 2 , wherein the determining unit determines that accurate coring was achieved claim 2 , when tension in returning of the coring part is a predetermined value or more.4. The coring system of claim 2 , wherein the determining unit determines whether accurate coring was achieved claim 2 , by comparing the tension when the coring part is returned with the tension before/after the returning.5. The coring system of claim 4 , wherein the determining unit determines that accurate coring was achieved claim 4 , when the tension in returning of the coring part is larger by a predetermined level than the tension before/after the returning.6. The coring system of claim 1 , further comprising a display unit that displays the measurement value by the tensiometer.7. The coring system of claim 1 , further comprising coring pulleys disposed between the driving unit and the coring part and changing the arrangement direction of the rope to be vertical claim 1 ,wherein the tensiometer measures tension in the rope, between the coring pulleys and the driving unit.8. ...

METHOD FOR MECHANICALLY STABILIZING DEEP SEA SEDIMENTS, MARINE RAW MATERIAL DEPOSITS AND/OR SUBMARINE SLOPE AND/OR CONTROL/CONDITIONING METHOD OF THE HYDRAULIC PROPERTIES OF DEEP SEA SEDIMENTS

A method for mechanically stabilizing deep sea sediments, marine raw material deposits and/or submarine slope and/or to a control/conditioning method for the hydraulic properties of deep sea sediments. A gas hydrate-forming substance is injected into marine or submarine sediments, and gas hydrate sediment composites are formed. 1. A mechanical stabilization method for deep sea sediment , marine raw material deposits , and/or deep sea slope and/or a method for control/conditioning of the hydraulic properties of deep sea sedimentsincludinginjecting a sediment stabilizing amount of a gas hydrate forming substance into marine or submarine sediments, whereby sediment stabilizing gas hydrate sediment composites are formed.2. The stabilizing and/or controlling method according to claim 1 , wherein in the formation of the gas hydrate sediment composites for static loads and low permeability claim 1 , the injecting of the gas hydrate forming substances is carried out in a non-surface wetting fluid phase under water-limited conditions.3. The stabilizing and/or controlling method according to claim 2 , wherein the gas hydrate sediment composites are Ruined rigid claim 2 , stiff claim 2 , low-deformable and low-permeability.4. The stabilizing and/or controlling method according to claim 1 , wherein the formation of gas hydrates occurs at fluid-solid and/or fluid-fluid interfaces and/or pore throats.5. The stabilizing and/or controlling method according to claim 1 , wherein the sediment particles are predominantly positively connected.6. The stabilizing and/or controlling method according to claim 1 , wherein for the formation of the gas hydrate sediment composites for dynamic loads and high permeability claim 1 , the injection of the gas hydrate forming substances occurs in a surface-wetting fluid phase under non-water-limited conditions.7. The stabilizing and/or controlling procedure according to claim 6 , wherein by injecting the gas hydrate forming substances claim 6 , ...

INSTALLATION ASSEMBLY FOR A SUBSEA WELLHEAD

A system for load transfer from a wellhead to the sea bed adjacent a subsea well, including a suction pile for securing to the sea bed, and a wellhead housing assembly having a longitudinal axis and attached to the suction pile, the wellhead housing for subjection to an axial load acting in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, and a bending load acting in a direction not parallel to the longitudinal axis. The system further includes a suction pile connector that transmits the axial load and the bending load from the wellhead housing through the suction pile toward the sea bed, and that is attached to the suction pile, the suction pile connector engaged with the wellhead housing to substantially maintain the relative positions of the wellhead housing and the suction pile. 1. A system for load transfer from a wellhead to the sea bed adjacent a subsea well , comprising:a suction pile for securing to the sea bed;a wellhead housing having a longitudinal axis and attached to the suction pile, the wellhead housing for subjection to an axial load acting in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis; anda suction pile connector that transmits the axial load from the wellhead housing through the suction pile toward the sea bed, and that is attached to the suction pile, the suction pile connector engaged with the wellhead housing to substantially maintain the relative positions of the wellhead housing and the suction pile.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the suction pile connector substantially circumscribes the wellhead housing and has an inner surface defining a recess claim 1 , and wherein the suction pile connector further comprises a dog connector positioned in the recess and movable toward the longitudinal axis of the wellhead housing into engagement with the wellhead housing to restrict relative axial movement between the suction pile connector and the wellhead housing.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the dog connector has teeth extending toward the ...

SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE FLOATING OFFSHORE VESSEL

A semi-submersible floating offshore vessel has a deckbox structure with a main deckbox bottom extending underneath a lower deck. The deckbox structure includes a recessed cellar deck structure that protrudes below the main deckbox bottom, which recessed cellar deck structure has a cellar deck bottom wall that is closed and wave impact resistant and which recessed cellar deck structure has a peripheral wall that is closed and wave impact resistant. The peripheral wall extends between an outer perimeter of the cellar deck bottom wall and the main deckbox bottom of the deckbox structure. The moonpool extends through the recessed cellar deck structure. Seen in plan view, the recessed cellar deck structure includes a number of pointed wave crest splitting sections. 116-. (canceled)17. A semi-submersible floating offshore vessel , said vessel comprising:a deckbox structure;one or more buoyant pontoons; andmultiple buoyant support columns projecting upwards from the one or more buoyant pontoons and supporting thereon the deckbox structure;wherein the deckbox structure comprises an upper deck, a lower deck, and a main deckbox bottom,wherein the main deckbox bottom extends underneath said lower deck, the main deckbox bottom being closed and wave impact resistant, and the main deckbox bottom connecting to the buoyant support columns,wherein a moonpool extends through said deckbox structure, said moonpool having a lower moonpool opening,wherein, seen in a plan view, multiple of said multiple buoyant support columns are arranged around the moonpool, so that a pair of adjacent buoyant support columns define an intercolumn space therebetween,wherein the deckbox structure comprises a recessed cellar deck structure that protrudes below the main deckbox bottom, the recessed cellar deck structure having a cellar deck bottom wall that is closed and wave impact resistant, and the recessed cellar deck structure having a peripheral wall that is closed and wave impact resistant, wherein ...

MULTI-OPERATIONAL MULTI-DRILLING SYSTEM

A system comprising a drilling platform having a central focus, a plurality of wellbay accesses positioned along a wellbay access perimeter surrounding the central focus, a drilling module, and a peripheral skidding system defining a skidding perimeter surrounding the central focus. Each of the plurality of wellbay accesses is associated with a wellbay substantially therebelow. The peripheral skidding system is operable to align the drilling module with one or more of the plurality of wellbay accesses, wherein the peripheral skidding system is positioned at an elevation higher than the plurality of wellbay accesses. 1. A system comprising:a drilling platform having a central focus;a plurality of wellbay accesses positioned along a wellbay access perimeter surrounding the central focus, wherein each of the plurality of wellbay accesses is associated with a wellbay substantially therebelow;a drilling module; anda peripheral skidding system defining a skidding perimeter surrounding the central focus, wherein the peripheral skidding system is operable to align the drilling module with one or more of the plurality of wellbay accesses, wherein the peripheral skidding system is positioned at an elevation higher than the plurality of wellbay accesses.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the central focus is not an integral part of the peripheral skidding system.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the peripheral skidding system further comprises at least two spaced-apart rails defining the skidding perimeter.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the central focus comprises a setback and racking system configured to feed tubulars in substantially the direction of each of the plurality of wellbay accesses.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the peripheral skidding system is located on a main deck of the drilling platform and wherein the setback and racking system is positioned at least partially below the main deck.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the drilling module comprises ...

WIRELINE CORING RECOVERY SYSTEM OF A SEAFLOOR DRILLING RIG AND METHOD OF USING SAME

There is provided a wireline coring recovery system of a seafloor drilling rig, including: a winch, a rope, a submersible tension sensor, a cover, a main shaft and a catcher. One end of the rope is wound on the winch, and the other end of the rope is connected to an upper end of the catcher after the rope passes over a first pulley provided below the submersible tension sensor and then through a tapered hole on the cover. The catcher is provided in a center hole of the main shaft. The present application further provides a method of using the wireline coring recovery system. By the cooperation of the compression rod skewed teeth, the first rotating core skewed teeth, the second rotating core skewed teeth and the compression spring, the inner core barrel is readily recovered or released. 1. A wireline coring recovery system of a seafloor drilling rig , comprising: a winch , a rope , a submersible tension sensor , a cover , a main shaft and a catcher;wherein the cover is provided on a drilling power head; a center hole of the cover is communicated with a center hole of the main shaft which is provided on the drilling power head; a first bracket is provided on the cover to support the submersible tension sensor; the first bracket is connected to a first pulley via a connecting rod; the submersible tension sensor is provided on the connecting rod; one end of the rope is wound on the winch, and the other end of the rope is connected to an upper end of the catcher after the rope passes over the first pulley and then through a top hole on the cover; and the catcher is located in the center hole of the main shaft;the catcher comprises an anti-stuck mechanism, a weight rod, a compression rod, a fixed guide tube, a rotatable ferrule, a compression spring, a steel ball seat and a plurality of steel balls; wherein the anti-stuck mechanism is provided at an upper end of the weight rod and connected to the other end of the rope; the compression rod is fixed at a lower end of the ...

HEAVE COMPENSATED MANAGED PRESSURE DRILLING

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, system and methods for controlling borehole pressure in a MPD system to compensate for heave effects on a drilling rig are provided. The systems and method described herein involve calculating and implementing set points for two or more MPD system components in real time. These MPD components that are controlled via the dynamic set points may include a choke, a backpressure pump (BPP), a rig pump diverter (RPD), a continuous circulation device, one or more mud pumps, a pressure relief system, or some combination thereof. By calculating and providing these set points in real-time during various well and drilling operations, non-productive time, well control events, and costs to remedy issues resulting from improper pressure levels within the borehole may be mitigated or avoided. 1. A method , comprising:receiving, at a processor, one or more input variables associated with one or more characteristics of a well during a first time period;calculating a first choke set point based on the one or more input variables received during the first time period;determining whether the first choke set point is valid based on a predetermined expected range of choke set points for the well; andtransmitting the first choke set point to a choke controller associated with a choke manifold of a managed pressure drilling (MPD) system, when the first choke set point is determined to be valid.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:calculating a first backpressure pump or rig pump diverter (BPP/RPD) set point based on the one or more input variables received during the first time period;determining whether the first BPP/RPD set point is valid based on a predetermined expected range of BPP/RPD set points for the well; andtransmitting the first BPP/RPD set point to a BPP/RPD controller for controlling a flow rate of fluid through a BPP/RPD component of the MPD system, when the first BPP/RPD set point is determined to be valid.3 ...

FLUID TRANSFER DEVICE USABLE IN MANAGED PRESSURE AND DUAL GRADIENT DRILLING

A fluid transfer device for use in wellbore drilling includes at least one pressure vessel having a fluid port at a bottom thereof for entry and discharge of one of a working fluid or a power fluid and a fluid port at a top thereof for entry and discharge of the other of the power fluid or the working fluid. The pressure vessel has a barrier fluid between the power fluid and the working fluid. Valves are coupled to the power fluid port for selective introduction of the power fluid into the at least one pressure vessel. Valves are coupled to the working fluid port such that the working fluid is constrained to flow in only one direction. 1. A fluid transfer device for use in wellbore drilling , comprising:at least one pressure vessel having at least one fluid port proximate bottom thereof for entry and discharge of one of a working fluid or a power fluid and at least one fluid port proximate a top thereof for entry and discharge the other one of a power fluid or a working fluid;wherein the pressure vessel has a barrier fluid disposed between the power fluid and the working fluid, the barrier fluid having a specific gravity intermediate a specific gravity of the power fluid and a specific gravity of the working fluid, the power fluid having a different specific gravity than the working fluid;valves coupled to the power fluid port for selective introduction of the power fluid into the at least one pressure vessel; andvalves coupled to the working fluid port such that the working fluid is constrained to flow in only one direction.2. The fluid transfer device of further comprising a flow diffuser proximate a top of the interior of the at least one pressure vessel to reduce jetting of the power fluid and consequent mixing of the power fluid and the working fluid.3. The fluid transfer device of wherein the barrier fluid is phobic with respect to the power fluid.4. The fluid transfer device of wherein the barrier fluid is phobic with respect to the working fluid.5. The fluid ...

SEDIMENT CORE-DRILLING PROCESS FOR SUBMARINE WIRE-LINE CORING DRILL RIG

Disclosed is a sediment core-drilling process for a submarine wire-line coring drill rig, including 1) lowering the drill rig; 2) drilling in a pressure-suction mode; 3) drilling in a rotation-pressure-suction mode; 4) cutting sediment cores; 5) recovering a core inner tube; 6) cleaning bottom of hole; 7) punching before adding a drill pipe; 8) lowering another core inner tube; 9) adding the drill pipe; 10) punching after adding the drill pipe; 11) repeating the steps 2)-10) until a given hole depth is reached; 12) recovering the drill pipe and a wire-line coring outer tube drilling tool; 13) recovering the submarine wire-line coring drill rig. The core-drilling process provided herein is suited to working conditions without mud lubrication and mud protection for hole wall. This invention has advantages of low disturbance and high efficiency in coring and is suitable for remote operation. 1. A sediment core-drilling process for a submarine wire-line coring drill rig , comprising:(1) arranging a plurality of drill pipes and a plurality of inner tubes on a storage rack of a drill rig; placing an inner tube that is hollow into an outer tube drilling tool; lifting the drill rig into the sea; leveling and supporting the drill rig by leveling-feet below the drill rig after the drill rig arrives at a surface of seabed sediments;(2) switching a reversing valve to allow an inlet of a rodless cavity of a seawater suction cylinder to communicate with an inner hole of a drill pipe; keeping the drill rig to drill in a pressure-suction mode; passing force from a drilling power head to the drill pipe and the outer tube drilling tool to drive a thin-walled annular cutting blade at a font of the inner tube to cut into seabed sediments at a speed of 20±2 mm/s; and drawing seawater from the drill pipe by the seawater suction cylinder, wherein a volume of the drawn seawater is equal to a volume of a sediment core sample in the inner tube;(3) switching on the drilling power head when a ...

Drilling Rig and Method of Operating It

A drilling rig which provides information, which may be used to detect abnormal drilling mud backflow, comprising: a drill string for drilling a borehole comprising a drill bit at its end, structure for pumping drill mud down the borehole inside the drill string through the drill bit, and up the borehole on an outside of the drill string, a riser surrounding the drill string above the borehole, an annulus enclosed between the riser and the drill string forming a passageway for drill mud rising from the bottom of the borehole on the outside of the drill string structure for measuring a level of the drill mud inside the annulus inside the riser above the borehole, comprising: a first pressure measurement device for measuring a first pressure prevailing inside the annulus at a first height and a second pressure measurement device for measuring a second pressure prevailing inside the annulus at a second height, structure for determining a density of the drill mud, based on a ratio of a pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure and a product of a height difference between the first and the second height and the constant of gravity, and means for determining the level, based on a ratio of the first pressure and a product of the density and the constant of gravity and/or based on a ratio of the second pressure and a product of the density and the constant of gravity.

Managed pressure drilling system having well control mode

A method of drilling a subsea wellbore includes drilling the subsea wellbore and, while drilling the subsea wellbore: measuring a flow rate of the drilling fluid injected into a tubular string; measuring a flow rate of returns; comparing the returns flow rate to the drilling fluid flow rate to detect a kick by a formation being drilled; and exerting backpressure on the returns using a first variable choke valve. The method further includes, in response to detecting the kick: closing a blowout preventer of a subsea pressure control assembly (PCA) against the tubular string; and diverting the flow of returns from the PCA, through a choke line having a second variable choke valve, and through the first variable choke valve.

FLOATING OFFSHORE FACILITY AND A METHOD FOR DRILLING A WELL

A floating offshore facility for offshore hydrocarbon production, comprising an upper deck, a lower deck, a well bay comprising a plurality of drilling slots and a plurality of production slots surrounding said drilling slots, a cart supporting a drilling riser and being movable together with said drilling riser inside the opening of the plurality of the drilling slots, and a drilling rig movable above the well bay to drill the well through the drilling riser. 1. A floating offshore facility for shore hydrocarbon production , wherein the offshore facility comprises:an upper deck and a lower deck,a well bay located on the lower deck, said well bay being composed of a plurality of drilling slots and a plurality of production slots surrounding said drilling slots, each production slot being adapted to receive a production riser after a well is completed at a drilling slot neighbour of said production slot, the plurality of drilling slots forming one opening inside the lower deck,a cart located between the upper and lower deck, said cart supporting a drilling riser and being movable together with said drilling riser inside said one opening of the plurality of the drilling slots, anda drilling rig located above the upper deck, said drilling rig being movable above the well bay so as to be positioned in alignment above the cart to allow to drill the well in using the drilling riser inside the drilling slot.2. The facility according to claim 1 , further comprising a blow out preventer device located inside the cart and connected above the drilling riser so as said blow out preventer device can be moved by the cart together with the drilling riser without disconnecting it from the drilling riser.3. The facility according to claim 1 , wherein the cart is rested upon skid rails on the lower deck so as to be supported vertically above the lower deck and so as to be movable longitudinally according to a bay direction claim 1 , and wherein the cart is laterally in contact with ...

Drilling System and Method

A method for managed pressure drilling comprising: extending a drilling riser () with a drill string () from a floating installation () to a subsea blow-out preventer stack (); providing a first fluid in the drilling riser annulus () and a second fluid in a fluid conduit () extending from the floating installation (), where the first fluid has a higher density than the second fluid; circulating the second fluid through a control valve () which is fluidly connected to the fluid conduit () and operating the control valve () to apply a surface back-pressure so as to obtain a pre-determined, desired combined hydrostatic and frictional circulation pressure below the subsea blow-out preventer stack (). 1. A method for managed pressure drilling , comprising the steps of:extending a drilling riser having a drill string therein from a floating installation to a location on a seafloor, the drilling riser being fluidly connected to a subsea blow-out preventer stack and equipped with a first fluid conduit extending from the floating installation to a lower region of the drilling riser, the first fluid conduit being fluidly connected with a drilling riser annulus, a second fluid conduit and a third fluid conduit extending from the floating installation and fluidly connected to the subsea blow-out preventer stack;providing a first fluid in the drilling riser annulus and a second fluid in the second fluid conduit and/or the third fluid conduit, wherein the first fluid has a higher density than the second fluid;circulating the second fluid through a control valve which is fluidly connected to the second fluid conduit and/or third fluid conduit; andoperating the control valve to apply a surface back-pressure so as to obtain a pre-determined, combined hydrostatic and frictional circulation pressure below the subsea blow-out preventer stack.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:circulating the first fluid down the first fluid conduit and up the drilling riser annulus.3. The ...

UNDERWATER DRILLING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROCURING AND ANALYZING GROUND SAMPLES OF A BED OF A BODY OF WATER

The invention relates to underwater drilling for procuring and analyzing ground samples of a bed of a body of water. An underwater drilling device placed onto a bed of the body of water. By a drill drive a drill rod composed of at least one tubular drill rod element is drilled into the bed of the body of water in a first drilling step, wherein a drill core is received in a receiving part in the tubular drill rod element. The receiving part with the drill core is deposited in a storage place of a storage area on the base frame. Subsequently, one further drilling step is carried out with a further drill rod element. By means of sensor means at least one physical and/or chemical property of the drill core is determined. data on the storage place of the drill core in the second storage area. 110.-. (canceled)11. Underwater drilling device for procuring and analyzing ground samples of a bed of a body of water , havinga base frame which is designed for lowering into a body of water and for placing onto the bed of the body of water,a drill drive for rotationally driving a drill rod which is composed of tubular drill rod elements, wherein the drill drive is supported in a vertically movable manner along a drilling axis between a lower borehole opening and an upper retracted position,a storage area on the base frame for storing the individual tubular drill rod elements for assembly of the drill rod, wherein a receiving part for a drill core is in each case held in a releasable manner in the drill rod elements, and for storing the receiving parts with the obtained drill cores as a ground sample,a supply means, with which individual drill rod elements can be supplied from the first storage area to the drilling axis in order to form the drill rod, anda removal means for removing a receiving part with drill core from the drill rod and for depositing in a specific storage place in the storage area,whereinat least one sensor means is arranged, which is designed for determining at ...

ARCTIC DRILLING PROCESS

A process for drilling a well into the seafloor at an offshore drilling location, in particular in arctic regions, the process comprising: drilling a top hole part of the well during a winter season where the water at the drilling location is at least partly covered by ice; and initiating drilling a lower part of the well extending into a hydrocarbon-bearing formation during a subsequent off-winter season where the water is less ice infested than during the winter season. 1. A process for drilling a well into the seafloor at an offshore drilling location , the process comprising:drilling a top hole part of the well during a winter season where the water at the drilling location is at least partly covered by ice;initiating drilling a lower part of the well extending into a hydrocarbon-bearing formation during a subsequent off-winter season where the water is less ice infested than during the winter season.2. A process according to ; wherein the winter season comprises a period of the calendar year where the ice concentration at the drilling location is at least 3/10 or higher claim 1 , such as 5/10 or higher claim 1 , such as 7/10 or higher claim 1 , e.g. 8/10 or higher claim 1 , such as 9/10 or higher.3. A process according to or ; wherein the winter season comprises a period of the calendar year where ice thickness exceeds 0.1 m claim 1 , such as 0.3 m claim 1 , such as 0.5 m claim 1 , such as 1 m claim 1 , such as 2 m 0.5 m claim 1 , such as 1 m claim 1 , such as 2 m.4. A process according to any one of the preceding claims claim 1 , wherein the winter season starts later than 1 October claim 1 , such as later than 1 November claim 1 , such as no later than 1 December.5. A process according to any one of the preceding claims claim 1 , wherein the off-winter season starts when the ice concentration reaches a level below 4/10 claim 1 , such as below 3/10 such as below 2/10 claim 1 , such as below 1/10.6. A process according to any one of the preceding claims; ...

Offshore Production Systems with Top Tensioned Tendons for Supporting Electrical Power Transmission

An offshore production system includes a surface vessel, a tubular tendon extending between the surface vessel and a lower connection system disposed at a seabed, the riser coupled to the surface vessel with an upper connection system, and an electrical cable extending through a central passage of the tubular tendon, wherein the upper connection system comprises a connector that physically supports the electrical cable. 1. An offshore production system , comprising:a surface vessel;a tubular tendon extending between the surface vessel and a lower connection system disposed at a seabed, the tubular tendon coupled to the surface vessel with an upper connection system; andan electrical cable extending through a central passage of the tubular tendon;wherein the upper connection system comprises a connector that physically supports the electrical cable,a cooling system including a cooling joint disposed subsea along the tubular tendon wherein the cooling joint comprises a first port configured to vent sea water from central passage and allow cooling of the electrical cable through natural convection.2. The offshore production system of claim 1 , wherein the surface vessel comprises a floating platform.3. The offshore production system of claim 1 , wherein the tubular tendon comprises a top-tension riser.4. The offshore production system of claim 1 , wherein the connector comprises an armor pot connector.5. The offshore production system of claim 1 , wherein the cooling system includes a pump configured to pump fluid through the central passage to cool the electrical cable.6. The offshore production system of claim 5 , wherein the pump is positioned on the surface vessel.7. The offshore production system of claim 5 , wherein the pump is positioned subsea.8. The offshore production system of claim 1 , wherein the cooling joint comprises a second port configured to allow sea water to enter a passage of the cooling joint.9. An offshore production system claim 1 , comprising: ...

DRILLING OR WORK-OVER RIG COMPRISING AN OPERATIONAL CONTROL AND/OR STATE UNIT AND A COMPUTER-IMPLEMENTED METHOD OF PROVIDING OPERATIONAL CONTROL AND/OR STATE

A drilling or work-over vessel () is disclosed comprising a number of operational equipment (), wherein the drilling or work-over vessel comprises at least one operational control and/or state unit () comprising at least one processing unit (), wherein the at least one operational control and/or state unit () comprises or are in connection with a memory and/or storage (), and at least one sensor unit (), wherein the at least one sensor unit () is adapted to obtain one or more measured physical values and to provide data representing the one or more measured physical values and/or derived values thereof to the at least one operational control and/or state unit (), the memory and/or storage () comprises a data representation of a computational physics model of at least a part of the drilling or work-over rig, and the at least one processing unit () is adapted to derive data representing an estimation of one or more physical states (such as defined by limits of forces, relative motion between operational equipment and vessel, or between other two pieces of operational equipment) estimated to act on at least one operational equipment () in response to the data representing the one or more measured physical values and/or derived values thereof as provided by the at least one sensor unit (). 1. A floating vessel for oil drilling or work-over of subsea wells , comprising:at least one operational equipment configured for use in drilling or work-over operations, wherein the at least one operational equipment is operable in a first state with normal operation and in a second state with restricted operation;a plurality of sensor units configured to obtain data associated with a general state of the vessel;a control system configured to receive the obtained data from the sensor units;wherein the control system, based on the obtained data received from the sensor units, is adapted to classify the obtained data associated with the general state of the vessel to be within a safe ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING PRESSURE IN A WELLBORE

A method for drilling a subsea well from a rig through a subsea wellhead below the rig includes employing a single gradient or dual gradient drilling system that includes a drill string that extends from the rig into the well and surface mud pumps for pumping drilling fluid through the drill string and into a well annulus of the well. The drilling system includes a subsea rotating device for conducting the drilling fluid from the well annulus and through a solids processing unit. A subsea pump then conducts the drilling fluid from the solids processing unit to a return line back to the rig. The surface mud pump and subsea pump are staged in coordination to trap pressure and/or remove pressure in the well annulus to maintain a selected pressure gradient in the well annulus. 1. A system for drilling a subsea well from a rig through a subsea wellhead below the rig , the system comprising:(a) a drill string adapted to convey drilling fluid therein and having a drill bit at an end of the drill string, the drill string extending from the rig into the well;(b) a surface mud pump positioned adjacent the rig, the surface mud pump configured for conducting drilling fluid through the drill string from the rig to the drill bit in the well;(c) a riser for internally receiving the drill string such that a riser annulus is defined between the drill string and the riser, wherein the riser has a first end coupled to the rig;(d) a subsea rotating device located in the riser and coupled to a second end of the riser for sealing the riser annulus and separating riser fluid above the subsea rotating device and drilling fluid below the subsea rotating device;(e) the well annulus on the exterior of the drill string, the well annulus extending from the bottom of the well to the subsea rotating device, wherein the well annulus is isolated from the riser annulus by the subsea rotating device such that the pressure in the well annulus can be isolated from the pressure in the riser annulus; and ...

Mousehole apparatus

A mousehole apparatus having a main body configured for holding a drill pipe or similar elongate element, includes a carrier connected to a deck structure and having a support region adapted for releasable supportive interaction with an abutment element on the main body. The carrier comprises guiding devices for the main body and movement means operable to move the main body with respect to the carrier.

Device and method for controlling return flow from a bore hole

There is provided a device and method for control of return flow from a borehole ( 18 ) where drill fluid is supplied from a surface rig ( 16 ) via a multi section drill string ( 4 ) to a bottom hole assembly ( 18 ), the drill pipe sections ( 6 ) having tool joints ( 8 ) that include an enlarged outer diameter portion ( 9 ), and where an annulus ( 12 ) is formed between a pipe ( 2 ) and the drill string ( 4 ), and where the annulus ( 12 ) is in fluid communication with or forms part of a return path ( 40 ) for the drill fluid, and where a choke ( 1 ) is positioned in the annulus ( 12 ), and where the length (L) of the choke ( 1 ) exceeds the distance (M) between the enlarged outer diameter portion ( 9 ) of two adjacent tool joints ( 8 ).

MARITIME DRILLING WITH FLUID REVERSE CIRCULATION WITHOUT USING DRILLING RISER

The present invention refers to a method of drilling a marine wellbore with fluid reverse circulation without using drilling riser tubulars. In reverse circulation drilling, the fluid return with gravels occurs inside the drill string () and the injection of clean fluid is done through the annular of the well, so that, having a rotating head over the BOP (), or inside it, the use of riser tubulars as a flow line for the fluid return with gravels is disposed, using instead the drill string (). 1. METHOD OF DRILLING A MARITIME WELLBORE WITH FLUID REVERSE CIRCULATION WITHOUT USING DRILLING RISER TUBULARS , characterized by drilling operations without riser and with reverse circulation , according to the following steps:{'b': 12', '11', '13, 'Pumping the drilling fluid through the injection flexible line (), supported on the reel (), injecting it below the underwater rotating head with double seal ();'}{'b': 14', '15, 'The drilling fluid must go through the cased bore annular () and through the open wellbore annular ();'}{'b': '16', 'The drilling fluid must then enter through the drill bit (), taking with it cut gravel during drilling;'}{'b': '17', 'The drilling fluid must return through the drill string ().'}21931. METHOD OF DRILLING A MARITIME WELLBORE WITH FLUID REVERSE CIRCULATION WITHOUT USING DRILLING RISER TUBULARS claim 1 , according to the sequence defined in claim 1 , characterized by lowering the BOP () using a laying column ().31922. METHOD OF DRILLING A MARITIME WELLBORE WITH FLUID REVERSE CIRCULATION WITHOUT USING DRILLING RISER TUBULARS claim 1 , according to the sequence defined in claim 1 , characterized by lowering the BOP () using a cable ().4191211. METHOD OF DRILLING A MARITIME WELLBORE WITH FLUID REVERSE CIRCULATION WITHOUT USING DRILLING RISER TUBULARS claim 2 , according to claim 2 , characterized in that the BOP () is lowered simultaneously with the flexible lines () from a similar reel ().51211. METHOD OF DRILLING A MARITIME WELLBORE WITH FLUID ...

SELF SEALING JETTING VALVE

An apparatus for use in marine platform jacking is disclosed herein. In one aspect, a jetting valve includes a valve body with a piston assembly disposed therein. The piston assembly is selectively operated to open and close the valve. A biasing member is coupled to the piston assembly. The piston assembly includes a first piston and a second piston. The dual pistons, in cooperation with the biasing member, allow the valve to self-seal thereby preventing entry of a fluid which is external to the valve. 1. A jetting valve , comprising:a valve body; a first piston;', 'a second piston; and', 'a shaft coupled to the first piston and the second piston; and, 'a piston assembly disposed within the body, the piston assembly comprisingan insert coupled to the valve body having a portion of the shaft therethrough, wherein the insert and the first piston define a first volume and a second volume within the valve body.2. The jetting valve of claim 1 , further comprising a spring coupled to the shaft and the insert.3. The jetting valve of claim 1 , further comprising:a cap; anda port disposed within the cap, wherein the second piston is disposed within the port, the second piston selectively allowing fluid communication between the second volume and the port.4. The jetting valve of claim 1 , wherein the insert comprises a plurality of flow apertures therethrough claim 1 , the first volume and the second volume in fluid communication through the flow apertures.5. The jetting valve of claim 4 , wherein the first piston selectively allows access to claim 4 , and blocks access to claim 4 , the plurality of flow apertures.6. The jetting valve of claim 3 , wherein a seal is disposed between the valve body and the cap.7. The jetting valve of claim 3 , further comprising a shaft guide disposed between the cap and the insert.8. A valve cartridge claim 3 , comprising:an end piece having a port therethrough;a housing member coupled to the end piece;a first piston disposed in the port;a ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CASING DRILLING WITH A SUBSEA CASING DRIVE

A system and method for casing drilling with a subsea casing drive adapted to engage at the outer circumference of the casing string, to impart a linear force and/or torque to the casing string, and such a subsea casing drive per se are disclosed. During drilling, the subsea casing drive is provided in a subsea unit further comprising a blowout preventer, a pressure control device and a mud pump with an outlet to a mud hose connectable to a surface vessel. The wellbore is drilled by driving the bottom hold assembly, BHA, and the casing string into the wellbore by the subsea casing drive, while discharging mud and cuttings via the mud hose and supplying mud to the BHA from the mud circulation system on the vessel via the landing string and casing string. 1. A method for casing drilling a deepwater subsea slim hole wellbore wherein use is made of a surface vessel and of a subsea unit , the subsea unit comprising:a subsea blowout preventer;a subsea pressure control device;a subsea mud pump with an outlet to a mud hose connectable to the surface vessel; anda subsea casing drive, adapted to engage at the outer circumference of the casing string, to impart a linear force and/or torque to the casing string,the method comprising the steps of:installing the subsea unit onto a wellhead;providing a bottom hole assembly, BHA with a drill bit at a lower end of a casing joint;assembling multiple casing joints to form a casing string while suspending the casing string from the vessel;connecting a swivel to a top end of the casing string;connecting a landing string to the swivel, the swivel allowing rotation of the casing string with respect to the landing string;lowering the interconnected BHA and casing string into the subsea unit; anddrilling the wellbore, wherein the drill bit of the BHA is rotated and wherein the casing string is driven by the subsea casing drive, while discharging mud and cuttings via the mud hose and supplying mud to the BHA from a mud circulation system on ...