Well rig with tubing anti-buckling system and method

Abstract

A well rig can include a mast, and multiple guide assemblies distributed along the mast. The guide assemblies are configured to laterally support a tubular string. A method of operating a well rig can include mounting multiple guide assemblies spaced apart along a length of a mast of the well rig, and actuating each of the guide assemblies between open and closed configurations. In the open configuration the guide assembly does not laterally support a tubular string, and in the closed configuration the guide assembly laterally supports the tubular string. Another method can include mounting multiple guide assemblies spaced apart along a length of a mast of a well rig, and displacing a top drive along the mast. The guide assemblies open in succession as the top drive descends along the mast, and the guide assemblies close in succession as the top drive ascends along the mast.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.