Selectively bridged expansion joint

Abstract

This invention relates to a selectively telescopable joint carryable in a tubular conduit having upper and lower conduit members which are extendable within a subterranean oil or gas well. The apparatus comprises an outer cylindrical housing with an inner cylindrical body carried therein. One of the housing and the body is connectable to the upper member while the other of the housing and the body is connectable to the lower member. Seal means are carried on one of the housing and the body and are slidable along the other of same to prevent fluid communication during telescopic motion. Engagement profiles are defined on each of the housing and the body. A bridging member is extendable within the joint and between the housing and the body. Engaging means, such as a collet, are carried on the bridging member and are extendably and selectively secured within the profiles whereby the housing and the body are in relative locked position. Means for urging and removing the engaging means out of the engagement profiles are provided whereby the housing and the body may be selectively telescoped relative to one another.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.