Pipe joint break-out device

Abstract

A device for rotating a length of pipe to make or break a pipe joint is provided. The device is adapted at its upper end to be connected to a top head drive drilling machine, and at its lower end to be connected to the first threaded pipe in a drill string. The device comprises a central shank, a movable arm and a gripping assembly. The movable arm is hinged to and extends about the central shank, and can move to an open or a closed position with the movement of the device. The gripping assembly is mounted on the movable arm and is adapted to contact the first threaded pipe when the movable arm is in the closed position. The device is rotated by means of the top head drive, causing the pipe joint between the first two threaded pipes in the drill string to be broken. The movable arm then swings open and the first threaded pipe can be disconnected from the device.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.