Method and apparatus of hot tapping multiple coaxial or nested strings of underwater piping and/or tubing for overturned wells or platforms
AssigneeTetra Applied Technologies, LLC
InventorsHarry McGraw, Leslie M. Bland, Daniel S. Bangert, Mark F. Gravouia, Rizal Masingkan
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method and apparatus for tapping into a pressurized multiple strings of coaxially situated tubulars for wells and/or platforms which have overturned wherein the tapping occurs underwater via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection and an adjustable tapping clamp with adjustable support/locking feet, compression plate with view ports, and angularly adjustable hot tapping system, along with a drill/saw system.
Claims23
A system for hot tapping a plurality of nested pipes including an exterior pipe having a bore and at least one interior pipe contained within the bore comprising:
- (a) a hot tap tool guide assembly having an attachment that enables the assembly to be detachably connected to the exterior pipe, the assembly including at least one plate having a plate opening:
- (b) a hot tapping tool capable of penetrating a selected one or more of the pipes, the tool including a hot tapping tip;
- (c) the assembly including a swiveling connection opening for supporting the hot tapping tip wherein the tip can be articulated angularly relative to the plate from a line that is generally perpendicular to the plate and wherein the tip is extendable through the plate opening.
A method of tapping hot tapping a plurality of nested pipes comprising the steps of
- (a) connecting a clamp to the exterior pipe;
- (b) connecting a hot tapping tool to the clamp;
- (c) angularly adjusting the hot tapping tool in relation to one of the nested pipes, and
- (d) hot tapping at least one of the nested pipes.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.