Patent ID: 8627890
Filing Date: 2014-01-14
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A method for drilling a wellbore, comprising: drilling the wellbore by advancing a tubular string longitudinally into the wellbore; stopping drilling by holding the tubular string longitudinally stationary; adding a tubular joint or stand of joints to the tubular string while injecting drilling fluid into a side port of the tubular string, rotating the tubular string, and holding the tubular string longitudinally stationary; resuming drilling of the wellbore after adding the joint or stand; opening the port before injecting drilling fluid into the port; stopping injection of drilling fluid into the port after adding the joint or stand; closing the port after stopping injection of drilling fluid into the port; engaging the tubular string with a clamp before opening the port; and disengaging the clamp from the tubular string after closing the port, wherein: