Patent ID: 7188547
Filing Date: 2007-03-13
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A system for handling tubulars, the system comprising a frame, upper gripper apparatus connected to the frame for gripping a primary tubular, lower gripper apparatus connected to the frame for gripping a secondary member, the upper gripper apparatus and lower gripper apparatus operable so that the lower gripper apparatus grips and holds the secondary member while the upper gripper apparatus grips and holds the primary tubular, the upper gripper apparatus including three movable upper die carriers spaced around the frame, each of the three movable upper die carriers with die apparatus for gripping a tubular, and the lower gripper apparatus including three movable lower die carriers spaced around the frame, each of the three lower movable die carriers with die apparatus for gripping a secondary member, upper movement apparatus for powered movement of the three movable upper die carriers for moving the three movable upper die carriers simultaneously and in synchronization, and lower movement apparatus for powered movement of the three movable lower die carriers for moving the three movable lower die carriers simultaneously and in synchronization.