Patent ID: 8047283
Filing Date: 2011-11-01
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A method of connecting threaded tubulars for use in a wellbore, comprising: engaging a first threaded tubular using an elevator mounted to a housing of a torque sub, wherein the torque sub housing has a bracket coupling the housing to a rail of the drilling rig; gripping the first threaded tubular using a torque head or spear connected to a shaft of the torque sub; engaging a thread of the first tubular with a thread of a second tubular using a top drive connected to the torque shaft and the torque head or spear gripping the first tubular, wherein the top drive is also coupled to the rail separately from the torque sub housing; rotating the first threaded tubular relative to the second threaded tubular using the top drive connected to the torque shaft and the torque head or spear gripping the first tubular, thereby making up the threaded connection; measuring a torque exerted on the first tubular by the top drive using the torque shaft; wirelessly transmitting the measured torque from the torque shaft to the housing; and stopping rotation of the first threaded tubular when the threaded connection is complete.