Patent ID: 6367804
Filing Date: 2002-04-09
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A variable bore packer used in a ram-type blowout preventer for oil and gas drilling operations, comprising:a packer member molded of elastomeric material having a central semi-circular opening sized to fit closely about a tubular member; a plurality of pillar inserts molded within said elastomeric material around said central semi-circular opening; said packer member and said plurality of pillar inserts being molded into a unitary structure allowing said plurality of pillar inserts to move and seat against different diameter tubular members to prevent extrusion of said elastomeric material between said pillar inserts and the tubular member; said unitary structure is molded to form a pair of side packers integral with said packer member; said pillar inserts include a top plate, a bottom plate and a spacer pin positioned therebetween; and, said spacer pin allows independent rotational movement between said spacer pin and at least one of said top plate and said bottom plate.