Patent ID: 7654313
Filing Date: 2010-02-02
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A method for drilling and running casing into a well, the method comprising: (a) providing a rig including a rig floor, a rotary table, a derrick extending upwardly from the rig floor and a hook suspended from the derrick; (b) supporting with the hook a string of drill pipe that includes a plurality of drill collars and rotating the rotary table to drill the well with the string of drill pipe, and removing the string of drill pipe from the well once a total depth is reached; (c) for running casing, providing a torque generating device and a casing gripping device supported on the hook; (d) making up and installing from the string of drill pipe at least one drill collar stand to form a torque reaction guide extending upwardly above the rig floor and in force communication with the rig; and (e) securing a torque frame between the torque generating device and the drill collar stand to transfer forces from the torque generating device to the drill collar stand and therethrough to the rig; (f) supporting a first joint of casing in the well with the rotary table; (g) lifting a second joint of casing and positioning a lower end of the second joint of casing in engagement with an upper end of the first joint of casing, gripping a wall surface of the second joint of casing with the casing gripping device, and rotating the casing gripping device grippers and the second joint of casing with the torque generating device and reacting torque imposed to the drill collar stand to secure the second joint of casing to the first joint of casing; and (h) repeating steps (f) and (g) until the casing is installed in the well.