Abstract:
A drilling rig for use in drilling wells having a top drive with a slide assembly configured to engage, slide on, and react torque to a modular torque track assembly. The modular torque track assembly connects between the top of a derrick and lower structure of the drilling rig. The modular torque track assembly can have a top track, one or more middle tracks, and a bottom track allowing the modular torque track to be various lengths for various applications. The torque track sections are connectable with unique locking devices which allow a man in a suspended sling to quickly and safely make or break each connection. There are no loose parts in the design to accidentally drop and hurt a person below.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation in part of co-pending U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/301,520 filed on Nov. 21, 2011, entitled “TORQUE MEASURING TOP DRIVE,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/420,672, filed on Dec. 7, 2010, entitled “TORQUE MEASURING TOP DRIVE”. These references are hereby incorporated in their entirety herein. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present embodiments generally relate to a drilling rig with a top drive torque track slide assembly, including a modular torque track assembly and a torque track slide assembly having inserts engaged therein without fasteners. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A need exists for a drilling rig with modular torque track assembly that can be configured to have various different lengths, allowing the modular torque track assembly to be adapted for different applications using a quick release fastening device with improved versatility. 
     A need exists for a drilling rig with modular torque track assembly that provides a stronger engagement between adjacent portions of the modular torque track assembly when compared to torque tracks that are connected using bolts and flanges. 
     A need exists for a drilling rig with torque track slide assembly that has inserts that are engaged therein without fasteners, allowing the inserts to be completely worn down without risking engagement between the modular torque track assembly and the fasteners. 
     A need exists for a drilling rig with a torque track slide assembly that can be easily assembled. 
     The present embodiments meet these needs. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The detailed description will be better understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings as follows: 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a drilling rig with an installed top drive torque track slide assembly. 
         FIG. 2  is a front view of an assembled modular track assembly with a top track, two middle tracks, and a bottom track. 
         FIG. 3A  is a front view of a top track. 
         FIG. 3B  is a detail of a suspension and alignment end of the top track. 
         FIG. 4A  is a front view of a middle track. 
         FIG. 4B  is a front view of another embodiment of the middle track. 
         FIG. 5A  is a front view of a bottom track. 
         FIG. 5B  is a front view of another embodiment of the bottom track. 
         FIGS. 6A-6D  depict detailed views of a locking end recess with a locking device. 
         FIG. 7  depicts a torque track slide assembly with inserts. 
         FIG. 8  depicts the torque track slide assembly without the inserts. 
         FIGS. 9A-9B  depict a detail view of an inner portion of the torque track slide assembly. 
         FIGS. 10A-10B  depict another detail view of an inner portion of the torque track slide assembly. 
         FIG. 11  is a detail view of a first insert. 
         FIG. 12  is a detail view of a second insert. 
         FIG. 13  is a detail view of a fourth insert. 
         FIG. 14  is an embodiment of wherein the lifting block has been replaced with two sheaves supporting a pneumatic thread compensator. 
     
    
    
     The present embodiments are detailed below with reference to the listed Figures. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     Before explaining the present apparatus in detail, it is to be understood that the apparatus is not limited to the particular embodiments and that they can be practiced or carried out in various ways. 
     The present embodiments relate to a drilling rig for rotating pipe in a wellbore using a top drive mounted to a derrick or tower, wherein the top drive can be further mounted to a track and slide assembly. 
     The drilling rig includes a derrick centered over the wellbore. The derrick can have a crown and the derrick can be attached to a drilling rig base. At least one crown sheave can be mounted to the crown of the derrick. One or more cables can be mounted to at least one sheave. 
     A lifting block can be connected to the cables. 
     The lifting block can be a solid block. The lifting block can be made from a first sheave mounted on one side of the lifting block and a second sheave mounted to an opposite side of the lifting block with a pneumatic thread compensator disposed between the first and second sheaves 
     A pair of upper links can be connected to the pneumatic thread compensator. 
     A top drive housing can connect to the pair of upper links. A top drive can be suspended from the top drive housing. A pair of lower links can connect to the top drive housing and an elevator can connect to the pair of lower links for engaging a pipe with a bit or a plurality of longitudinally connected pipes with a bit. 
     The top drive in the housing a top drive motor to rotate the pipe or plurality of connected pipes with a bit in the wellbore. 
     The top drive can be suspended from the top drive housing. The top drive has a rotating stem spinably connected with a top drive motor, a heavy thrust bearing disposed about the rotating stem within the top drive housing, an inside blowout preventer connected to the rotating stem and to a saver sub; an upper clamp assembly locking the connection between the rotating stem and the inside blowout preventer, a lower clamp assembly locking the connection between the inside blowout preventer and the saver sub. 
     The top drive, in an embodiment, can sustain 250 tons of static load and 158 tons at 100 RPM, with 35,000 Ft-lbs. max drilling torque with a 170 rpm max. It can be banjo mounted. 
     A drawworks connects to a drawworks motor for raising or lowering the lifting block. A blowout preventer stack can be positioned over the wellbore with the pipe  116  passing through the blowout preventer stack. 
     A mud pump connects to the pipe for use while the drill bit rotates. A power supply powers the drawworks motor and a controller can be in communication with the top drive to operate the top drive, the mud pumps, the hydraulic fluid flow, and other apparatus of the drilling rig. 
     A pair of slips can be disposed on top of the wellbore between the blowout preventer stack and the drill bit. 
     A torque track slide assembly can be mounted to slide on a modular torque track assembly mounted between the crown and the drilling rig floor. The modular torque track assembly can be configured to have various different lengths, allowing the modular torque track assembly to be adapted for different applications. 
     The modular torque track assembly can include connecting pins and unique locking devices, which can provide a stronger engagement between adjacent portions of the modular torque track assembly when compared to torque tracks that are connected using bolts and flanges. 
     The torque track slide assembly can include inserts that are engaged without fasteners. 
     One or more of the inserts can be retained within a slide body of the torque track slide assembly by corner ridges, allowing the inserts to be completely worn down without risking engagement between the modular torque track assembly and fasteners. 
     Other inserts can have fastener recesses, and can be retained within the slide body with insert fasteners. The insert fasteners can extend within the fastener recesses without extending past the fastener recesses. The inserts attached with the insert fasteners can be fully worn down without the insert fasteners engaging the modular torque track assembly, and the inserts retained by the corner ridges can also be fully worn down as they are retained without fasteners. 
     For example, during use of the torque track slide assembly, as the torque track slide assembly slides along the modular torque track assembly, the inserts gradually wear down. If fasteners are used to attach the inserts, the modular torque track assembly can engage the fasteners before the inserts are fully worn down, which would require the inserts to be replaced before the modular torque track assembly engages the fasteners, and therefore before the inserts are fully worn down. 
     As such, one or more of the present embodiments avoid the requirement for early replacement of inserts, and allow for the inserts to be completely worn down before replacement. 
     The inserts can each have a plurality of tabs disposed along one or more edges of the inserts. The tabs can be arranged and configured along the inserts, such that the inserts can fit within the slide body in a single way, therefore a user can easily assemble the inserts within the torque track slide assembly without the risk of error. 
     The torque track slide assembly can be used on various top drives known to those skilled in the art. 
     Top drives, such as for use in oilfields, are power swivels in combination with certain additional features that facilitate torque reaction and pipe handling. 
     A power swivel can be a hydraulic or electric powered rotating device that can be suspended in or on a derrick, and that drives a drill pipe from above the drilling rig floor. 
     The top drive replaces a rotary table. 
     The power swivel can generate torque. That is, the torque track can be arranged such that the swivel torque can be restrained regardless of where the power swivel is vertically positioned in the derrick. Typical top drives on the market can transmit power swivel torque to the torque tracks, imparting torque and at least some side loads to the derrick. 
     One or more embodiments relate to a torque track slide assembly for use in drilling wells, such as gas wells, oil wells, or other wells. 
     The torque track slide assembly can connect to a top drive housing of a top drive. 
     The modular torque track assembly can be configured to connect on a drilling rig between a crown of a derrick and a bottom portion of the drilling rig. 
     The modular torque track assembly has three tracks, a top track, a middle track and a bottom track. In embodiments a plurality of middle tracks can be used connected together. 
     Top Track 
     The top track can have a top track pin end. 
     The top track pin end has two top track connecting pins extending therefrom. Each top track connecting pin can have a top track slot with a top track angled slot surface formed therein. 
     The top track slots can receive threaded locking lugs to lock the top track to the middle track or the bottom track. 
     The top track includes a suspension and alignment end with a top track plate. 
     A plurality of vertical suspension means can be affixed to the top track plate. 
     The top track has a top track body between the top track pin end and the suspension and alignment end. 
     Middle Tracks 
     The modular torque track assembly can have one or more middle tracks. One middle track can be connected to the top track. 
     The middle track can have a middle track pin end with at least two parallel middle track connecting pins. Each middle track connecting pin has a middle track slot therein. 
     A middle track angled slot surface can be formed in each middle track slot. 
     The middle track slots can receive threaded locking lugs to lock the middle track to other tracks, such as to the bottom track or another middle track. 
     The middle track has a middle track locking end with middle track pin holes. The middle track pin holes can be configured to receive the top track connecting pins or to receive the middle track connecting pins from another middle track. 
     One or more embodiments can include a middle track locking end recess with a locking device disposed therein. 
     A middle track body can be disposed between the middle track pin end and the middle track locking end. 
     Bottom Track 
     The modular torque track assembly includes a bottom track with a bottom track locking end. The bottom track can be connected to the middle track or to the top track. 
     The bottom track can have bottom track pin holes configured to receive the middle track connecting pins or to receive the top track connecting pins. 
     In one or more embodiments, the bottom track can have a bottom track locking end recess with a locking device disposed therein. 
     The bottom track can have a bottom end opposite the bottom track locking end. 
     The bottom track can have a bottom track body disposed between the bottom track locking end and the bottom end. 
     Locking Devices 
     The modular torque track assembly can have a plurality of locking devices. Each locking device can be installed in a locking device housing and each locking device can be used to connect two tracks together. 
     In one or more embodiments, each bottom track locking end recess can have one of the locking devices. 
     In an embodiment, each middle track can have a locking device. 
     Each locking device can engage the pair of connecting pins to lock a middle track to a bottom track or a middle track to a top track or a middle track to another middle track. 
     One or more embodiments can include a bottom track and a middle track without locking end recesses, and with the locking devices non-removably secured to each middle track body and each bottom track body, such as with a weld, or another strong fastening means. 
     Each locking device can have a threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends. Each threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends includes a first threaded locking lug. 
     The first threaded locking lug can have a first threaded end, a first non-threaded end with an upper non-angled face, and a first non-threaded end with a lower angled face or a flat face. 
     Each threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends can include a second threaded locking lug mounted opposite the first threaded locking lug. 
     Each second threaded locking lug can have a second threaded end, a second non-threaded end with a lower angled face, and a second non-threaded end with an upper non-angled face or a flat face. 
     Each locking device can have a retaining cap disposed around the threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends. One or more fasteners can secure the retaining cap and the threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends to the locking device housing. 
     The threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends can be rotatable to extend each threaded locking lug, thereby wedging each angled face and each opposing non-angled face between each angled slot surface and the first and second upper flat surfaces. Rotation of the threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends can axially pull and lock together two adjacent tracks of the modular torque track assembly. 
     The torque track slide assembly can include a slide body. 
     The slide body can have a pair of parallel walls, a first side wall and a second side wall. 
     The slide body can have a back wall connecting between the pair of parallel side walls. 
     The slide body can have a first extension connected to the first side wall and disposed parallel to the back wall. 
     The slide body can have a second extension connected to the second side wall and disposed parallel to the back wall. 
     The slide body can have an opening formed axially between the first extension and the second extension. 
     The modular torque track assembly can be configured to be engaged within the opening without engaging the first extension or the second extension. 
     The slide body can have a top plate and a bottom plate that can be connected along an outside surface of the slide body. 
     The top plate and a bottom plate can reduce torque applied to the slide body and secure the slide body to the top drive housing. 
     A plurality of corner ridges can extend axially along the connection of the first side wall and the back wall. 
     A plurality of corner ridges can extend axially along the connection of the second side wall and the back wall. 
     A plurality of corner ridges can extend axially along the connection between first side wall and the first extension. 
     A plurality of corner ridges can extend axially along the connection between the second side wall and the second extension. 
     Each corner ridge can extend within the slide body and at least partially towards the opening. 
     The slide body can have one or more inserts disposed therein. Each insert can have a plurality of interlocking tabs extending therefrom, such as from one or more edges of the insert. 
     Each insert can have a plurality of interlocking spaces. Each interlocking space can be formed between two adjacent interlocking tabs. 
     Adjacent inserts within the slide body can be connected together. For example, the interlocking tabs of one insert can be interlocked within the interlocking spaces of an adjacent insert, and vice versa, thereby interlocking each insert with each adjacent insert. 
     This locking arrangement provides dual locking for the tracks. 
     For example, a first insert can be disposed on an inner surface of the back wall and can be interlocked with a second insert, which can be disposed on an inner surface of the first side wall. 
     The first insert can also be interlocked with a third insert, which can be disposed on an inner surface of the second side wall. 
     The first insert can be interlocked with the plurality of corner ridges that extend axially along the connection of the first side wall and the back wall. The first insert can also be interlocked with the plurality of corner ridges that extend axially along the connection of the second side wall and the back wall. For example, the corner ridges can be engaged within interlocking spaces of the first insert. 
     The slide body can have a fourth insert disposed on an inner surface of the first extension and interlocked with the second insert. 
     The fourth insert can also be interlocked with the plurality of corner ridges that extend axially along the connection of the first side wall and the first extension. 
     The slide body can have a fifth insert disposed on an inner surface of the second extension and interlocking with the third insert. 
     The fifth insert can also be interlocked with the plurality of corner ridges that extend axially along the connection of the second side wall and the second extension. 
     In one or more embodiments, each insert can be made of polyamide, a polymer configured to be non-deforming in the presence of torque, a polytetrafluoroethylene polymer, nylon, TEFLON™, or the like. 
     A plurality of insert fasteners can be engaged through the first extension and the second extension and with the fourth insert and the fifth insert. As such, the plurality of insert fasteners can secure the fourth insert and the fifth insert to the slide body, and the interlocking of the inserts with adjacent inserts and with corner ridges can retain the remainder of the inserts within the slide body. 
     In one or more embodiments, a plurality of holes can be disposed through the back wall and the first side wall at the connection of the back wall and the first side wall. 
     A plurality of holes can be disposed through the back wall and the second side wall at the connection of the back wall and the second side wall. 
     A plurality of holes can be disposed through the first side wall and the first extension at the connection of the first side wall and the first extension. 
     A plurality of holes can be disposed through the second side wall and the second extension at the connection of the second side wall and the second extension. 
     A first reinforcement structure can be disposed about the slide body on a first end of the slide body. A second reinforcement structure can be disposed about the slide body on a second end of the slide body. A third reinforcement structure can be disposed about the slide body between the first reinforcement structure and the second reinforcement structure. 
     Each reinforcement structure can extend along an outside surface of the slide body, such as along the first extension, the first side wall, the back wall, the second side wall, and the second extension. 
     In one or more embodiments, the plurality of corner ridges can each extend from one of the reinforcement structures, the top plate, the bottom plate, or combinations thereof. 
     The plurality of corner ridges can each extend through one of the plurality of holes. 
     Therefore, the slide body can be assembled by engaging the first side wall with the back wall and the first extension. Then the second side wall can be engaged with the back wall and the second extension. The top plate, the bottom plate, and the reinforcement structures, each with corner ridges, can be engaged about the outer surface of the slide body such that the corner ridges extend through the plurality of holes. The first insert can be engaged onto the back wall and retained within the slide body by corner ridges. The second insert and the third insert can be interlocked with the first insert on the first side wall and the second side wall. Also, the fourth insert and the fifth insert can be interlocked with the second insert and the third insert, and then fastened to the first extension and the second extension. 
     The plurality of interlocking tabs, the plurality of interlocking spaces, and the plurality of corner ridges can be configured and arranged such that the inserts can be assembled onto the slide body in a single configuration; thereby preventing incorrect assembly of the torque track slide assembly. 
     In one or more embodiments, the first extension can include a first recess, and the fourth insert can include a first ridge engaged within the first recess. The second extension can include a second recess, and the fifth insert can include a second ridge engaged within the second recess. 
     Each insert fastener can be engaged through the first extension and the second extension to attach the fourth insert to the first extension, and attach the fifth insert to the second extension. The insert fasteners can be bolts. 
     The fourth insert and the fifth insert can each have fastener holes for receiving the insert fasteners. The insert fasteners can extend into the fourth insert and the fifth insert without extending past the first ridge and the second ridge, therefore the inserts of the torque track slide assembly can be worn down without the modular torque track assembly engaging the insert fasteners. 
     In one or more embodiments at least a portion of the interlocking tabs on the second insert can have widths smaller than the other interlocking tabs on the second insert; thereby providing interlocking spaces for the plurality of corner ridges to engage between the interlocking tabs on the fourth insert. 
     In one or more embodiments at least a portion of the interlocking tabs on the third insert can have widths smaller than the other interlocking tabs on the third insert; thereby providing interlocking spaces for the plurality of corner ridges to engage between the interlocking tabs on the fifth insert. 
     Turning now to the Figures,  FIG. 1  shows a drilling rig  16  for use in drilling wells made of a derrick  20  having a crown  18  at end of the derrick  20  and a drilling rig base  22 . 
     A torque track slide assembly  12  slides over a modular torque track assembly  15 . The modular torque track assembly  15  between the crown  18  of the derrick  20  and the drilling rig base  22 . 
     The torque track slide assembly  12  connects to a top drive housing  14  of a top drive  11  contained within the housing. 
     The drilling rig  16  also has a drilling rig base  22  connected to a drilling rig floor substructure  91 . 
     The drilling rig  16  has a lifting block  13  that can be secured to a cable  158 . The cable  158  can extend from the lifting block  13  over at least one sheave  160  mounted to the top of the derrick  20  at the crown  18 . 
     The drawworks  162  can be connected to a drawworks motor  164  for turning the drawworks  162 , and for raising or lowering the lifting block  13 . 
     The drawworks motor  164  can be energized from a power supply  166  such as a hydraulic power supply. 
     The top drive  11  slidingly engages the modular torque track assembly  15  by attaching to the torque track slide assembly  12  and the top drive  11  can be lifted or lowered by the lifting block  13  when pulled by the cables of the drawworks  162  which can be moved by the drawworks motor  164 . 
     A pipe  116   a  can be engaged with the drilling rig  16  at one end and with a drill bit  119  on the other end within the wellbore  8 . 
     A stand of pipes, including pipe  116   c  connected to pipe  116   b  can be maintained in a racking position  190  relative to the drilling rig floor  90 . 
     A hydraulic fluid source  200  for powering the top drive  11  is shown. The hydraulic fluid passes through a conduit  300 . Slips  191  are also shown at the top of the wellbore  8 . 
     A mud pump  71  is shown for engaging the drill pit via the blowout preventer stack  117  over the wellbore  8 . 
     A controller  262  is also shown for operating the top drive  11 , the hydraulic fluid source  200 , the mud pump  71  and other equipment on the drilling rig  16 . 
       FIG. 2  shows an assembled modular torque track assembly  15  with a top track  24  connected to a first middle track  42   a , and a second middle track  42   b  connected to the first middle track  42   a  and to a bottom track  60 . The bottom track  60  can have a bottom end  66  usable with the drilling rig. 
     The top track  24  can be connected to the first middle track  42   a  with a first locking device  70   a . The first middle track  42   a  can be connected to the second middle track  42   b  with a second locking device  70   b . The second middle track  42   b  can be connected to the bottom track  60  with a third locking device  70   c . The locking devices  70   a ,  70   b , and  70   c  can hold adjacent tracks of the modular torque track assembly  15  together. 
     The top track  24  can have a top track plate  36  with a support plate  37  connected thereto, such as at a right angle. The support plate  37  can have a plurality of holes, such as holes  39   a - 39   c , disposed therein for attaching the modular torque track assembly  15  to the crown. 
     A vertical suspension means can be affixed to the plurality of holes  39   a - 39   c  to hold the modular torque track assembly  15  to the crown. Vertical suspension means can include rotating shackles connected through each of the plurality of holes  39   a - 39   c.    
       FIG. 3A  depicts a front view of a detail of the top track  24 , and  FIG. 3B  depicts a detail of the top track plate  36  and the support plate  37 . 
     The support plate  37  can be mounted or welded, such as at a right angle, to the top track plate  36 . 
     The top track plate  36  can be made of plate steel with a thickness ranging from about 1 inch to about 1.5 inches, a length ranging from about 16 inches to about 24 inches, and a width ranging from about 9 inches to about 15 inches. 
     The top track  24  can include a top track pin end  26  with top track connecting pins  28   a  and  28   b . Each top track connecting pin  28   a  and  28   b  can have a top track slot  30   a  and  30   b . Each top track slot  30   a  and  30   b  can have a top track angled slot surface  32   a  and  32   b.    
     The diameter of the top track connecting pins  28   a  and  28   b  can be from about 2 inches to about 3 inches. The length of the top track connecting pins  28   a  and  28   b  can be from about 5 inches to about 6 inches. The top track connecting pins  28   a  and  28   b  can be made of high strength stainless steel, such as 17-4 PH stainless steel. 
     A suspension and alignment end  34  can be on the top track  24  opposite the top track pin end  26 . The suspension and alignment end  34  can have the top track plate  36 , which can cover a top track body  40 , and can extend beyond the top track body  40 . 
     The top track body  40  can have a width less than the track top plate  36 , but can extend beyond a perimeter of the top track connecting pins  28   a  and  28   b.    
     A central indentation  41  can be at the top track pin end  26 . 
     The top track  24  can be made of two hollow rectangular steel pipes, including a first hollow rectangular steel pipe  750  and a second hollow rectangular steel pipe  751 . The hollow rectangular steel pipes  750  and  751  can be welded together, such as with welds  661   a  and  661   b.    
     A structural channel of steel  754  can be welded to the hollow rectangular steel pipes  750  and  751  to align the modular torque track assembly around the torque track slide assembly. Additional welds  752  and  753  can engage the structural channel of steel  754  with the hollow rectangular steel pipes  750  and  751 . 
     One or more vertical suspension means  702   a ,  702   b ,  702   c ,  702   d ,  702   e , and  702   f , such as shackles, can be used to attach the top track  24  to the crown and to other portions of the derrick. 
       FIG. 4A  depicts a middle track  42  having a middle track pin end  44  with a block  45  for supporting two middle track connecting pins  46   a  and  46   b  in the middle track  42 . 
     Each middle track connecting pin  46   a  and  46   b  can have a middle track slot  48   a  and  48   b , which can face each other. The middle track slots  48   a  and  48   b  can extend partially through the middle track connecting pins  46   a  and  46   b . The middle track slots  48   a  and  48   b  can each have a depth of ranging from about 1 inch to about 1.75 inches. 
     Each middle track slot  48   a  and  48   b  can have a middle track angled slot surface  50   a  and  50   b . The slope of each of the middle track angled slot surface  50   a  and  50   b  can range from about 5 degrees to about 15 degrees. 
     The middle track  42  can have a central axis  51 , and the middle track connecting pins  46   a  and  46   b  can be positioned to extend parallel to the central axis  51 , and be spaced apart from the central axis  51 , while also being interior of the perimeter of a middle track body  58 . 
     The middle track  42  can have a middle track locking end  52  with middle track pin holes  54   a  and  54   b  for receiving connecting pins from the top track or from another middle track. The middle track pin holes  54   a  and  54   b  can have a diameter slightly greater than the connecting pins from the top track or another middle track to allow for a snug fit of the connecting pins therein. The middle track pin holes  54   a  and  54   b  can have a depth nominally the same as the connecting pins from the top track or another middle track. The middle track connecting pins  46   a  and  46   b  and the middle track pin holes  54   a  and  54   b  can be rectangular, square, or cylindrical. 
     A middle track locking end recess  56  can be formed in the middle track body  58  for receiving the first locking device  70   a . The first locking device  70   a  can be in a first locking device housing  71   a.    
       FIG. 4B  shows another embodiment of the middle track  42  having the first locking device  70   a  in the first locking device housing  71   a.    
     The first locking device housing  71   a  can be welded to the middle track body  58 , such as with welds  69   a  and  69   b.    
     The middle track pin holes  54   a  and  54   b  can be disposed in the first locking device housing  71   a.    
       FIG. 5A  depicts an embodiment of the bottom track  60  with a bottom track locking end  62 , the bottom end  66 , and a bottom track body  68  there between. 
     A bottom track locking end recess  65  can be formed in the bottom track locking end  62  to hold the third locking device  70   c.    
     The bottom track  60  can have bottom track pin holes  64   a  and  64   b  for receiving connecting pins from one of the middle tracks or the top track. 
       FIG. 5B  depicts another embodiment of the bottom track  60  with a third locking device housing  71   c  welded to the bottom track body  68  with welds  61   a  and  61   b.    
     The third locking device housing  71   c  can include the third locking device  70   c  and the bottom track pin holes  64   a  and  64   b.    
       FIGS. 6A-6D  show different views of the second locking device  70   b.    
     The second locking device  70   b  can have a threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends  72   a  and  72   b  connected by a narrower portion. Fasteners  91   a  and  91   b  can hold a retaining cap  90  in place, thereby retaining the threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends  72   a  and  72   b.    
     The threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends  72   a  and  72   b  can have a first threaded locking lug  74  with a first threaded end  75 , a first non-threaded end with an upper non-angled face  78 , and a first non-threaded end with a lower angled face  77  or a flat face. 
     The threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends  72   a  and  72   b  can have a second threaded locking lug  80  mounted opposite the first threaded locking lug  74 . 
     The second threaded locking lug  80  can have a second threaded end  82 , a second non-threaded end with a lower angled face  84 , and a second non-threaded end with an upper non-angled face  86  or a flat face. 
     The threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends  72   a  and  72   b  can have a first upper flat surface  73   a  and a second upper flat surface  73   b , which can provide a wedging force when the first threaded locking lug  74  and the second threaded locking lug  80  extend into the middle track slots or top track slots, thereby urging the adjacent tracks of the modular torque track assembly together in a secure fit with a high shear force. 
     The second locking device  70   b  can be installed in a second locking device housing  71   b , which can be mounted into one of the locking end recesses of the bottom track or a middle track, or welded to a planar face of one of the tracks. The second locking device housing  71   b  can lock adjacent tracks of the modular torque track assembly together. 
     The second locking device housing  71   b  can urge the first non-threaded end with a lower angled face  77  and the second non-threaded end with a lower angled face  84  against the top track angled slot surfaces  32   a  and  32   b.    
     For example, the threaded turnbuckle housing with hex ends  72   a  and  72   b  can be rotatable to extend the first and second threaded locking lugs  74  and  80  to wedge each non-threaded end with a lower angled face  77  and  84  against the top track angled slot surfaces  32   a  and  32   b , and to wedge each non-threaded end with an upper non-angled face  78  and  86  against the upper flat surfaces  73   a  and  73   b , thereby axially pulling together and locking together two tracks. 
       FIG. 7  depicts the torque track slide assembly  12  having a plurality of inserts disposed therein. 
     The torque track slide assembly  12  can have a slide body  92  having an opening  93 . 
     The slide body  92  can have a rectangular shape, a length ranging from about 3 feet to about 6 feet, and a width ranging from about 12 inches to about 24 inches. 
     The torque track slide assembly  12  can have a top plate  94  secured around the slide body  92 , such as with a weld. 
     A bottom plate  96  can also be secured around the slide body  92 , such as with a weld. 
     The top plate  94  and the bottom plate  96  can be attached to the top drive housing, and can maintain the slide body  92  at safe working distance from the top drive housing. For example, in one or more embodiments the top plate  94  and the bottom plate  96  can maintain the slide body  92  no less than six inches away from the top drive housing. The top plate  94  and the bottom plate  96  can both be made of plate steel. 
     The top plate  94  and the bottom plate  96  can include fastener holes  95   a ,  95   b ,  95   c , and  95   d  for attaching the torque track slide assembly  12  to the top drive housing. 
     The torque track slide assembly  12  can have a plurality of walls forming the opening  93 . The modular torque track assembly can engage within the opening  93 , and the torque track slide assembly  12  can slide along the modular torque track assembly. Each of the plurality of walls can be made of plastic, steel, or another durable material. 
     The plurality of walls can include a back wall  100  having a back wall outer surface  104 . In one or more embodiments, the back wall  100  can have a length ranging from about 4 feet to about 5 feet and a width ranging from about 14 inches to about 18 inches. 
     The plurality of walls can include a first side wall  99  connected to the back wall  100 , such as at a right angle. 
     The plurality of walls can include a second side wall  112  connected to the back wall  100  opposite the first side wall  99 , such as at a right angle. 
     The plurality of walls can include a first extension  118  extending from the first side wall  99  opposite the back wall  100 . The first extension  118  can extend parallel to the back wall  100  and towards the second side wall  112 . 
     The plurality of walls can include a second extension  126  extending from the second side wall  112  opposite the back wall  100 . The second extension  126  can extend parallel to the back wall  100  and towards the first side wall  99 . 
     The torque track slide assembly  12  can include a plurality of inserts. Each insert can be disposed along an inner surface of one of the plurality of walls. At least one of the inserts can be retained by a plurality of corner ridges, such as corner ridge  101   a , corner ridge  101   b , corner ridge  101   c , and corner ridge  101   d.    
     Each insert can include a plurality of interlocking tabs that interlock with the corner ridges and/or with interlocking spaces of adjacent inserts. 
     For example, the plurality of inserts can include a first insert  140  retained within the slide body  92  by the corner ridges  101   a  and  101   b , as well as by other corner ridges not shown in this Figure. 
     The plurality of inserts can include a second insert  142 , which can have a plurality of interlocking tabs interlocked with a plurality of interlocking spaces of the first insert  140 , thereby retaining the second insert  142  in the slide body  92 . 
     The plurality of inserts can include a third insert  144 , which can have a plurality of interlocking tabs interlocked with a plurality of interlocking spaces of the first insert  140 , thereby retaining the third insert  144  in the slide body  92 . 
     The plurality of inserts can include a fourth insert  146 , which can have a plurality of interlocking tabs interlocked with a plurality of interlocking spaces of the second insert  142 , thereby further retaining the fourth insert  146  within the slide body  92 . 
     The plurality of inserts can include a fifth insert  150 , which can have a plurality of interlocking tabs interlocked with a plurality of interlocking spaces of the third insert  144 , thereby further retaining the fifth insert  150  within the slide body  92 . 
     The torque track slide assembly  12  can include one or more reinforcement structures. 
     For example, the torque track slide assembly  12  can include a first reinforcement structure  151   a  disposed about the slide body  92  on a first end  132 . 
     A second reinforcement structure  151   b  can be disposed about the slide body  92  on a second end  134 . 
     A third reinforcement structure  151   c  can be disposed about the slide body  92  between the first reinforcement structure  151   a  and the second reinforcement structure  151   b.    
     The reinforcement structures  151   a ,  151   b , and  151   c  can engage around the slide body  92  on the outer surface thereof. 
       FIG. 8  depicts an embodiment of the slide body  92  without the plurality of inserts disposed therein. 
     The slide body  92  can have a back wall inner surface  102 , a first side wall inner surface  97 , a first side wall outer surface  110 , a second side wall inner surface  114 , a second side wall outer surface  116 , a first extension inner surface  120 , a first extension outer surface  122 , a second extension inner surface  128 , and a second extension outer surface  131 . 
     The first extension can have a first recess  124   a  disposed along a length of the first extension inner surface  120  for receiving the fourth insert. 
     The second extension can have a second recess  124   b  disposed along a length of the second extension inner surface  128  for receiving the fifth insert. 
     The slide body  92  can include a plurality of corner ridges, such as corner ridges  101   a ,  101   b ,  101   c ,  101   d ,  101   f ,  101   j ,  101   n , and  101   r.    
     Each of the plurality of corner ridges can be disposed along each corner of the slide body  92  formed by the plurality of walls. 
     Each of the plurality of corner ridges can generally face the modular torque track assembly and the opening of the torque track slide assembly. 
     Each of the plurality of corner ridges can engage at least one of the inserts for retaining the inserts within the slide body  92 . 
     Each corner ridge of the plurality of corner ridges disposed inside a corner formed between the back wall and the first side wall can be engaged between two adjacent interlocking tabs and within the interlocking spaces of the first insert, thereby retaining the first insert within the slide body  92 . 
     Each corner ridge disposed inside a corner formed between the back wall and the second side wall can be engaged between two adjacent interlocking tabs and within the interlocking spaces of the first insert, thereby retaining the first insert within the slide body  92 . 
     Each corner ridge disposed inside the corner formed between the first side wall and the first extension can be engaged between two adjacent interlocking tabs and within the interlocking spaces of the fourth insert, thereby retaining the fourth insert within the slide body  92 . 
     Each corner ridge disposed inside the corner formed between the second side wall and the second extension can be engaged between two adjacent interlocking tabs and within the interlocking spaces of the fifth insert, thereby retaining the fifth insert within the slide body  92 . 
     Each of the plurality of corner ridges can extend from one of the reinforcement structures  151   a ,  151   b , and  151   c , the top plate  94 , and/or the bottom plate  96 , and through one of a plurality of holes, such as holes  103   b ,  103   f ,  103   j ,  103   n , and  103   r.    
     For example, the hole  103   b  can be formed through the back wall and the second side wall, and the corner ridge  101   b  can be formed on the first reinforcement structure  151   a . The first reinforcement structure  151   a  can be attached to the slide body  92  such that the corner ridge  101   b  extends through the hole  103   b.    
     Insert fasteners, such as insert fastener  152   a ,  152   d ,  152   e , and  152   h , can extend through insert fastener holes  153   a ,  153   d ,  153   e , and  152   h  to retain the fourth insert and the fifth insert within the slide body  92 . The insert fasteners can extend through the first extension and the second extension without extending past the first recess  124   a  and the second recess  124   b.    
       FIGS. 9A-9B  depict a view of an inner portion of the torque track slide assembly  12  with the top plate  94  and the bottom plate  96 , showing the connection between the first insert  140  and the second insert  142 . 
     In one or more embodiments, the fourth insert  146  can have a first ridge  148   a . In operation, the insert fasteners attaching the fourth insert  146  to the first extension can extend into the first ridge  148   a  of the fourth insert  146  without extending past the first ridge  148   a , thereby allowing the fourth insert  146  to be completely worn down before requiring replacement as the torque track slide assembly  12  slides on the modular torque track assembly, because the insert fasteners will not engage the modular torque track assembly. 
     The first insert  140  can have a first plurality of interlocking tabs  105   a ,  105   b ,  105   c ,  105   d ,  105   e ,  105   f ,  105   g , and  105   h.    
     The first plurality of interlocking tabs  105   a - 105   h  can extend from a first edge of the first insert  140 , as shown. 
     Additionally, the first insert  140  can have another plurality of interlocking tabs formed on the opposite edge of the first insert  140  in the same manner and configuration as the first plurality of interlocking tabs  105   a - 105   h.    
     A corner ridge  101   a  can be engaged over the interlocking tab  105   a . A corner ridge  101   e  can be engaged between the interlocking tabs  105   b  and  105   c . A corner ridge  101   i  can be engaged between the interlocking tabs  105   d  and  105   e . The corner ridge  101   m  can be engaged between the interlocking tabs  105   f  and  105   g.    
     The second insert  142  can have a second plurality of interlocking tabs  106   a ,  106   b ,  106   c ,  106   d ,  106   e , and  106   f  extending from two edges of the second insert  142 . 
     At least a portion of the second plurality of interlocking tabs  106   a - 106   f  can be interlocked within at least a portion of interlocking spaces of the first plurality of interlocking tabs  105   a - 105   h.    
     The engagement between the first insert  140  and the third insert can be substantially the same as depicted here between the first insert  140  and the second insert  142 . 
       FIGS. 10A-10B  depict detailed views of an inner portion of the torque track slide assembly  12  having the top plate  94  and the bottom plate  96 , showing the connection between the third insert  144  and the fifth insert  150 . 
     In one or more embodiments, the fifth insert  150  can have a second ridge  148   b . In operation, the insert fasteners attaching the fifth insert  150  to the second extension can extend into the second ridge  148   b  of the fifth insert  150  without extending past the second ridge  148   b , thereby allowing the fifth insert  150  to be completely worn down before requiring replacement as the torque track slide assembly  12  slides on the modular torque track assembly, because the insert fasteners will not engage the modular torque track assembly. 
     The third insert  144  can be engaged on the second side wall inner surface, and can include a third plurality of interlocking tabs, such as interlocking tabs  108   a ,  108   c ,  108   e ,  108   g , and  108   i , which can extend from each edge of the third insert  144 . 
     The fifth insert  150  can be engaged on the second extension inner surface, and can include a fifth plurality of interlocking tabs, such as interlocking tabs  111   a ,  111   c ,  111   e ,  111   g , and  111   h.    
     Each corner ridge disposed along the corner formed at the connection between the second side wall and the second extension can be engaged between two adjacent interlocking tabs and within an interlocking space of the fifth insert  150 , thereby retaining the fifth insert  150  within the slide body. For example, the corner ridges  101   d ,  101   h ,  101   l , and  101   p  can be engaged within interlocking spaces of the fifth insert  150 . 
     At least a portion of the fifth plurality of interlocking tabs can be engaged within interlocking spaces between at least a portion of the third plurality of interlocking tabs. 
     The connection between the second insert and the fourth insert  146  can be the same as shown here with respect to the connection between the third insert  144  and the fifth insert  150 . Also, the connection between the fourth insert  146  and a portion of the plurality of corner ridges can be the same as depicted here with respect to the fifth insert  150  and the corner ridges  101   d ,  101   h ,  101   l , and  101   p . The first insert  140  is also shown in this Figure engaged with the corner ridge  101   b.    
       FIG. 11  depicts a detail of the first insert  140 . The first insert  140  can have a first plurality of interlocking tabs  105   a - 105   h . The first insert  140  can have corresponding interlocking tabs disposed along the opposite edge of the first insert  140 . 
     The first plurality of interlocking tabs  105   a - 105   h  can be configured to have various interlocking spaces formed therebetween, such as the first plurality of interlocking spaces  107   a - 107   i.    
     For example, a first interlocking space  107   a  can be configured to be disposed just below a corner ridge. 
     A second interlocking space  107   b , a fourth interlocking space  107   d , a sixth interlocking space  107   f , and an eighth interlocking space  107   h  can be configured to receive an interlocking tab from an adjacent insert, such as from the second insert or the third insert. 
     A third interlocking space  107   c , a fifth interlocking space  107   e , and a seventh interlocking space  107   g  can each be configured to receive a corner ridge to hold a position of the first insert  140  within the slide body. 
     A ninth interlocking space  107   i  can be configured to be disposed just above a corner ridge to hold the first insert  140  within the slide body. 
     In one or more embodiments, the first insert  140  can have a weld clearance groove  113  configured to clear a weld between two hollow rectangular steel pipes of the torque track slide assembly. In one or more embodiments, the hollow rectangular steel pipes can be replaced with solid pipes, cylindrical shaped pipes, or another shaped pipe that can form a solid weld. 
       FIG. 12  depicts an embodiment of the second insert  142 . The second insert  142  can have a second plurality of interlocking tabs  106   a - 106   m.    
     The second plurality of interlocking tabs  106   a - 106   m  can be configured to have various sized interlocking spaces formed therebetween for engagement interlocking tabs of adjacent inserts, such as the first insert and the fourth insert. 
     The second insert  142  can provide interlocking spaces for corner ridges to engage between the interlocking tabs of an adjacent insert. For example, the interlocking tab  106   g  can have a width less than the interlocking tabs  106   f  and  106   h , thereby providing an interlocking space to allow for a corner ridge to engage between the interlocking tabs of the first insert. 
     The third insert can be configured and arranged exactly as the second insert  142 . 
       FIG. 13  depicts an embodiment of the fourth insert  146  having a fourth plurality of interlocking tabs  109   a - 109   h  disposed along one edge of the fourth insert  146 . 
     A fourth plurality of interlocking spaces  107   j - 107   r  can accept the interlocking tabs of the second insert. 
     A portion of the plurality of interlocking spaces can accept the corner ridges of the slide body. 
     Also shown are fastener holes  154   a - 154   d  for receiving the plurality of insert fasteners. 
     The fifth insert can be configured and arranged exactly like the fourth insert  146  as shown. 
       FIG. 14  is an embodiment wherein the lifting block is replaced with a first sheave  551  opposite a second sheave  553 . Connecting the sheaves is the pneumatic thread compensator  19 . Attached to the pneumatic thread compensator  19  are the first upper link  550  and the second upper link  552  to which the top drive housing  554  can be attached. 
     Also shown is the top drive housing  554 , wherein the top drive, shown in previous Figures, supports a rotating stem  574  spinably connected with a top drive motor  572 ; a heavy thrust bearing  562  disposed about the rotating stem  574 ; an inside blowout preventer  578  connected to the rotating stem  574  and to a saver sub  582 ; an upper clamp assembly  576  locking the connection between the rotating stem  574  and the inside blowout preventer  578 ; a lower clamp assembly  580  locking the connection between the inside blowout preventer  578  and the saver sub  582 . 
     While these embodiments have been described with emphasis on the embodiments, it should be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the embodiments might be practiced other than as specifically described herein.