Abstract:
For use with a top drive power unit supported for connection with a well string in a well bore to selectively impart longitudinal and/or rotational movement to the well string, a feeder for supplying a pumpable substance such as cement and the like from an external supply source to the interior of the well string in the well bore without first discharging it through the top drive power unit including a mandrel extending through a sleeve which is sealably and rotatably supported thereon for relative rotation between the sleeve and mandrel. The mandrel and sleeve have flow passages for communicating the pumpable substance from an external source to discharge through the sleeve and mandrel and into the interior of the well string below the top drive power unit. The unit can include a packing injection system and novel seal configuration.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/778,956, filed Jul. 17, 2007 (issuing as U.S. Pat. No. 7,681,646 on Mar. 23, 2010), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/751,740, filed May 22, 2007, which claimed priority of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/803,055, filed May 24, 2006 and U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/829,990, filed Oct. 18, 2006. Priority of each of these applications is hereby claimed, and each is incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not applicable 
       REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX” 
       [0003]    Not applicable 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0004]    In top drive rigs, the use of a top drive unit, or top drive power unit is employed to rotate drill pipe, or well string in a well bore. Top drive rigs can include spaced guide rails and a drive frame movable along the guide rails and guiding the top drive power unit. The traveling block supports the drive frame through a hook and swivel, and the driving block is used to lower or raise the drive frame along the guide rails. For rotating the drill or well string, the top drive power unit includes a motor connected by gear means with a rotatable member both of which are supported by the drive frame. During drilling operations, when it is desired to “trip” the drill pipe or well string into or out of the well bore, the drive frame can be lowered or raised. Additionally, during servicing operations, the drill string can be moved longitudinally into or out of the well bore. 
         [0005]    The stem of the swivel communicates with the upper end of the rotatable member of the power unit in a manner well known to those skilled in the art for supplying fluid, such as a drilling fluid or mud, through the top drive unit and into the drill or work string. The swivel allows drilling fluid to pass through and be supplied to the drill or well string connected to the lower end of the rotatable member of the top drive power unit as the drill string is rotated and/or moved up and down. 
         [0006]    Top drive rigs also can include elevators are secured to and suspended from the frame, the elevators being employed when it is desired to lower joints of drill string into the well bore, or remove such joints from the well bore. 
         [0007]    At various times top drive operations, beyond drilling fluid, require various substances to be pumped downhole, such as cement, chemicals, epoxy resins, or the like. In many cases it is desirable to supply such substances at the same time as the top drive unit is rotating and/or moving the drill or well string up and/or down, but bypassing the top drive&#39;s power unit so that the substances do not damage/impair the unit. Additionally, it is desirable to supply such substances without interfering with and/or intermittently stopping longitudinal and/or rotational movement by the top drive unit of the drill or well string. 
         [0008]    A need exists for a device facilitating insertion of various substances downhole through the drill or well string, bypassing the top drive unit, while at the same time allowing the top drive unit to rotate and/or move the drill or well string. 
         [0009]    One example includes cementing a string of well bore casing. In some casing operations it is considered good practice to rotate the string of casing when it is being cemented in the wellbore. Such rotation is believed to facilitate better cement distribution and spread inside the annular space between the casing&#39;s exterior and interior of the well bore. In such operations the top drive unit can be used to both support and continuously rotate/intermittently reciprocate the string of casing while cement is pumped down the string&#39;s interior. During this time it is desirable to by-pass the top drive unit to avoid possible damage to any of its portions or components. 
         [0010]    The following U.S. patents are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,722,389 and 7,007,753. 
         [0011]    While certain novel features of this invention shown and described below are pointed out in the annexed claims, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details specified, since a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art will understand that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation may be made without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention. No feature of the invention is critical or essential unless it is expressly stated as being “critical” or “essential.” 
       BRIEF SUMMARY 
       [0012]    The apparatus of the present invention solves the problems confronted in the art in a simple and straightforward manner. One embodiment relates to an assembly having a top drive arrangement for rotating and longitudinally moving a drill or well string. In one embodiment is provided a swivel apparatus, the swivel generally comprising a mandrel and a sleeve with a packing configuration, the swivel being especially useful for top drive rigs. 
         [0013]    In one embodiment the sleeve can be rotatably and sealably connected to the mandrel. The swivel can be incorporated into a drill or well string, enabling string sections both above and below the sleeve to be rotated in relation to the sleeve. Additionally, the swivel provides a flow path between the exterior of the sleeve and interior of the mandrel while the drill string is being rotated and/or being moved in a longitudinal direction (up or down). The interior of the mandrel can be fluidly connected to the longitudinal bore of the casing or drill string thereby providing a flow path from the exterior of the sleeve to the interior of the casing/drill string. 
         [0014]    In one embodiment is provided a method and apparatus for servicing a well wherein a swivel is connected to a top drive unit for conveying pumpable substances from an external supply through the swivel for discharge into the well string and bypassing the top drive unit. 
         [0015]    In another embodiment is provided a method of conducting servicing operations in a well bore, such as cementing, comprising the steps of moving a top drive unit rotationally and/or longitudinally to provide longitudinal movement and/or rotation in the well bore of a well string suspended from the top drive unit, rotating the drill or well string and supplying a pumpable substance to the well bore in which the drill or well string is manipulated by introducing the pumpable substance at a point below the top drive power unit and into the well string. 
         [0016]    In other embodiments are provided a swivel placed below the top drive unit can be used to perform jobs such as spotting pills, squeeze work, open formation integrity work, kill jobs, fishing tool operations with high pressure pumps, sub-sea stack testing, rotation of casing during side tracking, and gravel pack or frack jobs. In still other embodiments a top drive swivel can be used in a method of pumping loss circulation material (LCM) into a well to plug/seal areas of downhole fluid loss to the formation and in high speed milling jobs using cutting tools to address down hole obstructions. In other embodiments the top drive swivel can be used with free point indicators and shot string or cord to free stuck pipe where pumpable substances are pumped downhole at the same time the downhole string/pipe/free point indicator is being rotated and/or reciprocated. In still other embodiments the top drive swivel can be used for setting hook wall packers and washing sand. 
         [0017]    In still other embodiments the top drive swivel can be used for pumping pumpable substances downhole when repairs/servicing is being done to the top drive unit and rotation of the downhole drill string is being accomplished by the rotary table. Such use for rotation and pumping can prevent sticking/seizing of the drill string downhole. 
         [0018]    In this application safety valves, such as TIW valves, can be placed above and below the top drive swivel to enable routing of fluid flow and to ensure well control. 
         [0019]    The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments to the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0020]    For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements and wherein: 
           [0021]      FIGS. 1A and 1B  are a schematic views showing a top drive rig with one embodiment of a top drive swivel incorporated in the drill string; 
           [0022]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a top drive swivel; 
           [0023]      FIG. 3  is a sectional view of a mandrel which can be incorporated in the swivel of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0024]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a sleeve, clamp, and torque arm which can be incorporated into the swivel of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0025]      FIG. 5  is an exploded view of the sleeve, clamp, and torque arm of  FIG. 4 ; 
           [0026]      FIG. 6  is a cutaway perspective view of the swivel of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0027]      FIGS. 7A and 7B  include a sectional view of the swivel of  FIG. 2  along with an enlarged sectional view of the packing area; 
           [0028]      FIG. 8  is an exploded view of a set of packing which can be incorporated into the swivel of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0029]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a spacer; 
           [0030]      FIG. 10  is a top view of the spacer of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0031]      FIG. 11A  is a sectional side view of the spacer of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0032]      FIG. 11B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the spacer of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0033]      FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a female backup ring; 
           [0034]      FIG. 13  is a top view of the female backup ring of  FIG. 12 ; 
           [0035]      FIG. 14A  is a sectional side view of the female backup ring of  FIG. 12 ; 
           [0036]      FIG. 14B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the female backup ring of  FIG. 12 ; 
           [0037]      FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a seal ring; 
           [0038]      FIG. 16  is a top view of the seal ring of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0039]      FIG. 17A  is a sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0040]      FIG. 17B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0041]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a rope seal; 
           [0042]      FIG. 19  is a top view of the rope seal of  FIG. 18 ; 
           [0043]      FIG. 20A  is a sectional side view of the rope seal of  FIG. 18 ; 
           [0044]      FIG. 20B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the rope seal of  FIG. 18 ; 
           [0045]      FIG. 21  is a perspective view of a seal ring; 
           [0046]      FIG. 22  is a top view of the seal ring of  FIG. 21 ; 
           [0047]      FIG. 23A  is a sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 21 ; 
           [0048]      FIG. 23B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 21 ; 
           [0049]      FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a seal ring; 
           [0050]      FIG. 25  is a top view of the seal ring of  FIG. 24 ; 
           [0051]      FIG. 26A  is a sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 24 ; 
           [0052]      FIG. 26B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 24 ; 
           [0053]      FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a male backup ring; 
           [0054]      FIG. 28  is a top view of the male backup ring of  FIG. 27 ; 
           [0055]      FIG. 29A  is a sectional side view of the male backup ring of  FIG. 27 ; 
           [0056]      FIG. 29B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the male backup ring of  FIG. 27 ; 
           [0057]      FIGS. 30A and 30B  include a sectional view of another embodiment of the swivel of  FIG. 2  along with an enlarged sectional view of the packing area; 
           [0058]      FIG. 31  is an exploded view of a set of packing which can be incorporated into the swivel of  FIG. 30A ; 
           [0059]      FIG. 32  is a perspective view of a spacer; 
           [0060]      FIG. 33  is a top view of the spacer of  FIG. 32 ; 
           [0061]      FIG. 34A  is a sectional side view of the spacer of  FIG. 32 ; 
           [0062]      FIG. 34B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the spacer of  FIG. 32 ; 
           [0063]      FIG. 35  is a perspective view of a female backup ring; 
           [0064]      FIG. 36  is a top view of the female backup ring of  FIG. 35 ; 
           [0065]      FIG. 37A  is a sectional side view of the female backup ring of  FIG. 35 ; 
           [0066]      FIG. 37B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the female backup ring of  FIG. 35 ; 
           [0067]      FIG. 38  is a perspective view of a seal ring; 
           [0068]      FIG. 39  is a top view of the seal ring of  FIG. 38 ; 
           [0069]      FIG. 40A  is a sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 38 ; 
           [0070]      FIG. 40B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 38 ; 
           [0071]      FIG. 41  is a perspective view of a rope seal; 
           [0072]      FIG. 42  is a top view of the rope seal of  FIG. 41 ; 
           [0073]      FIG. 43A  is a sectional side view of the rope seal of  FIG. 41 ; 
           [0074]      FIG. 43B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the rope seal of  FIG. 41 ; 
           [0075]      FIG. 44  is a perspective view of a seal ring; 
           [0076]      FIG. 45  is a top view of the seal ring of  FIG. 44 ; 
           [0077]      FIG. 46A  is a sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 44 ; 
           [0078]      FIG. 46B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 44 ; 
           [0079]      FIG. 47  is a perspective view of a seal ring; 
           [0080]      FIG. 48  is a top view of the seal ring of  FIG. 47 ; 
           [0081]      FIG. 49A  is a sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 47 ; 
           [0082]      FIG. 49B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the seal ring of  FIG. 47 ; 
           [0083]      FIG. 50  is a perspective view of a male backup ring; 
           [0084]      FIG. 51  is a top view of the male backup ring of  FIG. 50 ; 
           [0085]      FIG. 52A  is a sectional side view of the male backup ring of  FIG. 50 ; 
           [0086]      FIG. 52B  is an enlarged sectional side view of the male backup ring of  FIG. 50 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0087]    Detailed descriptions of one or more preferred embodiments are provided herein. 
         [0088]    It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in any appropriate system, structure or manner. 
         [0089]      FIGS. 1A and 1B  are schematic views showing a top drive rig  1  with one embodiment of a top drive swivel  30  incorporated into drill string  20 .  FIG. 1A  shows a rig  1  having a top drive unit  10 . Rig  1  comprises supports  16 , 17 ; crown block  2 ; traveling block  4 ; and hook  5 . Draw works  11  uses cable  12  to move up and down traveling block  4 , top drive unit  10 , and drill string  20 . Traveling block  4  supports top drive unit  10 . Top drive unit  10  supports drill string  20 . 
         [0090]    During drilling operations, top drive unit  10  can be used to rotate drill string  20  which enters wellbore  14 . Top drive unit  10  can ride along guide rails  15  as unit  10  is moved up and down. Guide rails  15  prevent top drive unit  10  itself from rotating as top drive unit  10  rotates drill string  20 . During drilling operations drilling fluid can be supplied downhole through drilling fluid line  8  and gooseneck  6 . 
         [0091]    As shown in  FIG. 1B , during operations swivel  30  can be connected to rig  1  through clamp  600  and torque arm  630 . Torque are  630  can be pivotally connected to swivel  30  and can resist rotational movement of swivel sleeve  150  relative to rig  1 . Torque arm  630  can be slidably connected to rig  1  to allow a certain amount of longitudinal movement of swivel  30  with drill string  20 . 
         [0092]    At various times top drive operations, beyond drilling fluid, require substances to be pumped downhole, such as cement, chemicals, epoxy resins, or the like. In many cases it is desirable to supply such substances at the same time as top drive unit  10  is rotating and/or moving drill or well string  20  up and/or down and bypassing top drive unit  10  so that the substances do not damage/impair top drive unit  10 . Additionally, it is desirable to supply such substances without interfering with and/or intermittently stopping longitudinal and/or rotational movements of drill or well string  20  being moved/rotated by top drive unit  10 . This can be accomplished by using top drive swivel  30 . 
         [0093]    Top drive swivel  30  can be installed between top drive unit  10  and drill string  20 . One or more joints of drill pipe  18  can be placed between top drive unit  10  and swivel  30 . Additionally, a valve can be placed between top drive swivel  30  and top drive unit  10 . Pumpable substances can be pumped through hose  31 , swivel  30 , and into the interior of drill string  20  thereby bypassing top drive unit  10 . Top drive swivel  30  is preferably sized to be connected to drill string  20  such as 4½ inch (11.43 centimeter) IF API drill pipe or the size of the drill pipe to which swivel  30  is connected to. However, cross-over subs can also be used between top drive swivel  30  and connections to drill string  20 . Two sizes for swivel  30  will be addressed in this application—a 4½ inch (11.43 centimeter) version and a 6⅝ inch (16.83 centimeter) version. 
         [0094]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a swivel  30 . Swivel  30  can be comprised of mandrel  40  and sleeve  150 . Sleeve  150  can be rotatably and sealably connected to mandrel  40 . Accordingly, when mandrel  40  is rotated, sleeve  150  can remain stationary to an observer insofar as rotation is concerned. As will be discussed later inlet  200  of sleeve  150  is and remains fluidly connected to a the central longitudinal passage  90  of mandrel  40 . Accordingly, while mandrel  40  is being rotated and/or moved up and down pumpable substances can enter inlet  200  and exit central longitudinal passage  90  at lower end  60  of mandrel  40 . 
         [0095]      FIG. 3  is a sectional view of mandrel  40  which can be incorporated in swivel  30 . Mandrel  40  can be comprised of upper end  50  and lower end  60 . Central longitudinal passage  90  can extend from upper end  50  through lower end  60 . Lower end  60  can include a pin connection  80  or any other conventional connection. Upper end  50  can include box connection  70  or any other conventional connection. Mandrel  40  can in effect become a part of drill string  20 . Sleeve  150  can fit over mandrel  40  and become rotatably and sealably connected to mandrel  40 . Mandrel  40  can include shoulder  100  to support sleeve  150 . Mandrel  40  can include one or more radial inlet ports  140  fluidly connecting central longitudinal passage  90  to recessed area  130 . Recessed area  130  preferably forms a circumferential recess along the perimeter of mandrel  40  and between packing support areas  131 , 132 . In such manner recessed area  130  will remain fluidly connected with radial passage  190  and inlet  200  of sleeve  150  (see  FIGS. 6 and 7A ). 
         [0096]    Mandrel  40  takes substantially all of the structural load from drill string  20 . In one embodiment the overall length of mandrel  40  is preferably 52 and 5/16 inches (132.87 centimeters). Mandrel  40  can be machined from a single continuous piece of heat treated steel bar stock. NC  50  is preferably the API Tool Joint Designation for the box connection  70  and pin connection  80 . Such tool joint designation is equivalent to and interchangeable with 4½ inch (11.43 centimeter) IF (Internally Flush), 5 inch (12.7 centimeter) XH (Extra Hole) and 5½ inch (13.97 centimeter) DSL (Double Stream Line) connections. Additionally, it is preferred that the box connection  70  and pin connection  80  meet the requirements of API specifications 7 and 7G for new rotary shouldered tool joint connections having 6⅝ inch (16.83 centimeters) outer diameter and a 2¾ inch (6.99 centimeter) inner diameter. The Strength and Design Formulas of API 7G—Appendix A provides the following load carrying specification for mandrel  40  of top drive swivel  30 : (a) 1,477,000 pounds (6,570 kilo newtons) tensile load at the minimum yield stress; (b) 62,000 foot-pounds (84 kilo newton meters) torsional load at the minimum torsional yield stress; and (c) 37,200 foot-pounds (50.44 kilo newton meters) recommended minimum make up torque. Mandrel  40  can be machined from 4340 heat treated bar stock. 
         [0097]    In another embodiment, Mandrel  40  takes substantially all of the structural load from drill string  20 . In one embodiment the overall length of mandrel  40  is preferably 67 and 13/16 inches (172.24 centimeters). Mandrel  40  can be machined from a single continuous piece of heat treated steel bar stock. 6⅝ inch (16.83 centimeters) FH is preferably the API Tool Joint Designation for the box connection  70  and pin connection  80 . Additionally, it is preferred that the box connection  70  and pin connection  80  meet the requirements of API specifications 7 and 7G for new rotary shouldered tool joint connections having 8½ inch (21.59 centimeter) outer diameter and a 4¼ inch (10.8 centimeter) inner diameter. The Strength and Design Formulas of API 7G—Appendix A provides the following load carrying specification for mandrel  40  of top drive swivel  30 : (a) 2,094,661 pounds (9,318 kilo newtons) tensile load at the minimum yield stress; (b) 109,255 foot-pounds (148.1 kilo newton meters) torsion load at the minimum torsional yield stress; and (c) 65,012 foot-pounds (88.14 kilo newton meters) recommended minimum make up torque. Mandrel  40  can be machined from 4340 heat treated bar stock. 
         [0098]    To reduce friction between mandrel  40  and packing units  305 ,  405  and increase the life expectancy of packing units  305 ,  405 , packing support areas  131 ,  132  can be coated and/or sprayed welded with a materials of various compositions, such as hard chrome, nickel/chrome or nickel/aluminum (95 percent nickel and 5 percent aluminum) A material which can be used for coating by spray welding is the chrome alloy TAFA 95MX Ultrahard Wire (Armacor M) manufactured by TAFA Technologies, Inc., 146 Pembroke Road, Concord N.H. TAFA 95 MX is an alloy of the following composition: Chromium 30 percent; Boron 6 percent; Manganese 3 percent; Silicon 3 percent; and Iron balance. The TAFA 95 MX can be combined with a chrome steel. Another material which can be used for coating by spray welding is TAFA BONDARC WIRE-75B manufactured by TAFA Technologies, Inc. TAFA BONDARC WIRE-75B is an alloy containing the following elements: Nickel 94 percent; Aluminum 4.6 percent; Titanium 0.6 percent; Iron 0.4 percent; Manganese 0.3 percent; Cobalt 0.2 percent; Molybdenum 0.1 percent; Copper 0.1 percent; and Chromium 0.1 percent. Another material which can be used for coating by spray welding is the nickel chrome alloy TAFALOY NICKEL-CHROME-MOLY WIRE-71T manufactured by TAFA Technologies, Inc. TAFALOY NICKEL-CHROME-MOLY WIRE-71T is an alloy containing the following elements: Nickel 61.2 percent; Chromium 22 percent; Iron 3 percent; Molybdenum 9 percent; Tantalum 3 percent; and Cobalt 1 percent. Various combinations of the above alloys can also be used for the coating/spray welding. Packing support areas  131 ,  132  can also be coated by a plating method, such as electroplating. The surface of support areas  131 ,  132  can be ground/polished/finished to a desired finish to reduce friction and wear between support areas  131 ,  132  and packing units  305 ,  415 . 
         [0099]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a sleeve  150 , clamp  600 , and torque arm  630  which can be incorporated into swivel  30 .  FIG. 5  is an exploded view of the components shown in  FIG. 4 .  FIG. 6  is a cutaway perspective view of swivel  30 .  FIG. 7A  is a sectional view of swivel  30  taken along the line  7 A- 7 A of  FIG. 6 . 
         [0100]      FIG. 6  is an overall perspective view (and partial sectional view) of top drive swivel  30 . Sleeve  150  is shown rotatably connected to mandrel  40 . Bearings  145 ,  146  allow sleeve  150  to rotate in relation to mandrel  40 . Packing units  305 ,  405  sealingly connect sleeve  150  to mandrel  40 . Retaining nut  800  retains sleeve  150  on mandrel  40 . Inlet  200  of sleeve  150  is fluidly connected to central longitudinal passage  90  of mandrel  40 . Accordingly, while mandrel  40  is being rotated and/or moved up and down pumpable substances can enter inlet  200  and exit central longitudinal passage  90  at lower end  60  of mandrel  40 . Recessed area  130  forms a peripheral recess between mandrel  40  and sleeve  150 . The fluid pathway from inlet  200  to outlet at lower end  60  of central longitudinal passage  90  is as follows: entering inlet  200 ; passing through radial passage  190 ; passing through recessed area  130 ; passing through one of the plurality of radial inlet ports  40 ; passing through central longitudinal passage  90 ; and exiting mandrel  40  through central longitudinal passage  90  at lower end  60  and pin connection  80 . 
         [0101]    Sleeve  150  can include central longitudinal passage  180  extending from upper end  160  through lower end  170 . Sleeve  150  can also include radial passage  190  and inlet  200 . Inlet  200  can be attached by welding or any other conventional type method of fastening such as a threaded connection. If welded the connection is preferably heat treated to remove residual stresses created by the welding procedure. Lubrication port  210  (not shown) can be included to provide lubrication for interior bearings. Packing ports  220 ,  230  can also be included to provide the option of injecting packing material into the packing units  305 , 405 . A protective cover  240  can be placed around packing port  230  to protect packing injector  235 . Optionally, a second protective cover can be placed around packing port  220 . Sleeve  150  can include a groove  691  for insertion of a key  700 .  FIG. 7A  illustrates how central longitudinal passage  90  is fluidly connected to inlet  200  through radial passage  190 . 
         [0102]    Sleeve  150  slides over mandrel  40 . Bearings  145 ,  146  rotatably connect sleeve  150  to mandrel  40 . Bearings  145 ,  146  are preferably thrust bearings although many conventionally available bearing will adequately function, including conical and ball bearings. Packing units  305 ,  405  sealingly connect sleeve  150  to mandrel  40 . Inlet  200  of sleeve  150  is and remains fluidly connected to central longitudinal passage  90  of mandrel  40 . Accordingly, while mandrel  40  is being rotated and/or moved up and down pumpable substances can enter inlet  200  and exit central longitudinal passage  90  at lower end  60  of mandrel  40 . Recessed area  130  forms a peripheral recess between mandrel  40  and sleeve  150 . The fluid pathway from inlet  200  to outlet at lower end  60  of central longitudinal passage  90  is as follows: entering inlet  200  (arrow  201 ); passing through radial passage  190  (arrow  202 ); passing through recessed area  130  (arrow  202 ); passing through one of the plurality of radial inlet ports  140  (arrow  202 ), passing through central longitudinal passage  90  (arrow  203 ); and exiting mandrel  40  via lower end  60  at pin connection  80  (arrows  204 ,  205 ). 
         [0103]    Sleeve  150  is preferably fabricated from 4140 heat treated round mechanical tubing having the following properties: (120,000 psi (827,400 kilo pascal) minimum tensile strength, 100,000 psi (689,500 kilo pascal) minimum yield strength, and 285/311 Brinell Hardness Range). In one embodiment the external diameter of sleeve  150  is preferably about 11 inches (27.94 centimeters). Sleeve  150  preferably resists high internal pressures of fluid passing through inlet  200 . Preferably top drive swivel  30  with sleeve  150  will withstand a hydrostatic pressure test of 12,500 psi (86,200 kilo pascal). At this pressure the stress induced in sleeve  150  is preferably only about 24.8 percent of its material&#39;s yield strength. At a preferable working pressure of 7,500 psi (51,700 kilo pascal), there is preferably a 6.7:1 structural safety factor for sleeve  150 . 
         [0104]    To minimize flow restrictions through top drive swivel  30 , large open areas  140  are preferred. Preferably each area of interest throughout top drive swivel  30  is larger than the inlet service port area  200 . Inlet  200  is preferably 3 inches having a flow area of 4.19 square inches (27.03 square centimeters). In one embodiment the flow area of the annular space between sleeve  150  and mandrel  40  is preferably 20.81 square inches (134.22 square centimeters). The flow area through the plurality of radial inlet ports  140  is preferably 7.36 square inches (47.47 square centimeters). The flow area through central longitudinal bore  90  is preferably 5.94 square inches 38.31 square centimeters). 
         [0105]    Retainer nut  800  can be used to maintain sleeve  150  on mandrel  40 . Retainer nut  800  can threadably engage mandrel  40  at threaded area  801 . Set screw  890  can be used to lock in place retainer nut  800  and prevent nut  800  from loosening during operation. A set screw  890  (not shown for clarity) can threadably engages retainer nut  800  through bore  900  (not shown for clarity) and sets in one of a plurality of receiving portions  910  formed in mandrel  40 . Retaining nut  800  can also include grease injection fitting  880  for lubricating bearing  145 . A wiper ring  271  (not shown for clarity) can be set in area  270  protects against dirt and other items from entering between the sleeve  150  and mandrel  40 . A grease ring  291  (not shown for clarity) can be set in area  290  for holding lubricant for bearing  145 . 
         [0106]    Bearing  146  can be lubricated through a grease injection fitting  211  and lubrication port  210  (not shown for clarity). 
         [0107]      FIGS. 4 and 5  best show clamp  600  which can be incorporated into top drive swivel  30 .  FIG. 5  is an exploded view of clamp  600 . Clamp  600  can comprises first portion  610 , second portion  620 , and third portion  625 . First, second, and third portions  610 ,  620 ,  625  can be removably attached by plurality of fasteners  670 ,  680 . Key  700  can be inserted in keyway  690  of clamp  600 . A corresponding keyway  691  is included in sleeve  150  of top drive swivel  30 . Keyways  690 ,  691  and key  700  prevent clamp  600  from rotating relative to sleeve  150 . A second key  720  can be installed in keyways  710 ,  711 . Third, fourth, and additional keys/keyways can be used as desired. 
         [0108]    Shackles can be attached to clamp  600  to facilitate handing top drive swivel  30  when clamp  600  is attached. Torque arm  630  can be pivotally attached to clamp  600  and allow attachment of clamp  600  (and sleeve  150 ) to a stationary part of top drive rig  1  preventing sleeve  150  from rotating while drill string  20  is being rotated by top drive  10  (and top drive swivel  30  is installed in drill string  20 ). Torque arm  630  can be provided with holes for attaching restraining shackles. Restrained torque arm  630  prevents sleeve  150  from rotating while mandrel  40  is being spun. Otherwise, frictional forces between packing units  305 ,  405  and packing support areas  131 ,  135  of rotating mandrel  40  would tend to also rotate sleeve  150 . Clamp  600  is preferably fabricated from 4140 heat treated steel being machined to fit around sleeve  150 . 
         [0109]      FIG. 8  shows a blown up schematic view of packing unit  305 .  FIG. 7B  shows a sectional view through packing area  305 . Packing unit  305  can comprise female packing end  330 ; packing ring  340 , packing lubrication ring  350 , packing ring  360 , packing ring  370 , and packing end  380 . Packing unit  305  sealing connects mandrel  40  and sleeve  150 . Packing unit  305  can be encased by packing retainer nut  310 , spacer  320 , and shoulder  156  of protruding section  155 . Packing retainer nut  310  can be a ring which threadably engages sleeve  150  at threaded area  316 . Packing retainer nut  310  and shoulder  156  squeeze packing unit  305  to obtain a good seal between mandrel  40  and sleeve  150 . Set screw  315  can be used to lock packing retainer nut  310  in place and prevent retainer nut  310  from loosening during operation. Set screw  315  can be threaded into bore  314  and lock into receiving area  317  on sleeve  150 . Packing unit  405  (shown in  FIG. 7A ) can be constructed substantially similar to packing unit  305 . The materials for packing unit  305  and packing unit  405  can be similar. 
         [0110]    Spacer  320  can comprise, first end  322 , second end  324 , internal surface  326 , and external surface  328 . Spacer  320  can be sized based on the amount of squeezed to be applied to packing unit  305  when packing retainer nut  310  is tightened. It is preferably fabricated or machined from bronze. 
         [0111]    Packing end  330  is preferably a female packing end comprised of a bearing grade peak or stiffened bronze material. Female packing ring or end  330  can comprise tip  332  with concave portion  331 . Concave portion  331  can have an angle of about 130 degrees at its center. Tip  332  can include side  333 , recessed area  334 , peripheral groove  337  and inner diameter  335 . Recessed area  334  and inner diameter  335  can be configured to minimize contact of female packing ring or end  330  with mandrel  40 . Instead, contact will be made between packing ring  340  and mandrel  40 . It is believed that minimizing contact between female packing ring or end  330  and mandrel  40  will reduce heat buildup from friction and extend the life of the packing unit. It is also believed that packing ring  340  performs the great majority of sealing against high pressure fluids (such as pressures above about 3,000 or about 4,000 psi (20,700 kilo pascals or 27,600 kilo pascals)). It is also believed that packing rings  370  and/or  360  perform the majority of sealing against lower pressure fluids. Female packing ring  330  can include a plurality of radial ports  336  fluidly connecting peripheral groove  337  with interior groove  338  to allow packing injected to evenly distribute around ring and into the actual sealing rings. 
         [0112]    Packing ring  340  can comprise tip  342 , base  344 , internal surface  346 , and external surface  348 . Tip  342  can have an angle of about 120 degrees to have an non-interference fit with tip  332  of female packing end  330  which is at about 130 degrees Base  344  can have an angle of about 120 degrees. Packing ring  340  is preferably a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of bronze filled teflon such as that supplied by CDI material number 714. Tip  342  of packing ring  340  is made at about 120 degrees (which is blunter than the conventional 90 degree tips) in an attempt to limit the braking effect (e.g., caused by expansion of recessed area  334  of the female packing ring or end  330  which would cause side  333  of female packing ring to contact mandrel  40 ) on mandrel  40  when longitudinal force is applied through the packing Base  344  being at about 120 degrees is believed to assist in causing packing ring  340  to bear against mandrel  40 , and not side  333  of female packing ring  330 . 
         [0113]    Packing lubrication ring  350 , preferably includes at least one rope seal such as a Garlock ½ inch (or 7/16 inch or ⅜ inch) (1.27 centimeters, or 1.11 centimeters, or 0.95 centimeters) section 8913 Rope Seal. Rope seals have surprisingly been found to extend the life of other seals in the packing unit. This is thought to be by secretion of lubricants, such as graphite, during use over time. Although shown in a “Vee” type shape, rope seals typically have a square cross section and form to the shape of the area to which they are confined. Here, lubrication ring  350  is shown after be shaped by packing rings  340  and  360 . 
         [0114]    Packing ring  360  can comprise tip  362 , base  364 , internal surface  366 , and external surface  368 . Tip  362  can have an angle of about 90 degrees. Base  364  can have an angle of about 120 degrees. 90 degrees for the tip and 120 degrees for the base are conventional angles. The larger angle for the base allows thermal expansion of the tip in the base. Packing ring  360  is preferably a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of hard rubber such as that supplied by CDI material number 850 or viton such as that supplied by CDI material number 951. 
         [0115]    Packing rings  360 , 370  can have substantially the same geometric construction. Packing ring  370  can comprise tip  372 , base  374 , internal surface  376 , and external surface  378 . Tip  372  can have an angle of about 90 degrees. Base  374  can have an angle of about 120 degrees. 90 degrees for the tip and 120 degrees for the base are conventional angles. The larger angle for the base allows thermal expansion of the tip in the base. Packing ring  370  is preferably a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of teflon such as that supplied by CDI material number 711. 
         [0116]    In an alternative embodiment both packing rings  360  and  370  are“Vee” packing rings—comprised of teflon such as that supplied by CDI material number 711. 
         [0117]    In another alternative embodiment packing ring  370  can be a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of hard rubber such as that supplied by CDI material number 850 or viton such as that supplied by CDI material number 951; and Packing ring  360  can be a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of teflon such as that supplied by CDI material number 711. 
         [0118]    Male packing end or ring  380  can comprise tip  382 , base  384 , internal surface  386 , and external surface  388 . Tip  382  can have an angle of about 90 degrees. Packing end  380  is preferably an aluminum bronze male packing ring. 
         [0119]    Various alternative materials for packing rings can be used such as standard chevron packing rings of standard packing materials. 
         [0120]    Using the above packing configuration it has been surprisingly found that packing life in a displacement job at high pressure can be extended from about 45 minutes to about 10 hours, at rotation speeds of about 30, about 40, about 50, and about 60 revolutions per minute. 
         [0121]    In installing packing units  305 ,  405 , it has been found that the packing units should first be compressed in a longitudinal direction between sleeve  150  and a dummy cylinder (the dummy cylinder serving as mandrel  40 ) before sleeve  150  is installed on mandrel  40 . This is because a certain amount of longitudinal compression of packing units  305 ,  405  will occur when fluid pressure is first exerted on these packing units. This longitudinal compression will be taken up by the respective packing retainer nuts  310 . However, using a dummy cylinder allows the individual packing retainer nuts  310  to cause pre-fluid pressure longitudinal compression on packing units  305 ,  405 , but still allow the seals to maintain an internal diameter consistent with the external diameter of mandrel  40 . Such a procedure can avoid the requirement of resetting the individual packing retainer nuts  310  after fluid pressure is applied to the packing units causing longitudinal compression. 
         [0122]    Female packing ring or end  330  can include a packing injection option. Injection fitting  225  can be used to inject additional packing material such as teflon into packing unit  305 . Head  226  for injection fitting  225  can be removed and packing material can then be inserted into fitting  225 . Head  226  can then be screwed back into injection fitting  225  which would push packing material through fitting  225  and into packing port  220 . The material would then be pushed into packing ring or end  330 . Packing ring or end  330  can comprise a plurality of radial ports  336 , outer peripheral groove  337 , and inner peripheral groove  338 . The material would proceed through outer groove  337 , through the plurality of radial ports  336 , and through inner peripheral groove  338  causing a sealing effect. The interaction between injection fitting  235  and packing unit  405  can be substantially similar to the interaction between injection fitting  225  and packing unit  305 . A conventionally available material which can be used for packing injection fittings  225 ,  235  is DESCO™ 625 Pak part number 6242-12 in the form of a 1 inch by ⅜ inch (2.54 centimeter by 0.95 centimeter) stick and distributed by Chemola Division of South Coast Products, Inc., Houston, Tex. 
         [0123]    Injection fittings  225 ,  235  have a dual purpose: (a) provide an operator a visual indication whether there has been any leakage past either packing units  305 ,  405  and (b) allow the operator to easily inject additional packing material and stop seal leakage without removing top drive swivel  30  from drill string  20 . 
         [0124]      FIGS. 30A through 50  show an alternative packing arrangement for packing units  305 ,  405 . In this alternative arrangement spacer  420  can include a plurality ofradial ports for injecting packing filler material. 
         [0125]      FIG. 31  shows a blown up schematic view of packing unit  405 .  FIG. 30B  shows a sectional view through packing unit  405 . Packing unit  405  can comprise female packing end  430 ; packing ring  440 , packing lubrication ring  450 , packing ring  460 , packing ring  470 , and packing end  480 . Packing unit  405  sealing connects mandrel  40  and sleeve  150 . Packing unit  405  can be encased by packing retainer nut  310 , spacer  420 , and shoulder  156  of protruding section  155 . Packing retainer nut  310  can be a ring which threadably engages sleeve  150  at threaded area  316 . Packing retainer nut  310  and shoulder  156  squeeze packing unit  405  to obtain a good seal between mandrel  40  and sleeve  150 . Set screw  315  can be used to lock packing retainer nut  310  in place and prevent retainer nut  310  from loosening during operation. Set screw  315  can be threaded into bore  314  and lock into receiving area  317  on sleeve  150 . An upper packing unit can be constructed substantially similar to packing unit  405 . The materials for packing unit  405  and upper packing unit can be similar. 
         [0126]    Spacer  420  can comprise, first end  421 , second end  422 , internal surface  423 , and external surface  424 . Spacer  420  can be sized based on the amount of squeezed to be applied to packing unit  405  when packing retainer nut  310  is tightened. It is preferably fabricated or machined from bronze. 
         [0127]    Packing end  430  is preferably a female packing end comprised of a bearing grade peak or stiffened bronze material. Female packing ring or end  430  can comprise tip  432  with concave portion  431 . Concave portion  431  can have an angle of about 130 degrees at its center. Tip  442  can include side  433 , recessed area  44 , peripheral groove  47  and inner diameter  445 . Recessed area  434  and inner diameter  435  can be configured to minimize contact of female packing ring or end  430  with mandrel  40 . Instead, contact will be made between packing ring  440  and mandrel  40 . It is believed that minimizing contact between female packing ring or end  430  and mandrel  40  will reduce heat buildup from friction and extend the life of the packing unit. It is also believed that packing ring  440  performs the great majority of sealing against high pressure fluids (such as pressures above about 3,000 or about 4,000 psi) (20,700 kilo pascals or 27,600 kilo pascals). It is also believed that packing rings  470  and/or  460  perform the majority of sealing against lower pressure fluids. 
         [0128]    Packing ring  440  can comprise tip  442 , base  444 , internal surface  446 , and external surface  448 . Tip  442  can have an angle of about 120 degrees to have an non-interference fit with tip  432  of female packing end  430  which is at about 130 degrees Base  444  can have an angle of about 120 degrees. Packing ring  440  is preferably a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of bronze filled teflon such as that supplied by CDI material number 714. Tip  442  of packing ring  440  is made at about 120 degrees (which is blunter than the conventional 90 degree tips) in an attempt to limit the braking effect (e.g., caused by expansion of recessed area  434  of the female packing ring or end  430  which would cause side  433  of female packing ring to contact mandrel  40 ) on mandrel  40  when longitudinal force is applied through the packing Base  444  being at about 120 degrees is believed to assist in causing packing ring  440  to bear against mandrel  40 , and not side  433  of female packing ring  430 . 
         [0129]    Packing lubrication ring  450 , preferably includes at least one rope seal such as a Garlock ½ inch (or 7/16 inch or ⅜ inch) (1.27 centimeters, or 1.11 centimeters, or 0.95 centimeters) section 8913 Rope Seal. Rope seals have surprisingly been found to extend the life of other seals in the packing unit. This is thought to be by secretion of lubricants, such as graphite, during use over time. Although shown in a “Vee” type shape, rope seals typically have a square cross section and form to the shape of the area to which they are confined. Here, lubrication ring  450  is shown after being shaped by packing rings  440  and  460 . 
         [0130]    Packing ring  460  can comprise tip  462 , base  464 , internal surface  466 , and external surface  468 . Tip  462  can have an angle of about 90 degrees. Base  464  can have an angle of about 120 degrees. 90 degrees for the tip and 120 degrees for the base are conventional angles. The larger angle for the base allows thermal expansion of the tip in the base. Packing ring  460  is preferably a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of hard rubber such as that supplied by CDI material number 850 or viton such as that supplied by CDI material number 951. 
         [0131]    Packing rings  460 , 470  can have substantially the same geometric construction. Packing ring  470  can comprise tip  472 , base  474 , internal surface  476 , and external surface  478 . Tip  472  can have an angle of about 90 degrees. Base  474  can have an angle of about 120 degrees. 90 degrees for the tip and 120 degrees for the base are conventional angles. The larger angle for the base allows thermal expansion of the tip in the base. Packing ring  470  is preferably a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of teflon such as that supplied by CDI material number 711. 
         [0132]    In an alternative embodiment both packing rings  460  and  470  are“Vee” packing rings—comprised of teflon such as that supplied by CDI material number 711. 
         [0133]    In another alternative embodiment packing ring  470  can be a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of hard rubber such as that supplied by CDI material number 850 or viton such as that supplied by CDI material number 951; and Packing ring  460  can be a “Vee” packing ring—comprised of teflon such as that supplied by CDI material number 711. 
         [0134]    Male packing end or ring  480  can comprise tip  482 , base  484 , internal surface  486 , and external surface  488 . Tip  482  can have an angle of about 90 degrees. Packing end  480  is preferably an aluminum bronze male packing ring. 
         [0135]    Various alternative materials for packing rings can be used such as standard chevron packing rings of standard packing materials. 
         [0136]    The following is a list of reference numerals: 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
             
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 LIST FOR REFERENCE NUMERALS 
               
             
          
           
               
                 (Part No.) 
                 (Description) 
               
               
                 Reference Numeral 
                 Description 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 1 
                 rig 
               
               
                 2 
                 crown block 
               
               
                 3 
                 cable means 
               
               
                 4 
                 travelling block 
               
               
                 5 
                 hook 
               
               
                 6 
                 gooseneck 
               
               
                 7 
                 swivel 
               
               
                 8 
                 drilling fluid line 
               
               
                 10 
                 top drive unit 
               
               
                 11 
                 draw works 
               
               
                 12 
                 cable 
               
               
                 13 
                 rotary table 
               
               
                 14 
                 well bore 
               
               
                 15 
                 guide rail 
               
               
                 16 
                 support 
               
               
                 17 
                 support 
               
               
                 18 
                 drill pipe 
               
               
                 19 
                 drill string 
               
               
                 20 
                 drill string or work string 
               
               
                 30 
                 swivel 
               
               
                 31 
                 hose 
               
               
                 40 
                 swivel mandrel 
               
               
                 50 
                 upper end 
               
               
                 60 
                 lower end 
               
               
                 70 
                 box connection 
               
               
                 80 
                 pin connection 
               
               
                 90 
                 central longitudinal passage 
               
               
                 100 
                 shoulder 
               
               
                 110 
                 interior surface 
               
               
                 120 
                 external surface (mandrel) 
               
               
                 130 
                 recessed area 
               
               
                 131 
                 packing support area 
               
               
                 132 
                 packing support area 
               
               
                 140 
                 radial inlet ports (a plurality) 
               
               
                 145 
                 bearing 
               
               
                 146 
                 bearing 
               
               
                 150 
                 swivel sleeve 
               
               
                 155 
                 protruding section 
               
               
                 156 
                 shoulder 
               
               
                 157 
                 shoulder 
               
               
                 158 
                 packing support area 
               
               
                 159 
                 packing support area 
               
               
                 160 
                 upper end 
               
               
                 170 
                 lower end 
               
               
                 180 
                 central longitudinal passage 
               
               
                 190 
                 radial passage 
               
               
                 200 
                 inlet 
               
               
                 201 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 202 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 203 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 204 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 205 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 210 
                 lubrication port 
               
               
                 211 
                 grease injection fitting 
               
               
                 220 
                 packing port 
               
               
                 225 
                 injection fitting 
               
               
                 226 
                 head 
               
               
                 230 
                 packing port 
               
               
                 235 
                 injection fitting 
               
               
                 240 
                 cover 
               
               
                 250 
                 upper shoulder 
               
               
                 260 
                 lower shoulder 
               
               
                 270 
                 area for wiper ring 
               
               
                 271 
                 wiper ring (preferably Parker part number 
               
               
                   
                 959-65) 
               
               
                 280 
                 area for wiper ring 
               
               
                 281 
                 wiper ring (preferably Parker part number 
               
               
                   
                 959-65) 
               
               
                 290 
                 area for grease ring 
               
               
                 291 
                 grease ring (preferably Parker part number 
               
               
                   
                 2501000 Standard Polypak) 
               
               
                 300 
                 area for grease ring 
               
               
                 301 
                 grease ring (preferably Parker part number 
               
               
                   
                 2501000 Standard Polypak) 
               
               
                 305 
                 packing unit 
               
               
                 310 
                 packing retainer nut 
               
               
                 314 
                 bore for set screw 
               
               
                 315 
                 set screw for packing retainer nut 
               
               
                 316 
                 threaded area 
               
               
                 317 
                 set screw for receiving area 
               
               
                 320 
                 spacer 
               
               
                 322 
                 first end 
               
               
                 324 
                 second end 
               
               
                 326 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 328 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 330 
                 female packing end and packing injection 
               
               
                   
                 ring 
               
               
                 331 
                 concave portion 
               
               
                 332 
                 tip 
               
               
                 333 
                 side 
               
               
                 334 
                 recessed area 
               
               
                 335 
                 inner diameter 
               
               
                 336 
                 radial port 
               
               
                 337 
                 peripheral groove 
               
               
                 338 
                 interior groove 
               
               
                 340 
                 packing ring 
               
               
                 342 
                 tip 
               
               
                 344 
                 base 
               
               
                 346 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 348 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 350 
                 packing ring 
               
               
                 360 
                 packing ring 
               
               
                 362 
                 tip 
               
               
                 364 
                 base 
               
               
                 366 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 368 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 370 
                 packing ring 
               
               
                 372 
                 tip 
               
               
                 374 
                 base 
               
               
                 376 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 378 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 380 
                 packing end 
               
               
                 382 
                 tip 
               
               
                 384 
                 base 
               
               
                 386 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 388 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 405 
                 packing unit 
               
               
                 410 
                 packing retainer nut 
               
               
                 414 
                 bore for set screw 
               
               
                 415 
                 set screw for packing retainer nut 
               
               
                 416 
                 threaded area 
               
               
                 417 
                 set screw for receiving area 
               
               
                 420 
                 spacer and packing injection ring 
               
               
                 421 
                 first end 
               
               
                 422 
                 second end 
               
               
                 423 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 424 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 437 
                 radial port 
               
               
                 438 
                 peripheral groove 
               
               
                 439 
                 interior groove 
               
               
                 430 
                 female packing end 
               
               
                 431 
                 concave portion 
               
               
                 432 
                 tip 
               
               
                 433 
                 side 
               
               
                 434 
                 recessed area 
               
               
                 435 
                 inner diameter 
               
               
                 436 
                 external diameter 
               
               
                 440 
                 packing ring 
               
               
                 442 
                 tip 
               
               
                 444 
                 base 
               
               
                 446 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 448 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 450 
                 packing ring 
               
               
                 460 
                 packing ring 
               
               
                 462 
                 tip 
               
               
                 464 
                 base 
               
               
                 466 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 468 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 470 
                 packing ring 
               
               
                 472 
                 tip 
               
               
                 474 
                 base 
               
               
                 476 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 478 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 480 
                 packing end 
               
               
                 482 
                 tip 
               
               
                 484 
                 base 
               
               
                 486 
                 internal surface 
               
               
                 488 
                 external surface 
               
               
                 600 
                 clamp 
               
               
                 605 
                 groove 
               
               
                 610 
                 first portion 
               
               
                 620 
                 second portion 
               
               
                 625 
                 third portion 
               
               
                 630 
                 torque arm 
               
               
                 650 
                 shackle 
               
               
                 660 
                 shackle 
               
               
                 670 
                 plurality of fasteners 
               
               
                 680 
                 plurality of fasteners 
               
               
                 690 
                 keyway 
               
               
                 691 
                 keyway 
               
               
                 700 
                 key 
               
               
                 710 
                 keyway 
               
               
                 711 
                 keyway 
               
               
                 720 
                 key 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0137]    All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature and pressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise. All materials used or intended to be used in a human being are biocompatible, unless indicated otherwise. 
         [0138]    It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together may also find a useful application in other types of methods differing from the type described above. Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention set forth in the appended claims. The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claims.