Abstract:
A washpipe assembly includes a seal stack including at least one packing ring adapted to seal between a washpipe and the seal housing; a packing spacer ring adapted to maintain spacing between the seal housing and the washpipe, and a guide bushing ring positioned between the packing spacer ring and the washpipe. The guide bushing ring is made from a softer material than the wash pipe such that any contact therebetween will avoid damage to the washpipe. Additionally, the inclusion of the guide bushing ring may allow the packing spacer ring to be offset further from the washpipe than otherwise allowable.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a nonprovisional application which claims priority from U.S. provisional application No. 62/173,654, filed Jun. 10, 2015, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. This application also claims priority from U.S. provisional application No. 62/268,227, filed Dec. 16, 2015, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD/FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
       [0002]    The present disclosure relates to seal assemblies for drilling rigs and specifically to washpipe assemblies for drilling rigs. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
       [0003]    During a drilling operation, fluids are circulated through the drill string from the surface to cool and lubricate the drill bit and flush out cuttings and other matter from the wellbore. The upper end of the rotating drill string is mechanically coupled to the rotating stem of a swivel or top drive. A washpipe assembly allows for a fluid seal between the stationary and nonrotating component of the swivel or top drive known as a gooseneck and the rotating upper end of the drill stem. Typically, the washpipe assembly includes lower and upper seal assemblies coupled by a washpipe which is held stationary by the upper seal assembly. The lower assembly rotates relative to the stationary washpipe and upper seal assembly. The upper and lower seal assemblies typically have one or more packing ring seals adapted to contact the outer surface of the wash pipe and provide sealing therebetween and prevent contact between the washpipe and spacing rings positioned to center the washpipe in the sealing assembly. However, as the packing ring seals are worn away, the wash pipe may contact one or more spacing rings causing damage to the washpipe or seal assembly and requiring repair of the washpipe assembly. Additionally, traditional washpipe assembly designs require components of the washpipe assembly to be coupled by threaded connections, which may require the use of tools such as sledge hammers to assemble. As washpipe assemblies are often suspended over a drill floor, difficulty in transportation and use of the tools may increase risk of injury to drill rig personnel. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    The present disclosure provides for a washpipe assembly. The washpipe assembly may include a washpipe. The washpipe assembly may include an upper seal assembly. The upper seal assembly may include an upper seal housing and an upper adapter ring. The upper adapter ring may be mechanically coupled to a gooseneck and the upper seal housing. The upper seal housing may include at least one upper packing ring forming a seal between the washpipe and the upper seal housing. The upper seal housing may include at least one upper packing spacer ring positioned between the upper seal housing and the washpipe. The washpipe assembly may include a lower seal assembly including a lower adapter ring and a lower seal housing. The lower adapter ring may be mechanically coupled to a drill stem and the lower seal housing. The lower seal housing may include at least one lower packing ring forming a seal between the washpipe and the lower seal housing. The lower seal housing may include at least one lower packing spacer ring, the lower packing spacer ring positioned between the lower seal housing and the washpipe. The lower seal housing may include at least one guide bushing ring positioned between each lower packing spacer ring and the washpipe. 
         [0005]    The present disclosure also provides for a seal assembly for a washpipe assembly. The seal assembly may include a seal housing. The seal housing may include at least one packing ring forming a seal between a washpipe and the seal housing. The seal housing may include at least one packing spacer ring, the packing spacer ring positioned between the seal housing and the washpipe. The seal housing may include at least one guide bushing ring positioned between each packing spacer ring and the washpipe. The seal assembly may include an adapter ring mechanically coupleable to a tubular member and a seal housing. 
         [0006]    The present disclosure also provides for a seal stack for a seal assembly of a washpipe assembly. The seal stack may include at least one packing ring forming a seal between a washpipe of the washpipe assembly and the seal housing. The seal stack may include at least one packing spacer ring positioned between the seal housing and the washpipe. The seal stack may include at least one guide bushing ring positioned between each packing spacer ring and the washpipe. 
         [0007]    The present disclosure also provides for a washpipe assembly. The washpipe assembly may include a washpipe. The washpipe assembly may include an upper seal assembly. The upper seal assembly may include an upper seal housing including an upper threaded coupler adapted to couple to a gooseneck coupler. The upper seal assembly may include at least one upper packing ring positioned within the upper seal housing forming a seal between the washpipe and the upper seal housing. The upper seal assembly may include at least one upper packing spacer ring positioned within the upper seal housing positioned between the upper seal housing and the washpipe. The washpipe assembly may include a lower seal assembly. The lower seal assembly may include a lower seal housing including a lower threaded coupler mechanically coupleable to a swivel stem. The lower seal assembly may include a packing nut. The lower seal assembly may include at least one lower packing ring positioned within the lower seal housing forming a seal between the washpipe and the lower seal housing. The lower seal assembly may include at least one lower packing spacer ring positioned within the lower seal housing positioned between the lower seal housing and the washpipe. The lower seal assembly may include at least one guide bushing ring positioned between each lower packing spacer ring and the washpipe, wherein the lower packing ring, lower packing spacing ring, and guide bushing ring are retained within the lower seal housing by the packing nut. 
         [0008]    The present disclosure also provides for a method for assembling a washpipe assembly. The method may include positioning at least one packing ring, packing spacer ring, and guide bushing ring within a lower seal housing. The method may include threading a packing nut to the lower seal housing. The packing nut may retain the packing ring, packing spacer ring, and guide bushing ring within the lower seal housing. The lower seal housing, packing nut, packing ring, packing spacer ring, and guide bushing may define a lower seal assembly. The method may include inserting a washpipe into the lower seal assembly. The method may include installing an upper seal housing about the washpipe. The method may include coupling an upper packing spacer ring and upper packer ring to the washpipe. The method may include coupling the upper seal housing to a gooseneck coupler. The method may include coupling the lower seal housing to a swivel stem. 
         [0009]    The present disclosure provides for a washpipe assembly. The washpipe assembly may include a washpipe. The washpipe assembly may include an upper seal assembly. The upper seal assembly may include an upper seal housing having an upper threaded coupler mechanically coupleable to a gooseneck coupler. The upper seal housing may include at least one upper packing ring positioned within the upper seal housing forming a seal between the washpipe and the upper seal housing. The upper seal housing may include at least one upper packing spacer ring positioned within the upper seal housing positioned between the upper seal housing and the washpipe. The washpipe assembly may include a lower seal assembly. The lower seal assembly may include a lower seal housing, the lower seal housing including a lower threaded coupler mechanically coupleable to a swivel stem. The lower seal assembly may include at least one lower packing ring positioned within the lower seal housing forming a seal between the washpipe and the lower seal housing. The lower seal assembly may include at least one lower packing spacer ring positioned within the lower seal housing positioned between the lower seal housing and the washpipe. The lower seal assembly may include at least one guide bushing ring positioned between each lower packing spacer ring and the washpipe. The lower seal assembly may include a retaining plate positioned within the lower seal housing. The lower seal assembly may include one or more jacking bolts extending through the lower seal housing and abutting the lower packing spacing ring. 
         [0010]    The present disclosure also provides for a method for assembling a washpipe assembly. The method may include positioning at least one packing ring, packing spacer ring, and guide bushing ring within a lower seal housing. The lower seal housing may include one or more jacking bolts. The method may include positioning a retaining plate within the lower seal housing. The method may include engaging the retaining plate with a retaining screw. The retaining screw may retain the packing ring, packing spacer ring, guide bushing ring, and retaining plate within the lower seal housing. The lower seal housing, packing nut, packing ring, packing spacer ring, guide bushing, retaining plate, and retaining screw may define a lower seal assembly. The method may include tightening the one or more jacking bolts to compress the packing ring, packing spacer ring, and guide bushing ring against the retaining plate. The method may include inserting a washpipe into the lower seal assembly. The method may include installing an upper seal housing about the washpipe. The method may include coupling an upper packing spacer ring and upper packer ring to the washpipe. The method may include coupling the upper seal housing to a gooseneck coupler. The method may include coupling the lower seal housing to a swivel stem. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0011]    The present disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion. 
           [0012]      FIG. 1  depicts an overview of a drilling rig utilizing a washpipe assembly consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  depicts a side view of a washpipe assembly consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0014]      FIG. 3  depicts an exploded view of the washpipe assembly of  FIG. 2 . 
           [0015]      FIG. 4  depicts a cross section of the washpipe assembly of  FIG. 2 . 
           [0016]      FIG. 5  depicts a cross section of the upper seal assembly of the washpipe assembly of  FIG. 2 . 
           [0017]      FIG. 6  depicts an exploded view of the upper seal assembly of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0018]      FIGS. 7A, 7B  depict cross sections of the lower seal assembly of the washpipe assembly of  FIG. 2  taken in two different cutting planes. 
           [0019]      FIG. 8  depicts an exploded view of the lower seal assembly of  FIGS. 7A, 7B . 
           [0020]      FIG. 9  depicts a perspective view of a washpipe assembly consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0021]      FIG. 10  depicts a cross section view of the washpipe assembly of  FIG. 9 . 
           [0022]      FIGS. 11A-11F  depict an exemplary assembly operation of the washpipe assembly of  FIG. 9  consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0023]      FIG. 12  depicts a perspective view of a washpipe assembly consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
           [0024]      FIG. 13  depicts a cross section view of the washpipe assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0025]    It is to be understood that the following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of various embodiments. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed. 
         [0026]      FIG. 1  depicts an overview of drilling rig  10 . Drilling rig  10  may include derrick  15 . Derrick  15  may serve to support crown block  20  which is used to hoist drill string  25 . Drill string  25  may be hoisted by, for example and without limitation, drawworks  30  by line  35 . Drilling rig  10  may further include mud processing equipment  40  which may include, for example and without limitation, a mud pump. Mud processing equipment  40  may pump drilling fluid through gooseneck  45  which is fluidly coupled to drill string  25  by washpipe assembly  100 . Drill string  25  may be rotated by a top drive (not shown) or may be rotated by rotary table  50 . The upper end of drill string  25  may include a kelly, may be the upper end of the topmost pipe stand of drill string  25 , or may be a transfer pipe extending from a top drive. For the purposes of this disclosure, the uppermost rotating portion mechanically coupled to drill string  25  is referred to herein as drill stem  101 . 
         [0027]    As depicted in  FIGS. 2-3 , washpipe assembly  100  may include washpipe  103 , upper seal assembly  111 , and lower seal assembly  141 . In some embodiments, washpipe  103  may serve to fluidly couple upper seal assembly  111  and lower seal assembly  141 . In some embodiments, washpipe  103  and upper seal assembly  111  are adapted to remain nonrotating as lower seal assembly  141  rotates with drill stem  101  (not shown). In other embodiments, washpipe  103  may rotate with lower seal assembly  141  relative to upper seal assembly  111 . 
         [0028]    In some embodiments, upper seal assembly  111  may include gooseneck coupler  113 , upper adapter ring  115 , and upper seal housing  117 . Gooseneck coupler  113  may mechanically couple gooseneck  45  to upper adapter ring  115 . Gooseneck coupler  113  may be mechanically coupled to gooseneck  45  by, for example and without limitation, a threaded connection, compression or flanged coupler, clip, or mechanical or chemical welding. Although described with respect to a gooseneck, one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that upper seal assembly  111  may be utilized with any tubular member. 
         [0029]    Upper adapter ring  115  may mechanically couple to upper seal housing  117  such that a fluid seal is formed therebetween as further discussed below. In some embodiments, upper seal housing  117  may mechanically couple to and seal against washpipe  103 . In some embodiments, upper adapter ring  115  may mechanically couple to upper seal housing  117  using one or more upper coupler bolts  119 . Upper coupler bolts  119  may, in some embodiments, be adapted to extend between slots  121  formed in upper adapter ring  115  and corresponding slots  123  formed in upper seal housing  117 . In some embodiments, coupler nuts  125  may be tightened onto coupler bolts  119  (as depicted in  FIG. 2 ) to mechanically couple the faces of upper adapter ring  115  and upper seal housing  117 . In some embodiments, lock washers  127  may be positioned between coupler nuts  125  and one or more of upper adapter ring  115  and upper seal housing  117 . In some embodiments, upper coupler bolts  119  may be pivotably coupled to upper adapter ring  115  or upper seal housing  117  such that when coupler nuts  125  are loosened, upper coupler bolts  119  may be pivoted out of slots  123  (as depicted in  FIG. 3 ), allowing the separation of upper adapter ring  115  and upper seal housing  117 . In some embodiments, one or more nut retention features such as, for example and without limitation, cotter pins  129  may be utilized to restrict complete removal of coupler nuts  125  from upper coupler bolts  119 . In some embodiments, upper coupler bolts  119  may be sprung such that when coupler nuts  125  are loosened, upper coupler bolts  119  remain in the extended position depicted in  FIG. 3 . 
         [0030]    In some embodiments, lower seal assembly  141  may include swivel stem  143 , lower adapter ring  145 , and lower seal housing  147 . Swivel stem  143  may mechanically couple drill stem  101  to lower adapter ring  145 . Swivel stem  143  may mechanically couple to drill stem  101  by, for example and without limitation, a threaded connection, compression or flanged coupler, clip, or mechanical or chemical welding. Although described with respect to a drill stem, one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that lower seal assembly  141  may be utilized with any tubular member. 
         [0031]    Lower adapter ring  145  may mechanically couple to lower seal housing  147  such that a fluid seal is formed therebetween as further discussed below. In some embodiments, lower seal housing  147  may mechanically couple to and seal against washpipe  103 . In some embodiments, lower adapter ring  145  may mechanically couple to lower seal housing  147  using one or more lower coupler bolts  149 . Lower coupler bolts  149  may, in some embodiments, be adapted to extend between slots  151  formed in lower adapter ring  145  and corresponding slots  153  formed in lower seal housing  147 . In some embodiments, coupler nuts  155  may be tightened onto coupler bolts  149  (as depicted in  FIG. 2 ) in order to mechanically couple the faces of lower adapter ring  145  and lower seal housing  147 . In some embodiments, lock washers  157  may be positioned between coupler nuts  155  and one or more of lower adapter ring  145  and lower seal housing  147 . In some embodiments, lower coupler bolts  149  may be pivotably coupled to lower adapter ring  145  or lower seal housing  147  such that when coupler nuts  155  are loosened, lower coupler bolts  149  may be pivoted out of slots  153  (as depicted in  FIG. 3 ), allowing the separation of lower adapter ring  145  and lower seal housing  147 . In some embodiments, one or more nut retention features such as, for example and without limitation, cotter pins  159  may be utilized to prevent the full removal of coupler nuts  155  from lower coupler bolts  149 . In some embodiments, lower coupler bolts  149  may be sprung such that when coupler nuts  155  are loosened, lower coupler bolts  149  remain in the extended position depicted in  FIG. 3 . 
         [0032]      FIG. 4  depicts a cross section of the washpipe assembly of  FIGS. 2 and 3  with upper adapter ring  115 , gooseneck coupler  113 , lower adapter ring  145 , and swivel stem  143  removed from upper seal assembly  111  and lower seal assembly  141 . In some embodiments, upper seal assembly  111  may mechanically couple to washpipe  103  by snap ring  131 , although one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that washpipe  103  may be mechanically coupled to upper seal assembly  111  by any suitable coupler. 
         [0033]    As depicted in  FIGS. 4-6 , upper seal assembly  111 , in some embodiments, may include seal stack  132  including at least one upper packing spacer ring  133  and at least one upper packing ring  135  positioned within upper seal housing  117 . Upper packing ring  135  may, in some embodiments, form a fluid seal between the outer surface of washpipe  103  and upper seal housing  117 . In some embodiments, upper packing ring  135  and upper packing spacer ring  133  may be generally annular in shape. In some embodiments, upper packing ring  135  may be generally chevron-shaped to, for example and without limitation, in response to fluid pressure thereon from the interior of upper seal housing  117 , compress against the outer surface of washpipe  103 . In some embodiments, upper seal housing  117  may include a corresponding seal surface  137  adapted to retain the shape of upper packing ring  135 . In some embodiments, although not depicted, upper seal assembly  111  may include a guide bushing ring between upper seal housing  117  and upper packing ring  135  as discussed herein below. In some embodiments, upper packing spacer ring  133  may mechanically couple between upper seal housing  117  and washpipe  103  to, for example and without limitation, center washpipe  103  within upper seal housing  117 . In some embodiments, upper packing spacer ring  133  may mechanically couple to upper seal housing  117  to retain upper packing ring  135  within upper seal housing  117 . As depicted in  FIG. 6 , upper packing spacer ring  133  and upper packing ring  135  may be removed from upper seal housing  117 . By disassembling upper seal assembly  111 , upper packing spacer ring  133 , upper packing ring  135 , and any guide bushing (not shown) may be repaired or replaced. 
         [0034]    As depicted in  FIGS. 4, 7A, 7B, and 8 , lower seal assembly  141 , may include a seal stack including one or more lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  and one or more lower packing rings  165   a - c  positioned within lower seal housing  147 . Although described as including three lower packing rings  165   a - c,  one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that any number of lower packing rings  165   a - c  may be utilized without deviating from the scope of this disclosure. Lower packing rings  165   a - c  may, in some embodiments, form a fluid seal between the outer surface of washpipe  103  and lower seal housing  147 . In some embodiments, lower packing rings  165   a - c  and lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  may be generally annular in shape. In some embodiments, lower packing rings  165   a - c  may be generally chevron-shaped to compress against the outer surface of washpipe  103 , for example and without limitation, in response to fluid pressure thereon from the interior of lower seal housing  147 . In some embodiments, multiple lower packing rings  165   a - c  may be utilized such that as a lower packing ring (e.g.  165   a ) fails, fluid pressure from within lower seal housing  147  is retained by the next lower packing ring (e.g.  165   b ). 
         [0035]    In some embodiments, lower seal housing  147  and lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  may include a corresponding seal surface  167   a - c  adapted to retain the shape of adjacent lower packing rings  165   a - c.  In some embodiments, lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  may be adapted to mechanically couple between lower seal housing  147  and washpipe  103  to, for example and without limitation, center washpipe  103  within lower seal housing  147 . In some embodiments, lower seal assembly  141  may include guide bushing rings  169   a - c  positioned between lower seal housing  147  or lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  and adjacent lower packing rings  165   a - c.  Guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may be formed from a softer material than washpipe  103  to avoid damage to washpipe  103  in the case of any contact between washpipe  103  and lower seal assembly  141 . Guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may also be positioned closer to the outer surface of washpipe  103  than a metal spacing ring as any contact between washpipe  141  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may result in less damage to washpipe  103  and lower seal assembly  141  than the metal-on-metal contact that would otherwise occur. Thus, tighter tolerances than traditional washpipes may be used. Furthermore, lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  when formed from a metal, may have a larger inner diameter, further preventing metal-on-metal contact because guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may fill in the space between lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  and washpipe  103 . Thus, wear on lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  and washpipe  103  may be reduced compared to traditional washpipes. Additionally, because lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  have a larger inner diameter, the cross section thereof may remain larger and bending moments reduced such that lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  deflect less under pressure than a traditional bushingless design. 
         [0036]    In some embodiments, lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c  may mechanically couple to lower seal housing  147  to retain lower packing ring  165  within lower seal housing  147 . As depicted in  FIG. 8 , lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may be removed from lower seal housing  147 . By disassembling lower seal assembly  141 , lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may be repaired or replaced. In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 7A , retaining bolt  171  may be positioned to, when tightened into lower seal housing  147 , retain lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  within lower seal housing  147 . In some embodiments, when lower adapter ring  145  is mechanically coupled to lower seal housing  147  by lower coupler bolts  139  as depicted in  FIG. 7B , lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may be retained within lower seal housing  147 , allowing retaining bolt  171  to be loosened or removed. In some embodiments, when lower coupler bolts  139  are tightened, lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may be compressed such that lower packing rings  165   a - c  contact more tightly against washpipe  103 . 
         [0037]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 7A , one or more lubrication ports  173  may be formed in lower seal housing  147  to allow lubricating fluid such as oil or grease to be pumped into the interior of lower seal housing  147  between lower packing rings  165   a - c.    
         [0038]    In some embodiments, by loosening coupler nuts  125 ,  155  as depicted in  FIG. 3 , washpipe assembly  100  may be disassembled utilizing hand tools such as a wrench. By loosening coupler nuts  125 ,  155 , upper seal housing  117 , lower seal housing  147 , and washpipe  103  may be removed from gooseneck  45  and drill stem  101  for, replacement or service. Once removed from upper adapter ring  113  and lower adapter ring  143 , upper packing spacer ring  133 , upper packing ring  135 , lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  may be removed for repair or replacement. Once complete, upper seal housing  117 , lower seal housing  147 , and washpipe  103  may be reinstalled to gooseneck  45  and drill stem  101  by retightening coupler nuts  125 ,  155  to coupler bolts  119 ,  149  respectively while pivoting coupler bolts  119 ,  149  into slots  123 ,  153  respectively utilizing, for example and without limitation, a wrench. Tightening coupler nuts  125 ,  155  may compress upper packing spacer ring  133 , upper packing ring  135 , lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  within the respective upper or lower seal housing  117 ,  147  as previously described. 
         [0039]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 9 , washpipe assembly  200  may include washpipe  203 , upper seal assembly  211 , and lower seal assembly  241 . In some embodiments, washpipe  203  may fluidly couple upper seal assembly  211  and lower seal assembly  241 . In some embodiments, washpipe  203  and upper seal assembly  211  may remain nonrotating as lower seal assembly  241  rotates with drill stem  101 . In other embodiments, washpipe  203  may rotate with lower seal assembly  241  relative to upper seal assembly  211 . 
         [0040]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 10 , upper seal assembly  211  may include gooseneck coupler  213 , and upper seal housing  217 . Gooseneck coupler  213  may mechanically couple gooseneck  45  to upper seal assembly  211 . Gooseneck coupler  213  may mechanically couple to gooseneck  45 , for example and without limitation, a threaded connection, compression or flanged coupler, clip, or mechanical or chemical welding. Although described with respect to a gooseneck, one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that upper seal assembly  211  may be utilized with any tubular member. 
         [0041]    In some embodiments, upper seal housing  217  may mechanically couple to and seal against washpipe  203 . In some embodiments, upper seal housing  217  may mechanically couple to gooseneck coupler  213  by a threaded connection such as upper threaded coupler  219 . In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 9 , one or more upper tightening holes  221  may be formed in the outer surface of upper seal housing  217  to allow upper seal housing  217  to be tightened onto gooseneck coupler  213  by, for example and without limitation, the use of a bar or spanner (not shown) to turn upper seal housing  217  and engage gooseneck coupler  213  in upper threaded coupler  219 . 
         [0042]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 10 , upper seal assembly  211  may mechanically couple to washpipe  203  by snap ring  231 , although one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that washpipe  203  may be mechanically coupled to upper seal assembly  211  by any suitable coupler. 
         [0043]    In some embodiments, upper seal assembly  211  may include at least one upper packing spacer ring  133  and at least one upper packing ring  135  positioned within upper seal housing  217  as described herein above with respect to upper seal assembly  111 . In some embodiments, upper packing spacer ring  133  and upper packing ring  135  may be retained within upper seal housing  217  by gooseneck coupler  213  as gooseneck coupler  213  is installed to upper threaded coupler  219 . In some embodiments, upper packing spacer ring  133  may be pressed therebetween such that gooseneck coupler  213 , upper packing spacer ring  133 , and upper seal housing  217  are in metal-to-metal contact when gooseneck coupler  213  is mechanically coupled to upper seal housing  217 . In some embodiments, one or more seals such as  0 -ring  227  may be positioned between upper packing spacer ring  133  and gooseneck coupler  213  to, for example and without limitation, form a fluid seal therebetween. In some embodiments,  0 -ring  227  may be square in cross-section. 
         [0044]    In some embodiments, lower seal assembly  241  may include swivel stem  243 , packing nut  245 , and lower seal housing  247 . Swivel stem  243  may be adapted to mechanically couple drill stem  101  to lower seal housing  247 . Swivel stem  243  may mechanically couple to drill stem  101  by, for example and without limitation, a threaded connection, compression or flanged coupler, clip, or mechanical or chemical welding. Although described with respect to a drill stem, one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that lower seal assembly  241  may be utilized with any tubular member. 
         [0045]    In some embodiments, lower seal housing  247  may mechanically couple to and seal against washpipe  203 . In some embodiments, lower seal housing  247  may mechanically couple to swivel stem  243  by a threaded connection such as lower threaded coupler  249 . In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 9 , one or more swivel stem tightening holes  251  may be formed in the outer surface of lower seal housing  247  to allow lower seal housing  247  to be tightened onto swivel stem  243  by, for example and without limitation, the use of a bar or spanner (not shown) to turn lower seal housing  247  and engage swivel stem  243  in lower threaded coupler  249 . 
         [0046]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 10 , lower seal housing  247  may mechanically couple to packing nut  245  by a threaded connection such as nut threaded coupler  250 . In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 9 , one or more nut tightening holes  252  may be formed in the outer surface of packing nut  245  to allow packing nut  245  to be tightened onto lower seal housing  247  by, for example and without limitation, the use of a bar or spanner (not shown) to turn packing nut  245  and engage packing nut  245  in nut threaded coupler  250 . 
         [0047]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 10 , lower seal assembly  241  may include a seal stack including one or more lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  one or more lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and one or more guide bushing rings  169   a - d  positioned within lower seal housing  247  as described herein above with respect to the lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  of lower seal assembly  141 . In some embodiments, and as understood by one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, any number of lower packing rings, lower packing spacer rings, and guide bushing rings may be utilized without deviating from the scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - d  may be retained within lower seal housing  247  by packing nut  245  as packing nut  245  is installed to lower seal housing  247 . In some embodiments, lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - d  may be pressed therebetween such that packing nut  245 , lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  and lower seal housing  247  are in metal-to-metal contact when packing nut  245  is mechanically coupled to lower seal housing  247 . In some embodiments, the lowermost lower packing ring  165   a  may fit into a recess formed as a part of lower seal housing  247 , referred to herein as packing ring seat  271 . 
         [0048]    In some embodiments, when installing washpipe assembly  200 , washpipe assembly  200  may be partially assembled before it is mechanically coupled to gooseneck coupler  213  and swivel stem  243 .  FIGS. 11A-F  depict an exemplary assembly procedure consistent with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Certain reference numbers are omitted or grouped for clarity. The exemplary assembly procedure depicted in  FIGS. 11A-F  is not intending to be limiting. As depicted in  FIG. 11A , lower seal assembly  241  may be assembled by installing any lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - d  into lower seal housing  247 . In some embodiments, one or more lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - d  may be mechanically coupled to each other before installation into lower seal housing  247 . 
         [0049]    Packing nut  245  may then be installed to lower seal housing  247  as depicted in  FIG. 11B . In some embodiments, packing nut  245  may be installed loosely to avoid or minimize compression of lower packing rings  165   a - d  to, for example and without limitation, make further assembly and installation of washpipe assembly  200  more easy. 
         [0050]    In some embodiments, washpipe  203  may then be inserted into lower seal assembly  241  as depicted in  FIG. 11C . 
         [0051]    In some embodiments, upper seal housing  217  may be installed about washpipe  203  as depicted in  FIG. 11D . Upper packing spacer ring  133  and upper packing ring  135  may be installed about washpipe  203  as depicted in  FIG. 11E , and may be retained thereto by snap ring  231 . In some embodiments, upper packing spacer ring  133  and upper packing ring  135  may be mechanically coupled to each other before installation onto washpipe  203 . 
         [0052]    Washpipe assembly  200  may be stored or transported in a partially assembled configuration. In some embodiments, washpipe assembly  200  may be moved to derrick  15  (not shown) and positioned in alignment with gooseneck coupler  213  and swivel stem  243  as depicted in  FIG. 11F . Upper seal housing  217  may be mechanically coupled to gooseneck coupler  213 , and lower seal housing  247  may be mechanically coupled to swivel stem  243  as described herein above as depicted in  FIG. 10 . In some embodiments, upper seal housing  217  and lower seal housing  247  may be tightened to gooseneck coupler  213  and swivel stem  243  respectively by utilizing a bar or spanner (not shown) positioned in upper tightening holes  221  and swivel stem tightening holes  251  respectively. In some embodiments, once washpipe assembly  200  is mechanically coupled to gooseneck coupler  213  and swivel stem  243 , packing nut  245  may be tightened to lower seal housing  247  as discussed herein above. In some embodiments, packing nut  245  may be tightened to lower seal housing  247  by utilizing a bar or spanner (not shown) positioned in nut tightening holes  252 . 
         [0053]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 12 , washpipe assembly  300  may include washpipe  303 , upper seal assembly  311 , and lower seal assembly  341 . In some embodiments, washpipe  303  may serve to fluidly couple between upper seal assembly  311  and lower seal assembly  341 . In some embodiments, washpipe  303  and upper seal assembly  311  may be adapted to remain nonrotating as lower seal assembly  341  rotates with drill stem  101  (not shown). Although described herein with this arrangement, one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that in some embodiments, washpipe  303  may rotate with lower seal assembly  341  relative to upper seal assembly  311 . 
         [0054]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 13 , upper seal assembly  311  may include gooseneck coupler  113  as discussed herein above with respect to other embodiments, and upper seal housing  317 . Gooseneck coupler  113  may be adapted to couple gooseneck  45  to upper seal assembly  311 . Gooseneck coupler  113  may mechanically couple to gooseneck  45  by, for example and without limitation, a threaded connection, compression or flanged coupler, clip, or mechanical or chemical welding. Although described with respect to a gooseneck, one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that upper seal assembly  311  may be utilized with any tubular member. 
         [0055]    In some embodiments, upper seal housing  317  may mechanically couple to and seal against washpipe  303 . In some embodiments, upper seal housing  317  may mechanically couple to the gooseneck coupler by a threaded connection such as upper threaded coupler  319 . In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 12 , one or more upper tightening holes  321  may be formed in the outer surface of upper seal housing  317  to allow upper seal housing  317  to be tightened onto the gooseneck coupler by, for example and without limitation, the use of a bar or spanner (not shown) to turn upper seal housing  317  and engage the gooseneck coupler in upper threaded coupler  319 . 
         [0056]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 13 , upper seal assembly  311  may mechanically couple to washpipe  303  by snap ring  331 , although one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that washpipe  303  may be mechanically coupled to upper seal assembly  311  by any suitable coupler. 
         [0057]    In some embodiments, upper seal assembly  311  may include at least one upper packing spacer ring  133  and at least one upper packing ring  135  positioned within upper seal housing  317  as described herein above with respect to upper seal assembly  111 . In some embodiments, upper packing spacer ring  133  and upper packing ring  135  may be retained within upper seal housing  317  by gooseneck coupler  113  as gooseneck coupler  113  is installed to upper threaded coupler  319 . In some embodiments, upper packing spacer ring  133  may be pressed therebetween such that gooseneck coupler  113 , upper packing spacer ring  133 , and upper seal housing  317  are in metal-to-metal contact when gooseneck coupler  113  is mechanically coupled to upper seal housing  317 . In some embodiments, one or more seals such as O-ring  327  may be positioned between upper packing spacer ring  133  and gooseneck coupler  113  to, for example and without limitation, form a fluid seal therebetween. In some embodiments, O-ring  327  may be square in cross-section. 
         [0058]    In some embodiments, lower seal assembly  341  may include swivel stem  243  as discussed herein above with respect to other embodiments. Lower seal assembly  341  may include lower seal housing  347 . Swivel stem may mechanically couple drill stem  101  as previously discussed to lower seal housing  347 . Swivel stem  243  may mechanically couple to drill stem  101  by, for example and without limitation, a threaded connection, compression or flanged coupler, clip, or mechanical or chemical welding. Although described with respect to a drill stem, one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand that lower seal assembly  341  may be utilized with any tubular member. 
         [0059]    In some embodiments, lower seal housing  347  may mechanically couple to and seal against washpipe  303 . In some embodiments, lower seal housing  347  may mechanically couple to swivel stem  243  by a threaded connection such as lower threaded coupler  349 . In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 12 , one or more swivel stem tightening holes  351  may be formed in the outer surface of lower seal housing  347  to allow lower seal housing  347  to be tightened onto the swivel stem by, for example and without limitation, the use of a bar or spanner (not shown) to turn lower seal housing  347  and engage swivel stem  243  in lower threaded coupler  349 . 
         [0060]    In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 13 , lower seal assembly  341  may include a seal stack including one or more lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  one or more lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and one or more guide bushing rings  169   a - d  positioned within lower seal housing  347  as described herein above with respect to the lower packing spacer rings  163   a - c,  lower packing rings  165   a - c,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - c  of lower seal assembly  141 . In some embodiments, and as understood by one having ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure, any number of lower packing rings, lower packing spacer rings, and guide bushing rings may be utilized without deviating from the scope of this disclosure. 
         [0061]    In some embodiments, lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - d  may be retained within lower seal housing  347  by retaining plate  371 . Retaining plate  371  may be an annular body and may engage one or both of a lower surface of the lowermost of the lower packing spacer rings, here spacer ring  163   a,  and the lowermost of the lower packing rings, here lower packing ring  165   a.  Retaining screw  373  may, in some embodiments, extend through lower seal housing  347  to engage retaining plate  371  and retain retaining plate  371  within lower seal housing  347 . In some embodiments, retaining plate  371  may include lip  375  against which retaining screw  373  engages. In some embodiments, the lowermost lower packing ring  165   a  may fit into a recess formed as a part of retaining plate  371 . 
         [0062]    In some embodiments, lower seal assembly  341  may include one or more jacking bolts  377 . Jacking bolts  377  may extend through holes formed in lower seal housing  347 . Jacking bolts  377  may abut the uppermost lower packing spacer ring, here lower packing spacer ring  163   d.  Jacking bolts  377  may, as they are tightened into lower seal housing  347 , press downward on lower packing spacer ring  163   d  to compress lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - d  between jacking bolts  377  and retaining plate  371 . 
         [0063]    In some embodiments, two or more jacking bolts  377  may be utilized. In some embodiments, as depicted in  FIG. 12 , six jacking bolts  377  may be utilized. In some embodiments, jacking bolts  377  may be tightened substantially evenly such that, for example and without limitation, the compression of lower packing spacer rings  163   a - d,  lower packing rings  165   a - d,  and guide bushing rings  169   a - d  between jacking bolts  377  and retaining plate  371  is substantially balanced. 
         [0064]    The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that a person of ordinary skill in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Such features may be replaced by any one of numerous equivalent alternatives, only some of which are disclosed herein. One of ordinary skill in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. One of ordinary skill in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and that they may make various changes, substitutions, and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.