Rotating and reciprocating swivel apparatus and method

Abstract

What is provided is a method and apparatus wherein a swivel can be detachably connected to an annular blowout preventer thereby separating the drilling fluid or mud into upper and lower sections and allowing the fluid to be displaced in two stages, such as while the drill string is being rotated and/or reciprocated. In one embodiment the sleeve or housing can be rotatably and sealably connected to a mandrel. The swivel can be incorporated into a drill or well string and enabling string sections both above and below the sleeve to be rotated in relation to the sleeve. In one embodiment the drill or well string does not move in a longitudinal direction relative to the swivel. In one embodiment, the drill or well string does move longitudinally relative to the sleeve or housing of the swivel.

Claims

1. A method of using a reciprocating swivel in a drill or work string, the method comprising the following steps: (a) lowering a rotating and reciprocating tool to a BOP, the tool comprising a mandrel and a sleeve, the sleeve being reciprocable relative to the mandrel and the swivel including a quick lock/quick unlock system which has locked and unlocked states; (b) after step “a”, having the BOP close on the sleeve; (c) after step “b”, causing longitudinal movement between the sleeve and the mandrel and causing the quick lock/quick unlock system to enter an unlocked state; (d) after step “c”, moving the sleeve outside of the BOP; (e) after step “d”, moving the sleeve inside of the BOP and having the BOP close on the sleeve; and (f) after step “c”, causing relative longitudinal movement between the sleeve and the mandrel and activating the quick lock/quick unlock system.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein in step “a”, the sleeve is longitudinally locked relative to the mandrel.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, after step “b”, the sleeve is unlocked longitudinally relative to the mandrel.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the quick lock/quick unlock system is radially aligned before being activated and in a locked state.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the quick lock/quick unlock system can rotate relative to the sleeve when activated and in a locked state.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the sleeve includes at least one catch for restricting relative longitudinal movement between the sleeve and the BOP when the BOP is sealed on the sleeve.

7. A marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus comprising: (a) a marine drilling platform; (b) a drill string that extends between the marine drilling platform and a formation to be drilled, the drill string having a flow bore; (c) a mandrel having upper and lower end sections and connected to and reciprocable with upper and lower sections of the drill string, the mandrel having an external perimeter and including a longitudinal passage forming a continuation of a flow bore of the drill string sections, the mandrel having an area of reduced external perimeter; (d) a sleeve having a longitudinal sleeve passage and an internal perimeter, the sleeve being reciprocably connected to the mandrel; (e) an interstitial space between the sleeve and the mandrel which interstitial space is sealed by a seal unit, and wherein the mandrel's area of reduced external perimeter is movable into and out of the interstitial space; (f) a pressure relief mechanism that gradually relieves pressure in the interstitial space when the mandrel and sleeve are elevated in a well bore, the pressure relief mechanism being in an activated state when a seal unit, sealing between the sleeve and the mandrel, at least partially extends over the mandrel's area of reduced external perimeter, and the pressure relief mechanism being in a deactivated state when the seal unit does not extend at least partially over the area of reduced external perimeter of the mandrel.

8. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the seal unit unit has a plurality of oppositely sealing packing rings, the one set of the packing rings sealing in a first longitudinal direction, and the second set of packing rings sealing a second longitudinal direction, the second longitudinal direction being opposite of the first longitudinal direction.

9. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the packing units define a seal that moves longitudinally with the sleeve.

10. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism includes a passage that enables leakage of pressure into the well bore.

11. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism is activated by positioning the sleeve relative to the mandrel at a pre-designated pressure relief position, which position occurs where the second packing unit at least partially extends over the mandrel's area of reduced external perimeter.

12. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism is de-activated by changing the longitudinal position of the mandrel relative to the sleeve, which position occurs where the pressure relief mechanism moves away from at least partially over the area of reduced external perimeter of the mandrel.

13. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism includes seals, the mandrel provides a pressure relief portion which includes the area of reduced external perimeter, the seals being movable into a position that is generally aligned with the pressure relief portion and to a position that is moved away from the pressure relief portion.

14. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 13, wherein longitudinal movement of the seals on the sleeve transition the pressure relief mechanism between pressure relief mode and non-pressure relief mode.

15. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism includes an annular groove on the sleeve.

16. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism includes an annular recess on the sleeve.

17. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism includes a pressure relief channel provided on the mandrel.

18. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism includes a plurality of pressure relief channels provided on the mandrel.

19. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism enables relative movement of the sleeve and mandrel between a pressure relief mode and a non-pressure relief mode.

20. The marine oil and gas well drilling apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pressure relief mechanism includes at least two sets of seals, the sets sealing fluid flow in opposite longitudinal directions.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) 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:

(2) FIGS. 1-1A are schematic diagrams showing a deep water drilling rig with riser and annular blowout preventer;

(3) FIG. 2 is another schematic diagram of a deep water drilling rig showing a swivel detachably connected to an annular blowout preventer (a second annular blowout preventer is also shown);

(4) FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a reciprocating and/or rotating swivel;

(5) FIGS. 4A through 4C are schematic diagrams illustrating reciprocating motion of a drill or well string through an annular blowout preventer;

(6) FIG. 5 is a side view of a swivel where sections from the upper and lower portions of the mandrel have been omitted in order to show in a single figure (to scale) the entire swivel;

(7) FIG. 6 is a sectional side view of the swivel in FIG. 5 where part of the sleeve or housing has been removed;

(8) FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the bottom portion of the swivel of FIG. 5 where part of the sleeve or housing has been removed;

(9) FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the top portion of the swivel of FIG. 5 where part of the sleeve or housing has been removed;

(10) FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the bottom portion of the swivel of FIG. 5 where the sleeve or housing has been moved to the bottom portion of the mandrel;

(11) FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the swivel shown in FIG. 9 where part of the sleeve or housing has been removed to show various internal components;

(12) FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the top portion of the swivel of FIG. 5 where the sleeve or housing has been moved to the top portion of the mandrel;

(13) FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the swivel shown in FIG. 11 where part of the sleeve or housing has been removed to show various internal components;

(14) FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a mandrel for the swivel of FIG. 5;

(15) FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the middle portion of the mandrel of FIG. 13;

(16) FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the upper portion of the mandrel of FIG. 13;

(17) FIG. 16 is a sectional view of the bottom portion of the mandrel of FIG. 13;

(18) FIG. 17 is a view of the sleeve or housing for the mandrel of FIG. 5 with end caps attached;

(19) FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the sleeve or housing of FIG. 17 showing various components;

(20) FIG. 19 is a sectional view of the sleeve or housing for the mandrel of FIG. 5 with all attachments removed;

(21) FIG. 20 is a sectional view of the upper portion of the sleeve or housing of FIG. 17;

(22) FIG. 21 is a sectional view of the lower portion of the sleeve or housing of FIG. 17;

(23) FIG. 22 is a sectional view showing one embodiment for the bearing and packing assembly for the swivel of FIG. 5;

(24) FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a bearing or bushing shown in FIG. 22;

(25) FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the packing housing shown in FIG. 22;

(26) FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the packing housing shown in FIG. 22;

(27) FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a spacer for the bearing and packing assembly shown in FIG. 22;

(28) FIG. 27 is a perspective view of female packing ring for the bearing and packing assembly shown in FIG. 22;

(29) FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a packing ring for the bearing and packing assembly shown in FIG. 22;

(30) FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a male packing ring for the bearing and packing assembly shown in FIG. 22;

(31) FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a packing nut for the bearing and packing assembly shown in FIG. 22;

(32) FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a retainer plate for the bearing and packing assembly shown in FIG. 22;

(33) FIG. 32 is a sectional perspective view of a bearing cap for the upper end of the sleeve or housing shown in FIG. 17;

(34) FIG. 33 is a sectional perspective view of the bearing housing for the lower end cap of the sleeve or housing shown in FIG. 17;

(35) FIG. 34 is a sectional perspective view of a bearing thrust plate for the lower end of the sleeve or housing shown in FIG. 17;

(36) FIG. 35 is a sectional perspective view of a cap for the lower end of the sleeve or housing shown in FIG. 17;

(37) FIG. 36 is a sectional view of showing the sleeve or housing of FIG. 17 shear pinned to the lower end of the mandrel;

(38) FIG. 37 is an enlarged sectional perspective view showing the sleeve or housing pinned to the mandrel at the lower end of the mandrel;

(39) FIG. 38 is a sectional perspective view showing the sleeve or housing for the swivel of FIG. 5 entering the annular blowout preventer where the mandrel is pinned to the sleeve or housing;

(40) FIG. 39 is a sectional perspective view showing the sleeve or housing for swivel of FIG. 5 in a working position inside the annular blowout preventer (annular seal omitted for clarity) and the mandrel extended downstream of the sleeve or housing;

(41) FIG. 40 is a sectional perspective view showing the swivel of FIG. 5 leaving the annular blowout preventer;

(42) FIG. 41 is a sectional perspective view showing the swivel of FIG. 5 moving down the stack towards the well head;

(43) FIG. 42 is a sectional perspective view showing the swivel of FIG. 5 contacting the well head;

(44) FIG. 43 also shows the swivel of FIG. 5 contacting the top of the well head;

(45) FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a pressure testing apparatus with part of the end sleeve or housing removed to show internal components;

(46) FIGS. 45 through 47 illustrate one embodiment where a quick lock/quick unlock system is placed in a locked state.

(47) FIGS. 48 through 50 illustrate one embodiment where a quick lock/quick unlock system is placed in an unlocked locked state.

(48) FIG. 51 is an enlarged view of the apparatus in FIG. 45.

(49) FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the apparatus in FIG. 45.

(50) FIG. 53 is an enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 49 wherein a section is cut through the sleeve.

(51) FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 47.

(52) FIG. 55 is a sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 45 where the locking hub has been removed to better show various components.

(53) FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a locking hub.

(54) FIG. 57 is a sectioned perspective view of the locking hub of FIG. 56.

(55) FIGS. 58 through 60 show various embodiments of a generic sleeve with specialized removable adaptors for different annular BOPs.

(56) FIG. 61 is an exploded perspective view of one specialized removable adaptor for an annular BOP.

(57) FIG. 62 is an exploded perspective view of a second specialized removable adaptor for a second annular BOP.

(58) FIG. 63 is a perspective view of the specialized removable adaptor attached to the sleeve.

(59) FIG. 64 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the method and apparatus.

(60) FIG. 65 is a sectional perspective view of the upper part of an alternative rotating and reciprocating swivel with alternative packing assembly.

(61) FIG. 66 is a closeup view of the swivel of FIG. 65.

(62) FIG. 67 is a sectional perspective view of the packing unit for the swivel of FIG. 65.

(63) FIG. 68 is a sectional perspective view of the upper part of an alternative swivel with alternative packing assembly.

(64) FIG. 69 is a closeup view of the swivel of FIG. 68.

(65) FIG. 70 is a sectional perspective view of the packing unit for the swivel of FIG. 68.

(66) FIG. 71 is a sectional view of an alternative swivel configuration which has entered a pressure relief mode.

(67) FIG. 72 is a closeup sectional view of the swivel configuration of FIG. 71.

(68) FIG. 73 is a sectional view of an alternative swivel configuration which can enter a pressure relief mode.

(69) FIG. 74 is a sectional view of the connection between the pin end saver sub portion of the mandrel for the swivel of FIG. 71.

(70) FIG. 75 is a view ov the lower end of the mandrel of FIG. 71 with the saver sub portion removed.

(71) FIG. 76 is a sectional view of an alternative swivel configuration where the upper retaining cape of the sleeve is closed.

(72) FIG. 77 is a perspective view of the upper limiting sub for the swivel of FIG. 71.

(73) FIG. 78 is a side view of the upper limiting sub of FIG. 77.

(74) FIG. 79 is a perspective view of the box end of the sleeve of FIG. 76.

(75) FIG. 80 is a perspective view of the upper end of the upper retaining cap of FIG. 76.

(76) FIG. 81 is a perspective view of the lower end of the upper retaining cap of FIG. 80.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(77) FIGS. 1 and 2 show generally the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, designated generally by the numeral 10. Drilling apparatus 10 employs a drilling platform S that can be a floating platform, spar, semi-submersible, or other platform suitable for oil and gas well drilling in a deep water environment. For example, the well drilling apparatus 10 of FIGS. 1 and 2 and related method can be employed in deep water of for example deeper than 5,000 feet (1,500 meters), 6,000 feet (1,800 meters), 7,000 feet (2,100 meters), 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) deep, or deeper.

(78) In FIGS. 1A and 2, an ocean floor or seabed 87 is shown. Wellhead 88 is shown on seabed 11. One or more blowout preventers can be provided including stack 75 and annular blowout preventer 70. The oil and gas well drilling platform S thus can provide a floating structure S having a rig floor F that carries a derrick and other known equipment that is used for drilling oil and gas wells. Floating structure S provides a source of drilling fluid or drilling mud 22 contained in mud pit MP. Equipment that can be used to recirculate and treat the drilling mud can include for example a mud pit MP, shale shaker SS, mud buster or separator MB, and choke manifold CM.

(79) An example of a drilling rig and various drilling components is shown in FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 6,263,982 (which patent is incorporated herein by reference). In FIGS. 1, 1A, and 2 conventional slip or telescopic joint SJ, comprising an outer barrel OB and an inner barrel IB with a pressure seal therebetween can be used to compensate for the relative vertical movement or heave between the floating rig S and the fixed subsea riser R. A Diverter D can be connected between the top inner barrel IB of the slip joint SJ and the floating structure or rig S to control gas accumulations in the riser R or low pressure formation gas from venting to the rig floor F. A ball joint BJ between the diverter D and the riser R can compensate for other relative movement (horizontal and rotational) or pitch and roll of the floating structure S and the riser R (which is typically fixed).

(80) The diverter D can use a diverter line DL to communicate drilling fluid or mud from the riser R to a choke manifold CM, shale shaker SS or other drilling fluid or drilling mud receiving device. Above the diverter D can be the flowline RF which can be configured to communicate with a mud pit MP. A conventional flexible choke line CL can be configured to communicate with choke manifold CM. The drilling fluid or mud can flow from the choke manifold CM to a mud-gas buster or separator MB and a flare line (not shown). The drilling fluid or mud can then be discharged to a shale shaker SS, and mud pits MP. In addition to a choke line CL and kill line KL, a booster line BL can be used.

(81) FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the drill string or work string 60 that extends between rig 10 and seabed 87 having wellhead 88. In FIG. 2, the drill string or work string 60 is divided into an upper drill or work string 85 and a lower drill or work string 86. Upper string 85 is contained in riser 80 and extends between well drilling rig S and swivel 100. An upper volumetric section 90 is provided within riser 80 and in between drilling rig 10 and swivel 100. A lower volumetric section 92 is provided in between wellhead 88 and swivel 100. The upper and lower volumetric sections 90, 92 are more specifically separated by annular seal unit 71 that forms a seal against sleeve 300 of swivel 100. Blowout preventer 70 is positioned at the bottom of riser 80 and above stack 75. A well bore 40 extends downwardly from wellhead 88 and into seabed 87. Although shown in FIG. 2, in many of the figures the lower completion or drill string 86 (which would be connected to and supported by pin end 150 of mandrel 110) has been omitted for purposes of clarity.

(82) After drilling operations, when preparing the wellbore 40 and riser R for production, it is desirable to remove the drilling fluid or mud. Removal of drilling fluid or mud is typically done through displacement by a completion fluid. Because of its relatively high cost, this drilling fluid or drilling mud is typically recovered for use in another drilling operation. Displacing the drilling fluid or mud in multiple sections is desirable because the amount of drilling fluid or mud to be removed during completion is typically greater than the storage space available at the drilling rig S for either completion fluid and/or drilling fluid or drilling mud.

(83) In deep water settings, after drilling is stopped, the total volume of drilling fluid or drilling mud in the well bore 40 and the riser R can be in excess of the storage capacity of the rig S. Many rigs S do not have the capacity for storing this total volume of drilling mud and/or supplying the total volume of completion fluid when displacing in one step the total volume of drilling fluid or drilling mud in the well bore 40 and riser R. Accordingly, displacement is typically done in two or more stages. Additionally, displacing in two stages is believed to reduce the total volume of completion fluid required versus that required in a single stage displacement. Furthermore, logistical benefits can be obtained by displacing in two stages by dealing with smaller volumes of displacement fluid in each stage along with the ability to prepare certain operations for the second displacement stage simultaneously with displacing the first stage. Additionally, where a problem occurs during one of the stages only the fluid impacted by that stage need be addressed which is a smaller volume than the fluid for displacing riser and well bore in a single stage.

(84) Where the displacement process is performed in two or more stages, there is a risk that, during the time period between stages, the displacing fluid will intermix or interface with the drilling fluid or mud thereby causing the drilling fluid or mud to be unusable or require extensive and expensive reclamation efforts before being usable.

(85) Detailed descriptions of one or more preferred embodiments are provided herein. 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.

(86) FIGS. 1-1A are schematic views showing oil and gas well drilling rig 10 connected to riser 80 and having annular blowout preventer 70 (commercially available). FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing rig 10 with swivel 100 separating upper drill or well string 85 and lower drill or well string 86. Swivel 100 is shown detachably connected to annular blowout preventer 70 through annular packing unit seal 71. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a swivel 100 which can rotate and/or reciprocate. With such construction drill or well string 85, 86 can be rotated and/or reciprocated while annular blowout preventer 70 is sealed around swivel 100 thereby separating a fluid in riser R into upper and lower longitudinal sections. FIGS. 4A through 4C are schematic diagrams illustrating reciprocating motion of drill or well string 85,86 through annular blowout preventer 70.

(87) Swivel 100 can be seen in more detail in FIG. 3. Swivel 100 includes a sleeve or housing 300. Mandrel 110 is contained within a bore of sleeve 300 (see FIGS. 7 and 8). FIG. 3 shows a fragmentary view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, particularly illustrating swivel 100. Swivel 100 includes an outer sleeve or housing 300 having a generally vertically oriented open-ended bore that is occupied by mandrel 110. Mandrel 110 provides upper and lower end portions. The upper end portion has joint of pipe 700 and enlarged area 730. The lower end portion of mandrel 110 has fluted area 135 and saver sub 800 (see FIG. 13). Joint of pipe 700 and enlarged area 730 provide frustoconical area 740, protruding section 750, and upper portion 710 of joint of pipe 700 (see FIG. 15).

(88) In FIG. 3, sleeve 300 provides upper radiused area 332 that connects with base 331. Sleeve 300 also provides lower radiused area 342 that is connected to lower base 341. Upper catch, shoulder or flange 326 is connected to upper base 331. Similarly, lower catch, shoulder or flange 328 connects to lower base 341. Upper retainer cap 400 is connected to upper catch, shoulder or flange 326 while lower retainer cap 500 is connected to lower catch, shoulder or flange 328 as shown. In FIG. 3, 410 designates the tip of retainer cap 400. In FIG. 3, the numeral 520 designates the tip of retainer cap 500. The base 530 of retainer cap 500 defines the connection with lower catch, shoulder or flange 328.

(89) FIGS. 3 and 4A through 4C schematically illustrating reciprocating motion of sleeve or housing 300 relative to mandrel 110. The length 180 of mandrel 110 compared to the overall length 350 of sleeve or housing 300 can be configured to allow sleeve or housing 300 to reciprocate (e.g., slide up and down) relative to mandrel 110. FIGS. 4A through 4C are schematic diagrams illustrating reciprocation and/or rotation between sleeve or housing 300 along mandrel 110 (allowing reciprocation and/or rotation between drill or work string 85,86 at a time when the volume of fluid is desireably to be separated into two volumetric sections by the closing of annular blowout preventer 70.

(90) In FIG. 4A, arrow 113 schematically indicates that mandrel 110 is moving downward relative to sleeve or housing 300. Arrows 114 and 115 in FIGS. 4B-4C schematically indicate upward movement of mandrel 110 relative to sleeve or housing 300. In FIGS. 4A and 4C, arrows 116 and 118 schematically indicate counterclockwise rotation between mandrel 110 and sleeve or housing 300. In FIG. 4B, arrow 117 schematically indicates clockwise rotation between mandrel 110 and sleeve or housing 300. The change in direction between arrows 113 and 114,115 schematically indicates a reciprocating motion. The change in direction between arrows 116,118 and 117 schematically indicates an alternating type of rotational movement.

(91) Swivel 100 can be made up of mandrel 110 to fit in line of a drill or work string 85,86 and sleeve or housing 300 with a seal and bearing system to allow for the drill or work string 85, 86 to be rotated and reciprocated while swivel 100 where annular seal unit 71 (see FIGS. 2, 4A-4C) separates the fluid column in riser 80 from the fluid column in wellbore 40. This can be achieved by locating swivel 100 in the annular blow out preventer 70 where annular seal unit 71 can close around sleeve or housing 300 forming a seal between sleeve or housing 300 and annular seal unit 71, as seen in FIGS. 2, 4A-4C, and the sealing system between sleeve or housing 300 and mandrel 110 of swivel 100 forming a seal between sleeve or housing 300 and mandrel 110, thus separating the two fluid columns 90, 92 (above and below annular seal unit 71) allowing the fluid columns 90, 92 to be displaced individually.

(92) In deep water settings, after drilling is stopped the total volume of drilling fluid 22 in the well bore 40 and the riser 80 can be in excess of about 5,000 barrels. This drilling fluid or mud 22 must be removed to ready the well for completion (usually ultimately replaced by a completion fluid). Because of its relatively high cost this drilling fluid or mud 22 is typically recovered for use in another drilling operation. Removal of drilling fluid or mud 22 is typically done through displacement by a completion fluid 96 or displacement fluid 94. However, many rigs 10 do not have the capacity to store and/or supply 5,000 plus barrels of completion fluid 96, displacement fluid 94, and/or drilling fluid or mud 22 and thereby displace “in one step” the total volume of drilling fluid or mud 22 in the well bore 40 and riser 80 volumes. Accordingly, the displacement process is done in two or more stages. However, where the displacement process is performed in two or more stages, there is a high risk that, during the time period between the stages, the displacing fluid 94 and/or completion fluid 96 will intermix and/or interface with the drilling fluid or mud 22 thereby causing the drilling fluid or mud 22 to be unusable or require extensive and expensive reclamation efforts before being used again.

(93) Additionally, it has been found that, during displacement of the drilling fluid or mud 22, rotation of the drill or well string 85, 86 causes a rotation of the drilling fluid or mud 22 in the riser 80 and well bore 40 and obtains a better overall recovery of the drilling fluid or mud 22 and/or completion of the well. Additionally, during displacement there may be a need to move in a vertical direction (e.g., reciprocate) and/or rotate the drill or well string 85,86 while performing displacement and/or completion operations, such as cleaning, scraping, and/or brushing the sides of the well bore.

(94) In one embodiment the riser 80 and well bore 40 can be separated into two volumetric sections 90, 92 (e.g., 2,500 barrels each) where the rig 10 can carry a sufficient amount of displacement fluid 94 and/or completion fluid 96 to remove each section without stopping during the displacement process. In one embodiment, fluid removal of the two volumetric sections 90, 92 in stages can be accomplished, but there is a break of an indefinite period of time between stages (although this break may be of short duration).

(95) In one embodiment swivel 100 is provided which can be detachably connected to an annular blowout preventer 70 thereby separating the drilling fluid or mud 22 into upper and lower sections 90, 92 (roughly in the riser 80 and well bore 40) and allowing the or mud 22 to be removed in two stages while the drill or well string 85,86 is rotated and/or reciprocated.

(96) In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85,86 is reciprocated longitudinally during displacement. In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85, 86 is intermittently reciprocated longitudinally during displacement of fluid.

(97) In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85, 86 is continuously reciprocated longitudinally during displacement. In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85, 86 is reciprocated longitudinally the distance of at least the length of one joint of pipe during displacement of fluid.

(98) In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85, 86 is rotated during displacement of fluid. In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85, 86 is intermittently rotated during displacement of fluid. In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85, 86 is continuously rotated during displacement of fluid.

(99) In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85,86 is alternately rotated during displacement of fluid. In one embodiment, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the direction of rotation of the drill or well string 85, 86 is changed during displacement of fluid.

(100) In FIGS. 1-3, 4A-4C swivel 100 can also be used for reverse displacement in which the fluid is pumped in through the choke/kill lines down the annular of wellbore 40 and back up drill workstring 85,86. This process would help to remove items and/or debris which had fallen to the bottom of wellbore 40 that are difficult to remove using forward displacement (where the fluid is pumped down the workstring 85,86 displacing up through the annular to the choke/kill lines).

(101) The amount of reciprocation (or stroke) can be controlled by the difference between the length of mandrel 110 and the length 350 of the sleeve or housing 300. As shown in FIG. 3, the stroke of swivel 100 can be the difference between height H 180 of mandrel 110 and length L1 350 of sleeve or housing 300. In one embodiment height H 180 can be about eighty feet (24.38 meters) and length L1 350 can be about eleven feet (3.35 meters). In other embodiments the length L1 350 can be about 1 foot (30.48 centimeters), about 2 feet (60.98 centimeters), about 3 feet (91.44 centimeters), about 4 feet (122.92 centimeters), about 5 feet (152.4 centimeters), about 6 feet (183.88 centimeters), about 7 feet (213.36 centimeters), about 8 feet (243.84 centimeters), about 9 feet (274.32 centimeters), about 10 feet (304.8 centimeters), about 12 feet (365.76 centimeters), about 13 feet (396.24 centimeters), about 14 feet (426.72 centimeters), about 15 feet (457.2 centimeters), about 16 feet (487.68 centimeters), about 17 feet (518.16 centimeters), about 18 feet (548.64 centimeters), about 19 feet (579.12 centimeters), and about 20 feet (609.6 centimeters) (or about midway spaced between any of the specified lengths). In various embodiments, the length of the swivel's sleeve or housing 300 compared to the length H180 of its mandrel 110 is between two and thirty times. Alternatively, between two and twenty times, between two and fifteen times, two and ten times, two and eight times, two and six times, two and five times, two and four times, two and three times, and two and two and one half times. Also alternatively, between 1.5 and thirty times, 1.5 and twenty times, 1.5 and fifteen times, 1.5 and ten times, 1.5 and eight times, 1.5 and six times, 1.5 and five times, 1.5 and four times, 1.5 and three times, 1.5 and two times, 1.5 and two and one half times, and 1.5 and two times.

(102) In various embodiments, at least partly during the time the riser 80 and well bore 40 are separated into two volumetric sections, the drill or well string 85,86 is reciprocated longitudinally the distance of at least about ½ inch (1.27 centimeters), about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters), about 2 inches (5.04 centimeters), about 3 inches (7.62 centimeters), about 4 inches (10.16 centimeters), about 5 inches (12.7 centimeters), about 6 inches 15.24 centimeters), about 1 foot (30.48 centimeters), about 2 feet (60.96 centimeters), about 3 feet (91.44 centimeters), about 4 feet (1.22 meters), about 6 feet (1.83 meters), about 10 feet (3.048 meters), about 15 feet (4.57 meters), about 20 feet (6.096 meters), about 25 feet (7.62 meters), about 30 feet (9.14 meters), about 35 feet (10.67 meters), about 40 feet (12.19 meters), about 45 feet (13.72 meters), about 50 feet (15.24 meters), about 55 feet (16.76 meters), about 60 feet (18.29 meters), about 65 feet (19.81 meters), about 70 feet (21.34 meters), about 75 feet (22.86 meters), about 80 feet (24.38 meters), about 85 feet (25.91 meters), about 90 feet (27.43 meters), about 95 feet (28.96 meters), about 100 feet (30.48 meters), and/or between the range of each or a combination of each of the above specified distances.

(103) FIGS. 3, 4A-4C, 5 through 12 show one embodiment of swivel 100. FIG. 5 is a side view of swivel 100 where sections from the upper and lower portions of mandrel 110 have been omitted to show swivel 100 in a single figure. FIG. 6 is a sectional side view of swivel 100 where part of the sleeve or housing 300 has been removed. FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the bottom portion of the swivel 100. FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the top portion of swivel 100. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the bottom portion of the swivel of FIG. 5 where sleeve or housing 300 has been moved to the bottom portion of mandrel 110. FIG. 10 is a sectional view of swivel 100 where part of the sleeve or housing 300 has been removed to show various internal components. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the top portion of swivel 100 where sleeve or housing 300 has been moved to the upper portion 120 of mandrel 110. FIG. 12 is a sectional view of swivel 100 where part of sleeve or housing 300 has been removed to show various internal components.

(104) Swivel 100 can be comprised of mandrel 110 and sleeve or housing 300. Sleeve or housing 300 can be rotatably, reciprocably, and/or sealably connected to mandrel 110. Accordingly, when mandrel 110 is rotated and/or reciprocated sleeve or housing 300 can remain stationary to an observer insofar as rotation and/or reciprocation is concerned. Sleeve or housing 300 can fit over mandrel 110 and can be rotatably, reciprocably, and sealably connected to mandrel 110.

(105) In FIG. 3, sleeve or housing 300 can be rotatably connected to mandrel 110 by one or more bushings and/or bearings 1100, preferably located on opposed longitudinal ends of sleeve or housing 300.

(106) In FIG. 3, sleeve or housing 300 can be sealingly connected to mandrel 110 by a one or more seals, preferably located on opposed longitudinal ends of sleeve or housing 300. The seals can seal the gap 315 between the interior 310 of sleeve or housing 300 and the exterior of mandrel 110.

(107) In FIG. 3, sleeve or housing 300 can be reciprocally connected to mandrel 110 through the geometry of mandrel 110 which can allow sleeve or housing 300 to slide relative to mandrel 110 in a longitudinal direction (such as by having a longitudinally extending distance H 180 of the exterior surface of mandrel 110 a substantially constant diameter).

(108) In FIG. 3, bushings and/or bearings 1100 can include annular bearings, tapered bearings, ball bearings, teflon bearing sleeves, and/or bronze bearing sleeves, allowing for low friction levels during rotating and/or reciprocating procedures.

(109) The various components of swivel 100 will be individually described below.

(110) Mandrel

(111) FIG. 13 is a perspective view of mandrel 110. FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the middle portion of mandrel 110. FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the upper portion of mandrel 110. FIG. 16 is a sectional view of the bottom portion of mandrel 110. Mandrel 110 can comprise upper end 120 and lower end 130. Mandrel 110 preferably is designed to take substantially all of the structural load from upper well string 85 and lower well string 86 (at least the load of lower well string 86). Mandrel 110 lower end 130 can include a pin connection 150 or any other conventional connection. Upper end 120 can include box connection 140 or any other conventional connection. Central longitudinal passage 160 (see FIG. 16) can extend from upper end 120 through lower end 130. As shown in FIGS. 2-3, mandrel 110 can in effect become a part of upper and lower well string 85,86. Because of a long desired length for mandrel 110, it can include two sections—upper end or section 120 and lower end or section 130 which are connected at connection point 162. At connection point 162 upper end 120 can include a pin connection 164 and lower end can include a box connection 166 (although other conventional type connections can be used). To assist in sealing central longitudinal passage 160, at connection 162 one, two, or more seals can be used (such as polypack seals 168, 170 or other seals).

(112) In one embodiment upsets, such as joints of pipe can be placed respectively on upper and lower sections 120, 130 of mandrel 110 which act as stops for longitudinal movement of sleeve 300. Upset or joints of pipe can include larger diameter sections than the outer diameter of mandrel. Having larger diameters can prevent sleeve 300 from sliding off of mandrel 110. Joints of pipe can act as saver subs for the ends of mandrel 110 which take wear and handling away from mandrel 110. Joints of pipe are preferably of shorter length than a regular 20 or 40 foot joint of pipe, however, can be of the same lengths. In one embodiment joints of pipe include saver portions which engage sleeve or housing 300 at the end of mandrel 110. Saver portions can be shaped to cooperate with the ends of sleeve or housing 300. Saver portions can be of the same or a different material than sleeve or housing 300, such as polymers, teflon, rubber, or other material which is softer than steel or iron. In one embodiment a portion or portions of mandrel 110 itself can be enlarged to act as a stop(s) for movement of sleeve 300.

(113) As shown in FIGS. 13 and 15, joint of pipe 700 can be connected to upper portion 120 of mandrel 110. Joint 700 can comprise upper portion 710, lower portion 720, enlarged area 730, frustoconical area 740, and protruding section 750. Joint 700 can limit the upper range of reciprocal motion between sleeve or housing 300 and mandrel 110.

(114) As shown in FIGS. 13 and 16, lower portion 130 of mandrel 110 can include enlarged fluted area 135. Fluted area 135 can be used to limit the maximum downward movement by sleeve or housing 300 relative to mandrel 110. This area can be fluted to assist in fluid flow between the external diameter of fluted area and the internal diameter of a passageway through which fluted area is passing (for example, the internal diameter of well head 88). Where these two diameters are relatively close to each other, the flutes can assist in fluid flow between the two diameters. FIG. 16 also shows a saver sub 800 connected to the pin end 150 of mandrel 110, which can protect or save the threaded area of pin end 150.

(115) To reduce friction between mandrel 110 and sleeve 300 during rotational and/or reciprocational type movement, mandrel 110 can include a hard chromed area on its outer diameter throughout the travel length (or stroke) of sleeve 300 which can assist in maintaining a seal between mandrel 110 and sleeve or housing 300's sealing area during rotation and/or reciprocation activities or procedures. Alternatively, the outer diameter throughout the travel length (or stroke) of sleeve or housing 300 can be treated, 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. The exterior of mandrel 110 can also be coated by a plating method, such as electroplating or chrome plating. Its surface and its surface can be ground/polished/finished to a desired finish to reduce friction packing assemblies.

(116) Mandrel 110 can be machined from a 4340 heat treated steel bar stock or heat treated forgings (alternatively, can be from a rolled forging). Preferably, ultra sound inspections are performed using ASTM A388. Preferably, internal and external surfaces are wet magnetic particle inspected using ASTM 709 (No Prods/No Yokes). The preferred overall length of mandrel 110 is about 77 feet (23.5 meters). The preferred length of upper end 120 is 38.64 feet (11.78 meters) and lower end 130 is about 38.5 feet (11.73 meters). Preferably pin end 150 and box end 140 can be joined through a modified 5½ inch (14 centimeter) FH connection. Preferably, design of these connections is based on a 7½ inch (19 centimeter) outer diameter, 3½ inch (8.9 centimeter) inner diameter and a material yield strength of 135,000 psi (931,000 kilopascals). Mandrel 110 is preferably designed to handle the tensile and torsional loads that a completion string supports (such as from annular blowout preventer 70 to the bottom of well bore 40) and meet the requirements of API Specifications 7 and 7G.

(117) The following properties are preferred:

(118) TABLE-US-00001 minimum tensile 135,000 psi (931,000 kilopascals) (Tensile yield strength tested per ASTM A370, 2% offset method). minimum 13% elongation percent Brinell hardness 341/388 BHN range impact strength average impact value not less than 27 foot- pounds with no single value below 12 foot- pounds when tested at −4 degrees F. (−20 degrees C.) as per ASTM E23.
Mandrel's 100 box 140 and pin 150 rotary shouldered connections preferably conform to dimensions provided in tables 25 and 26 of API specification 7.

(119) At connection 162, there is preferably included connecting portions with 7 inch outer diameter s and 3½ inch (8.9 centimeters) inner diameters having a material yield strength of 135,000 psi (931,000 kilopascals). The two connecting portions 120, 130 are preferably center piloted to insure that their outer diameters remain concentric after makeup. Preferably, the box and pin bevel diameter is eliminated at connection 162 and dual high pressure seals are used to seal from fluids migration both internally and externally. Preferably, fluid tongs are used to make up connection 162 to prevent scarring or damage to the exterior surface of mandrel 110. In an alternative embodiment o-rings with one or two backup rings on either side can be used. Strength and Design Formulas of API 7G-APPENDIX A provide the following load carrying specifications for mandrel 110.

(120) End Connections

(121) TABLE-US-00002 Torque To Yield 90,400 foot-pounds (122.5 kN-M); Rotary Shoulder connection Recommended makeup torque 54,250 foot-pounds (73.6 kN-M); at 60% of Yield Stress Tensile Load to Yield 2,011,500 pounds (9,140 kilo at 0 psi internal pressure newtons);
Center Connection

(122) TABLE-US-00003 Torque To Yield 70,800 foot-pounds (96 kN-M); Rotary Shoulder connection Recommended makeup torque 42,500 foot-pounds (57.6 kN-M); at 60% of Yield Stress Tensile Load to Yield 2,011,500 pounds (9,140 kilo at 0 psi internal pressure newtons); *These center connection ratings also apply to connections between the upper end and the box end limit sub. The maximum make up torque for wet tongs is believed to be 34,000 foot-pounds.

(123) TABLE-US-00004 Mandrel burst pressure 55,500 psi (383,000 kilopascals) Mandrel collapse pressure 40,500 psi (279,000 kilopascals)
Sleeve or Housing

(124) FIG. 17 is a top view of sleeve or housing 300. FIG. 18 is a sectional view of sleeve or housing 300 showing various components. FIG. 19 is a longitudinal sectional view of sleeve or housing 300 with attachments removed. FIG. 21 is a sectional view of the lower portion of sleeve or housing 300. FIG. 20 is a sectional view of the upper portion of sleeve or housing 300.

(125) Sleeve or housing 300 can include upper end 302 (FIG. 20), lower end 304 (FIG. 21), and interior section 310. In one embodiment sleeve or housing 300 can slide and/or reciprocate relative to mandrel 110. At least a portion of the surface of sleeve or housing 300 can be designed to increase its frictional coefficient, such as by knurling, etching, rings, ribbing, etc. This can increase the gripping power of annular seal 71 (of blow-out preventer 70) against sleeve or housing 300 where there exists high differential pressures above and below blow-out preventer 70 which differential pressures tend to push sleeve or housing 300 in a longitudinal direction.

(126) Sleeve or housing can include upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326,328 (or upsets) on sleeve or housing 300. Upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326,326 restrict relative longitudinal movement of sleeve or housing 300 with respect to blow out preventer 70 where high differential pressures exist above and or below blow-out preventer 70 which differential pressures tend to push sleeve or housing 300 in a longitudinal direction.

(127) When displacing, housing or sleeve 300 is preferably located in annular blowout preventer 70 with annular seal 71 closed on sleeve or housing 300 between upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328. As displacement is performed differential pressures tend to push up or down on sleeve or housing 300 causing one of the catches, flanges, shoulders to be pushed against annular blowout preventer 70 seal 71. It is believed that this differential pressure acts on the cross sectional area of sleeve or housing 300 (ignoring the catch, shoulder, sleeve) and the mandrel's 110 seven inch diameter. One example of a differential force is 125,000 pounds (556 kilo newtons) of thrust which sleeve or housing 300 transfers to annular blowout preventer 70. These forces should be taken into account when designing catches, shoulders, flanges to transfer such forces to blowout preventer 70, such as through annular seal 71 or back support for this annular seal.

(128) Upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 can be integral with or attachable to sleeve or housing 300. In one embodiment one or both catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 are integral with and machined from the same piece of stock as sleeve or housing 300. In one embodiment one or both catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 can be threadably connected to sleeve or housing 300. In one embodiment one or both catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 can be welded or otherwise connected to sleeve or housing 300. In one embodiment one or both catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 can be heat or shrink fitted onto sleeve or housing 300. In one embodiment upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 are of similar construction. In one embodiment upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 have shapes which are curved or rounded to resist cutting/tearing of annular seal unit 71 if by chance annular seal unit 71 closes on either upper or lower catch, shoulder, flange 326, 328. In one embodiment upper and lower catches 326, 328 have are constructed to avoid any sharp corners to minimize any stress enhances (e.g., such as that caused by sharp corners) and also resist cutting/tearing of other items.

(129) In one embodiment the largest radial distance (i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) from end to end for either catch, shoulder, flange 326, 328 is less than the size of the opening in the housing for blow-out preventer 70 so that sleeve or housing 300 can pass completely through blow-out preventer 70. In one embodiment the upper surface of upper catch, shoulder, flange 326 and/or the lower surface of lower catch, shoulder, flange 328 have frustoconical shapes or portions which can act as centering devices for sleeve or housing 300 if for some reason sleeve or housing 300 is not centered longitudinally when passing through blow-out preventer 70 or other items in riser 80 or well head 88. In one embodiment upper catch, shoulder, flange 326 is actually larger than the size of the opening in the housing for blow-out preventer 70 which will allow sleeve or housing to make metal to metal contact with the housing for blow-out preventer 70.

(130) In one embodiment the largest distance from either catch, shoulder, flange 326,328 is less than the size of the opening in the housing for blow-out preventer 70, but large enough to contact the supporting structure for annular seal unit 71 thereby allowing metal to metal contact either between upper catch, shoulder, flange 326 and the upper portion of supporting structure for seal unit 71 or allowing metal to metal contact between lower catch, shoulder, flange 328 and the lower portion of supporting structure for seal unit 71. This allows either catch, shoulder, flange to limit the extent of longitudinal movement of sleeve or housing 300 without relying on frictional resistance between sleeve or housing 300 and annular seal unit 71. Preferably, contact is made with the supporting structure of annular seal unit 71 to avoid tearing/damaging seal unit 71 itself.

(131) In one embodiment non-symmetrical upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 can be used. For example a plurality of radially extending prongs can be used. As another example a single prong can be used. Additionally, channels, ridges, prongs or other upsets can be used. The catches or upsets to not have to be symmetrical. Whatever the configuration upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 should be analyzed to confirm that they have sufficient strength to counteract longitudinal forces and/or thrust loads expected to be encountered during use.

(132) Upper catch, shoulder, flange 326 can include base 331, radiused area 332, and upper end 302. Upper end 302 can be shaped to fit with upper retainer cap 400. Upper retainer cap 400 can itself include upper surface 420 which accepts thrust loads on sleeve or housing 300. In one embodiment, upper surface 420 can be shaped to avoid sharp corners and act as a centering device when being moved uphole, such as up through blow out preventer 70.

(133) Radiused area 332 can be included to reduce or minimize stress enhancers between catch, shoulder, flange 326 and sleeve or housing 300. Other methods of stress reduction can be used. Alternatively radiused area 332 and base 331 can be shaped to coordinate with annular seal member 71 of annular blow-out preventer 70, such as where there will be no metal to metal contact between catch, shoulder, flange 326 and blow-out preventer 70 (e.g., where catch, shoulder, flange 326 only contacts annular seal member 71 and does not contact any of the supporting framework for annular seal member 71). Lower catch, shoulder, flange 328 can be similar to, symmetric with, or identical to upper catch, shoulder, or flange 326.

(134) In an alternative embodiment lower and/or upper catches, shoulders, flanges 328, 326 can be shaped to act as centering devices for swivel 100 if for some reason swivel 100 is not centered longitudinally when passing through blow-out preventer 70.

(135) Sleeve or housing 300 can include upper and lower lubrication ports 311, 312. Ports 311,312 can be used to lubricate the bearings located under the ports. When in service it is preferred that lubrication ports 311,312 be closed through threadable pipe plugs (or any pressure relieving type connection). This will prevent fluid migration through ports 311,312 when swivel 100 is exposed to high pressures (e.g., 5,000 pounds per square inch)(34.48 megapascals) or even higher pressure such as when in deep water service (e.g. 8,600 feet or 2,620 meters). It is preferred that the heads of pipe plugs placed in lubrication ports 311,312 will be flush with the surface. Flush mounting will minimize the risk of having sleeve or housing 300 catch or scratch something when in use.

(136) End caps can be provided for sleeve or housing 300.

(137) Upper end 302 of sleeve or housing 300 can be connected to upper retainer cap 400. Upper retainer cap 400 can serve as a bearing surface where sleeve or housing 300 moves all the way to the upper end of upper portion 120 of mandrel. Looking at FIG. 5, protruding section 750 of joint 700 will enter tip 420 of retainer cap 400. At this point tip will serve as to transfer loads to sleeve or housing 300. If drill or well string 85,86 is rotating relative to sleeve or housing 300, tip 420 will also serve as a bearing surface. Upper retainer cap 400 can be connected to sleeve or housing 300 using first and second plurality of bolts 470, 472.

(138) Lower end 304 of sleeve or housing 300 can be connected to lower retainer cap 500. Lower retainer cap 500 can serve as a bearing surface where sleeve or housing 300 moves all the way to the lower end of lower portion 120 of mandrel. Looking at FIG. 10, fluted area 135 will operatively connect with bearing 570. At this point fluted section 135 will transfer loads to sleeve or housing 300. If drill or well string 85,86 is rotating relative to sleeve or housing 300, bearing 570 will also serve as a bearing surface. Lower retainer cap 500 can be connected to sleeve or housing 300 using first and second plurality of bolts 541, 545.

(139) FIG. 32 is a sectional perspective view of one embodiment for an upper bearing cap 400 for the upper end of sleeve or housing 300. Upper retainer cap 400 can comprise tip 420, base 430, plurality of ribs 405. Recessed area 450 and plurality of openings 460 can be used to connect upper bearing cap 400 to upper catch, shoulder, flange 326 of sleeve or housing 300. First plurality of fasteners 470 along with second plurality of fasteners 472 can make such connection.

(140) FIGS. 10 and 33 through 35 show one embodiment for a lower retainer cap 500 for the lower end of sleeve or housing 300. Lower retainer cap 500 can comprise tip 520, base 530, and housing 540. Housing 540 can include recessed area 552 which can rotatively and slidably support thrust hub or bearing 570. As shown in FIG. 33, base 500 can comprise first end 550 and second end 560. At first end 550 can be recessed area 552 which can accept bearing 570. At second end 560 can be recessed area 562 which can accept end cap 1500 of bearing and packing assembly 1000. Also at second end 560 can be first plurality of openings 542 and second plurality of openings 544 which may extend from second end 560 to recessed area 562.

(141) As shown in FIG. 34, bearing 570 can comprise first end 572 and second end 574. At first end can be a plurality of tips and recesses 576 which can detachably interconnect with fluted area 135 of mandrel 110. Additionally angled section 578 can be provided as a bearing surface in the event that a thrust load is transmitted from fluted area 135 to sleeve or housing 300.

(142) As shown in FIG. 35, cover 590 can comprise first end 592 and second end 594. At first end 592 can be a plurality of openings 596. An exterior angled section 598 can extend from first end 592 to adjacent second end 594. An interior beveled section can be provided. A plurality of radial openings 600 can be provided for shear pins 610. Preferably, four shear pins 610 are used.

(143) In one embodiment a method and apparatus is provided to restrict items which can come loose from swivel 100 and fall downwhole. Various systems can be used to prevent plurality of fasteners 541,542 (shown in FIG. 10) from becoming loose or unfastened during use of swivel 100. One method is to use a specified torquing procedure. A second method is to use a thread adhesive (such as Lock Tite) on fasteners 541,542. Another is to use a plurality of snap rings or set screws above the heads of fasteners 541,542. Tip 520 of retainer cap 500 (FIG. 21) can be designed to prevent the plurality of fasteners 542 from falling out.

(144) Sleeve or housing 300 can be machined from a 4340 heat treated steel bar stock or heat treated forgings (alternatively, can be from a rolled forging). Preferably, ultra sound inspections are performed using ASTM A388. Preferably, internal and external surfaces are wet magnetic particle inspected using ASTM 709 (No Prods/No Yokes). The following properties are preferred:

(145) TABLE-US-00005 minimum tensile 135,000 psi (931,000 kilopascals) (Tensile yield strength tested per ASTM A370, 2% offset method). minimum 15% elongation percent Brinell hardness 293/327 BHN range impact strength average impact value not less than 31 foot- pounds (42 N-M) with no single value below 24 foot-pounds (32.5 N-M) when tested at 4 degrees F. (15.6 degrees C.) as per ASTM E23. minimum preferred 5.26:1 factor of safety (based on yield strength and pressure at lower choke line valve) sleeve or housing 28,500 psi (197,000 kilopascals) burst pressure sleeve or housing 23,500 psi (162,000 kilopascals) collapse pressure

(146) Preferably, on opposed longitudinal ends of sleeve or housing 300 thrust bearings are provide. These thrust bearings can serve as a safety feature where an operator attempts to over-stroke the mandrel 100 relative to the sleeve or housing 300 causing engagement between these two items and creation of a thrust load. The thrust bearing rating is preferably as follows:

(147) Box End

(148) TABLE-US-00006 continuous rating @60 RPM 200,000 pounds (890 kilo (3000 hours) newtons) intermittent rating @ 60 RPM 400,000 pounds (1,780 kilo (300 hours) newtons) structural rating @ 0 RPM 1,600,000 pounds (7,100 kilo newtons)
Pin End

(149) TABLE-US-00007 continuous rating @60 RPM 135,000 pounds (600 kilo (3000 hours) newtons) intermittent rating @ 60 RPM 270,000 pounds (1,200 kilo (300 hours) newtons) structural rating 0 RPM 1,100,000 pounds (4,900 kilo newtons)
Bearing and Packing Assembly

(150) FIG. 22 is a sectional view showing one embodiment for bearing and packing assembly 1000. Bearing and packing assembly can include bearing 1100, packing housing 1200, packing stack 1300, packing retainer nut 1400, and retainer plate 1500. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a bearing or bushing 1100. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of packing housing 1200. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of packing unit 1300. FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a packing nut 1400. FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a retainer plate 1500. Bearing and packing assembly 1000 can be substantially the same for upper and lower portions of sleeve 300, and only one assembly 1000 will be described below. Lower retainer cap 500 can be used to keep bearing and packing assembly 1000 in sleeve or housing 300. Upper retainer cap 400 can be used to maintain bearing and packing assembly 1000 in sleeve or housing 300.

(151) FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a bearing or busing 1100. Bushing 1100 can be of metal or composite construction—either coated with a friction reducing material and/or comprising a plurality of lubrication enhancing inserts 1182 (not shown). Alternatively, bearing or bushing 1100 can rely on lubrication provided by different metals moving relative to one another. Bushings with lubrication enhancing inserts can be conventionally obtained from Lubron Bearings Systems located in Huntington Beach, Calif. Bushing 1100 is preferably comprised of ASTM B271-C95500 centrifugal cast nickel aluminum bronze base stock with solid lubricant impregnated in the sliding surfaces. Lubrication enhancing inserts preferably comprise PTFE teflon epoxy composite dry blend lubricant (Lubron model number LUBRON AQ30 yield pressure 15,000 psi) and/or teflon and/or nylon. Different inserts can be of similar and/or different construction. Alternatively, lubrication enhancing inserts can be AQ30 PTFE non-deteriorating graphite free solid lubricant suitable for long term submersion in seawater. Preferably, lubrication inserts take up more than 30 percent of the bearing surface areas seeing relative movement. For example one surface of bearing or bushing 1100 can have inserts of one construction/composition while a second surface of can have inserts of a different construction/composition. Additionally, inserts on one surface can be of varying construction/composition. Circular inserts are preferred however, other shaped inserts can be used. Bearing or bushing 1100 can comprise outer surface 1110, inner surface 1120, upper surface 1130, and lower surface 1140. Inserts 1182 can be limited to the surfaces of bearing or bushing 1100 which see movement during relative rotation and/or longitudinal movement between mandrel 110 and sleeve or housing 300 (with swivel 100 this would be the inner surface 1120 of bearing or bushing 1100).

(152) Preferably, bearing or bushing 1100 is a heavy duty sleeve type bearing which is self lubricated and oil bathed. Preferably, it is designed to handle high radial loads and allow mandrel 110 to rotate and reciprocate.

(153) As shown in FIG. 21, bearing or bushing 1100 can be supported between shoulder 380 of sleeve and packing housing 1200. Relative rotation between bearing or bushing 1100 and packing housing 1200 can be prevented by having a plurality of tips 1230 (of housing 1200—see FIG. 24) operatively connected to a plurality of recessed areas 1190 (of bushing 1100). Packing housing 1200 is itself connected to sleeve or housing 300. Accordingly, mandrel 110 will turn relative to bearing or bushing 1100 where mandrel turns relative to sleeve or housing 300, but bearing or bushing 1100 will not turn relative to sleeve or housing 300.

(154) Assisting in lubricating surfaces which move relative to busing or bearing 1100, one or more radial openings 1150 can be radially spaced apart around each bushing or bearing 1100 through a perimeter pathway 1160. Through openings 1150 a lubricant can be injected which can travel to inner surface 1120 along with lower surface 1140 providing a lubricant bath. The lubricant can be grease, oil, teflon, graphite, or other lubricant. The lubricant can be injected through a lubrication port (e.g., upper lubrication port 311 or lower lubrication port 312). Perimeter pathway 1160 can assist in circumferentially distributing the injected lubricant around bearing or bushing 1100, and enable the lubricant to pass through the various openings 1150. Preferably no sharp surfaces/corners exist on outer surface 1110 of bearing or bushing 1100 which can damage seals and/or o-rings when (during assembly and disassembly of swivel 100) bearing or bushing 1100 passes by the seals and/or o-rings. Alternatively, outer surface 1110 can be constructed such that it does not touch any seals and/or o-rings when being inserted into sleeve or housing 300.

(155) FIGS. 10, 12, 20, 21, 22, and 24 best show packing housing 1200. Packing housing 1200 can comprise first end 1210, second end 1220, plurality of tips 1230, first opening 1240, perimeter recess 1242, second opening 1250, and shoulder 1252. Packing housing can hold packing stack 1300 which sealingly connects with mandrel 110. As shown in FIG. 21, packing housing 1200 can be sealingly connected to lower end of sleeve or housing 300 through one or more seals (such as polypack seals) 373, 375, which seals respectively sit in recesses 372,374. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 20, a second packing housing 1200 can be sealingly connected to the upper end of sleeve or housing 300 through one or more seals (such as polypack seals) 383, 385, which seals respectively sit in recesses 382,384.

(156) FIG. 25 is a perspective view of packing unit 1300. Upper and lower packing units 1300 can each comprise male packing ring 1370, plurality of seals 1322, female packing ring 1320, spacer ring 1310, and packing retainer nut 1400 (shown in FIG. 30). Packing retainer nut 1400 can be threadably connected to packing housing 1200 at threaded connection 1460. Tightening packing retainer nut 1400 squeezes plurality of seals 1322 between packing housing 1200 and retainer nut 1400 thereby increasing sealing between sleeve or housing 300 (through packing housing 1200) and swivel mandrel 110.

(157) FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a spacer unit 1310 which can comprise first end 1312, second end 1314, and enlarged section 1316 and is preferably from SAE 660 BRONZE or SAE 954 Aluminum Bronze. FIG. 27 is a perspective view of female backup ring (or packing ring) 1320 which can include plurality of grooves for transmission of lubricant to plurality of seals 1322. Preferably, backup ring 1320 is composed of a bearing grade peek material (such as material number 781 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an exemplar packing ring or seal (e.g., 1330,1340,1350,1360) for the plurality of seals 1322. FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a male packing ring 1370 which can comprise first end 1372 and second end 1374 and is preferably machined from SAE 660 BRONZE or SAE 954 Aluminum Bronze with a flat head and 45 degrees from the vertical.

(158) Plurality of seals 1322 can comprise first seal 1330 (which is preferably a bronze filled teflon v-ring having a 7 inch diameter (17.78 centimeters) and ½ inch (1.27 centimeters) thickness)(such as material number 714 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.); second seal 1340 (which is preferably a teflon v-ring having a 7 inch diameter (17.78 centimeters) and ½ inch (1.27 centimeters) thickness)(such as material number 711 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.); third seal 1350 (which is preferably a viton v-ring having a 7 inch diameter (17.78 centimeters) and ½ inch (1.27 centimeters) thickness)(such as material number 951 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.); and fourth seal 1370 (which is preferably a teflon v-ring having a 7 inch diameter (17.78 centimeters) and ½ inch (1.27 centimeters) thickness)(such as material number 711 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Seals can be Chevron type “VS” packing rings. Alternatively, one of the seals can be can be Garlock 8913 rope seals. Rope seals have surprisingly been found to extend the life of remaining plurality of seals because they are believed to secrete lubricants, such as graphite, during use. Where a rope seal is used it is preferable that the rope seal be placed next to first seal 1330. In one embodiment plurality of seals are rated at 10,000 psi (6,900 kilopascals).

(159) FIG. 30 is a perspective view of packing retainer nut 1400. Packing retainer nut 1400 can comprise first end 1410, second end 1440, base 1450, and threaded area. Plurality of tips 1420 and plurality of recessed areas 1430 can be on first end 1410.

(160) FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a retainer plate 1500. Packing retainer plate or end cap 1500 can comprise first end 1510 and second end 1530. On first end 1510 can be a plurality of openings. On second end can be a plurality of tips 1540 and recessed areas 1550. Retainer plate or end cap 1500 can include mechanical seal 1560 to prevent dirt and debris from coming between retainer plate or end cap 1500 and mandrel 110. Similar retainer plates or end caps can be placed in the upper and lower sections of sleeve or housing 300. Retainer plate or end cap 1500 can be used to lock packing retainer nut 1400 in place and prevent retainer nut 1400 from loosening during operation. Plurality of tips 1540 and recessed areas 1550 for retainer plate or end cap 1500 can interlock with plurality of recessed areas 1430 of retainer nut 1400. First plurality of bolts 470 and second plurality of bolts 472 can lock retainer plate or end cap 1500 to sleeve or housing 300.

(161) In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 44 plurality of seals 1322 are pressure tested before being placed in sleeve or housing 300. Pressure testing can be performed using dummy pipe 1580 and testing plate 1590. Testing plate 1590 can include radial injection port 1596 and seals 1592, 1594. Dummy pipe 1580 will tend to seal with plurality of seals 1322. A fluid is pumped into radial port 1596 and travels towards plurality of seals 1322 in the direction of arrow 1598. Plurality of seals 1322, if working, will stop fluid migration. However, plurality of seals 1322 will tend to compress longitudinally in the direction of arrow 1598. After a successful test, plate 1590 is removed and packing retainer nut 1400 is tightened to take up the slack in plurality of seals 1322 caused by the longitudinal compression. Testing and tightening of plurality of seals 1322 are preferably performed where dummy pipe is still contacting plurality of seals, otherwise plurality of seals with tend to radially expand when packing retainer nut 1400 is tightened.

(162) Movement of Swivel to Annular BOP

(163) When being positioned downhole, sleeve or housing 300 can be temporarily set at a fixed position relative to mandrel 110. Fixing the position of sleeve or housing 300 relative mandrel 110 facilitates tracking the position of sleeve or housing 300 as it goes downhole. Otherwise, the allowable stroke of sleeve or housing 300 relative to mandrel 110 would make it difficult to determine a true downhole position of sleeve or housing 300 as it could have slide relative to mandrel 110 as swivel 100 travels downhole. In one embodiment this fixed position is adjacent the upper end 120 of mandrel 110, such as by being shear pinned to upper end or retainer cap 400.

(164) In one embodiment this fixed position is adjacent to the lower end 130 of mandrel 110. FIGS. 36 through 38 show sleeve or housing 300 temporarily fixed to a position adjacent the lower end 130 of mandrel 110. Tip 520 of lower retainer cap 500 can include a plurality of openings 596 (see FIG. 35). Fluted area 135 of mandrel 110 can include a plurality of recessed areas 136. A plurality of shear pins 610 can be used to fix sleeve or housing 300 relative to mandrel 110. A plurality of snap rings 612 can be used to fix the plurality of shear pins 610. An adhesive 614, such as Lock Tite, can be used to fix the plurality of tips 611 of the plurality of shear pins 610 inside plurality of openings 136. When sleeve or housing 300 enters annular blowout preventer 70 (shown in FIG. 38), annular seal 71 (not shown for clarity) can be closed maintaining sleeve or housing 300 at a fixed point. Now, the position of sleeve or housing 300 is known based on its relative position to mandrel 110. After annular seal 71 is closed, drill or work string 85,86 can be moved in the direction of arrow 630 in FIG. 38 causing plurality of tips 611 to shear from plurality of pins 610, mandrel 110 to move relative to sleeve or housing 300. Plurality of shear pins 610 will be held in place in plurality of openings 600 by plurality of snap rings 612. Plurality of tips 611 will be held in place in plurality of openings 136 by adhesive 614. In this manner no pieces will fall downhole after shearing takes place. Preferably, shear pins 610 have a torque of 225 inch-pounds (25.42 inch pounds) applied to them and will shear at about 42,200 pounds (188 kilo newtons) providing shear at about 40,000 pounds (178,000 kilo newtons). After shearing, sleeve or housing 300 will be free to reciprocate relative to mandrel 110.

(165) Moving Past Annular BOP

(166) Sleeve or housing 300 can be designed so that it can be detachably connected to annular blow-out preventer 70 and pass through annular blow-out preventer 70. FIG. 38 is a sectional perspective view showing sleeve or housing 300 entering annular blowout preventer 70 where mandrel 110 is shear pinned to sleeve or housing 300. FIG. 39 is a sectional perspective view showing sleeve or housing 300 in a working position relative to annular blowout preventer 70 wherein mandrel 110 extended downstream (in the direction of arrow 640) of sleeve or housing 300. In this manner annular seal 71 (not shown for clarity) can be used to detachably connect sleeve or housing 300 to annular blowout preventer 70.

(167) FIG. 40 is a sectional perspective view showing sleeve or housing 300 of swivel 100 leaving annular blowout preventer 70 in the direction of arrow 650. Here, the annular seal 71 would be opened to allow sleeve or housing 300 to move in the direction of arrow 650. FIG. 41 is a sectional perspective view showing swivel 100 continue moving down stack 75 in the direction of arrow 660 towards wellhead 88.

(168) It is preferred that sleeve or housing 300 of swivel 100 be prevented from passing through wellhead 88. Here, this preference is accomplished by making the diameter of lower catch, shoulder, flange 328 larger than the smallest opening in wellhead 88. Additionally, it is preferred that where sleeve or housing 300 and wellhead 88 make contact any damage be reduced. Here, reduction of damage from contact is accomplished by making the contacting portion of swivel 100 conform to the shape of the smallest opening in wellhead 88. FIG. 42 is a sectional perspective view showing swivel 100 contacting well head 88. FIG. 43 also shows swivel 100 contacting the top of well head 88. Tip 520 of lower retainer cap 500 can include angled section 578 which can be designed to sit in the top of riser 88 thereby preventing damage to riser 88 where sleeve or housing 300 contacts or places a thrust load on riser 88. In another embodiment, a contacting surface can be provided, such as hard rubber, polymer, etc.

(169) Upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 326, 328 can be positioned/designed/spaced so that they will not coincide with spaced apart longitudinal cavities/openings in stack 75 thereby preventing locking of sleeve or housing 300 with stack 75.

(170) Quick Lock/Quick Unlock

(171) After the sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 have been moved relative to each other in a longitudinal direction, a downhole/underwater locking/unlocking system 3000 can be used to lock the sleeve 2300 in a longitudinal position relative to the mandrel 110 (or at least restricting the available relative longitudinal movement of the sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 to a satisfactory amount compared to the longitudinal length of the sleeve's effective sealing area schematically represented as “L” in FIG. 60). Additionally, an underwater locking/unlocking system is needed which can lock and/or unlock sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 a plurality of times.

(172) In one embodiment is provided a quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 which locks and unlocks on a non-fluted area of mandrel 110. In one embodiment this system 3000 can include a locking hub 3110 with fingers 3120 which detachably locks on a raised area 3400 of mandrel 110 where raised area 3400 does not include radial discontinuities (e.g., it is not fluted). In one embodiment is provided a locking hub 3110 that can rotate relative, but is restricted on the amount of longitudinal movement relative to sleeve 2300, the rotational movement of hub 3110 with sleeve 2300 minimizing rotational wear between hub 3110 and mandrel 110 (as locking hub 3110 can remain rotationally static relative to sleeve 2300). In one embodiment locking hub 3110 can be restricted from moving longitudinally relative to sleeve 2300. In one embodiment locking hub 3110 can be used without a clutching system. In one embodiment bearing surfaces can be provided between sleeve 2300 and locking hub 3110 to facilitate relative rotational movement between sleeve 2300 and hub 3110. In one embodiment mandrel 110 is about 7 inches (17.78 centimeters) in outer diameter and shoulder area 137 is about 7½ inches (19.05 centimeters).

(173) FIGS. 45 through 47 illustrate one embodiment where a quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is placed in a locked state from an unlocked state. FIGS. 48 through 50 illustrate one embodiment where quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is placed in an unlocked locked state from a locked state. FIG. 51 is an enlarged view of the quick lock/quick unlock system 3000. FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 in an unlocked state. FIG. 53 is an enlarged perspective view of quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 system is very close to being a locked state. FIG. 54 is a perspective view of quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 in a locked state. FIG. 55 is a sectional view of lower end 2304 of sleeve 2300 where first part 3100 of quick lock/quick unlock system has been removed so that the portions of lower end 2304 can be better viewed. FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the first part 3100 (or a locking hub) of quick lock/quick unlock system 3000. FIG. 57 is a sectioned perspective view of locking hub 3100.

(174) Generally, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can comprise first part or locking hub 3000 which detachably connects to second part 3400. First part or locking hub 3100 can comprise bearing and locking hub 3110 which includes at least one finger 3130, and preferably a plurality of fingers 3120. Preferably the plurality of fingers 3120 can be symmetrically spread about the radius of locking hub 3000. Where the plurality of fingers are used, each finger can be constructed substantially similar to the other fingers and only one example finger 3130 will be described. As shown in FIG. 53, each finger 3130 can comprise a base 3160, length 3170, and tip 3140. Preferably at the tip 3140 is included latching area 3150. Second part 3400 can comprise angled area 3420, flat area 3440, latching area 3410, and recessed area 3460. Preferably latching area 3150 can detachably interlock with latching area 3410 of second part 3400. Angled area 3420 can assist in latching area 3150 in being asserted into recessed area 3460 and latching with latching area 3410. Arrow 3172 in FIG. 53 schematically indicates that tip 3140 will radially expand when moving over angled area 3420. Tip 3140 will move in the opposite direction as arrow 3172 when tip moves into recessed area 3460. Once interlocked the longitudinal movement of sleeve 2300 will be restricted relative to mandrel 110.

(175) Where second part 3400 of quick connect/quick disconnect system 3000 includes radial discontinuities (such as illustrated in fluting 135 shown in mandrel 110 in FIGS. 45 through 55) a clutching system 3600 can be used to align first part 3100 and second part 3400 for connection purposes. In one embodiment a clutching system 3600 is provided which facilitate alignment of plurality of fingers 3120 with the plurality of latching areas 3410 of second part 3400. As best shown in FIG. 56, clutching system 3600 can include a plurality of alignment members 3610. Each of the alignment members can include a conical, tapered or arrow shaped portion 3630. Each of the alignment members can be attached to bearing and locking hub 3110 through a fastener 3640 (best shown in FIGS. 53 and 56). As best shown in FIG. 53, the aligning or conical, tapered or arrow shaped portions 3630 of the plurality of alignment members 3610 interact with plurality of recessed areas 136 of the fluted areas to align the plurality of fingers 3120 with the plurality of latching areas 3410 of second part 3400. To facilitate this alignment function angled areas 138 can be provided on each of the flutes of the fluted area 135. If partially offset or misaligned, the angled areas can interact with the arrow shaped portions of the plurality of alignment members 3610 and rotationally align the plurality of fingers 3120 for proper locking with the plurality of latching areas 3410 of second part 3400. A plurality of angled areas 137 can also be provided to facilitate rotational alignment. To also facilitate this alignment locking hub 3110 has a degree of longitudinal movement relative to sleeve 2300. As shown in FIG. 53 a recessed area 2552 is provided wherein locking hub 3110 can experience longitudinal (and also rotational movement). Longitudinal movement can is limited in one direction by base 3200 of locking hub 3110 contacting base 2554 of recessed area 2552, and in a second direction by shoulder 3260 contacting interior angled section 2600. Base 3200 and shoulder 3260 are bearing surfaces which facilitate relative movement when in contact with another surface. Additionally, outer diameter 3205 is a bearing surface facilitating rotational movement of locking hub 3110 relative to sleeve 2300. Limiting relative longitudinal movement of locking hub 3110 relative to mandrel 110, first shoulder 3220 will contact the plurality of angled sections 137 of fluted area 135. When base 3200 of locking hub contacts base 2554 sleeve 2300 will be prevented from further movement towards pin end 150 of mandrel 110. Even when in such contact sleeve 2300 can rotating relative to mandrel (and vice versa) by locking hub 3110 rotating relative to sleeve through the bearing surfaces of locking hub 3110.

(176) The plurality of alignment members 3610 also cause bearing or locking hub 3110 to become rotationally static relative to mandrel 110 and fluted area 135. Making locking hub 3110 rotationally static relative to fluted area 135 prevents scratching or scarring by the tips of the fingers rotating relative to the latching area 3410 during locking and/or unlocking. Because the locking hub 3110 is rotationally static relative to the mandrel 110 and the mandrel 110 may be rotating relative to sleeve 2300, locking hub 3110 can rotate relative to sleeve 2300.

(177) FIGS. 45 through 47 illustrate one embodiment where quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is placed in a locked state from an unlocked state. Sleeve 2300 is assumed to be held in a static state (such as by annular BOP 70 not shown for clarity). Mandrel 110 is moved in the direction of arrow 2320 so that the tips 3140 of plurality of fingers 3120 will move toward the second part 3400 (which can include a plurality of latching areas 3410). By interaction with the plurality of flutes 136, plurality of alignment members 3610 will align plurality of fingers 3120 with the plurality of latching areas 3410. FIG. 46 shows that latching has occurred with further movement in the direction of arrow 2630 until shoulder 3220 contacts plurality angled areas 137 as shown in FIG. 47. Further attempts to move in the direction of arrow 2640 will cause a thrust load to be generated in the direction of arrow 2640 and transferred to sleeve 2300 by locking hub 3100 through base 3200 contacting surface 3554, and ultimately transferring the thrust load to annular BOP 70 holding sleeve 2300 longitudinally static. Arrows 2682 and 2684 schematically indicates that sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 can rotate relative to each other even when quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is in a locked state.

(178) FIGS. 48 through 50 illustrate one embodiment where quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is placed in an unlocked locked state from a locked state. Sleeve 2300 is assumed to be held in a static state (such as by annular BOP 70 not shown for clarity). Mandrel 110 is moved in the direction of arrow 2650 so that locking hub (which is locked on mandrel) is also moved in the direction of arrow 2650 until shoulder 3260 contacts shoulder 2600 (FIG. 49) and the tips 3140 of plurality of fingers 3120 will move away from the second part 3400 (which can include a plurality of latching areas 3410). By interaction with the plurality of flutes 136, plurality of alignment members 3610 will keep aligned plurality of fingers 3120 with the plurality of latching areas 3410. FIG. 49 shows that unlatching has occurred. FIG. 50 shows further movement in the direction of arrow 2670 until plurality of fingers having been moved out of fluted area 135 and reciprocation can occur when quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is in a locked state.

(179) In one embodiment is provided a quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 wherein the underwater position of the longitudinal length of the sleeve's sealing area (e.g., the nominal length between the catches) can be determined with enough accuracy to allow positioning of the sleeve's effective sealing area in the annular BOP 70 for closing on the sleeve's 2300 sealing area (“L” in FIG. 60). After sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 have been longitudinally moved relative to each other when annular BOP 70 was closed on sleeve 2300, it is preferred that a system 3000 be provided wherein the underwater position of sleeve 2300 can be determined even where sleeve 3000 has been moved outside of annular BOP 70.

(180) In one embodiment is provided a quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 for locating the relative position between sleeve 2300 and mandre 1110. Because sleeve 2300 can reciprocate relative to mandrel 110 (i.e., the sleeve and mandrel can move relative to each other in a longitudinal direction), it can be important to be able to determine the relative longitudinal position of sleeve 2300 compared to mandrel 110 at some point after sleeve 2300 has been reciprocated relative to mandrel 110 (or vice versa). For example, in various uses of rotating and reciprocating tool 100′, the operator may wish to seal annular BOP 70 on sleeve 2300 sometime after sleeve 2300 has been reciprocated relative to mandrel 110 and after sleeve 2300 has been removed from annular BOP 70. To address the risk that the actual position of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 will be lost while tool 100′ is underwater, a quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can detachably connect sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110. In a locked state, this quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can reduce the amount of relative longitudinal movement between sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 (compared to an unlocked state) so that sleeve 2300 can be positioned in annular BOP 70 and annular BOP 70 relatively easily closed on sleeve's 2300 longitudinal sealing area (“L” in FIG. 60). Alternatively, this quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can lock in place sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 (and not allow a limited amount of relative longitudinal movement). After being changed from a locked state to an unlocked state, sleeve 2300 can experience its unlocked amount of relative longitudinal movement which is referred to as stroke in other parts of this application.

(181) In one embodiment is provided a quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 which allows sleeve 2300 to be longitudinally locked and/or unlocked relative to the mandrel 110 a plurality of times when underwater. In one embodiment the quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be activated using annular BOP 70.

(182) In one embodiment sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 can rotate relative to one another even in both the activated and un-activated states (schematically indicated by arrows 2682, 2684 in FIG. 47). In one embodiment, when in a locked state, the sleeve and mandrel can rotate relative to each other. This relative rotation when locked option can be important where annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300 at a time when string 85,88 (of which the mandrel 110 is a part) is being rotated. Allowing sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 to rotate relative to each other, even when in a locked state, minimizes wear/damage to annular BOP 70 caused by a rotationally locked sleeve 300 (e.g., sheer pin in FIG. 10) rotating relative to a closed annular BOP 70. Instead, sleeve 2300 can be held fixed rotationally by closed annular BOP 70, and mandrel 110 (along with string 85,88) rotate relative to the sleeve (as schematically illustrated in FIG. 47).

(183) In one embodiment, when locking system 3000 of sleeve (e.g., first part 3100) is in contact with mandrel 110, locking/unlocking is performed without relative rotational movement between locking system of the sleeve (first part 3100) and mandrel 110—otherwise scoring/scratching of the mandrel at the location of lock can occur. In one embodiment, this can be accomplished by rotational connecting to sleeve 2300 the sleeve's portion of quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 (e.g., locking hub 3100). In one embodiment a locking hub 3100 is provided which is rotationally connected to sleeve 2300.

(184) In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 on rotating and reciprocating tool 100′ can be provided allowing the operator to lock sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 when rotating and reciprocating tool 100′ is downhole/underwater. Because of the relatively large amount of possible stroke of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 (i.e., different possible relative longitudinal positions), knowing the relative position of sleeve 2300 with respect to mandrel 110 can be important. This is especially true at the time annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300. The locking position is important for determining relative longitudinal position of sleeve 2300 along mandrel 110 (and therefore the true underwater depth of sleeve 2300—schematically shown in FIG. 2 as “TD” for tool 100) so that sleeve 2300 can be easily located in annular BOP 70 and annular BOP 70 closed/sealed on sleeve 2300.

(185) During the process of moving the rotating and reciprocating tool 100′ underwater and downhole, sleeve 2300 can be locked relative to mandrel 110 by quick lock/quick unlock system 3000. In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can, relative to mandrel 110, lock sleeve 2300 in a longitudinal direction. In one embodiment sleeve 2300 can be locked in a longitudinal direction with quick lock/quick unlock system 300, but sleeve 2300 can rotate relative to mandrel 110 (schematically shown in FIG. 47) during the time it is locked in a longitudinal direction. In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can simultaneously lock sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110, in both a longitudinal direction and rotationally (not shown but accomplished by non-rotationally attaching locking hub 3100 to sleeve 2300). In one embodiment quick unlock/quick unlock system 3000 can, relative to mandrel 110, lock sleeve 110 rotationally, but at the same time allow sleeve 2300 to move longitudinally (not shown but accomplished by non-rotationally attaching locking hub 3100 to sleeve 2300 and allowing a relative longitudinal movement between locking hub 3100 and sleeve, such as by using recessed area 2552 with fluted areas on locking hub 3100 and recessed area 2552).

(186) Activation by Relative Longitudinal Movement

(187) In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be activated (and placed in a locked state) by movement of mandrel 110 relative to sleeve 2300 in a first longitudinal direction (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is deactivated (and placed in an unlocked state) by movement of the mandrel 110 relative to sleeve 2300 in a second longitudinal direction, the second longitudinal direction being substantially in the opposite longitudinal direction compared to the first longitudinal direction (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50).

(188) In one embodiment the first longitudinal direction is toward the longitudinal center of sleeve 2300 (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). In one embodiment the second longitudinal direction is away from the longitudinal center of the mandrel (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50).

(189) In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be changed from an activated to a deactivated state when sleeve 2300 is at least partially located in annular BOP 70. In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be changed from a deactivated state to an activated state when sleeve 2300 is at least partially located in annular BOP 70.

(190) In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be changed from an activated to a deactivated state when annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300. In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be changed from a deactivated state to an activated state when annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300.

(191) In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be changed from an activated to a deactivated state when sleeve 2300 is sealed with respect to annular BOP 70. In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be changed from a deactivated state to an activated state when sleeve 2300 is sealed with respect to annular BOP 70.

(192) In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve 2300 is at least partially located in annular BOP 70, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be activated (and placed in a locked state) by movement of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 in a first longitudinal direction to a locking location (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve is at least partially located in annular BOP 70, quick lock/quick unlock system is deactivated (and placed in an unlocked state) by movement of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 in a second longitudinal direction away from the locking location, the second longitudinal direction being substantially in the opposite direction compared to the first longitudinal direction (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50).

(193) In one embodiment, direction at a time when annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is activated (and placed in a locked state) by movement of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 in a first longitudinal (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). In one embodiment, at a time when annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is deactivated (and placed in an unlocked state) by movement of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 in a second longitudinal direction, the second longitudinal direction being substantially in the opposite longitudinal direction compared to the first longitudinal direction (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50).

(194) In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve is sealed with respect to annular BOP 70, quick lock/quick unlock system is activated (and placed in a locked state) by movement of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 in a first longitudinal direction (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve 2300 is sealed with respect to annular BOP 70, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is deactivated (and placed in an unlocked state) by movement of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 in a second longitudinal direction, the second longitudinal direction being substantially in the opposite longitudinal direction compared to the first longitudinal direction (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50).

(195) Activation by Moving to a Locking Position

(196) In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve 2300 is at least partially located in annular BOP 70, sleeve 2300 is moved to a locking position relative to mandrel 110. In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve 2300 is at least partially located in annular BOP 70, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is changed from a deactivated state to an activated state by moving the sleeve to specified locking position on mandrel 110 (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve 2300 is at least partially located in annular BOP 70, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is changed from an activated state to a deactivated activated state by moving sleeve 2300 away from a specified position on the mandrel 110 (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50).

(197) In one embodiment, at a time when annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300, sleeve 2300 is moved to a locking position relative to mandrel 110. In one embodiment, at a time when annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is changed from a deactivated state to an activated state by moving sleeve 2300 to a specified locking position on the mandrel (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). In one embodiment, at a time when annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is changed from an activated state to a deactivated activated state by moving the sleeve away from a specified position on the mandrel (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50).

(198) In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve 2300 is sealed in annular BOP 70, sleeve 2300 is moved to a locking position relative to mandrel 110. In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve 2300 is sealed in annular BOP 70, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is changed from a deactivated state to an activated state by moving sleeve 2300 to specified locking position on mandrel 110 (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). In one embodiment, at a time when sleeve 2300 is sealed in annular BOP 70, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is changed from an activated state to a deactivated state by moving sleeve 2300 away from a specified position on mandrel (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50).

(199) Activation by Exceeding a Specified Minimum Locking Force

(200) In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is activated when at least a first specified minimum longitudinal force is placed on sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110. In one embodiment the first specified minimum longitudinal force is used to determine whether sleeve 2300 is locked relative to the mandrel 110. That is, where sleeve 2300 cannot absorb at least the first specified minimum longitudinal force, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be considered in a deactivated state. In one embodiment, the specified minimum longitudinal force is a predetermined force. In various embodiments the specified minimum longitudinal force is between 5,000, 10,000, 15,000, 20,000, 25,000, 30,000, 35,000, 40,000, 45,000, 50,000, 55,000, 60,000, 65,000, 70,000, 75,000, 80,000, 85,000, 90,000, 95,000, 100,000 pounds force (22, 44, 67, 89, 111, 133, 152, 171, 190, 210, 229, 248, 267, 289, 311, 334, 355, 378, 400, 423, and 445 kilo newtons). In one embodiment various ranges of the above referenced forces can be used for the various possible permutations.

(201) In one embodiment quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is deactivated when at least a second specified minimum longitudinal force is placed on sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110. In one embodiment the second specified minimum longitudinal force is used to determine whether sleeve 2300 is locked relative to mandrel 110. That is where sleeve 2300 cannot absorb at least the second specified minimum longitudinal the quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be considered in a deactivated state. In one embodiment the first specified minimum longitudinal force is substantially equal to the second specified minimum longitudinal force. In one embodiment the first specified minimum longitudinal force is substantially greater than the second specified minimum longitudinal force. In one embodiment the first specified minimum longitudinal force takes into account the amount of longitudinal friction between sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110. In one embodiment the second specified minimum longitudinal force takes into account the amount of longitudinal friction between sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110. In one embodiment both the first specified minimum longitudinal force and the second specified minimum longitudinal force take into account the amount of longitudinal friction between sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110. In one embodiment the first specified minimum longitudinal force takes into account the longitudinal force applied to sleeve 2300 based on differing pressures above and below annular BOP 70. In one embodiment the second specified minimum longitudinal force takes into account the longitudinal force applied to sleeve 2300 based on differing pressures above and below annular BOP 70. In one embodiment both the first specified minimum longitudinal force and the second specified minimum longitudinal force take into account the longitudinal force applied to sleeve 2300 based on differing pressures above and below annular BOP 70.

(202) Example of a Specified Minimum Locking Force

(203) In one example of operation with deep water wells, annular BOP 70 can be located between 6000 to 7000 feet (1,800 to 2,150 meters) below the rig 10 floor. Quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be activated by closing annular BOP 70 on sleeve 2300 and pulling up with a force of approximately 40,000 pounds (178 kilo newtons) (schematically indicated by arrows 2620, 2630, and 2640 in FIGS. 45 through 47). Quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can be de-activated by closing annular BOP 70 on sleeve 2300 and lowering mandrel 110 relative to sleeve 2300 (schematically indicated by arrows 2650, 2660, and 2670 in FIGS. 48 through 50). When approximately 40,000 pounds (178 kilo newtons) of longitudinal force (e.g., exerted by the weight of string 88 not being supported by rig 10) is created between mandrel 110 and sleeve 2300, quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 can become deactivated and unlock sleeve 2300 from mandrel 110 so that mandrel 110 can be reciprocated relative to sleeve 2300 (where annular BOP 70 is closed on sleeve 2300). For this example, the specified minimum differential longitudinal force of 40,000 pounds (178 kilo newtons) can be used to overcome 10,000 pounds (44 kilo newtons) of longitudinal friction (such as seal friction) and 30,000 pounds (133 kilo newtons) from quick lock/quick unlock system 3000. This minimum longitudinal force (e.g., 40,000 pounds or 178 kilo newtons) can address the risk that sleeve 2300 does not get bumped out of its locked longitudinal position when sleeve 2300 is moved outside of annular BOP 70 (i.e., unlocking quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 and causing the operator to lose the position TD, shown in FIG. 2, of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110). The minimum longitudinal force also ensures that sleeve 2300 will not float up/sink down mandrel 110 as a result of fluid flow around sleeve 2300 when annular BOP 70 is open (such as when returns are taken up riser 80).

(204) Various Options for Allowable Reciprocation when in a Locked State

(205) In one embodiment is provided quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 where sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 reciprocate relative to each other a specified distance even when locked, however, the amount of relative reciprocation increases when unlocked (schematically shown in FIGS. 46,47 by space in recessed area 2552 and shoulder 2600). In one embodiment the amount of allowable relative reciprocation even in a locked state facilitates operation of a clutching system between the sleeve and mandrel (schematically shown in FIG. 53). In one embodiment the amount of allowable relative reciprocation even in a locked state allows relative longitudinal and rotational movement between a locking hub 3100 and sleeve 2300 to allow a clutching system to align hub 3100 for interlocking with fluted 135 area of mandrel 110. In one embodiment the amount of allowable relative reciprocation even in a locked state is In one embodiment the amount of allowable relative reciprocation even in a locked state is between 0 and 12 inches (0 and 30.48 centimeters), between 0 and 11 inches (0 and 27.94 centimeters), 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, ¾, ½, ¼, ⅛ inches (25.4, 22.86, 20.32, 17.78, 15.24, 12.7, 10.16, 7.62, 5.08, 2.54, 1.91, 1.27, 0.64, 0.32 centimeters). In one embodiment the amount of allowable relative reciprocation even in a locked state is between ⅛ inch (0.32 centimeters) and any of the specified distances up to 12 inches (30.48 centimeters). In other embodiments the amount of allowable relative reciprocation even in a locked state is between ¼ inches (0.64 centimeters) and any of the specified distances up to 12 inches (30.48 centimeters). In other embodiments the amount of allowable relative reciprocation even in a locked state is between ½, ¾, 1, etc. and any of the specified distances. In other embodiments the amount of allowable relative reciprocation even in a locked state is between any possible permutation of the specified distances.

(206) Spring Lock/Unlock

(207) In one embodiment a spring and latch quick lock/quick unlock system 3000 is provided between sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110. The spring can comprise one or more fingers 3120 (or a single finger, or a single ring) which detachably connects to a connector 3400 located on mandrel 110, such as a locking valley 3460. In one embodiment ramp 3420 on mandrel 110 can be provided facilitating the bending of one or more fingers 3120 (or ring) before they lock/latch into the connecting valley 3460. In one embodiment is provided a backstop 137 to resist longitudinal movement of sleeve 2300 relative to mandrel 110 after the one or more fingers 3120 (or ring) have locked/latched into the valley 3460.

(208) In one embodiment is provided a quick lock/quick unlock system which includes a hub rotationally connected to the sleeve, and the hub can have a plurality of fingers, the mandrel can have a longitudinal bearing area and a locking area (located adjacent to the bearing area). In one embodiment the fingers can pass over the bearing area without touching the bearing area. In one embodiment the fingers can be radially expanded by the locking area, and then lock in the locking area. In one embodiment longitudinal movement of the sleeve relative to the mandrel can be restricted by the shoulder area. In one embodiment longitudinal movement of the hub relative to the mandrel can be restricted by the shoulder area. In one embodiment longitudinal movement of the sleeve relative to the mandrel can be restricted by the shoulder area contacting the hub and the hub contacting thrusting against the sleeve.

(209) FIGS. 58 through 60 show various embodiments of a generic sleeve with specialized removable adaptors for different annular BOPs. FIG. 59 shows the generic sleeve 2300 which can accommodate various specialized removable adaptors. Different manufacturers of annular BOP 70 have different designs for their respective annular BOPs and annular seals 71. Accordingly, a catch for one of these seals 71 may, if not designed properly, may actually damage the annular seal 71. Typically, it is where a longitudinal thrust load is placed by the sleeve on the annular seal 71 (i.e., the catch areas). However, sleeve 2300 is an expensive piece of equipment to manufacture and it is desirably to have a generic sleeve 2300 which can be specialized for various annular BOP 70 configurations.

(210) Sleeve 2300 can include upper and lower catches 2326, 2328. Upper catch 2326 can include a plurality of openings 2334 for detachably connecting one or more specialized adaptors. Lower catch 2328 can include a plurality of openings 2344 for detachably connecting one or more specialized adaptors. FIGS. 58 and 60 show two possible specialized adaptors 4200 and 4400. Adaptor 4200 can be used for an annular BOP manufactured by Shaffer. Adaptor 4400 can be used for an annular BOP manufactured by Hydril.

(211) FIG. 61 is an exploded perspective view of one specialized removable adaptor 4200 for an annular BOP 70. As shown in FIG. 61 specialized catch adapter 4200 can comprise first section 4220 and second section 4240 which can be detachably connected to sleeve 2300 as indicated by arrows 4202 and 4204. First section 4220 can comprise inner diameter 4222, rounded area 4224, second rounded area 4226, and a plurality of openings 4230. First and second sections can be constructed substantially like each other. Second section 4226 can comprise interior 4242, base 4244, angled section 4246, diameter 4250, angled area 4252, and base 4254. Second section 4226 can also include a plurality of openings 4259 for connecting it to sleeve 2300. First and second sections 4220 and 4240 are shown as being two separate pieces, but can be a single piece, such as where they are hinged together. A plurality of fasteners 4260 can be used to detachably connect first section 4220 and/or second section 4240 to sleeve 2300. A plurality of washers 4270 and snap rings 4280 can also be used. The snap rings 4280 can be used to prevent one or more of the fasteners 4260 from becoming loose and falling downhole.

(212) FIG. 62 is an exploded perspective view of a second specialized removable adaptor 4400 for a second annular BOP 70′. FIG. 63 is a perspective view of the specialized removable adaptor 4400 attached to sleeve 2300. As shown in FIG. 62 specialized catch adapter 4400 can comprise first section 4420 and second section 4440 which can be detachably connected to sleeve 2300 as indicated by arrows 4402 and 4404. First section 4420 can comprise inner diameter 4422, base area 4424, and a plurality of openings 4430. First and second sections can be constructed substantially like each other. Second section 4440 can comprise interior 4442, base 4444, angled section 4446, and base 4448. Second section 4440 can also include a plurality of openings 4450 for connecting it to sleeve 2300. First and second sections 4420 and 4440 are shown as being two separate pieces, but can be a single piece, such as where they are hinged together. A plurality of fasteners 4460 can be used to detachably connect first section 4420 and/or second section 4440 to sleeve 2300. A plurality of washers 4470 and snap rings 4480 can also be used. The snap rings 4480 can be used to prevent one or more of the fasteners 4460 from becoming loose and falling downhole.

(213) FIG. 65 is a sectional perspective view of the upper part of an alternative sleeve 300 for rotating and reciprocating swivel 5000 with alternative packing assembly 5300. FIG. 66 is a closeup view of sleeve 300. FIG. 67 is a sectional perspective view of packing unit 5300. FIG. 68 is a sectional perspective view of the upper part of sleeve 300 for swivel 5000 with alternative packing assembly 6300. FIG. 69 is a closeup view of sleeve 300. FIG. 70 is a sectional perspective view of packing unit 6300.

(214) FIG. 67 is a sectional perspective view showing one embodiment of a packing unit 5300, which can preferably be used in the box end of an alternative embodiment of rotating and reciprocating swivel 5000 (see FIGS. 65 through 70). Packing unit 5300 can comprise male packing ring 5370, plurality of seals 5306, female packing ring 5320, spacer ring 5310, and packing retainer nut 1400 (not shown for clarity). Packing retainer nut 1400 can be threadably connected to packing housing 1200 at threaded connection 1460. Tightening packing retainer nut 1400 squeezes plurality of seals 5306 between packing housing 1200 and retainer nut 1400 thereby increasing sealing between sleeve or housing 300 (through packing housing 1200) and swivel mandrel 110.

(215) Spacer unit 5310 can comprise first end 5312, second end 5314, and is preferably from SAE 660 BRONZE or SAE 954 Aluminum Bronze. Female backup ring (or packing ring) 5320 is preferably comprised of a bearing grade peek material (such as material number 781 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Packing ring 5330 is preferable a bronze filled teflon seal (such as material number 714 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Packing rings 5340 and 5350 are preferable teflon seals (such as material number 711 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Male packing ring 5370 which can comprise first end 5372 and second end 5374 and is preferably machined from SAE 660 BRONZE or SAE 954 Aluminum Bronze with a flat head 5374 and 45 degrees from the vertical. Seals can be Chevron type “VS” packing rings.

(216) FIG. 70 is a sectional perspective view showing one embodiment for packing unit 6300. Packing unit 6300 can comprise male packing ring 6350, plurality of seals 6302,6304, female packing rings 6310,6380, male packing ring 6350, and packing retainer nut 1400 (not shown for clarity). Plurality of seals 6302 can seal in the opposite direction of plurality of seals 6304. Packing retainer nut 1400 can be threadably connected to packing housing 1200 at threaded connection 1460. Tightening packing retainer nut 1400 squeezes plurality of seals 6302,6304 between packing housing 1200 and retainer nut 1400 thereby increasing sealing between sleeve or housing 300 (through packing housing 1200) and swivel mandrel 110.

(217) Female backup ring (or packing ring) 6310 can comprise first end 6312, second end 6314, and is preferably comprised of a bearing grade peek material (such as material number 781 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Packing ring 6320 is preferable a bronze filled teflon seal (such as material number 714 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Packing rings 6330 and 6340 are preferable teflon seals (such as material number 711 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Male packing ring 6350 which can comprise first end 6352 and second end 6354 and is preferably machined from SAE 660 BRONZE or SAE 954 Aluminum Bronze with a flat heads 6353,6355 and both being 45 degrees from the vertical. Packing ring 6360 is preferable comprised of teflon (such as material number 711 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Packing ring 6370 is preferable a bronze filled teflon seal (such as material number 714 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Female backup ring (or packing ring) 6380 can comprise first end 6382, second end 6384, and is preferably comprised of a bearing grade peek material (such as material number 781 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.). Seals can be Chevron type “VS” packing rings.

(218) Alternatively, packing rings 634 and 6360 can be comprised of Viton (such as material number 951 supplied by CDI Seals out of Humble, Tex.).

(219) Static seals 6400 (polypack seals 6410 and 6420) can seal from fluid flow in the direction of arrow 6640). Static seal 6430 (polypack seal 6430) seals from fluid flow in the direction of arrow 6720). Similarly, static seals 5400 (polypack seals 5410, 5420, and 5430) seal from fluid flow in the direction of arrow 5710, and can serve as a backup for static seals 6400. The static seals can be conventionally available polypack seals such as those provided by parker and having polymite (#N651-375110000) or Molythene (#4615-37510000).

(220) Packing unit 5300 (and plurality of seals 5306) is set up to block fluid flow in the direction of arrow 5700, but not block fluid flow in the opposite direction (i.e., arrow 5600). In one embodiment sealing against fluid pressure in the direction of arrow 5700 is much greater than sealing against fluid pressure in the opposite direction (e.g., 1.5 times greater, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 1000, and greater, along with any range between these specified factors). Accordingly, fluid (and fluid pressure) can flow through seals 5306 in the direction of arrow 5600 as schematically shown in FIG. 65) and reach plurality of seals 6302 in the direction of arrows 6700 and 6710 (as schematically shown in FIG. 68). It is expected that fluid pressure on the pin end of rotating and reciprocating swivel 5000 will be higher than pressure on the box end. Therefore, allowing fluid and pressure to flow in the direction of arrow 5600 through plurality of seals 5306 will decrease the net pressure seen by plurality of seals 6302 (the net pressure being the difference between the pressure on the pin end of plurality of seals 6302 and the box end of the plurality of seals 6302).

(221) By reducing the net pressure to be sealed against, the expected life of seals 6302 is extended, and the expected frictional resistance created by seals 6302 is reduced. Furthermore, the pressure from fluid in the interstitial space between sleeve or housing 300 and mandrel 110 reduces the net force which sleeve 300 must resist in bending compared to a pressure outside of sleeve 300. Accordingly, the size of sleeve 300 can be reduced based on the lowered net forces it will see.

(222) Additionally, plurality of seals 5306 (in the box end of sleeve 300) and spaced apart from the primary seal set (plurality of seals 6302 on the pin end of sleeve 300), and can serve as a redundant seal set in the event of the failure of the primary seal set 6302. In this case of failure of primary seal set 6302, redundant plurality of seals 5306 will be almost completely a fresh set of seals because plurality of seals 5306 do not start to substantially seal unless and until primary plurality of seals 6302 fails (because there is no net pressure in the direction of arrow 5700 in FIG. 65). Furthermore, even if the primary seal set 6302 fails, backup seal set 5306 will only see a net pressure against which it must seal (the net pressure being the difference between the pressure on the box end of plurality of seals 5306 and the pin end of the plurality of seals 5306).

(223) Additionally, even where primary seal set 6302 fails, the pressure from fluid in the interstitial space between sleeve or housing 300 and mandrel 110 reduces the net force which sleeve 300 must resist in bending compared to an outside pressure on sleeve 300—although now it is expected that the interstitial pressure will be greater than the pressure on the outside of sleeve or housing 300.

(224) In the unusual circumstance where the pressure from the box end (in the direction of arrows 5600, 6700, and 6710) is greater than the pressure from the pin end (in the direction of arrows 660, 6610, 6630, and 5700), then plurality of seals 6304 will seal against this net pressure in the direction of the pin end.

(225) FIGS. 68 and 69 show an alternative construction for lower retainer cap 2500′ and tip 2520′ of retainer cap where the first plurality of fasteners/bolts 7032 and second plurality of fasteners/bolts 7042 are restricted from falling downhole (e.g., not exposed to the well bore).

(226) Here, retainer cap 2500′ can comprise thrust bearing 7000 and spacer ring 7100. Thrust bearing 7000 can comprise first end 7010, second end 7020, first plurality of openings 7030, second plurality of openings 7050. Spacer ring 7100 can comprise first end 7110, second end 7120, and plurality of openings 7200. Spacer ring 7100 can also include a dowel opening 7140 for an alignment/positioning dowel 7150. Retainer cap 2500′ can be connected to sleeve or housing 300 by first plurality of fasteners 7032 which pass through first plurality of openings 7030. Tip 2520′ can be connected to retainer cap 2500′ through second plurality of fasteners 7042 which pass through second plurality of openings 7040 and thread into tip 2520′. Plurality of fasteners can have heads 7044 with driving portions 7043. Here, a plurality of openings 7200 can coincide with the heads of the second plurality of fasteners 7042 for allowing these fasteners to be tightened (such as by using driving portion 7043). The longitudinal lengths of the plurality of openings 7200 is preferably substantially shorter than the longitudinal lengths of second plurality of fasteners 7042. This will prevent one or more of the second plurality of fasteners from falling out of alternative swivel 5000 and swivel cap 2500′ if one or more fasteners 7042 become loosened. One or more dowels 7150 can be used to align plurality of openings 7200 with second plurality of openings 7040.

(227) Pressure Relief Mode

(228) FIGS. 71 through 75 show an alternative embodiment which includes an internal pressure relief mode. In a pressure relief mode, pressure in the interstitial space between the sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 can be gradually relieved. This gradual relief of interstitial pressure allows the rotating and reciprocating swivel tool not to be pressurized when removed from the riser or well bore.

(229) In one embodiment, as the rotating and reciprocating swivel tool is pulled up the hole and riser, differential pressure between the tool's interstitial space (between the internal diameter of the sleeve and the external diameter of the mandrel) and the hole or the riser can be relieved by interstitial pressure leaking out of the interstitial space and into the hole or the riser. This relieving of interstitial pressure can be gradual as the pressure in the hole or riser is gradually decreased as the rotating and reciprocating swivel tool comes closer to the surface. The decrease in hole or riser pressure is caused by the movement of the tool up the hole or riser and closer to the rig.

(230) In one embodiment interstitial pressure is relieved at the lower end of the mandrel. In one embodiment the lower end of the mandrel is the pin end.

(231) In one embodiment the pressure relief mode can be activated by positioning the sleeve relative to the mandrel at a predesignated pressure relief position. In one embodiment the pressure relief mode can be deactivated by changing the longitudinal position of the mandrel relative to the sleeve and away from the pressure relief position.

(232) In one embodiment, to transition into a pressure relief mode for the interstitial space between the sleeve and the mandrel, the seals are moved over a pressure relief portion of the mandrel. In one embodiment to transition out of the pressure relief mode, the seals are moved away from the pressure relief portion of the mandrel.

(233) In one embodiment a pressure relieving portion of the mandrel can be provided wherein the sealing effect of the seals can be reduced or circumvented. In one embodiment a pressure relief groove can be provided (such as on the mandrel) which can relieve pressure from the interstitial space when at least a portion of the packing is longitudinally positioned over the groove. In one embodiment the pressure relief groove is an area of reduced diameter on the mandrel.

(234) In one embodiment a pressure relief channel can be provided on the mandrel which spans a specified longitudinal length of the mandrel. In one embodiment a plurality of pressure relief channels can be provided. In one embodiment at least one pressure relief path is provided on the mandrel.

(235) In one embodiment the packing on the lower end of sleeve includes two sets of seals sealing in opposite longitudinal directions. In one embodiment the packing includes seal sets sealing in only one longitudinal direction.

(236) In one embodiment longitudinally locking the sleeve relative to the mandrel (e.g., such as by using a quick lock/quick unlocking system or latching system), transitions the sleeve and mandrel into an interstitial pressure relief mode wherein the packing between the sleeve and mandrel allows at least some fluid (e.g., on the pin end) to migrate out of interstitial space between sleeve and mandrel. In one embodiment this interstitial fluid flow relieves pressure the interstitial space between the sleeve and mandrel, and prevents the rotating and reciprocating swivel tool from being pressurized when the tool is pulled out of the hole.

(237) In one embodiment, when the sleeve and mandrel are “locked” (or the quick lock/quick unlock system is activated), there remains a limited amount of allowed longitudinal movement between the sleeve and the mandrel (e.g., between about ½, 1, 1½, 2, 2½, 3, 3½, 4, 4½, 5, 5½, and 6 inches) before the quick lock/quick unlock system is deactivated. In one embodiment, the pressure relief mode can be transitioned from a pressure relief mode to a non-pressure relief mode; and vice versa based on longitudinal movement within the limited amount of allowed longitudinal movement while the quick lock/quick unlock system is activated. In one embodiment the pressure relief mode is activated at all times when the quick lock/quick unlock system remains locked.

(238) In one embodiment at least two sets of seals on the lower end of the sleeve are used, each set sealing fluid flow in opposite longitudinal directions. In embodiment the seals set(s) on the lower end seal fluid in only one longitudinal direction. In one embodiment fluid flow is sealed in the longitudinal direction of from the lower end of the mandrel to the upper end of the mandrel.

(239) In one embodiment the pressure relief mode can only be entered when the quick lock/quick unlock system is activated thereby locking the sleeve and mandrel. In one embodiment when the quick lock/quick unlock system is deactivated, the seals on the lower end of the sleeve will be sealed at least until the quick lock/quick unlock system is again locked thereby locking the sleeve on the mandrel.

(240) FIG. 71 shows a sectional view of the lower end 2304 of sleeve 2300 along with an alternative embodiment of mandrel 110. FIG. 72 is a close up view of FIG. 71. FIG. 73 is another section view of the lower end 2304 of sleeve 2300 along with alternative mandrel 110 but with mandrel 110 lowered relative to sleeve 2300. FIG. 74 is a sectional view of the connection between alternative mandrel 110 and its lower section 200. FIG. 75 is a side view of the lower portion of alternative mandrel 110 with lower section 200 removed.

(241) As can be seen in FIG. 71, second plurality of seals 6304 is positioned in peripheral recess 250. As shown in FIG. 73, peripheral recess 250 forms a gap 252 between the internal bore of sleeve 2300 and the external diameter of mandrel 110. When second plurality of seals 6304 are longitudinally positioned over peripheral recess or groove 250, their sealing ability is considerably reduced or eliminated. Additionally, because first plurality of seals 6302 are set up to seal in the opposite longitudinal direction as arrow 270, fluid can flow in the directions of arrows 270, 271, 272, and 273. This is because first plurality of seals 6302 do not effectively seal against fluid flow in the direction of arrow 270 and the sealing efficacy of second plurality of seals 6304 is severely reduced or eliminated when second plurality of seals are longitudinally positioned over groove or recess 250. Accordingly, where there is an elevated fluid pressure in the interstitial space between the internal diameter of sleeve 2300 and the external diameter of mandrel 110 (the interstitial space shown in FIG. 65), pressurized fluid in this interstitial space can “leak” out the lower end of sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 first in the direction of arrow 270 (through first plurality of seals 6302 because these seals are not designed to effectively seal flow in this direction, but seal flow in the opposite longitudinal direction), second in the direction of arrow 271 (through second plurality of seals being positioned over peripheral recess or groove 250), and then out through the lower end of sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 as schematically indicated by arrows 272 and 273 (because there is no effective sealing between the sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110 at these locations). Because pressurized fluid in the interstitial space can “leak” out of the interstitial space such interstitial space can effectively be depressurized.

(242) It should be noted that the sealing effect of first plurality of seals 6302 is not zero eliminated for fluid flow in the direction of arrow 270. However, these seals are designed/set up to seal against fluid flow in the opposite longitudinal direction as arrow 270, and are expected to only seal against only a relatively small amount of differential pressure in the direction of arrow 270 (such as about 10, 25, 50, 75, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1,000 psi). Similarly, peripheral groove or recess 250 may not completely eliminate the sealing effect of second plurality of seals 6304, and one may expect to see some sealing (such as about 10, 25, 50, 75, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1000 psi).

(243) In one embodiment the sealing effect of first plurality of seals 6302 is about zero in the longitudinal direction of arrow 270. In one embodiment the sealing ability of second plurality of seals 6304 is eliminated when positioned over peripheral groove or recess 250.

(244) In one embodiment both sets of seals 6302 and 6304 are positioned over peripheral recess or groove 250.

(245) One advantage of using two sets of seals 6302 and 6304 which seal in opposite longitudinal directions is that the sleeve 2300 and mandrel 110, even in pressure relief mode, can still be sealed against fluid flow in the in the opposite longitudinal direction of arrow 270. This double sealing ability assists in maintaining separate vertical fluid columns after lowering the tool downhole and into an annular BOP (which is then closed on sleeve 2300). In the configuration shown in FIGS. 71 and 72, first plurality of seals 6302 will resist fluid flow in a longitudinal direction which is opposite to arrow 271 where the down hole pressure (i.e., pressure below the annular BOP) is increased. This will prevent fluid transfer from the upper and lower vertical columns of fluid (above and below the closed/sealed annular BOP).

(246) Where second plurality of seals are moved away from peripheral recess or groove 250 a full two way longitudinal sealing effect will be seen with first and second plurality of seals 6302,6304. FIG. 73 is section view of the lower end 2304 of sleeve 2300 along with alternative mandrel 110 but with mandrel 110 lowered relative to sleeve 2300 as schematically indicated by arrow 274. Here, second plurality of seals 6304 have been moved away from peripheral recess 250 and second plurality of seals 6304 will now also seal from fluid flow in the longitudinal direction of arrow 274. It is noted that in FIG. 73 quick lock/quick unlock system (e.g., latching mechanism 300) is still “locked” on mandrel 110. Further longitudinal movement of mandrel 110 relative to sleeve 2300 in the direction of arrow 274 will “unlock” sleeve from mandrel and now longitudinal reciprocation between mandrel 110 and sleeve 2300 can occur with both first and second seals 6302, 6304 providing sealing.

(247) FIG. 74 is a sectional view of the connection between alternative mandrel 110 and its lower section 200. Lower section 200 can include fluted area 135 and can be used as a saver sub for mandrel 110. That is, if the threads on the pin end of lower section 200 are damaged (or the fluted) area only this saver sub or lower section need by replaced which is much less expensive than replacing the remaining portion of mandrel 110 (which can be 80 feet long). An o-ring seal 212 and two backup rings 214,216 can be used to seal the connection. O-ring seal 212 can be a Parker “O” Ring comprising viton (part number V1238-95 2-349). Backup rings can be Hercules part number 590-249 (high performance).

(248) FIG. 75 is a side view of the lower portion of alternative mandrel 110 with lower section 200 removed. Here, peripheral recess or groove 250 is shown with shoulder 260. Shoulder 260 can ease the transition of seals being positioned in and out of peripheral recess or groove 250.

(249) The poly pak seals can be Parker poly pak comprising polymite (part number N651-3751000) or comprising molythane (part number 4615-3751000).

(250) Closed Sleeve Bearing End Cap

(251) FIGS. 76 through 81 show an alternative version of the upper section of alternative mandrel 110 along with an alternative end cap 400′ for sleeve 2300. Alternative end cap 400′ is a “closed” end cap which will resist accumulation of debris or other items (which may have fallen into open versions of the end cap). FIG. 76 is a sectional view of the upper section of alternative mandrel 110 along with an alternative end cap 400′ for sleeve 2300. FIG. 77 is an alternative embodiment for the limiting sub 700′ for alternative mandrel 110. FIG. 78 is a side view of the limiting sub 700′ of FIG. 77. FIG. 79 is a perspective view of sleeve 2300 on mandrel 100, the sleeve including upper end cap 400′. FIGS. 80 and 81 are perspective views of the upper and lower portions of end cap 400′.

(252) Upper end cap 400′ can comprise upper portion 420′ and lower portion 430′. A plurality of openings 460′ can be included for accommodating a plurality of bolts 470 (each opening having a recessed area for accommodating the head of a bolt). On the lower end can be included recessed area 450′ and base 452′. Base 452′ can rest against spacer ring 7100′ as shown in FIG. 76. Although not shown upper portion 420′ can include a plurality of bearing inserts (preferably teflon) around its outer perimeter such as those inserts used in the thrust bearings. Preferably, upper end cap 400′ can be comprised of bronze.

(253) Upper limiting sub 700′ can comprise upper portion 710, frustoconical portion 740, and enlarged section 730. Enlarged section 730 can include base 750 which can contact upper end cap 400′ when sleeve 2300 is moved longitudinally to its upper extent such that contact is made with upper limiting sub 700′. If such contact is made and relative rotation is being performed between mandrel 110 and sleeve 2300, then relative rotation will occur between upper limiting sub 700′ and upper end cap 400′ when these two are in contact. In this case upper end cap serves as a bearing for this relative rotation and the teflon inserts further reduce friction and wear on these two pieces. Preferably, because contact between relatively moving upper limiting sub 700′ and upper end cap 400′ occurs between base 750 and the portion of end cap 400′ in contact with base 750, the friction reducing inserts need only be placed where such contact occurs.

(254) While certain novel features of this invention shown and described herein 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.”

(255) The following is a parts list of reference numerals or part numbers and corresponding descriptions as used herein:

(256) TABLE-US-00008 LIST FOR REFERENCE NUMERALS Reference Numeral Description 10 drilling rig/well drilling apparatus 20 drilling fluid line 22 drilling fluid or mud 30 rotary table 40 well bore 50 drill pipe 60 drill string or well string or work string 70 annular blowout preventer 71 annular seal unit 75 stack 80 riser 85 upper drill or work string 86 lower drill or work string 87 seabed 88 well head 90 upper volumetric section 92 lower volumetric section 94 displacement fluid 96 completion fluid 100 swivel 110 mandrel 113 arrow 114 arrow 115 arrow 116 arrow 117 arrow 118 arrow 120 upper end 130 lower end 135 fluted area 136 plurality of recessed areas 137 angled area or thrust shoulder 138 angled area (radial alignment) 140 box connection 150 pin connection 160 central longitudinal passage 162 connection between upper and lower end 164 connection from upper end (pin) 166 connection from lower end (box) 168 seal 170 seal 180 H - - length allowed for movement by sleeve or housing over mandrel 200 pin end sub 210 upper 212 seal 214 back-up ring 216 back-up ring 220 lower 250 recessed area 252 gap 260 shoulder 270 arrow 271 arrow 272 arrow 273 arrow 274 arrow 275 arrow 300 swivel sleeve or housing 302 upper end 304 lower end 310 interior section 311 upper lubrication port 312 lower lubrication port 315 gap 322 check valve 324 check valve 326 upper catch, shoulder, flange 328 lower catch, shoulder, flange 331 upper base 332 upper radiused area 341 lower base 342 lower radiused area 350 L1 - - overall length of sleeve or housing with attachments on upper and lower ends 360 L2 - - length between upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 370 shoulder 372 recessed area 373 seal 374 recessed area 375 seal 380 shoulder 382 recessed area 383 seal 384 recessed area 385 seal 400 upper retainer cap 405 plurality of ribs 420 tip of retainer cap 430 base of retainer cap 450 recessed area 460 plurality of bolt holes 470 first plurality of bolts 472 second plurality of bolts 474 spacer ring 500 lower retainer cap 510 upper surface of retainer cap 520 tip of retainer cap 530 base of retainer cap 540 housing 541 first plurality of fasteners 542 first plurality of openings 543 second plurality of fasteners 544 second plurality of openings 550 first end 552 recessed area 560 second end 562 recessed area 570 bearing or thrust hub 572 first end 574 second end 576 plurality of tips and recessed areas 578 angled section 590 cover 592 first end 594 second end 595 recessed area 596 plurality of openings 598 exterior angled section 599 beveled section 600 plurality of openings for shear pins 610 plurality of shear pins 611 plurality of tips 612 plurality of snap rings 614 adhesive 620 arrow 630 arrow 640 arrow 650 arrow 660 arrow 670 arrow 680 arrow 700 joint of pipe 710 upper portion 720 lower portion 730 enlarged area 740 frustoconical area 750 protruding section 800 saver sub 1000 bearing and packing assembly 1100 bearing 1110 outer surface 1120 inner surface 1122 inner diameter 1130 first end 1140 second end 1150 opening 1160 pathway 1180 recessed areas 1182 inserts 1190 plurality of recessed areas 1192 base 1200 packing housing 1210 first end 1220 second end 1230 plurality of tips 1240 first opening 1242 perimeter recess 1243 seal (such as polypack) 1250 second opening 1252 threaded area 1250 second opening 1252 shoulder 1300 packing stack 1305 packing unit 1310 spacer 1312 first end of spacer 1314 second end of spacer 1316 enlarged section of spacer 1320 female packing end ring 1322 plurality of seals 1326 plurality of grooves 1330 packing ring 1340 packing ring 1350 packing ring 1360 packing ring 1370 male packing ring 1372 first end of male packing ring 1374 second end of male packing ring 1400 packing retainer nut 1410 first end 1420 plurality of tips 1430 plurality of recessed areas 1440 second end 1450 base 1460 threaded area 1500 end cap 1510 first end 1520 plurality of openings 1530 second end 1540 plurality of tips 1550 plurality of recessed areas 1560 mechanical seal 1580 dummy pipe 1590 testing plate 1596 radial injection port 1592 seal 1594 seal 1598 arrow 2300 swivel sleeve or housing 2302 upper end 2304 lower end 2310 interior section 2311 upper lubrication port 2312 lower lubrication port 2315 gap 2322 check valve 2324 check valve 2326 upper catch, shoulder, flange 2328 lower catch, shoulder, flange 2331 base 2332 radiused area 2334 plurality of openings 2341 base 2342 radiused area 2344 plurality of openings 2350 L1 - - overall length of sleeve or housing with attachments on upper and lower ends 2360 L2 - - length between upper and lower catches, shoulders, flanges 2370 shoulder 2372 recessed area 2373 seal 2374 recessed area 2375 seal 2380 shoulder 2382 recessed area 2383 seal 2384 recessed area 2385 seal 2400 upper retainer cap 2405 plurality of ribs 2420 tip of retainer cap 2430 base of retainer cap 2450 recessed area 2460 plurality of bolt holes 2470 first plurality of bolts 2472 second plurality of bolts 2500 lower retainer cap 2510 upper surface of retainer cap 2520 tip of retainer cap 2530 base of retainer cap 2540 housing 2541 first plurality of fasteners 2542 first plurality of openings 2543 second plurality of fasteners 2544 second plurality of openings 2550 first end 2552 recessed area 2554 base of recessed area 2560 second end 2562 recessed area 2570 length between base of recessed area to interior angled section of cover 2590 cover 2592 first end 2594 second end 2595 recessed area 2596 plurality of openings 2598 exterior angled section 2599 beveled section 2600 interior angled section 2612 plurality of snap rings 2614 adhesive 2620 arrow 2630 arrow 2640 arrow 2650 arrow 2660 arrow 2670 arrow 2680 arrow 2682 arrow 2684 arrow 2700 joint of pipe 2710 upper portion 2720 lower portion 2730 enlarged area 2740 frustoconical area 2750 protruding section 2800 saver sub 3000 quick lock/quick unlock system 3100 first part 3110 bearing and locking hub 3112 first end 3114 second end 3120 plurality of fingers 3130 example finger 3140 tip 3150 latching area of finger 3160 base of finger 3170 length of finger 3172 arrow 3200 base 3205 outer diamater 3210 inner diameter 3220 first shoulder or angled section 3260 second shoulder or angled section 3400 second part 3410 latching area 3420 angled area 3440 flat area 3460 recessed area 3600 clutching member 3610 plurality of alignment members 3620 example of alignment member 3630 arrow shaped portion 3640 fastener 3650 plurality of bases for alignment members 3660 plurality of threaded openings 3670 example base for alignment member 4000 generic catches 4010 base 4020 connector 4030 base 4040 connector 4200 specialized catch 4202 arrow 4204 arrow 4220 first section 4222 inner diameter 4224 rounded area 4226 second rounded area 4230 plurality of openings 4232 inner diameter 4234 rounded area 4236 second rounded area 4240 second section 4242 interior 4244 base 4246 angled section 4248 second base 4250 diameter 4252 angled area 4254 base 4259 plurality of openings 4260 plurality of fasteners 4270 plurality of washers 4280 plurality of snap rings 4400 specialized catch 4402 arrow 4404 arrow 4420 first section 4422 interior 4424 base 4426 angled section 4430 plurality of openings 4440 second section 4442 interior 4444 base 4446 angled section 4448 second base 4450 plurality of openings 4460 plurality of fasteners 4470 plurality of washers 4480 plurality of snap rings 5000 rotating and reciprocating swivel 5300 packing stack 5306 plurality of seals 5310 spacer 5312 first end of spacer 5314 second end of spacer 5320 female packing end ring 5323 enlarged section of female packing ring 5330 packing ring 5340 packing ring 5350 packing ring 5370 male packing ring 5372 first end of male packing ring 5374 second end of male packing ring 5400 plurality of polypack seals 5410 polypack seal 5420 polypack seal 5430 polypack seal 5440 polypack seal 5500 hydrostatic testing port 5600 arrow 5700 arrow 5710 arrow 5720 arrow 6300 packing stack 6302 first plurality of seals 6304 second plurality of seals 6310 female packing end ring 6312 first end of female packing end ring 6314 second end of female packing end ring 6316 enlarged section of female packing end ring 6317 reduced section of female packing end ring 6320 packing ring 6330 packing ring 6340 packing ring 6350 male packing ring 6352 first end of male packing ring 6354 second end of male packing ring 6360 packing ring 6370 packing ring 6380 female packing ring 6382 first end of female packing ring 6384 second end of female packing ring 6400 plurality of polypack seals 6410 polypack seal 6420 polypack seal 6430 polypack seal 6440 polypack seal 6500 hydrostatic testing port 6600 arrow 6610 arrow 6630 arrow 6640 arrow 6700 arrow 6710 arrow 6720 arrow 7000 thrust bearing 7010 first end 7020 second end 7030 first plurality of openings 7032 first plurality of fasteners/bolts 7033 driving portion 7040 second plurality of openings 7042 second plurality of fasteners/bolts 7043 driving portion 7044 bolt head 7100 spacer ring 7110 first end 7120 second end 7140 dowel opening 7150 dowel 7200 plurality of openings BJ ball joint BL booster line CM choke manifold CL diverter line CM choke manifold D diverter DL diverter line F rig floor IB inner barrel KL kill line MP mud pit MB mud gas buster or separator OB outer barrel R riser RF flow line S floating structure or rig SJ slip or telescoping joint SS shale shaker W wellhead

(257) 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.

(258) 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.