WO2014144108A1 - Drill rod guard and systems and methods of using same - Google Patents
Drill rod guard and systems and methods of using same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2014144108A1 WO2014144108A1 PCT/US2014/028382 US2014028382W WO2014144108A1 WO 2014144108 A1 WO2014144108 A1 WO 2014144108A1 US 2014028382 W US2014028382 W US 2014028382W WO 2014144108 A1 WO2014144108 A1 WO 2014144108A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- guard
- elements
- drill rod
- shaft
- feed
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 28
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 claims description 92
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000013013 elastic material Substances 0.000 claims description 9
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- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 claims description 4
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- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
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- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- RVNZEJNWTUDQSC-JOCHJYFZSA-N (2r)-n-(6-aminohexyl)-1-tridecanoylpyrrolidine-2-carboxamide Chemical class CCCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)N1CCC[C@@H]1C(=O)NCCCCCCN RVNZEJNWTUDQSC-JOCHJYFZSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- SPCMQFLNOVTUBM-UHFFFAOYSA-N [7-(dimethylazaniumyl)-10h-phenothiazin-3-yl]-dimethylazanium;methanesulfonate Chemical class CS([O-])(=O)=O.CS([O-])(=O)=O.C1=C([NH+](C)C)C=C2SC3=CC([NH+](C)C)=CC=C3NC2=C1 SPCMQFLNOVTUBM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010960 cold rolled steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- -1 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B41/00—Equipment or details not covered by groups E21B15/00 - E21B40/00
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B19/00—Handling rods, casings, tubes or the like outside the borehole, e.g. in the derrick; Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B19/00—Handling rods, casings, tubes or the like outside the borehole, e.g. in the derrick; Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables
- E21B19/08—Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables; Apparatus for increasing or decreasing the pressure on the drilling tool; Apparatus for counterbalancing the weight of the rods
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B41/00—Equipment or details not covered by groups E21B15/00 - E21B40/00
- E21B41/0021—Safety devices, e.g. for preventing small objects from falling into the borehole
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B3/00—Rotary drilling
- E21B3/02—Surface drives for rotary drilling
Definitions
- Implementations described herein relate generally to devices, systems and methods for guarding against contact with rotating drill rods.
- Drill rigs generally include a supporting mast with a mounted drill head.
- the drill head can be capable of moving along the mast. Additionally, the drill head can receive and engage the upper end of a drill string.
- the drill head can rotate the drill string and a drill bit mounted to the drill string to drill a formation.
- the drill string can include a plurality of drill rods that are connected end to end.
- drill string can be clamped and the drill head disconnected from the drill string.
- An additional length of drill rod can then be added to the end of the drill string, the drill head can be connected to the new rod, and the drilling process can be resumed once again.
- numerous drill rods can be added to the drill string in order to reach a desired depth.
- Implementations described herein comprise devices, systems and methods for guarding against contact with rotating drill rods.
- a drill rod guard for use with a drilling system.
- the drill rod guard can have a longitudinal axis.
- the drilling system can comprise a feed shell having first and second side portions positioned on opposing sides of the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard.
- the feed shell can be configured to receive at least a portion of a drill rod.
- the drill rod guard can comprise a feed shaft assembly configured to support the feed shell.
- the feed shaft assembly can comprise at least one support element.
- Each support element can comprises a first side portion and a second side portion, and the first side portion can be positioned on an opposing side of the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard from the second side portion.
- the first side portion of each support element can be configured to be positioned proximate the first side portion of the feed shell, and the second side portion of each support element can be configured to be positioned proximate the second side portion of the feed shell.
- the drill rod guard can further comprise opposed first and second shafts.
- the first shaft can be pivotally coupled to the first side portions of each support element of the feed shaft assembly, and the second shaft can be pivotally coupled to the second side portions of each support element of the feed shaft assembly.
- the first shaft can be configured for selective rotation relative to a first rotational axis and the second shaft can be configured for selective rotation relative to a second rotational axis.
- the first rotational axis and the second rotational axis can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard.
- the drill rod guard can further comprise a plurality of guard elements.
- the plurality of guard elements can comprise a first set of guard elements operatively coupled to the first shaft and a second set of guard elements operatively coupled to the second shaft.
- Each guard element of the first set of guard elements can be substantially opposed from and configured for selective engagement with a corresponding guard element of the second set of guard elements.
- the plurality of guard elements can be configured to cooperate with the first and second side portions of the feed shell to substantially enclose the portion of the drill rod within the feed shell.
- a drilling system configured for drilling relative to a drilling axis.
- the drilling system can comprise a drill head assembly and a drill rod operatively coupled to the drill head assembly.
- the drilling system can further comprise a feed shell having first and second side portions positioned on opposing sides of the drilling axis, and the feed shell can be configured to receive at least a portion of a drill rod.
- the drilling system can further comprise a drill rod guard.
- the drill rod guard can comprise a feed shaft assembly configured to support the feed shell.
- the feed shaft assembly can comprise at least one support element, and each support element can comprise opposed first and second side portions.
- the first side portion can be positioned proximate the first side portion of the feed shell and the second side portion of each support element can be positioned proximate the second side portion of the feed shell.
- the drill rod guard can further comprise opposed first and second shafts.
- the first shaft can be pivotally coupled to the first side portions of each support element of the feed shaft assembly, and the second shaft can be pivotally coupled to the second side portions of each support element of the feed shaft assembly.
- the first shaft can be configured for selective rotation relative to a first rotational axis
- the second shaft can be configured for selective rotation relative to a second rotational axis, wherein the first rotational axis and the second rotational axis are substantially parallel to the drilling axis.
- the drill rod guard can further comprise a plurality of guard elements.
- the plurality of guard elements can comprise a first set of guard elements operatively coupled to the first shaft and a second set of guard elements operatively coupled to the second shaft.
- Each guard element of the first set of guard elements can be substantially opposed from and configured for selective engagement with a corresponding guard element of the second set of guard elements.
- the plurality of guard elements can be configured to cooperate with the first and second side portions of the feed shell to substantially enclose the portion of the drill rod within the feed shell.
- the first and second shafts of the drill rod guard can be configured for rotation about and between a first rotational position and a second rotational position.
- each respective guard element When the first and second shafts are positioned in the first rotational position, each respective guard element can be configured for movement about and between a closed position and a partially open position. In the closed position, the guard element can be positioned for engagement with a corresponding opposed guard element. Each guard element of the plurality of guard elements can be biased toward the closed position.
- the drill head assembly can be configured for selective axial movement along a length of the feed shell relative to the drilling axis.
- the drill head assembly can comprise a plurality of drill head components and optionally can further comprise a deflecting frame that generally defines an outer periphery of the drill head assembly and is spaced from the plurality of drill head components.
- the deflecting frame can be configured to contact inner surfaces of the plurality of guard elements.
- each respective guard element can be configured for movement to the partially open position upon application of an outward radial force to the guard element by the deflecting frame of the drill head assembly and each respective guard element can be configured to return to the closed position when the outward radial force is removed upon disengagement between the deflecting frame and the guard element.
- Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary drilling system as disclosed herein.
- the drilling system can comprise a drill rod guard with a plurality of guard elements in a closed position.
- Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary drill rod guard attached to a feed shaft with a plurality of guard elements in a closed position.
- Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary drill rod guard attached to a feed shaft with a plurality of guard elements in a fully open position.
- Figure 4 illustrates an end view of an exemplary drill rod guard attached to a feed shaft with a plurality of guard elements in a closed position.
- Figure 5A illustrates a perspective view of an outer surface of an exemplary guard element as disclosed herein.
- Figure 5B illustrates a perspective view of an inner surface of an exemplary guard element as disclosed herein.
- Figures 6A-6D are side perspective views depicting the sequential movement of a drill head assembly through a drill rod guard as disclosed herein.
- Figure 6A illustrates the guard elements of the drill rod guard in a closed position prior to contact between a deflecting frame of the drill head assembly and the drill rod guard.
- Figure 6B illustrates the drill head assembly positioned partially within the drill rod guard such that the guard elements in contact with the deflecting frame are positioned in a partially open position.
- Figure 6C illustrates the drill head assembly positioned entirely within the drill rod guard such that the guard elements in contact with the deflecting frame are positioned in a partially open position and the guard elements that are not in contact with the deflecting frame are positioned in the closed position.
- Figure 6D illustrates the drill head assembly positioned entirely within the drill rod guard but advanced beyond a portion of the guard elements such that the guard elements that are no longer in contact with the deflecting frame are returned to the closed position.
- Implementations described herein are directed toward devices, systems and methods for guarding against contact with rotating drill rods, for example and without limitation, those used in surface, underground, oilfield, exploration, and other drilling applications.
- one or more implementations described herein comprise a drill rod guard for drill string components.
- implementations of the present disclosure can improve safety and efficiency over conventional drill rod guard devices.
- one or more implementations comprise a flexible drill rod guard configured to prevent accidental contact with the drill rod while allowing for protrusion of portions of a drill head assembly, such as a motor.
- the drill rod guard can be configured to selectively permit unobstructed access to the drill rod. It is
- drill rod guards disclosed herein can substantially increase the safety and productivity of drill operators and other drilling personnel.
- the drill rod guard 100 can be used in drilling applications such as those that utilize, for example and without limitation, percussive drills, surface drills, underground drills, and the like.
- the drill rod guard 100 can be configured for use with, for example and without limitation, the StopeMateTM series, the StopeMasterTM series, the BCI-2 series, or the LMTM series drill rigs manufactured by Boart Longyear (South Jordan, Utah).
- the drill rod guard 100 can be used with any type of drill rig.
- the drill rod guard 100 can have a longitudinal axis 101.
- the drill rod guard 100 can be substantially axially aligned with a drilling axis 155.
- the drilling system 150 can comprise a feed shell 1 10.
- the feed shell 110 can have first and second side portions 1 11, 113 positioned on opposing sides of the longitudinal axis 101 of the drill rod guard 100 (and, thus, on opposing sides of drilling axis 155).
- the feed shell 1 10 can be configured to receive at least a portion of a drill rod 152. It is contemplated that the feed shell 1 10 can have a longitudinal length relative to the drilling axis 155.
- the drill rod guard 100 can comprise a feed shaft assembly 130.
- the feed shaft assembly 130 can be configured to support the feed shell 110 and can comprise at least one support element 131.
- at least a base portion 136 of the at least one support element 131 can be configured for engagement with the feed shell 1 10.
- the feed shaft assembly 130 can optionally be integrally formed with the feed shell 1 10.
- the at least one support element 131 can comprise a plurality of support elements spaced relative to the longitudinal axis 101 of the drill rod guard 100 (and, thus, spaced relative to the drilling axis 155).
- each support element 131 can comprise a first side portion 132 and a second side portion 134. It is contemplated that the first side potion 132 can be positioned on an opposing side of the longitudinal axis 101 of the drill rod guard 100 (and, thus, an opposing side of the drilling axis 155) from the second side portion 134. It is further contemplated that the first side portion 132 of each support element 131 can be configured to be positioned proximate the first side portion 1 11 of the feed shell 1 10. Similarly, it is contemplated that the second side portion 134 of each support element 131 can be configured to be positioned proximate the second side portion 113 of the feed shell 110.
- the drill rod guard 100 can comprise first and second shafts 114, 115.
- the first shaft 114 can be pivotally coupled to the first side portions 132 of each support element 131 of the feed shaft assembly 130, and the second shaft 115 can be pivotally coupled to the second side portions 134 of each support element 131 of the feed shaft assembly 130.
- the first shaft 114 can be configured for selective rotation relative to a first rotational axis 1 18, and the second shaft 115 can be configured for selective rotation relative to a second rotational axis 1 19.
- the first rotational axis 118 can be substantially parallel to the second rotational axis 119.
- first rotational axis 1 18 and the second rotational axis 1 19 can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 101 of the drill rod guard 100 (and, thus, substantially parallel to the drilling axis 155).
- the first side portion 132 of each support element 131 of the feed shaft assembly 130 can comprise a bore 133 configured to receive a portion of the first shaft 1 14, and the second side portion 134 of each support element 131 of the feed shaft assembly 130 can comprise a bore 135 configured to receive a portion of the second shaft 115.
- the bores 133 of the at least one support element 131 can be substantially axially aligned and that the bores 135 of the at least one support element 131 can be substantially axially aligned to permit receipt of the first and second shafts 1 14, 1 15 in alignment with the first and second rotational axes 1 18, 1 19.
- the drill rod guard 100 can comprise a plurality of guard elements 102 that cooperate to form a protective envelope around a rotating drill rod when they are in a closed position.
- the plurality of guard elements 102 can optionally be provided in the form of discrete bands or flaps.
- the plurality of guard elements can comprise a first set of guard elements 104 operatively coupled to the first shaft 1 14 and a second set of guard elements 105 operatively coupled to the second shaft 115.
- the first set of guard elements 104 can comprise a single guard element 104 and that the second set of guard elements 105 can comprise a single guard element 105.
- the first set of guard elements can comprise a plurality of guard elements 104 and that the second set of guard elements can comprise a plurality of guard elements 105.
- the first set of guard elements 104 can be rigidly mounted to the first shaft 114, and the second set of guard elements 105 can be rigidly mounted to the second shaft 115.
- Each guard element 104 of the first set of guard elements can be substantially opposed from and configured for selective engagement with a corresponding guard element 105 of the second set of guard elements.
- each one of the first and second shafts 1 14, 1 15 can comprise an elongate member having a plurality of holes (e.g., threaded holes) formed along its length. It is contemplated that each hole of the plurality of holes can be configured to receive a mechanical fastener, such as, for example and without limitation, a screw, a bolt, or the like. It is further contemplated that the plurality of holes of the first shaft 1 14 can be configured to receive fasteners that are mounted to respective guard elements 104 of the first set of guard elements, while the plurality of holes of the second shaft 1 15 can be configured to receive fasteners that are mounted to respective guard elements 105 of the second set of guard elements. In exemplary aspects, the first and second shafts 114, 1 15 can comprise square cold rolled steel stock or the like.
- the drill rod guard 100 can further comprise a plurality of bushings 140 positioned between adjacent guard elements 102 of the plurality of guard elements. It is contemplated that bushings 140 positioned between adjacent guard elements 114, while bushings 140 positioned between adjacent guard elements 105 of the second set of guard elements can be configured to receive a portion of the second shaft 115. In operation, it is contemplated that the bushings 140 can function as bearings that provide flexibility in the mounting of the guard elements 102 relative to the feed shell 1 10. In exemplary aspects, the bushings 140 can comprise ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene. However, it contemplated that any conventional rotational bushing or bearing can be used.
- UHMW ultra-high molecular weight
- the plurality of guard elements can be configured to cooperate with the first and second side portions 11 1, 113 of the feed shell 1 10 and/or the first and second side portions 132, 134 of the feed shaft assembly 130 to substantially enclose the portion of the drill rod 152 within the feed shell.
- the first and second shafts 1 14, 1 15 can be configured for rotation about and between a first rotational position (see Figure 2) and a second rotational position (see Figure 3).
- each respective guard element 102 when the first and second shafts 114, 1 15 are positioned in the first rotational position, each respective guard element 102 can be configured for movement about and between a closed position (see Figures 2 and 6A) and a partially open position (see Figures 6B-6C).
- a guard element 102 is in the closed position, it is contemplated that the guard element can be positioned for engagement with a corresponding opposed guard element.
- a guard element 104 of the first set of guard elements when a guard element 104 of the first set of guard elements is in the closed position, the guard element can be positioned for engagement with a corresponding opposed guard element 105 of the second set of guard elements when the opposed guard element is in its closed position.
- a guard element 104 of the first set of guard elements can cooperate with adjacent guard elements of the first set of guard elements to define the envelope surrounding the feed shell 1 10.
- a guard element 105 of the second set of guard elements can cooperate with adjacent guard elements of the second set of guard elements to define the envelope surrounding the feed shell 1 10.
- each respective guard element 102 can be positioned in a fully open position.
- the first and second shafts 1 14, 1 15 can be moved to the second rotational position (and, thus, the guard elements 102 can be positioned in the fully open position) to permit complete access to a drill rod or other drilling system component positioned within the drill rod guard 100.
- the drill rod guard 100 can comprise first and second rotary actuators 120, 121 configured to respectively effect selective rotation of the first and second shafts 1 14, 115 relative to the first and second rotational axes (between the first and second rotational positions).
- each guard element 102 of the drill rod guard 100 can comprise a flexible, elastic material.
- each guard element 102 can comprise polyurethane.
- any flexible and elastic material capable of functioning as disclosed herein can be used.
- each respective guard element 102 can be configured for movement to the partially open position upon application of an outward radial force to the guard element relative to the longitudinal axis 101 of the drill rod guard 100 (and, thus, relative to the drilling axis 155). After the outward radial force is removed from a guard element 102, the guard element can be configured to return to the closed position.
- each guard element 102 can be configured to permit bending of the guard element in a direction away from the longitudinal axis 101 of the drill rod guard 100 (and, thus, away from the drilling axis 155) and to limit bending of the guard element in other directions.
- each guard element 102 can have an inner surface 124 and an outer surface 128.
- the inner surface 124 of each guard element 102 can define an inner shoulder surface 122.
- each guard element 104 of the first set of guard elements can be configured to engage a portion of the first shaft 114 to limit bending of the guard element toward the longitudinal axis 101 of the drill rod guard 100 (and, thus, to limit bending of the guard element toward the drilling axis 155).
- the shoulder surface 122 of each guard element 105 of the second set of guard elements can be configured to engage a portion of the second shaft 1 15 to limit bending of the guard element toward the longitudinal axis 101 of the drill rod guard 100 (and, thus, to limit bending of the guard element toward the drilling axis 155).
- each guard element 102 can be configured to bend inwardly but that they are configured to effectively guard against a person falling into the drill rod guard 100 and contacting a rotating drill rod.
- each guard element 102 can have a proximal end 123 operatively coupled to one of the first and second shafts 114, 115 and an opposed distal end 125.
- each guard element 104 of the first set of guard elements can have a proximal end 123 operatively coupled to the first shaft 114 and an opposed distal end 125
- each guard element 105 of the second set of guard elements can have a proximal end operatively coupled to the second shaft 1 15 and an opposed distal end 125
- the distal end of each guard element 102 can comprise at least one engagement member 129.
- the at least one engagement member 129 of each respective guard element 104 of the first set of guard elements can be configured for complementary engagement with the at least one engagement member of a corresponding guard element 105 of the second set of guard elements.
- the at least one engagement member 129 can comprise at least one alignment finger configured to interdigitate with a corresponding at least one alignment finger of an opposing guard element.
- any means for establishing selective engagement between the first and second sets of guard elements can be used.
- the means for establishing selective engagement between the first and second sets of guard elements can comprise at least one projection defined by a first guard element and configured for receipt within a receptacle defined by an opposed second guard element, frictional engagement between contacting surfaces of opposed guard elements when the guard elements are positioned in the closed position, temporary adhesion between contacting surfaces of opposed guard elements when the guard elements are positioned in the closed position, conventional mechanical fasteners, and the like.
- each guard element 102 of the plurality of guard elements can be biased toward the closed position.
- the drill rod guard 100 can comprise means for biasing each guard element 102 toward the closed position.
- the means for biasing each guard element 102 toward the closed position can comprise any conventional biasing element, including, for example and without limitation, a spring-loaded biasing element or an inwardly -biased hinge.
- the means for biasing each guard element 102 toward the closed position can comprise a groove 126 defined in the outer surface 128 of each guard element.
- each guard element can function as a hinge that is configured to bias the guard element toward the closed position when the first and second shafts 114, 115 are in the first rotational position.
- at least a portion of each guard element can comprises an elastic material.
- the hinge portion of the each guard element can comprise an elastic material.
- a conventional bias element such as, for example and without limitation, a spring, a leaf spring, and the like, can be coupled to portion of each guard element proximal to the hinge to allow for the desired biasable movement of the respective guard elements relative to the respective shafts.
- the drilling system 150 can comprise a drill head assembly 112, and the drill head assembly can be operatively coupled to at least one drill rod (or drill string component) as is understood in the art.
- the drill head assembly 1 12 can be operatively coupled to the feed shell 1 10 and configured for selective axial movement along the length of the feed shell relative to the drilling axis 155.
- the drill head assembly 1 12 can comprise a plurality of drill head components 154 and a deflecting frame
- the deflecting frame 1 16 that generally defines an outer periphery of the drill head assembly. It is contemplated that the deflecting frame 1 16 can be radially spaced from the plurality of drill head components 154 as shown in Figures 1 and 6A-6D. Upon axial movement of the drill head assembly 1 12 through the drill rod guard, the deflecting frame 116 can be configured to contact the inner surfaces 124 of the plurality of guard elements 102.
- the deflecting frame 116 can mounted or otherwise secured to one or more of the drill head components 154 (for example, by a plurality of mounting brackets) such that it is spaced from the plurality of drill head components 154 and such that the guard elements 102 do not contact the drill head components during movement of the drill head assembly 1 12 through the drill rod guard 100.
- the inner surfaces 124 of the opposing guard elements 104, 105 of the first and second sets of guard elements can define an operative inner diameter of the envelope formed by the drill rod guard 100. It is further contemplated that at least a front end portion
- the deflecting frame 116 can have an outer diameter that is less than the operative inner diameter of the drill rod guard 100 to permit entry of the drill head assembly 112 into the drill rod guard. It is still further contemplated that the operative vertical position of the deflecting frame 116 relative to the feed shell 1 10 can be less than an operative height of the opening defined by the drill rod guard 100 when the guard elements 102 are in the closed position. In exemplary aspects, at least a portion of the drill head components 154 of the drill head assembly 112 can protrude from the drill rod guard 100 during movement of the drill head assembly through the drill rod guard. In additional exemplary aspects, it is
- the drill head assembly 112 can comprise a viewing window that is positioned to extend over at least a portion of the drill rod guard 100 during movement of the drill head assembly through the drill rod guard. It is further contemplated that the viewing window can be configured to cover at least the openings formed between opposing guard elements 102 as the deflecting frame 1 16 forces the guard elements into the partially open position. It is still further contemplated that the viewing window can permit a drill operator to safely view a rotating drill rod during movement of the drill head assembly 1 12 through the drill rod guard 100.
- each respective guard element 102 can be configured for movement to the partially open position upon application of an outward radial force to the guard element by the deflecting frame 1 16. It is contemplated that each respective guard element can be configured to return to the closed position when the outward radial force is removed upon disengagement between the deflecting frame and the guard element. Thus, after the deflecting frame passes a set of opposing guard elements 102, the opposing guard elements can return to the closed position.
- Figures 1-6D and the corresponding text provide a number of different components and mechanisms for guarding against contact with rotating drill rods.
- implementations described herein can also be described in terms of acts and steps in a method for accomplishing a particular result. For example, a method for guarding against contact with rotating drill rods is described concurrently above with reference to the components and diagrams of Figures 1 through 6D.
- a method of drilling can comprise using a drilling system as disclosed herein to form a hole within a drilling formation.
- the method of drilling can comprise selectively positioning the plurality of guard elements in a closed position during operation of the drill head assembly.
- the method can comprise selectively positioning the plurality of guard elements in an open position when the drill head assembly is not in use.
- the method can comprise selectively advancing the drill head assembly along the feed shell relative to the drilling axis to effect movement of at least one pair of opposed guard elements to the partially open position.
- the method can comprise further advancing the drill head assembly along the feed shell relative to the drilling axis to remove contact between the deflecting frame of the drill head assembly and at least one pair of opposed guard elements to permit return of the at least one pair of opposed guard elements to the closed position.
- a drill rod guard for use with a drilling system, the drill rod guard having a longitudinal axis, the drilling system comprising a feed shell having first and second side portions positioned on opposing sides of the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard, the feed shell being configured to receive at least a portion of a drill rod, the drill rod guard comprising: a feed shaft assembly configured to support the feed shell, the feed shaft assembly comprising at least one support element, wherein each support element comprises a first side portion and a second side portion, the first side portion being positioned on an opposing side of the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard from the second side portion, wherein the first side portion of each support element is configured to be positioned proximate the first side portion of the feed shell, and wherein the second side portion of each support element is configured to be positioned proximate the second side portion of the feed shell; opposed first and second shafts, the first shaft being pivotally coupled to the first side portions of each support element of the feed shaft assembly
- the at least one support element of the feed shaft assembly comprises a plurality of support elements spaced relative to the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard.
- the first side portion of each support element of the feed shaft assembly comprises a bore configured to receive a portion of the first shaft
- the second side portion of each support element of the feed shaft assembly comprises a bore configured to receive a portion of the second shaft.
- the drill rod guard further comprises a plurality of bushings positioned between adjacent guard elements of the plurality of guard elements.
- first and second shafts are configured for rotation about and between a first rotational position and a second rotational position, wherein when the first and second shafts are positioned in the first rotational position, each respective guard element is configured for movement about and between a closed position and a partially open position, and wherein in the closed position, the guard element is positioned for engagement with a corresponding opposed guard element.
- each respective guard element when the first and second shafts are positioned in the second rotational position, each respective guard element is positioned in a fully open position.
- each guard element of the plurality of guard elements is biased toward the closed position.
- the first set of guard elements is rigidly mounted to the first shaft
- the second set of guard elements is rigidly mounted to the second shaft
- each guard element comprises an outer portion that defines a hinge configured to bias the guard element toward the closed position
- each guard element comprises an elastic material.
- each respective guard element when the first and second shafts are positioned in the first rotational position, each respective guard element is configured for movement to the partially open position upon application of an outward radial force to the guard element relative to the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard and each respective guard element is configured to return to the closed position upon removal of the outward radial force.
- each respective guard element defines an inner shoulder surface, wherein the inner shoulder surface of each guard element of the first set of guard elements is configured to engage a portion of the first shaft to limit bending of the guard element toward the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard, and wherein the inner shoulder surface of each guard element of the second set of guard elements is configured to engage a portion of the second shaft to limit bending of the guard element toward the longitudinal axis of the drill rod guard.
- each guard element has a proximal end operatively coupled to one of the first and second shafts and an opposed distal end, wherein the distal end of each guard element comprises at least one engagement member, and wherein the at least one engagement member of each respective guard element of the first set of guard elements is configured for complementary engagement with the at least one engagement member of a corresponding guard element of the second set of guard elements.
- a drilling system configured for drilling relative to a drilling axis, comprising: a drill head assembly; a drill rod operatively coupled to the drill head assembly; a feed shell having first and second side portions positioned on opposing sides of the drilling axis, the feed shell being configured to receive at least a portion of a drill rod; and a drill rod guard comprising: a feed shaft assembly configured to support the feed shell, the feed shaft assembly comprising at least one support element, wherein each support element comprises opposed first and second side portions, the first side portion being positioned proximate the first side portion of the feed shell and the second side portion of each support element being positioned proximate the second side portion of the feed shell; opposed first and second shafts, the first shaft being pivotally coupled to the first side portions of each support element of the feed shaft assembly, the second shaft being pivotally coupled to the second side portions of each support element of the feed shaft assembly, wherein the first shaft is configured for selective rotation relative to a first rotational axi
- first side portion of each support element of the feed shaft assembly comprises a bore configured to receive a portion of the first shaft
- the second side portion of each support element of the feed shaft assembly comprises a bore configured to receive a portion of the second shaft.
- the drilling system further comprises a plurality of bushings positioned between adjacent guard elements of the plurality of guard elements.
- first and second shafts are configured for rotation about and between a first rotational position and a second rotational position, wherein when the first and second shafts are positioned in the first rotational position, each respective guard element is configured for movement about and between a closed position and a partially open position, and wherein in the closed position, the guard element is positioned for engagement with a corresponding opposed guard element.
- each respective guard element when the first and second shafts are positioned in the second rotational position, each respective guard element is positioned in a fully open position to permit access to the drill rod.
- each guard element of the plurality of guard elements is biased toward the closed position.
- the first set of guard elements is rigidly mounted to the first shaft
- the second set of guard elements is rigidly mounted to the second shaft
- each guard element comprises an outer portion that defines a hinge configured to bias the guard element toward the closed position
- each guard element comprises an elastic material.
- the hinge portion of the each guard element can comprise an elastic material.
- a conventional bias element such as, for example and without limitation, a spring, a leaf spring, and the like, can be coupled to portion of each guard element to allow for the desired biasable movement of the respective guard elements relative to the respective shafts.
- the drill head assembly is configured for selective axial movement along a length of the feed shell relative to the drilling axis, wherein the drill head assembly comprises plurality of drill head components and a deflecting frame that generally defines an outer periphery of the drill head assembly and is spaced from the plurality of drill head components, and wherein upon axial movement of the drill head assembly through the drill rod guard, the deflecting frame is configured to contact inner surfaces of the plurality of guard elements.
- each respective guard element when the first and second shafts are positioned in the first rotational position and the drill head assembly moves through the drill rod guard relative to the drilling axis, each respective guard element is configured for movement to the partially open position upon application of an outward radial force to the guard element by the deflecting frame of the drill head assembly and each respective guard element is configured to return to the closed position when the outward radial force is removed upon disengagement between the deflecting frame and the guard element.
- each respective guard element defines an inner shoulder surface, wherein the inner shoulder surface of each guard element of the first set of guard elements is configured to engage a portion of the first shaft to limit bending of the guard element toward the drilling axis, and wherein the inner shoulder surface of each guard element of the second set of guard elements is configured to engage a portion of the second shaft to limit bending of the guard element toward the drilling axis.
- each guard element has a proximal end operatively coupled to one of the first and second shafts and an opposed distal end, wherein the distal end of each guard element comprises at least one engagement member, and wherein the at least one engagement member of each respective guard element of the first set of guard elements is configured for complementary engagement with the at least one engagement member of a corresponding guard element of the second set of guard elements.
- a method of drilling comprising using a drilling system as described herein to form a hole within a formation.
- the method of drilling can further comprise selectively positioning the plurality of guard elements in a closed position during operation of the drill head assembly.
- the method of drilling can further comprise selectively positioning the plurality of guard elements in an open position when the drill head assembly is not in use.
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/774,527 US20160032689A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-14 | Drill rod guard and systems and methods of using same |
CA2904141A CA2904141A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-14 | Drill rod guard and systems and methods of using same |
EP14764600.4A EP2971451A4 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-14 | Drill rod guard and systems and methods of using same |
AU2014227870A AU2014227870A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-14 | Drill rod guard and systems and methods of using same |
ZA2015/06715A ZA201506715B (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2015-09-10 | Drill rod guard and systems and methods of using same |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201361792740P | 2013-03-15 | 2013-03-15 | |
US61/792,740 | 2013-03-15 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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WO2014144108A1 true WO2014144108A1 (en) | 2014-09-18 |
Family
ID=51537617
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2014/028382 WO2014144108A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-03-14 | Drill rod guard and systems and methods of using same |
Country Status (8)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20160032689A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2971451A4 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2014227870A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2904141A1 (en) |
CL (1) | CL2015002757A1 (en) |
PE (1) | PE20151579A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2014144108A1 (en) |
ZA (1) | ZA201506715B (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11319808B2 (en) * | 2018-10-12 | 2022-05-03 | Caterpillar Global Mining Equipment Llc | Hose retention system for drilling machine |
CN114198019B (en) * | 2021-12-09 | 2024-02-27 | 中煤科工集团沈阳研究院有限公司 | Underground coal mine drilling equipment convenient to protect and use method |
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US2610690A (en) * | 1950-08-10 | 1952-09-16 | Guy M Beatty | Mud box |
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US3980144A (en) * | 1974-06-17 | 1976-09-14 | Gardner-Denver Company | Rock drill feed mechanism |
CA2395963A1 (en) * | 2002-09-06 | 2004-03-06 | Normand Donald Denis | Percussive or rotary rock drill guard |
US20050205303A1 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2005-09-22 | Pearson Phillip H | Drilling fluid bucket and method |
US7325599B2 (en) * | 2005-10-31 | 2008-02-05 | John Barker | Safety shield for rotary drilling rigs |
IT1393452B1 (en) * | 2009-03-20 | 2012-04-20 | Soilmec Spa | SAFETY DEVICE FOR EMERGENCY INTERRUPTION OF THE PUNCHING MANEUVER. |
FI20096109A (en) * | 2009-10-28 | 2011-04-29 | Sandvik Mining & Constr Oy | Method of combining guard structure with feed beam and mine control guard structure |
-
2014
- 2014-03-14 CA CA2904141A patent/CA2904141A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2014-03-14 WO PCT/US2014/028382 patent/WO2014144108A1/en active Application Filing
- 2014-03-14 US US14/774,527 patent/US20160032689A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2014-03-14 EP EP14764600.4A patent/EP2971451A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2014-03-14 AU AU2014227870A patent/AU2014227870A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2014-03-14 PE PE2015002002A patent/PE20151579A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
2015
- 2015-09-10 ZA ZA2015/06715A patent/ZA201506715B/en unknown
- 2015-09-15 CL CL2015002757A patent/CL2015002757A1/en unknown
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US6386516B1 (en) * | 1998-02-27 | 2002-05-14 | National-Oilwell L.P. | Sheave block with retractable sheave guards |
US6634443B1 (en) * | 1999-04-28 | 2003-10-21 | Boart Longyear Pty. Ltd. | Drill rod handling device |
US20040055789A1 (en) * | 2001-12-05 | 2004-03-25 | Patrizio Comacchio | Drilling mast with movable and fixed unscrewing vice |
US20070158110A1 (en) * | 2006-01-12 | 2007-07-12 | Vermeer Manufacturing Company | Rod transfer mechanism synchronizer apparatus and method |
CN201753586U (en) * | 2010-08-10 | 2011-03-02 | 王福成 | Safe and effective multi-functional rope hanger apparatus |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20160032689A1 (en) | 2016-02-04 |
EP2971451A1 (en) | 2016-01-20 |
CA2904141A1 (en) | 2014-09-18 |
AU2014227870A1 (en) | 2015-11-05 |
PE20151579A1 (en) | 2015-11-05 |
CL2015002757A1 (en) | 2016-04-01 |
EP2971451A4 (en) | 2016-11-09 |
ZA201506715B (en) | 2017-01-25 |
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