Articulating drill method and apparatus for cutting openings in nested strings of underwater piping and or tubing for overturned wells or platforms

摘要

A method and apparatus for angularly drilling during a tapping procedure into a pressurized multiple strings of coaxially situated tubulars for wells and/or platforms which have overturned wherein the tapping occurs underwater via a diver or remotely operated vehicle.

主权项

1. An articulating drill system for cutting one or more tubular members, compromising:
(a) a drill base; (b) an articulating boom including a first arm, a second arm, a pivotal connection joining the first and second arms, and a plate having a plate opening, wherein the first arm is pivotally attached to the drill base, and the plate is pivotally attached to the second arm; (c) a drill having a drill motor and a cutting tip rotatively connected to the drill and a cutting axis upon which the cutting tip rotates; (d) a clamping mechanism attached to the plate that enables the plate to be attached to a tubular that is to be cut, the clamping mechanism generally aligning the plate opening with the tubular; (e) wherein the clamping mechanism and plate support the articulating boom, drill and drill base; and (f) the articulating boom enabling selective placement of the cutting tip relative to the plate opening, including angulation of the cutting axis relative to the plate opening.