CONTINUOUS CIRCULATION SUB CONNECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD TO CONDUCT DRILLING OPERATIONS USING SUCH A SYSTEM

摘要

A continuous circulation system (10) and an connection assembly (100) for establishing a threaded fluid seal to a side port (37) of a continuous circulating sub (34), the connection assembly having independently rotatable and movable first and second engagement mechanisms. The first engagement mechanism may include first and second wrenches for engaging a pressure tap, checking pressure, removing and reinstalling a safety plug. The second engagement mechanism may include an adapter pipe (102) for creating a threaded seal with the side port thereby allowing reliable high-pressure flow. The connection assembly automates the steps of checking pressure within the sub between the radial valve and safety plug, removing the safety plug, screwing the threaded adapter pipe into the side port, providing a flow path for drilling fluid, disengaging the threaded adapter pipe, replacing the safety plug and returning the continuous circulation sub to its original operational state.