IMPROVED OILFIELD TUBULAR ELEVATOR AND METHOD FOR USING SAME

摘要

A U-shaped elevator (100) having no doors is provided with first and second latching mechanisms (102, 104) which when contacted by the tubular to be entrapped within the elevator (100) move from a closed position to an open position and which then return to a closed position as soon as the tubular is entrapped within the elevator (100). The latching mechanisms (102, 104) have a safety catch (120) which prevents the tubular from being inadvertently removed from the elevator (100). The release of the safety latch mechanism (120) can only be activated by a handle (170) which is manipulated by hand by personnel working on the derrick utilizing the elevator (100).