Dual-string tubing tong and method

摘要

An improved power tong is provided of the type having a open throat portion for laterally moving the tong on and off a string of tubing. A ring member is rotatably guided by upper, lower, and intermediate bearings, and a cage plate assembly is partially disposed within the ring member. The rotatable cage plate is adapted for gripping engagement with a first string of tubing. An opening is provided between an outermost surface of the cage plate and ring assembly and an inner surface of a door for receiving a second string of tubing. According to the method of the invention, the first string of tubing is made up by rotating the ring member and cage plate assembly while the second string of tubing is housed within the body of the tong.