US3757387A - Apparatus for securing small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string or the like - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for securing one or more small diameter conduits to a larger diameter tubing string in an oil well and comprising a metal band encircling the tubing string and the conduit with a wedge-type lock for securing the opposite ends of the band together thereby securing the conduit to the tubing string. One or more conduit receiving corrugations are formed in the band. In one form, the apparatus includes a rubber liner interposed between the band and the tubing string. In another form, dimples are formed in the band to engage the tubing string. In yet another form, the band is divided into two segments connected by a hinge. In still another form, two separate band segments are connected by two wedge-type locks.

Description

[ Sept. 11, I973 1 APPARATUS FOR SECURING SMALL DIAMETER CONDUIT TO A LARGER DIAMETER TUBING STRING OR THE LIKE [75] Inventors: Roy E. Bush; I-Iarold R. Beattie, both of New Orleans, La.

Continental Oil Company, Ponca City, Okla.

[22] Filed: Dec. 17, 1971 [2]] Appl. No.: 209,292

[73] Assignee:

[52] US. Cl. 24/81 CC, 24/25, 24/268 [51 1 Int. Cl 86511 63/08 [58] Field ofSearch 24/263 DM, 268, 81 CC,

3,002,241 10/1961 Scurlock 24/81 CC 3,083,773 4/1963 Nagel eta1 24/249 PC UX 3,350,755 11/1967 Hanner 24/268 UX FOREIGN PATENTS OR APPLICATIONS 464,609 1/1914 France 24/268 1,016,864 9/1952 France 248/61 Primary Examiner-Donald A. Griffin Att0rneyJoseph C. Kotarski et a1.

[57] ABSTRACT An apparatus for securing one or more small diameter conduits to a larger diameter tubing string in an oil well and comprising a metal band encircling the tubing string and the conduit with a wedge-type lock for securing the opposite ends of the band together thereby securing the conduit to the tubing string. One or more conduit receiving corrugations are formed in the band. In one form, the apparatus includes a rubber liner interposed between the band and the tubing string. In another form, dimples are formed in the band to engage the tubing string. In yet another form, the band is divided into two segments connected by a hinge. In still another form, two separate band segments are connected by two wedge-type locks.

13 Claims, 18 Drawing Figures [56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 84,772 12/1868 Shannon 16/168 544,943 8/1895 Woodside 24/25 UX 719,817 2/1903 Kunze 24/25 1,429,353 9/1922 Karsky..... 16/168 UX 2,303,108 11/1942 Blackburn... 248/61 2,394,240 2/1946 Harrison 248/68 2,858,093 10/1958 Knoll 24/81 CC X 2,922,212 1/1960Textrom 24/268 PATENTED SEP] 1 I973sum 1 or 5 APPARATUS FOR SECURING SMALL DIAMETER CONDUIT TO A LARGER DIAMETER TUBING STRING OR THE LIKE BACKGROUND OF THEINVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to improvements in tubing clamps, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to clamps for securing one or more small diameter conduits to a larger diameter tubing string for positioning down hole in an oil well in a turbulent environment.

2. Description of the Prior Art In the oil industry it is often necessary to attach small diameter tubing or control cables to a regular string of tubing which is run to some depth in either a hole or a casing placed in a hole in an oil well. The purpose of these small diameter tubing strings or control cables is to provide a conduit through which an operator or control system can activate valves or pumps which are down hole some great distance. a

In the past, known forms of clamps have proved insufficient in strength to withstand the drag or strainimposed on them as the tubing strings were lowered into or raised from an oil well. In many cases when two or more tubing strings are emplaced in the casing of an oil well, the movement of one tubing string relative to another often causes the clamps on adjacent tubing strings to inadvertently engage one another thereby causing breakage, stretching or other damage to the conduits secured thereby to the tubing strings. Such damage often requires that the entire tubing string carrying the damaged conduit be pulled from the oil well to repair the damage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention contemplates a novel apparatus for securing small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string or the like comprising a band having a first end and a second end and encircling and tubing string with the first end adjacent to the second end thereof. First connecting means is formed on the first end of the band for connecting the first end to .the'secnd end of said band; and second connecting means is formed on-the second end of the band for connecting the second end to the first end of the band. Locking means engageable with the first and second connecting meansis provided for urging the first and second connecting'means relatively together and locking the band securely to the tubing string. Conduit receiving means is formed in the band for receiving the conduit between the band and tubing string whereby the'conduit is secured to thetubing string when the locking means islocking he band securely to the tubing string.

An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for securing small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string for emplacement down hole in an oil well.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for securing small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string which has sufficient strength to withstand drag or strain as the tubing string is raised or lowered in an oil well.

A furtherobject of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for securing small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string which may be readily installed or removed from the tubing string with a minimum of manual effort.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for securing a small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string which minimizes the possiblity of the apparatus interfering with or being interfered with by adjacent tubing strings in a common oil well casing environment.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for securing small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string which is economical in construction and operation.

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will be evident from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an elevational view ilustrating two tubing strings disposed in a common oil well casing and showing conduits secured thereto, portions of the casing being broken away for clarity of presentation.

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatical elevational view of a tubing string with a conduit secured thereto while being continuously fed by a storage reel.

FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the present invention installed on a tubing string.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 3 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the locking pin of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is an end view-of the locking pin of FIG. 5 taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the locking pin of FIG. 5 taken alongline 77 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of another embodiment of the present invention installed on a tubing string.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 8 taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4 and illustrating yet another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 l is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4'and illustrating still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of another embodient of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 9 and illustrating yet another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a rear elevational view of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a front elevational view of another embodiment of the present invention installed on a tubing string.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 taken along line 18-48 of FIG. 17.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring now to the drawings and to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4 in particular, the apparatus of the present invention is generally designated by thereference character 20. FIG. 1 illustrates the installation of a plurality ofapparatus 20 on a pair oftubing strings 22 which extend downwardly into anoil well 24 in theground 26. Thetubing strings 22 are shown encircled by acasing 28, the lower portion of which is shown broken away for clarity of presentation. Eachtubing string 22 comprises one ormore tubes 30 of convenient length and conventional construction which are connected end to end by means of aconventional tubing joint 32.

Acontrol device 34 is shown in FIG. I installed on thelowermost tube 30 of eachtubing string 22 and may be a valve, pump or storm choke or the like as may be required. Aconduit 36 extends from a point above the oil well opening downwardly along eachtubing string 22 to a point of connection with arespective control device 34. Theconduit 36 may be in the form of copper tubing or the like to provide a hydraulic connection to the control device if desired. Theconduit 36 may also be in the form of an electrical conductor for providing electrical actuation to thecontrol device 34 from a source above the ground. As may be seen in FIG. 1 eachconduit 36 is preferably secured to therespective tubing string 22 by anapparatus 20 above and below eachtubing joint 32.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate theapparatus 20 installed on atube 30 of atubing string 22. Theapparatus 20 comprises ametallic band 38, preferably formed of relatively thin gauge sheet steel, which encircles thetube 30. A pair of corrugations orgrooves 40 are formed in theband 38 and are aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of thetube 30. Eachcorrugation 40 is sized and shaped to receive aconduit 36 between theband 38 and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30. Aliner 44 is interposed between theband 38 and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 and theconduit 36 and is preferably formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber or some other appropriate synthetic resin. Theliner 44 may be applied to theband 38 by-a process such asdip-coating, or may be m the form of a separate sleeve sized to encircle thetube 30 and eachconduit 36 as shown in FIG. 4. V

Lugs 46, 48, 50 and 52 are fixedly secured in space I relation along thefirst end portion 54 of theband 38.

Lugs 56, 58, 60, and 62 are fixedly secured in spaced relation along thesecond end portion 64 ofthe'band 38. Afirst keeper plate 66 is fixedly secured to thefirst end portion 54 of theband 38 and to thelugs 46 and 48 by means of fourrivets 68. Asecond keeper plate 70 is fixedly secured to thefirst end portion 54 of theband 38 and tothe lugs 50 and 52 by means of fourrivets 68. Athird keeper plate 72 is fixedly secured to thesecond end portion 64 of theband 38 by means of fourrivets 68. Afourth keeper plate 74 is fixedly secured to thesecond end portion 64 of theband 38 by means of fourrivets 68. As shown in FIG. 4, therivets 68 typically extend through therespective keeper plate 74, theU-shaped end portion 64 of theband 38, thelug 60, and a reinforcingbacking plate 76. It will be readily understood by one skilled-in the art that this method of construction is typical for each of the above-mentioned lugs and keeper plates and therefore need not be explained in detail for each lug.

A pair of identically shaped locking pins orkeys 78 and 80 are utilized to secure theapparatus 20 rigidly to thetube 30. FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 illustrate in detail the conis identical to the lockingpin 80. The locking pins '78 and 80 each comprise a U-shaped stamped steel member having ahead portion 82 with anaperture 84 formed therein andlegs 86 and 88 extending downwardly from thehead portion 82 as viewed in FIG. 5. Theinner portions 90 and 92 of thelegs 86 and 88 respectively are angled upwardly and slightly inwardly toward one another as viewed in FIG. 5. An inwardly extendinglip 94 is formed on theinner surface 90 for purposes which will be described hereinafter. It will be observed that the angular relationship described for thesurfaces 90 and 92 is substantially identical to the angular orientation of the previously described lugs which are secured to the opposite end portions of theband 38.

Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, when installed on theapparatus 20 theinner surface 90 of the lockingpin 78 engages thelugs 46 and 48 thereby urging them and thefirst end portion 54 of theband 38 to the right as viewed in FIG. 3. Theinner surface 92 of the lockingpin 78 engages thelugs 60 and 62 thereby urging them and thesecond end portion 64 of theband 38 to the left as viewed in FIG. 3. Likewise, theinner surface 90 of the lockingpin 80 engages thelugs 56 and 58 and urges them, and thesecond end portion 64 of theband 38, to the left as viewed in FIG. .3, while theinner surface 92 engages the lugs and 52 and urges them and thefirst end portion 64 of theband 38 to the right. It will be readily apparent that the lockingpin 78 is placed in proper position by sliding it downwardly to progressively engage thelugs 46, 48, 60 and 62, while the lockingpin 80 is moved upwardly to engage thelugs 50, 52, 56 and 58. When the locking pins 78 and 80 are each fully seated and theapparatus 20 is securely fastened to thetube 30, as shown in FIG. 3, thelip 94 of the lockingpin 78 engages thelug 46 while thelip 94 of the lockingpin 80 engages thelug 56 thereby securely retaining thelugs 78 and 80 in proper position.

Theapertures 84 formed in the locking pins 78 and 80 are provided to facilitate the extraction of the lock- 1 ing pins for removal of theapparatus 20 from thetube 30. Thehead portion 82 of each locking pin is preferably provided with a rounded contour as shown in FIGS.

' 5, 6 and 7 to provide a smooth blending of thesurface rugations 40 in theband 38, as best shown in FIG. 4,

struction of the lockingpin 78 which, as noted above, 7

provides optimum smoothness of contour between theband 38 and thelegs 86 and 88 of the locking pins 78 and 80. It may, however, be desirable, in certain applications, to position corrugations elsewhere in theband 38 or to provide one or more corrugations in addition to those shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

OPERATION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIGS. 3, 4,

5, 6 AND 7 Typically, theapparatus 20 is installed when atubing string 22 is to be emplaced in an oil well as shown in FIG. 1. One end of eachconduit 36 is connected to arespective control device 34, such as a storm choke. Aband 38 is then placed around thetube 30 and over theconduits 36 with theliner 44 separating theband 38 therefrom. The lockingpin 78 is then slid downwardly over thelugs 46, 48, 60 and 62 while the lockingpin 80 is slide upwardly over lugs 50, 52, 56 and 58. The locking pins 78 and 80 are then forced together by appropriate means thereby drawing thefirst end portion 54 and thesecond portion 64 of theband 38 together by wedging action thereby clamping theband 38 about thetube 30 and theconduits 36.

Eachconduit 36 may be stored on asuitable storage reel 96, as shown in FIG. 2, which dispenses additional lengths ofconduit 36 as eachtube 30 of thetubing string 22 is emplaced in the oil well. As each new length oftube 30 is secured to thetube 30 next below, theconduits 36 are preferably secured to thetubing string 22 by an apparatus just below the tubing joint 32 and just above the tubing joint 32 as shown in FIG. 2. This procedure is followed for each successive tubing joint 32 as thetubing string 22 is lowered down hole. In the event that one or more of thecorugations 40 will not be utilized to secure aconduit 36, the upper and lower portions of thecorrugations 40 may be flattened against thetube 30 to minimize the possibility of interference with adjacent tubing strings 22.

Upon removal of atubing string 22 the twoapparatus 20 installed on each side of a tubing joint 32 are both removed before the tubing joint 32 is separated for removal of theuppermost tube 30. The removal of each apparatus'20 is accomplished by pulling the locking pins 78 and 80 apart by appropriate means thereby releasing thelugs 46, 48, 50, 52, 56,58, 60 and 62 thus releasingtheband 38 which may then be removed from the tube 30v along with theliner 44. Theconduits 36 are conveniently storedonappropriate storage reels 96 as thetubing string 22 is withdrawn from the oil well.

In the preferred form, the apparatus of the present invention would be utilized to clamp from oneto four conduits to a tubing string, however, it will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that virtually any number of conduits may be clamped by the apparatus within reasonable limits of tubing and conduit diameters. It will further be readily apparent that the apparatus of the present invention is suitable for securing other items to a tubing string such as patches probes,

instruments, electrodes, explosive charges, etc. It should be further noted that the apparatus of the present invention may f nd additional application in the DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT of FIGS. 8 AND. 9 i v 4 Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, there is shown another embodiment of the'present invention which is generallydesignated by thereference character 100. Theapparatus 100 is installed on atube 30 of atubing string 22 and preferablyv comprises ametallic band 102, preferably formed of relatively thin guage sheet steel, which'encircles thetube 30. Aliner 104 is interposed between theband 102 and the outer periphery '42 ofthetube 30 and the-conduits36, and is preferably formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber or some other suitable synthetic resin. Theliner 104 may be applied to theband 102 by aprocess such as dipcoating, or may be in the form of a separatesleeve sized to encircle thetube 30 and eachconduit 36 as shown in FIG. 9. As also shown in FIG. 9, theband 102 is suitably formed at 106 and 108 to securely receive therespective conduits 36 with theliner 104 interposed therebetween.

A first locking bracket 110 is fixedly fixed secured to thefirst end portion 112 of theband 102 by means of fourrivets 114. Therivets 114 extend through the first locking bracket 110, thefirst end portion 112 of theband 102 and aspacer 116. Similarly, asecond locking racket 118 is fixedly secured to thesecond end portion 120 of theband 102 by means of fourrivets 122. Therivets 122 extend through thesecond locking bracket 118, thesecond end portion 120 of theband 102, and aspacer 124.

The first locking bracket 110 includes pin-engagingloops 126, 128, and 130. Thesecond locking bracket 118 includes pin-engagingloops 132, 134 and 136 which mesh with the pin-engaging loops of the first locking bracket 110.

A locking pin or key 138, comprising ahead portion 140 with anaperture 142 formed therein and atapered leg 144 extending from thehead portion 140, is utilized to lock theapparatus 100 to thetube 30. When properly installed, theleg 144 of thelocking pin 138 extends downwardly through the pin-engagingloops 132, 126, 134, 128, 136 and 130. Theedges 146 and 148 of thetapered leg 144 are tapered upwardly and outwardly as viewed in FIG. 8. It is, therefore, readily apparent that as thelocking pin 138 is inserted downwardly through the above-mentioned pin-engaging loops, the first andsecond end portions 112 and 120 of thebond 102 are drawn together by wedging action thereby rigidly securing theapparatus 100 to thetube 30. When thelocking pin 138 is fully inserted into the pin-engaging loops, an outwardly extending lip 150, formed on theedge 148 of theleg 144,,engages the lower portion of pin-engagingloop 126 thereby releasibly securing thelocking pin 138 in proper locking position.

It will be readily apparent to one skilled intheart that the inner portions of the pin-engaging loops of theapparatus 100 will be preferably formed along a line substantially conforming to the taper of the respective edge of theleg 144 against which they will bear. It is also preferable that thehead portion 140 of thelocking pin 138 be shaped with a rounded contour to provide a smooth blending of the surfaceof theouter periphery 42 of the tube 30' into theapparatus 100 to minimize interference with adjacent tubing strings within the oil 'well during removal or insertion thereof. Itshould also.

be noted that the shape of theband 102 at,106 and 108 provides optimum smoothness of contour between theband 102 and the remainder oftheapparatus 100 including the locking pin 13s. v H

OPERATION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIGS. 8 AND 9 on the first locking bracket 110 and thesecondlocking bracket 118 to draw theband 102 into rigid engagement with thetube 30 by wedging action thereby securing theconduits 36 to thetube 30.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIG. 10

FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention in which theapparatus 20 as shown in FIG. 4 is slightly modified and is generally designated by the reference character 20a. The apparatus 20a is substantially identical to theapparatus 20 except that it is adapted to accommodate twoadditional conduits 36 and is provided with ahinge connection 152 in the slightly modified band 38a for facilitating the installation of the apparatus 20a on atube 30 of atubing string 22.

The band 38a has afirst hinge portion 154 and asecond hinge portion 156 formed thereon. Thehinge portions 154 and 156 are interconnected by ahinge pin 158 of conventional design. Thefirst hinge portion 154 comprises a plurality of hinge loops which extend around thehinge pin 158 at spaced intervals, the hinge loops 160 being fixedly secured to the bond 38a by means of a plurality of rivets 162 (one shown) which extend through the band 38a and three spacers 164. Thesecond hinge portion 154 comprises a plurality ofhinge loops 166 which engage thehinge pin 158 in spaced relation alternating with the hinge loops 160. Thehinge loop 166 are rigidly secured to the band 38a by means of a plurality of rivets 168 (one shown) which extend through thesecond hinge portion 156 and threespacers 170.

The band 38a is formed at 172 and 174 to receiveconduits 36 with a slightly modified resilient liner 44a between the band 38a and the twoadditional conduits 36 to rigidly secure theconduits 36 to thetube 30 when the apparatus 20a is installed.

OPERATION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIG. 10

The operation of the apparatus 20a is substantially identical to the operation of the previously describedapparatus 20 with the exception that the slightly moditied band 38a may be opened by pivoting the band 38a about thehinge pin 158 at thehinge 152. It should also be noted that the apparatus 20a is capable of simultaneously clamping fourconduits 36 to atube 30 of atubing string 22 in the same manner as previously described for theapparatus 20.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIG. 11

The apparatus of FIG. 11 is. generally designated by thereference character 20b and comprises components substantially identical to those of theapparatus 20 disclosed in FIGS. 3 and 4. Since theapparatus 20b and the apparatus20 are substantially identical, many of the reference characters will be the same.

Theapparatus 20b differs from thepreviouslydescribed apparatus 20 in that the previously-describedband 38 is separated into twoband segments 38b and 38, each of which extends substantially halfway around thetube 30 of atubing string 22. The band 38b has a pair ofcorrugations 40b formed therein which are aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of thetube 30. Likewise, the band segment 380 has a pair of corrugations 400 formed therein which are aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of thetube 30. Thecorrugations 40b and 400 are each sized and shaped to receive aconduit 36 between the respective band segment 38b and 380 and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30. Aliner segment 44b is interposed between the band segment 38b and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 and theconduits 36 which are received in thecorrugations 40b. A liner segment 44c is interposed between theband segment 38c and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 and theconduits 36 which are received in the corrugations 400. Theliner segments 44b and 440 are preferably formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber or some other appropriate synthetic resin. Theliner segments 44b and 440 may be aPplied to theband segments 38b and 38c, respectively, by a process such as dip-coating, or may be in the form of separate sleeve segments sized to partially encircle thetube 30 and eachconduit 36 as shown in FIG. 11.

Theend portion 54b of band segment 38b and the end portion 640 ofband segment 38c are interconnected by means of the previously-described locking device of theapparatus 20 illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. Similarly, theend portion 54c ofband segment 38c and theend portion 64b of band segment 38b are interconnected by means of the previosuly-described locking device ofapparatus 20 illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. Since the locking device ofapparatus 20 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 is described in great detail above, it will not be described here.

OPERATION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIG. 11

The operation of theapparatus 20b is substantially as described for theapparatus 20 with the exception that when applyingapparatus 20b, the twoband segments 38b and 38c are simultaneously positioned on thetube 30 with theconduits 36 disposed in thecorrugations 40b and 40c with theliner segments 44b and 440 interposed between the respective band segments 38b and 380 and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 and theconduits 36. Theend portions 54b and 640 and theend portions 540 and 64b of the band segments 38b and 380 are then secured together by means of the two sets of lockingpins 78 and 80 in a manner identical to that described above for theapparatus 20. It is readily apparent that theapparatus 20b is capable of securing up to fourconduits 36 to atube 30 of atubing string 22.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIG. 12

Referring now to FIG. 12, another embodiment of the present invention is shown which is generally designated by thereference character 180. The apparatus is installed on atube 30 of atubing string 22 and preferablycomprises ametallic band 182, preferably formed of relatively thin gauge 'sheet steel, whichenc'ir cles thetube 30. A liner 184 is interposedbetween theband 182 and theouterperiphery 42 of thetube 30 and theconduits 36, and is preferably formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber or some other suitable synthetic resin. The liner 184 may be applied to theband 182 by a process such as dip-coating, or may be in the form of a separate sleeve sized to encircle thetube 30 at eachconduit 36 carried by thetube 30. Theband 182 is suitably formed at 186 and 188 to securely receive therespective conduits 36 with the liner 184 interposed therebetween.

Afirst locking bracket 190 is fixedly secured to thefirst end portion 192 of theband 182 by means of fourrivets 194. Therivets 194 extend through the first lookingbracket 190, thefirst end portion 192 of theband 182, and aspacer 196. Similarly, asecond locking bracket 198 is fixedly secured to thesecond end portion 200 of theband 182 by means of fourrivets 202. Therivets 202 extend through thesecond locking bracket 198, thesecond end portion 200 of theband 182, and aspacer 204.

Thefirst locking bracket 190 includes pin-engagingloops 206, 208 and 210. Thesecond locking bracket 198 includes pin-engagingloops 212, 214 and 216 which mesh with the pin-engaging loops of thefirst locking bracket 190.

A pair of identically shaped locking pins orkeys 218 and 220 are utilized to secure theapparatus 180 rigidly to thetube 30. Each of the locking pins 218 and 220 comprises ahead portion 222 with anaperture 224 formed therein and atapered leg 226 which extends from thehead portion 222. When properly installed, theleg 226 of thelocking pin 218 extends downwardly through the pin-engagingloops 212, 206, and 214, and theleg 226 of thelocking pin 220 extends upwardly through the pin-engagingloops 210, 216, and 208. Theedges 228 and 230 of eachtapered leg 226 are tapered slightly inwardly as they extend away from thehead portion 222 of each lockingpin 218 and 220. It is, therefore, readily apparent that as thelocking pin 218 is inserted downwardly, and thelocking pin 220 is inserted upwardly, through the above-mentioned pinengaging loops, the first andsecond end portions 192 and 200 of theband 182 are drawn together by wedging action thereby rigidly securing theapparatus 180 to thetube 30. When thelocking pin 218 is fully inserted into the pin-engaging loops, an outwardly extendinglip 232 formed on theedge 230 of theleg 226 engages the lower portion of the pin-engagingloop 206 thereby releasibly securing thelocking pin 218 in proper locking position. Similarly, when lockingpin 220 is fully inserted into the pin-engaging loops, the outwardly extendinglip 232 formed on theedge 230 of theleg 226 engages the upper portion of pin-engagingloop 216 thereby releasibly securing thelocking pin 220 in proper locking position.

It will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that the inner portions of the pin-engaging loops of theapparatus 180 will be preferably formed along a line substantially conforming to the taper of the respective edge of the leg226 against which each will bear. It is also preferable that thehead portion 222 of each lockingpin 218 and 220 be shaped with a rounded contour to provide a smooth blendingof the surface of theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 into theapparatus 180 to minimize interference with adjacent tubing strings within the oil well during removal or insertion thereof.

It should be also noted that the shape 'ofthe band 'l82 at 186 and 188 provides. optimum smoothness of con tour betweenthe'band 182 and the remainder of theapparatus 180 including thelockin'g'pins 218 and 220. OPERATION OF THE EMBODIMENT F FIG/12 the pin-engaging loops formed on the first andsecond locking brackets 190 and '198 to draw theband 182 into rigid engagement with thetube 30 by wedging action thereby securing theconduits 36 to thetube 30.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIG. 13

The apparatus of FIG. 13is generally designated by the reference character 180a and comprises components substantially identical to those of theapparatus lid 180 disclosed in FIG. 12. Since the apparatus 180a and theapparatus 180 are substantially identical, many of the reference characters will be the same.

The apparatus 180a differs from thepreviouslydescribed apparatus 180 in that thepreviouslydescribed band 182 is separated into twoband segments 182a and 132b, each of which extends substantially halfway around thetube 30 of thetubing string 22. Theband 182a is formed at 186a and 188a to receive aconduit 36 at each point between theband segment 182a and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30. Similarly, theband segment 1 82b is formed at 186b and 18817 to receive aconduit 36 at each point between theband segment 182b and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30. Aliner segment 184a is interposed between theband segment 182a and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 andconduits 36 which are received respectively at 186a and 188a. Aliner segment 184b is interposed between the band segment 182k and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 and theconduits 36 which are respectively received at 186k and l88b. Theliner segments 184a and 184b are preferably formed ef an elastomeric material such as rubber or some other appropriate synthetic resin. Theliner segments 184a and 184may be applied to theband segments 182a and 182b, respectively, by a process such as dip-coating, or

may be in the form of separate sleeve segments sized to partially encircle thetube 30 and eachconduit 36 as shown. i

Thefirst end portion 192a of theband segment 182a and the second end portion 2001av of band segment l82b are interconnected by means of a locking device identical to the previously-described locking device illustrated in FIG. 12. Similarly, the first end portion 19% of band segment 18212 and thesecond end portion 200 a ofband segment 182a are also interconnected by means of a locking device identical to the previouslydescribed locking device as illustrated in FIG. 12. Since the locking device ofapparatus 180 as shown in FIG. 12 is described in great detail above, it will not be described again here.

OPERATION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF 171G213 The operation of the apparatus 180a is substantially thetube 30 with theconduits 36 disposed within the band segments at 186, a, 188b,-and 186b, and l88a.

Theliner segments 184a and 184b are interposed be- I tween therespective band segments 182a and '182b and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 and theconduits 36. Theend portions 192a and 200b, and the end portions l92b and 200a are then secured together by means Of thelegs 226 of the two sets of lockingpins 218 and 220 in a manner identical to that described above for theapparatus 180. It is readly apparent that the apparatus 180a is capable of securing up to fourconduits 36 to atube 30 of atubing string 22.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIG. 14

The apparatus of FIG. 14 is generally designated'by the reference character 1800 and comprises components identical to those of the apparatus'l80 disclosed in FIG. 12. Since the apparatus lc and the apparatus are substantially identical, many of thereference characters will be the same.

Theapparatus 180c differs from thepreviouslydescribed apparatus 180 only in the construction of two slightly modified identical locking pins 2180 and 2200. Each of the locking pins 2180 and 2200 comprises a head portion 2220 with an aperture 2240 formed therein and a tapered leg 2260 which extends from the head portion 2220 When properly installed in the apparatus 1800, the leg 2260 of the locking pin 2180 extends downwardly through the pin-engagingloops 212, 206, and 214, and the leg 2260 of the locking pin 2200 extends upwardly through thepinengaging loops 210, 216, and 208. The edges 2280 and 2300 of each tapered leg 2260 are tapered slightly inwardly as they extend away from 4he head portion 2220 of each locking pin 2180 and 2200.

It is readily apparent that as the locking pin 2180 is inserted downwardly, and the locking pin 2200 is inserted upwardly, through the above-mentioned pinengaging loops, the first andsecond end portions 192 and 200 of theband 182 are drawn together by welding action thereby rigidly securing the apparatus 1800 to thetube 30. When the locking pins 2180 and 2200 are fully inserted into the pin-engaging loops, mutually engageable tongue-and-groove surfaces 234, formed respectively on theend portions 236 of each tapered leg 2260 of each locking pin 2180 and 2200 releasibly engage the end portions of the locking pins 2180 and 2200 to secure the locking pins in proper position. It is preferable that the head portion 2220 of each locking pin 2180 and 2200 be shaped with a rounded contour to provide a smooth blending of the surface of theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 into the apparatus 1800 to minimize interference with adjacent tubing strings within the oil well during removal or insertion thereof.

OPERATION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIG. 14

The operation of the apparatus l800'illustrated in FIG. 14 is identical to the operation of theapparatus 180 illustrated in FIG. 12 and, therefore, need not be described in detail again. 1

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIENT OF FIGS. 15 and 16 FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another form ofband 240 suitable for use with any of theaforementioned apparatus 20, 100, a 20b, 180, 1800, and 1800. In this form, theband 240 has formed therein a plurality ofdimpee 242 which-extend inwardly from theband 240 to engage theouter periphery 42 of atube 30 of atubing string 22. As best shown in FIG. 16, thedimples 242 be desirable to use theband 240 in combination withv a resilient liner.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIGS. 17 AND 18 Referring now to FIGS. 17 and 18, there is shown another embodiment of the present invention which is generally designated by thereference character 250. Theapparatus 250 is installed onatube 30 of atubing string 22 and preferably comprises ametallic band 252, preferably formed of relatively thin guage sheet steel, which encircles thetube 30. Aliner 254 is interposed between theband 252 and theouter periphery 42 of thetube 30 and theconduits 36, and is preferably formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber or some other suitable synthetic resin. Theliner 254 may be applied to theband 252 by a process such as dipcoating, or may be in the form of a separate sleeve sized to encircle thetube 30 and eachconduit 36 as shown in FIG. 18. As also shown in FIG. 18, theband 252 has suitable corrugations formed therein at 256 and 258 to securely receive therespective conduits 36 with theliner 254 interposed therebetween.

As shown in FIG. 18, thefirst end portion 260 of theband 252 is suitably bent to form a .I-shaped first lockingbracket 262. Similarly, thesecond end portion 264 of theband 252 is suitably bent to form a J-shapedsecond locking bracket 266. As shown in FIG. 17,apertures 268 and 270 are formed in thefirst locking bracket 262, whileapertures 272 and 274 are formed in thesecond locking bracket 266.

A pair of identically shaped locking pins orkeys 276 and 278 are utilized to secure theapparatus 250 rigidly to thetube 30. The locking pins 276 and 278 each comprise a U-shaped stamped steel member having ahead portion 280 with anaperture 282 formed therein andlegs 284 and 286 extending from thehead portion 280. An inwardly extendinglip 288 is formed on the inner surface of eachleg 284 and 286.

When installed on theapparatus 250, thelegs 284 and 286 of thelocking pin 276 are disposed respectively in thefirst locking bracket 262 and thesecond locking bracket 266. Likewise, thelegs 284 and 286 of thelocking pin 278 are disposed respectively in thesecond locking bracket 266 and thefirst locking bracket 262. It will be readily apparent that thelocking pin 276 is placed in proper position by sliding it downwardly with thelegs 284 and 286 thereof engaging the lockingbrackets 262 and 266 respectively, while thelocking pin 278 is placed in proper position by sliding it upwardly with thelegs 284 and 286 thereof engaging thesecond locking bracket 266 and thefirst locking bracket 262 respectively. When thelocking pin 276 is fully seated in theapparat0s 250, as shown in FIG. 17, thelip 288 formed on theleg 284 engages theaperture 268 in thefirstlocking bracket 262 and thelip 288 on theleg 286 engages the aperture 272 in thesecond locking bracket 266. Similarly, when thelocking pin 278 is fully seated, as shown in FIG. 17, thelip 288 on theleg 286 engages theaperture 270 in'thefirst locking bracket 262 and thelip 288 on theleg 284 engages theaperture 274 in thesecond locking bracket 266. The engagement of theapertures 268, 270, 272, and 274 by thelips 288, as described above, securely retains the locking pins 276 and 278 in their fully seated positions thereby rigidly securing theapparatus 260 to thetube 30 of thetubing string 22.

Theapertures 282 formed in the locking pins 276 and 278 are provided to facilitate the extraction of the locking pins for removal oftheapparatus 250 from the tube 30.Thehead portion 280 of each locking pin is It should be noted that the positioning of thecorrugations 256 and 258 in theband 252, as best shown in FIG. 18, provides optimum smoothness of contour between theband 252 and the locking pins 276 and 278. It may, however, be desirable, in certain applications, to position corrugations elsewhere in theband 252 or to provide one or more corrugations in addition to those shown in FIGS. 17 and 18.

OPERATION OF THE EMBODIMENT OF FIGS. 17 AND 18 The operation of theapparatus 250 is substantially identical to that of theapparatus 20 described in great detail above, and, therefore, need not be described again.

From the foregoing detailed description of the various embodiments of the present invention, it can be readily seen that the present invention provides an improved apparatus for securing small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string for emplacement downhole in an oil well, such apparatus having sufficient strength to withstand drag or strain as the tubing string is raised or lowered therein. It may further be readily seen'that the apparatus of the present invention may be readily installed or removed from a tubing string with a minimum of manual effort and that the configuration of the apparatus minimizes thepossibility of the apparatus interfering with or being interfered with by adjacent tubing strings in a common oil well casing environment. It is also readily apparent that the present invention provides an apparatus for securing small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string which is economical in construction and operation.

Changes may be made in the construction and arrangement of parts or elements of the various embodiments as disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present inention.

What is claimed is:I 1. An apparatus for securing a small diameter conduit to a large diameter tubing string or the like comprising:

a band havinga first end and a second end and encircling said tubing stringwith the first end adjacent "to said second end thereof;

a first connecting means formed on the first end of said band for connecting the first end to the second 7 end of said band;

a'secon'd connecting means formed on the second end of said band for connecting the second end to the first end of said band; I

' a'locking means engageablewith said first and second connecting means for urging saidfirst and second connecting means relatively together and locking said band securely to said tubing string;

said locking means comprising a first connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said first and second connecting means, a second connecting pin means having tapered surfaces tormed thereon for engaging said first and second connecting means whereby movement of said first and second connecting pin means toward each other and relative to said-band increasingly tightens said band on said tubing string;

said connecting pins characterized to include a first retaining lip formed on one end of said first connecting pin means and a second retaining lip terized to include:

formed on one end of said second connecting pin means and said first and second retaining lips being mutually engageable with one another to retain said first and second connecting pin means in posi- 5 tion securely locking said band and said conduit to said tubing string; and

a conduit receiving means formed in said band for receiving said conduit between said band and said tubing string whereby said conduit is secured to said tubing string when said locking means is locking said band securely to said tubing string.

' 2. An apparatus for securing a small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string having sufficient strength to withstand strain in a turbulent environment and which can be readily installed or removed from said tubing string or the like said apparatus comprising:

a band formed of thin gauge sheet metal having a first end and a second end and encircling said tubing string with the first end adjacent to said second end thereof;

a first connecting means'formed on the first end of said band for connecting the first end to the second end of said band;

a second connecting means formed on the second end of said band dor connecting the second end to the first end of said band;

a locking means engageable with said first and second connecting means for urging said first and second connecting means relatively together and locking said band securely to said tubing; each of said connecting means having a plurality of locking means engaging surfaces formedso that said surfaces and locking means have an angular relationship such that the locking means and surfaces progressively engage to releasably secure said band to said tubing string by a uniform wedging action to minimize the possibility of interference with adjacent tubing strings; there being at least one pair of locking means engaging surfaces on each end of said band in alternating spaced relation so that the surfaces on one end of said band mesh with the surfaces on the other end of said band; and I a conduit receiving means formed in said band for receiving said conduit between said band and said tubing string whereby said conduit is secured to' said tubing string when said locking means is locking said band securely to said tubing string.

3. The apparatus as defined in claim 2 further characresilient liner means disposed between said band and said tubing string for providing increased frictional engagement of said tubing string bysaid band. I

locking means is further characterized to include:

first connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said first and second connecting means; second connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said first and second connecting means; and v. whereby movement of said first and second connecting pin means toward each other and relative to said band increasingly tightens said band on said tubing string. i 5. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 further characterized to include: i

4. The apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein said a plurality of inwardly extending dimples formed in said band and engaging said tubing string.

6. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 further characterized to include;

a resilient liner interposed between said band and said tubing string.

7. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein sid first and second connecting pin means are shaped such that the exposed surfaces thereof provide a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said first and second connecting means.

8. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 further characterized to include:

a first retaining lip formed on one tapered surface of said first connecting pin means and engageable with said first connecting means; and

a second retaining lip formed on one tapered surface of said second connecting pin means and engageable with said second connecting means.

9. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said band is further characterized to include:

a first band segment upon which said first connecting means is formed;

a second band segment upon which said second connecting means is formed; and

hinge means interconnecting said first and second band segments intermediate said first and second connecting means for enabling said first band segment to pivot relative to said second hand segment.

10. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said band is further characterized to include:

a first band segment upon which said first connecting means is formed; a second band segment upon which said second connecting means is formed; and hinge means interconnecting said first and second band segments intermediate said first and second connecting means for enabling said first band segment to pivot relative to said second band segment; and wherein said first and second connecting pin means are each further characterized to include:

a head portion having a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surfaceof said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said first and second connecting means. 11. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said band is further characterized to include:

a first band segment upon one end of which said first connecting means is formed; a second band segment upon one of which said second connecting means is formed;

third connecting means formed on the end of said second band segment opposite said second connecting means; and

fourth connecting means formed on the end of said first band segment opposite said first connecting means; and

wherein said apparatus is further characterized to include:

third connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said third and fourth connecting means and urging said third and fourth connecting means relatively together and locking said first and second band segments securely to said tubing string;

fourth connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said third and fourth connecting means and urging said third and fourth connecting means relatively together and locking said first and second band segments securely to said tubing string; and

whereby movement of said third and fourth connecting pin means toward each other and relative to said band increasingly tightens said band around said tubing string; and

at least one additional conduit receiving means formed in said band for receiving said conduit between said band and said tubing string whereby said conduit is secured to said tubing string when said first and second band segments are securely locked to said tubing string.

12. The apparatus as defined in claimed 11 wherein said first and second connecting pin means are each further characterized to include:

a head portion having a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said first and second connecting means; and

wherein said third and fourth connecting pin means are each further characterized to include:

a head portion having a relatively smoothly con toured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said third and fourth connecting means.

13. An apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein said locking means is further characterized to include a locking means is characterized to include a head portion having a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said first and second connecting means to minimize the possibility of interference with adjacent tubing strings.

Claims (13)

1. An apparatus for securing a small diameter conduit to a large diameter tubing string or the like comprising: a band having a first end and a second end and encircling said tubing string with the first end adjacent to said second end thereof; a first connecting means formed on the first end of said band for connecting the first end to the second end of said band; a second connecting means formed on the second end of said band for connecting the second end to the first end of said band; a locking means engageable with said first and second connecting means for urging said first and second connecting means relatively together and locking said band securely to said tubing string; said locking means comprising a first connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said first and second connecting means, a second connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said first and second connecting means whereby movement of said first and second connecting pin means toward each other and relative to said band increasingly tightens said band on said tubing string; said connecting pins characterized to include a first retaining lip formed on one end of said first connecting pin means and a second retaining lip formed on one end of said second connecting pin means and said first and second retaining lips being mutually engageable with one another to retain said first and second connecting pin means in position securely locking said band and said conduit to said tubing string; and a conduit receiving means formed in said band for receiving said conduit between said band and said tubing string whereby said conduit is secured to said tubing string when said locking means is locking said band securely to said tubing string.

2. An apparatus for securing a small diameter conduit to a larger diameter tubing string having sufficient strength to withstand strain in a turbulent environment and which can be readily installed or removed from said tubing string or the like said apparatus comprising: a band formed of thin gauge sheet metal having a first end and a second end and encircling said tubing string with the first end adjacent to said second end thereof; a first connecting means formed on the first end of said band for connecting the first end to the second end of said band; a second connecting means formed on the second end of said band dor connecting the second end to the first end of said band; a locking means engageable with said first and second connecting means for urging said first and second connecting means relatively together and locking said band securely to said tubing; each of said connecting means having a plurality of locking means engaging surfaces formed so that said surfaces and locking means have an angular relationship such that the locking means and surfaces progressively engage to releasably secure said band to said tubing string by a uniform wedging action to minimize the possibility of interference with adjacent tubing strings; there being at least one pair of locking means engaging surfaces on each end of said band in alternating spaced relation so that the surfaces on one end of said band mesh with the surfaces on the other end of said band; and a conduit receiving means formed in said band for receiving said conduit between said band and said tubing string whereby said conduit is secured to said tubing string when said locking means is locking said band securely to said tubing string.

3. The apparatus as defined in claim 2 further characterized to include: resilient liner means disposed between said banD and said tubing string for providing increased frictional engagement of said tubing string by said band.

4. The apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein said locking means is further characterized to include: first connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said first and second connecting means; second connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said first and second connecting means; and whereby movement of said first and second connecting pin means toward each other and relative to said band increasingly tightens said band on said tubing string.

5. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 further characterized to include: a plurality of inwardly extending dimples formed in said band and engaging said tubing string.

6. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 further characterized to include; a resilient liner interposed between said band and said tubing string.

7. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein sid first and second connecting pin means are shaped such that the exposed surfaces thereof provide a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said first and second connecting means.

8. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 further characterized to include: a first retaining lip formed on one tapered surface of said first connecting pin means and engageable with said first connecting means; and a second retaining lip formed on one tapered surface of said second connecting pin means and engageable with said second connecting means.

9. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said band is further characterized to include: a first band segment upon which said first connecting means is formed; a second band segment upon which said second connecting means is formed; and hinge means interconnecting said first and second band segments intermediate said first and second connecting means for enabling said first band segment to pivot relative to said second band segment.

10. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said band is further characterized to include: a first band segment upon which said first connecting means is formed; a second band segment upon which said second connecting means is formed; and hinge means interconnecting said first and second band segments intermediate said first and second connecting means for enabling said first band segment to pivot relative to said second band segment; and wherein said first and second connecting pin means are each further characterized to include: a head portion having a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said first and second connecting means.

11. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said band is further characterized to include: a first band segment upon one end of which said first connecting means is formed; a second band segment upon one of which said second connecting means is formed; third connecting means formed on the end of said second band segment opposite said second connecting means; and fourth connecting means formed on the end of said first band segment opposite said first connecting means; and wherein said apparatus is further characterized to include: third connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said third and fourth connecting means and urging said third and fourth connecting means relatively together and locking said first and second band segments securely to said tubing string; fourth connecting pin means having tapered surfaces formed thereon for engaging said third and fourth connecting means and urging said third and fourth connecting means relatively together and locking said first and second band segments securely to said tubing string; and whereby movement of saId third and fourth connecting pin means toward each other and relative to said band increasingly tightens said band around said tubing string; and at least one additional conduit receiving means formed in said band for receiving said conduit between said band and said tubing string whereby said conduit is secured to said tubing string when said first and second band segments are securely locked to said tubing string.

12. The apparatus as defined in claimed 11 wherein said first and second connecting pin means are each further characterized to include: a head portion having a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said first and second connecting means; and wherein said third and fourth connecting pin means are each further characterized to include: a head portion having a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said third and fourth connecting means.

13. An apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein said locking means is further characterized to include a head portion having a relatively smoothly contoured surface whereby the exterior surface of said tubing string is smoothly blended into the exterior surfaces of said first and second connecting means to minimize the possibility of interference with adjacent tubing strings.

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