Inventors:
Huey P. Louviere - Franklin LA
International Classification:
E21B 4100
Abstract:
A Kelly Bushing Guard is comprised of an outer protective guarding shell which coverably mounts on the kelly bushing portion of a drilling apparatus. The outer shell is comprised of an upper smaller shell section which is mountable on the kelly bushing itself, there being provided an upper opening through the upper shell portion allowing the passage of the kelly therethrough. A lower shell section is integrally attached to the upper shell section, the lower shell section coverably registering with and guarding the rotary table portion of a well drilling apparatus. An improved cushioned mounting is provided which can be in the form of a plurality of pliable rubberized rings. The larger lower shell section provides a free space under the upper shell section which free space allows the kelly bushing to freely rotate therewithin. Rotation of the kelly bushing within the free space does not impart a rotation to the outer shell, but allows it to protectively cover the kelly bushing and rotary table during drilling operations when the kelly bushing and rotary table are interlocked and rotating together. An alternative embodiment provides a two part bushing guard wherein the upper shell portion disengages from the lower shell portion and rises with the kelly during drilling operations.