DRILL PIPE WITH REPLACEABLE TOOL JOINTS

Abstract

A drill string including tool assembly. The tool assembly includes a tool joint adapter and a tool joint coupled to the tool joint adapter through a faceted pin. The faceted pin includes a faceted fitting having a fitting face. The drill string includes a locking pin that extends through the tool joint adapter and tool joint. The locking pin extends through a locking pin groove of the fitting face. The locking pin locks the tool joint adapter and tool joint together.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to drill strings for drilling machines.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Drilling machines are often used in the construction, mining and oil and gas industries to form a borehole through a formation with a drill string. There are many different types of drilling machines for drilling the borehole through the formation with the drill string. Some of these drilling machines are mobile and others are stationary. Examples of mobile and stationary drilling machines are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,245,180, 3,692,123, 3,708,024, 3,778,940, 3,815,690, 3,833,072, 3,905,168, 3,968,845, 3,992,831, 4,020,909, 4,295,758, 4,595,065, 5,988,299, 6,672,410, 6,675,915, 7,325,634, 7,347,285 and 7,413,036, the contents of all of which are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.

One type of drilling machine includes a tower supported by a deck, and a rotary head movable along the tower. The drilling machine typically includes a deck bushing which extends through the deck. More information regarding deck bushings can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,943,302 and 5,413,415, as well as U.S. Patent Application No. 20030155769, the contents of all of which are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.

The drill string typically includes one or more drill pipes, and each drill pipe includes a drill pipe body connected to a tool joint. The drill string allows the borehole to be formed to a depth greater than the length of a single drill pipe body. A drill pipe body is typically between about 20 feet to about 40 feet in length. Most drill pipe bodies are manufactured from hollow and thick walled tubing of a metal material, such as steel. Many different types of steel can be used, such as mild steel or another steel alloy. More information regarding drill strings and tool joints can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,279,850, 4,380,347, 4,487,229, 4,492,666, and 5,709,416, the contents of all of which are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.

In a typical setup, male and female tool joints are positioned at opposed ends of the drill pipe body, wherein the male tool joint includes a threaded pin and the female tool joint includes a threaded box. It should be noted, however, that some drill pipes include male tool joints at opposed ends, and other drill pipes include female tool joints at opposed end. The types of tool joints positioned at the opposed ends of the drill pipe body depends on many different factors, such as the type of drilling machine used to form the borehole, as well as the drilling application.

The tool joints are typically precision machined from a metal material, such as steel or a steel allow. The tool joints can be integral pieces of the drill pipe body, or they can be separate pieces, which are connected thereto in a repeatably removeable manner. For example, the male and female tool joints can be coupled to the drill pipe body in a repeatably removeable manner by using welding.

In one example, the threaded pin of a first drill pipe is threadingly connected to a threaded box of a second drill pipe, and the threaded box of the first drill pipe is threadingly connected to a threaded pin of a third drill pipe. In this way, the first, second and third drill pipes are connected together.

In some examples, the threads of the pin and box are both right-handed threads and, in other examples, the threads of the pin and box are both left-handed threads. More information regarding right- and left-handed threads can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,769,381, 3,186,501, 3,645,328 and 4,422,507, the contents of all of which are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein. More information regarding right- and left-handed threads can also be found in some of the other references cited herein.

In operation, the drill string is connected to the rotary head and extends through the deck bushing. The drill string moves relative to the tower in response to movement of the rotary head. One of the drill pipes of the drill string is operatively connected to an earth bit. The drill string provides fluid to the earth bit to facilitate its ability to drill through the formation. Hence, the drill string includes drill pipes, which are capable of being operatively connected to an earth bit. The borehole is formed in response to rotating the drill string and earth bit with the rotary head, and forcing them downwardly through the deck bushing and formation in response to a load applied by the rotary head. Hence, the drill string not only transfers rotational torque, pull-down load, and pull-back load from the rotary head of the drill rig to the drill bit, but also extends the entire drill string to the designed drilling depth.

Drill strings are consumable components because they experience significant wear and tear during use. In most instances, the tool joint experiences the wear and tear, while the drill pipe body is still usable. In these situations, the drill pipe is removed from the drill string and the tool joint is replaced with another. In other situations, the drill pipe is removed from the drill string and the tool joint is repaired so it can be used again.

However, it is difficult to remove the tool joint from the drill pipe on-site, and it is expensive to repair the tool joint on-site. The on-site location is typically remote and does not include the necessary facilities, resources and technicians. Hence, the drill pipe and tool joint are typically delivered to a machine shop, so that highly trained technicians can remove the tool joint from the drill pipe and replace the tool joint with another one, or repair the tool joint. The components are then shipped back to the remote location. However, it is very expensive to deliver a drill pipe and tool joint, and the repair process is typically time consuming, costly and not very environmentally friendly in terms of fuel consumption for the shipment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the invention are directed to a drill pipe tool assembly, which includes replaceable tool joints. The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The invention will be best understood from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Still other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein it is shown and described only the preferred embodiments of the invention, simply by way of illustration of the best mode contemplated of carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The objects and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 a is a side view of a drilling machine.

FIG. 1 b is a perspective view of a drill string, which includes drill pipes coupled together at a drill pipe interface.

FIG. 1 c is a cut-away side view of the drill string of FIG. 1b in an interface region, as shown in FIG. 1b, wherein the interface region includes the drill pipe interface.

FIG. 1 d is a perspective view of one embodiment of the drill string of FIG. 1b.

FIG. 1 e is an exploded perspective view of a box region of the drill string of FIG. 1b.

FIG. 1 f is an exploded perspective view of a pin region of the drill string of FIG. 1b.

FIG. 2 a is a close-up perspective view of a threaded pin of the drill pipe of FIG. 1b.

FIG. 2 b is a cut-away side view of the drill pipe of FIG. 2a taken along a cut-line 2b-2b of FIG. 2a.

FIG. 3 a is a close-up perspective view of a threaded box of the other drill pipe of FIG. 1b.

FIG. 3 b is a cut-away side view of the drill pipe of FIG. 3a taken along a cut-line 3b-3b of FIG. 3a.

FIGS. 4 a and 4c are perspective views of a tool joint adapter.

FIGS. 4 b and 4d are opposed end views of the tool joint adapter of FIGS. 4a and 4c.

FIG. 4 e is a cut-away side view of tool joint adapter of FIGS. 4a and 4c taken along a cut-line which extends through locking pin internal holes.

FIGS. 5 a and 5b are perspective views of a box tool joint.

FIG. 6 a is a cut-away side view of a drill string, which includes the tool joint adapter of FIGS. 4a and 4c and the box tool joint of FIGS. 5a and 5b coupled together.

FIG. 6 b is a close-up view of the drill string of FIG. 6a.

FIG. 6 c is another close-up view of the drill string of FIG. 6a.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a pin tool joint.

FIG. 8 a is a cut-away side view of a drill string, which includes the tool joint adapter of FIGS. 4a and 4c and the pin tool joint of FIG. 7 coupled together.

FIG. 8 b is a close-up view of the drill string of FIG. 8a.

FIG. 8 c is another close-up view of the drill string of FIG. 8a.

FIGS. 9 a and 9c are perspective views of a box tool joint.

FIGS. 9 b and 9d are opposed end views of box tool joint of FIGS. 9a and 9c.

FIGS. 10 a and 10b are perspective views of a tool joint adapter.

FIG. 11 a is a perspective view of a pin tool joint.

FIG. 11 b is an end view of the pin tool joint of FIG. 11a.

FIGS. 12 a and 12b are perspective views of a tool joint adapter.

FIG. 13 a is a cut-away side view of a drill string, which includes the tool joint adapter of FIGS. 10a and 10b and the box tool joint of FIGS. 9a and 9c coupled together.

FIG. 13 b is a close-up view of the drill string of FIG. 13a.

FIG. 13 c is another close-up view of the drill string of FIG. 13a.

FIG. 14 a is a cut-away side view of a drill string, which includes the tool joint adapter of FIGS. 10a and 10b and the pin tool joint of FIG. 11a coupled together.

FIG. 14 b is a close-up view of the drill string of FIG. 14a.

FIG. 14 c is another close-up view of the drill string of FIG. 14a.

FIGS. 15 a and 15b are perspective views of embodiments of locking pins.

FIGS. 15 c and 15d are perspective views of embodiments of locking pin internal holes for receiving the locking pins of FIGS. 15a and 15b, respectively.

FIGS. 16 a and 16b are embodiments of faceted sockets, which include one and two facets, respectively.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention involves a drill pipe tool assembly, which includes replaceable tool joints. The replaceable tool joints may include a tool joint adapter coupled to a drill pipe body, and a tool joint coupled to the tool joint adapter through a faceted pin. The faceted pin may include a faceted fitting having a fitting face. The tool assembly typically includes a locking pin that extends through the tool joint adapter and tool joint, wherein the locking pin extends through a locking pin groove of the fitting face. The locking pin can lock the tool joint adapter and tool joint together. The locking pin can be removed from the locking pin groove so that the tool joint adapter and tool joint are not locked together. In this way, the tool joint is a replaceable tool joint.

The tool joint adapter and tool joint may both included in a drill string, wherein first and second drill pipes may be removeably coupled to the tool joint adapter and tool joint, respectively. The drill string may be used by a drilling machine to bore through a formation.

As mentioned above, drill strings are consumable components because they experience significant wear and tear during use. Embodiments of the invention allow the tool joint to be easily removed from the drill string and replaced. Hence, the drill string can be repaired on-site, so the drill string does not need to be delivered to the machine shop for repair, and then shipped back to the site.

The drill pipe tool assembly can be used with many different types of drilling machines, such as a rotary blast-hole drilling machine used in open pit coal mining industries. The drill pipe tool assembly is useful for many different types of drilling applications, such as single-pass and multi-pass soft formation drilling.

The drill pipe tool assembly disclosed herein can be used for rotary blast-hole drilling in open pit coal mines where the ground is usually relatively soft. Compared to the drilling operation in hard ground conditions, the drill pipe body can last much longer under the soft formation drilling application since very slight wear and tear is generated on the drill pipe's outer body.

However, in either situation, the threads on both ends of the drill pipe bodies usually experience wear and tear because the drill pipe needs to be constantly coupled and uncoupled during regular drilling practices. Obviously, to prolong the service life and cut the drilling operation cost, in most existing cases, prematurely worn drill pipes are normally sent back to a professional shop for repairs as the main drill pipe body is still in pretty good condition and can be re-used. Rather than shipping the drill pipe back and forth, the invention allows the end users to refurbish the drill pipe at the remote drilling site.

FIG. 1 a is a side view of a drilling machine 300. It should be noted that drilling machine 300 can be a stationary or mobile vehicle, but here it is embodied as being a mobile vehicle for illustrative purposes. Some examples of different types of drilling machines are the DM-M3, PV-235, PV-270, PV-271, PV-275 and PV-351 drilling machines, which are manufactured by Atlas Copco Drilling Solutions of Garland, Tex. It should be noted, however, that drilling machines are provided by many other manufacturers.

In this embodiment, drilling machine 300 includes a platform 303, which carries a power pack 304 and operator's cab 305. It should be noted that power pack 304 includes many different components, such as a prime mover, and is typically operated by an operator in operator's cab 305.

In this embodiment, drilling machine 300 includes a tower 302 which is carried by platform 303. Tower 302 generally carries a feed cable system (not shown) coupled to a rotary head 307, wherein the feed cable system allows rotary head 307 to move between raised and lowered positions along tower 302. The feed cable system moves rotary head 307 between the raised and lowered positions by moving it towards tower crown 302b and tower base 302a, respectively.

Rotary head 307 is moved between the raised and lowered positions to raise and lower, respectively, a drill string 100 through a borehole. Further, rotary head 307 is used to rotate drill string 100, wherein drill string 100 extends through tower 302 and platform 303. Drill string 100 generally includes one or more drill pipes connected together in a well-known manner. The drill pipes of drill string 100 are capable of being coupled to an earth bit, such as a tri-cone rotary earth bit. In FIG. 1a, drill string 100 is shown as including drill pipes 110 and 120 for illustrative purposes.

FIG. 1 b is a perspective view of drill string 100, which includes drill pipes 110 and 120 coupled together at a drill pipe interface 101. FIG. 1c is a cut-away side view of drill string 100 in an interface region 102, as shown in FIG. 1b, wherein interface region 102 includes drill pipe interface 101. Drill string 100, as well as drill pipes 110 and 120 extend longitudinally in a direction 105 and transversely in a direction 106, wherein directions 105 and 106 are perpendicular to each other. It should be noted that direction 106 is sometimes referred to as a radial direction. A region 109 is external to drill string 100. Drill string 100 includes a pin region 103 at one end and a box region 104 at an opposed end.

In this embodiment, drill pipe 110 includes a drill pipe body 111 with a drill pipe internal hole 112 extending therethrough, as shown in FIG. 1c. Drill pipe 110 includes a threaded pin 119 which includes a threaded portion 113 having pin threads 114. Drill pipe internal hole 112 extends through drill pipe body 111 and threaded portion 113, and allows material to flow therethrough. Drill pipe internal hole 112 extends longitudinally along longitudinal direction 105, and transversely along transverse direction 106. Threaded pin 119 can be an integral piece of drill pipe body 111, or it can be a separate piece which is connected thereto in a repeatably removeable manner. In some embodiments, threaded pin 119 is welded to drill pipe body 111.

In this embodiment, drill pipe 120 includes a drill pipe body 121 with a drill pipe internal hole 122 extending therethrough, as shown in FIG. 1c. In this embodiment, drill pipe 120 includes a threaded box 123 (FIG. 1c), which includes box threads 124. Threaded box 123 is coupled to threaded pin 119 in response to coupling drill pipes 110 and 120 together. In particular, pin threads 114 and box threads 124 are threadingly coupled together in response to coupling drill pipes 110 and 120 together. Drill pipe internal hole 122 extends through drill pipe body 121 and threaded box 123, and allows material to flow therethrough. Drill pipe internal hole 122 extends longitudinally along longitudinal direction 105, and transversely along transverse direction 106. Threaded box 123 can be an integral piece of drill pipe body 121, or it can be a separate piece, which is connected thereto in a repeatably removeable manner. In some embodiments, threaded box 123 is welded to drill pipe body 121.

It should be noted that, in some embodiments, threaded pin 119 and threaded box 123 both include right-handed threads. In the right-handed thread embodiments, pin threads 114 and box threads 124 are both right-handed threads. In other embodiments, threaded pin 119 and threaded box 123 both include left-handed threads. In the left-handed thread embodiments, pin threads 114 and box threads 124 are both left-handed threads.

FIG. 1 d is a perspective view of drill string 100, which includes replaceable tool joints. In this embodiment, drill string 100 includes a pin tool joint 170 coupled to one end of drill pipe 120 in box region 104 and a box tool joint 150 coupled to one end of drill pipe 110 in pin region 103. In this embodiment, drill string 100 includes male and female tool joints at opposed ends so it is capable of operating with the Atlas Copco DM-M3 drill rig, which is used for blast hole drilling.

FIG. 1 e is an exploded view of an embodiment of a drill string 100 in pin region 103 of FIG. 1d. In this embodiment, drill string 100 includes a tool joint adapter 130a coupled to drill rod body 111 of drill rod 110. Tool joint adapter 130a can be coupled to drill rod body 111 in many different ways. In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 130a is coupled to drill rod body 111 in a repeatably removeable manner by using welding.

In this embodiment, drill string 100 includes a box tool joint 150 coupled to tool joint adapter 130a. Box tool joint 150 can be coupled to tool joint adapter 130a in many different ways. In this embodiment, box tool joint 150 is coupled to tool joint adapter 130a in a repeatably removeable manner by using locking pins 270a and 270b, as will be discussed in more detail below. Locking pins 270a and 270b are held in place by using fasteners 271a and 271b, respectively. A seal is formed between box tool joint 150 and tool joint adapter 130a because box tool joint 150 and tool joint adapter 130a are coupled together through sealing members 272a and 273a.

FIG. 1 f is an exploded view of drill string 100 in box region 104 of FIG. 1d. In this embodiment, drill string 100 includes a tool joint adapter 130b coupled to drill rod body 121 of drill rod 120. Tool joint adapter 130b can be coupled to drill rod body 121 in many different ways. In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 130b is coupled to drill rod body 121 in a repeatably removeable manner by using welding.

In this embodiment, drill string 100 includes a pin tool joint 170 coupled to tool joint adapter 130b. Pin tool joint 170 can be coupled to tool joint adapter 130b in many different ways. In this embodiment, pin tool joint 170 is coupled to tool joint adapter 130b in a repeatably removeable manner by using locking pins 270c and 270d, as will be discussed in more detail below. Locking pins 270c and 270d are held in place by using fasteners 271c and 271d, respectively. A seal is formed between pin tool joint 170 and tool joint adapter 130b because pin tool joint 170 and tool joint adapter 130b are coupled together through sealing members 272b and 273b.

Drill string 100 includes three major sections, which are the replaceable pin end tool joint, the main drill pipe body assembly, and the replaceable box end tool joint. The main drill pipe body assembly is made of the main drill pipe body and two tool joint adapters. The two tool joint adapters are shrink-fitted and welded into both ends of the main drill pipe body. Instead of being welded on the main drill pipe, both the replaceable pin end tool joint and the replaceable box end tool joint are fixed onto the main drill pipe body assembly by locking pins. For example, in this embodiment, the tool joints are coupled to a corresponding drill pipe body by locking pins 270a, 270b, 270c and 270d. The rotational torque is transmitted within the entire drill string 100 by the polygon mating member, which also precisely controls the alignment of wrench flats on both tool joint ends. The tool joint adapter is welded into the main drill pipe body. The end user typically can only replace the tool joint when needed so that it is not necessary to remove the tool joint adapter on-site.

In general, the tool joint represents the threaded end coupling of a drill pipe. To obtain the continuous connection in a drill string, the tool joint is threaded on one of the two ends. The tool joint with male threads is also called the pin end tool joint, and the tool joint with female threads is called the box end tool joint. Based on the requirements of an actual drilling operation, the tool joints may have different combinations, such as pin end tool joint and box end tool joint, pin end tool joint and pin end tool joint, or box end tool joint and box end tool joint.

Correspondingly, the tool joints of drill string 100 can also be one of the combinations, for instance, replaceable pin end tool joint and replaceable box end tool joint, replaceable pin end tool joint and replaceable pin end tool joint, or replaceable box end tool joint and replaceable box end tool joint.

Drill string 100 is compatible with the standard drill pipe served on the drill rig. Except for the connecting method of the tool joints, all other critical features of the drill pipe, such as the sizes and types of threads of the tool joints, drill pipe outer diameters, shoulder-to-shoulder distances, wrench flats, recesses, and so on, stay unchanged. In addition, drill string 100 is designed to withstand the same volume and pressure of compressed air, rotational torque, pull-down load, and pull-back load as standard drill strings.

Compared to known drill strings, the tool joint adapters of drill string 100 are imported into the drill pipe assembly. One end of the tool joint adapter is machined as per the standardized weld specifications, such as those available from Atlas Copco Thiessen. The opposed end is shaped as a polygon male connection with extended sealing cylinder. The polygon male connection transfers the rotational torque to the mated replaceable pin end tool joint, which has the polygon female connection accordingly. Theoretically, the close running fit is designed for the mated polygon members. It not only ensures that the replaceable pin tool joint is easily assembled and disassembled, but also reduces the slapping motion between the pin tool joint and the corresponding tool joint adapter.

The tool joint adapter can include other types of polygons, such as quadrilateral, pentagon, hexagon, and so on, which may also be used to accommodate for different sizes of drill pipes. However, the geometric polygon within one drill pipe for the replaceable pin tool joint and the tool joint adapter should be matched to provide a good enough fit.

As mentioned above, the two tool joint adapters are shrink-fitted and welded into each end of the main drill pipe body. During the welding process, the welder has to make sure that one set of polygon flats on one tool joint adapter are aligned with one set of polygon flats on the opposed tool joint adapter of the entire main drill pipe body assembly. This allows the welder to assemble the drill pipe with the correct orientation of wrench flats from one end of the drill string to the opposed end of the drill string.

In a typical rotary blast-hole drilling application, drill string 100 is hollow so that compressed gas can be flowed through the drill string. The compressed gas may be used for cooling down the drill bit and blowing the cuttings out of the borehole. Hence, it may be important to reduce the likelihood that gas will undesirably leak through drill string 100. To reduce the likelihood of a gas leak, sealing members 272a, 272b, 273a and 273b may be included with drill string 100, as shown in FIGS. 1e and 1f. Sealing members 272a, 272b, 273a and 273b can be of many different types, such as O-ring seals. The sealing member typically includes a deformable material, such as rubber. As will be discussed in more detail below, the sealing member may be engaged with a polygon male connection of the tool joint adapter, which may isolate the compressed air flowing out from both locking pin holes and the mated shoulders between the replaceable pin end tool joint and the tool joint adapter.

FIG. 2 a is a close-up perspective view of an embodiment of drill pipe 110, which includes threaded pin 119, and FIG. 2b is a cut-away side view of the embodiment of drill pipe 110 taken along a cut-line 2b-2b of FIG. 2a. It should be noted that cut-line 2b-2b extends in transverse direction 106. In this embodiment, threaded pin 119 includes a pin cylinder 115 which extends away from a pin shoulder 116, and threaded portion 113 which includes pin threads 114. According to this embodiment, pin cylinder 115 is proximate to pin shoulder 116 and threaded portion 113 is away from pin shoulder 116. Threaded portion 113 is spaced from pin shoulder 116 by pin cylinder 115. Pin cylinder 115 is between threaded portion 113 and pin shoulder 116. The embodiment of the pin cylinder 115 is a non-faceted fitting because it includes a curved face with a continuous curvature, and does not include a flat face with a discontinuous curvature. Pin cylinder 115 extends through a threaded box of another drill pipe, such as drill pipe 120, when the pin cylinder is coupled to drill pipe 110. It should be noted that drill pipe 110 includes a threaded box at its opposed end in box region 104, as shown in FIG. 1b. It should also be noted that threaded pin 119 typically is repeatably removeable from drill pipe body 111. However, it is typically difficult to remove threaded pin 119 from drill pipe body 111, because the threaded pin is often welded in place and required specialized tools to remove it. These specialized tools are often not available at remote drilling locations. Pin cylinder 115 is a non-threaded portion of threaded pin 119. Hence, in FIG. 2a, threaded pin 119 included threaded and non-threaded portions.

As shown in FIG. 2b, drill pipe body 111 includes drill pipe internal hole 112, which extends therethrough. An outer dimension of drill pipe body 111 is denoted as distance d1. Distance d1 is a transverse distance, which extends along transverse direction 106 between a center of drill pipe body 111 and the outer periphery of drill pipe body 111. In this embodiment, distance d1 corresponds to a diameter of drill pipe body 111 because drill pipe body 111 has a circular cross-sectional shape, as shown in FIG. 2b.

FIG. 3 a is a close-up perspective view of threaded box 123 of drill pipe 120, and FIG. 3b is a cut-away side view of drill pipe 120 taken along a cut-line 3b-3b of FIG. 3a. It should be noted that cut-line 3b-3b extends in transverse direction 106. It should also be noted that drill pipe 120 includes a threaded pin at its opposed end in pin region 103, as shown in FIG. 1b. Further, threaded box 123 is repeatably removeable from drill pipe body 121. However, it is typically difficult to remove threaded box 123 from drill pipe body 121, because the threaded box is often welded in place and required specialized tools to remove it. As mentioned above, these specialized tools are often not available at remote drilling locations.

As shown in FIG. 3b, drill pipe body 121 includes drill pipe internal hole 122, which extends therethrough. Box threads 124 face drill pipe internal hole 122, and drill pipe internal hole 122 extends through threaded box 123. Drill pipe internal hole 122 allows material to flow through threaded box 123. An outer dimension of drill pipe body 121 is denoted as distance d2. Distance d2 is a transverse distance which extends along transverse direction 106 between a center of drill pipe body 121 and the outer periphery of drill pipe body 121. In this embodiment, distance d2 corresponds to a diameter of drill pipe body 121 because drill pipe body 121 has a circular cross-sectional shape, as shown in FIG. 3b.

FIGS. 4 a and 4c are perspective views of a tool joint adapter 130, and FIGS. 4b and 4d are end views of tool joint adapter 130 looking in opposed directions of 139a and 139b, respectively. In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 130 includes a tool joint adapter body 131 with a tool joint adapter internal hole 132 extending therethrough. Tool joint adapter internal hole 132 allows material to flow through tool joint adapter body 131.

Tool joint adapter 130 may include a tool joint adapter fitting 134, which may extend away from a fitting shoulder 133. Tool joint adapter fitting 134 may be sized and shaped to be received by a drill pipe body, such as drill pipe bodies 111 and 121. Tool joint adapter fitting 134 may be a non-faceted fitting because it may include a curved face with a continuous curvature, and may not include a flat face with a discontinuous curvature. It should be noted that tool joint adapter internal hole 132 extends through tool joint adapter fitting 134 and allows material to flow therethrough.

Tool joint adapter fitting 134 can be received by the drill pipe body after the threaded box or threaded pin has been removed therefrom. In some embodiments, tool joint adapter 130 is welded to the drill pipe body. It should be noted that tool joint adapter 130 typically is repeatably removeable from the drill pipe body. In this way, threaded pin 119 can be removed from the drill pipe body and replaced with tool joint adapter 130. Further, threaded box 123 can be removed from the drill pipe body and replaced with another tool joint adapter 130. However, as mentioned above, it is typically difficult to remove these components from a drill pipe body at a remote location because specialized tools are required.

As best seen in FIGS. 4c and 4d, tool joint adapter 130 may include a faceted socket 140, which may include a socket face. In this embodiment, faceted socket 140 includes opposed socket faces 141 and 142, opposed socket faces 143 and 144, opposed socket faces 145 and 146 and opposed socket faces 147 and 148. Socket faces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 and 148 may extend through an annular socket face 149, and face tool joint adapter internal hole 132. Annular socket face 149 may be opposed to fitting shoulder 133. In this way, faceted socket 140 faces tool joint adapter internal hole 132, and tool joint adapter internal hole 132 may extend through faceted socket 140 and socket face 149. Tool joint adapter internal hole 132 extend may through faceted socket 140 and allow material to flow therethrough.

It should also be noted that faceted socket 140 includes eight flat socket faces in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. However, in general, faceted socket 140 includes one or more flat socket faces. Embodiments of sockets which include one and two socket faces are shown in FIGS. 16a and 16b, respectively. It should be noted that socket 140 is a faceted socket because it includes two faces with a discontinuous curvature between them, as will be discussed in more detail presently, and does not include a curved face with a continuous curvature.

In this embodiment, socket faces 141 and 143 are at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 140 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 143 and 145 are at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 140 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 145 and 147 are at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 140 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 147 and 142 are at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 140 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 142 and 144 are at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 140 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 144 and 146 are at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 140 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 146 and 148 are at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 140 is discontinuous between them. In this way, socket 140 is a faceted socket. Other configurations are also possible.

In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 130 includes a locking pin internal hole, which extends through tool joint adapter body 131. In general, tool joint adapter 130 includes one or more locking pin internal holes. In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 130 includes two locking pin internal holes, which are denoted as locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b, as shown in FIG. 4d. In this embodiment, locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b are opposed to each other, wherein locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b are proximate to socket faces 141 and 142, respectively. In particular, locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b extend through socket faces 141 and 142, respectively. Locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b open into tool joint adapter internal hole 132.

In this embodiment, locking pin internal hole 135a includes opposed locking pin hole openings 137a and 138a, and a fastener opening 136a which extends through tool joint adapter body 31 and locking pin internal hole 135a. In particular, according to this embodiment, fastener opening 136a extends between an outer periphery of tool joint adapter body 131 and socket face 141. It should be noted that a portion of locking pin internal hole 135a proximate to fastener opening 136a faces tool joint adapter internal hole 132. The portion of locking pin internal hole 135a that faces fastener opening 136a opens into tool joint adapter internal hole 132.

In this embodiment, locking pin internal hole 135b includes opposed locking pin hole openings 137b and 138b, and a fastener opening 136b which extends through tool joint adapter body 131 and locking pin internal hole 135b. In particular, fastener opening 136b extends between an outer periphery of tool joint adapter body 131 and socket face 142. It should be noted that a portion of locking pin internal hole 135b proximate to fastener opening 136b faces tool joint adapter internal hole 132. The portion of locking pin internal hole 135b that faces fastener opening 136b opens into tool joint adapter internal hole 132.

FIG. 4 e is a cut-away side view of tool joint adapter 130 of FIGS. 4a-4d taken along a cut-line which extends through locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b. The cut-line cuts through the middle plan of locking pins 270a and 270b, wherein locking pins 270a and 270b extend through locking pin internal holes 135a and 125b, respectively. In this embodiment, locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b each include half-moon grooves, which are sized and shaped to receive corresponding locking pins 270a and 270b. Locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b are milled out through the flats of the polygon male connection. Accordingly, the half-moon grooves on the replaceable pin tool joint are drilled and tapped from the outer body of the tool joint.

One useful feature of this design is that locking pins 270a and 270b are secured in place during the drilling operation. This is useful because it is undesirable to have a locking pin become unsecured during drilling operations because a portion of drill string 100 will become detached in the borehole. It is expensive and time consuming to retrieve the portion of the drill string from the borehole.

Locking pins 270a and 270b can be secured in many different ways. For example, in some embodiments, the locking pins and holes for the locking pins are machined so that one end is smaller than the opposed end. This allows the locking pins to be put in and taken out only from the one larger end of the locking hole.

In some embodiments, once the locking pins are installed in place, self-locking set screws are engaged into the middle drilled and tapped holes of the replaceable pin end tool joint and tightened firmly. This feature restricts the locking pin from disengaging itself from the larger side of the locking hole. In addition, the self-locking set screw may prevent itself from backing off, which could be caused by drilling vibrations. For example, set screws with pelletized nylon inserts could be utilized. If the locking pin is unfixed, it could fall off from the drill pipe assembly and cause an extremely serious accident. Many different types of the self-locking set screws, for instance, the chemical additive type, the deflected or distorted thread type, and the material additive type, are suitable to secure the locking pins.

During drilling operation with common clockwise direction as indicated in FIG. 4e, a useful design is to avoid generating an extra force to push out the locking pins, the larger locking hole always rotates ahead of the smaller locking hole, which even creates the tendency to tighten the locking pin in place.

In addition to the optimum locking pin designed above, there are various ways to fasten the replaceable pin end tool joint and the tool joint adapter together. The cylinder diameter of the locking pin can be one diameter from one end to another end. The hole for holding the locking pin could be one size through its whole depth or can be machined so as one end is smaller than the opposed end. As another example, we can install the taper pin through the corresponding tapered hole, which is made up from the tapered groove on the polygon male connection of the tool joint adapter and the tapered groove on the mated replaceable pin end tool joint.

FIGS. 5 a and 5b are perspective views of an embodiment of a box tool joint 150. In this embodiment, box tool joint 150 includes a box tool joint body 151 with a box tool joint internal hole 152 extending therethrough. Box tool joint 150 includes a threaded box 153 having box threads 154 at one end and a faceted pin 158 at an opposed end. Box threads 154 face box tool joint internal hole 152. It should be noted that box tool joint internal hole 152 extends through threaded box 153 and faceted pin 158, and allows material to flow therethrough.

In this embodiment, faceted pin 158 includes a faceted fitting 160 that extends outwardly from a pin shoulder 157. Faceted pin 158 may include a sealing pin 155, wherein faceted fitting 160 is positioned proximate to pin shoulder 157 and sealing pin 155 is positioned away from pin shoulder 157. Sealing pin 155 may be spaced from pin shoulder 157 by faceted fitting 160. Faceted fitting 160 may be arranged between pin shoulder 157 and sealing pin 155. It should be noted that pin shoulder 157 may face faceted fitting 160 and sealing pin 155, and may face away from threaded box 153. It should also be noted that box tool joint internal hole 152 may extend through faceted fitting 160 and sealing pin 155.

Pin 155 may be a sealing pin because it may form a seal with another component, as will be discussed in more detail below. In this embodiment, sealing pin 155 includes a seal groove extending annularly around it. The seal groove may receive a sealing member, such as an O-ring seal, wherein the sealing member forms a seal with another component. In this way, pin 155 may be a sealing pin. In this embodiment, sealing pin 155 includes two seal grooves, denoted as seal grooves 156a and 156b. In general, sealing pin 155 of the box tool joint includes one or more seal grooves.

Fitting 160 may be a faceted fitting because it may include a face with a discontinuous curvature, and may not include a curved face with a continuous curvature, as will be discussed in more detail presently. Faceted fitting 160 may include a fitting face. In this embodiment, faceted fitting 160 includes opposed fitting faces 161 and 162, opposed fitting faces 163 and 164, opposed fitting faces 165 and 166 and opposed fitting faces 167 and 168. It should be noted that faceted fitting 160 includes eight fitting faces in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. However, in general, faceted fitting 160 includes one or more fitting faces. The number of fitting faces of faceted fitting 160 corresponds to the number of socket faces of faceted socket 140 so that faceted socket 140 can receive faceted fitting 160.

It should also be noted that fitting faces 161 and 163 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 160 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 163 and 165 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 160 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 165 and 167 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 160 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 167 and 162 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 160 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 162 and 164 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 160 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 164 and 166 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 160 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 166 and 168 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 160 is discontinuous between them. In this way, fitting 160 may be a faceted fitting.

In this embodiment, box tool joint 150 includes a locking pin groove that extends through a fitting face of faceted fitting 160. In general, box tool joint 150 may include one or more locking pin grooves. In this embodiment, box tool joint 150 includes two locking pin grooves, which are denoted as locking pin grooves 169a and 169b. In this embodiment, locking pin grooves 169a and 169b are opposed to each other, wherein locking pin grooves 169a and 169b are proximate to fitting faces 161 and 162, respectively. In particular, locking pin grooves 169a and 169b extend through fitting faces 161 and 162, respectively. Locking pin grooves 169a and 169b extend through fitting faces 161 and 162, respectively, so that locking pin grooves 169a and 169b face locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b, respectively, when faceted socket 140 receives faceted fitting 160, as will be discussed in more detail below.

It should be noted that locking pin groove 169a may extend through a portion of fitting faces 163 and 168, as shown in FIGS. 5a and 5b, respectively. Further, locking pin groove 169b may extend through a portion of fitting faces 167 and 164, as shown in FIGS. 5a and 5b, respectively. In this way, box tool joint 150 may include a locking pin groove that extends through faceted fittings.

FIG. 6 a is a cut-away side view of an embodiment of a drill string 100a that includes a tool assembly 108a, wherein tool assembly 108a includes tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 coupled together, and FIGS. 6b and 6c are close-up views of drill string 100a of FIG. 6a. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, drill pipe 110 is coupled to box tool joint 150. In particular, threaded pin 119 (FIG. 2a) is coupled to threaded box 153 (FIG. 5b). Threaded pin 119 is coupled to threaded box 153 so that pin threads 114 are threadingly engaged with box threads 154 (FIG. 5b).

Further, drill pipe 120 may be coupled to tool joint adapter 130. In this embodiment, threaded box 123 (FIG. 3a) has been removed from drill pipe body 121 and replaced with tool joint adapter 130. In particular, threaded box 123 has been removed from drill pipe body 121 and tool joint adapter fitting 134 is coupled to drill pipe body 121. Tool joint adapter fitting 134 may be fastened to drill pipe body 121, such as by welding, so that a seal is formed therebetween.

It should be noted that drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 may be in fluid communication with each other through box tool joint 150 and tool joint adapter 130. In particular, drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 may be in fluid communication with each other through tool joint adapter internal hole 132 and box tool joint internal hole 152. In this way, material can flow between drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 through tool joint adapter internal hole 132 and box tool joint internal hole 152. As discussed in more detail above, tool joint adapter internal hole 132 may extend through tool joint adapter 130, and box tool joint internal hole 152 extends through box tool joint 150.

In this embodiment, sealing members 272 and 273 are coupled to sealing pin 155. In particular, sealing members 272 and 273 are carried by sealing pin 155 so they extend through seal grooves 156a and 156b, respectively, as shown in FIG. 6c. Sealing members 272 and 273 can be of many different types, such as O-ring seals. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, tool joint adapter body 131 includes grooves opposed to seal grooves 156a and 156b. However, in other embodiments, such as the one indicated by an indication arrow 117 in FIG. 6a, tool joint adapter body 131 does not include grooves opposed to seal grooves 156a and 156b.

In this embodiment, faceted pin 158 (FIG. 5a) is extended through tool joint adapter body 131. In particular, faceted fitting 160 and sealing pin 155 are extended through tool joint adapter internal hole 132 and annular socket face 149 (FIGS. 4c, 4d and 6b). Sealing pin 155 is extended through tool joint adapter body 131 so that a seal is formed in response to sealing members 272 and 273 sealingly engaging an inner periphery of tool joint adapter body 131.

Faceted fitting 160 (FIGS. 5a and 5b) may be extended through tool joint adapter body 131 so that faceted fitting 160 faces socket face 140 (FIGS. 4c and 4d). In particular, faceted fitting 160 may be extended through tool joint adapter body 130 so that fitting faces 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167 and 168 face socket faces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 and 148, respectively. In this embodiment, fitting faces 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167 and 168 engage socket faces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 and 148, respectively, so that the rotation of box tool joint 150 relative to tool joint adapter 130 is restricted.

Furthermore, faceted fitting 160 may be extended through tool joint adapter body 131 so that locking pin grooves 169a and 169b (FIGS. 5a and 5b) face locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b (FIG. 4d), respectively. Locking pin grooves 169a and 169b may face locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b, respectively, in response to fitting faces 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167 and 168 facing socket faces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 and 148, respectively.

In this embodiment, a locking pin 270a may be extended through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 169a. In some embodiments, locking pin 270a may be extended through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 169a in response to extending the locking pin through locking pin hole opening 137a. In some embodiments, locking pin 270a is extended through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 169a in response to extending it through locking pin hole opening 138a.

The movement between tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 may be restricted in response to locking pin 270a extending through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 169a. In particular, the movement of tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 away from each other may be restricted in response to locking pin 270a extending through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 169a. Locking pin 270a may lock tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 together when the locking pin restricts movement of tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 away from each other.

In this embodiment, a fastener 271a extends through fastener opening 136a (FIGS. 4c, 4d, 6b and 6c). Fastener 271a extends through fastener opening 136a and engages locking pin 270a. Fastener 271a engages locking pin 270a to restrict its movement through locking pin internal hole 135a. In this way, locking pin 270a is less likely to undesirably move through locking pin hole openings 137a and 138a and out of locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 169a. The movement between tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 may be less likely to be restricted in response to locking pin 270a moving out of locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 169a. Hence, it may be desirable to fasten locking pin 270a in locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 169a. Fastener 271a can be of many different types, such as a set screw. As shown in FIG. 6b, fastener 271a is sunk into tool joint adapter body 131 so that the fastener is less likely to be sheared off.

In this embodiment, a locking pin 270b is extended through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b. In some situations, locking pin 270b is extended through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b in response to extending it through locking pin hole opening 137b. In some embodiments, locking pin 270b is extended through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b in response to extending it through locking pin hole opening 138b.

The movement between tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 may be restricted in response to locking pin 270b extending through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b. In particular, the movement of tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 away from each other may be restricted in response to locking pin 270b extending through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b. Locking pin 270b may lock tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 together when the locking pin restricts the movement of tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 away from each other.

In this embodiment, a fastener 271b extends through fastener opening 136b (FIGS. 4d and 6c). Fastener 271b extends through fastener opening 136b and engages locking pin 270b. Fastener 271b engages locking pin 270b to restrict its movement through locking pin internal hole 135b. In this way, locking pin 270b is less likely to undesirably move through locking pin hole openings 137b and 138b and out of locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b. The movement between tool joint adapter 130 and box tool joint 150 is less likely to be restricted in response to locking pin 270b moving out of locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b. Hence, it may be desirable to fasten locking pin 270b in locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b. Fastener 271b can be of many different types, such as a set screw. Fastener 271b can be sunk into tool joint adapter body 131 so that it is less likely to be sheared off.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pin tool joint 170. In this embodiment, pin tool joint 170 includes a pin tool joint body 171 with a pin tool joint internal hole 172 extending therethrough. Pin tool joint 170 includes a threaded pin 179 at one end and a faceted pin 198 at an opposed end. It should be noted that pin tool joint internal hole 172 extends through threaded pin 179 and faceted pin 198, and allows material to flow therethrough.

Threaded pin 179 may include a pin cylinder 175 that may extend away from a pin shoulder 176, and a threaded pin 173 that may include pin threads 174. Pin cylinder 175 may be proximate to pin shoulder 176 and threaded pin 173 is away from pin shoulder 176. Threaded pin 173 is spaced from pin shoulder 176 by pin fitting 175. Pin cylinder 175 is between threaded pin 173 and pin shoulder 176. Pin cylinder 175 is a non-faceted fitting because it includes a curved face with a continuous curvature, and does not include a flat face with a discontinuous curvature. Pin cylinder 175 extends through a threaded box of another drill pipe, such as drill pipe 120, when the pin cylinder is coupled to drill pipe 110. It should be noted that pin tool joint internal hole 172 may extend through pin cylinder 175 and threaded pin 173.

In this embodiment, faceted pin 198 includes a faceted fitting 180 that extends outwardly from a pin shoulder 177. Faceted pin 198 includes a sealing pin 195, wherein faceted fitting 180 is positioned proximate to pin shoulder 177 and sealing pin 195 is positioned away from pin shoulder 177. Sealing pin 195 is spaced from pin shoulder 177 by faceted fitting 180. Faceted fitting 180 is between pin shoulder 177 and sealing pin 195. It should be noted that pin shoulder 177 faces faceted fitting 180 and sealing pin 195, and faces away from threaded pin 179. It should also be noted that pin tool joint internal hole 172 extends through faceted fitting 180 and sealing pin 195, and allows material to flow therethrough.

Pin 195 may be a sealing pin because it may form a seal with another component, as will be discussed in more detail below. In this embodiment, sealing pin 195 includes a seal groove extending annularly around it. The seal groove receives a sealing member, such as an O-ring seal, wherein the sealing member forms a seal with another component. In this way, pin 195 is a sealing pin. In this embodiment, sealing pin 195 includes two seal grooves, denoted as seal grooves 196a and 196b. In general, sealing pin 195 of the pin tool joint includes one or more seal grooves.

Fitting 180 may be a faceted fitting because it may include two faces with a discontinuous curvature between them, and may not include a curved face with a continuous curvature, as will be discussed in more detail presently. Faceted fitting 180 may include a fitting face. In this embodiment, faceted fitting 180 includes opposed fitting faces 181 and 182, opposed fitting faces 183 and 184, opposed fitting faces 185 and 186 and opposed fitting faces 187 and 188. It should be noted that faceted fitting 180 includes eight fitting faces in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. However, in general, faceted fitting 180 includes one or more fitting faces. The number of fitting faces of faceted fitting 180 corresponds to the number of socket faces of faceted socket 140 so that faceted socket 140 can receive faceted fitting 180.

It should also be noted that fitting faces 181 and 183 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 180 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 183 and 185 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 180 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 185 and 187 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 180 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 187 and 182 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 180 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 182 and 184 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 180 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 184 and 186 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 180 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 186 and 188 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 180 is discontinuous between them. In this way, fitting 180 is a faceted fitting.

In this embodiment, pin tool joint 170 includes a locking pin groove which extends through a fitting face of faceted fitting 180. In general, pin tool joint 170 includes one or more locking pin grooves. In this embodiment, pin tool joint 170 includes two locking pin grooves, which are denoted as locking pin grooves 189a and 189b. Also in this embodiment, locking pin grooves 189a and 189b are opposed to each other, wherein locking pin grooves 189a and 189b are proximate to fitting faces 181 and 182, respectively. In particular, locking pin grooves 189a and 189b extend through fitting faces 181 and 182, respectively. Locking pin grooves 189a and 189b extend through fitting faces 181 and 182, respectively, so that locking pin grooves 189a and 189b face locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b (FIG. 4d), respectively, when faceted socket 140 receives faceted fitting 180, as will be discussed in more detail below.

It should be noted that locking pin groove 189a may extend through a portion of fitting faces 183 and 188. Further, locking pin groove 189b may extend through a portion of fitting faces 187 and 184. In this way, pin tool joint 170 may include a locking pin groove that extends through faceted fittings.

FIG. 8 a is a cut-away side view of an embodiment of a drill string 100b that includes a tool assembly 108b, wherein tool assembly 108b includes tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 coupled together, and FIGS. 8b and 8b are close-up views of drill string 100b of FIG. 8a. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, drill pipe 120 is coupled to pin tool joint 170. In particular, threaded pin 179 (FIG. 7) is coupled to threaded box 123 (FIG. 3a). Threaded pin 179 is coupled to threaded box 123 so that pin threads 174 are threadingly engaged with box threads 124 (FIG. 3a).

Further, drill pipe 110 may be coupled to tool joint adapter 130. In this embodiment, threaded pin 119 (FIG. 2a) has been removed from drill pipe body 111 and replaced with tool joint adapter 130. In particular, threaded pin 119 has been removed from drill pipe body 111 and tool joint adapter fitting 134 is coupled to drill pipe body 111. Tool joint adapter fitting 134 is fastened to drill pipe body 111, such as by welding, so that a seal is formed therebetween.

It should be noted that drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 may be in fluid communication with each other through pin tool joint 170 and tool joint adapter 130. In particular, drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 may be in fluid communication with each other through tool joint adapter internal hole 132 and pin tool joint internal hole 172. In this way, material can flow between drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 through tool joint adapter internal hole 132 and pin tool joint internal hole 172. As discussed in more detail above, tool joint adapter internal hole 132 extends through tool joint adapter 130, and pin tool joint internal hole 172 extends through pin tool joint 170.

In this embodiment, sealing members 272 and 273 are coupled to sealing pin 195. In particular, sealing members 272 and 273 are carried by sealing pin 195 so they extend through seal grooves 196b and 196a, respectively, as shown in FIG. 8c. Sealing members 272 and 273 can be of many different types, such as O-ring seals.

In this embodiment, faceted pin 198 (FIG. 7) is extended through tool joint adapter body 131. In particular, faceted fitting 180 and sealing pin 195 are extended through tool joint adapter internal hole 132 and annular socket face 149 (FIGS. 4c, 4d and 8b). Sealing pin 195 is extended through tool joint adapter body 131 so that a seal is formed in response to sealing members 272 and 273 sealingly engaging an inner periphery of tool joint adapter body 131.

Faceted fitting 180 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 is extended through tool joint adapter body 131 so that faceted fitting 180 faces socket face 140 (FIGS. 4c and 4d). In particular, faceted fitting 180 is extended through tool joint adapter body 130 so that fitting faces 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187 and 188 face socket faces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 and 148, respectively. In this embodiment, fitting faces 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187 and 188 engage socket faces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 and 148, respectively, so that the rotation of pin tool joint 170 relative to tool joint adapter 130 is restricted.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, faceted fitting 180 is extended through tool joint adapter body 131 so that locking pin grooves 189a and 189b (FIG. 7) face locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b (FIG. 4d), respectively. Locking pin grooves 189a and 189b face locking pin internal holes 135a and 135b, respectively, in response to fitting faces 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187 and 188 facing socket faces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 and 148, respectively.

In this embodiment, locking pin 270a is extended through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 189a. In some situations, locking pin 270a is extended through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 189a in response to extending it through locking pin hole opening 137a. In some situations, locking pin 270a is extended through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 189a in response to extending it through locking pin hole opening 138a.

The movement between tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 may be restricted in response to locking pin 270a extending through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 189a. In particular, the movement of tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 away from each other may be restricted in response to locking pin 270a extending through locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 189a. Locking pin 270a may lock tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 together when the locking pin restricts the movement of tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 away from each other.

In this embodiment, fastener 271a extends through fastener opening 136a (FIGS. 4c, 4d, 8b and 8c). Fastener 271a extends through fastener opening 136a and engages locking pin 270a. Fastener 271a engages locking pin 270a to restrict its movement through locking pin internal hole 135a. In this way, locking pin 270a is less likely to undesirably move through locking pin hole openings 137a and 138a and out of locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 189a. The movement between tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 is less likely to be restricted in response to locking pin 270a moving out of locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 189a. Hence, it is desirable to fasten locking pin 270a in locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin groove 189a. Fastener 271a can be of many different types, such as a set screw. As shown in FIG. 8b, fastener 271a is sunk into tool joint adapter body 131 so that it is less likely to be sheared off.

In this embodiment, locking pin 270b is extended through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 189b. In some situations, locking pin 270b is extended through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 189b in response to extending the locking pin through locking pin hole opening 137b. In some situations, locking pin 270b is extended through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 189b in response to extending it through locking pin hole opening 138b.

The movement between tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 may be restricted in response to locking pin 270b extending through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 189b. In particular, the movement of tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 away from each other may be restricted in response to locking pin 270b extending through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 189b. Locking pin 270b may lock tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 together when it restricts the movement of tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 away from each other.

In this embodiment, fastener 271b extends through fastener opening 136b (FIGS. 4d and 8c). Fastener 271b extends through fastener opening 136b and engages locking pin 270b. Fastener 271b engages locking pin 270b to restrict movement of the locking pin through locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 189b. In this way, locking pin 270b may be less likely to undesirably move through locking pin hole openings 137b and 138b and out of locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 189b. The movement between tool joint adapter 130 and pin tool joint 170 is less likely to be restricted in response to locking pin 270b moving out of locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 189b. Hence, it may be desirable to fasten locking pin 270b in locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin groove 169b. Fastener 271b can be of many different types, such as a set screw. Fastener 271b can be sunk into tool joint adapter body 131 so that it is less likely to be sheared off.

FIGS. 9 a and 9c are perspective views of a box tool joint 200, and FIGS. 9b and 9d are end views of box tool joint 200 looking in opposed directions of 209a and 209b, respectively. In this embodiment, box tool joint 200 includes a box tool joint body 201 with a box tool joint internal hole 202 extending therethrough. Tool joint adapter internal hole 202 allows material to flow through box tool joint body 201. Box tool joint 200 includes a threaded box 203 at one end and a faceted socket 210 at an opposed end. It should be noted that box tool joint internal hole 202 extends through threaded box 203 and faceted socket 210, and allows material to flow therethrough. Threaded box 203 includes box threads 204, which face box tool joint internal hole 202.

As best seen in FIGS. 9c and 9d, box tool joint 200 may include a faceted socket 210, which includes a socket face. In this embodiment, faceted socket 210 includes opposed socket faces 211 and 212, opposed socket faces 213 and 214, opposed socket faces 215 and 216 and opposed socket faces 217 and 218. Socket faces 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217 and 218 extend through an annular socket face 219, and face box tool joint internal hole 202. It should also be noted that according to this embodiment, faceted socket 210 includes eight socket faces in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. However, in general, faceted socket 210 includes one or more socket faces. It should be noted that socket 210 is a faceted socket because it includes two faces with a discontinuous curvature between them, as will be discussed in more detail presently, and does not include a curved face with a continuous curvature. Faceted socket 210 faces box tool joint internal hole 202, and box tool joint internal hole 202 extends through faceted socket 210 and socket face 219, and allows material to flow therethrough.

Socket faces 211 and 213 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 210 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 213 and 215 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 210 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 215 and 217 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 210 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 217 and 212 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 210 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 212 and 214 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 210 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 214 and 216 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 210 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 216 and 218 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 210 may be discontinuous between them. In this way, socket 210 may be a faceted socket.

In this embodiment, box tool joint 200 includes a locking pin internal hole that extends through box tool joint body 201. In general, box tool joint 200 includes one or more locking pin internal holes. In this embodiment, box tool joint 200 includes two locking pin internal holes, which are denoted as locking pin internal holes 225a and 225b, as shown in FIG. 9d. In this embodiment, locking pin internal holes 225a and 225b are opposed to each other, wherein locking pin internal holes 225a and 225b are proximate to socket faces 211 and 212, respectively. In particular, locking pin internal holes 225a and 225b extend through socket faces 211 and 212, respectively. Locking pin internal holes 225a and 225b open into box tool joint internal hole 202.

In this embodiment, locking pin internal hole 225a includes opposed locking pin hole openings 227a and 228a, and a fastener opening 226a that extends through box tool joint body 201 and locking pin internal hole 225a. In particular, fastener opening 226a extends between an outer periphery of box tool joint body 201 and socket face 211. It should be noted that a portion of locking pin internal hole 225a proximate to fastener opening 226a faces box tool joint internal hole 202. The portion of locking pin internal hole 225a that faces fastener opening 226a opens into box tool joint internal hole 202.

In this embodiment, locking pin internal hole 225b includes opposed locking pin hole openings 227b and 228b, and a fastener opening 226b which extends through box tool joint body 201 and locking pin internal hole 225b. In particular, fastener opening 226b extends between an outer periphery of box tool joint body 201 and socket face 212. It should be noted that a portion of locking pin internal hole 225b proximate to fastener opening 226b faces box tool joint internal hole 202. The portion of locking pin internal hole 225b that faces fastener opening 226b opens into box tool joint internal hole 202.

FIGS. 10 a and 10b are perspective views of a tool joint adapter 230. In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 230 includes a tool joint adapter body 231 with a tool joint adapter internal hole 232 extending therethrough. Tool joint adapter 230 includes a faceted pin 239 at one end and a tool joint adapter fitting 234 at an opposed end. It should be noted that tool joint adapter internal hole 232 extends through faceted pin 239 and tool joint adapter fitting 234, and allows material to flow therethrough.

Tool joint adapter fitting 234 may extends away from a fitting shoulder 238. Tool joint adapter fitting 234 may be sized and shaped to be received by a drill pipe body, such as drill pipe bodies 111 and 121. Tool joint adapter fitting 234 may be a non-faceted fitting because it may include a curved face with a continuous curvature, and may not include a flat face with a discontinuous curvature. It should be noted that tool joint adapter internal hole 232 may extend through tool joint adapter fitting 234 and allows material to flow therethrough.

Tool joint adapter fitting 234 can be received by the drill pipe body after the threaded box or threaded pin has been removed therefrom. In some embodiments, tool joint adapter fitting 234 is welded to the drill pipe body. It should be noted that tool joint adapter 230 typically is repeatably removeable from the drill pipe body. In this way, threaded pin 119 (FIG. 2a) can be removed from the drill pipe body and replaced with tool joint adapter 230. Further, threaded box 123 (FIG. 3a) may be removed from the drill pipe body and replaced with tool joint adapter 230. However, as mentioned above, it is typically difficult to remove these components from a drill pipe body at a remote location because specialized tools are required.

In this embodiment, faceted pin 239 includes a faceted fitting 240 that extends outwardly from a pin shoulder 237. Faceted pin 239 includes a sealing pin 235, wherein faceted fitting 240 is positioned proximate to pin shoulder 237 and sealing pin 235 is positioned away from pin shoulder 237. Sealing pin 235 is spaced from pin shoulder 237 by faceted fitting 240. Faceted fitting 240 is between pin shoulder 237 and sealing pin 235. It should be noted that pin shoulder 237 faces faceted fitting 240 and sealing pin 235, and faces away from tool joint adapter fitting 234. It should also be noted that tool joint adapter internal hole 232 may extend through faceted fitting 240 and sealing pin 235. Further, pin shoulder 237 is opposed to fitting shoulder 238.

Pin 235 may be a sealing pin because it may form a seal with another component, as will be discussed in more detail below. In this embodiment, sealing pin 235 may include a seal groove extending annularly around it. The seal groove may receive a sealing member, such as an O-ring seal, wherein the sealing member forms a seal with another component. In this way, pin 235 may be a sealing pin. In this embodiment, sealing pin 235 may include two seal grooves, denoted as seal grooves 236a and 236b. In general, sealing pin 235 of the tool joint adapter may include one or more seal grooves.

Fitting 240 may be a faceted fitting because it may include two faces with a discontinuous curvature between them, and may not include a curved face with a continuous curvature, as will be discussed in more detail presently. Faceted fitting 240 may include a fitting face. In this embodiment, faceted fitting 240 includes opposed fitting faces 241 and 242, opposed fitting faces 243 and 244, opposed fitting faces 245 and 246 and opposed fitting faces 247 and 248. It should be noted that faceted fitting 240 includes eight fitting faces in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. However, in general, faceted fitting 240 includes one or more fitting faces. The number of fitting faces of faceted fitting 240 corresponds to the number of socket faces of faceted socket 210 so that faceted socket 210 can receive faceted fitting 240.

It should also be noted that fitting faces 241 and 243 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 240 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 243 and 245 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 240 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 245 and 247 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 240 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 247 and 242 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 240 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 242 and 244 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 240 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 244 and 246 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 240 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 246 and 248 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 240 is discontinuous between them. In this way, fitting 234 may be a faceted fitting.

In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 230 includes a locking pin groove that extends through a fitting face of faceted fitting 240. In general, tool joint adapter 230 includes one or more locking pin grooves. In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 230 includes two locking pin grooves, which are denoted as locking pin grooves 249a and 249b. In this embodiment, locking pin grooves 249a and 249b are opposed to each other, wherein locking pin grooves 249a and 249b are proximate to fitting faces 241 and 242, respectively. In particular, locking pin grooves 249a and 249b may extend through fitting faces 241 and 242, respectively. Locking pin grooves 249a and 249b extend through fitting faces 241 and 242, respectively, so that locking pin grooves 249a and 249b face locking pin internal holes 225a and 225b, respectively, when faceted socket 210 receives faceted fitting 240, as will be discussed in more detail below.

It should be noted that locking pin groove 249a may extend through a portion of fitting faces 243 and 248. Further, locking pin groove 249b may extend through a portion of fitting faces 247 and 244. In this way, tool joint adapter 230 may include a locking pin groove that extends through faceted fittings.

FIG. 11 a is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pin tool joint 250, and FIG. 11b is an end view of pin tool joint 250 in a direction 279. In this embodiment, pin tool joint 250 includes a pin tool joint body 251 with a pin tool joint internal hole 252 extending therethrough. Pin tool joint 250 includes a threaded pin 259 at one end and a faceted socket 260 at an opposed end. It should be noted that pin tool joint internal hole 252 extends through threaded pin 259 and faceted socket 260, and allows material to flow therethrough.

Threaded pin 259 may include a pin cylinder 255 that extends away from a pin shoulder 256, and a threaded pin 253 that includes pin threads 254. Pin cylinder 255 may be proximate to pin shoulder 256 and threaded pin 253 may be away from pin shoulder 256. Threaded pin 253 may be spaced from pin shoulder 256 by pin cylinder 255. Pin cylinder 255 may be between threaded pin 253 and pin shoulder 256. Pin cylinder 255 may be a non-faceted fitting because it includes a curved face with a continuous curvature, and does not include a flat face with a discontinuous curvature. Pin cylinder 255 may extend through a threaded box of another drill pipe, such as drill pipe 120, when it is coupled to drill pipe 110. It should be noted that pin tool joint internal hole 252 may extend through pin cylinder 255 and threaded pin 253, and may allow material to flow therethrough.

As best seen in FIG. 11b, faceted socket 260 may include a socket face. In this embodiment, faceted socket 260 includes opposed socket faces 261 and 262, opposed socket faces 263 and 264, opposed socket faces 265 and 266 and opposed socket faces 267 and 268. Socket faces 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267 and 268 may extend through an annular socket face 269, and face pin tool joint internal hole 252. Annular socket face 269 is opposed to fitting shoulder 253. In this way, faceted socket 260 faces Pin tool joint internal hole 252, and pin tool joint internal hole 252 extends through faceted socket 260 and socket face 269. Pin tool joint internal hole 252 may extend through faceted socket 260 and allows material to flow therethrough.

It should also be noted that faceted socket 260 includes eight socket faces in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. However, in general, faceted socket 260 may include one or more socket faces. It should be noted that socket 260 is a faceted socket because it includes two faces with a discontinuous curvature between them, as will be discussed in more detail presently, and does not include a curved face with a continuous curvature.

Socket faces 261 and 263 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 260 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 263 and 265 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 260 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 265 and 267 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 260 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 267 and 262 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 260 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 262 and 264 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 260 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 264 and 266 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 260 is discontinuous between them. Socket faces 266 and 268 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted socket 260 is discontinuous between them. In this way, faceted socket 260 is a faceted socket.

In this embodiment, pin tool joint 250 includes a locking pin internal hole that extends through pin tool joint body 251. In general, pin tool joint 250 includes one or more locking pin internal holes. In this embodiment, pin tool joint 250 includes two locking pin internal holes, which are denoted as locking pin internal holes 275a and 275b, as shown in FIG. 4d. In this embodiment, locking pin internal holes 275a and 275b are opposed to each other, wherein locking pin internal holes 275a and 275b are proximate to socket faces 261 and 262, respectively. In particular, locking pin internal holes 275a and 275b may extend through socket faces 261 and 262, respectively. Locking pin internal holes 275a and 275b may open into pin tool joint internal hole 252.

In this embodiment, locking pin internal hole 275a includes opposed locking pin hole openings 277a and 278a, and a fastener opening 276a that extends through pin tool joint body 251 and locking pin internal hole 275a. In particular, fastener opening 276a may extend between an outer periphery of pin tool joint body 251 and socket face 261. It should be noted that a portion of locking pin internal hole 275a proximate to fastener opening 276a faces pin tool joint internal hole 252. The portion of locking pin internal hole 275a that faces fastener opening 276a may open into pin tool joint internal hole 252.

In this embodiment, locking pin internal hole 275b includes opposed locking pin hole openings 277b and 278b, and a fastener opening 276b that extends through pin tool joint body 251 and locking pin internal hole 275b. In particular, according to this embodiment, fastener opening 276b extends between an outer periphery of pin tool joint body 251 and socket face 262. It should be noted that a portion of locking pin internal hole 275b proximate to fastener opening 276b may faces pin tool joint internal hole 252. The portion of locking pin internal hole 275b that faces fastener opening 276b may open into pin tool joint internal hole 252.

FIGS. 12 a and 12b are perspective views of an embodiment of a tool joint adapter 280. In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 280 includes a tool joint adapter body 281 with a tool joint adapter channel 282 extending therethrough. Tool joint adapter 280 includes a faceted pin 289 at one end and a tool joint adapter fitting 284 at an opposed end. It should be noted that tool joint adapter channel 282 may extend through faceted pin 289 and tool joint adapter fitting 284, and allows material to flow therethrough.

Tool joint adapter fitting 284 may extend away from a fitting shoulder 288. Tool joint adapter fitting 284 may be sized and shaped to be received by a drill rod body, such as drill rod bodies 111 and 121. Tool joint adapter fitting 284 is a non-faceted fitting because it includes a curved face with a continuous curvature, and does not include a flat face with a discontinuous curvature. It should be noted that tool joint adapter channel 282 may extend through tool joint adapter fitting 284, and may allow material to flow therethrough.

Tool joint adapter fitting 284 can be received by the drill rod body after the threaded box or threaded pin has been removed therefrom. In some embodiments, tool joint adapter fitting 284 is welded to the drill rod body. It should be noted that tool joint adapter 280 may be repeatably removeable from the drill rod body. In this way, threaded pin 119 (FIG. 2a) can be removed from the drill rod body and replaced with tool joint adapter 280. Further, threaded box 123 (FIG. 3a) can be removed from the drill rod body and replaced with tool joint adapter 280.

In this embodiment, faceted pin 289 includes a faceted fitting 290 that extends outwardly from a pin shoulder 287. Faceted pin 289 includes a sealing pin 285, wherein faceted fitting 290 is positioned proximate to pin shoulder 287 and sealing pin 285 is positioned away from pin shoulder 287. Sealing pin 285 is spaced from pin shoulder 287 by faceted fitting 290. Faceted fitting 290 is between pin shoulder 287 and sealing pin 285. It should be noted that pin shoulder 287 faces faceted fitting 290 and sealing pin 285, and faces away from tool joint adapter fitting 284. It should also be noted that tool joint adapter channel 282 extends through faceted fitting 290 and sealing pin 285. Further, pin shoulder 287 is opposed to fitting shoulder 288.

Pin 285 is a sealing pin because is forms a seal with another component, as will be discussed in more detail below. In this embodiment, sealing pin 285 includes a seal groove extending annularly around it. The seal groove receives a sealing member, such as an O-ring seal, wherein the sealing member forms a seal with another component. In this way, pin 285 is a sealing pin. In this embodiment, sealing pin 285 includes two seal grooves, denoted as seal grooves 285a and 285b. In general, box joint sealing pin 235 includes one or more seal grooves.

This embodiment of the fitting 290 is a faceted fitting because it includes two faces with a discontinuous curvature between them, and does not include a curved face with a continuous curvature, as will be discussed in more detail presently. Faceted fitting 290 includes a fitting face. In this embodiment, faceted fitting 290 includes opposed fitting faces 291 and 292, opposed fitting faces 293 and 294, opposed fitting faces 295 and 296 and opposed fitting faces 297 and 298. It should be noted that faceted fitting 290 includes eight fitting faces in this embodiment for illustrative purposes. However, in general, faceted fitting 290 includes one or more fitting faces. The number of fitting faces of faceted fitting 290 corresponds to the number of socket faces of faceted socket 260 so that faceted socket 260 can receive faceted fitting 240.

It should also be noted that fitting faces 291 and 293 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 290 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 293 and 295 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 290 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 295 and 297 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 290 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 297 and 292 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 290 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 292 and 294 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 290 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 294 and 296 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 290 is discontinuous between them. Fitting faces 296 and 298 may be at an angle relative to each other so that the curvature of faceted fitting 290 is discontinuous between them. In this way, fitting 290 may be a faceted fitting.

In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 280 includes a dowel pin groove that extends through a fitting face of faceted fitting 283. In general, tool joint adapter 280 may includes one or more dowel pin grooves. In this embodiment, tool joint adapter 280 includes two dowel pin grooves, which are denoted as dowel pin grooves 299a and 299b. In this embodiment, dowel pin grooves 299a and 299b are opposed to each other, wherein dowel pin grooves 299a and 299b are proximate to fitting faces 291 and 292, respectively. In particular, dowel pin grooves 249a and 249b extend through fitting faces 291 and 292, respectively. Dowel pin grooves 299a and 299b extend through fitting faces 291 and 292, respectively, so that dowel pin grooves 299a and 299b face dowel pin channels 275a and 275b, respectively, when faceted socket 260 receives faceted fitting 240, as will be discussed in more detail below.

It should be noted that dowel pin groove 299a may extend through a portion of fitting faces 293 and 298. Further, dowel pin groove 299b extends through a portion of fitting faces 297 and 294. In this way, tool joint adapter 280 includes a dowel pin groove that extends through faceted fittings.

FIG. 13 a is a cut-away side view of a drill string 100c that includes a tool assembly 108c, wherein tool assembly 108c includes tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 coupled together, and FIGS. 13b and 13b are close-up views of drill string 100c of FIG. 13a. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, drill pipe 110 is coupled to box tool joint 200. In particular, threaded pin 119 (FIG. 2a) is coupled to threaded box 203 (FIG. 9a). Threaded pin 119 is coupled to threaded box 203 so that pin threads 114 are threadingly engaged with box threads 204.

Furthermore, drill pipe 120 may be coupled to tool joint adapter 230. In this embodiment, threaded box 123 (FIG. 3a) has been removed from drill pipe body 121 and replaced with tool joint adapter 230. In particular, threaded box 123 has been removed from drill pipe body 121 and tool joint adapter fitting 234 is coupled to drill pipe body 121. Tool joint adapter fitting 234 is fastened to drill pipe body 121, such as by welding, so that a seal is formed therebetween.

It should be noted that drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 may be in fluid communication with each other through box tool joint 200 and tool joint adapter 230. In particular, drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 may be in fluid communication with each other through tool joint adapter internal hole 232 and box tool joint internal hole 202. In this way, material can flow between drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 through tool joint adapter internal hole 232 and box tool joint internal hole 202. As discussed in more detail above, tool joint adapter internal hole 232 may extend through tool joint adapter 230, and box tool joint internal hole 202 extends through box tool joint 200.

In this embodiment, sealing members 272 and 273 are coupled to sealing pin 235. In particular, sealing members 272 and 273 are carried by sealing pin 235 so they extend through seal grooves 236a and 236b, respectively, as shown in FIG. 13c. Sealing members 272 and 273 can be of many different types, such as O-ring seals. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, tool joint adapter body 201 includes grooves opposed to seal grooves 236a and 236b. However, in other embodiments, such as the one indicated by an indication arrow 118 in FIG. 13a, tool joint adapter body 201 does not include grooves opposed to seal grooves 236a and 236b.

In this embodiment, faceted pin 239 (FIG. 10a) extends through box tool joint body 201 (FIG. 9a). In particular, faceted fitting 240 and sealing pin 235 extend through box tool joint body internal hole 202 and annular socket face 219 (FIGS. 9c, 9d and 13b). Sealing pin 235 extends through box tool joint body 201 so that a seal is formed in response to sealing members 272 and 273 sealingly engaging an inner periphery of box tool joint body 201.

The embodiment of the faceted fitting 240 shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b extends through box tool joint body 201 so that faceted fitting 240 faces faceted socket 210 (FIGS. 9c and 9d). In particular, faceted fitting 240 extends through box tool joint body 201 so that fitting faces 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247 and 248 face socket faces 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217 and 218, respectively. In this embodiment, fitting faces 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247 and 248 engage socket faces 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217 and 218, respectively, so that the rotation of box tool joint 200 relative to tool joint adapter 230 is restricted.

Furthermore, faceted fitting 240 extends through box tool joint body 201 so that locking pin grooves 249a and 249b (FIGS. 10a and 10b) face locking pin internal holes 225a and 225b (FIG. 9d), respectively. Locking pin grooves 249a and 249b face locking pin internal holes 225a and 225b, respectively, in response to fitting faces 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247 and 248 facing socket faces 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217 and 218, respectively.

In this embodiment, locking pin 270a extends through locking pin internal hole 225a and locking pin groove 249a. In some situations, locking pin 270a extends through locking pin internal hole 225a and locking pin groove 249a in response to the locking pin extending through locking pin hole opening 227a. In some situations, locking pin 270a extends through locking pin internal hole 225a and locking pin groove 249a in response to the locking pin extend through locking pin hole opening 228a.

The movement between tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 may be restricted in response to locking pin 270a extending through locking pin internal hole 225a and locking pin groove 249a. In particular, the movement of tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 away from each other may be restricted in response to locking pin 270a extending through locking pin internal hole 225a and locking pin groove 249a. Locking pin 270a may lock tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 together when the locking restricts the movement of tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 away from each other.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9c, 9d, 13b and 13c, fastener 271a extends through fastener opening 226a. Fastener 271a extends through fastener opening 226a and engages locking pin 270a. Fastener 271a engages locking pin 270a to restrict its movement through locking pin internal hole 225a. In this way, locking pin 270a is less likely to undesirably move through locking pin hole openings 227a and 228a and out of locking pin internal hole 225a and locking pin groove 249a. The movement between tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 is less likely to be restricted in response to locking pin 270a moving out of locking pin internal hole 225a and locking pin groove 249a. Hence, it is desirable to fasten locking pin 270a in locking pin internal hole 225a and locking pin groove 249a. Fastener 271a can be of many different types, such as a set screw. As shown in FIG. 13b, fastener 271a is sunk into box tool joint body 201 so that it is less likely to be sheared off.

In this embodiment, locking pin 270b extends through locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b. In some situations, locking pin 270b extends through locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b in response to the locking pin extending through locking pin hole opening 227b. In some situations, locking pin 270b may extend through locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b in response to the locking pin extending through locking pin hole opening 248b.

The movement between tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 may be restricted in response to locking pin 270b extending through locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b. In particular, the movement of tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 away from each other may be restricted in response to locking pin 270b extending through locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b. Locking pin 270b locks tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 together when the locking pin restricts the movement of tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 away from each other.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9d and 13c, fastener 271b extends through fastener opening 226b. Fastener 271b extends through fastener opening 226b and engages locking pin 270b. Fastener 271b engages locking pin 270b to restrict movement of the locking pin through locking pin internal hole 225b. In this way, locking pin 270b is less likely to undesirably move through locking pin hole openings 227b and 228b and out of locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b. The movement between tool joint adapter 230 and box tool joint 200 is less likely to be restricted in response to locking pin 270b moving out of locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b. Hence, it is desirable to fasten locking pin 270b in locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b. Fastener 271b can be of many different types, such as a set screw. Fastener 271b can be sunk into box tool joint body 201 so that it is less likely to be sheared off.

FIG. 14 a is a cut-away side view of an embodiment of a drill string 100d that includes a tool assembly 108d, wherein tool assembly 108d includes tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 coupled together, and FIGS. 14b and 14b are close-up views of drill string 100d of FIG. 14a. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, drill pipe 120 is coupled to pin tool joint 250. In particular, threaded pin 253 (FIG. 11a) is coupled to threaded box 123 (FIG. 3a). Threaded pin 253 is coupled to threaded box 123 so that pin threads 254 are threadingly engaged with box threads 124 (FIG. 3a).

Furthermore, drill pipe 110 may be coupled to tool joint adapter 280. In this embodiment, threaded pin 119 (FIG. 2a) has been removed from drill pipe body 111 and replaced with tool joint adapter 280. In particular, threaded pin 119 has been removed from drill pipe body 111 and tool joint adapter fitting 284 is coupled to drill pipe body 111. Tool joint adapter fitting 284 may be fastened to drill pipe body 111, such as by welding, so that a seal is formed therebetween.

It should be noted that drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 may be in fluid communication with each other through pin tool joint 250 and tool joint adapter 280. In particular, drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 may be in fluid communication with each other through tool joint adapter internal hole 282 and pin tool joint internal hole 252. In this way, material can flow between drill pipe internal holes 112 and 122 through tool joint adapter internal hole 282 and pin tool joint internal hole 252. As discussed in more detail above, tool joint adapter internal hole 282 may extend through tool joint adapter 280, and pin tool joint internal hole 252 extends through pin tool joint 250.

In this embodiment, sealing members 272 and 273 are coupled to sealing pin 285. In particular, sealing members 272 and 273 are carried by sealing pin 285 so they extend through seal grooves 286a and 286b, respectively, as shown in FIG. 14c. Sealing members 272 and 273 can be of many different types, such as O-ring seals. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, tool joint adapter body 251 includes grooves opposed to seal grooves 286a and 286b. However, in other embodiments, such as the one indicated by an indication arrow 119 in FIG. 14a, tool joint adapter body 201 does not include grooves opposed to seal grooves 286a and 286b.

In this embodiment, faceted pin 289 (FIG. 12a) extends through pin tool joint body 251 (FIG. 11a). In particular, faceted fitting 290 and sealing pin 285 extend through tool joint adapter internal hole 252 and annular socket face 269 (FIGS. 11a and 14b). Sealing pin 285 extends through pin tool joint body 251 so that a seal is formed in response to sealing members 272 and 273 sealingly engaging an inner periphery of pin tool joint body 251.

Faceted fitting 290 (FIGS. 12a and 12b) may extend through pin tool joint body 251 so that faceted fitting 290 faces faceted socket 260 as shown in FIGS. 11a and 11b. In particular, faceted fitting 290 may extend through pin tool joint body 251 so that fitting faces 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297 and 298 face socket faces 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267 and 268, respectively. In this embodiment, fitting faces 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297 and 298 engage socket faces 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267 and 268, respectively, so that the rotation of pin tool joint 250 relative to tool joint adapter 280 is restricted.

Furthermore, faceted fitting 290 may extend through pin tool joint body 251 so that locking pin grooves 299a and 299b (FIGS. 12a and 12b) face locking pin internal holes 275a and 275b (FIG. 11b), respectively. Locking pin grooves 299a and 299b may face locking pin internal holes 275a and 275b, respectively, in response to fitting faces 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297 and 298 facing socket faces 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267 and 268, respectively.

In this embodiment, locking pin 270a extends through locking pin internal hole 275a and locking pin groove 299a. In some situations, locking pin 270a extends through locking pin internal hole 275a and locking pin groove 299a in response to the locking pin extending through locking pin hole opening 277a. In some situations, locking pin 270a extends through locking pin internal hole 275a and locking pin groove 299a in response to the locking pin extending through locking pin hole opening 278a.

The movement between tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 may be restricted in response to locking pin 270a extending through locking pin internal hole 275a and locking pin groove 299a. In particular, the movement of tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 away from each other may be restricted in response to locking pin 270a extending through locking pin internal hole 275a and locking pin groove 299a. Locking pin 270a locks tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 together when the locking pin restricts the movement of tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 away from each other.

In this embodiment, fastener 271a extends through fastener opening 276a (FIGS. 11a, 11b, 14b and 14c). Fastener 271a extends through fastener opening 276a and engages locking pin 270a. Fastener 271a engages locking pin 270a to restrict its movement through locking pin internal hole 275a. In this way, locking pin 270a is less likely to undesirably move through locking pin hole openings 277a and 278a and out of locking pin internal hole 275a and locking pin groove 299a. The movement between tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 is less likely to be restricted in response to locking pin 270a moving out of locking pin internal hole 275a and locking pin groove 299a. Hence, it is desirable to fasten locking pin 270a in locking pin internal hole 275a and locking pin groove 299a. Fastener 271a can be of many different types, such as a set screw. As shown in FIG. 14b, fastener 271a is sunk into pin tool joint body 251 so that it is less likely to be sheared off.

In this embodiment, locking pin 270b extends through locking pin internal hole 275b and locking pin groove 299b. In some situations, locking pin 270b extends through locking pin internal hole 275b and locking pin groove 299b in response to the locking pin extending through locking pin hole opening 277b. In some situations, locking pin 270b extends through locking pin internal hole 275b and locking pin groove 299b in response to the locking pin extending through locking pin hole opening 278b.

The movement between tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 may be restricted in response to locking pin 270b extending through locking pin internal hole 275b and locking pin groove 299b. In particular, the movement of tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 away from each other may be restricted in response to locking pin 270b extending through locking pin internal hole 275b and locking pin groove 299b. Locking pin 270b locks tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 together when it restricts the movement of tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 away from each other.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11b and 14c, fastener 271b extends through fastener opening 276b. Fastener 271b extends through fastener opening 276b and engages locking pin 270b. Fastener 271b engages locking pin 270b to restrict its movement through locking pin internal hole 275b. In this way, locking pin 270b is less likely to undesirably move through locking pin hole openings 277b and 278b and out of locking pin internal hole 275b and locking pin groove 299b. The movement between tool joint adapter 280 and pin tool joint 250 is less likely to be restricted in response to locking pin 270b moving out of locking pin internal hole 275b and locking pin groove 299b. Hence, it is desirable to fasten locking pin 270b in locking pin internal hole 225b and locking pin groove 249b. Fastener 271b can be of many different types, such as a set screw. Fastener 271b can be sunk into pin tool joint body 251 so that it is less likely to be sheared off.

FIGS. 15 a and 15b are perspective views of embodiments of locking pins 270c and 270d, respectively. In this embodiment, locking pin 270c includes a locking pin body 274 that is cylindrical in shape. Locking pin body 274 is cylindrical in shape because it includes a radial dimension that is constant along its length.

In this embodiment, locking pin 270d includes a locking body portions 274a and 274b, wherein locking pin portions 274a and 274b have different radial dimensions. In this particular embodiment, the radial dimension of locking pin portion 274a is less than the radial dimension of locking pin portion 274b. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the radial dimension of locking pin portion 274b is greater than the radial dimension of locking pin portion 274a. In this embodiment, locking pin 270d is a single integral piece so that locking portions 274a and 274b are formed from a single piece of material.

FIGS. 15 c and 15d are perspective views of embodiments of faceted fittings 220a and 220b, respectively, for receiving locking pins 270c and 270d, respectively. It should be noted that faceted fittings 220a and 220b can be included with the faceted pins discussed herein, such as faceted pins 158, 198, 239 and 289.

In this embodiment, faceted fitting 220a includes a locking pin internal hole 221a having a constant radial dimension along its length. The radial dimension of locking pin internal hole 221a may be selected to match the radial dimension of locking pin 270c (FIG. 15a). Locking pin internal hole 221a extends through a fitting face 222, wherein fitting face 222 can correspond to fitting faces 161, 162, 181, 182, 241, 242, 291 and 292. It should be noted that fitting face 222 may also correspond to any of the other fitting faces discussed herein. Locking pin internal hole 221a also extends through fitting faces 223 and 224, wherein fitting faces 223 and 224 extend at angles from fitting face 222.

In this embodiment, fitting face 220b includes locking pin internal holes 221a and 221b adjacent to each other. The radial dimension of locking pin internal hole 221a is less than the radial dimension of locking pin internal hole 221b. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the radial dimension of locking pin internal hole 221b is greater than the radial dimension of locking pin internal hole 221a. In this embodiment, the radial dimension of locking pin internal hole 221a is selected to match the radial dimension of locking pin portion 274a (FIG. 15b). Further, the radial dimension of locking pin internal hole 221b is chosen to match the radial dimension of locking pin portion 274b (FIG. 15b). It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the radial dimension of the corresponding locking pin internal hole is also chosen to match the radial dimensions of locking pin portions 274a and 274b. Examples of locking pin internal holes that can have radial dimensions that match the radial dimensions of locking pin portions 274a and 274b include locking pin internal holes 135a, 135b, 225a, 225b, 275a and 275b.

FIGS. 16 a and 16b are embodiments of faceted sockets 125a and 125b, respectively, which include one and two facets, respectively. It should be noted that faceted sockets 125a and 125b can be included with the tool joint adapters, box tool joint and pin tool joints discussed herein, such as tool joint adapter 130, box tool joint 200 and pin tool joint 250.

In this embodiment, faceted socket 125a includes tool joint adapter body 131 with tool joint adapter internal hole 132 extending therethrough. Faceted socket 125a includes locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin hole openings 137a and 138a, as well as fastener opening 136, which are described in more detail above.

In this embodiment, faceted socket 125a includes socket face 141, wherein locking pin internal hole 135a is proximate to socket face 141. In particular, in this embodiment, locking pin internal hole 135a extends through socket face 141. Locking pin internal hole 135a opens into tool joint adapter internal hole 132. Socket face 141 is discussed in more detail above, and shown in FIG. 4d. Socket face 141 may be a flat face, and typically is not a curved face.

In this embodiment, faceted socket 125a includes a curved socket face 126 that extends around an inner periphery of tool joint adapter body 131 and between opposed ends of socket face 141. Socket face 126 is a curved face and is not a flat face like socket face 141. In this way, faceted socket 125a includes one flat socket face, which corresponds to socket face 141. Socket 125a is a faceted socket because it includes socket face 126.

In this embodiment, faceted socket 125b includes tool joint adapter body 131 with tool joint adapter internal hole 132 extending therethrough. Faceted socket 125b includes locking pin internal hole 135a and locking pin hole openings 137a and 138a, as well as fastener opening 136, which are described in more detail above. Further, faceted socket 125b includes locking pin internal hole 135b and locking pin hole openings 137b and 138b, as well as fastener opening 136, which are described in more detail above.

In this embodiment, faceted socket 125b includes socket face 141, wherein locking pin internal hole 135a is proximate to socket face 141. In particular, locking pin internal hole 135a extends through socket face 141. Locking pin internal hole 135a opens into tool joint adapter internal hole 132. Socket face 141 is discussed in more detail above, and shown in FIG. 4d. Socket face 141 is a flat face, and is not a curved face.

In this embodiment, faceted socket 125b includes socket face 142, wherein locking pin internal hole 135b is proximate to socket face 142. In particular, locking pin internal hole 135b extends through socket face 142. Locking pin internal hole 135b opens into tool joint adapter internal hole 132. Socket face 142 is discussed in more detail above, and shown in FIG. 4d. Socket face 142 is a flat face, and is not a curved face.

In this embodiment, faceted socket 125b includes curved socket face 126 which extends around an inner periphery of tool joint adapter body 131 and between ends of socket faces 141 and 142. Socket face 126 is a curved face and is not a flat face like socket face 141.

In this embodiment, faceted socket 125b includes curved socket face 127 that extends around an inner periphery of tool joint adapter body 131 and between ends of socket faces 141 and 142. Socket face 127 is a curved face and is not a flat face like socket face 141. In this way, faceted socket 125b includes two flat socket faces, which correspond to socket faces 141 and 142. Socket 125b is a faceted socket because it includes socket faces 126 and 127.

FIG. 17 illustrates a portion of the replaceable pin end tool joint 170, locking pin 270, tool joint adapter 130 and main drill pipe body 120. FIG. 17a illustrates a close-up view of the locking pin engaging the tool joint adapter and the replaceable pin end tool joint. As illustrated in FIG. 17a, the tool joint adapter and the replaceable pin end tool joint may each include a groove having a semi-circular cross-section. By having the pin engage both the replaceable pin end tool joint and the tool joint adapter helps to ensure that the replaceable pin end tool joint and the tool joint adapter are firmly assembled together and shouldered up by the locking pin. Such a connection between the replaceable pin end tool joint and the tool joint adapter can help to ensure that a pulldown load on the structure is distributed on both the locking pin and the shoulder of the tool joint adapter.

The outer surface of the tool joints and/or tool joint adapter may include treatments, coatings and/or elements to enhance durability. For example, the outer surface of the tool joints and/or tool joint adapter may include hardfacings to minimize O.D. wear and prolong the service life for both tool joints and main drill pipe body. The locking pins, locking pin holes, polygon pins and polygon boxes may also include treatments, coatings and/or elements to enhance durability. For example, a manganese phosphate conversion coating and related post treatment may be utilizes to create thin corrosion resistance layer on the surface of locking pins, locking pin holes, polygon pins, and/or polygon boxes.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17A, the semi-circular groove on the replaceable pin end tool joint is slightly higher than the half-moon groove on the tool joint adapter. The close sliding fit may be made up once the locking pin is arranged in place. The close sliding fit can create upward forces on the shoulder of the tool joint adapter and downward forces on the shoulder of the replaceable pin end tool joint. Forces on the joint between the replaceable pin end tool joint and the tool joint adapter are indicated by arrows 400. The connection shoulders can allow for a compression load to be transferred from the replaceable pin end tool joint to the main drill pipe body.

Advantages of embodiments of the invention can include shortening a repair time for a drill pipe. Embodiments of the invention can also significantly decrease repair cost for a drill pipe. Reducing repair time and cost can increase profit by increasing available drilling time and decreasing time and cost of repair. Embodiments of the invention can also permit worn tool joints to be replaced at a remote drilling site using only common tools, such as a hummer, punch pin, Allen key, and/or angle grinder, among other tools. Additionally, embodiments of the invention can promotes environmentally sustainable manufacturing processes because of less fuel is consumed in shipping products away from remote sites to be repaired. Furthermore, embodiments of the claimed invention can reduce welding smoke, water used to clean up used drill pipes, and contaminated water produced.

The foregoing description of the invention illustrates and describes the present invention. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only the preferred embodiments of the invention, but as aforementioned, it is to be understood that the invention is capable of use in various other combinations, modifications, and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concept as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and/or the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. The embodiments described hereinabove are further intended to explain best modes known of practicing the invention and to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention in such, or other, embodiments and with the various modifications required by the particular applications or uses of the invention. Accordingly, the description is not intended to limit the invention to the form disclosed herein. Also, it is intended that the appended claims be construed to include alternative embodiments.

Claims

1. A drill pipe assembly, comprising: a drill pipe body;first and second tool joint adapters coupled to the drill pipe body;a replaceable pin tool joint coupled to the first tool joint adapter; anda replaceable box tool joint coupled to the second tool joint adapter;wherein the first and second tool joint adapters are welded to the drill pipe body, andwherein the replaceable pin end tool joint and the replaceable box end tool joint are detachably coupled to the drill pipe body.

2. A tool assembly, comprising: a tool joint adapter;a tool joint coupled to the tool joint adapter through a faceted pin, wherein the faceted pin includes a faceted fitting having a fitting face;a dowel pin which extends through the tool joint adapter and tool joint, wherein the dowel pin extends through a dowel pin groove of the fitting face.

3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the tool joint and tool joint adapter are coupled together through a faceted socket engaged with the faceted pin.

4. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the dowel pin extends through a dowel pin channel which faces the dowel pin groove.

5. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the faceted pin includes a sealing pin which forms a seal between the tool joint and tool joint adapter.

6. The assembly of claim 2, wherein a locking sleeve body and a second drill rod tool joint include inner and outer race regions, respectively, which face each other.

7. The assembly of claim 2, further including a fastener which fastens the dowel pin in the dowel pin groove.

8. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the faceted pin includes a plurality of fitting faces.

9. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the faceted pin includes a curved fitting face.

10. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the faceted pin is included with the tool joint adapter.

11. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the faceted pin is included with the tool joint.

12. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the tool joint is a pin tool joint.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the pin tool joint includes a threaded pin.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the faceted pin is included with the pin tool joint.

15. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the tool joint is a box tool joint.

16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the box tool joint includes a threaded box.

17. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the faceted pin is included with the box tool joint.

18. The assembly of claim 2, wherein a locking sleeve body and a second drill pipe tool joint include inner and outer race regions, respectively, which face each other.

19. The assembly of claim 2, further comprising: a fastener which fastens a locking pin in a locking pin groove.

20. (canceled)

21. (canceled)

22. (canceled)

23. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the faceted pin is included with the tool joint.

24. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the tool joint is a pin tool joint.

25. The assembly of claim 24, wherein the pin tool joint includes a threaded pin.

26. The assembly of claim 24, wherein the faceted pin is included with the pin tool joint.

27. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the tool joint is a box tool joint.

28. The assembly of claim 27, wherein the box tool joint includes a threaded box.

29. The assembly of claim 27, wherein the faceted pin is included with the box tool joint.