Steven Albright

Title: Steven Albright and His Power Tong Invention.

Introduction

Steven Albright is an inventor associated with Houston, Texas, and Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. His patent work includes a power tong designed to rotate tubular members during make-up and break-out operations. The invention focuses on gripping tubulars securely while reducing the risk of slipping, marking, or damaging their surfaces.

Latest Patents

Albright’s listed patent is titled “Power Tong.” It describes a tong with at least one movable jaw fitted with a smooth-surface gripping element. Pre-load apparatus applies force to the jaw to help it grip a tubular reliably during rotation.

The design describes separate pre-load devices for break-out and make-up operations, positioned at opposite ends of a movable jaw. It also includes smooth-surfaced jaw inserts, which may be made of aluminum, and a pivotable pre-load cylinder that can connect to either of two jaws. The cylinder may be pivoted manually or with a smaller powered piston and cylinder. Another described feature is a jaw unit in which the jaw slides relative to its holder.

Albright is credited with 1 patent.

Career Highlights

Albright’s documented invention addresses a practical challenge in tubular handling: applying enough gripping force for dependable rotation without damaging the tubular. The patent describes several mechanical approaches to jaw movement, pre-loading, and surface contact.

Collaborations

Albright’s listed coworkers include Michael W. Hayes and Bernd G. Pietras. Their names provide context for the professional environment associated with his work at Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.

Conclusion

Steven Albright’s power tong patent brings together movable jaws, pre-load mechanisms, and smooth gripping surfaces to support make-up and break-out operations while helping protect tubular members.