Apparatus for axial connection and joinder of tubulars by application of

Abstract

Apparatus and method for disconnection and connection of tubular members, by remote pressure means, includes: First tubular housing having a male extension, second tubular housing having a mating female recess, latch blocks disposed radially in openings of the male extension, slotted piston for operating the latch blocks, pilot piston, detent lock-out mechanism operated by pilot piston movement, pilot piston shear pins, and piston bias/return springs. The hydraulic disconnect is typically installed in a tubular work string where remote disconnection may be required. Latch blocks, extending radially through openings of the male extension and into annular grooves of the mating female recess, connect the first and second housings together. Fluid flow is permitted through axial bores of the first tubular housing, pilot piston, slotted piston and second tubular housing. Disconnection is accomplished by application of a pre-selected pressure differential across the pilot piston, typically by pumping a sealing ball to the pilot piston. Sufficient pressure differential overcomes shear pin means and the bias spring of the pilot piston causing it to axially shift. Movement of the pilot piston releases a lock-out mechanism allowing the slotted piston to axially extend. Extension of the slotted piston allows latch block retraction, thereby permitting the male and female bodies to axially disconnect. Re-connection follows a reverse process wherein pressure is applied to withdraw the latch block, the first and second housings are physically connected, and pressure is withdrawn to extend blocks and lock the housings together.