Rotating high-pressure pumping head

Abstract

A pumping assembly is provided that is capable of conveying fluids (including solids-laden fluids) pumped into oil and/or gas wells at high pressure including, without limitation, fluids pumped during hydraulic fracturing and other stimulation operations. The pumping assembly can be rotated about its central longitudinal axis, thereby eliminating dangerous activities and wasted time when pipe is removed from a well.

1 . A rotating high-pressure pumping head comprising:
 a. an outer sleeve having a top, a bottom, a length and at least one fluid inlet along said length;   b. a central mandrel rotatably received within said outer sleeve, wherein said central mandrel comprises a top, a bottom and a length, and wherein a central flow bore extends from said top to said bottom of said mandrel, and a plurality of radial apertures extend from the outer surface of said mandrel to said central flow bore;   c. at least one pressure seal between said outer sleeve and said central mandrel; and   d. a threaded connection means at the bottom of said mandrel.   
   
   
       2 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising at least one ball drop sub. 
   
   
       3 . The apparatus of  claim 1  further comprising a upper mandrel sub having a box end threaded connection. 
   
   
       4 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of safety valves disposed below said outer sleeve.