Pipe running tool having a primary load path

Abstract

A system for coupling a pipe segment to a pipe string is provided that includes a top drive assembly having a threaded output shaft; and a pipe running tool threadingly coupled to the threaded output shaft of the top drive assembly such that the primary load of the pipe running tool is supported by the threads of the output shaft of the top drive assembly, and wherein the pipe running tool is rotatable by the output shaft and further includes a pipe engaging portion for grippingly engaging the pipe segment sufficient to transmit a torque from the top drive output shaft to the pipe segment.

1 . A system for coupling a pipe segment to a pipe string and introducing the pipe string into a borehole, comprising:
 a top drive assembly including a drive shaft, the top drive assembly being operative to rotate the drive shaft; and   a pipe running tool coupled to the drive shaft and rotatable by the drive shaft,   wherein the pipe running tool comprises a pipe engaging portion having a plurality of slips for grippingly engaging the pipe segment sufficient to transmit a torque from the drive shaft to the pipe segment and sufficient to vertically support at least a portion of the weight of a string of pipe segments.   
   
   
       2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the pipe running tool comprises an extension shaft threadedly coupled to the drive shaft, and a lift cylinder coupled between the extension shaft and the pipe engaging portion.