Internal running elevator

Abstract

The invention relates to a lifting tool for handling of a pipe-string pipe length for joining and lowering or lifting and disassembly of conductor, casing, risers, drill string, or similar in a bore hole or well. The invention also relates to a lifting system for lifting or lowering pipe length and pipe-string, for joining and lowering or lifting and disassembling of conductor, casing, risers, drill string, or similar in a bore hole or well. The lifting system comprises a lifting tool with a lifting part and a support part connected to an elevator apparatus which is mounted to a top drive and where the lifting tool lifting part shall operate in conjunction with a power slip which is configured to receive and hold in a fixed position a standing pipe length or pipe-string. Finally the invention comprises a method for lifting of pipe length for joining of pipe length to a pipe-string, including conductor, casing, risers, or similar for use in a bore hole or well with the use of a lifting system and lifting tool according to the invention.

1 - 87 . (canceled)  
   
   
       88 . A lifting tool for handling of a pipe-string ( 2 ) and pipe sections ( 3 , 4 ) during joining and lowering or lifting and disassembly of conductors, casings, risers, drill strings or similar in a bore hole ( 160 ) or a well ( 161 ), the lifting tool comprising 
 a lifting part ( 20 ) comprising a coaxial, rod ( 47 ) and a connection part ( 5 ) for connection to and receiving lifting force from a drive unit or top drive ( 60 ) or derrick crane ( 60 ); and    a hydraulic system ( 40 ) arranged for retaining and holding the lifting part ( 20 ) against either or both of the outer or inner surface of an end of the pipe sections ( 3 , 4 ) or the pipe string ( 2 );    a lifting nipple ( 32 ) with a hollow coaxial lifting nipple axle ( 36 ), a lifting nipple cone ( 37 ), and a lifting nipple flange or collar ( 33 ) which is located between the lifting nipple axle ( 36 ) and the lifting nipple cone ( 37 ) and further arranged for transfer of load to the lifting tool, in which the lifting nipple ( 32 ) is arranged concentric about the piston rod ( 47 ) and arranged for movement along the piston rod ( 47 ), in which the lifting nipple ( 32 ) is arranged for carrying the entire or part of the weight of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or the resulting pipe-string ( 2 ), and in which the lifting nipple cone ( 37 ) is provided with external generally horizontal grooves or external central threads ( 34 ) and arranged for screwing into and out of the end of a pipe section ( 3 , 4 ), characterized in    that the lifting part ( 20 ) is arranged for rotation about the central axis of the piston rod ( 47 ), such that the lifting part ( 20 ) with the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is arranged for a controlled joining of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) with a generally upright pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) located below preferably joining by screwing the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) into the end of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 );    that the lifting part ( 20 ) after the joining of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) with the pipe string ( 2 ) is arranged for supporting the entire or part of the weight of the resulting pipe string ( 2 ); and    that the lifting part ( 20 ) is pivotable about a horizontal axis and arranged for grasping a pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) from a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal position.    
   
   
       89 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) is arranged for circulation of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mixture via a flexible hose ( 7 ) on the connection part ( 5 ) of the lifting tool and via the piston rod ( 47 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool.  
   
   
       90 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) also comprises a coaxial guide tube ( 38 ) arranged concentric about the piston rod ( 47 ).  
   
   
       91 . A lifting tool according to  claim 90 , in which the lifting nipple ( 32 ) is arranged concentric about the coaxial guide tube ( 38 ), and in which the lifting nipple ( 32 ) is arranged for movement along the coaxial guide tube ( 38 ) during screwing into and screwing out of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ).  
   
   
       92 . A lifting tool according to  claim 90 , in which external threads ( 38   a ) are arranged on the coaxial guide tube ( 38 ) for engagement with internal, generally horizontal grooves or threads ( 35 ) on the lifting nipple ( 32 ).  
   
   
       93 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) further comprises a housing ( 16 ) with a top plate unit ( 17 ) or a top plate ( 21 ), and in which the housing ( 16 ) comprises a main lifting shoulder ( 18 ) and a base plate ( 19 ).  
   
   
       94 . A lifting tool according to  claim 93 , in which the top plate unit ( 17 ) comprises 
 at least one, preferably two disc shaped plates ( 17   a,b ), each with a central opening,    one or more web sections ( 17   c ) arranged for stiffening the top plate unit ( 17 ) and oriented generally normal to and between the top plates ( 17   a,b ), and in which the web sections ( 17   c ) are fixed to the top plates ( 17   a,b ) preferably by a welded connection;    a mounting plate ( 149 ) arranged on an outside of the upper plate ( 17   a ); and    a self lubricating bushing arranged between a lifting collar ( 48 ) on the piston rod ( 47 ) and the other top plate ( 17   b ).    
   
   
       95 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) further comprises a nipple rotation system ( 90 ) arranged for screwing into and screwing out of the lifting nipple cone ( 37 ) of the lifting nipple ( 32 ) in a threaded portion of an end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) to be lifted or loosened.  
   
   
       96 . A lifting tool according to  claim 95 , in which the nipple rotation system ( 90 ) comprises one or more hydraulic motors ( 91 ), each provided with a gear sprocket ( 93 ) on a gear axle ( 94 ).  
   
   
       97 . A lifting tool according to  claim 95 , in which the top plate unit ( 17 ) comprises a cylinder ( 17   d ) with a spindle system ( 17   e ) for inlet ( 95 ), outlet ( 96 ) and case drain ( 97 ) passages for hydraulic oil connection to the nipple rotation system ( 90 ), in which the cylinder ( 17   d ) is arranged concentric about the piston rod ( 47 ) and axially centered in the top plates ( 17   a,b ).  
   
   
       98 . A lifting tool according to  claim 92 , in which the lifting nipple axle ( 36 ) of the lifting nipple ( 32 ) is provided with external vertical grooves or splines ( 36   a ) and arranged for engagement by and for being rotated by one or more gear sprockets ( 93 ) in the nipple rotation system ( 90 ).  
   
   
       99 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) also comprises 
 an adapter ( 6 ) which is connected to a high pressure hose ( 7 ) with a swivel ( 7   a ) by means of a union ( 7   a ), for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture from the drive unit or top drive ( 60 ),    a bolted goose neck connection ( 8 ), preferably with a swivel, for conveying drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix to the piston rod ( 47 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ), connected to a manifold or wear adapter ( 9 ) for venting of air during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture from the drive unit or top drive ( 60 ).    
   
   
       100 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) is pivotably arranged in an elevator apparatus ( 70 ) which is arranged about the piston rod ( 47 ), preferably in a recess or lifting shoulder ( 13 ) on the piston rod ( 47 ).  
   
   
       101 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) further comprises a tilting arm ( 10 ) with one end ( 10   a ) arranged concentric about the piston rod ( 47 ), and the other end ( 10   b ) is connected to a telescopic hydraulic lifting cylinder ( 61 ), preferably by means of a chain connection or other suitable attachment means.  
   
   
       102 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) comprises 
 an entry cone or expanding packing or mud packer ( 140 ), preferably an elastomer packing ( 140 ), arranged concentric about the piston rod ( 47 ), and arranged for entry in one end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe string ( 2 ) and for expansion against the inner surface of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe-string ( 2 ) upon activation of the lifting tool, in which the entry cone ( 140 ) is attached to the piston rod ( 47 ) by means of a bolted connection ( 143 , 144 ); and    a funnel shaped entry guide ( 141 ) with a compliant support ring ( 146 ), in which the entry guide ( 141 ) is arranged for receiving and encompassing the end of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ), and to contact and clamp against the external surface of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ).    
   
   
       103 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the piston rod ( 47 ) comprises a hollow fluid passage ( 147 ) for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture and a hollow fluid passage ( 148 ) for venting of air during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture.  
   
   
       104 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the hydraulic system ( 40 ) is a double acting or bi-directional piston cylinder mechanism which includes a hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ) with a piston cylinder base ( 44 ), a piston cylinder plate ( 41 ) and a hydraulic piston ( 43 ) which is arranged concentric about and fixed to the axial piston rod ( 47 ).  
   
   
       105 . A lifting tool according to  claim 104 , in which the hydraulic system ( 40 ) also comprises: 
 an inlet fluid passage ( 51 ) for hydraulic oil connection to one side of the hydraulic piston ( 43 ) in the hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ); and    an outlet fluid passage ( 52 ) for hydraulic oil connection to the other side of the hydraulic piston ( 43 ) in the hydraulic cylinder ( 42 );    in which the inlet passage ( 51 ) and the outlet passage ( 52 ) run through the piston rod ( 47 ) from the manifold ( 9 ).    
   
   
       106 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool comprises a wedge system which is arranged for grasping and holding the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ) to be lifted, and in which the wedge system includes at least one set of opposing outer ( 24 ) and inner ( 29 ) wedge segments or wedge rings, preferably with a sealing segment or sealing ring ( 29   a ) arranged on one side of the wedge ring or wedge segment ( 29 ) facing the external surface of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ), and where the inner surface of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ) is engaged by the entry cone ( 140 ).  
   
   
       107 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) further comprises a coaxial bearing cylinder ( 22 ) with a top plate ( 22   a ) and a guide or stop plate ( 22   b ), where the coaxial bearing cylinder ( 22 ) is arranged for guiding the lifting nipple ( 32 ) into the correct position during screwing into the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ).  
   
   
       108 . A lifting tool according to  claim 107 , in which the main lifting shoulder ( 18 ) is arranged for positioning adjacent to the guide or stop plate ( 22   b ) when the lifting tool is activated, and in which the guide or stop plate ( 22   b ) is arranged for positioning adjacent to the lifting nipple flange or collar ( 33 ) when the lifting nipple ( 32 ) is screwed into the threaded section of one end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ).  
   
   
       109 . A lifting tool according to  claim 107 , in which the nipple rotation system ( 90 ) is attached to the coaxial bearing cylinder ( 22 ) by means of one or more mounting brackets ( 92 ).  
   
   
       110 . A lifting tool according to  claim 90 , in which the coaxial bearing cylinder ( 38 ) is connected to a spring system ( 39 ) for compensating and equalizing the tension forces between the external horizontal grooves or threads ( 34 ) of the lifting nipple cone ( 37 ) and internal horizontal grooves or threads ( 3   a ) in one end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ), and between the internal horizontal grooves or threads ( 34 ) of the lifting nipple ( 32 ) and the external horizontal grooves or threads ( 38   a ) on the coaxial bearing cylinder ( 38 ).  
   
   
       111 . A lifting tool according to  claim 109 , in which the spring system ( 39 ) comprises two or more helical springs ( 38 ) or helical collar ( 38 ).  
   
   
       112 . A lifting tool according to  claim 110 , in which the hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ) with the piston cylinder base ( 44 ) is attached to one side of the top plate ( 22   a ) bearing cylinder ( 22 ), and in which the spring system ( 39 ) with the coaxial guide tube ( 37 ) is attached to the top plate ( 22   a ) of the coaxial bearing cylinder ( 22 ) on the opposite side of the hydraulic cylinder ( 43 ) and piston cylinder base ( 44 ).  
   
   
       113 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , where one or more independent sensors ( 15 ) is arranged in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool, preferably spring loaded pressure sensors, to determine the position of the lifting nipple ( 32 ) with respect to the end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ), and where each sensor ( 15 ) is connected to a limit switch ( 14 ).  
   
   
       114 . A lifting tool according to  claim 93 , where the housing ( 16 ) comprises one or more inspection openings.  
   
   
       115 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which one or more lugs are arranged on the lifting nipple flange ( 33 ) of the lifting nipple ( 32 ), for manual operation of the lifting nipple ( 32 ), preferably with the use of a lever or crow-bar.  
   
   
       116 . A lifting tool according to  claim 104 , in which hydraulic oil is supplied by a preferably radial inlet ( 50 ) on the support part ( 5 ) and via a generally vertical passage ( 51 ) for hydraulic oil through the piston rod ( 47 ) and with a radial outlet for hydraulic oil from the piston rod ( 47 ) under the piston ( 43 ) to move the piston ( 43 ) upwards.  
   
   
       117 . A lifting tool according to  claim 116 , in which hydraulic oil is supplied from the upper part of the hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ) above the piston ( 43 ) to drive the inner wedge rings ( 29 ) downward such that the outer wedge segments ( 24 ) with friction surface ( 27 ) retract from and release the inner wall of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ).  
   
   
       118 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the piston rod ( 47 ) comprises 
 a fluid passage ( 147 ) arranged for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture, and    a fluid passage ( 148 ) configured for venting of air during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture.    
   
   
       119 . A lifting tool according to  claim 88 , in which the piston rod ( 47 ) comprises a lifting collar ( 48 ) arranged for transfer of load from the piston rod ( 47 ) of the lifting tool to the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool.  
   
   
       120 . A lifting tool according to  claim 101 , in which lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool comprises a locking mechanism for the lifting tool, 
 in which a slotted hub ( 5   a ) is arranged concentric about and attached to the piston rod ( 47 ), and in which the tilting arm ( 10 ) is compliant, preferably with a spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) in the tilting arm ( 10 ), and    where the compliant tilting arm ( 10 ,  10   a ) is arranged for movement from an initial position and passively downwards into one of the slots in the slotted hub ( 5   a ) to an operating position, for locking of the entire lifting tool against rotation of the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool.    
   
   
       121 . A lifting tool according to  claim 120 , where the spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) is arranged for release of the tilting arm ( 10 ) upon retraction of the spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) from a position where the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool has been rotated from the initial position and back to the initial position.  
   
   
       122 . A lifting tool for handling of a pipe string ( 2 ) and pipe sections ( 3 , 4 ) during joining and lowering or raising and disassembling of conductors, casings, risers, drilling strings or similar in a bore hole ( 160 ) or well ( 161 ), in which the lifting tool comprises 
 a lifting part ( 20 ) which comprises an axial piston rod ( 47 ) arranged through, and a connection part ( 5 ) for connection to and receiving lifting force from a drive unit or top drive ( 60 ) or derrick crane ( 60 ); and    a hydraulic system ( 40 ) which is arranged for retaining and holding the lifting part ( 20 ) against the inner surface of an end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe string ( 2 );    a wedge system with inner wedge segments or inner wedge rings ( 29 ) attached to the piston rod ( 47 ), in which the inner wedge segments or wedge rings ( 29 ) are arranged for movement in an axial direction inwards under ramped surfaces of the outer wedge segments ( 24 ) and thereby press the outer wedge ring segments radially outward, characterized in    that the outer wedge segments are provided with a radially oriented friction surface ( 27 ) to engage the inner surface of the pipe section ( 2 , 3 , 4 ),    that the outer clamping ring-segments ( 24 ) is arranged for being forced directly or indirectly downwards by a top plate ( 21 ) with a hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ) connected to the top plate ( 21 ), the hydraulic piston ( 43 ) of the cylinder ( 42 ) being attached to the piston rod ( 47 ), which is arranged for forcing the inner wedge rings ( 29 ) upwards in relation to the outer wedge segments ( 24 ) and thereby expands the friction surface ( 27 ) outwards to grip the inner diameter of the casing ( 2 ),    that the lifting part ( 20 ) is arranged for rotation axially about the piston rod ( 47 ), such that the lifting part ( 20 ) with the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is arranged for a controlled joining of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) with the a generally upright pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) located below, preferably joining by screwing into the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) into a the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ),    that the lifting part ( 20 ) after the joining of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) with the pipe string ( 2 ) is arranged for supporting the entire or part of the weight of the resulting pipe string ( 2 ), and    the lifting part ( 20 ) is pivotable about a horizontal axis and arranged for grasping a pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) from a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal position.    
   
   
       123 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , where the inner wedge rings ( 29 ) are attached to the piston rod ( 47 ) via a coaxial bearing cylinder ( 22 ), which itself is attached to a coaxial base plate ( 39 ), and which in turn is attached to the piston rod ( 47 ) with a lower intermediate piece ( 48 ) and locked by a hex nut ( 143 , 144 ).  
   
   
       124 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , where the outer wedge segments ( 24 ) and inner wedge rings ( 29 ) of the lifting part ( 20 ) are arranged in pairs in several levels between the base plate ( 30 ) and top plate ( 21 ).  
   
   
       125 . A lifting tool according to  claim 124 , where outer wedge segments ( 24 ) of the lifting part ( 20 ) are separated in the axial direction by spacer rings ( 26 ).  
   
   
       126 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , where the hydraulic system ( 40 ) is a double acting or bidirectional piston cylinder mechanism which includes a hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ) with a piston cylinder base ( 44 ), a piston cylinder plate ( 41 ) and a hydraulic piston ( 43 ) which is arranged concentric about and attached to the axial piston rod ( 47 ).  
   
   
       127 . A lifting tool according to  claim 126 , in which hydraulic oil is supplied via a preferably radial inlet ( 50 ) on the connection part ( 5 ) and via a generally vertical passage ( 51 ) for hydraulic oil through the piston rod ( 47 ) and further including a radial outlet for hydraulic oil from the piston rod ( 47 ) under the piston ( 43 ) for activating the the piston ( 43 ) to move upwards.  
   
   
       128 . A lifting tool according to  claim 127 , in which hydraulic oil is supplied from the upper portion above the piston ( 43 ) to the hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ) so as to drive the outer wedge rings ( 24 ) downward such that the inner wedge segments ( 29 ) with packing or packing ring ( 29   a ) retract from and release the inner wall of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ).  
   
   
       129 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) is arranged for circulation of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mixture via a flexible hose ( 7 ) on connection part ( 5 ) of the lifting tool and via the piston rod ( 47 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool.  
   
   
       130 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) further comprises 
 an adapter ( 6 ) which is connected to a high pressure hose ( 7 ) with a union ( 7   a ), for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture from a drive unit or top drive ( 60 ), and    a bolted goose neck connection ( 8 ), preferably with a swivel, for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture to the piston rod ( 47 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ), connected to a manifold or wear adapter ( 9 ) for venting of air during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture from the drive unit or top drive ( 60 ).    
   
   
       131 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) is pivotably arranged in an elevator apparatus ( 70 ) arranged about the piston rod ( 47 ), preferably in a recess or lifting shoulder ( 13 ) on the piston rod ( 47 ).  
   
   
       132 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) further comprises a tilting arm ( 10 ) with one end ( 10   a ) arranged concentric about the piston rod ( 47 ), and the other end ( 10   b ) is connected to a telescopic hydraulic lifting cylinder ( 61 ), preferably by means of of a chain connection or other suitable attachment means.  
   
   
       133 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , where the lifting part ( 20 ) comprises an entry cone or expanding packing or mud packer ( 140 ), preferably an elastomer packing ( 140 ), arranged concentric about the piston rod ( 47 ), arranged for entry in one end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe string ( 2 ) and for expansion against the inner surface of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe string ( 2 ) upon activation of the lifting tool, where the entry cone ( 140 ) is attached to the piston rod ( 47 ) by means of a bolted connection ( 143 , 144 ).  
   
   
       134 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , in which the piston rod ( 47 ) comprises 
 a fluid passage ( 147 ) arranged for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture, and    a fluid passage ( 148 ) arranged for venting of air during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture.    
   
   
       135 . A lifting tool according to  claim 122 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool further comprises an indicator system arranged for one or more independent sensors ( 15 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool, preferably spring loaded pressure sensors, for determining position of the entry cone ( 140 ) with respect to the end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ), and where each sensor ( 15 ) is connected to a limit switch ( 14 ).  
   
   
       136 . A lifting tool according to  claim 132 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool comprises a locking mechanism for the lifting tool, 
 in which a slotted hub ( 5   a ) is arranged concentric about and attached to the piston rod ( 47 ), and in which the tilting arm ( 10 ) is compliant, preferably with a spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) in the tilting arm ( 10 ),    in which the compliant tilting arm ( 10 ,  10   a ) is arranged for movement from an initial position and passively downwards into one of the slots in the slotted hub ( 5   a ) to an operating position, for locking of the entire lifting tool against rotation of the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ).    
   
   
       137 . A lifting tool according to  claim 136 , in which the spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) is arranged for release of the tilting arm ( 10 ) upon retraction of the spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) from a position in which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool has been rotated from an initial position and back to the initial position.  
   
   
       138 . A lifting tool for handling of pipe strings and pipe sections ( 2 , 3 , 4 ) during joining and lowering or raising and disassembling of conductors, casings, risers, drilling strings or similar in a bore hole ( 160 ) or well ( 161 ), in which the lifting tool comprises 
 a lifting part ( 20 ) comprising an axial piston rod ( 47 ), and a connection part ( 5 ) for connection to and receiving lifting force from a drive unit or top drive ( 60 ) or derrick crane ( 60 );    a hydraulic system ( 40 ) which is arranged for retaining the lifting part ( 20 ) against the outer surface of one end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe string ( 2 )    a wedge system in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool with one or more sets of inner wedge segments ( 29 ) and outer wedge segments or wedge rings ( 24 ), in which the lifting part ( 20 ) with the wedge system is arranged for grasping about the end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe string ( 2 ) below the threaded section of the end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe string ( 2 ); characterized in    that the wedge system is arranged to be self locking such that the weight of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe string will act to increase the gripping and locking effect of the lifting force, thus ensuring secure gripping/locking in the event of the loss of hydraulic fluid pressure,    that the lifting part ( 20 ) is arranged for rotation axially about the piston rod ( 47 ), such that the lifting part ( 20 ) with the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is arranged for a controlled joining of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) and a generally upright pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) located below, preferably by screwing the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) into the end of pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ),    that the lifting part ( 20 ) after the joining of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) with the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) is arranged for supporting the entire or part of the weight of the resulting pipe string ( 2 ), and    that the lifting part ( 20 ) is pivotable about a horizontal axis and arranged for grasping a pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) from a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal position.    
   
   
       139 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) is arranged for circulation of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mixture via a flexible hose ( 7 ) on the connection part ( 5 ) of the lifting tool and via the piston rod ( 47 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool.  
   
   
       140 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , in which the hydraulic system ( 40 ) is a piston hydraulic system ( 40 ) having a hydraulic piston ( 43 ) connected to the piston rod ( 47 ) and arranged in a hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ), an in which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool further includes 
 an outer housing ( 16 ) with a top plate ( 21 ), and where the housing ( 16 ) comprises a lifting shoulder ( 18 ) and a base plate ( 19 ) with a central opening for a pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ) to be grasped;    a coaxial bearing cylinder ( 22 ) with a guide or stop plate ( 22   b ), a bearing cylinder plate ( 22   d ) with a central opening, a center plate ( 22   e ) and an inner bearing cylinder ( 22   f );    in which the pressure under the piston ( 43 ) upon application of hydraulic fluid pressure forces the piston ( 43 ) with the piston rod ( 47 ) and the outer housing ( 16 ) upwards together with the base plate ( 19 ) of the outer housing ( 16 ) and the outer wedge segments or rings ( 24 ), such that the bearing cylinder ( 22 ) and the stop plate ( 22   b ) with the inner wedge segments ( 29 ) is forced downwards with respect to the outer wedge segments or rings ( 24 ) with the result that inner wedge segments ( 29 ) are forced inwards to engage and grasp the outer surface of pipe section ( 2 , 3 , 4 ).    
   
   
       141 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , where the piston rod includes a lifting collar ( 48 ) arranged for transfer of load from the piston rod ( 47 ) of the lifting tool to the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool.  
   
   
       142 . A lifting tool according to  claim 140 , where the outer housing ( 16 ) includes a top plate unit ( 17 ).  
   
   
       143 . A lifting tool according to  claim 142 , in which the top plate unit ( 17 ) comprises 
 at least one, preferably two disc shaped plates ( 17   a,b ), each with a central opening,    one or more web sections ( 17   c ) arranged for stiffening the top plate unit ( 17 ) and oriented generally normal to and between the top plates ( 17   a,b ), and where the web sections ( 17   c ) are fixed to the top plates ( 17   a,b ) preferably by a welded connection;    a mounting plate ( 149 ) arranged on an outside of the upper plate ( 17   a ); and    a self lubricating bushing arranged between the lifting collar ( 48 ) on the piston rod ( 47 ) and the second top plate ( 17   b ).    
   
   
       144 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) also comprises 
 an adapter ( 6 ) which is connected to a high pressure hose ( 7 ) with a swivel ( 7   a ), for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture from a drive unit or top drive ( 60 ),    a bolted goose neck connection ( 8 ), preferably with a swivel, for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix to the piston rod ( 47 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ), connected to a manifold or wear adapter ( 9 ) for venting of air during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mix from the drive unit or top drive ( 60 ).    
   
   
       145 . A lifting tool according to  138 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) is pivotably arranged in an elevator apparatus ( 70 ) arranged about the piston rod ( 47 ), preferably in a recess or lifting shoulder ( 13 ) on the piston rod ( 47 ).  
   
   
       146 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) further comprises a tilting arm ( 10 ) with one end ( 10   a ) arranged concentric about the piston rod ( 47 ), and the other end ( 10   b ) is connected with a telescopic hydraulic lifting cylinder ( 61 ), preferably by means of a chain connection or other suitable attachment means.  
   
   
       147 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) comprises a funnel shaped entry guide ( 141 ) with a compliant support ring ( 146 ), in which the entry guide ( 141 ) is arranged for receiving and encompassing the end of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ) and to contact and clamp against the external surface of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ).  
   
   
       148 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , where the piston rod ( 47 ) comprises 
 a fluid passage ( 147 ) arranged for application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture, and    a fluid passage ( 148 ) arranged for venting of air during application of drilling fluid, drilling mud, cement, or other fluid or fluid mixture.    
   
   
       149 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , in which the hydraulic system ( 40 ) is a double acting or bidirectional piston cylinder mechanism which includes a hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ) with a piston cylinder base ( 44 ), a piston cylinder plate ( 41 ) and a hydraulic piston ( 43 ) which is arranged concentric about and attached to the axial piston rod ( 47 ).  
   
   
       150 . A lifting tool according to  claim 149 , in which hydraulic oil is supplied by a preferably radial inlet ( 50 ) on the connection part ( 5 ) and via a generally vertical passage ( 51 ) for hydraulic oil through the piston rod ( 47 ) and with a radial outlet for hydraulic oil from the piston rod ( 47 ) under the piston ( 43 ) for activating the the piston ( 43 ) to move upwards.  
   
   
       151 . A lifting tool according to  claim 149 , in which the hydraulic system ( 40 ) also comprises: 
 an inlet fluid passage ( 51 ) for hydraulic oil to one side of the hydraulic piston ( 43 ) in the hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ); and    an outlet fluid passage ( 52 ) for hydraulic oil to the other side of the hydraulic piston ( 43 ) in the hydraulic cylinder ( 42 );    in which the inlet passage ( 51 ) and the outlet passage ( 52 ) run through the piston rod ( 47 ) from the manifold ( 9 ).    
   
   
       152 . A lifting tool according to  claim 149 , where hydraulic oil is supplied from the upper part of hydraulic cylinder ( 42 ) above the piston ( 43 ) to drive the outer wedge segments or rings ( 24 ) downward such that the inner wedge segments ( 29 ) with packing or packing ring ( 29   a ) retract from and release the inner surface of the of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ).  
   
   
       153 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , in which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool further comprises an indicator system arranged for one or more independent sensors ( 15 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool, preferably spring loaded pressure sensors, to determine position of the lifting part ( 20 ) with respect to the end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ), and where each sensor ( 15 ) is connected to a limit switch ( 14 ).  
   
   
       154 . A lifting tool according to  claim 146 , where the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool comprises a locking mechanism for the lifting tool, 
 in which a slotted hub ( 5   a ) is arranged concentric about and attached to the piston rod ( 47 ), and where the tilting arm ( 10 ) is compliant, preferably with a spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) in the tilting arm ( 10 ),    in which the compliant tilting arm ( 10 ,  10   a ) is arranged for movement from an initial position and passively downwards into one of the slots in the slotted hub ( 5   a ) to an operating position, for locking of the lifting tool against rotation of the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool.    
   
   
       155 . A lifting tool according to  claim 138 , in which the spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) is arranged for release of the tilting arm ( 10 ) upon retraction of the spring loaded joint ( 10   a ) from a position to which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ) has been rotated from an initial position and back to the initial position.  
   
   
       156 . A lifting system for lifting or lowering pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) and a pipe-string ( 2 ), during joining and lowering or lifting and disassembly of conductors, casings, risers, drill strings, or similar in a bore hole ( 160 ) or well ( 160 ), wherein the lifting system comprises 
 a lifting tool with a lifting part ( 20 ) and a connection part ( 5 ) connected to an elevator apparatus ( 70 ) which is connected to a top drive ( 60 ) and in which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool shall co-operate with a power slip ( 150 ) which is arranged for receiving and supporting a generally upright pipe section or pipe-string ( 2 ); characterized in    that the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool is arranged for removable installation in an elevator apparatus ( 70 );    that the elevator apparatus ( 70 ) is arranged for controlling the orientation of lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool such that the lifting tool may engage and grip the end of a pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) and be activated;    that the elevator apparatus ( 70 ) and lifting tool upon application of lifting force to and activation of the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool are arranged to lift the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ) with the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) for joining with or connecting to the generally upright pipe section or pipe-string ( 2 ) below; and    the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool is arranged for being pivotable about a horizontal or generally horizontal axis in the elevator apparatus ( 70 ), so as to grasp an end of a pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) arranged in a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal position, and be engaged against the inner surface, the outer surface or both the inner and outer surface of one end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ).    
   
   
       157 . A lifting system according to  claim 156 , wherein the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool is arranged for removable installation in the elevator apparatus ( 70 ) on an upper part or lifting shoulder ( 13 ) on a piston rod ( 47 ) included in the lifting tool ( 20 ).  
   
   
       158 . A lifting system according to  claim 156 , wherein the lifting tool and the connection part ( 5 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ) are arranged for application or circulation of drilling fluids, drilling mud, cement or other fluid or fluid mix to the bore hole or well ( 160 ).  
   
   
       159 . A lifting system according to  claim 156 , wherein the lifting system further comprises a rotation apparatus (power tongs) ( 80 ) which is arranged for rotation of the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ) with the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) about the piston rod ( 47 ), to achieve a controlled in-screwing of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) in the generally upright pipe section or pipe-string ( 2 ) located below, and in which the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ) after the joining of the pipe section ( 3 ) with the pipe-string ( 2 ) is arranged for to supporting the entire or part of the weight of the resulting pipe-string ( 2 ).  
   
   
       160 . A lifting system according to  claim 156 , wherein the lifting tool is arranged for receiving lifting force from the top drive ( 60 ) for activating the lifting tool, such that the lifting tool after activation of the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ) against the inner surface, the outer surface, or both the inner and outer surfaces of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ), is enabled to lift the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) or pipe-string ( 2 , 3 , 4 ), and move to a rotary table ( 161 ) for joining of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) with the generally upright pipe string ( 2 ) located below.  
   
   
       161 . A lifting system according to  claim 156 , wherein the lifting system further comprises a tube feeding machine for feeding of pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) to the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool.  
   
   
       162 . A lifting system according to  claim 161 , wherein the lifting system comprises a manipulator arm ( 170 ) for moving the far end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) from the tube feeding machine ( 180 ) to a vertical position over the generally upright pipe section or pipe-string ( 2 ).  
   
   
       163 . A lifting system according to  claim 159 , wherein the rotation apparatus ( 80 ) comprises a clamping apparatus, or a first set of power tongs ( 81 ) which are arranged for retaining the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) in a fixed position, and a torque apparatus or a second set of power tongs ( 82 ) arranged for rotation of the lifting part ( 20 ) and pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) for joining with the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) by means of a torque or rotation motor.  
   
   
       164 . A method for lifting of pipe sections for joining of pipe sections ( 3 , 4 ) to a pipe string ( 2 ), such as conductors, casings, risers or similar, for use in a bore hole or well ( 160 ) by means of a lifting system and a lifting tool according to the preceding claims  1 - 76 , in which the method comprises the following steps: 
 the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is brought to the start position in proximity to the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 );    the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool grasps the end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) which is or will become the upper end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 );    the lifting part ( 20 ) is activated for engagement with at least one of the inner or outer surfaces of pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) by means of a hydraulic system ( 40 );    a drive unit, top drive or derrick crane ( 60 ) lifts the lifting tool with the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) to the vertical or nearly vertical position over a generally upright pipe section or pipe-string ( 2 ) arranged below;    the second, opposite end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is joined with the generally upright pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) below, thus forming an extended resulting pipe string ( 2 );    the resulting pipe-string ( 2 ) is lowered and retained in place by means of a wedge system (power slip) ( 150 ) which is arranged for to retaining the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) in a drill floor;    the resulting pipe-string ( 2 ) is released from the wedge system or power slip ( 150 ) such that it is suspended from the drive unit or top drive ( 60 ) and the lifting tool;    the resulting pipe string ( 2 ) is lowered and again retained in place by the wedge system or power slip ( 150 ); and    the lifting tool is released from the end of the resulting pipe string ( 2 ); characterized in    that the step of grasping the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ) involves that the lifting tool is arranged in an elevator apparatus ( 70 ), and that the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool is rotated about a generally horizontal axis in the elevator apparatus ( 70 ), by means a tilting arm ( 10 ) which in one end is fastened to the connection part ( 5 ) of the lifting tool and in the other end connected to a lifting cylinder ( 61 ) mounted on the drive unit or top drive ( 60 ), from a generally vertical initial position to an engagement position with the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) which is arranged in a generally horizontal or nearly horizontal position.    
   
   
       165 . A method according to  claim 164 , wherein the method further comprises the following step: 
 the connection part ( 5 ) of the lifting tool is removably arranged in the elevator apparatus ( 70 ), preferably in an upper part or lifting shoulder ( 13 ) on the piston rod ( 47 ), prior to the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) being brought to the lifting tool.    
   
   
       166 . A method according to  claim 164 , where the method also comprises the following step: 
 the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is moved forward to the lifting tool lifting part by means of a tube feeding machine and into engagement with the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ) prior to activating the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool ( 20 ).    
   
   
       167 . A method according to  claim 166 , wherein the method also comprises the following step: 
 as the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is moved forward on the tube feeding machine, the opposite end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is moved into position above the generally upright pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) by a manipulator arm ( 170 ); and    the lifting tool and the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) is lowered to the generally upright pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) arranged below for joining with the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ).    
   
   
       168 . A method according to  claim 164 , wherein the method further comprises the following step: 
 joining of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) and the pipe string ( 2 ) is achieved by screwing the opposite, lower end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) into a threaded section of the upper end of the generally upright pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) through rotation of the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool with the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) about the central axis of the lifting tool by means of a rotation system ( 80 ).    
   
   
       169 . A method according to  claim 164 , wherein the method further comprises the following step: 
 upon activation of the lifting tool, a wedge system ( 24 , 29 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool is engaged against one or both of the inner and outer diameters of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) by means of a piston hydraulic system ( 40 ).    
   
   
       170 . A method according to  claim 169 , wherein the method further comprises the following step: 
 upon activation of the lifting tool, an entry cone ( 140 ) or expanding packing ( 140 ) is forced against inner wall of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ).    
   
   
       171 . A method according to  claim 166 , wherein the method also comprises the following step: 
 screwing of a lifting nipple ( 32 ) into a threaded section of the upper or following upper end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ), preferably by means of a nipple rotation system ( 90 ).    
   
   
       172 . A method according to  claim 169 , wherein the method also comprises the following step: 
 upon release of the lifting tool from the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ), the wedge system ( 24 , 29 ) in the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool is disengaged from the end of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ) by means of a hydraulic system ( 40 ), such that the lifting tool may be moved to the finish or standby position.    
   
   
       173 . A method according to  claim 171 , wherein the method also comprises the following step: 
 upon release of the lifting tool from the section or pipe string ( 2 ), the lifting nipple ( 32 ) is unscrewed from the threaded end of the pipe-string ( 2 ), preferably by means of a nipple rotation system ( 90 ), or manually by means of a manual release system for the lifting nipple ( 32 ), and thereafter the wedge system ( 24 , 29 ) is released from the end of the pipe section or pipe string ( 2 ).    
   
   
       174 . A method according to  claim 164 , wherein the method also comprises the following step: 
 progress of entering the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) into the lifting part ( 20 ) is monitored by a sensor system, preferably with one or more independent sensors ( 14 , 15 ), each being connected to a limit switch, which serves to stop the movement of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) at the proper moment for avoiding damage to the the pipe section, and for indicating proper centering of the lifting part ( 20 ) of the lifting tool with respect to the end of the pipe section ( 3 , 4 ) to be engaged by the lifting tool.