Importance

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Abstract

A slip joint for use in a well string and having a removable torque transmitting key. The slip joint includes an outer female mandrel having a central opening therethrough in which is slidingly positioned a male mandrel, also defining a central opening therethrough. In one embodiment, the male mandrel defines at least one longitudinal slot therein and the female mandrel defines a transverse opening therethrough adjacent the slot. The torque transmitting key is positioned in the transverse opening and extends into the slot. In the second embodiment, the inner mandrel includes a flat surface thereon and the outer mandrel has a longitudinal slot therein adjacent the flat surface. The key includes a ring portion having a flat surface therein engageable with a flat surface on the male mandrel and a lug portion extending from the ring portion into the slot. Preferably, the slip joint also includes a bearing portion for radially positioning the inner mandrel and the outer mandrel and for guidance during axial movement therebetween. The bearing portion includes an annular sleeve bearing between the mandrels. In one embodiment, the key also includes a bearing surface in contact with the longitudinal slot for additional guidance between the mandrels.

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First Claim