Elongated member lifting system
View Patent ↗Methods and apparatus for providing a durable, lightweight lifting member and assembly for use in handling elongated members. One embodiment comprises a cage or net made of a flexible material, the cage or net being adapted to receive one end of an elongated member. Another embodiment is characterized by a flexible lifting member constructed of a pliable, non-metallic material and comprising a body portion, an end portion, and a lifting strap.
1. A system for lifting an oilfield tubular having an end, comprising:
a body having a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis running therebetween, said longitudinal axis of said body being substantially horizontal when the oilfield tubular is being lifted by said flexible member;
said first end of said body configured to received the end of the oilfield tubular;
said second end configured to prevent axial movement of the end of the oilfield tubular;
a lifting strap attached proximate to said first end of said body and attached proximate said second end of said body and thereby forming a loop that lies in a plane that is substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis of said body, said lifting strap forming an acute angle with said longitudinal axis of said body when the oilfield tubular is being lifted by said flexible member;
an insert being disposed in said body and having a first end, a second end, an opening, said insert extending from said first end of said body to said second end of said body; and
wherein said body and lifting strap are constructed of a pliable material; and wherein said system is capable of lifting approximately 1,250 lbs.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein said body further comprises:
a first axial strap bisecting said second end; and
a second axial strap bisecting said second end substantially perpendicular to said first axial strap.
3. The system of claim 2 , wherein said insert is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, and Teflon.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein said body comprises at least two vertical rings spaced horizontally apart and connected by said axial straps.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein said body comprises a continuous body member having an outside portion and at least one axial strap attached to said outside portion.
6. The system of claim 1 , wherein said pliable material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyester, and Kevlar.
7. The system of claim 1 , wherein said pliable material is a mixture of one or more of nylon, polyester, or Kevlar.
8. The system of claim 1 , wherein said lifting strap is attached to said body by stitching.