Patents by Inventor Ralph Lewis Ropp

Ralph Lewis Ropp has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6186239
    Abstract: A casing annulus remediation system for lowering a flexible hose into an annulus between strings of casing in a petroleum well by pressurizing the hose so that the hose is rigid and may be forced down the annulus. It is necessary to insert the hose through an outlet into the annulus region for well fluid displacement when pressure builds up in the annulus between casing strings due to leaks in the casing. Pressure build-up in the annulus is reduced by pumping a heavy liquid, sealant or other media through the hose into the annular space experiencing the pressure build-up. A tubing nose is affixed to the lower end of the hose. The hose may be inserted hundreds of feet into the well. Therefore, the hose is pressurized to maintain rigidity to keep the hose from winding about the well during deployment. To keep the hose rigid, internal pressure is maintained in the hose. The tubing nose is provided with a check valve that holds the pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignees: ABB Vetco Gray Inc., Shell Offshore, Inc.
    Inventors: Noel A. Monjure, Kenneth Sikes, Sr., David D. Comeaux, Francis R. Bobbie, Ralph Lewis Ropp