Receptacles Patents (Class 166/162)
  • Publication number: 20130140030
    Abstract: A well chemical dispensing system includes a tubular sub for securing into a drill string. A ball stop is located within the passage. A ball filled with a liquid surfactant is pumped down the well. The ball is formed of a frangible material for shattering on impact with the ball stop, so as to dispense the surfactant, causing foaming when mixing with well fluid. Struts within the ball extend across an interior of the ball and join to inner surfaces of the ball. The struts are formed of a solid surfactant material. The ball has a spherical shape with dimples formed in an exterior surface of the sphere. A spring in the passage applies an upward force on the ball stop. The ball stop has upper and lower grids extending across the passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventor: E. Edward Rankin
  • Publication number: 20130133885
    Abstract: An apparatus disclosed herein includes a downhole tool having a body defining an interior bore and an exterior surface. The example apparatus also includes first and second fluid ports to provide respective fluid paths between the exterior surface and the interior bore. The first fluid port is to receive wellbore fluid from an annulus of a wellbore in which the downhole tool is to be disposed and the second fluid port is to receive formation fluid extracted from a subterranean formation. The formation fluid is to mix with the wellbore fluid to form an output mixture in the interior bore. The example apparatus also includes a controller to control a concentration of the formation fluid in the output mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Rana Khalid Habib, Erik Quam, Sylvain Bedouet
  • Publication number: 20130126154
    Abstract: A well tool for use with a subterranean well can include a flow passage extending longitudinally through the well tool, an internal chamber containing a dielectric fluid, and a flow path which alternates direction, and which provides pressure communication between the internal chamber and the flow passage. A method of controlling operation of a well tool can include actuating an actuator positioned in an internal chamber of the well tool, a dielectric fluid being disposed in the chamber, and the chamber being pressure balanced with a flow passage extending longitudinally through the well tool, and varying the actuating, based on measurements made by at least one sensor of the well tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130105149
    Abstract: A well tool for use with a subterranean well can include a flow passage extending longitudinally through the well tool, an internal chamber containing a dielectric fluid, and a flow path which alternates direction, and which provides pressure communication between the internal chamber and the flow passage. A method of controlling operation of a well tool can include actuating an actuator positioned in an internal chamber of the well tool, a dielectric fluid being disposed in the chamber, and the chamber being pressure balanced with a flow passage extending longitudinally through the well tool, and varying the actuating, based on measurements made by at least one sensor of the well tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8425160
    Abstract: A drill cuttings storage and conveying system is disclosed herein. The system includes a pressure vessel for containing drill cuttings and comprising a plurality of drill cuttings outlets. The system also includes a drill cuttings conveyor in communication with the outlets for carrying drill cuttings from the vessel. In an inventive method for practicing the invention, drill cuttings are passed into the pressure vessel having the plurality of outlets. The vessel is pressurized. A selected outlet is opened such that a volume of drill cuttings passes from the vessel to the conveyor. The drill cuttings with the conveyor from the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: William Curle
  • Patent number: 8418757
    Abstract: Corrosion management systems protecting against or managing corrosion of various components in generally vertically oriented structures, that can he located one or more of aboveground and underground. The corrosion management system includes a dispenser system that dispenses at least one corrosion inhibitor to the structure desired to be protected at a plurality of different vertical heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Northern Technologies International Corporation
    Inventors: Efim Ya Lyublinski, Yefim Vaks
  • Publication number: 20130075093
    Abstract: Described herein are variable-volume reservoir (e.g., syringe pump) based processes and systems usable to characterize samples of reservoir fluids, without having to first transport the fluids to the surface. Variable-volume reservoirs are used, for example, for one or more of storing reactants, controlling mixing ratios and storing used chemicals. The processes and systems can be used in various modes, such as continuous mixing mode, flow injection analysis, and titrations. A fluid interrogator, such as a spectrometer, can be used to detect a change in a physical property of the mixture, which is indicative of an analyte within the mixture. In at least some embodiments, a concentration of the analyte solution can be determined from the detected physical property.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald E. G. van Hal, Jimmy Lawrence, Jane T. Lam
  • Publication number: 20130037259
    Abstract: A well system and associated method can include an acoustic generator which can be used to excite a formation with acoustic waves transmitted from the acoustic generator. Another well system and associated method can include an acoustic generator which can transmit acoustic waves into cement surrounding a casing. Another well system and associated method can include an acoustic generator which can be used to transmit acoustic waves into an annulus surrounding a well screen during or after a gravel packing operation. Another well system and associated method can include an acoustic generator which can be connected in a drill string in close proximity to a drill bit, with the acoustic generator transmitting acoustic waves into a formation ahead of the bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130025854
    Abstract: A system and method for sampling fluid from a production wellsite are provided. The system includes an interface operatively connectable to the port and a separation circuit operatively connectable to the interface for establishing fluid communication therebetween. The separation circuit includes a pumping unit and at least one sample chamber. The pumping unit includes pumping chambers having a cylinder with a piston therein defining a fluid cavity and a buffer cavity. The fluid cavities define a separation chamber for receiving the fluid and allowing separation of the fluid therein into phases. The buffer cavities have a buffer fluid selectively movable therebetween whereby the fluid flows through the separation circuit at a controlled rate. The sample chamber is for collecting at least one sample of the phases of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Bernard Theron, John Nighswander, Robert Saunders, Andrea Sbordone, Paul Guieze, Gerald Smith
  • Publication number: 20120325468
    Abstract: A downhole assembly, including a line operatively arranged to carry a first fluid, and a trap arranged in fluid communication with the line, the trap operatively arranged to enable the first fluid to flow in a first direction, while capturing a second fluid in a compartment, thereby preventing migration of the second fluid through the line in a second direction opposite to the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Robert S. Rees, Louis F. Lafleur
  • Publication number: 20120222867
    Abstract: An oil production arrangement comprises an oil reservoir (4), a horizontal wellbore (6) and a vertically extending production well (8). A pump (10) is positioned at the bottom of the production well (8) for pumping fluid along the horizontal wellbore and up the production well for recovery. Tubing (12) having a fluid delivery device (14) at its end is introduced into the production well and moved downwards past the pump (10) and along the horizontal wellbore as far as possible for example close to the toe (not shown) of the wellbore or at least beyond a point in the wellbore at which it is assessed that the hydrocarbon flow has terminated because of a balance between reservoir pressure and wellbore differential pressure being achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: OILFLOW SOLUTIONS HOLDINGS LIMITED
    Inventors: Philip Fletcher, Michael John Crabtree, Steven Dallison, Patrick Pidgeon
  • Patent number: 8210267
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an atmospheric chamber. The atmospheric chamber includes, a first opposing wall of the chamber and a second opposing wall of the chamber, end members sealingly joining the first and second opposing walls of the chamber to create a fluid tight volumetric space, and at least one support substantially bridging between the first opposing wall and the second opposing wall positioned between respective end members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Marcus A. Avant
  • Publication number: 20120138292
    Abstract: An apparatus for obtaining fluid samples in a subterranean wellbore comprises a carrier assembly configured to be disposed in a subterranean wellbore; a sampling chamber operably associated with the carrier assembly; a pressure assembly coupled to the sampling chamber and configured to pressurize a fluid sample obtained in the sampling chamber, wherein the pressure assembly is configured to contain a pressure generating agent; an activation mechanism configured to activate the pressure generating agent; and a power device operably associated with the carrier assembly and configured to provide an impulse for activating the activation mechanism, wherein the power device is not disposed on the pressure assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Scott L. Miller
  • Publication number: 20120118576
    Abstract: Modular debris chambers of a debris extraction tool and a method for collecting debris using such modular debris chambers are disclosed. The modular debris chamber for a debris extraction tool may include a plurality of debris chambers. The modular debris chamber may include a bucket for collecting debris, an inner flow tube being concentrically arranged within the bucket, and a deflector arranged in a lower end of the bucket for deflecting a flow of debris from the inner flow tube of a subsequent modular debris chamber connectable to a lower end of the modular debris chamber. The method for collecting debris using a modular debris chamber may include a plurality of the modular debris chambers interconnected to form a debris extraction tool, and reflecting fluid off the deflector allowing solid debris in the flow of debris to deflect off the deflector into the bucket of a subsequent modular debris chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: M-I DRILLING FLUIDS UK LIMITED
    Inventor: George Telfer
  • Publication number: 20120097385
    Abstract: Formation fluid sample container apparatus are described. An example apparatus includes a downhole tool having a body including an opening and a cavity extending into the body from the opening. The sample container includes an elongated container for holding a formation fluid sample and a sheath coupled to an outer surface of the elongated container and at least partially surrounding the elongated container. The sample container is fixed in the cavity and the sheath is to increase the mechanical integrity of the elongated container in a downhole environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventors: Steven Villareal, Kent David Harms, Jeremy Murphy, Julian J. Pop, Dale Meek
  • Publication number: 20120073808
    Abstract: A coiled tubing deployed fluid sampler (50) for collecting a single phase fluid sample from a well. The fluid sampler (50) is actuated to establish fluid communication between an interior (56) and an exterior of the fluid sampler (50) such that a fluid sample is obtained from the well in a chamber (92) of the fluid sampler (50). The fluid pressure in the coiled tubing string is then increased, which pressurizes the fluid sample in the chamber (92). Thereafter, the coiled tubing and the fluid sampler (50) are retrieved to the surface with the pressurized fluid sample remaining above its saturation pressure during collection and retrieval to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
  • Patent number: 8122956
    Abstract: A sample tank for receiving and storing sampled connate fluid from a subterranean geological formation. The sample tank includes a piston coaxially disposed within the tank. The piston can be disposed close to the end of the tank where the sampled fluid is introduced into the tank and urged along the length of the tank as sampled fluid is added to the tank. The piston includes an agitator for mixing the fluid and keeping particulates suspended within the fluid. The agitator includes a magnetic member, and is rotated by applying a varying electromagnetic field to the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael Shammai, Robert J. Gordon
  • Publication number: 20110198079
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for selectively capturing substantially separate phases from a multiphase fluid mixture flowing through a flowline. The apparatus is preferably substantially aerofoil shaped, and includes sample ports which are positioned on the apparatus in such an orientation that takes advantage of the low density and high density flow around the aerofoil shape, as well as the pressure distribution around the aerofoil shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventors: Malcolm Atkinson, Muhammad Adeel Zahid Khan, Bernard Theron
  • Publication number: 20110192602
    Abstract: Flow control systems and methods for use in hydrocarbon well operations include a tubular and a flow control apparatus. The tubular defines a well annulus and includes an outer member defining a flow conduit. Fluid communication between the well annulus and the flow conduit is provided by permeable portion(s) of the outer member. The flow control apparatus is disposed within the flow conduit and comprises conduit-defining and chamber-defining structural members. The conduit-defining structural member(s) is configured to divide the flow conduit into at least two flow control conduits. The chamber-defining structural member(s) is configured to divide at least one of the at least two flow control conduits into at least two flow control chambers. Each of the flow control chambers has at least one inlet and one outlet, each of which is adapted to allow fluid flow therethrough and to retain particles larger than a predetermined size.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventors: Charles S. Yeh, Bruce A. Dale, Scott R. Clingman
  • Patent number: 7921913
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting temperature sensitive components from the extreme temperatures a hydrocarbon producing wellbore. The apparatus comprises an inner housing encompassed by an exterior housing, where a plenum is formed between the two housings. A vacuum is formed within the plenum. The temperature sensitive components are stored within the inner housing. An aerogel composition is placed on the outer surface of the inner housing thereby providing added insulation for protecting the temperature sensitive component. Optionally the aerogel composition can be added to the inner surface of the outer housing. Yet further optionally, a reflective foil may be disposed over the aerogel composition of the inner housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Borislav J. Tchakarov, Paul G. Junghans
  • Patent number: 7896071
    Abstract: A method and apparatus, capable of being conveyed on wireline, for continuous downhole injection of foaming agent(s) and/or beneficial chemical(s), comprising a reservoir and means for dispensing foaming agent(s) and/or beneficial chemical(s) from the reservoir of such apparatus and into the surrounding wellbore environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventors: Shane Hinds, Randall J. Block, Bradley Jay Vincent, Joel Hebert
  • Patent number: 7861772
    Abstract: A mill is configured to have large debris passages disposed among a series of radially extending blades. The mill center is adapted to accept a retention nut that supports a tool that secures the downhole tool being milled out, such as a packer. Reverse flow takes cuttings into the large open area between the blades to pass up in an annular space around a support for the retention nut. The passage then opens up to a maximum dimension leaving only the tubular wall needed for structural strength to support the mill and conduct cuttings into a debris removal tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Steven G. Blair
  • Patent number: 7784535
    Abstract: A bail support and a top drive system for an oilfield drill rig. The top drive system includes a drive apparatus, and the bails have bodies with upper head portions and two spaced-apart legs. Each leg includes an upper leg portion and a lower leg portion. The upper leg portions are non-parallel to each other and extend from the head portion at an angle to a centerline of the bail. Each lower leg portion extends down from its corresponding upper leg portion in a reverse bend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence E. Wells, Brett Gregory Wallihan
  • Publication number: 20100186948
    Abstract: A method of sampling fluid from a subterranean formation includes positioning a first tool having a heater in a borehole so that the heater is adjacent a portion of the subterranean formation; heating with the heater the portion of the subterranean formation; removing the first tool from the borehole; orienting a second tool having a sampling probe in the borehole so that the sampling probe is to contact a portion of the subterranean formation heated by the heater; and obtaining via the sampling probe a fluid sample from the portion of the subterranean formation heated by the heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventors: Carsten Sonne, Peter S. Hegeman, Anthony R.H. Goodwin
  • Patent number: 7753113
    Abstract: A modular junk basket device adapted for use in a wellbore. The modular junk basket has a central mandrel. The device further comprises a removable junk basket operable to collect debris from the wellbore. The device also includes a removable baffle operable to deflect fluid and debris flowing around the junk basket. The central mandrel has a top end, a bottom end and a first mandrel coupler operable to removably couple the junk basket concentrically around the central mandrel a distance above the bottom end. The central mandrel also includes a second mandrel coupler operable to removably couple the baffle a predetermined distance above a top opening in the junk basket and below the top end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: Dennis J. Penisson
  • Publication number: 20100116493
    Abstract: A coiled tubing deployed fluid sampler (50) for collecting a single phase fluid sample from a well. The fluid sampler (50) is actuated to establish fluid communication between an interior (56) and an exterior of the fluid sampler (50) such that a fluid sample is obtained from the well in a chamber (92) of the fluid sampler (50). The fluid pressure in the coiled tubing string is then increased, which pressurizes the fluid sample in the chamber (92). Thereafter, the coiled tubing and the fluid sampler (50) are retrieved to the surface with the pressurized fluid sample remaining above its saturation pressure during collection and retrieval to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
  • Patent number: 7665519
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for downhole sampling or sensing of clean samples of component fluids of a multi-fluid mixture. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, embodiments of the present invention provide for, amongst other things, separating downhole multi-fluid mixtures into an oil-based fluid, a water-based fluid and/or the like and sampling and/or sensing of the clean separated fluids. Such sampling or sensing may be provided by a downhole tool in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention and the downhole tool may be used for production logging, formation testing and/or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Gary Martin Oddie
  • Patent number: 7610957
    Abstract: A debris catching device for downhole milling features modular debris receptacles that are held in the housing in a manner that facilitates stacking and a generally undulating flow path to facilitate dropping of the debris into the receptacles as the remaining fluid travels up the tool for ultimate screening before the fluid exits the tool to flow up to the surface or in a reverse circulation pattern back to the mill below the debris catcher. The modules can also be aligned with flapper valves at the top of each module to prevent debris in the tool from falling to the mill if circulation is turned off. The mill is configured to have an off-center return path preferably as large as the passage through the mill body to aid circulation and cutting performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John P. Davis, James S. Trahan, Paul L. Connell
  • Publication number: 20090266546
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for discharging a plurality of fluids downhole. In one aspect, the apparatus may include a first chamber and a second chamber separated by movable barrier, wherein draining the fluid from the first chamber causes the barrier to move and allow an actuating member to drain the second fluid from the second chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Freeman L. Hill, Randall L. Evans
  • Publication number: 20090211756
    Abstract: A downhole tool for use in a well may comprise a vessel having a piston or a valve disposed therein and defining first and second volumes wherein the first volume is configured to receive formation fluid from an inlet port, and an actuator configured to extract formation fluid, the actuator being fluidly isolated from a fluid flow path extending between the inlet port and the first volume. The downhole tool may also comprise a flow-line configured to deliver formation fluid to the vessel, and an actuator configured to register an end of the flow-line with the inlet of the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Anthony R.H. Goodwin, Julian J. Pop, Stephane Briquet, Ricardo Vasques, Alexander Zazovsky
  • Publication number: 20090200028
    Abstract: An apparatus for delivering a material into a wellbore comprises a body adapted to be translated along a conduit within a wellbore, with a cavity formed in the body for containing a material to be delivered. The body defines an outlet adapted to be selectively opened to permit the material to be released from the cavity at the required location within the wellbore. In one arrangement the material includes swellable particles which expand upon contact with an activator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: Swellfix BV
    Inventor: John Dewar
  • Patent number: 7556097
    Abstract: A docking receiver (48) for a subsurface well (12) having a fluid inlet structure (29), a riser pipe (30) and a docking apparatus (50) includes an upper section (372A) and a lower section (374A). The upper section (372A) is secured to the riser pipe (30). The lower section (374A) is secured to the fluid inlet structure (29). The lower section (374A) receives the docking apparatus (50) into an engaged position wherein fluid communication between a first zone (26) and a second zone (28) of the well (12) is inhibited. The lower section (374A) includes a contact surface (376A) and a distal region (377A). The contact surface (376A) contacts the docking apparatus (50) when the docking apparatus (50) is in the engaged position. The distal region (377A) is positioned more distally from a surface region (32) of the well (12) than the contact surface. The lower section (374A) can have a lower inner diameter (380UD, 380LD) that varies within the distal region (377A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: BESST, Inc.
    Inventors: Noah R. Heller, Peter F. Moritzburke
  • Publication number: 20090151952
    Abstract: Method and system for use in a subsurface formation traversed by a wellbore. An energized fluid, which when subjected to a low pressure environment liberates or releases gas from solution, is disposed in the formation. Reduced pressure in a region of the wellbore below pressure in the surrounding formation liberates a gas in the energized fluid near a tunnel created in the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Ian C. Walton
  • Publication number: 20080314584
    Abstract: A ball catcher is adapted to be fluidly connected to a wellhead port to receive wellbore fluids and balls carried therewith. A diverter is fit to the catcher body and has a wellhead end positioned to intercept the fluid flow from the wellhead port so as to divert debris and balls carried therein into a ball recovery chamber. The diverter has a bore in fluid communication with the flow outlet and the wellhead end has flow passages formed therethrough to the bore for receiving the fluid flow free of debris and balls and discharging the fluid flow from the catcher body. The diverter and the ball recovery chamber can be connected to quick removal for replacement, repair or cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Boris (Bruce) P. CHEREWYK
  • Publication number: 20080110617
    Abstract: A downhole plunger for oil and gas wells comprises an electronic ambient environmental sensor via a cargo bay. Although the sensor is preferably a downhole time, temperature, pressure and flow sensor, the device contemplates the use of any appropriate cargo to ascertain well conditions. The device can also be used to sample fluid. The sensor has a measured data memory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Giacomino
  • Publication number: 20080066904
    Abstract: A formation fluid sampling tool is provided with reactants which are carried downhole and which are combined in order to generate heat energy which is applied to the formation adjacent the borehole. By applying heat energy to the formation, the formation fluids are heated, thereby increasing mobility, and fluid sampling is expedited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventors: Ronald E. G. Van Hal, Anthony Goodwin, Oliver C. Mullins, Peter S. Hegeman, Bhavani Raghuraman, Soraya S. Betancourt, Cosan Ayan, Ricardo Vasques, Francois Xavier Dubost, Christopher Scott Del Campo
  • Publication number: 20080066908
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for downhole sampling or sensing of clean samples of component fluids of a multi-fluid mixture. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, embodiments of the present invention provide for, amongst other things, separating downhole multi-fluid mixtures into an oil-based fluid, a water-based fluid and/or the like and sampling and/or sensing of the clean separated fluids. Such sampling or sensing may be provided by a downhole tool in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention and the downhole tool may be used for production logging, formation testing and/or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gary Martin Oddie
  • Publication number: 20080047715
    Abstract: A fluid conduit sheath for a wellbore tractor can provide transportation of a working fluid external to a wellbore tractor in a downhole environment. The fluid conduit sheath can further provide cooling to electrical devices in the wellbore tractor. The fluid conduit sheath can be configured to be disposed around the body of the wellbore tractor, defining a fluid conduit between the sheath and the wellbore tractor. Spacers can be used to maintain the position of the sheath relative to the tractor and also to couple the tractor to the sheath. The fluid conduit sheath can be advantageous in tractors whose internal components substantially preclude the use of an internal fluid conduit, such as tractors with electrically-actuated grippers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventor: N. Bruce Moore
  • Publication number: 20080035328
    Abstract: Apparatus if provided for use in wells, particularly wells that have high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in the well. The shells of completion equipment that is required to withstand the rigorous conditions in such wells are increased in strength by laminate layers that are formed of materials having higher yield strength than the yield strength of materials that can be used in well fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas G. Hill, Cecil G. McGavern, Winfield M. Sides, Jason Mailand
  • Patent number: 7306036
    Abstract: A water well bailer. In one embodiment, the bailer includes a tubular housing composed of any polymer used as a plastic, such as, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyesters, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, nylon, poly(methyl methacrylate), polytetrafluoride, polyacrylonitrile, or chemical derivations there of for storing within the housing a sample of well water. A texture may be on the housing. The texture of the bailer reduces the surface area of the bailer in contact with the inside wall of a water well such that the bailer does not stick to the wall of the water well during incidental contact. The reason a bailer sticks to the side of a well is due to adhesive and cohesive forces acting between the well wall and the bailer. Adhesive and cohesive forces are generated between the bailer and well wall because of humidity and condensation of water on the well wall, and water on the outside of the bailer after initial contact with groundwater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventors: Robert A. Breglio, III, Gregory Alyanakian, Rodney N. Reeve
  • Patent number: 7303016
    Abstract: The invention is comprised of (see FIG. 1) an inner pipe (2), and an outer pipe (3), and two end subs (1). An isolated circular hollowed space is contained in between these components. The isolated space can be used for transport of different medias down into the well, this can be vacuum, air, gas, acids, solids, tracers, or other well stimulating medias. The end subs (1) can be connected to the casing in the well and become an integrated part of the casing. The invention can be cemented on the outside like the casing can. The invention can be perforated after installed in the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventor: Einar Kristiansen
  • Publication number: 20070272404
    Abstract: A flow sensor is incorporated into a junk basket to sense a flow stoppage due to a plugged screen or plugged cuttings ports in a mill. The sensor triggers a signal to the surface to warn personnel that a problem exists before the equipment is damaged. The sensor signal to the surface can take a variety of forms including mud pulses, a detectable pressure buildup at the surface, electromagnetic energy, electrical signal on hard wire or radio signals in a wifi system to name a few options. Surface personnel can interrupt the milling to take corrective action that generally involves pulling out of the hole or reverse circulating to try to clear the screen or mill cuttings inlets. Other variables can be measured such as the volume or weight or rate of change of either and a signal can be sent to the surface corresponding to one of those variables to allow them to be detected at the surface in real time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventors: Gerald D. Lynde, John P. Davis, Steve Rosenblatt
  • Publication number: 20070267196
    Abstract: A downhole magnetic debris tool is disclosed that may be connected to the bottom of a packer isolation plug. The downhole magnetic debris tool may include a magnetic shield assembly that shields the magnets and prevent the collection of magnetic debris as the packer isolation plug assembly is run into the well. The packer isolation plug assembly is inserted into the internal seal bore of a set packer. The assembly protects the seal bore from damage and prevents debris from moving downhole. The magnets of the downhole magnetic debris tool may be unsheathed upon removal of the packer isolation plug from the packer. The downhole magnetic debris tool may be used to collect magnetic debris that has collected on top of the packer. Additionally, the magnet shield assembly may act as a debris basket collecting downhole debris while the assembly is pulled from the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Inventors: Maximiliano Mondelli, George Krieg, David Hebert, Dewayne Turner
  • Patent number: 7287589
    Abstract: A well treatment system of the present invention includes a housing forming a sealed surge chamber, and a surge charge disposed within the sealed surge chamber, wherein the surge charge is adapted upon activation to penetrate the housing and to not penetrate material exterior of the housing. Fluid communication is created between the surge chamber and the wellbore when the housing is penetrated by the surge charge. The penetration permits wellbore fluid to flow quickly into the surge chamber. Fluid flow into the surge chamber may enhance a surge of flow from the formation into the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Brenden M. Grove, Mark C. Duhon, Lawrence A. Behrmann, Claude D. Jones
  • Patent number: 7287591
    Abstract: Electro-mechanically initiated dump bailer devices are disclosed generally comprising a top assembly and one or more bottom assemblies, the top assembly having a means for transferring electrical power from a surface power supply through the top end of the assembly, a reversible motor coupled to the top section and capable of receiving electrical power from the top end, the motor having a rotational output shaft, a rotational means for transferring work from the rotational output shaft to the one or more bottom assemblies that cause the setting of material into the zone of interest. In addition, methods of using the electro-mechanically initiated bump bailer devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Tony Campbell
  • Patent number: 7258167
    Abstract: A method and apparatus store energy in an energy storage medium located in an energy storage chamber. As a sampling tool descends into the borehole, the energy storage medium is pressurized with hydrostatic pressure. A sample is collected in a sample chamber by pumping formation fluid into the sample chamber against hydrostatic pressure. The energy storage medium applies the energy stored in the energy storage medium to the sample through a pressure communication member. A pressure multiplier member increases the pressure applied on the sample by the energy storage medium through the pressure communication member to keep pressure on the sample. A biasing water pressure is applied to the sample at the surface so that the energy storage chamber can be removed from the sample chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael Shammai, Francisco Galvan Sanchez, Harry Wade Bullock
  • Patent number: 7222668
    Abstract: For use in drawing samples of e.g water from a well. The sampling pipe is formed as an extrusion in polyethylene. The profile includes three equi-spaced channels. The profile, being triangulated, is rigid and resistant to buckling, which allows the sampling pipe to be coiled for transport to the site. Sample-tubes, pumps, etc, can be inserted into the channels. The channels can be plugged for isolation of sampling ports at different depths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Solinst Canada Limited
    Inventors: Jean Bruce Belshaw, legal representative, Jamieson Edward Champ, James Gerard Pianosi, Douglas James Belshaw, deceased
  • Patent number: 7213657
    Abstract: A coupler and a method for installing an instrumentation line, such as fiber optic cable, into a wellbore. The coupler places upper and lower instrumentation lines in communication with one another downhole to form a single line. The coupler comprises a landing tool and a stinger that lands on the landing tool, thereby placing the upper and the lower instrumentation lines in communication. The landing tool is run into the wellbore at the lower end of a tubular, such as production tubing. The upper instrumentation line affixes to the tubing and landing tool and extends to the surface. The lower instrumentation line affixes along the stinger. In this manner, the lower instrumentation line may be installed after expansion of a well screen or liner and may be later removed from the wellbore prior to well workover procedures without pulling the production string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Gisle Vold, Mike Foster, Jesse Constantine
  • Patent number: 7007751
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a fluid extractor system that has been design to obtain fluid, such as crude oil from wells at a fraction of the cost by using a novel canister assembly lowered in a well to collect the fluid. The canister assembly includes a pump and a storage container for collecting the fluid pumped into it by the pump. When the storage container is full the canister assembly is brought to the surface and emptied. In one embodiment the canister assembly has a battery to independently power the pump. A further feature of the invention includes repeatedly raising and incrementally lowering down the canister assembly to lower levels in the well using a jogging assembly to place the canister assembly only in the top layer of the fluid in the well. The system could also be used for recovering several other types of fluids in a well such as gas or water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Philip W. Eggleston
  • Patent number: 6962198
    Abstract: The groundwater well sample device is an elongated, cylindrical sample tube, having a top end and a bottom end. The top end is open. A knothole is formed through the wall of the sample tube near the top end. The knothole is large enough for the knotted end of a string to be easily passed through the knothole. A zigzagging string-retaining slot is formed through the sample tube wall, extending from the knothole toward the top end of the sample tube. The string-retaining slot is slightly narrower than the diameter of a string. The string-retaining slot terminates in a stress-reducing aperture. In use, the knotted end of a string is passed through the knothole, and the string then pulled into the string-retaining slot where the string, slightly compressed within the slot, is held tightly in place. The top end is angled to allow easy access to the string-insertion aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventor: Xiangjing Gao