Flow Stopping Type; E.g., Plug Patents (Class 166/192)
  • Publication number: 20130319682
    Abstract: A process and an apparatus for use in fluid fracturing of a well and the like is provided, the apparatus being a pumpable seat assembly for temporarily sealing a well casing comprising a generally cylindrical tube having an outer diameter and an inner diameter; a upper slip assembly and a lower slip assembly mounted on such cylindrical tube and adapted to selectively engage the well casing to anchor the pumpable seat assembly; an elastomeric packing element mounted on said cylindrical tube between the upper slip assembly and the lower slip assembly; and a dissolvable member positioned within the generally cylindrical tube for temporarily restricting a flow of fluids to the portion of the wellbore located below the pumpable seat assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: ENCANA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sam TSCHETTER, Armin JAHANGIRI
  • Patent number: 8596362
    Abstract: A hydraulic fracturing method includes injecting a fluid containing a transitory binder and filler into a substantially horizontal well casing without any placement apparatus present in the substantially horizontal well casing, the filler containing particles of a solid material. The transitory binder and filler are placed over first perforations in the well casing. The method includes opening second perforations through the well casing, injecting additional fracturing fluid through the substantially horizontal well casing, and forming a plug over and through the first perforations with the transitory binder and filler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Scott Gregory Nelson
  • Patent number: 8584746
    Abstract: An isolation element includes a body having at least one sealing surface, an internal cavity within the body, and a chemical agent disposed within the internal cavity. The chemical agent is configured to substantially increase a rate of degradation of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Manuel P. Marya, John Fleming, Larry W. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20130299192
    Abstract: A disintegrable tubular anchoring system comprises a frustoconical member; a sleeve with at least one first surface being radially alterable in response to longitudinal movement of the frustoconical member relative to the sleeve, the first surface being engagable with a wall of a structure; a seal with at least one second surface being radially alterable; and a seat having a land being sealingly engagable with a removable plug runnable thereagainst. The frustoconical member, sleeve, seal, and seat are disintegrable and independently comprise a metal composite which includes a cellular nanomatrix comprising a metallic nanomatrix material; and a metal matrix disposed in the cellular nanomatrix. A process of isolating a structure comprises disposing the disintegrable tubular anchoring system in the structure; radially altering the sleeve to engage a surface of the structure; and radially altering the seal to the isolate the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Zhiyue Xu, YingQing Xu, Gregory Lee Hern, Bennett M. Richard
  • Publication number: 20130299185
    Abstract: A frustoconical member includes a metal composite that has a cellular nanomatrix comprising a metallic nanomatrix material; a metal matrix disposed in the cellular nanomatrix; and a first frustoconical portion. A process of making the frustoconical member includes combining a metal matrix powder, a disintegration agent, and metal nanomatrix material to form a composition; compacting the composition to form a compacted composition; sintering the compacted composition; and pressing the sintered composition to form the frustoconical member having a tapered portion on an outer surface of the frustoconical member. The frustoconical member can be used by contacting a frustoconical portion of the frustoconical member to a tapered surface of an article; applying pressure to the frustoconical member; urging the frustoconical member in a direction relative to the article to expand a radial dimension of the article; and contacting the frustoconical member with a fluid to disintegrate the frustoconical member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Zhiyue Xu, YingQing Xu, Gregory Lee Hern, Bennett M. Richard
  • Publication number: 20130299198
    Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system for autonomously controlling the inflow of production fluids. The fluid flow control system includes a flow control assembly having a fluid flow path through which a fluid flows. A support structure is positioned in the fluid flow path. A plug is releasably coupled to the support structure such that when fluid flow through the fluid flow path induces sufficient movement in the support structure, the movement causes release of the plug from the support structure into the fluid flow path, thereby restricting subsequent fluid flow in at least one direction through the fluid flow path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John Charles Gano, Michael Linley Fripp
  • Publication number: 20130284424
    Abstract: A downhole circulating valve includes a generally tubular outer housing having a generally axially extending internal passageway. At least one generally longitudinally extending circulating passageway is formed through at least a portion of the housing. At least one exterior port and at least one interior port are in fluid communication with the circulating passageway. At least one seal plug is disposed within the circulating passageway. The seal plug has a first position relative to the housing wherein the seal plug is remote from the exterior port and the interior port, thereby allowing fluid flow between the exterior port and the interior port through the circulating passageway. The seal plug has a second position relative to the housing wherein the seal plug is between the exterior port and the interior port and wherein the seal plug forms at least one metal-to-metal seal with the circulating passageway, thereby preventing fluid flow between the exterior port and the interior port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: James Dan Vick, JR., Jimmie Robert Williamson, Robert Lester Thurman, Russell Irving Bayh, III
  • Publication number: 20130284453
    Abstract: A downhole circulating valve includes a generally tubular outer housing having a generally axially extending internal passageway. At least one generally longitudinally extending circulating passageway is formed through at least a portion of the housing. At least one exterior port and at least one interior port are in fluid communication with the circulating passageway. At least one seal plug is disposed within the circulating passageway. The seal plug has a first position relative to the housing wherein the seal plug is remote from the exterior port and the interior port, thereby allowing fluid flow between the exterior port and the interior port through the circulating passageway. The seal plug has a second position relative to the housing wherein the seal plug is between the exterior port and the interior port and wherein the seal plug forms at least one metal-to-metal seal with the circulating passageway, thereby preventing fluid flow between the exterior port and the interior port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: James Dan Vick, JR., Jimmie Robert Williamson, Robert Lester Thurman, Russell Irving Bayh, III
  • Patent number: 8567494
    Abstract: Well operating elements are described, one embodiment comprising a first component that is substantially non-dissolvable when exposed to a selected wellbore environment and a second component that is soluble in the selected wellbore environment and whose rate and/or location of dissolution is at least partially controlled by structure of the first component. A second embodiment includes the component that is soluble in the selected wellbore environment, and one or more exposure holes or passages in the soluble component to control its solubility. The second embodiment may or may not include a substantially non-dissolvable component. Methods of using the well operating elements in oilfield operations are also described. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Gary L. Rytlewski, Ashish Sharma
  • Publication number: 20130277044
    Abstract: A frac plug mandrel assembly has an inner core that permits flow that is surrounded by a thin wall tube that distributes compressive loading, such as that applied by the set sealing element to the core. The core is a cylindrically shaped insert for inside the tube and allows flow until a ball or plug is landed on a seat to close off the flow through the core. The core can have a star pattern with a series of radially extending segments from a solid hub or a cylindrical shape of a honeycomb or other porous structure that has the requisite strength to resist collapse from compressive loading of the set sealing element while still allowing sufficient flow area for fluid displacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: James G. King, Edward J. O'Malley
  • Publication number: 20130264056
    Abstract: An array of plugging devices are pumped sequentially from the surface through a liner, that typically becomes horizontal in nature, where each plugging device is anchorable at a specified position along the length of the liner. When the plugging device is anchored, a cluster of perforations is generated above the plugging device where the perforations may be created by detonation of a perforating gun attached to the top side of the plugging device or the perforations may be created by shifting of a sleeve that is anchored to the plugging device. The plugging device may be a cup plug where the cup is similar to a swab cup and when pump pressure is applied to the cup, a force is generated to make the cup move through the liner. When anchored, the cup also directs frac fluids through the perforations to treat the well formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: Oiltool Engineering Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Oiltool Engineering Services, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130255947
    Abstract: A completion system, including a lower completion installed in a borehole proximate to a downhole formation. An intermediate completion assembly is included directly engaged with the lower completion. The intermediate completion assembly includes a barrier valve and packer device. The barrier valve is operatively arranged to selectively impede fluid flow through the lower completion and the packer device operatively arranged for isolating the formation. An upper completion string is included that is selectably engagable with the intermediate completion assembly. The barrier valve is operatively arranged to be transitionable to an open position when engaged with the upper completion string and transitions to a closed position via the upper completion string when the upper completion string is pulled out of the borehole. A method of completing a borehole is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Raymond A. Frisby, Jeffrey S. Phillips, Roy N. Nelson, Donald Lauderdale
  • Publication number: 20130255961
    Abstract: A completion system, including a lower completion initially fluidly open. A production string is included having a removable plug configured to impede fluid flow through the production string. The removable plug is run in with the production string. An intermediate completion assembly is included that couples the lower completion to the production string. The intermediate completion assembly has a packer device and a barrier valve. The packer device is operatively arranged to be set by pressurizing fluid in the production string against the removable plug. The barrier valve is operatively arranged for selectively impeding fluid flow between the production string and the lower completion after the removable plug is removed. A method of completing a borehole is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Raymond A. Frisby, Jeffrey S. Phillips, Roy N. Nelson, Donald Lauderdale
  • Patent number: 8544551
    Abstract: A wellhead is provided. In one embodiment, the wellhead includes a plug for sealing a side passage of the wellhead. The plug may include an outer member, an inner member extending through the outer member and coupled to the outer member with at least one degree of freedom of movement relative to the outer member, and a moveable seal disposed around the outer member. In some embodiments, the moveable seal is configured to seal against the side passage in response to being moved on the outer member by the inner member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis P. Nguyen, David Anderson, Delbert Vanderford
  • Patent number: 8540032
    Abstract: A swellable apparatus for filling a space in oil or gas tool such as a wellbore packer is described. The swellable apparatus comprise a hydrocarbon swellable body which swells on exposure to a hydrocarbon fluid, and at least one water swellable body which swells on exposure to a second fluid comprising water. The hydrocarbon swellable body is interposed between the aqueous fluid and the water swellable body and comprises at least one access pathway configured to permit the passage of water to the water swellable body. The pathway may be formed by perforation, or by incorporating an additive into the hydrocarbon material, such as a foaming agent or polyoctenamer. Embodiments of the invention comprise variations in cross-linking in the hydrocarbon swellable body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Swelltec Limited
    Inventors: Kim Nutley, Brian Nutley
  • Publication number: 20130240203
    Abstract: A plug for isolating a wellbore is provided. The plug can include a mandrel having a bore formed therethrough, at least one sealing element disposed about the mandrel, at least one slip disposed about the mandrel, at least one conical member disposed about the mandrel, and an insert disposed at least partially within the bore of the mandrel. The insert can include a body, at least one circumferential groove disposed on an outer surface of the body, wherein the at least one circumferential groove is adapted to retain an elastomeric seal, and at least one interface disposed on an end of the body for securing the insert into the mandrel. The body can also have a bore formed only partially therethrough or a bore formed completely therethrough with the body being adapted to receive an impediment that restricts fluid flow in at least one direction through the body. At least one of the body and the impediment can include one or more decomposable materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: W. Lynn Frazier
  • Publication number: 20130220609
    Abstract: Methods include introducing a casing into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation, the casing forming an annulus with the wellbore surface, where the casing is subject to a first pressure value at a distal end and a second pressure value at a proximal region within the casing, and where a shoe is positioned at the distal end of the casing. Then, placing a sealable valve within the proximal region of the casing, injecting a first cement composition into the casing, through the sealable valve and shoe, and into the annulus, and the placing a second cement composition in a medial region of the tubular formed between the distal end and the proximal region. Afterward, the sealable valve is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gary L. Rytlewski
  • Patent number: 8519016
    Abstract: A method of making a lightweight cementitious binder composition with improved compressive strength for products such as cementitious panels is disclosed. The method mixes fly ash, alkali metal salt of citric acid, alkali metal silicate, foaming agent for entraining air, water and in the preferred embodiment a foam stabilizing agent. Compositions which include fly ash selected from the group consisting of class C fly ash, class F fly ash and mixtures thereof, alkali metal salts of citric acid, alkali metal silicates, foaming agents, and preferably a foam stabilizer, such as polyvinyl alcohol, and do not require use of set retarders. Compositions containing class F fly ash can optionally contain Type III Portland cement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: United States Gypsum Company
    Inventor: Marianela Perez-Pena
  • Publication number: 20130206409
    Abstract: A one-way flowable anchoring system includes a plurality of same anchors that are sealedly fixedly engagable within a structure and each of the plurality of same anchors has a flow bore longitudinally therethrough with a first seat and a second seat on opposing ends thereof The system also has a plug positionable within the structure between two of the plurality of same anchors positioned longitudinally adjacent one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Patrick C. Stone, Douglas J. Lehr, Gregory Lee Hern, Levi B. Oberg, Jim H. Roddy
  • Publication number: 20130206425
    Abstract: A selectively corrodible downhole article includes a movable cylindrical member comprising a first section and an axially separated second section, the first section comprising a first material having a first galvanic activity, the second section comprising a second material having a second galvanic activity, the first galvanic activity being greater than the second, the first section being electrically isolated from the second section; and a fixed member disposed on the cylindrical member and configured for electrical contact with the first or second section, the fixed member comprising an intermediate material having an intermediate galvanic activity, the intermediate galvanic activity being intermediate the first and second galvanic activity, the movable cylindrical member configured for movement from a first position where the first section is disposed and in electrical contact with the fixed member and a second position where the second section is disposed and in electrical contact with the fixed member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Oleg A. Mazyar, Michael H. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20130199800
    Abstract: Methods for preparing a wellbore casing for stimulation operations comprise the steps of cementing a wellbore casing in a wellbore, the wellbore casing having a downhole tool comprising a valve and an apparatus for restricting fluid flow through the valve, such as a ball seat, disposed above the valve. Actuation of the valve opens the valve to establish fluid communication between the wellbore casing and the formation. A plug element is disposed on a seat of the ball seat and a casing pressure test is performed. The plug element then dissolves or disintegrates over time increasing fluid communication between the wellbore casing and the formation, thereby preparing the wellbore casing for stimulation operations without additional wellbore intervention after the casing pressure test. In certain embodiments, during or after dissolution of the plug element, clean-out of the bore of the valve is performed by the plug element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventors: Justin C. Kellner, Paul MADERO, Charles C. JOHNSON
  • Publication number: 20130199790
    Abstract: A wellbore treatment apparatus includes: a tubing string including a wall defining an inner diameter and a port extending through the wall, the port closed by a closure including a plug-actuated sliding sleeve; and a port opening apparatus including a wireline deployable through the inner diameter of the tubing string to extend to a position adjacent the plug-actuated sliding sleeve and an actuator plug carried on and axially slideable along the wireline, the actuator plug sized to land in the plug-actuated sliding sleeve to actuate the plug-actuated sliding sleeve, while remaining on the wireline. The apparatus can be employed in a method by running the tubing string into a well, placing the slickline in the string and running the actuator plug along the wireline to land on and actuate a sleeve in the string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: PACKERS PLUS ENERGY SERVICES INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Jon Themig, James Fehr, Serhiy Arabsky
  • Publication number: 20130192828
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for substantially sealing an opening defined by a hydrocarbon well downhole component, wherein an interior portion of the downhole component is in fluid communication with a formation surrounding the hydrocarbon well. The apparatus includes a deformable plug adaptable to being injected into the wellbore and carried through the wellbore in a fluid. The fluid carrying the deformable plug can flow through the opening and the deformable plug is sized and configured such that at least a portion of the deformable plug can deform to the contour of the opening and seat in the opening. The deformable plug is capable of swelling, hardening, or compressing such that the deformable plug forms a substantially sealed relationship with the hydrocarbon well downhole component such that the interior portion of the downhole component ceases to be in fluid communication with the formation surrounding the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: JJBM Properties, LLC
    Inventors: Glen Mitchell Kniffin, John David Harkrider, William Lee Anthony, Jeff S. Jordan
  • Publication number: 20130192897
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in controlling first and second downhole tools includes a first cyclical indexing mechanism associated with a first downhole tool, and a second cyclical indexing mechanism associated with a second downhole tool, wherein the first indexing mechanism defines at least three sequential indexing positions within a cycle and the second indexing mechanism defines at least two sequential indexing positions within a cycle. The apparatus includes at least one actuator for actuating the first and second indexing mechanisms in response to a common stimulus to cause said first and second indexing mechanisms to advance between respective indexing positions so as to permit co-ordination of the operational states of the associated first and second downhole tools. The apparatus may be used for controlling first and second under reamers or for controlling an under reamer and a corresponding stabilizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: NOV DOWNHOLE EURASIA LIMITED
    Inventor: NOV Downhole Eurasia Limited
  • Publication number: 20130186626
    Abstract: A method of variably restricting flow in a subterranean well can include resisting flow through a flow path, and then selectively opening a pressure barrier which previously prevented flow through another flow path. The flow paths are configured for parallel flow. A flow restrictor system for use with a subterranean well can include at least two flow paths configured for parallel flow, a flow restrictor which resists flow through one flow path, and a pressure barrier which prevents flow through another flow path. The pressure barrier is selectively openable to permit flow through the second flow path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130186650
    Abstract: A treatment plug includes, an anchor runnable and settable within a structure having, at least two slips movably engaged with one another to cause the at least two slips to move radially into engagement with the structure in response to longitudinal movement between the at least two slips. The treatment plug also has at least one seal having a deformable metal member configured to radially deform into sealing engagement with the structure in response to longitudinal compression of the deformable metal member, and a seat that is sealingly receptive to a plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: YingQing Xu, Graeme Michael Kelbie
  • Publication number: 20130175034
    Abstract: A grout plug 10 for plugging a drill hole 20 in a mine. The plug 10 comprises an elongate sleeve 12 of porous material adapted to be received in a drill hole 20 and a volume of dry grout material 14 in particulate form. The plug 10 also comprises a liner 16 of water-soluble material, the liner 16 being provided within the porous sleeve 12 for containing the grout material 14 within the porous sleeve 12 in its dry form. In use, when the plug 10 is exposed to water the liner 16 dissolves and the water mixes with the grout material 14 to form a slurry which can seep through the porous sleeve 12 when the plug 10 is tamped into the drill hole 20 to block the drill hole 20 when the grout material 14 cures. A related clay plug is also described having a central core of substantially solid material of low permeability which forms a substrate against which the clay material may cure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: RISE MINING DEVELOPMENTS PTY LTD
    Inventor: Jeffrey Bruce Phillips
  • Publication number: 20130175052
    Abstract: Plugs are deployed along a wellbore to form fluid barriers for associated stages. The plugs include a first plug that includes a first material that reacts with a first agent and does not react with a second agent and a second plug that includes a second material that reacts with the second agent and does not react with the first agent. A first stimulation operation is performed in the stage that is associated with the first plug; and a first agent is communicated into the well to react with the first material to remove the first plug. A second stimulation operation is performed in the stage that is associated with the second plug. The second agent is communicated into the well to react with the second material to remove the second plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: Jason Baihly
  • Publication number: 20130161027
    Abstract: A downhole actuation system comprises an actuation mechanism comprising an indicator; a wellbore tubular; and a collet coupled to the wellbore tubular. The collet comprises a collet protrusion disposed on one or more collet springs, and the collet protrusion has a position on the one or more collet springs that is configured to provide a first longitudinal force to the indicator in a first direction and a second longitudinal force to the indicator in a second direction. The first longitudinal force is different than the second longitudinal force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130161028
    Abstract: A combination profile and burst-disc subassembly is provided for use in directional, horizontal or deviated or vertical wells during snubbing, bridge plug retrieval or zone separation operations in combination with packers and/or completion strings; the sub provides an plug for non-vertical situations which can be opened without wireline, while providing a landing for a wireline plug which may be required for vertical well sections during related operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventor: CONRAD PETROWSKY
  • Patent number: 8469088
    Abstract: A drillable bridge plug includes a mandrel having external splines disposed on an outer surface of the mandrel, a sealing element disposed around the mandrel, an upper cone disposed around the mandrel proximate an upper end of the sealing element, and a lower cone disposed around the mandrel proximate the lower end of the sealing element, wherein an inner surface of the lower cone comprises internal splines configured to engage the external splines. The drillable bridge plug also includes an upper and a lower slip assembly disposed around the mandrel, and an upper and lower ring assembly each including a first segmented barrier ring, a second segmented barrier ring, and a back-up ring disposed proximate sealing element. Methods include a method of setting the drillable bridge plug and a method of removing the drillable bridge plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Piro Shkurti, John C. Wolf
  • Publication number: 20130153219
    Abstract: A system to set a plug in a wellbore includes a tubular member and a plug coupled to the tubular member. The plug is configured to seal a wellbore based, at least in part, on a shape change of the plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Terje Abrahamsen, Rune Hobberstad
  • Patent number: 8459344
    Abstract: An internal bidirectional tubing plug is adapted for insertion into a tubing string for sealing the tubing string internally while running the tubing into a fluid filled well. The tubing plug is comprised of a body having an inner surface with a recess; the recess holds petals and a keystone petal that are held by a cork that is held by a nut. At depth the tubing is filled with well fluid and the tubing plug is released at a predetermined hydraulic pressure, and the pieces are pumped to bottom or the pieces are circulated out of the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: William Bundy Stone
  • Publication number: 20130133878
    Abstract: A circulation sub is provided that has a ball seat and a circulation port that is closed when a ball is landed on the seat. An axial passage directs the pressure surge created with the landing of the ball on the seat to the port with the actuation piston for the tool. The surge in pressure operates the actuation piston to set the tool, which is preferably a packer. In an alternative embodiment raising the circulation rate through a constriction in a circulation sub breaks a shear device and allows the restriction to shift to cover a circulation port. The pressure surge that ensues continues through the restriction to the actuating piston for the tool to set the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Larry J. Urban, Ronnie D. Russell
  • Publication number: 20130126185
    Abstract: A swellable system reactive to a flow of fluid including an article having a swellable material operatively arranged to swell upon exposure to a flow of fluid containing ions therein. A filter material is disposed with the swellable material and operatively arranged to remove the ions from the flow of fluid before exposure to the swellable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Oleg A. Mazyar
  • Publication number: 20130112434
    Abstract: A method of forming a plug in a wellbore includes disposing a work string in a wellbore. The work string includes a first tool comprising a port providing fluid communication between an interior space of the first tool to an exterior space to permit placement of a plug in a wellbore. The method includes introducing a first fluid volume via the work string to form a plug in the wellbore, and includes load testing the plug at least in part by applying an axial force on the plug with the work string to determine that the plug is set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Gunnar Lende, Hank Rogers
  • Publication number: 20130098621
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fracturing system for fracturing a formation surrounding a well tubular structure, comprising a tubular part to be mounted as a part of the well tubular structure, the tubular part being made of metal, an expandable sleeve made of metal, the sleeve having a wall thickness and surrounding the tubular part, a fastening means for connecting the sleeve with the tubular part, and an aperture in the tubular part or the fastening means. Furthermore, the invention relates to a fracturing method for fracturing a formation surrounding a well tubular structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventors: Jørgen Hallundbæk, Paul Hazel
  • Patent number: 8418756
    Abstract: A well plug having a flexible expandable sealing (330) and a metallic anchor (350) which can be moved radially out or in by rotating a leadscrew (170) in opposite directions. The well plug has a ball valve in a central longitudinal passage, which is kept open whenever the leadscrew (160) rotates. This increases the accuracy when setting the plug, and reduces the risk for the plug moving uncontrolled in the well bore during setting or retrieval. The ball valve can be opened or closed by rotating a transmitting shaft (120, 140) within an angle of free motion, before the leadscrew is pulled along in the rotation. A ball valve for high pressure applications is also shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: I-TEC AS
    Inventor: Kristoffer Brække
  • Publication number: 20130087323
    Abstract: A multi-function diverter tool is disclosed that allows positive-indication opening and closing of the tool in a downhole environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventors: Jerry Allamon, Kevin O. Trahan, Javier E. Bolivar
  • Publication number: 20130081801
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of degradable coatings suitable for use on downhole tools. In particular, the present invention relates to pliable coatings for use on downhole tools that have been designed to be able to resist flaking or breaking off of the tool in response to a physical shock. Some embodiments of the present invention provide methods of reacting lactic acid, glycolic acid, or a combination thereof in a polymerization reaction to form a degradable polymer; combining the degradable polymer and a plasticizer to form a coating composition; applying the coating composition to a downhole tool; placing the coated downhole tool into a portion of a subterranean formation; and, hydrolyzing the degradable polymer of the coating composition to release an acid and degrade the coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Inventors: Feng Liang, Bradley L. Todd, Thomas D. Welton, Rajesh K. Saini
  • Publication number: 20130075109
    Abstract: A completion system including a barrier valve operatively arranged in a tubing string to selectively impede fluid flow through a lower completion. At least one control line is included for supplying a control line pressure for controlling operation of the barrier valve. The at least one control line is operatively arranged with the tubing string for enabling tubing pressure in the tubing string to determine the control line pressure. A method of operating a barrier valve is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Raymond A. Frisby, Jeffrey S. Phillips, Roy N. Nelson, Donald Lauderdale, Terry R. Bussear
  • Patent number: 8403047
    Abstract: A process for sealing off one or more segments of a gravel packed well to reduce the production of undesirable fluids. The process includes the installation of a removable plug and the installation of a removable sealant at a location in the gravel packing to separate portions of the formation that produce desirable products from portions that produce less desirable products. A flow poison is then squeezed into the portion of the formation that produces less desirable products. With wireline or other low-cost wellbore workover systems, access is re-engaged with the preferred formation including removal of plugs and sealants without mechanical drilling. The process allows increased production of preferred fluids by preventing less or non preferred fluids from displacing the preferred fluids and also reduces lifting costs that would otherwise be expended for lifting and expenses related to separating and disposing of non preferred fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventors: Curtis G. Blount, John C. Braden, Dan E. Venhaus
  • Patent number: 8397813
    Abstract: A plug (20) is described for carrying out tests of a well (30), a pipe or the like, comprising an explosive charge (55) with an activation mechanism (50, 51, 53) and which is detonated to remove the plug when the test is completed, and the plug is characterized in that the explosive charge elements are arranged internally in the plug. The plug preferably comprises a boring (54) that holds said explosive charge (55) with the activation mechanism, and it can alternatively comprise two or more borings (54) for the placing of a corresponding number of explosive charges (55) with activation mechanisms. The explosive charge (55) with ignitor (56) and ignition pin (57) is preferably arranged in the plug boring (54) while the other parts (50, 51, 53) of the activation mechanism are integrated in the wall of the pipe bundle (10) that holds the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: TCO AS
    Inventor: Viggo Brandsdal
  • Patent number: 8376044
    Abstract: A plug device for closing of a pipe bore where the plug comprises an exterior sleeve formed in a flexible material, and a setting mechanism, and where the setting mechanism comprises wedges which between their passive position and their active position are displaced along a curved path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Aker Well Service AS
    Inventor: John Arild Ostevik
  • Publication number: 20130014938
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in stage-cementing an oil well in the region of a lost-circulation zone that is proximate an annular space defined by the lower end of an outer casing surrounding an inner casing include a load-bearing annular steel plate of substantial thickness that is positioned on, and maintained stationary relative to the inner casing by supporting and retaining means secured to the inner casing, the outer diameter of the plate being less than the inside diameter of the outer casing so that the plate can be lowered with the inner casing string to the desired location inside of the outer casing and, with a layer of gravel, to provide a seal and support the cement poured into the annulus between the inner and outer casings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Omar Jubran ESMAIL
  • Publication number: 20130014958
    Abstract: A retrievable stimulation frac (retrievable stimulation frac) plug for a well casing having an elongate mandrel having a fluid flow bore, a check valve mandrel seal moveable between an open position and a closed position for selectively sealing the fluid flow bore, a sealing mechanism for sealing between the mandrel and the casing, and a locking mechanism for axially locking the retrievable stimulation frac plug in the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: William Jani
  • Publication number: 20120305238
    Abstract: Thermally crosslinked polysulfone may be made from linear polysulfone, such as polyethersulfone, in powder form blended with a powdered inorganic peroxide such as magnesium peroxide or another oxygen source, to form a mixture followed by compression inside a mold. The mixture is cured at a an elevated temperature, for instance above 325° C., for an effective period of time to form a dense object. The object is then boiled in water, optionally under pressure, to remove the salt to give a structure that is open and porous which may be used as a filtration device on a downhole tool for hydrocarbon recovery. If a powdered salt is not used, a thermally crosslinked, solid, void-free polysulfone is made which may be strong and rigid at ambient, surface temperatures, but is an elastomer at elevated downhole temperatures, and is thus suitable for use as a packer or an O-ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Ping Duan, Gaurav Agrawal, Casey Walls
  • Publication number: 20120292031
    Abstract: A hydraulic fracturing method includes injecting a fluid containing a transitory binder and filler into a substantially horizontal well casing without any placement apparatus present in the substantially horizontal well casing, the filler containing particles of a solid material. The transitory binder and filler are placed over first perforations in the well casing. The method includes opening second perforations through the well casing, injecting additional fracturing fluid through the substantially horizontal well casing, and forming a plug over and through the first perforations with the transitory binder and filler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Scott Gregory Nelson
  • Publication number: 20120285704
    Abstract: The present invention provides a deep-water oil well plug apparatus having a plunger member on an elongate shaft and a plurality of inflatable members configured and shapes to seal within the well bore, and a bell-shaped chamber placed on top of the oil well and adapted to be filled with concrete, and a hydraulic mechanism to remove and release the bell-shaped chamber from the oil well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Hussain Y.A.M. Mothaffar
  • Publication number: 20120279700
    Abstract: An insert for a downhole plug for use in a wellbore is provided. The insert can include a body having a bore formed at least partially therethrough. One or more threads can be disposed on an outer surface of the body and adapted to threadably engage an inner surface of the plug proximate a first end of the plug. One or more shearable threads can be disposed on an inner surface of the body. The one or more shearable threads can be adapted to threadably engage a setting tool that enters the plug through the first end thereof and to deform to release the setting tool when exposed to a predetermined force that is less than a force required to deform the one or more threads disposed on the outer surface of the body. At least one impediment can be disposed within the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: W. Lynn Frazier