Abstract: A system for a well completions operation includes a packed filtration screen assembly removably attached around a perforated portion of a liner, where the packed filtration screen assembly has an inner slotted basket, an outer slotted basket positioned concentrically around the inner slotted basket, and gravel held in an annular space between the inner slotted basket and the outer slotted basket and axial end caps located at opposite axial ends of the annular space.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a radial flow adsorption vessel comprising a cylindrical outer shell and at least one cylindrical porous wall disposed co-axially inside the shell, wherein inside the shell one or more fluid permeable screens are rigidly connected to the at least one cylindrical porous wall, by a multitude of separate standoff elements so that the screen has a cylindrical shape co-axial to the shell, and to an adsorption process using the radial flow adsorption vessel.

Abstract: A system includes an excavation assembly, which in turn includes a supporting body having a perimetric edge defining a closed path. A distribution apparatus protrudes transversally relative to the perimetric edge and is movable in a guided manner on the supporting body. The distribution apparatus transversally distributes a quantity of hardenable or solidifiable material towards the outside of the perimetric edge, so as to be able to lay a plurality of axially superimposed annular layers(s) of the hardenable or solidifiable material defining a tubular structure (T) around the excavation assembly. A motor device moves the distribution apparatus on the supporting body.

Abstract: Screen sections have opposed open ends near the threaded connection of a base pipe and on opposed ends. The base pipes have premium threads for connection. A shroud is placed over the premium bases pipe connection that spans from one open ended screen section to another that is adjacent. Collectively a long annular space is created under the screens and alternating shrouds with access to within the base pipes provided preferably at opposed ends. The valve on one end takes returns during gravel packing and the other takes production to the surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for continuous removal of fill in a sand screen in a down hole environment is provided, as well as methods of using the apparatus in a continuous fashion such that accumulation of fill is prevented in a sand screen in a down hole environment.

Abstract: The disclosed downhole gas and solids separator includes a suspended helical flighting member for efficient downhole separation of both gases and solids from a hydrocarbon production stream. Centrifugal force, provided by the flighting member, accelerates the coalescence of like materials to enhance separation of both gases and solids within the separator. Centrifugal force urges solids to the outer wall of the separator and gases toward the center, where passageways are designed to allow solids to efficiently migrate toward and accumulate at the bottom of the separator while simultaneously allowing gases to efficiently rise out of the separator device.

Abstract: Fluid flow between screen-pipe annuli of pipe sections in a down-hole well structure is provided by a fluid communication sleeve assembly that may be installed where adjacent pipe sections are connected. A flow ring is provided at each pipe section end, each flow ring providing fluid communication from and to an annulus between a screen and a corresponding base pipe. The fluid communication sleeve assembly includes a screen shield spaced from the adjoining pipes and the pipe joint, the screen shield connected to a flow ring at each screen shield end, and a lock nut at each screen shield end, the lock nut retaining a screen shield end to a corresponding flow ring. A method for providing fluid flow between screen-pipe annuli of pipe is also provided.

Abstract: A well screen for use in a subterranean well can include a loose filter media, a sandstone, a square weave mesh material, a foam, and/or a nonmetal mesh material. A method of installing a well screen in a subterranean well can include dispersing a material in a filter media of the well screen, after the well screen has been installed in the well, thereby permitting a fluid to flow through the filter media. A method of constructing a well screen can include positioning a loose filter media in an annular space between a base pipe and a shroud, so that the filter media filters fluid which flows through a wall of the base pipe.

Abstract: Cylindrical screens and screen assemblies for use with perforated base pipe or casing for sand control in wellbores have generally longitudinally extending slots punched in the screen. The outer surface of the screen material is deformed below the inner surface causing apertures to form along the longitudinal edges of the slot. The slots are generally longitudinally aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical screens whether butt-welded or spiral-rolled and welded by determining the angle at which the slots need to be punched to result in such alignment. End caps which connect between the screen and the casing extend over the ends of the cylindrical screen and are welded thereto to minimize sand entry. At least one of the end caps may include an expansion joint to permit relative expansion and contraction between the screen and the casing particularly when used in thermal recovery operations.

Abstract: A well screen (101) having a base pipe (103), a filter layer (105) arranged around the base pipe (103), and a discrete mesh outer standoff layer (107) arranged around the filter layer (105) in a first spiral wrap (109) is provided. The first spiral wrap (109) comprises a first succession of loops such that a trailing edge of a next one of the first succession of loops is in contact, or in overlap, with a leading edge of a previous one of the first succession of loops; and to produce a compressive force on the filter layer (105) radially towards the base pipe (103).

Abstract: A sand control screen assembly (300) includes a base pipe (302) having at least one opening in a sidewall thereof and a screen jacket positioned about the base pipe (302). The screen jacket includes a drainage layer (304) and a filter medium positioned about the drainage layer (304). The drainage layer (304) includes a plurality of circumferentially distributed axially extending ribs (306) and a wrap wire (308) positioned around the ribs (306) forming a plurality of turns having gaps therebetween. The ribs (306) includes a plurality of first ribs (310) having a first cross-sectional rib profile, shaped and sized to maintain an annular space between the wrap wire (308) and the base pipe (302) and a plurality of second ribs (312) having a second cross-sectional rib profile, shaped and sized to provide for a gap between the second ribs (312) and the base pipe (302).

Abstract: A well screen for use in a subterranean well can include a loose filter media, a sandstone, a square weave mesh material, a foam, and/or a nonmetal mesh material. A method of installing a well screen in a subterranean well can include dispersing a material in a filter media of the well screen, after the well screen has been installed in the well, thereby permitting a fluid to flow through the filter media. A method of constructing a well screen can include positioning a loose filter media in an annular space between a base pipe and a shroud, so that the filter media filters fluid which flows through a wall of the base pipe.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an assembly for use in a wellbore which includes a base pipe; a filter medium surrounding at least a portion of the external surface of the base pipe; and an internally profiled sleeve surrounding at least a portion of the filter media. Also included is a method for attaching a hardware accessory to a sand screen assembly which includes providing a base pipe having an inner surface and an outer surface; surrounding the outer surface of the base pipe with a filter medium; engaging the sleeve with the filter medium; and connecting the hardware accessory to the sleeve. Also included is a downhole apparatus which includes a basepipe, where at least a portion of the external surface of the basepipe is profiled; and a sleeve mounted external to the basepipe, where the internal profile of the sleeve corresponds to the external profile of the basepipe.

Abstract: A debris collector or strainer assembly for a well string tubular coupling wherein one embodiment discloses a conical coil with one end fixed to a hub, a beveled collar surrounding and supporting the hub and secured thereto with shear pins, the conical coil is deformable as necessary to capture irregular shaped objects between its coils, its loops may be closed, spaced apart, fixed or allowed to expand under pressure, and may be retrieved using an overshot fishing tool to engage a rod extending axially through the coil which may be attached at one or both ends of the coil.

Abstract: A screen section is made with variable resistance to flow in the screen material to balance the flow along the screen length. In one variation different discrete zones have screens configured for different percentages of open area while all have the same particle filtration capability. In another variation discrete portions have differing amounts of overlapping screen portions so as to balance flow without affecting the particle size screened. The cross-sectional shape of a wire wrap underlayment for the screen is made closer to trapezoidal to decrease the angle of opening for the incoming flow paths toward the base pipe. In this manner flow resistance is reduced and flow is increased due to reduced turbulence.

Abstract: A cyclonic strainer for a well intake that provides for improved separation of gas and fluid in naturally flowing wells during mechanical pumping operations. The strainer includes an elongated member having a channel formed longitudinally therein. A plurality of apertures extend through the elongated member angled downwardly into the channel and away from a center of the channel allowing for a better shear between gas and fluids. The angle of the ports causes fluid to be forced in an opposite direction, resulting in gases and fluids shearing more quickly and cleanly, due to kinetic energy. The angle of the ports can be varied to accommodate different conditions in various well environments. In well environments in which gaseous conditions are extreme, it can be desired for the ports to be sloped southwardly or downwardly at a greater angle than for well environments in which gaseous conditions are not as extreme.

Abstract: A method and apparatus associated with the production of hydrocarbons is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a tubular member having a central opening within an internal portion of the tubular member, wherein the central opening allows hydrocarbons to flow through the tubular member. Also, the tubular member includes openings between the central opening and a region external to the tubular member. In addition to the tubular member, at least two adjacent wire segments are disposed around the tubular member. The at least two adjacent wire segments create at least two flow paths to the central opening. Also, the at least two adjacent wire segments form at least two openings configured to prevent particles greater than a specific size from entering the openings in the tubular member.

Abstract: A screen section is made with variable resistance to flow in the screen material to balance the flow along the screen length. In one variation different discrete zones have screens configured for different percentages of open area while all have the same particle filtration capability. In another variation discrete portions have differing amounts of overlapping screen portions so as to balance flow without affecting the particle size screened. The cross-sectional shape of a wire wrap underlayment for the screen is made closer to trapezoidal to decrease the angle of opening for the incoming flow paths toward the base pipe. In this manner flow resistance is reduced and flow is increased due to reduced turbulence.

Abstract: A liner for inserting into a drain hole, comprising a resilient tubular member with a central bore; wherein the tubular member is formed from a first continuous helically wound wire provided with a passageway to allow fluid communication across the member.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an assembly for use in a wellbore which includes a base pipe; a filter medium surrounding at least a portion of the external surface of the base pipe; and an internally profiled sleeve surrounding at least a portion of the filter media. Also included is a method for attaching a hardware accessory to a sand screen assembly which includes providing a base pipe having an inner surface and an outer surface; surrounding the outer surface of the base pipe with a filter medium; engaging the sleeve with the filter medium; and connecting the hardware accessory to the sleeve. Also included is a downhole apparatus which includes a basepipe, where at least a portion of the external surface of the basepipe is profiled; and a sleeve mounted external to the basepipe, where the internal profile of the sleeve corresponds to the external profile of the basepipe.

Abstract: A liner for inserting into a drain hole, comprising a resilient tubular member with a central bore; wherein the tubular member is formed from a first continuous helically wound wire provided with a passageway to allow fluid communication across the member.

Abstract: A screen for separating solids and liquids is formed from parallel strips of wedge wire or similar material into a substantially cylindrical two-sided enclosure in a generally C-shaped profile. Unfiltered liquid containing solids contacts the screen surface on both the convex and concave sides of the C-shaped enclosure. The unit may be placed in a vessel adapted to accommodate two such C-shaped devices in concentric relationship. The vessel may function similar to a candle filter, or a more conventional flow may be used.

Abstract: A screen for use in distributing a fluid in a process flow system. The screen provides support, and provides for the ability to clean particulates from the screen. The screen includes profiled wires affixed to a support, where the support provides channels to distribute the fluid over the screen. The support includes spacing to improve the cleaning of particulates from the screen.

Abstract: An apparatus for filtering well fluids and method of manufacture is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an inner support, a filter spirally wrapped around the inner support, and an outer support wrapped around the filter enclosing the filter between the inner and outer supports. The filter has longitudinal edges which overlap and the filter is held in place by friction with the inner and outer supports. The method of manufacturing the apparatus comprises continuously and simultaneously wrapping a filter and outer support around an inner support and disposing the filter between the outer and inner supports.

Abstract: An expanding screen has an associated spirally wrapped exterior control line. The control line rests in a spiral trough made up in an exterior perforated jacket. The trough can be made by a pair of ridges disposed substantially parallel to each other or by an ordered spacing of raised dimples in the outer perforated jacket to create spiral troughs. At the screen connections centralizers having a spiral path or paths within can serve a dual function of locating the screen prior to expansion and protecting the control line in the joint area. A fiber optic cable can be placed in the control line.

Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus for completing a subterranean zone penetrated by a wellbore are provided. The improved methods basically comprise the steps of placing a sand control screen (e.g., screens, screened pipes, perforated liners, prepacked screens, etc.) and an outer shroud assembly mounted over the sand screen in the wellbore adjacent the zone to be completed, the shroud having perforated and blank (non-perforated) segments with the blank segments corresponding to selected intervals of the wellbore, for example problem zones such as shale streaks or isolated zones where flows are restricted by mechanical seals or packers, and injecting particulate material into the wellbore, whereby gravel packing takes place in the remaining length of the wellbore/shroud annulus without voids. The inner annulus between the shroud and screen provides an alternate flow path for the slurry to bypass the blocked intervals and continue with its placement.

Abstract: The drain element for collecting hydrocarbons comprises a screen (TM) surrounding a suction cylinder (CA) extending in a longitudinal direction (AL). The screen is made up of rods (TT, TC) which extend along said longitudinal direction (AL) and which are regularly spaced apart around the suction cylinder. At least one of said rods is hollow in order to form a collector rod (TC), said collector rod (TC) having a lateral orifice and communicating with the inside of the suction cylinder via one of its ends.

Abstract: A system that is useable in a subterranean well includes conveying an elongated strip from a surface of the well downhole into the well; and spirally wrapping the strip to form a tubular structure in the well.

Abstract: A system that is useable in a subterranean well includes a tubular structure that is formed from a spirally wound strip, and the tubular structure is provided downhole in the subterranean well.

Abstract: The end fitting of the present invention is generally hollowly cylindrical in shape and sized so that the outer diameter of the end fitting is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the well screen to which the fitting is to be joined. Bores are formed in the body of the end fitting. The number and placement of bores in the end fitting should be such that the number and placement of bores in the end fitting match the number and placement of longitudinal rods in the well screen. The end fitting is mounted to the well screen by means of inserting each of the longitudinal rods of the well screen into each of the bores in the end fitting. The end fitting is permanently secured to the well screen by swaging the end fitting so that the fitting is compressed about the longitudinal rods. Alternatively, adhesive may be used to secure the longitudinal rods in the bores of the end fitting. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the bores are drilled completely through the end fitting.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system and a method for well completion, control and monitoring of processes in a reservoir. A combined prefabricated liner and matrix system (4) with defined properties for fast and simple well and/or reservoir completion, monitoring and control is provided. An embodiment of the combined prefabricated liner and matrix system 4 comprises an outer perforated tubular pipe/pipe system 6, an inner tubular screen 7, and a matrix 8. A method for control and monitoring of processes in a well or reservoir using the combined liner and matrix system is also described The combined liner/matrix system may be used in any process equipment, like e.g. reactors, separators and storage tanks. The system may also be used in a gas/oil/water producing or injection well for well completion, control and monitoring.

Abstract: A system that is useable in a subterranean well includes a tubular structure that is formed from a spirally wound strip, and the tubular structure is provided downhole in the subterranean well.

Abstract: A well screen having an internal alternate flowpath for delivering gravel slurry to different levels within a well annulus and a method for assembling same. The screen is comprised of an outer pipe which is concentrically positioned over a base pipe so that an annulus is formed therebetween. Both pipes are perforated along their respective lengths but only part way around their respective circumferences. The respective perforated sections radially align with each other when the pipes are assembled. A plurality of longitudinal ribs isolate the annulus adjacent the perforated sections (i.e. production side of screen) from the annulus adjacent the non-perforated sections (i.e. alternate flowpath side of screen). At least one outlet is provided through the non-perforated section of the outer pipe to provide an outlet from the internal alternate flowpath.

Abstract: A sand control screen assembly (10) having a sacrificial anode (26) is disclosed. The sand control screen assembly (10) comprises a plurality of ribs (16) spaced around a base pipe (12) and a screen wire (18) wrapped around the plurality of ribs (16) forming adjacent turns (20, 22) having gaps therebetween that allow the flow of fluids therethrough while preventing the flow of particulate therethrough. The plurality of ribs (16) includes at least one rib (26) that comprises a first metal. The screen wire (18) comprises a second metal that is cathodic to the first metal such that the at least one rib (26) that comprises the first metal acts as a sacrificial anode to reduce the environmental cracking of the screen wire (18).

Abstract: Well screen assembly for use in horizontal wells and other situations where tensile, torsion and bending forces can damage well screens which are welded to their end supports provides a floating mounting which eliminates welding of the screen segments. A pair of complementary inner and outer slip rings are provided at one end of the well screen assembly with the inner ring being in sealed relationship with a screen segment and the outer ring being integrally affixed to an outer protective cover member and an axial support member such as a pipe base member or a tubular end fitting. The inner ring is free to slide and rotate relative to the outer ring.

Abstract: A progressive gap sand control screen comprising a plurality of parallel ribs spaced around an axis and a screen wire wrapped around the plurality of ribs having turns which extend along the length of the plurality of ribs such that adjacent turns have gaps therebetween, the gaps forming a gap profile in which the gaps near the upper end of the sand control screen are narrower than the gaps near the lower end of the sand control screen, the width of the gaps near the upper end of the sand control screen being less than the diameter of the particles which cause erosion, the gap profile includes a variable gap section near the upper end of the sand control screen and a constant gap section below the variable gap section, the variable gap section having a linear profile, a step type profile, or a nonlinear profile.

Abstract: A well screen is composed of a plurality of screen units connected in series. Each of said screen units has a cylindrical connecting section at least at one end thereof and includes a plurality of support rods extending in the axial direction of the screen disposed cylindrically about a section of the screen other than the connecting section at a predetermined interval in the circumferential direction of the screen, and a wire wound on the outer periphery of said support rods so as to form slits of a predetermined width. The well screen further includes outer diameter equalizing means provided about adjacent ones of the connecting sections of two of the screen units connected to each other for substantially equalizing the outer diameter of said connecting sections to the outer diameter of sections other than the connecting sections.

Abstract: A compact double screen assembly (20), which can be used alone or mounted on a perforated pipe base (22), has a plurality of rods (30) arranged in cylindrical fashion around an axis (23). A wire (34) is helically wound about the rods (30) and welded thereto at every intersection. Adjacent rods (30) are separated by an inter-rod gap having a slot distance X while adjacent turns of the wire have an inter-turn slot distance Y therebetween. The rods (30) are closely spaced together such that the inter-rod slot distance X is on the order of 80-120% of the inter-turn slot distance Y, and preferably equal to it. A packing cavity (42) is provided between the rods (30) and the wire (34) for accommodating a porous media or packing material (40).

Abstract: Gas is separated from well fluid solutions by a hydrophobic membrane GORTEX.RTM. like filter element that is permeable to gas but impermeable to water; the filter element, which may include a solids prefilter, is positioned within the well bore containing water or well fluids at a depth where the hydrostatic pressure will allow the gas to bubble out of solution.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling sand production within a wellbore completed to a subterranean reservoir is disclosed. The apparatus will include a base supporting member that has a series of perforations included thereon. A jacket member is disposed about the base supporting member, with the jacket member being a helical member with overlapping loops forming multiple passages for the flow of a subterranean gas and fluid. A protective member disposed about the jacket may also be included, with the protective member having a series of perforations formed thereon.

Abstract: An improved particulate separator is made from a strainer mandrel disposed in a velocity tube. The velocity tube and strainer mandrel are hollow and tubularly shaped and positioned concentrically such that a small radial distance is left open between the interior of the velocity tube and the exterior of the strainer mandrel to create an annular, vertical fluid flow region. The velocity tube and the strainer mandrel are attached to each other at their respective top ends by a solid plug means that prohibits fluid flow into or out of the top end of the annular fluid flow region. The bottom end of the strainer mandrel is plugged while the bottom end of the annular fluid flow region is left open to create the main fluid flow inlet to the particulate separator. The preferred velocity tube is a unitary hollow cylinder with a substantially solid wall while the strainer mandrel is preferably a helical tension spring.

Abstract: A pipe for extracting gases from a landfill well comprises a series longitudinal windings of fiber reinforced resin windings wound for providing longitudinal strength. The longitudinal windings are wound in directions opposite to and intersecting with each other, forming a interlocking network of windings and openings. A number of reinforcing ribs extend circumferentially around the surface of the right and left hand windings at equidistant positions along the surface and at each end of the pipe for providing radial stiffness. The reinforcing rib at each end of the pipe comprises a groove extending circumferentially around the outside surface of the rib for facilitating interconnection with adjacent pipes. A helical winding is wound around the surface of longitudinal windings between adjacent reinforcing ribs for providing longitudinal strength and radial stiffness to the pipe. The pipe comprises a plurality of perforations in its surface.

Abstract: A sand filter for use in a well is provided employing a length of perforated tubing. A tubular wedge wire screen is telescopically positioned on the tubing covering the perforations. A plurality of tubular corrugated filter elements are then positioned on the wedge wire screen in end-to-end relationship. Each of the filter elements is formed of diffusion bonded multiple layers of wire mesh and each of the filter elements is corrugated to provide an external surface having an area at least three times the area of the cylindrical external surface of the tubular wedge wire screen that is encompassed by each filter element. The corrugated filter elements are secured on the wedge wire screen and welded in abutted end-to-end position.

Abstract: A prepack well screen assembly has a resistance welded outer screen concentrically mounted in radially spaced relation on a perforated mandrel, thereby defining an annulus in which a sintered metal prepack sleeve is loaded. The longitudinal spacing distance between adjacent turns of the outer screen selectively exclude sand fines of a predetermined minimum size. The porosity of the sintered metal prepack sleeve is selected to pass sand fines in the size range of from about 10 microns to about 150 microns. The effective inlet flow area through the sintered metal prepack sleeve is substantially greater than the effective inlet flow area through the outer screen. The sintered metal prepack screen excludes sand fines from inflowing formation fluid during the initial production phase following a gravel pack operation, without limiting production of formation fluid.

Abstract: A filter support tube manufacturing apparatus and method employing operative steps of drawing wire from a reel, and moving the wire, first, through a heater for heating the wire, second, through a fluidized bed for coating the wire with a corrosion resistant material which also serves as a bonding agent and, third, through a second heater. Then, the heated and coated wire is wound onto a rotating mandrel which holds straight plastic reinforcing strips about which the wire is wound. Once winding of the wire is completed and the wire is embedded in the plastic reinforcing strips, the wound wire is cut manually and removed from the mandrel. A new end of the wire extending from the reel is inserted in the mandrel and a new set of plastic strips are installed on the mandrel. Finally, the steps are repeated to make additional filter support tubes.

Abstract: The invention relates to conventional metal well screens which have a screen wire wrapped about a plurality of internal support rods to define the screen slots, and particularly to a novel plastic end fitting made of a thermoplastic material which is mechanically attached to the well screen by means of a plurality of circumferentially spaced tongues which engage the inside surface of the screen wires and have a portion of their outer surface positioned within the screen slots. Slots formed in the end fitting between the tongue portions contain the support rods. A method of attaching a thermoplastic fitting made of a material such as polypropylene is also disclosed and includes the steps of heating the tongue portions so that a portion of their outer surface is melted and then is forced radially outwardly into the screen slots, and preferably slightly beyond them, by a pressure applying device such as a tapered wedge tooling arrangement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel tubular fitting member formed of a deformable material, such as steel, which may be combined with a helically wrapped wire screen to produce a mechanical seal of a gap formed adjacent the cut-off end portion of the screen when the screen is cut off perpendicular to its supports. Such cutting produces a loose, tapered wire tail which is normally broken off, thereby producing an open gap in the screen which is wider than the width of the slot between the wire wraps. The tubular fitting member has a groove formed in its outer surface closely adjacent to the screen end of the fitting. The groove defines the inner wall of a deformable flange which may be selectively forced toward the screen to close any gap formed adjacent its end during the cut-off operation.

Abstract: A screen particularly suitable for use in deep well comprises a reinforcing member (2) of a generally cylindrical configuration, a plurality of support rods (3) arranged on the outside of the reinforcing member (2) in the axial direction thereof and a wire (4) wound helically on the outside of the support rods (3). A multitude of slits (2b) continuous in substantially the circumferential direction of the reinforcing member (2) are formed at a predetermined pitch in the reinforcing member (2). The screen made according to the invention has a much larger opening space and therefore has a greater fluid collecting efficiency than conventional screens while maintaining a sufficient strength against an external pressure.

Abstract: This invention relates to a wire locking structure for a filter device, in which an outer circumference of a cylinder body is provided with a screw thread portion. The screw thread portion is wrapped by a wire of isosceles triangle in section. An end of the wire is drawn into a recess and firmly supported in a U-shape by an insert member to be inserted in the recess, thereby a conventional welding means has been removed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a wire locking structure for a filter device, in which an outer circumference of a cylinder body is provided with a screw thread portion. The screw thread portion is wrapped by a wire of isosceles triangle in section. An end of the wire is drawn into a recess and firmly supported in a U-shape by an insert member to be inserted in the recess, thereby a conventional welding means has been removed.