Sampling Well Fluid Patents (Class 166/264)
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Patent number: 8240378Abstract: A fluid analysis tool, and related method, comprising means for selectively varying a temperature of fluid received in a tool from a subterranean formation, means for measuring a temperature and a thermophysical property of the fluid received in the tool, and means for determining a relationship between the measured temperature and the measured thermophysical property of the fluid received in the tool.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Carsten Sonne, Anthony R. H. Goodwin
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Patent number: 8235106Abstract: Systems and methods for downhole formation testing based on the use of one or more elongated sealing pads capable of sealing off and collecting or injecting fluids from elongated portions along the surface of a borehole. The modified sealing pads increase the flow area by collecting fluids from an extended portion along the surface of a borehole, which is likely to straddle one or more layers in laminated or fractured formations. A tester device using the elongated sealing pads can be deployed and withdrawn using an extendible element pressing the pads to the borehole. Various designs and arrangements for use with a fluid tester, which may be part of a modular fluid tool, are disclosed in accordance with different embodiments.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2010Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Philip Edmund Fox, Michael E. Shade, Gregory N Gilbert, Mark A. Proett
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Patent number: 8220536Abstract: A probe for establishing fluid communication between a downhole tool and a subterranean formation. The downhole tool is positioned in a wellbore penetrating the subterranean formation. The probe includes a platform operatively connected to the downhole tool, at least one packer operatively connected to the platform, the packer having at least one hole extending therethrough and at least one embedded member disposed in the packer for enhancing the operation of the packer as it is pressed against the wellbore wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2010Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Chen Tao, Danny A. Hlavinka, Jonathan W. Brown, Christopher S. Del Campo, Stephane Briquet, Steve Ervin, Kevin W. Hayes
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Patent number: 8215390Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 7, 2011Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
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Patent number: 8215391Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 7, 2011Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
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Patent number: 8215389Abstract: A method for acquiring a sample of a virgin fluid from a subsurface formation penetrated by a wellbore surrounded by a layer of contaminated fluid is disclosed. The method includes abutting a first packer against a wall of the wellbore, and extending at least a portion of a second packer beyond the first packer, wherein the second packer is at least partially disposed in the first packer. An inlet to a first flowline is at least partially defined by the first packer, and an inlet to a second flowline is defined by the second packer. The method further includes drawing one of virgin fluid, contaminated fluid and combinations thereof into the first flowline; and drawing virgin fluid into the second flowline.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2010Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Raymond V. Nold, III, Alexander F. Zazovsky, Steve Ervin, Christopher S. Del Campo, Stephane Briquet
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Patent number: 8215388Abstract: A separator for downhole measuring during sampling in a subterranean formation. The separator allows for mixed fluid phases to be separated while flowing formation fluid therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2007Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Anthony H. van Zuilekom, Mark A. Proett, Ronald E. Cherry
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Patent number: 8210260Abstract: An apparatus comprising first and second fluid intakes, a pump, and a sample chamber, may be positioned in a borehole penetrating a subterranean formation. A method of use thereof may comprise drawing fluid from the subterranean formation and into the first and second fluid intakes using the pump, discharging into the borehole at least a portion of the fluid drawn into the second fluid intake, and selectively diverting at least a portion of the fluid drawn into the first fluid intake to the sample chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2010Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Mark Milkovisch, Alexander Zazovsky, Simon Ross
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Publication number: 20120152533Abstract: An apparatus including a downhole tool for conveyance in a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation and method of use thereof. The downhole tool may include a turbo-alternator disposed in a passageway for drilling mud, and a controller to: track operating points of the turbo-alternator, determine from the operating points a flow rate of the drilling mud, and control a component of the downhole tool based on the flow rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventors: Albert Hoefel, Francois Bernard, Kent David Harms, Sylvain Ramshaw, Shayan Darayan, Taylor Johnson
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Publication number: 20120138292Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventor: Scott L. Miller
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Publication number: 20120132419Abstract: Modular pumpouts and flowline architecture are described. An example apparatus includes a downhole tool to sample fluid from a subterranean formation, and a plurality of fluidly coupled pump modules disposed on the downhole tool. Each of the pump modules includes: a pump having a pump inlet and a pump outlet, where the pump inlet is coupled to a first flowline; a first valve assembly having first, second and third ports, wherein the first port is coupled to the first flowline, the second port is coupled to the pump outlet, and the third port is coupled to the first flowline; and a second flowline not fluidly coupled to the first valve assembly or the pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2011Publication date: May 31, 2012Inventors: Alexander F. Zazovsky, Mark Milkovisch
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Patent number: 8162052Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 21, 2009Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Anthony R. H. Goodwin, Julian J. Pop, Stephane Briquet, Ricardo Vasques, Alexander Zazovsky
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Patent number: 8151878Abstract: Methods and apparatus for collecting a downhole sample are provided. The method may include conveying a sampling tool in a borehole using a first carrier, conveying a sample container in the borehole using a second carrier, and introducing a downhole sample from the sampling tool to the sample container. An apparatus includes a sampling tool disposed on a first carrier, a sample container disposed on a second carrier, wherein the first carrier and the second carrier are independently conveyable in a borehole, and a coupling connectable to the sampling tool and the sample container.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Daniel T. Georgi, Andrew D. Kirkwood, Roger W. Fincher
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Patent number: 8151879Abstract: A zone isolation assembly for a fluid monitoring system in an existing subsurface well includes a fluid receiving pipe, a docking receiver, a docking apparatus and a first sealer. The fluid receiving pipe includes a pipe interior and a fluid inlet structure. The fluid receiving pipe receives a fluid through the fluid inlet structure into the pipe interior. The docking receiver is connected to the fluid receiving pipe. The docking apparatus moves between (i) a docked position wherein the docking apparatus is docked with the docking receiver, and (ii) an undocked position wherein the docking apparatus is undocked with the docking receiver. The first sealer is spaced apart from the docking apparatus. In certain embodiments, the first sealer selectively forms a fluid-tight seal between the fluid receiving pipe and the casing to divide the fluid zone into a first zone and a spaced apart second zone.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: BESST, Inc.Inventors: Noah R. Heller, Peter F. Moritzburke
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Patent number: 8146660Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 17, 2011Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
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Patent number: 8146655Abstract: A method (and corresponding apparatus) for downhole fluid analysis of petroleum formation fluids. The method includes capturing in a chamber of a downhole tool at least two immiscible formation fluids in a generally segregated state (the fluids including petroleum), activating a fluid mixing means to mix the fluids in the chamber to create an emulsion therefrom, and allowing the emulsified fluids to segregate while measuring light transmittance through the segregating fluids in order to calculate a transition time period based on the light transmittance through the fluids in the chamber. The transition time period is preferably bounded by the time required for the light transmittance values measured by the light detector to reach a baseline light transmittance. The transition time period characterizes the stability of an emulsion formed by the captured fluids. The methods and apparatus can also be used for other fluid testing applications beyond downhole formation fluid testing.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2009Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Kentaro Indo, Kai Hsu
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Publication number: 20120073807Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
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Publication number: 20120073808Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
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Publication number: 20120073806Abstract: An apparatus for sampling well production fluids comprises a vessel having an inner chamber. In addition, the apparatus comprises a hydrocarbon fluids outlet conduit in fluid communication with the inner chamber. Further, the apparatus comprises a well fluids inlet conduit coaxially disposed within the hydrocarbon fluids outlet conduit and in fluid communication with the inner chamber. The well fluids inlet conduit has a first portion extending from the vessel and a second portion extending into the inner chamber. The second portion of the well fluids inlet conduit includes a plurality of openings configured to direct the well production fluids radially outward from the well fluids inlet conduit. Still further, the apparatus comprises a sample fluids outlet in fluid communication with the inner chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventors: Kieran E. Barrows, Mark A. Edwards, Michael P. Harvey, Laurence G. Cowie
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Patent number: 8132621Abstract: A formation evaluation system and method. A formation evaluation system includes an assembly interconnected as part of a tubular string and displaceable to multiple positions proximate each of multiple zones intersected by a wellbore. The assembly includes at least one formation evaluation instrument for determining a characteristic of formation fluid, and a pump which draws the fluid into the assembly. A method of evaluating multiple subterranean zones during a single trip into a wellbore includes the steps of: interconnecting a formation evaluation assembly in a coiled tubing string; for each of the multiple zones, displacing the formation evaluation assembly to a position proximate the respective zone, receiving formation fluid from the respective zone into the formation evaluation assembly, and determining at least one characteristic of the formation fluid; and performing the multiple displacing, receiving and determining steps during the single trip of the coiled tubing string into the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2006Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Miguel H. Pettinato, Federico Sorenson, Robert F. Shelley, Saul Plavnik, Ricardo Jorquera
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Patent number: 8132452Abstract: A low maintenance adjustable method for sampling fluid from a well using a gas analyzer, a fluid conditioner, and a gas trap. The gas trap can have a plurality of couplings, a plurality of hammer unions, a plurality of base manifold pipes, a base manifold flow line, a chimney pipe connected to the base manifold flow line, a controllable valve, a reducer connected to the chimney, an expansion chamber component connected to the reducer, a restrictor mounted to the expansion chamber component, and a conduit connection connected to the restrictor for engaging a conduit to flow a gas sample from the gas trap to a gas analyzer.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2009Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Selman and Associates, LtdInventors: Thomas H. Selman, Juanita C. Selman, Matthew J. Jennings, Richard James Gonzales, Brian A. Jennings, Stephen M. Bergman
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Patent number: 8122956Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 2, 2009Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Michael Shammai, Robert J. Gordon
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Publication number: 20120043080Abstract: There is provided a method of sampling a subterranean formation, including the steps of creating a side bore into the wall of a well traversing the formation, sealing the wall around the side bore to provide a pressure seal between the side bore and the well, pressurizing the side bore beyond a pressure inducing formation fracture while maintaining the seal, pumping a fracturing fluid adapted to prevent a complete closure of the fracture through the side bore into the fracture, and reversing the pumping to sample formation fluid through the fracture and the side bore.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2010Publication date: February 23, 2012Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: John E. Edwards
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Patent number: 8118097Abstract: An apparatus comprising a fluid communication device configured to extend from a drill string and establish fluid communication with a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore in which the drill string is positioned, wherein the drill string comprises a passage configured to conduct drilling mud and an opening extending through an outer surface thereof and into a cavity. A sample chamber is coupled within the cavity and is in selectable fluid communication with the formation via the fluid communication device. A retainer is configured to absorb axial loading of the sample chamber within the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2009Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Steven G. Villareal, Reinhart Ciglenec, Michael J. Stucker, Khanh Duong
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Patent number: 8113293Abstract: A technique involves collecting formation fluids through a single packer having at least one drain located within the single packer. The single packer is designed with an outer flexible skin and one or more drains coupled to the outer flexible skin. A mandrel is positioned within the outer flexible skin, and an expansion mechanism is provided to control expansion of the outer flexible skin to selectively create sealing engagement with a surrounding wall.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2009Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Pierre-Yves Corre
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Patent number: 8113280Abstract: A formation tester tool can include a longitudinal probe drill collar having a surface, a formation probe assembly located within the probe drill collar, the formation probe assembly including a piston reciprocal between a retracted position and an extended position beyond the probe drill collar surface, the piston being slidingly retained within a chamber, a seal pad located at an end of the piston, the seal pad including an outer surface defining a partial cylindrical surface. The piston includes an outer surface having non-circular cross-sectional shape and the chamber includes an inner surface having a non-circular shape similar to the shape of the piston outer surface. The formation tester tool can include interchangeable draw down assemblies and a flow bore having a curving path.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2010Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Kristopher V. Sherrill
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Patent number: 8109334Abstract: A method of sampling a subterranean formation fluid may comprise extracting a first fluid sample from a portion of the subterranean formation, altering a temperature of the portion of the subterranean formation, and extracting a second fluid sample from the portion of the subterranean formation having altered temperature. The temperature of the portion of the subterranean formation may be altered based on the relative position of a subterranean formation fluid temperature and the multiphase region envelope in the phase diagram of the subterranean formation fluid. The method may further comprise determining a property of the subterranean formation fluid.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Anthony R. H. Goodwin
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Publication number: 20120018152Abstract: A pumping system comprising: a probe to suction a fluid from a fluid reservoir; a pump in fluid communication with said probe; a sensor for detecting phase changes in said pumping system, said sensor in fluid communication with said probe or pump, said sensor generating a sensor signal; a fluid exit from said pumping system, said fluid exit being in fluid communication with said pump; and a variable force check valve located between said probe and said fluid exit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2010Publication date: January 26, 2012Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Anthony H. van Zuilekom, Michael T. Pelletier, Li Gao
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Patent number: 8091635Abstract: Apparatus and methods to remove impurities at a sensor in a downhole tool are disclosed. During the testing and/or sampling of formation fluid in a borehole, the downhole tool creates a transient high rate of fluid flow of the formation fluid to remove impurities at the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2010Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Ricardo Vasques, Peter S. Hegeman
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Publication number: 20110303409Abstract: Apparatus and methods to inject fluids downhole, such as: a sample chamber configured to provide a fluid in a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation; a flow line configured to be fluidly coupled to the subterranean formation; a piston disposed in and separating the sample chamber into first and second chambers; a first fluid port fluidly coupling the first chamber to the flow line; a second fluid port fluidly coupling the second chamber to a fluid source having a pressure greater than the pressure in the first chamber; and a flow regulator fluidly coupled to the first or second fluid port, and configured to regulate the flow of the fluid provided in the sample chamber into the formation.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Inventors: Ed Harrigan, Bill Grant
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Patent number: 8069715Abstract: A method and apparatus for collection of pore water samples from a subsurface geologic formation, especially a vadose zone formation having high capillary tension. The method consists of injection of a fluid with known tracer concentrations therein into the formation. The injected displacement fluid develops a wetting front which carries with it the ambient pore water. The mixture of pore water and tracer-bearing displacement fluid is absorbed by a collection system, such as an absorbent member or pumping system. The injection and collection system are attached to a sealing borehole liner for emplacement in a borehole in the formation, and for other functions. Water samples collected in the collector system may be recovered by inversion of the liner, or alternatively by pumping. Samples thus removed from the borehole may be evaluated for chemicals, such as contaminants. The use of the tracer permits pore water characteristics to be distinguished from the motivating displacement fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Inventor: Carl Keller
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Publication number: 20110284219Abstract: The present disclosure relates to apparatuses and methods to detect a fluid contamination level of a fluid sample. The method may comprise providing a fluid sample downhole from a subterranean formation, applying a reactant to the fluid sample to create a combined fluid, observing the combined fluid, and determining if contaminants are present within the fluid sample based upon the observing the combined fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2010Publication date: November 24, 2011Inventors: Andrew E. Pomerantz, Oliver C. Mullins
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Publication number: 20110284220Abstract: A method for blending a well treatment fluid at a well site is disclosed. A first centrifugal pump for pumping a first component of the well treatment fluid into a pipe and a first valve for controlling the flow of the first component are provided. Similarly, a second centrifugal pump for pumping a second component of the well treatment fluid into the pipe and a second valve for controlling the flow of the second component are provided. The pumps and the valves are controlled so as to control the ratio of the first component to the second component. A sampling device is provided for analyzing a fluid flowing in the pipe. The sampling device includes a sampling container; a soft seal that opens and closes the sampling container; and a valve spindle. The valve spindle moves the soft seal between the first position and the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2011Publication date: November 24, 2011Inventor: Robert Hayworth
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Patent number: 8061442Abstract: Methods of using resistivity ahead of a drill bit measurements obtained while drilling a subterranean well using a drilling mud. Resistivity data ahead of the bit is gathered during drilling and prior to penetrating a region of interest of a known subterranean formation using the drill bit and the drilling mud. The drill string progresses at known dip and azimuth angles toward the subterranean formation. The resistivity data is used to determine pore pressure ahead of the drill bit in the formation as a function of resistivity ahead of the drill bit in the formation while the drill bit advances toward but before the bit penetrates the formation while drilling.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.Inventor: Mark William Alberty
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Publication number: 20110277999Abstract: A technique involves collecting formation fluids through a single packer having at least one drain located within the single packer. The single packer comprises an outer seal layer, and the at least one drain is positioned in the outer seal layer. A viscosity system also is incorporated and enables the viscosity of a surrounding fluid to be selectively lowered for sampling.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2011Publication date: November 17, 2011Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Pierre-Yves Corre, Stephen Yeldell, Carsten Sonne, Anthony Robert Holmes Goodwin, Stephane Briquet, Alexander F. Zazovsky
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Patent number: 8056625Abstract: An apparatus comprising a fluid communication device configured to extend from a drill string and establish fluid communication with a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore in which the drill string is positioned, wherein the drill string comprises a passage configured to conduct drilling mud and an opening extending through an outer surface thereof and into a cavity. A sample chamber is coupled within the cavity and is in selectable fluid communication with the formation via the fluid communication device.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Steven G. Villareal, Reinhart Ciglenec, Michael J. Stucker, Khanh Duong
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Publication number: 20110272150Abstract: A technique involves sampling fluids in a well environment. An expandable packer is constructed with an outer seal layer. At least one sample drain is positioned through the outer seal layer, and a heater element is deployed in the at least one sample drain. In one embodiment, the heater element is deployed proximate a radially outlying surface of the expandable packer. Additionally, a temperature sensor may be positioned proximate the at least one sample drain to monitor temperature in the environment heated by the heater element.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2010Publication date: November 10, 2011Inventors: Sebastien Ives, Stephane Metayer, Pierre-Yves Corre
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Patent number: 8047286Abstract: A downhole tool comprising a probe, wherein the probe comprises: a first inlet having an elongated cross-sectional shape, and a second inlet surrounding the first inlet. The downhole tool further comprises at least one pump configured to draw fluid from a subterranean formation through the first and second inlets.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Alexander F. Zazovsky, Bunker Hill
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Patent number: 8042611Abstract: A field joint for connecting a plurality of downhole tool modules is disclosed. The modules include a housing and an electrical line. A bulkhead is coupled to a first module that includes a first conduit aperture for receiving an electrical connector assembly. The first electrical connector assembly is releasably coupled to the exterior portion of the first module and includes a first connector having a first end adapted for electrical coupling to an electrical line. A connector block is coupled to the second module that includes a second conduit aperture positioned to substantially face the first conduit aperture when the first and second modules are joined. A second electrical connector is disposed in the second conduit aperture and is electrically coupled to an electrical line such that an electrical contact is established with a second end of the first connector when the first and second modules are joined.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2010Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Stephane Briquet, Steve Ervin, Kevin Hayes, Chris Del Campo, Joe Nahas
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Patent number: 8037935Abstract: An apparatus includes a sample compartment. The apparatus further includes an inlet port through which the sampled reservoir fluid may be introduced into the sample compartment. The apparatus further includes a concentrating object that can be placed within the sample compartment. The concentrating object includes an outer surface and an inner surface recessed from the outer surface. The inner surface is receptive to adsorbing the selected portion of the sampled reservoir fluid.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.Inventor: Michael T. Pelletier
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Patent number: 8016038Abstract: A downhole tool for extracting a sample from a subsurface formation includes an emitter of electromagnetic energy configured to heat water in the subsurface formation. A method for extracting a sample from a subsurface formation involves conveying a downhole tool in a wellbore drilled through the subsurface formation, the downhole tool having an emitter of electromagnetic energy configured to heat water in the subsurface formation, and actuating the emitter to expose a portion of the formation to electromagnetic energy.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2009Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Anthony R. H. Goodwin, Julian J. Pop, Stephen Yeldell, Jason Hueber, Pierre-Yves Corre, Stephane Briquet, Alexander Zazovsky, Carsten Sonne
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Publication number: 20110198079Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2009Publication date: August 18, 2011Inventors: Malcolm Atkinson, Muhammad Adeel Zahid Khan, Bernard Theron
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Patent number: 7997341Abstract: An apparatus for testing a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore, comprising a tool having a sample flow line an inlet disposed with the tool and configured to establish fluid communication between the formation and the sample flow line to draw a fluid sample into the sample flow line, and an active filter positioned in the sample flow line and providing a filter flow route and a bypass flow route in the sample flow line.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2009Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Stephane Briquet, Kevin Zanca, Wade Evans, II
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Patent number: 7992639Abstract: Improvement in the compatibility of hydrocarbon and water is achieved by surface active agents newly synthesized by mixed microbial populations. Methods for enhancing the microbial production of surface-active agents in hydrocarbon-exposed surface waters can be achieved by supplementing the mixed microbial population with one or more carbon sources, most notably propionate. Hydrocarbon-exposed surface waters having enhanced levels of surface-active agents can be used to improve hydrocarbon recovery from subterranean formations or for remediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated sites.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventor: Robert D. Fallon
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Publication number: 20110174484Abstract: Methods of actuating a well tool can include releasing chemical energy from at least one portion of a reactive material, thermally expanding a substance in response to the released chemical energy, and applying pressure to a piston as a result of thermally expanding the substance, thereby actuating the well tool, with these steps being repeated for each of multiple actuations of the well tool. A well tool actuator can include a substance contained in a chamber, one or more portions of a reactive material from which chemical energy is released, and a piston to which pressure is applied due to thermal expansion of the substance in response to each release of chemical energy. A well tool actuator which can be actuated multiple times may include multiple portions of a gas generating reactive material, and a piston to which pressure is applied due to generation of the gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2010Publication date: July 21, 2011Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Adam D. WRIGHT, Michael L. FRIPP, Donald G. KYLE, Cyrus A. IRANI
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Publication number: 20110162836Abstract: An apparatus comprising a tool body configured to be conveyed within a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation, an inflatable packer coupled to the tool body, and a probe assembly coupled to the tool body and comprising an inner sealing element and an outer sealing element, wherein at least one of the inner sealing element and the outer sealing element comprises an elongated shape, and wherein at least a portion of the probe assembly is disposed on the inflatable packer.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2010Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventor: Nathan Church
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Patent number: 7967067Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 13, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti
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Patent number: 7966273Abstract: Apparatus and methods to perform downhole fluid analysis using an artificial neural network are disclosed. A disclosed example method involves obtaining a first formation fluid property value of a formation fluid sample from a downhole fluid analysis process. The first formation fluid property value is provided to an artificial neural network, and a second formation fluid property value of the formation fluid sample is generated by means of the artificial neural network.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2008Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Peter Hegeman, Chengli Dong, Charles Woodburn, Graham Birkett, Nikos Varotsis, Vassilis Gaganis
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Publication number: 20110139448Abstract: A method for formation testing in a wellbore, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure comprises deploying a formation tester to a position in a wellbore; initiating a first pumpout process to draw formation fluid from a formation at the position into the formation tester; discharging a treatment fluid from the formation tester to the formation at the position; and drawing a formation fluid sample from the formation at the position into the formation tester.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2009Publication date: June 16, 2011Inventors: REINHART CIGLENEC, Steven G. Villareal
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Publication number: 20110139449Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2011Publication date: June 16, 2011Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Cyrus A. Irani, Gian Franco Callarotti