Perforating, Weakening Or Separating By Mechanical Means Or Abrasive Fluid Patents (Class 166/298)
  • Publication number: 20130175044
    Abstract: A protective device for a blow out preventer stack (B.O.P.), and a sidetracking method using same during an oil-field milling or drilling operation requiring a window to be formed in casing (14) to access a formation, the device having a sleeve assembly (2) and a running tool releasably attached to the sleeve assembly, wherein the running tool comprises a miming tool housing (4) connected to the sleeve assembly and a separable miming tool body (5) connectable within the length of a work string (6) having a BHA with a mill or bit (30), the running tool housing being shear pinned to the running tool body for running in hole, wherein the miming tool housing is configured to shear from the running tool body during deployment into a cased wellbore to sealingly seat the sleeve assembly within a B.O.P. and form a barrier to ingress of swarf into the B.O.P.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: M-I DRILLING FLUIDS U.K. LIMITED
    Inventor: George Telfer
  • Patent number: 8469097
    Abstract: A tubular cutter that cuts with extendable and rotating blades has its depth of cut limited upon getting through the tubular to be cut. In a preferred embodiment, the tubular has a loosely mounted member exterior thereto to be engaged by the rotating cutters. When such engagement happens the effect is that the loosely mounted member serves as a cover to the cutters to prevent them from cutting other structures beyond the tubular to be cut. The loosely mounted member is grabbed by the rotating blades for tandem rotation this preventing further cutting action. The load on the mill drops noticeably so that surface personnel have a signal to stop hydraulic pressure to the drive mechanism to allow the blades to retract and the cutter to be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Travis E. Cochran, Steven R. Hayter, Steve Rosenblatt
  • Patent number: 8469089
    Abstract: An anchor tool having a housing, a one-way restrictor device in fluid communication with the housing, and a stabilizer affixed to the housing. The one-way restrictor device is configured to allow restricted flow in a first direction, and to allow flow in a second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary A. Maier, Jim B. Surjaatmadja, Fraser McNeil, Keith A. Rispler
  • Patent number: 8469096
    Abstract: A whipstock with a longitudinal axis includes a tapered face surface, at least a part of which is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis, for guiding a milling head as the milling head passes from a top end to a bottom end of the face surface. A deflecting arrangement protrudes from the face surface and has first and second deflection surfaces. At least a part of each of the deflection surfaces is raised above the face surface, and each of the first and second deflection surfaces are inclined at a greater angle with respect to the longitudinal axis than the face surface in the region of the deflection arrangement. The first deflection surface is located closer to the top end of the face surface than the second deflection surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce McGarian
  • Publication number: 20130153224
    Abstract: A method of controllably milling a window in at least a portion of a cased wellbore comprises: interconnecting a mill advancing device and a mill; applying a pressure differential between the mill advancing device and the mill, wherein the application of the pressure differential causes a downward movement of the mill advancing device and the mill; and causing the mill to engage the at least a portion of the cased wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Joseph PARLIN
  • Patent number: 8459358
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a cutting dart. The cutting dart comprises a dart body including a first pathway. The first pathway is configured to redirect cutting fluid flowing through a coiled tubing so that the cutting fluid flows radially to impinge against an inner surface of the coiled tubing. A seal is positioned around an outer circumference of the dart body. The present disclosure is also directed to an anchor dart. The anchor dart comprises a dart body and a swellable elastomer positioned around an outer circumference of the dart body. Methods of employing the cutting dart and anchor dart are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John G. Misselbrook, Manfred Sach, Jason M. Skufca
  • Patent number: 8459357
    Abstract: A mill for milling a window through metal casing in a well bore that includes a body having a plurality of blades; a plurality of cylindrically bodied cutting elements on said blades; and a plurality of diamond enhanced elements having a non-planar diamond working surface on said blades; wherein said cutting elements initiate cutting into said casing and mill said window into said well bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles H. Dewey, Praful C. Desai
  • Patent number: 8453737
    Abstract: Diameter based tracking for a window milling system. A window cutting system includes a cutting assembly with multiple cutting faces for cutting the window; and a diverter for guiding displacement of the cutting assembly relative to the window, the diverter including multiple separate guide paths for the respective multiple cutting faces. A method of cutting a window includes the steps of: positioning a diverter in a tubular string, the diverter including multiple separate guide paths for respective multiple cutting faces of a cutting assembly; and then contacting the guide paths with the cutting faces to thereby form the window. Another method of cutting a window includes the step of: positioning a diverter in the tubular string, the diverter including multiple separate guide paths for respective multiple cutting faces of a cutting assembly, with each of the guide paths providing a separate wear surface for the respective cutting face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jody R. McGlothen, Jeffery R. Acker
  • Patent number: 8448700
    Abstract: An abrasive perforator tool with a bypass flow channel. The tool comprises a tubular body or housing with perforating nozzles in the sidewall. A sleeve assembly inside the central bore of the tool provides for sequential deployment of first and second sleeves. Prior to deployment of the sleeve assembly, pressurized fluid can be passed through the tool to operate other tools beneath the perforator in the bottom hole assembly. Deployment of the first sleeve diverts pressurized fluid through the nozzles for perforating. Deployment of the second sleeve redirects the pressurized flow through the outlet of the tool to resume operation of other tools below the perforator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Connell, Robert J. Farkas
  • Publication number: 20130112412
    Abstract: A settable down hole tool is of increased drillability and/or of increased expansibility. The improvement in drillability can be caused by fracturing cast iron slips into a large number of small pieces that can be circulated out of a well without further reduction in size. The improvement in expansibility can be partially caused by providing an expander cone of increased hardness thereby allowing an increased angle on the expander cone and slips. The improvement in expansibility can be partially caused by increasing the thickness of the slips.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: W. Lynn Frazier
  • Publication number: 20130105163
    Abstract: A method of opening productive formations by slot-perforating includes providing a working fluid including water, an abrasive component, and an additive, supplying the working fluid at a high pressure towards a formation so as to cut slots and to provide an inflow of oil, gas and hydrogeological liquid from the formation into a borehole, and using the additive, so as to reduce density of the working fluid and therefore to increase a speed of jet of the working fluid due to increase of kinetic energy of particles of the abrasive component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: Anatoli Nikouline, Nikolai Korvet
  • Publication number: 20130098043
    Abstract: A jetting device comprises a body, and an interior flow path within the body. The interior flow path comprises a flow section, an expansion section, and a shoulder formed at the intersection of the flow section and the expansion section. The length and diameter of the expansion section are configured to allow a portion of the pressure of the fluid downstream of the expansion section to provide power to a fluid flowing through the nozzle when the fluid is flowing through the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Patent number: 8424607
    Abstract: The invention relates to techniques for severing a tubular. A blowout preventer is provided with a housing having a bore therethrough for receiving the tubular, an actuator positionable in the housing, and a plurality of cutting tools positionable in the housing and selectively movable into an actuated position with the actuator. Each of the cutting tools have a base supportable by the actuator and selectively movable thereby, and a cutting head supported by the base. The cutting head comprising a tip having a piecing point at an end thereof and at least one cutting surface. The piercing point pierces the tubular and the cutting surfaces taper away from the piercing point for cutting through the tubular whereby the cutting head passes through tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Frank Benjamin Springett, Christopher Dale Johnson, Shern Eugene Peters, Eric Trevor Ensley, James Brugman
  • Patent number: 8424595
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for releasing a coiled tubing internal line from a bottom hole assembly. The internal line may not have strength sufficient to permit the application of a tension force at the surface to disconnect the internal line from the bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly may include a ball seat adapted to retain a ball permitting the application of a pressure differential above and below the ball seat. An anchor assembly connected to the internal line may be adapted to disconnect from the bottom hole assembly upon the application of predetermined pressure differential. A predetermined pressure differential may be used to shear a portion of the internal line releasing an upper portion of the internal line from the bottom hole assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Manfred Sach
  • Publication number: 20130087336
    Abstract: A perforation fluid is prepared having a solid material suspended in a liquid. The solid material includes particles having particle sizes that correspond to the pore throat sizes of one or more geological formations through which a well to be perforated runs. The solid material is self-degrading. Perforation of a well-casing of the well in the perforation fluid causes the solid material to instantaneously (or substantially so) form a self-degrading filter cake that facilitates setting of the final completions of the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Underdown
  • Publication number: 20130081803
    Abstract: An apparatus including a downhole tool for conveyance in a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation. The downhole tool includes a feature to physically interface a sidewall of the wellbore, and first and second setting pistons each extendable from the downhole tool opposite the feature. The downhole tool also includes a rigid member spanning and extendable with the first and second setting pistons, wherein a length of the rigid member is variable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Inventors: Chen Tao, Thomas W. Meyer
  • Patent number: 8403048
    Abstract: A tubing cutter is run in with a bottom hole assembly that includes a seal and support within the tubing to be cut. A ported sub allows pressurized fluid pumped from the surface to enter the bottom hole assembly above the sealed support location and to be directed to set an anchor and to a fluid driven motor such as a progressive cavity motor that is in turn connected to the tubing cutter at the rotor of the progressive cavity motor. The rotation of the cutter with its blades extended cuts the tubular as the fluid exiting the stator goes to the lower end of the tubing being cut and can return to the surface through an annulus around the tubing to be cut. Other configurations such as cutting casing or cutting casing through tubing are also envisioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Mary L. Laird, Robbie B. Colbert
  • Patent number: 8403049
    Abstract: A tubing conveyed tool for use in perforating a well bore utilizing abrasive perforating techniques. The perforating tool is particularly useful in non-vertical wells. The perforating tool is designed to permit running and setting a bridge plug, and then perforating the well bore without requiring the removal of the tool string. An eccentric weight bar can also be used to allow for directional perforating in non-vertical wells. The eccentric weight bar uses gravity to cause the bar to rotate to a predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew M. Ferguson, Stanley W. Loving, Bryan F. McKinley, Dale Norman
  • Publication number: 20130056208
    Abstract: A method for perforating a formation interval in a well is disclosed. The method includes disposing a perforation gun comprising a shaped charge in the well proximate the formation interval, wherein the shaped charge comprises a charge case having a charge cavity, a liner disposed within the charge cavity and an explosive disposed within the charge cavity between the liner and the charge case, wherein the charge case and liner are each formed from a selectively corrodible powder compact material. The method also includes detonating the shaped charge to form a perforation tunnel in the formation interval and deposit a liner residue in the perforation tunnel The method further includes exposing the perforation gun and perforation tunnel to a predetermined wellbore fluid after detonating the shaped charge to remove a liner residue from the perforation tunnel and the charge case from the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Zhiyue Xu
  • Publication number: 20130048287
    Abstract: A downhole stabilizer includes a radial expansion assembly deployed about, and configured to rotate substantially freely with respect to, a tool mandrel. The expansion assembly preferably includes at least one stabilizer block configured to extend radially outward from the mandrel into contact with a wellbore casing string. When deployed between uphole and downhole cones, the stabilizer block preferably includes a plurality of angled splines configured to engage corresponding splines disposed on the cones. Relative axial motion between the stabilizer block and the cones causes a corresponding radial extension or retraction of the block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: James A. Simson, Ronald G. Schmidt, Charles H. Dewey
  • Patent number: 8376040
    Abstract: A cutting device and a method for emergency cutting of a line in a well are disclosed. The cutting device includes a tapering guide including a narrow end portion and a wide end portion for feed-through of the line, the narrow end portion being placed, when in its position of use, at a lower position than that of the wide end portion; at least one sliding block arranged axially movable within the tapering guide; at least one cutting knife connected to the sliding block and directed inwards in the tapering guide; at least one releasable holding mechanism for standby holding of the at least one sliding block at the wide end portion of the guide, and for releasing the at least one sliding block in connection with emergency cutting of the line. Upon release, the at least one sliding block will move downward in the direction of the narrow end portion of the guide where it will force its at least one cutting knife with increasing force against the line until it is cut off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Smart Installations AS
    Inventors: Petter Birkeland, Oyvind Koldal
  • Publication number: 20130037269
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for releasing a coiled tubing internal line from a bottom hole assembly. The internal line may not have strength sufficient to permit the application of a tension force at the surface to disconnect the internal line from the bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly may include a ball seat adapted to retain a ball permitting the application of a pressure differential above and below the ball seat. An anchor assembly connected to the internal line may be adapted to disconnect from the bottom hole assembly upon the application of predetermined pressure differential. A predetermined pressure differential may be used to shear a portion of the internal line releasing an upper portion of the internal line from the bottom hole assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Manfred Sach
  • Patent number: 8365814
    Abstract: A perforating system, comprising a perforating gun with shaped charges, and a pre-detonation orientation apparatus and method. The pre-detonation orientation device comprises an orientation device in communication with the firing means of the perforating gun. Detonation of the shaped charges can be contingent upon the perforating gun orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Freeman L. Hill, Tim W. Sampson, John D. Macpherson
  • Publication number: 20130025864
    Abstract: A whipstock assembly allowing a lowside casing exit, the whipstock assembly includes a whipstock including an upstream portion and a downstream portion, the upstream portion having a deflection wedge surface and an opposite casing-side surface; and a fulcrum protruding from the whipstock and positioned between the downstream portion and the upstream portion. Also includes is a method of allowing a first side exit in a window milling operation of a casing having a first side and an opposite second side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Andrew M. Robin
  • Patent number: 8360156
    Abstract: A well bore fluid recovery system and method is disclosed for recovering a column of well bore fluid within a stand of casing before cutting the casing. The recovery system relates to a system for preventing fluids from being spilled when casing is being finished for a well bore. After being run the casing must be cut and finished at an appropriate level to install rig equipment such as blow out preventers along with other equipment. However, because of earlier operations, the entire length of casing is typically filled with drilling fluid. Depending on conditions, the length of casing which is to be cut and removed may therefore over a 100-foot (27.4 meter) column of drilling fluid therein. The drilling fluid in this section must be properly drained before the casing is cut and removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Hudson Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Blanchard, Jr., Sandra Remedies, John Rucker, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20130020084
    Abstract: A downhole affixation and release assembly including a first component; a second component, and an interconnection device for at least temporarily securing the first component to the second component. The interconnection device operatively arranged to at least partially degrade upon exposure to a fluid. Also included is a method of affixing and releasing two components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: James Edward Goodson
  • Patent number: 8353367
    Abstract: A particle impact drilling system and method are described. In several exemplary embodiments, the system and method may be a part of, and/or used with, an apparatus or system, methods, to excavate a subterranean formation. The system can including, for example, removing near-borehole damage, casing, window milling, fishing, drilling with casing, under reaming, coring, perforating, effective circulatory density management, assisted annular flow, and directional control. Embodiments of associated systems and methods are also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventors: Gordon Tibbitts, Greg Galloway, Adrian Vuyk, Jr., James Terry
  • Publication number: 20130000907
    Abstract: A milling assembly and methods for milling an opening for a lateral wellbore in a section of casing or in a cement liner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: David Joe Steele
  • Publication number: 20120325480
    Abstract: A dual string section milling tool includes a cutting block deployed in an axial recess in a tool body. The cutting block is configured to extend radially outward from and retract radially inward towards the tool body. The cutting block is further configured to remove a cement layer in a wellbore. The dual string section milling tool further includes a milling blade deployed in an axially slot disposed in the cutting block. The milling blade is configured to extend radially outward from and inwards towards the cutting block. The milling blade is further configured to cut and mill a section of casing string. The dual string section milling tool may be further configured to simultaneously remove cement and mill a wellbore tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Ronald G. Schmidt, Charles H. Dewey
  • Publication number: 20120318509
    Abstract: A cutting tool that inserts into a tubular for cutting the tubular from within. The cutting tool includes a motor, a cutting head, permanent anchor between the motor and cutting head, an electronics portion, and a modular anchoring sub that can be between the motor and electronics portion or on the upper end of the cutting tool. The modular anchoring sub provides flexibility in where anchoring elements are positioned so that depending on the application, the modular anchoring sub can be positioned so that it provides its maximum anchoring force for stabilizing the cutting tool during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Karsten Fuhst, Sven Krueger, William J. Befeld
  • Publication number: 20120312536
    Abstract: An assembly for performing multiple downhole hydraulic stimulation applications in a well. The different applications may be performed without removal of the assembly from the well between the different applications. So, for example, even a hydraulic perforating application may be performed with prior or subsequent clean-out applications. Yet, there is no need to remove the assembly for manual surface adjustment of the hydraulic perforating tool in order to allow for such clean-outs. Thus, the time to run such multi-stage stimulation operations may be dramatically reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Barry Mccallum
  • Publication number: 20120305251
    Abstract: A method and device for closing a well with a casing in a formation in the ground are provided. The method has the steps of moving a cutting tool down into the well; removing a longitudinal portion of the casing by cutting the longitudinal portion into pipe wall pieces; removing the cutting tool; and setting a plug against the formation in the longitudinal portion from which the casing has been removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventors: Svein H. Solversen, Per Lund
  • Patent number: 8322422
    Abstract: A method for removing at least a portion of an object in an annulus formed between an external surface of a tubular element and a wall surface. A method for removing an annulus packer, of the swellable type or the foam type, from an annulus in a wellbore comprises the placement of a jetting tool inside the tubular element and effecting a high-pressure fluid flow from the jetting tool to the object, whereby the object is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Rune Freyer
  • Publication number: 20120298363
    Abstract: A perforating system that transfers a detonation wave between adjacent perforating guns by converting shockwave energy to electrical energy. An explosive is provided on an end of a detonating cord that is coupled to shaped charges, so that a detonation wave traveling in the detonation cord will initiate detonation in the shaped charges and then in the high explosive. The explosive is disposed adjacent a pair of members that are energized so that a magnetic field is formed between the members. When the explosive detonates, the resulting shock wave pushes one of the members into the space between the members to compress the magnetic field. Compressing the magnetic field produces an electrical potential usable to initiate a detonation wave in another detonating cord for perpetuating the detonation wave along the perforating system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Tim W. Sampson, William Harvey
  • Publication number: 20120298362
    Abstract: A system for opening a window (320) in lateral wellbore construction. The system includes a window joint (300) that is operable to be interconnected within a casing string. The window joint (300) has a window (304) formed therein that is defined by at least one score line (306) that creates a preferentially weaken region within the window joint (300) enabling internal removal of the window (304) in a predictable manner without generating wellbore debris. A window removal tool (310) is operable to be run in the casing string. The window removal tool (310) is operably engagable with the window (304) such that actuation of the window removal tool (310) internally removes the window (304) from the window joint (300), thereby opening the window (320).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: David Joe Steele, Neil Hepburn
  • Patent number: 8312925
    Abstract: An embodiment of a method of performing a wellbore operation in an oilfield comprises providing a bottom hole assembly on a conveyance, deploying the bottom hole assembly into the wellbore with the conveyance, determining the depth location of the bottomhole assembly in the wellbore utilizing a mechanical device, moving the bottom hole assembly to a desired location based on the determined depth, circulating a fluid from the oilfield to the bottomhole assembly, and performing at least one wellbore operation while the bottomhole assembly is deployed at the desired location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Sascha Trummer, Douglas Pipchuk
  • Publication number: 20120285684
    Abstract: A cut and pull spear is configured to obtain multiple grips in a tubular to be cut under tension. The slips are set mechanically with the aid of drag blocks to hold a portion of the assembly while a mandrel is manipulated. An annular seal is set in conjunction with the slips to provide well control during the cut. An internal bypass around the seal can be in the open position to allow circulation during the cut. The bypass can be closed to control a well kick with mechanical manipulation as the seal remains set. If the tubular will not release after an initial cut, the spear can be triggered to release and be reset at another location. The mandrel is open to circulation while the slips and seal are set and the cut is being made. Cuttings are filtered before entering the bypass to keep the cuttings out of the blowout preventers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Stephen L. Crow, Marcelle H. Hedrick, Erik V. Nordenstam, Christopher W. Guidry
  • Patent number: 8307903
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods and apparatus for subsea well intervention operations, including retrieval of a wellhead from a subsea well. In one aspect, a method of performing an operation in a subsea well is provided. The method comprising the step of positioning a tool proximate a subsea wellhead. The tool has at least one grip member and the tool is attached to a downhole assembly. The method also comprising the step of clamping the tool to the subsea wellhead by moving the at least one grip member into engagement with a profile on the subsea wellhead. The method further comprising the step of applying an upward force to the tool thereby enhancing the grip between the grip member and the profile on the subsea wellhead. Additionally, the method comprising the step of performing the operation in the subsea well by utilizing the downhole assembly. In another aspect, an apparatus for use in a subsea well is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Weatherford / Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Redlinger, Andrew Antoine, My Le, Richard J. Segura
  • Publication number: 20120279709
    Abstract: A downhole locator apparatus, including a tool body having a central axis defined therethrough, and at least one locator lug radially expandable from the tool body, in which the at least one locator lug is configured to be received in an annular groove formed in an inner surface of a casing string, in which the at least one locator lug is configured to move radially between a retracted position and an expanded position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: James Bain, Murray Fearn, Brian Cruickshank, Charles Dewey, Mahavir Nagaraj
  • Publication number: 20120279710
    Abstract: A device for drilling a hole in a well tubular and for subsequent injection of a fluid or fluid mixture into an annular space or formation surrounding the well tubular. The device comprises a housing and a drill bit assembly arranged inside the housing. In the drill bit assembly, a drill bit with cutting edges and grooves extending along its outside surface, is arranged. The device further comprises rotation means being capable of rotating the drill bit assembly and a fluid supply for supplying a fluid or fluid mixture to the grooves of the rotating drill bit. A seal is surrounding the drill bit and capable of sealing the device against the inner surface of the well tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: Maersk Olie og Gas A/S
    Inventors: Edo Boekholtz, Ülger Gökhan, Klaus Wahrmann
  • Patent number: 8291977
    Abstract: A method of severing a well string that extends into an oil well from an oil platform with a deck includes supporting upper and lower sections of the well string, the lower section supported at the platform deck with a deck located string support. A shear mechanism cuts the well string at a position that can be above the deck located string support. The upper section is then lifted a selected distance and the deck located string support again supports the string at a position below the cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Gulfstream Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Mire
  • Patent number: 8286706
    Abstract: A perforating system having a perforating gun with a pressurizable gun body. The gun body can be pressurized prior to deployment in a wellbore, or while in the wellbore. Pressurizing the gun body can include adding fluid into the gun body, such as a pressurized gas, a liquid, or combustion products. A seal diaphragm can be used to transfer wellbore pressure into the gun body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Jason W. McCann, Mark Sloan
  • Patent number: 8281860
    Abstract: A system that is usable with a well includes a tubular string, which includes a jetting sub. Fluid is communicated outside an annular region that surrounds the string to a first zone of the well for purposes of treating the first zone. During the communication of the fluid through the annular region, fluid is communicated through the tubing string and through the jetting sub to perforate a second zone of the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Curtis Boney, Somiari Ajumogobia-Bestman
  • Patent number: 8267198
    Abstract: A tool body on tubing directs a mechanical cutter or jet bit to the casing. A hole is cut in casing and a rotary detent mechanism may be used to drill additional holes through casing and enable alignment of a jet bit with the holes for drilling drainholes without removing apparatus from the well. Disposable nozzles in a guide channel or nozzles on the tool body may be used for drilling through casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Buckman Jet Drilling
    Inventors: William G. Buckman, Sr., William C. Maurer, Zachary D. Pearl
  • Patent number: 8267199
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for drilling perforations in well casing and drainholes into a subterranean formation around a well are provided. A tool body on tubing directs a mechanical cutter or jet bit to the casing. A hole is cut in casing and a rotary detent mechanism may be used to drill additional holes through casing to enable alignment of a jet bit with the holes for drilling drainholes without removing apparatus from the well. Disposable nozzles in a guide channel or nozzles on the tool body may be used for drilling through casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Buckman Jet Drilling
    Inventors: William G. Buckman, Sr., William C. Maurer, Zachary D. Pearl
  • Patent number: 8261828
    Abstract: The tubular cutting tool for severing downhole tubulars, the tool having a drive system, a pivoting system, a cutting head, a cutting member, and a lubricant delivery system. Cutting may be accomplished by rotatingly actuating the cutting head with an associated motor and extending the cutting member away from the cutting head. The lubricant delivery system lubricates the respective contacting surfaces of the cutting member and the tubular and is actuated when the cutting member extends from the cutting head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Karsten Fuhst, Sven Krueger
  • Patent number: 8245785
    Abstract: The apparatus and method for drilling through the casing utilizes a yieldable biasing element to provide a self-adjusting length and exerts a predictable, controlled biasing force against the casing cutter for penetrating the casing. The cutter will be suspended from the well head by an element which will stretch to some extent, and the self-adjusting length will compensate for this also. As the cutter is lowered into position, and during the casing cutting operation, a flow of pressurized gas or emulsion can be directed through the down hole unit, to clear cuttings and other solids from the cutter's path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Latjet Systems LLC
    Inventor: Jasper N. Peters
  • Publication number: 20120205108
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus and a method of performing a plurality of operations in a wellbore with one direction of flow. In an illustrative example, a multicycle open/close valve (MCOCV) responsive to a plurality of flow rates is placed in a bottom hole assembly (BHA) and is used to perform abrasive perforating of a wellbore or cleanout of the wellbore using one direction of flow. At one or more first flow rates, the MCOCV is configured to operate in a first operating mode to abrasive perforate the wellbore. At one or more second flow rates, the MCOCV is configured to operate in a second operating mode to cleanout the wellbore. In an embodiment, the MCOCV includes a J-slot sequencing mechanism responsive to a sequence of flow rates to cycle the MCOCV through a plurality of operating modes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Jonathan Michael STANG
  • Patent number: 8240369
    Abstract: A slot-perforating system for an abrasive-hydro-slotting of a near well-bore zone for establishing an inflow path between a borehole and a formation has an adaptor connectable to a tubing; a hydraulic block connected to the adaptor for regulating a speed of operation; a perforator providing a hydro-slotting, and a return block located between the hydraulic block and the perforator and returning the perforator an initial upper position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Go Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Anatoli Nikouline, Nikolai Korvet
  • Publication number: 20120186817
    Abstract: A downhole pipe cutting tool includes a tool body having a piston assembly disposed in a central bore thereof, wherein the piston assembly is configured to translate longitudinally along the central axis of the tool body, and a plurality of cutter knife sets. Each of the plurality of cutter knife sets includes at least two individual cutter knives circumferentially spaced about a central axis of the tool body and is configured to selectively engage with the piston assembly to extend outward to perform pipe cutting operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Kenneth Gibson, Stephen Hekelaar