Fluid Operated Patents (Class 166/319)
  • Patent number: 9371720
    Abstract: An autonomous inflow control system for use downhole comprises a flow ratio control system comprising one or more fluid inlets, and a pathway dependent resistance system comprising a vortex chamber. The one or more fluid inlets provide fluid communication between the flow ratio control system and the pathway dependent resistance system, and at least one of the one or more fluid inlets comprises a super hydrophobic surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Luke William Holderman
  • Patent number: 9316095
    Abstract: An autonomous inflow control system for use downhole comprises a flow ratio control system comprising one or more fluid inlets, and a pathway dependent resistance system comprising a vortex chamber. The one or more fluid inlets provide fluid communication between the flow ratio control system and the pathway dependent resistance system, and at least one of the one or more fluid inlets comprises a super hydrophobic surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Luke William Holderman
  • Patent number: 9174553
    Abstract: A seat, in particular motor vehicle seat, with a seat part and a backrest pivotally mounted relative to the seat part, which includes a backrest frame with two mutually opposite side bars, is provided. The two side bars are connected with each other via a transverse shaft which is rotatably mounted on the seat part in the region of a side bar. At least one fitting arrangement with a fitting part fixed at the backrest frame is provided, in order to arrest the pivotally mounted backrest relative to the seat part. The fitting part fixed at the backrest frame is welded to one of the side bars and the transverse shaft is welded to this fitting part. An end of the transverse shaft extends through one of the two side bars and this end is rotatably mounted in a seat side part of the seat part, so that the transverse shaft defines a pivot axis about which the backrest is pivotable relative to the seat part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Coburg
    Inventors: Matthias Fischer, Jochen Hofmann, Nadine Reinhardt, Michael Flieger, Jörg Gropp
  • Patent number: 9163489
    Abstract: A method is described of injecting CO2 into an aquifer or a depleted hydrocarbon reservoir (211) via at least one injection well (202) that penetrates said aquifer or reservoir, wherein the injection well is provided with an injection tubing (203) that is in sealing engagement with the injection well. The injection tubing terminates at or immediately above the interval of the aquifer or the reservoir into which the CO2 is to be injected and the injection tubing is provided with a fluid injection control valve (208) at or near the bottom thereof which is closed or closes when the pressure above the valve is less than a pre-set pressure value and opens or reopens when the pressure above the valve is at or greater than said pre-set pressure value, the pre-set pressure value being selected such that the CO2 in the injection tubing is maintained in a liquid or supercritical state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: BP Alternative Energy International Limited
    Inventors: Stephen John Cawley, Hrvoje Galic, John Nigel Ellis Mason
  • Patent number: 9145748
    Abstract: Apparatus for diverting fluid flow out of a working string, having a primary sub housing defining an axial bore and one or more primary sub housing circulation ports; a valve within the housing and defining one or more valve circulation ports. The valve ports are in fluid communication with the housing ports when the valve is in an open circulation position. One or more fluid-impinged surfaces are included and disposed within the primary sub housing and in operative connection with the valve. Fluid flowing through the primary sub housing impinges upon the fluid-impinged surfaces and, at a sufficient flow rate, causes the valve to move so as to actuate the valve in opposition to a biasing force operating on the valve and into open circulation position to cause flow of fluid out of the valve and primary sub housing through the aligned valve and primary housing ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: C&J Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle R. Meier, Christopher R. Arnold
  • Patent number: 9140093
    Abstract: Apparatus (10) for restricting a flow of fluid through a bore (14) comprises a bore sealing member (12a) and an actuation assembly for moving the bore sealing member (12a) between first and second configurations. The actuation assembly is configured to isolate first and second end portions (46, 48) of the activation member (12a) from a bore fluid (50). The apparatus (10) provides for moving the bore sealing member (12a) between the first and second configurations without a bore fluid (50) pressure acting on an end portion (46, 48) of the activation member (12a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Ford, James Fogg
  • Patent number: 9127528
    Abstract: A technique facilitates control over a multi-position well tool. A hydraulic control module may be engaged with a multi-position well tool for controlling actuation of the multi-position well tool through a plurality of actuation positions. The multi-position well tool is moved through the plurality of actuation positions by applying pressurized fluid through a first control line. A metering piston is uniquely arranged within the hydraulic control module to control actuation of the multi-position well tool from an initial actuation position through a plurality of incremental actuation positions. Additionally, a single pressurization of actuation fluid delivered through a second control line may be used to return the multi-position well tool back to the initial actuation position from any incremental position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Tyler D. Panian
  • Patent number: 9121251
    Abstract: A valve for use in fracing through cement casing in a well allows for flow of cement down the well during the cementing process and in the open position allows for fracing fluid to be directed through the cement casing for fracturing the formation adjacent the valve. The valve is constructed so as to reduce the likelihood of the valve to jam as a result of cement or other foreign material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: TEAM OIL TOOLS, LP
    Inventors: Michael T. Sommers, Stephen L. Jackson
  • Publication number: 20150144334
    Abstract: A differential pressure indicator (DPI) for use with a downhole isolation valve includes a tubular mandrel for assembly as part of a casing string and for receiving a tubular string. The mandrel has a stop shoulder and a piston shoulder. The DPI further includes a tubular housing for assembly as part of the casing string and for receiving the tubular string. The housing is movable relative to the mandrel between an extended position and a retracted position and has a stop shoulder and a piston shoulder. The DPI further includes a hydraulic chamber formed between the piston shoulders and a coupling in communication with the hydraulic chamber and for connection to a sensing line. The housing is movable relative to the mandrel and to the extended position in response to tension exerted on the DPI.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: Kyle Allen KING, Joe NOSKE, Christopher L. MCDOWELL, Brian A. MICKENS
  • Publication number: 20150144353
    Abstract: A downhole system having a chemical injection valve assembly configured to inject at least one chemical from a chemical injection line into a downhole tubing. The chemical injection valve assembly includes a passive access control mechanism configured to reveal a first port to the tubing in a first condition and block the first port in a second condition. The passive access control mechanism including a movable piston, wherein in the first condition the piston is exposed to a first pressure source on a first side of the piston. To a second pressure source on a second side of the piston and the first pressure source from within the tubing and the second pressure source from outside of the chemical injection line and the tubing. Also included is a method of chemical injection in a downhole system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Kyle R. Meier, Marc N. Samuelson, David S. Bishop, Zhi Yong He
  • Publication number: 20150129196
    Abstract: Two control systems are provided to run in parallel between a surface location and the final controlled element, in this case a subsurface safety valve. The primary control circuit is controlling until a predetermined signal is given to the secondary control line which has the effect of actuating the valve a single time against the force of a bias or a shear pin that breaks. The movement of a shuttle in the housing due to the predetermined signal being provided in the secondary line puts the secondary control system in the position of running the tool. The primary system is valved off and cannot return into service. There are just two lines into and out of the housing to make the valve operate at the desired location. A test port is provided for surface testing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Brett C. Jones, Samuel C. Kucera, Michael L. Hair, Clifford H. Beall
  • Patent number: 9022130
    Abstract: A downhole isolation valve for testing the integrity of a tubular within a wellbore includes a tubular body with an axial through bore having a reduced diameter portion defining a valve seat and a ledge; an inner sleeve, with a closed end configured to seal within the valve seat, a shoulder spaced from that closed end, and a radial outlet positioned between the shoulder and the closed end; wherein in use the inner sleeve is selectively moveable within the bore at a predetermined pressure between a closed position, in which there is no flowpath through the bore, and an open position, in which the closed end is positioned beyond the valve seat to expose the radial outlet to the through bore beyond the valve seat and provide a flowpath through the bore of the outer tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Specialised Petroleum Services Group Limited
    Inventor: George Telfer
  • Publication number: 20150114663
    Abstract: A system for producing hydrocarbons may include a production control device positioned along a production flow line. The production control device may include an enclosure having an interior space and an isolation device disposed in the interior space. The isolation device may divide the interior space into an upper interior space and a lower interior space. The production control device may also include a first flow control device positioned in the upper interior space, and a second flow control device positioned in the upper interior space. The first flow control device may be responsive to a control signal transmitted via a control line from a surface location. The second flow control device may reactively block fluid flow from the lower interior section to the upper interior section when a pressure differential between the upper interior space and the lower interior space falls below a preset value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Dario Casciaro, Steven Johnstone
  • Publication number: 20150107848
    Abstract: Methods and systems operate multiple downhole tools in wells based on hydraulic pressures supplied in control lines. The methods and systems pair each of the tools with a manifold enabling selective actuation of each of the tools from a remote location. Some embodiments include between three and twelve manifold and tool pairs configured for control independent from one another with four of the control lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: John Cochrane LEITCH
  • Patent number: 9010353
    Abstract: A gas lift apparatus has a gas lift valve that disposes in a mandrel. A housing of the valve has a chamber, and a seat disposes between the inlet and outlet. A piston movably disposed in the housing has one end exposed to the chamber. A distal end can selectively seal with the seat to close the valve. A first edge-welded bellows disposed on the piston separates the inlet and chamber pressures and can fully compress to a stacked height when the distal end of the piston seals with the seat. A dynamic seal can be achieved at closing by using a captive sliding seal between the piston's distal end and the seat. A second edge-welded bellows can also be disposed on the piston, and the two bellows can operate in tandem. Oil filing the interiors and the passage can move from one bellows to the other to transfer the pressure differential between the inlet and the chamber pressures. The second bellows fully compresses to a stacked height and stops opening of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Zlatko Salihbegovic
  • Publication number: 20150101809
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally relate to a valve assembly for use during a cementing operation. In one embodiment, a valve includes a housing having a bore. The valve further includes a piston member movable between a first position permitting fluid passage through the bore and a second position obstructing the bore through the housing. Additionally, the valve includes a biasing member configured to bias the piston member toward the second position. In another aspect, a method of using a valve in a cementing operation is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventor: Jeffery MORRISON
  • Publication number: 20150096767
    Abstract: A multiplier sleeve has a releasable seat coupled to a dog within the slidable sleeve allows a single sized ball, dart, or plug to actuate several sliding sleeves. Upon actuation by properly sized ball the ball, slidable sleeve, seat, and dog move downward where the dog is no longer supported allowing the seat to move within the slidable sleeve to a point where the seat is no longer supported thereby releasing the ball. With the slidable sleeve moved downward the port or ports in the sliding sleeve is exposed. A staged port and piston assembly inserted into the ports maintain pressure within the tubular assembly to allow the ball to move through and actuate the targeted sliding sleeves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Applicant: Swellfix BV
    Inventors: Christian Atilano, Henry Joe Jordan, Jr., Khai Tran
  • Publication number: 20150096742
    Abstract: A shut-in valve tool for use in a well, comprising; a tool body defining a flow path for the flow of well fluid from outside the tool through FIG. 1 the tool body to another part of the well; an inlet port defined in the tool body though which well fluid must flow to enter the flow path; a sliding valve member located within the tool body and moveable between a first position in which the inlet port is open, and a second position in which the inlet port is blocked; a supply of compressed fluid; and an actuating mechanism which uses the compressed fluid for driving the sliding valve member from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventors: Robin Lovslett, Dag Pedersen, Tore Vedal, Hadi Hajjar
  • Patent number: 8985222
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for controlling the flow of fluid, such as formation fluid, through an oilfield tubular positioned in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation. Fluid flow is autonomously controlled in response to change in a fluid flow characteristic, such as density or viscosity. A fluid diverter is movable between an open and closed position in response to fluid density change and operable to restrict fluid flow through a valve assembly inlet. The diverter can be pivotable, rotatable or otherwise movable in response to the fluid density change. The diverter is operable to control a fluid flow ratio through two valve inlets. The fluid flow ratio is used to operate a valve member to restrict fluid flow through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Orlando DeJesus
  • Patent number: 8978775
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system including a work string and a valve tool defining an flowbore, wherein the valve tool is transitionable from a first mode to a second mode, from the second mode to a third mode, and from the third mode to a fourth mode, wherein the valve tool transitions from the first mode to the second mode upon an application of pressure to the flowbore of at least a threshold pressure, wherein the valve tool transitions from the second mode to the third mode upon a dissipation of pressure from the flowbore to not more than the threshold pressure, and wherein, in the first mode, the valve tool allows fluid communication via the flowbore in a first direction and disallows fluid communication in a second direction. Further, in the second, and third modes, the valve tool allows fluid communication in both the first and second directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Sharlene Dawn Lindsay, Robert Gordon Howard, Desmond Wesley Jones
  • Publication number: 20150068752
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for re-directing fluid flow from the interior of tubing placed in a well to the exterior of the tubing by use of selectively actuatable valves operable by engagement of a plug on a plug seat. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed may provide a flowback bypass for the flow of fluids around obstructions in the tubing when those obstructions occur at a predicted location within the tubing. The systems, devices and methods may also include a locking system operable by, among other things, plug and plug seat valves, and such locking system may be used to prevent opening of the flowback bypass until after a predetermined event has occurred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: Peak Completion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Hofman, William Sloane Muscroft, Bryan Fitzhugh
  • Publication number: 20150068763
    Abstract: A downhole actuator typically for a downhole tool such as a valve, and typically for incorporation in a string of tubulars in an oil or gas well has a central axis with radially movable counterweights on opposite sides of the axis, which move radially outward to change the activation state of the actuator. The counterweights are supported by link arms which control the movement of the counterweights in response to centrifugal force created by rotation of the body, for example, during rotary drilling operations of the string. Radial outward movement of the counterweights typically transmits axial forces between sleeves at the upper and lower ends of the counterweights, so when the counterweights move radially outward, the upper and lower sleeves approach one another, which typically triggers the actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: CFF Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Bruce Thornton Jepp, Keith Scott Gaskin
  • Patent number: 8973663
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a recirculation safety valve is disclosed. The valve has a tubular body with mandrel that is axially shifted in response to annulus pressure. Shifting of the mandrel can either close a safety valve or close a safety valve and open a recirculation port. The valve has an annular actuation chamber that relieves that pressure to prevent inadvertent shifting of the mandrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul David Ringgenberg, Charles Frederick Carder
  • Patent number: 8967267
    Abstract: A fluid discrimination system can include a fluid discriminator which selects through which of multiple outlet flow paths a fluid composition flows, the selection being based on a direction of flow of the fluid composition through the discriminator, and the direction being dependent on a fluid type in the fluid composition. Another fluid discriminator can include a structure which displaces in response to a fluid composition flow, whereby an outlet flow path of the fluid composition changes in response to a change in a ratio of fluids in the fluid composition. A method of discriminating between fluids can include providing a fluid discriminator which selects through which of multiple outlet flow paths a fluid composition flows in the well, the selection being based on a direction of flow of the fluid composition through the discriminator, and the direction being dependent on a ratio of the fluids in the fluid composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp
  • Publication number: 20150053417
    Abstract: An autonomous inflow control system for use downhole comprises a flow ratio control system comprising one or more fluid inlets, and a pathway dependent resistance system comprising a vortex chamber. The one or more fluid inlets provide fluid communication between the flow ratio control system and the pathway dependent resistance system, and at least one of the one or more fluid inlets comprises a super hydrophobic surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Luke William Holderman
  • Publication number: 20150053420
    Abstract: A flow control device can include water in a chamber, the chamber having a variable volume, a flow restricting member which displaces in response to a change in the chamber volume, and a biasing device which influences a pressure in the chamber. A method of controlling flow of steam in a well can include providing a flow control device which varies a resistance to flow in the well, the flow control device including a chamber having a variable volume, water disposed in the chamber, and a biasing device. The biasing device influences the chamber volume. Another flow control device can include water in a chamber, the chamber having a variable volume, a flow restricting member which displaces in response to a change in the chamber volume, and a biasing device which reduces a boiling point of the water in the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, John C. Gano, Zachary R. Murphree
  • Patent number: 8960316
    Abstract: A flow control device comprises a fluid pathway configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular, a flow restriction disposed in the fluid pathway, a one-way valve disposed in the fluid pathway to substantially block fluid flow from the interior of the wellbore tubular to the fluid pathway and to allow fluid flow from the fluid pathway to the interior of the wellbore tubular, and an inflatable seal disposed between an opening to the interior of the wellbore tubular and the fluid pathway, wherein the inflatable seal is configured to inflate to substantially block the fluid pathway in response to a fluid pressure differential between the interior of the wellbore tubular and the exterior of the wellbore tubular that exceeds a predefined threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Michael Greci
  • Publication number: 20150041148
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the disclosure, a hydraulic cycle opening sleeve includes a valve assembly and an opening assembly. The valve assembly includes at least one valve chamber and valve piston positioned to move in response to fluid pressure. The opening assembly includes a sliding piston to selectively open or close the hydraulic cycle opening sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: TAM International, Inc.
    Inventor: Iain Greenan
  • Publication number: 20150034330
    Abstract: A downhole tool and system for actuation of the tool. The tool includes a sliding sleeve assembly that is urged toward an opening position due to an interior pressure in the tool. A shear pin assembly hold the tool in the closed position. As pressure is increased to above a predetermined locking set point, a locking mechanism on the sliding sleeve radial engages the housing of the tool to lock the sliding sleeve to the housing. As pressure is further increased to a predetermined an activation set point, the shear pin assembly shears, but the sliding sleeve is maintained in the closed position by the locking mechanism. Only after the interior pressure is subsequently lowered to below a predetermined opening set point will the sliding sleeve shift to an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew James Merron, Kendall Pacey
  • Publication number: 20150034323
    Abstract: A technique facilitates a more desirable inflow distribution of fluid along a tubing string deployed in a wellbore. The technique comprises providing a tubing string with a plurality of flow control devices and conveying the tubing string downhole into the wellbore. An injection fluid is pumped down along an interior of the tubing string and out through the plurality of flow control devices for entry into the surrounding formation. Based on a function of this injection flow, the flow areas of the flow control devices are adjusted to improve the subsequent distribution of inflowing fluids. The injection and the subsequent adjustment of flow areas as a function of the injection flow through each flow control device may be repeated for continued improvement, e.g. continued optimization, of the inflow distribution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Robin M. Greene, Terje Moen
  • Publication number: 20150027726
    Abstract: A downhole apparatus including a tubular body, first and second ports in a wall of the body, and a fluid pressure-responsive valve arrangement having a locked first configuration associated with a first pressure in which the first port is open and the second port is closed, an unlocked second configuration associated with a second pressure higher than the first pressure in which the first port is open and the second port is closed, and a third configuration associated with a third pressure lower than the second pressure in which the second port is open and the first port is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: Darcy Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Stephen Edmund Bruce, Stephen Kent, Dominic Patrick Joseph McCann, David Allan Noblett, David Grant, Ewan Colin Smith
  • Publication number: 20150021019
    Abstract: A fluid flow control system includes a flow control assembly having a fluid flow path for a flowing fluid. First and second flow control components are disposed in parallel in the fluid flow path, the first having a positive flowrate response to decreasing fluid viscosity and the second having a negative flowrate response to decreasing fluid viscosity. A valve is disposed in the fluid flow path in downstream series with the first and second flow control components. The valve has first and second inlet paths for fluid from the first and second flow control components, respectively, such that decreasing the fluid viscosity of the flowing fluid increases a ratio of the flowrate through the first control component to the flowrate through the second flow control component and such that when the ratio reaches a predetermined level, the valve autonomously shifts from an open position to a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Jan Veit
  • Publication number: 20150013989
    Abstract: A flow control device for use with a subterranean well, can include inner and outer flow trim sleeves. A radial spacing between the inner and outer flow trim sleeves increases in a direction of flow through the radial spacing. A method of regulating flow between an interior and an exterior of a tubular string in a well can include displacing at least one of inner and outer flow trim sleeves in a direction, a radial spacing between the inner and outer trim sleeves increasing in the direction. Another flow control device can include inner and outer flow trim sleeves, and a flow area through the radial spacing increases in a direction of flow through the radial spacing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Ruchir S. Patwa, Pranay Asthana, Joel D. Shaw
  • Patent number: 8931577
    Abstract: A valve comprises a housing including a first chamber, a second chamber, and a neutral chamber. In addition, the valve comprises a stem disposed within the housing. Further, the valve comprises a first valve member at least partially disposed in the first chamber and connected to the stem and a second valve member at least partially disposed in the second chamber and connected to the stem. The first valve member has a closed position seated in a first annular valve seat and an open position spaced apart from the first valve seat. The second valve member has a closed position seated in a second annular valve seat and an open position spaced apart from the second valve seat. Moreover, the valve comprises a biasing member configured to bias the second valve member to the closed position and the first valve member to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Nicolas Arteaga
  • Patent number: 8931570
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling fluid in-flow into a wellbore tubular includes a translating flow control element having one or more fluid conveying conduits; and a reactive element that actuates the flow control element. The reactive element may be responsive to a change in composition of the in-flowing fluid. The reactive element may change volume or shape when exposed to or not exposed to a selected fluid. The selected fluid may be oil, water, or some other fluid (e.g., liquid, gas, mixture, etc.). The reactive element may slide the flow control element such that a conduit formed on the flow control element changes length, which then changes a pressure differential across the flow control element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Dario Casciaro, Murray K. Howell
  • Patent number: 8931559
    Abstract: A depressurization tool is described for use downhole in depressurizing an isolated zone. A decompression chamber containing a compressible fluid volume is described. The opening of the chamber is sealed with a closure that is configured to open upon application of a pressure differential across the opening. When used downhole within an isolated and nonpermeable wellbore zone, excessive ambient pressure will cause the closure to open and allow the chamber to fill with fluid at increased pressure, depressurizing the wellbore zone. The tool is useful in wellbore completion systems that include sliding sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: NCS Oilfield Services Canada, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Getzlaf, Marty Stromquist, John Edward Ravensbergen, Lyle Laun, Eric Schmelzl
  • Publication number: 20150000929
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing hydrocarbon gas from a wellbore and a control valve assembly for said wellbore. The wellbore comprises a wellhead, a production zone, a production tubing, and a velocity string installed inside the production tubing. The method comprises allowing gas to flow from the production zone through the velocity string, said gas forming a primary gas stream, and controlling the flow of gas from the annulus between the outer wall of the velocity string and the inner wall of the production tubing to the primary gas stream by means of the control valve wherein a controlled mass flow of said gas is combined with the primary gas stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Applicant: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Cornelis Adrianus Maria Veeken, Lubbertus Lugtmeier, Derk Lucas Klompsma, Ewout Norbert Jan Biezen
  • Publication number: 20150000922
    Abstract: Tools for a well tubular comprising a ball seat assembly. The ball seat assembly comprises first and second ball seats. The first ball seat is adapted to receive a ball deployed into the tool, transition to a second state and release the ball. The first ball seat is operatively engaged with the second ball seat such that as it transitions to its second state it causes the second ball seat to transition from a first state of increased clearance to a second state having reduced clearance. The second seat then is adapted to receive the ball after it is released by the first seat. The second ball seat is adapted to actuate the tool, transition to a third state, and release the ball. The clearance through the second ball seat in its second state is less than the clearance through the first ball seat in its first state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Applicant: Team Oil Tools LP
    Inventors: Michael J. Harris, Kenneth J. Anton
  • Patent number: 8919438
    Abstract: A method for evaluating wellbore integrity including introducing a drill to a surface of a casing encompassing an annulus, enclosing the drill in a housing hydraulically isolating the surface, drilling through the casing and into cement surrounding the casing, observing a pressure of the fluid, and using the pressure observation and a drill position to evaluate a presence of a defect and a location of the defect. Apparatus for evaluating wellbore integrity including a probe comprising a drill, wherein the probe is hydraulically isolated from the wellbore, a valve that encompasses the drill, a pressure gauge to measure the pressure of the fluid within the housing, a pressure gauge to measure the pressure in the system outside the housing, and equipment to compare the pressure measurements and the position of the drill and to evaluate a presence and a location of the defect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Terizhandur S. Ramakrishnan, Nikita Chugunov, Ram Sunder Kalyanaraman
  • Patent number: 8910717
    Abstract: A frangible pressure control plug includes a first portion of a body adjacent a first end of the plug. A second portion of the body adjacent a second end of the plug. The second portion attached to the first portion in a first condition. A groove in the body interposed between the first portion and the second portion. A bore within the body passing through the first end and the first portion and inaccessible from the second end and wherein, fluid communication between the bore and the groove is prevented in the first condition and allowed in a second condition. Also included is a method of actuating a tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Jason C. Mailand, Justin C. Kellner
  • Patent number: 8905144
    Abstract: A flow control device can include a surface that defines a chamber and includes a side perimeter and opposing end surfaces, a greatest distance between the opposing end surfaces being smaller than a largest dimension of the opposing end surfaces, a first port through one of the end surfaces, and a second port through the surface and apart from the first port, the side perimeter surface being operable to direct flow from the second port to rotate about the first port. Another device can include a cylindroidal chamber for receiving flow through an inlet and directing the flow to an outlet, a greatest axial dimension of the cylindroidal chamber being smaller than a greatest diametric dimension of the cylindroidal chamber, the cylindroidal chamber promoting rotation of the flow based on a characteristic of the inflow through the inlet. The device can have a flow path structure in the cylindroidal chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp
  • Publication number: 20140352982
    Abstract: A gas lift barrier valve mandrel assembly includes a longitudinally extending tubular member that defines a production conduit and has a central longitudinal axis. A side pocket mandrel has a first pocket for accepting a gas lift barrier valve and has a first central axis. The side pocket mandrel has a second pocket for accepting a gas lift barrier valve and has a second central axis. The central axis of the production conduit, first axis and second axis are non-coaxial and are parallel to one another. A passage fluidly connects an outside of the mandrel to an inside of the production conduit and is intersected by the first and second pockets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas M. White, Wayne J. Mabry, Jason Michael Kamphaus, Tyson R. Messick, Eric Lovie, Kenneth C. Burnett
  • Patent number: 8893806
    Abstract: An exercise tool assembly for operating a downhole tool auxiliary to a primary actuator system of the downhole tool includes a cylinder mandrel configured to be received in the central bore of the downhole tool. A piston mandrel is in and sealed with the cylinder mandrel. The exercise tool assembly is configured to couple to an actuator sleeve of the downhole tool and to couple to the downhole tool at a location apart from the actuator sleeve. The piston mandrel is responsive to a change in pressure in the central bore to translate relative to the cylinder mandrel and translate the coupling with the actuator sleeve relative to the coupling at the location apart from the actuator sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmie Robert Williamson, James Dan Vick, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8893805
    Abstract: Bypass valve comprising a ported housing (1) and concentrical ported sleeve (2). Ported piston (3) is slidably arranged within the sleeve. Between sleeve and piston is a control system consisting of control element (5) fixed to sleeve (2) by means of plugs (7) passing through apertures (49) and holes (68). Noses (35) protrude into recesses (34) of drive element (4). Saw teeth (31) on drive element (4) interact with teeth (29) on rotatable timing element (6). Key (27) on element (6) interacts with teeth (32) on control element (5). Lower end (70) of key is abutting against ridge (67) formed on inner surface of sleeve (2). when key (27) is engaged to teeth (32), teeth (31, 29) on elements (4, 6) are misaligned. Pressure increase results in piston (3) and drive element (4) moving downward freeing key (27) from engagement with teeth (32). Teeth (31, 29) are forced into alignment with subsequent rotation of timing element (6). In this position, ports on piston and sleeve are partially aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Bruce McGarian
  • Patent number: 8893804
    Abstract: A method of propagating pressure pulses in a well can include flowing a fluid composition through a variable flow resistance system which includes a vortex chamber having at least one inlet and an outlet, a vortex being created when the fluid composition spirals about the outlet, and a resistance to flow of the fluid composition alternately increasing and decreasing. The vortex can be alternately created and dissipated in response to flowing the fluid composition through the system. A well system can include a variable flow resistance system which propagates pressure pulses into a formation in response to flow of a fluid composition from the formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8875797
    Abstract: A method for flow control and a self-adjusting valve or flow control device, in particular useful in a production pipe for producing oil and/or gas from a well in an oil and/or gas reservoir, which production pipe includes a lower drainage pipe preferably being divided into at least two sections each including one or more inflow control devices which communicates the geological production formation with the flow space of the drainage pipe. The fluid flows through an inlet and further through a flow path of the control device passing by a movable disc or movable device which is designed to move relative to the opening of the inlet and thereby reduce or increase the flow-through area by exploiting the Bernoulli effect and stagnation pressure created over the disc, whereby the control device, depending on the composition of the fluid and its properties, automatically adjusts the flow of the fluid based on a pre-estimated flow design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Statoil Petroleum AS
    Inventors: Haavard Aakre, Vidar Mathiesen
  • Publication number: 20140318806
    Abstract: Apparatus for controlling a downhole device in a well has a body with a control slot and pin movable in the slot. The slot has a first inactive loop in which the pin can cycle between different idling configurations, and a second active loop in which the pin can move between different configurations which correspond to active and inactive configurations of the downhole device. The pin can be switched between the first and second loops, and can cycle between the different configurations within without switching between the different loops. The slot can be provided on a piston, and the axial movement of the piston in the bore can drive the relative movement of the pin and the slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Krzysztof Machocki
  • Patent number: 8863843
    Abstract: A downhole tool assembly is configured for repeated and selective hydraulic actuation and deactuation. A piston assembly is configured to reciprocate axially in a downhole tool body. The piston assembly reciprocates between a first axial position and second and third axial positions that axially oppose the first position. The downhole tool is actuated when the piston assembly is in the third axial position and deactuated when the piston assembly is in either of the first or second axial positions. A spring member biases the piston assembly towards the first axial position while drilling fluid pressure in the tool body urges the piston assembly towards the second and third axial positions. Downhole tool actuation and deactuation may be controlled from the surface, for example, via cycling the drilling fluid flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jian Wu, Jianbing Hu, Dwayne P Terracina, Tommy G Ray
  • Patent number: 8863848
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the flow of downhole fluids comprises a body having a throughbore and at least one port extending through a sidewall of the body to enable fluid communication between the throughbore and an exterior of the body. The apparatus comprises a flow control device for controlling the flow of fluids through the port. The flow control device is arranged to change configuration between a closed configuration in which fluid flow through the port is restricted and an open configuration in which fluid flow through the port is permitted. The apparatus further comprises an actuator mechanism associated with the flow control device for selective actuation of the flow control device to change the configuration of the flow control device between the closed and open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Petrowell Limited
    Inventors: Andrew Elrick, David Jenner
  • Patent number: 8863849
    Abstract: A technique provides a system and methodology for enhancing the operational life of an electric submersible pumping system. A completion is combined with a flow diverter valve and is positioned downhole in a wellbore. An electric submersible pumping system is coupled into the completion and the flow diverter valve is oriented to control fluid flow with respect to the electric submersible pumping system. For example, the flow diverter valve may be automatically operable to direct well fluid to the electric submersible pumping system when the pumping system is operating and to direct well fluid to bypass the electric submersible pumping system when the pumping system is not operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Dinesh Patel