With Fluid Pressure Equalizing Means Patents (Class 166/324)
  • Patent number: 11846157
    Abstract: The invention refers to a safety valve having a double seal system that combines a metal-metal seal and an elastomeric ring arranged on the valve body. The safety valve comprises and external casing having a hollow main body configured to receive a piston that slides axially between an upper position and a lower position, the safety valve comprises a closing element pivotally attached to an annular seat and actuated by a torsion spring, wherein said closing element has a support face on the annular seat comprising a recessed perimeter surface and sloping intermediate surface jointly forming a first seal region, said annular seat has a second seal region consisting with said first seal region on the closing element, both regions defining a metal-metal seal, and wherein said second seal region on the annular seat comprises a perimeter groove configured to house a seal element made from elastomer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignee: Batfer Investment S.A.
    Inventors: Adrian Oscar Bucciarelli, Mario Ariel Vanzino
  • Patent number: 11821292
    Abstract: There is provided a flow control apparatus configured for optimizing use of available space within the wellbore for conducting of fluids between the surface and the subterranean formation. The flow control apparatus is useable for conducting all forms of fluid, such as, for example, liquids, gases, or mixtures of liquids and gases. As well, the flow control apparatus is useable for effecting injection of fluid (e.g. a fluid for stimulating hydrocarbon production via a drive process, such as, for example, waterflooding, or via a cyclic process, such as “huff and puff”) into the subterranean formation, and for receiving production of fluid (e.g. hydrocarbon material) from the subterranean formation (including production that is stimulated by gas lift).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: NCS MULTISTAGE, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy Johnson, Masoud Kalantari
  • Patent number: 11788378
    Abstract: A system includes a ball valve positionable along a fluid flow path of a wellbore. The ball valve is movable between an open position, where fluid is able to flow through the fluid flow path, and a closed position, where the fluid is prevented from flowing through the fluid flow path. The system also includes an electric motor coupled to a drive system within a trunnion of the ball valve. The electric motor drives rotation of the ball valve to move the ball valve between the open position and the closed position. Further, the system includes a power source electrically coupled to the electric motor to provide power to the electric motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrin Nathaniel Towers, Kenneth Lemoine Schwendemann, Benjamin Thomas Derryberry
  • Patent number: 11773691
    Abstract: A shifting tool for use in a wellbore includes a tubular housing having a bore formed therethrough; a tubular mandrel disposed in the housing and longitudinally movable relative thereto; and an engagement member moveable relative to the housing between an extended position, a released position, and a retracted position, wherein: the engagement member is movable from the retracted position to the extended position in response to movement of the mandrel relative to the housing, and the engagement member is further movable from the extended position to the released position in response to movement of the mandrel relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Joe Noske, Roddie R. Smith, Paul L. Smith, Thomas F. Bailey, Christopher L. McDowell
  • Patent number: 11739611
    Abstract: A single sleeve, multi-stage cementing tool for cementing in a wellbore can include a tool body, an outer mandrel, a flow port for providing fluid communication transversely from the inside of a tubing string into an annulus, and a port plug. The port plug is located within the flow port during first stage cementing such that the cement flows into the annulus from a bottom of the tubing string. The bottom of the tubing string can be closed after the first stage, and the port plug can be released from the flow port by increasing pressure within the tubing string. Second stage cementing can then be performed such that the cement flows into the annulus directly through the opened flow port. After all cement stages have been completed, a closing sleeve can be shifted to close the flow port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Vinicio Acosta Villarreal, Ahmad Rizal Maharam, Saul Emmanuel Vazquez Niebla
  • Patent number: 11680462
    Abstract: A well tool device (1) comprising a housing (10) having a through channel (11) with a first end (11a) and a second end (11b), said housing (10) further comprises a breakable ball seat (15), wherein a drop ball (17) received in the ball seat (15) partially or fully closes fluid communication in the through channel (11) of the housing (10). The breakable ball seat (15) is made of brittle and/or tempered glass, wherein the ball seat (15) is broken by a pressure build up in the housing (10) forcing the ball seat (15) against one or more disintegrating means (16), said disintegrating means (16) are provided as inside protrusions in the through channel (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Inventor: Kenneth Tunes
  • Patent number: 11634955
    Abstract: A well tool to be oriented and secured in a wellbore without the external application of torque, and a well system incorporating the same. After installation of orientation casing and universal latch coupling casing, the self-orienting selective lockable latch well tool is run downhole to the target depth, picked up to free the internal locking mechanism, and then loaded with downhole stress to engage the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Glenn Durst, Calvin Barnard Ponton
  • Patent number: 11499394
    Abstract: A well tool device (1) comprising a housing (10) having a through channel (11) with a first end (11a) and a second end (11b), said housing (10) further comprises a breakable ball seat (15), wherein a drop ball (17) received in the ball seat (15) partially or fully closes fluid communication in the through channel (11) of the housing (10). The breakable ball seat (15) is made of brittle and/or tempered glass, wherein the ball seat (15) is broken by a pressure build up in the housing (10) forcing the ball seat (15) against one or more disintegrating means (16), said disintegrating means (16) are provided as inside protrusions in the through channel (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Inventor: Kenneth Tunes
  • Patent number: 11448326
    Abstract: A valve assembly, is presented that has a seating member is slidably coupled to a valve body adjacent a valve body bore and has a metal seat located on a seating end thereof that is engagable against a ball valve member. The seating member has a vent port located there through to allow fluid to flow into a fluid chamber within the ball housing. A first piston is slidably located between the seating member and the ball housing and located over the vent port, and a second piston is slidably located between the seating member and the ball housing and is located downhole from the first piston. Sealing members are located between the first and second pistons and engaged against the seating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Adam Reid
  • Patent number: 11408252
    Abstract: A downhole tool including a valve portion having a valve housing including an inner chamber and an actuation tubular. The actuation tubular includes an outer surface, an inner surface defining a flow path, an upper end, and a lower end. A first spring extends about the outer surface of the actuation tubular between the upper end and the lower end. An actuator portion is detachably connected to the actuation tubular. The actuator portion includes an actuator housing, an actuator member arranged in the actuator housing, and a second spring operatively connected to the actuator member. The actuator member includes a first end portion operatively connected to the first spring and a second end portion. The actuator portion is selected and connected to the downhole tool to establish a selected actuation force through the second spring to compress the first spring causing the actuation tubular to shift within the inner chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES OILFIELD OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Jason Edwards, John Burris
  • Patent number: 11396791
    Abstract: A one-way valve for use in a wellbore includes a housing having a longitudinal axis defining a flow bore. A valve seat is arranged in the housing along the flow bore. A flapper member is pivotally supported in the housing between a closed position and an open position. The flapper member includes a first side having a sealing surface that selectively engages the valve seat in the closed position and an opposing second side. The flapper member also includes a central portion that is aligned with the longitudinal axis in the closed portion and a passage extending through the flapper member. An equalizing cartridge is arranged in the passage. The equalizing cartridge includes an equalizing housing and an equalizing plunger including an activation end provided at the first side of the flapper member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES OILFIELD OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Johnson
  • Patent number: 11377928
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to a flapper valve including a pressure relief assembly. The pressure relief assembly is operable to activate when a pressure differential across the flapper approaches or exceeds a design pressure of the flapper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Joe Noske
  • Patent number: 11193351
    Abstract: A valve apparatus, such as a downhole valve apparatus, includes a housing having a flow path therein and a valve member mounted within the housing and being operable between closed and open configurations to control flow along the flow path. An actuator assembly is moveable from a first position to a second position to sequentially perform first and second actuation functions, the first actuation function being associated with the operation of an auxiliary system, and the second actuation function opening the valve member from its closed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: WELLENG SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LTD.
    Inventors: Peter Barnes Moyes, Stefan Neil Lewis Stewart
  • Patent number: 10947814
    Abstract: A tool, e.g. a downhole tool, utilizes at least one actuator which may be actuated rapidly between positions during operation of the tool. The actuator is moved via flow of an actuating fluid controlled by a main valve which, in turn, is controlled via a pilot valve. The pilot valve is operated to selectively control flow of the actuating fluid to the main valve so as to shift the main valve between desired operational positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Edward George Parkin, Michael Pearce, Julien Steimetz, Jonathan D. Marshall, D. Peter Johnson, Clint William Philbrick
  • Patent number: 10941634
    Abstract: A system for controlling fluid flow in a subterranean well includes a first valve, a control line fluidly coupled to the first valve, an equalizing line disposed externally to and separate from the first valve, and at least a second valve disposed in the equalizing line and in fluid communication with the control line. The first valve includes a body defining a lumen, and an upper portion, and a lower portion. The equalizing line is in fluid communication with the lumen between the upper portion and the lower portion of the body. The second valve equalizes a pressure between the upper and lower portions of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: James Dan Vick, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10850896
    Abstract: A valve mechanism for at least one liquid plastic component or liquid plastic, includes a closure device that includes a needle to be pressed against a seat in order to close a valve opening in the valve mechanism. The needle and/or seat is designed or mounted in such a way as to be resilient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: HENKEL AG & CO. KGAA
    Inventors: Christian Schwabl, Mario Metzler
  • Patent number: 10760377
    Abstract: Systems and methods for pressure testing of production tubing in an oil or gas well utilizing a valve having a first and second cylindrical body arranged for axial movement within a cylindrical housing. Movement within the cylindrical housing is regulated by introduction of hydraulic fluid into a cavity in the cylindrical housing and a spring. Systems and methods may further include the use of configuring the cylindrical bodies for sealing engagement with one another caused by movement of the cylindrical bodies within the cylindrical housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Power Feed-Thru Systems & Connectors LLC
    Inventors: Brian Hegarty, Paul Lamont
  • Patent number: 10626703
    Abstract: A valve includes a piston, a flow tube, and a coupling transferring longitudinal movement between the piston and flow tube and enabling rotational movement of the flow tube with respect to the piston. The coupling includes a connector and a thrust sleeve. The connector includes a piston attachment feature and a thrust sleeve attachment feature, the piston attachment feature attached to the piston. The thrust sleeve includes a pocket, the thrust sleeve attachment feature disposed within the pocket. The thrust sleeve includes portions disposed radially interiorly and radially exteriorly of the thrust sleeve attachment feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Johnson
  • Patent number: 10287996
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a gas valve unit having an enclosure provided with an inlet and an outlet, with an inner pipe arranged to extend from the inlet to the outlet via the enclosure forming a gas tight piping inside the enclosure, and an outer pipe arranged to open into the enclosure via an at least one opening. Walls of the inner pipe and the outer pipe form a space there between as a first volume, and the enclosure forms a space inside as a second volume, the first and second volumes being arrangeable in flow communication with each other via an opening in connection with the outer pipe. At least one blocking unit selectively blocks the at least one opening in connection with the outer pipe and the flow communication between the first volume and the second volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: WÄRTSILÄ FINLAND OY
    Inventors: Klaus Widjeskog, Marko Kuusisaari, Tomas Högnabba
  • Patent number: 10214995
    Abstract: A system includes a valve housing with a port formed in a wall of the housing, a rotation sleeve disposed in the valve housing, an orienting sleeve with an orienting feature disposed in and fixed to the valve housing, and a shifter. The rotation sleeve is rotatable relative to the valve housing and includes a port formed therethrough. The shifter includes engagement features disposed a distance from each other along a length of the shifter and a rotational distance from each other about a circumference of the shifter. The engagement features are receivable into corresponding features of the orienting sleeve and the rotation sleeve to rotate the rotation sleeve relative to the valve housing as the shifter travels through the valve housing. The system may be used to selectively manipulate any number of valves in downhole equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jody Ray McGlothen
  • Patent number: 10077631
    Abstract: An equalizer valve is hydraulically operated by a pair of control lines running from a remote location such as a well surface. The use of control lines to make a mandrel or piston move in opposed directions removes the need for a spring or compressed gas to act as a spring against the anticipated hydrostatic force in a single control line system that is dependent on setting depth. The equalizer valve with its pair of control lines is insensitive to setting depth. Three seals on the mandrel are used to move the mandrel with the two control lines in opposed directions and to apply a net force to the mandrel. The seal applying the net closure force is exposed to a low or atmospheric chamber to make the second seal operate reliably using a large differential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Baker Hughes, a GE company, LLC
    Inventors: Samuel C. Kucera, Brett C. Jones, Jason W. Edwards
  • Patent number: 10066460
    Abstract: A shut-in valve tool for use in a well has a tool body defining a flow path for the flow of well fluid from outside the tool through the tool body to another part of the well. The tool has an inlet port defined in the tool body through which well fluid must flow to enter the flow path. The tool has 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. The tool has 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: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Inventors: Dag Pedersen, Robin Lovslett, Tore Vedal, Hadi Hajjar
  • Patent number: 9810030
    Abstract: A housing for a mud motor is disclosed. The housing comprises a female member comprising a female mating section and a male member comprising a male mating section and a housing section. The male mating section is matingly received within the female mating section. The collar is positioned on the housing section. The collar is made up of a framework with a plurality of discrete bodies spaced about the framework and a portion of each of the discrete bodies protrudes above the framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Evolution Engineering Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron W. Logan, Kevin Kalman, Vincent Gille Berube, Daniel W. Ahmoye
  • Patent number: 9790754
    Abstract: A method of plugging a flow passage in a well can include conveying a plug into an isolation tool in the well, and then contracting a plug seat of the isolation tool. An isolation tool for plugging a flow passage in a subterranean well can include a piston, and a longitudinally displaceable plug seat. The plug seat longitudinally displaces in response to displacement of the piston. Another method of plugging a flow passage can include conveying a plug into an isolation tool in the well, and then longitudinally displacing a plug seat of the isolation tool, thereby radially contracting the plug seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary R. Murphree, Michael L. Fripp, Zachary F. Walton
  • Patent number: 9784057
    Abstract: A valve having a sealing surface that is rotated 90 degrees on axial floating hinge assemblies is provided. A sleeve moves into position to protect the valve mechanism when the valve is in an open position. A sleeve locks the valve sealing element in place in either a closed or open position. The valve may be used during drilling of wells to prevent flow into the casing when the drill pipe and bit are raised above the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: WEATHERFORD TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Sam S. Lloyd, Michael R. Reaves, Don C. Gramlich
  • Patent number: 9714562
    Abstract: A downhole communications module for connecting with a string of downhole logging tools includes an optical annunciator and a communications port deployed in corresponding apertures in a tool body. The aperture housing the annunciator is sealed by a port plug having an optically transparent window. The aperture housing the communications port is sealed by a removable plug. A controller is deployed in the tool body and includes a memory module in electronic communication with the communications port. The controller is further configured to control operation of the annunciator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jonathan Yeboah, Sebastine Ujereh, Emil Steve Macha, Laurent Villegas, Christopher S. Del Campo
  • Patent number: 9540894
    Abstract: A system, in certain embodiments, includes a tubing hanger running tool (THRT) configured to position a tubing hanger within a wellhead. The THRT includes an integrated pressure equalization system including a tube having a first end in fluid communication with an annulus of the wellhead, and a second end in fluid communication with a control line. The integrated pressure equalization system also includes a piston disposed within the tube. The piston is configured to move within the tube to balance a pressure differential between a first fluid within the annulus and a second fluid within the control line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: OneSubsea IP UK Limited
    Inventors: David June, Claudio Santilli
  • Patent number: 9506306
    Abstract: A system includes a tubular filling tool. In certain embodiments, the tubular filling tool includes a conductor pipe configured to receive a filling fluid flow from a top drive and a diffuser block communicatively coupled to the conductor pipe and configured to receive the filling fluid flow from the conductor pipe, wherein the diffuser block includes a plurality of fluid passages extending to external passages formed in an outer diameter of the diffuser block and configured to facilitate passage of the filling fluid flow to the external passages from within the diffuser block, wherein the external passages are configured to generate a swirl flow pattern in the filling fluid flow during a tubular filling process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: TESCO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kevin James Nikiforuk
  • Patent number: 9458696
    Abstract: A valve assembly comprising a body having a main passage, and a valve member which is located in the main passage and which is rotatable between an open position in which the main passage is substantially open, and a closed position in which the valve member substantially blocks the main passage, and an actuator which is movable generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main passage, the actuator being engaged with the valve member such that movement of the actuator generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main passage causes the valve member to rotate between its open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: MANAGED PRESSURE OPERATIONS PTE. LTD.
    Inventors: James Bisset, Rae Younger, Jonathan Buckland, Baptiste Gougeon, Stuart Rothnie, Christian Leuchtenberg
  • Patent number: 8991509
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing apparatus comprising a housing defining an axial flowbore and comprising one or more ports providing a route of fluid communication between the axial flowbore and an exterior of the housing, a sliding sleeve disposed within the housing and comprising a seat and an orifice, the sliding sleeve being movable from a first position in which the ports are obstructed by the sliding sleeve to a second position in which the ports are unobstructed by the sliding sleeve, and the seat being configured to engage and retain an obturating member, and a fluid delay system comprising a fluid chamber containing a fluid, wherein the fluid delay system is operable to allow the sliding sleeve to transition from the first position to the second position at a delayed rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew James Merron
  • Publication number: 20150083434
    Abstract: A pressure relief valve assembly may be coupled to one or more casings and/or tubular members to control fluid communication therebetween. In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes a tubular body having a port for fluid communication between an exterior of the tubular body and an interior of the tubular body; a chamber formed in a wall of the tubular body, the chamber in fluid communication with the port; a closure member disposed in the chamber and configured to control fluid communication through the port in response to a pressure differential; and a retaining member coupled to the closure member for retaining the closure member in an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Stephanie Dianne WIND
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20150047828
    Abstract: A method of stimulating a subterranean formation using a tubular member with one or more burst disks therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2014
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Scott SHERMAN, Robert PUGH, Sean MAJKO, Steve SCHERSCHEL
  • Patent number: 8863844
    Abstract: A subsea arrangement comprising an external casing and a pressure equalizing valve for equalization of the fluid pressure in an internal space of the casing. The pressure equalizing valve comprises a swing arm and a valve member arranged inside the casing. The swing arm carries the valve member and is pivotable about a pivot axis, under the effect of an external fluid pressure acting on the valve member, from a resting position, in which the valve member covers an opening provided in the casing and prevents fluid flow through this opening, to a raised position, in which the valve member uncovers said opening and allows fluid flow through it from the surroundings into said space for equalization of the fluid pressure therein when the arrangement is lowered into the sea. The swing arm is pivotable from the raised position to the resting position under the effect of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventor: Olav Hande
  • Patent number: 8857540
    Abstract: An apparatus for releasing gas pressure from a drill string includes a tubular housing having a circumferential sidewall, an axis, a first end, a second end and a central passage extending between the first end and the second end. A pressure member is positioned in the central passage along the axis of the housing. The pressure member is movable from a first position retracted within the housing to a second position extending past the second end of the housing. An actuator is provided to move the pressure member from the first position to the second position, where the pressure member exerts a force to move a valve member of a float valve to an open position, thereby allowing gas trapped in the drill string to flow through the central passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Adam Paul Blake
  • Patent number: 8820407
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a main housing having a central bore therethrough, an upper valve subassembly disposed within the main housing, the upper valve subassembly including an upper seat configured to contact a corresponding lower seat of a lower valve subassembly, and a flow diverter ring disposed proximate the upper seat of the upper valve subassembly, wherein the flow diverter ring is configured to direct a fluid flow radially away from the upper seat of the upper valve subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Mohon, Vishal Saheta
  • Patent number: 8807224
    Abstract: A subsea arrangement comprising an external casing and a pressure equalizing valve for equalization of the fluid pressure in an internal space of the casing. The pressure equalizing valve is provided with a valve body including a base section displaceably received in an opening provided in the casing; and a valve member secured to the base section and arranged inside the casing, the valve member facing a valve seat surrounding said opening. The valve body is displaceable upwards, under the effect of an external fluid pressure, from a resting position, in which the valve member prevents fluid flow into and out of said internal space, to a raised position, in which the valve member allows fluid flow from the surroundings into said internal space for equalization of the fluid pressure therein when the subsea arrangement is lowered into the sea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventors: Olav Hande, Bjornar Bakken, Paula Guimaraes
  • Publication number: 20140190704
    Abstract: A valve for enabling communication between a first pressure and a second pressure including a piston member arranged in a housing. The piston member is movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration for selectively enabling communication between the first and second pressures. A control assembly is included for moving the valve to the open configuration. A first net pressure area is exposed to the first pressure and operatively arranged to urge the valve in a closing direction in response to the first pressure when the valve is in a closed configuration. A second net pressure area is exposed to the second pressure and operatively arranged to urge the valve in the closing direction in response to the second pressure when the valve is in a closed configuration. A method of operating a valve system is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Samuel C. Kucera, Anthony S. Coghill
  • Patent number: 8752629
    Abstract: A valve assembly for regulating fluid flow in a horizontal wellbore. A housing can be coupled to a production tubular. A chamber is defined within the housing and can be in fluid communication through a flow channel with an inner annulus formed adjacent the wellbore. A piston and a biasing member can be disposed within the chamber, where the biasing member biases the piston into a first position. A flowpath is defined within the housing and communicable with both the production tubular and the inner annulus. The flowpath can include one or more nozzles disposed therein, and the piston can be configured to move between the first position allowing fluid flow through the flowpath to the production tubular and a second position preventing fluid flow to the production tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Terje Moen
  • Patent number: 8714267
    Abstract: A tubular string testing system for use with a tubular string having a longitudinally extending flow passage can include a valve which selectively permits and prevents fluid communication between sections of the flow passage, a bypass passage which provides fluid communication between the sections of the flow passage when the valve is closed, and a filter which filters fluid that flows through the bypass passage. A method of testing a tubular string can include permitting fluid to flow through a bypass passage which connects sections of a flow passage extending longitudinally through the tubular string, a filter filtering the fluid which flows through the bypass passage, a valve of a tubular string testing system preventing flow of the fluid between the sections of the flow passage through the valve, and flow through the bypass passage being prevented in response to a predetermined pressure differential being created across the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul D. Ringgenberg, Cory L. Huggins
  • Patent number: 8616291
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for a sub-surface safety valve has control lines in hydraulic communication with the valve. A first control line communicates hydraulic pressure to actuate the valve, while the other control line communicates hydraulic pressure to compensate for hydrostatic pressure associated with the first control line. A regulator regulates hydraulic communication between the two control lines. The regulator prevents fluid communication from the first to the balance control line as long as integrity of the second line is maintained. When the second line fails, the safety valve can fail in the open position. In this case, the regulator permits hydraulic pressure to bleed from the first line to the second line. This allows the safety valve to then fail in a closed condition and allows the second line to potentially be recharged if its integrity is regained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb
    Inventors: Roddie R. Smith, Donnie R. Clapp
  • Patent number: 8567506
    Abstract: A fluid isolating pressure equalization in a subterranean well. A well system includes a well tool including a chamber therein containing an electrical assembly in a dielectric fluid, and a pressure equalization apparatus including a flowpath having opposite ends. One end is connected to the chamber, and the other end is connected to a source of another fluid. The flowpath extends alternately upward and downward between the opposite ends. A pressure equalization apparatus for use with a well tool in a subterranean well includes multiple spiral wraps of a tube. A flowpath in the tube extends in opposite directions in respective successive wraps of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Vick, Jr., Jimmie R. Williamson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8522883
    Abstract: A tubular string testing system for use with a tubular string having a longitudinally extending flow passage can include a valve which selectively permits and prevents fluid communication between sections of the flow passage, a bypass passage which provides fluid communication between the sections of the flow passage when the valve is closed, and a filter which filters fluid that flows through the bypass passage. A method of testing a tubular string can include permitting fluid to flow through a bypass passage which connects sections of a flow passage extending longitudinally through the tubular string, a filter filtering the fluid which flows through the bypass passage, a valve of a tubular string testing system preventing flow of the fluid between the sections of the flow passage through the valve, and flow through the bypass passage being prevented in response to a predetermined pressure differential being created across the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul D. Ringgenberg, Cory L. Huggins
  • Patent number: 8474535
    Abstract: A well screen inflow control device with check valve flow controls. A well screen assembly includes a filter portion and a flow control device which varies a resistance to flow of fluid in response to a change in velocity of the fluid. Another well screen assembly includes a filter portion and a flow resistance device which decreases a resistance to flow of fluid in response to a predetermined stimulus applied from a remote location. Yet another well screen assembly includes a filter portion and a valve including an actuator having a piston which displaces in response to a pressure differential to thereby selectively permit and prevent flow of fluid through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: William M. Richards, John C. Gano
  • Patent number: 8360154
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a main housing having a central bore therethrough, an upper valve subassembly disposed within the main housing, the upper valve subassembly including an upper seat configured to contact a corresponding lower seat of a lower valve subassembly, and a flow diverter ring disposed proximate the upper seat of the upper valve subassembly, wherein the flow diverter ring is configured to direct a fluid flow radially away from the upper seat of the upper valve subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Mohon, Vishal Saheta
  • Publication number: 20120312558
    Abstract: A radial flow valve is disclosed which includes a plurality of flow openings, a first piston and a second piston, the first and second pistons being independently actuable relative to one another, and a sleeve operatively coupled to the second piston, the sleeve adapted to be positioned so as to cover the plurality of flow openings. A method is also disclosed which includes positioning a radial flow valve in a subterranean well bore having an upper zone pressure and a lower zone pressure, increasing a pressure within the valve to a value above the upper zone pressure to release a first piston within the valve and, after releasing the first piston, reducing the pressure within the valve to a value that is less than the lower zone pressure to thereby cause a second piston within the valve to move and thereby permit fluid flow through the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Richard J. Ross
  • Publication number: 20120292016
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20120261139
    Abstract: A pressure equalization apparatus can include separate longitudinal bores which form a continuous flowpath, the flowpath alternating direction between the bores, and the bores being interconnected at opposite ends thereof. A well system can include a well tool with a chamber therein containing an assembly in a dielectric fluid, and a pressure equalization apparatus including a flowpath having one end connected to the chamber, and the other end connected to a source of a another fluid, the flowpath extending in opposite directions between the flowpath ends through multiple separate bores. A method of installing a well tool can include attaching a mandrel to the well tool, then lowering the well tool at least partially into the well suspended from the mandrel, and then securing a pressure equalization apparatus to the mandrel, a flowpath of the apparatus being connected to a chamber of the well tool containing an assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jimmie R. WILLIAMSON, JR., James D. VICK, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120227972
    Abstract: A subsea arrangement comprising an external casing and a pressure equalizing valve for equalization of the fluid pressure in an internal space of the casing. The pressure equalizing valve is provided with a valve body including a base section displaceably received in an opening provided in the casing; and a valve member secured to the base section and arranged inside the casing, the valve member facing a valve seat surrounding said opening. The valve body is displaceable upwards, under the effect of an external fluid pressure, from a resting position, in which the valve member prevents fluid flow into and out of said internal space, to a raised position, in which the valve member allows fluid flow from the surroundings into said internal space for equalization of the fluid pressure therein when the subsea arrangement is lowered into the sea.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventors: Olav Hånde, Bjørnar Bakken, Jon Flidh, Paula Guimaraes, Christopher A. Flidh
  • Publication number: 20120152553
    Abstract: A subsea arrangement comprising an external casing and a pressure equalizing valve for equalization of the fluid pressure in an internal space of the casing. The pressure equalizing valve comprises a swing arm and a valve member arranged inside the casing. The swing arm carries the valve member and is pivotable about a pivot axis, under the effect of an external fluid pressure acting on the valve member, from a resting position, in which the valve member covers an opening provided in the casing and prevents fluid flow through this opening, to a raised position, in which the valve member uncovers said opening and allows fluid flow through it from the surroundings into said space for equalization of the fluid pressure therein when the arrangement is lowered into the sea. The swing arm is pivotable from the raised position to the resting position under the effect of gravity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventor: Olav Hånde