Submerged Well Patents (Class 166/335)
  • Publication number: 20130333894
    Abstract: A subsea drilling, production or processing actuation system comprising a variable speed electric motor (10) adapted to be supplied with a current, a reversible hydraulic pump (8, 28) driven by the motor, a hydraulic piston assembly (92, 101, 111, 121, 131) connected to the pump and comprising a first chamber (2), a second chamber (3) and a piston (4) separating the first and second chambers and configured to actuate a valve (91) in a subsea system, a fluid reservoir (14) connected to the pump and the hydraulic piston assembly, the pump, hydraulic piston assembly and reservoir connected in a substantially closed hydraulic system, and a pressure compensator (13, 65) configured to normalize pressure differences between outside the hydraulic system and inside the hydraulic system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Moog Inc.
    Inventors: David Geiger, Raymond S. Scheffler
  • Publication number: 20130327532
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for remotely operating a cementing head. Remotely operating a cementing head (202) may allow for continued rotation as well as up or down movements (e.g., of a top drive).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Lev Ring, Sorin Gabriel Teodorescu
  • Publication number: 20130312980
    Abstract: A method and systems are provided for injecting a hydrate slurry into a reservoir. The method includes combining gas and water within a subsea simultaneous water and gas (SWAG) injection system. The method also includes forming a hydrate slurry from the gas and the water, and injecting the hydrate slurry into a reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventors: Richard F. Stoisits, Larry D. Talley, Jason W. Lachance, Douglas J. Turner
  • Patent number: 8555977
    Abstract: Remotely operated underwater redirection plenum chamber for spill response. A method for operating an underwater redirection plenum chamber including aligning a first end of the redirection plenum chamber with a riser pipe having a fluid flow. A collar is lowered from the first end of the redirection plenum chamber, such that an inner diameter of the collar surrounds an outer diameter of the riser pipe. A plurality of barbs within the collar are activated to pierce and engage an inner surface of the riser pipe. A grip engages the outer diameter of the riser pipe. The grip has at least two counter rotating cylinders such that when rotated by the fluid flow the counter rotating cylinders create a seal allowing fluid to travel through the grip and into a first chamber of the redirection plenum chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Blueshift, Inc.
    Inventor: John David Christopher Aykens
  • Publication number: 20130255955
    Abstract: A system comprising a well drilled into an underground formation comprising hydrocarbons; a water supply; a steam production facility, the steam production facility comprising a filter to remove at least 80% of a quantity of divalent cations in the water supply; an exchange resin to remove at least 80% of a quantity of divalent cations in a filtered water stream that has already passed through the filter; a steam injection facility connected to the well and the steam production facility, adapted to inject the steam into the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Alvin CUROLE, Eugene Bruce GREENE
  • Patent number: 8540028
    Abstract: An autonomous junk collecting sleeve for a riser is provided. The sleeve is constructed and arranged to be independently lowered and seated above a subsea tree section and, subsequently, raised and removed independent of the work string. The autonomous junk collecting sleeve includes a first cylindrical structure, a second cylindrical structure concentric to the first cylindrical structure and which are joined together in spatial relation at a bottom end to form an interior J-channel basket. The J-channel basket is operable to collect debris traveling up through the bottom end and over of the second cylindrical structure for deposit therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Wellbore Specialties, LLC
    Inventor: Dennis J. Penisson
  • Patent number: 8534363
    Abstract: Methods and devices for restoring control of at an offshore oil well following an uncontrolled fluid release after an explosion include lowering through a riser of successive flow restricting inserts into the oil well to gradually reduce the uncontrolled fluid release. Flow restricting inserts may be inserted in parallel or in series with each other. Following attachment of the riser to the oil well, provisions are made to restore oil production from the well. Flow restricting inserts may further be used to adjust flow resistance from the well in order to optimize oil production. Passages between the riser and the flow restricting inserts may also be used to form a gas lift in order to maximize production of oil from the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventors: Simon Tseytlin, David Tseytlin
  • Patent number: 8528666
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for disposing of drill cuttings 500 from an oil and/or gas well drilling platform 510, comprising (a) transporting the drill cuttings 520 to a cuttings collection area 530 on the platform 510; (b) providing a barge 10, the barge 10 having at least one storage area 30, a cover 100 operably connected to the at least one storage area 30, and covering the at least one storage area 30; (c) placing the cover 100 in a first open state so that cuttings 500 can be placed in the at least one storage area 30; (d) transporting the drill cuttings 500 from the cuttings collection area 530 to the at least one storage area of the barge 10; (e) placing the cover 100 in a closed state so that the cuttings 520 in the storage area 30 of the barge 10 are contained; (f) transporting the barge 10 from the drilling platform 510 to a collection site 540; (g) placing the cover 100 in a second open state so that the cuttings 520 in the storage area 30 can be removed; and (h) removing the cuttings 520 from the sto
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Central Boar Rentals, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Patterson, Edward L. Shearer
  • Publication number: 20130199792
    Abstract: A rapidly deployable flexible enclosure system for the collection, containment and presentation of hydrocarbon emissions from compromised shallow or deepwater oil and gas well systems, pipelines, other structures, including subsea fissures. The flexible containment enclosure can accommodate various depths and collection terminator configurations. The flexible containment enclosure system is connected to a floating platform and supported by positive offset neutral buoyancy attachment devices. The floating platform with the flexible containment enclosure separates liquid and gaseous materials and directs them to separate ports for removal from a rigid enclosure cavity integrated within the floating platform. Gaseous emissions may optionally be directed to a tethered floating flare system. The system has the ability to partially or fully submerge for extended durations and resurface on demand manually or by transmitted signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventor: Raymond Michael Backes
  • Patent number: 8500419
    Abstract: A technique is provided for pumping fluid in subsea applications. A self-contained pumping module is created by mounting one or more removable pumping units on a skid that can be lowered to a sea floor. Each removable pumping unit comprises an electric submersible pumping system enclosed by an outer housing. The self-contained pumping module also comprises hydraulic connectors and electrical connectors that facilitate connection with corresponding hydraulic lines and electric lines while at a subsea location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Kevin T. Scarsdale
  • Publication number: 20130186636
    Abstract: A method for removing a fluid influx from a subsea wellbore drilled using a pump to return fluid from the wellbore to the surface. The method includes detecting the influx when a rate of the return pump increases. Flow from the wellbore is diverted from the return pump to a choke line when the influx reaches the wellhead. A choke in the choke line is operated so that a substantially constant bottom hold pressure is maintained while drilling fluid continues to be pumped through the drill sgring. Fluid flow from the wellbore is redirected to the return pump inlet when the influx has substantially left the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: AGR SUBSEA, A.S.
  • Publication number: 20130175041
    Abstract: A pressure tolerant battery that may be utilized in a subsea riser includes one or more lithium polymer cells enclosed in a pressure compensated housing. The pressure tolerant battery can be mounted on a landing string a disposed in the riser annulus to provide electrical power to landing string and subsea well system devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20130168100
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods useable in drilling installations having a mud loop for detecting ongoing or imminent kick events are provided. An apparatus includes a first sensor configured to measure a input mud flow pumped into the well, and a second sensor configured to measure a variation of a return mud flow emerging from the well. The apparatus further includes a controller connected to the first sensor, and to the second sensor. The controller is configured to identify an ongoing or imminent kick event based on monitoring and comparing an evolution of the input mud flow as measured by the first sensor and an evolution of the return mud flow as inferred based on measurements received from the second sensor. Additionally, a third sensor can be included in the apparatus to confirm the conclusion made by the controller before alerting the user that a kick has likely occurred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLC
    Inventor: Robert Arnold JUDGE
  • Patent number: 8474536
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for killing of uncontrolled oil fountain include a series of rods with the first rod having the smallest diameter and successive rods having increasing diameters. Such telescopic assembly of rods is lowered into the well to cause gradual reduction in cross-sectional area available for oil flow discharge. Once sufficiently large rods are lowered into the well, the oil fountain discharge will be greatly diminished. Final sealing may be accomplished by pumping cement into a space formed between the well pipe and the rod assembly. A novel system for aligning the rods to the center of the well is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventors: Simon Tseytlin, Alexey S. Kashik
  • Publication number: 20130161019
    Abstract: A grease delivery system for delivering grease to a location is provided. The grease delivery system comprises: a first grease reservoir having a first grease output and a first output device configured to output grease from the first grease reservoir; a second grease reservoir having a second grease output and a second output device configured to output grease from the second grease reservoir; and a common grease output for delivering grease to the location, wherein the common grease output is fluidly connected to the first and second grease outputs, wherein the system is configured to simultaneously output grease from the first and second grease reservoirs to the common grease output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY CONTROLS LIMITED
    Inventor: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
  • Publication number: 20130146296
    Abstract: A device for the application of a preload between a subsea wellhead and a conductor housing comprises an activating member (1), a support housing (2), a locking member (3), end means (9) for securing the support housing relative to the well-head. Movement of the activating member causes an inclined lateral movement of the locking member. The activating member carries a ratchet (7) comprising a multiplicity of serrations which have a regular pitch in the activating direction and the support housing (1, 2) cames at least two latches (19, 20) which allow the relative movement and can engage the ratchet to inhibit movement reverse to the activating direction. The discrete locking positions provided by one of the latches are positionally out of phase with the discrete locking positions provided by the other latch or latches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: AKER SUBSEA LIMITED
    Inventor: Stuart James Ellison
  • Publication number: 20130146299
    Abstract: A barrier and lubrication fluids pressure regulation system for a subsea motor and pump module is disclosed, comprising a lubrication fluid circuit in flow communication with a hydraulic fluid supply via a first pressure reducing regulator (15); and a barrier fluid circuit in flow communication with the hydraulic fluid supply via a second pressure reducing regulator (14). The first pressure reducing regulator (15) is configured to reduce the supply fluid pressure in response to the pumped medium pressure at the suction side (4) or at the discharge side (5) of the pump, and the second pressure reducing regulator (14) is configured to reduce the supply fluid pressure in response to the output pressure of the first pressure reducing regulator (15). A pressure regulation unit is likewise disclosed, and arranged for housing the components of the barrier and lubrication fluids pressure regulation system in a pressurized vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY SCANDINAVIA AS
    Inventor: Ole Peter Tomter
  • Publication number: 20130146297
    Abstract: A device for the application of a preload between a subsea wellhead and a conductor housing comprises an activating member (1), a support housing (2), a locking member (3), and means (9) for securing the support housing relative to the wellhead. Movement of the activating member causes an inclined lateral movement of the locking member. The activating member carries a ratchet (7) comprising a multiplicity of serrations which have a regular pitch in the activating direction and the support housing (1, 2) carries at least two latches (19, 20) which allow the relative movement and can engage the ratchet to inhibit movement reverse to the activating direction. The discrete locking positions provided by one of the latches are positionally out of phase with the discrete locking positions provided by the other latch or latches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: AKER SUBSEA LIMITED
    Inventor: Stuart James Ellison
  • Publication number: 20130133894
    Abstract: An isolation assembly that employs a pack-off device at an annular space between a landing string and a riser. The assembly is configured to ensure sealing off of an annular space below the pack-off device such that potentially hazardous well testing applications may safely proceed early on in completions operations. That is, in advance of any significant rig-level pressure control equipment hook-up, the pack-off device may seal off the annulus from any potential hydrocarbon leaks up the riser toward the rig. Further, where such seal holds back pressures exceeding a predetermined level, a burst element may be incorporated into the wall of the riser to allow for controlled venting therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Joseph D. Scranton, Riley Suffridge
  • Publication number: 20130126178
    Abstract: A method for pumping away the oil in the aftermath of a blowout in an offshore oil well includes the steps of putting a support structure with a surrounding foil over the leaking oil well or pipe in order to create a hollow space overhead the leaking spot on the sea bottom. Thereafter, pumping water and oil through the top of the support structure for creating an underpressure below the foil, so the foil will be pressed onto the sea bottom due to hydrostatic pressure of the outside water. Then, continuously pumping away the liquid below the foil from within the support structure until it is pure crude oil and collecting the same. A related apparatus includes a support structure with an enclosure for providing a hollow room overhead a leaking spot or oil pipe and a reinforced foil having such size that it extends at least ten meters into the surrounding of the support structure. The reinforced foil is tightly attached to the lower edge of the enclosure of the support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Adrian Kägi
  • Publication number: 20130112420
    Abstract: A tool for actuating a blow out preventer includes one or more connections for receiving hydraulic power from a remotely operated vehicle (“ROV”), a first pump for increasing pressure of an operating fluid for the blowout preventer (“BOP”), a second pump for increasing flow rate of the operating fluid, and a conductor for transporting the operating fluid to the BOP. The tool rapidly increases the pressure and flow rate of the fluid flowing to the BOP, and the BOP may be rapidly closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Specialist ROV Tooling Services Ltd.
    Inventor: Specialist ROV Tooling Services Ltd.
  • Patent number: 8430167
    Abstract: Control lines on the outer surface of a tubular disposed within a drilling riser casing may be encapsulated to facilitate formation of a seal in an annular space defined by an inner surface of the drilling riser casing and an outer surface of the tubular. More specifically, an encapsulation body may be configured to at least partially encase control lines. The encapsulation body may include a first surface and a second surface. The first surface may have an arcuate shape that corresponds to the outer surface of the tubular to facilitate formation of a seal between the first surface of the encapsulation body and the outer surface of the tubular when the first surface of the encapsulation body abuts the outer surface of the tubular. The second surface may be shaped to provide a geometrically continuous periphery about the tubular and the encapsulation body when the first surface of the encapsulation body abuts the outer surface of the tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventor: John A. McD. Cameron
  • Patent number: 8430165
    Abstract: In hydrocarbon recovery applications, viscoelastic surfactant (VES) gelled fluids may be preheated to a temperature that will increase viscosity of the VES gelled fluid. The preheated VES gelled fluid retains at least a portion of its preheated viscosity when cooled such as by introduction into a low temperature condition. In an embodiment, the VES gelled fluid may be a drilling fluid, completion fluid, or fracturing fluid, and the low temperature condition may be an offshore operation, an operation in a locality having a cold climate, and/or a shallow oil, gas, or both land-based operation where the formation temperature is 120° F. or less. The surfactant in the VES gelled fluid may be one or more of an amine, amine salt, quaternary ammonium salt, betaine, amidoamine oxide, amine oxide, and combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Tianping Huang, James B. Crews, Gaurav Agrawal
  • Publication number: 20130098625
    Abstract: Systems and methods for inductively heating a subsea hydrocarbon pipeline. These systems and methods may include the use of a mobile subsea hydrocarbon pipeline heating assembly to remediate the formation of an obstruction within the subsea hydrocarbon pipeline. The mobile subsea hydrocarbon pipeline heating assembly may include a mobile subsea conveyance, which may be configured to traverse a selected portion of the subsea hydrocarbon pipeline, and an inductive heating element, which may be configured to inductively heat an inductively coupled portion of the subsea hydrocarbon pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventor: Scott R. Hickman
  • Publication number: 20130098798
    Abstract: A non-stick apparatus, comprising a fluid-solids stream storage or conveyance article comprising a first material; a coating on an internal surface of the article comprising a second material; wherein the second material comprises a reduced adhesion strength with a wax deposit of less than 30% of a first material adhesion strength with a wax deposit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventors: Gregory John Hatton, Ajay Praful Mehta, Chien Kuei Tsai
  • Publication number: 20130092389
    Abstract: A piping system for housing system components for regulating the flow of fluid therethrough is provided. The piping system includes an inner small diameter length of piping through which hot fluids flow, an outer larger diameter length of piping surrounded by cold fluid, and an annulus between the small and larger diameter piping in which the system components are received. Insulation material extends about a predetermined section of the small diameter length of piping for restricting heat transfer therefrom to the system components in the annulus and allowing heat transfer from the system components in the annulus to the outer piping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventors: Quangen Du, John Yarnold, Matthew Niemeyer, Baptiste Germond
  • Patent number: 8413722
    Abstract: A method for removing a fluid influx from a subsea wellbore drilled using a pump to return fluid from the wellbore to the surface. The method includes detecting the influx when a rate of the return pump increases. Flow from the wellbore is diverted from the return pump to a choke line when the influx reaches the wellhead. A choke in the choke line is operated so that a rate of fluid pumped into the wellbore is substantially equal to a flow rate through the choke line. Fluid flow from the wellbore is redirected to the return pump inlet when the influx has substantially left the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: AGR Subsea, A.S.
    Inventor: John Cohen
  • Publication number: 20130075102
    Abstract: A semisubmersible mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU) includes a submersible lower hull comprising a ring pontoon having a trapezoidal shape; an upper hull having the trapezoidal shape; three stability columns supporting the upper hull from the lower hull; and a drilling rig. The MODU may be operated in a tender assist mode or an independent drilling mode. The MODU may be equipped to prepare, drill, and complete a subsea wellbore or to workover an existing subsea wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Bui V. Dao
  • Publication number: 20130062069
    Abstract: A method and device for maintaining pressure in an accumulator for subsea wellbore operations is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Quangen DU
  • Publication number: 20130043033
    Abstract: Methods and systems for upgrading hydrocarbon on offshore platforms are described. Hydrocarbon material can be extracted from deposits under bodies of water and upgraded on offshore platforms, such as through the use of one or more nozzle reactors. The upgraded hydrocarbon material produced by the nozzle reactor, can than be transported back to shore through pipelines, in part due to the improved viscosity of the upgraded material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: MARATHON OIL CANADA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jose Armando Salazar, Mahendra Joshi, Thomas Edward Carter
  • Publication number: 20130037272
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for accessing a well to subterranean formations in which a first well control assembly is directly associated with the well and a second well control assembly is remotely and capable of being in fluid communication with the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Bruce A Dale, Stuart R. Keller, William E. Kline
  • Publication number: 20130025873
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide a system and methods for protecting a fluid stream from fouling using particles that include phase change materials. In an example, the particles are injected into the fluid stream and release energy at a selected temperature, which may warm the fluid stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventors: Nader S. Berchane, Chisa K. Brookes, Douglas J. Turner, Jason W. Lachance
  • Publication number: 20120279720
    Abstract: A subsea system including a frame including an intensifier, the intensifier providing structural support to the frame and capable of providing pressurized delivery fluid. The intensifier includes an intensifier chamber and a delivery fluid chamber separated by a piston, the intensifier chamber capable of receiving ambient pressure to provide a pressure on the delivery fluid through the piston. Also, a regulation system regulates the amount of ambient pressure communicated to the intensifier chamber to maintain the delivery fluid pressure substantially constant as the delivery fluid is depleted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Melvyn F. Whitby, Gerrit Kroesen, Roger Boisjolie, Donald S. Coonrod, Edmund A. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20120273213
    Abstract: A riser system connects a subsea source of hydrocarbons to a collection vessel. The system includes a riser, a lower end of the riser fluidly coupled to a seal stem, the seal stem in turn fluidly attached to a lower riser assembly through a polished bore receptacle. The upper end of the riser is connected to the collection vessel, the riser being maintained in a near vertical position. Methods of installing and using the riser systems for killing and cementing wells are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.
    Inventors: Douglas Paul Blalock, Michael Patrick Cleary, Thomas Patrick Mataway, Steven Dirk Koepke
  • Publication number: 20120261134
    Abstract: A wicker repair tool lands on a casing hanger within a wellhead. The wicker repair tool engages cutters with the inner diameter of the wellhead and rotates to reform wickers in the wellhead. The wicker repair tool includes a tubular member having an upper end that couples to a tubing string. A tubular tool head is formed on a lower end of the tubular member. At least one cutter is coupled to the tool head and is radially moveable between an engaged and a disengaged position. The cutters are adapted to engage an inner diameter surface of a wellhead so that rotation of the tool head relative to the wellhead will reform the wickers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.
    Inventor: David Silver
  • Patent number: 8281862
    Abstract: An aspect encompasses a method of testing a subsea umbilical where a first portion of testing is performed on the subsea umbilical, the testing comprising hydraulic testing and at least one of electrical or optical testing, and a second portion of the testing is performed independent of a diver or an ROV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Robert I. Barber, Alan C. Clunie
  • Patent number: 8267201
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for disposing of drill cuttings 500 from an oil and/or gas well drilling platform 510, comprising providing a barge 10, the barge 10 having at least one storage area 30, a cover 100 operably connected to the at least one storage area placing the cover 100 in a first open state so that cuttings 500 can be placed in the at least one storage area 30; transporting the drill cuttings placing the cover 100 in a closed state so that the cuttings 520 in the storage area 30 of the barge 10 are contained; transporting the barge 10 from the drilling platform 510 to a collection site 540; placing the cover 100 in a second open state so that the cuttings 520 in the storage area 30 can be removed; and removing the cuttings 520 from the storage area 30.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Coastal Boat Rentals, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Patterson, Edward L. Shearer
  • Patent number: 8256519
    Abstract: A technique is provided for producing a slurry of solid particulates and hydrocarbon production fluid for transport via a subsea flow line. The technique utilizes a cold flow system that cools production fluid to a temperature below the temperature at which hydrates and other substances precipitate from the production fluid and form solid particulates. An instrumentation and control system is used to receive and process data from sensors in the system. The instrumentation and control system then provides control signals to one or more components of the cold flow system to produce a slurry having solid particulates with desirable characteristics. In addition, a cooling gas may be used to facilitate sub-cooling of the production fluid. The cooling gas is compressed and cools the production fluid as the gas expands via Joule-Thompson expansion. Furthermore, a discharge pressure controller may be used to control flow through the cold flow system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: John Daniel Friedemann
  • Publication number: 20120211230
    Abstract: A method for separating a multi-phase fluid, the fluid comprising a relatively high density component and a relatively low density component, the method comprising: introducing the fluid into a separation region; imparting a rotational movement into the multi-phase fluid; forming an outer annular region of rotating fluid within the separation region; and forming and maintaining a core of fluid in an inner region; wherein fluid entering the separation vessel is directed into the outer annular region; and the thickness of the outer annular region is such that the high density component is concentrated and substantially contained within this region, the low density component being concentrated in the rotating core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventors: Karl Gregory Anderson, Raul Jasso Garcia, SR., Raghunath Gopal Menon, Sandeep Patni, Moye Wicks, III, Patrick Gitau Mahinda, Rajneesh Varma
  • Publication number: 20120175122
    Abstract: An electronics module for an underwater well installation, comprising a housing and first and second electronics components, the said first and second electronics components relating to diverse systems and being located within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventors: Steven SIMPSON, Stuart Holley
  • Patent number: 8215028
    Abstract: A system for slurrifying drill cuttings including a cuttings dryer, a pump, and a transfer line fluidly connecting the cuttings dryer and the pump, the transfer line having a fluid inlet for receiving a fluid. Furthermore, the system for slurrifying drill cuttings including a storage vessel fluidly connected to the pump for storing a slurry. Additionally, a method for slurrifying drill cuttings including drying drill cuttings in a cuttings drying to produce dry cuttings and combining a fluid with the dry cuttings to produce a slurry. Furthermore, the method includes mixing the slurry and the dry cuttings in a mixing pump and transferring the slurry to a storage vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventor: Jan Thore Eia
  • Publication number: 20120152554
    Abstract: Methods and systems for a backup emergency disconnect signal (EDS) transmission in an offshore oil and gas installation are provided. A backup EDS transmission system includes a pressure pulse generator located close to a water surface and configured to generate a predetermined pressure variation pattern including at least one of positive and negative pressure pulses and corresponding to an emergency disconnect signal, the signal being propagated downwards in a mud column. The pressure pulse generator is located at a surface end of the mud column. The backup EDS transmission system also includes a pressure pulse receptor connected to a controller of blowout preventers and configured to measure a pressure in the mud column, at a subsea location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLC
    Inventor: Eric Lee MILNE
  • Patent number: 8201634
    Abstract: A subsea cementing system that includes a first wiper plug having a central bore releasably connected to a launching mandrel, and a second wiper plug having a central bore releasably connected to the first wiper plug. The system includes a first dart that is adapted to seal the central bore of the second wiper plug. A first increase in pressure releases the second wiper plug from the first wiper plug and a second increase in pressure breaks a burst disc of the first dart allowing cement to flow past the second wiper plug. A second wiper dart is adapted to seal the central bore of the first wiper plug. A third increase in pressure releases the first wiper plug from the launching mandrel. A fourth increase in pressure releases a sealing member from the second dart, which is adapted to seal the central bore of the second wiper plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: David Fernando Laurel, Kurt Randall Koenig
  • Patent number: 8191635
    Abstract: A hole opener having a hybrid reaming section for downhole earth boring operations may include a reamer body having an axis of rotation, an outer periphery, and upper and lower ends, a plurality of rolling cutters coupled to the outer periphery and depending downwardly, the rolling cutters defining a rolling cutter cutting profile having a cutting diameter, a plurality of fixed blade cutters coupled to the outer periphery and defining a fixed blade cutter cutting profile having a cutting diameter, each fixed blade cutter being coupled between adjacent rolling cutters. At least one of the rolling cutters may be asymmetrically coupled about the axis. The cutting diameter of the rolling cutter cutting profile may be larger than the cutting diameter of the fixed blade cutter cutting profile. At least a portion of the rolling cutter cutting profile may be deeper than the fixed blade cutter cutting profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert J. Buske, Rudolf C. Pessier
  • Publication number: 20120125611
    Abstract: There is disclosed a system comprising a well drilled into an underground formation comprising hydrocarbons; a production facility at a topside of the well; a water production facility connected to the production facility; wherein the water production facility produces water by removing some multivalent ions, then removing some monovalent ions, and then adding back some monovalent ions, and then injects the water into the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: Shell Internationalale Research Maatschappij
    Inventors: Subhash Chandra Bose Ayirala, Robert Wing-Yu Chin, Andreas Nicholas Matzakos, Ernesto Uehara-Nagamine
  • Patent number: 8179279
    Abstract: A subsea production system adapted for wireless communication so that production tree operation can be controlled locally wirelessly from a workover umbilical or remotely controlled vehicle. The production system includes a wellhead assembly and an umbilical termination connected to an umbilical that extends to above the sea surface. Dedicated wireless communication devices can be attached to one or both of the wellhead assembly and the umbilical termination. The wireless communication devices can include a radio frequency modem, a sonar device, an infrared communication device, a light emitting diode, an optical modem, and combinations thereof; the wireless communication can include radio frequency waves, acoustic waves, and electromagnetic waves. A subsea control module can be included for controlling/actuating devices in or associated with the production system. The subsea control module can be adapted for wireless communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Robert K. Voss
  • Patent number: 8162064
    Abstract: An autonomous junk collecting sleeve for a riser is provided. The sleeve is constructed and arranged to be independently lowered and seated above a subsea tree section and, subsequently, raised and removed independent of the work string. The autonomous junk collecting sleeve includes a first cylindrical structure, a second cylindrical structure concentric to the first cylindrical structure and which are joined together in spatial relation at a bottom end to form an interior J-channel basket. The J-channel basket is operable to collect debris traveling up through the bottom end and over of the second cylindrical structure for deposit therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Wellbore Specialties, LLC
    Inventor: Dennis J. Penisson
  • Publication number: 20120048565
    Abstract: A torque limiter for use in an actuating drive stem of a subsea wellhead having a collar with an axial bore and a slot through its side. The slot includes a projection directed towards a lower end of the collar and has an edge oriented oblique to the collar axis. A driven shaft inserts in the bore, and a pin mounted in the driven shaft engages the slot. A spring assembly coupled to the driven shaft pushes the collar to retain the pin in the end of the projection. A driveshaft with a drive pin inserts into the bore on an upper side of the collar. The upper end of the collar includes a shoulder that contacts the drive pin when the collar rotates. The spring compresses when excessive torque is in the driven shaft moving the pin up the projection and disengaging the drive pin and shoulder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.
    Inventors: Mahesha Udipi, David Daniel Comeaux
  • Publication number: 20120012331
    Abstract: A device including a fluid transport pipe (24), a superstructure (16), and a floating barge (18) rotatably mounted on the superstructure (16) about an axis of rotation (A-A?). The pipe (24) includes a hose section (150) wound around the axis of rotation (A-A?) supported by an intermediate structure (20) mounted between the superstructure (16) and the barge (18), between a configuration rotatably driven with the barge (18) about the axis of rotation and a configuration rotatably retained about the axis of rotation (A-A?) by the superstructure (16). During a step of connecting the pipe (24), the intermediate structure (20) is placed in either the driven configuration or the retained configuration, a step of disconnecting the pipe (24) including switching the intermediate structure (20) to the other one of the driven configuration and the retained configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventor: Philippe Espinasse
  • Patent number: 8096371
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for disposing of drill cuttings 500 from an oil and/or gas well drilling platform 510, comprising (a) transporting the drill cuttings 520 to a cuttings collection area 530 on the platform 510; (b) providing a barge 10, the barge 10 having at least one storage area 30, a cover 100 operably connected to the at least one storage area 30, and covering the at least one storage area 30; (c) placing the cover 100 in a first open state so that cuttings 500 can be placed in the at least one storage area 30; (d) transporting the drill cuttings 500 from the cuttings collection area 530 to the at least one storage area of the barge 10; (e) placing the cover 100 in a closed state so that the cuttings 520 in the storage area 30 of the barge 10 are contained; (f) transporting the barge 10 from the drilling platform 510 to a collection site 540; (g) placing the cover 100 in a second open state so that the cuttings 520 in the storage area 30 can be removed; and (h) removing the cuttings 520 from the sto
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Central Boat Rentals, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Patterson, Edward L. Shearer