Abstract: Systems for a transducer assembly for oil and gas wells are provided herein. The transducer assembly may include transducer block and a transducer flange. The transducer block may include a central channel having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet is adapted to receive at least a portion of a fluid from a wellbore and the outlet is adapted to discharge the fluid from the central channel. The flange block may also include a port adapted to receive at least a portion of a transducer. The port may be in fluid communication with the central channel and include a channel extending from an external environment to the central channel. The transducer flange may have a central orifice that is configured to align with the port of the transducer block to create a seal between the transducer block and the transducer flange.

Abstract: A method of actuating a subsea tree comprising opening a valve assembly by transferring a first volume of fluid into a first chamber and closing the valve assembly from the open position to a shear position via a gas charged valve actuator in response to the transfer of fluid out of the first chamber. Shearing a workstring positioned within an axial bore of the valve assembly with the valve via the gas charged valve actuator. Closing the valve from the shear position to a closed position with one or more gas charged push rods to isolate the wellbore above from the wellbore below the closed valve. The shearing force generated from the gas charged valve actuator is greater than the closing force of the one or more push rods.

Abstract: A regulator valve has a check valve manifold for use in subsea control circuits. For example, the regulator valve having the check valve manifold can be used in a circuit between a directional control valve and an actuator for a gate valve. The check valve manifold can be a flange that attaches to the regulator valve to communicate with the supply and outlet of the regulator valve. Internal communication inside the manifold includes a check valve. If the pressure in the circuit downstream of the regulator valve needs to be vented, the check valve can open to allow the pressure to bleed from the outlet back to the supply without needing to pass through the internal pressure control valve of the regulator.

Abstract: Method for using sensitivity analysis to inform the design and performance of a well test are provided. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a reservoir model of pressure transient behavior and performing a sensitivity analysis to identify an input parameter of the reservoir model that can be estimated from pressure transient test data collected from a well location. This method also includes using the results of the sensitivity analysis to design a pressure transient well test for measuring the identified input parameter. Other methods and systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a unique new approach to generating operating condition information used for assessing flow assurance and structural integrity. More specifically, apparatuses, systems and methods configured in accordance with embodiments of the present invention enable multiplexed arrangement of optical fiber for sensing of operating conditions within a structural member and utilize fiber optic sensors for enabling monitoring of operating condition information within one or more elongated tubular members. To this end, fiber optic sensors are strategically placed at a plurality of locations along a length of each elongated tubular member thereby allowing critical operating conditions such as strain, temperature and pressure of the elongated tubular member and/or a fluid therein to be monitored. A multiplexing unit is used for allowing selective configuration of individual lengths of optical fiber for creating one or more contiguous optical fiber structures.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a unique new approach to generating operating condition information used for assessing flow assurance and structural integrity. More specifically, apparatuses, systems and methods configured in accordance with embodiments of the present invention enable multiplexed arrangement of optical fiber for sensing of operating conditions within a structural member and utilize fiber optic sensors for enabling monitoring of operating condition information within one or more elongated tubular members. To this end, fiber optic sensors are strategically placed at a plurality of locations along a length of each elongated tubular member thereby allowing critical operating conditions such as strain, temperature and pressure of the elongated tubular member and/or a fluid therein to be monitored. A multiplexing unit is used for allowing selective configuration of individual lengths of optical fiber for creating one or more contiguous optical fiber structures.

Abstract: A system for liquid surge protection of a subsea riser having a horizontal portion on the seabed and a sag bend portion includes: a flexible tubing having a top end and a bottom end; a plurality of autonomous valves configured to permit liquid to pass through into the flexible tubing, wherein the autonomous valves are arranged between the top end and the bottom end of the tubing; and an inlet device coupled to the bottom end of the flexible tubing, wherein said inlet device is biased against a bottom wall the riser.

Abstract: A wireline apparatus is for moving a tool into or out of a well. The apparatus is configured for forming a pressure vessel in combination with at least a portion of the well. The apparatus has: a first compartment for forming part of the pressure vessel; a hoisting means, the hoisting means being placed inside the first compartment; a wireline connected to the hoisting means; a second compartment arranged inside the first compartment; an electrical motor for driving the hoisting means, the electrical motor placed inside the second compartment; and a drive shaft for connecting the motor to the hoisting means, the drive shaft extending from the motor to the hoisting means through a wall separating the first compartment and second compartment. A method is for moving the tool in the well.

Abstract: A hydrate remediation system and method utilizing a concentric coiled tubing downline is provided. The concentric coiled tubing downline includes an outer coiled tubing and an inner coiled tubing, the inner coiled tubing disposed within the outer coiled tubing and extending at least partially through the outer coiled tubing. The concentric coiled tubing downline may be deployed from a single surface reel housed on a surface vessel. A bottom hole assembly (BHA) including a subsea connector is disposed at a distal end of the concentric coiled tubing. The subsea connector of the BHA is configured to be connected to the subsea interface that will be depressurized via the concentric coiled tubing downline. The concentric coiled tubing downline may provide two flow paths. Pressurized gas flows down one flow path, and effluent from the hydrate remediation flows up to the surface via the other flow path.

Abstract: A stand-alone apparatus for determining the level (X) of liquid (F) in oil boreholes (P) overcomes the need of a pressurized gas source. A loudspeaker-type electroacoustical transducer (11) both emits characteristic acoustical signals through the mouth of the borehole and detects the return of an echo from the surface of the liquid downhole for clocking the time-interval between emission and return to determine the level of the liquid. To overcome the limited power inherent in a loudspeaker-type transducer relative to masking borehole acoustic noise, a method of operation correlates the intensity amplitude of the detected echo with the emitted signal. Another solution comprises repeating emission and detection cycles a number of n times and then adding or integrating the n curves into a resulting curve which is filtered. The detected liquid level may be used for determining the submergence and regulating the speed of a pump in the borehole.

Abstract: A dispensing assembly and related methods to facilitate dispensing of a fluid sample from a sample cylinder may include a sensor connected to one or more of conduits of the dispensing assembly and configured to provide indication of a leak in the conduits. A cap assembly may include a cap body and one or more cap conduits positioned to engage with a flush fluid source and provide fluid flow between the flush fluid source and a flush conduit. The cap assembly further may include a first quick connect coupler for connection and disconnection to a second quick connect coupler connected to a flush conduit. A pressure control device may be provided to prevent damage resulting from pressure to containers containing flush fluid. Inlet and outlet conduits connecting to the sample cylinder may configured to be flexible and align with corresponding connectors on the sample cylinder.

Abstract: A wellhead valve control system includes a removable actuator adapted to couple to a valve, the valve being operable via a first operational mode. The system also includes an actuator element associated with the removable actuator, the actuator element operable to modify the first operational mode of the valve to a second operational mode, the second operational mode being different from the first operational mode. The system further includes a control panel, positioned remotely from the valve, the control panel configured to control the actuator element to adjust a valve position in the second operational mode.

Abstract: The invention provides a subsea manifold for a subsea production system comprising at least one removable module, and methods of installation and use. The at least one removable is configured to perform a function selected from the group comprising: fluid control, fluid sampling, fluid diversion, fluid recovery, fluid injection, fluid circulation, fluid measurement and/or fluid metering.

Abstract: Methods for correcting temperatures measured in producing wells are provided. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving formation fluid within a completion string in a well, wherein the formation fluid passes from a formation and radially into the completion string through at least one opening in the completion string. The method also includes measuring temperatures outside the completion string at multiple depths in the well at which the formation fluid passes from the formation and radially into the completion string. The temperatures measured outside the completion string at the multiple depths in the well are converted into axial temperatures inside the completion string at the multiple depths. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method is for suspending flow in a well. The method includes placing a first plug in a production tubular in an upper wellhead section, above a downhole safety valve. The first plug is adapted to fit into the production tubular to form a fluid seal in the production tubular to form a barrier for containing well fluid; equipped with instrumentation for obtaining information by measuring physical characteristics below the plug; and equipped with means for transmitting said obtained information to an operator. There is also described an apparatus for suspending flow in the well.

Abstract: A system for hydraulically controlling a subsea device includes a compensator provided within a cavity of a well system, a hydraulic connection between the compensator and the subsea device, a pressure regulator arranged to regulate the hydraulic pressure provided to the subsea device and a ventilation tool for releasing pressure at the subsea device.

Abstract: A configurable data collection, processing and delivery system implements a unified data-flow execution pipeline in collection, processing and delivery of data to a target within or external to a computing device. Multiple data collection sets are defined from data available to the system and organized into at least one tensor based telemetry data stream associated with a service flow. At least one dynamically modifiable execution unit is provided to process the telemetry stream and the service flow. The telemetry stream is also processed into one or more target destination delivery streams that adheres to protocol, network characteristics, and transmission process required by the set of targets.

Abstract: There is provided a wellhead assembly that includes a production well, a first valve, process equipment, a transport pipe for transporting fluid away from the wellhead assembly, and piping fluidly connecting the production well to the first valve, process equipment, and the transport pipe. The first valve is located between the production well and the process equipment, and there is a fall in the piping between the first valve and the transport pipe such that when the first valve is closed liquid will drain from the first valve into the transport pipe under the action of gravity. There is also provided a method of draining the wellhead assembly, an arrangement for depressurising the wellhead assembly using a service line and a method of depressurising the wellhead assembly.

Abstract: A detection system and method for a well site is provided. The well site has a surface rig and a surface unit. The surface rig is positioned about a formation and a surface unit. The detection system includes a well site component deployable from the surface rig via a conveyance, well site equipment positioned about the well site and having a bore to receive the well site component therethrough; and base units. The base units include scanners positioned radially about the bore of the well site equipment. The scanners detect an outer surface of the well site component and generate combinable images of the well site component whereby the well site equipment is imaged.

Abstract: There is provided a wellhead assembly that includes a production well, a first valve, process equipment, a transport pipe for transporting fluid away from the wellhead assembly, and piping fluidly connecting the production well to the first valve, the process equipment, and the transport pipe. The first valve is located between the production well and the process equipment, and there is a fall in the piping between the first valve and the transport pipe such that when the first valve is closed liquid will drain from the first valve into the transport pipe under the action of gravity. There is also provided a method of draining the wellhead assembly, an arrangement for depressurising the wellhead assembly using a service line and a method of depressurising the wellhead assembly.

Abstract: A method includes pumping fluid into a drill string extending through a riser into a well. A managed pressure drilling system is operated to maintain a selected fluid pressure in the well between the well and the drill string. A fluid influx into the well or a fluid loss into a formation traversed by the well is detected using measurements of fluid pressure in the well and fluid flow into and out of the well. The method includes automatically abating the fluid influx by closing an annular blowout preventer disposed in the riser or abating the fluid loss by operating the annular blowout preventer and pumping a sacrificial fluid into the drill string.

Abstract: A bell nipple for use in an offshore wellbore operation comprising an upper tubular member and a lower tubular member connected telescopically via a slip joint, one or more pistons at the level of the radial plane which is defined by the lowest point of the side outlet and each substantially not axially movable relative to the lower tubular member, wherein the total cross sectional area of the one or more pistons is substantially the same as the cross sectional area of the slip joint less the cross sectional area of the drillpipe. The one or more pistons in the bell nipple provides passive heave compensation in the system, so that the flow rate of drilling fluid measured along the flowline is free from perturbation due to heave during offshore operations.

Abstract: An apparatus for use downhole is disclosed that, in one configuration includes a downhole tool configured to operate in an active position and an inactive position and an actuation device, which may include a control unit. The apparatus includes a telemetry unit that sends a first pattern recognition signal to the control unit to move the tool into the active position and a second pattern recognition signal to move the tool into the inactive position. The apparatus may be used for drilling a subterranean formation and include a tubular body and one or more extendable features, each positionally coupled to a track of the tubular body, and a drilling fluid flow path extending through a bore of the tubular body for conducting drilling fluid therethrough. A push sleeve is disposed within the tubular body and coupled to the one or more features.

Abstract: A system for tracking an object in oil and gas wellbore operations wherein a releasable object carrying a first signal system is released into tube system associated with a wellbore. The first signal system communicates with one or more second signal systems positioned along the travel path of the object; along the surface of the formation; and/or throughout the wellbore. First signal system and the second signal system may communicate by RF signals. First signal system and any second signal systems positioned on the surface communicate by through-the-earth or very low frequency signals. A global positioning system may be utilized in conjunction with any second signal systems on the surface to identify the absolute location of the object in the underground wellbore. The first signal system carried by the object may be a piezoelectric system disposed to transmit a signal when the object experiences a predetermined pressure.

Abstract: A sound baffle device for use with an acoustic sensor deployed in a housing by a deployment line comprises a radially extending baffle plate and an affixing mechanism for affixing the baffle plate to the deployment line. The baffle plate is configured to reduce acoustic transmission between a first zone of the housing on one side of the baffle plate and a second zone of the housing on an opposite side of the baffle plate.

Abstract: A technique facilitates landing of a subsea component, e.g. a tubing hanger, by utilizing a poppet valve to provide an indication of proper landing. The poppet valve is combined with the tubing hanger or other subsea component and oriented to engage a corresponding landing surface. A pressure line is routed to the poppet valve, and the poppet valve is biased to an open flow position with respect to the pressure line during deployment. If the subsea component is properly landed, the corresponding landing surface is able to shift the poppet valve to a closed position. The closed position may be verified via pressure testing through the pressure line.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.

Abstract: An inspection, monitoring, maintenance or construction task is performed on a subsea structure by using an underwater vehicle to carry a submersible package to the subsea structure. The package comprises a tool or sensor arranged to perform the required task on the subsea structure, and an on-board power unit and controller arranged to power and control the tool or sensor. The package is transferred from the underwater vehicle to be supported by the subsea structure. The underwater vehicle can then stand off from the package. While the package is supported by the subsea structure, the tool or sensor of the package performs the required task on the subsea structure, powered and controlled by the on-board power unit and controller of the package.

Abstract: The present invention relates, in part, to a wave powered electrical generator having a core electrically generating component that spins in one direction with the rise and fall of a wave. In certain aspects, it includes an apparatus, system, and method for converting wave energy into electricity. The apparatus includes a housing; an inner core within the housing that rotates in at least one direction; a first set of electrically conductive wire coils coupled to a peripheral wall of the inner core; a second set of electrically conductive wire coils adjacent to the inner core; a plurality of sliding elements coupled to a housing wall and slidable along a least a portion of the housing wall; and a buoy coupled to the sliding elements on an external side of the housing.

Abstract: A technique facilitates control of subsea equipment by providing a modular electro-hydraulic control system which can be used with various types of subsea equipment. The modular system is constructed to accommodate high axial loading while also withstanding high bending forces. Additionally, the components of the modular system are constructed and arranged to enable the modular system to fit through a rotary table of a rig. Depending on the parameters of a given application, the modular control system may be utilized for open water operations and in-riser operations.

Abstract: A downhole tool having a throughbore is disclosed for use in a tubular located in a wellbore. The downhole tool has a sealing element configured to seal an annulus between the downhole tool and an inner wall of the tubular; at least one flow path formed in the downhole tool, wherein the flow path is configured to allow fluids in the annulus to flow past the sealing element when the sealing element is in a sealed position; and at least one valve in fluid communication with the flow path and configured to allow the fluids to flow through the flow path in a first direction while preventing the fluids from flowing through the flow path in a second direction. A guard may be installed proximate anchor elements. The guard extends radially beyond an outer diameter of the anchor elements when the anchor elements are in a retracted position.

Abstract: A bottom hole assembly (BHA) has a plug below a debris catcher and an optional telescoping joint. A cleaning tool is above the debris catcher with another cleaning tool further up the BHA that is designed to clean the riser that extends up from the BOP. The plug is spotted and released to commence the BOP cleaning and the riser cleaning. The cleaning tools can be reconfigured to allow through flow after the cleaning is done so that the rams can be closed around a drill collar and a pressure test take place. With the BHA above the BOP the rams can be closed against each other for another pressure test from above. In a variety of options for the method, the plug can be retrieved after released or left in the hole in the set position.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting potential kicks in a well is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a drill string positioned in a well, a mud circulation system coupled to supply drilling mud to the drill string, and a mud analyzer. The mud analyzer includes a sensor that is positioned along a drilling mud return path closer to a wellhead assembly installed at the well than to a mud tank of the mud circulation system, and the mud analyzer enables identification of a potential formation kick based on data acquired by the sensor. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for detecting an influx in a wellbore with first and second pressure transmitters arranged in a fixed vertical distance in relation to each other. The method includes calculating an expected density of a return flow between the first and second pressure transmitters, continuously measuring an actual density of the return flow based on a measured pressure at the first and second pressure transmitters, comparing the calculated expected density of the return flow and the measured actual density of the return flow to determine the influx in the wellbore, and predicting a probability of hydrates forming in the well by measuring a temperature via a temperature transmitter arranged in a section of the well adjacent to the first and/or the second pressure transmitter, and using the temperature together with the measurements from the first and second pressure transmitters.

Abstract: An infrastructure arrangement for use in an underwater power generation installation includes a support structure adapted for engagement with a bed of a body of water, and an infrastructure module adapted to house infrastructure equipment for connection to power generating units of the installation. The infrastructure module is releasably engageable with the support structure.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for compensating a landing string due to movement of a floating rig platform are provided. In one aspect, a compensation system for use with a landing string is provided. The compensation system includes a slip joint member attachable to the landing string, the slip joint member having an upper portion and a lower portion. The compensation system further includes a first lock assembly configured to connect the upper portion of the slip joint member to a floating rig. Additionally, the compensation system includes a second lock assembly configured to connect the lower portion of the slip joint member to a riser disposed below the floating rig. In another aspect, a method for compensating a landing string due to movement of a floating rig is provided.

Abstract: A technique facilitates control over flow of hydraulic actuating fluid used to perform a plurality of actuating functions in a subsea well application. A control module is employed for controlling a plurality of hydraulically controlled components and is located along a subsea test tree at a position relatively close to the hydraulically controlled components. The control module, in turn, is controlled electronically via an electric line which provides electric control signals corresponding to desired control instructions regarding the hydraulically controlled components. By moving the control module closer to the hydraulically controlled components response time is greatly reduced.

Abstract: An intelligent test system and a method for a multi-segment fractured horizontal well. The intelligent test method for a multi-segment fractured horizontal well comprises: step A: placing a test tubular column into an underground horizontal section; step B: setting a pressure building packer and a hanging packer by means of pressurization after the test tubular column is placed into an underground designed position; step C: breaking a hydraulic release connector to separate the hydraulic release connector from a seal pipe; step D: pulling out a first oil pipe, and reserving the tubular column comprising the seal pipe and located on the downstream part of the seal pipe in a horizontal well; and step E: placing a production tubular column or a communications tubular column into a vertical section of the horizontal well.

Abstract: A system to control fluid flow through a fluid passage includes a valve that is fail-safe closed to selectively control fluid flow through the fluid passage, and a hydraulic actuator operatively coupled to the valve to open the valve when hydraulic pressure above a predetermined amount is received. The system further includes an inlet to provide hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic actuator and open the valve and an outlet to vent hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic actuator and close the valve.

Abstract: A modular skid frame and device to reduce the potential for harm and injury from arc flashes. The modular skid frame comprises a plurality of frame members secured together to form the skid frame, and one or more hook members formed on one or more of the frame members to permit the receipt of a bucket or blade from a loader, scoop tram or other construction or mining equipment into the bowl portion and behind the bill portion of the hook member to facilitate the lifting and moving of the skid frame. Also disclosed is a device for racking a circuit breaker into and out of a circuit breaker cradle. The device comprises an actuator operatively connected to the circuit breaker cradle to permit the circuit breaker to be racked into and out of the cradle without direct or indirect contact on the part of an operator.

Abstract: A conductor arrangement is for a collection of subterranean wells for recovering fluids from an underground structure. A frame is provided with several conductor guides, each forming an inlet opening for a conductor in an upper portion of the frame and an outlet opening for the conductor in a lower portion of the frame. The conductor is arranged to border a portion of a borehole towards a surrounding unconsolidated mass and has been passed through the conductor guide and down into the unconsolidated mass. The conductor guides are arranged in a mutually diverging manner in the direction from the inlet opening, and each conductor is extendable by a bend, the deflection angle of the bends providing mutually parallel center axes in coupling interfaces arranged in upper end portions of the bends.

Abstract: A running tool and delivery and/or retrieving apparatus, and method for use, are designed for optionally delivering and optionally retrieving an oilfield device down a borehole. A kelly extends into the borehole. The tool has a journal configured for slidable movement along the kelly, an engagement disk mounted around the journal configured for engaging the device, and a plurality of fins attached perpendicular to an outer circumference of the journal. The proximal fins extend radially from the outer circumference of the journal toward the engagement disk, are butted against the engagement disk and extend to a diameter complementary to an outer diameter of the engagement disk. The plurality of proximal fins surround and are arranged concentric with the journal.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for compensating a landing string due to movement of a floating rig platform are provided. In one aspect, a compensation system for use with a landing string is provided. The compensation system includes a slip joint member attachable to the landing string, the slip joint member having an upper portion and a lower portion. The compensation system further includes a first lock assembly configured to connect the upper portion of the slip joint member to a floating rig. Additionally, the compensation system includes a second lock assembly configured to connect the lower portion of the slip joint member to a riser disposed below the floating rig. In another aspect, a method for compensating a landing string due to movement of a floating rig is provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for circulating fluid in a wellbore includes a bottom sub having a bottom sub port and a mandrel, wherein the mandrel substantially forms an inner bore of the circulating tool and includes a mandrel port. The circulating tool may also include an activation piston that is movable in a first direction and a port piston movable in a second direction when the activation piston moves in the first direction. The circulating tool may further include an inner sleeve coupled to the port piston and movable with the port piston, the inner sleeve having an inner sleeve port in selective communication with the mandrel port. When the inner sleeve port is in communication with the mandrel port at least partially, circulating fluid is allowed to flow through the bottom sub port to the wellbore.

Abstract: A system, in some embodiments, for producing well production fluids through a tubing hanger connected with a production tubing string. The system includes a subsea tree with a production flow passage and a tree annulus flow passage. The system also includes a spool assembly separate from the subsea tree that includes a body with a longitudinal passage configured to receive and support the tubing hanger, there being an annulus between the production tubing string and the body. The spool assembly also includes a lateral flow passage extending from the spool longitudinal passage and configured to transfer the production fluids. Further, the system includes an annulus flow passage extending externally from the spool assembly and in fluid communication with the annulus.

Abstract: An offshore universal riser system may include a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device may releasably secure the valve module in the passage. A method of constructing a riser system may include the steps of installing the valve module in the passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the passage. The annular seal module may prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the passage. Drilling methods may include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, may be dimensioned for installation through a rotary table.

Abstract: A system for sensing a pipe joint within a well structure bore comprises a body connectable in line with the well structure. The body has a central bore therethrough and includes a plurality of blind bores extending radially inwards from the outer surface. The system further includes at least one sleeve being locatable within one of the plurality of blind bores wherein each of the sleeves has a magnet located at an end thereof at least one sensor being locatable within one of the at least one sleeves. The at least one sensor is operable to output a signal representing the width of a metallic object located within the central bore. The system may further include a display operable to receive the output signal from the at least one sensor and to display an output to a user indicating the width of the metallic object within the central bore.

Abstract: An offshore universal riser system may include a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device may releasably secure the valve module in the passage. A method of constructing a riser system may include the steps of installing the valve module in the passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the passage. The annular seal module may prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the passage. Drilling methods may include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, may be dimensioned for installation through a rotary table.

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.

Abstract: A plug plugs into a ROV drive bucket limiting rotation of a drive shaft therein to say 15° and reducing the build-up of marine growth in the bucket. As shown it includes a polyethylene body (which may be made in two parts 12, 13) housing a metal socket 11 mounted for limited angular orientation therein. The socket has a twenty four point aperture or recess (22) which fits over a squared end of a drive shaft 10 at various angles orientation. The socket has external splines (20) which fit loosely in wide internal grooves (21) in the body and self-orientates within the body when the body is plugged into the bucket. The plug has a pair of diametrically opposite dogs (4) which engage in slots (5), included in flanges on conventional buckets.