With Provision For Removal Or Repositioning Of Member Without Removal Of Other Well Structure Patents (Class 166/339)
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Patent number: 8474538Abstract: A connector assembly that can be used to connect a tension ring to a telescoping joint on a riser by using a lower set of hydraulically actuated dogs. A set of hydraulically actuated hang-off dogs on the connector assembly can be used to connect the tension ring to a diverter housing mounted on a rig. To prevent accidental disengagement of the hang-off dogs, a hydraulically actuated lock ring is used to provide a positive stop against the back of the hang-off dogs.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2010Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: David Andrew Wallace, Martin Urquhart
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Patent number: 8474540Abstract: The connector comprises a male flange 15 and a female flange 14 allowing to assemble a main tube and auxiliary line tubes 11. A locking collar 17 and a locking ring 40 assemble the male flange and the female flange. Locking collar 17 is mounted mobile in rotation on the outer surface of the male flange while cooperating with the outer surfaces of the male and female flanges. Locking ring 40 is mounted mobile in rotation on the male element of the connector while cooperating with the inner surface of the female connector.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2011Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: IFP Energies NouvellesInventors: Jean Guesnon, GĂ©rard Papon, Emmanuel Persent
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Patent number: 8469101Abstract: Managing hydrates in a subsea includes a host production facility, a production cluster comprising one or more producers, a water injection cluster comprising one or more water injectors, a water injection line, and a single production line for directing production fluid from the one or more producers to the host production facility. The methods comprise placing a pig in the subsea production system, shutting in production from the producers, and injecting a displacement fluid into the subsea production system in order to displace the hydrate inhibitor and any remaining production fluids in the production flowline and to further move the pig through the production flowline. The method may also include further injecting displacement fluid into the subsea production system in order to displace the hydrate inhibitor and pig through the single production line and to the host production facility.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2008Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Tracy A. Fowler, Jim R. Bennett, Lionel M. Fontenette, Richard F. Stoisits, Virginia C. Witteveld
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Patent number: 8448709Abstract: A method for killing an uncontrolled fountain in an oil well following a blowout includes a serial lowering into the well of narrow flow restricting rods, each rod being sufficiently small in diameter to allow its insertion against a high well pressure urging the rods out of the well. Each subsequent rod reduces the cross-sectional area of the well and gradually reduces the flow of fluid discharge out of the well. Once the fountain is sufficiently reduced, the well may be killed using traditional sealing techniques such as pumping cement down the well.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2011Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Inventor: Simon Tseytlin
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Patent number: 8443895Abstract: A travel joint (100) for space out operations in a wellbore. The travel joint (100) includes a generally tubular mandrel assembly (112) and a generally tubular housing assembly (102) slidably disposed about the mandrel assembly (112). The mandrel assembly (112) included an infinite slot (118) and at least one axial slot (120). A lock assembly (128) is positioned between the mandrel assembly (112) and the housing assembly (102). The lock assembly (128) is operable to selectively prevent and allow relative axial movement between the mandrel assembly (112) and the housing assembly (102). A floating lug ring (140) is positioned between the mandrel assembly (112) and the housing assembly (102). The floating lug ring (140) includes at least one lug (142) and is operable to rotate relative to the mandrel assembly (112) and the housing assembly (102) when the lug (142) travels in the infinite slot (118).Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2011Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Timothy Edward Harms
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Patent number: 8418767Abstract: The present invention is a blowout preventer including a large frustoconical funnel. The large end of the funnel is placed over a well pipe (or other pipe) through which oil (or gas or other fluid) is blowing out. The small end of the funnel is connected to a return pipe. A high pressure pipe with a smaller diameter is inserted into the well pipe. Air is pumped under high pressure through the high pressure pipe, separating the oil and forcing the oil, that is not kept down in the well pipe by the pressure, up through the return pipe. The funnel can be moved into alignment with the well pipe using jets. There are sensing devices on moveable arms. A stopper is forced into the well pipe. There are one-way valves in the stopper. There are stacked turbines in the return pipe. There is a gasket with pivoting overlapping plates.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2012Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Milanovich Investments, L.L.C.Inventor: Philip John Milanovich
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Patent number: 8418765Abstract: A combined piloting method of remote operated underwater vehicles includes: connecting, to a vertical profile, a constraint device including at least two arms arranged at a reciprocal fixed angular position, each of the at least two docking arms including at a first end a device for the hooking of a remote operated underwater vehicle, the at least two docking arms being constrained at one of their second ends to a device for the sliding and rotating hooking to the vertical profile; connecting at least two remote operated vehicles to the constraint device; detecting the position of the overall structure consisting of the constraint device and remote operated vehicles; detecting the orientation of each of the remote operated vehicles; receiving data relating to the position and orientation to be reached; determining the power required by each remote operated vehicle; and transmitting related commands to each vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2009Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: ENI S.p.A.Inventors: Paolo Ferrara, Michele Filippini, Roberto Finotello, Tiberio Grasso
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Patent number: 8413723Abstract: An embodiment of a method of deploying a cable into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation comprises providing a cable, wherein the cable comprises at least one insulated conductor, at least one armor wire layer surrounding the insulated conductor, a polymeric material disposed in interstitial spaces formed between armor wires forming the at least one armor wire layer, and interstitial spaces formed between the at least one armor wire layer and insulated conductor, the polymeric material forming a continuously bonded layer which separates and encapsulates the armor wires forming the at least one armor wire layer, and whereby the polymeric material is extended to form a smooth polymeric jacket around the at least one armor wire layer, introducing the cable into a wellbore and performing at least one operation in the wellbore utilizing the cable.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Joseph Varkey, Byong Jun Kim, Garud Sridhar, Wayne Fulin, Noor F. Sait, Matthew Billingham, Andrea Sbordone
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Publication number: 20130075103Abstract: A subsea running tool receives electric potential from a control unit located at a platform through a tubular string having an electrically conductive wire formed in tubular wall of the tubular string. The running tool provides at least one electrically operated function for setting a subsea wellhead component. The running tool is then run on the tubular string from a surface platform to a location within a wellhead. Electric potential is then supplied to the electrically conductive wire by a control unit at the platform to operate the electrically operated function of the running tool to set the subsea wellhead component.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2011Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Ryan Robert Herbel
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Patent number: 8403055Abstract: A hydraulic coupler for providing fluid communication between adjacent members that includes a two way check valve formed from a double headed poppet set in a hollow cylinder with corrugated bellows like walls. Contoured bores are provided in the cylinder ends and the poppet heads are profiled to match the contour of the bores. When the heads are seated in the bores they form a sealing surface to block fluid from flowing through the coupler. Compressively preloading the cylinder before assembly provides a sealing force between the heads and the bores. Axially compressing the cylinder with respect to the poppet unseats the heads from the bores to form a flow path through the coupler.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2012Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Karl A. Parfrey
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Patent number: 8403053Abstract: Method and deadman test circuit for testing a functionality of a shearing blowout preventer. The circuit includes a solenoid valve configured to be electrically controlled and to receive a fluid under a first pressure; a sub plate mounted valve configured to be hydraulically controlled by the solenoid valve and to receive the fluid under a second pressure; and a selector valve fluidly connecting an output of the sub plate mounted valve to a shearing blowout preventer and to a device. The selector valve is configured to be operated by an operator.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2010Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLCInventor: Robert Arnold Judge
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Patent number: 8403058Abstract: An offshore unit includes a hull and/or a deck frame, a mat attached to at least one connecting leg or a spud can attached to each of at least one connecting leg or lower hull attached to at least one connecting means. A wellhead deck is removably attached to the hull and/or deck frame and a sub-sea clamp in conjunction with a caisson or a sub-sea conductor frame is removably attached to the mat or to the at least one connecting leg, where a spud can is attached to each of the at least one connecting leg, or to the lower hull. The offshore unit is relocatable and is a platform or a rig capable of performing drilling, production, construction, accommodation, hook-up and commissioning or a combination of any of these functions thereof. The offshore unit is a self-elevating mobile platform or submersible platform or semi-submersible platform.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2010Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Kingtime International LimitedInventors: Nagendran C. Nadarajah, Renata Anita De Raj, Mahendran Suppiah
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Patent number: 8387702Abstract: A multicoupler, particularly for gas or oil production, comprises at least one male and one female part. Said parts comprise a plurality of fluid coupling members which can be assigned to one another and which are in engagement with one another when male part and female part are in the coupling position. One of the parts comprises a connecting means including a spindle, which connecting means in the coupling position is in engagement with a mating connecting means on the other part.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventor: Klaus Biester
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Patent number: 8387701Abstract: A technique for subsea intervention operations utilizes a retrievable dynamic seal assembly. The retrievable dynamic seal assembly is deployed toward a seabed and locked into place within a tubular member at a subsea installation. During deployment, the dynamic seal assembly is releasably locked to an intervention tool string coupled to a conveyance. Once the dynamic seal assembly is locked in place within the tubular, the tool string is released and the dynamic seal assembly maintains a seal against the conveyance during an intervention operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2008Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Andrea Sbordone
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Patent number: 8387706Abstract: The method of providing increased motive force for one or more rams of a subsea blowout preventer comprising providing a one or more pistons connected to the one or more ram, the pistons having a distal side and a proximate side with respect to the ram, providing a tank contain a first pressure less than the ambient pressure of seawater at the location of the subsea blowout preventer, and communicating the first pressure with the proximate side of the one or more pistons to cause or enhance the differential pressure across the one or more pistons to urge the rams toward the center of the bore of the subsea blowout preventer.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Reel Power Licensing CorpInventor: Benton Frederick Baugh
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Patent number: 8381819Abstract: A system for rotating an element inside a pressure containing housing. In some embodiments, the mechanism includes a pressure containing housing having an opening through a wall of the housing into an internal chamber in which, in use, the element to be rotated is located, a bushing located within the opening, and a worm gear rotatably mounted in the bushing. The worm gear is offset from the axial center of the bushing such that rotation of the bushing moves the worm gear between an extended position, wherein the thread of the worm gear engages an element in the chamber, and a retracted position, wherein the thread is disengaged from the element in the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2008Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Robert Fern, Ted Thornburrow
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Patent number: 8376049Abstract: A running tool for use in handling control modules on a subsea production tree. The running tool is deployable on wire line and includes a column like body and a connector adapted for connection to the production tree. The running tool also includes a hoist system that is selectively positioned by a swiveling jib crane for handling the control modules. A replacement control module can be included with the running tool when the tool is deployed from above the sea surface. After the running tool connects to the production tree, the jib crane can position the hoist for attachment to and removal of an existing control module on the production tree. The hoist can then to attach to and install the replacement control module and can be further manipulated to retrieve the existing control module and stow it onto the body.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Robert Bell
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Publication number: 20130032351Abstract: A method for shutting in a subsea wellbore is described, comprising disconnecting a flexible joint from the lower marine riser package subsea after a subsea blowout. The flexible joint is releasably connected to the lower marine riser package with a first connection comprising a connector with a receptacle and a hub seated in the receptacle. The method further comprises positioning a containment cap subsea proximate to the lower marine riser package. In addition, the method comprises connecting the containment cap to the lower marine riser package. The containment cap is releasably connected to the lower marine riser package with a second connection comprising a connector with a receptacle and a hub seated in the receptacle. Furthermore, the method comprises substantially shutting in the wellbore with the containment cap.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventor: Trevor Paul Deacon Smith
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Patent number: 8360155Abstract: A fitting includes a body having at least two portions coupled together to form a body having a passage through the body. The passage allows at least a portion of a conduit to be located at least substantially lengthwise within the body. First and second ports are located on the body and are in fluid communication with the passage. A first seal is located on the passage wall between a first end of the body and the first port. A second seal is located on the passage wall between the first port and the second port. A translatable ring is located on the passage wall between the first and second seals. The ring moves along the passage wall when the first seal is activated so that the second seal is activated. The ring includes an opening proximate the first port to provide access to the conduit from the first port. The first and second seals provide a seal in the passage.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2008Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Quality Connector SystemsInventors: Fred L. Avery, Bruce E. Morris
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Publication number: 20130020086Abstract: A method for capping a subsea wellbore comprises (a) identifying a subsea landing site on the BOP or LMRP for connection of a capping stack. In addition, the method comprises (b) preparing the subsea landing site for connection of the capping stack. Further, the method comprises (c) installing a capping stack on to the subsea landing site. Still further, the method comprises (d) shutting in the wellbore with the capping stack after (c).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2012Publication date: January 24, 2013Applicants: BP EXPLORATION OPERATING COMPANY LIMITED, BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventors: Paul Edward Anderson, Wyatt Chase Breidenthal, Michael Terence Brown, Randall James Chiasson, Kevin James Devers, William Patrick Grames, John Douglas Hughes, Mark Henley Nichols, Leslie Linn Owen, Trevor Paul Deacon Smith, Paul Tooms, James Scott Wellings
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Patent number: 8333243Abstract: A tensioner anti-rotation device and method that transfers rotational force from an offshore platform deck to a riser in response to waves and currents. The device includes a bracket mounted on the deck, and a rib that transfers force from the deck through the bracket, to the rib, and into the riser such that the tensioners on the riser are not subjected to torque.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2008Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Joseph W. Pallini, Jr., Fife B. Ellis
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Patent number: 8327941Abstract: A downhole device having an oil/water separator having a well fluid inlet, an oil stream outlet conduit, and a water stream outlet conduit; a removable flow-restrictor located in at least one of the water stream outlet conduit or the oil stream outlet conduit.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2010Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Matthew R. Hackworth, Nihat Ovutmen, Kevin J. Forbes, Lance I. Fielder, Allan Ross
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Patent number: 8322434Abstract: A Vertical Annular Separation and Pumping System (VASPS) utilizing a outer annulus liquid discharge arrangement to replace a standard pump shroud associated with an electrical submersible pump. The outer annulus liquid discharge arrangement directs produced wellbore liquids around the electrical submersible pump motor to provide a cooling medium to prevent overheating and premature failure of the electrical submersible pump.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Brian J. Fielding, Tracy A. Fowler
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Patent number: 8322441Abstract: A method and system for retrieving a wear bushing from within a subsea wellhead assembly. The system includes a retrieval tool deployable on a wireline that inserts within the bushing. Latches on the tool radially project outwards and mate with a groove on the bushing inner surface. A hydraulically actuated jack is included with the tool and projects downward to the wellhead assembly to pull the bushing from its temporary coupling in the wellhead assembly. A remotely operated vehicle can be used to assist deploying the tool and for supplying hydraulics and/or control for operating the latch and the jack.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Stephen P. Fenton
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Patent number: 8322433Abstract: Embodiments of the invention disclose systems, apparatuses, and methods of measurement performed by pipe conveyed tools. In an embodiment, a system for evaluation of a well bore includes a drill string assembly comprising a plurality of pipe joints, a wired slip joint coupled to the plurality of drill pipe, the slip joint movable from a retracted position to an extended position to compensate for changes in length of the drill string, the extended position having a length greater than the retracted position; a sensor positioned in the slip joint, wherein the sensor detects a change in length of the slip joint and generates a signal representative of a position of the slip joint, and a communication system to transmit the signal from the slip joint to a surface processor.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Sylvain Bedouet, Erik Quam
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Patent number: 8316945Abstract: What is provided is a method and apparatus which can be detachably connected to an annular blowout preventer thereby separating the drilling fluid or mud into upper and lower sections and allowing the fluid to be displaced in two stages, such as while the drill string is being rotated and/or reciprocated. In one embodiment the sleeve can be rotatably and sealably connected to a mandrel. The swivel can be incorporated into a drill or well string and enabling string sections both above and below the sleeve to be rotated in relation to the sleeve. In one embodiment the drill or well string does not move in a longitudinal direction relative to the swivel. In one embodiment, the drill or well string does move longitudinally relative to the sleeve of the swivel.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2007Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Mako Rentals, Inc.Inventors: Kip M. Robichaux, Kenneth G. Caillouet, Terry P. Robichaux
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Patent number: 8297359Abstract: Systems and methods for well intervention include a lower riser package (LRP), and an emergency disconnect package (EDP). The LRP includes a tree connector, a connector and seal stab adapter (CSSA), and a LRP body; the tree connector has a profile for mating to the CSSA. The CSSA has at least one seal stab assembly for fluidly connecting with a subsea tree. The body of the LRP includes one or more sealing elements that are capable of sealing upon command, an integral annulus with an annulus isolation valve, an upper hub profile compatible with the EDP, and a lower flange profile that mates with the CSSA. The EDP includes a quick disconnect connector, at least one annulus isolation valve, and one or more sealing elements that are capable of sealing upon command. In some embodiments, an internal tie-back tool connects to the EDP via an EDP internal tie-back profile.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.Inventors: Thomas Kean McKay, Michael J. Bednarz
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Publication number: 20120255736Abstract: A method for developing an offshore field comprises (a) coupling a plurality of top-tensioned risers to a first vessel at a first location. In addition, the method comprises (b) decoupling the first vessel from the plurality of top-tensioned risers after (a). Further, the method comprises (c) coupling a second vessel to the plurality of top-tensioned risers after (b) at the first location.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2012Publication date: October 11, 2012Applicant: HORTON WISON DEEPWATER, INC.Inventors: James V. Maher, Edward E. Horton, III, Lyle D. Finn
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Patent number: 8276671Abstract: A running tool sets and pressure tests a bridging hanger and a packoff in a single trip. The running tool has a stem, an inner body, and a piston. The inner body is connected to the stem so that rotation of the stem relative to the inner body will cause the stem to move longitudinally. The piston is connected to the stem so that the stem and piston rotate and move longitudinally in unison. A piston engagement element is housed in the inner body and is adapted to engage the piston when the bridging hanger is set to prevent premature setting of the packoff. The piston engagement element can be disengaged once the bridging hanger is set, thereby allowing the piston to set the packoff.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2010Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Guilherme Pedro Eppinghaus Neto, Fernando Sousa
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Publication number: 20120227974Abstract: Provided is a method and apparatus for pulling a crown plug comprising: (a) providing a subsea lubricator having a longitudinal through bore and a jack attached to the subsea lubricator, the jack having a landing area; (b) providing a jacking string which includes a landing sub and a crown plug connector, the sub having a landing surface; (c) without the jacking string in step “b”, lowering the subsea lubricator of step “a”, to the horizontal christmas tree and attaching the lubricator to the christmas tree; (d) lowering the jacking string to the lubricator; (e) jacking up the jack such that the landing area of the jack contacts the landing surface of the landing sub; and; (f) while the lubricator remains attached to the christmas tree, raising the jacking string and crown plug through and out of the lubricator.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2012Publication date: September 13, 2012Applicant: TETRA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: John Keith Caulfield, Patrick Brown
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Publication number: 20120181038Abstract: A subsea winch is described. The subsea winch comprises a housing adapted to be attached to a well intervention system, the housing having an inlet and an outlet and at least one powered sheave arranged between the inlet and the outlet, the or each powered sheave having a surface adapted to form a frictional engagement with a cable passing between the inlet and the outlet via the at least one sheave. In use, a pull force pulling the cable in a downhole direction applied to the cable by a tool string being lowered into the well intervention system is increased by the winch such that the downhole pull force on the cable at the housing inlet is greater than the downhole pull force at the housing outlet.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2010Publication date: July 19, 2012Inventors: Jeffrey Charles Edwards, Michael Graham Morgan
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Patent number: 8215679Abstract: A connection for sub-sea use employs locking dogs that are isolated from seawater and a backup system for operating the backup sleeve to the dogs. The normal actuation system for the backup sleeve is also isolated from seawater exposure. The set position of the backup sleeve is positively retained against the prospect of axial movement that could be triggered by transmitted vibration into the connection.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2011Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Edmund McHugh, Finbarr Evans, Declan Elliott
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Patent number: 8205678Abstract: The present invention is a blowout preventer including a large frustoconical funnel, made of metal or other material. The large end of the funnel is placed over a well pipe (or other pipe) through which oil (or gas or other fluid) is blowing out. The small end of the funnel is connected to a return pipe. A high pressure pipe with a smaller diameter is inserted into the well pipe. Air is pumped under high pressure through the high pressure pipe, separating the oil and forcing the oil that is not kept down in the well pipe by the pressure up through the return pipe. The Bernoulli effect keeps the funnel on the well pipe. A gasket at the top end of the channel prevents leaks. Channels and rotating blades near the top of the funnel accelerate the flow, reducing pressure and increasing the suction due to the Bernoulli effect.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2010Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Inventor: Philip John Milanovich
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Publication number: 20120152557Abstract: Devices and methods useable for repairing seal surfaces in an oil and gas installation used at offshore locations are provided. A removable device useable for locally repair a seal surface of a receiver plate, includes a rigid portion and a seal. The rigid portion is made of a material substantially similar to a material of the receiver plate, and is configured to be removably inserted in a fluid port of the receiver plate, having a seal surface flushed with the seal surface of the receiver plate when the device is inserted in the fluid port, and a channel configured to allow a fluid communication. The seal is made of a rubber-like material and is placed outside the rigid portion, the seal being configured to prevent a fluid leak.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLCInventor: Salvador REYES
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Patent number: 8186441Abstract: A system and method to allow backup or alternate fluid flow routes around malfunctioning components using removable, modular component sets. In one exemplary embodiment, an ROV establishes a backup hydraulic flow to a BOP function by attaching one end of a hose to a modular valve block and the other end to an intervention shuttle valve, thus circumventing and isolating malfunctioning components. A compound intervention shuttle valve is provided that comprises first and second primary inlets, first and second secondary inlets, and an outlet. A modular valve block is provided that comprises a directional control valve, a pilot valve, a manifold pressure regulator, a pilot pressure regulator, stab type hydraulic connections and an electrical wet-make connection.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2010Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Transocean Offshore Deepwater Drilling Inc.Inventors: Steve Donohue, Angela Donohue, legal representative, Steve O'leary, Tom Thrash
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Publication number: 20120125622Abstract: A system and method for replacing equipment at a wellsite is provided. The wellsite has a subsea stripper installed proximate a subsea borehole. The system has a conveyance for delivering a BHA into the subsea borehole. The system has a subsea stripper having a central bore for passing the conveyance and the BHA therethrough, and at least one actuator connected to the subsea stripper for actuating a packer whereby the wellbore is sealed. The system has at least one replaceable seal assembly for installation within the stripper. The replaceable seal assembly has at least one packer extendable within the subsea stripper to form a seal thereabout and at least one locator sleeve for positioning the seal assembly in an install position within the subsea stripper. The replaceable seal assembly has a frangible member for connecting the seal assembly to the conveyance prior to deployment in the subsea stripper.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P.Inventors: Jeffrey Thomas Melancon, Denzal Wayne Van Winkle, James Allen Douty
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Patent number: 8162061Abstract: A remotely operated submersible vehicle (ROV) is used to carry a bridge plug down to a sub sea well. The ROV is operated from a surface vessel or platform and is outfitted with a submersible hydraulic pump and a manipulator arm. Additionally, the ROV is provided with a carrying rack which can support a well closure assembly made up of an inflatable bridge plug and an affixed hydraulic running tool. The bridge plug and running tool are placed into the carrying rack and operably interconnected with the hydraulic pump so that the plug element can be selectively inflated by the pump.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: David W. Maxwell
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Publication number: 20120085543Abstract: A backup blowout assembly for a subsea wellhead that is positioned between an existing blowout preventer system and the wellhead. The backup blowout assembly includes an independently operated shear/blind ram assembly that attaches to a standard wellhead connector that connects to the wellhead. The ram assembly includes an upper neck with an upper flange on which a dual housing assembly is attached. The dual housing assembly includes a primary housing longitudinally aligned over a secondary housing. The primary and second housings include lower bodies and upper necks that have identical diameters. During assembly, the existing primary blowout assembly is initially connected to the primary housing and the ram assembly is connected to the wellhead connector. When a blowout occurs, the primary housing may be disconnected from the secondary housing to expose the upper neck of the secondary housing upon which a replacement primary blowout assembly system or cap may be attached.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Inventors: David B. Redden, Frank McCormack, Larry E. Huskins
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Patent number: 8127854Abstract: A gas and oil recovery system including a vessel, platform or rig, with a rig floor, a riser including a pipe that extends from the vessel, platform or rig to a x-mas tree on top of a well head and via which a wire or coiled tubing is fed down into a well. The riser is movable through an opening in the rig floor, and a surface flow head connected to the riser and to a wire line or coiled tubing equipment. The surface flow head is arranged to be run through the opening in the rig floor.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2005Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Scandinavia ASInventor: Svein A. HĂĄheim
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Patent number: 8127853Abstract: A tieback connector connects a tieback conduit from an offshore platform to a subsea wellhead assembly. The tieback connector has a mandrel that is connected to a string of tieback conduit and a sleeve and load ring that are carried by the mandrel. The load ring is radially expansible and has a conical portion with internal threads. The load ring has an external grooved profile that engages an internal grooved profile in the subsea assembly. The mandrel is rotatable relative to the sleeve while in its lower position, causing the load ring to further expand outward into engagement with the internal profile. A locking member is carried below the load ring on an exterior cam surface of the mandrel. The cam surface moves the locking member outward when the mandrel moves downward into engagement with an internal profile in the subsea assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2011Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Joseph W. Pallini, Rockford D. Lyle, Gregory M. Dunn
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Patent number: 8113287Abstract: A hydraulic coupler for providing fluid communication between adjacent members that includes a two way check valve formed from a double headed poppet set in a hollow cylinder with corrugated bellows like walls. Contoured bores are provided in the cylinder ends and the poppet heads are profiled to match the contour of the bores. When the heads are seated in the bores they form a sealing surface to block fluid from flowing through the coupler. Compressively preloading the cylinder before assembly provides a sealing force between the heads and the bores. Axially compressing the cylinder with respect to the poppet unseats the heads from the bores to form a flow path through the coupler.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2009Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Karl A. Parfrey
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Patent number: 8100182Abstract: In combination, the loose tube flying lead includes: a) a pair of improved cobra head assemblies, each being able to receive a variety of different stab-plates with minimal modification; b) a pair of bend limiters, one extending from each cobra head assembly and c) an elongate bundle of non-constrained interior conduits surrounded by an over-hose, the over-hose being connected to each bend limiter. The over-hose may rotate independently of the bend limiters and the cobra head assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2008Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: Deep Down, Inc.Inventors: Ronald E. Smith, John Theobald
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Patent number: 8096364Abstract: A method for providing an umbilical connection for a well installation, the well installation being located at the bed or floor of a body of water, comprises the steps of providing an umbilical with first and second ends and prior to operative deployment of the umbilical, locating the umbilical such that at least a portion of the umbilical is substantially statically retained within the body of water. Additionally, an umbilical deployment system for a well installation located at the bed or floor of a body of water, comprises an umbilical, wherein, prior to operative deployment of the umbilical, at least a portion of the umbilical is substantially statically retained within the body of water.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2008Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventor: Paul Dursley
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Patent number: 8087464Abstract: A system for installation of a subsea module of great length by means of a vessel, using a cable for its installation and/or retrieval, and methods applied therein. The system allows transporting the subsea module on the vessel to a location in the sea and descending the subsea module into the sea at a vertical position for installation on the seabed.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2008Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.-PetrobrasInventors: Roberto Rodrigues, Luiz Eduardo Peclat Bernardo, Robson Soares Junior, Giovani Colodette, Romulo Cobe Vasconcellos, Sergio Luis Uliana, Orman Salvador Toscano
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Patent number: 8087465Abstract: A locking tree cap for use on a subsea tree. The tree cap may be installed and retrieved using a remote operated vehicle. The tree cap may include deflectable collet fingers that lock the tree cap to a tree spool. The deflectable collet fingers may be adapted, such as with enlarged heads, to extend into recesses of the tree spool when the tree cap has been landed on the tree spool. The tree cap may be locked onto a tree spool before energizing sealing members within the bores of the subsea tree, thereby protecting the sealing members from damage during the installation of the tree cap onto the tree spool. The tree cap may include soft landing means such as a plastic cap, on the end of stabs to protect the sealing members as the tree cap is landed. The tree cap may include a secondary locking mechanism used to further secure the tree cap to the tree spool.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2008Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Aker Subsea Inc.Inventors: Alan Huang, Venu Kopparthi, Saul dos Santos Filho
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Patent number: 8066075Abstract: A completion suspension valve system is described which allows a well to be suspended and desuspended remotely without a dual bore riser to the surface. This is achieved by incorporating a remotely actuatable valve into the production bore of a tubing hanger. The valve is hydraulically operable and may be controlled via the tubing hanger running tool or via the xmas tree. The valve can be closed and tested after the tubing hanger has been installed, thereby isolating the well. The dual bore riser and running tool are retrievable and the MODU type vessel is then free to continue drilling and completion operations elsewhere. The xmas tree can therefore be deployed from a workclass supply boat instead of a MODU type vessel.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2005Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: Enovate Systems LimitedInventors: Gavin David Cowie, Jeffrey Charles Edwards
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Patent number: 8061428Abstract: A subsea wellhead assembly includes a wellhead housing, a production tree, a tubing hanger adapted to land in the wellhead assembly inside the wellhead housing without a need for angular orientation, a bridge member on the tubing hanger in the production tree, a port radially formed through the tubing hanger or the bridge member, a production port radially through the tree head housing, and an annular production flow passage that circumscribes the bridge member lower portion on one end and optionally circumscribes the tubing hanger on its other end. The annular production flow passage is in communication with both the production port and the radial port in the tubing hanger or bridge member so that fluid can be produced from the well via the annular production flow passage without necessity to orientate the tubing hanger.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2009Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Stephen P. Fenton, William D. Munro, Calum T. Myles
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Patent number: 8056634Abstract: A running tool for lowering a christmas tree to a subsea wellhead. The running tool includes an off center adjustment to compensate for asymmetric weight distribution in the christmas tree. The running tool comprises a main body, latches for coupling the body to the christmas tree, an offset arm connected to the body, and a lift arm (drill pipe adaptor) connected to the lift arm and selectively positioned on the lift arm to offset and compensate for the christmas tree asymmetric weight distribution.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2008Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Inventor: David N. Spencer
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Patent number: 8056633Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing a subsea structure wherein a housing defining a subsea structure receiving space and having a jetting system attached at or near the bottom of the housing is used to form an excavation around the subsea structure to the desired depth and a frame attached to or mounted in the housing carries a cutter assembly which is movable from a first position on the frame to a second position on the frame, the first position being on one side of the subsea structure, the second position being on the opposite side of the subsea structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2008Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Inventors: Marc T. Barra, James L. Parker, III, Adam C. Alborado, Robert M. Champagne, III
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Publication number: 20110266002Abstract: A subsea device is configured to control a subsea well. The subsea device includes a frame, a blowout preventer connected to the frame and configured to close a bore that fluidly communicates with the subsea well, a pressure supply line connected to the frame and configured to provide a fluid under high pressure, and a control module connected to the frame and configured to receive the fluid from the pressure supply line. The control module includes a fixed part and a removable section. The fixed part has a valve manifold that houses a hydraulic activated valve. The removable section is configured to detachably attach to the fixed part and includes an electrically activated valve. The hydraulic activated valve of the fixed part are configured to be actuated by the electrically activated valve when the removable section is mated to the fixed part.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2010Publication date: November 3, 2011Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLCInventors: Hardev Singh, David Dietz, JR., Luis Melendez, Dat Nguyen