With Provision For Removal Or Repositioning Of Member Without Removal Of Other Well Structure Patents (Class 166/339)
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Patent number: 8047295Abstract: In one illustrative embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device adapted to be positioned adjacent an end of a tool housing of a subsea lubricator, wherein the device includes a structural member that is adapted to be positioned adjacent an end of the tool housing, a non-metallic body coupled to the structural member and a sealing device that is adapted to sealingly engage a wireline extending through the sealing device. The present invention is also directed to a method which includes lowering an assembly toward a tool housing of a subsea lubricator positioned subsea using a wireline for the tool to support a weight of the assembly, wherein the assembly includes a wireline tool and a device including a structural member that is adapted to be positioned adjacent the end of a tool housing, a non-metallic body coupled to the structural member, and a sealing device that is adapted to sealingly engage a wireline extending through the sealing device.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2007Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Brian Skeels, Hans Jørgen Lindland, Olav Inderberg, Bjørn Jahnsen
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Patent number: 8037939Abstract: The invention relates to a riser pipe section comprising a main tube (2), at least one auxiliary line element (3) arranged substantially parallel to said tube (2), characterized in that the ends of main tube (2) comprise connecting means (8) allowing longitudinal stresses to be transmitted and in that the ends of auxiliary line element (3) comprise linking means (5-6) allowing longitudinal stresses to be transmitted.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2006Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Institut Francais du PetroleInventors: Yann Poirette, Gérard Papon, Jean Guesnon
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Patent number: 8033335Abstract: An offshore universal riser system (OURS) and injection system (OURS-IS) inserted into a riser. The OURS/OUR-IS provides a means for pressurizing the marine riser to its maximum pressure capability and easily allows variation of the fluid density in the riser. The OURS-IS includes a riser pup joint with provision for injecting a fluid into the riser with isolation valves. The OURS includes a riser pup joint with an inner riser adapter, a pressure test nipple, a safety device, outlets with valves for diverting the mud flow, nipples with seal bores for accepting RCDs. The easy delivery of fluids to the OURS-IS is described. A method is detailed to manipulate the density in the riser to provide a wide range of operating pressures and densities enabling the concepts of Managed Pressure Drilling, Dual Density Drilling or Dual Gradient Drilling, and Underbalanced Drilling.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2007Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Charles R. Orbell, Christian Leuchtenberg
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Publication number: 20110240303Abstract: Subsea well intervention module for well intervention operations to be performed in a well from a surface vessel via a wireline. The intervention module comprises a supporting structure, an attachment means for removably attaching the supporting structure to a structure of a well head or an additional structure, a well manipulation assembly, a navigation means having at least one propulsion unit for manoeuvring the module in the water, and a control system for controlling the intervention operations. The invention also relates to an intervention system and an intervention method.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2009Publication date: October 6, 2011Inventor: Jørgen Hallundbaek
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Patent number: 8028752Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus for setting a plug in, or retrieving a plug from, a horizontal xmas tree. The apparatus comprises a housing with a throughbore adapted to be releasably connected at a first end to a horizontal xmas tree, the housing including an at least one axially moveable member which also includes an at least one radially moveable element and a tool deployable within the housing throughbore by an elongate support and adapted to be releasably connected to the plug. The tool has an outer surface portion profiled to releasably engage with an engagement surface the at least one radially moveable element whereby, in operation, engagement of the at least one radially moveable element with the tool outer surface portion permits the plug, connected to the tool, to be set in the horizontal xmas tree or retrieved from the horizontal xmas tree by axial movement of the at least one axially moveable member.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2005Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Expro North Sea LimitedInventor: Andrew Richards
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Patent number: 8020623Abstract: A subsea control module for providing control of subsea equipment is provided. The design allows for replacement and retrieval of a subsea control module with a single remotely operated vehicle (“ROV”) deployment from a vessel. The subsea control module can provide distributed electrical and hydraulic control functions via multiple directional control valve modules, multiple pilot valve modules, and a central electronic control module. Each directional control and pilot perform a set of functions so that replacement of a single module does not require disassembly of any other components) or hydraulic connection. Similarly, each pilot valve module can include a set of pilot valves, pressure transducers, solenoids and electronic circuitry to perform a limited set of functions so that failure of a single pilot valve module does not result in failure of the entire subsea control module.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: DTC International, Inc.Inventors: William C. Parks, Dana C. Beebe, Chester W. Kronke
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Patent number: 8016042Abstract: In accordance with certain embodiments, the present invention provides a connector for attaching to a multi-toothed profile on a wellhead features a tooth profile that staggers loading preferably starting at a loading surface furthest from the connector body sitting on the wellhead and moving toward the connector body. The staggered loading more evenly distributes stresses on the matching loading surfaces as compared to the result of using a tooth profile on the connector that nearly exactly matches the profile on the wellhead. The joint can then take advantage of an increased preload and exhibit improved stress characteristics when operating at high loading conditions.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2009Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Michael W. Spiering, Maoye Sun, Paul D. Bunch, Eric D. Larson
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Patent number: 8011434Abstract: A securing device comprises an axially reciprocable drive shaft which has a head adapted to pass forwards through a detent plate. The head is adapted to engage the plate after rotation. A cam slot is defined in a drive housing and is engageable by a cam follower carried on the drive shaft. The cam slot has two end portions extending parallel to the axis of the drive shaft and an oblique intermediate part such that the drive shaft is rotated when the follower moves along the intermediate part and the drive shaft moves only axially when the follower moves along either of the end portions. A subsea assembly including the securing device includes a fixed stab plate including a central collar, and a free stab plate having an aperture through which said collar extends, the collar including an chamber defined by the detent plate.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2008Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: M.S.C.M. LimitedInventors: Patrick J Cosgrove, Douglas F Kirkman, Terence Burgon
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Patent number: 8011435Abstract: A method for drilling a borehole in a producing subsea wellbore wherein a flexible conduit is connected at one end to a surface vessel and at the other end via a pressurized subsea wellhead to the producing wellbore such that a remotely operated electrical drilling device (RODD) can be deployed down the flexible conduit, the method comprising: directing a RODD to the location for drilling in the wellbore; and drilling a further wellbore section with the RODD; wherein the drilling comprises drilling in underbalanced conditions with respect to the formation; and using fluids produced from the formation to transport the drill cuttings away from the drilling device.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2008Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Ricardo Carossino, Andrea Sbordone, Henri Denoix, Charles Deible, Rene Schuurman
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Publication number: 20110209875Abstract: This installation comprises an upper structure (12), and a flexible hose (16) capable of moving through the expanse of water (11 B) between an upper connected configuration and a lower disconnected configuration. The installation comprises a lower structure (14) having a base (60) extending at a distance from the bottom (11A) of the expanse of water (11 B). The upper structure (12) is capable of moving relative to the lower structure (14) between an extraction position and an evacuation position. The base (60) defines a passage (68) for travel of the flexible hose (16) as it moves between the upper connected configuration and the lower disconnected configuration and a stop (74) for retaining a connection head (92) of the hose (14), disposed in the travel passage (68), to keep the connection head (92) at a distance from the bottom (11A) of the expanse of water (11 B) in the lower disconnected configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2009Publication date: September 1, 2011Inventors: Timothy John Crome, Johan Kristian Boe, Igor Kopsov, Leiv Egelund, Anil Kumar Sablok, Manoj Ramachandran
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Patent number: 8006765Abstract: A well servicing tool storage system for subsea well intervention is disclosed which provides a tool storage means as part of the intervention system and which has a plurality of tool storage arms deployed around the tool storage means. Each arm has a clamp capable of clamping a tool, and moving the clamped tool between a stored position near the perimeter of the tool storage means, and a deployed position in the centre of the tool storage means where the tool can be made up into a wireline connection.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2005Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Expro AX-S Technology LimitedInventors: Andrew Richards, Mark Davies
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Patent number: 7992643Abstract: 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 replace the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2004Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Cameron Systems (Ireland) LimitedInventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
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Patent number: 7984765Abstract: A system and method is described for well intervention in subsea installed oil and gas wells, comprising a surface vessel (10), or rig, with equipment (22) for handling and controlling a connection string (20) for downhole tools, and also a system (26) for the supply and return of drilling fluid, from where the connection string (20) for the downhole tool runs down in an actual drilling hole (36) of a well on the subsea, where a X-mas tree (12) with associated blowout preventer (16) is arranged on the well, and where a return line (24) for drilling fluid runs up to said system (26) on the surface vessel or the rig. The connecting string (20) for downhole tools runs into the well through open sea without a riser or landing string being fitted, and a removable intervention valve (14) is arranged in the drilling hole (36), where the intervention valve is arranged to function as a testable, temporary barrier.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2006Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Well Intervention Solutions ASInventor: Tom Kjetil Askeland
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Patent number: 7975770Abstract: The disclosure is drawn to methods of drilling wells utilizing blow out prevention components of differing pressure ratings. In the initial drilling phase, a lower pressure rated blow out prevention component is used. In a subsequent drilling phase where a reservoir of a natural resource is penetrated, a higher pressure rated blow out prevention component is used.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Transocean Offshore Deepwater Drilling Inc.Inventor: Chip Keener
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Patent number: 7958938Abstract: A system for supporting multiple-well-site, offshore, hydrocarbon-bearing fields, each well-site has one or more wells. In general, the system first comprises a floating vessel that is relocatable from a first subsea well-site to a second subsea well-site. The system also comprises two separate systems: (1) an operations control system for providing subsea well-site operations such as power and communications; and (2) an intervention system for conducting intervention services to an individual subsea well such as workover services and maintenance services. The operations system may provide control to wells and other subsea equipment at either the first well-site or the second well-site, regardless of the location of the floating vessel. The intervention system may provide workover and/or maintenance to subsea equipment or individual wells at the well-site at which it is located.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2005Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Calvin W. Crossley, Tracy A. Fowler, M. Sidney Glasscock, Matthew N. Greer, Roald T. Lokken, Dinesh R. Pejaver, W. Brett Wilson, David B. Yost
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Patent number: 7921917Abstract: Methods for deploying a subsea blowout preventer stack system comprising a lower marine riser package, a blowout preventer stack with a first ram blowout preventer, and an additional blowout preventer package releasably coupled to the blowout preventer stack and comprising a second ram blowout preventer. The subsea blowout preventer stack assembly can be deployed by coupling a drilling riser to the lower marine riser package that is releasably connected to the blowout preventer stack. The lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack are then toward a subsea wellhead and then landed on the additional blowout preventer package that is coupled to the subsea wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Johnnie E. Kotrla, Melvyn F. Whitby, David J. McWhorter, Glenn J. Chiasson
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Publication number: 20110048726Abstract: Internal tree cap (201) (ITC) adapted to be installed in the bore of a subsea well unit (301) or to an internal tubular element (303) of the same, comprising a locking element (209) for releasably locking the internal tree cap (201) to said subsea well unit (301) or internal tubular element (303). The ITC further comprises a fluid channel (215) extending through a fluid barrier between the lower and upper part of the internal tree cap (201), which fluid channel (215) is blocked by a burst element (217) adapted to break and open for fluid flow through the fluid channel (215) when exposed to a predetermined pressure difference over the burst element (217). The invention also relates to an ITC running tool (101) and a locking mechanism (117) for supporting the ITC in the tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2009Publication date: March 3, 2011Inventors: Lasse E. Aarnes, Andre M. Smith
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Patent number: 7896081Abstract: 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: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Joseph W. Pallini, Rockford D. Lyle, Gregory M. Dunn
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Patent number: 7878551Abstract: 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: June 2, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Edmund McHugh, Finbarr Evans, Declan Elliott
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Publication number: 20110017465Abstract: A riser system including: at least one riser for extending from infrastructure on a sea bed and each riser having a riser termination; an end support restrained above and relative to the sea bed and having attachment means to couple each riser termination for storage and decouple each riser termination for coupling to a floating vessel; and an intermediate support supporting an intermediate portion of the riser to define a catenary bend between the intermediate support and the riser termination device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2009Publication date: January 27, 2011Applicant: AMOG Pty Ltd.Inventors: Stuart Wales, Christopher Turner
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Patent number: 7866398Abstract: An underwater termination assembly for use with a subsea system such as a well tree, comprises a construction having first and second limbs substantially at a right-angle to each other, which construction may be lowered having an umbilical connected to one of the limbs so that said one of the limbs sits on the bed of a body of water.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2008Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Richard K. O. Barratt, Thomas D. Taylor
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Publication number: 20100326665Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods and apparatus for subsea well intervention operations, including retrieval of a wellhead from a subsea well. In one aspect, a method of performing an operation in a subsea well is provided. The method comprising the step of positioning a tool proximate a subsea wellhead. The tool has at least one grip member and the tool is attached to a downhole assembly. The method also comprising the step of clamping the tool to the subsea wellhead by moving the at least one grip member into engagement with a profile on the subsea wellhead. The method further comprising the step of applying an upward force to the tool thereby enhancing the grip between the grip member and the profile on the subsea wellhead. Additionally, the method comprising the step of performing the operation in the subsea well by utilizing the downhole assembly. In another aspect, an apparatus for use in a subsea well is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2009Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventors: Thomas M. Redlinger, Andrew Antoine, My Le, Richard J. Segura
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Publication number: 20100307760Abstract: The present invention is a system for subsea well intervention on a vessel with a boom above a well tree. The system includes a subsea deployment reel, a subsea wireline reel, and an intervention tool. The deployment reel has a deployment wireline with an integrated wire rope tether, a grooved drum, a drum motor means, and a control unit. One end of the deployment reel is fixedly attached to a launch and recovery system on the boom of the vessel, and other end of the deployment reel is attached to the wireline reel. The reels and tool lower into the water from the boom for a set depth above the tree. The subsea wireline reel has deployment wireline, a wireline drum, a wireline drum motor means, and a wireline control unit. The wireline reel detaches downward from the deployment reel, after the two reels have stopped lowering. Then, the intervention tool is delivered a final distance to engage the subsea tree.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2009Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: Blue Ocean Technologies LLCInventor: Michael Shouse
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Publication number: 20100307761Abstract: A subsea control module for subsea well equipment has an actuator having a rod with a remote operated vehicle (ROV) interface on one end and a latch on an opposite end that latches to a subsea receptacle. Segments are releasably mounted around and to the actuator. Each of the segments has a sealed housing containing at least one internal control component. Couplings depend from the housing for engaging mating couplings in the receptacle. The housing has two radial walls, each extending along a radial line from an axis of the rod. An outer wall joins outer ends of the radial walls, the outer wall being a portion of a cylinder. An inner wall joins inner edges of the radial walls. The radial walls of adjacent ones of the segments abut each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2010Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: DTC International, Inc.Inventors: Margaret M. Buckley, David C. Baskett
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Patent number: 7845412Abstract: A technique for subsea intervention operations enables pressure control to be accomplished at the surface while borehole fluid control is exercised at the seabed. A compliant guide extends between a subsea well installation and a surface location, such as a surface intervention vessel. A buffer fluid is deployed within the compliant guide to maintain the borehole fluids proximate the seabed. The buffer fluid also enables pressure control over the buffer fluid and the borehole fluid to be performed from the surface. Additionally, a flexible conveyance can be used to move intervention tools through the compliant guide.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Andrea Sbordone, Eric Smedstad, Rene Schuurman, Alan Johnston, Axel Destremau, Yves Le Moign
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Patent number: 7828064Abstract: What is provided is a method and apparatus wherein a swivel 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 or housing 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 or housing of the swivel.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Mako Rentals, Inc.Inventors: Kip M. Robichaux, Kenneth G. Caillouet, Terry P. Robichaux
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Publication number: 20100270746Abstract: Systems and methods for replacing equipment at a wellsite, the wellsite having a subsea stripper installed proximate a subsea borehole. The system has at least one seal assembly portion, at least one seal replacement arm and an actuator. The seal assembly portion(s) is (are) positionable in the subsea stripper and replaceable therefrom. The seal assembly portion(s) has (have) a packer extendable within the subsea stripper to form a seal about the subsea stripper. The seal replacement arm(s) is (are) for replacing the seal assembly portion(s) through a door of the subsea stripper. The actuator is for remotely actuating the seal replacement arm(s) to engage the seal assembly portion(s) whereby the seal assembly portion(s) is (are) remotely replaceable.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P.Inventor: Denzal Wayne Van Winkle
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Patent number: 7819204Abstract: A method and apparatus for drilling subsea wells is provided. A subsea shut off device including ball gripping mechanisms is latched to a template at surface. Drilled in casing can be suspended from the device at any position using the gripping mechanism so that the device is run to the sea floor on the casing string. The casing string is drilled into place and converted into a riser. This is all done on a single trip to speed up the operation and reduce the risk. The casing string is captured and sealed within the subsea shut-off device after installing and spacing out a surface BOP. For the event when emergency disconnection is required, dual shear rams in the device cut the casing and seal in the well. The system then allows a conventional subsea reconnection of the riser.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2005Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Geoprober Drilling LimitedInventor: Anthony S. Bamford
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Patent number: 7806187Abstract: An apparatus having a hot stab having a fluid conduit connector thereon, a hydraulic hose having a connector assembly at an end thereof suitable for joining to the fluid conduit connector of the hot stab, and a sleeve affixed to the hot stab and to the hydraulic hose so as to extend over and surround the fluid conduit connector and the connector assembly. A jam nut is affixed to the tubular portion of the fluid conduit connector. The sleeve is threadedly connected to the threaded exterior surface of the jam nut. A crimp fitting is secured to an end of the hydraulic hose. A hose swivel extends around a crimp fitting and is affixed around the fluid conduit connector of the hot stab.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2008Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Trendsetter Engineering, Inc.Inventor: Mario R. Lugo
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Publication number: 20100236785Abstract: A method of drilling through a blockage in a flowline using a remotely controlled electrically operated drilling tool that comprises a drill bit, a steering means, a pumping means, and a propulsion system wherein the drilling tool is connected either directly or indirectly to an electric cable and the drill bit is mounted on the steering means, the method comprising: introducing the drilling tool into the flowline; actuating the electrically operated propulsion system to move the drilling tool through the flowline to the location of the blockage; actuating the electrically operated steering means so that the drill bit is aligned with the blockage; actuating the electrically operated drill bit so that the drill bit engages with and drills through the blockage; and actuating the electrically operated pump so that when the drill bit engages with the blockage, fluid that is present in the flowline adjacent the blockage is passed over the cutting surfaces of the drill bit and cuttings from the blockage are transpoType: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2008Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventors: Sarah Lai-Yue Collis, Paul George Lurie, Rajarajan Narayanasamy
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Patent number: 7798232Abstract: A technique facilitates formation of connections between compliant tubular members and subsea facilities. A compliant tubular member is deployed to a subsea location in a manner that arranges the compliant tubular member in a curvilinear shape. The distal end of the compliant tubular member is drawn down into proximity with the subsea facility and then moved horizontally into alignment with the subsea facility. Subsequently, the distal end is lowered into engagement with the subsea facility without being detrimentally affected by motion of an upper end of the compliant tubular member.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2008Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Colin Headworth
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Publication number: 20100230110Abstract: A method of unloading a well using a modular adapter having a pump, a pump suction line, and a pump discharge line. The adapter is connected to a subsea wellhead assembly so that the pump suction line communicates with a main bore in the wellhead assembly and the pump discharge line communicates with a production line attached to the wellhead assembly. The production line is isolated from the main bore and the pump draws fluid from within the well and discharges it into the production line. After unloading the well, the adapter can be removed and moved to another location for well unloading.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: VETCO GRAY, INC.Inventor: Robert K. Voss
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Patent number: 7779916Abstract: A subsea intervention system is disclosed comprising a floating vessel and a source of coiled tubing at the floating vessel. The system includes a seabed installation including a wellhead and compliant guide having one end operatively connected to the floating vessel and the second end operatively connected to the seabed installation. The compliant guide provides a conduit between the floating vessel and the wellhead for the coiled tubing. At least one injector is present at the floating vessel for inserting the coiled tubing into the compliant guide, and a carousel is proximate the wellhead which comprises a plurality of chambers with intervention tools in at least two of those chambers. The system may also include a plurality of sensing units that are disposed at spaced intervals along the compliant guide to monitor various aspects of the compliant guide and to transmit that information to a repositioning system.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2006Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Warren M. Zemlak, John A. Kerr
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Patent number: 7770649Abstract: A locking device for locking an exchangeable unit in an insertion opening of an associated housing, particular in maritime mineral oil or mineral gas extraction, comprises locking elements adjustable between an insertion opening and a locking position, wherein in its insertion direction the unit can be inserted into the insertion opening, and is locked in the locking position within the insertion opening and relative to the housing. The locking elements are formed as thread segments spaced apart by insertion gaps in the circumferential direction and arranged on the outer side of the unit and being aligned with the insertion opening, said thread segments being arranged in the insertion opening at a gap and being in thread engagement in the locking position.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2004Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Klaus Biester, Norbert Lenz
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Patent number: 7770650Abstract: A horizontal tree has a lateral passage extending from its bore. A tubing hanger having a lateral passage lands in the bore of the tree. The tubing hanger has an orientation guide mounted to it. A retractable pin is mounted in the sidewall of the tree. The orientation guide on the tubing hanger engages the pin to rotate the tubing hanger as it is being landed.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2006Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Stuart F. Young, Martyn J. Lord
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Publication number: 20100147527Abstract: A subsea boosting cap system is disclosed. The system comprises an anchor assembly capable of attaching to the sea floor. The anchor assembly comprises a pump cavity capable of receiving a removable pump assembly. A valve system is attached to the anchor assembly. The valve system comprises an inlet flow path and an outlet flow path. A boosting cap covers the pump cavity. The boosting cap comprises a first flow path configured to provide fluid communication between the inlet flow path and the removable pump assembly. A second flow path provides fluid communication between the removable pump assembly and the outlet. A crossover flow path provides fluid communication between the inlet flow path and the outlet flow path, the crossover flow path bypassing the pump cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2009Publication date: June 17, 2010Inventor: PAULO CEZAR SILVA PAULO
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Patent number: 7735561Abstract: A method and system for performing intervention and workover operations on a subsea well are provided, as well as an adapter for connecting a lower end portion of a conduit extending from a vessel with an upper portion of a lower marine riser package associated with a subsea tree. The method includes providing a lower marine riser package connected to an upper portion of a subsea tree associated with a subsea well, and a conduit extending from a vessel toward the lower marine riser package. The conduit is connected to the lower marine riser package with an adapter. A portion of a conduit bore of the conduit above the adapter is sealed from a chamber in the adapter, and a portion of a bore extending through the lower marine riser package is sealed from the chamber. The adapter is opened for access to the chamber from the sea.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2008Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Mark Alan Johnson, Dana Earl Witt, James David Dowell
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Patent number: 7735562Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of sealing a tieback to a tubular. The method includes, positioning a metal deformable member of the tieback within a tubular and contacting the tubular with a sleeve of the tieback. Moving the sleeve in a first axial direction thereby contacting and radially deforming a first portion of the deformable member by axially compressing the deformable member and sealably engaging the tubular with the radially deformed first portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2007Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Rodney D. Bennett, Sidney K. Smith, Jamie L. Imhoff, James M. Fraser, III
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Patent number: 7726405Abstract: A utility line connector assembly having a male stab having a central bore with a port that communicates with a second bore in a receptacle where the stab is fixedly inserted into a receiving female opening in the receptacle, the receptacle has an L shaped opening with a protruding partial spherical pocket, a ring groove for sealing said stab to a riser package, and where the stab and receptacle are placed between a lower marine riser and the blow out preventer in fluid communication therebetween. The stab and receptacle may be sealed with ring seals and the assembly may be used in riser auxiliary line connections, sub sea production tree connections, drape hose connections and surface bop auxiliary line connections.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2007Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Inventor: Barry James McMiles
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Publication number: 20100101799Abstract: A modular tree production tree assembly reduces the weight during transfer of the tree components from a barge to a production rig. The tree assembly includes an upper tree module, a lower tree module, and a choke bridge module. The upper tree module has a tree head, the lower tree module has a guidance system and ties in the flow lines to the in-field infrastructure, and the choke bridge module has the choke and instrumentation bridge to link the three components together. Prior to delivery to the rig, the components of the modular tree assembly may be joined together and tested on shore. Upon arrival at the rig, the components are individually lifted from the barge onto the rig by a crane. After the tree components are on the rig, the modular tree is reassembled and then deployed to the sea floor via the draw works.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2008Publication date: April 29, 2010Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.Inventors: David N. Spencer, Michael A. Wenham, Paul W. White
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Patent number: 7699110Abstract: A flow diverter tool assembly is employed for flushing debris from a portion of the bore of a subsea production tree. The flow diverter tool assembly has a housing having a passageway there-through and a seal disposed on an exterior surface of the housing. The seal contacts the inner wall surface of the bore of the production tree, dividing a lower portion of the bore below the seal from an upper portion of the bore above the seal. One or more outlets from the passageway through the exterior surface are disposed along the housing below the seal. A bypass device such as a slip-joint is disposed above the seal to facilitate removal of the flow diverter tool assembly from the bore of the production tree after its use.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2006Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Neil Anderson, David Duncan, Roy E. Swanson, John Pickett
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Patent number: 7699109Abstract: A riser assembly includes a rotating control housing connected between an upper portion and a lower portion of a riser assembly, and a packing element rotatable with respect to the rotating control housing, wherein the packing element is configured to isolate an annulus of the lower portion from the upper portion when a drillstring is engaged through the packing element, and wherein the packing element is configured to be retrieved and replaced through the upper portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2006Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Smith InternationalInventors: James May, Jaye Shelton
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Patent number: 7677320Abstract: A subsea well production system has a natural drive mode and a lift-assist mode using a submersible pump. The submersible pump can be installed while the well is live. The well system has a downhole safety valve in the production tubing. The operator closes the downhole safety valve and lowers an electrical submersible pump assembly into the production tubing. Once landed, the valve is opened and the pump assembly placed in operation.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2006Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Chris K. Shaw, Michael V. Smith
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Publication number: 20100059221Abstract: Subsea apparatus and a method for sampling and analysing fluid from a subsea fluid flowline proximate a subsea well is provided, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one housing located in close proximity to said subsea fluid flowline; at least one fluid sampling device located in the housing in fluid communication with a said subsea fluid flowline for obtaining a sample of fluid from the subsea fluid flowline; at least one fluid processing apparatus located in the housing in fluid communication with said subsea fluid flowline for receiving and processing a portion of the fluid flowing through said fluid flowline or in fluid communication with the fluid sampling device, for processing the sample of fluid obtained from the subsea fluid flowline for analysis, while keeping the sample of fluid at subsea conditions; a fluid analysis device located in the housing, the fluid analysis device being in fluid communication with the fluid processing device and/or with the fluid sampling device, the fluid analysis deType: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2009Publication date: March 11, 2010Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Stephane Vannuffelen, Ricardo Vasques, Tsutomu Yamate, Akira Kamiya, Kentaro Indo, Gary Oddie, Jonathan Machin, Julie Morgan, Morten Stenhaug, Graham Birkett, Oliver C. Mullins, Lars Mangal, Pascal Panetta
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Patent number: 7669660Abstract: A riser disconnect and support mechanism for flexible risers and umbilicals on an offshore structure with low under keel clearance. A main body portion includes an inverted and truncated conical or convex section substantially at the center of the main body portion. The main body portion and conical section receive risers therethrough by means of a plurality of conduits through the main body portion and conical section. A plurality of projections extend radially outward from the main body portion. A plurality of arch-shaped riser supports are provided on each projection to support risers and/or umbilical lines and control their bending radii. The projections extend out from the main body portion at a distance that allows the portions of the risers below the main body portion to hang at an angle and bend radius in accordance with the design tolerances of the risers to prevent buckling or damage due to excessive bending while keeping the risers from contacting the sea floor.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2008Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Floatec, LLCInventors: John James Murray, Harish Mukundan, Apurva Gupta
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Publication number: 20100025043Abstract: A system for operation and service of at least one hydrocarbon-producing well and of equipment, which is disposed under water, for further transport of the well stream, where the system comprises at least one pipeline, at least one booster unit, a vessel comprising an anchoring system about which the vessel can rotate or swivel, means for conducting an intervention on subsea equipment, means for communication with and control of the at least one well and other equipment, means for injecting chemicals into the well streams, means for transferring to and inserting pigs in the pipeline, means for production of energy for operation of subsea equipment, means for transferring energy from the means for production of energy to the booster unit and any other subsea equipment.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2007Publication date: February 4, 2010Applicant: FRAMO Engineering ASInventors: Atle Ingebrigtsen, Ole Gams Steine
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Publication number: 20100025044Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2009Publication date: February 4, 2010Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventors: Thomas Kean McKay, Michael J. Bednarz
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Patent number: 7647973Abstract: A tool is employed with a subsea wellhead assembly for preventing the collapse of a wear bushing located in a drill-through tubular member due to external test forces being applied to it. The tool has a connector that connects to the drill-through tubular member. A stem extends downward from the connector and has a reacting member at its lower end. The reacting member engages an inner diameter of the wear bushing to resist inwardly directed forces due to fluid pressure on the exterior of the wear bushing. The tool can be incorporated with a running tool or with a blowout preventer isolation test tool.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2006Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Marc Minassian, Robert K. Voss, Kevin G. Buckle, Steven P. Fenton
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Patent number: 7647974Abstract: A subsea wellhead assembly has separable tree modules that interconnect together. The lower tree module has a lower tree member having a bore with a valve for controlling production fluid flow. The upper tree module has an upper tree member with a bore and interface devices for monitoring the fluid flow as well as controlling the flow. A production line sub is carried alongside the upper tree member. The sub has a stab interface that stabs sealingly into a stab interface mounted alongside the lower tree member.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2006Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Steven P. Fenton
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Publication number: 20090283274Abstract: An apparatus having a hot stab having a fluid conduit connector thereon, a hydraulic hose having a connector assembly at an end thereof suitable for joining to the fluid conduit connector of the hot stab, and a sleeve affixed to the hot stab and to the hydraulic hose so as to extend over and surround the fluid conduit connector and the connector assembly. A jam nut is affixed to the tubular portion of the fluid conduit connector. The sleeve is threadedly connected to the threaded exterior surface of the jam nut. A crimp fitting is secured to an end of the hydraulic hose. A hose swivel extends around a crimp fitting and is affixed around the fluid conduit connector of the hot stab.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2008Publication date: November 19, 2009Inventor: Mario R. Lugo