Submerged, Buoyant Wellhead Or Riser Patents (Class 166/350)
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Publication number: 20150068759Abstract: The present Invention concerns a clamp (20) for mounting upon an elongate member such as a riser (24) to be deployed underwater. The clamp may for example be intended to prevent movement of a buoyancy module along a riser. The clamp comprises a plurality of clamp bodies (22) to be placed at circumferential intervals about the elongate member. A strap (42) is provided which is to be placed around the clamp bodies and tensioned to urge the clamp bodies toward the elongate member, enabling the clamp to resist movement along it. The clamp bodies comprise respective spring elements (28) which are arranged, when the clamp is assembled and mounted, between the clamp bodies and the elongate member. The clamp bodies and the spring elements are shaped to permit them to be used in clamps having a range of different diameters and having a differing number of clamp bodies.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2013Publication date: March 12, 2015Applicant: Trelleborg Offshore U. K. Ltd.Inventors: Austin Harbison, David Somerville
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Publication number: 20150060079Abstract: A riser assembly and method of supporting a flexible pipe are disclosed. The assembly includes a riser; at least one buoyancy compensating element attached to the riser for providing positive, negative or neutral buoyancy to the riser; and a tethering element connecting a first point of the riser with a further point of the riser so as to form a hog bend or a sag bend in the riser.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2013Publication date: March 5, 2015Applicant: Wellstream International LimitedInventors: Richard Alasdair Clements, Yanqiu Zhang, Zhimin Tan, Yucheng Hou, Jiabei Yuan
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Publication number: 20150053413Abstract: A method of providing buoyancy, the method comprising the steps of: (a) adding a buoyant fluid to a container, the buoyant fluid comprising a base fluid, an activator and from 25 to 60% vol/vol microspheres; and (b) increasing the viscosity of the buoyant fluid to at least 80,000 mPa·s at a shear rate of 0.8 s?1 at 293K. The structure may be a tubular-shaped container that is used subsea, such as a frame of a cable laying plough. Embodiments thus provide a convenient method of adding buoyancy to a structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2014Publication date: February 26, 2015Inventor: Patrick Collins
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Patent number: 8960304Abstract: An underwater fluid transport apparatus (10) to transport a fluid between a sea bed (12) and the surface (14) of the sea vertically above the sea bed. A riser (20) is connected to a flexible pipe (32) leading to the sea surface (14). A retaining float (24) is installed around the riser in order to maintain the riser (20) in a stretched suspended position between the sea bed (12) and a subsurface region situated between the sea bed and the surface (14) of the sea. The flexible pipe (32) extends in a catenary curve between the riser (20) and the sea surface. An additional float (28) is installed between the riser (20) and the sea surface (14). The riser (20) is attached to the additional float (28) to increase the buoyancy of the riser.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2009Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Technip FranceInventor: Ange Luppi
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Patent number: 8960301Abstract: An underwater well is completed by extending an elongate stinger laterally outward from a vessel positioned at the water surface. The stinger is extended to curve downward toward a wellhead of the well. A well completion string is deployed from the vessel on the stinger while supporting the completing string to curve outward and downward from the vessel toward the wellhead. The completion string is then guided into the wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2011Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Travis Thomas Hailey, Jr., Thurman Philip Harrell
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Patent number: 8960302Abstract: A free-standing riser system connects a subsea source to a surface structure. The system includes a concentric free-standing riser comprising inner and outer risers defining an annulus there between. A lower end of the riser is fluidly coupled to the subsea source through a lower riser assembly (LRA) and one or more subsea flexible conduits. An upper end of the riser is connected to a buoyancy assembly and the surface structure through an upper riser assembly (URA) and one or more upper flexible conduits, the riser also mechanically connected to a buoyancy assembly that applies upward tension to the riser. The riser may be insulated for flow assurance, either by a flow assurance fluid in the annulus, insulation of the outside of the outer riser, or both. The system may include a hydrate inhibition system and/or a subsea dispersant system. The surface structure may be dynamically positioned.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2011Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignees: BP Corporation North America, Inc., BP Exploration Operating Company LimitedInventors: Roy Shilling, Paul W. Gulgowski, Jr., Philip D. Maule, Kevin Kennelley, Walter Greene, Robert W. Franklin, Vicki Corso, Tony Oldfield, Adam L. Ballard, Graeme Steele, David E. Wilkinson, Ricky Thethi, Chau Nguyen, Steve Hatton
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Publication number: 20150047852Abstract: A bottom-to-surface connection installation having a floating support and a turret and having: a plurality of risers having their top ends secured to a carrier structure a plurality of flexible pipes extending from the turret to the top ends of the risers; the flexible pipes including at least two first flexible pipes with positive buoyancy positioned at different heights; and guide modules secured to a tension leg and suitable for sliding along floats of the risers.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2013Publication date: February 19, 2015Inventor: Francois Regis Pionetti
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Patent number: 8955595Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a controllable supply of fluid, and optionally power and/or communication signals, to a subsea equipment are provided. The fluid may be a water-based fluid, oil-based fluid, or chemicals. The apparatus includes a reservoir disposed on a seabed for storing a supply of fluid for delivery to the subsea well equipment. A subsea pumping device is configured to receive the fluid from the reservoir, pressurize the fluid, and deliver the pressurized fluid to an accumulator of a hydraulic power unit disposed on the seabed. The hydraulic power unit can store the pressurized fluid and control an output of the pressurized fluid to the subsea well equipment, thereby providing a subsea fluid source for the subsea equipment.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2009Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Chukwuemeka U. Emecheta, Thomas E. O'Donnell, Omid Oujani, Hailing An, Baha T. Tanju, George Siappas
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Patent number: 8950474Abstract: A cap having a stinger adapted to be inserted into a bore of a subsea well element. The stinger includes locking means for locking to a profile in said bore, which locking means include a plurality of locking dogs. The locking dogs exhibit a large inclination face and a small inclination face, and are adapted to be actuated in a radial direction by an actuation sleeve. The small inclination face is divided by a slot, in which slot the large inclination face is arranged. A cam is arranged on the actuation sleeve and is adapted to extend into said slot. Alternatively, the small inclination face is divided by a cam arranged on the locking dog, on which the large inclination face is arranged, which cam is adapted to extend into a slot in the actuation sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2011Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Aker Subsea ASInventor: Jarmo Kekarainen
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Patent number: 8950499Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed which provides fluid communication between the inner bore and the annular space in a pipe-in-pipe system. Other embodiments disclose an apparatus which provides fluid communication between adjacent segments of the annular space, between the inner bore or the annular space and an external source in a pipe-in-pipe type system. Methods and systems are disclosed utilizing the various apparatus embodiments to transport well fluids in an offshore or onshore hydrocarbon production operation.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Antonio C. F. Critsinelis, Sid A. Mebarkia, Michael Quinney, Miguel Ruiz
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Publication number: 20140374117Abstract: Improved systems and methods for installing, maintaining and controlling a self-standing riser (SSR). SSRs are installed using wire pulleys or weights to place the SSRs over a wellhead. A flow diverter, which may be incorporated into or separate from a buoyancy chamber, allowing diversion of flow both into and out of an SSR. Non-annular buoyancy chambers configured to receive a riser of an SSR through a slot of the buoyancy chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2014Publication date: December 25, 2014Inventors: Geir Aune, Keith K. Millheim
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Patent number: 8905156Abstract: A template for use in positioning subsea wellbores that has a drop away funnel that extends laterally from the template. The drop away funnel is used to locate a piling adjacent the wellbores and is selectively detached from the template after installing the piling. A tang and clevis type assembly mounts the drop away funnel to the template, where the tang and clevis are coupled together with a main stud. The main stud is oriented substantially parallel with an axis of the drop away funnel; so that when the stud is removed, the drop away funnel can decouple from the template and slide axially downward along the piling.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2012Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Sibu Varghese, Clint Trimble, Christopher Loftin, Jeffrey Allen Raynal
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Patent number: 8905142Abstract: Disclosed herein is a guide frame (10) for location at one or more points along the length of a riser tower structure (112,114). The riser tower structure is of a type that has an upper end supported at a depth below the sea surface and has a central core (200) with one or more conduits (220) arranged therearound extending from the seabed toward the surface. In use, the guide frame guides the conduit (s) relative to the central core, said guide frame (10) being attachable to said riser tower structure non-continuously (40,50), thereby not becoming an integral part of said riser tower structure. Also disclosed is a riser tower comprising such guide frames.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2009Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Acergy France SAInventor: Jean-Luc Bernard Legras
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Patent number: 8899333Abstract: The invention discloses a subsea device comprising a can, a string of risers, a blowout preventer and a string of tie-back pipes. The blowout preventer is installed on the can. The top of risers is connected to a rig and its bottom is mounted on the blowout preventer. The upper of tie-back pipes is fixed to the can. The lower of tie-back pipes is mounted to a wellhead in the seabed by a subsea wellhead apparatus and connected to the casings for collecting oil/gas stored in formations by the subsea wellhead apparatus. A passage communicating the blowout preventer with tie-back pipe is jointed on the can. A pipeline, transporting oil/gas, mud and cuttings in drilling process, is divided into two sections, both tie-back pipes and casings, by the wellhead apparatus settled on seabed, thereby ensuring security of the rig in the drilling process and stronger operability of entire production system.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2008Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignees: China National Offshore Oil Corporation, China Oilfield Services LimitedInventors: Yongfeng Guo, Shaojun Ji, Changquan Tang
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Patent number: 8893802Abstract: The disclosure relates to an assembly including a supporting buoy and an anchoring assembly (28) comprising a base (100) attached to the bed (12) of the expanse of water. The assembly comprises a flexible anchoring line (30) connecting the anchoring assembly (28) to the supporting buoy (26). The anchoring line (30) comprises a lower section (84) made of chain links (92). The anchoring assembly (28) comprises a device (110) for guiding the lower section (84). The lower section (84) is movably mounted in the guide device (110) relative to the base (100), between an extended configuration and a contracted configuration, and a locking member (114) which can be released from the anchor line (30) on the anchoring assembly (28).Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2011Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Ange Luppi, Philippe Espinasse
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Patent number: 8888412Abstract: A bottom-to-surface connection installation between a plurality of undersea pipes resting on the sea bottom and a floating support on the surface and anchored to the sea bottom, the floating support including a turret; and a plurality of flexible hoses extending from the turret to respective ones of a plurality of rigid pipes, the rigid pipes providing connections between the flexible hoses and respective ones of the plurality of undersea pipes resting on the sea bottom, wherein the installation includes a guide structure maintained in the subsurface between the turret and the top of the rigid pipes, the guide structure being suitable for guiding the flexible hoses, the guide structure having a plurality of first guide elements with respective ones of the plurality of flexible hoses passing therethrough in such a manner that the flexible hose has at least a bottom flexible hose portion in a dipping catenary configuration, and a second flexible hose portion extending entirely above the point of contact betweenType: GrantFiled: May 18, 2011Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Saipem S.A.Inventors: François-Régis Pionetti, Damien Szyszka, Rami Chkir
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Patent number: 8881830Abstract: A riser pipe section (4) is disclose for offshore well drilling operations comprising a main tube element (6) having as an extension a male connector element (10) and a female connector element (9) comprising a first series of tenons. At least one auxiliary tube element (7) is secured to the male connector element (10) and to the female connector element (9) so that the main tube element (6) and the auxiliary tube element (7) jointly transmit tensile stresses between the male connector element (10) and the female connector element (9). A locking ring is mounted on the male connector element and the ring comprises a second series of tenons.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2008Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: IFP Energies NouvellesInventors: Gérard Papon, Emmanuel Persent
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Publication number: 20140326461Abstract: A buoyancy compensating element for connection to a flexible pipe and method of producing a buoyancy compensating element are disclosed. The buoyancy compensating element includes a first body portion and a further body portion, wherein the first and further body portion are configured to be connectable to each other and in use to encompass a portion of flexible pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2012Publication date: November 6, 2014Applicant: WELLSTREAM INTERNATIONAL LIMITEDInventors: Zhimin Tan, Yucheng Hou, Christopher Bush, John Rosche, Tricia Hill
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Publication number: 20140326460Abstract: A buoyancy compensating element for connection to a flexible pipe and method of producing a buoyancy compensating element are disclosed for increasing or decreasing buoyancy of the portion of flexible pipe. The buoyancy compensating element includes a body portion; and a channel extending through the body portion for receiving a portion of flexible pipe, wherein the body portion and channel are configured such that when a portion of flexible pipe is received in the channel, the portion of pipe has increasing ability to flex towards an end of the channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2012Publication date: November 6, 2014Applicant: WELLSTREAM INTERNATIONAL LIMITEDInventors: Zhimin Tan, George Karabelas
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Patent number: 8875805Abstract: A mobile drilling system comprising a top member with a drilling rig positioned thereon. The top member is removably engaged with a foundation member. The foundation member comprises a tower. The top member is moveable and adapted to be elevated out of the water for placement on top of the tower. The tower is preferably of concrete and extends out of the water and above any ice. A method is also described by which the top member is elevated out of the water either by jacking down legs or lifting by interaction with the tower.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: KV/Erner Concrete Solutions ASInventors: Jan-Diederik Advocaat, Jon Hermstad, Dag Nikolai Jenssen
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Patent number: 8869900Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a riser apparatus for use in offshore drilling for oil or other fossil fuels, the riser apparatus comprising: a plurality of riser sections coupled serially end-to-end, wherein each of the riser sections comprises: a tube having a first end and a second end; a first flanged that is mechanically joined to the first end of the tube; a second flanged that is mechanically joined to the second end of the tube; wherein the tube is constructed of an aluminum alloy; and wherein the flanges are constructed of the aluminum alloy; and wherein the riser apparatus has a length of approximately 1,500 meters or greater.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2008Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Alcoa Inc.Inventors: Ralph Sawtell, Matthew P. Kiley, Harry R. Zonker, James T. Burg, John W. Cobes
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Patent number: 8863847Abstract: An adjustable riser suspension system for suspending a riser under tension including a riser hanger, a mating sleeve rotationally coupled to the riser hanger, a ratchet-latch sleeve located inside the mating sleeve with an external profile configured to engage an internal profile of the mating sleeve and an internal profile configured to engage an externally threaded face of the riser. The riser hanger and mating sleeve are configured to move downward relative to the riser such that the mating sleeve fits over at least a portion of the riser, causing the ratchet-latch device to ratchet over the external threads of the riser. The mating sleeve is configured to rotate relative to the riser, causing the internal and external profiles of ratchet-latch device to lock the riser and the mating sleeve to prevent movement of the riser relative to the mating sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2011Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Delbert Edwin Vanderford, Max Van Adrichem
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Publication number: 20140305655Abstract: A top-tensioned riser system comprises a substantially vertical riser extending upward from the seafloor; a conductor surrounding an upper portion of the riser in spaced-apart relation; a coaxial keel guide surrounding a lower portion of the conductor; a tensioner attached to the conductor and the riser; a keel guide support structure attached to the keel guide and connected to the keel of a dry-tree, semi-submersible vessel; and, a keel joint centralizer attached to the riser proximate the keel guide and sized to prevent radial movement of the riser relative to the conductor. Side loads on the riser (such as those arising from displacement of the vessel from its nominal position or currents acting on the riser) are reacted from the riser to the conductor via the keel joint centralizer and thence to the keel of the vessel via the keel guide.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2014Publication date: October 16, 2014Applicant: Seahorse Equipment Corp.Inventors: Jeffrey Douglas Otten, Peimin Cao, Thomas Prichard
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Patent number: 8844632Abstract: An inertia transition terminal pipe element having a main rigid pipe element including at one of its ends an inertia transition piece that is constituted by at least one and preferably a plurality “n” of coaxial reinforcing pipe elements placed coaxially around the main pipe element, each reinforcing pipe element presenting an inside diameter greater than the outside diameter of the main pipe element. The various main and reinforcing pipe elements each being positioned with one end situated at the same level along the axis of symmetry of the pipe elements, and each reinforcing pipe element presenting a length that is less than the height of the main pipe element. The annular gap between the various pipe elements being filled with a solid filler material. A rigid undersea pipe is also disclosed including at at least one of its ends, an inertia transition pipe element.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2009Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Saipem S.A.Inventor: François-Régis Pionetti
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Patent number: 8833458Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an installation (10) that includes a floating top structure (20) and a fully submerged bottom structure (22). The top structure is mobile between a production position and an evacuation position. The installation (10) retains the top structure (20) in its production position which includes at least one rigid rod (90) carried by the top structure (20), at least one rod abutment (92) carried by the rigid rod (90) in the vicinity of its lower end and at least one complementary abutment (94) secured to a base (60) of the bottom structure (22). Each rod abutment (92) and each complementary abutment (94) are mobile in rotation relative to one another between an engaged configuration in which urging of the rigid rod (90) towards its top position (20) retains the top structure in its production position, and a disengaged configuration releasing the top structure (20) from the bottom structure (22).Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2009Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Technip FranceInventor: Sami Malek
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Patent number: 8833460Abstract: A suspension device (14) for suspending an oil pipe on an underwater float (12) between a seabed and a sea surface and a method for installing such a device. The device (14) includes two hitching members (16,18) that respectively comprise a connection end (22, 22) and an attachment end (24, 24). The hitching members are respectively attached to the float (12) and to the coupling end (10) of the pipe by the fastener thereof while the connection ends (24, 24) are connected by connectors (20, 20). The connection end (22, 22) of each hitching member (16, 18) comprises two hooks (44, 46, 44, 46). The connectors include two independent links (20) for parallel adjustment so as to connect, two by two, the hooks (44, 46, 44?, 46?) of the two hitching members (16, 18).Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2010Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Ange Luppi, Anthony Berger
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Patent number: 8820412Abstract: Disclosed are methods, systems and apparatus for circulating fluid within the annulus of a flexible pipe used in a riser in an offshore hydrocarbon production facility. Fluid, such corrosion inhibitors, can be introduced into the annulus by pumping fluid from a storage tank located on a platform or vessel into tubes within the annulus. Use of the system to flow the fluid through the annulus can prevent or reduce corrosion of the steel members within the annulus and increase the fatigue life of the riser.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2011Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Antonio C. F. Critsinelis, Christopher A. Kassner, Farzan Parsinejad, Ahmed Omar
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Patent number: 8820410Abstract: A modular control system consisting of multiple, remotely retrievable functional modules for controlling a blowout preventer stack. The various functional modules can be located on the lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack positioned near the equipment with which they are associated, wherein this distribution of modules nearly eliminates the complex interface connection between the lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack. Each of the functional modules is capable of being installed, retrieved or replaced with a single remotely operated vehicle (ROV) deployment from a vessel. The functional modules can be used to operate as a complete control system for a blowout preventer stack or can be used selectively individually or in various combinations to accommodate multiple control applications or upgrades of other control systems.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: DTC International, Inc.Inventors: William C. Parks, Dana C. Beebe, Chester W. Kronke
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Patent number: 8813851Abstract: A method is described for connecting a flexible upper riser part to a lower riser part via an upper riser assembly supporting a lower riser termination. The method includes securing a cable linkage to a riser connector at the lower end of the flexible upper riser part. The method includes operating a winching means on the upper riser assembly to wind in the cable linkage and draw the riser connector into a docking position on the upper riser assembly. Then coupling the riser connector to the lower riser termination occurs. A corresponding method of disconnecting the flexible riser part is also described, as well as a method of mounting the winching mechanism on a submerged landing platform.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2010Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Subsea 7 LimitedInventors: Mark Lawrence Varley, Wilfred Johnson Emmanuel Cox
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Patent number: 8813852Abstract: A subsea wellhead assembly includes a production casing hanger defining a series of passageways from an annulus between a production casing string and an outer casing to a region that can communicate, for example, by way of an isolation sleeve, with a production tree. The passageways extend to the interior of the casing hanger. A positionally adjustable sleeve fits within the casing hanger and carries exterior seals that are disposed so that for a first position of the adjustable sleeve within the casing hanger, fluid passage through the series of passageways is blocked, and for a second position of the sleeve within the casing hanger, the fluid passage is allowed. The adjustable sleeve can be operated by a simple tool through the production tree.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2009Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Aker Subsea LimitedInventor: George S. Thomson
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Patent number: 8807226Abstract: Subsea wellhead assembly with an inner bore for conduction of produced hydrocarbons, equipped with a cooling means for cooling a section of the wellhead assembly exposed to heating by said hydrocarbons.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2010Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Aker Subsea ASInventor: Øystein Møgedal
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Patent number: 8800664Abstract: A buoyancy module assembly reduces the effective weight of a sub-sea conduit used in a deep-water wellbore drilling installation. The assembly includes a buoyant sleeve positioned around the conduit between upper and lower stop collar assemblies. The sleeve contains buoyant material forming most of its cross-section, with cross sectional segments thereof each encapsulated in a non-porous resinous material that forms an outer jacket around each segment. In one embodiment, a non-rotating generally circular inside diameter of the sleeve is formed by the thin layer of jacket material bonded directly to an interior reinforcing cage. A narrow gap is formed between the ID of the non-rotating sleeve and the OD of the conduit. The collar assemblies comprise an inner collar rigidly affixed to the conduit and contained within a larger diameter outer shell adapted for rotation relative to the fixed inner collar.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2010Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: WWT North America Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Eric Gollmyer, Norman Bruce Moore, Sarah Mitchell, Rudolph Ernest Krueger, IV
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Patent number: 8800665Abstract: A structural health monitoring system for a marine composite riser string is provided. Each riser pipe section includes a cylindrical form having an axis and also a carbon epoxy matrix. A sensor is associated with (e.g., embedded in) and substantially circumscribes the riser pipe section. The sensor includes a PolyVinyliDene Fluoride laminate and electrodes (e.g., conductive silver ink coating) so that the sensor generates electricity at the electrodes responsive to mechanical stresses and strains of the riser section, including vibrations. The system can also include a data acquisition system and digital signal analyzer to analyze signals responsive to the generated electricity at the electrodes of sensors and to provide health monitoring and damage detection for the marine riser pipe string, including impact damage and fatigue crack initiation.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2010Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Ashutosh Chandrashekhar Phadke
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Publication number: 20140216751Abstract: An apparatus comprises a telescoping marine riser action and one of a rotating control device and an annular blow out preventer. The telescoping marine riser section comprises an inner barrel and an outer barrel.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2014Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: M-I L.L.C.Inventor: Bastiaan Liezenberg
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Patent number: 8789606Abstract: A system for controlling functions of a subsea structure, such as a blowout preventer, has a plurality of actuators respectively affixed to a plurality of controls of the subsea structure, and an acoustic signal generator positioned remotely from the plurality of actuators. Each of the plurality of actuators has a transponder connected thereto. The acoustic signal generator produces an acoustic signal so as to actuate at least one of the plurality of actuators. Each of the actuators is an electrically-powered torque wrench having a battery affixed there to so as to supply power thereto. An induction generator can transmit an electromagnetic wave along the tubing associated with the blowout preventer so as to recharge the batteries of the torque wrenches.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2011Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Trendsetter Engineering, Inc.Inventor: Mario R. Lugo
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Patent number: 8783359Abstract: An apparatus, system and method is disclosed for processing geological solids or wellbore cuttings generated by excavation or drilling under a body of water. An apparatus for processing solids in association with a riser may employ a solids processing apparatus having a central cavity that is substantially free of mechanical obstructions. The central cavity may be positioned in-line with the riser. The apparatus may be adapted for receiving solids within the central cavity and reducing the particle size of the solids by action of a cutter assembly which is positioned outside of the central cavity. The cut and processed solids may be pumped to the surface of the water.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2010Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventor: Larry D. Reed
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Patent number: 8776894Abstract: An offshore universal riser system may include a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device may releasably secure the valve module in the passage. A method of constructing a riser system may include the steps of installing the valve module in the passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the passage. The annular seal module may prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the passage. Drilling methods may include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, may be dimensioned for installation through a rotary table.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Charles R. Orbell, Christian Leuchtenberg, Craig W. Godfrey
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Publication number: 20140174753Abstract: A system (10) for managed pressure drilling, or for workover of a hydrocarbon well with a wellhead, the system comprising a floating structure that is located in a body of water (41). A method is also described for connecting up the system for managed pressure drilling or well workover. The floating structure comprises a drill floor (13) and a work deck (14) that is movably arranged in an essentially vertical direction in relation to the drill floor. The system further comprises a riser (28) and a slip joint (32) that is connected to the underside of the work floor and to the upper end of the riser such that the work deck can be moved relative to the riser. The riser extends from the slip joint down to a wellhead valve device (40) arranged on the wellhead of the hydrocarbon well. The floating arrangement also comprises heave-compensated riser tensioners (17) which are connected to the slip joint such that the riser is held under tension.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2012Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: Moss Maritime ASInventors: Per Herbert Kristensen, Lars Martin Sørhaug, Knut A. Sveen, Morten Bøhlerengen
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Publication number: 20140166296Abstract: A multi-tiered self-standing riser system includes one or more intermediate buoyancy chambers configured to provide an upward lifting force on strings of associated riser assemblies. The intermediate chambers have either an open-bottomed or closed container design. The chambers can further include an auxiliary buoyant material designed to either mix with or contain pressurized fluids injected into the chambers. The self-standing riser system further includes a lower riser assembly affixed to a primary well-drilling fixture. The system also includes an upper riser assembly and one or more additional buoyancy chambers disposed in either direct or indirect communication with one another, as well as with drilling, production and exploration equipment as required by associated operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2013Publication date: June 19, 2014Inventor: Keith K. Millheim
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Patent number: 8746351Abstract: Systems and methods for stabilizing a riser or similar object against motion can include engaging two or more cylinder apparatus to the object. Communication of fluid between cylinder apparatus, responsive to a force on the object, can limit movement of the object, such as through extension or retraction of pistons within the cylinders. The cylinder apparatus can include internal channels that can accommodate coiled tubing, slickline, wireline, and similar conduits or devices, enabling operations to be performed through the cylinders, independent of their position.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Wright's Well Control Services, LLCInventor: David Wright
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Patent number: 8746349Abstract: A drilling riser adapter variably connects and releases a riser from a subsea wellhead assembly. The drilling riser adapter has a hydraulically actuated engagement assembly for selectively engaging and disengaging a lower end of the marine riser. The drilling riser adapter also includes a control panel communicatively coupled to the engagement assembly for actuating the engagement assembly to engage and disengage the lower end of the marine riser. The drilling riser adapter also includes a hydraulic fluid pressure receptacle on the control panel for engagement by a remotely operated vehicle to supply hydraulic fluid pressure to the engagement assembly. The drilling riser adapter may be actuated subsea to release a first riser from the wellhead assembly, and connect to a second riser.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Eric Dale Larson, Robert Allen Blue
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Patent number: 8734055Abstract: This method comprises connecting a downstream point (40) of a pipe (24) to a buoy (26) and completely submerging the buoy (26). It comprises deploying in the body of water (12) an intermediate section (30) of the pipe (24) from the downstream point (40) to at least as far as an upstream point (38), anchoring the upstream point (38), and tensioning the intermediate section (30) to keep it vertical. The height of the buoy (26) is less than 1.5 times its greatest transverse dimension. The method comprises moving the buoy (26) between a remote position and an installed position in line with an anchoring region, keeping the buoy (26) partly submerged on the surface (16) of the body of water.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2009Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Jeroen Remery, Romain Vivet, Christophe Defreslon, Ange Luppi
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Patent number: 8733446Abstract: The invention relates to a riser pipe installation that comprises a flexible duct of the non-bound type, the duct being vertically arranged between a mechanical connection with a submerged buoy at the stub on the one hand, and a mechanical connection with the seabed at the bottom on the other hand, wherein fluid connections are provided at the stub and at the bottom for connecting the riser pipe with surface equipment on the one hand and bottom equipment on the other hand; the bottom of the pipe is located at a depth of at least 1000 m where it is submitted to a computable maximum reverse bottom effect F, while the buoy is oversized in order to generate at the bottom of the riser pipe a reaction tension T higher than at least 50% or even 100% of the computable maximum reverse bottom effect F applied at the bottom of the pipe.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2008Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Technip FranceInventors: Philippe Espinasse, Alain Coutarel, Isabel Teresa Waclawek
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Patent number: 8727014Abstract: A tensioning apparatus for applying a substantially constant tension to a workover riser (12) includes a first portion (40) adapted to be coupled to a workover riser, a second portion (44) adapted to be coupled to a marine riser (14) and tensioning means (46) for providing relative movement between the first portion and the second portion to, in use, tension, the workover riser.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Enovate Systems LimitedInventor: Jeffrey Edwards
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Patent number: 8727013Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 4, 2010Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: DTC International, Inc.Inventors: Margaret M. Buckley, David C. Baskett
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Patent number: 8720583Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining and reacting to an upper packer failure in a riser slip joint. An upper packer failure is determined by comparing pressures at two points in the upper packer pressure circuit using a differential pressure valve. In the event of a failure of the upper packer, a secondary pressure source is used to energize a lower packer in the riser slip joint.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2008Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Transocean Sedco Forex Ventures LimitedInventor: Bradley Ray Rodger
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Patent number: 8720586Abstract: A casing hanger seal assembly is lowered into a pocket between a casing hanger and a wellhead housing while in a run-in position. The seal assembly has a metal-to-metal upper seal ring and an elastomeric and metal lower seal ring carried by and below the upper seal ring. The upper and lower seal rings are movable from a run-in position to a set position sealing between the sidewalls of the casing hanger and the wellhead housing by applying a downward force. The downward force required to move the lower seal ring to the set position is less than the downward force required to move the upper seal ring to the set position. A downward force applied to the upper seal ring after the lower seal ring has landed in the pocket transfers to the lower seal ring to cause the lower seal ring to move to the set position before the upper seal ring moves to the set position.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Khanh Anh Duong
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Patent number: 8708052Abstract: Systems, computer readable medium, program code, and methods for monitoring and managing a plurality of marine riser assets are provided. An example of a system includes a computer and a computer readable medium containing a program code of instructions that when executed by the computer, cause the computer to perform operations for tracking the subsea deployment and retrieval of each of a plurality of riser joints. The operations can include receiving riser joint identification data from a riser joint identification indicator connected to the respective riser joint during the operational deployment thereof, and identifying the respective riser joint being operationally deployed to thereby track the deployment thereof. The operations can also include receiving riser joint identification data from the riser identification indicator of the respective riser joint during retrieval thereof, and identifying the respective one or more riser joints being retrieved to thereby track the retrieval thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2012Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Amin Radi
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Patent number: 8672039Abstract: An apparatus for performing well intervention work using coiled tubing. The apparatus includes a structural frame. The upper portion of the frame include two winches for suspending well interventions tools including a coiled tubing injector head. The winches may be selective reciprocated by a hydraulic cylinder to either bring the first or second winch into operative alignment into or out of alignment with a subsea wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Devin International, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Hayden Miller, III, Joseph Hayden Miller, Jr.
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Patent number: 8657012Abstract: A riser for use in subsea operations that is parked subsea deployed as needed onto wellheads disposed proximate where the riser is parked. A base anchored into the seafloor provides a pedestal for parking the riser. The riser emits a beacon signal so it can be located when needed. When parked, the riser can be kept in a vertical orientation by a buoyancy module mounted on an upper portion of the riser. A workboat, or other vessel, attaches to the parked riser and positions it onto a designated wellhead. An extension connects the riser to platform or other vessel above the sea surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2010Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Stephen P. Fenton, Ian Calder, Stewart Christie, Robert Lee