Means Removably Connected To Permanent Well Structure Patents (Class 166/351)
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Patent number: 8960303Abstract: A gooseneck conduit system for use with a telescoping joint of a subsea riser. In one embodiment, a riser telescoping joint includes a tube, and a gooseneck conduit assembly affixed to the tube. The gooseneck conduit assembly includes a plurality of gooseneck conduits and a locking mechanism. The gooseneck conduits extend radially from the tube. The locking mechanism engages a locking pin affixed to the tube to secure the gooseneck conduit assembly to the tube. Each gooseneck conduit couples to an auxiliary fluid line secured to the telescoping joint.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2011Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: David L. Gilmore, William F. Puccio
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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: 8950497Abstract: Disclosed are methods for installing at least two subsea functional lines having differing functions, such as a subsea umbilical and a subsea flowline, and integrated termination assemblies for use in the methods. The integrated termination assemblies combine terminations of the at least two subsea functional lines, simplifying the layout of a subsea production field, reducing the number of connections necessary and simplifying the installation of subsea functional lines used in offshore hydrocarbon production.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2012Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Antonio Carlos Falcao Critsinelis, Selvakumar Subramaniam, Leo George Caffrey, David Jonathan Knight, Brian Robert Ferrier
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Publication number: 20150027718Abstract: Provided is a system, including a first module (35b) configured to process fluid from a well, wherein the first module (35b) has an extension conduit (5b), having a connection that is coupleable to a central mandrel of a manifold (5), a processing device arranged in a region surrounding the extension conduit (5b), a processing input (18a), and a processing output (19a). Further provided is a method of processing well fluids, including diverting fluids from a bore of a manifold (1) to a processing module (35b), wherein the processing module (35b) is coupled to a mandrel of the manifold (5), processing the fluids in the processing module (35b), and returning the fluids to a flowpath (19a) for recovery.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2014Publication date: January 29, 2015Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATIONInventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
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Patent number: 8925636Abstract: A system for sampling production well production fluids from a manifold interface panel on a subsea production manifold. In some embodiments, the system includes a remotely operated vehicle, a skid coupled to the remotely operated vehicle, a sample tank supported on the skid, and a fluid transfer pump operable to convey production fluid from at least one of the production wells through the manifold interface panel into the sample tank.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2013Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Mike Cumming, Alan Dawson, Roger Osborne
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Patent number: 8919445Abstract: Method of managing hydrates in a subsea production system that includes a host production facility, one or more producers, one or more water injectors, a water injection line, and a single production line for directing production fluids from the producers to the host production facility. The method comprises placing a pig in the subsea production system, shutting in production from the producers, and injecting a displacement fluid into the subsea production system in order to displace production fluids in the production line. The method also includes applying electrically resistive heat along a selected portion of the single production line to maintain production fluids within the production line at a temperature above a hydrate formation temperature after production has been shut in.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventor: Tracy A. Fowler
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Patent number: 8919450Abstract: A collet connection insulation apparatus has a frame having a first portion hingedly connected to a second portion such that the first and second portions are movable between an open position and a closed position, a first insulation section affixed to the first portion of the frame, a second insulation section affixed to the second portion of the frame, and a latch for locking the first and second portions of the frame in the closed position. The interior volume of the insulation sections is suitable for receiving the collet connection therein. The latch is slidably mounted on one portion of the frame so as to engage a sloted flange on another portion of the frame. The latch can be manipulated by a remotely-operated vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2012Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Pinnacle Engineering Inc.Inventors: Peter A. Cruz, Terence F. Townend, Jeffrey A. Liggett
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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: 8887812Abstract: A containment system having a containment dome and a seal plate which is attached to an oil wellhead casing or riser to prevent oil spills and contamination when an oil leak occurs. The containment dome is sealed to the seal plate by a compression mechanism so that oil will not leak from the containment dome. The containment dome can provide a wellhead patch to a wellhead system wherein the wellhead patch can interface with a capping stack. Chemicals can be injected into the containment dome to prevent hydrates from forming. All aspects of controlling and operating an oil wellhead can be performed through the containment dome and seal plate, and all aspects of installation, regulation, and control of the containment dome can be performed by remote operating vehicles under water.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2011Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Safestack Technology L.L.C.Inventors: William M. Caldwell, James P. Payne, Jr.
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Publication number: 20140332223Abstract: A system for producing well production fluids through a tubing hanger connected with a tubing string, in certain embodiments, includes a subsea tree and a tubing spool. The subsea tree includes a production flow passage, and the tubing spool includes a longitudinal bore configured to receive the tubing hanger and a lateral production flow passage configured to transfer well production fluids to the production flow passage of the subsea tree. The subsea tree and the tubing spool are configured to be run and retrieved independently of one another in any order.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2014Publication date: November 13, 2014Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATIONInventor: David R. June
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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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Patent number: 8881831Abstract: 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: November 11, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Charles R. Orbell, Christian Leuchtenberg, Craig W. Godfrey
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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: 8863846Abstract: A jack system may provide subsea or surface operation. The jack system includes a top plate and a base plate with at least two pistons disposed between the base and top plate. The pistons are extendable to increase a separation distance between the base and top plate, and said pistons are retractable to decrease the separation distance between the base and top plate. The jack system also includes a bottom slip bowl assembly, a top slip bowl assembly, and rotary assembly. The top slip bowl and rotary assembly are rotatably coupled to the top plate wherein the rotary assembly and the top slip bowl assembly rotate relative to the top plate.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Cudd Pressure Control, Inc.Inventors: Charles Curtis Overstreet, Scott Michael Cunningham, J. E. Skip Ward
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Publication number: 20140305656Abstract: The present invention relates to subsea control modules (SCMs). According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a subsea control module (10) comprising a hydraulic manifold (12) and two separately retrievable subsea electronic modules (24a, 24b). The present invention also relates to a method of maintaining a subsea control module, and to a method of modifying an existing subsea control module.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2012Publication date: October 16, 2014Applicant: SUBC SOLUTIONS ASInventors: Asgeir Salen, Bjørn Endresen
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Publication number: 20140305657Abstract: A method and a device for enabling the use of riserless drilling fluid recovery from a seabed-based borehole (1) which is to be drilled by means of a casing (26), the casing (26) being provided with a drill bit (28) at its lower portion and with an inner wellhead (30) at its upper portion, and there being a conductor casing (6), which has an outer wellhead (8), in the seabed (2), the method including:—providing a suction module (12) with a dividable adapter (16) which fits complementarily in the outer wellhead (8);—drilling a length of the borehole (1) by means of the casing (26) extending through the suction module (12), while, at the same time, drilling fluid is flowing via the suction module (12) from the borehole (1);—subsequently pulling the adapter (16) up from the outer wellhead (8) and dividing the adapter (16); and—lowering the casing (26) with the inner wellhead (30) through the suction module (12) and the adapter (16) to its position in the outer wellhead (8).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2012Publication date: October 16, 2014Applicant: AGR SUBSEA ASInventor: Bernt Eikemo
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Patent number: 8857520Abstract: A method for riserless intervention of a subsea well includes: lowering a pressure control assembly (PCA) from a vessel to a subsea production tree; fastening the PCA to the tree; lowering a control pod from the vessel to the PCA using an umbilical; fastening the control pod to the PCA; lowering an end of a fluid conduit from the vessel to the PCA; and fastening the fluid conduit to the PCA using a dry break connection.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2011Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Wild Well Control, Inc.Inventors: Corey Eugene Hoffman, Stace Brac McDaniel, Paul Alexander Blaikie
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Patent number: 8851182Abstract: A well production system including a wellhead and a first casing string supported from a first casing hanger landed on a shoulder in the wellhead bore. A loading shoulder assembly is installable in the wellhead and includes an energizing ring, a loading ring threaded into the interior of the energizing ring, a lock ring, and a hold-down ring threaded into the interior of the loading ring. The hold-down ring engages the first casing hanger to prevent rotation of the hold-down ring and restrain rotation of the loading ring. The lock ring is expandable from an unset position into supporting engagement with the wellhead in a set position upon rotation of the energizing ring. The hold-down ring is also moveable axially out of the loading ring to restrain the first casing hanger.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2009Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Dennis P. Nguyen, Kirk P. Guidry, Haw Keat Lim
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Publication number: 20140262310Abstract: A riser tension augmentation system includes a riser joint collar and a plurality of inflatable sleeves attached to the riser joint collar. Each inflatable sleeve includes a fill valve, a relief valve, and a bleed valve. A method of augmenting riser tension includes attaching a riser joint collar to a riser joint and attaching a plurality of inflatable sleeves to the riser joint collar.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: Albert Michael Regan
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Publication number: 20140262312Abstract: A downhole bypass valve utilizes a stationary sleeve defining an interior ball-seat. When a dropped ball is seated, fluid differential pressure is diverted to an annular area adjacent a first sliding sleeve. The sleeve slides in response to the pressure differential upon shearing of a shear pin, or similar, and opens ports to the wellbore annulus. Treatment or maintenance operations can then occur through the ports, which can be fitted with nozzles. A second sliding sleeve, independent from the first, is operated in response to dropping a second ball into the device. The second ball diverts fluid differential pressure to an annular area adjacent the second sleeve and movement occurs when a shear pin shears. The second sleeve covers the ports to the wellbore annulus and closes the valve. After a sliding sleeve shifts, pressure across the sleeve is equalized, allowing reverse flow without risk of accidental sleeve actuation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: David J. Tilley
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Publication number: 20140262311Abstract: Temporary abandonment caps include a cap body having an opening therethrough, and an inner sleeve that provides access to the wellbore, where the inner sleeve can be accessed through the opening in the cap body when a removable cover is removed. The inner sleeve also includes an injection port and a channel through which fluids for protecting the wellhead can be injected. The temporary abandonment caps can remain in place while performing well operations and ensuring that the sealing surfaces on a wellhead remain protected from corrosion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Matthew Charles Peterson, Rick Graff
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Patent number: 8833459Abstract: A system and method for channeling fluids from underwater to the surface. Including a channel system for channeling the fluids from an oil leak through the channel system starting from an underwater pipe leak to a containment reservoir at a sea surface. In one aspect, the channel system is made up of interchange parts, where some are flexible, attachable, and/or can influence the flow of the fluids inside the channel system.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2011Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Inventor: Matthew Carl O'Malley
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Patent number: 8833443Abstract: A well tool can include a swellable material, and a degradable material which supports the swellable material, but which degrades in response to contact with a selected fluid in a well. A packer for use in a subterranean well can include a swellable material, and a degradable material which supports the swellable material. A method of unsetting a packer in a subterranean well can include the steps of, after the packer has been set in the well, exposing a degradable material of the packer to a selected fluid, thereby degrading the degradable material, and a seal element of the packer being unsupported by the degradable material in response to the exposing step.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Alf Kolbjørn Sevre
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Patent number: 8826989Abstract: A method for capping a subsea wellbore having a failed blowout preventer proximate the bottom of a body of water includes lowering a replacement blowout preventer system into the water from a vessel on the water surface. The replacement blowout preventer system includes an hydraulic pressure source disposed proximate well closure elements on the replacement blowout preventer system. The replacement blowout preventer system is coupled to the failed blowout preventer. The well closure elements on the replacement blowout preventer system are actuated using the hydraulic pressure source.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2012Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Noble Drilling Services Inc.Inventor: Orlan Lyle
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Publication number: 20140246202Abstract: A method and a device are for extending the lifetime of a Christmas tree. The Christmas tree is provided with at least a first high-pressure hydraulic valve pack, a first low-pressure hydraulic valve pack or a first chemical valve pack, and the Christmas tree is arranged to be connectable to an umbilical, which comprises at least electrical power or control cables, hydraulic tubes or chemical tubes.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2012Publication date: September 4, 2014Applicant: SUBSEA SOLUTIONSInventor: Torfinn Borsheim
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Patent number: 8813853Abstract: Temporary abandonment caps include a cap body having an opening therethrough, and an inner sleeve that provides access to the wellbore, where the inner sleeve can be accessed through the opening in the cap body when a removable cover is removed. The inner sleeve also includes an injection port and a channel through which fluids for protecting the wellhead can be injected. The temporary abandonment caps can remain in place while performing well operations and ensuring that the sealing surfaces on a wellhead remain protected from corrosion.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Matthew Charles Peterson, Rick Graff
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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: 8794333Abstract: A combination blowout preventer and recovery device, comprising a lower part that is placed over a well pipe, and an upper part having a channel and plates to close it. The large end of the valve is placed over a well pipe through which fluid is flowing out. The small end of the valve is connected to the channel. A sleeve connected to the return pipe is placed over the well pipe. Positioning rings are attached to a high pressure pipe, that can fit inside the well pipe. Grinders remove matter from the well pipe. Pistons are attached to each of the plates. The pistons propel the plates across the channel to seal it off and stop the leak. Flanges may limit the pistons' movement. Gears can engage teeth on the pistons to withdraw the plates from the channel, to reopen it and allow the flow of fluid to resume.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2013Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Milanovich Investments, L.L.C.Inventor: Philip John Milanovich
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Publication number: 20140196954Abstract: A jetting tool includes a tubular housing having: couplings formed at each longitudinal end thereof, and one or more ports formed through a wall thereof and in fluid communication with an upper portion of a bore of the housing. The jetting tool further includes a valve mechanism isolating the housing bore upper portion from a lower portion thereof in a closed position and operable to an open position where the valve mechanism provides fluid communication between the housing bore portions.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2013Publication date: July 17, 2014Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Azfar Mahmood, Khalid Imtiaz, Santosh Bhadran, Mir Mohammed Hussain Shahnawaz
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Patent number: 8776893Abstract: Provided is a system, including a first module (35b) configured to process fluid from a well, wherein the first module (35b) has an extension conduit (5b), having a connection that is coupleable to a central mandrel of a manifold (5), a processing device arranged in a region surrounding the extension conduit (5b), a processing input (18a), and a processing output (19a). Further provided is a method of processing well fluids, including diverting fluids from a bore of a manifold (1) to a processing module (35b), wherein the processing module (35b) is coupled to a mandrel of the manifold (5), processing the fluids in the processing module (35b), and returning the fluids to a flowpath (19a) for recovery.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
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Patent number: 8776892Abstract: A system for rotating an element inside a pressure containing housing. In some embodiments, the mechanism includes a pressure containing housing having an opening through a wall of the housing into an internal chamber in which, in use, the element to be rotated is located, a bushing located within the opening, and a worm gear rotatably mounted in the bushing. The worm gear is offset from the axial centre of the bushing such that rotation of the bushing moves the worm gear between an extended position, wherein the thread of the worm gear engages an element in the chamber, and a retracted position, wherein the thread is disengaged from the element in the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Robert Fern, Ted Thornburrow
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Patent number: 8739882Abstract: The present invention regards a subsea cooling unit having an inlet for a hot fluid and an outlet for cooled fluid, the cooling unit comprising a number of coils exposed to seawater, and means for generating a flow of seawater past the coils, where the means for generating the flow of seawater comprises a propeller and a rotatable actuator and that the cooler is enclosed in a duct.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2008Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea ASInventors: Vidar Sten-Halvorsen, Erik Baggerud, Terje Hollingsaeter
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Patent number: 8739883Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 28, 2009Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Aker Subsea ASInventors: Lasse E. Aarnes, Andre M. Smith
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Patent number: 8733452Abstract: A connector includes a male flange and a female flange allowing to assemble a main tube and auxiliary line tubes. A locking ring assembles the male flange and the female flange. The locking ring is mounted mobile in rotation on the outer periphery of the male flange while cooperating with the outer periphery of the male and female flanges.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2011Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignees: IFP Energies Nouvelles, Aker Subsea ASInventors: Jean Guesnon, Gerard Papon, Emmanuel Persent, Oystein Luktvasslimo, Jaan Anderson, Bjorn Paulshus
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Patent number: 8727012Abstract: A gasket test protector sleeve is provided for subsea mineral extraction equipment. The gasket test protector sleeve includes a gasket test isolation portion. The gasket test isolation portion is configured to isolate a gasket between a first tubular and a second tubular of a subsea mineral extraction system. The bore protection portion is configured to protect a first bore of the first tubular during downhole procedures.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2011Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventor: Venkatesh Bhat
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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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Publication number: 20140131048Abstract: A method and apparatus are for supplying liquids for scale treatment and killing to a subsea well, where the subsea well is provided with a tree which has a swab valve and a coupling for a tree cap.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2012Publication date: May 15, 2014Applicant: Subsea Solutions ASInventor: Torfinn Borsheim
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Patent number: 8720576Abstract: A method of mounting a subsea control module (1) on a mounting plate (10) of an underwater tree of a subsea hydrocarbon well comprises lowering the module to the plate and attaching the module to the plate with an adapter (6) between it and the plate and with portions of the module being coupled with portions of the mounting plate.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2009Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Kevin Marlow, Phillip Tarr, Steven Lewis Charles Simpson, Harry Richard Cove
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Publication number: 20140116716Abstract: A spool module for a subsea well production tree and system is presented. The spool module is similar to traditional process modules, except that the spool module includes all its components and their conduits inside one body (or block). This module includes retrievable components used for production and annulus flow lines into one package. The spool module includes the production choke, annulus choke, and conduit bores integral in the block. The spool module includes all of these elements machined into one body having no additional conduits or piping outside of the body. The spool module may also be used in connection with a subsea tree during production of a well, or with several wells on a template or as part of a manifold.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2012Publication date: May 1, 2014Inventors: Jack H. Vincent, Brian Stiel, John T. Bogard
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Patent number: 8695711Abstract: A subsea well containment and intervention apparatus. The invention provides a rigid frame that includes a set of pilings for securely affixing the apparatus to the seafloor. Buoyancy modules included in the frame make the weight of the invention more manageable when in the water. Lifting eyes are provided on the frame for installation and removal. A series of tools are attached to the frame to eliminate the need for frequent trips to the surface to replace and replenish.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: J. Ray McDermott, S.A.Inventors: Alp A. Kocaman, John George Nolte, III
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Publication number: 20140090854Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2013Publication date: April 3, 2014Applicant: Mako Rentals, Inc.Inventors: Kip M. Robichaux, Kenneth G. Caillouet, Terry P. Robichaux
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Publication number: 20140090853Abstract: A subsea containment system for capturing fluids leaking from a subsea well includes a clamping assembly and a storage system. The clamp assembly includes an annular clamp body configured to be disposed about the upper end of the well and a fluid outlet extending from the clamp body. The fluid outlet is in fluid communication with an inner cavity of the clamp body. The storage system is coupled to the fluid outlet of the clamping assembly. The storage system includes a first storage tank having an inlet in fluid communication with the inner cavity of the clamp body and a plurality of vertically spaced outlets.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: April 3, 2014Inventors: Paul Edward Anderson, Troy A. Fraske, Daniel Gutierrez, Fred L. Smith, Luis J. Gutierrez
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Patent number: 8684090Abstract: A telescopic riser section device for a riser which is arranged to connect a wellhead to a surface vessel, the telescopic riser section being placed between the wellhead and the riser and being provided with at least one actuator arranged to apply a downward tensile force to the riser; an actuator-pressurizing circuit being connected to the at least one actuator and being arranged on the riser section and/or on the riser.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2009Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Norocean ASInventor: Trond Haugland
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Patent number: 8684089Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid circulation system for circulating fluid in a subsea cavity, the cavity being filled with a first fluid and having first and second end ports. The system comprises a container (26) containing a second fluid, fluid lines (21, 27) extending from the container to the first and second end ports of the cavity, respectively, and a pump (22) for exchanging the second fluid provided in the container (26) and the first fluid provided in the subsea cavity (10). The invention also relates to a method for circulating fluid in a subsea cavity.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2008Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea ASInventors: Kristian Borhaug, Gunnar Herø
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Patent number: 8672037Abstract: A method for removing a plug from and setting a plug into a subsea installation is provided. The method for removing the plug includes the steps of deploying an intervention package having at least one valve, pipe rams, and a lubricator into a subsea environment and latching the intervention package to the subsea installation. The method further includes lowering a stroking tool into the intervention package by conveyance from a surface facility, and grabbing the stroking tool with the pipe rams that form a part of the intervention package. Once the stroking tool is held by the pipe rams, the method further includes activating the stroking tool to stroke in an upwards or downwards direction to remove the plug positioned in the subsea installation. Once the plug has been removed by the stroking tool, the method further includes pulling the stroking tool out of the intervention package and retrieving the stroking tool and plug at surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Rene Schuurman, Andrea Sbordone
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Patent number: 8662182Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2012Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Thomas M. Redlinger, Andrew Antoine, My Le, Richard J. Segura
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Patent number: 8657011Abstract: A method for providing auxiliary electrical power to an underwater well installation, the installation being linked to a surface location via an umbilical cable, to supplement any electrical power received at the installation from the umbilical cable, comprises the steps of: providing power generation means at the installation; and providing an electrical power output line for transferring electrical power generated by the power generation means to the installation.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2010Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Parag Vyas, Matthew Alexander Lehar, Ashalatha Devarajan, Peter John Davey, Nicholas Ellson
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Publication number: 20140048275Abstract: A distributed function control module adapted for use in a modular blowout preventer (BOP) stack for use subsea comprises a housing adapted to be manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with a stab portion adapted to be received into a BOP stack control module receiver. Control electronics, adapted to control a predetermined function with respect to the BOP stack, are disposed within the housing and connected to one or more controllable devices by a wet mateable connector interface. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope of meaning of the claims.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: Oceaneering International, Inc.Inventors: Graeme E. Reynolds, Greg R. Boyle, Robert A. Johnigan
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Publication number: 20140048274Abstract: A distributed function control module adapted for use in a modular blowout preventer (BOP) stack for use subsea comprises a housing adapted to be manipulated by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with a stab portion adapted to be received into a BOP stack control module receiver. Control electronics, adapted to control a predetermined function with respect to the BOP stack, are disposed within the housing and connected to one or more controllable devices by a wet mateable connector interface. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope of meaning of the claims.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: Oceaneering International, Inc.Inventors: Graeme E. Reynolds, Greg R. Boyle, Robert A. Johnigan
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Patent number: 8651189Abstract: removable blowout recovery valve. The large end of the valve (or funnel) is placed over a well pipe (or other pipe) through which oil (or other fluid) is flowing out. The small end of the valve is connected to a return pipe. A high pressure pipe with a smaller diameter is inserted into the well pipe. A sleeve connected to the return pipe is placed over the well pipe. A locking collar is attached to the sleeve. Positioning rings are attached to the high pressure pipe, that can fit inside the well pipe. A sharp edge extends from the sleeve, by which irregularities in the well pipe can be cut. Lasers or other cutting devices are attached to extension arms, that can also cut irregularities in the well pipe. The slope of the valve can be changed. The valve can be removed and raised with the aid of floats.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Milanovich Investments, L.L.C.Inventor: Philip John Milanovich