Magnetic Patents (Class 166/66.5)
  • Publication number: 20150090593
    Abstract: A fluid conditioning control system for driving one or more coils in a fluid conditioning system with a target load current to generate an alternating magnetic field directed at a fluid, the control system comprising a controller, a switch mode power supply circuit and a push pull AC drive circuit, wherein the controller is arranged to develop a first variable output having a frequency range that sweeps between a minimum frequency and a maximum frequency, and further arranged to develop a second variable output in the form of a duty cycle controlled signal, wherein the switch mode power supply circuit is arranged to develop a variable supply voltage to the AC drive circuit in response to the second variable output and a current sense circuit, and the AC drive circuit is arranged to develop a drive signal for developing a target load current in response to the first variable output and the variable supply voltage, thereby forming a current feedback loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Robyn Anne Fayle, Stephen Thomson
  • Publication number: 20150083438
    Abstract: A technique facilitates absorption of shock experienced by a tool in a borehole. The technique comprises coupling a tool into a tool string sized for delivery into the borehole. A shock absorber is positioned along the tool string to absorb shock loads incurred by the tool. The shock load experienced by the tool induces an electromagnetic force in the shock absorber which acts in a direction to mitigate the shock load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Jia Tao, Mohamed Mehdi
  • Publication number: 20150047824
    Abstract: An actuation tool uses a lock that when released allows a moving magnet to move into position to repel another magnet. Alternatively a magnetic field can be triggered in a stationary magnet such as one delivered on wireline, for example, to accomplish tool actuation. The repelling force on the second magnet moves it away from a locking position to allow another lock to retract and release the stored potential energy, where the release of the potential energy creates kinetic energy to drive an actuation assembly to set the tool. In a preferred application the tool can be a liner hanger. The release device can be a selectively energized electromagnet or a solenoid that shifts at least one magnet into alignment with at least one second magnet so as to defeat the second magnet from effectively supporting dogs that retain the potential energy whose movement can set the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Alasdair R. Tait
  • Patent number: 8957538
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for use in power generation, including a fluid-flow-driven power generator for use in a fluid-containing pipe such as a drill pipe as used in oil and gas exploration and extraction. Parts of the generator are removable from the pipe—for example while a drill pipe is downhole within a drilling well—to leave a clear through bore for survey and fishing operations and to enable replacement of the removed parts. The flow-driven generator comprises an impeller connected to a magnet assembly to rotate the magnet assembly when fluid flows past the impeller. This causes relative movement between the magnet assembly and an adjacent electrical coil assembly, the relative movement and magnetic coupling generating an electrical current in the coil assembly. This generated electrical current is used to power electrical devices within the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Noel Inman, Neil Scott Wilson, Adan Hernandez Herrera
  • Publication number: 20150041155
    Abstract: An electromagnetic chemical adhesive pipe plugging system is provided, including an elongated hollow injection quill, said quill having a plurality of circumferentially spaced magnetic jaws, a plurality of circumferentially spaced shoes, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced magnetic heads, wherein the magnetic jaws, shoes, and magnetic heads are capable of being pushed radially outward into gripping engagement with the inner diameter of a pipe assisted by chemical adhesive bonds against the pressure forces acting thereon, and the magnetic heads are capable of creating an intense magnetic field. Methods and means of deploying, positioning, maintaining, controlling, and operating the system are also provided and include insertion through the BOP primary exit line or choke and kill lines within a BOP device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Charlene Barnes-Kahoe
  • Publication number: 20150041146
    Abstract: An actuation device comprises a housing comprising one or more ports, a magnetic valve component, and a central flowbore. The central flowbore is configured to receive a disposable member configured to emit a magnetic field, and the magnetic valve component is configured to radially shift from a first position to a second position in response to interacting with the magnetic field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, Luke William Holderman
  • Publication number: 20150034294
    Abstract: A submersible electrical machine includes a first magnetic package spaced axially from a second magnetic package, a first stator displaced axially from the first magnetic package by a first air gap, a second stator displaced axially from the second magnetic package by a second air gap. The electrical machine can be operated as a generator or as a motor. When operating as a generator, a turbine can rotate the magnetic packages relative to the stators in response to fluid flowing axially across the electrical machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jerome Miles, Scott Dahlgren, Craig Boswell, Scott Wolston, Jacques Orban, Daniel Madsen
  • Patent number: 8944185
    Abstract: A drilling system includes a magnetic coupling and an oscillation absorber. The magnetic coupling has a rotor that rotates about an axis of rotation. The oscillation absorber is in operable communication with the magnetic coupling and includes an outer layer coupled to a separator layer of the magnetic coupling to form an enclosed area. An absorber shaft of the oscillation absorber is at least partially within the enclosed area and is coupled to the rotor. The absorber further includes an outer mover arranged such that rotation of the absorber shaft causes the outer mover to rotate due to interaction of inner absorber shaft magnets and outer mover magnets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Eckard Scholz, Helge Brand
  • Publication number: 20150021034
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods for strands of conductor oriented in a first direction; and strands of soft magnetic material oriented in a second direction that is different from the first direction evaluating a downhole fluid from a borehole intersecting an earth formation. The method may include filtering magnetic particles in the downhole fluid by activating a switchable magnetic filter when the downhole fluid enters a sample chamber in the borehole. The downhole fluid may include formation fluid. The filter may include a wire mesh comprising strands of conductor oriented in a first direction; and strands of soft magnetic material oriented in a second direction. The method may also include cleaning the switchable magnetic filter by deactivating the switchable magnetic filter. Cleaning the switchable magnetic filter may include removing filtered particles using a fluid. The fluid may be at least one of: i) the downhole fluid; and ii) engineered fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATION
    Inventor: Thomas Kruspe
  • Patent number: 8919730
    Abstract: A safety valve can include multiple magnetic devices reciprocably disposed in respective longitudinally extending chambers, and a another magnetic device magnetically coupled to the first magnetic devices. The first magnetic devices may be circumferentially spaced apart and encircled by the second magnetic device. Another safety valve can include multiple longitudinally extending chambers and multiple magnetic devices. Each of the magnetic devices may be reciprocably disposed in a respective one of the chambers, and the magnetic devices may be attached to an operating member of the safety valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: James D. Vick, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140374085
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for testing inductively coupled downhole systems are described. An example inductive coupler assembly for use in a wellbore includes an inductive coupler fixed to a completion in the wellbore, a drill pipe, a portion of which is to be located adjacent to the inductive coupler, and a sleeve surrounding the portion of the drill pipe to reduce a reluctance of a magnetic circuit including the inductive coupler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Benoit Deville, Yann Dufour
  • Patent number: 8917094
    Abstract: Downhole tools and techniques acquire information regarding nearby conductors such as pipes, well casing, and conductive formations. At least some method embodiments provide a current flow along a drill string in a borehole. The current flow disperses into the surrounding formation and causes a secondary current flow in the nearby conductor. The magnetic field from the secondary current flow can be detected using one or more azimuthally-sensitive antennas. Direction and distance estimates may be obtainable from the azimuthally-sensitive measurements, and can be used as the basis for steering the drillstring relative to the distant conductor. Possible techniques for providing current flow in the drillstring include imposing a voltage across an insulated gap or using a toroid around the drillstring to induce the current flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Bittar, Jing Li
  • Patent number: 8893807
    Abstract: An actuation tool uses a lock that when released allows a moving magnet to move into position to repel another magnet. The repelling force on the second magnet moves it away from a locking position on a stored potential energy system where the release of the potential energy creates kinetic energy to drive an actuation assembly to set the tool. In a preferred application the tool can be a liner hanger. The release device can be a selectively energized electromagnet or a solenoid that shifts at least one magnet into alignment with at least one second magnet so as to defeat the second magnet from effectively storing the potential energy that can set the tool when the lock is defeated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Alasdair R. Tait
  • Publication number: 20140338924
    Abstract: A downhole activation system within a tubular. The system includes an axially movable member; a first magnetic field source having a first field with a first axial orientation movable with the member. A second magnetic field source having a second field with an axial orientation different from the first orientation and separated from the first magnetic field source. The second field being magnetically repulsed by the first field; and, a biasing device urging the second magnetic field source towards the first magnetic field source; wherein movement of the first magnet via the member towards the second magnet moves the second magnet in a direction against the biasing device. A method of activating an activatable member in a downhole tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Kenneth Wilson
  • Patent number: 8887799
    Abstract: An electro-mechanical indicator system for signaling when a droppable object (such as, for example, a dart, plug or ball) is released during well cementing operations. A body section has first and second chambers divided by a fluid and pressure sealing barrier. A mechanical trigger mechanism is situated in the first chamber, which is exposed to elevated pressures and harsh wellbore fluids. Less robust components, such as sensor(s), power source(s), and signal device(s) located in the second chamber, remain isolated from the wellbore environment and elevated pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Blackhawk Specialty Tools, LLC
    Inventors: Ron D. Robichaux, James F. Giebeler, Juan Carlos E. Mondelli, Kenneth Flanigan
  • Patent number: 8869881
    Abstract: A safety valve for use in a subterranean well can include a housing assembly having a flow passage extending longitudinally through the housing assembly. An outer diameter of the housing assembly is eccentric relative to the flow passage. A well tool can include a magnetic coupling between magnet devices. One magnet device includes a series of magnets which are unequally spaced circumferentially about the other magnet device. Another safety valve can include a longitudinally extending flow passage, a closure device which selectively permits and prevents flow through the flow passage, and an outer diameter which is eccentric relative to the flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Vick, Jr., Jimmie R. Williamson, Jr., Bruce E. Scott
  • Patent number: 8869897
    Abstract: A method for preventing the production and formation of loose sand particles during production of a production fluid includes converting in the production zone both a loose sand particle into a magnetized loose sand particle and a cemented sand particle into a magnetized cemented sand particle. The method includes introducing a magnetic source into a wellbore. The method includes operating the magnetic source such that a continuous magnetic field is generated and the continuous repulsive magnetic force is less than the mean cementation strength. The method includes producing the production fluid from the production zone to the wellbore at a production rate. The method includes maintaining the magnetic source and the production rate of the hydrocarbon fluid such that within the distance from the magnetic source the production fluid drag force is less than or equal to the continuous repulsive magnetic force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Ashraf Al-Tahini
  • Patent number: 8860417
    Abstract: A downhole activation system within a tubular. The system includes an axially movable mover. A first magnet attached to the mover. The first magnet axially movable with the mover. A second magnet separated from the first magnet. The second magnet magnetically repulsed by the first magnet. A biasing device urging the second magnet towards the first magnet; wherein movement of the first magnet via the mover towards the second magnet moves the second magnet in a direction against the biasing device. Also included is a method of activating an activatable member in a downhole tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Kenneth Wilson
  • Patent number: 8857508
    Abstract: A downhole valve assembly including at least one membrane permeable to a flow of a downhole fluid, the at least one membrane defining a passage through a chamber. A quantity of particles is disposed in the chamber and the at least one membrane is impermeable to the particles. The particles are responsive to a magnetic field. At least one magnetic element is operatively arranged to produce the magnetic field for enabling the at least one magnetic element to selectively move the particles between a first position at which the particles impede the flow of the downhole fluid through the at least one membrane and a second position at which the particles do not impede the flow of the downhole fluid through the at least one membrane. A method of controlling a flow of fluid is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Oleg A. Mazyar
  • Publication number: 20140284046
    Abstract: Anti-extrusion devices, packer elements, and inflatable packers include shape memory polymer (SMP) materials to enhance the operation of a packer, a bridge plug, or other downhole isolation tool. Seal system use seals of various material including SMP materials as booster for the seal produced. Tool for flow shut-off and sliding sleeve applications use SMP materials to open or close off flow through a tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Jacob Bramwell
  • Publication number: 20140262218
    Abstract: In one aspect, a wellbore system is disclosed that in one embodiment may include a coil in the wellbore, a magnetic element conveyed from a surface location configured to oscillate or rotate in an opening in the coil to generate electrical energy, and a device in the wellbore that utilizes the generated electrical energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Ellen E. Read
  • Publication number: 20140262268
    Abstract: A well apparatus including a magnetic field source positioned in a borehole and a magnetorheological fluid that forms a barrier pill proximate to the magnetic field source where the barrier pill formation isolates one well zone from another well zone. The apparatus may be used to define a treatment or cementation zone. A method for utilizing the apparatus for creation or maintenance of a well includes introducing a magnetorheological fluid into a borehole, forming a downhole barrier pill by providing a magnetic field source proximate to the fluid, and isolating one well zone from another well zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. ("HESI")
    Inventor: Paul Leon KAGELER
  • Patent number: 8833452
    Abstract: A method includes treating a first formation intersecting a wellbore, preparing a diversion fluid including an inactivated viscosifier and an inactivated thinning agent, and positioning an amount of the diversion fluid to isolate the first formation. An activator is then delivered to the diversion fluid, thereby activating the inactivated viscosifier and triggering a thinning agent activation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Don Williamson
  • Publication number: 20140251592
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a downhole rotating magnetic field generator, wherein a stator assembly is formed by fixedly connecting a guiding stator, windings, and a body together, and a rotor assembly is formed by mounting a turbine rotor and a permanent magnet together. Between the stator assembly and the rotor assembly, sliding bearings are arranged and small mud passages are formed. There is no metal isolation between the rotor and the stator for cutting through the magnetic lines of force, so that the eddy current loss is relatively small. Meanwhile, with mud flowing through the passages as lubricant, overheating of the generator can be prevented and high power output can be ensured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicants: SHENGLI DRILLING TECHNOLOG RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF SINOPEC, CHINA PETROLEUM & CHEMICAL CORPOATION
    Inventors: Wei Chen, Laiju Han, Zuohui Li, Feng Sun, Yifeng Wang, Qinglong Liu, Fengling Xu, Zhenhua Lv
  • Patent number: 8820398
    Abstract: A down hole tool includes a tool body, a fluid cavity, a magnetorheological fluid disposed in the fluid cavity, and an electrical control unit in communication with the MR fluid. The electrical control unit is configured to adjust a viscosity of the MR fluid by varying a magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventor: Arley G. Lee
  • Publication number: 20140238666
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing tool comprising a housing comprising one or more ports and generally defining a flow passage, an actuator disposed within the housing, a magnetic signature system (MSS) comprising a magnetic sensor in signal communication with an electronic circuit disposed within the housing and coupled to the actuator, and a sleeve slidably positioned within the housing and transitional from a first position to a second position, wherein, the sleeve is allowed to transition from the first position to the second position upon actuation of the actuator, and wherein the actuator is actuated upon recognition of a predetermined quantity of predetermined magnetic pulse signatures via the MSS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Zachary W. WALTON, Michael FRIPP
  • Publication number: 20140238662
    Abstract: An apparatus for reducing vibration in a downhole component includes: an electrically conductive auxiliary mass attached to the component and configured to vibrate in a direction corresponding to a direction of downhole component vibration and absorb a portion of the downhole component vibration; and a magnetic component configured to generate a magnetic field through the auxiliary mass having a direction at least partially perpendicular to the direction of auxiliary mass vibration, the magnetic field configured to induce a current in the auxiliary mass in response to auxiliary mass vibration. The apparatus has an auxiliary mass vibration frequency tuned relative to a selected natural vibration frequency of the downhole component to reduce vibration of the downhole component, the auxiliary mass vibration frequency based on a magnetic stiffness of the auxiliary mass, the magnetic stiffness based on a strength of the magnetic field and/or a resistance of the auxiliary mass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Carlos A. Prieto
  • Publication number: 20140231073
    Abstract: Apparatus and corresponding method for remotely communicating with a device in a wellbore, comprising: an oilfield tubular handling apparatus (200); partial toroidal coil sections (304) integrated with the oilfield tubular handling apparatus, wherein the partial toroidal coil sections form a toroidal coil upon a tubular member (102) with the handling apparatus; and a microcontroller for communicating with the device via at least one of signals transmitted or received through the tubular member using the toroidal coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Sorin Gabriel Teodorescu, Hallvard Svadberg Hatloy, Tarald Gudmestad, Lev Ring
  • Publication number: 20140209312
    Abstract: A method and system for generating an ionized fluid, injecting the ionized fluid into fissures in a subterranean formation, pressurizing the ionized fluid, whereby the crystalline structure of a portion of the shale deposits located at the fissures are changed into suspended particles, whereby the depressurization of the ionized fluid forces the suspended particles out of the fissures, increasing the flow of hydrocarbons from those fissures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: MBJ Water Partners
    Inventor: Joseph G. Munisteri
  • Patent number: 8776883
    Abstract: A process for controlling the production of loose sand particles within an underground formation through the use of magnetic forces is provided. The loose sand particles are magnetized and then subjected to a magnetic field of sufficient strength such that the operator can control the movement of the loose sand particles within the underground formation. In some instances, the present invention can provide an efficient process for keeping the loose sand particles within the formation, and thereby prolonging the useful life of the downhole equipment. In other instances, the present invention can provide an efficient process for sweeping the loose sand particles out of the underground formation in a controlled fashion. The present invention includes at least three embodiments for magnetizing the loose sand particles, including direct magnetization, contacting the sand particles with a magnetizing reagent, and contacting the sand particles with paramagnetic nanoparticles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Ashraf Al-Tahini
  • Publication number: 20140174716
    Abstract: A petroleum well intervention winch system includes a high pressure confining housing for a drum for a rope to a tool string. The pressure confining housing has a connector with an aperture for the rope to a top of a tool string gate chamber on vertical bore BOP valves on a wellhead on the petroleum well. The rope runs through the aperture via a capstan to the drum. The capstan is driven by a first motor through a first high pressure proof magnetic coupling across a wall of the housing. The drum is driven by a second motor through a second high pressure proof magnetic coupling across the wall of the housing. The capstan is subject to a load tension from the rope and is provided with a hold tension on the rope from the drum. The second motor exerts a constant hold tension on the rope via the drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: CAPWELL AS
    Inventors: Morten Talgø, John Helvik
  • Publication number: 20140151019
    Abstract: A downhole tool for use in a wellbore tubular string comprises a housing having a bore therethrough forming part of a fluid flowpath through the wellbore tubular string, a sliding member operable to slide with respect to the housing, a plurality of magnetic pins, and a corresponding plurality of springs. A sliding line is formed by interfacing surfaces of the sliding member and the housing, and the plurality of pins comprise a locked position and an unlocked position whereby in the locked position at least one pin spans the sliding line to prevent the sliding member from sliding with respect to the housing and in the unlocked position no pins span the sliding line. The plurality of springs biases the pins towards the locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Gano
  • Publication number: 20140151029
    Abstract: A hydrocarbon resource recovery system for a wellbore in a subterranean formation. The hydrocarbon resource recovery system may include a radio frequency (RF) source, and an antenna configured to be positioned within the wellbore and coupled to the RF source. The antenna may be coupled to the RF source and configured to generate a higher electric field strength region in the subterranean formation having a higher electric field strength and a lower magnetic field strength, and generate a higher magnetic field strength region in the subterranean formation having a higher magnetic field strength and a lower electric field strength. The antenna may have a tubular shape with a plurality of openings therein defining a hydrocarbon resource recovery capacity adjacent the higher electric field strength region that is different than a hydrocarbon resource recovery capacity adjacent the higher magnetic field strength region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Harris Corporation
    Inventor: Francis E. Parsche
  • Patent number: 8720540
    Abstract: A downhole tool for use in a wellbore tubular string comprises a housing having a bore therethrough forming part of a fluid flowpath through the wellbore tubular string, a sliding member operable to slide with respect to the housing, a plurality of magnetic pins, and a corresponding plurality of springs. A sliding line is formed by interfacing surfaces of the sliding member and the housing, and the plurality of pins comprise a locked position and an unlocked position whereby in the locked position at least one pin spans the sliding line to prevent the sliding member from sliding with respect to the housing and in the unlocked position no pins span the sliding line. The plurality of springs biases the pins towards the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Gano
  • Patent number: 8709256
    Abstract: A method and apparatus provide at least one region of pulsed fluid treatment within a fluid treatment chamber. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Wilsa, Inc.
    Inventor: Herbert W. Holland
  • Publication number: 20140096972
    Abstract: A tool for suspending in a well retrieves various metal debris from the well, and includes an elongated tool body with a plurality of magnets included in a plurality longitudinal ridges which are circumferentially spaced. In the method a plurality of magnets can be positioned within openings, recesses, or pockets in each ridge, and held in place by one or more retaining plates, the tool being connected to a drill string and lowered into a well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventors: Simon Leiper, Kevin Robertson
  • Patent number: 8689889
    Abstract: A downhole magnet tool comprises a top sub having an inner bore terminating in a downhole facing open end, the inner bore defining a centralizer receptacle of smaller width than a width of the downhole facing open end, a mandrel terminating upwardly in a centralizer stem, the centralizer stem being fitted in the centralizer receptacle of the top sub, and a magnet mounted on a downhole facing surface of the mandrel. A method of assembly of a downhole magnet tool comprises mounting a magnet on the mandrel and inserting the centralizer stem into the centralizer receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Lee Oilfield Service Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael Shoyhetman, David Budney, Craig Budney, Glenn Budney
  • Patent number: 8689875
    Abstract: Treating a subterranean formation includes injecting a magnetically permeable material into the formation and energizing the magnetically permeable material using electromagnetic radiation. The magnetically permeable material reacts to the electromagnetic radiation by producing heat. In some embodiments, a fracturing fluid is made magnetically permeable, injected into the formation to fracture the formation, and heated in response to electromagnetic radiation applied to the magnetically permeable material. In some embodiments, electromagnetically heated material is caused to explode. In some embodiments, the magnetically permeable material is tracked or monitored for fluid or fracture propagation. A system includes a fluid treatment tool disposed on a tubing string for injecting magnetically permeable material and an electromagnetic wave generator disposed on the tubing string proximate the fluid treatment apparatus for applying electromagnetic radiation to the magnetically permeable material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James H. Dudley, Khanh T. Ma, Paul F. Rodney
  • Patent number: 8689877
    Abstract: A cleaning tool (1) for use in cleaning ferrous material from a wellbore has a magnetic cleaning element (14) mounted to a tool body (2) within a slot (5) using a releasable concealed interference fit fastener assembly (15) comprising a fastener member having a head (16), and a shank (17) with a configured end (18) and a deformable fastener ring (20) adapted to fit closely over the shank, and a press-fit collar (21) adapted to deform the deformable fastener ring upon the configured end of the shank when assembled, and wherein the respective head and collar are each flanged to permit an interference fit with a corresponding contact surface of the tool body around said slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Specialised Petroleum Services Group Limited
    Inventors: George Telfer, James Linklater, James Atkins
  • Patent number: 8678098
    Abstract: An actuator includes: a carrier including an axially elongated fluid conduit therein, the fluid conduit configured to received a ball therein; and an axially elongated ball receiving element, wherein one of the ball and the ball receiving element is configured to produce a magnetic field, and another of the ball and the ball receiving element includes an electrically conductive material, the ball and the ball receiving element configured so that the electrically conductive material is exposed to the magnetic field as the ball advances through the ball receiving element, and eddy currents are generated in the electrically conductive material that cause a repulsive force between the ball receiving element and the ball to at least one of reduce a velocity of the ball and actuate the ball receiving element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Mohan L. Soni, Gaurav Agrawal
  • Publication number: 20140076542
    Abstract: A technique includes deploying an untethered object though a passageway of a string in a well; and sensing a property of an environment of the string, an electromagnetic coupling or a pressure as the object is being communicated through the passageway. The technique includes selectively autonomously operating the untethered object in response to the sensing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: John R. Whitsitt, John A. Booker, Thomas Daniel MacDougall, Gary L. Rytlewski
  • Patent number: 8672025
    Abstract: A downhole debris recovery tool including a ported sub coupled to a debris sub, a suction tube disposed in the debris sub, and an annular jet pump sub disposed in the ported sub and fluidly connected to the suction tube is disclosed. A method of removing debris from a wellbore including the steps of lowering a downhole debris removal tool into the wellbore, the downhole debris removal tool having an annular jet pump sub, a mixing tube, a diffuser, and a suction tube, flowing a fluid through a bore of the annular jet pump sub, jetting the fluid from the annular jet pump sub into the mixing tube, displacing an initially static fluid in the mixing tube through the diffuser, thereby creating a vacuum effect in the suction tube to draw a debris-laden fluid into the downhole debris removal tool, and removing the tool downhole debris removal tool from the wellbore after a predetermined time interval is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignees: M-I L.L.C., M-I Drilling Fluids U.K. Limited
    Inventors: John C. Wolf, George Telfer, James Atkins
  • Publication number: 20140069628
    Abstract: A wellbore rotating instrument system includes a source of rotational energy for transmission thereof to within a wellbore. At least one magnetic gear assembly is coupled at its input to an output of the source. A rotating load is coupled at its input to a rotational output of the magnetic gear assembly. The at least one magnetic gear assembly comprises a housing, a stator disposed in the housing proximate an inner wall thereof, a second shaft rotatably supported on bearings disposed at longitudinally spaced apart locations inside the housing and a first shaft rotatably supported inside the output shaft. The stator comprises a plurality of magnets disposed in generally circular laminations. The second shaft comprises a non-magnetic, electrically non-conductive body and a plurality of pole pieces disposed circumferentially therearound. The first shaft comprises magnets disposed around its exterior circumference and shaped to fit rotatably within the second shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventors: Richard McCann, Kenneth Smith, Jeff Birchall, Jamie Cochran, Michael J. Rushby
  • Publication number: 20140060803
    Abstract: A downhole tool for use in a wellbore tubular string comprises a housing having a bore therethrough forming part of a fluid flowpath through the wellbore tubular string, a sliding member operable to slide with respect to the housing, a plurality of magnetic pins, and a corresponding plurality of springs. A sliding line is formed by interfacing surfaces of the sliding member and the housing, and the plurality of pins comprise a locked position and an unlocked position whereby in the locked position at least one pin spans the sliding line to prevent the sliding member from sliding with respect to the housing and in the unlocked position no pins span the sliding line. The plurality of springs biases the pins towards the locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: John C. Gano
  • Patent number: 8646530
    Abstract: A method includes treating a first formation intersecting a wellbore, preparing a diversion fluid including an inactivated viscosifier and an inactivated thinning agent, and positioning an amount of the diversion fluid to isolate the first formation. An activator is then delivered to the diversion fluid, thereby activating the inactivated viscosifier and triggering a thinning agent activation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Don Williamson
  • Patent number: 8646520
    Abstract: A method for performing a downhole operation includes marking at least one location in a wellbore using a magnetized material. The magnetized material may generate a magnetic field stronger than a magnetic field generated in the wellbore by a surrounding formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Songhua Chen
  • Publication number: 20140020887
    Abstract: A safety valve for use in a subterranean well can include a housing assembly having a flow passage extending longitudinally through the housing assembly. An outer diameter of the housing assembly is eccentric relative to the flow passage. A well tool can include a magnetic coupling between magnet devices. One magnet device includes a series of magnets which are unequally spaced circumferentially about the other magnet device. Another safety valve can include a longitudinally extending flow passage, a closure device which selectively permits and prevents flow through the flow passage, and an outer diameter which is eccentric relative to the flow passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: James D. VICK, JR., Jimmie R. Williamson, JR., Bruce E. SCOTT
  • Publication number: 20140014334
    Abstract: A positional feedback system includes a seal assembly coupled to a running tool, the seal assembly having a seal ring and an energizing ring positioned between a hanger and a subsea wellhead. The energizing ring moves relative to the seal ring from an unset position to a set position to seal to the wellhead and the hanger. The system includes a magnet disposed on the energizing ring and having a magnetic field. One or more sensing devices are disposed on running tool and positioned in the magnetic field of the magnet in the set position and the unset position. The sensing devices are configured to communicate with a surface platform when the rare earth magnet passes a magnetic field through the sensing devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: Vetco Gray U.K. Limited
    Inventors: Guy Harvey Mason, Stephen Paul Fenton
  • Patent number: 8627883
    Abstract: A linear actuation apparatus for controlling fluid flow comprises a tubular manifold for conducting fluid through a portion, and a shaft supported for reciprocal axial movement within the manifold. A valve seat is supported within the manifold in substantial alignment with the shaft, and a valve closure element is carried by the shaft for reciprocal axial movement between a closed and an opened position. A magnetic element is also carried by the shaft for reciprocal axial movement therewith. A pair of springs are carried on opposing sides of the magnetic element wherein one spring is compressed and applies an axial force to the shaft when the shaft is moved from a neutral position. A compound magnet, carried by the manifold, applies an axial force to the magnetic element that together with the axial force of the spring(s) and fluid pressure control movement of the shaft and the valve closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Edward Richards
  • Publication number: 20140000900
    Abstract: A drill pipe mountable wellbore cleaning tool apparatus is of an improved configuration that enables attachment to a drill pipe joint having first and second connector end portions and a cylindrically shaped portion in between the connector end portions. The drill pipe joint with attached debris cleaning tool or tools is made part of a drill string. The apparatus includes a support sleeve that is mounted to the drill pipe joint in between the connector end portions. The support sleeve abuts but does not invade the integrity of the cylindrical portion. Centralizers are attached to the opposing ends of the support sleeve, with each centralizer overlapping a portion of the support sleeve. The support sleeve carries one or more debris cleaning tools in between the centralizers. These tools enable debris to be removed from a wellbore. At least one locking clamp is attached to the cylindrical portion next to a said centralizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Simon Leiper, Kevin Robertson