Drilled Well Free Piston-type Pump Patents (Class 417/56)
  • Patent number: 11913300
    Abstract: A wellbore chemical injection assembly includes an extension flange including two ends and defining a flange bore. The first end can be fluidically coupled to a tubing spool inlet of a wellhead installed at a wellbore surface. The second end can be fluidically coupled to a chemical reservoir from which chemical is injected through the flange bore into the tubing spool. The assembly includes a mandrel positioned within the extension flange. A portion of the mandrel resides within the flange bore, while a remainder extends out. The mandrel defines an interior opening spanning an axial length of the mandrel. Outer coupling threads formed on the mandrel can removably mate with counterpart threads in the tubing spool inlet. Inner coupling threads formed on an inner surface of a portion of the interior opening can removably mate with coupling threads on a valve assembly removably seated in the interior opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Mustafa Karakaya, Sohrat Baki
  • Patent number: 11629710
    Abstract: A plunger having a generally hollow interior between an open upper end of the plunger and a closed bottom end of the plunger. One or more orifices extend through a sidewall of the plunger near the closed bottom surface. The orifices fluidly connect the hollow interior of the plunger with the tubing below the plunger when the plunger is in use. The orifices allow for a transfer of gas from the well bottom into the liquid load above the plunger during plunger ascent. The orifices also allow liquids to pass through the plunger during plunger descent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Assignee: PCS Ferguson, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Treavor Roberts
  • Patent number: 11208875
    Abstract: A method of lifting liquids from a formation using a plunger lift assembly. The method includes dropping a multi-component plunger lift assembly from a wellhead and into a wellbore. This is done in response to a release signal or in response to a wellhead being shut in. The wellbore has a deviated section which may extend to horizontal. The multi-component plunger lift assembly includes a cylindrical plunger and a sphere. These components are released into the wellbore simultaneously. In response to reservoir formation gases passing into the wellbore, the method also includes allowing the plunger lift assembly to move up the wellbore and to the wellhead, thereby pushing liquids upwardly towards the wellhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: Jason T. Sodowsky, Harold Douglas Selby, Kirk B. Ross
  • Publication number: 20140271260
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for pumping fluids with a winched rod pumping apparatus for imparting reciprocating substantially vertical motion to a rod of a sucker-rod pump. A winched rod pumping apparatus, includes a motor driven winch drum and cable mechanical actuator arrangement. The winch drum and cable mechanical actuator arrangement includes a substantially vertically moveable member attached to the rod of the sucker-rod pump. The vertical moveable member is coupled to one end of the cable and the other end of the cable is coupled to the winch drum. The winch drum is configured to rotate in one direction to index the rod in a vertical up direction and to index the rod in a vertical down direction, with the winch drum completing at least one full rotation and the rod completing one cycle. The rod cycle is in relation to a pumping cycle for the down hole pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Unico, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin J. Gregory, Thomas L. Beck, Ronald G. Peterson, Michael A. MacDonald
  • Publication number: 20140234126
    Abstract: The invention discloses a tower-type double-chain belt pumping unit, comprising a tower bracket, wherein the top of the tower bracket is provided with a first belt roller and a second belt roller spaced in parallel apart from each other, one side of the tower bracket where the second belt roller is located is provided with an erect device cabin, and the side of the tower bracket where the first belt roller is located is provided with a vertically extending windproof guide rail; and a reciprocating loading belt, spanning over the first belt roller and the second belt roller, and comprising an inside end located in the device cabin of the tower bracket and an outside end extending outside the tower bracket, wherein the outside end is provided with a rope hanger for connecting a pumping rod, and the rope hanger is provided with a guide wheel mated with the windproof guide rail, wherein a balance box connected with the inside end of the loading belt and a first chain driving mechanism and a second chain driving m
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: WENZHOU HUSITE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Yong Wu
  • Patent number: 8757986
    Abstract: Detecting a failure mode of a fluid flow controller configured to control fluid flow between first and second chambers of a downhole positive displacement pump and a flow line, wherein the positive displacement pump comprises a piston moving in an axial reciprocating motion, and subsequently adjusting operation of the downhole positive displacement pump based on the detected failure mode such that the downhole positive displacement pump piston operates differently in different axial directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Steven Villareal, Julian J Pop, Albert Hoefel, Kent David Harms
  • Patent number: 8714936
    Abstract: Methods and mechanisms for fluid sealing are provided. The disclosed mechanisms include a tool having a cavity configured to form a toroidal vortex and a fluid sealing element to induce an azimuthal variation of the toroidal vortex (a “dynamic seal”). The fluid sealing element may include a sharp change in the axial symmetry of the cavity to induce the azimuthal variation. Some exemplary shapes of the fluid sealing element may include a notch in a cavity, a step shaped cavity, or an angular cavity in the tool. Methods for manufacturing such a dynamic seal is also provided as well as methods for producing hydrocarbons with a plunger having the dynamic seals. The tool may be a plunger, a pig, an in-flow control device, or other cylindrical device traveling through a conduit or tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventor: Pietro Valsecchi
  • Patent number: 8181706
    Abstract: In a hydrocarbon producing wellbore, liquids (oil, condensate, water of mixtures thereof) from the formation may accumulate and build up a hydrostatic pressure gradient, which can kill gas production. Various embodiments of the present invention include a plunger lift system that can remove said formation liquids from a wellbore. A piston, including a sleeve with a hollow passage may travel downhole, accumulate formation liquids and utilizing the gas pressure deliver said formation liquids to the top of the wellbore for removal. The piston face may be one single wall that closes the hollow passage or the piston face may be comprised of a plug and an seat that unite to form a complete piston face downhole. Aspects of the plunger lift system, for example the sleeve and or the plug may be at least partially formed from materials that are buoyant in the formation liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: IPS Optimization Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Spencer Tanton
  • Publication number: 20120076668
    Abstract: Deliquefication systems with an upper pumping section for discharging fluid pumped to it by a lower pumping section; in one aspect, for providing liquid from a wellbore to the upper section for removal of the liquid from the wellbore; and, in one aspect, such systems for dewatering a gas well. 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 and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: David Joseph Bolt, Kenneth Ray Newman
  • Patent number: 7954545
    Abstract: A plunger lift system has a bumper and a landing positioned in tubing below a safety valve of a well. A plunger moving between the bumper and landing lifts columns of liquid above the plunger when pushed by downhole pressure. A valve on the plunger's housing is movable between open and closed positions to either permit or prevent flow through the plunger. When the plunger engages the landing, a striker rod on the landing opens the valve permitting fluid communication through the plunger to a sales line at the surface. The valve is biased to the closed position to prevent fluid communication through the plunger. When the plunger is disengaged from the striker rod, the valve closes so that application of downhole pressure can again move the plunger uphole. A controller cycles the plunger between the bumper and the landing by controlling fluid flow in the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: William Hearn, Todd Chretien
  • Patent number: 7927083
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for pumping from a well. A pump includes a piston assembly reciprocably engaged in a cylinder assembly. Pressure applied to a column of fluid above the pump causes a pump chamber to fill with fluid. A spring mechanism coupled to an anchor point above the piston assembly provides upward force on the piston assembly. Alternate cycles of the application and release of pressure result in the pumping of a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignees: Pentagon Optimization Services Inc., Angel Energy Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel C. Simmons
  • Patent number: 7891960
    Abstract: A pump for efficiently producing gas in wells having some liquids. The pump may be driven by a walking beam or horsehead pump. The pump of the invention produces gases and liquids separately. Gases may be produced up the annulus between the casing and hollow sucker rods. A plunger seals the opening in the cage during downstroke. Gases and liquids are trapped in the cage above an inner barrel. Liquids are forced up the hollow sucker rod where they are retained by a one-way valve. On the upstroke, the one-way valve seats and gases are forced out of the cage and up the annulus. Gases are, therefore, produced up the annulus and liquids are produced up the drill string. In another embodiment, liquids are retained in a trap and are produced up hollow sucker rods, while gases are produced up the annulus between the hollow sucker rods and the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: James F. Lea, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7878251
    Abstract: A multiple stage tool for use with plunger lift is disclosed. The disclosed device can be removably positioned at a desired position in a well's tubing, thus providing an upper limit for the travel distance of a first plunger. Subsequent well tubing partitions can be established with the introduction of subsequent plungers followed by the disclosed device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Production Control Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Giacomino, Paul T. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20090321083
    Abstract: A method of removing liquid from a gas well having a production tubing with a restriction therein run into the upper portion thereof and wherein a plunger lift system in arranged within the production tubing, the plunger lift system comprising an upper limiting means, a lower limiting means, a plunger that is capable of moving between the upper and lower limiting means, and a one-way valve situated at or above the upper limiting means that is capable of allowing fluid passage therethrough in an upward direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Werner Schinagl
  • Publication number: 20090246037
    Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for securing a walking beam compressor to a walking beam. In general, the walking beam compressor is a gas compressor unit that can be disposed around a piston rod extending from a walking beam of an oil well. The piston rod can be coupled to the walking beam by a securing mechanism that engages both the piston rod and the walking beam to prevent the piston rod from disengaging from the walking beam during rocking movement of the walking beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: Oil Flow USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Ward S. Merrick, III
  • Patent number: 7527482
    Abstract: A method is provided for compressing a gas in a single cycle and in a single cylinder to a pressure of at least 17.2 Mpa with a compression ratio of at least about five to one. The method further comprises dissipating heat from the cylinder during the compression stroke whereby the gas is discharged with a temperature significantly less than isentropic. The apparatus comprises a hollow cylinder and a reciprocable free-floating piston disposed therein. The piston divides the cylinder into: (a) a compression chamber within which a gas can be introduced, compressed, and discharged; and, (b) a drive chamber, into which a hydraulic fluid can be introduced and removed for actuating the piston. The apparatus further comprises a piston stroke length to piston diameter ratio of at least seven to one. For operating the apparatus with a compression ratio of at least five to one, an outlet pressure of at least 17.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Westport Power Inc.
    Inventors: Mihai Ursan, Anker Gram, Gabriel Gavril, Shahin Hessami, Ian Lockley
  • Patent number: 7448442
    Abstract: A plunger lift for a hydrocarbon well includes a piston that is dropped into the well and then moved upwardly to lift liquid to the surface from adjacent a hydrocarbon formation. The piston includes a series of pads biased outwardly into engagement with an inside wall of the production string thereby providing an improved seal between the piston and the production string. The pads are biased outwardly by pressure from below or a pressure differential that is moving the piston upwardly. The force moving the pads outwardly are greater during upward movement of the piston than during downward movement. The piston includes a central one-piece mandrel having an upper end higher than any component of the piston and a lower end lower than any component of the piston so that impact forces are applied directly to the mandrel and not through a threaded component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: MGM Well Service, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward A. Wells
  • Patent number: 7314080
    Abstract: An improved plunger lift mechanism comprises an internal hollow body having bypass orifices that, when exposed, allow fluid to pass through during plunger descent in a downhole tube to the bottom of a production well. A slidable sleeve slides along the hollow body to close the orifices, causing the plunger to rise and carry accumulated fluid to the well surface. In addition, the present apparatus comprises surface interfaces between a slidable sleeve and a mandrel to minimize a probability of mandrel and sleeve separation during the plunger's ascent phase and a risk of plunger stall. By integrating a plunger lift having a slidable sleeve with closer limits between the slidable sleeve and an internal hollow body, and a wider plunger surface area, the present apparatus can minimize radial movement which can occur during plunger drop and when impact occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Production Control Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Giacomino
  • Patent number: 7191838
    Abstract: Liquid is lifted from a well by a fluid displacement device which moves within a production tubing and maintains a seal against the production tubing during movement. The fluid displacement device is moved up and down within the production tubing between the well bottom and the earth surface by applying gas to create opposite relative pressure differentials across the fluid displacement device. Preferably the pressure differentials are obtained from gas supplied from the well at natural formation pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Donald D. Reitz
  • Patent number: 7188670
    Abstract: An intermittent lift plunger includes at least one seal mandrel, a bottom sub and an upper valve assembly. The valve assembly is closed by a well bottom stop which inserts into the lift plunger and opened by a lubricator stop at the top of the well. The seal mandrel includes a sleeve seal formed from an elastomeric rubber or plastic, which inflates to engage the well bore surface when the valve is closed and a pressure differential exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Inventors: Ryan Amies, Grant George
  • Patent number: 7040401
    Abstract: An automated plunger catcher and releaser and chemical launcher for a well tubing method and apparatus. In one configuration, arrival of a plunger is sensed as the plunger ascends from the wellbore through the production tubing and a signal is sent to a controller. A signal is sent from the controller to actuate a stem in order to hold the plunger in a surface catcher chamber. A flowline is thereafter closed by signal from the controller in order to stop fluid flow through the production tubing. A signal is sent from the controller to an actuated valve on a chemical launcher, thereby opening the valve and releasing chemical. Thereafter, the valve is closed to stop release of chemical. The plunger is held in position for a predetermined time and then the stem is retracted in order to permit the plunger to fall by gravity. Finally, the flowline is opened in order to permit fluid flow therethrough and the process is sequentially repeated as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Samson Resources Company
    Inventor: James Merl McCannon
  • Patent number: 7021387
    Abstract: The wellbore pump of the present invention comprises a plunger having passage means which may be open or closed by a valve operated by a piston which is biased in the open position by a spring of selected strength such that the wellbore pressure may overcome the spring to close the valve when the accumulated hydrostatic pressure reaches a certain value. When the valve closes the reservoir pressure forces the plunger to the surface and causes the accumulated liquids to be pumped out of the wellbore. A stem extending from the top of the piston engages a top plate and causes the valve to open when the plunger reaches the top of the wellbore. Means is provided whereby the valve opens when it reaches the top of the wellbore and a latch may be provided to retain the plunger from returning to the bottom of the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Natural Lift Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Dan Lee
  • Patent number: 6971856
    Abstract: A plunger for well casings and tubulars comprising: an upper valve rod segment slideably positioned within the plunger body; a valve rod tube slideably positioned in the lower end of the plunger body; a lower valve rod segment slideably positioned in the valve rod tube; a spring positioned between the upper and lower valve rod segments; and a valve element on the upper valve rod segment for closing the plunger flow passage when the upper valve rod segment moves to a closing position. The plunger preferably also comprises an exterior flexible sealing member and a sealing member actuator operated by the valve rod tube. A shield is also preferably provided in the plunger body to prevent premature closure of the valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: PAAL, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Windel O. Mayfield, Robert L. Moore
  • Publication number: 20040165992
    Abstract: A plunger for a plunger-lift pumping system which includes an elongate cylindrical body having a first end and a second end. A plunger suspension coupling is positioned at the first end of the body. A plurality of annular members are provided having central openings and a first radial dimension. The cylindrical body extends through the central openings of the annular members, such that the annular members overlie the cylindrical body. Spacers are provided for maintaining spacing between the annular members. The spacers have a second radial dimension which is less than the first radial dimension, thereby forming circumferential spaces along the cylindrical body between the annular members. A first retainer stops axial movement of the annular members at the first end of the body. A second retainer stops axial movement of the annular members at the second end of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas Hubert Vermeeren
  • Patent number: 6746213
    Abstract: A pad plunger assembly, for use in gas well tubing, includes an elongated mandrel having opposite ends and a longitudinal axis extending between the opposite ends, a pair of opposite end members each attached to one of the opposite ends of the mandrel, and a seal-forming pad subassembly disposed about the mandrel and between the opposite end members thereon. The pad subassembly has an outer exterior surface of an annular concave configuration formed by opposite end portions of the outer exterior surface being disposed farther radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the mandrel than an intermediate portion of the outer exterior surface is disposed radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the mandrel such that a frictional seal which generates reduced friction is provided on the interior wall surface of the gas well tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: Jeff L. Giacomino
  • Patent number: 6669449
    Abstract: A pad plunger assembly includes a central mandrel having externally-threaded opposite ends, collars defined about the mandrel inwardly adjacent to the opposite ends and having circumferentially spaced recesses formed in the collars, end members having inner ends with internally-threaded bores threadably removably attached to the externally-threaded opposite ends of the mandrel, and inner annular flanges attached to and extending axially from the inner ends of the end members and adapted to receive the collars such that, for locking the end members onto the mandrel, the end members are threadably screwed onto the opposite ends of the mandrel and then the flanges are crimped so as to force circumferentially displaced portions thereof into the collar recesses thereby locking the end members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Jeff L. Giacomino
  • Publication number: 20030215337
    Abstract: The wellbore pump of the present invention comprises a plunger having passage means which may be open or closed by a valve operated by a piston which is biased in the open position by a spring of selected strength such that the wellbore pressure may overcome the spring to close the valve when the accumulated hydrostatic pressure reaches a certain value. When the valve closes the reservoir pressure forces the plunger to the surface and causes the accumulated liquids to be pumped out of the wellbore. A stem extending from the top of the piston engages a top plate and causes the valve to open when the plunger reaches the top of the wellbore. Means is provided whereby the valve opens when it reaches the top of the wellbore and a latch may be provided to retain the plunger from returning to the bottom of the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventor: Dan Lee
  • Patent number: 6637510
    Abstract: A wellbore pump comprises a plunger having a passage which may be open or closed by a valve operated by a piston which is biased in the open position by a spring of selected strength such that the wellbore pressure may overcome the spring to close the valve when the accumulated hydrostatic pressure reaches a certain value. When the valve closes the reservoir pressure forces the plunger to the surface and causes the accumulated liquids to be pumped out of the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Dan Lee
  • Publication number: 20030141051
    Abstract: An auto-cycling plunger for use in lifting a fluid out of a well bore. The auto-cycling plunger includes a hollow, longitudinally extending body and at least one first directional outer seal disposed on an exterior surface of the body for creating a seal between the body and a well bore. At least a portion of the at least one first directional outer seal extends in a direction substantially parallel to a length of the longitudinally extending body. The portion of the first directional outer seal is spread resiliently outwardly from the body with an applied pressure, thereby increasing the degree of sealing. The auto-cycling plunger also includes a valve stem including a valve member, the valve stem extending through the longitudinally extending body and having actuable ends extending from the body. The valve stem is operable to be shuttled between an open position and a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Applicant: SYNCO TOOL COMPANY INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Douglas H. Abbott, Daniel S. Belczewski
  • Patent number: 6554580
    Abstract: A plunger for well casings and other tubulars comprising: An elongate body having a flow passage with a lower inlet port and an upper outlet port; an internal valve positioned between the ports; at least one first flexible sealing member positioned around the body below the outlet port; an actuator which urges the first sealing member against the interior wall of the casing when the valve is closed; at least one second flexible sealing member positioned around the body and providing an outwardly expandable sealing chamber; and at least one flow port positioned below the valve and providing fluid communication between the flow passage and the sealed chamber. The second flexible sealing member(s) being outwardly expandable by increasing pressure in the sealed chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: PAAL, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Windel O. Mayfield, Robert L. Moore
  • Publication number: 20030039552
    Abstract: A pad plunger assembly includes a central mandrel having externally-threaded opposite ends, collars defined about the mandrel inwardly adjacent to the opposite ends and having circumferentially spaced recesses formed in the collars, end members having inner ends with internally-threaded bores threadably removably attached to the externally-threaded opposite ends of the mandrel, and inner annular flanges attached to and extending axially from the inner ends of the end members and adapted to receive the collars such that, for locking the end members onto the mandrel, the end members are threadably screwed onto the opposite ends of the mandrel and then the flanges are crimped so as to force circumferentially displaced portions thereof into the collar recesses thereby locking the end members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Jeff L. Giacomino
  • Patent number: 6200103
    Abstract: A plunger in a plunger lift system in an oil and gas well includes circumferential recessed surfaces that define grooves spaced along the plunger body. A curved convex surface or radius is formed between the lower extent of each recessed surface and the plunger body, and a sharp edge or corner connects the upper extent of each recessed surface to the plunger body. The depth of the grooves decreases and the spacing between the grooves decreases from the bottom to the top of the plunger. The shape, sizing and spacing of the grooves improves plunger lift and decreases liquid loss during plunger lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Robert E. Bender
  • Patent number: 6183225
    Abstract: A reciprocating piston pump is provided with angled flow ports to provide enhanced flow and reduced wear characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6170573
    Abstract: An oil field assembly for gathering data about or producing an oil well having a self regulating assembly for free movement by gravity or the differential pressure of fluids in the tubing string of a well from the surface of a well or to predetermined down hole positions for collecting data and or producing a well while freely moving between the surface of the well and predetermined positions comprising a self regulating traveling piston for free movement by gravity and or the differential pressure of the fluids of a well from the surface of a well and to predetermined positions for collecting data about a well between the surface and predetermined downhole positions, and having instrumentation connected to the traveling piston for gathering data about the well, and a landing housing located at the surface of a well for receiving the traveling piston, and a receiving station at the bottom of the tubing string for releasably receiving the traveling piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventors: Charles G. Brunet, Michel J. Bouchard
  • Patent number: 6148923
    Abstract: An auto-cycling plunger and method for lifting out condensate and fluid that accumulate and retard production in oil and gas wells. The auto-cycling plunger comprises a tube that defines an inner chamber, one or more flapper sealing rings mounted on the tube and a detachable valve member positioned at one end of the tube. During the method, the auto-cycling plunger free falls down the production tubing string with the detachable valve accelerating faster than the tube. The detachable valve hits the bottom-hole spring first, the tube follows and engages with the detachable valve thereby creating a seal. The liquid collects above auto-cycling plunger and the plunger moves up the production tubing as gas within the well accumulates below it and creates an upward pressure. The auto-cycling plunger repeats it's movement up and down the well without having to shut-in the well thereby continuously removing liquids without stopping production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Dan Casey
  • Patent number: 5915475
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for pumping formation liquids provides a reciprocating down hole pump on the end of a coiled tubing string. In one embodiment, one fluid flow path is provided through the inside of the coiled tubing and another flow path is provided in an annulus between the coiled tubing and a, production string. In one embodiment, pressure delivered down the annulus to the pump moves a piston in a direction to move formation liquids upwardly to the surface. When pressure in the annulus is reduced, the hydrostatic weight of the pumped liquid moves the piston in a retracting direction to prepare for the next stroke. In other embodiments, the piston is moved downwardly, in retracting direction, by fluid pressure applied from the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventors: Edward A. Wells, Paul S. Barter, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5868554
    Abstract: A flexible plunger apparatus includes an elongated flexible member having a pair of opposite end portions and a longitudinal length extending between the opposite end portions, with the flexible member being adapted to flex in transverse relationship to its length and to undergo free movement through a hollow tubing of a well. The apparatus also includes a physical barrier producing mechanism attached to and extending between the opposite end portions of the flexible member for substantially separating gas under pressure in the tubing below the lower end portion of the flexible member from a slug of liquid in the tubing above the upper end portion of the flexible member. The physically barrier producing mechanism is carried along the interior surface of the tubing in a substantially sealing relationship therewith as the flexible member undergoes free movement through the tubing of the well in response to the pressure of the gas and opening of the tubing of the well at the earth surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventors: Jeff L. Giacomino, Bruce M. Victor
  • Patent number: 5785500
    Abstract: A pump apparatus for use in a pump system of a well capable of exerting and releasing pressure on a pump fluid supplied to the pump apparatus. The pump apparatus includes a tubular body having a pump fluid space for communicating with the pump fluid and a chamber for receiving unpumped well fluid and for furnishing pumped well fluid to a wellhead of the well, wherein the pump fluid and the pumped well fluid remain separated. The pump apparatus includes a device located inside the tubular body and in contact with the pump fluid space for displacing the pumped well fluid from the chamber to the wellhead in response to the pump system exerting pressure on the pump fluid and for receiving the unpumped well fluid from a producing formation and delivering the unpumped well fluid to the chamber in response to the pump system releasing pressure on the pump fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Quality Tubing, Inc.
    Inventor: Humberto F. Leniek
  • Patent number: 5127803
    Abstract: An improved pump tool (10, 110, 200) is provided for lifting oil from within a casing 18 of a well. The gas in the well provides the lifting action. The pump tool includes a body (22) which is preferably formed of ABS plastic. The body defines an upper chamber (24) and a lower chamber (26) which is connected through a hydrostatically operated valve (44). The plastic body weighs less, is chemically resistant and reduces the risk of spark and explosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Inventor: James C. Walter
  • Patent number: 4889473
    Abstract: A production plunger is disclosed that will automatically reciprocate in the production string of a producing oil well that is also producing some gas. The plunger includes a body having a passageway that allows fluid to bypass the packer cups carried by the body. A valve in the passageway is held open by a bellows filled with air under pressure. The valve is closed by the pressure of the liquid accumulated above the plunger at which time, the gas produced by the well will lift the plunger and the liquid above it to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1989
    Assignee: E-Z Lift Pump, Inc.
    Inventor: W. E. "Wes" Krueger
  • Patent number: 4813485
    Abstract: The pumping or swabbing device and apparatus of the invention utilizes an elongate barrel slidable upwardly and downwardly on an axial rod which carries a valve element for closing on a valve seat provided interiorly of the barrel to close passage through the barrel of down-hole pressure fluid and cause such fluid to raise barrel and rod of the device through a gas and oil well casing to the wellhead, where liquid above the device is pushed to discharge at the wellhead. Spring actuated detent latching elements coact with a pair of longitudinally spaced lower and upper latching recesses to hold the barrel and rod together against relative movement in lower valve-closed and upper valve-opened positions. A sealing packer encircles the barrel and a by-pass passage thereinto leading from and back into the barrel flow passage provides sealing pressure within such packer as the device rises in the well casing. A manually or pressure operated latch provides for holding the device in the wellhead as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1989
    Assignee: ConCoyle Oilfield Tools, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Coyle
  • Patent number: 4712981
    Abstract: Apparatus and method of utilizing differential pressure to seat an almost-closed valve ball. Included are apparatus and means to protect valve ball from excessive closing force. Also included is a multiple valve arrangement to relieve excessive differential pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1987
    Inventor: Gramling William D.
  • Patent number: 4696624
    Abstract: A well-pressure operated pump having a tubular pump body provided with an interior, annular seating surface to receive a valve member mounted on a rod extending through the seating surface. An air spring in the pump body urges the rod upwardly in response to fluid pressure in the pump body and the height of the seating surface and the position of the valve member on the rod are adjustable for adjusting the well pressure at which the valve member is seated. Seal assemblies mounted on the pump body are adjustable to match the pump to the internal diameter of the well casing and the seal assemblies are provided with retainer rings having flanges that capture end portions of a sealing member of each seal assembly. A brake, having a plate that is spring loaded to overlay a shoulder in the bore of the pump body, slows the rate of descent of the pump through gases in the well. An aspirator formed in the support for the plate holds the plate off the shoulder during passage of the pump through liquids in the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Assignee: Bassco, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold E. Bass, Richard E. Bass
  • Patent number: 4664602
    Abstract: A controller is disclosed for a plunger lift system for oil and gas wells that monitors the casing pressure, flow line pressure, and battery voltage and overrides the on-time and off-time periods to either shut the well in or open the flow line valve when certain casing or flow line pressures exist or when the battery voltage drops to a preselected minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1987
    Assignee: Artificial Lift Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard L. Gordon
  • Patent number: 4629004
    Abstract: A plunger lift is adapted to be disposed in a well tubing string for slidable movement in relation to the tubing string in response to lift pressure. The plunger lift is an integral, one-piece unit that comprises a generally cylindrical, elongated shaft having an external, spirally extending coil machined in fixed relation to the external surface of the shaft. The spiral coil is disposed on the shaft such that an oblique angle is formed by the coil and a line perpendicular to the shaft. The coil is defined by a radially and outwardly projecting web terminating in an outer rim which is directed downwardly in an axial direction away from the web to form an undercut or recessed portion beneath the web. The coil traverses the major length of the shaft for advancement of well fluids therealong. A choke passage is provided in the shaft so that fluid is able to pass upwardly through the plunger lift for the selective withdrawal of fluids from the upper end of the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1986
    Inventor: Billy W. Griffin
  • Patent number: 4502843
    Abstract: A rugged lightweight valveless plunger (38) is provided for use in a well pumping system of the free plunger type. The plunger (38) comprises an elongated cylindrical integral aluminum body (42) having a rigid sealing section (44) formed by a plurality of circumferential grooves (46) defining a plurality of annular sealing flanges (48). The flanges (48) and grooves (46) are uniform and closely spaced. A pair of annular steel collars (50, 52) are secured to the aluminum body (42) on opposite longitudinal sides of the sealing section (44) and have an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the annular sealing flanges (48). The aluminum body provides lightweight and ease of machinability. The collars (50, 52) protect the annular aluminum sealing flanges (48) from frictional wear against the well tubing (20), such that sealing tolerances are maintained over an extended life rating. The plunger (38) is simple in construction and virtually indestructable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1985
    Assignee: Noodle Corporation
    Inventor: Jack E. Martin
  • Patent number: 4465435
    Abstract: An apparatus for periodically raising a quantity of liquid from a well to the earth's surface comprises a piston assembly above which the liquid collects in a tubing in which the piston assembly slides, the piston assembly including a piston member having an outside diameter slightly smaller than the inside diameter of the tubing to permit liquid to seep about the piston member and accumulate above the piston assembly near the lower end of the tubing. An outlet on the tubing is periodically opened via a timed valve to permit natural gas pressure in the well to drive the piston assembly to the surface. The piston assembly includes a mandrel which carries a slide valve disposed to be closed when the piston assembly is at rest and to be opened by deceleration of the mandrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1984
    Inventor: James I. Copas
  • Patent number: 4425083
    Abstract: A downhole pump for a well is disclosed which includes a piston slidably disposed within a housing for pumping fluid from the well. The longitudinal axes of the piston and the housing extend in a generally vertical direction with respect to the surface of the well. A surface unit supplies a pulsating flow of fluid to the piston. A velocity actuated valve is formed in the piston and includes a ball which is spaced from an orifice by a bias. The bias holds the ball away from the orifice such that the valve is normally open. The flow of fluid through the velocity actuated valve during each fluid pulse creates a pressure differential which is resisted by the bias. When the pressure differential exceeds the force generated by the bias, the ball will seat in the orifice and close the valve to further fluid flow. The balance of the fluid pulse will be applied to the lower side of the piston and the piston moves upwardly within the housing, thereby pumping fluid from the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1984
    Assignee: Kobe, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel G. Peterson, John W. Erickson
  • Patent number: 4417858
    Abstract: A well system includes a free lift plunger, and a gas supply line and associated motor valve for supplying intermittently injection gas to effect the lifting of the plunger and a slug of production liquid to the outflow line. The motor valve is diaphragm operated; and a control for this motor valve includes a known type of mechanical timer and associated valve which alternately pressurizes and vents its outlet line to alternately effect the closing and opening of the motor valve. An auxiliary control for this system includes a pilot valve and magnetic actuator which responds to the arrival of the lift plunger at the delivery point to effect the closing of the motor valve. A magnet, pivotally mounted on a lever, maintains the pilot valve closure member in a normal first condition, and is shifted by the arrival of the magnetic plunger to shift the valve closure member to a second condition to effect the closing of the motor valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1983
    Assignee: Otis Engineering Corporation
    Inventor: Gregg W. Stout
  • Patent number: 4410300
    Abstract: A free piston rabbit for an oil and gas well having gas seal and rotation features which improve its operation, reliability and durability. Circumferential grooves on the body of the rabbit have a turbulence-inducing configuration which improves their gas-sealing capacity while helically oriented slots develop rotation of the body of the rabbit to reduce the risk that the rabbit will become lodged in the production pipe and to improve its sealing capacity by hydrodynamic fluid action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1983
    Inventor: Harold W. Yerian