Abstract: A connector for oilfield applications has high resistance against cyclical bending stress and fatigue failure. In a preferred embodiment, the threaded connector has a pin-box arrangement for joining two components. The pin and box have threads with a pre-determined profile different from that specified by conventional (e.g., API) specification and provide improved strength characteristics. Certain embodiments of the present invention include a pitch-to-root radius ratio that is less than that specified by the API, a thread height-to-root radius ratio that is less than that specified by the API, a flank angle that is less than that specified by the API, and a taper that is less than that specified by the API for said pre-determined outside diameter. Certain other embodiments have less than all of these ratios and dimensions.

Abstract: A plurality of heavy mass irregularities attached to an inner wall of the drill collar attenuate waves traveling through the collar. The plurality of heavy mass irregularities are spaced and sized for the maximum attenuation of acoustic pulses in a predetermined frequency range. The mass irregularities may be rings secured to the inner surface of the collar by neck pieces, extending outwardly from the outer circumference of the ring. The mass irregularities may be made of steel or tungsten and are between six and ten in number. The spacing of the irregularities may lie between twelve and fourteen centimeters. A center pipe may be included to isolate the irregularities from the fluid flow associated with the drilling operation. The pipe may be of a soft material such as rubber to reduce transfer of acoustic noise along the drill string. The irregularities may be in an oil based fluid with the pipe fitting closely in the center of the rings.

Abstract: A process for producing fine particulate polymer drag reducing agent (DRA) without cryogenic temperatures, is described. The grinding or pulverizing of polymer, such as poly(alpha-olefin) may be achieved by the use of at least one solid organic grinding aid and at least one liquid grinding aid. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the grinding is conducted at ambient temperature. Examples of a solid organic grinding aid include ethene/butene copolymer particles, paraffin waxes and solid alcohols. An example of a suitable liquid grinding aid includes a blend of glycol, water and isopropyl alcohol. Particulate DRA may be produced at a size of about 500 microns or less. Use of an attrition mill is preferred.

Abstract: A tubing conveyed casing collar locator system that detects the casing collars in a wellbore and acoustically transmits the information through the tubing to the surface where it is detected and processed in a surface processor. The system comprises a downhole tool which comprises downhole sensors, a signal processor with memory, a drive circuit, a battery pack, and a signal generator. The surface system comprises a surface processor, depth system, and acoustic signal transmitter/receiver. The downhole tool detects casing collars as the tool is moved through the collar and acoustically transmits the data or stores the data in downhole memory according to programmed instructions. In one embodiment, the tool compares sensor signals from production elements, such as valves, to stored sensor signatures to uniquely identify the downhole element. In one embodiment, the downhole tool changes operating modes in response to surface command.

Abstract: This invention provides a tubing injection system that contains one injector for moving a tubing from a source thereof to a second injector. The second injector moves the tubing into the wellbore. In an alternative embodiment for subsea operations, the system may contain a first injector placed under water over the wellhead equipment for moving the tubing to and from the wellbore. A second injector at the surface moves the tubing to the first injector and a third injector moves the tubing from the tubing source to the second injector. In each of the tubing injection systems sensors are provided to determine the radial force on the tubing exerted by the injectors, tubing speed, injector speed, and the back tension on the source. A control unit containing a computer continually maintains the tubing speed, tension and radial pressure on the tubing within predetermined limits.

Abstract: An apparatus for orienting a downhole tool relative to a borehole. The invention comprises a phase change material such as a shape memory metal engaged with the tool in an initial position which is activatable to move into an operating position relative to the tool. An actuator activates the phase change material to orient the tool relative to the borehole. The member is engaged with said housing and with the phase change material for selective movement relative to said housing between an initial position and an operating position. The actuator activates said phase change material to move said member. A return spring can move the phase change material to or from the initial position. The invention can be combined with a logging tool or other downhole device to orient the tool within a borehole. In different applications, the invention can center the tool or urge the tool against one side of the borehole wall.