Abstract: A method of installing an internal latch profile in an existing tubular string does not require the use of a packer. In a described embodiment, a method of latch installation includes the step of deforming an interior surface of the tubular string after the tubular string is positioned in a well. In another described embodiment, a method of latch installation includes the step of cutting into the interior surface of the tubular string.

Abstract: Redundant explosive transfer between two explosive carrier devices is accomplished by inserting into a transfer sub or gun head a non-moveable explosive means for receiving the detonating cord which, at its first end, establishes a gap from an adjacent positive alignment insert (PAI) and wherein the length of explosive means is sufficient to assure detonation between the explosive means and the detonating cord in the event that the detonating cord shrinks due to the temperature of well applications. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a positive alignment insert consists of an aluminum insert housing having an annular region of imbedded explosive. The annular region of the explosive-filled insert is typically annularly lined with an aluminum sleeve for protecting the explosive within and maintaining an annular region of sufficient diameter to allow for the passage and placement of the detonating cord and booster.

Abstract: A method of completing a subterranean well and associated apparatus therefor provide efficient operation and convenience in completions where production of fluids from a lateral wellbore and a parent wellbore is desired. In one disclosed embodiment, the invention provides a method of completing a subterranean well wherein a tubular member having an aperture formed through a sidewall portion thereof is inserted through a junction of multiple wellbore portions. The aperture is positioned so that it faces one of the wellbore portions. Apparatus provided by the present invention include various forms of flow diverters which may be utilized in the method.

Abstract: A ball valve having the capability of cutting coiled tubing extending therethrough. The valve includes a ball rotatably disposed within a housing and adjacent to a seat. Control arms prevent relative longitudinal movement between the ball and seat. The ball defines a pair of slots therein, each slot having a bearing surface. A pair of control pins are disposed on opposite sides of the ball and rotatably disposed in corresponding control frames disposed on opposite sides of the ball. Each control pin has an end with a bearing surface thereon extending into a corresponding slot in the ball so that flat contact is provided between the control pin and the ball. This greater area of contact between the pins and the slots allows a greater load to be transmitted to the ball to provide the shearing load necessary to shear relatively large diameters of coiled tubing which extend through the open valve. The valve is opened and closed by pressure actuation of a piston.

Abstract: An annulus pressure responsive tool of the type which contains lateral circulation ports and a ball valve, each operable between open and closed positions to configure the tool into different modes of operation. These modes include a well test position in which the ball valve is open and the circulation ports are closed, a blank position in which the ball valve and circulation ports are both closed, and a circulating position in which the ball valve is closed and the circulating ports are open. Through manipulation of annulus pressure, the tool mode can be changed during the annulus pressure release to move out of the well test position and into the blank and circulating positions. An operating mandrel assembly is slidably disposed within the exterior housing of the tool and its movement dictates the positions of both the circulation ports and the ball valve.