Abstract: Multiple pathways are provided by which fluid can enter one or more alternate pathway conduits. Entrance tubes can be arranged such that their spacing prevents all of them from being simultaneously obstructed, covered, or otherwise blocked.

Abstract: The present invention provides for multiple pathways by which fluid can enter one or more alternate pathway conduits. Entrance tubes can be arranged such that their spacing prevents all of them from being simultaneously obstructed, covered, or otherwise blocked.

Abstract: The present invention provides for multiple pathways by which fluid can enter one or more alternate pathway conduits. Entrance tubes can be arranged such that their spacing prevents all of them from being simultaneously obstructed, covered, or otherwise blocked.

Abstract: A protective member that is disposed within the longitudinal bore of a well tool, the well tool including an actuating mechanism adapted to be mechanically activated from the longitudinal bore. The actuating mechanism includes an engagement section, preferably a profile. The protective member, preferably a sleeve, substantially covers the actuating mechanism while leaving the engagement section exposed to the longitudinal bore. In a preferred embodiment, the sleeve is slidably disposed within the longitudinal bore between a first position and a second position. A biasing mechanism biases the sleeve into the first position, in which a sleeve first end is proximate the profile. Operation of the apparatus enables a method for preventing the inadvertent mechanical activation of the actuating mechanism of a well tool as peripheral equipment is passed through the longitudinal bore of the well tool.

Abstract: A releasable packer has a control line therethrough. A hydraulic release mechanism of the packer is controlled from the surface by application of flow and pressure. A modification of the packer and release mechanism using resettable collets and return springs allows multiple sets and releases of the packer.

Abstract: A completion string for use in a wellbore includes a main conduit, such as a production tubing, and one or more alternate path conduits, such as shunt tubes, that extend generally in parallel with the main conduit. A flow control device is positioned in each alternate path conduit to control flow through the alternate path conduit. The one or more alternate path conduits may be adapted to carry gravel slurry to perform gravel packing operations. The one or more flow control devices in the one or more alternate path conduits may be actuated to the open position to allow communication of the gravel slurry to multiple zones in the wellbore. Once the gravel packing operation is completed, the one or more flow control devices may be actuated to the closed position to block fluid flow communication between multiple zones through the alternate path conduits during operation of the well. Other types of fluids may be communicated through the one or more alternate path conduits, such as fracturing fluids.