Abstract: An expandable linear explosive shape charge positioner for severing tubular members whereby a plurality of arc-shaped charge chambers are positioned along the same plane and adjacent to the interior walls of the tubular members and detonated to sever the tubular members. The invention is placed within a tubular member and includes a remotely extendible framework having remotely detonable linear explosive shape charges enclosed therein. When in the collapsed position, the apparatus passes through constrictions within the tubular members. When extended, the framework is positioned transversely to the axis of the tubular member with the shape charges positioned adjacent the interior walls thereof. Shape charge chambers with angled ends are presented to provide overlap when the device is fully extended to better ensure complete separation of the tubular member at the discontinuities of the shape charges about the plane of severance.

Abstract: An expandable linear explosive shape charge positioner apparatus and method for deploying said apparatus for severing tubular members whereby a plurality of arc segment shape charge chambers are positioned along the same plane and adjacent to the interior walls of the tubular members and detonated to thereby severing the tubular members. The apparatus of the invention is adapted to be placed within a tubular member and includes a remotely extendible framework having remotely detonatable linear explosive shape charges enclosed therein. The apparatus is of a size such that when the framework is not extended, the apparatus passes through constrictions contained within the tubular members, and when extended, the framework is positioned transversely to the axis of the tubular member with the shape charges positioned adjacent the interior walls thereof.