Abstract: Internal and external metal-to-metal radially interfering seals are provided for an annular chamber. Typically, an annular chamber is used in tubular goods to be part of the hydraulic control circuitry, such as for operating subsurface equipment such as a subsurface safety valve. Resilient seals are eliminated and sealing reliability is enhanced by a design which features metal-to-metal seals internally and externally, preferably assembled by an external two-step thread. The radial interference seal, which is internally disposed, is constructed so as to be incapable of experiencing tensile loads. This reinforces joint integrity by minimizing stresses on thin components.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for controlling production operations using fiber optic devices. An optical fiber carrying fiber-optic sensors is deployed downhole to provide information about downhole conditions. Parameters related to the chemicals being used for surface treatments are measured in real time and on-line, and these measured parameters are used to control the dosage of chemicals into the surface treatment system. The information is also used to control downhole devices that may be a packer, choke, sliding sleeve, perforating device, flow control valve, completion device, an anchor or any other device. Provision is also made for control of secondary recovery operations online using the downhole sensors to monitor the reservoir conditions. The present invention also provides a method of generating motive power in a wellbore utilizing optical energy. This can be done directly or indirectly, e.g., by first producing electrical energy that is then converted to another form of energy.

Abstract: Angled unions and junctions for conduits in which fiber optic conductors are run are provided for downhole oil drilling, injection and production operations. The unions and junctions provide high pressure and adverse condition protection for the optic fibers while providing an acceptable bend radius.

Abstract: Internal and external metal-to-metal radially interfering seals are provided for an annular chamber. Typically, an annular chamber is used in tubular goods to be part of the hydraulic control circuitry, such as for operating subsurface equipment such as a subsurface safety valve. Resilient seals are eliminated and sealing reliability is enhanced by a design which features metal-to-metal seals internally and externally, preferably assembled by an external two-step thread. The radial interference seal, which is internally disposed, is constructed so as to be incapable of experiencing tensile loads. This reinforces joint integrity by minimizing stresses on thin components.

Abstract: The invention relates to valves usable downhole and controlled from the surface hydraulically via control lines or by other techniques. The valve has a minimum flow passage which is preferably oriented along its longitudinal axis and a lateral flow passage which opens upon movement of a valve member via applied control pressure from the surface. Alternatively, the valve comprises a tapered needle movable in a throat. When the valve member shifts, additional flow area is exposed to control the backpressure of a fluid by way of hydraulic pressure control from the surface via the control line. The hydraulic control can be with a single control line acting on a piston attached to the valve member with a return spring opposing such movement, or alternatively, can be carried out with a pair of control lines to actuate reverse movements of the valve member.

Abstract: Internal and external metal-to-metal radially interfering seals are provided for an annular chamber. Typically, an annular chamber is used in tubular goods to be part of the hydraulic control circuitry, such as for operating subsurface equipment such as a subsurface safety valve. Resilient seals are eliminated and sealing reliability is enhanced by a design which features metal-to-metal seals internally and externally, preferably assembled by an external two-step thread. The radial interference seal, which is internally disposed, is constructed so as to be incapable of experiencing tensile loads. This reinforces joint integrity by minimizing stresses on thin components.

Abstract: Internal and external metal-to-metal radially interfering seals are provided for an annular chamber. Typically, an annular chamber is used in tubular goods to be part of the hydraulic control circuitry, such as for operating subsurface equipment such as a subsurface safety valve. Resilient seals are eliminated and sealing reliability is enhanced by a design which features metal-to-metal seals internally and externally, preferably assembled by an external two-step thread. The radial interference seal, which is internally disposed, is constructed so as to be incapable of experiencing tensile loads. This reinforces joint integrity by minimizing stresses on thin components.