Abstract: A well packer has a mandrel assembly with a tubular packing element supported thereon between upper and lower support members that are arranged to telescopically compress the packing element upon setting of the packer. The packer is constructed to retain the mandrel assembly in a telescopically retracted position compressing the packing element longitudinally until released. The tubular packing element has a quantity of loosely packed, heat resistant, compressible material of a substantially inorganic composition. Upon setting of the packer, the packing material is compressed to a tightly compacted configuration in order to establish a fluid tight seal between the mandrel assembly and the well bore. Because of the configuration of the tubular packing element, this packer is suited for operation in wells where substantially high temperatures are prevalent.

Abstract: A seal assembly for a bypass valve in a well tool such as a packer has a tubular seal carrier with a pair of annular seal elements mounted in a longitudinally spaced relation about the outer periphery thereof. The annular seal elements are anchored in separate grooves around the exterior of the seal carrier such that they are prevented from being dislodged by fluid pressure. Another seal can be provided around the interior of the seal carrier to seal between this seal carrier and a well tool or packer mandrel.

Abstract: A unitary tubular cylindrical gripping member for well tools has variable angled gripping surfaces formed thereon by a plurality of insert teeth elements arranged to provide constant positive gripability of the gripping member in well casings.

Abstract: A seal assembly for a bypass valve in a well packer has a tubular seal carrier with a pair of annular seal elements mounted in a longitudinally spaced relation about the inner periphery thereof. The annular seal elements are anchored in separate inwardly flared grooves around the interior of the seal carrier in such that they are prevented from being dislodged by fluid pressure. An outer seal element is mounted around the outer periphery of the seal carrier to seal between the seal carrier and a bypass valve housing of the well packer.

Abstract: A seal assembly for a valve in a mechanical setting retrievable and pressure balanced packer has a valve seal mounted on a bushing mounted around a mandrel joined to an anchor and enclosed within a balance chamber housing. The valve seal is retained between the bushing and an overlapping coaxial face seal retainer such that only a relatively small portion of the face seal ring will contact the seal surface of a valve seat on the packer.