Abstract: A method and apparatus for casing and cementing an interval of a well bore which provide for a good distribution of cement over the entire interval even when a restriction forms within the annulus before all of the cement has been placed. The casing is provided with an alternate flow path for delivering cement slurry which flows from the lower end of the casing to different levels within the well annulus so that if a restriction occurs in the annulus, cement slurry can still be delivered to the annulus above the restriction.

Abstract: A well screen for use in gravel packing completions which produces a good distribution of gravel over the entire completion interval. The screen is comprised of a base pipe and an outer surface (e.g. wire wrap). A plurality of flow paths (e.g. shunt tubes) are positioned in the annulus which is formed between the base pipe and the outer surface of the screen, thereby providing the necessary alternate flowpaths for the slurry without substantially increasing the overall, effective outside diameter of the screen.

Abstract: A well tool (e.g. well screen) having a single connector for fluidly connecting the shunt conduits carried by adjacent joints of a well tool to thereby eliminate the need for separate, individual connectors. The single connector is slidably mounted on the central conduit of one of the joints and has a plurality of passages therethrough, each of which is adapted to receive a respective shunt conduit on one of the adjacent joints. After the central conduits of two adjacent joints are coupled together, the single connector is moved whereby the upper ends of the respective shunts on one joint enter the lower ends of the respective passages to thereby fluidly connect the respective shunt conduits. The single connector is then secured in a connected position.

Abstract: A method of completing a well which includes the installion of a gravel pack completion adjacent a formation in the well. A fluid-loss agent is flowed into the well to form a barrier to flow into and/out of the formation prior to the installation of the gravel pack. A screen is then lowered into the well and is positioned adjacent the formation. A gravel slurry which includes a removal agent is flowed into the well to deposit gravel. The removal agent contacts and dissolves or disintegrates the flow barrier to thereby open flow to the formation during the placement of the gravel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for gravel packing wherein a gravel slurry is distributed to different points of a wellbore annulus from a internal passage within the apparatus thereby protecting the passage from damage during operation. The apparatus is comprised of a plurality of gravel screen units which are connected together at the lower end of a workstring. Each gravelscreen unit is comprised of a gravel screen and a valve-outlet assembly which, in turn, is comprised of a collar having an outlet and a valve for opening and closing the outlet. A washpipe is positioned within the workstring and provides a passage for delivering the slurry internally to the outlets in each of the valve-outlet assemblies. The valves are closed when the washpipe is removed.