DOWNHOLE VALVE

There is provided a valve comprising a housing and a closure member. The housing includes a seat, a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow, a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow, and an inner surface that defines a housing cavity. The closure member is moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat. The closure member includes at least one groove. For each one of the at least one groove, independently, a value of a depth of the groove, taken along a longitudinal cross-section of the closure member, is at least 50% of a value of a maximum radial distance, of the closure member within the cross-section, measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the closure member, to the outermost surface of the closure member.

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Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/716,702, filed Nov. 5, 2024, entitled DOWNHOLE VALVE, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to downhole valves, such as, for example, downhole valves for use in sucker rod pumps.

BACKGROUND

Sucker rod pumps are employed for producing hydrocarbon-comprising fluid material from subterranean formation. Typically, sucker rod pumps employ valve assemblies which, in co-operation with a plunger that translates with a reciprocating rod, motivates production from the reservoir to the surface. Due to space constraints, the valve elements of the valve assemblies can interfere with flow of the reservoir fluid being produced. It is desirable to mitigate such fluid flow interference.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, there is provided a valve comprising a housing and a closure member. The housing includes a seat, a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow, a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow, and an inner surface that defines a housing cavity. The closure member is moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat. The closure member includes at least one groove. For each one of the at least one groove, independently, a value of a depth of the groove, taken along a longitudinal cross-section of the closure member, is at least 50% of a value of a maximum radial distance, of the closure member within the cross-section, measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the closure member, to the outermost surface of the closure member.

In another aspect, there is provided a valve comprising:

    • a housing, including:
    • a seat;
    • a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow;
    • a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and
    • an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
    • and
    • a closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat;
    • wherein:
      • a flow-conducting passage is defined within the housing cavity, between the inner surface and the closure member;
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operably configurable, while the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein:
        • in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and
        • in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member;
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operatively configured, such that while: (i) the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, (ii) the housing and the closure member are co-operating to establish the open condition, wherein the spacing apart of the closure member, relative to the seat, is such that the closure member is traversed by a longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and (iii) while a fluid flow is being received by the flow receiving communicator:
      • the received fluid flow is conducted from the flow receiving communicator, via the flow-conducting passage, to the flow discharging communicator; and
      • while being conducted via the flow-conducting passage, the received fluid flow is conducted via a flow-conducting space of the flow-conducting passage, wherein the flow-conducting space defines a cross-sectional flow area, of the flow-conducting passage, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity;
      • a value of a minimum radial distance of the housing cavity, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity to the inner surface of the housing, exceeds a value of a maximum radial distance of the closure member, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis of the closure member, to an outermost surface of the closure member, by a value that is greater than, or equal to, 5/1000 inch, and that is less than, or equal to, 15/1000 inch;
      • and
      • a ratio, of a value of the cross-sectional flow area, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, to a value of a cross-sectional area, within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, is at least 0.5.

In another aspect, there is provided a valve comprising:

    • a housing, including:
      • a housing cavity
      • a seat;
      • a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow;
      • a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and
      • an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
    • and
    • a closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat, and defining an outermost surface within which is defined a groove configuration defined by at least one elongated groove, wherein each one of the at least one elongated groove, independently, traverses a longitudinal cross-section of the closure member;
    • wherein:
      • a flow-conducting passage is defined within the housing cavity, between the inner surface and the closure member;
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operably configurable, while the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein:
        • in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and
        • in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member;
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operatively configured, such that while: (i) the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, (ii) the housing and the closure member are co-operating to establish the open condition, wherein the spacing apart of the closure member, relative to the seat, is such that the closure member is traversed by a longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and (iii) while a fluid flow is being received by the flow receiving communicator:
        • the received fluid flow is conducted from the flow receiving communicator, via the flow-conducting passage, to the flow discharging communicator;
      • a value of a minimum radial distance of the housing cavity, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity to the inner surface of the housing, exceeds a value of a maximum radial distance of the closure member, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis of the closure member, to an outermost surface of the closure member, by a value that is greater than, or equal to, 5/1000 inch, and that is less than, or equal to, 15/1000 inch;
      • and
    • each one of the at least one elongated groove, independently, has a respective depth that has a value that is at least 50% of a value of a maximum radial distance, of the closure member, defined within the longitudinal cross-section, and measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the closure member, to an outermost surface of the closure member.

In another aspect, there is provided a valve comprising:

    • a housing, including:
      • a seat;
      • a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow;
      • a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and
      • an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
    • and
    • an elongated closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat, and defining an outermost surface within which is defined a groove configuration defined by at least one elongated groove;
    • wherein:
      • a flow-conducting passage is defined within the housing cavity, between the inner surface and the closure member;
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operably configurable, while the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein:
        • in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and
        • in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member;
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operatively configured, such that while: (i) the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, (ii) the housing and the closure member are co-operating to establish the open condition, wherein the spacing apart of the closure member, relative to the seat, is such that the closure member is traversed by a longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and (iii) while a fluid flow is being received by the flow receiving communicator:
        • the received fluid flow is conducted from the flow receiving communicator, via the flow-conducting passage, to the flow discharging communicator;
      • a value of a minimum radial distance of the housing cavity, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity to the inner surface of the housing, exceeds a value of a maximum radial distance of the closure member, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis of the closure member, to an outermost surface of the closure member, by a value that is greater than, or equal to, 5/1000 inch, and that is less than, or equal to, 15/1000 inch;
      • and
    • each one of the at least one elongated groove, independently, is defined within a respective opening, defined within a respective raised surface portion within an outermost surface of the elongated closure member, wherein the opening has a width that has a value of at least 0.5 centimetres

In another aspect, there is provided a valve comprising:

    • a housing, including:
      • a seat;
      • a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow;
      • a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and
      • an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
    • and
    • an elongated closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat, and defining an outermost surface within which is defined a groove configuration defined by at least one elongated groove;
    • wherein:
      • a flow-conducting passage is defined within the housing cavity, between the inner surface and the closure member;
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operably configurable, while the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein:
        • in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and
        • in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member;
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operatively configured, such that while: (i) the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, (ii) the housing and the closure member are co-operating to establish the open condition, wherein the spacing apart of the closure member, relative to the seat, is such that the closure member is traversed by a longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and (iii) while a fluid flow is being received by the flow receiving communicator:
        • the received fluid flow is conducted from the flow receiving communicator, via the flow-conducting passage, to the flow discharging communicator;
      • a value of a minimum radial distance of the housing cavity, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity to the inner surface of the housing, exceeds a value of a maximum radial distance of the closure member, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis of the closure member, to an outermost surface of the closure member, by a value that is greater than, or equal to, 5/1000 inch, and that is less than, or equal to, 15/1000 inch;
      • and
    • a ratio, of a value of a cross-sectional area of the groove configuration, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, to a value of a cross-sectional area, of the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, is at least 0.25.

In another aspect, there is provided a valve comprising:

    • a housing, including:
      • a seat;
      • a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow;
      • a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and
      • an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
    • and
    • an elongated closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat;
    • wherein:
      • a flow-conducting passage is defined within the housing cavity; between the inner surface and the elongated closure member;
      • the housing and the elongated closure member are co-operably configurable in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein:
        • in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and
        • in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member;
      • the elongated closure member defines an outermost surface, and
    • the outermost surface defines a hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion configuration that is defined by at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion, such that the outermost surface defines at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion, and each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion, independently, is configured such that a ratio, of a drag co-efficient of the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion, measured in a direction of movement of the closure member 440, relative to the reference fluid, in an unseating direction, to a drag co-efficient of the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, measured in a direction of movement of the closure member, relative to the reference fluid, in a seating direction, is at least five (5).

In another aspect, there is provided a valve comprising:

    • a housing, including:
      • a seat;
      • a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow;
      • a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and
      • an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
    • and
    • an elongated closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat;
    • wherein:
      • a flow-conducting passage is defined within the housing cavity; between the inner surface and the elongated closure member;
      • the housing and the elongated closure member are co-operably configurable in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein:
        • in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and
        • in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member;
      • the elongated closure member defines an outermost surface, and
      • the outermost surface defines a hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion configuration that is defined by at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion, such that the outermost surface defines at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion, and each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion, independently, is characterized by a Fineness ratio of greater than three (3) and less than 20.

In another aspect, there is provided a valve comprising:

    • a housing, including:
      • a seat;
      • a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow;
      • a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and
      • an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
    • and
    • an elongated closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat, and including a plurality of elongated grooves, wherein each one of the elongated grooves, independently, is defined within an outermost surface of the elongated closure member and generally extends longitudinally within the outermost surface;
    • wherein:
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operably configurable in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein:
        • in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and
        • in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member;
      • and
      • the plurality of elongated grooves are co-operatively configured such that deeper ones of the elongated grooves are emplaced on a first side of the elongated closure member and such that shallower ones of the elongated grooves are emplaced on a second side of the elongated closure member, wherein the second side is defined on an opposite side to that of the first side.

In another aspect, there is provided a valve comprising:

    • a housing, including:
      • a seat;
      • a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow;
      • a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and
      • an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
    • and
    • a closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat, wherein the closure member is defined by solid material and is configured such that a groove configuration, defined by at least one groove, is established within an outermost surface of the closure member, wherein each one of the at least one groove, independently, extends longitudinally within the outermost surface;
    • wherein:
      • the housing and the closure member are co-operably configurable in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein:
        • in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and
        • in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member;
      • and
      • the groove configuration defines a groove configuration space having a total volume that is at least 25% of a total volume of the closure member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show example embodiments, and in which:

FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a downhole sucker rod pump system with a tubing pump;

FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a downhole sucker rod pump system with an insert pump;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a lower portion of a sucker rod pump;

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a side view of a valve configuration of the present disclosure, illustrating the closure member in the seated condition; and

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a side view of the valve configuration shown in FIG. 3, illustrating the closure member in the displaced condition;

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an embodiments of a valve configuration, emplaced within the wellbore such that a central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, at an acute angle “A” of less than 30 degrees relative to a horizontal plane “HP”;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a closure member of a valve configuration of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6A is a side view of another embodiment of a closure member of a valve configuration of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of another embodiment of a closure member of a valve configuration of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6C is a view from one end of the closure member illustrated in FIG. 6B;

FIG. 7 is identical to the closure member illustrated in FIG. 6, and identifies the groove configuration space of the groove configuration of the closure member;

FIG. 8 is a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a valve configuration, illustrating dimensions of the valve configuration;

FIG. 9 is another schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a valve configuration, illustrating the cross-sectional flow area, of the housing cavity, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity;

FIG. 10 is another schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a valve configuration, illustrating the total cross-sectional area, of the housing cavity, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity; and

FIG. 11 is another schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a valve configuration, illustrating the area of the groove configuration defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity; and

FIG. 12 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a closure member of a valve configuration, illustrating a width of an opening, within the outermost surface of the closure member, within which a groove is defined; and

FIG. 13 is schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a valve configuration, illustrating a width of an opening, within the outermost surface of the closure member, within which a groove is defined.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A and 1B depict schematic illustrations of a downhole pumping system 100. A wellbore 102 of a subterranean formation can be straight, curved or branched. The wellbore can have various wellbore sections. A wellbore section is an axial length of a wellbore 102. A wellbore section can be characterized as “vertical” or “horizontal” even though the actual axial orientation can vary from true vertical or true horizontal, and even though the axial path can tend to “corkscrew” or otherwise vary. In some embodiments, for example, the central longitudinal axis of the passage of a horizontal section is disposed along an axis that is between about 70 and about 110 degrees relative to the vertical, while the central longitudinal axis of the passage of a vertical section is disposed along an axis that is less than about 20 degrees from the vertical “V”, and a transition section is disposed between the horizontal and vertical sections.

“Reservoir fluid” is fluid that is contained within an oil reservoir. Reservoir fluid can be liquid material, gaseous material, or a mixture of liquid material and gaseous material. The reservoir fluid includes hydrocarbon material, such as oil, natural gas condensates, or any combination thereof. The reservoir fluid can also contain water. The reservoir fluid can also include fluids injected into the reservoir for effecting stimulation of resident fluids within the reservoir.

Although reservoir fluid is primarily comprised of liquid and gaseous material, it is inevitable that solid material will accumulate in the reservoir fluid, as the reservoir fluid is pumped to the surface of the well. This solid material can be in the form of solid particulates, such as sand. It is preferable to remove the solid material from the reservoir fluids before pumping it to the surface, as solid material can impact the processing of the reservoir fluids after they have been pumped to the surface.

A wellbore string 104 is emplaced within the wellbore 102 for stabilizing the subterranean formation 106. In some embodiments, for example, the wellbore string 104 also contributes to effecting fluidic isolation of one zone within the subterranean formation 106 from another zone within the subterranean formation 106.

The fluid productive portion of the wellbore 102 may be completed either as a cased-hole completion or an open-hole completion.

With respect to a cased-hole completion, in some embodiments, for example, a wellbore string 104, in the form of a wellbore casing that includes one or more casing strings, each of which is positioned within the wellbore 102, having one end extending from the wellhead 108, is provided. In some embodiments, for example, each casing string is defined by jointed segments of pipe. The jointed segments of pipe typically have threaded connections.

Typically, a wellbore 102 contains multiple intervals of concentric casing strings, successively deployed within the previously run casing (not depicted in the Figures). With the exception of a liner string, casing strings typically run back up to the surface 110. Typically, casing string sizes are intentionally minimized to minimize costs during well construction. Smaller casing sizes make production and artificial lifting more challenging.

For wells that are used for producing reservoir fluid, few of these actually produce through the wellbore casing. This is because producing fluids can corrode steel or form undesirable deposits (for example, scales, asphaltenes or paraffin waxes) and the larger diameter can make flow unstable. In this respect, a production string 122 is usually installed inside the last casing string. The production string 122 is comprised of tubing and acts as the primary conduit through which reservoir fluids are produced to the surface 110. The production string 122 is provided to conduct reservoir fluid, received within the wellbore, to the wellhead 108. The production string 122, in addition to providing the conduit for reservoir fluid production, also helps to protect primary wellbore components, including the casing and the liner, from environmental impacts, such as corrosion or erosion by the reservoir fluid. In some embodiments, for example, the annular region between the last casing string and the production string 122 may be sealed at the bottom by a packer.

The wellbore 102 is disposed in flow communication (such as through perforations provided within the installed casing or liner, or by virtue of the open hole configuration of the completion), or is selectively disposable into flow communication (such as by perforating the installed casing, or by actuating a valve to effect opening of a port), with the subterranean formation 106. When disposed in flow communication with the subterranean formation 106, the wellbore 102 is disposed for receiving reservoir fluid flow from the subterranean formation 106, with effect that the system 100 receives the reservoir fluid.

In some embodiments, for example, the wellbore casing is set short of total depth. Hanging off from the bottom of the wellbore casing, with a liner hanger or packer, is a liner string. The liner string can be made from the same material as the casing string, but, unlike the casing string, the liner string does not extend back to the wellhead 108. Cement may be provided within the annular region between the liner string and the oil reservoir for effecting zonal isolation (see below), but is not in all cases. In some embodiments, for example, this liner is perforated to effect flow communication between the reservoir and the wellbore. In some embodiments, for example, the production tubing string may be engaged or stung into the liner string, thereby providing a fluid passage for conducting the produced reservoir fluid to the wellhead 108.

An open-hole completion is established by drilling down to the producing formation, and then lining the wellbore (such as, for example, with a wellbore string 104). The wellbore 102 is then drilled through the producing formation, and the bottom of the wellbore 102 is left open (i.e. uncased), to effect flow communication between the reservoir and the wellbore.

The system 100 receives, via the wellbore 102, the reservoir fluid flow from the subterranean formation 106. As discussed above, the wellbore 102 is disposed in flow communication (such as through perforations provided within the installed casing or liner, or by virtue of the open hole configuration of the completion), or is selectively manipulated into flow communication (such as by perforating the installed casing, or by actuating a valve to effect opening of a port), with the subterranean formation 106. When disposed in flow communication with the subterranean formation 106, the wellbore 102 is disposed for receiving reservoir fluid flow from the subterranean formation 106, with effect that the system 100 receives the reservoir fluid.

In some embodiments, for example, the system 100 includes a production string 122, including a reservoir production assembly 112, disposed within the wellbore string 104. The reservoir production assembly 112 includes a pump 114 includes a housing 200 that defines a pump cavity 114A.

In some embodiments, for example, the pump 114 is a rod pump 114. The rod pump 114 includes a plunger 300, attached to a rod 116 or a rod string 116, and connected to surface equipment which causes reciprocating movement of the plunger 300. In some embodiments, for example, the surface equipment includes a prime mover (e.g. an internal combustion engine or a motor), a crank arm, and a beam. The prime mover rotates the crank arm, and the rotational movement of the crank arm is converted to reciprocal longitudinal movement through the beam. In some embodiments, for example, the prime mover is a pumpjack. The beam is attached to a polished rod by cables hung from a horsehead at the end of the beam. The polished rod passes through a stuffing box and is attached to the plunger 300. Accordingly, the surface equipment effects reciprocating longitudinal movement of the plunger 300, and further defines the upper and lower displacement limits of the plunger 300. Reservoir fluid is produced to the surface 110 in response to reciprocating longitudinal movement of the rod by the pumpjack. The plunger 300 reciprocates longitudinally within the reservoir production assembly 112, and, in particular, within the housing 200. In some embodiments, for example, the plunger 300 is cylindrical in shape.

In some embodiments, for example, the pump 114 is a tubing pump with the housing 200 being formed as a part of the production string 122, as depicted in FIG. 1A. When the pump 114 is a tubing pump, the pump 114 is coupled to the production string 122 such that the housing 200 acts as a section of the production string 122. In other embodiments, the pump 114 is an insert pump, with the housing 200 being landed on a landing site, or anchored to the tubing, as depicted in FIG. 1B. When the pump 114 is an insert pump, the pump 114 is inserted into the tubing in the production string 122 and run as an assembled unit with the sucker rod 116. The insert pump is anchored to the production string 122, for example, in a cup type or mechanical type seating nipple 124, which is run as part of the production string 122. The insert pump can be anchored at the top of the pump 114, as depicted in FIG. 1B or at the bottom of the pump 114. An insert pump is typically smaller in diameter than a tubing pump, as depicted in FIG. 1B, in order to be inserted into the production string 122, allowing the production string 122 to extend downhole past the pump 114.

A reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118 is disposed within the wellbore string 104 for receiving reservoir fluid flow that is conducted from the subterranean formation 106 and into the wellbore 102. In this respect, reservoir fluid flow, from the subterranean formation 106, is received by the reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118. In some embodiments, for example, the reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118 is disposed within a horizontal section of the wellbore 102.

The reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118 is in fluid communication with the reservoir production assembly 112 such that the reservoir fluid can be pumped uphole using the plunger 300. The reservoir production assembly 112 includes a standing valve 120 (for example, at a bottom end of the reservoir production assembly 112). The standing valve 120 is configured to co-operate with the reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118 such that, while the standing valve 120 is open, flow communication is established between the pump cavity 114A and the reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118, and while the standing valve 120 is closed, flow communication between the pump cavity 114A and the reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118 is sealed, such that the reservoir fluid disposed within the pump cavity 114A is prevented from flowing back into the reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118.

The wellhead 108 is also in fluid communication with the reservoir production assembly 112 such that the reservoir fluid, received within the reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118, and being pumped uphole, can be pumped uphole to the surface 110 via the wellhead 108. The reservoir fluid production assembly 112 includes a travelling valve 302. The travelling valve 302 is configured to co-operate with pump cavity 114A such that, while the travelling valve 302 is open, flow communication is established between the pump cavity 114A and the wellhead 108, and while the travelling valve 302 is closed, flow communication between the pump cavity 114A and the wellhead 108 is sealed. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the pump cavity 114A is disposed between the standing valve 120 and the travelling valve 302. In some embodiments, for example, the travelling valve 302 is embodied within the plunger 300.

In some embodiments, for example, the pump 114 includes a barrel that defines a pump chamber. The pump chamber provides the space within which the plunger 300 reciprocates. By reciprocating within the pump chamber, the pressure inside the pump chamber will vary and have an effect on the open or closed configuration of the travelling valve 302 and the standing valve 120. In some embodiments, for example, the housing 200 functions as the working barrel for the pump 114, wherein the reciprocating movement of the plunger can remain within the housing 200 and covers a plunger-traversable section of the housing 200. The reciprocating movement of the plunger 300 can create harsh downhole conditions, for example, increased forces due to pressure and friction. Such conditions are necessary in order to provide the pumping forces required to pump reservoir fluid to the surface 110, and also necessitate a housing 200, which can be designed specifically to withstand the conditions caused by the plunger 300, for example, by being made of stronger materials, or by being more easily removable or accessible for maintenance.

During the upstroke of the plunger 300, the travelling valve 302 is closed and the standing valve 120 is open. This allows reservoir fluid to enter into the reservoir production assembly 112 and the reservoir fluid located in the upper space 208 above the plunger 300 is lifted to the surface by the plunger 300. On the downstroke of the plunger 300, the travelling valve 302 is open and the standing valve 120 is closed. This ensures that fluid remaining within the reservoir production assembly 112 above the travelling valve 302 does not flow downwards through the plunger 300 back into the pump cavity 114A, and subsequently into the reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118, while also enabling the reservoir fluids displaced by the plunger 300, to be lifted towards the surface 110 on the subsequent upstroke. In this respect, the plunger 300 defines a flow passage 308 for conducting flow of reservoir fluid being displaced, during the down stroke, in an uphole direction, towards the wellhead 108, and the flow passage 308 is disposed in flow communication with the wellhead 108.

Referring to FIGS. 2 to 12, a valve configuration 400 is provided, and the valve configuration is configured for use as the standing valve 120 as the travelling valve 302, or either one of the standing valve 120 or the travelling valve 302 (see FIG. 2). In this respect, the valve configuration 400 is configured for integration within the reservoir production assembly 112. The valve configuration 400 includes a housing 410 and a closure member 440. The housing 410 includes a seat 420, a flow-receiving communicator 430, a flow-discharging communicator 480, and an inner surface 412. The inner surface 412 defines a housing cavity 414. The housing cavity 414 is configured for at least conducting fluid flow. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, a flow-conducting cavity 414A is defined within the housing cavity 414, between the inner surface 412 and the closure member 440.

In some embodiments, for example, the housing 410 includes a flow cage 416. The flow cage 416 includes a stop 418 for limiting displacement of the closure member 440 relative to the seat 420. Suitable flow cages includes those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,069,997 and 11,913,555, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

The flow-receiving communicator 430 is configured for establishing flow communication between the cavity 414 and an environment external to the housing 410 (such as, for example, the flow reservoir fluid-receiving zone 118), with effect that fluid flow is conductible from the external environment to the cavity 414 via the flow-receiving communicator 430.

The closure member 440 is moveable within the cavity 414, relative to the seat 420, between a seated condition (see FIG. 3) and an displaced condition (see FIG. 4). In the seated condition, the closure member 440 is seated on the seat 420, and, in the displaced condition, the closure member 440 is spaced apart from (e.g. unseated relative to) the seat 420. In some embodiments, for example, the closure member 400 is untethered. In some of these embodiments, for example, the displacement of the closure member 400, relative to the valve seat 420, is motivated by an established fluid pressure differential. In some embodiments, for example, the closure member 440 is elongated.

In some embodiments, for example, the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operatively configured such that, while the closure member 440 is disposed in the seated condition, the flow receiving communicator 430 is occluded by the closure member 440, such that the housing 410 and the closure member 440 co-operate for establishing a closed condition. Relatedly, the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operatively configured such that, while the closure member 440 is disposed in the displaced condition, there is an absence of seating of the closure member 440 on the seat 420, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow receiving communicator 430 by the closure member 440, such that the housing 410 and the closure member 440 co-operate for establishing in an open condition.

In some embodiments, for example, the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operatively configured such that, while the closure member 440 is emplaced in the seated condition, the closure member 440 is sealingly engaged to the seat 420, with effect that the flow communication, via the flow receiving communicator 430, is sealed, and while the closure member 440 is emplaced in the displaced condition, there is an absence of sealing of the flow communication via the flow receiving communicator 430, by the closure member 440, such that the flow communication, via the flow receiving communicator 430, is effective. In this respect, in some embodiments, the transitioning of the closure member, from the seated condition to the displaced condition, is with effect that the sealing, of the flow communication via the flow receiving communicator, is defeated.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, in some embodiments, for example, the open condition and the closed condition, in which the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operably configurable, are established while the valve configuration 400 is oriented (for example, within the wellbore 102) such that a central longitudinal axis 414X of the cavity 414 is disposed at an acute angle “A” of less than 30 degrees relative to a horizontal plane “HP”.

Referring again to FIGS. 3 to 5, in some embodiments, for example, the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operatively configured, such that while: (i) the valve configuration 400 is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis 414X, of the housing cavity 414, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis 414X within a horizontal plane “HP” to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis 414X at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane “HP”, (ii) the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operating to establish the open condition, wherein the spacing apart of the closure member 440, relative to the seat 420, is such that the closure member 440 is traversed by a longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414, and (iii) while a fluid flow is being received by the flow receiving communicator 430:

    • the received fluid flow is conducted from the flow receiving communicator 430, via the flow-conducting cavity 414A, to the flow discharging communicator 480; and
    • while being conducted via the flow-conducting cavity 414A, the received fluid flow is conducted via a flow-conducting space 414S of the flow-conducting cavity 414, wherein the flow-conducting space 414S defines a cross-sectional flow area 414SFA, of the flow-conducting cavity 414, defined within the longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 6, 6A, 6B, and 7, in some embodiments, for example, the closure member 440 defines an outermost surface 442. In some embodiments, for example, the outermost surface 442 defines a hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion configuration that is defined by at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, such that the outermost surface 442 defines at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, independently, is configured such that a ratio, of a drag co-efficient of the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, measured in a direction of movement of the closure member 440, relative to the reference fluid, in an unseating direction “UD”, to a drag co-efficient of the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, measured in a direction of movement of the closure member 440, relative to the reference fluid, in a seating direction “SD”, is at least five (5), such as, for example, at least ten (10), such as, for example, at least 12. In some of these embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion, independently, the ratio, of a value of a drag co-efficient of the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, measured in a direction of movement of the closure member 440, relative to the reference fluid, in an unseating direction “UD”, to a drag co-efficient of the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, measured in a direction of movement of the closure member 440, relative to the reference fluid, in a seating direction “SD”, is less than 15.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, independently, is configured such that a ratio, of a value of a first drag force, applied by the reference fluid to the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444 while the closure member 440 is moving, relative to the reference fluid, in an unseating direction “UD”, to a value of a second drag force, applied by the reference fluid to the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444 while the closure member 440 is moving, relative to the reference fluid, in a seating direction “SD”, is at least three (3), such as, for example, at least five (5), such as, for example, at least ten (10), such as, for example, at least 12. In some of these embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, independently, the ratio, of a value of a first drag force, applied by the reference fluid to the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444 while the closure member 440 is moving, relative to the reference fluid, in an unseating direction “UD”, to a value of a second drag force, applied by the reference fluid to the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444 while the closure member 440 is moving, relative to the reference fluid, in a seating direction “SD”, is less than 15.

In some embodiments, for example, the closure member includes a seating direction end 440A and an unseating direction end 440B. The seating direction end 440A is configured for seating on the seat 420, such that the seating of the closure member 440 on the seat is effectuated by seating of the seating direction end 440A on the seat. The unseating direction end 440B is disposed at an opposite end of the closure member 440, relative to the seating direction end 440A.

In some of these embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, independently, is characterized by a Fineness ratio of greater than three (3) and less than 20. In some of these embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, independently, is characterized by a Fineness ratio of greater than three (3) and less than 15. In some of these embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, independently, is characterized by a Fineness ratio of greater than three (3) and less than ten (10).

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion 444, independently, defines an air foil shape. In some embodiments, for example, the air foil shape is a teardrop shape. In some embodiments, for example, the air foil shape is a Wortmann air foil shape.

In some embodiments, for example, the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion configuration is a groove configuration 450 that is defined within the outermost surface 442. The groove configuration 450 is defined by at least one groove 452, such that each one of the at least one groove 452 defines a respective one of the at least one portion 444 of the hydrodynamic-shaped surface portion configuration. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one groove 452, independently, a value of a depth of the groove 452, taken along a longitudinal cross-section 440CS of the closure member, is at least 50% (such as, for example, at least 55%, such as, for example, at least 60%, such as, for example, at least 65%, such as, for example, at least 70%, such as, for example, at least 75%, such as, for example, at least 80%, such as, for example, at least 85%, such as, for example, at least 90%) of a value of a maximum radial distance 440MAXD, of the closure member 440 within the cross-section 440CS, measured from a central longitudinal axis 440X, of the closure member 440, to the outermost surface 442 of the closure member 440.

In those embodiments where the hydrodynamic-shaped surface configuration is the groove configuration 450, each one of the at least one groove 452, independently, includes a depth. Each one of the at least one groove 452 includes a shallower portion 446 and a deeper portion 448 (wherein the shallower portion 446 is less deep than the deeper portion 448). For each one of the at least one groove 452, independently, the groove 452 is oriented such that the shallower portion 446 is disposed closer to a seating direction end 440A, relative to the unseating direction end 440B, and the deeper portion 448 is disposed closer to the unseating direction end 440B, relative to the seating direction end 440A.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one groove 452 has an axial length of at least one (1) inch, such as, for example, at least two (2) inches, such as, for example, at least three (3) inches. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the at least one groove 452, independently, the ratio of, the axial length of the groove 452 to the axial length of the closure member, is at least 0.3, such as, for example, at least 0.5, such as, for example, at least 0.6, such as, for example, at least 0.7.

In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the at least one groove 452, independently, is straight, and in some embodiments, for example, at least one of the at least one groove 452, independently, is curved. In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the at least one groove, independently, becomes shallower towards the central axis of the closure member 440. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one groove, of the groove configuration, extends longitudinally within the outermost surface. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one groove, independently, is a longitudinally extending groove. In some embodiments, for example, the groove configuration 450 is defined by a plurality of longitudinally-extending grooves 452 (such that the at least one groove is a plurality of grooves), and the grooves 452 are angularly spaced apart relative to one another, such that a plurality of fins 453 are defined.

In some embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one groove 452, independently, defines a respective arcuate surface portion 454 of the outermost surface 442, such that the groove configuration 450 includes an arcuate surface portion configuration (defined by the respective arcuate surface portion 454 of the at least one grooves 452). For each one of the at least one elongated groove, independently, the respective arcuate surface portion is configured for inducing vortical flow of a fluid that is traversing the arcuate portion. The arcuate surface portion has a total axial length, and the ratio, of the total axial length, of the arcuate surface portion, to a maximum radial distance 440MAXD of the closure member 440 (see FIG. 4), is at least 2.0 (such as, for example, at least 3.0). A radial distance, of the closure member 440, is measured, within a longitudinal cross-section of the closure member 440, from a central longitudinal axis 440X, of the closure member 440, to an outermost surface 442 of the closure member 440, and the maximum radial distance 440MAXD is a maximum one of the radial distances that are characteristic of the closure member 440, and, in the illustrated embodiment, the maximum radial distance 440MAXD is defined within a longitudinal cross-section 440CS of the closure member 440.

Referring to FIG. 6A, in some embodiments, for example, a portion, of the outermost surface 442, at the seating end 440A of the closure member 400, defines a frustoconical surface portion. In this respect, in such embodiments, the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operatively configured such that, while the closure member 440 is disposed in the seated condition, the frustoconical surface portion is seated on the seat 420.

Referring to FIGS. 6B and 6C, in some embodiments, for example, the groove configuration 450 is defined by a plurality of longitudinally-extending grooves 452, and the plurality of longitudinally-extending grooves 452 are co-operatively configured such that deeper ones 452A of the longitudinally-extending grooves are emplaced on a first side 4401 of the closure member 440 and such that shallower ones 452B of the longitudinally-extending grooves are emplaced on a second side 4402 of the closure member 440, wherein the second side 4402 is defined on an opposite side to that of the first side 4401. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, such configuration of the closure member 440 is with effect that the closure member 440 is positioned eccentrically within the cavity 414, thereby mitigating resistance to fluid flow through the passage by the closure member 440.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, in some embodiments, for example, the housing 410 includes a flow cage 416, and the flow cage defines an arcuate surface for inducing vortical flow of a fluid that is traversing the arcuate surface, such that the flow cage is effective for inducing vortical flow of fluid that is traversing the flow cage. In some embodiments, for example, the closure member 440 and the flow cage 416 are co-operatively configured such that the closure member 440 and the flow cage 416 co-operate to induce vortical flow of the fluid. In some embodiments, for example, the vortical flow of the fluid, induced by the closure member 440, is in substantially the same direction as the vortical flow of the fluid, induced by the flow cage 416, so as to mitigate excessive pressure loss and cavitation.

In some embodiments, for example, it is desirable that the weight of the closure member 440 is sufficiently low. In some of these embodiments, for example, a closure member 440, having excessive weight, is more likely to suffer, or cause, mechanical damage if the closure member 440 impacts another component within the valve at sufficiently high speed. In some embodiments, for example, the closure member is configured, such that its weight is sufficiently low, by establishing the groove configuration 452 (defined by at least one groove) within the outermost surface 442. In some of these embodiments, for example, the groove configuration 452 defines a groove configuration space 450S (defined by a combination of the spaces 452S1 to 452S5, see FIG. 7) having a total volume that is at least 25% (such as, for example, at least 30%, such as, for example, at least 40%, such as, for example, at least 50%, such as, for example, at least 60%) of a total volume of the closure member 440.

In some embodiments, for example, the closure member 440 is configured such that the tolerance between the closure member 440 and the housing 410 is sufficiently low, and is further configured such that the area of the seat-engagement portion of the closure member 440, for seating on the seat 420, is sufficiently small, and is further configured to co-operate with the housing 410 such that, while the closure member 440 is emplaced within the housing 410, there is sufficient flow area within the cavity 414.

In this respect, and referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 8, in some embodiments, for example, the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operatively configured, such that while: (i) the valve configuration 400 is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis 414X, of the housing cavity 414, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis 414X within a horizontal plane “HP” to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis 414X at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane “HP”, (ii) the housing 410 and the closure member 440 are co-operating to establish the open condition, wherein the spacing apart of the closure member 440, relative to the seat, is such that the closure member 440 is traversed by a longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414, a value of a minimum radial distance 414MIND of the housing cavity 414, defined within the longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414, and measured from a central longitudinal axis 414X, of the housing cavity 414 to the inner surface 412 of the housing 410, exceeds a value of a maximum radial distance 440MAXD of the closure member 440, defined within the longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414, and measured from a central longitudinal axis 440X of the closure member 440, to an outermost surface 442 of the closure member 440, by a value that is greater than, or equal to, 5/1000 inch, and that is less than, or equal to, 15/1000 inch.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, in some of these embodiments, for example, a ratio, of a value of the cross-sectional flow area 414FA, defined within the longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414, to a value of a total cross-sectional area 414TA, within the longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414, is at least 0.5, such as, for example, at least 0.6.

In some of these embodiments, for example, a ratio, of a value of a cross-sectional flow area of the groove configuration 450 (see FIG. 11), defined within the longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414, to a value of a total cross-sectional area 414TA (see FIG. 10), of the longitudinal cross-section 414CS of the housing cavity 414, is at least 0.25, such as, for example, at least 0.3, such as, for example, at least 0.4, such as, for example, at least 0.5, such as, for example, at least 0.6.

Referring to FIG. 12, in some of these embodiments, for example, each one of the at least one elongated groove, independently, is defined within a respective opening, defined within a respective raised surface portion 4421 of an outermost surface 442 of the elongated closure member 440, wherein the opening has a width 452W that has a value of at least 0.5 centimetres, such as, for example, at least 0.6 centimetres.

The preceding discussion provides many example embodiments. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, other examples may include all suitable combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, may also be used.

The term “connected” or “coupled to” may include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements).

Although the embodiments have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein.

Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed, that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

As can be understood, the examples described above and illustrated are intended to be examples only. The invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A valve comprising:

a housing, including: a seat; a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow; a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
and
a closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat;
wherein: the closure member includes at least one groove; and for each one of the at least one groove, independently, a value of a depth of the groove, taken along a longitudinal cross-section of the closure member, is at least 50% of a value of a maximum radial distance, of the closure member within the cross-section, measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the closure member, to the outermost surface of the closure member.

2. The valve as claimed in claim 1;

wherein: the at least one groove is a plurality of grooves; and the plurality of grooves are angularly-spaced apart grooves.

3. The valve as claimed in claim 2;

wherein: the plurality of grooves are co-operatively configured such that a plurality of fins is defined.

4. The valve as claimed in any one of claim 1;

wherein: each one of the at least one groove has an axial length of at least one (1) inch.

5. The valve as claimed in any one of claim 1;

wherein: each one of the at least one groove includes a shallower portion and a deeper portion; and for each one of the at least one groove, independently, the groove is oriented such that the shallower portion is disposed closer to a seating direction end, relative to an unseating direction end, and the deeper portion is disposed closer to an unseating direction end, relative to the seating direction end.

6. A valve comprising:

a housing, including: a seat; a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow; a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
and
a closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat;
wherein: a flow-conducting passage is defined within the housing cavity, between the inner surface and the closure member; the housing and the closure member are co-operably configurable, while the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein: in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member; the housing and the closure member are co-operatively configured, such that while: (i) the valve is emplaced such that the central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity, is emplaced, relative to a horizontal plane, within a range of orientations, wherein the range of orientations is from an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis within a horizontal plane to an emplacement of the central longitudinal axis at an acute angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, (ii) the housing and the closure member are co-operating to establish the open condition, wherein the spacing apart of the closure member, relative to the seat, is such that the closure member is traversed by a longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and (iii) while a fluid flow is being received by the flow receiving communicator: the received fluid flow is conducted from the flow receiving communicator, via the flow-conducting passage, to the flow discharging communicator; and while being conducted via the flow-conducting passage, the received fluid flow is conducted via a flow-conducting space of the flow-conducting passage, wherein the flow-conducting space defines a cross-sectional flow area, of the flow-conducting passage, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity; a value of a minimum radial distance of the housing cavity, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis, of the housing cavity to the inner surface of the housing, exceeds a value of a maximum radial distance of the closure member, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, and measured from a central longitudinal axis of the closure member, to an outermost surface of the closure member, by a value that is greater than, or equal to, 5/1000 inch, and that is less than, or equal to, 15/1000 inch; and a ratio, of a value of the cross-sectional flow area, defined within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, to a value of a cross-sectional area, within the longitudinal cross-section of the housing cavity, is at least 0.5.

7. (canceled)

8. (canceled)

9. (canceled)

10. (canceled)

11. (canceled)

12. (canceled)

13. (canceled)

14. (canceled)

15. (canceled)

16. (canceled)

17. A valve comprising:

a housing, including: a seat; a flow receiving communicator for receiving fluid flow; a flow discharging communicator for discharging the received fluid flow; and an inner surface that defines a housing cavity;
and
a closure member, moveable within the housing cavity relative to the seat, wherein the closure member is defined by solid material and is configured such that a groove configuration, defined by at least one groove, is established within an outermost surface of the closure member, wherein each one of the at least one groove, independently, extends longitudinally within the outermost surface;
wherein: the housing and the closure member are co-operably configurable in a closed condition and in an open condition, wherein: in the closed condition, the closure member is seated on the seat such that the flow receiving communicator is occluded; and in the open condition, the closure member is spaced apart from the seat, such that there is an absence of occlusion of the flow-receiving communicator by the closure member; and the groove configuration defines a groove configuration space having a total volume that is at least 25% of a total volume of the closure member.

18. The valve as claimed in claim 17;

wherein: the seating, of the closure member, on the seat is with effect that the closure member is sealing flow communication, via the flow receiving communicator, between the housing cavity and an environment external to the valve.
Patent History
Publication number: 20260266159
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 5, 2025
Publication Date: Sep 10, 2026
Inventor: Jeffrey Charles SAPONJA (Invermere)
Application Number: 19/380,793
Classifications
International Classification: E21B 34/08 (20060101);