Lateral Probe Or Port Sealed Against Well Wall Patents (Class 166/100)
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Patent number: 7753118Abstract: The permeability of the cement annulus surrounding a casing is measured by locating a tool inside the casing, placing a probe of the tool in hydraulic contact with the cement annulus, measuring the change of pressure in the probe over time, where the change in pressure over time is a function of among other things, the initial probe pressure, the formation pressure, and the permeability, and using the measured change over time to determine an estimated permeability. By drilling into the cement and making additional measurements of the change of pressure in the probe over time, a radial profile of the cement permeability can be generated.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2008Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Terizhandur S. Ramakrishnan, Nikita V. Chugunov, Andrew Duguid, John Tombari
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Patent number: 7753117Abstract: The permeability of the cement annulus surrounding a casing is measured by locating a tool inside the casing, placing a probe of the tool in contact with the cement annulus, measuring the change of pressure in the probe over time, where the change in pressure over time is a function of among other things, the initial probe pressure, the formation pressure, and the permeability, and using the measured change over time to determine an estimated permeability. The estimated permeability is useful in determining whether carbon dioxide can be effectively sequestered in the formation below or at the depth of measurement without significant leakage through the cement annulus.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2008Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Terizhandur S. Ramakrishnan, Nikita V. Chugunov, Andrew Duguid, John Tombari
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Publication number: 20100163252Abstract: The invention provides a system comprising: a tubular containing a first surface comprising a coating made of a first swellable material coating said first surface, wherein said coating has a second surface and said first swellable material is able to swell in contact with a first fluid on said second surface; and a composition made of a settable material and a second swellable material able to swell in contact with a second fluid. The invention also discloses the method associated with the use of such a system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2008Publication date: July 1, 2010Inventors: Loic Regnault De La Mothe, Sylvaine Le Roy-Delage
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Publication number: 20100155061Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for evaluating a fluid from a subterranean formation of a wellsite via a downhole tool positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation are provided. The apparatus relates to a downhole tool having a probe with at least two intakes for receiving fluid from the subterranean formation. The downhole tool is configured according to a wellsite set up. The method involves positioning the downhole tool in the wellbore of the wellsite, drawing fluid into the downhole tool via the at least two intakes, monitoring at least one wellsite parameter via at least one sensor of the wellsite and automatically adjusting the wellsite setup based on the wellsite parameters.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2010Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventors: Alexander F. Zazovsky, Ricardo Vasques, Christopher S. Del Campo, Grace Yue Qiu
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Publication number: 20100116494Abstract: Systems and methods for downhole formation testing based on the use of one or more elongated sealing pads capable of sealing off and collecting or injecting fluids from elongated portions along the surface of a borehole. The modified sealing pads increase the flow area by collecting fluids from an extended portion along the surface of a borehole, which is likely to straddle one or more layers in laminated or fractured formations. A tester device using the elongated sealing pads can be deployed and withdrawn using an extendible element pressing the pads to the borehole. Various designs and arrangements for use with a fluid tester, which may be part of a modular fluid tool, are disclosed in accordance with different embodiments.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2010Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventors: Philip Edmund Fox, Michael E. Shade, Gregory N. Gilbert, Mark A. Proett
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Patent number: 7703517Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for sampling fluid from a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore are provided. The subterranean formation has clean formation fluid therein, and the wellbore has a contaminated fluid therein extending into an invaded zone about the wellbore. A shaft is extended from a housing and positioned in a perforation in a sidewall of the wellbore. At least one flowline extends through the shaft and into the housing. The flowline(s) are adapted to receive downhole fluids through the perforation. At least one fluid restrictor, such as a packer, injection fluid or flow inhibitor, may be used to isolate at least a portion of the perforation whereby contaminated fluid is prevented from entering the isolated portion of the perforation. At least one pump selectively draws fluid into the flowline(s).Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2008Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jeffrey A. Tarvin, Julian J. Pop, Simon H. Bittleston, Angus J. Melbourne, Rogerio T. Ramos
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Patent number: 7690423Abstract: An extendable component for use in a downhole tool for traversing subsurface formations includes a drive element that defines an axis and has a distal end, and an abutment that is spaced radially from a distal end of the drive element. A driven element defines a driven element axis, is flexibly coupled to the drive element, and includes a proximal end disposed adjacent to the drive element and a distal end. A tilt arm is coupled to the driven element, is disposed at an angle with respect to the driven element axis, and is configured to engage the abutment. The driven element is moveable between a normal position and a tilted position. A contact head is coupled to the driven element distal end and is adapted to engage the wellbore wall.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Christopher S. Del Campo, Alexander F. Zazovsky, Stephane Briquet, Steve Ervin
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Patent number: 7654321Abstract: A fluid sampling system retrieves a formation fluid sample from a formation surrounding a wellbore extending along a wellbore axis, wherein the formation has a virgin fluid and a contaminated fluid therein. The system includes a sample inlet, a first guard inlet positioned adjacent to the sample inlet and spaced from the sample inlet in a first direction along the wellbore axis, and a second guard inlet positioned adjacent to the sample inlet and spaced from the sample inlet in a second, opposite direction along the wellbore axis. At least one cleanup flowline is fluidly connected to the first and second guard inlets for passing contaminated fluid, and an evaluation flowline is fluidly connected to the sample inlet for collecting virgin fluid.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2006Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Alexander F. Zazovsky, Colin Longfield, Julian J. Pop, Thomas H. Zimmerman, John D. Sherwood, Keith A. Burgess
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Patent number: 7650937Abstract: Systems and methods for downhole formation testing based on the use of one or more elongated sealing pads capable of sealing off and collecting or injecting fluids from elongated portions along the surface of a borehole. The modified sealing pads increase the flow area by collecting fluids from an extended portion along the surface of a borehole, which is likely to straddle one or more layers in laminated or fractured formations. A tester device using the elongated sealing pads can be deployed and withdrawn using an extendible element pressing the pads to the borehole. Various designs and arrangements for use with a fluid tester, which may be part of a modular fluid tool, are disclosed in accordance with different embodiments.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2006Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Philip Edmund Fox, Michael Shade, Greg Gilbert, Mark A. Proett
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Patent number: 7644760Abstract: A sensor assembly that responds to temperature of fluids within an annulus formed by an outer surface of a borehole instrument and the wall of a borehole. The sensor assembly is removably installed preferably in the wall of the borehole instrument. Installation and removal are from outside of the borehole instrument thus eliminating the need to disassemble the borehole instrument. The sensor assembly comprises a temperature transducer that is hermetically sealed within a housing designed to obtain maximum thermal exposure of the transducer. Power to the temperature transducer is supplied from a separate electronics package in the borehole instrument through a rotary connector within the sensor housing.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2006Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Assignee: Precision Energy Services, LTDInventor: Scott Woloson
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Patent number: 7621325Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining the single phase integrity of a deep well formation sample that is removed to the surface comprises a vacuum jacket insulated single working cylinder divided by two free pistons into three variable volume chambers. The intermediate chamber is pre-charged with a fixed quantity of high pressure gas. Wellbore fluid freely admitted to one end chamber bears against one free piston to further compress the gas. The formation sample is pumped into the other end chamber to first, displace the wellbore fluid from the first end chamber and, sequentially, to further compress the gas to preserve the sample phase state upon removal to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2007Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Houman M. Shammai, John M. Michaels, James T. Cernosek, Michael J. Moody, Phillip Wills
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Publication number: 20090283266Abstract: A method for acquiring a sample of a virgin fluid from a subsurface formation penetrated by a wellbore surrounded by a layer of contaminated fluid is disclosed. The method includes abutting a first packer against a wall of the wellbore, and extending at least a portion of a second packer beyond the first packer, wherein the second packer is at least partially disposed in the first packer. An inlet to a first flowline is at least partially defined by the first packer, and an inlet to a second flowline is defined by the second packer. The method further includes drawing one of virgin fluid, contaminated fluid and combinations thereof into the first flowline; and drawing virgin fluid into the second flowline.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2009Publication date: November 19, 2009Inventors: Raymond V. Nold, III, Alexander F. Zazovsky, Steve Ervin, Christopher S. Del Campo, Stephane Briquet
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Patent number: 7584655Abstract: A formation tester tool includes a formation tester tool body having a surface, a formation probe assembly located within the formation tester tool body, the formation probe assembly including a piston reciprocal between a retracted position and an extended position beyond the surface of the formation tester tool body, the piston being slidingly retained within a chamber, and a seal pad located at an end of the piston, wherein the seal pad includes a first inner sealing element and a second outer sealing element.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Anthony H. van Zuilekom, Chi-Huang Michael Chang, Sue-Lee Luo Chang, legal representative, Arian Abbas, Bruce W. Mackay
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Patent number: 7584786Abstract: A method for acquiring a sample of a virgin fluid from a subsurface formation penetrated by a wellbore surrounded by a layer of contaminated fluid includes abutting a first packer against a wall of the wellbore, and extending at least a portion of a second packer beyond the first packer, wherein the second packer is at least partially disposed in the first packer. An inlet to a first flowline is at least partially defined by the first packer, and an inlet to a second flowline is defined by the second packer. The method further includes drawing one of virgin fluid, contaminated fluid and combinations thereof into the first flowline; and drawing virgin fluid into the second flowline.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2007Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Raymond V. Nold, III, Alexander F. Zazovsky, Steve Ervin, Christopher S. Del Campo, Stephane Briquet
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Patent number: 7581440Abstract: A system for testing a subterranean formation penetrated by a well includes a downhole tool configured to be coupled to a work string that includes a tool body having a longitudinal bore for circulating a fluid and at least one aperture configured to receive at least one module. The system further includes a plurality of modules that are each configured to engage the at least one aperture and at least one cavity configured for receiving a probe, and a plurality of probes that each include at least one orifice configured for testing the formation, wherein a first of the plurality of probes has a first configuration and a second of the plurality of probes has a second configuration.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2007Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Dale Meek, Julian J. Pop, Robert W. Sundquist, Alain P. Dorel, Thomas D. MacDougall
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Publication number: 20090194279Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for sampling fluid from a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore are provided. The subterranean formation has clean formation fluid therein, and the wellbore has a contaminated fluid therein extending into an invaded zone about the wellbore. A shaft is extended from a housing and positioned in a perforation in a sidewall of the wellbore. At least one flowline extends through the shaft and into the housing. The flowline(s) are adapted to receive downhole fluids through the perforation. At least one fluid restrictor, such as a packer, injection fluid or flow inhibitor, may be used to isolate at least a portion of the perforation whereby contaminated fluid is prevented from entering the isolated portion of the perforation. At least one pump selectively draws fluid into the flowline(s).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2008Publication date: August 6, 2009Inventors: Jeffrey A. Tarvin, Julian J. Pop, Simon H. Bittleston, Angus J. Melbourne, Rogerio T. Ramos
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Patent number: 7568521Abstract: A formation evaluation tool positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The formation evaluation tool includes a cooling system adapted to pass a cooling fluid through electronics in the formation evaluation tool whereby heat is dissipated therefrom, the electronics has at least one gauge, a fluid communication device having an inlet adapted to receive the formation fluid and a flowline operatively connected to the fluid communication device and the gauge for placing the formation fluid in fluid communication therewith whereby properties of the formation fluid are determined.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2007Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jonathan Brown, Danny A. Hlavinka, David Ayers
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Publication number: 20090139726Abstract: Systems and methods for opening and/or closing sliding sleeve valves while preventing significant stress upon and damage to the fluid seals that are disposed between the outer housing and the sleeve member elements of the valve. A shifting tool carries a latching device and a fluid closure portion with sacrificial seals. In operations the shifting tool is secured to the sleeve member with the latching device as the closure portion seals off across the fluid flow port of the sleeve member. The shifting tool is then moved to slide the sleeve member between open and closed positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2007Publication date: June 4, 2009Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Alfredo Gomez
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Publication number: 20090101339Abstract: A method of evaluating a fluid from a subterranean formation drawn into a downhole tool positioned in a wellbore penetrating the subterranean formation is provided. The method involves drawing fluid from a formation into an evaluation flowline, drawing fluid from a formation into a cleanup flowline, measuring a property of the fluid in the evaluation flowline and detecting stabilization of the property of the fluid in the evaluation flowline. Fluid properties in a combined flowline may be generated from the evaluation and cleanup flowlines. The fluid properties of the combined flowline may be used to project future evaluation flowline fluid properties. Contamination levels for a given fluid property of a given flowline may also be determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2008Publication date: April 23, 2009Inventors: Alexander F. Zazovsky, Christopher S. Del Campo, Ricardo Vasques
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Patent number: 7497256Abstract: In one embodiment an apparatus is disclosed that includes a tool in a wellbore. A probe is extendable from the tool to contact a wall of a formation surrounding the wellbore. A tube substantially surrounds the probe wherein the tube is extendable into the formation surrounding the wellbore. In another embodiment a method for reducing contamination of a sample of a formation fluid is disclosed that includes extending a probe to contact a wall of a formation. A barrier tube that substantially surrounds the probe is extended into the formation thereby restricting a flow of a contaminated reservoir fluid that would otherwise come from near-wellbore regions above and below the probe from going toward the probe.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Rocco DiFoggio, Leroy W. Ledgerwood, III
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Patent number: 7484563Abstract: A method of evaluating a fluid from a subterranean formation drawn into a downhole tool positioned in a wellbore penetrating the subterranean formation is provided. The method involves drawing fluid from a formation into an evaluation flowline, drawing fluid from a formation into a cleanup flowline, measuring a property of the fluid in the evaluation flowline and detecting stabilization of the property of the fluid in the evaluation flowline. Fluid properties in a combined flowline may be generated from the evaluation and cleanup flowlines. The fluid properties of the combined flowline may be used to project future evaluation flowline fluid properties. Contamination levels for a given fluid property of a given flowline may also be determined.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2005Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Alexander F. Zazovsky, Christopher S. Del Campo, Ricardo Vasques
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Patent number: 7475729Abstract: A method for well construction and completion is disclosed. Generally the method comprises the steps of 1) drilling through an injection zone, 2) positioning an extendable permeable element on the casing capable of stopping formation material from entering the well bore, 3) positioning the casing such that the extendable elements are aligned with the injection zone, 4) extending the member such that they come into direct contact with the injection zone formation, 5) running tubing/completion equipment, and 6) begin injecting the desired fluids into the well. Thus eliminating the need to perforate and gravel pack the well while improving reliability of the injection well completion.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2003Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Michael H. Johnson
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Patent number: 7469746Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for sampling fluid from a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore are provided. The subterranean formation has clean formation fluid therein, and the wellbore has a contaminated fluid therein extending into an invaded zone about the wellbore. A shaft is extended from a housing and positioned in a perforation in a sidewall of the wellbore. At least one flowline extends through the shaft and into the housing. The flowline(s) are adapted to receive downhole fluids through the perforation. At least one fluid restrictor, such as a packer, injection fluid or flow inhibitor, may be used to isolate at least a portion of the perforation whereby contaminated fluid is prevented from entering the isolated portion of the perforation. At least one pump selectively draws fluid into the flowline(s).Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2008Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jeffrey A. Tarvin, Julian J. Pop, Simon H. Bittleston, Angus J. Melbourne, Rogerio T. Ramos
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Publication number: 20080314587Abstract: An extendable component for use in a downhole tool for traversing subsurface formations includes a drive element that defines an axis and has a distal end, and an abutment that is spaced radially from a distal end of the drive element. A driven element defines a driven element axis, is flexibly coupled to the drive element, and includes a proximal end disposed adjacent to the drive element and a distal end. A tilt arm is coupled to the driven element, is disposed at an angle with respect to the driven element axis, and is configured to engage the abutment. The driven element is moveable between a normal position and a tilted position. A contact head is coupled to the driven element distal end and is adapted to engage the wellbore wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2007Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Christopher S. Del Campo, Alexander F. Zazovsky, Stephane Briquet, Steve Ervin
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Patent number: 7458419Abstract: A probe assembly samples fluid from a wellbore penetrating a subsurface formation having a virgin fluid therein beyond a layer of contaminated fluid surrounding the wellbore. The probe assembly includes a probe body extendable from a downhole tool, and a packer carried by the probe body and having a distal surface adapted for sealingly engaging the wellbore. The packer has an outer and inner periphery, with the inner periphery being defined by a bore through the packer. The packer is further equipped with channel(s) formed in the distal surface and arranged to define an annular cleanup intake intermediate the inner and outer peripheries. The passageway(s) extend(s) through the packer for conducting virgin fluid and/or contaminated fluid between the channel(s). A sampling tube is sealingly disposed in the bore of the packer for conducting virgin fluid to a second inlet in the probe body and the downhole tool.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Raymond V. Nold, III, Alexander F. Zazovsky, Steve Ervin, Christopher S. Del Campo, Stephane Briquet
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Patent number: 7445934Abstract: A method and apparatus is described for estimating terminal purity or terminal contamination for a fluid during the withdrawal of the fluid from a subsurface formation. The apparatus and method provide for measuring refractive index of the fluid over a time period, fitting a curve through the refractive index measurements or data values derived therefrom and estimating a terminal refractive index or terminal value for the data values from the fitted to curve to estimate the terminal contamination or purity for the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2007Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Rocco DiFoggio, Angus Simpson
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Patent number: 7428925Abstract: A formation evaluation tool positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The formation evaluation tool includes a cooling system adapted to pass a cooling fluid near electronics in the formation evaluation tool whereby heat is dissipated therefrom, the electronics has at least one gauge, a fluid communication device having an inlet adapted to receive the formation fluid and a flowline operatively connected to the fluid communication device and the gauge for placing the formation fluid in fluid communication therewith whereby properties of the formation fluid are determined. The formation evaluation tool may also be provided with a plurality of sample chambers operatively connected to the flowline for collecting at least a portion of the formation fluid and a pressure compensator in fluid communication with the wellbore and operatively connected to the plurality of sample chambers for applying pressure to the sample chambers whereby pressure is balanced therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2005Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jonathan Brown, Danny A. Hlavinka, David Ayers
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Patent number: 7422058Abstract: A packer device and methods of use for a packer within uncased wellbore to form a complete fluid seal. The packer device includes a central mandrel body that retains a plurality of nested, telescopic expanding elements that are moveable outwardly from the mandrel body. The mandrel body and expanding elements are surrounded by a load-distributing structure as well as a sealing element, which is typically comprised of elastomer. The packer device is hydraulically actuated to urge the expansion members radially outwardly against the load-distributing structure and the sealing element. Because there are a number of discrete expansion elements, the packer device is better able to create a fluid seal within an uncased borehole with surface irregularities.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Edward J. O'Malley
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Patent number: 7416023Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in determining pressure at a formation of interest in-situ. A carrier carrying a tool is conveyed in a borehole. The tool includes a sealing member and a port exposable to the formation of interest. A formation fluid sampling chamber is separated from a hydraulic fluid chamber by a flexible member that allows pressure communication from the fluid sampling chamber to the hydraulic fluid chamber. A sensor senses pressure in the hydraulic fluid for determining pressure in the sampling chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Sven Krueger, Volker Krueger, Wolfgang Herberg, Gunnar Bothmann, Matthias Meister
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Patent number: 7395879Abstract: An apparatus including a drill collar having an outer surface, an assembly for interaction with an earth formation coupled to the drill collar, the assembly including a first member to extend beyond the drill collar outer surface and a second member to extend beyond the first member and toward the earth formation to receive formation fluids. An apparatus including an MWD tool having an outer surface, a formation testing assembly coupled to the MWD tool, the formation testing assembly recessed beneath the outer surface in a first position and including a piston to extend beyond the outer surface to a second position and an inner sampling member to extend beyond the piston to a third position.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2007Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Pedro Segura, Mark A. Sitka, Gregory N. Gilbert, Preston N. Weintraub, Tony T. Vu, John R. Hardin, Jr., Kristopher V. Sherrill, David M. Welshans, James E. Stone
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Publication number: 20080156487Abstract: A fluid sampling system retrieves a formation fluid sample from a formation surrounding a wellbore extending along a wellbore axis, wherein the formation has a virgin fluid and a contaminated fluid therein. The system includes a sample inlet, a first guard inlet positioned adjacent to the sample inlet and spaced from the sample inlet in a first direction along the wellbore axis, and a second guard inlet positioned adjacent to the sample inlet and spaced from the sample inlet in a second, opposite direction along the wellbore axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2006Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Alexander F. Zazovsky, Colin Longfield, Julian J. Pop, Thomas H. Zimmerman, John D. Sherwood, Keith A. Burgess
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Publication number: 20080149332Abstract: A method and device for determining a formation gradient. The device comprises probes that are a set distance apart, disposing the device into a wellbore and measuring formation pressure with the probes provides formation pressures that can be correlated with the set distance. The measured pressures and correlated set distance is used to determine the formation gradient.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2006Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventors: Robert J. Gordon, Michael Shammai
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Publication number: 20080142214Abstract: A sampling system and method for use in pipes or in boreholes beneath the earth's surface, including the use of flexible borehole liners, the liners provided with a diffusion barrier to prevent contamination of fluid samples obtained by the system and method. There is provided a flexible diffusion barrier in the construction of a flexible fluid sampling liner, so as to nearly eliminate concern for diffusion transport into or out of the liner. The flexible diffusion barrier may be incorporated into and constructed with known devices, called spacers, in use with flexible borehole liners. The diffusion barrier according to the present disclosure is attached or secured by a suitable means to the interior surface, or the exterior surface, or both surfaces, of the flexible borehole liner. In one embodiment, a spacer with a diffusion barrier prevents both the diffusion into the liner, and the diffusion out of the liner, in the interval subtended by the spacer length.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2007Publication date: June 19, 2008Inventor: Carl Keller
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Publication number: 20080135299Abstract: An apparatus and method for characterizing a subsurface formation is provided. The apparatus includes a tool body, a probe assembly carried by the tool body for sealing off a region of the borehole wall, an actuator for moving the probe assembly between a retracted position for conveyance of the tool body and a deployed position for sealing off a region of the borehole wall and a perforator extending through the probe assembly for penetrating a portion of the sealed-off region of the borehole wall. The tool may be provided with first and second drilling shafts with bits for penetrating various surfaces. The method involves sealing off a region of a wall of an open borehole penetrating the formation, creating a perforation through a portion of the sealed-off region of the borehole wall and testing the formation.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2008Publication date: June 12, 2008Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Troy Fields, Oivind Brockmeier, Edward Harrigan, Bunker Hill, Charles Fensky, Ali Eghbali, Christopher Del Campo
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Patent number: 7380599Abstract: An apparatus and method for characterizing a subsurface formation is provided. The apparatus includes a tool body, a probe assembly carried by the tool body for sealing off a region of the borehole wall, an actuator for moving the probe assembly between a retracted position for conveyance of the tool body and a deployed position for sealing off a region of the borehole wall and a perforator extending through the probe assembly for penetrating a portion of the sealed-off region of the borehole wall. The tool may be provided with first and second drilling shafts with bits for penetrating various surfaces. The method involves sealing off a region of a wall of an open borehole penetrating the formation, creating a perforation through a portion of the sealed-off region of the borehole wall and testing the formation.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2004Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Troy Fields, Oivind Brockmeier, Edward Harrigan, Bunker Hill, Charles Fensky, Ali Eghbali, Christopher Del Campo
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Publication number: 20080121394Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for sampling fluid from a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore are provided. The subterranean formation has clean formation fluid therein, and the wellbore has a contaminated fluid therein extending into an invaded zone about the wellbore. A shaft is extended from a housing and positioned in a perforation in a sidewall of the wellbore. At least one flowline extends through the shaft and into the housing. The flowline(s) are adapted to receive downhole fluids through the perforation. At least one fluid restrictor, such as a packer, injection fluid or flow inhibitor, may be used to isolate at least a portion of the perforation whereby contaminated fluid is prevented from entering the isolated portion of the perforation. At least one pump selectively draws fluid into the flowline(s).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2008Publication date: May 29, 2008Applicant: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jeffrey A. Tarvin, Julian J. Pop, Simon H. Bittleston, Angus J. Melbourne, Rogerio T. Ramos
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Patent number: 7367394Abstract: A sampling while drilling tool positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The tool includes a drill collar, at least one sample chamber, at least one flowline and at least one cover. The drill collar is operatively connectable to a drill string of the sampling while drilling tool. The drill collar has at least one opening extending through an outer surface thereof and into a cavity. The drill collar has a passage therein for conducting mud therethrough. The sample chamber is positionable in the cavity of the drill collar. The flowline in the drill collar, the at least one flowline operatively connectable to the sample chamber for passing a downhole fluid thereto. The cover is positionable about the at least one opening of the drill collar whereby the sample chamber is removably secured therein.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2005Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Steven G. Villareal, Reinhart Ciglenec, Michael J. Stucker, Khanh Duong
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Publication number: 20080073078Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems and methods for real-time management of a guarded probe device down a wellbore that is being used for formation fluid sampling. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, embodiments of the present invention provide for operational management of the guarded probe device to provide for splitting a flowline coupled with the guarded probe into two separate flow lines after the sampling process has begun, wherein one of the two separate flow-lines is coupled with a sampling probe in the guarded probe device and the other flowline is coupled with a guard probe in the guarded probe device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2006Publication date: March 27, 2008Applicant: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: John D. Sherwood
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Patent number: 7347262Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for sampling fluid from a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore are provided. The subterranean formation has clean formation fluid therein, and the wellbore has a contaminated fluid therein extending into an invaded zone about the wellbore. A shaft is extended from a housing and positioned in a perforation in a sidewall of the wellbore. At least one flowline extends through the shaft and into the housing. The flowline(s) are adapted to receive downhole fluids through the perforation. At least one fluid restrictor, such as a packer, injection fluid or flow inhibitor, may be used to isolate at least a portion of the perforation whereby contaminated fluid is prevented from entering the isolated portion of the perforation. At least one pump selectively draws fluid into the flowline(s).Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jeffrey A. Tarvin, Julian J. Pop, Simon H. Bittleston, Angus J. Melbourne, Rogerio T. Ramos
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Patent number: 7311142Abstract: A downhole tool positionable in a wellbore for penetrating a subterranean formation includes a housing having at least one protuberance extending therefrom. The protuberance has at least one centralizing section and a protective section. A probe is positioned in the protective section such that the horizontal cross-sectional area of the housing along the protective section is less than the horizontal cross-sectional area of the housing along the at least one centralizing section.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Patrick Fisseler, Tom Palmer, James Mather, Colin Longfield, Richard Meehan, Jean-Marc Follini, Jean-Michel Hache
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Publication number: 20070284099Abstract: In one embodiment an apparatus is disclosed that includes a tool in a wellbore. A probe is extendable from the tool to contact a wall of a formation surrounding the wellbore. A tube substantially surrounds the probe wherein the tube is extendable into the formation surrounding the wellbore. In another embodiment a method for reducing contamination of a sample of a formation fluid is disclosed that includes extending a probe to contact a wall of a formation. A barrier tube that substantially surrounds the probe is extended into the formation thereby restricting a flow of a contaminated reservoir fluid that would otherwise come from near-wellbore regions above and below the probe from going toward the probe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2006Publication date: December 13, 2007Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Rocco DiFoggio, Leroy W. Ledgerwood
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Patent number: 7303011Abstract: A downhole tool positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is disclosed. The downhole tool includes a housing, a coring bit and a sample chamber. The coring bit is disposed in the housing and is extendable therefrom for engaging a wellbore wall. The sample chamber stores at least two formation samples obtained with the coring bit and includes at least two portions for separately storing the formation samples.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2007Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Lennox Reid, Edward Harrigan
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Patent number: 7261168Abstract: This application relates to various methods and apparatus for rapidly obtaining accurate formation property data from a drilled earthen borehole. Once obtained, the formation property data, including formation fluid pressure, may be corrected, calibrated and supplemented using various other data and techniques disclosed herein. Furthermore, the formation property data may be used for numerous other purposes. For example, the data may be used to correct or supplement other information gathered from the borehole; it may be used to supplement formation images or models; or, it may be used to adjust a drilling or producing parameter. Various other uses of accurately and quickly obtained formation property data are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Malcolm Douglas McGregor, Glenn C. Gray, James E. Stone, Svetozar Simeonov, Gregory N. Gilbert, Mark A. Proett, James M. Fogal, William Edward Hendricks, Christopher Anthony Maranuk, Jean Michel Beique
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Patent number: 7246664Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining the single phase integrity of a deep well formation sample that is removed to the surface comprises a vacuum jacket insulated single working cylinder divided by two free pistons into three variable volume chambers. The intermediate chamber is pre-charged with a fixed quantity of high pressure gas. Wellbore fluid freely admitted to one end chamber bears against one free piston to further compress the gas. The formation sample is pumped into the other end chamber to first, displace the wellbore fluid from the first end chamber and, sequentially, to further compress the gas to preserve the sample phase state upon removal to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2002Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Houman M. Shammai, John M. Michaels, James T. Cernooek, Michael J. Moody, Phillip Wills
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Patent number: 7222671Abstract: A viscometer for a down hole tool positionable in a well bore penetrating a subterranean formation is described. The formation contains at least one fluid therein. The down hole tool is adapted to convey at least a portion of the fluid to the viscometer. The viscometer comprises a sensor unit, and at least one magnet. The sensor unit is positionable within the down hole tool and comprises at least two spatially disposed clamps and a wire suspended in tension between the at least two clamps such that the wire is available for interaction with the fluid when the viscometer is positioned within the down hole tool and the down hole tool is positioned within the subterranean formation and receives the fluid from the subterranean formation.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Derek Caudwell, Anthony R. H. Goodwin, Martin Trusler, Michael W. Frels, Kai Hsu, Jonathan W. Brown, Julian J. Pop, Bunker M. Hill, Andrew L. Kurkjian
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Patent number: 7204309Abstract: A formation testing tool is described herein, including a formation probe assembly having an extendable sampling probe surrounded by a cylindrical sleeve. The sleeve is configured to engage a metal skirt having an elastomeric seal pad coupled thereto. The skirt and seal are configured to be field replaceable. The elastomeric pad has a non-planar outer surface which engages a borehole wall in preparation for formation testing. The seal pad may be donut-shaped, having an aperture through the middle of the seal pad. The seal pad and its surface may include numerous different embodiments, including having a curved profile. The seal pad may also include numerous different embodiments of means for coupling the seal pad to the metal skirt. The formation testing tool also includes formation probe assembly anti-rotation means, a deviated non-circular flowbore, and at least one closed hydraulic fluid chamber for balancing fluid pressures.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2003Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Pedro R. Segura, Mark A. Sitka, Gregory N. Gilbert, Preston N. Weintraub, Tony T. Vu, John R. Hardin, Jr., Kristopher V. Sherrill, David M. Welshans, James E. Stone
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Patent number: 7198105Abstract: A formation testing tool and method for providing pressure controlled sampling is provided. A flow line delivers formation fluid to a sample chamber in the testing tool. A first valve controls the flow of formation fluid from the flow line to the sample chamber. A piston is slidably disposed in the sample chamber to define a sample cavity and a actuation cavity having variable volumes determined by movement of the piston. An actuator is also provided to move the piston in a first direction to increase the volume of the sample cavity and a second direction to decrease the volume of the sample cavity whereby formation fluid may be drawn into the sample cavity and pressurized therein using the actuator and the first valve.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Douglas W. Grant, Edward Harrigan, Ian Traboulay
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Patent number: 7195063Abstract: A method and apparatus for sampling formation fluid includes drawing formation fluid from the subterranean formation into the downhole tool and collecting the formation fluid in a sample chamber. An exit flow line is operatively connected to the sample chamber for selectively removing a contaminated and/or clean portion of the formation fluid from the sample chamber whereby contamination is removed from the sample chamber. For example, a clean portion of the formation fluid may be passed to another sample chamber for collection, or a contaminated portion may be dumped into the borehole.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Matheus Nogueira, James J. Dunlap, Andrew J. Carnegie, Alejandro Duran, Edward Harrigan, Ricardo Vasques, Nicolas Adur
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Patent number: 7191831Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a wireline assembly that includes a coring tool for taking coring samples of the formation and a formation testing tool for taking fluid samples from the formation, where the formation testing tool is operatively connected to the coring tool. In some embodiments, the wireline assembly includes a low-power coring tool. In other embodiments, the coring tool includes a flowline for formation testing.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Lennox Reid, Edward Harrigan, William E. Brennan, III
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Patent number: 7178591Abstract: Techniques for reduced contamination formation evaluation are provided. The techniques relate to drawing fluid into a downhole tool positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation having a virgin fluid and a contaminated fluid therein. Fluid is drawn into at least two inlets for receiving the fluids from the formation. At least one evaluation flowline is fluidly connected to at least one of the inlets for passage of the virgin fluid into the downhole tool. At least one cleanup flowline is fluidly connected to the inlets for passage of the contaminated fluid into the downhole tool. At least one fluid circuit is fluidly connected to the evaluation flowline and/or cleanup flowlines for selectively drawing fluid therein. At least one fluid connector is provided for selectively establishing a fluid connection between the flowlines. At least one sensor is provided for measuring downhole parameters in one of the flowlines.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Christopher S. Del Campo, Raymond V. Nold, III, Noriyuki Matsumoto, Mark Milkovisch, Hisayo Tauchi, Jonathan W. Brown, Ricardo Vasques, Kenneth L. Havlinek