With Eduction Pump Or Plunger Patents (Class 166/105)
  • Patent number: 8403033
    Abstract: The invention is generally directed to the novel and unique water pump system that is for manual operation, such as when there is a power failure and electrical pump systems are inoperable. An expansion tank is connected to the first end of a water conduit, which runs from below the static water level of the water to the expansion tank. A static chamber is disposed in the well and below the static water level. An air line conduit is fluidly connected to the top portion of the static chamber with the opposing end of the air line conduit being an air input port. When air is delivered into the air input port of the air line conduit, the air pushes water residing in the static chamber and water conduit up through the main water line and into an optional expansion tank for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Richard D. Ahern, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130062050
    Abstract: An electric pump assembly is provided in a well, the pump comprising an electric motor module having a first outer housing and a first mating means, an electric pump module having a pump inlet and a pump outlet, and a second outer housing and a second mating means. In one aspect, the electric motor module and electric pump module are capable of being reversibly joined together by the first and second mating means, as the electric motor module includes a first rotating member that is capable of rotating relative to the first outer housing, and the electric pump module includes a second rotating member that is capable of rotating relative to the second outer housing. In this way, the first rotating member and second rotating member can transfer torque when the electric motor module and electric pump module are joined. In another aspect, a flowpath is provided in each module, the flowpaths fluidly communicating when the modules are joined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Philip Head
  • Publication number: 20130062070
    Abstract: A system and method of liquefying a heavy oil formation to enhance oil production in a well, by inducing shear stress reversal within the formation by a plurality of expanding/contracting bladders in contact with the formation. The induced liquefaction enables formation materials and fluids to flow into the well and thus initiate and propagate the CHOPS (Cold Heavy Oil Production System) process, and thereby enhancing the hydrocarbon production of the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Grant Hocking
  • Publication number: 20130048293
    Abstract: A flow pattern enhancer system mainly for gas-producing oil wells with liquid load problems, comprising mechanical elements that atomize the liquids accumulated at the bottom of the well facilitating their transport to the surface, by decreasing frictional pressure drops and weight of the hydrostatic column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: INSTITUTO MEXICANO DEL PETROLEO
    Inventors: Isaac MIRANDA TIENDA, Juan Antonio CASTRO RODARTE, Edwin Daniel SAN VICENTE AGUILLON, Miguel Angel LOPEZ LOPEZ, Jorge FLORES CASTILLO, Gilberto SANDOVAL HERNANDEZ, Fernando ASCENCIO CENDEJAS, Carlos Alberto REYES LOPEZ
  • Patent number: 8381820
    Abstract: An in-well ESP string that can be installed or retrieved with a wireline instead of a rig. The ESP is combined with a motor and a hydraulic valve to pump formation fluid from a well to the surface. A wet connector is used to facilitate electrical and hydraulic connections. The ESP system is disposed within a tubing string located within the casing of a well. The hydraulic valve controls the flow of formation fluid to the ESP, opening to allow formation fluid to flow to the ESP, and closing to shut off production. When the valve is closed, the ESP may be cleaned with brine introduced via a flow port in the valve. This cleaning operation allows the ESP string to be to retrieved in an environmentally friendly manner. In addition, the wireline installation and retrieval is significantly less costly and less complicated than currently possible with a rig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Ignacio Martinez
  • Publication number: 20130043034
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a power and control pod for subsea artificial lift system. In one embodiment, a method of operating a downhole tool in a subsea wellbore includes: supplying a direct current (DC) power signal from a dry location to a subsea control pod; converting the DC power signal to an alternating current (AC) power signal by the control pod; and supplying the AC power signal from the control pod, into the subsea wellbore, and to the downhole tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: Didier Drablier, Neil Griffiths, Eugene Bespalov
  • Publication number: 20130020069
    Abstract: A gas powered subsurface pump drive system for use in driving a subsurface pump positioned downhole a well and connected to completion tubing includes a pressure connected to the wellhead of the well in fluidic communication with the completion tubing. A pneumatic cylinder is supported above the pressure vessel and has a vertically positioned and reciprocal piston rod extending into the pressure vessel and is connected to an intermediate drive member extends through the production tubing and is connected to a piston rod the subsurface pump for conjoint reciprocation. A pneumatic drive system alternately provides pressurized gas to an instroke port of the pneumatic cylinder and to the pressure vessel to vertically reciprocate the piston rod, the intermediate drive member and the piston rod of the subsurface pump to pump formation fluid upwardly through the tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Alvin Liknes
  • Patent number: 8358043
    Abstract: A submersible electric motor has feature to enhance thermal conductivity from the motor interior to the exterior. The motor has a cylindrical housing and a stator rigidly mounted within housing. A rotatable rotor is located within the stator. A gap formed between the stator's outer diameter and the inner wall of the housing is filled with a high thermal conductivity material to improve heat transfer from the motor. The remaining portion of the housing may be filled with a dielectric lubricant that has lesser thermal conductivity than the high thermal conductivity material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven K. Tetzlaff, Ketankumar K. Sheth, John M. Knapp, Earl B. Brookbank, William F. Pranger, Thien Q. Tran, Suresha R. O'Bryan
  • Publication number: 20130014944
    Abstract: A downhole fluid separation assembly, including a body having greater affinity to a first fluid than a second fluid. The body is operatively arranged with openings for enabling fluid flow therethrough. A member is included that is movable with respect to the body and operatively arranged to compress a section of the body adjacent to the member for urging fluid out of the body and toward a target location. The body is configured to expand when not adjacent to the member for enabling fluid to reenter the body. A method of separating fluids is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Oleg A. Mazyar, Michael H. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8347954
    Abstract: An intermittent lift plunger includes at least one seal mandrel, a bottom sub and an upper valve assembly. The valve assembly is closed by a well bottom stop which inserts into the lift plunger and opened by a lubricator stop at the top of the well. The seal mandrel includes a sleeve seal formed from an elastomeric rubber or plastic, which inflates to engage the well bore surface when the valve is closed and a pressure differential exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Stellarton Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Amies, Grant George, Jordan James, Geoff Steele
  • Patent number: 8347955
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for a plunger lift mechanism with a main channel disposed between a first and second valve. The first valve is closed by engaging a sealing member to a first seat at a proximal end of the main channel and the second valve consequently closes to with a sealing member engaging a second seat at a distal end of the main channel. An amount of pressure accumulates on a first side of the plunger lift to overcome a pressure on a second side of the plunger lift to force the plunger lift to traverse a well bore and evacuate any fluids present above the plunger lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: 4S Oilfield Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Sewell, Amy C. Stephens
  • Patent number: 8347953
    Abstract: A submersible pumping system includes a motor, a pump driven by the motor, a seal section disposed between the pump and the motor and an inline monitoring package connected between the seal section and the motor. The inline monitoring package is electrically connected to the motor through a wye point connection. The inline monitoring package preferably includes a sensor array that includes a plurality of sensors configured to measure conditions internal and external to the submersible pumping system. The inline monitoring package further includes a shaft configured to transmit the output from the motor to the pump. The inline monitoring package further includes a fluid exchange system that accommodates the thermal expansion of lubricants in the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventors: Jesus M. Elizondo, Jr., Keith Kropf
  • Patent number: 8342238
    Abstract: A venturi structure is supported below an ESP preferably off its gauge assembly below its motor so that the surrounding casing or wellbore defines the venturi path leading to the suction connection of the ESP. Multiple pressure sensing locations are provided in case the gauge that defines the venturi path is disposed off center in the bore or if the bore is on an incline. The gauge can receive forms of different sizes depending on the size of the surrounding tubular where the forms use an incline of preferably 15-20 degrees and allow for measuring differential near the perforations and at the constriction location so that the flow can be computed using the Bernoulli Equation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert H. McCoy, Gordon Lee Besser
  • Patent number: 8336632
    Abstract: A method and a system are provided for a direct drive pump for use in pumping fluids and/or quasi-fluids from one location to another. In the direct drive pump, bearings or bushings are optimally spaced, taking into account various operational considerations such as load, path, pressure, and tension. Further, bearings or bushings are coupled to the drive string, thus assisting in more efficient installation and de-installation. The bearings or bushings are not fixed to the production casing or drive tube. In embodiments, the drive tube can be vented, and the production fluid can be used as a lubricant for the system bearings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Harrier Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William Bruce Morrow, Raymond Witten
  • Patent number: 8336631
    Abstract: A method of pumping an oilfield fluid from a well surface to a wellbore is provided that includes providing a clean stream; operating one or more clean pumps to pump the clean stream from the well surface to the wellbore; providing a dirty stream including a solid material disposed in a fluid carrier; and operating one or more dirty pumps to pump the dirty stream from the well surface to the wellbore, wherein the clean stream and the dirty stream together form said oilfield fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Rod Shampine, Paul Dwyer, Ronnie Stover, Mike Lloyd, Jean-Louis Pessin, Edward Leugemors, Larry D. Welch, Joe Hubenschmidt, Philippe Gambier, William Huey Troy, Thomas Allan
  • Patent number: 8322444
    Abstract: An electric pumping system having an electric submersible pump located downhole in a well, the electric submersible pump comprising a motor part, a pump part, and a protector part; the motor part has an internal motor volume containing motor oil; the motor part connected to an electric power source at surface; a motor oil container located at surface outside of the well; a conduit fluidly connecting the motor oil container with the internal motor volume containing motor oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Lauro De Camargo
  • Patent number: 8316949
    Abstract: An electric submersible pump (ESP) assembly comprises an integrated sub-assembly encased within a shroud. The integrated sub-assembly comprises a downhole monitoring gauge, a motor, a well fluid intake, a seal section, a mounting member, and an electrical conduit extending between the mounting member and the motor. The intake has a plurality of intake slots positioned a select distance from the mounting member in order to minimize the space for the accumulation of gas within the shroud. The electrical conduit sealingly extends through the mounting member to a receptacle located on an upper portion thereof. Conductors are encased within the conduit and are connected between the receptacle and the motor. The conduit prevents the conductors from being affected by reservoir fluid and pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Mark K. Rooks
  • Patent number: 8316928
    Abstract: A drive means for downhole use comprises an input shaft and an output shaft, the input shaft being coupled to a means of rotation, the input shaft and the output shaft being torsionally coupled, the output shaft being coupled to the rotor of the progressive cavity pump, the input shaft lies in a first axis and the output shaft lies in a second axis, the second axis being parallel to the first axis but spaced from it so that the output shaft rotates about its axis while describing a circular path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Artificial Lift Company Limited
    Inventor: Philip Head
  • Publication number: 20120292011
    Abstract: A crude oil production equipment includes a submersible pump coupled with a driving shaft, a linear motor, an oil pipe, a well casing, a filter pipe, an outer passage, an inner tube, an upper valve ball, a piston and a lower valve ball. During down stroke of the driving shaft, a suction force is produced to suck crude oil from the well casing into the upper chamber of the inner and the piston forces crude oil out of the lower chamber of the inner tube into the inner passage and then the outlet of the oil pipe. During up stroke of the driving shaft, the piston forces crude oil out of the upper chamber into the lower chamber, and the driving shaft enters the upper chamber and the lower chamber to force crude oil out of the lower chamber out of the oil outlet of the oil pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: KUEI-HSIEN SHEN, CHINN-CHANN CHIANG
  • Publication number: 20120292012
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for supplying water to a desalination plant from a subsurface feedwater supply using one or more slant or horizontally directionally drilled (“HDD”) wells, and for concentrate disposal (e.g., injection of brine). A method is disclosed for constructing a slant or HDD well feedwater supply system for supplying water from a subsurface feedwater supply or to inject concentrate into a subsea aquifer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: GEOSCIENCE Support Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis E. Williams
  • Publication number: 20120292051
    Abstract: A method of deploying a downhole tool into a wellbore includes: lowering a cable into the wellbore; after lowering the cable, engaging a mold with an outer surface of the cable; injecting sealant into the mold and into armor of the cable, thereby sealing a portion of the cable; lowering the downhole tool to a deployment depth using the cable; engaging a seal with the sealed portion of the cable; and operating the downhole tool using the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventors: James Rudolph Wetzel, Nicolas A. Garibay, Neil Griffiths
  • Publication number: 20120285702
    Abstract: A technique facilitates actuation of a downhole tool in a well string. The downhole tool may be actuated hydraulically via the controlled flow of a hydraulic fluid under pressure to the downhole tool through a port. Flow of the pressurized fluid through the port is controlled by a barrier member which may be opened by a plunger working in cooperation with the barrier member. Movement of the plunger is controlled by selectively increasing the pressure acting on the plunger through, for example, actuation of an expansion device or other suitable device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gary L. Rytlewski
  • Publication number: 20120279702
    Abstract: An example downhole tool configured for conveyance in a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation comprises a first fluid communicator configured to allow drilling fluid communication with an annulus between the downhole tool and the wellbore, a second fluid communicator configured to direct formation fluid to the annulus, and a formation testing device disposed deeper in the wellbore relative to the first fluid communicator and configured to pump formation fluid from the formation to the second fluid communicator. At least one of the first and second fluid communicators comprises a jet pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Sylvain Bedouet, Erik Quam
  • Publication number: 20120279721
    Abstract: A reciprocating apparatus for pumping pressurized fluid. The reciprocating apparatus comprises a plunger disposed within a cylinder, wherein the plunger is hollow and ported for enabling fluid within the cylinder to flow into the plunger. The plunger includes at least one outlet through which fluid within the plunger flows out of the plunger. In operation, the plunger retracts to displace fluid from the hollow body and into a discharge chamber, and the plunger extends towards the discharge chamber to discharge the displaced fluid. As the plunger alternately retracts and extends, fluid within the plunger continuously flows towards the discharge chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jim SURJAATMADJA, Stanley V. STEPHENSON, Timothy HUNTER
  • Patent number: 8302695
    Abstract: A downhole assembly for deliquifying a wellbore. In an embodiment, the assembly comprises a nozzle section including a converging nozzle and a diverging nozzle in fluid communication with the converging nozzle. In addition, the assembly comprises a throat section including a convergent throat passage proximal the diverging nozzle and a cylindrical throat passage distal the diverging nozzle and extending axially from the convergent throat passage. The convergent throat passage and the cylindrical throat passage are in fluid communication with the diverging nozzle. Further, the assembly comprises a diffuser section coaxially aligned with the throat section. The diffuser section includes a divergent diffuser passage extending axially from the straight throat passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Simpson, Michael D. Scull
  • Publication number: 20120273222
    Abstract: A plunger system for maximizing the liquid lift potential of a plunger arranged for vertical travel in a conduit in a gas/oil production well. The plunger system comprises an elongated plunger body mandrel having an upper or first end and a second or lower end with a fluid transmitting bore extending longitudinally therethrough, from the second or lower end of the plunger body and into at least a central portion of the plunger body, a plurality of curvilinearly shaped, replaceable wear pads arranged in a controllably radially displaceable manner on the plunger body, and at least one fluid ejecting nozzle arranged extending through a side wall of the plunger body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Well Master Corp
    Inventors: Jesse L. Smith, David A. Green, Robert E. Bender
  • Patent number: 8297940
    Abstract: A downhole pumping assembly has a tubing string with plural barrels which are arranged in-line with the tubing. The tubing string has a seating location adjacent to each barrel. A standing valve arrangement, which includes a standing valve and a seating device, is located with the standing valve adjacent to the lower end of one of the barrels. A plunger has a traveling valve that is located for reciprocation within the one barrel. The plunger has a clearance with each of the barrels so as to form a fluid seal. The plunger reciprocates inside the barrel so as to lift fluid to the surface. Over time, the barrel will exhibit wear. Instead of pulling the entire tubing string to replace the barrel, the standing valve and the plunger are relocated to one of the other barrels located in the tubing string and reciprocation is resumed to resume pumping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Harbison-Fischer, Inc.
    Inventor: Benny J. Williams
  • Patent number: 8291979
    Abstract: A technique includes providing equipment downhole in a well to receive flows. The technique includes regulating a ratio of the flows in the well. The regulation includes regulating the ratio of the flows such that the ratio is substantially independent of pressures of the flows downstream of a point at which the regulation occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Gary M. Oddie
  • Patent number: 8291983
    Abstract: An electric submersible pump (ESP) assembly comprises an integrated sub-assembly encased within a shroud. The integrated sub-assembly comprises a well fluid intake having a shroud hanger formed in an upper portion thereof, a seal section having a motor head formed in a lower portion thereof, and an electrical conduit extending between the shroud hanger and the motor head. The intake has a plurality of fluid entry slots positioned a select distance from the shroud hanger in order to minimize the space for the accumulation of gas within the shroud. The electrical conduit sealingly extends through the shroud hanger to a receptacle located on an upper portion thereof. Conductors are encased within the conduit and are connected between the receptacle and the motor head. The conduit prevents the conductors from being affected by reservoir fluid and pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Mark K. Rooks
  • Publication number: 20120247785
    Abstract: A system for lifting liquid from a wellbore includes a turbine selectively coupled to a source of gas flow originating in the wellbore. The turbine is arranged to convert the gas flow directly into rotation of the turbine. An hydraulic pump is rotationally coupled to the turbine. An hydraulic cylinder and piston are arranged to move a sucker rod string disposed in the wellbore. Control valves are provided to selectively apply gas flow to the turbine and hydraulic pressure from the pump to lift the piston and enable lowering thereof by the weight of the sucker rod string. The system further comprises control circuits configured to operate the control valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Schmitt
  • Patent number: 8276658
    Abstract: This invention relates to a downhole hydraulic pump for hydrocarbon wells that is installed and operated using coiled tubing. The downhole hydraulic pump is driven by a hydraulic power system positioned at the surface and connected through a closed loop system using multiple channels of the coiled tubing. The coiled tubing is formed of a combination of channels including strength component such as steel and having one channel that is at least lined with a non-metallic corrosion resistant surface where clean hydraulic fluid is carried from the hydraulic power system to the downhole hydraulic pump through the non-metallic corrosion resistant channel so to be less likely to pick up manufacturing and environmental particulates and corrosion by-products within the channel carrying the hydraulic fluid to the downhole hydraulic pump. The non-metallic corrosion resistant lined channel may comprise plastic pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventors: James C. Cox, Dennis R. Wilson, Christine A. Buczek, John C. Patterson, Thomas E. Nations, Curtis G. Blount
  • Patent number: 8267171
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for monitoring and controlling a power system of an electrical submersible pump assembly. A sensor monitors an alternating current component of a downhole electrical imbalance voltage at a neutral point of a motor of the electrical submersible pump assembly. The sensor measurement is transmitted to a controller at the surface. The controller analyzes the alternating current component of the downhole electrical imbalance voltage and then adjusting an operation of the electrical submersible pump assembly, or scheduling maintenance, accordingly. Also, a model of a power system of an electrical submersible pump assembly is created to predict an alternating current component of a downhole electrical imbalance voltage. The model is modified as necessary responsive to measurements from the sensor. A controller adjusts surface currents according to the model of the power system to match downhole motor drive currents to thereby optimize the power system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Eric J. Atherton
  • Patent number: 8256504
    Abstract: An unlimited stroke drive method for pumping fluid from an oil well in which the well has a tubing string extending from the earth's surface down to a fluid producing formation. The method includes the steps of positioning a pump barrel within the tubing, an upper end of the pump barrel having communication through a standing valve with the interior of the tubing string, vertically reciprocating a length of flexible cable within the tubing string to vertically reciprocate a plunger within the pump barrel to allow a lower portion to quickly fill with fluid from the producing formation and then to a downward position in which fluid within the pump barrel lower portion is transferred through a traveling valve to an area within the pump barrel above the plunger to move formation fluid from within the pump barrel to the interior of the tubing and thence to the earth's surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: T. Leon Brown
  • Publication number: 20120211220
    Abstract: An electric submersible pump (ESP) torque absorbtion anchor system (TAS) and a method to assemble the same are disclosed. The TAS includes a collar having an uphole end coupled to a production string and a flange formed on an outer diameter of the collar. The TAS also includes a sleeve having a rim extending radially inward from an uphole end of the sleeve. The collar is positioned in a cavity of the sleeve so that oppositely facing shoulders of the collar and the sleeve contact and transfer axial loads between the sleeve and the collar. A spring is positioned in an annulus between the sleeve and the collar and mounts to the collar and the sleeve so that rotational loading of the sleeve relative to the collar transfers to the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Abbas Ghazi-Moradi, Donn J. Brown, Robert C. de Long, John J. Mack
  • Publication number: 20120211240
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing erosion and friction losses in a wellbore using a power cabled deployed electric submersible pump (ESP). The apparatus can include an ESP disposed within production tubing, wherein a portion of the production tubing surrounding the ESP contains fluid openings that are operable to allow produced fluids to flow outward, thereby increasing the available volume for the produced fluids. The increased volume results in lower fluid velocities of the produced fluid, which advantageously reduces erosion and friction loss.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: JINJIANG XIAO, Mohamed Nabil Noui-Mehidi, Ahmed Yasin Bukhamseen
  • Publication number: 20120211237
    Abstract: A pump system and method comprising a pump barrel adapted for use within a well. A reciprocating plunger disposed within the pump barrel and operatively engaging a connector between the plunger and a pumping unit. The connector operatively engages the pumping unit and further comprises an inner and outer portion with a groove between the inner and outer portions; one or more ports disposed between the inner and outer portions and accessing an inner cavity of the connector; and the inner portion further comprising one or more ports accessing the inner cavity of the connector. The pump system and method further comprising a cage valve to create hydraulic pressure to expel trapped debris.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventor: Jerry Rich
  • Patent number: 8235107
    Abstract: A hydraulic oil well pumping arrangement employs a compensating type hydraulic pump, a directional valving arrangement and a proportioning valving arrangement. When the directional valve is energized, oil is directed to the rod end of the hydraulic cylinder. The rod or piston part of the hydraulic cylinder will then elevate until a first limit switch is actuated which then will de-energize the directional valve and send a current signal to the proportional valve. This current signal to the proportional valve forces it to open to a point at which the cylinder rod would extend at the desired velocity until it reaches a second limit switch. The second limit switch is near the bottom (for example, 1 foot, or 0.30 meters) of travel of the rod or piston. The current signal to the proportional valve is then decreased, creating a choking arrangement that forces the cylinder rod to decelerate. The cylinder rod then reaches another limit switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Lufkin Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Fesi, Willard J. Lapeyrouse, Kenneth H. Vincent
  • Publication number: 20120175131
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods of spacing a tool from walls of tubing are provided as embodiments of the present invention. The apparatus can include a centralizer that is inserted in the tubing, the centralizer having inwardly arched sides or inwardly arched bow springs so that an inner diameter of the centralizer increases from a longitudinal midpoint to a longitudinal end point of the centralizer. The centralizer has a smaller diameter than the tubing so that it can be positioned inside of the tubing downstream of a seating ring in a relaxed position so that when the tool passes through the centralizer, the inwardly arched sides or inverted bow springs expand towards an inner wall of the tubing to centralize and inhibit radial movement of the tool when deployed through the inwardly arched sides of the centralizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Nicholas D. Johnson, David L. Olson
  • Publication number: 20120175127
    Abstract: Methods and systems for producing a dense oil sand slurry from subsurface reservoirs are provided. The methods include reducing pressure at a producer pipe inlet to draw a dense slurry into the producer pipe using a jet pump, generating a diluted dense slurry using the jet pump, and lifting the diluted dense slurry through the producer pipe utilizing a slurry lift apparatus, which may be a fluid lift apparatus. The systems include a producer pipe into an oil sand reservoir, a jet pump configured to generate a low pressure region around the opening of the producer pipe to draw the dense slurry into the producer pipe and dilute the dense slurry to form a diluted dense slurry; and a gas lift apparatus configured to lift the diluted dense slurry through the producer pipe towards the surface of the earth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: EXXONMOBIL UPSTREAM RESEARCH COMPANY
    Inventors: David P. Yale, Andrey A. Troshko, Bennett D. Woods
  • Patent number: 8210253
    Abstract: A pump system for use in with a downhole pipe string has a pump comprising at least one cylinder with at least one piston inside the cylinder, the movement of the piston causing fluid to be drawn into the pump through a pump inlet before being pushed out through a pump outlet. The pump is housed in a tube having a cammed surface formed by internal wall of the tube, and the piston has a cam follower such that rotation of the piston relative to the tube causes the piston to move relative to the cylinder. Further, a pump system is shown which has two or more such pumps arranged along the downhole pipe string, the pump outlets feeding into a common manifold. The strokes of the piston or pistons of one pump may be out of step with the strokes of the piston or pistons of another pump such that the outlet stream is more uniform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Artificial Lift Company Limited
    Inventor: Philip Head
  • Publication number: 20120160483
    Abstract: A hybrid dump bailer is disclosed herein comprising a bailer tubes for containing a material, such as cement slurry, to be dumped. The hybrid dump bailer comprises a pressure pulse piston that is accelerated by a spring causing a pressure pulse to expel the material to be dumped. The hybrid dump bailer further comprises a collet, a retaining rod, a piston, valve, and a supply of pressurized fluid which is holds the pressure pulse piston in place while the spring is compressed. Once the valve is opened, releasing the pressurized fluid, the retaining rod separates from the collet allowing the pressure pulse piston to accelerate can produce the pressure pulse to dump the material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: James V. Carisella
  • Publication number: 20120152563
    Abstract: An electrical submersible pumping (ESP) system for use in a wellbore that can be assembled in the wellbore. Upper and lower pump tandems are fitted with connectors that align the tandems when coupled in the wellbore. The connectors on the lower tandems have bores with enlarged openings on upward facing surfaces. Downward pointing pins are on lower facing surfaces of the connectors on the upper tandems. The cross sectional area of each bore decreases with distance away from the openings, so that as the pins insert into the bores the pins move along a helical path that in turn rotates the upper tandem into a designated azimuth and into alignment with the lower tandem. Properly aligning the upper and lower tandems couples respective drive and driven shafts in the tandems as the upper tandem lands on the lower tandem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Steven K. Tetzlaff, Lance Robinson
  • Patent number: 8196667
    Abstract: A technique is provided for pumping fluids in a subterranean wellbore. A submersible pumping system can be deployed in a wellbore for moving desired fluids within the wellbore. The pumping system energizes the desired fluid movement by reciprocating a working fluid between expandable members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Murat Ocalan, Steven Dornak
  • Patent number: 8191640
    Abstract: A pump seating nipple is provided for engagement with a downhole pump in order to seal and anchor the downhole pump relative to the pump seating nipple. The pump seating nipple includes a nipple sealing component for coupling with the downhole pump to provide a seal device, a nipple axial force anchoring component for coupling with the downhole pump to provide an axial force anchor device, and a nipple rotational force anchoring component for coupling with the downhole pump to provide a rotational force anchor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul McCreedy, Ray Neudorf
  • Publication number: 20120132414
    Abstract: A subterranean pump is delivered on coiled tubing with power and control cables running inside. The pump suction has a tubular inlet that seals in a polished bore in the surrounding tubular. A diverter opens a lateral port and closes entry to the pump suction when the pump is not running and the formation pressure is high enough to bring production to the surface. This configuration prevents the pump from turning while the formation pressure allows production to the surface. If the pump is started it reduces pressure ahead of a movable plug to draw it toward the pump against a spring bias. The lateral ports close and an inline flow path opens to allow the pump to draw through the diverter and discharge into the annular space around the coiled tubing on the way to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Peter F. Lawson, Donald P. Lauderdale
  • Publication number: 20120125625
    Abstract: A gas-lift apparatus and method for use in a well in which liquids accumulate in a liquid zone. The apparatus comprises a first string extending into the liquid zone and having upper and lower ends; a second string surrounding the first string and defining an annulus therewith, the second string extending a distance from the first string lower end such that the annulus has upper and lower ends, the annulus being closed at its upper and lower ends and defining a chamber, the chamber being in fluid communication with the inside of the first string; a check valve controlling the flow of liquid into from the wellbore into the lower end of said annulus; a gas valve allowing the flow of gas from the first string into the upper end of the chamber; and a valve for controlling the flow of gas into the upper end of said inner string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: James Robert Brewer
  • Publication number: 20120125599
    Abstract: An artificial simultaneous production and maintenance system assisted by mechanical pumping for fluid extraction, comprising: a surface assembly including a sub-base, a hydraulic drive head, a stuffing box, an O-ring preventer, a wedge preventer and a connection and splicing means; from the surface assembly a production tubing extends vertically downwards inside the well bore; a casing; a flexible tubing located inside the production tubing all along its length, being the casing, the production tubing and the flexible tubing concentrically one inside the other; and a pump assembly including a connector, a check valve, cleaning tool and a plunder pump. The system allows assisted production by mechanical pumping for fluid extraction and maintenance by simultaneous pumping of chemicals to the well to modify physical properties of the fluid to be extracted and clean organic and inorganic material buildup within the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: Avantub, S.A. de C.V.
    Inventor: William Anthony Hammond Bravo
  • Patent number: 8171997
    Abstract: A method of producing a well fluid includes securing a motor to a string of outer tubing and lowering the outer tubing and motor into the well. A rotary pump is secured to a string of inner tubing and lowered into the outer tubing. The pump stabs into cooperative engagement with the motor. Supplying power to the motor rotates the pump, causing well fluid to flow into the outer tubing to an intake of the pump, which pumps the well fluid through the inner tubing to an upper end of the well. Removing the well fluid allows gas to flow up an annulus surrounding the outer tubing to the upper end of the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: David L. Olson, Josh T. Prather, David B. Dillon, Ray A. Watson
  • Patent number: 8162044
    Abstract: A downhole drilling tool includes a housing defining an axial passageway and a shaft mounted for rotation within the axial passageway such that the housing and shaft form an annular gap. An electrical connector provides a signal to the shaft. The electrical connector includes a first lead assembly coupled to the housing and the shaft, and a second lead assembly coupled to the housing and the shaft. Each lead assembly has an outer ring electrode fixed to the housing and an inner ring electrode fixed to the shaft for rotation therewith such that connector gaps are formed between the outer ring electrodes and the inner ring electrodes. Drilling fluid is pumped through the annular gap to flow through the connector gaps to complete electrical connections between the outer ring electrodes and inner ring electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Joachim Sihler
  • Patent number: 8162065
    Abstract: A system for operating downhole equipment in a well includes a drive shaft extending from a surface of the well to a downhole location. A motor is positioned at the surface and is operably connected to the drive shaft to selectively rotate the drive shaft. A lift system is positioned at the surface and is operably connected to the drive shaft to axially lift and lower the drive shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Pine Tree Gas, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph A. Zupanick