Screen With Valve, Closure, Changeable Restrictor Or Portion Removable In Well Patents (Class 166/205)
  • Publication number: 20140216754
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a flow of a fluid between a wellbore tubular and a formation may include a frac tool having at least one port in selective fluid communication with the formation, and an inflow control device having a flow control path configured to provide a predetermined pressure drop for a flowing fluid. The inflow control device may have a flow coupler configured to provide selective fluid communication with the at least one port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Bennett M. Richard, Gonzalo Garcia
  • Patent number: 8763689
    Abstract: A screen assembly for removing particulates from a fluid in a well bore said well bore being provided with a tubing for transport of fluids inside the tube, said tube being provided with sliding sleeve doors through which the fluids flow from the well bore external the tube and into the tube. The screen assembly comprises a filter arranged external the tubing and covering the sliding sleeve doors, such that the filter prevents particles above a predefined size from entering through the sliding sleeve doors: The screen assembly further comprises a supportive tube having apertures allowing well bore fluids to pass. Furthermore said filter is arranged on the inner side of said supportive tube, such that the filter is placed between the supportive tube and the tube with the sliding sleeve doors. The filter is made from ceramic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Maersk Olie Og Gas A/S
    Inventor: Wilhelmus Hubertus Paulus Maria Heijnen
  • Patent number: 8757252
    Abstract: Wellbore flow control devices can be used in various subterranean operations to regulate access of formation fluids to the interior of a wellbore pipe and/or to limit the access of unwanted fluids thereto. Coupling of flow regulating assemblies to one another in the wellbore flow control devices can result in improved operational performance in regulating formation fluid flow to the interior of the wellbore pipe compared to using the flow regulating assemblies in an uncoupled state. Wellbore flow control devices can comprise a gate valve assembly that is in fluid flow communication with a flow restricting assembly, where each assembly is located on the exterior of a wellbore pipe and the flow restricting assembly is in fluid flow communication with the interior of the wellbore pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Earl Franklin, Jean-Marc Lopez
  • Patent number: 8746340
    Abstract: A down hole apparatus for filtering debris from a fluid in a well bore including a screen sub, a diverter assembly connected to the screen sub, a screen section extending from the diverter assembly and connected to the screen sub. The screen section includes a plurality of openings for filtering debris from the fluid. The debris collects in an annulus between the screen section and the screen sub. The diverter assembly includes a detachable plug having a fishing portion capable of engaging a fishing tool. Removal of the detachable plug with a fishing tool opens a central passage through the diverter assembly and the screen section. The diverter assembly may include an outer and an inner body and one or more passages between the outer and inner bodies. The detachable plug may include one or more dog members capable of engaging the inner body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventors: Benny Donald Mashburn, Douglas A. Beynon
  • Publication number: 20140151052
    Abstract: A kobe sub includes a kobe installed in a port of the sub, the kobe includes a cap portion accessible in the inner bore, a base mounted in the port and connected to the cap portion, a channel extending through the base and closed by the cap portion; and an inflow controller positioned to control fluid flowing through the channel toward the inner bore when the cap portion is opened; and a port opening tool for opening the cap portion. The kobe may be employed with a frac port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: PACKERS PLUS ENERGY SERVICES INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Jon Themig, Robert Joe Coon
  • Patent number: 8739889
    Abstract: Downhole tools comprise a housing chamber with an expandable member disposed therein. An interior of the expandable member is in fluid communication with an outside environment so that hydrostatic pressure can act on an inner wall surface of the expandable member. The outer wall surface of the expandable member partially defines a sealed chamber within the housing chamber such that expansion of the expandable member due to an increase in hydrostatic pressure causes the volume within the sealed chamber to decrease, thereby energizing the sealed chamber. Thus, an increase in hydrostatic pressure within an outside environment is compensated. Further, when the hydrostatic pressure within the outside environment decreases, the energized sealed chamber causes contraction of the expandable member, thereby compensating for the decrease in hydrostatic pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: David P. Gerrard, Edward T. Wood
  • Patent number: 8689878
    Abstract: A downhole tool for removing debris from fluid flowing through the downhole tool uses a screen member and wiper member, the wiper member having at least one window disposed through the inner and outer wall surfaces of the wiper member. Either the screen member or the wiper member is rotatable such that rotation of the screen member or the wiper member causes debris disposed on the outer wall surface of the screen member to fall-off the screen member. At least one directional port disposed at either the upper end of the screen member or the upper end of the wiper member causes rotation of the screen member or wiper member when fluid flows through the downhole tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Ying Qing Xu, Yang Xu
  • Publication number: 20140083684
    Abstract: A system for use with a well having multiple zones can include multiple well screens which filter fluid flowing between a tubing string and respective ones of the zones, at least one optical waveguide which senses at least one property of the fluid as it flows between the tubing string and at least one of the zones, multiple flow control devices which variably restrict flow of the fluid through respective ones of the well screens, and multiple pressure sensors which sense pressure of the fluid which flows through respective ones of the well screens. A tubing string for use in a subterranean well can include at least one well screen, at least one flow control device which selectively prevents and permits substantially unrestricted flow through the well screen, and at least one other flow control device which is remotely operable, and which variably restricts flow through the well screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy R. TIPS, William M. RICHARDS
  • Publication number: 20140083685
    Abstract: A system for use with a well having multiple zones can include multiple well screens which filter fluid flowing between a tubing string and respective ones of the zones, at least one optical waveguide which senses at least one property of the fluid as it flows between the tubing string and at least one of the zones, multiple flow control devices which variably restrict flow of the fluid through respective ones of the well screens, and multiple pressure sensors which sense pressure of the fluid which flows through respective ones of the well screens. A tubing string for use in a subterranean well can include at least one well screen, at least one flow control device which selectively prevents and permits substantially unrestricted flow through the well screen, and at least one other flow control device which is remotely operable, and which variably restricts flow through the well screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy R. TIPS, William M. RICHARDS
  • Publication number: 20140083714
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods of producing from multiple production zones with a single trip multi-zone completion system. One single trip multi-zone completion system includes an outer completion string having at least one sand screen arranged thereabout and an interval control valve coupled to the at least one sand screen, a production tubing communicably coupled to the outer completion string at a crossover coupling, a control line extending external to the production tubing and being communicably coupled to the crossover coupling, and a surveillance line extending from the crossover coupling external to the outer completion string and interposing the at least one formation zone and the at least one sand screen, the surveillance line being communicably coupled to the interval control valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Tommy Frank Grigsby
  • Publication number: 20140083675
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods of producing from multiple production zones with a single trip multi-zone completion system. One single trip multi-zone completion system includes an outer completion string having at least one sand screen arranged thereabout and being deployable in an open hole section of a wellbore that penetrates at least one formation zone, a production tubing arranged within the outer completion string and having at least one interval control valve disposed thereon, a control line extending external to the production tubing and being communicably coupled to the at least one interval control valve, and a surveillance line extending external to the outer completion string and interposing the at least one formation zone and the at least one sand screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Tommy Frank Grigsby, William Mark Richards
  • Publication number: 20140048279
    Abstract: Disclosed is a swellable screen assembly having inflow control capabilities. One swellable screen assembly includes a base pipe comprising a sidewall portion defining at least one opening therein, a rigid member disposed about a first portion of the base pipe and having a piston arranged therein. The piston has a telescoping portion movably arranged within a non-telescoping portion. An autonomous valve is arranged within the piston and provides fluid communication between a filter medium disposed about the base pipe and the opening in the base pipe, the filter medium being coupled to the telescoping portion of the piston. A swellable material is disposed about a second portion of the base pipe and the filter medium is disposed about the swellable material, wherein, as the swellable material expands, the filter medium is displaced toward an inner surface of the wellbore, thereby extending the telescoping portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Luke Holderman
  • Patent number: 8651181
    Abstract: Apparatus for downhole filtration of fluids in a wellbore. The apparatus has a diverter and a filter slidably mounted on a mandrel. The diverter has a circumferential wiper element between the mandrel and the casing within which the apparatus is run. When fluids are reverse circulated, or the tool is being pulled out, the diverter shifts to a downward position, wherein it seals against an upper end of the filter, filtering out solids in the fluids and retaining them in a chamber between the sleeve and mandrel. When running the tool into a wellbore, the diverter shifts to an upper position to permit fluids to bypass the filter sleeve. The filter sleeve bears against a spring loaded seat, which permits creating a gap between the diverter and an upper end of the filter sleeve to allow fluids to bypass the filter sleeve should the filter sleeve slots become plugged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Benton T. Knobloch, Todd Roy, David J. Tilley
  • Publication number: 20140014357
    Abstract: A system and methodology utilizes a technique for filtering sand. For example, a sand control system may be provided with a base pipe having a non-permeable section and a permeable section in which the permeable section is created via at least one opening formed laterally through a wall of the base pipe. The sand control system also comprises at least one drainage tube positioned along an exterior of the base pipe and coupled to the base pipe in fluid communication with the at least one opening. The drainage tube is permeable and enables the inflow of fluid while preventing the influx of sand. The inflowing fluid is delivered along an interior of the drainage tube and through the opening into an interior of the base pipe for production.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Edvin Eimstad Riisem
  • Publication number: 20140014358
    Abstract: A downhole apparatus comprising a body (12) configured to be coupled to a production tubular and an upper opening and a lower opening. First (28a) and second (28b) flow paths are provided between the upper opening (22) and the lower opening (24) in the body, and a flow diverter (34) is arranged to direct downward flow through the body towards the second flow path and away from the first flow path. A filter device (31) in the second flow path filters or collects solid particles in the second flow path from passing out of the lower opening of the apparatus. The apparatus has particular application to artificial lift hydrocarbon production systems, and may be installed above a down-hole pump in a production tubing to prevent solids from settling on the pump during pump shutdown. Embodiments for use with ESPs and PCPs are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: ENIGMA OILFIELD PRODUCTS LIMITED
    Inventor: Andrew Leitch
  • Patent number: 8602110
    Abstract: A flow regulating system can include multiple flow restrictors, at least one of which selectively restricts flow between an interior of a tubular string and an external annulus, a plug which prevents flow through a respective one of the flow restrictors, the plug being aligned substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the flow restrictor. A method of variably restricting fluid flow in a well can include installing one or more plugs in selected one(s) of multiple openings in a housing, each installed plug preventing fluid flow through a respective flow restrictor, and externally accessing the openings, without removing any cover. An externally adjustable inflow control device can include a housing having multiple openings, multiple flow restrictors, a plug in selected one(s) of the openings, each plug preventing fluid flow through a respective flow restrictor, and each plug being externally accessible, without removal of any cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Kuo, Luke W. Holderman, Jean-Marc Lopez, Caleb T. Warren
  • Patent number: 8602096
    Abstract: Operators manufacture a wellscreen by forming a wire-wrapped screen on a base pipe. Rather than stopping and restarting winding, the desired length of screen is completed along the base pipe, and then the wire screen is segmented into a plurality of screen sections as required for the various zones and details of the implementation. Operators arrange the screen sections relative to one another on the base pipe, which can have different lengths with and without perforations. On the free ends of these separate screen sections, mating split ring components fit around the free ends and the base pipes. Male edges of one split ring component mate to complementary female edges of another to form the end ring around the screen section and base pipe, and longitudinal welds made in seams along the mating edges affix the split ring components together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Olenick, Henry Nguyen, Robert Hodge, Ronnie Royer
  • Publication number: 20130319658
    Abstract: An internal completion string is anchored within a closed casing valve of a production liner in a wellbore. The internal completion string comprises a packer and a shifting tool. The production liner comprises a casing valve having a port and a moveable member. The annulus defined between the production liner and the internal completion string is sealed, and the shifting tool is remotely operated to move the moveable member away from the port, thereby opening the casing valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael Huh, Josh Belleville, Jessica Schulte
  • Publication number: 20130306313
    Abstract: A method can include closing a valve interconnected between sections of a washpipe of a service tool string by displacing the service tool string relative to a completion string, thereby preventing flow through the washpipe. A well system can include a service tool string reciprocably received in a completion string, the service tool string including a washpipe received in a well screen, and a valve which selectively permits and prevents flow through the washpipe. The completion string can include a structure which operates the valve in response to displacement of the service tool string relative to the completion string. Another method can include closing a valve by partially withdrawing a service tool string from a completion string, thereby preventing flow through a washpipe of the service tool string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Gary J. GEOFFROY
  • Publication number: 20130284452
    Abstract: Wellbore flow control devices can be used in various subterranean operations to regulate access of formation fluids to the interior of a wellbore pipe and/or to limit the access of unwanted fluids thereto. Coupling of flow regulating assemblies to one another in the wellbore flow control devices can result in improved operational performance in regulating formation fluid flow to the interior of the wellbore pipe compared to using the flow regulating assemblies in an uncoupled state. Wellbore flow control devices can comprise a gate valve assembly that is in fluid flow communication with a flow restricting assembly, where each assembly is located on the exterior of a wellbore pipe and the flow restricting assembly is in fluid flow communication with the interior of the wellbore pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: Matthew Earl Franklin, Jean-Marc Lopez
  • Publication number: 20130269955
    Abstract: Downhole apparatus comprises a base pipe and a plurality of non-concentric pressure deformable chambers mounted externally on the pipe. The chambers may be inflated to increase the diameter of the apparatus and engage and support a surrounding bore wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: Paul David Metcalfe
  • Publication number: 20130220606
    Abstract: An assembly that is usable with a well includes a base pipe, a shroud that is disposed radially outside of the base pipe and tubes. The tubes are disposed radially outside of the base pipe and are radially inside the shroud. The tubes longitudinally extend along the base pipe and radially expand to radially expand the shroud in response to pressurization of the tubes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130220633
    Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system includes a fluidic module having a turbine chamber. A flow control turbine is rotatably disposed within the turbine chamber. The flow control turbine is operable to provide fluid discriminating flow resistance such that a pressure drop for a desired production fluid passing through the fluidic module is less than a pressure drop for an undesired production fluid passing through the fluidic module. For example, the flow control turbine is operable generate a greater pressure drop in water produced therethrough as compared to oil produced therethrough due to differences in the density, viscosity or other property of the produced fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130213667
    Abstract: A well screen assembly includes a tubular base pipe. The base pipe has a sidewall aperture that communicates fluid between an interior central bore of the base pipe and an exterior of the base pipe. A filtration screen is around the base pipe. The filtration screen defines a lateral fluid passage along a axial length of the well screen assembly. A flow control device is coupled to the base pipe and the filtration screen. The flow control devices includes a ring sealing the lateral fluid passage from the central bore. An elongate restrictor passage is in the ring, oriented longitudinally. The elongate restrictor passage is configured to communicate fluid between the lateral fluid passage and the central bore. The restrictor passage includes an internal, square edged orifice defined by a fixed, annular protrusion. The annular protrusion extends inwardly from an interior surface of the restrictor passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8496055
    Abstract: A service tool and methods for performing subterranean hydrocarbon services in a wellbore. The service tool can include a body that having an aperture formed therethrough. A valve system can be connected to the body. The valve system can selectively form a flow path between a first portion of the aperture and a second portion of the aperture; a flow path between a first flow port formed through a first portion of the body, the aperture, and the outer diameter of the body; and/or a flow path between a channel formed in a portion of the body, a second flow port formed through a second portion of the body, and the second portion of the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Dexter Myles Mootoo, Robert Krush, John Whitsitt, Adam Charles Vasper, Graham Watson
  • Publication number: 20130186634
    Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system includes a fluidic module (150) having a bridge network. The bridge network has first and second branch fluid pathways (163, 164) each including at least one fluid flow resistors (174, 180) and a pressure output terminal (178, 184). In operation, the pressure difference between the pressure output terminals (178, 184) of the first and second branch fluid pathways (163, 164) is operable to control fluid flow through the fluidic module (150).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130186631
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a flow of a fluid between a wellbore tubular having an opening and a formation includes a particulate control device and a flow control device positioned adjacent to the particulate control device. A flow path is formed between the opening of the wellbore tubular and the formation and that is internal to the particulate control device and the flow control device. The apparatus may include an additive supply line having an outlet positioned to dispense at least one additive into the flow path. A related method for controlling a flow of a fluid between a wellbore tubular having an opening and a formation may include positioning a flow control device adjacent to a particulate control device in the wellbore and dispensing at least one additive into a flow path internal to the particulate control device and the flow control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Anderson da Silva Amaral, Eddie G. Bowen
  • Patent number: 8490690
    Abstract: A method of selectively controlling flow through a well screen can include installing the well screen in a wellbore, and then exposing the well screen to an aqueous fluid, thereby permitting flow through the well screen. A well screen assembly can include a well screen and an acid containing structure which dissolves in response to contact with an aqueous fluid, whereby flow through the well screen is selectively permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jean-Marc Lopez
  • Patent number: 8464787
    Abstract: A space filler material is used to prevent accumulation of debris that could later foul the operation of adjacent moving parts. In one application a void space that is subsequently closed by actuated parts is initially filled with a material that is highly compressible and has voids that allow it to compress without undue resistance to part movement when the void volume is reduced. Ideally, the pores or voids in the material itself are small enough to keep most if not all the debris from entering and making the space filling material too rigid to collapse under part movement. In an alternative application, the material can be in an annular space such as a seal bore and it can keep debris from getting past the seal bore while allowing hydrostatic pressure across itself thereby helping it to maintain its position until moved such as by shifting of an inner string to which it is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Edward J. O'Malley
  • Publication number: 20130133891
    Abstract: An equalization valve that allows for continuous equalization of pressure above and below a sealing element is disclosed. The equalization valve includes a housing having a fluid passageway therethrough. The fluid passageway is fluidically continuous across a sealing element disposed on a mandrel. The mandrel is part of a sealing assembly that contains the sealing element. The equalization valve includes a valve plug moveable from an open position in which the valve plug is not engaged with the sealing mandrel to a seated position in which the valve plug is seated against the sealing mandrel. The valve plug defines a conduit, the conduit that provides for a minimal fluid flow across the sealing element, when the valve plug is seated against the sealing mandrel. The sealing element remains sealingly engaged against the wellbore while the plug is in the seated position and while minimal fluid flow is occurring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: NCS Oilfield Services Canada Inc.
    Inventor: NCS Oilfield Services Canada Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130098614
    Abstract: A method can include applying a magnetic field to a well screen, thereby varying sizes of pores via which fluid flows through the well screen. A well screen can include a magnetic shape memory material having a dimension which changes in response to application of a magnetic field. Restriction to flow through the well screen can vary in response to the change in dimension of the magnetic shape memory material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130092394
    Abstract: A well screen assembly for a wellbore includes a base pipe and a filter assembly carried on the base pipe. The filter assembly has an internal passage in fluid communication with an opening through the base pipe. A swell material is carried in the base pipe between the filter assembly and the base pipe. The swell material is adapted to expand under specified conditions and displace the filter assembly radially toward a wall of the wellbore. A flow control device is provided in fluid communication between the internal passage of the filter assembly and the opening in the base pipe and is adapted to restrict communication of fluid with the opening in the base pipe. The well screen assembly can include a hydraulic, electric or optical communication line running axially through a length of the well screen assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130081800
    Abstract: A screen assembly. The screen assembly may include a base pipe having an axial bore formed therethrough. An axial rod may be positioned radially-outward from the base pipe. A screen may be positioned radially-outward from the axial rod. A housing may be positioned radially-outward from the base pipe and axially adjacent to the axial rod, the screen, or both, and a first annulus may be formed between the housing and the base pipe. A first opening may be formed through the base pipe and radially-inward from the housing. A second opening may be formed through the base pipe and radially-inward from the housing, and the second opening may be axially offset from the first opening. A valve may be disposed within the first annulus and positioned axially between the first and second openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Inventors: Edvin Eimstad Riisem, Terje Moen, Philip Wassouf, Knut Harald Nesland
  • Patent number: 8403038
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling flow of fluid from a reservoir into a wellbore is provided, which apparatus in one embodiment may include a flow-through region configured to substantially increase value of a selected parameter relating to the flow-through region when selected parameter is in a first range and maintain a substantially constant value of the selected parameter when the selected property of the fluid is in a second range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Ronnie D. Russell, Luis A. Garcia, Gonzalo A. Garcia, Eddie G. Bowen, Sudiptya Banerjee
  • Publication number: 20130062066
    Abstract: A multi-zone formation treatment assembly has sections disposed on a tubular structure in a borehole. An isolation element disposed on the tubular structure that isolates a borehole annulus around the section from the other sections, and a flow valve disposed on the tubular structure is selectively operable between opened and closed conditions permitting and preventing fluid communication between the through-bore and the borehole annulus. A screen disposed on the tubular structure communicates with the borehole annulus, and a closure disposed on the tubular structure at least prevents fluid communication from the through-bore to the screen. A workstring of the assembly can be manipulated in the tubular structure relative to each section in the same trip to: open the flow valve, position in the through-bore relative to the open flow valve, deliver the treatment from an outlet to the section through the open flow valve, and close the flow valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventor: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130048299
    Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system includes a fluidic module (150) having a main fluid pathway (152), a valve (162) and a bridge network. The valve (162) has a first position wherein fluid flow through the main fluid pathway (152) is allowed and a second position wherein fluid flow through the main fluid pathway (152) is restricted. The bridge network has first and second branch fluid pathways (163, 164) each having a common fluid inlet (166, 168) and a common fluid outlet (170, 172) with the main fluid pathway (152) and each including two fluid flow resistors (174, 176, 180, 182) with a pressure output terminal (178, 184) positioned therebetween. In operation, the pressure difference between the pressure output terminals (178, 184) of the first and second branch fluid pathways (163, 164) shifts the valve (162) between the first and second positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra, John Charles Gano, Luke William Holderman
  • Publication number: 20130032329
    Abstract: Apparatus for downhole filtration of fluids in a wellbore. The apparatus has a diverter and a filter slidably mounted on a mandrel. The diverter has a circumferential wiper element between the mandrel and the casing within which the apparatus is run. When fluids are reverse circulated, or the tool is being pulled out, the diverter shifts to a downward position, wherein it seals against an upper end of the filter, filtering out solids in the fluids and retaining them in a chamber between the sleeve and mandrel. When running the tool into a wellbore, the diverter shifts to an upper position to permit fluids to bypass the filter sleeve. The filter sleeve bears against a spring loaded seat, which permits creating a gap between the diverter and an upper end of the filter sleeve to allow fluids to bypass the filter sleeve should the filter sleeve slots become plugged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: WELLBORE ENERGY SOLUTIONS LLC
    Inventor: WELLBORE ENERGY SOLUTIONS LLC
  • Patent number: 8342245
    Abstract: A completion tubular is placed in position adjacent the zone or zones to be fractured and produced. It features preferably sliding sleeve valves one series of which can be put in the wide open position after run in for gravel packing and fracturing zones one at a time or in any desired order. These valves are then closed and another series of valves can be opened wide but with a screen material juxtaposed in the flow passage to selectively produce from one or more fractured zones. An annular path behind the gravel is provided by an offset screen to promote flow to the screened production port. The path can be a closed annulus that comes short of the production port or goes over it. For short runs an exterior screen or shroud is eliminated for a sliding sleeve with multiple screened ports that can be opened in tandem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Bennett M. Richard, Michael H. Johnson, Peter J. Fay
  • Patent number: 8342240
    Abstract: A flow conduit may have at least one orifice, which conduit is in the vicinity of a flow source. The source is at least partially covered (and flow blocked by) an optional temporary coating or barrier (e.g. filter cake). The flow pathway between the orifice and the source is temporarily blocked with a degradable material. A delayed degradation material layer is present over or covering the degradable material. The delayed degradation material layer degrades at a rate slower than the degradable barrier. The degradable material and delayed degradation material layer disintegrate (e.g. via time, temperature, a solvent). The degradable material optionally produces a product that removes the temporary coating. The method is useful in one context of recovering hydrocarbons where the flow conduit is the casing or liner of the well and the flow source is a subterranean reservoir where the coating is filter cake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Bennett M. Richard, Paul M. McElfresh, Chad F. Williams
  • Publication number: 20120325500
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a base pipe, a screen and a first assembly. The screen at least partially circumscribes the base pipe to create a flow path between a first region that is outside of the screen and a second region that is inside the base pipe. The flow path includes at least one radial port of the base pipe and a third region between the screen and the exterior of the base pipe. The first assembly regulates fluid communication through the flow path. The first assembly includes a second assembly that is disposed in and mounted to the base pipe and a flow control device that is slidably connected to the second assembly. The flow control device is adapted to translate between at least two positions to regulate the fluid communication through the flow path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: Terje Moen
  • Publication number: 20120325484
    Abstract: Systems and methods for producing from multiple zones in a subterranean formation are provided. The system can include a liner including a first frac valve, a second frac valve, and a formation isolation valve. The second frac valve can be positioned above the first frac valve, and the formation isolation valve can be positioned above the second frac valve. A completion assembly can be disposed at least partially within the liner. The completion assembly can include a valve shifting tool adapted to actuate the formation isolation valve between an open position and a closed position. The completion assembly can also include a first flow control valve in fluid communication with the first frac valve and a second flow control valve in fluid communication with the second frac valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: Dinesh R. Patel
  • Patent number: 8336617
    Abstract: Apparatus for downhole filtration of fluids in a wellbore. The apparatus has a diverter and a filter slidably mounted on a mandrel. The diverter has a circumferential wiper element between the mandrel and the casing within which the apparatus is run. When fluids are reverse circulated, or the tool is being pulled out, the diverter shifts to a downward position, wherein it seals against an upper end of the filter, filtering out solids in the fluids and retaining them in a chamber between the sleeve and mandrel. When running the tool into a wellbore, the diverter shifts to an upper position to permit fluids to bypass the filter sleeve. The filter sleeve bears against a spring loaded seat, which permits creating a gap between the diverter and an upper end of the filter sleeve to allow fluids to bypass the filter sleeve should the filter sleeve slots become plugged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Benton Knobloch, Todd Roy, David J. Tilley
  • Patent number: 8316952
    Abstract: A technique enables an improved filtering of sand, a desired distribution of produced or injected fluid, and a reduction in erosion of completion components positioned in a production or injection well. The technique employs a base pipe and a sand screen surrounding the base pipe. The base pipe comprises a plurality of flow restriction elements arranged in a selected pattern along the base pipe to provide a desired distribution of the fluid flowing into or out of the sand screen. The pattern of flow restriction elements also maintains a flow rate of the flowing fluid below an erosive flow rate across the entire sand screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Terje Moen
  • Patent number: 8302681
    Abstract: Construction of well screens utilizing pre-formed annular-shaped elements. A well screen includes a filter layer configured to filter fluid flowing through the well screen and a drainage layer which radially supports the filter layer, the drainage layer including multiple individual annular-shaped elements. Another well screen includes a drainage layer configured to support the filter layer, with the drainage layer including at least one cavity molded therein. Another well screen includes a base pipe and a layer made up of multiple individual annular-shaped elements stacked coaxially on the base pipe. A cavity is formed in at least one of the elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, Floyd R. Simonds, Jean-Marc Lopez, Syed Hamid, Donald G. Kyle, Jason Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8267173
    Abstract: An open hole completion apparatus (80) includes an outer tubing string (56) disposed in an open hole portion of a wellbore (32). The outer tubing string (56) includes a sand control screen (102) and a shrouded closing sleeve (91). An inner tubing string (84) is at least partially disposed within the outer tubing string (56). The inner tubing string (84) includes a crossover assembly (114). The shrouded closing sleeve (91) has a shroud (92) that creates a channel (98) with a portion of the outer tubing string (56) by extending over a fluid port (94) of the shrouded closing sleeve (91) toward the sand control screen (102), such that when a treatment fluid is pumped through the inner tubing string (84), the crossover assembly (114) and the fluid port (94), the treatment fluid is injected into the wellbore (32) remote from the fluid port (94).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad A. Clarkson, Ronnie Burger, Bruce Techentien
  • Patent number: 8240374
    Abstract: In some embodiments, apparatus for assisting in reducing flowback of debris from an earthen formation into an underground fluid injection system includes a screen member disposed around and longitudinally moveable relative to a base pipe and shielded from direct contact with fluid as it is ejected from the base pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Superior Energy Services, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Daniel James Turick, James Raymond Macias
  • Publication number: 20120199346
    Abstract: A technique includes running a lower completion assembly into a well in a single trip. The lower completion assembly includes a screen, a first valve and a second valve. The technique includes performing a gravel packing operation using the lower completion assembly, where performing the gravel packing operation includes running a service assembly into the lower completion assembly to operate the first valve. The technique further includes removing the service assembly from the well and subsequently installing an upper completion assembly in the well. The installation of the upper completion assembly enables remote control of the second valve of the lower completion assembly for purposes of regulating the production of fluid from the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventors: Dinesh Patel, Andreea Madalina Tatulescu, Bryan Stamm, Spyro Kotsonis, Tom Saunders
  • Patent number: 8230935
    Abstract: A flow control screen (100) includes a base pipe (102) having a blank pipe section (104) and a perforated section (106). A filter medium (112) is positioned around a portion of the blank pipe section (104). A housing (114, 118, 120, 122, 124) is positioned around another portion of the blank pipe section (104) and the perforated section (106). A deformable element (150) is positioned between the housing and a portion of the perforated section including at least one production port (108) but not including at least one closure port (110) to define a production path (154) between the production port (108) and the filter medium (112) such that application of a sufficient pressure to the closure port (110) acts on the deformable element (150) to deform the deformable element (150) to substantially close the production path (154).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Gano, Luke W. Holderman, Jean Marc Lopez
  • Publication number: 20120186819
    Abstract: A method can include applying a magnetic field to a well screen, thereby varying sizes of pores via which fluid flows through the well screen. A well screen can include a magnetic shape memory material having a dimension which changes in response to application of a magnetic field. Restriction to flow through the well screen can vary in response to the change in dimension of the magnetic shape memory material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Peter DAGENAIS, Michael L. FRIPP
  • Publication number: 20120186803
    Abstract: One or more openings in a zone have an adjacent screen assembly that is axially movable to a position away from the port when pressure in the tubing exceeds the annulus pressure by a predetermined value. Upon the differential being reduced below a predetermined value or when annulus pressure exceeds the tubing pressure, the screen moves over the port to block at least some of the solids in the formation or the well fluids from entering the tubing string. The screen movement can be aided by a bias force and the movement can be locked in to prevent the screen that has moved to a position over the port from moving back away from the port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Richard Y. Xu, Tianping Huang