Downhole Coupling Or Connector Patents (Class 166/242.6)
  • Patent number: 8727022
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods of supporting a multilateral window or casing joint from pressurized collapse. In one embodiment, a casing joint assembly is disclosed and includes a casing joint having a pre-milled window defined therein, a sleeve arranged at least partially about the casing joint and configured to cover the pre-milled window, and one or more reinforcing members arranged about the casing joint and interposing the casing joint and the sleeve. The one or more reinforcing members are configured to provide radial support to the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: William Wallace Dancer
  • Patent number: 8720540
    Abstract: A downhole tool for use in a wellbore tubular string comprises a housing having a bore therethrough forming part of a fluid flowpath through the wellbore tubular string, a sliding member operable to slide with respect to the housing, a plurality of magnetic pins, and a corresponding plurality of springs. A sliding line is formed by interfacing surfaces of the sliding member and the housing, and the plurality of pins comprise a locked position and an unlocked position whereby in the locked position at least one pin spans the sliding line to prevent the sliding member from sliding with respect to the housing and in the unlocked position no pins span the sliding line. The plurality of springs biases the pins towards the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Gano
  • Publication number: 20140116725
    Abstract: For use in assembling a tubing string for a production well, a rigid pre-formed liner is configured for simple drop-in place installation at each tubing joint during assembly of the tubing string in to protect the inside of the tubing string from wear caused by operation of a sucker rod inside the same. At a threaded connection in the finished tubing string, where an externally threaded top end of a section of production tubing is engaged with an internally threaded bottom end of a box coupler or collar, the tubular portion of a respective liner hangs downward from a larger-diameter collar portion of the liner that sits atop the annular top end of the section of production tubing. The liner is installed by simply dropping its tubular portion into the section of tubing and then threading the box coupler onto the section tubing around the upper end of the liner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Arnold Wollmann
  • Patent number: 8708067
    Abstract: A drill pipe assembly includes an elongate drill pipe and a drill pipe extension. The elongate drill pipe has a first threaded end and a second threaded end. The drill pipe extension has a first threaded end and a second threaded end. The second threaded end matingly engaging the first threaded end of the elongate drill pipe. The first threaded end being adapted to matingly engage an additional component of a drill string. The drill pipe extension has an external upset. The external upset has recessed flow paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Advanced Coring & Drilling Solutions Inc.
    Inventor: Norman Prokopchuk
  • Publication number: 20140110129
    Abstract: A disconnect apparatus includes a lower housing, an upper housing having a collet mechanism configured to couple the upper housing to the lower housing, a retainer sleeve disposed within the upper housing and/or the lower housing, the retainer sleeve configured to move longitudinally within the lower housing and/or the upper housing between a first position and a second position in response to a pressure differential applied across the retainer sleeve; wherein in the first position at least a portion of the retainer sleeve is disposed radially inward of the collet mechanism and in the second position the retainer sleeve is disposed axially above or below the collet mechanism, and a biasing mechanism coupled to an end of the retainer sleeve. A method of disconnecting a tool from a tubular string includes applying a differential pressure across a sleeve and disengaging a collet mechanism with a housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald G. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20140102696
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing operation connection system comprising a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, wherein each of the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit is fluidicly connected to a wellbore servicing equipment component, a primary connection between the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit, and wherein the primary connection provides a route of fluid communication between the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit, and a housing, generally defining an axial bore with respect to a longitudinal axis and substantially enclosing the primary connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Kevin W. HALLIBURTON
  • Patent number: 8695699
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises an expansion device that is coupled to a support member and operable to be disposed within a tubular member. The expansion device is operable to radially expand the tubular member as the expansion device moves axially through the tubular member. A latch assembly is coupled to the support member and is operable to engage a corresponding latch receptacle disposed within the tubular member so as to limit the axial movement of the expansion device relative to the tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Enventure Global Technology, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Richard M Whiddon, Frederick C Bennett, Charles A Butterfield, Jr., Harsh V Chowdhary
  • Patent number: 8689867
    Abstract: A well logging instrument deployment device according to this aspect of the invention includes a housing configured to be coupled to a pipe string. A latch disposed in the housing and is configured to retain a well logging instrument in a first longitudinal position inside the pipe string. An actuator is configured to release the latch to enable longitudinal movement of the well logging instrument inside the pipe string. A signal detector is operatively coupled to the actuator and is the configured to detect a command signal for operating the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Tom MacDougall, Harold S. Bissonnette
  • Patent number: 8678084
    Abstract: A debris barrier snap fits to a tubular groove of one of the tubulars that define the annular gap in which the barrier is to be mounted. It is loosely mounted so that it can center itself in the annulus as the relatively moving members go out of a concentric arrangement. The continuous carbon fiber material used for the debris barrier has lubricious qualities to act as a bushing when the annulus shape changes due to movement of the tubulars out of a concentric relationship. An outer or inner groove on the barrier acts to trap and retain small particles that manage to advance between the barrier and the outer tubular. The snap fit is accomplished with flexible spaced apart fingers with grip surfaces to engage a groove on one of the tubulars. The barrier has low expansion under thermal loads that acts to stop the entrance of debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Donald T. Heckel, James R. Zachman
  • Publication number: 20140076581
    Abstract: A tubular portion apparatus (10; 100; 300; 400) to be secured and sealed to another tubular (36) is described as is a method of securing and sealing a tubular portion (10; 100; 300; 400) to an existing downhole tubular (36) such as a casing string (36). The tubular portion (10; 100; 300; 400) comprises a central portion (14), an upper (16) and a lower (18) portion adjacent to the central portion (14) along a longitudinal axis of the tubular portion (10; 100; 300; 400). The tubular portion (10; 100; 300; 400) is formed from a main material and an additional material to strengthen the upper (16) and the lower (18) portion of the tubular portion (10; 100; 300; 400).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: Andrew John Gorrara, Peter Wood
  • Patent number: 8668014
    Abstract: A subsurface safety valve particularly designed for high temperature and high pressure applications has an improved tubular joint connection that provides for a compliant metal to metal seal without adversely affecting the break out torque. The valve also includes axially extending grooves in the inner surface of the tubular housing in the area of a actuating piston bore to relief stresses in that area thereby reducing the risk of stress failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Tejas Research & Engineering, LLC
    Inventor: Jason C. Mailand
  • Publication number: 20140060854
    Abstract: A hydraulic disconnect apparatus is disclosed for disconnecting a pipe string or coiled tubing string from a bottom hole assembly for drilling, work over, or plug and abandonment of oil and gas wells. Disconnection is accomplished by pumping a circulation ball from surface through the pipe or coiled tubing string until it lands on a seat inside the apparatus. Fluid pressure is then applied to shift a piston assembly within the apparatus, thereby allowing a series of balls to retract. The upper and lower portions of the apparatus can then be separated by applying a tensile force to the upper portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Toby Scott Baudoin
  • Publication number: 20140060817
    Abstract: A rope socket comprises a slip cone subassembly having a straight outer diameter and a tapered inner diameter. A plurality of slips is positioned within the slip cone body. A retainer ring holds the slips together. A guide plug is positioned within the slips to maintain the slips in an opening position during insertion of a cable. A spring stabilizer having a spring thereon is coupled above the slip cone assembly to ensure even compression of the spring. A safety slot is located on the body of the rope socket in order to provide a visual indication of the cable position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P
    Inventors: James R. STREATER, JR., Troy M. HUDSON, Michael S. KRAUEL
  • Patent number: 8646548
    Abstract: Drill bits enable the use of tools in a wellbore when it is undesirable or impossible to remove the drill bit. Drill bits include a drill bit insert, a latch assembly, a housing, a running tool, and a shaft trigger to operate the latch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: ThruBit, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Wells, Jon Macrae
  • Patent number: 8640769
    Abstract: Concentric control lines have an outer line disposed about one or more inner lines. Encapsulated together, the lines only require one penetration through the wellhead to extend downhole. At the wellhead, the lines communicate with an operating system, which can provide hydraulics, electric power, signals, or the like for downhole components. Beyond the wellhead, the concentric lines extend along the tubing to a manifold. The outer line sealably terminates at the manifold's inlet, while the inner conduit passes out an outlet with a sealed fitting to connect to a downhole component. A downhole line couples to an outlet of the manifold and communicates internally with the outer conduit terminated at the manifold's inlet. This downhole line can then extend to the same downhole component or some different component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Roddie R. Smith, Ronald D. Williams, Robert Wojciechowski
  • Patent number: 8640795
    Abstract: A tool string disposed in at least one tubular having upper and lower threaded connections to connect to a drill string. The tool string includes a shock reduction tool, which includes an anchoring tail piece axially and rotationally fixed to the at least one tubular. A universal bore hole orientation (UBHO) muleshoe sub is disposed at an upper end of the shock reduction tool. A downhole electronics package coupled to the UBHO muleshoe sub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Technical Drilling Tools, Ltd.
    Inventor: David Jekielek
  • Patent number: 8640770
    Abstract: An end ring having a first ring with an inner diameter, a second ring with the inner diameter and a thickness 25 percent greater than the first ring; a shoulder with a sloped outer surface connecting the first ring to the second ring; a plurality of flutes formed in an outer surface of the end ring, a plurality of fastener holes formed in the first and second rings, wherein the end ring either slides over a first end of a base pipe and fastens together the base pipe and edges of a rubber tubular surrounding the base pipe; or slides over a first end of a frac tubular and fastens edges of a frac sleeve to the frac tubular. The invention includes a swell packer and a frac tubular having the end rings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: LB Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Lee Morgan Smith, Betty A. Eastup-Smith
  • Patent number: 8631863
    Abstract: A debris barrier snap fits to a tubular groove of one of the tubulars that define the annular gap in which the barrier is to be mounted. It is loosely mounted so that it can center itself in the annulus as the relatively moving members go out of a concentric arrangement. The continuous carbon fiber material used for the debris barrier has lubricious qualities to act as a bushing when the annulus shape changes due to movement of the tubulars out of a concentric relationship. An outer or inner groove on the barrier acts to trap and retain small particles that manage to advance between the barrier and the outer tubular. The snap fit is accomplished with flexible spaced apart fingers with grip surfaces to engage a groove on one of the tubulars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Donald T. Heckel, James R. Zachman
  • Patent number: 8631881
    Abstract: Devices and methods for placing sensors underground are described. A preferred device has a first structure and a second structure that are placed into the ground. A third structure is connected to a portion of the first structure. The second structure is removed from the ground, leaving sensors or other equipment underground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Neos Inc.
    Inventors: Erlend Olson, John B. Hampshire, II, Raymond Rigaud
  • Patent number: 8631862
    Abstract: A chemical injection line connector includes first and second couplings configured to automatically seal shut when the members are disengaged. A method for blocking contamination or pressure transfer of chemical injection lines includes securing first and second couplings to corresponding ends of a chemical injection line and automatically sealing the couplings shut when the couplings are disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: David R. June
  • Publication number: 20140014373
    Abstract: A clamp system for use with a wellbore tubular comprises a wellbore tubular having a circumferential groove and a clamp, and the circumferential groove is configured to retain the clamp within the circumferential groove. The clamp system can be used to secure a control line to a wellbore tubular, which can comprise retaining the control line to an outside of a wellbore tubular that comprises the circumferential groove and resisting a force applied to the control line by transferring the force to the circumferential groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: William M. Richards
  • Publication number: 20140014364
    Abstract: A release system comprises a torsional lock sleeve disposed about a mandrel, and a collet prop engaged with the mandrel. The torsional lock sleeve and the mandrel are configured to substantially prevent rotational movement of the torsional lock sleeve about the mandrel, and the torsional lock sleeve is configured to shift between a first position and a second position with respect to the mandrel. When the torsional lock sleeve is in the first position, the collet prop is retained in engagement with a collet and the collet prop is retained in a torsionally locked engagement with the torsional lock sleeve. The collet prop is configured to longitudinally translate in response to a rotational movement when the torsional lock sleeve is disposed in the second position. A shifting assembly is configured to engage the torsional lock sleeve and shift the torsional lock sleeve from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Richard P. Noffke
  • Patent number: 8627894
    Abstract: A ring member for a downhole apparatus includes a swellable material selected to increase in volume on exposure to at least one triggering fluid. The ring member is configured to cooperate with a swellable member disposed on a body of the apparatus, and may function as a gauge ring or a retaining member. The ring member is secured to the apparatus via a coupling arrangement which couples the body to an adjacent well string section. The ring member is threaded into the well string. Alternately, the ring member may be disposed over an upstanding formation such as a coupling sleeve by clamping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Swelltec Limited
    Inventors: Kim Nutley, Brian Nutley
  • Publication number: 20140008082
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for connecting tubular members in a wellbore. A host tubular member has annular members mounted within a receiving section to provide regions of differing resistance to the radial load. When a portion of a second tubular member is expanded radially outwardly within the receiving section a joint is formed between the members. Embodiments of host tubular members are described including recesses for the portion to form protrusions within, collapsible rings, channels and valves to expel fluid from the interface between the members and gripper elements and sealing elements to improve the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventors: Daniel O'Brien, Andrew John Joseph Gorrara
  • Publication number: 20140008081
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for connecting tubular members in a wellbore. A host tubular member has reinforcing annular members mounted thereon to provide regions of differing resistance to the radial load. When the host tubular member is expanded radially outwardly, within a second tubular member, each weaker region starts expanding first and seals the host tubular member against the second tubular member prior to the stronger region. Embodiments of host tubular members are described including members of progressive resistance, split rings, gripper elements and sealing elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventors: Daniel O'Brien, Andrew John Joseph Gorrara
  • Patent number: 8616292
    Abstract: Disclosed is a torque limiter having driver mandrel and driven axially aligned mandrels, a piston movable into and out of an engaged position wherein the driver and driven mandrels are coupled together to transmit torque there between. Hydraulically locking the movable piston in an engaged position. Disengaging the hydraulic lock when during rotation when a specified torque magnitude is exceeded to allow relative rotation between the mandrels. Resetting the torque limiter by hydraulically locking the piston in the engaging position when relative rotation ceases or is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Benton T. Knobloch, Jr., Todd J. Roy, David J. Tilley
  • Publication number: 20130341043
    Abstract: A safety joint for use in a subterranean well can include separable portions which, when separated, disconnect sections of a tubular string. Elongation of the safety joint can be permitted while longitudinal compression of the safety joint is prevented. A method of activating a safety joint in a subterranean well can include providing the safety joint with portions having end connectors which interconnect the safety joint between sections of a tubular string, permitting elongation of the safety joint, thereby facilitating disconnection of the tubular string sections, and then preventing longitudinal compression of the safety joint. Another safety joint can include separable portions, and a locking device which permits relative displacement between a generally tubular mandrel and a component of the safety joint in one direction, and prevents relative displacement between the mandrel and the component in an opposite direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Reid E. ZEVENBERGEN, Paul D. RINGGENBERG
  • Publication number: 20130333876
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods of supporting a multilateral window or casing joint from pressurized collapse. In one embodiment, a casing joint assembly is disclosed and includes a casing joint having a pre-milled window defined therein, a sleeve arranged at least partially about the casing joint and configured to cover the pre-milled window, and one or more reinforcing members arranged about the casing joint and interposing the casing joint and the sleeve. The one or more reinforcing members are configured to provide radial support to the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: William Wallace Dancer
  • Patent number: 8607881
    Abstract: A rope socket comprises a slip cone subassembly having a straight outer diameter and a tapered inner diameter. A plurality of slips is positioned within the slip cone body. A retainer ring holds the slips together. A guide plug is positioned within the slips to maintain the slips in an opening position during insertion of a cable. A spring stabilizer having a spring thereon is coupled above the slip cone assembly to ensure even compression of the spring. A safety slot is located on the body of the rope socket in order to provide a visual indication of the cable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: James R. Streater, Jr., Troy M. Hudson, Michael S. Krauel
  • Patent number: 8607856
    Abstract: A cable head for petroleum logging includes a first connector and a second connector; there is a tension rod between the first connector and the second connector; a first piston, a second piston and a third piston are successively provided on the upper part, the middle part and the lower part of the first connector; the diameter of the second piston is greater than the diameters of the first and third piston respectively; the first and second piston are sealed and mounted inside a first cylinder; the third piston is sealed and mounted inside a second cylinder; the lower part of the second cylinder is fixedly connected with the second connector; a balance cavity is formed between the lower end face of the second piston and the upper end face of the second cylinder when the lower end face of the first cylinder is contacted with the upper end face of second cylinder; the balance cavity communicates with the external by a passage on the first or second cylinder; an axial projected area of the lower end face of th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Tong Oil Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Guoan Zhang, Jiafu Zhang, Jianlong Cheng
  • Patent number: 8608209
    Abstract: A downhole safety joint for use in a wellbore, including an upper tubular member having an upper threaded end and a lower external threaded section; a lower tubular member having a lower threaded end and an upper interior threaded section for engaging with the lower external threaded section to form a break joint, the break joint having one or more of a maximum compressive stress limit and a tensile stress limit; and one or more circumferential stress reliefs disposed into the outer diameter of at least one of the upper tubular member and the lower tubular member for transmitting a side load applied to the break joint to one or more of the circumferential stress reliefs less than one or more of the compressive stress limit and the tensile stress limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Brock Watson
  • Publication number: 20130327542
    Abstract: A jumper tube for use with a shunt tube assembly comprises a first tubular member configured to engage a first shunt tube, a second tubular member axially disposed within the first tubular member, and a locking member configured to prevent the second tubular member from axially displacing into the first tubular member. The second tubular member is configured to slidingly engage within the first tubular member, and the second tubular member is configured to engage a second shunt tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Brandon Thomas Least, John C. Gano, Jean Marc Lopez
  • Publication number: 20130327518
    Abstract: Described herein is a “cross-over” connector that can be used with core barrel outer tubes to prevent damage and destruction when they are connected to one another by automated equipment on a rig floor, for example, automated rig-floor torque wrenches. Standard core barrel outer tubes having a pin connector and a box connector are modified by adding “cross-over” sub elements to the pin and box connectors to increase their effective strength. The sub elements include portions which engage respective ones of the pin and box connections. The sub elements are designed to be the contact points for the automated equipment, so that it they are damaged, they can readily be replaced at a lower cost when compared to the scrapping and replacement of the core barrel outer tubes themselves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Olivier Jean-Marc Claude Mageren
  • Publication number: 20130319655
    Abstract: A downhole safety joint for use in a wellbore, including an upper tubular member having an upper threaded end and a lower external threaded section; a lower tubular member having a lower threaded end and an upper interior threaded section for engaging with the lower external threaded section to form a break joint, the break joint having one or more of a maximum compressive stress limit and a tensile stress limit; and one or more circumferential stress reliefs disposed into the outer diameter of at least one of the upper tubular member and the lower tubular member for transmitting a side load applied to the break joint to one or more of the circumferential stress reliefs less than one or more of the compressive stress limit and the tensile stress limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Brock Watson
  • Publication number: 20130306316
    Abstract: A technique facilitates performance of a work over on a completion used in a wellbore. The completion comprises an upper completion coupled with a lower completion by a mandrel and a latch. When a work over is to be performed, the upper completion is separated by moving a cutter device down along the mandrel and operating the cutting device to sever the mandrel. Once the mandrel has been severed, the latch may be activated to release the upper completion for removal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Dinesh R. Patel
  • Publication number: 20130299185
    Abstract: A frustoconical member includes a metal composite that has a cellular nanomatrix comprising a metallic nanomatrix material; a metal matrix disposed in the cellular nanomatrix; and a first frustoconical portion. A process of making the frustoconical member includes combining a metal matrix powder, a disintegration agent, and metal nanomatrix material to form a composition; compacting the composition to form a compacted composition; sintering the compacted composition; and pressing the sintered composition to form the frustoconical member having a tapered portion on an outer surface of the frustoconical member. The frustoconical member can be used by contacting a frustoconical portion of the frustoconical member to a tapered surface of an article; applying pressure to the frustoconical member; urging the frustoconical member in a direction relative to the article to expand a radial dimension of the article; and contacting the frustoconical member with a fluid to disintegrate the frustoconical member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Zhiyue Xu, YingQing Xu, Gregory Lee Hern, Bennett M. Richard
  • Publication number: 20130292134
    Abstract: A flange assembly and method for securing the downhole tubing string and packer to a blowout preventer is disclosed. The application is particularly useful for high pressure fluid applications downhole such as hydraulic fracking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: DANIEL R MULLINS, INC.
    Inventor: Daniel R. Mullins
  • Patent number: 8561692
    Abstract: A downhole safety joint for use in a wellbore is described. The downhole safety joint includes an upper tubular member having an upper threaded end and a lower external threaded section; a lower tubular member having a lower threaded end and an upper interior threaded section for engaging with the lower external threaded section to form a break joint, the break joint having one or more of a maximum compressive stress limit and a tensile stress limit; and one or more circumferential stress reliefs disposed into the outer diameter of at least one of the upper tubular member and the lower tubular member for transmitting a side load applied to the break joint to one or more of the circumferential stress reliefs less than one or more of the compressive stress limit and the tensile stress limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Brock Watson
  • Publication number: 20130264070
    Abstract: A connection assembly, system and method for connecting components of a wellsite are provided. The wellsite has a wellbore extending into a subsurface formation, the connection assembly includes a female connector having a cavity extending therein, a floating cartridge having, and a male connector. The female connector or floating cartridge is operatively connectable to a first of the components. The floating cartridge is operatively connectable to the female connector and laterally movable therein. The male connector is receivable in the cavity and is operatively connectable to the second of the components and the floating cartridge such that the male connector and the female connector are movably positionable relative to each other by the floating cartridge whereby a misalignment between the wellsite components is tolerated. The male connector may have a joint pivotally connectable to the floating cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P.
    Inventors: Travis James Miller, Kent Allen Grebing, Michael Edwin Pollard, Frank Benjamin Springett
  • Publication number: 20130264071
    Abstract: A release mechanism for use with a downhole component in a wellbore environment comprises a shifting sleeve disposed about a mandrel, where the shifting sleeve is torsionally locked with respect to the mandrel, a collet prop disposed about the mandrel and engaged with the shifting sleeve, where the engagement between the collet prop and the shifting sleeve is configured to torsionally lock the collet prop with respect to the shifting sleeve, and a collet engaged with the collet prop, wherein the collet couples the mandrel to the downhole component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Richard P. Noffke, Arthur T. Stautzenbeger
  • Patent number: 8550175
    Abstract: A technique facilitates deployment of completion stages downhole in a well environment. A first completion stage is deployed downhole into a wellbore with a plurality of control lines having at least one hydraulic control line and at least one electrical control line. A second completion stage is assembled with an electric submersible pumping assembly and a plurality of corresponding control lines having at least one hydraulic control line and a least one electric control line. The second completion stage is conveyed downhole into the wellbore until engaged with the first completion stage which automatically joins the plurality of control lines. The control lines may then be used to operate both electrical and hydraulic devices of the first completion stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Muhammad Shafiq, Donald W. Ross
  • Patent number: 8550186
    Abstract: A downhole steering tool includes distinct hydraulic and electronics modules deployed about a shaft. The hydraulics module includes a plurality of hydraulically actuated blades. The electronics module includes electronic circuitry configured to control blade actuation. The hydraulics and electronics modules are physically and electrically connected to one another via a timed connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventors: Neelesh Deolalikar, Pralay Das
  • Patent number: 8550172
    Abstract: A barrier valve system includes one or more barrier valves, a connection sub having a first portion and a second portion connecting one or more control lines to each other, and a replacement portion of the connection sub connectable to the first portion subsequent to retrieval of the second portion. The replacement portion has a port from an outside diameter of the replacement portion to an inside diameter of the replacement portion and seals disposed to define an annular space between the replacement portion and the first portion encompassing only valve opening ports in the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Raymond A. Frisby
  • Patent number: 8550173
    Abstract: A safety joint for use in a subterranean well can include separable portions which, when separated, disconnect sections of a tubular string. Elongation of the safety joint can be permitted while longitudinal compression of the safety joint is prevented. A method of activating a safety joint in a subterranean well can include providing the safety joint with portions having end connectors which interconnect the safety joint between sections of a tubular string, permitting elongation of the safety joint, thereby facilitating disconnection of the tubular string sections, and then preventing longitudinal compression of the safety joint. Another safety joint can include separable portions, and a locking device which permits relative displacement between a generally tubular mandrel and a component of the safety joint in one direction, and prevents relative displacement between the mandrel and the component in an opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Reid E. Zevenbergen, Paul D. Ringgenberg
  • Publication number: 20130255943
    Abstract: A wellbore apparatus and method comprising a first wellbore tool having a primary flow path and at least one secondary flow path and a second wellbore tool having a primary flow path and secondary flow path. A radial center of the primary flow path in the first wellbore tool is offset from a radial center of the primary flow path in the second wellbore tool which comprises a crossover joint connecting the first wellbore tool to the second wellbore tool having a primary flow path fluidly connecting the primary flow path of the first wellbore tool to the primary flow path of the second wellbore tool, and at least one secondary flow path fluidly connecting the at least one secondary flow path of the first wellbore tool to the at least one secondary flow path of the second wellbore tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Charles S. Yeh, Michael D. Barry, Michael T. Hecker, Pavlin B. Entchev, Patrick C. Hyde
  • Publication number: 20130248209
    Abstract: A tie back assembly and method of use is presented. In one method, a tie back seal mandrel is inserted into a tie back receptacle. Both the inner surface of the tie back receptacle and the outer surface of the seal mandrel are tapered to cooperate when mated. A seal assembly forms an annular seal between the tapered surfaces when the mandrel is inserted into the receptacle. Preferably the seal assembly has a burst seal and a collapse seal carried on one of the tapered surfaces, where the seals are spaced apart longitudinally. The seals are positioned at locations along the tapered surfaces to provide adequate wall thickness for support at pressure. Hydrostatic fluid in the wellbore increases the force necessary to withdraw the seal mandrel dues to creation of a lower pressure zone between the spaced apart seals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Brock Watson
  • Patent number: 8540021
    Abstract: A release assembly (200) for releasing a portion of a tool string in a wellbore. The release assembly (200) includes an outer housing (202) having a fishing receptacle (206) disposed therein. The fishing receptacle (206) includes a fishing neck (208). A support assembly (214) is disposed within the housing (202). The support assembly (214) has a first position wherein the support assembly (214) engages the fishing neck (208) to prevent separation of the fishing receptacle (206) from the housing (202) and a second position wherein the support assembly (214) is disengaged from the fishing neck (208) no longer preventing separation of the fishing receptacle (206) from the housing (202). An actuator (224), disposed within the housing (202), maintains the support assembly (214) in the first position until actuation thereof allows the support assembly (214) to shift to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Micky Roy McCarter, Joshua Blake Howk
  • Publication number: 20130233567
    Abstract: A safety joint for use in a subterranean well can include separable portions which, when separated, disconnect sections of a tubular string. Elongation of the safety joint can be permitted while longitudinal compression of the safety joint is prevented. A method of activating a safety joint in a subterranean well can include providing the safety joint with portions having end connectors which interconnect the safety joint between sections of a tubular string, permitting elongation of the safety joint, thereby facilitating disconnection of the tubular string sections, and then preventing longitudinal compression of the safety joint. Another safety joint can include separable portions, and a locking device which permits relative displacement between a generally tubular mandrel and a component of the safety joint in one direction, and prevents relative displacement between the mandrel and the component in an opposite direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Reid E. ZEVENBERGEN, Paul D. RINGGENBERG
  • Publication number: 20130233566
    Abstract: A method of releasing a safety joint in a subterranean well can include disconnecting a tubular string at the safety joint without rotation of the tubular string. A safety joint for use in a subterranean well can include sections which are separated from each other in response to a predetermined number of relative longitudinal and non-rotational displacements between the safety joint sections. Another method of releasing a safety joint in a subterranean well can include fully actuating a jar multiple times, the jar being interconnected in a same tubular string with the safety joint, and then disconnecting the tubular string at the safety joint in response to non-rotational displacement of the tubular string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Paul D. RINGGENBERG
  • Publication number: 20130220636
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention include drill string components having a thread extending around a body. The leading end of the thread can have a configuration that resists jamming and cross-threading. In particular, the leading end of the thread can include a planar surface normal to the body. The leading end of the thread can provide an abrupt transition to full thread depth that helps reduce or eliminate cross-threading. The leading end of the thread can be oriented at an angle relative to the axis of the drill string component. When mating male and female threads are similarly structured, the mating threads slide together along an interface at the thread start face and are drawn into a fully thread-coupled condition. The thread starts may have full circumference mating with no jamming positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Longyear TM, Inc.
    Inventor: Longyear TM, Inc.