Parallel String Or Multiple Completion Well Patents (Class 166/313)
  • Publication number: 20100101798
    Abstract: A downhole assembly for deliquifying a wellbore. In an embodiment, the assembly comprises a nozzle section including a converging nozzle and a diverging nozzle in fluid communication with the converging nozzle. In addition, the assembly comprises a throat section including a convergent throat passage proximal the diverging nozzle and a cylindrical throat passage distal the diverging nozzle and extending axially from the convergent throat passage. The convergent throat passage and the cylindrical throat passage are in fluid communication with the diverging nozzle. Further, the assembly comprises a diffuser section coaxially aligned with the throat section. The diffuser section includes a divergent diffuser passage extending axially from the straight throat passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.
    Inventors: David A. Simpson, Michael D. Scull
  • Publication number: 20100101778
    Abstract: An expansion joint with one or more communication medium bypass paths is described herein. At least some illustrative embodiments include a first axially flexible cylinder, one or more additional axially flexible cylinders positioned within the first cylinder, and first and second annular members each positioned at a opposite ends of, and each coupled to, the first cylinder and the one or more additional cylinders (the first and second annular members each including one or more apertures through each member). All cylinders concurrently extend and contract in axial length when the first and second annular members are respectively moved away from and towards each other. Annular spaces formed by each of the one or more additional cylinders and an externally adjacent cylinder, together with corresponding apertures of each of the first and second annular members, each provides at least one path for at least one communication medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB
    Inventor: JEFFRY J. LEMBCKE
  • Publication number: 20100089574
    Abstract: Methods for enhancing existing wells, such as increasing the diameter of an existing well by hydrothermal spallation are provided. Such methods may include providing a housing comprising a reaction chamber and a catalyst element held within the reaction chamber, providing at least one jet nozzle, contacting one or more unreacted fluids or solids with the catalyst element, wherein the unreacted fluid or solid is adapted to react with the catalyst element, thus generating a reacted fluid, and emitting the reacted fluid through the at least one nozzle, wherein the at least one nozzle may be directed to a production zone of an internal wall of the existing well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: Potter Drilling, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas W. Wideman, Jared M. Potter, Donald S. Dreesen, Robert M. Potter
  • Patent number: 7694741
    Abstract: A well system for producing fluid from an earth formation. A primary wellbore section produces the fluid from the well system to the surface. The primary wellbore section includes a cylindrical member having a number of apertures. At least one flanking wellbore runs substantially alongside the primary wellbore section. The flanking wellbore is in fluid communication with the apertures on the primary wellbore section through the porous earth formation. At least one lateral wellbore section joins the flanking wellbore section. Formation fluid flows into the lateral wellbore sections and then into the flanking wellbore section. The fluid is then transmitted from the flanking wellbore, through the porous earth formation, and is received by the apertures in the primary wellbore section. The fluid flows through the primary wellbore section to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Ahmed J. Al-Muraikhi
  • Publication number: 20100071905
    Abstract: A method of completing a wellbore having a branch wellbore extending outwardly from a window in a parent wellbore is provided. The method comprises positioning a tubular string in the window, wherein the positioning comprises deflecting the tubular string from the parent wellbore into the branch wellbore. The method also comprises providing a particulate barrier outside and against the tubular string proximate the window, the particulate barrier substantially excluding transport of particulate matter from the branch wellbore into the parent wellbore outside of the tubular string through the window. The method also comprises the tubular string passing fluid into the tubular string proximate the window from a formation proximate to the window while substantially excluding transport of particulate matter from the formation proximate to the window into the tubular string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: William Shaun Renshaw, Steven Ronald Fipke
  • Patent number: 7669657
    Abstract: A method for enhanced production of hydrocarbon fluids from an organic-rich rock formation such as an oil shale formation is provided. The method generally includes completing at least one heater well in the organic-rich rock formation, and also completing a production well in the organic-rich rock formation. The method also includes the steps of hydraulically fracturing the organic-rich rock formation from the production well such that one or more artificial fractures are formed, and heating the organic-rich rock formation from the at least one heater well, thereby pyrolyzing at least a portion of the organic-rich rock into hydrocarbon fluids Pyrolyzing the organic-rich rock formation creates thermal fractures in the formation due to thermal stresses created by heating. The thermal fractures intersect the artificial fractures. As an additional step, hydrocarbon fluids may be produced from the production well. Preferably, the organic-rich rock formation is an oil shale formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: William A. Symington, Robert D. Kaminsky, James M. Hutfilz
  • Publication number: 20100044051
    Abstract: A zone isolation assembly array (794) for a well (712) includes a first zone isolation assembly (722A) and a second zone isolation assembly (722B). The first zone isolation assembly (722A) selectively inhibits fluid communication between a first zone (726) and a second zone (728) of the well (712). The second zone isolation assembly (722B) can be positioned between the first zone isolation assembly (722A) and a surface region (32) of the well (712) in an in-line manner. The second zone isolation assembly (722B) selectively inhibits fluid communication between the second zone (728) and a third zone (796) of the well (712). In another embodiment, the zone isolation assembly array (794) includes a first docking receiver (748A), a second docking receiver (748B), a first docking apparatus (750A) and a second docking apparatus (750B). The docking receivers (748A, 748B) can be positioned in an in-line manner. The second docking apparatus (750B) is coupled to the first docking apparatus (750A).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Noah R. Heller, Peter F. Moritzburke
  • Publication number: 20100038088
    Abstract: A multi-function multi-hole rig is disclosed which, in certain aspects, includes multiple machines for accomplishing rig functions, e.g. drilling machine(s), tripping machine(s), casing machine(s), and/or cementing machine(s), for producing multiple usable wellbores one after the other. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Frank Benjamin Springett, David Gilbert Reid, Guy L. McClung, III
  • Publication number: 20100012318
    Abstract: A completion assembly useful to fracture pack, gravel pack or otherwise treat production intervals traversed by an uncased wellbore to stimulate production and/or prevent production of solid particles from the production intervals and a single trip method to fracture pack, gravel pack or otherwise treat multiple zones in an open-hole wellbore having no liner or casing string installed through a production open hole portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas A. Luce, Karen Olson
  • Publication number: 20090321078
    Abstract: A method for reducing the number of control lines needed to control a plurality of downhole devices including supplying a first control line in operable communication with a plurality of devices, the plurality of devices including at least one group of devices; supplying a second control line in operable communication with said at least one group of devices; and actuating each device of the plurality of devices in said at least one group of devices simultaneously in response to a pressure event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Sebastiaan Wolters
  • Patent number: 7631696
    Abstract: A zone isolation assembly array (794) for a well (712) includes a first zone isolation assembly (722A) and a second zone isolation assembly (722B). The first zone isolation assembly (722A) selectively inhibits fluid communication between a first zone (726) and a second zone (728) of the well (712). The second zone isolation assembly (722B) can be positioned between the first zone isolation assembly (722A) and a surface region (32) of the well (712) in an in-line manner. The second zone isolation assembly (722B) selectively inhibits fluid communication between the second zone (728) and a third zone (796) of the well (712). In another embodiment, the zone isolation assembly array (794) includes a first docking receiver (748A), a second docking receiver (748B), a first docking apparatus (750A) and a second docking apparatus (750B). The docking receivers (748A, 748B) can be positioned in an in-line manner. The second docking apparatus (750B) is coupled to the first docking apparatus (750A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: BESST, Inc.
    Inventors: Noah R. Heller, Peter F. Moritzburke
  • Publication number: 20090266549
    Abstract: An assembly for producing oil and/or gas through a well traversing stacked oil and/or gas bearing earth layers comprises a series of expandable packers and integrated perforating gun and sandscreen assemblies mounted on a production tubing such that each integrated perforating gun and sandscreen assembly is located adjacent an oil and/or gas bearing earth layer and at least one expandable packer is located between a pair of adjacent oil and/or gas bearing earth layers, and at least one inflow opening arranged in the wall of the production tubing adjacent to each sandscreen assembly. The integrated perforating gun and sandscreen assemblies are installed in a single run into the well such that uncontrolled fluid and/or sand influx into the well before installation of the sandscreens and expandable packers is avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Stephen Richard Braithwaite, Johannes Cornelis Maria Van Dongen
  • Patent number: 7608566
    Abstract: Particulate compositions that comprise macro-particulates, and degradable particulates in an amount sufficient to reduce friction between the macro-particulates, the degradable particulates having a mean particle diameter of at least about 20 times smaller than the mean particle diameter of the macro-particulates are disclosed herein. Also disclosed are fluids that comprise a liquid component, and a particulate composition, the particulate composition comprising macro-particulates and degradable particulates having a mean particle diameter of at least about 20 times smaller than the mean particle diameter of the macro-particulates, wherein the degradable particulates are present in the particulate composition in an amount sufficient to reduce friction between the macro-particulates. Methods of using the particulate compositions and fluids are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Rajes K. Saini, Michael J. R. Segura
  • Patent number: 7588075
    Abstract: A packer insert for sealing multiple items used in a wellbore includes an elastomeric member having one or more channels configured to seal on the multiple items when compressed by a packing unit, wherein the elastomeric member is made of a material selected from rubber, an elastomer, and a composite material, and wherein the packer insert is not affixed to a pressure control apparatus having the packing unit disposed therein. The packer insert is axially fixed to at least one of the multiple items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLC
    Inventors: John P. Scoggins, William L. Carbaugh
  • Patent number: 7584795
    Abstract: A sealed branch wellbore transition joint. A method of completing a well having intersecting wellbores includes the steps of: positioning a diverter in a wellbore; diverting an assembly from the wellbore into another wellbore; and swelling a sealing material on the assembly, so that a seal is formed between the assembly and the diverter. A completion system for a well having intersecting wellbores includes a diverter positioned in a wellbore, an assembly extending laterally across the wellbore, and a sealing material on the assembly. The sealing material is swollen so that a seal is formed between the assembly and the diverter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Neil Hepburn, Frode Berge, Karl Demong
  • Publication number: 20090218101
    Abstract: An inflow control assembly. The inflow control assembly can include an inner tubular member comprising a hole formed therethrough. A cover assembly can encircle the hole. The cover assembly can include a first outer member disposed about at least a portion of the inner tubular member. The first outer member can be secured to the inner tubular member. A second outer member can be disposed about at least a portion of the inner tubular member, and the second outer member can be secured to the inner tubular member. A screen portion can be disposed between the outer members and between the inner tubular member and the outer members. An annulus can be formed between the outer members and the inner tubular member, and the annulus can provide a flow path between the hole and the screen portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael D. Langlais, Tage Thorkildsen, Terje Moen, Odd Ronnestad
  • Publication number: 20090211759
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for treating multiple interval well bores. More particularly, an isolation assembly may be used to allow for zonal isolation to allow treatment of selected productive or previously producing intervals in multiple interval well bores. One example of a method for treating a multiple interval well bore includes the steps of: introducing an isolation assembly to a well bore, the isolation assembly comprising a liner, one or more sleeves and a plurality of swellable packers, wherein the sleeves and swellable packers are disposed about the liner; deploying a shifting tool inside the liner, where the sleeves are configured so as to provide open, closed and open to screen positions when actuated by the shifting tool. An open position allows for treatment of the well bore while an open to screen position allows for receiving fluid from the well bore. A closed position re-establishes zonal isolation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Loyd E. East, JR., Perry Wayne Courville, Richard Altman, Robert Clayton
  • Patent number: 7571771
    Abstract: A method for accessing a subterranean zone includes forming a subterranean cavity coupled to a land surface and forming a plurality of substantially horizontal bores extending at least partially into the subterranean zone and intersecting the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: CDX Gas, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher A. Pratt, Douglas P. Seams
  • Patent number: 7571765
    Abstract: A tubing string assembly is disclosed for fluid treatment of a wellbore. The tubing string can be used for staged wellbore fluid treatment where a selected segment of the wellbore is treated, while other segments are sealed off. The tubing string can also be used where a ported tubing string is required to be run in in a pressure tight condition and later is needed to be in an open-port condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel Jon Themig
  • Publication number: 20090188671
    Abstract: A junction includes a borehole casing having a window therein; a diverter disposed within the casing and aligned and oriented with the window, the diverter having at least one profile along a longitudinal edge thereof; and a hanger assembly having a window therein, the window having an edge receivable by the at least one profile, the profile supporting the hanger assembly and method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Jobby T. Jacob, Bryan P. Pendleton, Daniel T. Craig
  • Patent number: 7552770
    Abstract: A method and composition for isolating a selected subterranean formation in a subterranean formation having a gravel pack over a plurality of producing zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventor: John C. Braden
  • Patent number: 7543634
    Abstract: A tubing string assembly is disclosed for fluid treatment of a wellbore. The tubing string can be used for staged wellbore fluid treatment where a selected segment of the wellbore is treated, while other segments are sealed off. The tubing string can also be used where a ported tubing string is required to be run in in a pressure tight condition and later is needed to be in an open-port condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Packers Plus Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Fehr, Daniel Jon Themig
  • Patent number: 7543647
    Abstract: An improved well completion system for completing two or more separate production zones in a well bore during a single downhole trip is disclosed. The improved completion system comprises a completion assembly comprising two or more production zone assemblies and a completion tool assembly. Each production zone assembly may comprise an automatic system locating assembly and at least two inverted seal systems for sealing against the tool assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventor: David J. Walker
  • Patent number: 7513302
    Abstract: A method of entering a previously-installed tubular in a lateral borehole from a primary borehole connected to the lateral borehole includes passing a downhole tool from the primary borehole into the lateral borehole, actuating an orientation mule shoe coupled to the downhole tool to lift the nose portion of the downhole tool into alignment with the tubular in the lateral borehole, and inserting the nose portion of the downhole tool into the tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph H. Cassidy, Vance E. Nixon
  • Publication number: 20090056947
    Abstract: A technique is provided for engaging and disengaging an upper completion with a lower completion positioned in a wellbore. The upper completion comprises an upper communication line, and the lower completion comprises a lower communication line. The upper completion is mechanically latched with the lower completion and the communication lines are coupled in a manner that enables selective engagement and disengagement. A communication line union is used to connect the upper communication line and the lower communication line in a plurality of rotational orientations of the upper completion relative to the lower completion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael H. Du, Gary L. Rytlewski, William D. Chapman
  • Patent number: 7497264
    Abstract: A wellbore junction. The junction includes a discrete primary leg and a discrete lateral leg connected to the primary leg, at least one of the legs comprising a plurality of non-nested flow passageways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Braxton I. Moody, Douglas James Murray
  • Patent number: 7493958
    Abstract: A technique that is usable with a well includes running a production string into the well so that the production string extends through a first isolated zone of the well and at least into a second isolated zone that is located farther into the well than the first isolated zone. The production string includes integrated perforating charges. The technique also includes firing the perforating charges inside the first zone; and after the firing, maintaining fluid isolation between the first isolated zone and a passageway of the production string. The passageway communicates well fluid from the second isolated zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joe C. Hromas, Larry Grigar
  • Patent number: 7490669
    Abstract: An improved well completion system for completing two or more separate production zones in a well bore during a single downhole trip is disclosed. The improved completion system comprises a completion assembly comprising two or more production zone assemblies and a completion tool assembly. Each production zone assembly may comprise an automatic system locating assembly and at least two inverted seal systems for sealing against the tool assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: David J. Walker, Dewayne M. Turner, Gregg W. Stout, Todd Chretien, Christopher L. Blackler, Jack Robbins, Marvin B. Traweek
  • Patent number: 7487835
    Abstract: A method is provided that allows the operator to re-enter a primary wellbore from a lateral wellbore after the lateral wellbore has been completed. The method generally comprises the steps of locating a cutting device such as a milling bit adjacent a tubular such as a liner within a wellbore, rotating the milling bit while maintaining an axial position of the milling bit relative to the liner to initiate an opening, and rotating and axially advancing the milling bit to complete the opening. In addition, a bottom hole assembly that facilitates re-entry into the primary wellbore from a lateral wellbore is provided. The bottom hole assembly generally includes a drill collar or other heavy pipe structure, and a mill. The mill has a body and cutting structures. The cutting structures apply lateral force against a surrounding pipe to form an initial lip through the wall of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Thurman B. Carter, Jr., Robert E. Robertson, Hubert E. Halford, Thomas M. Redlinger
  • Patent number: 7478676
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for treating multiple interval well bores. More particularly, an isolation assembly may be used to allow for zonal isolation to allow treatment of selected productive or previously producing intervals in multiple interval well bores. One example of a method for treating a multiple interval well bore includes the steps of: providing an isolation assembly comprising a liner and a plurality of swellable packers wherein the plurality of swellable packers are disposed around the liner at selected spacings; introducing the isolation assembly into the well bore; allowing at least one of the plurality of swellable packers to swell so as to provide zonal isolation of at least one of a plurality of selected intervals; establishing fluidic connectivity to the at least one of a plurality of selected intervals; and treating the at least one of a plurality of selected intervals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Loyd E. East, Jr., Perry Wayne Courville, Richard Altman, Robert Clayton
  • Publication number: 20090014168
    Abstract: Casing valves for selective well stimulation and control. A well system includes at least one valve interconnected in a casing string operable via at least one line external to the casing string to selectively control fluid flow between an exterior and interior of the casing string, and the casing string, valve and line being cemented in a wellbore. A method of selectively stimulating a subterranean formation includes: positioning a casing string in a wellbore, the casing string including spaced apart valves operable via a line to selectively control fluid flow between an interior and exterior of the casing string; and for each of multiple intervals of the formation in sequence, stimulating the interval by opening a corresponding one of the valves, closing the remainder of the valves, and flowing a stimulation fluid from the casing string into the interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: WELLDYNAMICS, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy R. TIPS, Alfred R. Curington
  • Publication number: 20090008078
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in a well includes a flow control assembly to control fluid flow in a first zone of the well, where the flow control assembly has a fixed flow control device and an adjustable flow control device that cooperate to control the fluid flow in the first zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Dinesh R. Patel
  • Publication number: 20080314596
    Abstract: An apparatus for isolating a selected leg of a wellbore from the remainder of the wellbore includes a packer positionable in the selected leg of the wellbore, a tube extending through the packer from an uphole side of the packer to a downhole side of the packer to permit a fluid flow communication to the selected leg of the wellbore past the packer and a valve positioned in the tube to control fluid flow through the tube. In a method for isolating a selected leg of a wellbore, the apparatus is positioned in the selected wellbore leg and the packer set to permit fluid flow communication past the apparatus only through the tube and the valve of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: PACKERS PLUS ENERGY SERVICES INC.
    Inventor: DANIEL JON THEMIG
  • Publication number: 20080311776
    Abstract: A well completion system, including a packer and a lower signal line connector carried on tubing below the packer. An upper signal line connector is carried on an upper tubing section. The upper tubing is adapted for lowering through the packer into sealing contact with the lower tubing and for operatively connecting the upper signal line connector to the lower signal line connector. A lug on the upper tubing and a profile in the lower tubing interact to rotate the upper connector into alignment with the lower connector. An upper signal line extends from a surface location down the upper tubing to the upper connector. A lower signal line extends from the lower connector down the lower tubing to downhole sensors and/or actuators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Morris W. Cox, Robert W. Crow, Brent M. Green, Ronald W. McGregor
  • Patent number: 7464761
    Abstract: A technique is provided to control flow in a well. A well completion comprises one or more flow control valve systems coupled by an electric line and a hydraulic line. Each flow control valve system comprises a flow control valve responsive to hydraulic input via the hydraulic line and an electro-mechanical device. The electro-mechanical device is responsive to inputs via the electric line and is used to control hydraulic input to the corresponding flow control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Pierre Hosatte, Thomas D. MacDougall, Stephane Hiron, Michael J. Bertoja
  • Patent number: 7445046
    Abstract: An outer tubing hanger is secured to an outer string of tubing and landed in a wellhead housing. A Christmas tree is connected to the wellhead housing. While in a first mode, an isolation tube extends between the tree and the outer tubing hanger for conveying well fluid flowing up the outer string of tubing. The isolation tube is removed while in a second mode, and an inner tubing hanger secured to an inner string of tubing lands in the outer tubing hanger production passage. An upper portion of the inner tubing hanger extends into sealing engagement with the tree production passage for flowing well fluid up the inner string of tubing while in the second mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene A. Borak, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7441605
    Abstract: Devices and methods for monitoring wellbore conditions while conducting hydrocarbon production within a wellbore, particularly an open-hole wellbore, having multiple zones within. A production tubing string assembly is made up having a plurality of packers for sealing within an open-hole wellbore having multiple individual zones. The production tubing string includes production nipples and one or more fiber optic sensor lines disposed upon the outside of the production tubing string. The sensor line or lines are disposed through the packers using a pass-through system so as to provide unbroken sensing line(s) to the surface of the wellbore. This allows temperature, pressure or other wellbore conditions to be monitored at the surface in each of the individual zones of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Martin P. Coronado, Elmer R. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7441604
    Abstract: A method of fracking multiple laterals sequentially is described. It allows the drilling rig to be moved off site as the laterals are fracked. Thereafter, they can all be produced simultaneously. The laterals begin from a main lateral that is already oriented in the producing zone and preferably exit in a coplanar manner so as to extend immediately into the producing formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Rickey J. Green
  • Patent number: 7438135
    Abstract: Methods are provided in which reliance is placed on a first and second barrier respectively positioned in a well 10 to provide well control during well suspension, completion and/or workover operations. Each of the barriers is below the depth of the lowermost end of a completion string when that string is installed in the well. By not placing either barrier higher up in the well-bore, both of the barriers can remain in place during suspension and completion and workover operations, thus obviating the need to use a BOP stack to supplement well control. This results in a considerable saving in drill rig time and thus significantly reduces the cost of constructing a well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Woodside Energy Ltd.
    Inventors: Peter Ernest Page, Alexander Jeffrey Burns, John Edward Niski
  • Patent number: 7431091
    Abstract: A tubing string assembly for fluid treatment of a wellbore includes substantially pressure holding closures spaced along the tubing string, which each close at least one port through the tubing string wall. The closures are openable by a sleeve drivable through the tubing string inner bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Packers Plus Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Jon Themig, Jim Fehr
  • Publication number: 20080210430
    Abstract: A well system for producing fluid from an earth formation. A primary wellbore section produces the fluid from the well system to the surface. The primary wellbore section includes a cylindrical member having a number of apertures. At least one flanking wellbore runs substantially alongside the primary wellbore section. The flanking wellbore is in fluid communication with the apertures on the primary wellbore section through the porous earth formation. At least one lateral wellbore section joins the flanking wellbore section. Formation fluid flows into the lateral wellbore sections and then into the flanking wellbore section. The fluid is then transmitted from the flanking wellbore, through the porous earth formation, and is received by the apertures in the primary wellbore section. The fluid flows through the primary wellbore section to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventor: Ahmed J. Al-Muraikhi
  • Publication number: 20080210429
    Abstract: A system and method for selectively stimulating a plurality of producing zones of a wellbore in oil and gas wells, the system being cemented within the wellbore. The system includes a plurality of modules connected in a string wherein the modules can be selectively actuated to stimulate producing zones adjacent the modules. Each module includes a sleeve shiftable between a closed position and a treating position where a plurality of radial passageways are exposed to the central passageway of the assembly. The system includes a wiper plug that is adapted to pass through ball seats of various sizes in the plurality of modules and an acid solution pumped into the string to break down the cement at the producing zones. The system may include at least one natural rubber wiper ball to remove residual cement from the string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Bobby Frank McMillin, Avel Z. Ortiz, Mark Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 7419005
    Abstract: This invention relates to the field of treating subterranean formations to increase production. The method of the current invention is particularly useful in hydrocarbon wells that are long, for example, in excess of one kilometer. The method providing increasing production from a primary wellbore by intersecting this wellbore with a secondary wellbore near to the hydrocarbon production zone such that acid treatment or other treatment can be directed to the intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Ahmed J. Al-Muraikhi
  • Publication number: 20080185151
    Abstract: The purpose of the method of the present invention is to provide an improved method and an improved apparatus, to displace light, medium, or viscous hydrocarbon fluid, which may be contaminated with earthen solids, from the subterranean hydrocarbon reservoir to a hydrocarbon fluid storage tank or other handling facilities on ground surface, by means of oil well production. The method is intended for use in cold primary hydrocarbon production or thermally stimulated hydrocarbon production from vertical, slant, whipstocked, or horizontal oil wells. The production system does not employ moving subsurface mechanical components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Dennis Franklin Uttley
  • Publication number: 20080156495
    Abstract: A method of re-entering a previously-installed tubular in a lateral borehole from a primary borehole connected to the lateral borehole includes passing a downhole tool from the primary borehole into the lateral borehole, activating one or more radial thrust elements proximate to a nose portion of the downhole tool to apply a radial thrust to the downhole tool and lift the nose portion into alignment with the tubular, and inserting the nose portion of the downhole tool into the tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Vance Nixon, Joseph H. Cassidy, Jeremie C. Fould, Timothy M. O'Rourke
  • Publication number: 20080156496
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for treating multiple interval well bores. More particularly, an isolation assembly may be used to allow for zonal isolation to allow treatment of selected productive or previously producing intervals in multiple interval well bores. One example of a method for treating a multiple interval well bore includes the steps of: introducing an isolation assembly to a well bore, the isolation assembly comprising a liner, one or more sleeves and a plurality of swellable packers, wherein the sleeves and swellable packers are disposed about the liner; deploying a shifting tool inside the liner, where the sleeves are configured so as to provide open, closed and open to screen positions when actuated by the shifting tool. An open position allows for treatment of the well bore while an open to screen position allows for receiving fluid from the well bore. A closed position re-establishes zonal isolation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Loyd East
  • Patent number: 7387165
    Abstract: A system for completing a well with multiple zones of production includes a casing having a plurality of valves that are integrated therein for isolating each well zone. Communication is established between each underlying formation and the interior of the casing, and a treatment fluid is delivered to each of the multiple well zones. Mechanisms for actuating one or more of the valves include, but are not limited to, a dart, a drop ball, a running tool, and a control line actuating system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jorge Lopez de Cardenas, Gary L. Rytlewski, Matthew R. Hackworth
  • Patent number: 7387164
    Abstract: An in-line flow control device for a well chokes flow through a conduit while allowing access therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventors: Ronald E. Pringle, Arthur J. Morris
  • Patent number: 7377322
    Abstract: A hydraulically actuated anchor and a mechanically actuated packer are used in combination to secure a production tubing system in a lateral prior to injection of a cement to line the lateral borehole in which the production tubing is positioned. The packer is expanded to prevent fluid cement material from flowing past the packer into a junction area of the lateral with other laterals and aid the removal of superfluous cement material after hardening of the injected cement material around the production tubing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Peak Completion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond A. Hofman
  • Patent number: RE41059
    Abstract: Multiple wellbores are interconnected utilizing a deflection device having a guide layer of lower hardness than the body of the deflection device, and a cutting tool having a guide portion and being operative to cut through the deflection device guide layer and a tubular structure lining a wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Gano, Tommie A. Freeman, John S. Bowling, James R. Longbottom