Valves, Closures Or Changeable Restrictors Patents (Class 166/316)
  • Publication number: 20120255777
    Abstract: A well system can include an accumulator in communication with a wellbore, whereby the accumulator applies pressure to the wellbore. A method of maintaining a desired pressure in a wellbore can include applying pressure to the wellbore from an accumulator in response to pressure in the wellbore being less than the desired pressure. Another well system can include a dampener in communication with a wellbore isolated from atmosphere, whereby the dampener mitigates pressure spikes in the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Christopher J. BERNARD
  • Patent number: 8276677
    Abstract: A bottom hole assembly (BHA), adapted to be positioned in a casing and to isolate a portion of a wellbore, which includes a packer assembly with a first sealing element extending between first and second portions of the packer assembly. A method of setting a BHA in a casing which includes increasing a BHA pressure to activate an anchor assembly, applying a mechanical force to mechanically deform a first sealing element to thereby establish an initial seal between the first sealing element and an interior surface of the casing, and increasing a pressure in a space between the BHA and the casing and in a cavity within the BHA to increase a differential pressure across the first sealing element and thereby establish a pressure-energized seal between the first sealing element and the interior surface of the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: John E. Ravensbergen
  • Patent number: 8276673
    Abstract: An improved gas lift system is provided. In certain embodiments, the gas lift system includes a first tubing string and a second tubing string disposed within the first tubing string. The second tubing string is movable between a first position and a second position. Inflow of production fluids through an aperture in the first tubing string is selectively blocked when the second tubing string is in the second position. A port in the second tubing string delivers lift gas to the annulus between the first tubing string and the second tubing string. In the first position, the port is blocked to prevent fluid communication between the second tubing string and the first tubing string. In the second position, the port is uncovered to permit fluid communication between the second tubing string and the first tubing string, while a sealing member provides a seal that isolates the fluid communication from a well formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Pine Tree Gas, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph A. Zupanick
  • Patent number: 8276669
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber having an outlet and at least one structure which resists a change in a direction of flow of a fluid composition toward the outlet. The fluid composition may enter the chamber in the direction of flow which changes based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. Another variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having an inlet, an outlet, and a structure which impedes a change from circular flow about the outlet to radial flow toward the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp
  • Publication number: 20120241143
    Abstract: Well tools including valves operable by low electrical input. One well tool includes a valve which controls fluid communication between pressure regions in a well, the valve including a rotatable member which is biased to rotate, and a brake or clutch which prevents rotation of the member. Another valve includes a barrier which separates reactants, with the valve being operable in response to the barrier being opened and the reactants thereby reacting with each other. Yet another valve includes a barrier which separates the pressure regions, and a control circuit which heats the barrier to a weakened state. Another valve includes a member displaceable between open and closed positions, a restraining device which resists displacement of the member, and a control device which degrades or deactivates the restraining device and thereby permits the member to displace between its open and closed positions, in response to receipt of a predetermined signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Adam D. Wright, Michael L. Fripp, Kevin D. Fink, Donald Perkins, Jimmie R. Williamson, Mark D. Kalman
  • Publication number: 20120234557
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for controlling the flow of fluid, such as formation fluid, through an oilfield tubular positioned in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation. Fluid flow is autonomously controlled in response to change in a fluid flow characteristic, such as density or viscosity. In one embodiment, a fluid diverter is movable between an open and closed position in response to fluid density change and operable to restrict fluid flow through a valve assembly inlet. The diverter can be pivotable, rotatable or otherwise movable in response to the fluid density change. In one embodiment, the diverter is operable to control a fluid flow ratio through two valve inlets. The fluid flow ratio is used to operate a valve member to restrict fluid flow through the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael Linley Fripp, Orlando DeJesus, John C. Gano, Luke Holderman
  • 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: 8261839
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows in a well, the chamber having an inlet and an outlet. The fluid composition enters via the inlet in a direction which changes based on a ratio of desired to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. A well system can include a variable flow resistance system through which a fluid composition flows between a tubular string and a formation, the flow resistance system including a flow chamber through which the fluid composition flows, with only one chamber inlet. The fluid composition flows more directly from the inlet to an outlet as a ratio of desired to undesired fluid in the fluid composition increases. Another flow resistance system can include at least one structure which influences portions of the fluid composition which flow circuitously between the inlet and the outlet to maintain such circuitous flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8251144
    Abstract: A downhole tool comprises a body defining a fluid inlet and two or more fluid outlets. A valve arrangement cycles the proportion of fluid directed from the inlet to each of the outlets. One of the outlets may be associated with a fluid pressure responsive device, such as a cleaning blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Andergauge Limited
    Inventor: Alastair Henry Walter Macfarlane
  • Publication number: 20120211243
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for controlling the flow of fluid, such as formation fluid, through an oilfield tubular positioned in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation. Fluid flow is autonomously controlled in response to change in a fluid flow characteristic, such as density or viscosity. In one embodiment, a fluid diverter is movable between an open and closed position in response to fluid density change and operable to restrict fluid flow through a valve assembly inlet. The diverter can be pivotable, rotatable or otherwise movable in response to the fluid density change. In one embodiment, the diverter is operable to control a fluid flow ratio through two valve inlets. The fluid flow ratio is used to operate a valve member to restrict fluid flow through the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael Linley Fripp, Orlando DeJesus, John C. Gano, Luke Holderman
  • Patent number: 8235103
    Abstract: Well tools including valves operable by low electrical input. One well tool includes a valve which controls fluid communication between pressure regions in a well, the valve including a rotatable member which is biased to rotate, and a brake or clutch which prevents rotation of the member. Another valve includes a barrier which separates reactants, with the valve being operable in response to the barrier being opened and the reactants thereby reacting with each other. Yet another valve includes a barrier which separates the pressure regions, and a control circuit which heats the barrier to a weakened state. Another valve includes a member displaceable between open and closed positions, a restraining device which resists displacement of the member, and a control device which degrades or deactivates the restraining device and thereby permits the member to displace between its open and closed positions, in response to receipt of a predetermined signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam D. Wright, Michael L. Fripp, Kevin D. Fink, Donald Perkins, Jimmie R. Williamson, Mark D. Kalman
  • Publication number: 20120181036
    Abstract: A well system can include an inflow control device which resists flow into a tubular string. A selection from among multiple different flow resistances through the inflow control device can be performed in response to pressure manipulation. An inflow control device can include a piston which is displaceable to at least two positions. Flow through the inflow control device is permitted at a certain flow resistance when the piston is at one position, and flow through the inflow control device is permitted at a greater flow resistance when the piston is at another position. Fluid which flows through the inflow control device can be constrained to flow through an increased number of flow restrictors in response to displacement of the piston from the first to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Luke W. HOLDERMAN
  • Publication number: 20120160515
    Abstract: A valve system for providing fluid flow through radial openings disposed along an axial length of a tubular. The tubular comprises at least one valve group containing at least two valves operable by one drop ball. An inset 302 e.g. of standard grade steel provided in a harder liner 301 in the opening provides an intermediate small opening for at least the time required to open all the remaining valves in the group. The small opening limits the pressure drop over the valve. When all valves are open, the insets 302 are eroded away by an abrasive material, e.g. a slurry used for hydraulic fracturing, and permanent full openings are created.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: I-TEC AS
    Inventors: Kristoffer Braekke, Geir Lunde, Roger Antonsen
  • Publication number: 20120160478
    Abstract: A well tool can include a flow path, and a flow blocking device which selectively prevents flow through the flow path. The device can include an anhydrous boron compound. A method of constructing a downhole well tool can include forming a structure of a solid mass comprising an anhydrous boron compound, and incorporating the structure into the well tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Bradley L. TODD, Thomas D. WELTON, Luke W. HOLDERMAN, Ivan SULEIMAN
  • Publication number: 20120152527
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, an exit assembly comprises: a first fluid inlet; a first fluid outlet; and at least one fluid director, wherein the fluid enters the exit assembly in one direction, in another direction, or combinations thereof, and wherein the at least one fluid director induces flow of the fluid rotationally about the assembly when the fluid enters in the one direction and impedes flow of the fluid rotationally about the assembly when the fluid enters in the another direction. In another embodiment, the exit assembly includes two or more fluid inlets. According to another embodiment, a flow rate restrictor comprises: a fluid switch; and the exit assembly. According to another embodiment, the flow rate restrictor is for use in a subterranean formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jason D. DYKSTRA, Michael L. FRIPP
  • Publication number: 20120145394
    Abstract: A rotatable downhole cutting tool configured for enhanced drive consistency in low power circumstances. The tool is equipped with a hydraulic axial drive actuator suitable for use in wireline deployment. The actuator itself includes a reciprocating piston with a ball screw that threadably interfaces a ball nut for dampening the axial drive imparted by the piston. As such, even though hydraulically driven at generally well under about 10 horsepower, bounce in the axial drive is substantially eliminated. This is particularly advantageous where cutting is to be applied to downhole metal based obstructions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: Michael Jensen, Ruben Martinez
  • Publication number: 20120145385
    Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system (100). The flow control system (100) includes a flow control component (122) having direction dependent flow resistance created by a vortex chamber (144). Production fluids (140) that travel through the flow control component (122) in a first direction enter the vortex chamber (144) traveling primarily in a tangential direction (148) to experience a first pressure drop. Injection fluids (150) that travel through the flow control component (122) in a second direction enter the vortex chamber (144) traveling primarily in a radial direction (152) to experience a second pressure drop. The pressure drop created by the tangential flow (148) of the production fluids (140) is greater than the pressure drop created by the radial flow (152) of the injection fluids (150).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Jean-Marc Lopez
  • Patent number: 8196651
    Abstract: Well bore fluid redistribution apparatuses which can be inserted into a well bore to isolate fluids produced in well bores from different geologic sections on either side of the apparatuses. Operation of the well bore fluid redistribution apparatuses can redistribute fluids produced in well bores between different geologic sections to reduce surface discharge of fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Big Cat Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond P. Murphy, Timothy G. Barritt, Richard G. Stockdale
  • Publication number: 20120138304
    Abstract: A device for directing the flow of a fluid comprises: a pressure pocket; a first fluid passageway; a pressure source; and a pressure switch, wherein the first fluid passageway operationally connects at least the pressure pocket and the pressure source, and wherein the pressure switch is positioned adjacent to the pressure source. According to an embodiment, depending on at least one of the properties of the fluid, the fluid that flows into the pressure pocket changes. In one embodiment, the change is the fluid increasingly flows into the pressure pocket. In another embodiment, the change is the fluid decreasingly flows into the pressure pocket. According to another embodiment, a flow rate regulator comprises: the device for directing the flow of a fluid; a second fluid passageway; a third fluid passageway; and a fourth fluid passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp
  • Patent number: 8191627
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) for controlling the flow rate of a fluid during downhole operations. The apparatus (100) includes a tubular member (134) having a flow path (136) between inner and outer portions of the tubular member (134). The flow path (136) includes an inlet (138) in an inner sidewall (140) and an outlet (142) in an outer sidewall (144) of the tubular member (134). The inlet (138) and the outlet (142) are laterally offset from each other. A fluidic device (146) is positioned in the flow path (136) between the inlet (138) and the outlet (142). The fluidic device (146) is embedded within the tubular member (134) between the inner sidewall (140) and the outer sidewall (144). The fluidic device (146) includes a nozzle (154) having a throat portion (156) and a diffuser portion (158) such that fluid will flow through the nozzle (154) at a critical flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Syed Hamid, Michael Linley Fripp, Edward John Patton
  • Publication number: 20120125627
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for selectably opening a valve body having a central passage and a plurality of apertures therethrough. The apparatus comprises a sleeve slidably located within the central passage of the valve body adapted to selectably cover or uncover the apertures. The apparatus further comprises a shifting tool slidably locatable within the sleeve having at least one sleeve engaging member selectably extendable therefrom in parallel to a central axis thereto engagable upon the sleeve wherein the shifting tool is moveable. The method comprises positioning the shifting tool within the sleeve in a first or second position, extending the sleeve engaging members from the shifting tool in parallel to a central axis of the shifting tool into engagement upon the sleeve, and axially moving the shifting tool and the sleeve to the other of the first or second positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Grant George, Shane Sargent
  • Publication number: 20120111577
    Abstract: A flow control device can include a surface that defines a chamber and includes a side perimeter and opposing end surfaces, a greatest distance between the opposing end surfaces being smaller than a largest dimension of the opposing end surfaces, a first port through one of the end surfaces, and a second port through the surface and apart from the first port, the side perimeter surface being operable to direct flow from the second port to rotate about the first port. Another device can include a cylindroidal chamber for receiving flow through an inlet and directing the flow to an outlet, a greatest axial dimension of the cylindroidal chamber being smaller than a greatest diametric dimension of the cylindroidal chamber, the cylindroidal chamber promoting rotation of the flow based on a characteristic of the inflow through the inlet. The device can have a flow path structure in the cylindroidal chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jason D. DYKSTRA, Michael L. FRIPP
  • Publication number: 20120103618
    Abstract: A bottom hole assembly (BHA), adapted to be positioned in a casing and to isolate a portion of a wellbore, which includes a packer assembly with a first sealing element extending between first and second portions of the packer assembly. A method of setting a BHA in a casing which includes increasing a BHA pressure to activate an anchor assembly, applying a mechanical force to mechanically deform a first sealing element to thereby establish an initial seal between the first sealing element and an interior surface of the casing, and increasing a pressure in a space between the BHA and the casing and in a cavity within the BHA to increase a differential pressure across the first sealing element and thereby establish a pressure-energized seal between the first sealing element and the interior surface of the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: John E. Ravensbergen
  • Publication number: 20120090852
    Abstract: Pressure relief devices comprise a chamber having a piston disposed therein. One side of the piston defines a hydrostatic chamber in fluid communication with an outside environment, such as an isolated wellbore annulus, through a port. The other side of the piston defines a sealed or isolated chamber. The pressure relief device permits changes in pressure in the isolated wellbore annulus to be distributed into the chambers so as to either reduce the pressure within the isolated wellbore annulus or increase the pressure within the wellbore annulus, both of which lessen the likelihood that the change in pressure within the isolated wellbore annulus will damage wellbore components disposed therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Benjamin R. Orr, Edward T. Wood, Aubrey C. Mills
  • Publication number: 20120073799
    Abstract: An apparatus for distributing CO2 with an advanced function of adjusting the pressure and temperature of CO2 for geologic injection includes a manifold including a plurality of branching pipes to receive carbon dioxide for geologic injection from a plurality of storage tanks, a distribution chamber having an inlet communicating with the manifold and an outlet connected to an injection pipe extending to an underground tubular well, so that the carbon dioxide, which has been received through the manifold, is supplied through the injection pipe, a temperature adjusting part to adjust the temperature of the carbon dioxide introduced into the distribution chamber, and a flow rate and hydraulic pressure adjusting part to adjust a flow rate and a hydraulic pressure of the carbon dioxide injected into an underground through the distribution chamber. The temperature and pressure conditions of CO2 on geologic injection are controlled through a user interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: Korea Institute for Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM)
    Inventors: Tae-Hee KIM, Ki-Sung SUNG, Jeong-Chan KIM
  • Publication number: 20120073828
    Abstract: A method of delivering material, typically lost circulation material (LCM), into a hole via a tubular string comprises: opening a bypass port in a tubular string located in a drilled hole, the bypass port being provided above fluid outlets in the distal end of the string; delivering material through the string from surface, the material passing through the bypass port and into the drilled hole; and locking a volume of fluid in the string between the bypass port and the fluid outlets such that fluid is prevented from passing from the hole into the string via the fluid outlets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Andrew Churchill
  • Publication number: 20120073826
    Abstract: A well drilling system including: an annular valve; a well casing in fluid communication with the annular valve; a first check valve in fluid communication with the annular valve; a hydraulic cylinder including a first chamber having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the first chamber is in fluid communication with an outlet of the first check valve; and a transfer unit including an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the transfer unit is in fluid communication with the outlet of the first chamber, the outlet of the transfer unit is in fluid communication with an inlet of a second check valve, and an outlet of the second check valve is in fluid communication with the annular valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Charles J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20120061087
    Abstract: A method for drilling a wellbore includes drilling the wellbore by injecting drilling fluid into a top of a tubular string disposed in the wellbore at a first flow rate and rotating a drill bit. The tubular string includes: the drill bit disposed on a bottom thereof, tubular joints connected together, a longitudinal bore therethrough, a port through a wall thereof, and a sleeve operable between an open position where the port is exposed to the bore and a closed position where a wall of the sleeve is disposed between the port and the bore. The method further includes moving the sleeve to the open position; and injecting drilling fluid into the port at a second flow rate while adding a tubular joint(s) to the tubular string. The injection of drilling fluid into the tubular string is continuously maintained between drilling and adding the joint(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: David Iblings, Thomas F. Bailey, R. K. Bansal, Adrian Steiner, Michael Lynch, Simon J. Harrall
  • Publication number: 20120048561
    Abstract: A well system can include an inflow control device which resists flow into a tubular string. A selection from among multiple different flow resistances through the inflow control device can be performed in response to pressure manipulation. An inflow control device can include a piston which is displaceable to at least two positions. Flow through the inflow control device is permitted at a certain flow resistance when the piston is at one position, and flow through the inflow control device is permitted at a greater flow resistance when the piston is at another position. Fluid which flows through the inflow control device can be constrained to flow through an increased number of flow restrictors in response to displacement of the piston from the first to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Luke W. HOLDERMAN
  • Patent number: 8118100
    Abstract: Sliding sleeve mechanisms including protective sheaths for debris protection are disclosed. Protective sheaths can be formed from materials such as composites, metal, foil, rubber, plastic, glass, ceramic, wire mesh, tape, etc. The protective sheaths can be substantially cylindrical shells (having one or more pieces), plugs in the flow ports, and/or tape or wire wrappings. The protective sheaths can be retained by recesses in the sliding sleeve or mechanical fasteners such as screws, pins, rivets, snap rings, bands, and buckles. The protective sheath can be outside or inside the sliding sleeve. The protective sheath can protect the sliding sleeve from debris by retaining grease that has been packed into the sliding sleeve for that purpose or positively preventing entry of debris into the sliding sleeve. The protective sheath can be cleared by permitting fluid flow through the sliding sleeve, which can act to destroy and/or wash away the protective sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Lembcke, Joe Jordan, Robert Coon
  • Publication number: 20120031623
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the flow of downhole fluids, the apparatus comprising: a body having a throughbore and at least one port extending through a sidewall of the body to enable fluid communication between the throughbore and an exterior of the body; a flow control device for controlling the flow of fluids through the port and arranged to change configuration between a closed configuration in which fluid flow through the port is restricted and an open configuration in which fluid flow through the port is permitted; an actuator mechanism associated with the flow control device for selective actuation of the flow control device to change the configuration of the flow control device between the closed and open configurations; a locking device to lock the configuration of the flow control device; and an unlocking mechanism to unlock the locking device and to permit the actuator mechanism to change the configuration of the flow control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventors: Andrew Elrick, David Jenner
  • Publication number: 20120024537
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an isolation valve with debris control. In one aspect, an isolation valve for use as part of a casing string is provided. The isolation valve includes a housing having a bore and a valve cavity. The isolation valve further includes a valve member movable between a first position in which the valve member obstructs the bore of the housing and a second position in which the valve member is disposed in the valve cavity. Further, the isolation valve includes a flow tube configured to allow movement of the valve member between the first and second positions. Additionally, the isolation valve includes an engagement assembly adapted to engage the flow tube to substantially prevent debris from entering the valve cavity when the valve member is in the second position. In another aspect, a method of operating an isolation valve in a wellbore is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher L. McDowell, Joe Noske, Paul L. Smith
  • Publication number: 20120006558
    Abstract: An oil well sealing device that is submergible for sealing under water oil wells and a method for sealing underwater oil wells are described. The device comprises a housing having at least one lower opening at a lower end of the housing and at least one upper opening at an upper end of the housing; a pump sucking oil through the lower opening into the housing and pushing the oil through the upper opening out of the housing; and a closing element movable to close or open the upper opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Alan D. Brite
  • Publication number: 20120006543
    Abstract: A technique facilitates separating fluids and solids and handling the separated solids downhole. A separator system is provided with a separator having a well fluid inlet, an oil stream passage, a water stream passage, and a solids passage. The separator operates to separate well fluid into substantially oil, water, and solids components and those components are directed to the corresponding passages. A flow restrictor may be used in cooperation with the separator to facilitate separation of the well fluid components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ryan Cox, Steven Dornak
  • Publication number: 20120006559
    Abstract: An oil well sealing device that is submergible for sealing under water oil wells and a method for sealing underwater oil wells in such a fashion that oil production can be resumed are described. The device comprises a housing having at least one lower opening at a lower end of the housing and at least one upper opening at an upper end of the housing; a pump sucking oil through the lower opening into the housing and pushing the oil through the upper opening out of the housing; a connector allowing the lower end of the housing to be fixed to an oil well tube at an oil wellhead; and at least one valve at the lower end of the housing that is closable after the lower end of the housing has been installed to the oil well tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Alan D. Brite
  • Publication number: 20120000656
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing oil from a well comprises a flexible semi-circular shaped skirt with an indentation. A plurality of rods is secured to the skirt and form radially emanating channels in the skirt. The skirt is secured to a hollow drill string via the indentation. The drill string has a drill bit at one end, a distal section above the drill bit, and a holding section above the distal section to which the skirt is operatively coupled. A movable sleeve is selectively wrapped around the skirt to keep the skirt in a closed position. A release that is interactive with the sleeve selectively allows the skirt to move from the closed position to an open position, and an outer area covered by the skirt increases as the skirt moves from the closed position to the open position. The open skirt abuts against and plugs the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventor: Basimah Khulusi
  • Publication number: 20110315388
    Abstract: A well system can include a flow control device which regulates flow of a fluid from an interior of the device outwardly through an exit port, and a deflector which outwardly overlies the exit port and provides fluid communication between the exit port and an annulus formed radially between the deflector and a wellbore lining. The deflector can diffuse the flow of the fluid prior to impingement on the wellbore lining. A flow control assembly can include a flow control device which regulates flow of a fluid from an interior of the device outwardly through an exit port, and a deflector which outwardly overlies the exit port, the deflector including at least one opening, and the opening being circumferentially offset relative to the exit port. A form of an interior surface of the deflector and/or an exterior surface of the flow control device can diffuse the flow of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: David W. Teale, Gireesh K. Bhat
  • Publication number: 20110308806
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for controlling flow of fluid in a tubular positioned in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation. A flow control system is placed in fluid communication with a main tubular. The flow control system has a flow ratio control system and a pathway dependent resistance system. The flow ratio control system has a first and second passageway, the production fluid flowing into the passageways with the ratio of fluid flow through the passageways related to the characteristic of the fluid flow. The pathway dependent resistance system includes a vortex chamber with a first and second inlet and an outlet, the first inlet of the pathway dependent resistance system in fluid communication with the first passageway of the fluid ratio control system and the second inlet in fluid communication with the second passageway of the fluid ratio control system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael Linley Fripp, Orlando DeJesus, John C. Gano, Luke Holderman
  • Publication number: 20110297385
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber having an outlet and at least one structure which resists a change in a direction of flow of a fluid composition toward the outlet. The fluid composition may enter the chamber in the direction of flow which changes based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. Another variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having an inlet, an outlet, and a structure which impedes a change from circular flow about the outlet to radial flow toward the outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp
  • Publication number: 20110297384
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows in a well, the chamber having an inlet and an outlet. The fluid composition enters via the inlet in a direction which changes based on a ratio of desired to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. A well system can include a variable flow resistance system through which a fluid composition flows between a tubular string and a formation, the flow resistance system including a flow chamber through which the fluid composition flows, with only one chamber inlet. The fluid composition flows more directly from the inlet to an outlet as a ratio of desired to undesired fluid in the fluid composition increases. Another flow resistance system can include at least one structure which influences portions of the fluid composition which flow circuitously between the inlet and the outlet to maintain such circuitous flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Michael L. FRIPP, Jason D. DYKSTRA
  • Publication number: 20110284224
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a cutting dart. The cutting dart comprises a dart body including a first pathway. The first pathway is configured to redirect cutting fluid flowing through a coiled tubing so that the cutting fluid flows radially to impinge against an inner surface of the coiled tubing. A seal is positioned around an outer circumference of the dart body. The present disclosure is also directed to an anchor dart. The anchor dart comprises a dart body and a swellable elastomer positioned around an outer circumference of the dart body. Methods of employing the cutting dart and anchor dart are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventors: John G. Misselbrook, Manfred Sach, Jason M. Skufca
  • Publication number: 20110247833
    Abstract: A well tool can include a flow path, and a flow blocking device which selectively prevents flow through the flow path. The device can include an anhydrous boron compound. A method of constructing a downhole well tool can include forming a structure of a solid mass comprising an anhydrous boron compound, and incorporating the structure into the well tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Bradley L. TODD, Thomas D. WELTON, Luke W. HOLDERMAN, Ivan SULEIMAN
  • Publication number: 20110240284
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) for controlling the flow rate of a fluid during downhole operations. The apparatus (100) includes a tubular member (134) having a flow path (136) between inner and outer portions of the tubular member (134). The flow path (136) includes an inlet (138) in an inner sidewall (140) and an outlet (142) in an outer sidewall (144) of the tubular member (134). The inlet (138) and the outlet (142) are laterally offset from each other. A fluidic device (146) is positioned in the flow path (136) between the inlet (138) and the outlet (142). The fluidic device (146) is embedded within the tubular member (134) between the inner sidewall (140) and the outer sidewall (144). The fluidic device (146) includes a nozzle (154) having a throat portion (156) and a diffuser portion (158) such that fluid will flow through the nozzle (154) at a critical flow rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Syed Hamid, Michael Linley Fripp, Edward John Patton
  • Publication number: 20110214876
    Abstract: A system for variably resisting flow of a fluid composition can include a flow passage and a set of one or more branch passages which intersect the flow passage, whereby a proportion of the fluid composition diverted from the passage to the set of branch passages varies based on at least one of a) viscosity of the fluid composition, and b) velocity of the fluid composition in the flow passage. Another variable flow resistance system can include a flow path selection device that selects which of multiple flow paths a majority of fluid flows through from the device, based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. Yet another variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber, with a majority of the fluid composition entering the chamber in a direction which changes based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jason D. DYKSTRA, Michael L. FRIPP, Syed HAMID
  • Publication number: 20110203802
    Abstract: A method of maintaining a substantially fixed orientation of a pressure control device relative to a movable rig can include rotating a body of the pressure control device while the rig rotates. A method of remotely controlling an orientation of a pressure control device relative to a movable rig can include rotating a body of the pressure control device, and controlling the rotation of the body from a location on the rig remote from the body. A pressure control device for use in conjunction with a rig can include a body, a flange, an orientation device which changes a rotational orientation of the body relative to the flange, and an orientation control system which remotely controls the orientation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Fredrick D. CURTIS, Derrick W. Lewis, Leyb Ginzburg
  • Publication number: 20110198082
    Abstract: A tool assembly and method for completing a well are provided. The tool includes debris relief features that enable use in solids-laden environments, for example in the presence of sand. Forward and reverse circulation pathways to the isolated interval are present to allow clearing of debris from the wellbore annulus while the sealing device remains set against the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: NCS OILFIELD SERVICES CANADA INC.
    Inventors: Marty Stromquist, Donald Getzlaf, Robert Nipper
  • Publication number: 20110186300
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for controlling flow of fluid in a tubular positioned in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation. A flow control system is placed in fluid communication with a main tubular. The flow control system has a flow ratio control system and a pathway dependent resistance system. The flow ratio control system has a first and second passageway, the production fluid flowing into the passageways with the ratio of fluid flow through the passageways related to the characteristic of the fluid flow. The pathway dependent resistance system includes a vortex chamber with a first and second inlet and an outlet, the first inlet of the pathway dependent resistance system in fluid communication with the first passageway of the fluid ratio control system and the second inlet in fluid communication with the second passageway of the fluid ratio control system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael Linley Fripp, Orlando DeJesus
  • Publication number: 20110174499
    Abstract: A system for regulating the flow of fluid through a progressing cavity motor includes an annulus restriction (22) for restricting flow through the annulus passageway, and an annular biasing member (24) for biasing the annular restriction toward a closed position. Fluid flow in the annulus passageway creates an opening force on the annulus restriction. A central restriction (28) within the motor provides a restricted flow through the motor. A central biasing member (26) biases the central restriction toward an open position, with fluid flow in a central passageway exerting a closing force on the central restriction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: Robbins & Myers Energy Systems L.P.
    Inventor: Billy W. White
  • Publication number: 20110139453
    Abstract: A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising providing a fluid diode in fluid communication with the wellbore, and transferring a fluid through the fluid diode. A fluid flow control tool, comprising a tubular diode sleeve comprising a diode aperture, a tubular inner ported sleeve received concentrically within the diode sleeve, the inner ported sleeve comprising an inner port in fluid communication with the diode aperture, and a tubular outer ported sleeved within which the diode sleeve is received concentrically, the outer ported sleeve comprising an outer port in fluid communication with the diode aperture, wherein a shape of the diode aperture, a location of the inner port relative to the diode aperture, and a location of the outer port relative to the diode aperture provide a fluid flow resistance to fluid transferred to the inner port from the outer port and a different fluid flow resistance to fluid transferred to the outer port from the inner port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Robert L. Pipkin, Travis W. Cavender
  • Publication number: 20110132613
    Abstract: A crossover for gravel packing has multiple outlets that are selectively covered as they wear from erosion with the covering of an outlet exposing another for slurry flow to continue. Outlets are selected by a series of balls that get larger and land on progressively higher and larger seats on sleeves. As a sleeve shifts to cover a spent outlet it moves away from a new outlet for continuation of slurry flow to the outlet opened by virtue of the shifting sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Richard Y. Xu