Destructible Element Patents (Class 166/317)
  • Publication number: 20120186829
    Abstract: A downhole setting tool is provided. The tool comprises a tool housing and a hollow mandrel, the mandrel being situated in the housing. The tool further comprises a piston situated between the mandrel and the tool housing and a collar situated between the mandrel and the tool housing, wherein the tool housing, the mandrel, the piston and the collar define an annulus. The tool further comprises a first valve, wherein in a closed position the first valve blocks a path of fluid communication between the interior of the mandrel and the annulus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Brock Watson
  • Patent number: 8201643
    Abstract: A system and method for enabling longitudinal and radial drilling in a wellbore is described. The system and method enable an operator to perforate the casing of a wellbore with an under-reamer at the end of a drill string and, without removing the drill string from the wellbore, initiate and complete lateral jetting of the wellbore into the surrounding formation. The system utilizes a perforation tool having a ball seat, which upon seating a drop ball in the ball seat enables the perforation tool to move from a closed position to an open position thereby allowing access to the formation using a jetting tool. Prior to seating the drop ball, an under-reaming operation may be performed using a hydraulic pressure activated under-reaming tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Semjet Well Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Michael Soby, Dale Joseph
  • Patent number: 8191633
    Abstract: Composite downhole tools for hydrocarbon production and methods for using same. The downhole tool can include an annular body having a valve assembly disposed therein. The valve assembly can include a first member preventing flow in a first direction through the annular body; a second member preventing flow in a second direction through the annular body; and a shoulder disposed on an inner diameter of the body between the first and second members. The shoulder can have a first end contoured to sealingly engage an outer contour of the first member and a second end contoured to sealingly engage an outer contour of the second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: W. Lynn Frazier
  • Patent number: 8167047
    Abstract: An apparatus for fluid treatment of a borehole includes: a tubing string having a long axis and an upper end, a first, second and third ports opened through the wall of the tubing string; packers operable to seal about the tubing string and mounted on the tubing string; a closure on each port and each being actuable between a closed port position and a position permitting fluid flow through the ports from the tubing string inner bore; and a closure actuating mechanism for actuating the first closure and the second closure together from their closed port positions to their positions permitting fluid flow, while the third closure remains in the closed port position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Packers Plus Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Jon Themig, Jim Fehr
  • Publication number: 20120067583
    Abstract: A system and method for selectively stimulating a plurality of producing zones in a wellbore in oil and gas wells. The system includes a plurality of modules connected in a string that may be selectively actuated to stimulate a producing zone. Each module may be adapted to engage a tubing run ball seat. After installation of the string within the wellbore, a ball seat may be run into the well and positioned to selectively engage a desired module. The ball seat may be used to open a sleeve of the module permitting the stimulation of the producing zone. After stimulation of the producing zone, the ball seat may be removed from the wellbore rather than needing to drill out the ball seat. The sleeve may include a profile adapted to engage a shifting tool permitting the selective closure of the sleeve after stimulation of the producing zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: Mark Zimmerman, Blake Cox, John Hughes
  • Patent number: 8127856
    Abstract: A downhole tool for use in completing a well includes a plug body selectively securable to a wellbore at a desired elevation and having a flowbore. A non-dissolvable flow restrictor is operably disposed in the flowbore and operates to restrict fluid flow through the flowbore, and a time-dissolvable retainer or spacer is operably coupled to the flow restrictor to retain the flow restrictor in a first position within the flowbore. The retainer is dissolvable within a predetermined passage of time to release the flow restrictor to move between the first position and a second position within the flowbore to control the flow of fluid through the downhole tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Exelis Inc.
    Inventors: Randall W. Nish, Randy A. Jones, Jason Jon Vogel
  • Publication number: 20120048562
    Abstract: A crossover tool has an internal sleeve rotatably positioned within an external sleeve, and each of the sleeves has ports alignable with ports on the other sleeve. After deploying the crossover tool downhole and diverting fluid flow below the tool, fluid flow communicated into the internal sleeve tends to rotate it relative to the external sleeve until the ports are substantially aligned so that wear to the components is substantially reduced. The ports themselves may facilitate the rotation and alignment. For example, ports on the internal sleeve may produce tangentially exiting fluid flow. Alternatively, an additional outlet may be defined in the internal sleeve and eccentrically located to its rotation axis. Furthermore, an internal sleeve or insert may partially block fluid flow through the ports to allow greater fluid flow through the additional outlet to enhance rotation of the internal sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Patrick J. Zimmerman, Christopher Hall, John Broussard
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8082941
    Abstract: A flow activated valve includes an outer body and a piston disposed in an inner cavity of the outer body. The flow activated valve also includes one or more fluid passage exits in the outer body and one or more piston fluid passages in the piston. The one or more fluid passage exits and the one or more piston fluid passages allow fluid flow out of the valve. The flow activated valve also includes a flow restriction member disposed in a piston inner cavity. In addition, the flow activated valve includes a shear member disposed in the outer body, and a bias member disposed in an inner cavity of the outer body. The flow activated valve further includes a position control member disposed in the piston and a sealing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Mohawk Energy Ltd.
    Inventors: Alessandro O. Caccialupi, Andrei G. Filippov
  • Publication number: 20110284232
    Abstract: A disposable downhole tool is disclosed. The tool is suitable for use as a frac tool. The tool includes a housing having an inner wall surface defining a bore. The tool also includes a valve structure disposed within the bore, the valve structure comprising a disposable plug seat, the disposable plug seat comprising a first natural material. The disposable tool may also include a disposable plug in fluid sealing engagement with the seat, the plug comprising a second natural material, the plug and the plug seat comprising a plug valve. The first and second natural materials may include sedimentary rock, such as various forms of limestone, including Carrara marble or Indiana limestone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Tianping Huang
  • Publication number: 20110284242
    Abstract: A down hole pressure isolation tool is placed in a pipe string and includes a pair of pressure discs having one side that is highly resistant to applied pressure and one side that ruptures when much lower pressures are applied to it. The weak sides of the pressure discs face each other. Rather than rupturing the discs by dropping a go-devil into the well, a first of the discs is ruptured or broken by the application of fluid pressure from the well head or surface. Formation pressure is then used, in different ways according to the different embodiments, to rupture the remaining disc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: W. Lynn Frazier
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8025104
    Abstract: Degradable polylactic or polyhydroxyalkanoate polymers may be used to viscosify aqueous fluids for use in wells, Sand control screen or liner can be coated with a solid degradable polymer during placement in a well. Mechanical changes or flow changes in a well can be caused by solid degradable polymer that changes physical properties after it is placed in a well. Parts of devices or entire devices can be made of solid degradable polymer that converts to a fluid after selected times in an aqueous environment in a well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Claude E. Cooke, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110203805
    Abstract: A valving device includes a tubular having a wall including a passageway therethrough fluidically connecting an outside of the tubular with an inside of the tubular, a plug movable relative to the wall between a first position wherein the plug substantially prevents fluid flow through the passageway and a second position wherein the plug permits fluid flow through the passageway. At least one force failing member configured to maintain the plug in the first position until attainment of a selected force acts upon the plug, and movement of the plug is in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tubular yet non-coaxial with the tubular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: James H. Kritzler, Donald F. Ingvardsen
  • Publication number: 20110192607
    Abstract: A downhole tool comprising a housing having at least one flow port disposed providing a communication path between the interior and exterior of the sleeve. A sleeve assembly has an expandable seat and an inner sleeve, and is moveable within the housing between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the sleeve assembly is radially positioned between the flow ports and the flowpath to substantially prevent fluid communication. Shearable port inserts are positioned within the flow ports, with each port insert having a shearable portion extending into the interior of the housing and engaging the sleeve assembly when the inner sleeve is in said first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventors: Raymond Hofman, Steve Jackson
  • Publication number: 20110132612
    Abstract: A telescopic member includes, at least a central component and a barrier disposed within the central component, the barrier has a selectively tailorable dissolution rate curve and has structural properties enabling the containment of high pressure prior to structural failure of the barrier through dissolution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Gaurav Agrawal, Zhiyue Xu, Bennett Richard, Yang Xu
  • Patent number: 7938189
    Abstract: A technique includes providing a chamber in a well tool to receive pressure to control an operation of the tool. The technique includes providing a seal to isolate the chamber from well pressure. The technique also includes providing a pressure relief mechanism to relieve pressure from the chamber in response to the pressure exceeding a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Gary Rytlewski
  • Patent number: 7913765
    Abstract: A device or system for controlling fluid flow in a well includes a flow restriction member that transitions from a first effective density to a second effective density in response to a change in composition of the flowing fluid. The flow restriction member may increase in effective density as the water cut of the flowing fluid increases and/or disintegrate when exposed to a selected fluid in the flowing fluid. The flow restriction member may be formed of a water-absorbing material and/or a porous material. The pores may be water permeable but not oil permeable. A method for producing fluid from a subterranean formation includes controlling a flow of fluid into a wellbore tubular with a flow restriction member. The method may include reducing a flow of water into the wellbore tubular when a percentage of water in the flowing fluid reaches a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Stephen L. Crow, Martin P. Coronado
  • Patent number: 7896091
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for sealing a wellbore is described herein. A convertible seal includes a sealing element and a valve. The sealing element is in fluid communication with the valve and fluidly blocks a bore of the convertible seal. The sealing element prevents fluid from flowing through the bore until desired. When desired, the sealing element is removed to allow fluid to flow through the bore. Fluid flow in the bore is controlled by the valve. As a result, the convertible seal has been converted to a flow control seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott E. Williamson, John W. McKeachnie
  • Publication number: 20110036590
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system, comprising a first sleeve system, the first sleeve system comprising a first sliding sleeve at least partially carried within a first ported case, the first sleeve system being selectively restricted from movement relative to the first ported case by a first restrictor while the first restrictor is enabled, and a first delay system configured to selectively restrict movement of the first sliding sleeve relative to the ported case while the restrictor is disabled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jimmie Robert Williamson, Perry Shy, Roger Watson
  • Publication number: 20110036585
    Abstract: An actuator device for downhole tools comprising: indexing means for progressively moving a rupturing member (12A, 16A); a pressure activated actuating member in fluid communication with a chamber; and a frangible member (HA) interposing the indexing means and the chamber, wherein the actuator device is adapted such that, upon a predetermined movement of the rupturing member, the rupturing member ruptures the frangible member to allow high pressure fluid to enter the chamber and activate the actuating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: Caledyne Limited
    Inventor: Ewan Sinclair
  • Patent number: 7878256
    Abstract: A burst plug for positioning in a downhole fluid passage has: a shear disc installable in a sealing position in the fluid passage. The shear disc is openable by applying fluid at a burst pressure against the shear disc. The burst plug has a retainer and sleeve formed to retain the shear disc in a fluid flow blocking position after the shear disc is removed from its sealing position. The sleeve has a shear disc retaining position in locking engagement with the retainer when fluid at burst pressure is in communication therewith. The sleeve thereafter assumes a shear disc removal position when fluid in communication therewith is reduced to a selected pressure lower than the burst pressure. In the shear disc removal position, the sleeve and retainer disengage from the blocking position, allowing the shear disc and retainer to be expelled from the fluid passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Tesco Corporation
    Inventor: Maurice W. Slack
  • Publication number: 20110005759
    Abstract: A telescoping unit for a downhole tool including an innermost portion of the telescoping unit; a block defining a restriction disposed within the innermost portion of the telescoping unit; and an erodable coating on the block to segregate the block from downhole fluids and method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Yang Xu
  • Publication number: 20110000676
    Abstract: A plug element for conducting tests of a well, a pipe or the like, comprising one or more plug bodies of disintegratable/crushable material set up to be ruptured by internally applied effects, is disclosed. The plug element of the invention comprises an internal hollow space set up to fluid communicate with an external pressure providing body, and the plug is designed to be blown apart by the supply of a fluid to the internal hollow space so that the pressure in the hollow space exceeds an external pressure to a level at which the plug is blown apart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: TCO AS
    Inventor: Viggo Brandsdal
  • Patent number: 7857061
    Abstract: A system for installation in a well bore includes a flow control device and a control unit coupled to the flow control device. The flow control device is changeable from a first state to a second state. The first state corresponds to a first mode of fluid communication between an interior of a tubular conduit of a completion string and an annulus between the tubular conduit and a wall of the well bore. The second state corresponds to a second, different mode of fluid communication between the interior of the tubular conduit and the annulus. The control unit is coupled to the flow control device to change the flow control device between the first and second states. The control unit is actuated to change the flow control device in response to pressure in the well bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: William Mark Richards
  • Publication number: 20100319934
    Abstract: A downhole tool disposed in a drillstring includes a bypass valve unit including at least one bypass port, wherein the bypass port is configured to control fluid flow from a central bore of the drillstring to a wellbore annulus, and an activation sub having a frangible obstruction disposed in a central bore thereof and configured to prevent fluid flow to an anchor downhole during a circulation mode, wherein the frangible obstruction is configured to break at a specified fluid pressure in the central bore to allow fluid communication to below.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: Smith International, Inc.
    Inventor: David L. ERVIN
  • Publication number: 20100282472
    Abstract: An eductor sub is used as a portion of a downhole debris removal apparatus. It features an eductor outlet port that is selectively closed for run in to allow flow pumped through a tubing string to all go to the lower end of the debris removal tool to fluidize the debris and help prevent the tool from getting stuck on the way to the desired depth. When the desired depth is reached a ball lands on a seat that is connected to a sleeve that is displaced to move the sleeve away from the eductor outlet so that future flow coming down the casing string will create a reduced pressure within the tool to draw some of the exiting flow after the eductor exit in a downhole direction along an annular space to the debris removal tool entrance for debris removal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Neil A. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20100252273
    Abstract: A convertible downhole device comprises at least one sacrificial material to provide two or more configurations so that two or more different operations or functions are performable by the downhole device, one in which the sacrificial material is fully intact and another in which the sacrificial material is at least partially removed or disappeared. The sacrificial material may be removable through any suitable method or device, such as by contacting with a fluid, by temperature, by pressure, or by combustion, ignition, or activation of a fusible or energetic material, or crushing or breaking up of a frangible material. Upon removal of the sacrificial material, the downhole device has at least one additional configuration so that at least a second operation can be performed by the downhole device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Darin H. Duphorne
  • Patent number: 7806189
    Abstract: Downhole tools and methods for isolating a wellbore. A downhole tool can include a body having a bore or flowpath formed therethrough, and one or more sealing members disposed therein. The one or more sealing members can include an annular base and a curved surface having an upper face and a lower face, wherein one or more first radii define the upper face, and one or more second radii define the lower face, and wherein, at any point on the curved surface, the first radius is greater than the second radius. The sealing members can be disposed within the bore of the tool using one or more annular sealing devices disposed about the one or more sealing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: W. Lynn Frazier
  • Publication number: 20100243269
    Abstract: A well tool includes a generally tubular mandrel with a flow passage extending longitudinally through the mandrel, and a flow controller which initially prevents a fluid from contacting a swellable material, but which permits the fluid to contact the material in response to manipulation of pressure in the flow passage. Another well tool includes a swellable material, a generally tubular mandrel, and a conduit wrapped circumferentially about the mandrel, the conduit containing a fluid which, upon contact with the swellable material, causes the material to swell. A method of actuating a well tool in a well includes manipulating pressure in a flow passage extending through a tubular string, thereby opening at least one flow control device of the well tool which selectively permits fluid communication between a reservoir of the well tool and a swellable material of the well tool, whereby a fluid in the reservoir contacts the swellable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Kristian Solhaug, Alf K. Sevre, Mark D. Kalman
  • Patent number: 7798236
    Abstract: The present invention generally provides a pressure isolation plug for managing a wellbore with multiple zones. The pressure isolation plug generally includes a body with a bore extending therethrough, a first disintegratable ball sized and positioned to restrict upward fluid flow through the bore, wherein the disintegratable ball disintegrates when exposed to wellbore conditions for a first amount of time. The plug also includes a second ball sized and positioned to restrict downward fluid flow through the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: W. John McKeachnie, Michael McKeachnie, Scott Williamson, Rocky A. Turley
  • Publication number: 20100212907
    Abstract: Downhole tools and methods for producing hydrocarbons from a wellbore. A downhole tool can include a body having a bore formed therethrough and at least one end adapted to threadably engage one or more tubulars. A sliding sleeve, adapted to move between a first position and a second position within the body, can be at least partially disposed within the body. A valve assembly including a valve member having an arcuate cross section wherein the valve member is adapted to pivot between an open and closed position within the body can be disposed within the body. A valve seat, having an arcuate cross-section adapted to provide a fluid tight seal with the valve member assembly can be disposed within the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: W. Lynn Frazier
  • Patent number: 7775285
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing apparatus, comprising a housing comprising a plurality of housing ports, a sleeve being movable with respect to the housing, the sleeve comprising a plurality of sleeve ports to selectively provide a fluid flow path between the plurality of housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports, and a sacrificial nozzle in fluid communication with at least one of the plurality of the housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports. A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising placing a stimulation assembly in the wellbore, the stimulation assembly comprising a housing comprising a plurality of housing ports, a selectively adjustable sleeve comprising a plurality of sleeve ports, and a sacrificial nozzle in fluid communication with one of the plurality of the housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports, the sacrificial nozzle comprising an aperture, a fluid interface, and a housing interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim B. Surjaatmadja, Loyd East, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7762342
    Abstract: A flow conduit may have at least one orifice is in the vicinity of a flow source. The source is at least partially covered (and flow blocked by) an optional temporary coating or barrier. The flow pathway between the orifice and the source is temporarily blocked with a degradable material or barrier. The material disintegrates (e.g. under the influence of time or temperature) to optionally produce a product that removes the temporary coating in the area adjacent the barrier. The method is useful in one non-limiting context of recovering hydrocarbons where the flow conduit is the casing or liner of the well and the flow source is a subterranean reservoir where the temporary coating is a filter cake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Bennett M. Richard, Paul McElfresh, Chad Williams
  • Publication number: 20100175867
    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: January 14, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Adam D. Wright, Michael L. Fripp, Kevin D. Fink, Donald Perkins, Jimmie R. Williamson, Mark D. Kalman
  • Patent number: 7748460
    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: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Packers Plus Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Jon Themig, Jim Fehr
  • Publication number: 20100163235
    Abstract: A service tool and methods for performing subterranean hydrocarbon services in a wellbore. The service tool can include a body that having an aperture formed therethrough. A valve system can be connected to the body. The valve system can selectively form a flow path between a first portion of the aperture and a second portion of the aperture; a flow path between a first flow port formed through a first portion of the body, the aperture, and the outer diameter of the body; and/or a flow path between a channel formed in a portion of the body, a second flow port formed through a second portion of the body, and the second portion of the aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Dexter Mootoo, Robert Krush, John Whitsitt, Adam Charles Vasper, Graham Watson
  • Patent number: 7726406
    Abstract: A trigger device for setting a downhole tool is disclosed. The trigger device includes a retaining member that prevents the downhole tool from setting until it is properly positioned within the well. Regardless of the type of downhole tool or the type of trigger device, the retaining member includes a dissolvable material that dissolves when contacted by a solvent. The dissolvable material is preferably one that dissolves at a known rate so that the amount of time necessary for the downhole tool to set is pre-determined. Preferably, the solvent is a water-based or hydrocarbon-based drilling fluid or mud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Yang Xu
  • Publication number: 20100122817
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing apparatus, comprising a housing comprising a plurality of housing ports, a sleeve being movable with respect to the housing, the sleeve comprising a plurality of sleeve ports to selectively provide a fluid flow path between the plurality of housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports, and a sacrificial nozzle in fluid communication with at least one of the plurality of the housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports. A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising placing a stimulation assembly in the wellbore, the stimulation assembly comprising a housing comprising a plurality of housing ports, a selectively adjustable sleeve comprising a plurality of sleeve ports, and a sacrificial nozzle in fluid communication with one of the plurality of the housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports, the sacrificial nozzle comprising an aperture, a fluid interface, and a housing interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim B. Surjaatmadja, Loyd East, JR.
  • Patent number: 7712521
    Abstract: A device is described for a plug (12) for pressure testing of bore holes and the like in a formation or the like, and associated pipe (10) in which the plug is installed in a plug-carrying chamber (14), and the plug (12) seals the passage through the pipe by cooperating with sealing bodies (23, 25), with the underside of the plug (12) being arranged (rests) in a seat at the bottom of the chamber. The plug is characterized in that it comprises a number of layer-formed or tier-formed ring disc elements of a given thickness, on fitted on top of the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: TCO AS
    Inventor: Tore Hassel Sorensen
  • Patent number: 7686076
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods and systems for mitigating trouble zones in a wellbore in a preferred pressure condition and completing the wellbore in the preferred pressure condition. In one aspect, a method of reinforcing a wellbore is provided. The method includes locating a valve member within the wellbore for opening and closing the wellbore. The method further includes establishing a preferred pressure condition within the wellbore and closing the valve member. The method also includes locating a tubular string having an expandable portion in the wellbore and opening the valve member. Additionally, the method includes moving the expandable portion through the opened valve member and expanding the expandable portion in the wellbore at a location below the valve member. In another aspect, a method of forming a wellbore is provided. In yet another aspect, a system for drilling a wellbore is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick L. York, Robert L. Cuthbertson, Lev Ring
  • Patent number: 7665528
    Abstract: A frangible flapper valve that may be closed to hydraulically isolate a portion of a wellbore tubular. The flapper valve is made of a frangible material adapted to shatter upon impact from an impact sleeve. The sleeve may be used to initially hold open the flapper valve. A latching mechanism may be used to retain the sleeve above its initial position allowing the flapper to close isolating a portion of the tubular. The latching mechanism may engage a piston to retain the sleeve at the second position. A shearable device adapted to shear under a predetermined pressure selectively connects the piston to the tubular. When the pressure within the tubular increases above the predetermined amount the shearable device releases the piston and pushes the sleeve into the closed flapper valve causing the flapper valve to shatter. A second latching mechanism may prevent further movement of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Richard J. Ross, Russell LaFargue
  • Patent number: 7647975
    Abstract: An apparatus that is usable with a well includes a gas lift valve and an isolation member. The gas lift valve includes a valve element that is located between an annulus and a passageway of a tubing. The valve element is adapted to selectively open and close to control fluid communication through the valve element. The isolation member is adapted to in a first state, isolate the valve element from at least one of the annulus and the passageway and in a second state, permit fluid communication between the valve element and the annulus or passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Tyson R. Messick, Thomas M. White, Kenneth C. Burnett, III
  • Patent number: 7640988
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a subterranean section surrounding a wellbore with a fluid. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a three-dimensional tubular element capable of fluid flow in a wellbore with at least one burst disk with a pre-determined pressure rating positioned at a desired location on the tubular wherein the burst disk ruptures at the pre-determined pressure at the desired location on the tubular in the wellbore. The method provides the ability to choose the order in which the subterranean interval sections surrounding a wellbore are treated with fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Exxon Mobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: Manh V. Phi, Pin Y. Huang, Michael D. Murrey
  • Publication number: 20090288838
    Abstract: A system for installation in a well bore includes a flow control device and a control unit coupled to the flow control device. The flow control device is changeable from a first state to a second state. The first state corresponds to a first mode of fluid communication between an interior of a tubular conduit of a completion string and an annulus between the tubular conduit and a wall of the well bore. The second state corresponds to a second, different mode of fluid communication between the interior of the tubular conduit and the annulus. The control unit is coupled to the flow control device to change the flow control device between the first and second states. The control unit is actuated to change the flow control device in response to pressure in the well bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: William Mark Richards
  • Publication number: 20090255686
    Abstract: A flow conduit may have at least one orifice, which conduit is in the vicinity of a flow source. The source is at least partially covered (and flow blocked by) an optional temporary coating or barrier (e.g. filter cake). The flow pathway between the orifice and the source is temporarily blocked with a degradable material. A delayed degradation material layer is present over or covering the degradable material. The delayed degradation material layer degrades at a rate slower than the degradable barrier. The degradable material and delayed degradation material layer disintegrate (e.g. via time, temperature, a solvent). The degradable material optionally produces a product that removes the temporary coating. The method is useful in one context of recovering hydrocarbons where the flow conduit is the casing or liner of the well and the flow source is a subterranean reservoir where the coating is filter cake.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Bennett M. Richard, Paul M. McElfresh, Chad F. Williams
  • Patent number: 7600572
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in a subterranean well is described. The apparatus typically includes a mandrel and a packing element. The mandrel may have an outer surface and a non-circular cross-section and the packing element may be arranged about the mandrel, the packing element having a non-circular inner surface matching the mandrel outer surface such that concentric rotation between the mandrel and the packing element is precluded. The apparatus may include slips having cavities to facilitate removal of the apparatus. The apparatus also may include a valve for controlling upward fluid flow through a hollow mandrel. The valve may include a flapper having at least one tab to engage at least one recession in the mandrel such that rotation between the mandrel and the valve is precluded when the valve is in a closed position. The apparatus may further include a central member which is releaseably attached to the mandrel by a release mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Gabriel Slup, Douglas J. Lehr, Tommy J. Allen, Blake Robin Cox, Donald W. Deel, Samuel Mark Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20090159274
    Abstract: Downhole tools and methods for producing hydrocarbons from a wellbore. A downhole tool can include a body having a bore formed therethrough and at least one end adapted to threadably engage one or more tubulars. A sliding sleeve, adapted to move between a first position and a second position within the body, can be at least partially disposed within the body. A valve assembly including a valve member having an arcuate cross section wherein the valve member is adapted to pivot between an open and closed position within the body can be disposed within the body. A valve seat, having an arcuate cross-section adapted to provide a fluid tight seal with the valve member assembly can be disposed within the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventor: W. Lynn Frazier
  • Patent number: RE41979
    Abstract: A fluid flow control apparatus for use in a mid-string location in a pipe string being run into a well has an open fluid flow route to the annulus above the apparatus to provide more flow area for upwardly moving fluid. Flow up the upper pipe string bore is resisted to reduce fluid overflow from the top of the pipe string. Fluid flow down the pipe string bore closes the fluid channel between the lower pipe string bore and the upper annulus and blows out a pipe bore flow resisting element for free down flow of fluids in the pipe string bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental Tools, Inc.
    Inventors: Burney J. Latiolais, Jr., Braxton I. Moody, V, Keith T. Lutgring, Donald E. Mosing