Fluid Operated Patents (Class 166/319)
  • Publication number: 20140305652
    Abstract: A system and method for removing liquid from a horizontal wellbore is disclosed. The system and methods utilize multi-conduit tubing associated with one or more liquid intake port(s) positioned at selected locations along the tubing and positioned within a wellbore. The one or more liquid intake ports are typically placed at liquid accumulation points along the primarily horizontal section of the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Scott J. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8857454
    Abstract: A valving system includes, a plurality of flow control valves, and a plurality of chemical control valves in operable communication with a plurality of the plurality of flow control valves such that each of the plurality of chemical control valves is actuated between closed and open positions when the flow control valve it is in operable communication with is actuated between closed or open positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Darrin L. Willauer, Jesse J. Constantine, Walter S. Going
  • Publication number: 20140290962
    Abstract: A valve system for use in a wellbore includes a side pocket mandrel and one or more well tools, where the side pocket mandrel includes an elongated body section provided with a connector at its ends, the elongated body section being provided with a substantially fully open main bore for alignment with the well tubing and an offset side pocket bore. At least one through opening is provided in the side pocket mandrel, leading into the side pocket bore, and at least one through opening is provided in the internal wall, leading into the main bore, where the at least two openings are in fluid communication through the side pocket bore, in which side pocket bore at least two valves are arranged in series to form a double fluid barrier between the main bore and an outside of the pocket mandrel, the at least two valves being independently retrievable through at least one installation opening arranged in the internal wall of the side pocket mandrel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventors: Magnar TVEITEN, Erling KLEPPA, Øyvind STOKKA, Ole SEVHEIM
  • Publication number: 20140290964
    Abstract: A method of controlling pressure in a wellbore can include determining a desired well pressure setpoint, adding an offset to the setpoint in response to an actual well pressure deviating from the setpoint by a predetermined amount, and adjusting a flow control device, thereby influencing the actual well pressure toward the setpoint plus the offset. A well system can include a flow control device which variably restricts flow from a wellbore, and a control system which determines a desired well pressure setpoint, compares the setpoint to an actual well pressure, and adds an offset to the setpoint in response to a predetermined amount of deviation between the setpoint and the actual well pressure, whereby the control system adjusts the flow control device, and thereby influences the actual well pressure toward the setpoint plus the offset.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventors: James R. Lovorn, Nancy S. Davis, Cody N. Butler
  • Patent number: 8844634
    Abstract: A downhole circulation sub or valve includes a tubular housing with an outer port and a valve piston slidably disposed in the housing. A primary fluid flow path extends through an inner flow bore of the housing and valve piston. In a first position, the valve piston isolates the outer port to prevent fluid communication between the inner flow bore and a well bore annulus. In a second position, the valve piston is moved to obstruct the inner flow bore and expose the outer port to the inner flow bore and allow fluid communication between the inner flow bore and the well bore annulus. An indexing mechanism is coupled between the housing and the valve piston to guide the valve piston between the first and second positions. The indexing mechanism may include a rotatable component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Jeffery Ronald Clausen, Nicholas Ryan Marchand
  • Publication number: 20140284061
    Abstract: A valve for use with a downhole pump, wherein the valve comprises a single moving part that in a first position forms only a first interface and in a second position forms only a second interface, each interface presenting a barrier that cannot be breached by fluid, whereby the first interface directs fluid to the production tubing only from the annulus and the second interface directs fluid to the production tubing only from the pump, the pump and annulus and production tubing are simultaneously interconnected by a chamber of the valve when the single moving part is between the first and second positions, each interface is maintained or broken depending on the fluid pressure differential across the associated interface, the single moving part moves between the first position and second position according to the fluid direction through the valve, characterised by each of the two interfaces being formed between a convex surface of the single moving part and a concave surface of a non moving part of the valve,
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: MULTILIFT WELLBORE TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventor: ANDREW J. LEITCH
  • Patent number: 8839849
    Abstract: A method for producing fluid from a subterranean formation includes configuring a body to at least partially fill with a selected fluid; and actuating a flow restriction element using the body. The selected fluid may be water. An apparatus for controlling flow of a fluid into a wellbore tubular may include a selectively buoyant body, and a flow restriction element responsive to a movement of the selectively buoyant body. The selectively buoyant body includes a membrane configured to block a flow of hydrocarbons into the selectively buoyant body. The flow restriction element may include a flapper, a sliding sleeve, and a poppet valve. The body may be at least partially filled with a permeable material, which includes, but is not limited to, open-cell foam, reticulated metal foam, shaped sintered powder and capillary tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Randall V. Guest, Stephen L. Crow, Martin P. Coronado
  • Publication number: 20140262303
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a deepset wireline retrievable safety valve for controlling fluid flow through a production tubing string. In one aspect, a valve for use in a wellbore is provided. The valve includes a housing having a bore. The valve further includes an actuator sleeve movable within the housing between a retracted position and an extended position. The actuator sleeve in the retracted position allows a flapper member to obstruct the bore in the housing. Additionally, the valve includes a first piston member attached to a first side of the actuator sleeve and a second piston member attached to a second side of the actuator sleeve, wherein wellbore fluid pressure acts on the first piston member, which results in a first force, and acts on the second piston, which results in a second force, and the first force and the second force are applied to the actuator sleeve in an opposite direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Roddie R. SMITH, Winfield M. SIDES, III
  • Patent number: 8833466
    Abstract: An inflow control device controls the rate of fluid flow from a subsurface fluid reservoir into a production tubing string. The inflow control device includes a particulate screen to remove particulate matter from the reservoir fluid, and at least two flow restrictors. The flow restrictors are positioned on circumferentially opposite sides of the inflow control device and are connected by an isolated fluid passage. The flow restrictors limit the flowrate of reservoir fluid when the reservoir fluid has a high water or gas-to-oil ratio. The inflow control device also includes at least one pressure drop device that generates a pressure drop for the reservoir fluid in response to fluid pressure in the reservoir. The inflow control device also includes a choking apparatus that allows the flow of reservoir fluid to be shut off and the particulate screen cleaned while the inflow control device is in place in hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Shaohua Zhou
  • Publication number: 20140251620
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a time delay in injection of pressured fluid into a geologic formation. In one aspect the invention is a toe valve activated by fluid pressure that opens ports after a predetermined time interval to allow fluid to pass from a well casing to a formation, providing a time delay before fluid is passed through the ports. This time delay allows multiple valves to be used in the same well casing and providing a focused jetting action to better penetrate a concrete casing lining.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventors: Kevin R. George, James A. Rollins, David S. Wesson
  • Publication number: 20140251619
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a time delay in injection of pressured fluid into a geologic formation. In one aspect the invention a toe valve activated by fluid pressure that opens ports after a predetermined time interval to allow fluid to pass from a well casing to a formation, providing a time delay before fluid is passed through the ports, allowing multiple valves to be used in the same well casing and providing a focused jetting action to better penetrate a concrete casing lining.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventors: Kevin R. George, James A. Rollins, David S. Wesson
  • Publication number: 20140216742
    Abstract: A floating apparatus for use in a casing string is provided. The apparatus includes an outer sleeve having a valve centrally positioned therein. A cement body is affixed to the check valve and the housing by use of a bonding material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Phillip Darbe, Henry Eugene Rogers, Paul Joseph Jones, Misty Dawn Rowe, Jeffery Dwane Karcher, Lonnie C. Helms
  • Patent number: 8794330
    Abstract: A single trip multizone time progressive well treating method and apparatus that provides a means to progressively stimulate individual zones through a cased or open hole well bore. This system allows the operator to use pre-set timing devices to progressively treat each zone up the hole. At each zone the system automatically opens a sliding sleeve and closes a frangible flapper, at a pre-selected point in time. An adjustable preset timing device is installed in each zone to allow preplanned continual frac operations for all zones. The apparatus is present as a “Frac Module” that can consist of three major components, a packer, a timing pressure device, and a sliding sleeve/isolation device. A hydraulic packer may be removed or replaced with a swellable type packer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Completion Tool Developments, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregg W. Stout
  • Patent number: 8794331
    Abstract: A ported tubular is provided for use in casing a wellbore, to permit selective access to the adjacent formation during completion operations. A system and method for completing a wellbore using the ported tubular are also provided. Ports within the wellbore casing may be opened, isolated, or otherwise accessed to deliver treatment to the formation through the ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: NCS Oilfield Services Canada, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Getzlaf, Marty Stromquist, Robert Nipper, Timothy H. Willems
  • Publication number: 20140202706
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system comprising a valve comprising a housing comprising ports, and a sleeve slidably positioned within the housing and transitional from a first to a second position to a third position, when the sleeve is in the first position and the second position, the sleeves blocks fluid communication via the ports and, when in the third position the sleeve does not block such fluid communication, wherein application of a fluid pressure transitions the sleeve from the first to the second position, and a reduction in fluid pressure transitions the sleeve from the second to the third position, and a deactivatable locking assembly between the housing and the sliding sleeve and configured such that, when activated, the locking assembly inhibits movement of the sleeve toward the third position, and when deactivated, the locking assembly will not inhibit movement of the sliding sleeve toward the third position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Todd HOWELL, Kendall Lee PACEY
  • Publication number: 20140202713
    Abstract: A system comprising a control valve comprising a flapper either activated or inactivated, when activated the flapper may be closed or open and, when inactivated the flapper is open, a first sleeve transitional from a first to a second position, and a second sleeve transitional from a first to a second position, when the first and second sleeves are in the first position, the flapper is activated, when the first sleeve is in the second and the second sleeve is in the first position, the flapper is inactivated, when the first and second sleeves are in the second position, the flapper is activated, the application of pressure to the first sleeve via a first member transitions the first sleeve from the first to the second position, and the application of pressure to the second sleeve via a second member transitions the second sleeve from the first to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Takao STEWART, Eric BIVENS, Timothy Holiman HUNTER
  • Publication number: 20140196905
    Abstract: The present disclosure is for a vibratory downhole rotary apparatus. The apparatus includes a cylindrical hollow body, a stator disposed within the cylindrical hollow body and a rotor disposed within the stator. The apparatus also includes a flow resistance system to vary the resistance of fluid flow through the apparatus to increase and decrease backpressure across the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Schultz, Brock Watson
  • Publication number: 20140196892
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system comprising a pressure testing valve incorporated within a casing string and comprising a housing comprising one or more ports and an axial flowbore, a sliding sleeve, wherein the sliding sleeve is positioned within the housing and transitional from a first position to a second position through a sliding sleeve stroke, wherein, in the first position, the sliding sleeve blocks a route of fluid communication via the one or more ports and, in the second position the sliding sleeve does not block the route of fluid communication via the one or more ports, wherein the pressure testing valve is configured such that application of a predetermined pressure to the axial flowbore for a predetermined duration causes the sliding sleeve to transition from the first position to the second position, wherein the predetermined duration is at least about one minute.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Kendall Lee PACEY, Kevin Thomas BERSCHEIDT, Matthew Todd HOWELL
  • Publication number: 20140182856
    Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system having dynamic response to local well conditions. The system includes a tubing string operably positionable in a wellbore. Annular barriers are positioned between the tubing string and the wellbore to isolate first and second zones. A fluid flow control device is positioned within each zone. A flow tube that is operably associated with the fluid flow control device of the first zone is operable to establish communication between the second zone and the fluid flow control device in the first zone such that a differential pressure between the first zone and the second zone is operable to actuate the fluid flow control device of the first zone from a first operating configuration to a second operating configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2014
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: John Charles Gano, Luke William Holderman, Michael Linley Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Publication number: 20140174749
    Abstract: A tool for releasably coupling a coiled tubing string to a primary tubing string includes: a tool body for coupling to a downstream end of the primary tubing string, the tool body comprising a locking mechanism for selectively coupling a coiled tubing end joint to the tool body, the locking mechanism being unlockable in response to fluid pressure inside the tool body exceeding a first threshold; a wellbore access mechanism openable in response to fluid pressure inside the tool exceeding a second threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventors: Chad Barber, Denis Gilbert, Arnoud Struyk
  • Publication number: 20140174750
    Abstract: Certain aspects of the present invention are directed to a liquid valve assembly that can be disposed in a wellbore through a fluid-producing formation. The liquid valve assembly can include a housing and a liquid valve. The housing can define an inner chamber and an opening adapted to allow fluid to flow between the inner chamber and a passageway. The liquid valve can be disposed in the inner chamber. The liquid valve can include a yield stress fluid. The yield stress fluid can prevent fluid from flowing between the inner chamber and the passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, Luke William Holderman, Jean-Marc Lopez, Liang Zhao
  • Patent number: 8757275
    Abstract: An apparatus for isolating a first zone from a second zone in a subterranean wellbore. The apparatus includes an outer tubular and an inner tubular disposed within the outer tubular forming an annular flow path therebetween that is in fluid communication with the first zone. The inner tubular defines a central flow path that is in fluid communication with the second zone. A sleeve having at least one seal is positioned in the annular flow path and is axially movable relative to the inner and outer tubulars between a closed position wherein the seal engages the inner tubular and an open position wherein the seal engages the outer tubular. A mandrel is slidably disposed within the inner tubular and is coupled to the sleeve. The mandrel is operable to shift the sleeve between the open position and the closed position responsive to changes in pressure within the central flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Wayne Scott, William David Henderson, Douglas Allen Schafer
  • Patent number: 8757267
    Abstract: A pressure-actuated valve fit to a tubing string for alternately closing to communicate fluids from a wellbore to the tubing string and opening to communicate fluids from a wellbore annulus to the tubing string. The valve is particularly useful for lifting liquids which accumulate in the tubing string when the reservoir has a diminished pressure. In this case, gas is accumulated in the wellbore annulus and when the valve is opened the gas enters the valve and is directed to the tubing string for lifting the liquids. The valve is closed by a spring and has a closing-assist which applies an additional force to the spring to ensure the valve is fully closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventors: Bruce Mitchell, Gordon Bosley
  • Patent number: 8757266
    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. 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. The diverter can 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. The fluid diverter can move in response to density change in the fluid to affect fluid flow patterns in a tubular, the change in flow pattern operating a valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Orlando DeJesus
  • Patent number: 8757252
    Abstract: Wellbore flow control devices can be used in various subterranean operations to regulate access of formation fluids to the interior of a wellbore pipe and/or to limit the access of unwanted fluids thereto. Coupling of flow regulating assemblies to one another in the wellbore flow control devices can result in improved operational performance in regulating formation fluid flow to the interior of the wellbore pipe compared to using the flow regulating assemblies in an uncoupled state. Wellbore flow control devices can comprise a gate valve assembly that is in fluid flow communication with a flow restricting assembly, where each assembly is located on the exterior of a wellbore pipe and the flow restricting assembly is in fluid flow communication with the interior of the wellbore pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Earl Franklin, Jean-Marc Lopez
  • Publication number: 20140166292
    Abstract: A sliding sleeve opens with a deployed ball. The sleeve has a seat disposed in the housing, and the seat has segments biased outward from one another with a C-ring or other biasing element. Initially, the seat has an expanded state in the sliding sleeve so that the seats segments expand outward against the housing's bore. When an appropriately sized ball is deployed downhole, the ball engages the expanded seat. Fluid pressure applied against the seated ball moves the seat into the inner sleeve's bore. As this occurs, the seat contracts, which increases the engagement area of the seat with the ball. Eventually, the seat reaches the shoulder in the inner sleeve so that pressure applied against the seated ball now moves the inner sleeve in the housing to open the sliding sleeve's flow port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Crowley, David Ward, Cesar G. Garcia, Iain M. Greenan
  • Publication number: 20140166304
    Abstract: A sliding sleeve opens with a deployed ball. The sleeve has a seat disposed in the housing, and the seat has segments biased outward from one another with a C-ring or other biasing element. Initially, the seat has an expanded state in the sliding sleeve so that the seats segments expand outward against the housing's bore. When an appropriately sized ball is deployed downhole, the ball engages the expanded seat. Fluid pressure applied against the seated ball moves the seat into the inner sleeve's bore. As this occurs, the seat contracts, which increases the engagement area of the seat with the ball. Eventually, the seat reaches the shoulder in the inner sleeve so that pressure applied against the seated ball now moves the inner sleeve in the housing to open the sliding sleeve's flow port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael W. Cast
  • Publication number: 20140166295
    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: February 21, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher L. MCDOWELL, Joe NOSKE, Paul L. SMITH
  • Publication number: 20140158369
    Abstract: An apparatus for flowing a tool string along a wellbore tubular includes a flow restrictor having a diametrically expanded position and a diametrically retracted position. The flow restrictor sealingly engages the wellbore tubular when in the diametrically expanded position. The apparatus also includes a joint connected to the flow restrictor. The joint actuates the flow restrictor between the expanded position to the retracted position while moving between an open and a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Steven R. Radford, Jeffery B. McMeans, John G. Evans
  • Publication number: 20140158368
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for re-directing fluid flow from the interior of tubing placed in a well to the exterior of the tubing by use of selectively actuatable valves operable by engagement of a plug on a plug seat. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed may provide a flowback bypass for the flow of fluids around obstructions in the tubing when those obstructions occur at a predicted location within the tubing. The systems, devices and methods may also include a locking system operable by, among other things, plug and plug seat valves, and such locking system may be used to prevent opening of the flowback bypass until after a predetermined event has occurred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventors: Raymond Hofman, William Sloane Muscroft, Bryan Fitzhugh
  • Publication number: 20140151065
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system, the system comprising at least one wellbore servicing equipment component, wherein a flow path extends from the wellbore servicing system component into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation, and a pressure control system in fluid communication with the flow path, wherein the pressure control system comprises a relief path configured to communicate fluid through the pressure control system, a pressure control device configured to permit fluid communication between the flow path and the relief path upon experiencing a pressure and/or a differential pressure of at least a predetermined pressure threshold, and a first valve disposed within the relief path, wherein the first valve is configured to actuate from an open configuration to a closed configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Stanley V. STEPHENSON, Joseph A. BEISEL
  • Publication number: 20140151062
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system disposed at a wellbore, the wellbore servicing system comprising at least one wellbore servicing equipment component, wherein a flow path extends from the wellbore servicing system component into the wellbore, and a flow-back control system, wherein the flow-back control system is disposed along the flow path, and wherein the flow-back control system is configured to allow fluid communication via the flow path in a first direction at not less than a first rate and to allow fluid communication via the flow path in a second direction at not more than a second rate, wherein the first rate is greater than the second rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Stanley V. STEPHENSON, Joseph A. BEISEL
  • Patent number: 8739887
    Abstract: Check valve assemblies operable to inject treatment fluids during stimulation operations are described. One check valve assembly includes a valve body defining an inlet, one or more discharge ports, and a cylindrical passageway fluidly communicating the inlet with the one or more discharge ports, the valve body further defining a valve body seat within the passageway. A valve cap is configured to be coupled to the valve body and defines an opening therein that fluidly communicates with the cylindrical passageway, the valve cap further providing a valve cap seat. A spherical piston is disposed within the passageway and movable between a closed configuration where the spherical piston engages the valve body seat and an open configuration where the spherical piston engages the valve cap seat and allows fluid communication between the inlet and the one or more discharge ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan Veit, Jean-Marc Lopez
  • Patent number: 8739886
    Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system includes a fluidic module (150) having a bridge network. The bridge network has first and second branch fluid pathways (163, 164) each including at least one fluid flow resistors (174, 180) and a pressure output terminal (178, 184). In operation, the pressure difference between the pressure output terminals (178, 184) of the first and second branch fluid pathways (163, 164) is operable to control fluid flow through the fluidic module (150).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra, John Charles Gano, Luke William Holderman
  • Publication number: 20140144642
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system including a work string and a valve tool defining an flowbore, wherein the valve tool is transitionable from a first mode to a second mode, from the second mode to a third mode, and from the third mode to a fourth mode, wherein the valve tool transitions from the first mode to the second mode upon an application of pressure to the flowbore of at least a threshold pressure, wherein the valve tool transitions from the second mode to the third mode upon a dissipation of pressure from the flowbore to not more than the threshold pressure, wherein, in the first mode, the valve tool allows fluid communication via the flowbore in a first direction and disallows fluid communication in a second direction, and wherein, in the second, and third modes, the valve tool allows fluid communication in both the first and second directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Sharlene Dawn LINDSAY, Robert Gordon HOWARD, Desmond Wesley JONES
  • Patent number: 8727009
    Abstract: The debris collection device operates on an eductor principle with motive fluid delivered from the surface into an eductor housing inlet. The eductor outlet goes into a surrounding annular space and splits with some flow going to the mill below to direct cuttings into the passage in the housing. The cuttings remain in the housing and the flow continues through a screen in the housing passage before reaching the eductor inlet. An auxiliary inlet is normally closed and opened with a reduced flow entering through the mill. The opening of the auxiliary inlet drops the surface pressure delivered to the eductor to act as a surface signal that a plugged or low debris laden inlet flow exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: John P. Davis
  • Patent number: 8720545
    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: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: David Iblings, Thomas F. Bailey, Ram K. Bansal, Adrian Steiner, Michael Lynch, Simon J. Harrall
  • Patent number: 8720572
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus, method and system comprising one or more devices capable of modulating fluid flow, the fluid being a liquid or a gas resulting in a pressure fluctuation in a fluid flowing within a flow channel, comprising: a flow modulating device that acts as a servo valve such that the device comprises a shaft and a moveable actuator that slides along the shaft, wherein the shaft and the actuator are positioned at any angle within a principal fluid flow channel such that the fluid flows through the principal fluid flow channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Teledrill, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Maurice Lerner, Gabor Vecseri, David John Kusko
  • Patent number: 8714264
    Abstract: A side pocket mandrel has openings to receive a plurality of valves such that the flow of fluid from outside the string and into the tubular such as in gas lift will flow through the valves in series. The side pocket mandrel that has a single valve pocket can also be used in tandem with another similar side pocket mandrel to get the same dual barrier configuration to meet requirements of many jurisdictions of such a valve arrangement for tubular wall openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter J. Fay
  • Patent number: 8714266
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D Dykstra, Michael Linley Fripp, Orlando DeJesus, John C. Gano, Luke Holderman
  • Patent number: 8708050
    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. 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. The diverter can 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. The fluid diverter can move in response to a change in the fluid to affect fluid flow patterns in a tubular, the change in flow pattern operating a valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Orlando DeJesus
  • Patent number: 8701782
    Abstract: A biased actuator includes, a reservoir, at least one piston in operable communication with the reservoir, at least one metal seal and a biasing system in operable communication with both the reservoir and the at least one piston. The at least one metal seal is disposed about the at least one piston and is sealed to both the piston and the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Darren E. Bane, David Z. Anderson
  • Patent number: 8701778
    Abstract: A downhole tester valve (100) includes a housing assembly (106) and a mandrel assembly (172, 174) that define therebetween an operating fluid chamber (176), a biasing fluid chamber (184) and a power fluid chamber (180). A valve assembly (126) disposed within the housing assembly (106) is operable between open and closed positions. A piston assembly (146) is operably associated with the valve assembly (126) such that annulus pressure entering the power fluid chamber (180) pressurizes operating fluid in the operating fluid chamber (176) which acts on the piston assembly (146) to shift the valve assembly (126) from the closed position to the open position and such that predetermined travel of the piston assembly (146) opens a bypass passageway (162) for the pressurized operating fluid to charge biasing fluid in the biasing fluid chamber (184), thereby enabling closure of the valve assembly (126) upon reducing annulus pressure by a predetermined amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul David Ringgenberg
  • Patent number: 8701777
    Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system having dynamic response to local well conditions. The system includes a tubing string operably positionable in a wellbore. Annular barriers are positioned between the tubing string and the wellbore to isolate first and second zones. A fluid flow control device is positioned within each zone. A flow tube that is operably associated with the fluid flow control device of the first zone is operable to establish communication between the second zone and the fluid flow control device in the first zone such that a differential pressure between the first zone and the second zone is operable to actuate the fluid flow control device of the first zone from a first operating configuration to a second operating configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John Charles Gano, Luke William Holderman, Michael Linley Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8695709
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick J. Zimmerman, John Broussard, Christopher Hall
  • Patent number: 8695716
    Abstract: A ported housing that may be connected along a casing string and the method for use of the ported housing in fracturing and/or treating multiple zones in a well. A sleeve is connected to the ported housing and may be moved between an initial position that prevents fluid flow through the ports of the housing and second position that permits fluid flow through the ports. A bottom hole assembly may be connected to the sleeve by an anchor. A packer element may create a seal between the bottom hole assembly and the sleeve permitting a pressure differential across the packer element to move bottom hole assembly down the casing moving the sleeve to the second position. In the second position, the formation adjacent to the ported housing may be stimulated and/or treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: John Edward Ravensbergen
  • Publication number: 20140096963
    Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for gravel packing a wellbore are provided. The system includes a service tool extending through a packer that isolates a proximal annulus of the wellbore from a distal annulus thereof. The service tool defines an inner bore and a conduit, with the conduit being in fluid communication with the proximal annulus and the distal annulus. The system also includes a flow restrictor disposed in the conduit. The flow restrictor is configured to induce a first pressure drop in fluid flowing through the conduit in a first direction and to induce a second pressure drop in fluid flowing through the conduit in a second direction, with the second pressure drop being greater than the first pressure drop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
  • Patent number: 8689887
    Abstract: A radial flow valve is disclosed which includes a plurality of flow openings, a first piston and a second piston, the first and second pistons being independently actuable relative to one another, and a sleeve operatively coupled to the second piston, the sleeve adapted to be positioned so as to cover the plurality of flow openings. A method is also disclosed which includes positioning a radial flow valve in a subterranean well bore having an upper zone pressure and a lower zone pressure, increasing a pressure within the valve to a value above the upper zone pressure to release a first piston within the valve and, after releasing the first piston, reducing the pressure within the valve to a value that is less than the lower zone pressure to thereby cause a second piston within the valve to move and thereby permit fluid flow through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Superior Energy Services, LLC
    Inventor: Richard J. Ross
  • Publication number: 20140090851
    Abstract: Casing valves for selective well stimulation and control. A well system includes at least one valve interconnected in a casing string operable via at least one line external to the casing string to selectively control fluid flow between an exterior and interior of the casing string, and the casing string, valve and line being cemented in a wellbore. A method of selectively stimulating a subterranean formation includes: positioning a casing string in a wellbore, the casing string including spaced apart valves operable via a line to selectively control fluid flow between an interior and exterior of the casing string; and for each of multiple intervals of the formation in sequence, stimulating the interval by opening a corresponding one of the valves, closing the remainder of the valves, and flowing a stimulation fluid from the casing string into the interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: Welldynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy R. TIPS, Alfred R. CURINGTON
  • Publication number: 20140083680
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system and method for detecting screen-out using a fracturing valve for mitigation. The fracture method can comprise fracturing a well using a fracturing valve, while a downhole pressure is less than a predetermined threshold. The method can also comprise actuating by automated process the fracturing valve from a fracturing position to a non-fracturing position upon detecting by a pressure sensor in the wellbore that the downhole pressure has reached said predetermined threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventor: Kristian Brekke