Fluid Operated Patents (Class 166/319)
  • Patent number: 8381821
    Abstract: A gas lift valve assembly includes a housing that includes a first passageway that is substantially concentric with the central passageway of a string to communicate well fluid and a second passageway that is eccentrically disposed with respect to the central passageway to communicate a second fluid to lift the well fluid. The gas lift valve assembly includes a valve that is disposed in the second passageway and includes a ball valve to regulate communication of the second fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jacob Hahn, Jason Kamphaus, Kevin T. Scarsdale
  • Patent number: 8381817
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill string and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20130043032
    Abstract: A commutating valve for a downhole steering tool. The downhole steering tool has a sleeve which surrounds an annular body which in turn surrounds a driveshaft. A plurality of steering cylinders are located in the annular body and a steering piston is located in each steering cylinder, the steering pistons engaging the sleeve. A pump pressurises hydraulic fluid within a reservoir, the reservoir having a closable outlet whereby the pressure of the hydraulic fluid within the reservoir can be raised by closing the outlet and lowered by opening the outlet. The valve comprises a number of discrete valve members which are all in communication with the reservoir and can be opened sequentially whereby to deliver hydraulic fluid to the steering cylinders sequentially. The pressure within each steering cylinder can be controlled in order to control the position of the driveshaft within the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: SMART STABILIZER SYSTEMS LIMITED
    Inventors: Daniel Brendan Crowley, Robert Donald John Sedgeman
  • Patent number: 8376047
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least one inlet, an outlet, and at least one structure spirally oriented relative to the outlet, whereby the structure induces spiral flow of the fluid composition about the outlet. Another variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber including an outlet, at least one structure which induces spiral flow of a fluid composition about the outlet, and at least one other structure which impedes a change in direction of flow of the fluid composition radially toward the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Luke W. Holderman
  • Publication number: 20130032361
    Abstract: A tubing hanger landing system includes a tubing hanger running tool, a locking flowline to lock the tubing hanger running tool into a tubing hanger, and a lower body shear joint having a recovery valve. The recovery valve includes a valve body having an operational port, a bi-directional port, and a relief port and an internal piston cavity. The piston cavity includes a radially inwardly extending stop, a valve piston housed in the valve body piston cavity and partially extending through the radially inwardly extending stop and movable between an operational position and a relief position by moving relative to the radially inwardly extending stop. The valve piston includes a radially extending collar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sergio Yamahata, Carlos Aparecido de Oliveira
  • Publication number: 20130020088
    Abstract: Systems and methods using enhanced flow control devices are described. The flow control devices can be selectively closed completely or have its effective flow area reduced to restrict production (or injection) by use of a chemical trigger mechanism. In addition, some of the systems described herein deploy specific targeted chemical tracers, dissolvable in the unwanted production fluid (e.g. water or gas). These chemical tracers once dissolved will enter the production stream and be identified at the surface. The identification will determine which segment of the completion is producing the unwanted fluid. According to some embodiments, an appropriate chemical trigger is placed, for example, by pumping down through the tubing and utilizing intelligent completion valve to place the chemical, or by spotting with coiled tubing and bullhead to the formation, or by other methods of chemical placement. The chemical trigger will only trigger the active chemical in the appropriate flow control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Dyer, Athar Ali, Frank F. Chang, Xiangdon Qiu, Kuo-Chiang Chen
  • Patent number: 8356668
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least one inlet, an outlet, and at least one structure spirally oriented relative to the outlet, whereby the structure induces spiral flow of the fluid composition about the outlet. Another variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber including an outlet, at least one structure which induces spiral flow of a fluid composition about the outlet, and at least one other structure which impedes a change in direction of flow of the fluid composition radially toward the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Luke W. Holderman
  • Publication number: 20130000921
    Abstract: A production string employable in a multi-zone completion system, the production string includes a passageway enabling passage of production fluids therethrough; a shifting tool including a shifting profile engageable with a production sleeve of the completion system to open a closed production sleeve, the shifting tool sharing the passageway of the production string; and, a remotely controlled hydraulic production valve which controls fluid flow between the passageway and the production sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Anthony Thomas, Kevin J. Berry
  • Publication number: 20120325479
    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: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: JOHN E. RAVENSBERGEN
  • Publication number: 20120312540
    Abstract: The pulse-tool is used when injecting liquid into a borehole in the ground. When a pulse-valve of the tool opens, liquid passes through from an accumulator to the ground formation, whereby the accumulator pressure falls and the formation pressure rises. When the pulse-valve closes, the accumulator pressure rises and the formation pressure falls. The pulse-valve is driven to open when the pressure differential (PDAF) reaches a high-threshold, at which the PDAF overcomes a biasing force acting to hold the pulse-valve closed. The biasing force is provided by a pair of magnets, in attraction mode. When the PDAF reaches its high-threshold, and the magnets separate, the magnetic attraction force decreases rapidly. This characteristic helps the pulse-valve to open very rapidly, e.g explosively, creating an energetic penetrative shock-wave out into the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Lance Leo Lefebvre
  • Patent number: 8327945
    Abstract: A valve, such as a ball valve, is assembled and carried by a running tool. The valve is actuated by an actuator that is triggered by the running tool, and thus opens and closes communication between the drill pipe and the volume below the running tool. An actuating cam is assembled below the running tool that interfaces the actuator. The actuating cam is threaded such that it travels axially as the drill pipe is turned. A profile on the actuating cam is timed with the function of the running tool and controls the action of the actuator such that the valve is open when the running tool function requires communication with the volume below the running tool and the valve is closed when the running tool needs to be pressurized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas P. Gette, Gregory M. Dunn
  • Publication number: 20120305256
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a valve system for use in a wellbore, the system comprising a side pocket mandrel and one or more well tools, where the side pocket mandrel (6) comprises an elongated body section (7) provided with connection means (8) at its ends, the elongated body section (7) being provided with a substantially fully open main bore (9) for alignment with the well tubing (3) and an offset side pocket bore (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: PETROLEUM TECHNOLOGY COMPANY AS
    Inventors: Magnar Tveiten, Erling Kleppa, Øyvind Stokka, Ole Sevheim
  • Patent number: 8316946
    Abstract: A subsea completion assembly for a subsea well including installed casing and a wellhead. The assembly includes a production casing forming a B annulus between the outside of the production casing and the installed casing. The assembly also includes an annulus access adapter installed in the wellhead, the adapter including a manipulatable valve controlling fluid communication with the fluid in the B annulus across the annulus access adapter. A property of the fluid in the B annulus can be monitored by fluid communicated across the annulus access adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: David R. June, Scott D. Ward, David R. Gwyn
  • Patent number: 8316943
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for operating a packer and a fracture valve. The packer may include a tubular mandrel having a longitudinal bore with an annular packing element and a first piston disposed around the mandrel, wherein the first piston is operable to set the packing element, and a second piston operable to isolate fluid communication between the first piston and the mandrel bore. The fracture valve may include a tubular mandrel having a longitudinal bore and a port, a piston operable to close fluid communication between the bore and the port, and a latch disposed between the piston and the mandrel operable to resist movement of the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Walter Stone Thomas Fagley, IV, Gary Duron Ingram, Christopher Carter Johnson
  • Publication number: 20120292033
    Abstract: A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Michael L. Connell, Andrew M. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8312931
    Abstract: An inflow control device may include flow control elements along a flow path. The flow control elements may change the inertial direction of the fluid flowing in the flow path. The change in inertial direction occurs at junctures along the flow path. The flow control elements may also be configured to form segmented pressure drops across the flow path. The segmented pressure drops may include a first pressure drop segment and a second pressure drop segment that is different from the first pressure drop segment. The pressure drop segments may be generated by a passage, an orifice or a slot. In embodiments, the plurality of flow control elements may separate the fluid into at least two flow paths. The flow control elements may also be configured to cause an increase in a pressure drop in the flow path as a concentration of water increases in the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Yang Xu, Martin P. Coronado
  • Publication number: 20120285687
    Abstract: A tool for selectively treating a wellbore with fluid that includes a tubing string having a sidewall defining an inner bore, the sidewall comprising a flow area having at least one fluid flow port that permits fluid flow through the sidewall. Fluid is prevented from flowing through the flow area when a closure is in a closed position. When in the open position, fluid flows through the flow area. An axial seal is connected to the closure to selectively close the inner bore against fluid pressure to apply the predetermined opening force to move the closure to the open position. A releasable connector connects the axial seal to the closure and a retrieval tool attachment releases the axial seal from the closure upon application of a predetermined release force by a retrieval tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: Logan Completion Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Don Turner, Sean Campbell, Grant George
  • Patent number: 8307902
    Abstract: A downhole flow control tool 1, includes a flow control member in the form of a sleeve 8, and comprises a main body 2 having a longitudinal internal bore 3 extending therethrough, an upper end 4 having a box section 6, and a lower end 5 with a pin section 7, which enable connection of the tool 1 into a work string. The flow control sleeve 8 is mounted for movement relative to the bore 3 between at least a closed and one of several open positions. The tool body 2 includes several flow ports extending through a wall of the body 2 and spaced around a circumference of the body 2. The tool provides multiple fluid flow control options for directing and splitting fluid flow for example during a drilling operation to clear settled cuttings by suitable location of the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Specialised Petroleum Services Group Limited
    Inventor: George Telfer
  • Patent number: 8307905
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an activating mechanism (200) for guiding and controlling a downhole tool (100) and/or subsea equipment employed in connection with recovery of hydrocarbons. The activating mechanism (200) comprises an annular sleeve (21) provided with non-through-going recesses (22, 24) in the material of the annular sleeve (21), where separate replaceable elements are provided in the recesses (22, 24) to act as a pump (P), piston (S1), reservoirs (R1, R2), movable slide (S2) and pistons (25a, 25b), where these elements create a closed fluid circuit which on being subjected to a number of cyclical loads will open up a connection between the pistons (25a, 25b). A method for controlling the activating mechanism (200) is also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Vosstech AS
    Inventor: Stig Ove Bjorgum
  • Patent number: 8297304
    Abstract: The storage container for a liquid chlorosilane of the present invention comprises, a tank which stores the liquid chlorosilane, a valve which is connected to the tank and to which an external pipe can be connected detachably, and a closing lid which seals the valve when the external pipe is detached from the valve. The valve comprises a housing and a valve body provided in the housing. The closing lid has a lid body having a sealing surface contacting the connecting surface of the connecting flange, a supply pipe which supplies an inert gas to a space between the closing lid and the valve body in the housing, a supply valve which opens or closes the supply pipe, a discharge pipe which discharges a gas in the space, and a discharge valve which opens or closes the discharge pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Materials Corporation
    Inventors: Go Sasaki, Takanori Ito
  • Patent number: 8291984
    Abstract: The invention relates to device for controlling an inflatable tool used to treat a well or pipeline. The device, which is inserted between the outlet of a fluid supply pipe and the tool, comprises: a chamber communicating with the exterior through a tube and with the tool via a pipeline; and a piston mounted in said chamber, which, under the force of a spring, normally occupies a first position in which it seals the outlet of the pipe, the aforementioned tube then communicating with the pipeline. The pipeline is provided with at least one spring-loaded check valve which allows the passage of the pressurized fluid from the chamber to the tool when the pressure upstream of the valve exceeds a predetermined threshold value, which prevents the passage of the fluid in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Saltel Industries
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Saltel
  • Publication number: 20120255739
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use with a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least two inlets, and a flow resistance which varies depending on proportions of the fluid composition which flow into the chamber via the respective inlet flow paths, and an actuator which varies the proportions. The actuator may deflect the fluid composition toward one of the inlet flow paths. A method of variably controlling flow resistance in a well can include changing an orientation of a deflector relative to a passage through which a fluid composition flows, thereby influencing the fluid composition to flow toward one of multiple inlet flow paths of a flow chamber, the chamber having a flow resistance which varies depending on proportions of the fluid composition which flow into the chamber via the respective inlet flow paths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Michael L. FRIPP, Jason D. DYKSTRA
  • Publication number: 20120255738
    Abstract: A multi-barrier system includes a first valve and a second valve that are both in fluidic communication with a lower completion. The first valve and the second valve are positioned proximate an uphole extent of the lower completion, and a member in operable communication with the first valve and the second valve. The system is configured such that both the first valve and the second valve are open when the member is in a first position, the first valve is closed and the second valve is open when the member in a second position, the first valve is open and the second valve is closed when the member is in a third position, and the first valve and the second valve are both closed when the member is in a fourth position. The first valve and the second valve are closable in response to retrieval of an upper completion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Donald P. Lauderdale, Wilfred Schexnayder
  • Patent number: 8281865
    Abstract: A tubular valve system includes, a tubular, a primary valve actuatable to control occlusion of at least one port fluidically connecting an inner bore of the tubular with an outside of the tubular, and a contingency valve actuatable to control occlusion of at least one port fluidically connecting the inner bore with the outside of the tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Paul Joseph, John R. Abarca, Luis E. Mendez
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8276675
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmie Robert Williamson, Perry Shy, Roger Watson
  • Patent number: 8276670
    Abstract: A downhole plug can include a housing having an aperture disposed generally through the center of the housing. A stopper can be disposed in the aperture and adapted to block fluid flow therethrough. The stopper can have a composition of at least two different materials. One or more covers can be at least partially disposed on the stopper, wherein and the stopper can be at least partially encapsulated by the one or more covers. A flow control device can be disposed adjacent the stopper to selectively introduce fluid to at least a portion of the stopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Dinesh R. Patel
  • Publication number: 20120241167
    Abstract: A sensor assembly for detection of fluid flow signaling over a tubular conveyance. The assembly may be employed for activation of a variety of different downhole actuators such as firing heads for perforating guns or hydrostatic set modules for packer deployment. The assembly is configured with a flow translation device which is disposed in a manner exposed to fluid flow directed through an oilfield tubular coupled to the assembly. Thus, a detector coupled to the translation device may obtain mechanical data from the device which is reliably indicative of the flow, irrespective of the physical nature of the flow itself. As such, enhanced reliability for subsequent actuator firing based on the flow signaling may be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Angus Morrison
  • Patent number: 8272443
    Abstract: A method of servicing a subterranean formation comprising positioning a wellbore servicing tool comprising an axial flowbore within a wellbore, making a first application of pressure to the axial flowbore of the wellbore servicing tool; wherein the pressure within the wellbore servicing tool is at least a first upper threshold during the first application of pressure, allowing the pressure within the axial flowbore following the first application of pressure to fall below a first lower threshold, making a second application of pressure to the axial flowbore of the wellbore servicing tool, wherein the pressure within the wellbore servicing tool is at least a second upper threshold during the second application of pressure, allowing a second subsiding of pressure within the axial flowbore following the second application of pressure to fall a second lower threshold, and communicating a fluid to the wellbore, the subterranean formation, or both via one or more ports of the wellbore servicing tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Brock Watson, Gary Walters
  • 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: 8261835
    Abstract: A downhole tool is hydraulically actuated through a control system that features rod piston(s) that are double acting. The piston bore is in a single housing component with an annular cavity that provides access to all piston bores to move the pistons in a first direction. The housing component that has the piston bore also includes an internal sleeve in a passage in the housing. A second control system connection communicates with a sealed annular space defined between the sleeve and the passage wall that holds the sleeve. A series of radial ports communicate from the annular space into each piston bore on the opposite side of each piston from the annular cavity so that each piston is double acting with a bore in a single housing component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Kevin R. Plunkett, John D. Lindemann
  • Patent number: 8256518
    Abstract: A technique enables failsafe control over actuators used to actuate downhole tools. The technique may utilize a well system having a tool with an adjustable member. An actuation mechanism serves as a fail-as-is mechanism and works in cooperation with the adjustable member. The actuation member is shiftable upon receiving a predetermined input; however the actuation member does not move the adjustable member upon each shift. Once the actuation member has been shifted the requisite number of times to move the adjustable member to another position, at least one subsequent shift of the actuation member is not able to cause movement of the adjustable member. The result is a fail-as-is technique for ensuring the tool is not inadvertently actuated to another operational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Oguzhan Guven, Seth Conaway, Ricardo Martinez, Frank Coss
  • Patent number: 8251150
    Abstract: A radial flow valve 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 includes positioning a radial flow valve in a subterranean well bore having an upper zone pressure and a lower zone pressure, increase 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: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Superior Energy Services, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Richard J. Ross
  • Patent number: 8251147
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a wellbore injection system. The wellbore injection system comprises a capillary fluid flow path positioned in a subsurface wellbore so as to allow fluid communication through the wellbore, the wellbore having a wellbore pressure. A receptacle is in fluid communication with a second fluid flow path that is positioned below the capillary fluid flow path in the wellbore. An injector is attached to a distal end of the capillary fluid flow path, the injector comprising an injector flow path. The injector is capable of being removably attached to the receptacle to provide fluid communication between the capillary fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path through the injector flow path. An isolation mechanism is capable of isolating the capillary fluid flow path from the wellbore pressure when the injector is not attached to the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Maximiliano Mondelli, Jeffrey L. Bolding, Don Sanders
  • Publication number: 20120205114
    Abstract: A technique facilitates prolonging the useful life of a subsurface valve without requiring replacement of the entire hydraulic chamber housing of the subsurface valve. A removable piston tube is provided and may be inserted into a valve housing of a subsurface valve. The removable piston tube is removably secured within a piston passage in the valve housing via a fastening mechanism. If necessary, the removable piston tube can be removed and replaced without requiring replacement of the overall housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: David James Biddick, Paul G. Goughnour, Geoffrey Pinard
  • Publication number: 20120205113
    Abstract: A subsurface safety valve particularly designed for high temperature and high pressure applications has an improved tubular joint connection that provides for a compliant metal to metal seal without adversely affecting the break out torque. The valve also includes axially extending grooves in the inner surface of the tubular housing in the area of a actuating piston bore to relief stresses in that area thereby reducing the risk of stress failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: TEJAS COMPLETION SOLUTIONS
    Inventor: Jason C. Mailand
  • Publication number: 20120205121
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing system, comprising a sleeve system comprising a ported case, a sliding sleeve within the case and movable between a first sleeve position in which the sleeve restricts fluid communication via the case and a second sleeve position in which the sleeve does not, a radially divided segmented seat movable between a first seat position in which the seat restricts movement of the sleeve and a second seat position in which the seat does not, and a sheath covering a portion of the seat, the sleeve system being transitionable from a first, to a second, to a third mode, in the first mode, the sleeve is in its first position and the seat in its first position, in the second mode, the sleeve is in its first position and the seat in its second position, and, in the third mode, the sleeve is in its second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jesse Cale PORTER, Kendall Lee PACEY, Matthew Todd HOWELL, William Ellis STANDRIDGE
  • Patent number: 8240388
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Alan D. Brite
  • Patent number: 8230935
    Abstract: A flow control screen (100) includes a base pipe (102) having a blank pipe section (104) and a perforated section (106). A filter medium (112) is positioned around a portion of the blank pipe section (104). A housing (114, 118, 120, 122, 124) is positioned around another portion of the blank pipe section (104) and the perforated section (106). A deformable element (150) is positioned between the housing and a portion of the perforated section including at least one production port (108) but not including at least one closure port (110) to define a production path (154) between the production port (108) and the filter medium (112) such that application of a sufficient pressure to the closure port (110) acts on the deformable element (150) to deform the deformable element (150) to substantially close the production path (154).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Gano, Luke W. Holderman, Jean Marc Lopez
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120181037
    Abstract: A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least one inlet, an outlet, and at least one structure spirally oriented relative to the outlet, whereby the structure induces spiral flow of the fluid composition about the outlet. Another variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber including an outlet, at least one structure which induces spiral flow of a fluid composition about the outlet, and at least one other structure which impedes a change in direction of flow of the fluid composition radially toward the outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Luke W. HOLDERMAN
  • Publication number: 20120175132
    Abstract: A downhole oilfield tool assembly is provided. The tool assembly comprises a mandrel, a valve oriented to block downwards flow through the mandrel in a closed position, a first piston located above the valve and at least partly around an outside of the mandrel. The first piston is configured to develop motive force from a pressure differential between an interior of the mandrel and an exterior of the downhole oilfield tool assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Brock Watson, Daniel Moeller, Kevin J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20120160484
    Abstract: Methods including providing a substantially horizontal wellbore having at least one productive interval within a hydrocarbon reservoir and forming at least one non-conductive transverse fracture in the reservoir along the substantially horizontal wellbore. An injection well is also provided. A fluid is injected into the reservoir through the injection well to displace hydrocarbons within the reservoir toward a production portion of the substantially horizontal wellbore. Hydrocarbons are drained from the reservoir into at least one production interval of the substantially horizontal wellbore. Fluid production from the at least one production interval into the substantially horizontal wellbore flows through an inflow control device that can restrict the fluid flow. A non-conductive transverse fracture can form a barrier within the reservoir to divert injected fluids to increase sweep efficiency and reduce the influx of injected fluids into the production interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Leopoldo Sierra, Loyd E. East, Mohamed Y. Soliman
  • Patent number: 8201632
    Abstract: A downhole valve assembly including a valve mounted in a tubular body, the valve moveable between an open and closed position. Movement is achieved by a fluid operated valve actuation mechanism located downhole of the valve having a fluid inlet port located uphole of the valve. A method of controlling fluid flow downhole is also described allowing the valve to be moved between the open and closed positions and between closed and open positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Red Spider Technology Limited
    Inventor: William S. Burnett
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120145402
    Abstract: A method of removing debris from a well is disclosed, comprising RIH to required depth with coiled tubing having at least one closed check valve, moving a sleeve through the check valve to hold it open, opening a flow control valve located on the coiled tubing below the check valve; then reverse circulating a fluid to entrain debris in the wellbore and bring it to surface through the coiled tubing, before releasing the sleeve from the check valve; and POOH with the at least one check valve returned to the closed configuration. By holding the check valves open, reverse circulation can be performed in the well using coiled tubing, so sufficient lift can be achieved to bring the debris to surface even in underbalanced or low pressure wells. Safety measures can be maintained by having at least one check valve in the conventional closed configuration on RIH and POOH.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventor: Paul Hilliard
  • Patent number: 8196664
    Abstract: An actuating mechanism for use in a tool such as a plug used in oil and gas wells. The mechanism being operable under pressure in the well bore to set the plug in a first natural closed state for a pressure under a predetermined pressure range; a second closed state wherein the plug is locked closed regardless of the pressure; and a third open state by increasing the pressure to the predetermined pressure range and holding the pressure in the range for a predetermined time. Electronic and mechanical, dual piston, actuating mechanisms are described as is a method of controlling fluid flow in a well bore using the plug and performing a pressure test against the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Red Spider Technology Limited
    Inventor: Michael A. Reid
  • Publication number: 20120138311
    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. The operator can 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 preselected point in time. An adjustable preset timing device is installed in each zone to allow preplanned continual frac operations for all zones. An optional “Stand-Down-Mode” can be integrated into the timing system so that if pumping stops the timers go into a sleep mode until the pumping resumes. The apparatus can consist of three major components: a packer, a timing pressure device, and a sliding sleeve/isolation device. The packer may be removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: OILTOOL ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Gregg W. Stout
  • Patent number: 8186444
    Abstract: A system that is usable with a well includes a tubing string that extends into an isolated zone of the well and a plurality of chokes modules that are disposed in the isolated zone to control communication between a passageway of the tubing string and the zone. Each choke module includes an associated choke, which is removable from the choke module without disassembly of the tubing string. Each choke module is independently controllable relative to the other choke module(s) to selectively enable and disable flow through the associated choke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Dinesh R. Patel
  • Publication number: 20120125629
    Abstract: An activating device is provided for location in downhole tubing. The device defines an activation profile which is initially maintained at a larger diameter than a tubing seat, such that the device may land on and be held up by the seat. The profile may be subsequently re-configured to radially retract, allowing the device to pass through the seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: Andrew Churchill