Rotated Operator Patents (Class 166/330)
  • Patent number: 11767733
    Abstract: An assembly includes a cement retainer, a unidirectional flow valve, and an upper stinger. The cement retainer is adapted to be mounted in the casing string. The cement retainer has a retainer aperture extending longitudinally therethrough from a retainer top end to a retainer bottom end. The unidirectional flow valve is configured to selectively control flow of fluid through the retainer aperture and is housed within the cement retainer. The upper stinger is configured to be removably retained within the retainer aperture. The upper stinger has an upper stinger aperture extending longitudinally therethrough from an upper stinger top end to an upper stinger bottom end. The upper stinger comprises an opening that provides a fluid flow path from an interior of the casing string to the upper stinger aperture when the upper stinger is removed from the cement retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: Ahmed Abdulaziz Al-Mousa, Saad M. Budair, Hashim A. Awwami
  • Patent number: 11543049
    Abstract: A fluid flow control device includes a rotatable component for rotating about an axis in response to fluid flow from an inlet port of the fluid flow control device. A float component is positioned within the rotatable component and connected to the rotatable component by a hinge. The hinge provides for movement of the float component relative to the rotatable component between (i) an open position that enables fluid flow from the inlet port to an outlet port of the rotatable component, and (ii) a closed position that restricts fluid flow through a flow passage from the inlet port to the outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Michael Greci, Michael Linley Fripp
  • Patent number: 11493145
    Abstract: A fluid flow control device can include an inlet port and an outlet port. The fluid flow control device can also include a rotatable component for rotating about an axis in response to fluid flow from the inlet port. A float component positioned within the rotatable component can move between (i) an open position that enables fluid flow from the inlet port to the outlet port, and (ii) a closed position that restricts fluid flow from the inlet port to the outlet port. The float component can move from the open position to the closed position in response to a fluid from the inlet port having one density. The float component can move from the closed position to the open position in response to the fluid from the inlet port having another density.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, Stephen Michael Greci
  • Patent number: 10738577
    Abstract: Method and system for multi-stage well treatment wherein an isolating device is tethered with a distributed measurement cable during the treatment of one or more stages. The cable having a cable core including an optical fiber conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Varkey, Paul Wanjau, David Geehyun Kim, Maria Auxiliadora Grisanti, Sheng Chang, Peter John Richter, Alejandro Andres Pena Gonzalez, Bruno Lecerf, Dmitriy Usoltsev
  • Patent number: 10563460
    Abstract: Systems and methods divide flow in a wellbore into a plurality of flow paths. A first one of the flow paths extends to a down-hole turbine that is responsive to fluid flow to provide rotational motion to an electric generator or other down-hole tool. A second flow path may extend to an independent down-hole tool, to a port communicating with the wellbore, to a bypass channel extending around the turbine, or to any other down-hole location. The turbine includes a stator having adjustable blades such that an open flow area through the turbine may be selectively controlled. A flow distribution between the first and second flow paths can be controlled where specific flow areas are needed at specific flow rates, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Olumide O. Odegbami, Stephen Christopher Janes
  • Patent number: 10508525
    Abstract: A downhole tool or component, such as a hydraulic fracturing ball, may have a base body having an outer surface. The outer surface of the base body may have a lapped coating thereon. The downhole tool or component may be made by lapping the outer surface of the base body with a lapping slurry. The downhole tool or component may be used in downhole applications, such as hydraulic fracturing, and may resist degradation upon exposure to fluids, such as production fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: Bubbletight, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Hill Hopkins, Mark Allen Freeman, Mark T. Hopkins
  • Patent number: 10337286
    Abstract: A tubing drain for service with oil wells, water wells, gas wells and/or thermal wells has a configuration of structural features which allow the drain to be opened and closed without the need to pull the drain to the surface to be serviced. The drain utilizes an inner mandrel having two circumferentially aligned cylindrical apertures which may be selectively aligned with a drain port in an outer shell member as the inner mandrel is rotated within the shell. A first cylindrical aperture contains a ball which, when in alignment with the drain port, is urged against a seat in the drain port by hydraulic pressure. However, when the inner mandrel is rotated the ball is dislodged from the seat and forced back into the first cylindrical aperture. Further rotation of the inner mandrel aligns the second cylindrical aperture with the drain port, allowing the tubing to drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Black Gold Pump and Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Bair, Scott Sakakura, Simon Shin
  • Patent number: 10273781
    Abstract: A stage tool for wellbore annular cementing may be opened for cementing by hydraulic actuation of a sliding sleeve valve from over a fluid port. After sufficient cement has been introduced, the stage tool fluid port can be closed by compressing two telescopically arranged parts of its tubular body to further overlap each other and overlie the fluid port. This permits the stage tool to be closed without employing a plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Inventors: Daniel Jon Themig, Christopher Denis Desranleau, James Fehr
  • Patent number: 9874089
    Abstract: A bridge concentric direct-reading testing and adjusting instrument, comprising a cable head connected to a pressure sensor; a supporting mechanism having a pair of supporting arms; a sliding power mechanism including a power motor, a spring, an impact hammer and a one-way clutch assembly, the impact hammer slidably connected to the power motor to be rotated along with rotation of the power motor, a lower end of the impact hammer detachably connected to the one-way clutch assembly, and the one-way clutch assembly connecting the supporting arms via a transmission assembly to control opening and closing of the supporting arms; a flowmeter; and an adjusting actuator including an adjusting motor, an adjusting connector and an adjusting arm, the adjusting arm used for adjusting a waterflooding flow rate through rotation of the adjusting arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Petrochina Company Limited
    Inventors: He Liu, Xiaohan Pei, Fuchao Sun, Lichen Zheng, Qinghai Yang, Yang Gao
  • Patent number: 9428990
    Abstract: A rotationally activated downhole well valve for connection in a tubing string is disclosed that can be repeatedly opened and closed selectively to place the tubing string in communication with the annulus. The valve is moved between the closed position and the open position by rotating the string in the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul David Ringgenberg, Charles Frederick Carder
  • Patent number: 9388663
    Abstract: A downhole circulating valve includes a generally tubular outer housing having an axially extending internal passageway including an internal seat and at least one generally radially extending opening formed through the housing intersecting the internal seat. A valve element is rotatably disposed within the internal passageway. The valve element has an axially extending internal bore and a head portion disposed at least partially within the internal seat. The head portion includes at least one generally radially extending seal element. The valve element has a first position relative to the housing, wherein the seal element is not aligned with the opening, thereby allowing fluid communication between the opening and the internal passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jimmie Robert Williamson, Leo G. Collins, David L. Reesing, Russell Irving Bayh, III
  • Patent number: 9322244
    Abstract: An inflow assembly for controlling fluid flow between a hydrocarbon reservoir and a production casing in a well, comprising a first tubular having an axial extension and at least one inlet and a first wall with at least a first axial channel extending in the first wall from the inlet, a second tubular having a first and a second end and at least one outlet, the second tubular being rotatable within the first tubular and having a second wall with at least a second axial channel extending in the second wall from the first end to the outlet. The assembly is configured to control a fluid flow between a hydrocarbon reservoir and a production casing in a well. The inflow assembly may also be utilized in a downhole completion comprising a casing string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: WELLTEC A/S
    Inventors: Jørgen Hallundbæk, Tomas Sune Andersen
  • Patent number: 9291022
    Abstract: There is provided a system and method for temporarily locking a wellhead component while cementing it in place within a mineral extraction system. As cement is pumped into the wellhead, its temperature may be increased, leading to thermal expansion of the cement and movement of wellhead components. Disclosed embodiments include a hold-down ring configured to cooperate with tie-down screws to temporarily lock a running tool in place within the wellhead during cementing. In another embodiment, the tie-down screws may cooperate directly with the running tool. The locked running tool then blocks other wellhead components, such as a hanger run into the wellhead by the running tool, from upward axial movement due to thermal expansion of the cement during the cementing process. After the hanger is cemented in place, the running tool may be unlocked and retrieved from the wellhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis P. Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20150129232
    Abstract: A rotationally activated downhole well valve for connection in a tubing string is disclosed that can be repeatedly opened and closed selectively to place the tubing string in communication with the annulus. The valve is moved between the closed position and the open position by rotating the string in the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul David RINGGENBERG, Charles Frederick CARDER
  • Patent number: 8997871
    Abstract: A dual drill string valve includes an actuator including a piston disposed in a housing. The housing is configured to couple at its ends to an end of a nested dual drill string segment. An upper internal conduit is mounted in the housing proximate one longitudinal end thereof. A lower internal conduit is mounted in the housing proximate the other longitudinal end thereof. The piston is slidably, sealingly engaged between the upper and lower inner conduits and defines a fluid flow passage therethrough. The upper inner conduit, the piston and the lower inner conduit define another flow passage between respective exterior surfaces thereof and an interior of the housing such that application of fluid pressure to the external flow passage causes movement of the piston away from the upper inner conduit. A rotary valve is coupled to the actuator whereby longitudinal movement thereof rotates the rotary valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Reelwell, A.S.
    Inventors: Espen Alhaug, Stein Erik Meinseth
  • Patent number: 8939201
    Abstract: A space filler material is used to prevent accumulation of debris that could later foul the operation of adjacent moving parts. In one application a void space that is subsequently closed by actuated parts is initially filled with a material that is highly compressible and has voids that allow it to compress without undue resistance to part movement when the void volume is reduced. Ideally, the pores or voids in the material itself are small enough to keep most if not all the debris from entering and making the space filling material too rigid to collapse under part movement. In an alternative application, the material can be in an annular space such as a seal bore and it can keep debris from getting past the seal bore while allowing hydrostatic pressure across itself thereby helping it to maintain its position until moved such as by shifting of an inner string to which it is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Edward J. O'Malley
  • Patent number: 8826987
    Abstract: A downhole oilfield tool assembly comprises a mandrel, a ball valve oriented to block downwards flow through the mandrel in a closed position, a first piston located above the ball 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: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Brock Watson, Daniel Moeller, Kevin J. Miller
  • Patent number: 8800667
    Abstract: An arrangement for directing a fluid flow or a tool transported in a fluid flow in an under water structure includes plural flow line arrangements each including at least one flow line, and at least two distribution devices to be varied between at least two positions. One distribution device connects at least two flow arrangements providing for the selection of the fluid flow pattern directing the fluid through the distribution devices and the flow arrangements depending on the position of each of the distribution devices. A method directs a fluid flow or a tool transported in a fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Framo Engineering AS
    Inventor: Lars Seim
  • Patent number: 8763707
    Abstract: A downhole circulating valve includes a generally tubular outer housing having an axially extending internal passageway including an internal seat and at least one generally radially extending opening formed through the housing intersecting the internal seat. A valve element is rotatably disposed within the internal passageway. The valve element has an axially extending internal bore and a head portion disposed at least partially within the internal seat. The head portion includes at least one generally radially extending seal element. The valve element has a first position relative to the housing, wherein the seal element is not aligned with the opening, thereby allowing fluid communication between the opening and the internal passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmie Robert Williamson, Leo G. Collins, David L. Reesing, Russell Irving Bayh, III
  • Publication number: 20140116714
    Abstract: An improved bypass valve assembly for a plunger lift apparatus comprises a bypass valve cage having improved flow characteristics and a simplified clutch assembly having enhanced durability and low cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: James Allen Jefferies, Schuyler Kuykendall
  • 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: 8662180
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a rotationally activated downhole well valve for connection in a tubing string is disclosed that can be repeatedly opened and closed selectively to place the tubing string in communication with the annulus. The valve is moved between the closed position and the open position by rotating the string in the first direction. In another embodiment, the valve is opened and closed by rotating the string in the first direction and is reset in the closed position by lifting and lowering the tubing string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul David Ringgenberg, Charles Frederick Carder
  • Publication number: 20140054041
    Abstract: A method for fracturing a wellbore in a formation, including positioning one or more bidirectional rotary sleeves on tubular members into the wellbore; engaging a unidirectional rotary source in a first position with a first bidirectional rotary sleeve of the one or more bidirectional rotary sleeves; operating the unidirectional rotary source to rotate the first bidirectional rotary sleeve in a first rotational direction to open at least one port in the first bidirectional rotary sleeve for providing an open fluid pathway between the first bidirectional rotary sleeve and the formation; pumping fluid through the tubular members and through the opened port to fracture the formation; engaging the unidirectional rotary source in a second position with the first bidirectional rotary sleeve; and operating the unidirectional rotary source to rotate first bidirectional rotary sleeve in a second rotational direction to close the at least one port in the first bidirectional rotary sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Brock Watson, Andrew Ferguson, Stanley W. Loving
  • Publication number: 20140008080
    Abstract: A downhole oilfield tool assembly comprises a mandrel, a ball valve oriented to block downwards flow through the mandrel in a closed position, a first piston located above the ball 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: September 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Brock Watson, Daniel Moeller, Kevin J. Miller
  • Patent number: 8607874
    Abstract: A valve for controlling flow in a subterranean well can include a working fluid and a closure member which rotates in response to phase change in the working fluid. A well system can include a valve which controls flow between a wellbore and a tubular string, with the valve including a working fluid and a closure member which rotates in response to phase change in the working fluid. Rotation of the closure member can displace a seat relative to a plug of a check valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Robert Pipkin, Travis W. Cavender
  • Patent number: 8607875
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a rotationally activated downhole well valve for connection in a tubing string is disclosed that can be repeatedly opened and closed selectively to place the tubing string in communication with the annulus. The valve is moved between the closed position and the open position by rotating the string in the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul David Ringgenberg, Charles Frederick Carder
  • Patent number: 8602107
    Abstract: A downhole hydraulic control tool comprising a substantially tubular body adapted for connection in a tubing string, the body including a throughbore arranged coaxially with a bore of the tubing string and one or more pockets arranged on a wall of the body, the pockets including a hydraulic power source and at least two control lines, wherein the device includes a pump to drive the hydraulic fluid through the control lines and a switchable flow mechanism for switching the flow of pumped fluid between the at least two control lines, and a switchable flow mechanism and a method of operating one or more downhole devices from a downhole located hydraulic control tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Manufacturing & Services Limited
    Inventor: Michael A. Reid
  • Publication number: 20130284428
    Abstract: A downhole tool for moving fluid through the tool comprises a rotatable sleeve disposed within a bore of the tool. The sleeve includes an opened upper end and a closed lower end to define a cavity. A fluid movement profile is disposed along the lower end. A directional port is disposed in the side of the sleeve in fluid communication with the cavity and an upper port disposed in the tool. The upper port can be isolated from a lower port in the tool, the lower port being in fluid communication with the fluid movement profile. A first fluid flowing downward enters the cavity, exits the directional port causing rotation of the sleeve, and flows out the tool through the upper port. Sleeve rotation causes a second fluid to be drawn upward into contact with the fluid movement profile which directs the second fluid out of the lower port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: YING QING XU
  • Publication number: 20130284451
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing apparatus comprising a housing defining an axial flowbore and comprising one or more ports providing a route of fluid communication between the axial flowbore and an exterior of the housing, a sliding sleeve disposed within the housing and comprising a seat and an orifice, the sliding sleeve being movable from a first position in which the ports are obstructed by the sliding sleeve to a second position in which the ports are unobstructed by the sliding sleeve, and the seat being configured to engage and retain an obturating member, and a fluid delay system comprising a fluid chamber containing a fluid, wherein the fluid delay system is operable to allow the sliding sleeve to transition from the first position to the second position at a delayed rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Mathew James MERRON
  • Publication number: 20130277043
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a an inflow assembly (1) for controlling fluid flow between a hydrocarbon reservoir (2) and a production casing in a well, comprising a first tubular (4) having an axial extension and at least one inlet (5) and a first wall (6) with at least a first axial channel (7) extending in the first wall from the inlet, a second tubular (8) having a first (9) and a second end (10) and at least one outlet (11), the second tubular being rotatable within the first tubular and having a second wall (12) with at least a second axial channel extending in the second wall from the first end to the outlet. The invention further relates to an assembly for controlling fluid flow between a hydrocarbon reservoir and a production casing in a well. Finally, the present invention relates to a downhole completion comprising a casing string and one or more of the inflow assembly/assemblies according the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: WELLTEC A/S
    Inventors: Jørgen Hallundbæk, Tomas Sune Andersen
  • Patent number: 8522886
    Abstract: A downhole apparatus adapted to be run on a workstring in a well bore. The apparatus has a body including ports and a valve which is rotatable to open and close the ports to selectively allow fluid flow through the body between regions of a well bore above and below the apparatus. The valve is rotated via a gearbox and motor in the apparatus. A sealing arrangement between the valve and body is also described. A method of running the apparatus in a well bore and monitoring pressure above the apparatus in order to control opening and closing of the valve under predetermined conditions is presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Red Spider Technology Limited
    Inventors: Michael J. Christie, Stuart Gordon, Irvine C. Brown, Michael A. Reid
  • Patent number: 8469104
    Abstract: A system and methodology provide valves, bottom hole assemblies, and methods of selectively actuating a motor. One aspect provides a valve including: a barrel having an interior having a circular cross-section, an inlet port, an outlet port, and a by-pass port; a first disc rotatably received within the barrel; and a second disc rotatably received within the barrel and pressed against the first disc to selectively form a seal. The first disc and the second each have an orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Geoffrey C. Downton
  • Patent number: 8469107
    Abstract: A flow control device is provided that in one embodiment includes a flow-through region configured to receive formation fluid at an inflow region and discharge the received fluid at an outflow region and a setting device configured to adjust the flow of the fluid through the flow-through region to a selected level. The setting device includes a coupling member configured to be coupled to an external latching device adapted to move the coupling member to cause the setting device to alter the flow of the fluid from the flow-through region to the selected level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Edward J. O'Malley, Elmer R. Peterson, Martin P. Coronado, Luis A. Garcia
  • Patent number: 8469105
    Abstract: A flow control device is provided that in one embodiment includes a flow-through region configured to receive formation fluid at an inflow region and discharge the received fluid at an outflow region and a setting device configured to adjust the flow of the fluid through the flow-through region to a selected level. The setting device includes a coupling member configured to be coupled to an external latching device adapted to move the coupling member to cause the setting device to alter the flow of the fluid from the flow-through region to the selected level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Edward J. O'Malley, Elmer R. Peterson, Martin P. Coronado, Luis A. Garcia
  • Patent number: 8464787
    Abstract: A space filler material is used to prevent accumulation of debris that could later foul the operation of adjacent moving parts. In one application a void space that is subsequently closed by actuated parts is initially filled with a material that is highly compressible and has voids that allow it to compress without undue resistance to part movement when the void volume is reduced. Ideally, the pores or voids in the material itself are small enough to keep most if not all the debris from entering and making the space filling material too rigid to collapse under part movement. In an alternative application, the material can be in an annular space such as a seal bore and it can keep debris from getting past the seal bore while allowing hydrostatic pressure across itself thereby helping it to maintain its position until moved such as by shifting of an inner string to which it is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Edward J. O'Malley
  • Patent number: 8393396
    Abstract: A valve is mounted to a tubular string and has an actuation assembly that is isolated from well fluids. The valve member can be a ball that rotates on a pivot and is actuated by relative rotation of string components that straddle the ball. Rotation of one string component is linked to the closure ball by an external slanted slot with an operating ball that rides in it and connects the rotating string component to the closure ball. Travel stops limit the desired rotation of the closure ball in opposed directions. The closure ball can alternatively be rotated by relative longitudinal string component movement that is converted to relative rotation such as through the use of a j-slot mechanism. Internal seals isolate the slanted slot and operating ball from well fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert S. O'Brien, Steve Rosenblatt
  • Patent number: 8371386
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for performing a series of downhole operations. The method can include conveying a work string with an integrated valve into a wellbore. As the work string with the integrated valve is conveyed into the wellbore, the valve can be in a first operation mode. When the valve is located within the wellbore, the valve can be adjusted to a different operation mode by selectively rotating at least a portion of the valve without longitudinal movement of the valve relative to the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Scott Malone
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8316953
    Abstract: A well tubing valve including a substantially tubular body connected in a tubular string and a rotational valve member having at least one aperture. The valve member is a sleeve having a part spherical surface, is rotationally moveable relative to the body to align and misalign the at least one aperture in the valve member with a port in the body. The valve member is actuable to rotate relative to the body in a single direction, and moves from the open position to a closed position and back by rotation in the same sense. The valve also includes a sealing arrangement adapted to provide a metal seal that is biased to seal against the part spherical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Red Spider Technology Limited
    Inventors: Michael A. Reid, Irvine C. Brown
  • Publication number: 20120247780
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a valve comprising a valve body; an orifice disposed within the valve body; a fluid flow restraining member located at a first location of the orifice, the fluid flow restraining member pivotable between a closed position and an open position; an extending member connected to, and moveable in pivotable synchronization with, the fluid flow restraining member; and a shape memory alloy element attached to the extending member and the valve body, the shape memory alloy element causing a pivotal movement of the extending member between positions corresponding to the open and closed positions responsive to a change in temperature of the shape memory alloy element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicants: Chevron U.S.A. Inc., Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: ERIC WRIGHT GILBERTSON, FRANZ HOVER, EDUARDO COLINA, DONALD BRYAN FREEMAN
  • Patent number: 8235103
    Abstract: Well tools including valves operable by low electrical input. One well tool includes a valve which controls fluid communication between pressure regions in a well, the valve including a rotatable member which is biased to rotate, and a brake or clutch which prevents rotation of the member. Another valve includes a barrier which separates reactants, with the valve being operable in response to the barrier being opened and the reactants thereby reacting with each other. Yet another valve includes a barrier which separates the pressure regions, and a control circuit which heats the barrier to a weakened state. Another valve includes a member displaceable between open and closed positions, a restraining device which resists displacement of the member, and a control device which degrades or deactivates the restraining device and thereby permits the member to displace between its open and closed positions, in response to receipt of a predetermined signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam D. Wright, Michael L. Fripp, Kevin D. Fink, Donald Perkins, Jimmie R. Williamson, Mark D. Kalman
  • Publication number: 20120160503
    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: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: John P. Davis
  • Publication number: 20120152550
    Abstract: A formation servicing system comprising a casing string, a first sleeve system and a second sleeve system, each of the first and second sleeve system being incorporated within the casing string and each comprising a body defining an axial flowbore and comprising one or more ports, a sliding sleeve being movable between (a) a first position in which the sliding sleeve obstructs fluid communication via the one or more ports and (b) a second position in which the sliding sleeve does not obstruct fluid communication via the one or more ports, and a shifting tool operable to shift the first or second sliding sleeves between their first and second positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Loyd E. EAST, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120145404
    Abstract: A valve for controlling flow in a subterranean well can include a working fluid and a closure member which rotates in response to phase change in the working fluid. A well system can include a valve which controls flow between a wellbore and a tubular string, with the valve including a working fluid and a closure member which rotates in response to phase change in the working fluid. Rotation of the closure member can displace a seat relative to a plug of a check valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Robert Pipkin, Travis W. Cavender
  • Publication number: 20120103595
    Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, an external tubular member comprises an external outside surface and an external inside surface joined by an external wall thickness. The external wall thickness comprises external sintered polycrystalline diamond. An internal member comprises an internal outside surface and an internal width. The internal width comprises internal sintered polycrystalline diamond. The external inside surface is adjacent to the internal outside surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Ronald B. Crockett, Neil Cannon
  • Publication number: 20120043092
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention disclose enhanced and improved well production tools for increasing the stability of production zones in a wellbore. Various embodiments of the present invention generally relate to apparatuses, systems, and processes for efficiently and effectively isolating zones within a wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Napoleon Arizmendi, JR., Richard Paul Rubbo
  • Publication number: 20120018172
    Abstract: A downhole fluid diverter tool includes a tool body having a central bore therethrough and a bypass port formed in an outer diameter thereof, a spring-biased piston disposed within the tool body, a piston port in the spring-biased piston configured to axially align with the bypass port to control fluid flow outward from the central bore, and a rotatable ball valve aligned within the central bore of the tool body and configured to control fluid flow through the central bore, wherein the bypass port and the ball valve are configured to be cycled multiple times between open and closed positions while in a wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Asif Javed
  • Publication number: 20120012322
    Abstract: Fracturing tools for use in oil and gas wells comprise an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve, a run-in position, and two operational positions. The inner sleeve comprises two ports and two positions. The first port is aligned with a first port of the housing when the tool and sleeve are in the first operational position and is closed when the tool and sleeve are in the run-in position. After performing the first operation, the inner sleeve is returned to its initial position and the outer sleeve is moved placing the tool in the second operational position in which the second port in the inner sleeve is in fluid communication with a second port in the housing. Movement of the tool from the first operational position to the second operational position so that a second operation can be performed is done without the need for an additional well intervention step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventors: Lale Korkmaz, Calvin J. Stowe, II
  • Publication number: 20110266001
    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. In other embodiments, the fluid diverter moves 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: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Jason D. Dykstra, Michael L. Fripp, Orlando DeJesus
  • Publication number: 20110259575
    Abstract: When injecting liquids into the ground, imposing pulses on the injected liquid is effective to increase penetration and saturation of the ground. Imposing suckback onto the pulses is effective to make the liquid in the ground behave as a coherent unitary body, surging out and back each pulse, and to super-saturate the ground. The tool includes a suckback-chamber, which is timed to open to the ground formation just as the pulse-valve closes. A biasser (e.g a spring) drives the chamber open and sucks in some of the liquid from the ground. The chamber is then emptied, back to the ground, by the rising pressure as the pulsing tool is recharged. The suckback-chamber can be added to any type of pulsing tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Brett Charles Davidson