Operated By Means Inserted From The Surface Patents (Class 166/332.4)
  • Patent number: 10724335
    Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a high pressure regulation system for a ball valve used in a wellbore is disclosed. The high pressure ball valve includes an outer wall, an inner wall disposed in the outer wall, a tubing defined by an inner diameter of the inner wall, an annulus defined by an outer diameter of the inner wall and an inner diameter of the outer wall, a lower chamber formed in the annulus, and a relief valve fluidically coupled to the lower chamber. The relief valve is to control a pressure differential between a pressure in the lower chamber and a pressure in the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Alistair Ledingham, Peter D W Inglis, Rory Archibald Napier
  • Patent number: 10597977
    Abstract: A closing sleeve assembly with a ported sleeve is disclosed. The closing sleeve assembly includes a housing; a port formed in the housing; a sealing surface formed in the housing adjacent to the port; and a closing sleeve configured to move between an open position and a closed position. The closing sleeve includes an uphole portion configured to substantially cover the sealing surface when the closing sleeve is moved to the open position; a port formed in the closing sleeve and configured to substantially overlap with the port formed in the housing when the closing sleeve is in the open position; and a seal configured to engage with the sealing surface to form a fluid and pressure tight seal when the closing sleeve is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip Terry Thomas, Jason Earl Davis
  • Patent number: 10487626
    Abstract: A fracturing valve comprising a tubular mandrel having a through bore continuous with a tubing string, and a frac window through the side of the tubular mandrel. An outer sleeve is radially disposed around the tubular mandrel. The outer sleeve includes a sleeve port in a sidewall. The tubular mandrel slides relative to the sleeve by application and release of set down weight on a coiled tubing string. When the valve is closed, there is no fluid communication from the tubing string out of the frac window. When the valve is open, fluid communication from the tubing string is enabled. The valve may be installed in a downhole tool having a perforation device. The tool string can be used with one sealing element as the tool is pulled up the hole isolating lower perforations, or with two sealing elements to allow pin-point treatments isolating perforations both up and downhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: NCS Multistage, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Getzlaf, John Ravensbergen, Douglas James Brunskill, Shawn Leggett
  • Patent number: 9784070
    Abstract: A wellbore servicing tool comprising a housing at least partially defining an axial flowbore, the housing comprising one or more ports, a sliding sleeve, and a fluid delay system. The sliding sleeve is slidably positioned within the housing and transitionable from a first position in which the sliding prevents fluid communication via a route of fluid communication via the one or more ports to a second position in which the sliding sleeve allows fluid communication via the route of fluid communication via the one or more ports. The fluid delay system is configured to retain the sliding sleeve in the first position until actuated and to allow the sliding sleeve to transition from the first position to the second position at a controlled rate when actuated. The fluid delay system is actuatable via a wireless signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Adam Kent Neer
  • Patent number: 9695656
    Abstract: A downhole shifting tool (100) for shifting a downhole component (46) comprises a body with a positioning arrangement (108) provided on the body for engaging or interacting with a downhole component to provide alignment of the shifting tool with said component. The tool further includes a connecting member (110) provided on the body and being moveable to selectively engage a connection profile of the downhole component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: Petrowell Limited
    Inventors: Oliver Webster, Damien Gerard Patton, Matthew Manning, Ian Jaffrey
  • Patent number: 9353592
    Abstract: Subsea Xmas tree assembly (5, 505) having a Xmas tree main bore (7) and a Xmas tree annulus bore (9). The main bore (7) aligns with a tubing hanger main bore (16) and the Xmas tree annulus bore (9) communicates with a tubing hanger annulus bore (17), when the Xmas tree assembly (5, 505) is installed above a tubing hanger (3) of a subsea well. The subsea Xmas tree assembly (5, 505) comprises a plug tool (100) adapted to install and to retrieve a plug (200) into and out of the tubing hanger annulus bore (17) when the Xmas tree assembly (5, 505) is installed above the tubing hanger (3). The assembly has a tool accommodation compartment (118, 618) within which the plug tool (100) is arranged. An associated method is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Aker Subsea AS
    Inventor: Jarmo Kekarainen
  • Patent number: 9291034
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Logan Completion Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Don Turner, Grant George
  • Patent number: 9133689
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for selectably opening a valve body having a central passage and a plurality of apertures therethrough. The apparatus comprises a sleeve slidably located within the central passage of the valve body adapted to selectably cover or uncover the apertures. The apparatus further comprises a shifting tool slidably locatable within the sleeve having at least one sleeve engaging member selectably extendable therefrom in parallel to a central axis thereto engagable upon the sleeve wherein the shifting tool is moveable. The method comprises positioning the shifting tool within the sleeve in a first or second position, extending the sleeve engaging members from the shifting tool in parallel to a central axis of the shifting tool into engagement upon the sleeve, and axially moving the shifting tool and the sleeve to the other of the first or second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Grant George, Shane Sargent
  • Publication number: 20150060076
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for selectively actuating a downhole tool in a tubular conduit. An actuator tool has an actuator mandrel having an actuator bore through and a bypass and a profile key to selectively engage the downhole tool. The downhole tool has one or more profile receivers adapted to actuate the downhole tool. The actuator tool is conveyed into the tubular conduit and the actuator tool and the downhole tool are engaged if the profile key and the profile receiver match, and the actuator tool and the downhole tool are non-engaged if the profile key and the profile receiver do not match. Fluid may be circulated through the actuator bore to flush or wash ahead of the actuator tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: STONECREEK TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventors: Sean Patrick CAMPBELL, Darryl FIRMANIUK, Lennard SIHLIS
  • Patent number: 8955604
    Abstract: A receptacle sub that increases the venting flowrate during retrieval of a running tool. The sub includes a sleeve with a bypass port in a central bore defined by a tubular body. The sleeve is selectively moveable from an upper position to a lower position. A seal on the sleeve seals the sleeve to the bore while a retainer holds the sleeve in the upper position. A bypass passage in the body is in fluid communication with the bypass port. A drop member lands on the sleeve, blocking downward flow through the sleeve and actuating a hydraulic function. The drop member receives a fluid pressure greater than the hydraulic function fluid pressure, releasing the retainer to move the sleeve to the lower position. This allows fluid communication from above the central bore through the bypass passage and through the bypass ports of the sleeve below the drop member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas Peter Gette
  • Patent number: 8919440
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting screen-out using a fracturing valve for mitigation, wherein 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 nonfracturing position upon detecting by a pressure sensor in the wellbore that the downhole pressure has reached said predetermined threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Kristian Brekke
  • Patent number: 8919434
    Abstract: A system and method for fracturing a well, wherein the system can comprise a base pipe comprising an insert port capable of housing a stop ball partially within the chamber of it, and a sliding sleeve. The sliding sleeve can comprise a first sleeve with an in inner surface. That inner surface can comprise a void. The first sleeve can be maneuverable into two positions. In the first position, the void can rest on a surface of the base pipe not comprising an insert port. Such positioning can prevent a stop ball from exiting the chamber of the base pipe. In the second position, the void can rest over an insert port. Such positioning can allow the stop ball to the chamber of said the base pipe and to enter the void.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Kristian Brekke
  • Patent number: 8905145
    Abstract: A well tool having an actuator sleeve in a housing. The actuator sleeve has an internal shifting tool engaging profile. The tool has an actuator in the housing that is responsive to a remote signal to change from an unactuated state to an actuated state and shift the actuator sleeve from a first position to a second position. A collet in the housing is supported to couple the actuator sleeve to the actuator while the actuator changes from the unactuated state to the actuated state and is unsupported to allow the actuator sleeve to move relative to the actuator when the actuator is in the actuated state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Rory Archibald Napier
  • Patent number: 8905128
    Abstract: A valve assembly employable with a downhole tool configured for conveyance in a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation and method of operating the same. The valve assembly includes an actuator and a sensing apparatus configured to provide a first signal based on an environment associated with the valve assembly and a second signal based on a characteristic of the valve assembly. The valve assembly also includes a controller configured to provide a third signal to the actuator to alter the characteristic in response to the first and second signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Mijail Barranco Niconoff
  • Patent number: 8899335
    Abstract: A downhole bypass valve comprises a tubular body including a side port and a sleeve axially movably mounted in the body and normally biased to a closed position to close the side port. An activating device is configured to be pumped or dropped into the body to engage the sleeve and permit movement of the sleeve to an open position and open the side port. A latch has a part in the body and a part in the activating device, the parts of the latch configured to engage and retain the sleeve in the open position. The activating device is further operable to disengage from and translate through the sleeve and the parts of the latch are further operable to disengage and permit the sleeve to return to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Churchill Drilling Tools Limited
    Inventor: Andrew Churchill
  • Publication number: 20140345876
    Abstract: A selectively openable inflow control sub includes a sliding sleeve valve slidable within an inner bore of the sub between a closed-port position, closing the inflow port, and an open-port position, opening the inflow port to fluid flow therethrough, the sliding sleeve valve is axially moveable from the closed-port position to the open-port position by pushing the sleeve with a mill string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Joe Coon, Daniel Jon Themig, James Fehr
  • Patent number: 8893806
    Abstract: An exercise tool assembly for operating a downhole tool auxiliary to a primary actuator system of the downhole tool includes a cylinder mandrel configured to be received in the central bore of the downhole tool. A piston mandrel is in and sealed with the cylinder mandrel. The exercise tool assembly is configured to couple to an actuator sleeve of the downhole tool and to couple to the downhole tool at a location apart from the actuator sleeve. The piston mandrel is responsive to a change in pressure in the central bore to translate relative to the cylinder mandrel and translate the coupling with the actuator sleeve relative to the coupling at the location apart from the actuator sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmie Robert Williamson, James Dan Vick, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8893811
    Abstract: A system for servicing a subterranean formation comprising a wellbore completion string comprising a first master activatable stimulation assembly, a first slave activatable stimulation assembly, wherein the first slave activatable stimulation assembly activates responsive to activation of the first master stimulation assembly; a second master activatable stimulation assembly, and a second slave activatable stimulation assembly, wherein the second slave activatable stimulation assembly activates responsive to activation of the second master stimulation assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Brock Miller
  • Patent number: 8869903
    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. Also included is a production method useable in a borehole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Anthony Thomas, Kevin J. Berry
  • Patent number: 8863853
    Abstract: Downhole tools that have a housing, a linearly indexing driver, a reciprocating shifter, and an actuation seat. The driver is adapted for linear indexing relative to the housing from an initial position sequentially through one or more intermediate positions to a terminal position. The shifter is adapted for axial reciprocation relative to the housing and is operatively connected to the driver and adapted to index the indexed driver from its initial position sequentially through its intermediate positions to its terminal position as the shifter reciprocates. The actuation seat is mounted on the shifter and is adapted to receive a ball for actuation of the shifter and to release the ball after the shifter has indexed the indexed driver. Thus, a series of such tools may be operated by deploying a series of balls, all of the same size, through the tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Team Oil Tools LP
    Inventors: Michael J. Harris, Kenneth J. Anton
  • Patent number: 8863849
    Abstract: A technique provides a system and methodology for enhancing the operational life of an electric submersible pumping system. A completion is combined with a flow diverter valve and is positioned downhole in a wellbore. An electric submersible pumping system is coupled into the completion and the flow diverter valve is oriented to control fluid flow with respect to the electric submersible pumping system. For example, the flow diverter valve may be automatically operable to direct well fluid to the electric submersible pumping system when the pumping system is operating and to direct well fluid to bypass the electric submersible pumping system when the pumping system is not operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Dinesh Patel
  • Patent number: 8844637
    Abstract: A technique provides a system and methodology for treating a plurality of zones, e.g. well zones. A plurality of flow control devices is located along a tubular structure, such as a well string in a wellbore. Each flow control device or each set of flow control devices comprises a seat member having a unique profile relative to the profiles of the other flow control devices. Drop objects are designed with engagement features arranged to engage the profiles of specific flow control devices. For example, each drop object may have an engagement feature of a corresponding profile designed to engage the unique profile of a specific flow control device or of a specific set of flow control devices to enable actuation of the specific flow control device or the specific set of flow control devices once the drop object is dropped through the tubular structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jason Baihly, Don Aldridge
  • Patent number: 8813849
    Abstract: An oil well control device automatically shuts in a well responsive to the removal of a work string (or other removable structure—ball retarding structure) from the device. The device is placed in the well as a section of the well casing. The device provides a pair of bores, one that aligns with the well bore or well casing, the other being a branch flow line containing a ball structure that will close the well if the drill pipe or drill string is removed. While conducting normal well activity (e.g. drilling, work over or the like) the ball retarder (e.g. work string) prevents entry of the ball structure into the main flow channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Raymond C. Davis
  • Patent number: 8776888
    Abstract: The present invention provides a robust, durable and reliable cylindrical valve having closable, radially extending openings for use in cementing, injection, including hydraulic fracturing, and production in wells having high pressures and large pressure differences. The valve may comprise scraping rings in order to remove deposits and the like when it is to be closed after use. Magnets or other suitable means indicates whether the valve is in an open or closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: I-Tec AS
    Inventor: Kristoffer Braekke
  • Patent number: 8757265
    Abstract: Frac valves used in completing oil and gas wells are provided. The valves comprise a cylindrical housing adapted for assembly into a liner for a well. The valve housing defines a conduit for the passage of fluids through the housing. Preferably the conduit has a substantially uniform diameter. The housing has a port which can allow fluids to pass from the conduit to the exterior of the valve. The port may be shut off or left open by a valve body mounted on the housing. Preferably, the valve body is mounted between inner and outer walls provided in the housing. An actuator is provided to move the valve body between its open and closed positions. It comprises a receiver that is adapted to receive an activation signal. Thus, the valve may be actuated by introducing a transmitter into the housing conduit which transmits an activation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: EirCan Downhole Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher J. Cuffe, John Cuffe
  • Patent number: 8733445
    Abstract: A disposable downhole tool is disclosed. The tool is suitable for use as a frac tool. The tool includes a housing having an inner wall surface defining a bore. The tool also includes a valve structure disposed within the bore, the valve structure comprising a disposable plug seat, the disposable plug seat comprising a first natural rock material. The disposable tool may also include a disposable plug in fluid sealing engagement with the seat, the plug comprising a second natural rock material, the plug and the plug seat comprising a plug valve. The first and second natural rock materials may include sedimentary rock, such as various forms of limestone, including Carrara marble or Indiana limestone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Tianping Huang
  • Patent number: 8733474
    Abstract: A method of drilling a well and installing a liner includes assembling concentric inner and outer strings of tubulars. A drill bit is located at the lower end of the inner string and a liner with a liner hanger makes up part of the outer string. The inner and outer strings may be rotated in unison to drill the well. A valve is located upstream of a liner hanger control tool used to release and set the liner hanger in the drill string. The valve comprises a ported sleeve that slides relative to a ported housing to meter flow from the interior of the drill string to the annular space. The redirected flow maintains a minimum flow rate in the annular space to prevent cuttings from settling on the control tool. A portion of the valve can further be used with a dart to manipulate downstream equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Kevin James Nikiforuk
  • Patent number: 8727010
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Logan Completion Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Don Turner, Sean Campbell, Grant George
  • Patent number: 8727026
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing fluid communication includes a housing having a port; an inner sleeve adapted to seal the port; and a seal sleeve adapted to seal the port, wherein the seal sleeve is disposed between the inner sleeve and the housing and is movable with the inner sleeve to seal the port. In another embodiment, the port is sealed using a metal to metal seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Rebecca M. Caldwell, Christopher J. Cuffe
  • Publication number: 20140124213
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a sleeve fracturing assembly including a composite sleeve and an opening tool. The composite sleeve and the opening tool can automatically engage with each other via teeth-shaped members arranged thereon so as to open the composite sleeve. The present disclosure further relates to a sleeve fracturing device, which includes a plurality of composite sleeves and opening tools, wherein each composite sleeve and opening tool can achieve unique engagement. The present disclosure still further relates to a method of using the sleeve fracturing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicants: CHINA PETROLEUM AND CHEMICAL CORPORATION SOUTHWEST OIL AND GAS COMPANY, CHINA PETROLEUM & CHEMICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Zhenwei Gan, Qiusheng Huang, Shan Ren, Guangquan Li, Jihao Wu
  • Patent number: 8695622
    Abstract: A ball within a ball valve comprises a ball, an interior fluid passage extending through the ball, a first flow passage disposed in the ball that allows fluid communication between an exterior fluid and the interior fluid passage, a second flow passage disposed in the ball that extends through a wall of the ball to the interior fluid passage, where the first flow passage and the second flow passage are on opposite hemispheres of the ball, and a flow through device. The flow through device comprises a plug disposed in the second flow passage and configured to sealingly engage the ball, and a shear device configured to engage the plug and retain the plug in the second flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Derek Walter Inglis, Katherine Ann Davies
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8672035
    Abstract: A pressurization tool comprises a body for connection to a tubular by box, and pin, and providing for flow of fluid by way of a throughbore of varying cross-section to form chambers. A lower chamber accommodates a spring that contacts a shoulder providing a reaction surface for compression of the spring under applied force. The chamber merges into intermediate chamber that accommodates a movable index sleeve that cooperates with an index pin inserted through the wall of the tool body. Associated with the upper part of the index sleeve is a valve seat assembly, positioned to abut the index sleeve and moveable therewith, said valve seat assembly being configured to receive a plug or ball, and in one unpressurised configuration, is located in a wider chamber that permits fluid flow around the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Specialised Petroleum Services Group Limited
    Inventor: George Telfer
  • Patent number: 8668012
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jesse Cale Porter, Kendall Lee Pacey, Matthew Todd Howell, William Ellis Standridge
  • Patent number: 8646533
    Abstract: A mechanical sliding sleeve (101) includes a sleeve housing (105) defining a fluid communication port, a first sub (103) affixed to the sleeve housing, and a second sub (107) affixed to the sleeve housing. An isolation sleeve (201) is disposed in an internal bore defined by the sleeve housing, the first sub, and the second sub, and defines a fluid communication port (113). The isolation sleeve is slidable along interfaces between the first sub, the second sub, and the sleeve housing between an open position, wherein fluid is allowed through the ports, and a closed position, wherein fluid passage through the ports is inhibited. A sealing element is operably associated with the sleeve housing, the first sub, the second sub, and the isolation sleeve to inhibit fluid flow through the ports unless the isolation sleeve is in the open position, and to seal at least a portion of the interfaces from contact with downhole fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Vi (Jim) Nguy, Nathan Kathol
  • Patent number: 8636059
    Abstract: A downhole circulating valve includes a generally tubular outer housing having a generally axially extending internal passageway. At least one generally longitudinally extending circulating passageway is formed through at least a portion of the housing. At least one exterior port and at least one interior port are in fluid communication with the circulating passageway. At least one seal plug is disposed within the circulating passageway. The seal plug has a first position relative to the housing wherein the seal plug is remote from the exterior port and the interior port, thereby allowing fluid flow between the exterior port and the interior port through the circulating passageway. The seal plug has a second position relative to the housing wherein the seal plug is between the exterior port and the interior port and wherein the seal plug forms at least one metal-to-metal seal with the circulating passageway, thereby preventing fluid flow between the exterior port and the interior port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James Dan Vick, Jr., Jimmie Robert Williamson, Robert Lester Thurman, Russell Irving Bayh, III
  • Patent number: 8596366
    Abstract: Disclosed are wellbore flow control devices and methods of using the same. One wellbore flow control device includes a sliding sleeve assembly defining a first entrance and a first exit and being movably arranged within a housing coupled to a wellbore pipe, the sliding sleeve assembly being fluidly communicable with one or more well screens via the first entrance and a first flow pathway, and a flow restricting assembly arranged within the housing and being fluidly communicable with the sliding sleeve assembly via the first exit and a second flow pathway, wherein the sliding sleeve assembly is movable between a first position, where the first entrance and first exit are blocked, and a second position, where the first entrance and first exit are open and allow fluid communication between the first and second flowpaths through the sliding sleeve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Earl Franklin, Jean-Marc Lopez
  • Patent number: 8579027
    Abstract: A multi-functional completion tool which may be lowered into a wellbore coupled to a length of tubing, and then utilized to test various lengths of the tubing at pressure. The tool may also function as a positive plug, may be used to set a packer, and is also useable as a tubing self-filling tool. Various retention elements are disposed within the tool and configured to release at predetermined pressures, or within predetermined ranges of pressure, thereby transforming the tool from a first configuration to a second configuration depending on the desired function. The tool may use a flapper mechanism to regulate passage of fluids through the housing, and a piston and/or flow tube may also be utilized to lock the flapper in an open or closed orientation within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Downhole & Design International Corp.
    Inventors: Adel Ghobrial Abdelmalek, S Keith Fry, Lance C Fry
  • Patent number: 8540019
    Abstract: A system and method comprising at least one ported sleeve assembly and a flapper assembly positioned downwell of the ported sleeve assembly. The system provides for the use of multiple ported sleeve assemblies for each stage of a hydrocarbon producing well that can be opened with a single element, and multiple stages, each have the ability to be opened with a single element size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventors: Raymond Hofman, Steve Jackson, Daniel Jesus Rojas, William Sloane Muscroft
  • Patent number: 8522877
    Abstract: Systems and methods for locking a sliding sleeve valve in an open position and/or a closed position to prevent inadvertent operation of the sleeve valve during other operations. A sliding sleeve valve locking assembly includes an outer housing defining a locking bore portion with a first locking groove formed therein, a sliding sleeve collet member having a collet finger with a tab shaped and sized to reside within the first locking groove. The sliding sleeve valve locking assembly also includes a collet locking member that is moveably disposed within the sliding sleeve collet member to selectively lock the sliding sleeve collet member within the locking bore portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Clay Chambers, Jobby T. Jacob, Nicholas J. Clem, Hugo Figueroa, Travis E. Cochran
  • Patent number: 8505632
    Abstract: A technique that is usable with a well includes deploying a plurality of location markers in a passageway of the well and deploying an untethered object in the passageway such that the object travels downhole via the passageway. The technique includes using the untethered object to sense proximity of at least some of the location markers as the object travels downhole, and based on the sensing, selectively expand its size to cause the object to become lodged in the passageway near a predetermined location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Julio Guerrero, Gary L. Rytlewski, Bruno Lecerf, Michael J. Bertoja, Christian Ibeagha, Alex Moody-Stuart, Adam Mooney, Jay Russell, Christopher Hopkins, Adam Paxson, Billy Anthony, Dinesh R. Patel
  • Patent number: 8459365
    Abstract: A downhole bidirectional apparatus, including a first engagement section; a second engagement section having a rotary device; a third engagement section; and a rotary source having a first rotary member and a second rotary member, the first rotary member disposed about the second rotary member, the first rotary member connected to a first gripping member and the second rotary member connected with a second gripping member, wherein the rotary device is rotatable in a first rotational direction when the second gripping member is engaged with the third engagement section and the first gripping member is rotatably engaged with the second engagement section, and wherein the rotary device is rotatable in a second rotational direction when the second gripping member is engaged with the second engagement section and the first gripping member is engaged with the first engagement section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Brock Watson, Andrew Ferguson, Stanley W. Loving
  • Patent number: 8459364
    Abstract: A method and a device for securing a well during sluicing in of a well tool includes arranging a landing sleeve provided with a barrier valve in a well tubular downstream of a subsurface safety valve; displacing the well tool into the well tubular until a braking nose being connected to the well tool is placed in the landing sleeve; and unlocking the barrier valve by means of a key being positioned on the leading end portion of the well tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Aker Well Service AS
    Inventor: Asmund Solland
  • Patent number: 8443894
    Abstract: The tool can run in and latch another tool such as a ball valve into a packer, for example. It has the capability of operating the valve while still engaged to the valve housing. Once the valve is operated and released a pressure test can be conducted while the tool is still engaged to the valve housing. After that a predetermined applied force allows release from the valve housing without the valve shifting mechanism still engaged. In a different configuration the tool can be a simple pulling tool to remove the valve housing without shifting it. The tool has a rotational lock to allow release from a packer by turning to the right. In another configuration it can be a latch tool for a production string that shifts the valve as it releases when the production string is pulled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Anthony S. Coghill, Thomas S. Myerley, Ronald J. Garr
  • Patent number: 8424611
    Abstract: A downhole valve has a closure device (e.g., one or more flappers) for closing off the valve. A no-go actuation mechanism protects the flappers from damage. When the flappers are closed, the mechanism prevents a tool from passing into the valve and causing damage to the flappers. Yet, the mechanism may open the valve's flappers when the tool string is forced into the valve. When the valve has successfully opened, then the mechanism moves out of the way of the toolstring so it can pass through the valve. For the mechanically operated valves, operators use a shifting profile in the valve only in the upward direction to return the valve to the closed position. For hydraulic actuated valves, hydraulic pressure may be used or exhausted, depending on the design, to allow the flappers to go closed. Once the flappers have closed, the no-go mechanism is once again realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Roddie R. Smith, Michael J. Foster, Eric Johnson
  • Publication number: 20130048302
    Abstract: A safety valve for subsurface disposal equipped with an interfacing element of elastomeric and non-elastomeric components. The components include an elastomeric energizing component and a non-elastomeric seal ring configured to work together in attaining an internal seal sufficient for allowing the valve to remain consistently closed. Indeed, the aid afforded by the interfacing element may allow the valve to remain consistently and effectively closed even in particularly low pressure well environments or those of widely varying temperatures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Emrah Gokdag, Mark Anderson, Paul Jeffery Johantges, Jason A. McCann
  • Patent number: 8371375
    Abstract: A unique landing nipple has spaced control line connections and external control lines running from the surface to those connections. A hydraulic barrier valve, such as a ball valve, is run in to a predetermined landing nipple and latched in position where the control line connections are in the right locations to operate the valve. A landing nipple with a latching groove alone can be used with a wireline run barrier valve to latch it into position at the desired location. A shifting tool is used to operate the mechanically actuated valve. More than one valve can be positioned or used in the string at a time or the same valve can also be positioned at different landing nipples at different times to meet the production needs of the well operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Ronald J. Garr, Kevin R. Plunkett
  • Publication number: 20130032356
    Abstract: A method of operating an insert safety valve in a subterranean well can include installing the insert safety valve in a flow passage which extends longitudinally through an outer safety valve, making electrical contact between the insert safety valve and an electrical connector, and operating the insert safety valve, thereby selectively permitting and preventing flow through the flow passage. An insert safety valve can include a closure assembly which selectively permits and prevents flow through a longitudinal flow passage, and at least one electrical connector which electrically connects to another electrical connector external to the insert safety valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Bruce E. SCOTT, John J. GOIFFON
  • Publication number: 20130032355
    Abstract: A method of operating a valve can include installing an electrical actuator in a flow passage extending longitudinally through the valve, and operating a closure assembly in response to electrical power being supplied to the electrical actuator. An outer safety valve can include a closure assembly which selectively permits and prevents flow through a longitudinal flow passage, and at least one electrical connector which electrically connects to an insert safety valve positioned in the flow passage. A method of operating an outer safety valve in a subterranean well can include installing an insert safety valve in the safety valve, and operating the insert safety valve with electrical current flowing from the safety valve to the insert safety valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Bruce E. SCOTT, John J. GOIFFON
  • Patent number: 8365829
    Abstract: A pluggable seat includes, a first portion, positionable within a tubular, that is receptive to a runnable member seatable thereagainst, a second portion positioned downstream of the first portion, having a radial dimension smaller than a smallest radial dimension of the first portion, and a profile disposed at the second portion configured to increase resistance to extrusion of a runnable member past the pluggable seat in comparison to the same pluggable seat without the profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Justin Kellner, Travis Harris, Jason Coe, Dwayne Walkoviak, James Scott Sanchez, David B. Ruddock