Disconnection Patents (Class 166/340)
-
Patent number: 8561706Abstract: The connection system allows to assemble two sections of a riser pipe used for offshore drilling, the riser pipe comprising a main tube and at least one auxiliary line arranged parallel to said tube. The connection system comprises a connector A for assembling two main tube sections and connecting means B1 for assembling two auxiliary line sections. Connecting means B1 are arranged, with respect to connector A, in such a way that the overall dimensions E of the connection system are smaller than the sum of the overall dimensions EA of the connector and of the overall dimensions EB1 of the connecting means.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2010Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: IFP Energies NouvellesInventors: Daniel Averbuch, GĂ©rard Papon, Emmanuel Persent
-
Patent number: 8555976Abstract: A rig control interface, system, and method. The rig control interface includes an emergency disconnect sequence button configured to initiate an emergency disconnect sequence signal to be sent to multiplex pods resulting in an emergency disconnect sequence including a plurality of functions being performed by devices in one or both of a lower marine riser package and a blowout preventer stack; and an emergency disconnect sequence timer display triggered by initiation of the emergency disconnect sequence signal, the emergency disconnect sequence timer display configured to indicate one or both of time elapsed after initiation of the emergency disconnect sequence signal and a status of the plurality of functions being performed by the devices in the one or both of the lower marine riser package and the blowout preventer stack.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2010Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: Hydrill USA Manufacturing LLCInventor: Joseph Prem Ebenezer
-
Patent number: 8522880Abstract: A floating structure includes a riser support system. The riser support system includes multiple carts, each suitable for moveably connecting a risers to the riser support system. A cart includes a support frame and one or more riser tensioners for connecting the support frame to a riser. Each cart is designed for being supported by a cart support structure in a production dock and in a drilling dock, and for being transferred by a crane between the production dock and the drilling dock. Thus, the riser support system enables transferring risers and their riser tensioners within the moonpool from a production dock to a drilling dock without the need of disconnecting and/or reconnecting the risers to extra riser tensioners for support in the drilling dock or during transport.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2009Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: ITREC B.V.Inventors: Joop Roodenburg, Pieter Dirk Melis Van Duivendijk
-
Publication number: 20130192842Abstract: A jack system may provide subsea or surface operation. The jack system includes a top plate and a base plate with at least two pistons disposed between the base and top plate. The pistons are extendable to increase a separation distance between the base and top plate, and said pistons are retractable to decrease the separation distance between the base and top plate. The jack system also includes a bottom slip bowl assembly, a top slip bowl assembly, and rotary assembly. The top slip bowl and rotary assembly are rotateably coupled to the top plate wherein the rotary assembly and the top slip bowl assembly rotate relative to the top plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2012Publication date: August 1, 2013Applicant: CUDD PRESSURE CONTROL, INC.Inventors: Charles Curtis Overstreet, Scott Michael Cunningham, J.E. Skip Ward
-
Patent number: 8464797Abstract: A method for assembling a control module having a fixed part and a removable section. The method includes configuring the fixed part of the control module to be attached to a pressure supply line for receiving a fluid under pressure; providing in the fixed part a valve manifold that houses a hydraulic activated valve; detachably attaching the removable section of the control module to the fixed part; fluidly connecting an electrically activated valve of the removable section to the hydraulic activated valve such that the electrically activated valve controls the hydraulic activated valve; and configuring the electrically activated valve to electrically connect to a control section.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2010Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLCInventors: Hardev Singh, David Dietz, Jr., Luis Melendez, Dat Nguyen
-
Publication number: 20130146299Abstract: A barrier and lubrication fluids pressure regulation system for a subsea motor and pump module is disclosed, comprising a lubrication fluid circuit in flow communication with a hydraulic fluid supply via a first pressure reducing regulator (15); and a barrier fluid circuit in flow communication with the hydraulic fluid supply via a second pressure reducing regulator (14). The first pressure reducing regulator (15) is configured to reduce the supply fluid pressure in response to the pumped medium pressure at the suction side (4) or at the discharge side (5) of the pump, and the second pressure reducing regulator (14) is configured to reduce the supply fluid pressure in response to the output pressure of the first pressure reducing regulator (15). A pressure regulation unit is likewise disclosed, and arranged for housing the components of the barrier and lubrication fluids pressure regulation system in a pressurized vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2011Publication date: June 13, 2013Applicant: VETCO GRAY SCANDINAVIA ASInventor: Ole Peter Tomter
-
Publication number: 20130075104Abstract: A guide funnel for guiding a subsea infrastructure for connection with a subsea wellhead or mandrel profile is provided. The guide funnel comprises a plurality of sections, wherein the sections are collapsible such that the guide funnel can be in an extended state or a collapsed state.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: VETCO GRAY, INC.Inventor: Vetco Gray, Inc.
-
Patent number: 8393397Abstract: An apparatus for separating a tubular string from a subsea well installation. The apparatus includes a heave compensator tensioning the tubular string, a subsea actuator assembly positioned within the tubular string, a subsea controller in communication with the subsea actuator assembly, a subsea safety tree positioned within the subsea well installation and a fluid delivery subsystem. An output signal generated by the subsea controller responsive to receipt of a predetermined input signal releases a piston of the subsea actuator assembly such that the tension in the tubular string shifts the piston relative to a cylinder energizing fluid in the fluid delivery subsystem to actuate the retainer valve, the shut-in valve assembly, the vent sleeve and the latch assembly, thereby safely separating the tubular string from a subsea well installation.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2010Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Ross John Trewhella, Darryl K. Mackie
-
Patent number: 8387702Abstract: A multicoupler, particularly for gas or oil production, comprises at least one male and one female part. Said parts comprise a plurality of fluid coupling members which can be assigned to one another and which are in engagement with one another when male part and female part are in the coupling position. One of the parts comprises a connecting means including a spindle, which connecting means in the coupling position is in engagement with a mating connecting means on the other part.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventor: Klaus Biester
-
Patent number: 8336630Abstract: A subsea completion testing tree (SCTT) for connection in a tubular string includes a lower tree portion having a control valve; an upper tree portion separably connected to the lower tree portion at a latch; a circulation valve connected with the upper tree portion; and a retainer valve connected with the upper tree portion between the circulation valve and the latch.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2009Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: John A. Kerr
-
Publication number: 20120273212Abstract: A tool for separating a first flange from a second flange comprises an annular body disposed about a central axis and defining a flange capture cavity. In addition, the tool comprises a plurality of circumferentially-spaced wedge members moveably coupled to the body. Further, the tool comprises a first actuation assembly configured to move each wedge member from a first position radially withdrawn from the capture cavity to a second position radially advanced into the capture cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2012Publication date: November 1, 2012Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.Inventors: Paul Edward Anderson, Wyatt Chase Breidenthal, Eric Joseph Munstereifel
-
Publication number: 20120267116Abstract: A tool for removing a first flange from a second flange comprises a housing having a central axis, a first end, and an open second end opposite the first end. The housing also includes a first access port extending radially therethrough. In addition, the tool comprises an annular basket grapple coaxially disposed within the second end of the housing and configured to coaxially receive and engage a first flange. The basket grapple has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a cutout extending radially therethrough. The outer surface of the basket grapple includes external threads that engage mating internal threads on the inner surface of the housing. Further, the tool comprises a key releasably coupled to the housing. The key is configured to selectively prevent relative rotation between the basket grapple and the housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2012Publication date: October 25, 2012Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.Inventor: Paul Edward Anderson
-
Publication number: 20120234549Abstract: A method for removing a hydrocarbon production platform at sea, the production platform being connected to a hydrocarbon well, and including a support structure and an upper part being supported by the support structure, where the method includes the steps of; temporarily closing the well, removing at least part of the upper part from the support structure, positioning a well abandonment module on the support structure, which well abandonment module is constructed and arranged to perform well abandonment operations, performing abandonment operations from the well abandonment module to abandon the well, removing the well abandonment module from the support structure after the well abandonment operations are completed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2012Publication date: September 20, 2012Applicant: HEEREMA MARINE CONTRACTORS NEDERLAND B.V.Inventor: Marinus Christiaan Lammertink
-
Publication number: 20120222865Abstract: A drilling riser adapter variably connects and releases a riser from a subsea wellhead assembly. The drilling riser adapter has a hydraulically actuated engagement assembly for selectively engaging and disengaging a lower end of the marine riser. The drilling riser adapter also includes a control panel communicatively coupled to the engagement assembly for actuating the engagement assembly to engage and disengage the lower end of the marine riser. The drilling riser adapter also includes a hydraulic fluid pressure receptacle on the control panel for engagement by a remotely operated vehicle to supply hydraulic fluid pressure to the engagement assembly. The drilling riser adapter may be actuated subsea to release a first riser from the wellhead assembly, and connect to a second riser.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2011Publication date: September 6, 2012Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Eric Dale Larson, Robert Allen Blue
-
Publication number: 20120175123Abstract: A subsea separation device for use in separating a pair of stabplate connector plates, the subsea separation device comprising a first engagement member adapted to engage, in use, a first one of the connector plates, or a component rigidly secured thereto, a second engagement member adapted to engage, in use, a second one of the connector plates or a component rigidly secured thereto, and drive means operable to urge the first and second engagement members apart and so urge the connector plates apart.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2012Publication date: July 12, 2012Applicant: VIPER SUBSEA TECHNOLOGY LIMITEDInventors: Paul Roberts, Thomas Dunkerton
-
Patent number: 8210264Abstract: The disclosure provides a subsea overload release system and method. The disclosure provides a releasable connection system than can be overridden during an overload condition, and is resettable in a subsea location in situ. During normal operation, a collet sleeve is slidably engageable with a collet having one or more fingers that can releasably couple a first member with a second member. During an overload condition, an overload piston acting on fluid in an overload reservoir causes an overload pressure and a rupture or other release of fluid through an overload pressure member, causing the overload reservoir to at least partially collapse. The collapse allows the system to extend and force open the fingers to disengage the second member from the first member. When the overload symptom is rectified, the overload reservoir can be reset and the overload pressure member reset or replaced without requiring repairs above sea surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2009Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignees: Techip France, Nautilus Minerals Pacific Pty LtdInventor: Harvey O. Mohr
-
Publication number: 20120132430Abstract: A rig control interface, system, and method. The rig control interface includes an emergency disconnect sequence button configured to initiate an emergency disconnect sequence signal to be sent to multiplex pods resulting in an emergency disconnect sequence including a plurality of functions being performed by devices in one or both of a lower marine riser package and a blowout preventer stack; and an emergency disconnect sequence timer display triggered by initiation of the emergency disconnect sequence signal, the emergency disconnect sequence timer display configured to indicate one or both of time elapsed after initiation of the emergency disconnect sequence signal and a status of the plurality of functions being performed by the devices in the one or both of the lower marine riser package and the blowout preventer stack.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2010Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLCInventor: Joseph Prem EBENEZER
-
Publication number: 20120132431Abstract: Emergency disconnect sequence (EDS) video capture systems and method. The EDS video capture system includes a stack screen on a drilling platform, the stack screen including an EDS button to initiate an EDS signal to be sent to multiplex pods resulting in an EDS including a plurality of functions being performed by devices in one or both of a lower marine riser package and a blowout preventer stack, and an EDS function status indicator. The indicator is either a video capture device aimed at the stack screen to automatically capture one or more of the initiation of EDS signal by the EDS button and a progress of the EDS indicated by the EDS function status indicator as EDS evidence or a video card to capture one or more of the initiation of the EDS signal by the EDS button and a progress of the EDS indicated by the EDS function status indicator as EDS evidence, and a storage to store the EDS evidence.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2010Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLCInventor: Joseph Prem EBENEZER
-
Publication number: 20120067589Abstract: An emergency riser disconnection system for disconnecting a riser from a subsea installation having disconnect actuators and a signal and power circuit for controlling the actuators. The signal and power circuit is made up of an umbilical with signal lines and hydraulic lines. At an umbilical termination, the signal and hydraulic lines exit the umbilical and can be routed separately to the disconnect actuators. The umbilical termination is disposed above the uppermost break away point on the riser and can be recovered after the riser is disconnected.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2010Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.Inventor: Stephen P. Fenton
-
Publication number: 20120048566Abstract: A subsea well safing method and apparatus adapted to secure a subsea well in the event of a perceived blowout in a manner to mitigate the environmental damage and the physical damage to the subsea wellhead equipment to promote the ability to reconnect and recover control of the well. The safing assembly is adapted to connect the marine riser to the BOP stack. Pursuant to a safing sequence, the well tubular is secured in the upper and lower safing assemblies and the tubular is then sheared between the locations at which it as been secured. Subsequently, an ejection device is actuated to physically separate the upper safing assembly and connected marine riser from the lower safing assembly that is connected to the BOP stack.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: Charles Don Coppedge, Dana Karl Kelley, Charles C. Porter, Hildebrand Angie Rumann
-
Publication number: 20120043089Abstract: A method for riserless intervention of a subsea well includes: lowering a pressure control assembly (PCA) from a vessel to a subsea production tree; fastening the PCA to the tree; deploying a plug running tool (PRT) into the PCA, wherein the PRT comprises a latch, an anchor, and a stroker; engaging the latch with a plug of the tree; engaging the anchor with the PCA; and operating the stroker to pull the latch and the plug from the tree.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2011Publication date: February 23, 2012Inventors: Corey Eugene Hoffman, Tom Unsgaard
-
Publication number: 20120037374Abstract: A method for removing a plug from and setting a plug into a subsea installation is provided. The method for removing the plug includes the steps of deploying an intervention package having at least one valve, pipe rams, and a lubricator into a subsea environment and latching the intervention package to the subsea installation. The method further includes lowering a stroking tool into the intervention package by conveyance from a surface facility, and grabbing the stroking tool with the pipe rams that form a part of the intervention package. Once the stroking tool is held by the pipe rams, the method further includes activating the stroking tool to stroke in an upwards or downwards direction to remove the plug positioned in the subsea installation. Once the plug has been removed by the stroking tool, the method further includes pulling the stroking tool out of the intervention package and retrieving the stroking tool and plug at surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2011Publication date: February 16, 2012Inventors: Rene SCHUURMAN, Andrea SBORDONE
-
Publication number: 20120018164Abstract: A tubular clamp for gripping a tubular is disclosed. In one aspect, a tubular clamp for use with a cutting and lifting system is provided. The tubular clamp is configured to move between an opened position and a closed position. The tubular clamp further includes at least one slip member to permit the clamp to bear the weight of a severed tubular string. Lifting lugs on an outer surface of the clamp permit attachment to a lifting assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2010Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventors: William J. Tabor, Huey J. Kliebert, JR., Scott A. Marshall, Benton John Vicknair
-
Patent number: 8047295Abstract: In one illustrative embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device adapted to be positioned adjacent an end of a tool housing of a subsea lubricator, wherein the device includes a structural member that is adapted to be positioned adjacent an end of the tool housing, a non-metallic body coupled to the structural member and a sealing device that is adapted to sealingly engage a wireline extending through the sealing device. The present invention is also directed to a method which includes lowering an assembly toward a tool housing of a subsea lubricator positioned subsea using a wireline for the tool to support a weight of the assembly, wherein the assembly includes a wireline tool and a device including a structural member that is adapted to be positioned adjacent the end of a tool housing, a non-metallic body coupled to the structural member, and a sealing device that is adapted to sealingly engage a wireline extending through the sealing device.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2007Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Brian Skeels, Hans Jørgen Lindland, Olav Inderberg, Bjørn Jahnsen
-
Publication number: 20110226482Abstract: An apparatus for separating a tubular string from a subsea well installation. The apparatus includes a heave compensator tensioning the tubular string, a subsea actuator assembly positioned within the tubular string, a subsea controller in communication with the subsea actuator assembly, a subsea safety tree positioned within the subsea well installation and a fluid delivery subsystem. An output signal generated by the subsea controller responsive to receipt of a predetermined input signal releases a piston of the subsea actuator assembly such that the tension in the tubular string shifts the piston relative to a cylinder energizing fluid in the fluid delivery subsystem to actuate the retainer valve, the shut-in valve assembly, the vent sleeve and the latch assembly, thereby safely separating the tubular string from a subsea well installation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2010Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Ross John Trewhella, Darryl K. Mackie
-
Publication number: 20110209875Abstract: This installation comprises an upper structure (12), and a flexible hose (16) capable of moving through the expanse of water (11 B) between an upper connected configuration and a lower disconnected configuration. The installation comprises a lower structure (14) having a base (60) extending at a distance from the bottom (11A) of the expanse of water (11 B). The upper structure (12) is capable of moving relative to the lower structure (14) between an extraction position and an evacuation position. The base (60) defines a passage (68) for travel of the flexible hose (16) as it moves between the upper connected configuration and the lower disconnected configuration and a stop (74) for retaining a connection head (92) of the hose (14), disposed in the travel passage (68), to keep the connection head (92) at a distance from the bottom (11A) of the expanse of water (11 B) in the lower disconnected configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2009Publication date: September 1, 2011Inventors: Timothy John Crome, Johan Kristian Boe, Igor Kopsov, Leiv Egelund, Anil Kumar Sablok, Manoj Ramachandran
-
Publication number: 20110192609Abstract: A retrievable bridge is provided which mounts to the top of a subsea tree to provide fluid communication between the production line of the subsea tree and a production flowline. The retrievable bridge mounts to the top of the subsea tree and preferably connects to a vertically oriented pipe of the production flowline. The retrievable bridge can be utilized to carry wear items such as chokes, subsea control modules, and flow meters which may require maintenance more often than other components of the subsea tree. By mounting these items along the flow passageway in the retrievable bridge the components are securely mounted and still available for maintenance/replacement without the need to remove the entire tree. In one embodiment, Intervention into the well is available without removing the retrievable bridge. The subsea tree does not require and preferably does not have a connection to the production flowline except through the retrievable bridge.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2011Publication date: August 11, 2011Inventors: Hoon Kiang Tan, Kim Kok Goi, Patrick Joseph Hyde, Peter Ernest Page
-
Patent number: 7975770Abstract: The disclosure is drawn to methods of drilling wells utilizing blow out prevention components of differing pressure ratings. In the initial drilling phase, a lower pressure rated blow out prevention component is used. In a subsequent drilling phase where a reservoir of a natural resource is penetrated, a higher pressure rated blow out prevention component is used.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Transocean Offshore Deepwater Drilling Inc.Inventor: Chip Keener
-
Publication number: 20110088909Abstract: A stabplate connection is provided by: providing a first part (1) comprising a stabplate and carried by an underwater structure; providing a second part (2) comprising a stabplate carried by tooling (4); engaging the tooling with said first part; using the tooling to bring the parts together so the stabplates mate with each other; using the tooling to lock the first and second parts together by engaging a portion (6) carried by the first part with a portion (10) carried by the second part; disengaging the tooling from the first part; and removing the tooling from the stabplate connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2010Publication date: April 21, 2011Applicant: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Andrew S. Hamblin, Gareth H. Lewis
-
Publication number: 20110048726Abstract: Internal tree cap (201) (ITC) adapted to be installed in the bore of a subsea well unit (301) or to an internal tubular element (303) of the same, comprising a locking element (209) for releasably locking the internal tree cap (201) to said subsea well unit (301) or internal tubular element (303). The ITC further comprises a fluid channel (215) extending through a fluid barrier between the lower and upper part of the internal tree cap (201), which fluid channel (215) is blocked by a burst element (217) adapted to break and open for fluid flow through the fluid channel (215) when exposed to a predetermined pressure difference over the burst element (217). The invention also relates to an ITC running tool (101) and a locking mechanism (117) for supporting the ITC in the tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2009Publication date: March 3, 2011Inventors: Lasse E. Aarnes, Andre M. Smith
-
Patent number: 7891429Abstract: A subsea well intervention system that permits dynamic disconnection from subsea well intervention equipment without removing any of the equipment during a drive-off condition is provided. The system includes a blowout preventer module operatively connected to a subsea tree and a subsea control system. The subsea control system is connected via electrical jumper to an ROV's tether management system. The subsea control system is connected via hydraulic jumpers to a multipurpose fluid-injection skid and one or more hydraulic accumulation banks. A fail-safe disconnect assembly is utilized with respect to the electrical jumper in order to provide easy removal during a drive-off condition.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2006Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Inventors: Charles B. Boyce, William R. Bath
-
Patent number: 7819204Abstract: A method and apparatus for drilling subsea wells is provided. A subsea shut off device including ball gripping mechanisms is latched to a template at surface. Drilled in casing can be suspended from the device at any position using the gripping mechanism so that the device is run to the sea floor on the casing string. The casing string is drilled into place and converted into a riser. This is all done on a single trip to speed up the operation and reduce the risk. The casing string is captured and sealed within the subsea shut-off device after installing and spacing out a surface BOP. For the event when emergency disconnection is required, dual shear rams in the device cut the casing and seal in the well. The system then allows a conventional subsea reconnection of the riser.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2005Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Geoprober Drilling LimitedInventor: Anthony S. Bamford
-
Patent number: 7770649Abstract: A locking device for locking an exchangeable unit in an insertion opening of an associated housing, particular in maritime mineral oil or mineral gas extraction, comprises locking elements adjustable between an insertion opening and a locking position, wherein in its insertion direction the unit can be inserted into the insertion opening, and is locked in the locking position within the insertion opening and relative to the housing. The locking elements are formed as thread segments spaced apart by insertion gaps in the circumferential direction and arranged on the outer side of the unit and being aligned with the insertion opening, said thread segments being arranged in the insertion opening at a gap and being in thread engagement in the locking position.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2004Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Klaus Biester, Norbert Lenz
-
Patent number: 7669660Abstract: A riser disconnect and support mechanism for flexible risers and umbilicals on an offshore structure with low under keel clearance. A main body portion includes an inverted and truncated conical or convex section substantially at the center of the main body portion. The main body portion and conical section receive risers therethrough by means of a plurality of conduits through the main body portion and conical section. A plurality of projections extend radially outward from the main body portion. A plurality of arch-shaped riser supports are provided on each projection to support risers and/or umbilical lines and control their bending radii. The projections extend out from the main body portion at a distance that allows the portions of the risers below the main body portion to hang at an angle and bend radius in accordance with the design tolerances of the risers to prevent buckling or damage due to excessive bending while keeping the risers from contacting the sea floor.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2008Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Floatec, LLCInventors: John James Murray, Harish Mukundan, Apurva Gupta
-
Publication number: 20090229830Abstract: A subsea completion testing tree (SCTT) for connection in a tubular string includes a lower tree portion having a control valve; an upper tree portion separably connected to the lower tree portion at a latch; a circulation valve connected with the upper tree portion; and a retainer valve connected with the upper tree portion between the circulation valve and the latch.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2009Publication date: September 17, 2009Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: John A. Kerr
-
Patent number: 7487836Abstract: A subsea well intervention system that permits dynamic disconnection from subsea well intervention equipment without removing any of the equipment during a drive-off condition is provided. The system includes a blowout preventer module operatively connected to a subsea tree, a lubricator assembly attached to the blowout preventer module that provides access to the interior of the blowout preventer and the subsea tree by well intervention equipment, and an umbilical module including a fail-safe disconnect assembly. The fail-safe disconnect assembly is disconnected using hydraulic power provided by the control umbilical or by a remotely operated vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2005Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Saipem America Inc.Inventors: Charles B. Boyce, William R. Bath
-
Publication number: 20080230229Abstract: During the completion of a subsea horizontal tree, a tubing hanger and internal tree cap are run together with the same running tool and running string. The running tool has a linking assembly that connects the tree cap to the tubing hanger during running, retrieval, or workover, so that the tree cap supports the weight of the tubing hanger and string of tubing. The linking assembly can be retrieved with the running tool or retrieved on wireline through the running string.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2007Publication date: September 25, 2008Inventors: Gary A. Shaw, Robert S. Buchan, Kevin G. Buckle
-
Patent number: 7314088Abstract: A system is disclosed for retrieving a tubular element extending into a subsea well provided with a wellhead, the tubular element being provided with a hanger suspending the tubular element at the wellhead, the hanger having a larger outer diameter than the tubular element. The system comprises a conduit assembly having a passage providing fluid communication between the wellhead and an offshore platform located above the well, the conduit assembly having at least an upper part of internal diameter allowing the tubular element to pass therethrough. The system further includes disconnection means for disconnecting the hanger from the tubular element, and retrieval means for retrieving the tubular element through the conduit assembly to the offshore platform.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2002Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Michael John Betts, Michael Edward Pointing
-
Patent number: 7234527Abstract: A system and method for controllably separating a conduit into an upper portion and a lower portion. The system includes a first valve in the upper portion of the conduit above a point of separation, and a second valve in the lower portion of the conduit below the point of separation. When the conduit is separated, the valves are actuated to cease flow therethrough and prevent loss of fluids into the seawater. A hang-off tool in the lower portion of the conduit engages the well and supports the lower portion of the conduit.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2002Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Harold W. Nivens, Curtis E. Wendler
-
Patent number: 7216699Abstract: An inner tubular member of a subsea wellhead assembly carries a locking member that moves between a locked and unlocked positions lands within an outer tubular member having a grooved profile in its bore. The inner tubular member joins to a portion of the conductor casing extending from a low pressure wellhead housing above the mudline of the seafloor. In the locked position, the locking member engages the grooved profile on the outer tubular member to connect the outer tubular member and inner tubular member. The inner tubular member also carries a hydraulically actuated, axially moveable locking sleeve that slidingly engages the locking member to move the locking member between the locked and unlocked positions. An ROV supplies hydraulic fluid through an ROV port to actuate the locking sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2003Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: John Edward Nelson, James A. Gariepy
-
Patent number: 6834721Abstract: A disconnect system for coiled tubing. A first end of the coiled tubing is disconnected from a second end of the coiled tubing by holding the coiled tubing in a stationary position at a first and a second location. The coiled tubing is then sheared at one or more locations between the first and the second location.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2002Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Christian Suro
-
Patent number: 6832874Abstract: To install a modular seabed processing system (1) on a seabed, a monopile foundation (3) is first lowered down and driven into the seabed. A docking unit (4) is lowered towards the installed foundation (3) so that a mating clamp system (6) mounted on the docking unit is aligned with a spigot (5) on the foundation. The clamp system then clamps the spigot to fix the docking unit onto the foundation. Flowlines (2) and an electrical power connector plug (18) are connected to the docking unit. A first retrievable substantially autonomous module (8) is lowered and connected to the docking unit (4) by a multi-bored connector (10, 11) and the plug (18) on the docking unit is engaged by a corresponding socket (17) on the module. Isolation valves (14, 16) in the docking unit and module are opened so that the module (8) is able to act on fluid received from the flowlines (2) via the multi-bored connector (10, 11).Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2003Date of Patent: December 21, 2004Assignee: Alpha Thames Ltd.Inventors: David Eric Appleford, Brian William Lane
-
Patent number: 6808021Abstract: A system that is usable with subsea wells that extend beneath a sea floor includes a station that is located on the sea floor and an underwater vehicle. The underwater vehicle is housed in the station and is adapted to service at least one of the subsea wells.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2001Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Thomas H. Zimmerman, John A. Kerr, Alan R. Christie
-
Publication number: 20040194962Abstract: A system is disclosed for retrieving a tubular element extending into a subsea well provided with a wellhead, the tubular element being provided with a hanger suspending the tubular element at the wellhead, the hanger having a larger outer diameter than the tubular element. The system comprises a conduit assembly having a passage providing fluid communication between the wellhead and an offshore platform located above the well, the conduit assembly having at least an upper part of internal diameter allowing the tubular element to pass therethrough. The system further includes disconnection means for disconnecting the hanger from the tubular element, and retrieval means for retrieving the tubular element through the conduit assembly to the offshore platform.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventors: Michael John Betts, Michael Edward Pointing
-
Patent number: 6793019Abstract: A tool lands a flowline connector on a base and soft land the connector to a mandrel. After the tool lands on the base, the tool locks to the base and then pushes the connector the mandrel until it abuts locks to the member. The tool has at least one ring assembly with a number of dogs per ring assembly. Each dog moves in unison with a follower relative to a cam ring in a slot. The movement along the slot moves the dogs radially and circumferentially relative to the cam ring. An actuator moves a follower ring that slides relative to the cam ring which moves the follower. Each dog remains in contact with the cam ring after moving radially inward because of protuberances on each dog that slide from a recess as the dog moves circumferentially and radially inward.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: ABB Offshore Systems, Inc.Inventors: Tony Alan Rodgers, Robert Duane Fross
-
Publication number: 20040163816Abstract: An inner tubular member of a subsea wellhead assembly carries a locking member that moves between a locked and unlocked positions lands within an outer tubular member having a grooved profile in its bore. The inner tubular member joins to a portion of the conductor casing extending from a low pressure wellhead housing above the mudline of the seafloor. In the locked position, the locking member engages the grooved profile on the outer tubular member to connect the outer tubular member and inner tubular member. The inner tubular member also carries a hydraulically actuated, axially moveable locking sleeve that slidingly engages the locking member to move the locking member between the locked and unlocked positions. An ROV supplies hydraulic fluid through an ROV port to actuate the locking sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2003Publication date: August 26, 2004Inventors: John Edward Nelson, James A. Gariepy
-
Publication number: 20040003926Abstract: A system and method for controllably separating a conduit into an upper portion and a lower portion. The system includes a first valve in the upper portion of the conduit above a point of separation, and a second valve in the lower portion of the conduit below the point of separation. When the conduit is separated, the valves are actuated to cease flow therethrough and prevent loss of fluids into the seawater. A hang-off tool in the lower portion of the conduit engages the well and supports the lower portion of the conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2002Publication date: January 8, 2004Inventors: Harold W. Nivens, Curtis E. Wendler
-
Patent number: 6622799Abstract: A method for controlling subsea drilling operations including, in at least certain aspects, controlling the subsea drilling operations with a control system having three subsea pod containers of a control system, each with apparatus for controlling the subsea drilling operations, the system also having activation apparatus for activating a chosen one of the subsea pod containers and maintenance apparatus for maintaining the two subsea pod containers other than the chosen one in a standby mode providing triple redundancy of control of the subsea drilling operations.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2002Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Inventor: Quenton Wayne Dean
-
Patent number: 6588509Abstract: A downhole well drilling apparatus includes an above-ground mast and an axially elongated generally cylindrical pneumatic hammer drill supported by the mast and mounted in an axially vertical above-ground position. An installation and removal adapter mounted on the lower end of the pneumatic hammer drill couples the hammer drill to a pipe string and maintains a movable part of the hammer drill in an operative condition at all times thereby enabling the hammer drill to operate while rotational torque and upward directed force are simultaneously applied to the operating hammer drill by the apparatus during removal of a casing from a downhole position. Hammer operation is controlled by a manually operable air supply valve.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Inventors: John F. Allyn, Walter G. Allyn
-
Patent number: 6422315Abstract: A method for retrieving a subsea pod from a lower marine riser package platform by connecting a buoyant pod retriever to the subsea pod and raising the subsea pod to the surface. In certain aspects, such a method is accomplished without an interruption of associated subsea drilling operations and/or without disconnecting the lower marine riser package from an associated subsea stack. Such a method, in certain aspects, includes: positioning a retrieval module above the pod container, the retrieval module having a pod holder releasably connected thereto; disconnecting the pod holder from the retrieval module; lowering the pod holder to the pod container and releasably connecting the pod holder to the pod container; releasing the pod container from the subsea lower marine riser platform; raising the pod holder to the retrieval module and releasably connecting the pod holder with the pod container to the retrieval module; and raising the retrieval module with the pod container to a location at the surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1999Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Inventor: Quenton Wayne Dean