Wellhead Patents (Class 166/368)
  • Publication number: 20130240216
    Abstract: A well head system for application in sub sea well exploration comprising a well head (23) having a well head housing secured to a well casing, at least one valve stack, e.g. a BOP (1) located atop said well head (23). The valve stack is removably locked on a well template (15) supporting said well head by a plurality of locking devices (7). Also described is a locking device comprising two opposite clamping arms (19) hingedly attached to a main frame (21). The Main frame is slidable relative to a spindle (17) and can be selectively secured to the spindle (17).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Aker Subsea AS
    Inventor: Knut Møgedal
  • Patent number: 8522864
    Abstract: A stripper blow out preventer for oil field equipment, wherein the stripper blow out preventer can include a housing with a bore. The housing can have an open port and close port for accepting the hydraulic fluid, and a grease port for accepting grease. An annular recess of the housing can be in communication with the bore. A retainer ring can be engaged in the annular recess. A piston can be disposed in the annular recess. A seal element can be disposed in the annular recess between the retainer ring and the piston, and can have a thru bore. An insert can be engaged with the retainer ring. When the close port is pressurized, the piston can press against the seal element to form a seal against the oil field equipment. When the open port is pressurized, the piston can move to relax the seal element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: James Otis Miller
  • Publication number: 20130220628
    Abstract: A cap for protecting a sealing surface of a hub of a subsea device includes an equalization valve and a fluid conduit. The equalization valve includes a valve body having a pressure equalization conduit, a sleeve disposed about the valve body and having a port allowing fluid communication across the sleeve, and a valve spring configured to bias the sleeve to a closed position. The sleeve is configured to move to an open position in response to a force that depresses the sleeve and causes the valve spring to compress and the port is fluidly isolated from the pressure equalization conduit in the closed position and is in fluid communication with the pressure equalization conduit in the open position. In the open position, an interior environment of the subsea device is in fluid communication with the environment outside the cap through the equalization valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Nghia T. Tran
  • Patent number: 8517089
    Abstract: A wellhead assembly having a wellhead housing, a casing hanger set within the wellhead housing, and sealing areas provided on opposing surfaces of the wellhead housing and casing hanger. The sealing areas circumscribe an axis of the wellhead assembly along respective axial distances on the wellhead housing and casing hanger. A seal is included with the wellhead assembly that has inner and outer legs that respectively engage the sealing areas and form sealing surfaces against the sealing areas. The axial distances of the sealing areas exceeds the length of the inner and outer legs, so that an original seal can be removed and replaced by a secondary seal, wherein the secondary seal engages sealing areas different from the sealing areas engaged by the original seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Galle, Nicholas P. Gette, Ryan Herbel
  • Patent number: 8517112
    Abstract: A technique operates a valve system in a subsea test tree via a control system of a type suitable for gaining desired industry ratings. A monitoring system is utilized to monitor functions of the control system, but the monitoring system is independent from the control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew W. Niemeyer, Jeffrey J. Marabella
  • Patent number: 8511389
    Abstract: A subsea wellhead assembly having a completion landing string inside a drilling riser is described herein and comprises a power source for generating an alternating electrical current; a connector for connecting the power source to a receptacle in the subsea well assembly; a first inductor electrically connected to the power source through the connector; a subsea control module delivering power and control signals to the subsea well assembly; and a second inductor spaced from the first inductor, and located in the subsea control module, the second inductor positioned so that an EMF is produced on the second inductor when the alternating electrical current is passed through the first inductor to thereby generate an alternating current signal on the second inductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen P Fenton
  • Publication number: 20130192844
    Abstract: A tensions compensator assembly for a slip type joint in an offshore work string. The assembly includes a chamber at the joint which is constructed in a manner to offset or minimize a pressure differential in a production channel that runs through the work string. Thus, potentially very high pressures running through the string are less apt to prematurely force actuation and expansiveness of the slip joint. Rather, the expansive movement of the joint is more properly responsive to heave, changes in offshore platform elevation and other outside forces of structural concern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
  • Patent number: 8490705
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for operating a subsea blowout preventer includes a surface manifold configured to convey hydraulic power to the blowout preventer, a surface actuation valve hydraulically connected to subsea valves and configured to operate the blowout preventer, and a control system monitoring apparatus. The control system monitoring apparatus includes a surface manifold pressure transducer hydraulically connected to the surface manifold, an electronic readback system, and a surface control line pressure transducer hydraulically connected to the surface end of at least one control hose and the surface actuation valve. The control system monitoring apparatus is configured to read, record, and process pressure data supplied by the surface manifold and surface control line pressure transducers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Post Curtiss, III
  • Patent number: 8485260
    Abstract: A system and method to allow backup or alternate fluid flow routes around malfunctioning components using removable, modular component sets. In one exemplary embodiment, an ROV establishes a backup hydraulic flow to a BOP function by attaching one end of a hose to a modular valve block and the other end to an intervention shuttle valve, thus circumventing and isolating malfunctioning components. A compound intervention shuttle valve is provided that comprises first and second primary inlets, first and second secondary inlets, and an outlet. A modular valve block is provided that comprises a directional control valve, a pilot valve, a manifold pressure regulator, a pilot pressure regulator, stab type hydraulic connections and an electrical wet-make connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Transocean Offshore Deepwater Drilling
    Inventors: Steve O'Leary, Tom Thrash, Angela Donohue
  • Patent number: 8485262
    Abstract: A modular wellhead system having the capability for single or dual annulus via interchangeable heads, a unique capping system, and other features. A unique wellhead manual positive lock system incorporating an energizable inner bite ring for engaging the casing tubing, a compressible slip hanger for the tubing, as well as a hydraulic jack for lifting the tubing from the well to reintroduce tension are provided, the system being particularly suitable for use in conjunction with repair or low pressure plug and abandon (P&A) operations. Components of the system are designed for assembly via locking pins for diver friendly operation, While the present system is designed principally for use in subsea environments, the system can likewise be utilized on land or platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: John W. Angers
  • Patent number: 8479829
    Abstract: An alignment system can include at least one alignment device positioned between two flanges, the alignment device having a greater thickness on one side of the alignment device than on an opposite side of the alignment device, and the alignment device having circumferential slots through which the two flanges are coupled. A method of producing a relative angular offset between two flanges can include positioning at least one alignment device in a desired azimuthal orientation between the flanges, the alignment device including pre-formed circumferential slots which permit the alignment device to align with a bolt hole pattern of the flanges, and securing the alignment device between the flanges, thereby producing the angular offset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Stachowiak, James C. T. Parlee
  • Patent number: 8479825
    Abstract: Method, crane system and crane for moving a component of a device. The crane includes a supporting mechanism configured to be fixedly attached to the device, an arm mechanism connected to the supporting mechanism and configured to move in a horizontal plane, a sliding mechanism connected to the arm mechanism and configured to move substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and a grabbing mechanism configured to be removably attached to the sliding mechanism and configured to grab the component of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLC
    Inventors: Leonard Childers, John Millican
  • Patent number: 8479824
    Abstract: A power slip extends a joint from tubing disposed in casing at a well so that a casing head can install on the casing and the tubing can be packed-off from the casing. The joint attaches to an inner sleeve having collet members that fit onto the inner tubing so that the joint extends thereabove. An outer sleeve and interlocking collet assemble together and install onto the inner sleeve. The collet threads onto the inner sleeve and forces the outer sleeve downward onto the inner sleeve. Being forced, the outer sleeve causes the collet members to engage around the inner tubing. The casing head then installs on the casing with the joint extending up through the head's bowl. An H-plate installs in the open bowl around the extended joint, and another pack-off installs on the joint to pack it off from a spool attaching to the casing head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Travis, Elizabeth A. McClain, Paul Perez, Brandon M. Cain
  • Patent number: 8474537
    Abstract: A wellhead connector for connecting a riser or production tree to a wellhead of a subsea well utilizes a singular annular piston to lock the connector onto the wellhead. The wellhead connector includes a housing that contains dogs for engagement with the exterior of the wellhead housing. A cam ring is also included, which has an inner side for engaging the dogs and moving them inward into a locked position with the wellhead housing. The cam ring is of a reduced proportion relative to prior art. As such, the cam ring outer side is dimensioned to contact the inner side of the connector housing under load. Connecting rods connect the piston to the cam rings. As the piston moves downward, the cam ring also moves downward, forcing the dogs inward into a locked position. As the piston moves upward, the cam ring also moves upward, thereby unlocking the connector. A secondary annular piston is also provided to guarantee unlocking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Robert K. Voss, Perry J. Stokes, David W. Hughes, Joseph W. Pallini, Jr., Robert N. Rogers, William T. Higgins
  • Publication number: 20130161020
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: CAMERON SYSTEMS (IRELAND) LIMITED
    Inventor: Cameron Systems (Ireland) Limited
  • Patent number: 8469086
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replace the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron Systems (Ireland) Limited
    Inventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
  • Patent number: 8469102
    Abstract: An anti-rotation device prevents an inner wellhead housing from rotating within an outer wellhead housing. The anti-rotation device provides cam rollers within the inner wellhead housing that wedge between opposing surfaces of the inner wellhead housing and outer wellhead housing to arrest either clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation of the inner wellhead housing. The cam rollers are circumferentially spaced apart around the inner wellhead housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Chad Eric Yates
  • Publication number: 20130133896
    Abstract: The present invention regards a device designed for injection of fluids in a well bore, typically an offshore well bore for petroleum production and gas injection/gas lift system for fluid injection. The device comprises a outer hollow housing (1) with an internal body (2) moveable within the outer housing (1) with an internal bore(3) which in a first closed position is closed with a metal to metal seal system between the outer housing (1) and the internal body (2), which internal body (2) is operated by pressure differential across the internal body (2), where the internal body (2) is designed with slots (4) forming outlets of the internal bore (3) which in an open position of the device is positioned outside of the outer housing (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: PETROLEUM TECHNOLOGY COMPANY AS
    Inventors: Magnar Tveiten, Øyvind Stokka, Erling Kleppe, Tom Norland
  • Publication number: 20130126183
    Abstract: A method and system for producing fluid from a subsea wellbore. An amount of fluid is sampled from fluid being produced and retained for a period of time until constituents in the fluid stratify. A fluid characteristic is sensed at spaced apart vertical locations in the sampled fluid. A water fraction as well as gas content can be ascertained from sensing the sampled fluid. The fluid characteristic is used for calibrating a multi-phase flowmeter that measures flow of the fluid being produced from the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.
    Inventor: Robert Bell
  • Patent number: 8443897
    Abstract: A subsea safety system (50) for use during a well treatment operation. The subsea safety system (50) includes a tubular string having an inner flow passage (112). At least one valve assembly (116, 134) is positioned within the tubular string. The valve assembly (116, 134) is operable between open and closed positioned to selectively permit and prevent fluid flow therethrough. A frangible liner (134) is disposed within the valve assembly (116, 134). The frangible liner (134) has a close fitting but not fluid tight relationship with the valve assembly (116, 134). The frangible liner (134) is operable to protect the valve assembly (116, 134) from particle flow during the well treatment operation. In addition, the frangible liner (134) is operable to shatter responsive to closure of the valve assembly (116, 134), thereby allowing full operation of the valve assembly (116, 134).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Vincent Paul Zeller
  • Patent number: 8443899
    Abstract: A production assembly and method for controlling production from production tubing supported by a tubing hanger in a well including a wellhead. The assembly includes a function spool engaged with the wellhead and a tree engaged with the function spool. The tubing hanger is landable in the tree bore such that the production tubing is supported in the well by the tree. A function mandrel separate from the tubing hanger is engaged with the production tubing and positionable inside the function spool bore. The function mandrel includes a passage connected to a line extending into the well that is connectable with a port in the function spool such that communication with a downhole component through the line is allowable from outside the function spool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: David R. June, David R. Gwyn
  • Patent number: 8443898
    Abstract: A wellhead safety device can include a tubular with outer surface portions having different diameters. A first seal groove can be disposed on a first outer diameter. A locking groove can be formed in a first outer surface portion, and can have sloping sides that taper to a center for receiving locking pins of a tubing head. A sloping guide can extend from a first end towards a central bore of the wellhead safety device. A second seal groove can be disposed on a second outer surface portion for containing a second seal. A guide shoulder can be formed on a second end, and can taper from the second outer surface portion to the central bore. A J-latch can be formed in the first end. A landing shoulder can stop the wellhead safety device from slipping into wellbores.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventors: Tony D. McClinton, Buster Carl McClinton
  • Patent number: 8434558
    Abstract: A device for containing fluid flow from a borehole includes: a containment assembly including a body having a cavity configured to receive a leaking portion of a borehole termination structure extending from the borehole and surround the leaking portion, the cavity configured to be adapted to at least partially conform to a shape of at least one of the leaking portion and the borehole termination structure; and a flow control assembly configured to connect a fluid conduit in fluid communication with the containment assembly and direct downhole fluid into the fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Aaron R. Swanson, James P. Dwyer, Todd J. Talbot
  • Patent number: 8430170
    Abstract: A bottom-to-surface connection installation of at least two undersea pipes (10a, 10b) resting on the sea bottom, the installation comprising: 1) a first hybrid tower comprising: a) a vertical riser (1a) anchored (3a) to a first base and connected to a said undersea pipe (10a) resting on the sea bottom and having its top end connected to a first sub-surface float (2a); and b) a first connection pipe (4a) preferably a flexible pipe, providing the connection between a floating support (11) and the top end of said riser; and 2) at least one second rigid pipe (1b) rising from the sea bottom on which it rests (10b) or from a second undersea pipe resting on the sea bottom to which its bottom end is connected, said bottom end not being anchored at said first base, up to the sub-surface where its top end is connected to a second float (2b) situated substantially at the same depth as said first float (2a) and fastened to said first float at least respectively a flexible second connection pipe (2b) providing its c
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Saipem S.A.
    Inventor: François-Régis Pionetti
  • Publication number: 20130098628
    Abstract: A system for reducing pressure in a subsea operator. In one embodiment, a subsea system includes an operator and a deintensifier. The operator includes a housing and a piston. The piston is movably disposed within the operator housing and divides an inner volume of the operator housing into a closing chamber and a second chamber. The deintensifier is fluidically coupled to the operator. The deintensifier includes a housing and a piston. The piston includes a closing surface and an opening surface. The closing surface is fluidically coupled to the second chamber of the operator housing. The opening surface is fluidically coupled to ambient pressure. The area of the closing surface is greater than an area of the opening surface so as to increase the pressure differential between the closing chamber and the second chamber and assist in moving the operator piston to the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Cameron International Corporation
  • Patent number: 8424607
    Abstract: The invention relates to techniques for severing a tubular. A blowout preventer is provided with a housing having a bore therethrough for receiving the tubular, an actuator positionable in the housing, and a plurality of cutting tools positionable in the housing and selectively movable into an actuated position with the actuator. Each of the cutting tools have a base supportable by the actuator and selectively movable thereby, and a cutting head supported by the base. The cutting head comprising a tip having a piecing point at an end thereof and at least one cutting surface. The piercing point pierces the tubular and the cutting surfaces taper away from the piercing point for cutting through the tubular whereby the cutting head passes through tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Frank Benjamin Springett, Christopher Dale Johnson, Shern Eugene Peters, Eric Trevor Ensley, James Brugman
  • Patent number: 8413722
    Abstract: A method for removing a fluid influx from a subsea wellbore drilled using a pump to return fluid from the wellbore to the surface. The method includes detecting the influx when a rate of the return pump increases. Flow from the wellbore is diverted from the return pump to a choke line when the influx reaches the wellhead. A choke in the choke line is operated so that a rate of fluid pumped into the wellbore is substantially equal to a flow rate through the choke line. Fluid flow from the wellbore is redirected to the return pump inlet when the influx has substantially left the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: AGR Subsea, A.S.
    Inventor: John Cohen
  • Patent number: 8413730
    Abstract: A wellhead housing has a telescoping casing hanger with an actuator mechanism to provide for direct transfer of casing and pressure loads to the housing. The transfer of casing and pressure loads occurs even in conditions where the telescoping casing hanger may be set in a high position in the wellhead housing on a load shoulder. The transfer of casing and pressure loads also occurs in conditions where the telescoping casing hanger may be set in an earlier installed casing hanger in the wellhead housing for a larger diameter casing string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas P Gette, Ryan Herbel, John Nelson, Armando Faz, Detrick Garner
  • Patent number: 8403060
    Abstract: A pressure relief device is used to relieve pressure in a void within a wellhead housing. In one embodiment, the pressure relief device includes a plunger having a stepped plug, wherein the plug can be fully open to allow flow from the void, restricted to allow a predetermined flow to relieve pressure, or closed to prevent flow from the void. In another embodiment, the pressure relief device includes a vacuum puller that creates negative pressure in a vessel. As fluid in the void expands, it is able to enter the space formerly occupied by the plunger. In yet another embodiment, a rupture disc is used to prevent fluid from flowing from the void, through a passage, to the wellbore. If pressure in the void exceeds a predetermined value, the rupture disc yields and allows the trapped fluid to flow to the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Given, Neil J. Scott, William D. Munro
  • Patent number: 8403057
    Abstract: A wellhead connection including first and second housings with the first housing partly within the second housing to form an annulus. The housings form a seal to a cylindrical inner bore when connected together. The first housing has a circumferential groove formed in its outer periphery. A radially expandable and contractable latch ring formed from latch ring segments is located in the annulus adjacent the circumferential groove. Radial actuators extend through the second housing to the latch ring segments to move the latch ring segments between a contracted position with the latch ring in contact with the circumferential groove, and an expanded position, with the latch ring out of contact with the circumferential groove. The upper and lower housings are adapted to lock the latch ring in the contracted position by applying a downward force on the latch rings, or by tightening the bottom connector to a wellhead member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Stream-Flo Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Doyle W. Rodgers, Keith David Farquharson
  • Patent number: 8403054
    Abstract: A torque limiter for use in an actuating drive stem of a subsea wellhead having a collar with an axial bore and a slot through its side. The slot includes a projection directed towards a lower end of the collar and has an edge oriented oblique to the collar axis. A driven shaft inserts in the bore, and a pin mounted in the driven shaft engages the slot. A spring assembly coupled to the driven shaft pushes the collar to retain the pin in the end of the projection. A driveshaft with a drive pin inserts into the bore on an upper side of the collar. The upper end of the collar includes a shoulder that contacts the drive pin when the collar rotates. The spring compresses when excessive torque is in the driven shaft moving the pin up the projection and disengaging the drive pin and shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Mahesha Udipi, David Daniel Comeaux
  • Patent number: 8393400
    Abstract: A wellhead or Christmas tree seal assembly that forms a metal-to-metal seal between inner and outer wellhead or Christmas tree members. U-shaped metal seals having legs that face in opposite directions, are bonded to a wiping element. During installation of the seal assembly, the ends of the seal legs seal against the wellhead members and the wiping element compensates for defects on the surfaces of the wellhead members. The wiping element can be of an elastomer, metallic, or intercalated graphite material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin G. Buckle
  • Patent number: 8387701
    Abstract: A technique for subsea intervention operations utilizes a retrievable dynamic seal assembly. The retrievable dynamic seal assembly is deployed toward a seabed and locked into place within a tubular member at a subsea installation. During deployment, the dynamic seal assembly is releasably locked to an intervention tool string coupled to a conveyance. Once the dynamic seal assembly is locked in place within the tubular, the tool string is released and the dynamic seal assembly maintains a seal against the conveyance during an intervention operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Andrea Sbordone
  • Patent number: 8381819
    Abstract: A system for rotating an element inside a pressure containing housing. In some embodiments, the mechanism includes a pressure containing housing having an opening through a wall of the housing into an internal chamber in which, in use, the element to be rotated is located, a bushing located within the opening, and a worm gear rotatably mounted in the bushing. The worm gear is offset from the axial center of the bushing such that rotation of the bushing moves the worm gear between an extended position, wherein the thread of the worm gear engages an element in the chamber, and a retracted position, wherein the thread is disengaged from the element in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Fern, Ted Thornburrow
  • Patent number: 8376051
    Abstract: An apparatus to allow backup or alternate fluid flow routes around malfunctioning BOP control components using a remotely installed removable hydraulic hose connection. The backup fluid flow route sends pressure-regulated hydraulic fluid to a BOP operation via an isolation valve rigidly attached to the BOP, then to a hose connected to an intervention panel on the BOP and finally through a valve that isolates the primary flow route and establishes a secondary flow route to allow continued operation. To increase reliability, the backup components route from a spare BOP function and are rigidly fixed to the BOP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventors: Scott P. McGrath, Brian K. Williams
  • Patent number: 8376049
    Abstract: A running tool for use in handling control modules on a subsea production tree. The running tool is deployable on wire line and includes a column like body and a connector adapted for connection to the production tree. The running tool also includes a hoist system that is selectively positioned by a swiveling jib crane for handling the control modules. A replacement control module can be included with the running tool when the tool is deployed from above the sea surface. After the running tool connects to the production tree, the jib crane can position the hoist for attachment to and removal of an existing control module on the production tree. The hoist can then to attach to and install the replacement control module and can be further manipulated to retrieve the existing control module and stow it onto the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Bell
  • Publication number: 20130037272
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for accessing a well to subterranean formations in which a first well control assembly is directly associated with the well and a second well control assembly is remotely and capable of being in fluid communication with the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Bruce A Dale, Stuart R. Keller, William E. Kline
  • Patent number: 8371385
    Abstract: The device described herein combines a subsea wellhead and a tree mandrel into a single piece. The wellhead includes a tree valve block having an upper and lower section. The lower valve block section is integral with the wellhead and includes access between the production line and the tubing annulus to the main bore of the wellhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Caspar G. Lewis
  • Patent number: 8365830
    Abstract: Methods for deploying a subsea blowout preventer stack system comprising a lower marine riser package, a blowout preventer stack with a first ram blowout preventer, and an additional blowout preventer package releasably coupled to the blowout preventer stack and comprising a second ram blowout preventer. The subsea blowout preventer stack assembly can be deployed by coupling a drilling riser to the lower marine riser package that is releasably connected to the blowout preventer stack. The lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack are then toward a subsea wellhead and then landed on the additional blowout preventer package that is coupled to the subsea wellhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Johnnie E. Kotrla, Melvyn F. Whitby, David J. McWhorter, Glenn J. Chiasson
  • Patent number: 8347967
    Abstract: An embodiment of a method for limiting the probability of failure on demand of a subsea test tree (“SSTT”) includes the steps of providing a safety shut-in system for actuating a safety valve of the SSTT, the safety shut-in system including a surface control station positioned above a water surface connected via an umbilical to a subsea control system positioned below the water surface to actuate the safety valve; and diagnostically testing the safety shut-in system without actuating the safety valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Sclumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: David J. Mathis
  • Publication number: 20130000920
    Abstract: A casing hanger seal assembly is lowered into a pocket between a casing hanger and a wellhead housing while in a run-in position. The seal assembly has a metal-to-metal upper seal ring and an elastomeric and metal lower seal ring carried by and below the upper seal ring. The upper and lower seal rings are movable from a run-in position to a set position sealing between the sidewalls of the casing hanger and the wellhead housing by applying a downward force. The downward force required to move the lower seal ring to the set position is less than the downward force required to move the upper seal ring to the set position. A downward force applied to the upper seal ring after the lower seal ring has landed in the pocket transfers to the lower seal ring to cause the lower seal ring to move to the set position before the upper seal ring moves to the set position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Khanh Anh Duong
  • Patent number: 8342249
    Abstract: According to one or more aspects of the invention, a method for drilling an offshore wellbore into a seabed from a platform positioned proximate to the water surface comprises making-up a first tubular string with a first conveyance assembly and running the first tubular string into the wellbore with the first conveyance assembly, wherein the first tubular string enters the wellbore from the water column at an entry position proximate to the seabed; performing a wellbore task with the first tubular string; while the wellbore task is being performed with the first tubular string, making-up a second tubular string in the water column from a second conveyance assembly; withdrawing the first tubular string from the wellbore with the first conveyance assembly once the wellbore task is completed; and running the second tubular string with the second conveyance assembly into the wellbore at the entry point from the water column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventor: Michael L. Payne
  • Publication number: 20120325489
    Abstract: Apparatus includes a seal head having first and second ends and a sidewall having an internal diameter. The first end of the seal head is open to the environment, and the second end is closed to the environment by an end cap. The seal head includes an aperture configured to accommodate a subsea source. A tubular seal head extension is fluidly connected to the seal head end cap. The seal head extension has an external diameter, an external surface, and a length. A movable element having first and second ends and a sidewall structure having an internal diameter sufficiently larger than the external diameter of the extension forms an annulus between the movable element and the extension. The movable element first end opens to the environment, while its second end is closed by an end cap defining an exit fluidly connectable to a subsea collection system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: BP CORPORATION NORTH AMERICA INC.
    Inventors: Pierre Albert Beynet, Douglas Paul Blalock, Kevin James Devers
  • Patent number: 8336629
    Abstract: A technique enables a simplified approach for providing subsea hydraulic control. A subsea installation comprises one or more devices that are actuated hydraulically. A simple signal carrier, such as a wireline logging cable, can be routed down to the subsea installation. However, hydraulic fluid for controlling the one or more hydraulic devices in the subsea installation is delivered via an open water umbilical that extends to the subsea installation from a separate workover control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Vladimir Vaynshteyn, Joseph D. Scranton
  • Publication number: 20120318522
    Abstract: A modular containment cap for containing a subsea wellbore discharging hydrocarbons comprises a lower assembly including a spool body having an upper end, a lower end opposite the upper end, and a first throughbore extending from the upper end to the lower end. In addition the containment cap comprises an upper assembly including a spool piece having an upper end, a lower end opposite the upper end, a throughbore extending from the upper end to the lower end, and a first spool piece valve disposed in the throughbore. The first spool piece valve is configured to control the flow of fluids through the throughbore of the spool piece. The upper end of the spool body is releasably connected to the lower end of the spool piece, and the first throughbore of the spool body is coaxially aligned with and in fluid communication with the throughbore of the spool piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Winfield Franklin, Richard Harland, Stuart Douglas Rettie, Roy Bryant Shilling, III
  • Patent number: 8327943
    Abstract: An isolation sleeve extends from an adapter into the bore of a tubing head to isolate high pressure frac fluid from the body of the tubing head. The isolation sleeve may be installed by a running tool that can screw the sleeve onto a packoff bushing located within the tubing head. The running tool can also retrieve the isolation sleeve by unscrewing it from the packoff bushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene A. Borak, Alfredo Olvera
  • Patent number: 8327942
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for establishing a hydrate free regime in a subsea production flowline before discharging into the subsea production flowline a production flow of hydrate prone hydrocarbon product pursuant to a shutdown or at an initial start of production. The hydrate free regime is achieved by injecting into the flowline a heated water volume in advance of discharging the hydrocarbon product from the subsea production system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventors: Tom Grimseth, Inge Wold, John Daniel Friedemann, Christian Borchgrevink
  • Publication number: 20120305259
    Abstract: A wellhead system for producing hydrocarbons from a subterranean formation that includes concentric tubulars that form an annulus. The annulus is vented by flowing fluid from the annulus through a bleed line having a valve that is selectively opened and closed. Upstream of the bleed line valve, the bleed line is routed adjacent a production flow line. The temperature of the fluid in the production flow line is greater than annulus temperature and warms the bleed line. Hydrate formation in the bleed line is thereby inhibited by the thermal energy it receives from the production flow line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Bell
  • Patent number: 8322440
    Abstract: A wellhead assembly having a data sensor circuit for transmitting sensed data from within a wellbore to the well surface. The circuit includes a signal conduit axially inserted within the wall of a stab unit with connectors at the top and bottom portions of the stab unit. Corresponding connection leads are included within the wellhead assembly to connect with the stab unit connectors. The connectors may comprise a gallery ring wet connect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Davis S. Christie
  • Patent number: 8322441
    Abstract: A method and system for retrieving a wear bushing from within a subsea wellhead assembly. The system includes a retrieval tool deployable on a wireline that inserts within the bushing. Latches on the tool radially project outwards and mate with a groove on the bushing inner surface. A hydraulically actuated jack is included with the tool and projects downward to the wellhead assembly to pull the bushing from its temporary coupling in the wellhead assembly. A remotely operated vehicle can be used to assist deploying the tool and for supplying hydraulics and/or control for operating the latch and the jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen P. Fenton