Including Varying Downhole Pressure Patents (Class 166/370)
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Patent number: 11639635Abstract: A system includes a top drive system; a drilling riser running tool configured to be deployed by the top drive system; a fluid line configured to run from the top drive system to the drilling riser running tool; and a liquid filing system. The drilling riser running tool includes a tool head module configured to engage and hold a first riser joint at a top end such that with the top drive system above the drilling riser running tool, the first riser joint can be lowered towards a second riser joint being held near a drill floor. The first riser joint includes a central tube and a first auxiliary line. The liquid filling system is configured to provide liquid filling of the first auxiliary line via the fluid line after connection of the first and second riser joints and while the first and second riser joints are being run.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2022Date of Patent: May 2, 2023Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Nicolas Arteaga, Carlos Mesquita, Rolf Gullaksen
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Patent number: 11352864Abstract: A system for protecting an Electrical Submersible Pump (ESP) string from gas slugs in a downhole well environment. The system comprises an intake tube having a first and second end and one of a packer having a bypass channel and an inverted shroud coupled to the intake tube and the ESP string. The intake tube is independent of a pump and a motor of the ESP string. The system can comprise a bypass tube for channeling the gas slug downstream of the pump. The bypass tube is integrated with the packer. The inverted shroud is coupled with the first end of the intake tube and a section of production tubing downstream from the pump and the motor. The inverted shroud forms a bypass path channel within a casing annulus.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2019Date of Patent: June 7, 2022Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Donn J. Brown, David C. Beck, Trevor A. Kopecky
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Patent number: 11143004Abstract: A method and system perform flow characteristic control. The system includes a tube inflow control device (ICD) including a tube input port. The tube ICD conveys fluid along an axial length of a tube of the tube ICD. The axial length of the tube controls a drop in pressure of the fluid between the tube input port and a corresponding tube output port. The system also includes a base pipe with an input port coupled to the tube output port of the tube of the tube ICD, wherein the base pipe is configured to convey the fluid to a surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2017Date of Patent: October 12, 2021Assignee: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLCInventors: Jai Kishan Koli, Britain A. Fisher, Aaron C. Hammer
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Patent number: 11078767Abstract: A method and apparatus for desalinating water combined with power generation, wherein a desalination system is used for desalinating aquifer brine water and is operationally related to a power generation system, wherein such dual-purpose co-generation facility captures the natural gas entrained within the aquifer brine water.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2017Date of Patent: August 3, 2021Inventors: Henry D. Tiffany, III, Steven Bryant, Gregory A Clark, Brian H. de Clare, Gary A. Pope
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Patent number: 11047209Abstract: A flow control valve sub including a tubular valve sub housing having a sub central passage and a valve cavity formed in a sidewall of the sub housing. At least one piston aperture and at least one constant area pilot aperture communicate between the valve cavity and the sub central passage, while a piston is positioned in the piston aperture with the piston moving to at least partially cover and uncover the flow port in order to create a variable flow path between the valve cavity and the sub central passage. A beam spring is supported at a location within the cavity on each side of the piston and biases the piston toward a less flow restrictive position relative to the flow port and a valve cover is positioned to substantially close the valve cavity.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2019Date of Patent: June 29, 2021Assignee: Superior Energy Services, LLCInventors: Eddie Glenn Bowen, Kevin Smith
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Patent number: 11009261Abstract: A reservoir for containing a fluid includes a cylindrical wall sized to engage a shaft bored into ground, a bottom end cap fixed to a lower end of the cylindrical wall and a top end cap fixed to an upper end of the cylindrical wall. The top end cap is concave such that the top end cap extends below a top end of the cylindrical wall. The bottom end cap, the top end cap, and the cylindrical wall define a subterranean chamber. A plug made of a composite material is on the top end cap, with a lower face disposed on the concave top end cap and a peripheral face engaging the shaft. At least one pressure port extends downwardly into the shaft and through the plug and the top end cap, defining a fluid path to the subterranean chamber.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2020Date of Patent: May 18, 2021Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Keith Lovegrove, Adrienne Gail Lavine, Richard Edward Wirz, Hamarz Aryafar, Chen Chen
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Patent number: 10895128Abstract: The bypass plungers are disclosed that are configured to provide a mechanical lock between a valve face of plunger and a the valve element of the plunger. More specifically, the valve face and the valve seat are correspondingly configured to allow the valve face to wedge into the interior of the valve seat such that the valve head becomes stuck within the interior of the valve seat.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2019Date of Patent: January 19, 2021Inventors: Jason Thompson, Paul Roberts, Shannon Freeman, Kolten P. Jelden
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Patent number: 10760387Abstract: A system and methods for reducing the operating temperature of a solid state pumping system for lifting liquids from a wellbore. The pumping system and methods utilizing a solid state electrical actuator system. The cooling systems and methods including a heat sink for cooling the solid state actuator. The heat sink comprising at least one of; (i) a dielectric oil bath, (ii) a thermoelectric cooling element, (iii) an aperture within the at least one solid state actuator for conveying a cooling fluid through the aperture, and (iv) combinations thereof. The pumping system including and an electrical power source for powering the solid state pump.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2018Date of Patent: September 1, 2020Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Robert A. Frantz, III, Conal H. O'Neill, Michael C. Romer
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Patent number: 9999909Abstract: A system for intercepting, treating and venting vapors from contaminated soil in the vadose zone and from contaminated groundwater includes a large borehole and at least one small borehole each having an open top end, a porous liner against the outer wall and porous fill material inside the liner. The fill material can include materials to retard and degrade contaminants in the vapors. The large and small boreholes can have impermeable sections in the liner, and impermeable ground cover around the top ends. The large borehole can also include a slotted aeration tube in the borehole and vegetation planted in the open end of the borehole. A method for intercepting, treating and venting of vapors from contaminated soil in the vadose zone and contaminated groundwater includes the system and pulling vapors out the top end of the large borehole with variations in atmospheric barometric pressure.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2016Date of Patent: June 19, 2018Inventor: Edward Augustus Council, III
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Patent number: 9960015Abstract: Systems and methods for impedance-based adjustment of power and frequency are described. A system includes a plasma chamber for containing plasma. The plasma chamber includes an electrode. The system includes a driver and amplifier coupled to the plasma chamber for providing a radio frequency (RF) signal to the electrode. The driver and amplifier is coupled to the plasma chamber via a transmission line. The system further includes a selector coupled to the driver and amplifier, a first auto frequency control (AFC) coupled to the selector, and a second AFC coupled to the selector. The selector is configured to select the first AFC or the second AFC based on values of current and voltage sensed on the transmission line.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2017Date of Patent: May 1, 2018Assignee: Lam Research CorporationInventors: John C. Valcore, Jr., Bradford J. Lyndaker
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Patent number: 9650865Abstract: An autonomous active flow control valve system for regulating and controlling flow across well segments is disclosed. In one example embodiment, the valve system includes a central control unit and one or more flow control devices communicatively coupled to the central control unit. Each flow control device includes at least one valve and at least one sensor for sensing various well or flow parameters. The central control unit receives sensor data from the sensor and controls the valve according to a pre-programmed control protocol. The valve may be opened, closed, and adjusted in response to detected well or flow parameters in order to maintain a desirable flow profile across well segments either in production or injection well.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2014Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.Inventors: Namhyo Kim, Kai Sun, Luis Phillipe Costa Ferreira Tosi, Krystian K. Maskos, Thomas Gary Corbett
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Patent number: 9534449Abstract: A drill string tool has a control mechanism to switch the tool between an inactive condition and an active condition in response to operator-performance of a predefined trigger sequence comprising variations in a drilling fluid pressure differential. The trigger sequence comprises multiple cycles of (a) raising the predefined trigger sequence into, but not above, a predefined pressure range, and (b) lowering the predefined trigger sequence below a lower threshold of the pressure range. Raising of the pressure difference above an upper pressure range threshold results in automatic interruption and resetting of the predefined trigger sequence.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2013Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Paul Ringgenberg
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Patent number: 9187991Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system is operable to be positioned in a wellbore in a fluid flow path between a formation and an internal passageway of a tubular. The system includes a flow control component positioned in the fluid flow path that is operable to control fluid flow therethrough. The system also includes a pressure sensitive valve positioned in the fluid flow path in parallel with the flow control component. The valve autonomously shifts from a first position to a second position responsive to a change in a pressure signal received by the valve, thereby enabling fluid flow therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2013Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, John Charles Gano
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Patent number: 9140106Abstract: A system for producing hydrocarbons from a well includes an unloading unit that receives fluids from a wellhead. The unloading unit separates the oil and gas, and the oil is pumped to a pipeline. Using the unloading unit and the pump helps to reduce the pressure at the wellhead which helps increase production. The gas separated by the unloading unit is compressed and re-injected into the well to create a gas lift which further helps increase production. Capturing and reinjecting the separated gas for gas lift operations reduces environmental damages associated with conventional unloading unit and pump assemblies. The unloading unit, compressor, and pump are modular for quicker installation and a smaller footprint. After increasing the productive life of a first reservoir, the system can be broken down and reassembled for use at another reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2011Date of Patent: September 22, 2015Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Jarrad Rexilius, Tipparat Wamanon, Akshay Sahni
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Patent number: 9121259Abstract: A novel idea involving the coupling of CO2 geological storage with methane and/or heat production (geothermal energy) from geopressured-geothermal aquifers is described herein. The production of energy from the extracted brine offsets the cost of capture, pressurization, and injection and the subsequent injection of brine containing carbon dioxide back into the aquifer. Calculations described in the present invention indicate that this offset would reduce the cost of carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) to a point that CCS could survive in a competitive market environment without subsidies or a price on carbon.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2011Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas SystemInventors: Steven L. Bryant, Gary A. Pope
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Patent number: 9091258Abstract: A system can include a skid, a support structure to support the skid on a sea floor, mounts connected to the skid, an electrical connector for each of the mounts to power an electric submersible pump housed by a tubular housing, fluid connectors for each of the mounts, tubular housing fluid isolation valves for each of the mounts, at least one fluid bypass that comprises a fluid bypass isolation valve, and a subsea control module for control of the tubular housing fluid isolation valves, the fluid bypass isolation valve and electricity to each of the electrical connectors. Various other devices, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2012Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Kevin T. Scarsdale
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Patent number: 9062520Abstract: A technique facilitates downhole service operations including cementing operations. A retrievable cementing bushing is designed to facilitate the service operation and includes a body on which is mounted an engagement lug. The engagement lug is mounted for movement in a radial direction and includes an outer engagement feature and an inner engagement feature. The inner engagement feature is oriented for cooperation with a slick joint. The engagement lug is biased in a radially outward direction for engagement with corresponding features of a surrounding wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2012Date of Patent: June 23, 2015Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Derek Ingraham, James Hall
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Publication number: 20150068761Abstract: Subterranean hydrocarbon recovery systems are provided with the systems including a plurality of conduit sections in fluid communication with at least some of which being aligned in parallel along at least one axis of each section. The recovery systems can also include a well head within a subterranean space with at least one of the sections being in fluid communication with the well head. Subterranean hydrocarbons systems are also provided that can include a plurality of conduit sections arranged in rows and columns.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2013Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventors: Joseph McPhie, Joshua Walton, Jason Todd, Robert Ferri
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Publication number: 20150060083Abstract: Systems and methods for artificial lift via a downhole piezoelectric pump are disclosed herein. The methods include methods of removing a wellbore liquid from a wellbore that extends within a subterranean formation and/or methods of locating the downhole piezoelectric pump within the wellbore. The systems include hydrocarbon wells that include the wellbore, a casing, the downhole piezoelectric pump, and a liquid discharge conduit and the systems may be utilized with and/or configured to perform the methods.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventors: Michael C. Romer, Federico A. Tavarez, Randy C. Tolman
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Publication number: 20150034328Abstract: A well pipe provides for air sparging and soil vapor extraction for groundwater remediation at a single point of entry. An elongated well pipe is provided with a plurality of openings at an upper section and a lower section of the pipe and a packer member for separating the two sections. A conduit for delivering compressed air passes through the packer member into the lower section of the well tube for providing air sparging below the water table level in the ground and a vacuum source is connected to an upper end of the well pipe for drawing vapors from the vadose region in the ground into the pipe through the openings in the upper section of the well tube for transport on to a remediation destination. The conduit is adapted for delivery of remedial enhancing amendments into the surrounding ground through the lower section of the well pipe to further treat the contamination below the ground surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2013Publication date: February 5, 2015Inventor: Mohamed ABOUODAH
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Publication number: 20140262312Abstract: A downhole bypass valve utilizes a stationary sleeve defining an interior ball-seat. When a dropped ball is seated, fluid differential pressure is diverted to an annular area adjacent a first sliding sleeve. The sleeve slides in response to the pressure differential upon shearing of a shear pin, or similar, and opens ports to the wellbore annulus. Treatment or maintenance operations can then occur through the ports, which can be fitted with nozzles. A second sliding sleeve, independent from the first, is operated in response to dropping a second ball into the device. The second ball diverts fluid differential pressure to an annular area adjacent the second sleeve and movement occurs when a shear pin shears. The second sleeve covers the ports to the wellbore annulus and closes the valve. After a sliding sleeve shifts, pressure across the sleeve is equalized, allowing reverse flow without risk of accidental sleeve actuation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: David J. Tilley
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Patent number: 8833488Abstract: A method of controlling standpipe pressure in a drilling operation can include comparing a measured standpipe pressure to a desired standpipe pressure, and automatically adjusting a choke in response to the comparing, thereby reducing a difference between the measured standpipe pressure and the desired standpipe pressure. A standpipe pressure control system for use in a drilling operation can include a controller which outputs an annulus pressure setpoint based on a comparison of a measured standpipe pressure to a desired standpipe pressure, and a choke which is automatically adjusted in response to the annulus pressure setpoint. A well system can include a standpipe line connected to a drill string in a wellbore, a sensor which measures pressure in the standpipe line, and a controller which outputs an annulus pressure setpoint based at least in part on a difference between the measured pressure and a desired standpipe pressure.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2012Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Kjetil A. Knudsen, Fredrik Varpe
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Publication number: 20140246205Abstract: This invention relates to controlling production fluids downhole in an oil well. More specifically, this invention relates to control of water and pressure downhole. Provided are apparatus for controlling production fluids and pressures and methods of using the apparatus to control production fluids and pressures.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2014Publication date: September 4, 2014Applicant: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventor: Mohamed Nabil Noui-Mehidi
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Patent number: 8789586Abstract: An oil shale formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Heat may be applied to the formation to raise a temperature of a portion of the formation to a pyrolysis temperature. Heat input into the formation may be controlled to raise the temperature of portion at a selected rate during pyrolysis of hydrocarbons within the formation. A mixture of hydrocarbons, H2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2013Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Eric Pierre de Rouffignac, Ilya Emil Berchenko, Thomas David Fowler, Robert Charles Ryan, Gordon Thomas Shahin, Jr., George Leo Stegemeier, Harold J. Vinegar, Scott Lee Wellington, Etuan Zhang
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Patent number: 8764407Abstract: A fluid level control mechanism comprising a reservoir assembly, a flow line assembly, and a resilient force assembly. The flow line assembly has a main flow line capable of passing a fluid, a diverter flow line, and a diverter valve. The diverter valve is connected to a lower end plate of the reservoir assembly via a lever arm, such that the reservoir assembly is capable of sliding along the length of the main flow line in response to a fluid level. Downward movement of the reservoir assembly opens the diverter valve and upward movement of the reservoir assembly closes the diverter valve. The resilient force assembly is attached to the main flow line and the reservoir assembly and is capable of exerting a vertical force against the reservoir assembly to close the diverter valve.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2012Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Inventor: William K. Filippi
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Publication number: 20140116718Abstract: A system and/or a method collects formation fluids using a single packer with expansion rings and/or an irregular sealing layer. The packer may have an expansion ring extending around an outer circumference. The expansion ring may seal a portion of a wellbore to sample fluid from a formation. An irregular sealing layer may facilitate leaking between drains of the packer. The irregular sealing layer may have grooves through which fluid may flow. The irregular sealing layer may be composed of fibers and/or plastic.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2012Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicant: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Pierre-Yves Corre, Jean-Louis Pessin, Julian J. Pop, Stephane Metayer, Kathiravane Tingat Cody
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Patent number: 8701777Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system having dynamic response to local well conditions. The system includes a tubing string operably positionable in a wellbore. Annular barriers are positioned between the tubing string and the wellbore to isolate first and second zones. A fluid flow control device is positioned within each zone. A flow tube that is operably associated with the fluid flow control device of the first zone is operable to establish communication between the second zone and the fluid flow control device in the first zone such that a differential pressure between the first zone and the second zone is operable to actuate the fluid flow control device of the first zone from a first operating configuration to a second operating configuration.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2012Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: John Charles Gano, Luke William Holderman, Michael Linley Fripp, Jason D. Dykstra
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Patent number: 8678095Abstract: An improved gas lift system for use in marginal well and small diameter production tubing is disclosed. The system uses compressed natural (produced) gas to lift formation fluids thereby enhancing produced gas. Incorporated in the system is a plurality of improved differential pressure control valves which are easier to maintain and more reliable and which provide the required lift capability with or without a standard jet pump, located at the bottom of the wellbore, to continue to lift produced fluids. The methods of use are described.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2011Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Inventors: James C. Morrison, Roy R. Vann
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Patent number: 8646535Abstract: An inflow control device may include flow control elements along a flow path. The flow control elements may change the inertial direction of the fluid flowing in the flow path. The change in inertial direction occurs at junctures along the flow path. The flow control elements may also be configured to form segmented pressure drops across the flow path. The segmented pressure drops may include a first pressure drop segment and a second pressure drop segment that is different from the first pressure drop segment. The pressure drop segments may be generated by a passage, an orifice or a slot. In embodiments, the plurality of flow control elements may separate the fluid into at least two flow paths. The flow control elements may also be configured to cause an increase in a pressure drop in the flow path as a concentration of water increases in the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2012Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Yang Xu, Martin P. Coronado
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Publication number: 20130277063Abstract: A system and method are provided for improving hydrocarbon production from gaseous wells, and in particular improving hydrocarbon production using pumping systems employing artificial lifts. The pumping system of the well is controlled so as to cyclically decrease and increase gas pressure in the casing annulus, thus cyclically decreasing PBHP in response to the decrease in the casing annulus pressure and permitting the PBHP to increase in response to the increase in casing annulus pressure. Production of fluid from the reservoir is therefore increased during the cyclical decrease in casing annulus pressure, and production of fluid from the downhole pump is increased during the cyclical increase in casing annulus pressure. In addition, gas interference due to production of foam in the casing surrounding a downhole pump can be mitigated by forcing liquid from the foam during the period of increased casing annulus pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2012Publication date: October 24, 2013Inventor: Krzysztof PALKA
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Patent number: 8528648Abstract: A flow control system includes a pump positioned in a well to remove liquid from the well. A check valve is positioned in the well and includes an open position and a closed position. The check valve in the open position allows gas from a producing formation of the well to flow past the check valve, while the check valve in the closed position substantially reduces gas flow at the pump from the producing formation. A compressed gas source is in fluid communication with the well to provide compressed gas to move the check valve to the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2010Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Pine Tree Gas, LLCInventor: Joseph A. Zupanick
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Publication number: 20130220600Abstract: A well pressure control method can include regulating pressure in a wellbore by operating a suction pump which draws fluid from an annulus formed between a drill string and the wellbore, the fluid entering the suction pump proximate the earth's surface. Another well pressure control method can include regulating pressure in a wellbore by operating a suction pump which applies suction pressure to an annulus formed between a drill string and the wellbore. A well drilling system can include a suction pump positioned proximate the earth's surface. The suction pump can receive fluid which exits an annulus formed between a drill string and a wellbore.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2013Publication date: August 29, 2013Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
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Patent number: 8500419Abstract: A technique is provided for pumping fluid in subsea applications. A self-contained pumping module is created by mounting one or more removable pumping units on a skid that can be lowered to a sea floor. Each removable pumping unit comprises an electric submersible pumping system enclosed by an outer housing. The self-contained pumping module also comprises hydraulic connectors and electrical connectors that facilitate connection with corresponding hydraulic lines and electric lines while at a subsea location.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2008Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Kevin T. Scarsdale
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Publication number: 20130105172Abstract: Pressure cycle independent indexer devices and methods include an indexing logic having a trigger sequence path defining a pressure event (e.g., one or more pressure events) between a starting slot and an actuation slot and each pressure event being located between a sequence transition point from an incoming sequence leg into an outgoing sequence leg of the trigger sequence path and a return transition point from the trigger sequence path into a return path. The indexing logic may permit cycling hydraulic pressures in a well without inadvertently cycling through the trigger sequence path.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2012Publication date: May 2, 2013Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Schumberger Technology Corporation
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Publication number: 20130105173Abstract: A pump has a pump barrel formed from a larger diameter section and a smaller diameter section. Each section has a biased piston moveable within the section and the pistons are connected together to form a variable volume chamber between the pistons. As the connected pistons move toward the larger diameter section, a volume of fluid is moved through an inlet valve into the variable volume chamber of increasing volume. When the pistons are moved toward the smaller diameter section, a differential volume of fluid is discharged from the variable volume chamber of decreasing volume through a discharge valve into a discharge conduit. The pistons are actuated to move within the pump barrel by application and release of pressure at a remote end of the discharge conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2012Publication date: May 2, 2013Applicant: Suncor Energy Inc.Inventor: Suncor Energy Inc.
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Patent number: 8430169Abstract: A method for managing hydrates in a subsea production system is provided. The production system includes a host production facility, a control umbilical, at least one subsea production well, and a single production line. The method generally comprises producing hydrocarbon fluids from the at least one subsea production well and through the production line, and then shutting in the production line. In addition, the method includes the steps of depressurizing the production line to substantially reduce a solution gas concentration in the produced hydrocarbon fluids, and then repressurizing the production line to urge any remaining gas in the free gas phase within the production line back into solution. The method also includes displacing production fluids within the production line by moving displacement fluids from a service line within the umbilical line and into the production line. The displacement fluids preferably comprise a hydrocarbon-based fluid having a low dosage hydrate inhibitor (LDHI).Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2008Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Richard F. Stoisits, David C. Lucas, Larry D. Talley, Donald P. Shatto, Jiyong Cai
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Patent number: 8424602Abstract: A method for producing bitumen or heavy oil from a subterranean reservoir comprising a carbonate mineral solid matrix comprising injection or co-injection of a gas other than carbon dioxide, injection or co-injection of a carbon containing gas containing a relatively low amount of carbon dioxide, injection of steam providing bicarbonate/alkalinity, or increasing the subterranean reservoir pressure, such that the dissolution and re-precipitation of carbonates is suppressed thereby.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2010Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Thimm Petroleum Technologies Inc.Inventor: Harald F. Thimm
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Patent number: 8408313Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for recovering heavy oil that, at least in one embodiment, include conditioning a reservoir of interest, then initially producing fluids and particulate solids such as sand to increase reservoir access. The initial production may generate high permeability channels or wormholes in the formation, which may be used for heavy oil production processes such as cold flow (CHOPS) or enhanced production processes such as SAGD, or VAPEX.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2008Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: David P. Yale, Thomas J. Boone, Richard J. Smith
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Patent number: 8403061Abstract: A method of making a flow control device for controlling flow of fluid between a formation and a wellbore is provided, which method in one aspect may include: providing a member suitable for placement in a wellbore for receiving formation fluid; selecting a geometry for a flow-through region configured to substantially increase value of a selected parameter relating to the flow-through region when a selected property of the formation fluid is in a first range changes and maintain a substantially constant pressure drop across the flow-through region when the selected property of the fluid is in a second range; and forming the flow-through region on the member to provide the flow control device.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2009Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Ronnie D. Russell, Luis A. Garcia, Gonzalo A. Garcia, Eddie G. Bowen, Sudiptya Banerjee
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Patent number: 8397822Abstract: A system for producing wellbore fluids. The system includes a pumping system deployable into tubing disposed in a wellbore, the pumping system includes a pump, a pump motor, a reservoir for containing purging fluid, and conductors in electrical communication with the pump motor. Electrical supply contacts are provided in the tubing and are connected to a downhole electrical power supply via a power cable extending along the tubing length from the surface. The conductors are engageable with the electrical supply contacts when the pumping system is landed within the tubing. Purging fluid in the reservoir can be flowed between the conductors and the supply contacts to remove conductive fluid prior to engaging the conductors and supply contacts. The conductors are selectively extended from a retracted position in the pumping system. In an alternative embodiment, the electrical supply contacts are provided at locations along the length of the tubing.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Steven K. Tetzlaff, Kevin R. Bierig, Joseph Scott Thompson
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Publication number: 20130062070Abstract: A system and method of liquefying a heavy oil formation to enhance oil production in a well, by inducing shear stress reversal within the formation by a plurality of expanding/contracting bladders in contact with the formation. The induced liquefaction enables formation materials and fluids to flow into the well and thus initiate and propagate the CHOPS (Cold Heavy Oil Production System) process, and thereby enhancing the hydrocarbon production of the well.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventor: Grant Hocking
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Patent number: 8360157Abstract: In at least one specific embodiment, a method for recovering heavy oil includes accessing, from two or more locations, a subsurface formation having an overburden stress disposed thereon, the formation comprising heavy oil and one or more solids. The formation is pressurized to a pressure sufficient to relieve the overburden stress. A differential pressure is created between the two or more locations to provide one or more high pressure locations and one or more low pressure locations. The differential pressure is varied within the formation between the one or more high pressure locations and the one or more low pressure locations to mobilize at least a portion of the solids and a portion of the heavy oil in the formation. The mobilized solids and heavy oil then flow toward the one or more low pressure locations to provide a slurry comprising heavy oil and one or more solids. The slurry comprising the heavy oil and solids is flowed to the surface where the heavy oil is recovered from the one or more solids.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: David P Yale, Eric Herbolzheimer
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Publication number: 20120318523Abstract: In a system for optimizing natural gas production in response to real-time variations in wellbore parameters, a PLC or other wellsite intelligence technology is used to monitor liquid and gas production from the wellbore under friction-loaded conditions. Using baseline production data obtained during production tests, the PLC determines and initiates the appropriate operating mode for the wellbore to optimize a selected production criterion to suit measured wellbore parameters. The operating mode either a continuous clean-out mode, in which gas is continuously injected into the wellbore to control liquid loading, or an intermittent clean-out, in which liquid loading is regulated by intermittent gas injection. In preferred embodiments, the system uses bladder-type control valves having upstream and downstream solenoids, to control production tubing flow rate within a range between upper and lower set points.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Applicant: OPTIMUM PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES INC.Inventors: Glenn WILDE, Dennis JONK
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Patent number: 8333245Abstract: A method and system for surface production of gas from a subterranean zone includes lowering reservoir pressure in an area of a subterranean zone having a medium to low effective permeability through a multi-branching well bore pattern. At least twenty-five percent of the total gas in the area of the subterranean zone is produced within three years of the start of production.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2002Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Vitruvian Exploration, LLCInventors: Joseph A. Zupanick, Monty H. Rial
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Patent number: 8312931Abstract: An inflow control device may include flow control elements along a flow path. The flow control elements may change the inertial direction of the fluid flowing in the flow path. The change in inertial direction occurs at junctures along the flow path. The flow control elements may also be configured to form segmented pressure drops across the flow path. The segmented pressure drops may include a first pressure drop segment and a second pressure drop segment that is different from the first pressure drop segment. The pressure drop segments may be generated by a passage, an orifice or a slot. In embodiments, the plurality of flow control elements may separate the fluid into at least two flow paths. The flow control elements may also be configured to cause an increase in a pressure drop in the flow path as a concentration of water increases in the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2007Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Yang Xu, Martin P. Coronado
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Patent number: 8302688Abstract: A perforating system and method for use in a wellbore. In operation, the perforating system is disposed in the wellbore and used to form perforations in the wellbore. Thereafter, the perforating system is used to perform a sequence of underbalance pulsations in the wellbore, wherein a first underbalance pulsation has a first underbalance signature and a second underbalance pulsation has a second underbalance signature that is different from the first underbalance signature such that perforating tunnel clean up can be optimized based upon wellbore conditions and without causing damage to the perforating tunnels.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2010Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: John D. Burleson, John H. Hales
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Patent number: 8261819Abstract: A method of determining a fluid level in a well space without substantial venting of gas to the atmosphere or injecting a gas at high pressure. Gas being produced by the well is used to create a pressure differential between two spaces. A wave is induced in the well space by causing the two spaces to come into gaseous communication for a selected time internal. Pressure changes are measured as the induced wave travels through the gas in the well space from the measurement system to a fluid surface and back to the measurement system to determine a round trip travel time of the wave. The fluid level is calculated from the round-trip travel time and a speed of the wave as one-half of the product of the wave speed and the round-trip time.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2012Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Inventors: Sam Gavin Gibbs, Kenneth Bernard Nolen
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Publication number: 20120211238Abstract: A pressure control system varies a parameter of a gas flowing out of the well to artificially generate a pressure value at a fluid mover. The fluid mover receives fluid from a conduit such as a dip tube positioned in the well. The system may also include a flow control device controlling a gas flow out of the well and a controller controlling the flow control device using information relating to at least one wellbore parameter.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2011Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventors: Leslie C. Reid, Edward C. Kanady
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Publication number: 20120199362Abstract: According to an embodiment, a method of maintaining a hydrostatic pressure exerted on a wall of a wellbore in at least a first interval and a second interval of the wellbore, comprises the steps of: flowing a liquid through at least a first pressure regulator and a second pressure regulator, wherein the first pressure regulator is located in the first interval of the wellbore, wherein the second pressure regulator is located in the second interval of the wellbore, and wherein each of the first and second pressure regulators regulates the amount of pressure exerted by the liquid on the wall of the wellbore; and maintaining the amount of pressure for a specific period of time.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2011Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Tommy Frank GRIGSBY, Bruce TECHENTIEN
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Patent number: 8196655Abstract: Selective placement of conformance treatments in multi-zone well completions. A method includes injecting a relative permeability modifier into a zone and optimizing a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid produced from the zone, including adjusting at least one flow control device between fully open and fully closed configurations. Another method includes injecting a relative permeability modifier into multiple zones, one at a time, via respective flow control devices, and then producing fluid from each of the zones. Another method includes identifying which of the zones to treat by, for each of the zones: a) closing flow control devices corresponding to the other zones, and b) evaluating fluid produced from the zone; and injecting a conformance treatment into the zones identified as the zones to treat.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2009Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Mark D. Kalman, Eldon D. Dalrymple, Larry Eoff