Assembling Well Part Patents (Class 166/378)
  • Publication number: 20140083719
    Abstract: A connector system for reducing particulate matter may include a first unit for supplying signals and a second unit for receiving and/or relaying the signals. The signals may be for power generation and/or communications. A coupling may be positioned between the first unit and second unit. The coupling may include a center pin attached to the first unit and for receiving a signal at a first potential. The coupling may further include an outer case attached to the first unit and for receiving a signal at a second potential. The coupling may also have a seal and a spring. The seal and spring may surround the outer case. The spring may engage the second unit and may pass signals between the first unit and the second unit. The spring may comprise a canted coil spring for supporting load forces and for passing electrical current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Frederic Gicquel
  • Patent number: 8678088
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods to cut a control line and/or to run a control line on a rig may include a movable cutting apparatus to cut a control line, a load transfer member to engage a control line, a load measuring device to measure a load imparted to a load transfer member, and a drive member to engage and drive a control line. The apparatuses and methods may be used with a control line positioning apparatus, a pipe engaging apparatus, and/or may be used by themselves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Frank's Casing Crew and Rental Tools, Inc.
    Inventor: Dougal Hugo Brown
  • Patent number: 8678097
    Abstract: A system for circumferentially aligning a downhole latch subsystem in a wellbore. The system includes an outer tool assembly including a latch coupling having a latch profile and a slot subassembly having an axially extending slot profile. An inner tool assembly is positionable within the outer tool assembly. The inner tool assembly includes a latch assembly having a plurality of latch keys and an orienting subassembly having a plurality orienting keys. In operation, after axial alignment of the orienting subassembly with the slot subassembly, rotation of the orienting subassembly causes operable engagement of at least one orienting key with the slot profile and, thereafter, axial alignment of the latch assembly with the latch coupling causes operable engagement of the latch keys with the latch profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart Alexander Telfer, Espen Dahl, David Joe Steele, Lester Barett Dupler
  • Patent number: 8662184
    Abstract: A subsea well production system for a well including a subsea wellhead. The system includes a multi-section production tree that includes a landing section engageable with the subsea wellhead and including a landing section bore. The tree also includes a valve section separate from and engageable with the landing section, the valve section including a lateral production port extending through a valve section wall and in communication with a valve section bore. A production tubing supported by a tubing hanger is installed and supported in the landing section bore such that the tubing hanger extends into the valve section bore. The tubing hanger and production tubing are retrievable through the section bores without disengaging the valve section from the landing section. The valve section is also disengageable from the landing section with the tubing hanger remaining in the landing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: David R. June
  • Publication number: 20140054046
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to methods and apparatus to inhibit rotation within a drilling rig. The apparatus may include a first member connected to a first component of the drilling rig, and a second member connected to the first member and connected to a second component of the drilling rig, the second component configured to move vertically with respect to the first component. The first member is configured to move vertically with respect to the second member and the first member and the second member substantially inhibit rotation between each other. The apparatus may include a rotational adjustment system, in which the rotational adjustment system is used to connect with one of the components of the drilling rig.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: FRANK'S CASING CREW AND RENTAL TOOLS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian David Begnaud, Charles Michael Webre, Adam Gerard Pelletier, Dougal Hugo Brown, Tom Adrian Banger, Peter John Lovegrove
  • Publication number: 20140048285
    Abstract: A technique facilitates transmission of electric signals across well components which move relative to each other in a wellbore environment. The well components are movably, e.g. rotatably, coupled to each other via one or more conductive bearings. Each conductive bearing has a conductive rolling element which enables relative movement, e.g. rotation, between the well components while simultaneously facilitating transmission of electric signals through the bearing. Portions of the bearing are coupled to each of the well components, and those bearing portions may be connected with electric leads to enable flow of electric signals through the bearing during operation of the system downhole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Joachim Sihler
  • Patent number: 8651173
    Abstract: A modular control system includes a control module removably attachable to an exterior of a downhole tool. A controlled device, the controlled device providing a function for the downhole tool. The controlled device controlled by the control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Paul Joseph, Luis E. Mendez, Ajeet G. Kamath
  • Patent number: 8646534
    Abstract: A containment fitting for a wellhead capping device including a truncated conical section capable of fitting into a central aperture of a flange that is attached to a ruptured wellhead pipe end and which can be fitted into position by several wires or cables that are pulled through apertures in the pipe wellhead flange. A method of installation includes undersea welding of the flange onto the end of the ruptured wellhead and inserting plural bobbin structures attached to cable wires into through holes extending at angularly opposed sides of the flange such and when completely in line through a second flange on constriction equipment, can bring the flanges adjacent and in line to permit attachment therebetween by bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Richard R. Magden
  • Publication number: 20140034333
    Abstract: A lifting device and method comprising a plurality of units removably coupled together. Each unit comprises a housing and a winch. The housing of each unit further comprises forward and rearward housing portions, each of said portions further comprising one or more top, bottom, side, and rear plates. The winch and support members span between and within the forward and rearward housing portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: James Mata
  • Publication number: 20140020908
    Abstract: A radio frequency (RF) antenna assembly to be positioned within a wellbore in a subterranean formation for hydrocarbon resource recovery may include a series of tubular conductors coupled together in end-to-end relation. Each tubular conductor may include a dual-wall conductor defining an RF antenna. The dual-wall conductor may include an outer wall and an inner wall spaced inwardly therefrom to define an outer fluid passageway. The RF antenna assembly may further include an RF transmission line extending within at least some of the tubular conductors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: Harris Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Wright, Murray Hann, Keith Nugent
  • Patent number: 8627895
    Abstract: A running tool for delivering a hanger into a wellcomprises a main body. In addition, the running tool comprise an attachment means for connecting a hanger to the main body. Further, the running tool comprises a sleeve having an external profile and being rotatably mounted around the main body. The sleeve has engagement means for releasably connecting the sleeve to a landing ring mounted via a thread on the hanger such that rotational movement of the sleeve causes rotational and thus axial movement of the landing shoulder on the hanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Fern, Ted Thornburrow
  • Patent number: 8602110
    Abstract: A flow regulating system can include multiple flow restrictors, at least one of which selectively restricts flow between an interior of a tubular string and an external annulus, a plug which prevents flow through a respective one of the flow restrictors, the plug being aligned substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the flow restrictor. A method of variably restricting fluid flow in a well can include installing one or more plugs in selected one(s) of multiple openings in a housing, each installed plug preventing fluid flow through a respective flow restrictor, and externally accessing the openings, without removing any cover. An externally adjustable inflow control device can include a housing having multiple openings, multiple flow restrictors, a plug in selected one(s) of the openings, each plug preventing fluid flow through a respective flow restrictor, and each plug being externally accessible, without removal of any cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Kuo, Luke W. Holderman, Jean-Marc Lopez, Caleb T. Warren
  • Publication number: 20130319685
    Abstract: A downhole tool coupling (10) comprises first (11) and second (12) downhole tool elements that are securable one to the other in a releasably locking manner by moving the tool elements from a longitudinally relatively less proximate, especially overlapping position into longitudinally relatively more overlap with one another. The first downhole tool element (11) supports a first inductive, capacitative and/or magnetic energy coupler (23) and the second downhole tool element (12) supports a second inductive, capacitative and/or magnetic energy coupler (24). The first and second energy couplers (23, 24) are movable from an energetically uncoupled position when the tool elements (11, 12) are in the longitudinally relatively less overlapping position to an energetically coupled position when the first and second downhole tool elements (11, 12) overlap relatively more.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: James Arthur Pike
  • Publication number: 20130319684
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards a friction reducing stabilizer. The friction reducing stabilizer includes an annular body and a plurality of blades, wherein each of the plurality of blades extends radially outward from the annular body and has a bearing mechanism configured to contact an annular down-hole component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: TESCO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Timothy Eric Moellendick
  • Patent number: 8596348
    Abstract: A tool is run into a liner that holds an electrical or hydraulic connection for a downhole tool which preferably is an electric submersible pump (ESP). It is capable of cleaning the electrical contacts, replacing them, isolating them from well fluid if no ESP or other downhole tool is to be present for a long time or switching from a main to a backup supply cable or hydraulic line among other downhole functions. The liner with the exterior cable or hydraulic line attached remains in position. Applications to other tools that obtain power or hydraulic pressure in a downhole wet connection are contemplated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Earl B. Brookbank
  • Publication number: 20130312981
    Abstract: A tieback receptacle is configured with an exterior cone and externals seals with a clearance space to accept a tieback shoe that will wash over the receptacle and expand when landed and advanced over the cone. The lower end of the shoe is tapered so that the thickness opposing the upper seal adds to burst and collapse resistance while the tapered lower end allows a thicker receptacle to be used in the area of the lower seal. The expansion can be accomplished with setting down weight which can also enhance the set of the liner hanger below. Minimal expansion in the order of 3% or less is needed. Exterior slots create cement flow passages and a no-go for the stem to prevent damage to the box further below. A metal to metal seal is created at the cone that is straddled by the exterior seals on the extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Mark K. Adam
  • Publication number: 20130299186
    Abstract: A hydraulic connector for a wellhead hub is provided that includes a piston and a bottom portion configured to move in an axial direction via hydraulic pressure applied to one or more hydraulic ports in the connector. The movement of the piston and the bottom portion moves a ring and a segment of the connector in a radial direction to engage recesses in the wellhead hub. The connector may be unlocked by applying hydraulic pressure to a hydraulic port of the connector. A system and method of operating the connector are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Dennis P. Nguyen, Richard Altman
  • Publication number: 20130277067
    Abstract: A triple-sealed ESP connection provides a first seal at the upper end of a coiled tubing to limit the migration of vapors from the interior of the coiled tubing into the annulus at a wellhead and a second seal to prevent migration of the vapors from the annulus of the wellhead to the exterior surface of the wellhead. This triple-sealed arrangement can be accomplished by providing a threaded connection on an upper end of the coiled tubing to which is attached the sealable shroud for the electrical conductor splice which sealably connects with the wellhead thereby providing a sealed upper end to the coiled tubing and a second seal on the shroud and a seal at the wellhead. The second seal in both cases is the seal that can be either a metal-to-metal or other type of compressive seal arrangement or a sealed tubing arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Quick Connectors, Inc.
    Inventors: Tod D. Emerson, Jerry L. Reeves, Michael E. Daugherty, Leroy Cantu
  • Publication number: 20130264070
    Abstract: A connection assembly, system and method for connecting components of a wellsite are provided. The wellsite has a wellbore extending into a subsurface formation, the connection assembly includes a female connector having a cavity extending therein, a floating cartridge having, and a male connector. The female connector or floating cartridge is operatively connectable to a first of the components. The floating cartridge is operatively connectable to the female connector and laterally movable therein. The male connector is receivable in the cavity and is operatively connectable to the second of the components and the floating cartridge such that the male connector and the female connector are movably positionable relative to each other by the floating cartridge whereby a misalignment between the wellsite components is tolerated. The male connector may have a joint pivotally connectable to the floating cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P.
    Inventors: Travis James Miller, Kent Allen Grebing, Michael Edwin Pollard, Frank Benjamin Springett
  • Publication number: 20130255966
    Abstract: A wellbore apparatus may include first and second tubular members joined together in end-to-end relation, the first tubular member having a reduced outer diameter end portion. The wellbore apparatus may further include a removable modular antenna assembly comprising a cylindrical dielectric housing removably positioned on the reduced outer diameter end portion of the first tubular member, at least one antenna coil carried by the cylindrical dielectric housing, and a first electrical connector coupled to the at least one antenna coil. The wellbore apparatus may also include resistivity processing circuitry coupled to the first electrical connector to determine an electrical resistivity of a wellbore based upon the at least one antenna coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Tudor Palaghita, Cory James, Fernando Garcia-Osuna, Frank Espinosa
  • Patent number: 8544547
    Abstract: A wellhead system, in an embodiment, includes a first wellhead component with an internal bore, and a second wellhead component with a lower end disposed within the first wellhead component internal bore and an upper end disposed outside of the first wellhead component internal bore. The upper end of the second wellhead component has a groove disposed on an outer surface thereof. The wellhead system also includes a retaining member with a plurality of sections, wherein a portion of the retaining member is at least partially disposed in the groove on the second wellhead component, the retaining member is coupled to the first wellhead component, and an anti-rotation mechanism engages both the retaining member and the second wellhead component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis P. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8544553
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method to seal and prevent leakage within a downhole tool are disclosed herein. The apparatus includes a first body portion having a first fluid flow path formed therethrough and a second body portion having a second fluid flow path formed therethrough. The second body portion is movable between a first position and a second position with respect to the first body portion. The apparatus further includes a stopper connected to the second body portion and disposed within the first body portion. When the second body portion is in the first position, the stopper sealingly engages the first fluid flow path, and when the second body portion is in the second position, the stopper sealingly disengages from the first fluid flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Milkovisch, Craig Cumba, Liane Miller, Alejandro Tello
  • Patent number: 8534366
    Abstract: A method of installing or retrieving a pumping system into or from a live wellbore includes connecting a lubricator to a production tree of the live wellbore and raising or lowering one or more downhole components of the pumping system from or into the wellbore using the lubricator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Zeitecs B.V.
    Inventors: Lance I. Fielder, Matthew Crowley, Holger Franz, Johannes Schmidt, Benjamin Eduard Wilkosz
  • Patent number: 8528651
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for directionally disposing an elongated flexible member in a pressurized conduit, including inserting a bent end portion of an elongated hollow body through an opening in fluid communication with a well valve and defined by a pressurized conduit, the bent end portion being disposed in a pre-determined direction and location within the pressurized conduit; inserting a lead portion of an elongated flexible member into a fluid passageway defined by a primary valve, the fluid passageway of the primary valve being in sealed fluid relationship with the elongated hollow body which, in turn, is in sealed fluid relationship with the pressurized conduit, wherein the lead portion of the elongated flexible member is inserted through the bent end portion and into the pressurized conduit by a pre-determined distance; and retaining in place the inserted elongated flexible member which is directionally disposed in the pressurized conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John Gregory Darby, Harold L. Becker
  • Publication number: 20130220602
    Abstract: A downhole tool includes a downlinking system deployed in a downhole tool body having an internal through bore. The downlinking system includes a differential pressure transducer configured to measured a pressure difference between drilling fluid in the internal through bore and drilling fluid external to the tool (in the borehole annulus). The differential transducer is electrically connected with an electronic controller (deployed substantially anywhere in the drill string) that is configured to receive and decode pressure waveforms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130213668
    Abstract: A method can include interconnecting a well tool in a well tool assembly with a shock mitigating connection, the interconnecting being performed without threading, and positioning the well tool assembly in a wellbore. A well perforating assembly can include at least two perforating devices, a detonation train extending through the perforating devices, and a shock absorber positioned between the perforating devices. A method of assembling a perforating assembly can include, prior to installing the perforating assembly in a wellbore, pushing one perforating device connector into another perforating device connector without threading the connectors together, thereby: a) preventing disconnection of the connectors and b) making a connection in a detonation train. A well system can include a perforating assembly including multiple perforating guns and multiple shock absorbers. Each shock absorber may be interconnected between at least two of the perforating guns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Patent number: 8505634
    Abstract: Earth-boring tools include combinations of shearing cutting elements and gouging cutting elements on a blade of the earth-boring tools. In some embodiments, a gouging cutting element may be disposed adjacent to a shearing cutting element on a blade of an earth-boring tool. Methods of forming earth-boring tools include providing such combination of at least one shearing cutting element and at least one gouging cutting element on a blade of an earth-boring tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Nicholas J. Lyons, Danny E. Scott, Rudolf Carl Pessier, David Gavia, Juan Miguel Bilen
  • Patent number: 8499471
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides, among other things, a system and process for drying a biosolid or sludge, such as wastewater sludge. The system and method include a fluidized bed dryer in which the sludge is dried. The fluidized bed includes bed media. In particular examples, the bed media is different than the sludge. The system and method can include additional features, such treating the sludge using a thermochemical process in a thermochemical reactor, such as a gasifier, to produce a fuel. The fuel is then combusted to produce energy and heat. The heat is recycled to the drier to help dry sludge. In particular examples, sludge input to the dryer is not first treated using a high-pressure dewatering technique. In some embodiments, the system and method include an anaerobic digester coupled to a combustion unit coupled to the dryer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: The Board of Regents of the Nevada System of Higher Education, on Behalf of the University of Nevada, Reno
    Inventors: Charles J. Coronella, Victor R. Vasquez
  • Patent number: 8499839
    Abstract: A connection device comprises a lock component of non-circular cross-sectional shape, the lock component being both angularly and axially moveable relative to a housing, stop means operable to limit angular movement of the lock component relative to the housing, the lock component having a threaded drive region, and a drive nut in threaded engagement with the drive region, wherein angular movement of the drive nut relative to the housing when the stop means are not engaged is able to drive the lock component for angular movement, rotation of the drive nut when the stop means are engaged causing axial displacement of the lock component relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Viper Subsea Limited
    Inventors: Iain Reid, Paul Charles Roberts, Alistair Ross Donald
  • Publication number: 20130187338
    Abstract: A wellbore sealing assembly can include a sealing ring, an energizing ring, and a multifunctional key for engaging the sealing ring and the energizing ring. The multifunctional key can have a key body, a guide member, and a retainer stud. The key body can be located in an aperture in a sidewall of the sealing ring and the guide member and retainer stud can protrude through the sidewall into a guide slot and recess of the energizing ring. Downward force on the energizing ring can cause the retainer stud to shear away while the guide member travels in the guide slot to prevent rotation of the energizing ring relative to the sealing ring. The guide member can also aid in complete seal retrieval by locking against the bottom of the key-way slot in the energizing ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: Vetco Gray, Inc
    Inventors: Thirupathi Dommati, Milind Appasaheb Ghumre, Murugan Mahalingam
  • Publication number: 20130180728
    Abstract: Welded downhole tools and methods are provided. The downhole tool is deployable into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The downhole tool includes a first downhole component having a first mating feature on at least one end thereof and at least one second downhole component weldably connectable to the end of the first downhole component. The second downhole component has a second mating feature on an end thereof. The first and second mating features include at least one raised ridge for concentric self-alignment along a common axis with the other of the first and second mating features whereby, upon frictional engagement of the end of the first downhole component with the end of the second component under heat and pressure, a welded connection is formed therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P.
    Inventor: Joel Franklin Hugghins
  • Patent number: 8485267
    Abstract: A hydraulic connector for a wellhead hub is provided that includes a piston and a bottom portion configured to move in an axial direction via hydraulic pressure applied to one or more hydraulic ports in the connector. The movement of the piston and the bottom portion moves a ring and a segment of the connector in a radial direction to engage recesses in the wellhead hub. The connector may be unlocked by applying hydraulic pressure to a hydraulic port of the connector. A system and method of operating the connector are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis P. Nguyen, Richard Altman
  • Patent number: 8474526
    Abstract: The present invention provides a screen for a well that utilizes a partial screen wrapping used to advantage with side conduits (e.g., alternate flowpaths), control lines, intelligent completions devices, and the like. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Schulmberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick W. Bixenman, Craig D. Johnson, Jake A. Danos, Matthew R. Hackworth
  • Publication number: 20130146362
    Abstract: The invention being designed in this application relates to a radial drilling method. Boreholes are placed into oil and gas formations to provide openings for the removal of the product. Oil and gas wells extend to different depths and downhole well conditions. The radial system has been designed to accommodate the well conditions and to jet or drill different oil and gas formation. The radial system provides a mill/bit which is rotated from a downhole motor or a surface swivel. The mill ports, the steel casing, and the bit extend outward into the formation forming a borehole to a predetermined length. The borehole is provided without an entrance radius into the formation. Several radial holes can be provided considering a one trip event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventor: Herman Joseph Schellstede
  • Patent number: 8463585
    Abstract: In one aspect, a method of estimating fluid flow contribution from each producing zone of multi-zone production well is provided, which method may include: defining a wellhead pressure; determining a first inflow performance relation (IPR1) between pressure and fluid inflow rate at a first producing zone and a second inflow performance relation (IPR2) between pressure and fluid inflow rate at a second producing zone; determining a combined performance relation (IPRc) between pressure and fluid inflow rate at a commingle point; defining an initial fluid flow rate into the well from the first zone and an initial fluid flow rate from the second zone; generating a first fluid lift performance relation (TPR1) between pressure and total fluid flow corresponding to the commingle point using the initial fluid flow rates from the first and second production zones and at least one fluid property; and determining contribution of the fluid from the first zone and the second zone at the commingle point using IPRc and TPR1
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Kai Sun, Jesse Constantine, Craig Coull
  • Publication number: 20130140039
    Abstract: A method of delivering a desired relatively high optical power to a well tool in a subterranean well can include coupling to an optical waveguide an optical source which combines multiple optical frequency ranges, respective centers of the frequency ranges being separated by at least a peak shift frequency in a Raman gain spectrum for a corresponding pump wavelength generated by the optical source, and transmitting the desired optical power to the well tool via the optical waveguide positioned in the well. Another method of delivering optical power to a well tool in a subterranean well can include coupling to an optical waveguide an optical source, the optical source comprising a sufficient number of lasing elements to transmit the optical power, with the optical power being greater than a critical power for stimulated Brillouin scattering in the waveguide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Neal Gregory SKINNER
  • Publication number: 20130133889
    Abstract: A system can include multiple explosive assemblies, each assembly comprising an outer housing, an explosive component rotatable relative to the housing, and a selective firing module which causes detonation of the component in response to a predetermined signal. A method can include assembling multiple explosive assemblies at a location remote from a well, installing a selective firing module, an electrical detonator and an explosive component in a connector, and connecting the connector to an outer housing, and then transporting the assemblies from the remote location to the well. A well perforating method can include assembling multiple perforating guns, each gun comprising a gun body, a perforating charge, and a selective firing module which causes detonation of the charge in response to a predetermined signal. The guns are installed in a wellbore, with the charge of each gun rotating relative to the respective gun body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130126173
    Abstract: A method of assembling a wellbore servicing tool, comprising placing a first module adjacent to a second module along an axis, engaging a bridge with each of the first module and the second module by, while the bridge radially overlaps one of the first module and second module, substantially restricting movement of the bridge to movement radially toward the first module and the second module and toward the axis. A method of assembling a wellbore servicing tool, comprising angularly aligning a first module with a second module, joining the first module to the second module while maintaining the angular alignment between first module and the second module. A method of assembling a wellbore servicing tool, comprising assembling a cement head without using torque to join components of the cement head, and passing a fluid through the cement head into a wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Patent number: 8434571
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for securement of lines to downhole well tools. A method of securing one or more lines to a well tool includes the steps of: installing the one or more lines in a groove formed longitudinally along an outer surface of the well tool, the groove having a width at the outer surface of the well tool which is narrower than a width of the groove at a position radially inward relative to the outer surface; and securing the one or more lines in the groove. A well tool includes a groove formed longitudinally along an outer surface of an outer housing of the well tool. The groove has a width at the outer surface of the well tool which is narrower than a width of the groove at a position radially inward relative to the outer surface. One or more lines are secured in the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Bharathwaj Kannan, Brett W. Bouldin
  • Publication number: 20130092391
    Abstract: A system and methodology utilizes a technique for filtering sand; distributing a flow of fluid; e.g. distributing an inflow of gas or condensate; and limiting the potential for erosion of completion components in a wellbore. The technique may be useful in production applications, but the technique also can be used in fluid injection applications, e.g. gas injection applications. The technique employs a base pipe and a sand screen surrounding the base pipe. The base pipe comprises a plurality of flow restriction openings of reduced size and deployed in a selected pattern along the base pipe. The size and arrangement of the flow restriction openings reduces the peak flux of radial fluid flow through the sand screen to a rate less than a sand screen erosion rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventors: Robin Greene, Terje Moen
  • Patent number: 8413729
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the creation of an impermeable pile in the vicinity of a dysfunctional oil well are provided. The impermeable pile is sealed and impervious to sea water and of sufficient strength to sustain the oil pressure to prevent oil leakage into the sea. The impermeable pile is configured for receiving oil from the well and discharging oil through a pipe leading to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Cyrus O. Varan
  • Patent number: 8403065
    Abstract: A riser for use in boring a subsea wellbore having a gooseneck assembly connected onto the riser. The gooseneck assembly has an outlet that couples with a flowline on the riser and a connector assembly that selectively decouples the gooseneck assembly from the flowline. A release member, such as a wire, cable, or rod, is attached to the connector so the connector assembly can be actuated by manipulating the release member from a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Detail Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert H. Taylor, Arthur Jones
  • Patent number: 8403058
    Abstract: An offshore unit includes a hull and/or a deck frame, a mat attached to at least one connecting leg or a spud can attached to each of at least one connecting leg or lower hull attached to at least one connecting means. A wellhead deck is removably attached to the hull and/or deck frame and a sub-sea clamp in conjunction with a caisson or a sub-sea conductor frame is removably attached to the mat or to the at least one connecting leg, where a spud can is attached to each of the at least one connecting leg, or to the lower hull. The offshore unit is relocatable and is a platform or a rig capable of performing drilling, production, construction, accommodation, hook-up and commissioning or a combination of any of these functions thereof. The offshore unit is a self-elevating mobile platform or submersible platform or semi-submersible platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Kingtime International Limited
    Inventors: Nagendran C. Nadarajah, Renata Anita De Raj, Mahendran Suppiah
  • 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: 8403066
    Abstract: A hybrid junction assembly is provided. The hybrid junction assembly may comprise a junction body configured to sealingly couple to a first control line and a second control line. In addition, the assembly may include a transfer conduit configured to fit within a hybrid control line such that an annulus is formed between the transfer conduit and the hybrid control line. The first control line and the transfer conduit may form a first communication pathway and the second control line and the annulus may form a second communication pathway. The transfer conduit and the hybrid control line may be sealingly coupled to the junction body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Ramaswamy Meyyappan, Yasser El-Khazindar, Thomas D. MacDougall
  • Publication number: 20130062073
    Abstract: An apparatus including a downhole tool for conveyance in a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation. The downhole tool includes a mandrel, and a first packer and a second packer expandable from the mandrel into contact with a wall of the wellbore. The downhole tool includes a standoff coupled to the mandrel between the first packer and the second packer and having a rigid outer perimeter that is diametrically larger than an outer perimeter of the mandrel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Nathan Landsiedel
  • Patent number: 8393397
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Ross John Trewhella, Darryl K. Mackie
  • Publication number: 20130056222
    Abstract: Concentric control lines have an outer line disposed about one or more inner lines. Encapsulated together, the lines only require one penetration through the wellhead to extend downhole. At the wellhead, the lines communicate with an operating system, which can provide hydraulics, electric power, signals, or the like for downhole components. Beyond the wellhead, the concentric lines extend along the tubing to a manifold. The outer line sealably terminates at the manifold's inlet, while the inner conduit passes out an outlet with a sealed fitting to connect to a downhole component. A downhole line couples to an outlet of the manifold and communicates internally with the outer conduit terminated at the manifold's inlet. This downhole line can then extend to the same downhole component or some different component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: Roddie R. Smith, Ronald D. Williams, Robert Wojciechowski
  • Publication number: 20130056223
    Abstract: The downhole torque limiter and method eliminate damage to downhole components by eliminating excessive torque transmission. The device comprises a housing, compression assemblies, and anti-rotation plates. Inner and outer assemblies of the device are permitted to slip with respect to each other after reaching a settable torque limit which is preferably below the maximum capacity of other downhole components. The device may be positioned in drill strings that comprise a downhole motor and/or drill bit as well as drill strings that do not comprise a downhole motor and/or drill bit. In drill strings comprising a downhole motor and/or drill bit, the device may be positioned below the downhole motor and above the drill bit, adjacent to and above the downhole motor, or above the downhole motor such that at least one drill string joint is positioned between the device and the downhole motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Mark B. Nichols
  • Patent number: 8387704
    Abstract: A system and method for carrying out simultaneous operations of assembling, dismantling, and maintaining equipment installed by an oil rig, using the tools, systems, and the areas available on the rig itself. The system includes two parallel and separated sustaining beams and two mobile bases supported on the beams to carry out the simultaneous operations. This system allows a method for simultaneously assembling two items of subsea equipment which are to be installed to be performed. Also, this system allows a method for simultaneously replacing and assembling subsea equipment to be performed. Additionally, the equipment can be lowered or recovered using either a derrick and pipe string or a winch and steel cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.-Petrobras
    Inventor: Roberto Rodrigues