Flexible Cable Or Wire Patents (Class 166/385)
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Patent number: 7163065Abstract: Telemetry systems and methods are disclosed for real time communication of information between multiple positions in a wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2003Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Zhiyi Zhang, Bruno Best, Gilberto Toffolo
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Patent number: 7156176Abstract: In an embodiment, a system may be used to heat a hydrocarbon containing formation. The system may include a heater placed in an opening in the formation. The system may allow heat to transfer from the heater to a part of the formation. The transferred heat may pyrolyze at least some hydrocarbons in the formation. The heater may be removable from the opening in the formation and redeployable in at least one alternative opening in the formation.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Harold J. Vinegar, John Matthew Coles, Eric Pierre de Rouffignac, Bruce Gerard Hunsucker, James Louis Menotti, Christopher Arnold Pratt, Scott Lee Wellington
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Patent number: 7073602Abstract: Apparatus for injecting coiled tubing into a bore comprises a rotatable housing (28, 29) having an axis along which coiled tubing is to be translated. A set of rolling elements (12, 14) is rotatably mounted in the housing (28, 29), each rolling element (24) having a skewed axis of rotation with respect to the housing axis and being arranged for rolling contact with an outside diameter of the coiled tubing. The arrangement is such that rotation of the housing (28, 29) relative to the tubing causes the tubing to be moved axially through the rotating housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2001Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/LambInventors: Neil Andrew Abercombie Simpson, Alexander Craig Mackay
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Patent number: 7059407Abstract: The invention discloses methods of, as well as apparatus and systems for, perforating and treating multiple intervals of one or more subterranean formations intersected by a wellbore by deploying within said wellbore a bottom-hole assembly (“BHA”) having a perforating device and a sealing mechanism, wherein pressure communication is established between the portions of the wellbore above and below the sealing mechanism. The BHA is positioned within the wellbore such that the sealing mechanism, when actuated, establishes a hydraulic seal in the wellbore to positively force fluid to enter the perforations corresponding to the interval to be treated. A treating fluid is pumped down the wellbore and into the perforations created in the perforated interval. The sealing mechanism is released, and the steps are repeated for as many intervals as desired, without having to remove the BHA from said wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2005Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Randy C. Tolman, Lawrence O. Carlson, David A. Kinison, Kris J. Nygaard, Glenn S. Goss, William A. Sorem, Lee L. Shafer
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Patent number: 7051803Abstract: A relatively light weight radial wire-line conveyance mechanism capable of sustained high pressure incorporated into a wire-line riser set-up and configured to allow multiple radial bends without sheaves. The conveyance mechanism includes a tubular body structure capable of being pressurized defining a radial arc of between 0 and 180 degree having a threaded coupling at each end for connection to riser tubular joints. The tubular body contains a series of connected tubular blocks, each of which includes a longitudinal bore and a roller or ball assembly therein defining a wire-line pathway for receiving a wire-line that passes through each of said tubular blocks, fully contained therein.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Inventor: Benny W. Moretz
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Patent number: 7051814Abstract: A tubing injector (10) includes a traction device (12) having opposed grippers (14) laterally moveable so as to move a respective chain link member (16) of an endless loop chain into gripping engagement with the coiled tubing. A drive motor (11) is provided for powering the endless loop chain, and a plurality of roller bearings (20) each act between a respective chain link member and a gripper. A pressure compensating device (30) subjects fluid in a fluid passageway in the roller bearing (20) to a fluid pressure functionally related to subsea pressure. The tubing injector may be used for injecting the coiled tubing subsea into a wellhead or into another flowline.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.Inventors: John Goode, Ivan Iankov, Ronald Yater
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Patent number: 7036601Abstract: An apparatus and method for transporting, deploring, and retrieving an array is disclosed. The array has a plurality of nodes interconnected by sections of cable and can be transported, deployed, and retrieved with the apparatus and method of the present invention. The apparatus includes a plurality of first divisions and a plurality of second divisions. The first divisions have first portions or holders capable of individually accommodating the nodes. The second divisions are alternatingly positioned adjacent the first divisions. The second divisions have second portions or surfaces capable of individually accommodating the sections of cable. The first and second divisions can be integral portions of the apparatus, can be separate members positioned on the apparatus, or can be used with a standard cable drum. Preferably, the second divisions can be rotated relative to the first divisions to tightly wind and easily unwind the sections of cable.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2002Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Arne Berg, Lars Inge Hofstad, Paul Travis
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Patent number: 7000696Abstract: Methods and apparatuses to determine the temperature profile of a pressurized wellbore using a fiber optic cable and an anchor are disclosed. Furthermore, a pressurized wellhead spool that couples to a standard Christmas tree structure on a well head to facilitate the injection of fiber optic cable into an oil and gas well is disclosed. The wellhead spool is portable and may be connected to fiber optic cable already located at the site, for quick connection to on-site instrumentation. A method of using the apparatuses disclosed to measure wellbore temperature at multiple depths of investigation is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Sensor Highway LimitedInventor: Gary O. Harkins
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Patent number: 6983796Abstract: A technique for providing auxiliary conduits in multi-trip completions is disclosed. The technique has particular applicability to liner mounted screens which are to be gravel packed. In the preferred embodiment, a protective shroud is run with the gravel pack screens with the auxiliary conduits disposed in between. The auxiliary conduits terminate in a quick connection at a liner top packer. The gravel packing equipment can optionally be secured in a flow relationship to the auxiliary conduits so as to control the gravel packing operation. Subsequent to the removal of the specialized equipment, the production tubing can be run with an auxiliary conduit or conduits for connection down hole to the auxiliary conduits coming from the liner top packer for a sealing connection. Thereafter, during production various data on the well can be obtained in real time despite the multiple trips necessary to accomplish completion.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2001Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Christian F. Bayne, Benn A. Voll, J. Todd Broome, James R. Zachman, Graeme H. Falconer, Michael W. Norris, Edward J. Zisk, Jr., David A. Bilberry, Steve B. Hodges
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Patent number: 6957701Abstract: The invention discloses methods of, as well as apparatus and systems for, perforating and treating multiple intervals of one or more subterranean formations intersected by a wellbore by deploying within said wellbore a bottom-hole assembly (“BHA”) having a perforating device and a sealing mechanisms, wherein pressure communication is established between the portions of the wellbore above and below the sealing mechanism. The BHA is positioned within the wellbore such that the sealing mechanism, when actuated, establishes a hydraulic seal in the wellbore to positively force fluid to enter the perforations corresponding to the interval to be treated. A treating fluid is pumped down the wellbore and into the perforations created in the perforated interval. The sealing mechanism is released, and the steps are repeated for as many intervals as desired, without having to remove the BHA from said wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2002Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Assignee: ExxonMobile Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Randy C. Tolman, Lawrence O. Carlson, David A. Kinison, Kris J. Nygaard, Glenn S. Goss, William A. Sorem, Lee L. Shafer
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Patent number: 6932161Abstract: The present invention provides an encapsulation for housing instrumentation lines, control lines, or instruments downhole. In one use, the encapsulation resides between an expandable downhole tool, such as an expandable sand screen, and the wall of the wellbore. The encapsulation is specially profiled to allow the downhole tool to be expanded into the wall of the wellbore without leaving a channel outside of the tool through which formation fluids might vertically migrate. The encapsulation is useful in both cased hole and open hole completions.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2001Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Weatherford/Lams, Inc.Inventor: John A. M. Cameron
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Patent number: 6926082Abstract: A safety sleeve used with a wireline connection where the safety sleeve comprises an elongated body with an axial aperture formed along its axis. The wireline connection connects a severed wireline and can be comprised of a fishing spear and a fishing overshot. The safety sleeve axially encompasses the wireline connection assembly with its elongated body. The bending moment required to yield said safety sleeve is greater than the maximum bending moment experienced by the combination of the safety sleeve and the wireline connection during operation. The safety sleeve can also include a collar threadedly connectable to one side of the elongated body, a window formed along the elongated body, and a raised portion formed on the inner radius of the elongated body. The invention further includes a method of using the safety sleeve in conjunction with a wireline connection assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Philip Wills, Jeremy Huthwaite
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Patent number: 6915849Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for conveying downhole tools within a borehole using a continuous rod. The apparatus may include a continuous rod, a downhole tool attached to one end of the continuous rod, and a delivery rig for lowering the continuous rod and downhole tool into the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2002Date of Patent: July 12, 2005Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: David Nuth
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Patent number: 6913084Abstract: Method and assembly for conducting wireline operations in a deep, subsea location. The method includes providing a rig on the surface of a body of water, having a riser extending from the rig floor to the sea floor; an annular preventer positioned on the end of the riser on the sea floor; a plurality of blowout presenters positioned below the riser to prevent a blowout into the riser; and, a wireline subsea blowout preventer control head. A lubricator is lowered into the riser, with the control head attached thereto, and wherein the wireline tool is disposed within the control head. The lubricator is position within the annular preventer. Wireline operations may then be conducted. If a blowout occurs during wireline operations, any pressure would be prevented from entering the riser, and would be contained by the control head.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2003Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Inventor: Anthony R. Boyd
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Patent number: 6892809Abstract: A coiled tubing injector apparatus for use in inserting coiled tubing into a well, temporarily suspending the coiled tubing, and removing the coiled tubing from the well is described. The apparatus includes a base with a pair of spaced-apart carriages extending upwardly therefrom. The base is part of a frame positioned above a wellhead. The carriages each have a gripper chain drive system rotatably mounted thereon and movable therewith. An actuation and linkage system allows the carriages to move toward and away from one another in a lateral or transverse direction with respect to the superstructure and the base. Thus, the gripper chain systems comprises gripper chains that can be engaged or disengaged from the coiled tubing extending through the apparatus. A wetting fluid basin is positioned below the gripper chains, and support guides engage the coiled tubing below the gripper chains to prevent buckling of the coiled tubing.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2004Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Larry L. Austbo, Randy S. Rosine, Robert E. Domann, Kenneth C. Parks
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Patent number: 6886638Abstract: The present invention provides a field weldable connection.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2001Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: Schlumbergr Technology CorporationInventors: Hebah Ahmed, Harjit S. Kohli, Ben A. Donnell
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Patent number: 6865933Abstract: An apparatus and methods are provided for monitoring a well and for obtaining fluid samples from below the ground. The apparatus includes a single-piece, extruded plastic well stock that extends from the surface of the ground to the lowest sampling depth. Plural sampling intervals are defined between the surface and the lowest sampling depth. Sampling intervals are defined by isolating sections of the borehole by using packers that seal the annular space between the well stock and the borehole. The well stock includes plural longitudinal chambers. Inlet holes are put into the well stock so that inlets for each interval admit fluid to only one longitudinal chamber. Inert sealant is injected below inlets to prevent fluid from spreading below a desired level. Instructions are placed into the longitudinal chambers to monitor fluids in the chambers or to retrieve samples, or alternatively, the well stock can be removed to obtain samples.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1999Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Inventors: Murray D. Einarson, Michael B. Casey, Donald Winglewich
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Patent number: 6848510Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 20, 2002Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Patrick W. Bixenman, Craig D. Johnson, Jake A. Danos, Matthew R. Hackworth
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Patent number: 6840326Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for lifting heavy loads beneath the floor of a drilling rig or a platform. A base skid supports tables to which winch bases are attached. Winches, usually four in number, are placed on the winch bases and the cables of the winches are placed through sheaves and attached to a double line bar. Sheaves are attached to a load, such as a blowout preventer. Cradle lines may support a blowout preventer. Load cells may be used with the winch cables.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2002Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Assignee: Fastorq LLCInventor: Al Joseph Shiyou
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Publication number: 20040188101Abstract: A relatively light weight radial wire-line conveyance mechanism capable of sustained high pressure incorporated into a wire-line riser set-up and configured to allow multiple radial bends without sheaves. The conveyance mechanism includes a tubular body structure capable of being pressurized defining a radial arc of between 0 and 180 degree having a threaded coupling at each end for connection to riser tubular joints. The tubular body contains a series of connected tubular blocks, each of which includes a longitudinal bore and a roller or ball assembly therein defining a wire-line pathway for receiving a wire-line that passes through each of said tubular blocks, fully contained therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2003Publication date: September 30, 2004Inventor: Benny W. Moretz
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Publication number: 20040182581Abstract: An apparatus suitable for use in a wellbore comprises an expandable bistable device. An exemplary device has a plurality of bistable cells formed into a tubular shape. Each bistable cell comprises at least two elongated members that are connected to each other at their ends. The device is stable in a first configuration and a second configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2004Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventors: L. McD. Schetky, Craig D. Johnson, Matthew R. Hackworth, Patrick W. Bixenman
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Publication number: 20040173359Abstract: The present invention provides a field weldable connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2004Publication date: September 9, 2004Inventors: Hebah Ahmed, Harjit S. Kohli, Ben A. Donnell
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Publication number: 20040159443Abstract: A coiled tubing injector apparatus for use in inserting coiled tubing into a well, temporarily suspending the coiled tubing, and removing the coiled tubing from the well is described. The apparatus includes a base with a pair of spaced-apart carriages extending upwardly therefrom. The base is part of a frame positioned above a wellhead. The carriages each have a gripper chain drive system rotatably mounted thereon and movable therewith. An actuation and linkage system allows the carriages to move toward and away from one another in a lateral or transverse direction with respect to the superstructure and the base. Thus, the gripper chain systems comprises gripper chains that can be engaged or disengaged from the coiled tubing extending through the apparatus. A wetting fluid basin is positioned below the gripper chains, and support guides engage the coiled tubing below the gripper chains to prevent buckling of the coiled tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2004Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventors: Larry L. Austbo, Randy S. Rosine, Robert E. Domann, Kenneth C. Parks
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Publication number: 20040094306Abstract: A tubing injector (10) includes a traction device (12) having opposed grippers (14) laterally moveable so as to move a respective chain link member (16) of an endless loop chain into gripping engagement with the coiled tubing. A drive motor (11) is provided for powering the endless loop chain, and a plurality of roller bearings (20) each act between a respective chain link member and a gripper. A pressure compensating device (30) subjects fluid in a fluid passageway in the roller bearing (20) to a fluid pressure functionally related to subsea pressure. The tubing injector may be used for injecting the coiled tubing subsea into a wellhead or into another flowline.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2003Publication date: May 20, 2004Inventors: John Goode, Ivan Iankov, Ronald Yater
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Publication number: 20040045721Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for lifting heavy loads beneath the floor of a drilling rig or a platform. A base skid supports tables to which winch bases are attached. Winches, usually four in number, are placed on the winch bases and the cables of the winches are placed through sheaves and attached to a double line bar. Sheaves are attached to a load, such as a blowout preventer. Cradle lines may support a blowout preventer. Load cells may be used with the winch cables.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2002Publication date: March 11, 2004Inventor: Al Joseph Shiyou
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Publication number: 20040020661Abstract: Apparatus for injecting coiled tubing into a bore comprises a rotatable housing (28, 29) having an axis along which coiled tubing is to be translated. A set of rolling elements (12, 14) is rotatably mounted in the housing (28, 29), each rolling element (24) having a skewed axis of rotation with respect to the housing axis and being arranged for rolling contact with an outside diameter of the coiled tubing. The arrangement is such that rotation of the housing (28, 29) relative to the tubing causes the tubing to be moved axially through the rotating housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2003Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventors: Neil Andrew Abercombi Simpson, Alexander Craig MacKay
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Patent number: 6666274Abstract: The invention comprises a section of improved tubing with coupled end connectors and an insert containing at least one electrical wire. The insert has an outside diameter that is approximately equal to the inside diameter of the improved tubing. The insert also has projections at each end such that when two inserts are placed end to end, the projections will mate up. The insert has at least one groove cut into its side and running the length of the insert. The groove is for the placement of a wire for transmission of power to the well bore or for the placement of a wire for transmission of data from the well bore. When a plurality of the inventions are placed end to end, the insert projections line up the electrical connectors and correct mating of the insert projections will result in correct mating of the electrical connectors.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2002Date of Patent: December 23, 2003Assignee: Sunstone CorporationInventor: William James Hughes
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Publication number: 20030226667Abstract: A system for injecting or withdrawing a fluid into or from a well is provided. The system includes an injector vehicle having a longitudinal axis and operable to position tubing into the well. The system also includes a tubing supply vehicle operable to provide the tubing to the injector vehicle for positioning in the well. In one aspect of the invention, the tubing is mounted on at least one spool, wherein the longitudinal axis of the injector vehicle is transverse to an axis of rotation of the spool and transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tubing supply vehicle. In a separate aspect of the invention, a spiral guide is used to transition tubing during spooling and unspooling between a plurality of empty and full spools. In yet a separate aspect of the invention, a spool is vertically adjustable to allow rotation of the spool during spooling and unspooling. A method of use is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Gilman A. Hill
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Patent number: 6655453Abstract: A drillpipe line installation system, the drillpipe string being composed of drillpipe sections which are added and removed to increase and decrease the length of the drillpipe, and a length of cable is disposed within the drillpipe string. The length of this cable is greater than that of the drilipipe string when the cable is put in the drill pipe. The system includes a lower cable storage means which stows the cable in a compact manner and pays the cable out when the length of the drillpipe is increases, and an upper cable storage means which can take up the cable in a compact manner when the length of the drillpipe is decreased.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignees: XL Technology LTD, TSL TechnologyInventor: Philip Head
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Publication number: 20030201100Abstract: A downhole cathodic protection cable system includes an attachment shoe electrically connected to a metallic structure at a distance substantially below the earth's surface, and an electrical cable having a first end connected to a connection structure substantially at the earth's surface and a second end electrically connected to the attachment shoe. The first end is connected through the connection structure to provide current to the cable sufficient to prevent substantial corrosion surrounding the attachment shoe.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2002Publication date: October 30, 2003Inventor: Abdul-Raouf M. Al-Ramadhan
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Publication number: 20030196797Abstract: A single tractor unit is provided for pulling a tractor, in which the tractor itself drives a plurality of hydraulic motors which control a crane unit, a coiled tubing injection unit, and the pumps and motors associated with a liquid nitrogen system which is used for injecting gaseous hydrogen into a workover well with coiled tubing. In an alternative mode, the liquid nitrogen system is replaced with one or more nitrogen generators which gather nitrogen from the earth's atmosphere to be pumped through the coiled tubing into the well being treated. Alternatively, the gaseous nitrogen source is one or more tanks of compressed nitrogen gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2002Publication date: October 23, 2003Inventors: James B. Crawford, Edward R. Lamb
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Publication number: 20030192708Abstract: In a well an instrumentation line can be introduced down the well bore by a control line having at least a portion outside of intermediate casing and set in cement slurry between the intermediate casing and the surrounding rock and reaching to a zone of interest. A primary member accepts the distal end of the control line at the end of the intermediate casing. A secondary member has a terminal control line (sealed at its far end) attached on its outer surface. When in place, the secondary member extends into and through the zone of interest. When the secondary member is lowered through the primary member, its top end is lowered onto the bottom end of the primary member. Couplings engage and angularly orientate so that the top of the terminal control line couples to and seals with the distal end of the control line to form a conduit through which a fibre optic instrumentation line can be threaded.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2003Publication date: October 16, 2003Inventors: Kurt D. Koehler, Gary O. Harkins
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Publication number: 20030150614Abstract: Method and composition for sealing a borehole. A chemically bonded phosphate ceramic sealant for sealing, stabilizing, or plugging boreholes is prepared by combining an oxide or hydroxide and a phosphate with water to form slurry. The slurry is introduced into the borehole where the seal, stabilization or plug is desired, and then allowed to set up to form the high strength, minimally porous sealant, which binds strongly to itself and to underground formations, steel and ceramics.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2003Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventors: Donald W. Brown, Arun S. Wagh
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Publication number: 20030111235Abstract: An indexing tool for use with flexible coiled tubing in downhole applications to clear obstructions is provided. The indexing tool includes a housing having a central longitudinal bore. A plunger having a longitudinal axis and biased by a spring is received and movable longitudinally within the bore between retracted and extended positions. A channel formed on the plunger receives channel followers in the form of guide pins to cause the plunger to rotate about its longitudinal axis as the plunger is moved between the retracted and extended position. A limiting member of the plunger engages stop members to limit the movement of the plunger beyond the retracted and extended position, so the guide pins do not bear the longitudinal forces exerted on plunger. The guide pins are also provided with a head having a seating surface to facilitate tightening of the guide pins and to prevent further insertion of the guide pins.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2001Publication date: June 19, 2003Inventor: Patrick S. Shaw
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Patent number: 6575241Abstract: A device for moving a tool lengthwise in a passageway such as a pipe or oil well hole, with a power or signal conduit connected between the tool and outside of the passageway, consists of a solid rod with a groove along the rod's length, the groove extending inwards from the rod outer surface. The conduit is installed in the groove. The device can also be used to rotate the tool in the passageway.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2001Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Assignee: C-Tech Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Scott W. Widney, Richard L. Dedels, Emanuel Kulhanek
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Patent number: 6568481Abstract: A fiber optic instrumentation line is introduced down a hydrocarbon (oil) well bore 12 by control line 16 formed by pressure tubing conduit fixed on the outside of intermediate casing 14 and set in cement slurry 21 between casing 14 and surrounding rock 13 and reaching to the hydrocarbon production zone 15. Hollow primary member 18 accepts distal end of control line 16 at the end of casing 14. Secondary member 22 having sealed terminal control line 27 on its outer surface is lowered through primary member 18 to zone 15, automatically angularly aligning and engaging respective top and bottom end couplings 24 and 20, sealing together a respective top and end of terminal control lines 27, 16 forming a continuous, high pressure, fiber optic receiving tube, from well head 10 to well bottom. Alternatively, two lines 16 linked by loop 26 provide a continuous control line returning to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignees: Sensor Highway Limited, Aera Energy LLCInventors: Kurt D. Koehler, Gary O. Harkins
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Patent number: 6557630Abstract: Methods and apparatuses to determine the temperature profile of a wellbore using a fiber optic cable and an anchor are disclosed. Furthermore, a pressurized wellhead spool that couples to a standard Christmas tree structure on a well head to facilitate the injection of fiber optic cable into an oil and gas well is disclosed. The wellhead spool is portable and may be connected to fiber optic cable already located at the site, for quick connection to on-site instrumentation. A method of using the apparatuses disclosed to measure wellbore temperature at multiple depths of investigation is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2002Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Sensor Highway LimitedInventors: Gary O. Harkins, Christian Koeniger
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Patent number: 6532839Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the remote measurement of physical parameters are described. The apparatus includes a sensor, sensor instrumentation, a carbon coated optical fiber cable for extending between the sensor and the sensor instrumentation, a conduit for extending to a measurement location and configured to accommodate the optical fiber cable and the sensor, and a cable installing device configured to install the sensor and the optical fiber cable through the conduit and place the sensor at the measurement location. The cable installation device includes an apparatus for propelling a fluid along the conduit, such as a pump, a compressor, and the like. In the method, a sensor is installed at a measurement location by pumping the sensor and a carbon-coated optical fiber cable through a conduit, forming a seal around the cable where it enters the conduit, and connecting the cable to sensor instrumentation.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1999Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Sensor Dynamics Ltd.Inventors: Erhard Luther Edgar Kluth, Malcolm Paul Varnham
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Publication number: 20030042019Abstract: Methods and apparatuses to determine the temperature profile of a wellbore using a fiber optic cable and an anchor are disclosed. Furthermore, a pressurized wellhead spool that couples to a standard Christmas tree structure on a well head to facilitate the injection of fiber optic cable into an oil and gas well is disclosed. The wellhead spool is portable and may be connected to fiber optic cable already located at the site, for quick connection to on-site instrumentation. A method of using the apparatuses disclosed to measure wellbore temperature at multiple depths of investigation is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Gary O. Harkins, Christian Koeniger
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Patent number: 6527056Abstract: Coiled tubing or a portion thereof having a first part spaced-apart from a second part, the coiled tubing having a first outer diamter at the first part and a second outer diameter at the second part, the first outer diameter different from the second outer diameter, and outer diameter of the coiled tubing continuously diminishing or increasing from the first part to the second part, in one particular aspect thus varying over its entire length; and methods for using and methods and apparatuses for making such coiled tubing.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: CTES, L.C.Inventor: Kenneth R. Newman
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Patent number: 6520264Abstract: A pump-through electrical conductor line includes an electrically conductive wire, an insulative coating disposed over the electrically conductive wire, and a tubing having the electrically conductive wire with the insulative coating disposed thereover loosely positioned therein so as to form a non-obstructed annulus between the insulative coating and an inner surface of the tubing. An arrangement for downhole casing collar location includes a length of the pump-through electrical conductor line, a slickline running unit configured to deliver the pump-through electrical conductor line to a downhole environment, a plugging device disposed on a downhole end of the pump-through electrical conductor line, and a casing collar locator disposed on the pump-through electrical conductor line adjacent the plugging device.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2000Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Gordon R J MacKenzie, Mark E. Plante, Dwayne L. Whitney
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Patent number: 6520255Abstract: The invention discloses methods of, as well as apparatus and systems for, perforating and treating multiple intervals of one or more subterranean formations intersected by a wellbore by deploying a bottom-hole assembly (“BHA”) having a perforating device and a sealing mechanism within said wellbore. In one embodiment, the perforating device has no washing fluid flow passage provided therethrough. In another embodiment, an erosive jet device is used to perforate at least one interval of said one or more subterranean formations. In yet another embodiment, the BHA has at least one pressure equalization means that establishes pressure communication between the portions of the wellbore above and below the sealing mechanism. In another embodiment, the BHA comprises a perforating device and a sealing mechanism, wherein the perforating device is positioned below the sealing mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Randy C. Tolman, Lawrence O. Carlson, David A. Kinison, Kris J. Nygaard, Glenn S. Goss, William A. Sorem, Lee L. Shafer
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Patent number: 6516892Abstract: A coiled tubing rig is operable to simultaneously translate and rotate coiled tubing in a borehole.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2001Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Assignee: Phillips Petroleum CompanyInventor: Patrick J. Reilly
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Patent number: 6510900Abstract: A seal assembly for dual string coil tubing injection into a subterranean well includes a seal plate having first and second bores with annular seals for providing a high-pressure fluid seal around first and second coil tubing strings inserted through the respective bores. The seal plate is adapted to be connected directly to a wellhead, or a lubricator if a downhole tool is connected to either one, or both of the first and second coil tubing strings. The seal assembly further includes passages for supplying lubricant to the first and second annular seals to lubricate the respective seals while the respective first and second coil tubing strings are injected into and extracted from the wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2001Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Inventor: L. Murray Dallas
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Publication number: 20020189820Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in a subterranean well is described. The apparatus typically includes a subterranean plug including a mandrel having an outer surface and a non-circular cross-section and a packing element arranged about the mandrel, the packing element having a non-circular inner surface matching the mandrel outer surface such that concentric rotation between the mandrel and the packing element is precluded. The apparatus may include slips having cavities to facilitate quick drill-out of the plug. The apparatus may include a valve for controlling fluid flow through a hollow mandrel. The apparatus may include a composite mandrel having radial vents that establish fluid communication from within to without the mandrel. Also, the apparatus may include a wire line adapter kit for running the apparatus in a well bore.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2002Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventors: Gabriel Slup, Douglas J. Lehr
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Patent number: 6478086Abstract: A method for plugging wells for use in connection with extraction of a fluid. Above a leakage site in the well, from which the fluid flows into the well from a subsurface formation surrounding the well, there is a set a seal (20), which seals the well, and on the bottom of which is a sensor device (22) for measuring well data. On the top of the seal (20) is a connecting part (24) which is connected to the sensor. Above the seal (20) the well is filled with a temperable, liquid sealant (32), into which is lowered via a cable (38) a connecting device (40) with a connecting part (42) until the connecting parts (24, 42) have been connected. Both the lowering and this connection are provided by means of the weight of the connecting device (40). The cable (38) is connected to a logging device (50) outside the well opening and the sealant (32) is set.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2000Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Henning Hansen
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Publication number: 20020162666Abstract: A fiber optic instrumentation line is introduced down a hydrocarbon (oil) well bore 12 by control line 16 formed by pressure tubing conduit fixed on the outside of intermediate casing 14 and set in cement slurry 21 between casing 14 and surrounding rock 13 and reaching to the hydrocarbon production zone 15. Hollow primary member 18 accepts distal end of control line 16 at the end of casing 14. Secondary member 22 having sealed terminal control line 27 on its outer surface is lowered through primary member 18 to zone 15, automatically angularly aligning and engaging respective top and bottom end couplings 24 and 20, sealing together a respective top and end of terminal control lines 27, 16 forming a continuous, high pressure, fiber optic receiving tube, from well head 10 to well bottom. Alternatively, two lines 16 linked by loop 26 provide a continuous control line returning to the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2001Publication date: November 7, 2002Inventors: Kurt D. Koehler, Gary O. Harkins
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Patent number: 6457533Abstract: There is provided a downhole tubing sealing system (10) comprising a radially expandable slotted tubular body (16) carrying deformable material (22) on the exterior thereof; and a seal member (26) for location within the tubular body and for engaging an inner surface of said body. There is further provided a method of sealing a portion of a downhole bore, the method comprising locating a radially expandable slotted tubular body (16) carrying deformable material (22) on the exterior thereof in a bore, expanding the body radially into contact with the bore wall, and locating a seal member (26) within the body and radially extending the seal member to engage an inner surface of the body, so sealing portion of the downhole bore.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2000Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventor: Paul David Metcalfe
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Publication number: 20020125014Abstract: A pair of spooled tubing strings are simultaneously run into a hydrocarbon well carrying a chamber providing a check valve. The chamber is positioned below a hydrocarbon formation so that liquid produced from the formation falls adjacent and passes into the chamber through the check valve. Periodically, gas is delivered through one of the spooled tubing strings to push liquid out of the chamber upwardly through the other of the tubing strings. Gas produced from the formation flows upwardly in an annulus between the spooled tubing strings and a production string in the well. The apparatus can be used to run only one string of tubing into a well and has a number of features, including measuring the load applied to the tubing string and measuring the amount of tubing run into or out of a well.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2000Publication date: September 12, 2002Inventors: Michael P. Dearing, Jerry W. Noles, Daniel R. King
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Publication number: 20020112861Abstract: A well tool assembly interconnection method is provided. In a described embodiment, a continuous tubing string has connectors positioned corresponding to desired locations for tool assemblies in a well. The tubing string is wrapped on a reel and transported to a well. As the tubing string is deployed from the reel into the well, the tool assemblies are interconnected between the connectors.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventors: Henry L. Restarick, John C. Gano, Patrick E. Laursen, Michael L. Connell, Nicida Maerefat