Means For Perforating, Weakening, Bending Or Separating Pipe At An Unprepared Point Patents (Class 166/55)
  • 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.
  • Publication number: 20130206412
    Abstract: The present techniques provide methods and systems for fracturing reservoirs without directly treating them. For example, an embodiment provides a method for fracturing a subterranean formation. The method includes causing a volumetric decrease in a zone proximate to the subterranean formation so as to apply a mechanical stress to the subterranean formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Bruce A. Dale, Kevin H. Searles, Sheng-Yuan Hsu, Elizabeth Land Templeton-Barrett, Michael S. Chelf
  • Publication number: 20130206385
    Abstract: A perforating apparatus includes a carrier, explosive devices mounted to the carrier, energetic cells arranged among the explosive devices, and a sleeve to receive at least a portion of the carrier, where the sleeve is formed of an energetic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Guofu Feng, Changshuan Wang, Oliver Han, Yuanwen Yao, Senyuan Li, Baoxing Wang, Feng Wang
  • Publication number: 20130192897
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in controlling first and second downhole tools includes a first cyclical indexing mechanism associated with a first downhole tool, and a second cyclical indexing mechanism associated with a second downhole tool, wherein the first indexing mechanism defines at least three sequential indexing positions within a cycle and the second indexing mechanism defines at least two sequential indexing positions within a cycle. The apparatus includes at least one actuator for actuating the first and second indexing mechanisms in response to a common stimulus to cause said first and second indexing mechanisms to advance between respective indexing positions so as to permit co-ordination of the operational states of the associated first and second downhole tools. The apparatus may be used for controlling first and second under reamers or for controlling an under reamer and a corresponding stabilizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: NOV DOWNHOLE EURASIA LIMITED
    Inventor: NOV Downhole Eurasia Limited
  • Publication number: 20130192830
    Abstract: Tools and methods for abrasively cutting downhole pipes and casing. The tools and methods are ideally suited for situations where the pipe to be cut or perforated is positioned partly or wholly inside another pipe and damage to the outer pipe must be avoided. The jet nozzles are positioned at a non-normal angle to the target surface to reduce the jets' effective cutting distance. While pumping the abrasive fluid, the jets are supported at a selected radial distance from the target surface so that within a predetermined operating time the jets will cut or perforate the inner pipe but leave the outer pipe substantially intact. The tool may be rotated with a motor to perform cutoff operations or held in a fixed position for perforating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventor: THRU TUBING SOLUTIONS, INC.
  • Patent number: 8490701
    Abstract: A method of controlling a blowout comprises: releasing at least a first tubing string into a portion of a well system, wherein the step of releasing comprises activating a release table; and causing or allowing a blowout preventer to close. The methods further comprise: compressing at least a portion of a second tubing string and a third tubing string together, wherein the step of compressing comprises activating a crimping device; cutting through the wall of at least a third tubing string, wherein the step of cutting comprises activating a cutting device, and wherein the step of cutting is performed after the step of compressing; and releasing at least the second tubing string and the third tubing string into a portion of a well system, wherein the step of releasing comprises activating a release table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas O. Roane, Andrew D. Penno, Patrick P. Bourgneuf
  • Patent number: 8490702
    Abstract: A tool assembly and method for completing a well are provided. The tool includes debris relief features that enable use in solids-laden environments, for example in the presence of sand. Forward and reverse circulation pathways to the isolated interval are present to allow clearing of debris from the wellbore annulus while the sealing device remains set against the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: NCS Oilfield Services Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Marty Stromquist, Donald Getzlaf, Robert Nipper
  • Publication number: 20130180701
    Abstract: An apparatus for perforating a subterranean formation may include a casing, an energetic material, a liner, and an acid-generating material. The casing may have a slotted end configured to receive a detonator cord, and an open end. The energetic material may be disposed in the open end and in ballistic. The liner may enclose the open end, and the liner may include an acid-generating material that is configured to form an acid upon detonation of the explosive material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: OWEN OIL TOOLS
    Inventor: Owen Oil Tools
  • Publication number: 20130168083
    Abstract: A release assembly (200) for releasing a portion of a tool string in a wellbore. The release assembly (200) includes an outer housing (202) having a fishing receptacle (206) disposed therein. The fishing receptacle (206) includes a fishing neck (208). A support assembly (214) is disposed within the housing (202). The support assembly (214) has a first position wherein the support assembly (214) engages the fishing neck (208) to prevent separation of the fishing receptacle (206) from the housing (202) and a second position wherein the support assembly (214) is disengaged from the fishing neck (208) no longer preventing separation of the fishing receptacle (206) from the housing (202). An actuator (224), disposed within the housing (202), maintains the support assembly (214) in the first position until actuation thereof allows the support assembly (214) to shift to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130168075
    Abstract: A shear blade attached to a ram block. At least one bolt passage is formed at an angle at the top of the ram block. A bolt passage is formed in the shear blade that corresponds with the bolt passage on the tam block. A bolt introduced into the bolt passage of the ram block and also the bolt passage in the shear blade attaches the shear blade to the ram block. By using this technique for attaching the shear blade to the ram block, surface area of a front face of the shear blade is not further reduced. Therefore, the strength of the shear blade is increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLC
    Inventors: Viral Shah, William L. Carbaugh, Leonard G. Childers
  • Publication number: 20130153204
    Abstract: A shear ram assembly apparatus for providing the capability to shear larger diameter well casings and internal components during ram-type blowout preventer operation while requiring less force to perform the cutting. Components of the shear ram assembly apparatus, include but not limited to a plurality of hardened cutting blades that are coated with a compound that increases the hardness and reduces the coefficient of friction of the cutting blades. In this regard, a smaller force is required to perform the cutting and the cutting blades receive less wear per cut and provide greater assurance that each cut of this failsafe apparatus is successful.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: HYDRIL USA MANUFACTURING LLC
    Inventors: William L. CARBAUGH, Leonard CHILDERS, Viral SHAH
  • Publication number: 20130153203
    Abstract: A subterranean tool can be actuated with one or more control lines for a hydraulic release. It can further be actuated with a shear release after a lockout feature for the shear release is defeated. The shear release features a lock that limits relative movement so that a shear member can be defeated but without a release. A dog limits relative movement in a wider groove where dog movement in the groove allows a shock absorbing feature to act to cushion the release as the shear member breaks. The relative movement is reversed to let a retaining ring drop out of the way into a groove that comes into alignment with it. The relative movement is reversed again to pull a sleeve out from under gripping collets that have previously failed to release and the tool releases from that point on the same way as the control line actuated release.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Donald P. Lauderdale
  • Publication number: 20130153205
    Abstract: An electrical connector module is for completing an electrical connection in a wellbore device. The module has an outer surface having at least one groove that receives and frictionally retains an electrical wire in a circuitous path that relieves strain on the wire. An electrical connector is at least partially disposed in the at least one groove and is connected to the electrical wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Christine Borgfeld, John E. Fuller, Robert F. Morton
  • Patent number: 8464785
    Abstract: A pipe shear ram assembly has a housing having a bore extending vertically therethrough for the passage of a pipe string. Ram blocks have blades positioned such that one slides over the other when the first and second ram blocks are moved toward each other to shear a well pipe. A pair of guide arms extend from one of the rams. The guide arms have tips protruding a greater distance than the blade. Each of the guide arms has an inboard wedge surface beginning at the tip and extending along a line that intersects the longitudinal axis for guiding the pipe string toward a bore axis of the bore in the event the first and second ram blocks are moved to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Hydril USA Manufacturing LLC
    Inventors: William L. Carbaugh, Leonard G. Childers, Viral Shah
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20130146287
    Abstract: The present invention provides composite perforation methods and device with propping agent capable of effectively propping the fractures in the oil layer, thereby reducing the closure of fractures and prolonging the oil extraction cycle. The device comprises one or more connected perforators wherein each of said perforator comprises one or more perforating charges and a propping agent unit 7 at the open end of each of said perforating charge, a pressure release hole 9 located directly behind the jet flow of said perforating charge, and a shatterable sealing sheet 8 mounted on said pressure releasing hole 9, wherein said propping agent unit 7 comprises a propping agent box 70, a center through-hole 71 located at the center of said propping agent box 70, and propping agent 72 in said propping agent box 70.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: TONG OIL TOOLS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: TONG OIL TOOLS CO., LTD.
  • Patent number: 8459358
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a cutting dart. The cutting dart comprises a dart body including a first pathway. The first pathway is configured to redirect cutting fluid flowing through a coiled tubing so that the cutting fluid flows radially to impinge against an inner surface of the coiled tubing. A seal is positioned around an outer circumference of the dart body. The present disclosure is also directed to an anchor dart. The anchor dart comprises a dart body and a swellable elastomer positioned around an outer circumference of the dart body. Methods of employing the cutting dart and anchor dart are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John G. Misselbrook, Manfred Sach, Jason M. Skufca
  • Publication number: 20130140023
    Abstract: An assembly for minimizing damaging effects of pressure waves on devices in a wellbore. The assembly comprises a dynamic device disposed in the wellbore and generating pressure waves during actuation; a barrier device disposed in the wellbore and presenting an obstacle to the pressure waves generated by the dynamic device; and an occlusion disposed in the wellbore between the dynamic device and the barrier device which reduces the damaging effects of the pressure waves on the barrier device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventors: Carlos Erik Baumann, Harvey Williams, Lawrence A. Behrmann, Kenneth R. Goodman, Adil Al Busaidy, Karim Al Sayed, Fokko Harm Cornelis Doombosch, Andrew J. Martin
  • 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: 20130126168
    Abstract: Apparatus for cutting tubulars or solid work pieces by fluid jet pressure without the need for attaching the apparatus to the tubular. The apparatus minimizes the risk of explosion due to overheating or sparks caused by open flames, k method for cutting the tubular or solid work piece is also disclosed. The apparatus may be used for cutting the casing of an oil or gas well as it is removed from the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: EXPRESS ENERGY SERVICES OPERATING LP
    Inventor: Dudley J. Perio
  • Publication number: 20130126167
    Abstract: Perforation guns comprise a firing head to activate an initiator which, in turn, causes detonation of perforation charges. The firing head comprises a firing pin in sliding engagement with a bore of a housing. An opening in the housing places the firing pin in fluid communication with a wellbore annulus when the perforation gun is disposed in the wellbore. A release mechanism maintains the firing pin in it is initial position. Upon being disposed in the desired location within the wellbore, the release mechanism is actuated allowing the firing pin to move within the bore. Hydrostatic pressure acts on the firing pin in a first direction that is determined by a bias provided by one end of the firing pin providing greater resistance to movement as compared to the other end. Movement of the firing pin causes the firing pin to strike the initiator causing detonation of the perforation charges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Eugene Stolboushkin
  • Publication number: 20130126153
    Abstract: A system for containing and recovering from the blowout of an oil or gas well. The blowout containment (BOC) system is operable in place of, or as a failsafe alternative to, standard blowout preventer (BOP) systems. The BOC system includes a hydraulically operated gate valve positioned over the well at the wellhead. The gate valve includes a check valve operable when the gate valve is closed. The BOC system further includes at least one shearing assembly positioned over the gate valve. The shearing assembly orients explosive charges into the well flow path. An activation trigger detonates the explosive charges to clear the well flow path of obstructions to permit the gate valve to close. Operation of the BOC system is preferably monitored and controlled from a remote location apart from the rig associated with the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Dwight BAKER
  • Publication number: 20130118727
    Abstract: A system for opening a window (320) in lateral wellbore construction. The system includes a window joint (300) that is operable to be interconnected within a casing string. The window joint (300) has a window (304) formed therein that is defined by at least one score line (306) that creates a preferentially weaken region within the window joint (300) enabling internal removal of the window (304) in a predictable manner without generating wellbore debris. A window removal tool (310) is operable to be run in the casing string. The window removal tool (310) is operably engagable with the window (304) such that actuation of the window removal tool (310) internally removes the window (304) from the window joint (300), thereby opening the window (320).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2013
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130118745
    Abstract: A technique facilitates a perforation operation. A perforating gun carrier is combined with a pressure enhancement mechanism. The pressure enhancement mechanism provides a controlled increase in pressure within the perforating gun carrier as the perforating gun carrier is delivered into a higher pressure environment. The increase in internal pressure counters the buildup of a pressure differential to the degree desired for a given perforating gun carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventors: Brenden M. Grove, Jeremy P. Harvey
  • Publication number: 20130112393
    Abstract: An ultra-high pressure (UHP) cutting device for insertion into a wellbore for cutting the casing of the wellbore from within the wellbore is provided. The cutting device comprises a UHP hose connector for connection with a UHP hose in communication with a fluid source; a rotatable UHP tube with a top end in fluid communication with the UHP hose connector and a bottom end opposite the top end; a rotating means in operational communication with the UHP tube for rotating the UHP tube during operation of the cutting device; and a cutter head in fluid communication with the bottom end of the UHP tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Sandy CUMBY, Tim Sharp, Troy Illingworth
  • Publication number: 20130112411
    Abstract: A perforator charge includes a case, an explosive inside the case, and a liner to be collapsed by detonation of the explosive to form a perforating jet. The perforator charge also includes an energetic material to be activated in response to the detonation of the explosive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: JIAN SHI, HongJun GUO, Feng WANG, Senyuan LI, Qiang GAO
  • Publication number: 20130098617
    Abstract: A perforation tool comprises an explosive charge comprising an explosive focal axis, a tool body containing the explosive charge, and a flowable material carried with the tool and disposed along the explosive focal axis. The flowable material is configured to be released by detonation of the explosive charge and flow to create at least a partial barrier to flow through the aperture in response to the perforation of the tool body by the explosive charge to form an aperture in the tool body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8424455
    Abstract: An explosive tool is disclosed. The explosive tool comprises a body structure, a charge, a detonator to ignite the charge via propagation of thermal energy, a pressure actuated safety to prevent propagation of sufficient thermal energy to ignite the charge when the pressure actuated safety is subjected to a surface pressure and to not prevent propagation of sufficient thermal energy to ignite the charge when the pressure actuated safety is subjected to at least a predefined pressure threshold, and a temperature actuated safety to prevent propagation of sufficient thermal energy to ignite the charge when the temperature actuated safety is subjected to a surface temperature and to not prevent propagation of sufficient thermal energy to ignite the charge when the temperature actuated safety is subjected to at least a predefined temperature threshold. The charge, the detonator, the pressure actuated safety, and the temperature actuated safety are contained within the body structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald L. Crawford, II
  • Patent number: 8424606
    Abstract: A perforating system having a perforating gun with a tubular gun housing defining an inner volume and extending in an axial direction. A shaped charge is held in a loading tube. The loading tube is located in the gun housing. The loading tube extends along the axial direction. The shaped charge faces in a firing direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction. A portion of the gun housing adjacent to the shaped charge in the firing direction is a perforating portion for removal upon firing of the shaped charge. An eccentralizer member extends from the perforating gun in a second direction that is substantially opposite and parallel with the firing direction. A first retainer part extends from an outer surface of the gun housing adjacent to the perforating portion. A second retainer part extends from the outside of the gun housing adjacent to the perforating portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Lang Zhan, Jean-Luc Lafontan, Harvey Williams, Jeremy P. Harvey, Brenden Grove, Lawrence A. Behrmann
  • Patent number: 8424595
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for releasing a coiled tubing internal line from a bottom hole assembly. The internal line may not have strength sufficient to permit the application of a tension force at the surface to disconnect the internal line from the bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly may include a ball seat adapted to retain a ball permitting the application of a pressure differential above and below the ball seat. An anchor assembly connected to the internal line may be adapted to disconnect from the bottom hole assembly upon the application of predetermined pressure differential. A predetermined pressure differential may be used to shear a portion of the internal line releasing an upper portion of the internal line from the bottom hole assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Manfred Sach
  • Patent number: 8424607
    Abstract: The invention relates to techniques for severing a tubular. A blowout preventer is provided with a housing having a bore therethrough for receiving the tubular, an actuator positionable in the housing, and a plurality of cutting tools positionable in the housing and selectively movable into an actuated position with the actuator. Each of the cutting tools have a base supportable by the actuator and selectively movable thereby, and a cutting head supported by the base. The cutting head comprising a tip having a piecing point at an end thereof and at least one cutting surface. The piercing point pierces the tubular and the cutting surfaces taper away from the piercing point for cutting through the tubular whereby the cutting head passes through tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Frank Benjamin Springett, Christopher Dale Johnson, Shern Eugene Peters, Eric Trevor Ensley, James Brugman
  • Publication number: 20130092372
    Abstract: A method of flow testing multiple zones in a wellbore includes lowering a tool string into the wellbore. The tool string includes an inflatable packer or plug and an electric pump. The method further includes operating the pump, thereby inflating the packer or plug and isolating a first zone from one or more other zones; monitoring flow from the first zone; deflating the packer or plug; moving the tool string in the wellbore; and operating the pump, thereby inflating the packer or plug and isolating a second zone from one or more other zones; and monitoring flow from the second zone. The zones are monitored in one trip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventor: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130087336
    Abstract: A perforation fluid is prepared having a solid material suspended in a liquid. The solid material includes particles having particle sizes that correspond to the pore throat sizes of one or more geological formations through which a well to be perforated runs. The solid material is self-degrading. Perforation of a well-casing of the well in the perforation fluid causes the solid material to instantaneously (or substantially so) form a self-degrading filter cake that facilitates setting of the final completions of the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Underdown
  • Publication number: 20130081814
    Abstract: In one aspect, a method of performing a wellbore operation is disclosed that in one embodiment may include: deploying a device in the wellbore containing a conductive fluid, wherein the device is configured to disintegrate upon application of electrical current thereto; and applying current to the device in the wellbore using a tool to controllably disintegrate the device. In another aspect, an apparatus for use downhole is provided that in one embodiment may include a device placed at a selected location in a wellbore, wherein the device is made from a material that disintegrates when electric current is induced in to device and a tool placed proximate to the device configured to induce electric current into the device to cause the device to disintegrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Sean L. Gaudette, Michael H. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8408286
    Abstract: A shock de-coupler for use with a perforating string can include perforating string connectors at opposite ends of the de-coupler, a longitudinal axis extending between the connectors, and a biasing device which resists displacement of one connector relative to the other connector in both opposite directions along the longitudinal axis, whereby the first connector is biased toward a predetermined position relative to the second connector. A perforating string can include a shock de-coupler interconnected longitudinally between components of the perforating string, with the shock de-coupler variably resisting displacement of one component away from a predetermined position relative to the other component in each longitudinal direction, and in which a compliance of the shock de-coupler substantially decreases in response to displacement of the first component a predetermined distance away from the predetermined position relative to the second component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Rodgers, John D. Burleson, Marco Serra, Timothy S. Glenn, Edwin A. Eaton
  • Patent number: 8397800
    Abstract: A shock de-coupler for use with a perforating string can include perforating string connectors at opposite ends of the de-coupler, a longitudinal axis extending between the connectors, and a biasing device which resists displacement of one connector relative to the other connector in both opposite directions along the longitudinal axis, whereby the first connector is biased toward a predetermined position relative to the second connector. A perforating string can include a shock de-coupler interconnected longitudinally between components of the perforating string, with the shock de-coupler variably resisting displacement of one component away from a predetermined position relative to the other component in each longitudinal direction, and in which a compliance of the shock de-coupler substantially decreases in response to displacement of the first component a predetermined distance away from the predetermined position relative to the second component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Rodgers, John D. Burleson, Marco Serra, Timothy S. Glenn, Edwin A. Eaton
  • Patent number: 8397814
    Abstract: A bending shock de-coupler for use with a perforating string can include perforating string connectors at opposite ends of the de-coupler. A bending compliance of the de-coupler may substantially increase between the connectors. A well system can include a perforating string including at least one perforating gun and multiple bending shock de-couplers, each of the de-couplers having a bending compliance, and at least two of the bending compliances being different from each other. A perforating string can include a bending shock de-coupler interconnected longitudinally between two components of the perforating string. A bending compliance of the bending shock de-coupler may substantially decrease in response to angular displacement of one of the components a predetermined amount relative to the other component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Serivces, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Rodgers, Timothy S. Glenn, Marco Serra, Edwin A. Eaton, John D. Burleson
  • Publication number: 20130062063
    Abstract: A technique includes running a seat assembly on a conveyance line into a tubing string, which has previously been installed in a well. The seat assembly includes a seat, which is adapted to receive an untethered object. The technique includes attaching the seat assembly to the string at a location downhole in the well; receiving the object to create a fluid barrier; and diverting fluid using the fluid barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jason Baihly, Michael J. Bertoja, Robert A. Parrott, Bruno Lecerf, Don Aldridge
  • Patent number: 8393392
    Abstract: A bottom hole assembly for one trip perforating and treating a wellbore, the bottom hole assembly including: a tool body including an outer surface and an upper end; a fluid passage extending into the tool body from the upper end; a valve to provide (i) in one orientation fluid access from the fluid passage to an outlet port opening to the outer surface and (ii) in another orientation fluid access from the fluid passage to a perforating gun actuation fluid supply channel while sealing fluid access from the fluid passage to the outer surface; an annular sealing member encircling the outer surface below the outlet port; and a perforating gun carried below the resettable, annular sealing member and hydraulically actuable to detonate by fluid communication through the perforating gun actuation fluid supply channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Integrated Production Services Ltd.
    Inventors: Terry Lee Mytopher, Nathan Coffey
  • Publication number: 20130048287
    Abstract: A downhole stabilizer includes a radial expansion assembly deployed about, and configured to rotate substantially freely with respect to, a tool mandrel. The expansion assembly preferably includes at least one stabilizer block configured to extend radially outward from the mandrel into contact with a wellbore casing string. When deployed between uphole and downhole cones, the stabilizer block preferably includes a plurality of angled splines configured to engage corresponding splines disposed on the cones. Relative axial motion between the stabilizer block and the cones causes a corresponding radial extension or retraction of the block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: James A. Simson, Ronald G. Schmidt, Charles H. Dewey
  • Publication number: 20130037264
    Abstract: A method to separate a gas phase from a liquid phase in a subterranean formation that includes positioning a downhole tool in a wellbore, operating the downhole tool to form perforations in the subterranean formation in a manner that creates cyclonic motion in fluids that exit the subterranean formation and enter the wellbore through the perforations, the fluid having a gas phase and a liquid phase, and producing the liquid phase to the surface, whereby the liquid phase is substantially devoid of the gas phase as a result of the cyclonic motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Donn J. Brown, Brown L. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20130037255
    Abstract: A rust resistant well perforating gun to fractionate a formation adjacent a well can include a gun carrier with recesses, threaded sections, seal bores, and a first coating to prevent rust. The rust resistant well perforating gun can have a charge loading tube for slidably engaging with the gun carrier. The charge loading tube can have charge holes, rear charge holes, end caps, and a second coating to prevent rust.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventors: Edward Cannoy Kash, James Edward Kash
  • Publication number: 20130037269
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for releasing a coiled tubing internal line from a bottom hole assembly. The internal line may not have strength sufficient to permit the application of a tension force at the surface to disconnect the internal line from the bottom hole assembly. The bottom hole assembly may include a ball seat adapted to retain a ball permitting the application of a pressure differential above and below the ball seat. An anchor assembly connected to the internal line may be adapted to disconnect from the bottom hole assembly upon the application of predetermined pressure differential. A predetermined pressure differential may be used to shear a portion of the internal line releasing an upper portion of the internal line from the bottom hole assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Manfred Sach
  • Publication number: 20130032326
    Abstract: A shearing mechanism in which a male component mates into a female component, the male component having a first groove extending around the male component and the female component having a second groove extending around the female component, the first groove and the second groove cooperating when the male component is inserted into the female component to define an annular recess. A shearing component is provided within the annular recess, the shearing component having a shear load that is controlled by the material and size of the shearing component. An opening is provided within one or both of the male component and female component, the opening being aligned with the annular recess. Stress relief is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: PLAINSMAN MANUFACTURING INC.
    Inventors: Mark A. Lea-Wilson, Shane McAssey
  • Publication number: 20130025843
    Abstract: A wellbore apparatus includes a connector sub assembly having a body, the body having a first end adapted to couple to a first perforating sub component and a second, axially opposed end adapted to couple to a second perforating sub component. The connector sub body defines a cavity proximate the second end of the connector sub body; and a flow path in fluid communication with the cavity and a location exterior to the wellbore apparatus. The apparatus includes a valve residing in the flow path and actuatable to block or allow fluid flow from the cavity, through the flow path, to the location exterior to the wellbore apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc
  • Patent number: 8360156
    Abstract: A well bore fluid recovery system and method is disclosed for recovering a column of well bore fluid within a stand of casing before cutting the casing. The recovery system relates to a system for preventing fluids from being spilled when casing is being finished for a well bore. After being run the casing must be cut and finished at an appropriate level to install rig equipment such as blow out preventers along with other equipment. However, because of earlier operations, the entire length of casing is typically filled with drilling fluid. Depending on conditions, the length of casing which is to be cut and removed may therefore over a 100-foot (27.4 meter) column of drilling fluid therein. The drilling fluid in this section must be properly drained before the casing is cut and removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Hudson Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Blanchard, Jr., Sandra Remedies, John Rucker, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20130020084
    Abstract: A downhole affixation and release assembly including a first component; a second component, and an interconnection device for at least temporarily securing the first component to the second component. The interconnection device operatively arranged to at least partially degrade upon exposure to a fluid. Also included is a method of affixing and releasing two components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: James Edward Goodson
  • Patent number: 8356666
    Abstract: A wellbore perforation tool comprises an explosive charge, a tool body containing the explosive charge, and a flowable material carried with the tool. The flowable material is released by detonation of the explosive charge and, after perforation of the tool body by the explosive charge to form an aperture in the tool body, flows to form at least a partial barrier of the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc
    Inventors: Jerry L. Walker, John H. Hales
  • Patent number: 8353338
    Abstract: The well bore control valve comprises a housing (12) defining a throughbore (14), the throughbore adapted to receive a first tubular. The valve further comprises first (18) and second gates (20) located within the housing, the gates being movable in different directions transverse to the throughbore between the throughbore open position and the throughbore closed position. Movement of the gates from the throughbore open position to the throughbore closed position, in use, shares a tubular located between the gates. The valve also comprises a first seal seat (22) performing a seal of one of the gates in the throughbore closed position to seal the throughbore. In one embodiment, the gates are axially movable with respect to the throughbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Enovate Systems Limited
    Inventor: Jeffrey Charles Edwards
  • Patent number: 8347962
    Abstract: A shaped charge assembly for use in a perforating gun that further comprises a charge carrier, and gun housing. The charge carrier substantially encapsulates the closed portion of the shaped charge and extends from the outer periphery of the shaped charge to the inner diameter of the associated gun housing. Encapsulating the shaped charge substantially reduces the introduction of debris into the wellbore resulting from detonation of the perforating gun shaped charges. The charge carrier can include a multiplicity of shaped charges therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Timothy Sampson, Anna Schwartz, Mark Sloan, Avigdor Hetz, Jason McCann, Meir Mayseless