With Explosive Or Gas Generating Means In Well Patents (Class 166/63)
  • Patent number: 8327926
    Abstract: A method for providing a torch apparatus into a well bore for providing heat to a material that includes the step of inserting the torch apparatus into the well bore, such that a plurality of slots along the torch apparatus are oriented to provide the heat and a source of oxygen to the material. The method further includes igniting a fuel load of the torch apparatus to provide the heat and the source of oxygen through the plurality of slots to the material so that the portion of the material is at least partially consumed. The interstitial spaces between the plurality of slots allow longitudinal flow of heat and the source of oxygen along the torch apparatus without interfering with the flow of heat and the source of oxygen through the slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Robertson Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventor: Michael C. Robertson
  • Publication number: 20120285702
    Abstract: A technique facilitates actuation of a downhole tool in a well string. The downhole tool may be actuated hydraulically via the controlled flow of a hydraulic fluid under pressure to the downhole tool through a port. Flow of the pressurized fluid through the port is controlled by a barrier member which may be opened by a plunger working in cooperation with the barrier member. Movement of the plunger is controlled by selectively increasing the pressure acting on the plunger through, for example, actuation of an expansion device or other suitable device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gary L. Rytlewski
  • Patent number: 8302688
    Abstract: A perforating system and method for use in a wellbore. In operation, the perforating system is disposed in the wellbore and used to form perforations in the wellbore. Thereafter, the perforating system is used to perform a sequence of underbalance pulsations in the wellbore, wherein a first underbalance pulsation has a first underbalance signature and a second underbalance pulsation has a second underbalance signature that is different from the first underbalance signature such that perforating tunnel clean up can be optimized based upon wellbore conditions and without causing damage to the perforating tunnels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Burleson, John H. Hales
  • Patent number: 8291969
    Abstract: A downhole tool having a body or structural component comprises a material that is at least partially consumed when exposed to heat and a source of oxygen. The material may comprise a metal, such as magnesium, which is converted to magnesium oxide when exposed to heat and a source of oxygen. The downhole tool may further comprise a torch with a fuel load that produces the heat and source of oxygen when burned. The fuel load may comprise a flammable, non-explosive solid, such as thermite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignees: Halliburton Energy Services Inc., MCR Oil Tools, LLC
    Inventors: Loren C. Swor, Phillip M. Starr, Don R. Smith, Brian Keith Wilkinson, Michael C. Robertson
  • Patent number: 8291970
    Abstract: A downhole tool having a body or structural component comprises a material that is at least partially consumed when exposed to heat and a source of oxygen. The material may comprise a metal, such as magnesium, which is converted to magnesium oxide when exposed to heat and a source of oxygen. The downhole tool may further comprise a torch with a fuel load that produces the heat and source of oxygen when burned. The fuel load may comprise a flammable, non-explosive solid, such as thermite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignees: Halliburton Energy Services Inc., MCR Oil Tools, LLC
    Inventors: Loren C. Swor, Brian K. Wilkinson, Michael C. Robertson
  • Publication number: 20120255722
    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: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: John P. RODGERS, John D. BURLESON, Marco SERRA, Timothy S. GLENN, Edwin A. EATON
  • Patent number: 8281858
    Abstract: Application of the method and device to a water well will permanently seal the well casing in order to prevent hydraulic cross-contamination with other water wells in the area. The method employs a string to explosive modules in spaced relation along the depth of a well casing. This weighted string of explosive modules is lowered into the well casing, wet concrete should then be introduced into the casing, after which the explosive elements are detonated sequentially, starting at the top of the well. Detonation of the elements in such a manner should force the wet concrete or cement out through the well casing perforations, so that the well casing will be entirely captured within the cured concrete. The individual explosive elements are made from detonating cord and metallic ball bearings wrapped into bundles, and then the bundles are bound in suitable adhesive tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Bradley J. Challacombe
  • Publication number: 20120247769
    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: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy G. SCHACHERER, Marvin G. BATRES, Tommy THAMMAVONGSA, Randall S. MOORE
  • Patent number: 8235102
    Abstract: A torch apparatus for consuming a material having a fuel load that produces heat and a source of oxygen when burned, and a plurality of slots having interstitial spaces therebetween for allowing longitudinal flow of fluid along the torch apparatus without interfering with the flow of fluid through the slots. The slots are oriented such that the heat and source of oxygen are provided to a material that is at least partially consumed when exposed to heat and oxygen, to thereby cause destruction of an object containing the material or disengagement of the object such that it falls into the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Robertson Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventor: Michael C. Robertson
  • Publication number: 20120138302
    Abstract: A device for well stimulation comprising a carrying element (22) with a first delimiting element (23) and a second delimiting element (25), also at least one charge pack (30), which comprises one or more charge units (31) of a solid fuel, and also at least one detonator (40) for detonating the at least one charge pack (31), the charge pack or the charge packs being arranged on the carrying element (22) between the delimiting elements (23, 25), wherein the charge units (31) are configured as cylinders with a continuous axial clearance, and the carrying element (22) is formed as a rod or cable and is led through the axial clearances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: WINTERSHALL HOLDING GMBH
    Inventor: Vladimir STEHLE
  • Patent number: 8186425
    Abstract: A downhole propellant gas generator includes a propellant assembly that comprises a plurality of individual lengths of an energetic material packed in a selected configuration and at least one initiator. A method for creating a pressure pulse includes igniting an initiator, wherein the one or more initiators are packed with a plurality of individual lengths of an energetic material in a propellant assembly; igniting the plurality of individual lengths of the energetic material subsequent to the igniting of the one or more initiators. A method for stimulating a well includes disposing in the well a propellant gas generator having a propellant assembly that comprises a plurality of individual lengths of an energetic material, and at least one initiator packed among the plurality of individual lengths of the energetic material; igniting the at least one initiator, which in turn ignites the plurality of individual lengths of the energetic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Moises Enrique Smart, Larry Grigar
  • Patent number: 8167044
    Abstract: A perforating apparatus that is usable with a well includes a shaped charge. The shaped charge includes a case, an explosive and a liner. The liner is adapted to form a perforation jet to form a perforation tunnel and promote an exothermic reaction inside the tunnel to create a pressure wave to force debris from the tunnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Sclumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Hongfa Huang, Brenden M. Grove, Philip Kneisl
  • Patent number: 8141639
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in dispensing fluid into a wellbore includes a piston element releasably coupled to a housing and a detonator in the housing that applies a force sufficient to release the piston element from the housing when activated. The apparatus also has an intermediate section that mates with the upper section, an elongated member coupled to the piston and that is positioned in a bore of the intermediate section; and a lower section having a housing that mates with the intermediate section. The housing includes at least one opening providing communication between a bore of the housing and an exterior of the housing; and a movable barrier in the lower section. The movable barrier has a first position, wherein the barrier substantially blocks communication between the bore of the intermediate section and the at least one opening, and a second position, wherein the barrier does not substantially block communication between the bore of the intermediate section and the at least one opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Owen Oil Tools LP
    Inventors: Jeffrey David Gartz, Garret William Hansen, Robert Michael Frederick Lesiuk
  • Publication number: 20120067568
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems, apparatuses, and methods for providing a reliable, high purity source of CO2 that is used in the recovery of formation deposits, such as fossil fuels. At least a portion of the fossil fuels recovered may be directly combusted or extracted using the same process used to provide the pure source of CO2 without the need to first remove CO2, sulfur, other fossil fuels, or other impurities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: Miles Palmer, Rodney John Allam, Jeremy Eron Fetvedt, David Arthur Freed, Glenn William Brown, JR.
  • Patent number: 8127832
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for stimulating oil or gas wells using material cemented outside the casing. Reaction agents, usually comprising oxygen-rich material and a coil of high order explosive, are positioned around the outside of the well casing at a desired level in a carrier and reacted later. The stimulation operation is initiated by firing a shaped charge into the high order explosive material. The combination of the explosive force of the high order explosive and burning of the oxygen-rich material fractures and cleans the formation adjacent to the well casing. The reaction agents may be provided in a sleeve supported on the casing joint at the time it is inserted into the well. In another embodiment, all components would be cemented externally to the casing and reacted remotely by a coded signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Lesley O. Bond
  • Publication number: 20120048558
    Abstract: In one aspect a method of estimating a property of interest of a formation is provided, which method in one embodiment may include: injecting nanoexplosive elements into the formation, detecting signals responsive to explosion of the nanoexplosive elements by one or more sensors, and processing the detected signals by a processor to estimate the property of interest of the formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Sunil Kumar
  • Patent number: 8061431
    Abstract: Pressure cycle operated apparatus and methods. A method of actuating a firing head includes the steps of: reciprocably displacing an actuator piston of the firing head, the displacing step including the piston being alternately pressure balanced and unbalanced; and igniting a combustible material in response to the piston displacing step. A method of generating electricity includes: reciprocably displacing a piston, the displacing step including the piston being alternately pressure balanced and unbalanced; and generating electricity in response to the piston displacing step. A firing head includes an actuator piston separating at least two chambers; a check valve which permits one-way flow between the chambers; a flow restrictor which restricts flow between the chambers; a biasing device which biases the piston toward one of the chambers; and a firing pin releasing device which releases a firing pin in response to displacement of the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall S. Moore, John H. Hales
  • Patent number: 8033333
    Abstract: A propellant assembly for subsurface fracturing and method for using the same are provided. The assembly can include a first tubular member having an annulus formed therethrough; a second tubular member at least partially disposed within the annulus of the first tubular member; one or more tubular propellants housed within the first tubular member, between an inner diameter of the first tubular member and an outer diameter of the second tubular member; and one or more detonating cords housed within the second tubular member, wherein the second tubular member has one or more portions thereof having a reduced wall thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventors: W. Lynn Frazier, Garrett Frazier
  • Patent number: 8020622
    Abstract: A downhole annealing system includes a component to be annealed; a steam generating catalyst in proximity to the component; and a reactant fuel selectively communicative with the catalyst to produce an exothermic reaction and method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Bennett M. Richard
  • Patent number: 7980310
    Abstract: A backoff sub includes a housing and a backoff facilitator at least partially within the housing. The backoff sub is a part of the string that is stuck and is capable of adding energy to the string within which the sub is disposed to facilitate backing off of a portion of that sting close to a stuck point of that string. A method is included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Carl W. Stoesz, Terry R. Bussear
  • Publication number: 20110139433
    Abstract: A hydraulically-actuated propellant stimulation downhole tool for hydrocarbon wells. According to one embodiment of the invention, the tool comprises a first section having an internal sidewall defining at least a portion of a flowpath, and a ported outer sidewall. A propellant volume having at least a portion within said first section. An annular portion has at least one pressure chamber having an end positioned adjacent to the propellant volume and an inlet providing a communication path to said flowpath. A detonator assembly is located within each pressure chamber proximal to the propellant volume such that detonation of the assembly causes detonation of the propellant volume. A firing pin is propelled toward the detonation assembly by providing communication between the pressure chamber and the flow path, causing a pressure differential between the pressure isolated ends of the firing pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: Steve Jackson, Stan Wall
  • Publication number: 20110108263
    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: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: John H. Hales, John D. Burleson
  • Publication number: 20110094745
    Abstract: A propellant assembly for subsurface fracturing and method for using the same are provided. The assembly can include a first tubular member having an annulus formed therethrough; a second tubular member at least partially disposed within the annulus of the first tubular member; one or more tubular propellants housed within the first tubular member, between an inner diameter of the first tubular member and an outer diameter of the second tubular member; and one or more detonating cords housed within the second tubular member, wherein the second tubular member has one or more portions thereof having a reduced wall thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: W. Lynn Frazier, Garrett Frazier
  • Publication number: 20110056679
    Abstract: A technique controls the actuation of a downhole tool in a wellbore. The technique utilizes a rupture pressure membrane in a flow path of actuating fluid used to actuate the downhole tool. An energetic material is mounted proximate the rupture disc, and this energetic material may be selectively exploded. The resultant energy is sufficient to initiate rupture of the rupture pressure membrane which enables flow of actuating fluid to the downhole tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gary L. Rytlewski
  • Patent number: 7900704
    Abstract: A method of perforating a downhole pipe by cutting at a location within the pipe in a radial direction toward the pipe, producing a determined reaction force, and using the determined reaction force to enhance the cutting of the pipe. The method may include continuing cutting in the radial direction to create an opening in the pipe, and attenuating a pressure wave through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Robertson Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventor: Michael C. Robertson
  • Patent number: 7896104
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for explosive drilling. Explosive capsules are fired by a firing device at a material to be stripped. A high degree of safety is attained in that use is made of an explosive with liquid oxygen that is only produced immediately before its application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Bauer Maschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Claus Willi Becker, Bernhard Werner Schwark-Werwach
  • Patent number: 7874350
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating a heated product stream downhole is provided wherein a fuel rich mixture is reacted downhole by contact with a catalyst to produce a partially reacted product stream, the fuel rich mixture comprising fuel and oxygen. The partially reacted product stream is brought into contact with an oxidant thereby igniting combustion upon contact producing a combustion product stream. The combustion product stream may be cooled by injecting a diluent flow such as water or CO2. The cooled combustion product stream may be injected into oil bearing strata in order to reduce the energy requirements for the production of heavy oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Precision Combustion, Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Pfefferle
  • Patent number: 7870895
    Abstract: A packer includes a seal element and a piston. The piston compresses the seal element to form an annular seal in the well. A pressure wave, such as a pressure wave that is caused by a chemical reaction or the detonation of an explosive, is generated in the packer to at least partially assist an operation (the setting of a slip, setting of the seal element, etc.) of the packer. In some implementations, the chemical reaction or explosive detonation occurs in response to a predetermined movement of the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Chad M. Lucas
  • Publication number: 20110000669
    Abstract: A perforating gun assembly for use in a wellbore. The perforating gun assembly includes a carrier gun body and a charge holder disposed within the carrier gun body. A plurality of shaped charges are supported within the carrier gun body. A secondary pressure generator is operably associated with at least one of the shaped charges. The secondary pressure generator optimizes the wellbore pressure regime immediately after detonation of the shaped charges by controlling the dynamic underbalance created by the empty gun chambers to prevent excessive dynamic underbalance which may detrimentally effect the perforating operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Darren Ross Barlow, Cam Van Le, James Marshall Barker
  • Patent number: 7861785
    Abstract: A propellant assembly for subsurface fracturing and method for using the same are provided. The assembly can include a first tubular member having an annulus formed therethrough; a second tubular member at least partially disposed within the annulus of the first tubular member; one or more tubular propellants housed within the first tubular member, between an inner diameter of the first tubular member and an outer diameter of the second tubular member; and one or more detonating cords housed within the second tubular member, wherein the second tubular member has one or more portions thereof having a reduced wall thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventors: W. Lynn Frazier, Garrett Frazier
  • Patent number: 7854267
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a system and methods to actuate downhole tools by transmitting an optical signal through an optical fiber to the downhole tool. The optical signal can comprise a specific optical signal frequency, signal, wavelength or intensity. The downhole tool can comprise packers, perforating guns, flow control valves, such as sleeve valves and ball valves, samplers, sensors, pumps, screens (such as to expand), chemical cutters, plugs, detonators, or nipples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: David R. Smith, Rogerio T. Ramos, Arthur H. Hartog, Vladimir Vaynshteyn
  • Patent number: 7854276
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus that are suitable for use in production of hydrocarbons from subterranean heavy oil deposits employ a subterranean cavity in communication with a borehole. The cavity is preferably formed along a U-tube borehole by coiled tubing reaming operations and/or radial drilling and explosive blasting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Iain Cooper, Rex Burgos, Patrick Schneider, John Styre
  • Patent number: 7819180
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed include a high-energy gas fracture apparatus for through-tubing operation. The apparatus includes a blast head, a fracturing body connected-with the blast head and an electric detonator provided in the blast head, the fracturing body having a central pipe sleeved by a fracture charge column outside and containing an explosive fuse sleeved by tubular igniting charge column inside. In an embodiment, charge amount per unit is effectively enhanced due to bared fracture charge column without sheath combustion gas peak pressure is reached quickly and therefore energy utilization rate during fracturing is effectively enhanced because of igniting by explosion energy of explosive fuse and combustion energy of igniting charge. Various embodiments are usable for fracturing or plug removal in a well without tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Tong Oil Tools Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhihua Zhou, Yuanhong Li, Jun Liu
  • Publication number: 20100258292
    Abstract: A fracturing system for wells has a propellant charge having a known surface area for combustion, and a combustion rate as a function of pressure with lower combustion rates at lower pressures and rapidly increasing combustion rates at higher pressures separated by a knee in the combustion rate function. The propellant charge is initially sealed within a vessel as it is inserted into a well. The system also includes means for creating openings in the vessel on ignition of the propellant charge in the well, such that the openings have a known combined flow area selected to create a condition of choked flow of combustion gases from within the vessel and maintain pressures within the vessel below the knee in the combustion rate function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventors: John P. Tiernan, Guy B. Spear, Don Landis
  • Patent number: 7810569
    Abstract: A subterranean formation stimulation system, comprising a gas generator, a high pressure seal, and a fluid injection system. The high pressure seal may be a packer and or plug having an outer sealing surface on its outer periphery. The outer sealing surface is configured for metal to metal contact with the inner circumference of wellbore casing. The gas generator can be compressed gas or a propellant. A shaped charge can be included to activate the generator. The system is disposable in a wellbore on wireline, slick line, or tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Freeman L. Hill, Jeffrey R. Honekamp
  • Patent number: 7802619
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for controlling detonation of explosives in a well bore for perforation or a well bore casing, which avoid or reduce unintentional or undesirable detonations while ensuring or increasing desirable detonations. An explosive trigger system or tool may comprise a central processing unit (CPU), memory, and one or more sensors disposed for measuring one or more downhole conditions. Downhole conditions may be measured with the sensor and then used to program detonation parameters (such as temperature or pressure) or preconditions (such as time or distance traveled) to the trigger system. Detonation can only occur when the programmed parameters or preconditions are satisfied. In this way, undesirable detonations are avoided by requiring certain preconditions to arming the trigger system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Probe Technology Services, INc.
    Inventors: Brian W. Hurst, John L. Marshall, David S. Wesson
  • Patent number: 7770662
    Abstract: A shaped charge assembly for use in a perforating gun that comprises a shaped charge holder, two or more shaped charges, slots formed to receive the shaped charges, and an impedance barrier disposed between adjacent shaped charges. The impedance barrier can comprise a gap formed in the shaped charge holder, where the impedance barrier runs across the shaped charge holder. The impedance barrier can be a void formed on the surface of the shaped charge holder, or can include shock attenuating material therein, such as wood, cork, cotton, polymeric materials, and combinations thereof, to name a few.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: William Harvey, Meir Mayseless, Anna Schwartz, Timothy Sampson, Mark Sloan, Jason McCann, Avigdor Hetz
  • Patent number: 7770638
    Abstract: A method for inducing motion in solid particulates in a solid/liquid mixture located in proximity to the periphery of a wellbore or in the formation zone adjacent to a wellbore in an oil or gas formation. The method includes introducing a gas impulse device into the wellbore. It then requires firing the gas impulse device so as to generate impulses of high pressure compressed gas, thereby to produce pressure waves within the wellbore and its surrounding formation. This causes motion of the solid particulates which permits settling and/or redistribution of the solid particulates. In some cases it even causes particulate flow, as in cold heavy oil production with sand (CHOPS). The method also frees blockages caused by the solid particulates and stimulates productivity. The method may inter alia be used in gravel pack construction and maintenance, well cementing operations and in CHOPS stimulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Flow Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Gennadi Kabishcher, Yuri Ass
  • Publication number: 20100175889
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in dispensing fluid into a wellbore includes a piston element releasably coupled to a housing and a detonator in the housing that applies a force sufficient to release the piston element from the housing when activated. The apparatus also has an intermediate section that mates with the upper section, an elongated member coupled to the piston and that is positioned in a bore of the intermediate section; and a lower section having a housing that mates with the intermediate section. The housing includes at least one opening providing communication between a bore of the housing and an exterior of the housing; and a movable barrier in the lower section. The movable barrier has a first position, wherein the barrier substantially blocks communication between the bore of the intermediate section and the at least one opening, and a second position, wherein the barrier does not substantially block communication between the bore of the intermediate section and the at least one opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: Owen Oil Tools LP
    Inventors: Jeffrey David Gartz, Garret William Hansen, Robert Michael Frederick Lesiuk
  • Patent number: 7752971
    Abstract: A shaped charge for use with a perforating gun having an adapter that can couple the shaped charge with perforating gun systems of more than one size. An interference fit can couple the adapter to the open end of a shaped charge. The adapter includes a base section having an outer diameter exceeding the shaped charge outer diameter. The adapter larger diameter can be coupled to perforating gun systems formed to receive shaped charges whose outer diameters exceed the outer diameter of the shaped charge coupled to the adapter. Thus the adapter can couple a shaped charge to a perforating gun that might otherwise have fittings too large to accommodate the shaped charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: John D. Loehr
  • Publication number: 20100147516
    Abstract: A method and system for the use of low quality fuel and solids-rich water, like fine tailings or lime sludge, for extracting bitumen from shallow and deep underground oil sand formations. The method includes the steps of combustion fuel and oxidizing gas, mixing hot combustion gas with solids-rich water under controlled pressure, gasifying the liquid water to steam and solids, removing the solids from the gas phase to generate a solid lean gas, recovering the heat and condensing the steam to generate hot water, mixing the hot water with oilsands ore for extracting bitumen. The solid lean gas is mixed with saturated water to scrub the remaining solids and acid gases and produce saturated steam. The solids-rich saturated water is recycled and gasified by being mixed with the combustion gases, and the saturated steam is condensed to generate heat and condensate for steam generation for use in enhanced oil recovery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: Maoz BETZER-ZILEVITCH
  • Patent number: 7721820
    Abstract: A buffering device for use in conjunction with a downhole tool string, wherein the tool string includes a ballistics device. The buffering device includes a mandrel attached within a tool string and proximate to the ballistics device. An anchor is disposed on the mandrel and a disk plate is coaxially placed on the mandrel that is slideable thereon. The disk plate is proximate to the ballistic device. A resilient member, such as a spring, is coaxially placed on the mandrel between the disk plate and the anchor. The pressure wave produced by activation of the ballistic device pushes the disk plate toward the anchor and compresses the spring there between. Since the disk plate extends outward into sealing contact with casing lining the wellbore, compression of the spring dissipates energy waves produced by activation of the ballistic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Freeman L. Hill, Randy L. Evans
  • Patent number: 7721650
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a wellbore energy train may include a firing head, a detonator cord associated with the firing head, and a plurality of serially aligned modules. Each module may include an enclosure, a first portion of a high order detonation material positioned at one end of the enclosure, a second portion of the high order detonation material positioned at the other end of the enclosure, and a low order detonation material interposed between the first portion and the second portion. A method for controlling an energy train generated in a wellbore may include serially aligning a plurality of the modules along the path of the energy train, and detonating at least one of the plurality of modules by detonating a detonator cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Owen Oil Tools LP
    Inventors: John A. Barton, Lyle W. Andrich
  • Publication number: 20100096147
    Abstract: A process for recovering hydrocarbons from an in situ formation. The process includes the steps of injecting solvent though an injection well into an underground extraction chamber having a hydrocarbon extraction interface, warming the hydrocarbons at the extraction interface to cause the hydrocarbons to flow downwardly by gravity drainage. Barrier gases naturally emerge in the chamber as a result of the extraction process and are removed from the extraction interface to improve heat transfer from said solvent to said interface. The last step is to recover liquids such as hydrocarbons and water through a production well. The invention provides a separate flow path to remove hydrocarbon gases from the chamber at a preferred location. The preferred location is near the top of the chamber where the accumulated barrier gases help to limit the heat loss and can also provide a barrier to help maintain chamber integrity and confinement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: John Nenniger, Emil Nenniger
  • Patent number: 7690428
    Abstract: In cutting a downhole pipe in proximity to a closure in the pipe, the pipe is first perforated. A perforating torch is positioned with a pipe in proximity to the closure. The perforating torch produces cutting fluids in a first radial direction and produces an opening in the pipe, which cutting fluids produce a reaction force opposite to the first radial direction. This reaction force drives the perforating torch into contact with the pipe, anchoring it against any pressure wave produced by the cutting fluids and reflected off of the closure. Once the pipe is opened, a cutting torch is operated to sever the pipe. Any pressure wave generated by the cutting torch is vented through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Robertson Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventor: Michael C. Robertson
  • Publication number: 20100051265
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for controlling detonation of explosives in a well bore for perforation or a well bore casing, which avoid or reduce unintentional or undesirable detonations while ensuring or increasing desirable detonations. An explosive trigger system or tool may comprise a central processing unit (CPU), memory, and one or more sensors disposed for measuring one or more downhole conditions. Downhole conditions may be measured with the sensor and then used to program detonation parameters (such as temperature or pressure) or preconditions (such as time or distance traveled) to the trigger system. Detonation can only occur when the programmed parameters or preconditions are satisfied. In this way, undesirable detonations are avoided by requiring certain preconditions to arming the trigger system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Brian W. Hurst, John L. Marshall, David S. Wesson
  • Patent number: 7637318
    Abstract: A pressure communication assembly external to casing with various forms of connectivity to a pressure source. A well system includes a casing string positioned in the well, with a bore extending longitudinally through the casing string; a chamber attached to the casing string and positioned external to the casing string bore; and a device which provides fluid communication between an interior of the chamber and a pressure source external to the casing. A method of monitoring pressure in a well includes the steps of: installing a casing string in the well with a chamber positioned external to a through bore of the casing string, and the chamber being isolated from the well external to the casing string; and then actuating a device to thereby provide fluid communication between the chamber and the well external to the casing string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jose Sierra, David O. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090301721
    Abstract: This invention relates to the oil and gas industry and to exploration and production of water resources, in particularly, for stimulation of fluid flow to the well, e.g., for higher oil production, productivity index, and recovery factor. The disclosed device and method can be used for higher permeability of the pay zone due to creation of a network of microcracks in the bottomhole formation zone and facilitates to increase the flow of oil, or other fluids, from the reservoir to the well. Generation of cyclic pressure pulses with varied amplitude and time parameters and proper localization of pulses in space through mechanism of convective combustion provides a “soft” impact upon the wellbore without risk of damage or formation consolidation; the said impact is achieved by using a device which is a downhole cyclic pressure generator operating by a consecutive combustion of layers of compositions having different combustion rates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Alexey Evgenevich Barykin
  • Publication number: 20090283260
    Abstract: Methods and systems that utilize explosive and cryogenic means to establish fluid communication to areas away from the well bore walls are disclosed. A first fracture is induced in the subterranean formation. The first fracture is initiated at about a fracturing location and the initiation of the first fracture is characterized by a first orientation line. The first fracture temporarily alters a stress field in the subterranean formation. Explosives are then used to induce a second fracture in the subterranean formation. The second fracture is initiated at about the fracturing location and the initiation of the second fracture is characterized by a second orientation line. The first orientation line and the second orientation line have an angular disposition to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Jim Surjaatmadja, Stanley Stephenson
  • Publication number: 20090250223
    Abstract: A backpressure valve. The backpressure valve may be configured to maintain a substantially controlled pressure in coiled tubing uphole thereof while simultaneously being compatible with a ballistically actuated tool downhole thereof. The valve may include a housing with an uphole chamber in alignment with the coiled tubing and downhole chamber in alignment with the ballistically actuated tool. A gate mechanism disposed between the uphole and downhole chambers may thus be employed to receive a ballistic actuator from the uphole chamber for dispensing into the downhole chamber without sacrifice to pressure control within the coiled tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Zafer Erkol, Gokturk Tunc