Eduction Pump Or Plunger In Well Patents (Class 166/68)
  • Patent number: 7874368
    Abstract: A progressive cavity pump system. In an embodiment, the system comprises a tubing string disposed within a borehole. The tubing string including a seating nipple disposed at a predetermined depth in the tubing string. In addition, the system comprises a stator positioned within the tubing string. The stator includes a radially outer housing having an upper end and a lower end, a radially inner liner having a helical-shaped inner surface, a seating mandrel coupled to the upper end of the housing. Further, the system comprises a seal element disposed about the seating mandrel. The seal element forms a static seal with the inner surface of the seating nipple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventor: Denis J. Blaquiere
  • Publication number: 20110011596
    Abstract: A string for drilling a well for installation and retrieval of ESP equipment without a rig. A well is drilled past the end of casing which has been cemented in place and extends to a wellhead at the surface. A receptacle is attached between production casing joints and run into the well 10. The receptacle is a tubular member with an inclined pocket formed on a side. At least one passage or port in the pocket intersects with a passage in receptacle with one or more lengths of tubing attached to the pocket. A wet connector within the production casing is landed in the receptacle and self aligns to the tubing. Electrical wires run within the tubing mate and lock with the wet connector. This allows an ESP to be run into the well via winch such that it stabs into the wet connector to receive power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Ignacio Martinez, Raul M. Krasuk, Juan M. Garoby
  • Patent number: 7866381
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement for the lifting of hydrocarbons in oil field wells, comprising a lifting assembly formed by a fluid collecting hose and a fluid suction tube being lowered, filled and raised within a well casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Optimoil Technologies
    Inventor: Juan Carlos Marie Arlandis
  • Publication number: 20100326670
    Abstract: An apparatus for pumping fluid, the apparatus including a pump housing including a plunger connected to a terminal end of a coiled tubing and a first port. The apparatus further including the plunger configured to move longitudinally upward and downward, wherein the plunger includes a second port and a surface pumping unit configured to modulate between two modes, a first mode configured to limit a stroke length of the plunger so that the first and second ports do not engage, and a second mode wherein the first and second ports engage. Also, a method for pumping fluid into a wellbore using an apparatus, the method comprising inserting a housing including a coiled tubing and a plunger into the wellbore, wherein the plunger is located at a terminal end of the coiled tubing, and wherein the housing includes a first port and a plunger includes a second port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: ZEITECS B.V.
    Inventors: Neil Griffiths, Humberto F. Leniek, SR., Bruce H. Storm, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100300701
    Abstract: An artificial lift system provides an artificial lift design specifically for the pumping of liquids from natural gas wells, but not limited to this application. In doing so, production rates and reserves recovered can be significantly increased. The artificial lift system uses small diameter continuous tubing to run the pump in the hole and deliver small volumes of high pressure dry gas as a power fluid to the pump. This power fluid forces liquid that has been drawn into the pump from the bottom of the wellbore to surface. By removing the liquids from the wellbore the natural gas can flow unrestricted to surface. The design and equipment allow for a cost effective artificial lift alternative.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Terry BULLEN
  • Patent number: 7806174
    Abstract: A jet pump mounted on a pipe string and a packer, and a through channel with a sealing unit having a logging cable channel is in the pump body. A check valve is in a channel, for supplying a medium pumped out from a well, at the input thereof in the lower body. A guiding bush with a movable rod, arranged parallel to the logging cable, is fixed to the body under the valve. The top of the rod is positioned under the check valve closing element and a fork, over which the logging cable passes, fastens to the lower end of the rod. The closing element can be pressed out from a seat and brought into contact with the fork while a downhole instrument is lifted. The invention extends functionality by isolating pipe string spaces above and under the jet pump when the instrument is below the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Zinoviy Dmitrievich Khomynets
  • Patent number: 7806186
    Abstract: A submersible pumping system for use downhole that includes a housing, a pump and gas separator within the housing, a motor for driving the pump and separator, and a foaming agent injection system. The foaming agent injection system injects a foaming agent upstream of the pump and optionally upstream of the separator. The foaming agent injection system comprises a foaming agent supply, an injection pump, and foaming agent injection line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Donn J. Brown, Brown Lyle Wilson, David H. Neuroth
  • Publication number: 20100230090
    Abstract: A system which may be used to replace workover rigs and metallic pipes for the production of hydrocarbon from wellbores uses a non-metallic, substantially continuous, flexible tube comprising a flexible, non-metallic, e.g. resin-based, substantially continuous production tube that can be wellbore deployed and retrieved without the need of onsite rigs. The system's components can be placed inside existing pipes for work in old wells where removal of the existing tube is not economical. The tubes may also be spoolable, thereby increasing installation rates and flexibility. Connectors for the tube may be dimensioned and configured to allow for providing and/or sealing downhole tools to the production tube. In certain embodiments, an onsite power generator will provide a clean alternative to existing diesel burning generators and will typically use a furnace, boiler, steam engine and electrical power generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Paulo Tubel
  • Patent number: 7793727
    Abstract: A dewatering device is provided that can be inserted concentrically within the production tubing string of a natural gas-producing wellbore. The dewatering device includes a pressure-isolating chamber that is provided with a fluid inlet valve and a fluid outlet valve and associated gas lift valves. Compressed gas and soap are used to form a foamy liquid mixture that is lifted out of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Sean L. Gaudette
  • Patent number: 7793728
    Abstract: A plunger in a plunger lift system in an oil and gas well includes shaped grooves spaced along the plunger body, angled fins or below the grooves, an elongated interior cavity open at the bottom, and passages connecting the interior cavity to the grooves. The shape, sizing and spacing of the grooves improves plunger seal and decreases liquid loss during plunger lift. The flutes or fins spin the plunger to clean the tubing string and prevent the plunger from becoming stuck in the lubricator. The interior cavity lightens the plunger and, in combination with the passages, improves the seal created by the shaped grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Well Master Corp
    Inventor: Robert E. Bender
  • Patent number: 7789131
    Abstract: Water is removed from a natural gas well using a piston pump is driven by a power fluid that is pumped into the wellbore. The power fluid is intermixed within wellbore water and pumped out of the wellbore along with the removed water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Sean L. Gaudette
  • Patent number: 7784549
    Abstract: A self-propelled swabbing device and method for use in removing liquid to surface from within an installed wellbore casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Swab-Rite Tool Corp.
    Inventor: Robert Mark Balen
  • Publication number: 20100206577
    Abstract: An in-well ESP string that can be installed or retrieved with a wireline instead of a rig. The ESP is combined with a motor and a hydraulic valve to pump formation fluid from a well to the surface. A wet connector is used to facilitate electrical and hydraulic connections. The ESP system is disposed within a tubing string located within the casing of a well. The hydraulic valve controls the flow of formation fluid to the ESP, opening to allow formation fluid to flow to the ESP, and closing to shut off production. When the valve is closed, the ESP may be cleaned with brine introduced via a flow port in the valve. This cleaning operation allows the ESP string to be to retrieved in an environmentally friendly manner. In addition, the wireline installation and retrieval is significantly less costly and less complicated than currently possible with a rig.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Ignacio Martinez
  • Patent number: 7770634
    Abstract: A gas lift production apparatus is provided for use in flushing and snubbing well operation. The apparatus comprises upper production string and lower production string. The upper production string includes at least one side pocket mandrel carrying a gas lift valve, tubular strings connected with every side pocket mandrel, a sliding sleeve installed as part of the production string below side pocket mandrels and a latch seal assembly threaded in the tubular string below the sliding sleeve. The lower production string includes a single bore packer below the latch seal assembly, tubular strings, a landing nipple and a bell mouth at the bottom of the production string. The upper production string are run in and removed as a single unit from the packer which is anchored within the well casing. It is emphasized that this apparatus is provided with three functions such as producing a gas lift well, flushing well and snubbing well operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Development & Research Center of Tuha Petroleum Exploration & Development Corporation
    Inventors: Yu Lei, Yong Li, Qiang Wang, Zhenghua Wu, Zhimin Xu, Zhensong Wang, Meijuan Suo
  • Publication number: 20100175873
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising first and second fluid intakes, a pump, and a sample chamber, may be positioned in a borehole penetrating a subterranean formation. A method of use thereof may comprise drawing fluid from the subterranean formation and into the first and second fluid intakes using the pump, discharging into the borehole at least a portion of the fluid drawn into the second fluid intake, and selectively diverting at least a portion of the fluid drawn into the first fluid intake to the sample chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: Mark Milkovisch, Alexander Zazovksy, Simon Ross
  • Patent number: 7748448
    Abstract: An oil and gas well production unit for the retrieval of oil and gas from a diminishing oil and gas production field. The unit comprises a well casing within the field attached to a lubricator assembly. A plunger is arranged for reciprocable travel within a tubing in the casing and the lubricator to assist in the production of oil and gas removal from the oil and gas well production unit. A plunger examination port is arranged within the lubricator assembly to permit determination of the amount of wear of the plunger without having to remove the plunger from the lubricator assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Well Master Corp
    Inventor: Robert E. Bender
  • Patent number: 7748443
    Abstract: A dual packer for at least partially defining a production zone in a wellbore, the dual packer including a packer body having an up-hole side and a down-hole side. A first through bore and a second through bore each extend through the packer body from the up-hole side to the down-hole side. A first piping extends from the down-hole side of the first through bore and includes a perforated sub adjacent the down-hole side of the packer body. A second piping extends from the down-hole side of the second through bore and is communicably connected to the first piping down-hole of the first perforated sub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignees: Jordan Development Company, LLC
    Inventor: William C. Quinlan
  • Patent number: 7741744
    Abstract: A technique is provided to facilitate pumping of fluids in a well. A submersible pumping system utilizes a submersible motor to power a submersible pump. A motor protector works in cooperation with the submersible motor to protect motor fluid within the submersible motor and to reduce differential pressures between the internal motor fluid and the external well fluid. The motor protector incorporates a piston slidably sealed within an interior cavity of the motor protector for movement to reduce undue differential pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur I. Watson, Michael H. Du, John D. Rowatt
  • Patent number: 7730938
    Abstract: A continuous sucker rod preferably comprising fiberglass or composite material for use in an well is described herein. The continuous sucker rod may be connected at one end to a pump drive, via a polished rod, and at a second end to a downhole pump, via sinker bars or other weights. The continuous sucker rod preferably has at least two end fittings, one at each end of the continuous sucker rod. The end fittings, each having two ends and each being attached, at one end, to a respective end of the continuous sucker rod. The end fittings are preferably configured to enable connection to the polished rod and sinker bars respectively. The end fittings are connected to the continuous sucker rod so as to form wedges which enhance the connectability of the end fitting to the rod, and further, the wedge or wedges approach the rod asymptotically so as to avoid any abrupt discontinuities in the wedge or wedges thus substantially eliminating stress concentration areas and potential failure areas in the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Fiberod, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell P. Rutledge, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20100132941
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for manipulating fluid, such as measuring bubble point, during drilling or pumping operations including pumping fluid in a borehole through a flow line (200) and drawing fluid from the flow line through an isolation line (232) without substantially dropping pressure of the flow line or without ceasing pumping operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: Halliiburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony H. van Zuilekom, Gregory N. Giibert
  • Patent number: 7717181
    Abstract: An artificial lift system provides an artificial lift design specifically for the pumping of liquids from natural gas wells, but not limited to this application. In doing so, production rates and reserves recovered can be significantly increased. The artificial lift system uses small diameter continuous tubing to run the pump in the hole and deliver small volumes of high pressure dry gas as a power fluid to the pump. This power fluid forces liquid that has been drawn into the pump from the bottom of the wellbore to surface. By removing the liquids from the wellbore the natural gas can flow unrestricted to surface. The design and equipment allow for a cost effective artificial lift alternative.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Terry Bullen
  • Patent number: 7690425
    Abstract: A downhole plunger for oil and gas wells comprises an electronic ambient environmental sensor via a cargo bay. Although the sensor is preferably a downhole time, temperature, pressure and flow sensor, the device contemplates the use of any appropriate cargo to ascertain well conditions. The device can also be used to sample fluid. The sensor has a measured data memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Production Control Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Giacomino
  • Publication number: 20100078177
    Abstract: A rotary pump having thrust bearings includes a system for equalizing the loading on the thrust bearings. The thrust bearings are each supported on pistons that are in fluid communication with a hydraulic circuit. The hydraulic circuit has substantially the same pressure throughout, thereby floating each piston at the same pressure to provide an equal support force to each thrust bearing via each piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Larry J. Parmeter, Scott C. Strattan, David W. Chilcoat
  • Patent number: 7686075
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a downhole tool. In particular, the present invention relates to a downhole pump assembly, a downhole tool assembly including a downhole pump assembly, a well including a downhole pump assembly and to a method of recovering well fluids. In one embodiment of the invention, there is disclosed a downhole tool assembly (10) for location in a borehole (16) of a well (12), the tool assembly (10) including a downhole pump assembly (18). The pump assembly (18) comprises a turbine (26) coupled to a pump (28), for driving the pump (28) to recover well fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Rotech Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Kenneth Roderick Stewart, Hector Fillipus Alexander Van Drentham Susman
  • Patent number: 7686074
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention beneficially provide circuits and methods which isolate downhole electronics of a well pump assembly from a power surge. The pump assembly includes a motor and a housing, including head, base, and manifold plate. The head has a hollow interior and a shoulder. The head is mounted to the motor so that, in operation, oil from the motor fills the interior of the head. The base has an outside diameter to fit snugly inside the head. The manifold plate is located between an upper end of the base and the shoulder of the head so that the axis of the manifold plate is perpendicular to the axis of housing. A gauge circuit and an isolation circuit are mounted to the manifold plate. The isolation circuit includes active semiconductor elements to detect excessive voltage and to protect the gauge circuit from the excessive voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert H. McCoy, James E. Layton, Larry J. Parmeter, Gordon Besser
  • Patent number: 7669652
    Abstract: A pumping system is disclosed for producing hydrocarbons from a subsea production well with at least one electrical submersible pumping (ESP) hydraulically connected to at least one multiphase pump to boost production fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Randall A. Shepler
  • Patent number: 7665534
    Abstract: A zone isolation assembly (22) for a subsurface well (12) having a surface region (32), a first zone (26) and a second zone (28) includes a docking receiver (48) and a docking apparatus (50). The docking apparatus (50) is selectively moved relative to the docking receiver (48) between a disengaged position and an engaged position. In the disengaged position, the first zone (26) is in fluid communication with the second zone (28). In the engaged position, the first zone (26) is not in fluid communication with the second zone (28) during movement of a fluid between the first zone (26) and the surface region (32). The docking apparatus (50) can be maintained in the engaged position substantially by a force of gravity. The zone isolation assembly (22) can include a pump assembly (54) that pumps the fluid while the docking apparatus (50) is in the engaged position. The zone isolation assembly (22) can include a fluid collector (52) that collects the fluid when the docking apparatus (50) is in the engaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Besst, Inc.
    Inventors: Noah R. Heller, Peter F. Moritzburke
  • Publication number: 20100032152
    Abstract: A jet pump mounted on a pipe string and a packer, and a through channel with a sealing unit having a logging cable channel is in the pump body. A check valve is in a channel, for supplying a medium pumped out from a well, at the input thereof in the lower body. A guiding bush with a movable rod, arranged parallel to the logging cable, is fixed to the body under the valve. The top of the rod is positioned under the check valve closing element and a fork, over which the logging cable passes, fastens to the lower end of the rod. The closing element can be pressed out from a seat and brought into contact with the fork while a downhole instrument is lifted. The invention extends functionality by isolating pipe string spaces above and under the jet pump when the instrument is below the pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Zinoviy Dmitrievich Khomynets
  • Patent number: 7654315
    Abstract: Apparatus and pumping systems including the apparatus are described, the apparatus including a protector body comprising a material allowing expansion and contraction of an internal fluid, the body serving as a barrier between fluids external of the body and the internal fluid. The body has first and second ends, at least one end adapted to connect the body to other components, the protector body further comprising structural features permitting facile cleanout and reuse of the protector body. Methods of use of the apparatus and systems are described, particularly in oilfield exploration, testing, and production. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael H. Du, John D. Rowatt, Cheryl R. DuVall, Michael W. Miller
  • Patent number: 7654314
    Abstract: An improvement in a chemical delivery system for a plunger lift for enhancing oil and gas recovery in a well having a well head and which employs a plunger includes a chamber communicably connected to a top of the well head and operably disposed thereon and including a ball check valve device which controls communication between a first section which receives chemicals therein for delivery into the well and a second section which communicates chemicals from the first section to a plunger in the well, and means for retaining the ball valve in one of an open position and a closed position as a function of the well being shut in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: Sam Farris
  • Patent number: 7647962
    Abstract: Assembly and method for extracting fluids, preferably crude oil, from a drilled well within a geological formation by means of reciprocating pumping with hollow sucker rods. The assembly includes: a) a stationary bottom set that attached to the casing at the desired depth and providing the rod pump anchoring system; b) a reciprocating axial movement rod pump having an anchoring system and a centralizer; c) a centralized hollow rod string extending within the well, which is connected to the mobile member of the pump; d) a hollow polished rod connected to the hollow rod string and linked to a system that imparts the reciprocating axial movement to the pump; e) a production bridge connecting the polished rod to the driving tubing through rotating joints, and f) a rigid head that provides a venting exit of the annular space formed between the string and the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: YPF Sociedad Anonima
    Inventors: Jorge Ruggeri, Omar Bianchetti, Jose L. Scaramuzza
  • Publication number: 20090308591
    Abstract: A mover stabilizing and stator cooling arrangement includes an upper sleeve surrounding the mover of the linear motor, a lower sleeve, a thermoconducting sleeve surrounding the stator and axially connected between the upper sleeve and the lower sleeve, a thermal grease filled in the space defined between the upper sleeve and the mover and the space defined between the thermoconducting sleeve and the stator and the space defined between the lower sleeve and the outer tube for quick dissipation of waste heat, a stabilizer ring set between the upper sleeve and the mover to stabilize axial movement of the mover, and a piston and multiple one-way valve sets mounted in the space between the lower sleeve and the outer tube for allowing adjustment of the volume in the thermoconducting sleeve subject expansion/contraction of the thermal grease during temperature change.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Kuei-Hsien Shen, Chinn-Chann Chiang
  • Patent number: 7624803
    Abstract: An injection apparatus for injecting an activated fluid and an activated chemical fluid mixture into a well-bore is disclosed. Then, an injection method for injecting an activated fluid into a well-bore is also disclosed. A particular application to the oilfield industry, for example in cementing operation is encompassed. The apparatus and the method of use is fully automatic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Gérard Daccord, Christophe Rayssiguier, Bernard Dargaud
  • Patent number: 7624800
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for sensing parameters within a wellbore. At least one sensor sub is coupled between stage components of an electric submersible pumping system. A plurality of sensor subs can be disposed between adjacent pairs of stage components to obtain sensor data along the electric submersible pump string. Each sensor sub contains a sensor element or elements designed to sense parameters internal and/or external to the electric submersible pumping system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Donald Jamieson, Arthur Watson, John Booker, Kenneth Armstrong, Adrian Carr
  • Patent number: 7624795
    Abstract: Disclosed is a submersible pumping system that includes a motor, a production pump and a seal section disposed between the motor and the production pump. The pumping system further comprises an auxiliary pump disposed below the motor and an auxiliary adapter connected between the motor and the auxiliary pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Wood Group ESP, Inc.
    Inventors: Yasser Khan Bangash, Alan Howell
  • Patent number: 7621339
    Abstract: A downhole pump, positionable in a fluid column that is substantially separated into an oil portion and a water portion, for selectively lifting the oil to a surface and injecting the water into an injection zone includes a housing having a top wall, and a bottom wall defining a cylinder; a plunger positioned within the cylinder reciprocable through an induction stroke and a production stroke; a piston moveably positioned between the plunger and the top wall separating an oil chamber from a water chamber; an oil intake assembly providing one-way fluid flow from the fluid column to the oil chamber, the oil intake assembly including means for selectively allowing induction of the oil and blocking induction of the water into the oil chamber; an oil exhaust providing one-way fluid flow from the oil chamber to the surface; a water intake providing one-way fluid flow from the fluid column to the water chamber; a flow restriction position in the water intake to substantially balance the pressure drop in the oil inta
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Ashley B. Johnson, Jonathan J. Elphick
  • Patent number: 7610964
    Abstract: A submersible pumping system for use downhole that includes a housing containing an expandable fluid, that when expanded pushes a piston that in turn pumps wellbore fluid to the surface. The expandable fluid can be a silicon based heat transfer fluid with a coefficient of thermal expansion of at least about 0.0005 in3/in3/° F. The expandable fluid is expanded upon exposure to heat. A heat source is selectively activated for expanding the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Don C. Cox
  • Patent number: 7597143
    Abstract: A downhole plunger for oil and gas wells comprises an electronic ambient environmental sensor via a cargo bay. Although the sensor is preferably a downhole time, temperature, pressure and flow sensor, the device contemplates the use of any appropriate cargo to ascertain well conditions. The device can also be used to sample fluid. The sensor has a measured data memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Production Control Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Giacomino
  • Publication number: 20090242195
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a top hold-down pump having a barrel drain operatively connected to the pump beneath a seating nipple. The design of the pump provides specific advantages over past systems by improving the efficiency of re-setting the barrel drain and the required work over costs after the drain has been activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Blaine Michael Wicentovich
  • Patent number: 7591308
    Abstract: A method of optimizing fluid (gas/oil) throughput of a battery complex to monitor and control the flow of an individual well in a field of wells at any particular instance in time and to allocate production of a specific well. The method comprises one or more of the steps of; providing a master control unit within the battery complex; placing an individual control unit on each of the individual wells in said field of wells; arranging a communications network between each of the individual control units at each well in the field and the master control unit in the battery complex; reporting each individual well's gas production factors to the master control unit; and sending a control signal to each individual well to control its production based upon the monitoring of the collective signals received by the master control unit from the field of individual wells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: WellMaster Corp
    Inventor: Robert E. Bender
  • Publication number: 20090194294
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for drawing down a fluid level in a well bore. The apparatus and method includes a first tubular disposed within the well bore forming a well bore annulus therein, an annular nozzle connected to an end of the first tubular, and a second tubular concentrically disposed within the first tubular forming a micro annulus. The annular nozzle includes an annular adapter and a suction tube having an internal section and an external section with an outer diameter less than the outer diameter of the first tubular. The external section of the suction tube may be positioned within a restricted section of the well bore, for example, within a restricted well bore section containing a casing liner to drawn down the fluids and solids within the well bore to produce hydrocarbons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: Danny T. Williams
  • Publication number: 20090188673
    Abstract: A plunger lift system has a bumper and a landing positioned in tubing below a safety valve of a well. A plunger moving between the bumper and landing lifts columns of liquid above the plunger when pushed by downhole pressure. A valve on the plunger's housing is movable between open and closed positions to either permit or prevent flow through the plunger. When the plunger engages the landing, a striker rod on the landing opens the valve permitting fluid communication through the plunger to a sales line at the surface. The valve is biased to the closed position to prevent fluid communication through the plunger. When the plunger is disengaged from the striker rod, the valve closes so that application of downhole pressure can again move the plunger uphole. A controller cycles the plunger between the bumper and the landing by controlling fluid flow in the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventors: WILLIAM HEARN, Todd Chretien
  • Patent number: 7556100
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a method of delivering at least one chemical into an underground well equipped with a reciprocating plunger includes retaining the plunger above the well after the well is unloaded and shut in, dispensing at least one chemical into the well and releasing the plunger so that the plunger may drop in the well after the chemical(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventor: William H. Steiner
  • Publication number: 20090145612
    Abstract: A method of producing a well fluid includes securing a motor to a string of outer tubing and lowering the outer tubing and motor into the well. A rotary pump is secured to a string of inner tubing and lowered into the outer tubing. The pump stabs into cooperative engagement with the motor. Supplying power to the motor rotates the pump, causing well fluid to flow into the outer tubing to an intake of the pump, which pumps the well fluid through the inner tubing to an upper end of the well. Removing the well fluid allows gas to flow up an annulus surrounding the outer tubing to the upper end of the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: David L. Olson, Josh T. Prather, David B. Dillon, Ray A. Watson
  • Publication number: 20090126924
    Abstract: A flushing apparatus for flushing a downhole pump having a rotor and a stator includes a lifting device forming part of a wellhead assembly. The lifting device is attached to the rotor, such that when activated, the lifting device applies a lifting force to lift the rotor out of the stator. There is a fluid connection on the wellhead assembly for flushing fluid through the stator once the rotor has been removed from the stator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: Naralta Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Cameron ZAROWNY, Wayne MUIR, Wendell YOUNG
  • Patent number: 7530391
    Abstract: A seal section for a submersible well pump assembly has a housing for connection between a pump and a motor. A central radial bearing support rotatably supports a drive shaft and defines upper and lower chambers in the housing. A well fluid passageway leads from an exterior portion of the housing to the upper chamber. Upper and lower isolation tubes extend around the shaft within the upper and lower chambers, defining an annular passage for fluid communication with lubricant contained in the motor. A bladder surrounds the upper isolation tube for separating lubricant from well fluid in the upper chamber. A labyrinth tube within the bladder has an upper end in fluid communication with a labyrinth port leading through the upper isolation tube and a lower end in fluid communication with the lower chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Clarence F. Hall, Larry J. Parmeter, Brett D. Leamy
  • Patent number: 7530392
    Abstract: A method and system for the production of a gas hydrate including the steps of drilling into a subterranean gas hydrate formation and at least partially depressurizing the gas hydrate formation to permit separation of gas and water from the hydrate form. The gas and water is then pumped from the formation and recovered from the well. At least a portion of water pumped from the well is water that is introduced into the well from the surface or reintroduced by a feed back loop from the production operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Hitoshi Sugiyama, Brian W. Cho, Shunetsu Onodera, Ahmed H. Al-Jubori, Masafumi Fukuhara
  • Patent number: 7523783
    Abstract: A plunger mechanism has an internal shock absorber apparatus that operates to absorb shock during plunger fall and rise, thereby promoting a more reliable plunger lift system. The present apparatus can be used in well applications with or without a bumper spring. With the added reliability of the present system, well applications could be implemented such that fewer restrictions are encountered by a plunger at the well bottom. In addition, added reliability can help reduce plunger damage, whereby plunger life can be extended. Similarly, the present apparatus can minimize damage and extend the life of well components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Production Control Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce M. Victor
  • Patent number: 7503387
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method of logging a rod-pumped well without removing the production string of tubing (30). The logging is accomplished with a soft-coated cable (100) or a soft-faced sleeve (130) which prevents abrasion or damage to a rod-pump barrel as a logging device or sonde (110) which is lowered into the production string of the rod-pumped well after removal of the sucker rods and the pump assembly without the need to remove the production string. The soft-coated cable or soft-faced sleeve allows logging without damage to the interior surface of the production tubing thereby eliminating scratching or grooving normally associated with previous wireline logging operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: John E. Edwards
  • Patent number: 7475731
    Abstract: A plunger mechanism comprising radial peripheral holes extending outwardly from a center core to an outer surface through which a downhole gas may pass to clear an obstruction on the outer surface of the plunger, thereby enabling a self-cleaning action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Production Control Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce M. Victor