Abstract: Well testing apparatus for running on a single-conductor electric cable for gathering reservoir information, the apparatus utilizing two pressure gages and a valve, the valve being landable in a downhole receptacle and being operable to shut in the well or to open it for flow by tensioning or relaxing the electric cable, one of the gages sensing well pressures below the valve and the other gage sensing pressures above the valve, both pressure gages sending signals to the surface corresponding to the pressures sensed thereby both while the well is shut in and while it is flowing, the pressure signals being processed by surface readout equipment for real-time display, recording and/or printout, the apparatus including, if desired, a temperature sensor which sends appropriate signals to the surface which not only indicate the well temperatures sensed but the temperatures are used by a computer and its software to automatically correct the pressure readings for temperature affects.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for removing fluid from a well. The apparatus is mobile, and includes a power winch mounted on a mobile support means with a cable attached to the winch. A constant tension maintaining unit is connected to the winch to maintain relatively constant tension on the cable while the cable is wound off the power winch into the well, and a swab is mounted on the free end of the cable. The swab is operable to lift the fluid out of the well when the cable is wound back onto the power winch. Also included is a means in fluid connection with the well operable to receive the fluid lifted out of the well by the swab. Also provided is a swab bar for use in removing fluid from a well and a device for effecting a seal with the well head.

Abstract: A down-hole blow-out preventer has a housing (10) which is engageable in a drill string and which has a ball-valve (13) pivotally mounted in the bore (11) of the housing. The ball-valve is rotated from an open to a closed position by means of a cooperating cam sleeve (20) which is moved downwardly when mud pressure in the borehole is exposed to the flanged end (22) of the cam sleeve, which occurs when a solenoid valve (26) opens up a passage (27) upon a signal being received by a down-hole unit (39).

Abstract: A wire-line controlled down-hole shut-in tool for wells incorporates a mandrel adapted for connection in a tubing string. A shut-in valve mechanism within the mandrel is opened and maintained in its open position by a sectioned flow tube assembly and is permitted to close upon linear retraction of the flow tube thus causing temporary shut-in of the well such as for purposes of inspecting formation pressure. The shut-in tool mechanism incorporates a pressure equalization system which is controlled by downward linear movement of the flow tube assembly for establishing a pressure balanced condition at the shut-in valve to permit opening of the valve without excessive force. Pressure balancing with the shut-in valve in its closed position is achieved by control of pressure equalization valves in response to actuation of a lost-motion connection between upper and lower sections of the elongated flow tube assembly.

Abstract: A well safety valve having a housing and a valve closure member moving between opened and closed positions by a longitudinally tubular member movable in the housing. A piston and cylinder assembly includes a seal between the piston and cylinder, is connected to the tubular member, and is actuated by hydraulic fluid from the well surface for moving the valve to an open position. The valve is biased to a closed position by a U-shaped chamber. The chamber includes a pressurized gas and hydraulic fluid in the chamber between the gas and the assembly seal for lubricating and preventing the gas from escaping through the seal. The piston cylinder assembly is out of communication with and unaffected by pressure in the bore. At least one actuator rod is connected between the assembly and the tubular member and includes first and second spaced seals. The pressure in the bore is in communication with the rod between the first and second seals thereby balancing the housing pressure on the rod.

Abstract: A column of elastic material such as steel is lowered into an oil well by means of a derrick to a position such that the end portion thereof is within a liner to be removed. An acoustic coupling surface such as a plurality of annular piston-like members made of a resilient material such as a suitable rubber or plastic are fitted onto a portion of the column which extends into the interior of the lining, these annular members being spaced from each other along the column. An annulus of liquid is maintained in the spaces formed between successive annular members. High level sonic energy is applied to the column from the surface and transmitted along the column to the liner and liquid through the acoustic coupling means. Such energy is also fed to the liquid annuli and then to the liquid environment between the liner and the surrounding formation. The application of sonic energy both to the liner along with the liquid environment of the liner operates to effectively loosen the liner and its environment.

Abstract: A groundwater monitoring system includes a bore, a well casing within and spaced from the bore, and a pump within the casing. A water impermeable seal between the bore and the well casing prevents surface contamination from entering the pump. Above the ground surface is a removable operating means which is connected to the pump piston by a flexible cord. A protective casing extends above ground and has a removable cover. After a groundwater sample has been taken, the cord is disconnected from the operating means. The operating means is removed for taking away, the cord is placed within the protective casing, and the cover closed and locked. The system is thus protected from contamination, as well as from damage by accident or vandalism.

Abstract: A pilot valve system for a subsurface safety valve operated by control fluid pressure from the surface including a pilot valve connected with the control fluid line to the subsurface safety valve and into the well production string immediately above the safety valve to bypass the control fluid pressure directly into the tubing string and dump the control fluid pressure from the subsurface safety valve into the tubing string directly above the valve to minimize the time delay between control fluid pressure reduction and the safety valve closure. Three embodiments of the pilot valve are disclosed. One embodiment is operable by electrical energy from the surface. The other embodiments are operable by acoustic energy and radio waves, respectively. Also disclosed is a minimum backlash latch assembly for releasably locking the pilot valve, or other well tools, along a well bore in a receptacle such as a side pocket mandrel.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for altering the downhole flow path of control fluids or the like in oil and gas wells. A downhole side pocket mandrel in a tubing string has interconnected thereto a supply conduit from the surface and a plurality of receiving conduits. Each receiving conduit is connected to a control device. A plurality of different plug assemblies is provided, each for completing within the mandrel pocket when disposed therein a different hydraulic flow path between the supply conduit and one or more receiving conduits. The plug assemblies are insertable into and retrievable from the mandrel pocket by conventional running tools. Any desired control device may thereby be controlled at the surface with a single supply conduit by selection of the proper plug assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the plug assemblies are comprised of a plurality of subplugs which may be interconnected in differing orders to form the desired plug assembly.

Abstract: A concentric mandrel assembly for use in a wellhead isolation tool is operable from outside the wellhead and casing. An outer mandrel of the assembly carries a packoff nipple, including a resilient seal member, on its lower end and the inner mandrel of the assembly carrier carries an expander on its lower end. Means are provided for axially moving the mandrels relative to one another so that the expander can apply outward force on the resilient seal against the wall of a well casing.

Abstract: An anti rotational device is illustrated for use in a down hole pumping unit operated by a sucker rod driven by a hydraulic pump, fixing the cylinder rod of the hydraulic pump while permitting rotation of the sucker rod driven thereby.

Abstract: An apparatus for chemical treatment of a fluid pumped from a well through a production tubing includes a tubing anchor with slips adapted to be set hydraulically and mechanically against the casing in the well without rotating the production tubing. A branch line from a chemical injection line communicates with a setting pressure chamber in the anchor which, when pressurized, is used to initially set the slips. Thereafter, a straight pull on the tubing mechanically completes setting of the slips and a plug blocking the injection line is removed enabling the delivery of a treatment chemical to the well fluid upstream of a pump utilized in removing the fluid in the well.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of producing supercritical carbon dioxide from a well along with minor amounts of water having formation salts dissolved therein. Precipitation of salts carried by the formation water in the pump is prevented by continuously injecting water into the vicinity of the pump intake so as to dilute the formation water before it, or at least a portion of it, is vaporized into the water phase of the supercritical carbon dioxide. The volume of injected, substantially fresh water must be sufficient to handle the vaporization of water into the carbon dioxide in the pump as well as dilute the formation water so that the salts carried thereby remain in solution.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of producing supercritical carbon dioxide from a well along with minor amounts of kill water having formation salts dissolved therein. The salt water is the result of killing the well with fresh water during pump installation and/or removal operations at which time the water enters the CO.sub.2 producing formation and dissolves soluble salts which come into the well when the kill water returns to the well when it is put on production. Precipitation of salts carried by the kill water in the pump is prevented by continuously injecting water into the vicinity of the pump intake so as to dilute the returning kill water before it, or at least a portion of it, is vaporized into the water phase of the supercritical carbon dioxide. The volume of injected, substantially fresh water must be sufficient to handle the vaporization of water into the carbon dioxide in the pump as well as dilute the returning kill water so that the salts carried thereby remain in solution.

Abstract: A crush and abrasion resistant, sealed, impervious, flexible protective jacket assembly for oil and gas wells containing a plurality of electrical and/or fluid conductors that are oriented in linear, spaced, parallel relation. A pair of elongated protective metal sheets define elongated conductor grooves. The metal sheets are joined by welding to define a plurality of elongated chambers containing one or more of the conductors. The chambers are sealed from the atmosphere and may be filled with a non-gaseous dielectric material to prevent the development of corona discharge that might cause deterioration of the protective jacket assembly. The configuration of the sheets of protective material is such that the development of corona discharge is resisted. A pair of metal longitudinal structural elements are attached at opposed sides of the protective jacket assembly and prevent damage thereto by abrasion, crushing, bending, etc.

Abstract: A fluid operated cylinder is suspended from a crane by a cable and has a piston rod connected by a cable to a cleaning unit for supporting the cleaning unit within the screened inlet portion of a water well casing extending into the ground. Air is supplied to the cylinder through a solenoid valve which is controlled in response to movement of the piston to produce reciprocation of the piston and corresponding movement of the cleaning unit within the well casing.

Abstract: An apparatus for plugging a wellbore with a solid gel plug stem in high impulse or high energy fracturing. This apparatus facilitates the removal of the propellant canister support means, the propellant ignition means, as well as any debris adhering thereto. By this apparatus, damage to the wellbore and formation is minimized.

Abstract: A pumping unit or pump jack, of the walking beam type of class I geometry, is provided which is arranged to permit relatively efficient pumping of a well inclined to the vertical, by suitable selection of beam support configuration and location, horsehead size, configuration and position, and position of the beam support fulcrum and beam length. Also provided is an adjustable pumping unit arranged to relatively efficiently pump wells ranging from about 0.degree. to 45.degree. off-vertical, in that the pitman is adjustable in length and the angle of inclination of the longitudinal axis of the samson post is adjustable.

Abstract: For use with a wire line supported tool adapted to be run in open hole, a wire line connector to be installed between the wire line and at the top of the tool is set forth. The line moving apparatus of this disclosure preferably incorporates concentric telescoping sleeves with guide slots and cooperative protruding lugs. This apparatus attaches to the top end of a tool which is to be held stationary. This enables the supportive wire line to be continuously moved with stroking motion to thereby prevent pressure differential sticking at key seating the mud cake in the open hole.

Abstract: A hollow T-shaped fitting is provided including a vertically straight first leg open at its upper and lower ends and a second horizontal lateral leg opening into and outwardly away from an intermediate height portion of the first leg. The outer end of the second leg may be supported from and open laterally into the lower end of a deep well delivery pipe extending upwardly from the deep well pump and a seal defining tubular sleeve valve member is slidingly telescoped in the first leg and spans across the end of the second leg opening into the first leg. The upper end of the sleeve valve member projects above the upper end of the first leg and is equipped with an end cap downwardly abuttingly engageable with the upper end of the first leg. The end cap is centrally apertured and a strong elongated flexible pull member passes downwardly through the cap and the sleeve valve member and has its lower end anchored relative to the pump assembly of the associated well.

Abstract: The sucker rod system in a deep well sucker rod pump consists of a plurality of unidirectionally reinforced composite fiber rods extending substantially parallel but not in contact with each other, the cross-sectional area of which rods is less than 1 cm.sup.2. This enables the advantageous material properties to be utilized to a high degree. The sucker rod system can be assembled on site. The individual composite fiber rods can be monitored when they are in the working position.

Abstract: A tool stopping device for use in well flow conductors for stopping well tools moving therethrough, these devices being located at desired checkpoints, their arrival thereat indicating the progress of the tools in the flow conductor, each device having lugs movable between an inner, tool stopping position and an outer position in which they do not obstruct the bore of the device, each device also having a mechanism remotely actuable from the surface for moving the lugs between their outer and inner positions, whereby tools may be stopped by the lugs when in their inner position, after which the lugs may be moved to their outer position to free the tools for movement beyond the device. In some forms of the devices, the lugs may stop tools in position where they are to be locked in place. In another form, the tools are stopped by a shoulder in the device and the lugs are then contracted to anchor the tool in engagement with that shoulder.

Abstract: Long intervals of subterranean earth formations are heated at high temperatures for long times with an electrical heater containing spoolable, steel sheathed, mineral insulated cables which have high electrical conductivities, enabling them to heat the earth formations at a substantially uniform rate of more than about 100 watts per foot at temperatures between about 600.degree. and 1000.degree. C., with a pattern of localized electrical resistances which are correlated with the heat conductivities of the earth formations and the heat stabilities of materials providing power and support for the heater.

Abstract: A hydraulic actuated communication nipple for switching control fluid from one location to a second location in a well tool. A body having a longitudinal bore includes a control fluid passageway adapted to be connected to the well surface. A vertical moving sleeve in the body opens communication from the fluid passageway to the bore and is connected to a hydraulic piston in the fluid passageway which includes a bypass opening normally passing fluid through the passageway. A ball dropped down the control line seats on the piston, closes the fluid passage, moves the sleeve, and opens the fluid passageway to the bore. The piston also actuates a vertical moving plug to seal off the outlet with a metal-to-metal seal. A dual communication nipple may be provided which are internally connected by a line to move the fluid displaced by a piston.

Abstract: A system for evacuating sand, paraffin, and other particulate matter from an oil well, while simultaneously lifting the oil to the surface and stimulating its rate of production, comprises a series of transport units attached to an endless belt. The belt is positively driven between a wellhead station at the surface and a downhole module which is self centering within the well casing, thereby avoiding damage and wear to the casing. Preferably, the belt comprises a roller chain which enables the depth and rate of production of the evacuation system to be easily adjusted. The transport units are replaceably mounted on the belt and are specially designed to agitate and accumulate the particulate member in the oil well.

Abstract: A method and removable auxiliary lock open apparatus are provided for permanently locking open a flow control device, mounted in a conduit in a subterranean well, having a valve head reciprocally movable between open and closed positions relative to a valve seat, and a driving means mechanism which includes a locking sleeve for manipulating the flow control device into the open and closed positions. The removable apparatus includes a locking wedge, carried by and disengageable from a locking wedge carrier, and piston member which are extendable relative to the locking wedge carrier for forcing the locking wedge from the locking wedge carrier into a lock urging position on the sleeve of the flow control device.

Abstract: A hydraulic control communication nipple for switching control fluid in a fluid passageway from one location to a second location. A metal plug is aligned with a portion of the fluid passageway and is positioned to be engaged by a vertically moving sleeve and moved into said portion to shut off fluid communication to a first location. The plug is a frangible plug that includes a longitudinal axis extending vertically into the passageway and includes threads screwed into and forming a metal-to-metal seal with the passageway. The movement of the plug into the portion of the passageway may also open communication of the passageway with the second location. For alternately opening the passageway to a second location, a metal breakable screw having a longitudinal axis extending vertically into the passageway adjacent the second location has threads screwed into and initially blocks the passageway with a metal-to-metal seal. The screw includes a cavity exposed to the passageway.

Abstract: A ball dropping assembly is shown of the type which is connected in a string of pipe for dropping a ball in the pipe string. A main body is mounted on the pipe. The main body has an interior bore which communicates with the interior of the pipe. A cam housing is received within the main body bore and has a ball receiving recess formed in the interior thereof. A ball dropping can is rotatably received within the cam housing. The can has partially cut-away sidewalls which form a camming surface for the ball. A retaining nut engages and seals the cam housing and can within the body whereby rotation of the can with respect to the cam housing houses the camming surface to contact the ball to thereby eject the ball from the ball receiving recess into the interior of the pipe without opening the assembly to the atmosphere.

Abstract: An oil well pumping apparatus which includes a submerged reciprocating pump mounted in a tubing arrangement communicating with the wellhead, a sucker rod string extending through the tubing arrangement and connected in driving relation with the pump, and a pumping tee and stuffing box arrangement mounted on the casing of the well at the wellhead and including a sealed drive rod arrangement in the stuffing box connected in driving relation to said sucker rod string, and a pump driving unit. The pump driving unit includes a hydraulic cylinder and support means including a gimbal arrangement for supporting the hydraulic cylinder over the stuffing box with the axis of the cylinder rod aligned with the axis of said stuffing box. A coupling means is provided for coupling the cylinder rod to the sealed drive rod arrangement. A hydraulic drive/control unit is coupled to said in/out fluid line for operating cycle consisting of a hydraulic power upstroke and a gravity power downstroke.

Abstract: A well tool for running, cementing and washing a well housing or casing hanger including a tubular body, a cementing stinger on the lower end of the body, a well housing releasably supported on the body, a hollow skirt having inwardly facing ports and positioned in surrounding relationship to the upper end of the housing, a washing fluid supply to the skirt, a pressure responsive valve in the washing fluid supply, the support for the well housing including a pressure responsive release and the pressure responsive valve and the release are connected so that the supply of washing fluid under pressure to the connection opens the valve and actuates the release for the washing step and the step of retrieving the well tool.

Abstract: In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a surface controlled subsurface safety valve system includes a tubing retrievable safety valve having a valve element that is opened and held open in response to the pressure of a control fluid in a control line and automatically closed when control pressure is reduced, and means for equalizing the pressure of fluids above and below said valve element to aid in reopening the same after closure, including a wireline retrievable equalizing valve removably installed in the pocket of a side pocket mandrel that is connected in the tubing above said safety valve, said equalizing valve being arranged to be opened and closed in response to changes in the pressure of said control fluid. A uniquely constructed side pocket mandrel also is disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a swab hoist for use in conveying crude oil and natural gas having a cable drum and a driving motor for the cable drum.It is the object of the invention to provide a swab hoist of improved properties.This is achieved according to the invention by providing a hydraulic drive for the transmission of force from the driving motor to the cable drum. The hydraulic drive consists of a hydraulic pump driven by the driving motor, a hydraulic motor connected to the cable drum and a control means, in particular a pressure-reducing means, all connected to one another by means of pressure lines.

Abstract: Pressure equalizing means for well tools having a tubular housing and an operator tube movable longitudinally therewithin, there being provided a valved bypass passage in the housing and a shoulder on the operator tube for engaging and opening the valve of the valved bypass passage upon longitudinal movement of the operator tube in the housing, the equalizing mechanism further including a pair of seal rings sealing between the housing and the operator tube above and below the valved bypass passage in the housing and a lateral passage in the wall of the operator tube normally above the pair of seals but movable under no-flow conditions with the operator tube to a position between the pair of seals prior to the operator tube shoulder contacting the valve of the bypass passage, thus avoiding damage to or flow cutting of the seals which normally form a secondary seal to provide bubble-tight integrity even if the valve in the bypass passage does not seal bubble tight.

Abstract: Hanger apparatus for suporting pipe in a well, the apparatus including both an annulus check valve, via which communication is established with the annulus between the suspended pipe and surrounding casing, and a pressure fluid by-pass, via which communication with a down-hole device such as a safety valve is established. Opening of the check valve and establishment of communication via the by-pass are accomplished by a simple stabbing operation with, e.g., a handling tool or a production upper body. Alternately, the check valve is opened by hydraulic pressure delivered via the production upper body.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for dewatering a gas well in which the level of water in the well may be maintained at a fairly constant low level employing a diverter valve for introducing liquid into the tubing which valve is maintained closed when the liquid level drops below a selected level and employing a fluid responsive gas lift valve utilizing annulus gas to lift the liquid within the tubing from the well. The fluid operated valve may be closed by a constant force exerted on the valve member toward closed position or the force urging the valve member to closed position may be increased in response to a reduction in pressure in the annulus to close the gas lift valve when the annulus pressure reduces to a selected level.

Abstract: There is disclosed apparatus for controlling flow through both a tubing string suspended within a well bore and the space within the well bore about the tubing string. The illustrated embodiment of the apparatus comprises a body made up of a pair of mandrels and having a first bore therethrough adapted to be connected as part of the tubing string, whereby it may be lowered with the string into the well bore, a second bore therethrough parallel to the first bore for connection at its upper and lower ends with the space about the tubing string, and closure members mounted on the body for opening and closing the first and second bores. The body has first and second pockets therein each having one end opening to the first bore, a first tool is adapted to be run on a wire line through the tubing string and first bore into and out of the first pocket, and a second tool is adapted to be run on a wire line through the tubing string and first bore into and out of the second pocket.

Abstract: A hanger and valve assembly which can be employed as a safety valve assembly to close both the production tubing and the tubing-casing annulus in a subterranean well is disclosed. The assembly includes a hydraulically activated, mechanically locked hanger which has slip anchoring members engaging the casing or, exterior conduit for preventing movement in both longitudinal directions. The hanger also has annular packing elements to seal the tubing-casing annulus. An annulus safety valve member employing a longitudinally recessed resilient seal member can be mounted in a landing nipple mounted in the hanger. By recessing the seal it is protected from the turbulent flow through the valve. A second shuttle located in the landing nipple is employed in conjunction with the first annulus safety valve to permit flow in one direction while metering flow in the opposite direction.

Abstract: A surface controlled subsurface safety valve for deep well service. Communication of control fluid to the subsurface safety valve is controlled by a pilot valve at a subsurface location in close proximity to the safety valve. Responsiveness of the subsurface safety valve to decrease in control fluid pressure is thereby increased and the safety valve's closure speed is also increased. The pilot valve controllably communicates pressurized control fluid to open the safety valve and allows control fluid to be displaced into the flow path through the safety valve during valve closure.

Abstract: Discloses a method and apparatus to help provide fluid pressure in a well bore sufficient to overcome in situ earth formation pressures by perforating a circulation port through the sidewall of a drill collar above the drill bit to provide circulation of weighted drilling fluid down through the drill spring and back up the well annulus. Includes the lowering of a chemical reactant wireline perforating tool to a designated position within a drill collar, placing a single chemical flow jet into position addressing the sidewall of the drill collar, forcing the chemical reactant through the jet under high pressure and at high temperature to react with the drill collar metal and thereby remove a portion of the metal with the remaining metal defining a fluid circulation port through the drill collar wall, and pumping fluid through the port to establish circulation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for operating a two position flow valve disposed in a subterranean well, for example a safety valve located near the bottom of a subterranean well, through the application of cyclic pressure applied to fluid confined in the annulus between conduits, such as well casing and a production string. Valving apparatus is provided adjacent to the flow valve to be controlled which derives a pressure signal from the cyclic pressure of the fluid annulus which is effective to maintain the valve in one of its two positions so long as the cyclic pressure exists, but permits the valve to shift to its other position upon termination or significant reduction of the cyclic pressure. In this manner, reliable operation of a flow valve, such as a safety valve, may be achieved without the necessity of running any auxiliary hydraulic control lines to such valve.

Abstract: A continuous length of reinforced plastic ribbon rod is wound on a reel and replaces a conventional oil well sucker rod formed of long sections of steel rods. The reinforced plastic has a high modulus of elasticity, is sufficiently stiff for use in pumping, and has enough flexibility to be wound onto a reel or drum. The reel of ribbon rod is positioned above oil well tubing and the ribbon rod, with an oil pump attached to its free end, is fed into the tubing and lowered to the bottom of the well. The ribbon rod is secured to a surface pumping means, and reciprocating motion is transmitted to the oil pump through the ribbon rod.

Abstract: A subterranean well valve assembly includes a valve mounted within an annular housing which is actuated by an annular plunger co-axially mounted within the housing. The plunger is longitudinally shiftable to open the valve, in response to a fluid pressure signal. Within the housing, releasable latches are provided for engaging an annular groove, thereby temporarily locking the plunger in its lower position. The valve assembly also includes a permanent lock open mechanism comprising an annular locking mandrel, including a latch element. Longitudinal movement of the mandrel locks the mandrel in place, thereby interfering with subsequent retraction of the plunger from locked position.

Abstract: A hydraulic safety valve manifold system for providing positive opening and closing of a surface-controlled, sub-surface safety valve in a subsea well, including a shut-off valve which prevents leakage of well fluids to the outside environment if a leak should occur in the safety valve or in hydraulic lines which are connected to the hydraulic actuator of the safety valve. A hydraulic control line is connected to the safety valve actuator through a normally closed shut-off valve, and this line is also connected to the actuator of the shut-off valve to hold both the shut-off valve and the safety valve open when the line is pressurized. The hydraulic line is also connected to an actuator of a variable volume accumulator to empty the accumulator when the line is pressurized. When pressure in the hydraulic line is relieved the shut-off valve closes and the accumulator accepts fluid from the hydraulic actuator of the safety valve to insure that the safety valve closes.

Abstract: A valve supporting tubular assembly capable of being mounted on a geothermal well head, with the tubular assembly of such structure that an internal plug that supports resilient packers and has circumferentially extending teeth defined thereon may be removably locked in a first position to seal the interior of the tubular assembly above the outlets to the valves, the plug may also be moved longitudinally in the tubular assembly to scrape solids deposited on the interior surface thereof by geothermal fluids, and the plug may also be moved to a second position to pack off the interior of the tubular assembly below the valve outlets to permit the valves to be moved or maintenance work performed thereon without shutting down the geothermal well. In addition, the plug is provided with means to equalize the pressure above and below the plug in the tubular assembly to permit the plug and components situated thereabove to be removed from the tubular assembly.

Abstract: A well production apparatus for fluid production through a pair of downhole safety valves to both well tubing and the tubing annulus includes a packer with a dual bore head connected to the lower end of the tubing. Primary and secondary packer mandrels depending from connections with said head serve as conduits for directing production fluid to the safety valves with the secondary mandrel also serving as a conduit through which a power conductor extends for connecting with a motor beneath the packer. A set of hydraulically movable slips slidable between retracted and deployed positions are carried on the mandrels on opposite sides of a packing element and a setting cylinder secured to one of said packer mandrels defines a pressure chamber containing a setting piston which is movable from a retracted position to an extended position to compress said packing element and deploy said slips for anchoring said packer in the casing.

Abstract: A subsea test tree includes a body having a flow passage therethrough. A closure valve is movable between open and closed positions for opening and closing the flow passage. A signal receiver of the subsea test tree receives an acoustic command signal transmitted down a pipe string connecting the subsea test tree to a floating surface structure. An actuator is operably associated with the signal receiver and moves the closure valve to one of its open and closed positions in response to the acoustic command signal. Acoustic couplers are connected between adjacent pipe segments for aiding in the transmission of the acoustic signals across joints between pipe segments. A double sliding sleeve valve hydraulic connector connects fluid passages of an upper portion of the subsea test tree with fluid passages of a lower portion of the subsea test tree. A hydraulically powered latch connects and disconnects the upper and lower portions of the subsea test tree in response to the acoustic command signals.

Abstract: This invention relates to a self-contained circulation sub which may be operated upon control from the surface. It may be in the shape of a short section of drill collar and utilizes a sleeve valve to cover the circulation ports. Upon reception of an acoustic signal from the surface, a control valve directs fluid from the pipe bore onto a pressure face on the sleeve valve. The sleeve valve then moves down and exposes the circulation ports thereby allowing drilling fluids to pass from its interior to its exterior.

Abstract: In a well safety valve for controlling the fluid flow through a well conduit in which the valve has a housing and a flow tube controlling a valve element, the improvement in means for opening and closing the valve. A gas chamber is positioned in the housing with a fluid passageway positioned between the gas chamber and a port for receiving fluid pressure from the well surface for increasing the pressure of the gas in the chamber. One or more pistons are movably positioned in the passageway between the gas chamber and the port with the pistons restricting but allowing fluid flow through the passageway. The pistons are connected to the flow tube whereby when pressure on the port side of the pistons is reduced compressed gas in the gas chamber will act on the fluid in the gas chamber side of the piston to move the pistons in a direction to close the valve. A check valve may be in parallel with the pistons for quickly pressuring the gas chamber.

Abstract: An annulus valve apparatus integrated within a tubing hanger controls fluid flow through a tubing-casing annulus formed between a casing and a tubing string located within and generally concentric to the casing and connected to the tubing hanger. The tubing hanger is landed within the casing and sealing relation thereto and divides the annulus into an upper and lower portion. Fluid flow passages located within the hanger body communicate between the portions of the annulus above and below the hanger. An annulus opening means, mounted to the hanger body, allows fluid to pass between the fluid flow passages and the portion of the annulus below the hanger. The opening means is spring biased to close the passages to fluid flow. A plurality of control fluid passages in the hanger body communicate between the opening means and the hanger bore, which is aligned with the tubing bore, and pass a hydraulic control fluid from the hanger bore to the opening means.

Abstract: A method and apparatus as provided for periodically supplying a quantity of fluid containing a corrosion inhibitor or other treating fluid to both the internal and external surfaces of downhole components of a subterranean well. The corrosion inhibitor is introduced in the fluid that normally fills the annulus defined between the well casing and the production string. This fluid is periodically subjected to a cyclic pressure and the cyclic pressure is employed to operate valving apparatus disposed in the vicinity of the packer to periodically inject a quantity of the annulus fluid containing the corrosion inhibitor into a bypass passage extending through the packer and, hence, into the production fluid, which the carries the corrosion inhibitor to internally disposed downhole components in the well bore.