Central Valve Or Closure And Lateral Port Patents (Class 166/95.1)
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Patent number: 11306557Abstract: A Christmas tree may include a body and a sleeve. The body may include a production flowbore therethrough, a longitudinal flowbore intersecting the production flowbore, and optionally one or more annulus passageways, crossover passageways, or chemical injection passageways intersecting at least one of the production flowbore and the longitudinal flowbore. The sleeve may be attached to and circumferentially rotatable about at least a portion of the body and may include a transverse flowbore therethrough. An annular fluid gallery may be formed between the body and the sleeve. At least one of the longitudinal flowbore and the one or more annulus passageways, crossover passageways, or chemical injection passageways may include a flowpath connecting to the annular fluid gallery or is configured to be connected to a flowpath connecting to the annular fluid gallery.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2018Date of Patent: April 19, 2022Assignee: FMC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Richard Murphy, Kevin McIlwaine
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Patent number: 10018012Abstract: The invention relates to a rotating flow control device and methods of using the same for controlling wellbore fluids at the head of a riser diverter for use in offshore drilling operations or the head of a blowout preventer stacks annular for conventional land-based drilling operations. The rotating flow control device comprises a stationary housing to be mounted on the head of a riser diverter or the blowout preventer stacks annular, an inner tubular shaft that permits the passage of a tubular, sealed bearing elements for supporting and permitting the axial rotation of the inner tubular shaft, and an elastomeric stripper element attached to the inner tubular shaft for sealing around the tubular.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2012Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLCInventor: Michael Boyd
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Patent number: 9057243Abstract: Protection at a hydrocarbon well is enhanced by placing a blowout preventer over a well head. An adapter is connected to the blowout preventer. The adapter includes a valve that when turned off prevents non-production flow from the blowout preventer to a riser pipe.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2011Date of Patent: June 16, 2015Inventors: Rudolf H. Hendel, Catherine G. Lin-Hendel
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Publication number: 20140360735Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards a geothermal expansion spool assembly having an integrated or single piece configuration. The geothermal expansion spool assembly comprises an upper portion adapted to directly couple to a production valve and a lower portion adapted to surround and engage with a surface casing of a geothermal well, wherein the upper and lower portion are permanently fixed to one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2013Publication date: December 11, 2014Applicant: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Jeffrey Michael Lee, Stuart Robinson
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Patent number: 8746350Abstract: A wellhead assembly made up of a wellhead housing, a production tree mounted on the wellhead housing, tubing suspended into a wellbore from within the wellhead housing, and an annulus between the tubing and the wellhead housing. A shuttle valve is provided within a tubing hanger that supports the tubing from within the wellhead housing. An accumulator is disposed in the annulus that is in fluid communication with a closed position port on the shuttle valve. Pressure is maintained in the accumulator for closing the shuttle valve when a force for opening the valve is removed.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2010Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: William Thomas Bryson
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Patent number: 8720545Abstract: A method for drilling a wellbore includes drilling the wellbore by injecting drilling fluid into a top of a tubular string disposed in the wellbore at a first flow rate and rotating a drill bit. The tubular string includes: the drill bit disposed on a bottom thereof, tubular joints connected together, a longitudinal bore therethrough, a port through a wall thereof, and a sleeve operable between an open position where the port is exposed to the bore and a closed position where a wall of the sleeve is disposed between the port and the bore. The method further includes moving the sleeve to the open position; and injecting drilling fluid into the port at a second flow rate while adding a tubular joint(s) to the tubular string. The injection of drilling fluid into the tubular string is continuously maintained between drilling and adding the joint(s).Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: David Iblings, Thomas F. Bailey, Ram K. Bansal, Adrian Steiner, Michael Lynch, Simon J. Harrall
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Patent number: 8684073Abstract: Present invention regards a device for injection and stimulation of fluids in a wellbore, where the device is typically is installed in Christmas trees, wellheads or subsea. The device comprises two separable sections, where the section that is mounted/arranged within the Christmas tree or wellhead, will remain in a closed position even if the other section due to external forces is broken off or in other ways is damaged.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2009Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Petroleum Technology Company ASInventors: Ole Sevheim, Øyvind Stokka, Erling Kleppa, Magnar Tveiten
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Patent number: 8627890Abstract: A method for drilling a wellbore includes drilling the wellbore by advancing the tubular string longitudinally into the wellbore; stopping drilling by holding the tubular string longitudinally stationary; adding a tubular joint or stand of joints to the tubular string while injecting drilling fluid into a side port of the tubular string, rotating the tubular string, and holding the tubular string longitudinally stationary; and resuming drilling of the wellbore after adding the joint or stand.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2011Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Thomas F. Bailey, Mark A. Mitchell, David Pavel, Lev Ring, Ram K. Bansal, David Iblings
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Patent number: 8622138Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2011Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Cameron Systems (Ireland) LimitedInventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
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Patent number: 8590640Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining constant circulation of drilling fluid includes a valve section (5) at the top of each section of drill pipes to be connected to or removed from the drill string. The valve section (5) has a top inlet for axial circulation and a side inlet (5b) for radial circulation. Two separate valves (5c, 5d) within the valve section controls flow through the inlets. An external valve control device (4) has a circulation adapter (4b) for connecting drill fluid at operational pressure to the side inlet (5b) and separate activating adapters (4c, 4d) connecting to the couplings for opening or closing the valves (5c, 5d).Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2008Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Per Olav Haughom
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Patent number: 8540018Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2012Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Cameron Systems (Ireland) LimitedInventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
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Patent number: 8469086Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replace the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2011Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Cameron Systems (Ireland) LimitedInventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
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Publication number: 20130056226Abstract: A well containment assembly comprising a first pressure-containing device, and a diverter spool, the diverter spool comprising a body having a longitudinal central axis and at least partially defining a primary flowbore, an upper connection assembly coupled to the body, a lower connection assembly coupled to the body, and a plurality of side outlets, each of the plurality of side outlets having a longitudinal central axis and at least partially defining a secondary flowbore, wherein each of the plurality secondary flowbores are in communication with the primary flowbore, and wherein the angle between the longitudinal central axis of the body and the longitudinal central axis of the plurality of side outlets is less than 90° with respect to the primary flowbore, wherein the first pressure-containing device is coupled to the diverter spool via the upper connection assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Douglas N. DERR, Patrick M. LJUNGDAHL
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Publication number: 20130014947Abstract: A method of drilling and fracturing a well includes installing a drilling/frac adapter on a lower wellhead housing. The drilling/frac adapter has a higher internal pressure rating than the lower wellhead housing. The operator drills through the drilling/frac adapter to a desired depth, then runs and cements a casing string in the well. A lower packoff is installed in an annulus between the casing hanger and the lower wellhead housing and an upper packoff is set in an annulus between the drilling/frac adapter and the casing hanger. Frac fluid is pumped through the frac tree into the casing string at a higher pressure than the pressure rating of the lower housing but less than the pressure rating of the drilling/frac adapter. Then, the upper packoff and the drilling/frac adapter are removed from the lower housing and installing an upper wellhead housing on the lower wellhead housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2011Publication date: January 17, 2013Applicant: GE Oil & Gas Pressure Control LPInventors: Danny R. Wilkins, Thomas H. Holtkamp, Jerry D. Smith
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Patent number: 8272435Abstract: Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2009Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Cameron Systems (Ireland) LimitedInventors: Ian Donald, John Reid
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Publication number: 20120152564Abstract: A horizontal production tree for use on a land-based surface well head. The horizontal production tree may be maintained in place on the well head throughout the life of well, even during fracing.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventor: Terry Peltier
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Patent number: 8066063Abstract: A mineral extraction system includes a branch having a branch passage, a diverter coupled to the branch passage, and a capillary injection conduit disposed inside to the branch passage. A method of injecting chemicals includes injecting a chemical into a capillary injection conduit disposed internal to a production passage, wherein the chemical injection capillary conduit comprises an inlet and an outlet configured to terminate proximate a well formation.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2007Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Ian Donald, John Reid, Manish Vyas
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Patent number: 8056621Abstract: A master ball valve with an integrated main hanger below the valve which may be used to hang jointed tubing, coil tubing, or electrified coil tubing for connection with an electric submersible pump.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Stellarton Technologies Inc.Inventors: Curtis Phillip Ring, Grant George, Geoff Steele, Jordan James
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Patent number: 8033338Abstract: Systems and methods for continuously circulating fluid, e.g., drilling mud, through a wellbore tubular string, the systems in certain aspects including a sub positionable in fluid communication with the tubular string, the sub with a body, a plug releasably closing off a side opening of the body, and a closure apparatus for selectively closing off flow from the top of the sub into and through the body, while flow is permitted below the closure apparatus through the side opening down through the body into the tubular string; and, in certain aspects, such systems and methods including tubular manipulation apparatus, e.g. an iron roughneck and working with wellbore tubulars with the tubular manipulation apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2009Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.Inventor: Frank Benjamin Springett
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Patent number: 7971637Abstract: A well surface control system for use with various types of work strings such as, but not limited to, drill strings, coiled tubing, snubbing pipe, electric line, production tubing, and wireline. The system includes a main housing with a main bore extending from one end to the other. The main housing is equipped with a side port which communicates with the main bore between the two ends. The main housing is also equipped with two valves for controlling fluid and/or gas flows through the main bore and for severing a component of a work string running through the main bore. The first valve is positioned between the side port and one end of the main housing and the second valve is positioned between the side port and the other end of the main housing. Attached to each end of the main housing is a saver sub, with means for temporarily locking the saver subs to the main housing to prevent circular and longitudinal movement of the saver subs in relation to the main housing.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2009Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Devin International, Inc.Inventors: Bryan Lee Duhon, Wayne Ducote
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Patent number: 7931079Abstract: A tubing hanger and method for reducing loads and stresses on sealing boundaries in a tubing hanger is provided. The tubing hanger has an inner cavity that is sealed with respect to an external well volume present in for example the surrounding tree architecture and wellhead. A control line extends through the inner cavity to communicate with downhole equipment. A pressure compensator is configured to adjust pressure differential between the inner cavity and the external well volume.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2008Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Joseph Allan Nicholson
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Publication number: 20110061854Abstract: A subsea assembly (11) comprises a valve assembly (12) and a winch assembly (8) mounted relative to the valve assembly (12). The valve assembly (12) comprises: a valve block (22) defining a throughbore (24); a valve member (26) mounted within the valve block (22) and adapted to be moved between open and closed positions to selectively provide a fluid barrier within the throughbore (24); and first and second valve stems (29, 31) extending from respective sides of the valve member (26) and through a side wall of the valve block (22), each valve stem (29, 31) including a sealing region in fluid communication with the throughbore (24), wherein a cross-sectional area of the sealing region of the first valve stem (29) is substantially equal to the cross-sectional area of the sealing region of the second valve stem (31).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2008Publication date: March 17, 2011Inventor: Mark Davies
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Publication number: 20110036596Abstract: A dual barrier plug system includes a frac spool, having a dual barrier plug disposed within the interior of the frac spool; a valve selector member disposed within the interior of the dual barrier plug; and the plurality of seals are used to seal fluid flow from below the frac spool, and the seals provide two barriers to each fluid flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2010Publication date: February 17, 2011Inventors: Khang Van Nguyen, Martin Anthony Trumbull
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Patent number: 7857062Abstract: A configurable wellhead system is used to efficiently accomplish well completion, re-completion or workover. The configurable wellhead system includes a permanent fracturing spool that is mounted to a casing head of the well and provides a high pressure seal around a top of a casing of the well. The permanent fracturing spool provides full-bore direct access to the casing without the use of a pressure isolation mandrel. A tubing head is mounted to a top of the permanent fracturing spool to complete the configurable wellhead system. A fracturing spool plug secured in a seal bore of the permanent fracturing spool permits equipment mounted above the permanent fracturing spool to be removed without killing the well or inserting a wireline casing plug.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2009Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Stinger Wellhead Protection, Inc.Inventor: L. Murray Dallas
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Patent number: 7770653Abstract: A valve (136, 136?, 136?, 200) adapted to replace an existing valve of a wellhead (114). Valve (136, 136?, 136?, 200) can have similar dimensions as the existing valve it replaces to utilize existing wellhead connections. In one embodiment, a replacement bypass master valve (136) incorporates a fluid bypass pathway (168) to enable communication and conveyance of a production enhancing fluid (132) from a location external to the well through small diameter tubing (126) to a specific downhole location independent the position of a flow control member in interior chamber (166). Replacement bypass master valve (136?) can include anchor seal assembly (122?) disposed in locking profile 180 of upstream inlet bore (162) to enable communication from fluid bypass pathway (168) to lower injection conduit (128). In another embodiment, replacement valve (200) includes a groove in gate (208) sealingly receiving capillary injection tubing (204) when in a closed position.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2006Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: BJ Services Company U.S.A.Inventors: Thomas G. Hill, Jeffrey L. Bolding
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Publication number: 20100139910Abstract: An annulus isolation valve comprises a valve actuation bore and a flow passage capable of providing fluid communication between an upper annulus and a lower annulus. The flow passage comprises a first flow path and a portion of the valve actuation bore. Further, the first flow path has a second longitudinal axis that is different from a first longitudinal axis. The annulus isolation valve further includes a plug gate positioned in the valve actuation bore. The plug gate is configured so that in the open position it allows fluid communication between the upper annulus and the lower annulus. The annulus isolation valve further includes a biasing mechanism positioned in the valve actuation bore. The biasing mechanism is capable of forcing the plug gate into the closed position when the actuation force is not applied.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2009Publication date: June 10, 2010Inventors: Andy Dyson, Charles Li, Oystein Mogedal, Paulo Cezar Silva Paulo, Casey Russell, Nick Newlands
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Publication number: 20090283277Abstract: A configurable wellhead system is used to efficiently accomplish well completion, re-completion or workover. The configurable wellhead system includes a permanent fracturing spool that is mounted to a casing head of the well and provides a high pressure seal around a top of a casing of the well. The permanent fracturing spool provides full-bore direct access to the casing without the use of a pressure isolation mandrel. A tubing head is mounted to a top of the permanent fracturing spool to complete the configurable wellhead system. A fracturing spool plug secured in a seal bore of the permanent fracturing spool permits equipment mounted above the permanent fracturing spool to be removed without killing the well or inserting a wireline casing plug.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2009Publication date: November 19, 2009Applicant: STINGER WELLHEAD PROTECTION, INC.Inventor: L. Murray Dallas
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Patent number: 7578351Abstract: A configurable wellhead system is used to efficiently accomplish well completion, re-completion or workover. The configurable wellhead system includes a permanent fracturing spool that is mounted to a casing head of the well and provides a high pressure seal around a top of a casing of the well. The permanent fracturing spool provides full-bore direct access to the casing without the use of a pressure isolation mandrel. A tubing head is mounted to a top of the permanent fracturing spool to complete the configurable wellhead system. A fracturing spool plug secured in a seal bore of the permanent fracturing spool permits equipment mounted above the permanent fracturing spool to be removed without killing the well or inserting a wireline casing plug.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2006Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Stinger Wellhead Protection, Inc.Inventor: L. Murray Dallas
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Publication number: 20080164020Abstract: The invention includes methods of collecting crude oil and apparatus which collect crude oil. In one implementation, a crude oil collection header apparatus comprises a collection reservoir. A plurality of fluid conduits is connected to feed crude oil to the collection reservoir. The fluid conduits respectively comprise a collection reservoir feed valve, a bypass valve, and a crude oil feed inlet received between the collection reservoir feed and bypass valves. A flow meter conduit is connected with multiple of the plurality of fluid conduits downstream of the respective bypass valves. A flow meter is operably connected with the flow meter conduit. A crude oil outlet is associated with the collection reservoir. Other aspects and implementations are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Jonathan Richter, John McCarthy
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Publication number: 20080087439Abstract: A configurable wellhead system is used to efficiently accomplish well completion, re-completion or workover. The configurable wellhead system includes a permanent fracturing spool that is mounted to a casing head of the well and provides a high pressure seal around a top of a casing of the well. The permanent fracturing spool provides full-bore direct access to the casing without the use of a pressure isolation mandrel. A tubing head is mounted to a top of the permanent fracturing spool to complete the configurable wellhead system. A fracturing spool plug secured in a seal bore of the permanent fracturing spool permits equipment mounted above the permanent fracturing spool to be removed without killing the well or inserting a wireline casing plug.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2006Publication date: April 17, 2008Inventor: L. Murray Dallas
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Patent number: 7341109Abstract: A compensator sleeve assembly for use with a hydraulic extension system used to handle safety valves designed to shut off high pressure upward flow through drill pipe or tubing. The compensator sleeve assembly, amounted on an adjustable arm slide, has a steel sleeve for holding the safety valve, an arrangement of circumferentially space-apart spring sets which allow the safety valve to “float” and tilt from the vertical in any direction and a hydraulic-powered chain drive belt for rotating the safety valve.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2007Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Inventor: Bobby Dewain McDowell
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Patent number: 7322407Abstract: A wellhead assembly is provided including a casing and a tubular member mounted over the casing. A flange extends from the tubular member. A generally elongated annular member is provided in the tubular member. The generally elongated annular member has a first end portion above the tubular member and second end portion below the first end portion. A seal is formed between the second end portion and the tubular member. A hanger may be suspended within the tubular member. In such case, a seal may be formed between the elongate annular member and the hanger.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Duhn Oil Tool, Inc.Inventors: Rex E. Duhn, Robert K. Meek
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Patent number: 7308943Abstract: A wellhead has, instead of a conventional Christmas tree, a spool tree in which a tubing hanger is landed at a predetermined angular orientation. As the tubing string can be pulled without disturbing the tree, many advantages follow, including access to the production casing hanger for monitoring production casing annulus pressure, and the introduction of larger tools into the well hole without breaching the integrity of the well.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Hans Paul Hopper, Thomas G. Cassity
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Patent number: 7299866Abstract: An apparatus and method is used in the cleaning out of sand in underbalanced gas wells. The present invention includes a valve subassembly equipped with an emergency shutin device to remotely control the actuation of the valve via an air or hydraulic control line. Operatively coupled to the inlet of the valve subassembly is a swivel subassembly which further enables the coupling to a tubing string. A lifting assembly attaches the valve subassembly to an elevator of a well service rig. A hardened elbow coupled to an outlet of the valve subassembly directs the gas/sand mixture being removed from the well through a hose to a collection pit. The use of the apparatus of the present invention in a sand cleanout operation allows joints of pipe to be tripped into and out of the tubing string all the while keeping the emergency shutdown device actuator connected and operational.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2005Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Inventor: Shawn Arthur Jacklin
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Patent number: 7163064Abstract: A surface flow control system for a well. The system comprises a main housing having a main bore there through, and a first port communicating with the main bore. The system further comprises a first valve positioned within the main bore, and wherein the first valve is placed at a position above said first port; and, a second valve positioned within the main bore of the main housing, and wherein the second valve is placed at a position below the first port. The system may further include a swivel connected to the main housing. A second port communicating with the main bore may also be included. In one embodiment, the first port is connected to a tank for collecting fluids discharged from the well, and the second port is connected to a pump for pumping into the well. A method of controlling well pressure is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Devin International, Inc.Inventors: James Devin Moncus, Bryan Duhon
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Patent number: 7111687Abstract: A method and assembly for recovering fluids from, or injecting fluids into, a well having a christmas tree; the fluids typically flow between first and second flowpaths in a continuous path. The assembly may be located within the main bore, or a side passage of the christmas tree. Embodiments of the invention allow the fluids to be fed to a processing apparatus, (e.g. a pump or chemical injection apparatus) for treatment, before being returned to the christmas tree. Optionally, the assembly may include a pump located inside the christmas tree body.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2003Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: DES Enhanced Recovery LimitedInventors: Ian Donald, James Steele, John Reid
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Patent number: 7096937Abstract: A flow completion system for controlling the flow of fluid from a well bore comprises a tubing spool which includes a central bore that extends axially therethrough and a production outlet which communicates with the central bore. A tubing hanger is supported in the central bore and includes a production bore that extends axially therethrough and a production passageway that communicates between the production bore and the production outlet. A first closure member is positioned in the production bore above the production passageway, and a first metal seal is positioned concentrically between the tubing hanger and the central bore above the production passageway. In addition, a second closure member is positioned in the production bore above the first closure member, and a second metal seal is positioned concentrically between the tubing hanger and the central bore above the first seal.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2004Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Christopher D. Bartlett, Christopher E. Cunningham, Richard D. Kent, Nicholas Gatherar, David Harrold
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Patent number: 7093660Abstract: A wellhead has, instead of a conventional Christmas tree, a spool tree in which a tubing hanger is landed at a predetermined angular orientation. As the tubing string can be pulled without disturbing the tree, many advantages follow, including access to the production casing hanger for monitoring production casing annulus pressure, and the introduction of larger tools into the well hole without breaching the integrity of the well.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2003Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Cooper Cameron CorporationInventors: Hans Paul Hopper, Thomas G. Cassity
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Patent number: 7069988Abstract: A flow completion system for controlling the flow of fluid from a well bore, the flow completion system comprising a tubing spool which includes a central bore that extends axially therethrough and a production outlet which communicates with the central bore; a tubing hanger which is supported in the central bore and which includes a production bore that extends axially therethrough and a production passageway that communicates between the production bore and the production outlet, the tubing hanger supporting a tubing string which extends into the well bore and defines a tubing annulus surrounding the tubing string; a first closure member which is positioned in the production bore above the production passageway; a first annular seal which is positioned between the tubing hanger and the central bore above the production passageway; wherein the first closure member and the first seal comprise a first pressure-containing barrier between the well bore and a surrounding environment; a second closure member whichType: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Christopher D. Bartlett, Christopher E. Cunningham, Richard D. Kent, Nicholas Gatherar, David Harrold
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Patent number: 6991039Abstract: A wellhead has, instead of a conventional Christmas tree, a spool tree in which a tubing hanger is landed at a predetermined angular orientation. As the tubing string can be pulled without disturbing the tree, many advantages follow, including access to the production casing hanger for monitoring production casing annulus pressure, and the introduction of larger tools into the well hole without breaching the integrity of the well.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2004Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: Cooper Cameron CorporationInventors: Hans Paul Hopper, Thomas G. Cassity
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Patent number: 6966383Abstract: The horizontal spool tree assembly 10 controls fluid flow through a production tubing string 18 within a well. The horizontal spool tree assembly is adapted for use with a workover string for fluid communication with the tree assembly. The spool body 12 has a central bore 14 for receiving a tubing hanger 22 therein, with a production passageway extending laterally through the spool body to a production line 36. The spool body also includes an annulus passageway extending laterally through the spool body for fluid communication between the tubing annulus 16 and the annulus line 52. The spool tree assembly has improved porting for the production line and the annulus line, and also for both workover and crossover operations.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2003Date of Patent: November 22, 2005Assignee: Dril-Quip, Inc.Inventors: Lionel J. Milberger, Morris B. Wade
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Patent number: 6964304Abstract: A technique for maintaining pressure integrity within a submersible system. The system utilizes a pressure housing with an internal component, such as a valve. The internal component is actuated by an external actuator via an actuator stem. A seal region is positioned to interact with the stem, such that the interior of the pressure housing is sealed and pressure integrity is maintained upon retraction of the stem from engagement with the internal component.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2002Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Harold Brian Skeels, Michael R. Williams
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Patent number: 6918446Abstract: Methods and devices are described for efficiently installing sea-borne wellhead components and tying back sub-sea wellhead components with them. In specific aspects, a single running and setting tool is used to land a tubing head housing upon the stem of a floating platform and tension and pressure testing casing string risers extending between a subsea wellhead and a floating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2003Date of Patent: July 19, 2005Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Eugene A. Borak, Jr.
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Patent number: 6899172Abstract: A frac head comprising a main body with plural side entries oriented around the main body such that flow from each of the side entries meets flow from an opposing side entry in the internal bore. A replaceable abrasion resistant wear sleeve is secured in the internal bore of the main body downstream of the side entries and positioned to intercept flow from the side entries and prevent the flow from impacting directly on material of the main body. The side entries terminate at the internal bore equidistantly from the lower end of the main body, and are symmetrically arranged around the main body. The side entries are oriented at about 45° to the downstream direction. The replaceable abrasion resistant wear sleeve is held against movement downstream by abutment of a shoulder on the replaceable abrasion resistant wear sleeve against a shoulder on the frac body, and has a tapered internal bore.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2003Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Inventors: Roderick D. McLeod, Jerry A. Johnson
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Patent number: 6851478Abstract: The invention provides a Y-body Christmas tree for use with coil tubing and other wellhead components which integrates components of a Christmas tree, while providing for coil tubing access without necessarily adding to the vertical height of the unit. The Y-body Christmas tree includes firstly, a body formed as a single piece of steel and forming a vertical bore extending axially therethrough, wherein the body comprises in sequence from the bottom to the top: i) a bottom connector for connecting to a wellhead component located therebelow; ii) a first valve housing section forming a side opening communicating with the vertical bore; iii) a flow tee housing section forming at least one side opening communicating with the vertical bore, for producing well flow; and iv) a top connector for connecting to a wellhead component located thereabove.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Stream-Flo Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Michael James Cornelssen, Tony M. Lam, Keith David Farquharson
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Publication number: 20040262010Abstract: A horizontal spool tree assembly includes a spool body or housing 12 and a tubing hanger 18, 118, 218, 318 supporting a tubing string in a well. An internal tree cap 20, 120, 220, 320 is provided within the central bore in the spool body. In some embodiments, the tree cap includes a central bore in communication with a production bore through the tubing hanger and the lateral bore extending to a production port in the spool body. First and second closure members may be provided in the tree cap.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventor: Lionel J. Milberger
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Patent number: 6769490Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in the oil well industry for running in drilling/production liners and sub-sea casings down a borehole through drilling fluid on a drill pipe using a running tool with the benefits of surge pressure reduction are disclosed. In accordance with the present invention, a surge pressure reduction tool includes a diverter device having a housing with a set of flow holes formed therein and a sliding sleeve residing within the housing having a set of flow ports formed therein. By aligning the set of flow holes of the housing with the set of flow ports of the sleeve, the tool is set in a “surge pressure reduction” mode. By shifting, or axially indexing, the sleeve downward, the set of flow holes is blocked by the sleeve thus setting the tool in a “cementing” or “circulation” mode. This shifting or indexing is accomplished using an indexing mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: Allamon InterestsInventors: Jerry P. Allamon, Jack E. Miller, Andrew M. MacFarlane
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Patent number: 6763891Abstract: The wellhead assembly has a production tree with multiple safety barriers. A tubing hanger lands and seals in the bore of the tree. The tubing hanger has a lateral production flow passage that registers with a lateral passage in the tree. A tubing annulus passage extends upward from the tubing annulus to an exterior port. A second portion of the tubing annulus passage extends upward from the exterior port into the bore above the tubing hanger seal. The external port may be used for gas injection. If so, two closure members are located in the upper portion of the tubing annulus above the seal. The upper closure member may be either a check valve or a removable plug.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: ABB Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Bernard Humphrey, Jeffrey P. Goetz, Kevin L. Ingram, Norman Brammer, Robert K. Voss, Jr.
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Publication number: 20040112604Abstract: The horizontal spool tree assembly 10 controls fluid flow through a production tubing string 18 within a well. The horizontal spool tree assembly is adapted for use with a workover string for fluid communication with the tree assembly. The spool body 12 has a central bore 14 for receiving a tubing hanger 22 therein, with a production passageway extending laterally through the spool body to a production line 36. The spool body also includes an annulus passageway extending laterally through the spool body for fluid communication between the tubing annulus 16 and the annulus line 52. The spool tree assembly has improved porting for the production line and the annulus line, and also for both workover and crossover operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventors: Lionel J. Milberger, Morris B. Wade
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Patent number: 6742597Abstract: A spring-loaded check valve, mounted between a coiled tubing stripper and a BOP stack seals well bore pressure from the atmosphere when the coiled tubing is removed from the well bore. When no coiled tubing is in use, the check valve is shut against well bore pressure. When coiled tubing is inserted through the stripper and before the coiled tubing enters the BOP stack, the coiled tubing butts against the check valve and opens it, permitting insertion of the coiled tubing.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Varco I/PInventors: Denzal Wayne Van Winkle, Andrew Campbell