Abstract: A jet bushing for a wellbore cleanup tool features a jet looking uphole to reduce turbulence at the outlet ports that look downhole to accommodate the recirculation flow around the tool that captures the cuttings. The uphole oriented port keeps the pumped fluid downhole from having to make a u-turn to get back uphole and reduces turbulence to allow a higher recirculation flow at the tool to pick up and capture cuttings within the tool.

Abstract: Apparatus for cleaning the inner wall of wellbore tubulars, and for capturing downhole debris in the wellbore An elongated, tubular central mandrel has threaded connections on either end for makeup into a tubular string The mandrel has recesses on its outer circumference into which split rings are mounted Various service elements are then attachable to the central mandrel, by sliding them over the mandrel and holding them in place with stabilizer elements which connect to the split rings Different embodiments of the service elements include a brush assembly, a junk basket, and a magnet The stabilizer elements may be mounted onto the split rings so as to either be rotationally locked with respect to the mandrel, or so as to be capable of rotating with respect to the mandrel, since the service elements are held in place on the central mandrel by the stabilizer elements.

Abstract: A magnetic wellbore cleaning tool having a plurality of magnetic ridges spaced longitudinally between top and bottom centralizers. In operation, the magnetic ridges modify the velocity of passing fluid circulating in the wellbore such that the fluid remains in close proximity to the tool's magnetic field thereby allowing for collection of ferromagnetic debris suspended in cleaning fluid circulating in a wellbore.

Abstract: A modular junk basket device adapted for use in a wellbore. The modular junk basket has a central mandrel. The device further comprises a removable junk basket operable to collect debris from the wellbore. The device also includes a removable baffle operable to deflect fluid and debris flowing around the junk basket. The central mandrel has a top end, a bottom end and a first mandrel coupler operable to removably couple the junk basket concentrically around the central mandrel a distance above the bottom end. The central mandrel also includes a second mandrel coupler operable to removably couple the baffle a predetermined distance above a top opening in the junk basket and below the top end.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for retrieving an assembly having a whipstock and an anchor from a wellbore. A method of retrieving an assembly having a whipstock coupled to an anchor from a wellbore may comprise the steps of releasing the whipstock from the anchor in the wellbore, re-engaging the whipstock to the anchor, and retrieving the whipstock with the anchor from the wellbore. An apparatus for use in a wellbore may comprise a whipstock, a latch coupled to the whipstock, and an anchor operable to be selectively retrieved from the wellbore using the latch.

Abstract: A fishing tool gripper head including at least one moveable jaw of a set of jaws, a motivator including one or more of an SMA, SMP, or EAP material in operable communication with the at least one moveable jaw and a method for engaging a fish in a wellbore.

Abstract: A debris catching device for downhole milling features modular debris receptacles that are held in the housing in a manner that facilitates stacking and a generally undulating flow path to facilitate dropping of the debris into the receptacles as the remaining fluid travels up the tool for ultimate screening before the fluid exits the tool to flow up to the surface or in a reverse circulation pattern back to the mill below the debris catcher. The modules can also be aligned with flapper valves at the top of each module to prevent debris in the tool from falling to the mill if circulation is turned off. The mill is configured to have an off-center return path preferably as large as the passage through the mill body to aid circulation and cutting performance.

Abstract: An overshot tool for retrieving an object in a well includes a housing having a housing bore with upper and lower portions. A cam having a cam bore is carried in the upper portion of the bore. The housing and the cam are rotatable relative to each other from an aligned position, in which the cam bore axis and the housing bore lower portion axis coincide, to a misaligned position, in which the cam bore axis and the housing bore lower portion axis are misaligned with each other. The housing bore and the cam bore are open at a lower end for sliding over an object in the well when the tool is in the aligned position. Rotation of the housing and the cam relative to each other causes the cam bore axis and the lower portion axis to move toward the misaligned position, thereby gripping the object for retrieval.

Abstract: A debris catching device for downhole milling features modular debris receptacles that are held in the housing in a manner that facilitates stacking and a generally undulating flow path to facilitate dropping of the debris into the receptacles as the remaining fluid travels up the tool for ultimate screening before the fluid exits the tool to flow up to the surface or in a reverse circulation pattern back to the mill below the debris catcher. The modules can also be aligned with flapper valves at the top of each module to prevent debris in the tool from falling to the mill if circulation is turned off. The mill is configured to have an off-center return path preferably as large as the passage through the mill body to aid circulation and cutting performance.

Abstract: An extension sub for a downhole fishing tool, the extension sub comprising a tubular having a threaded pin end and a threaded box end, the tubular having an interior wall defining a bore, and cutting elements fixed to the interior wall of the tubular and extending into the bore of the tubular. Such a device may be referred to as a string shoe.

Abstract: A wellbore cleanup tool collects debris when moved in one direction downhole. A flow diverter is extended for such flow diversion when debris is collected. When running the tool in the opposite direction in the wellbore, the flow diverter is in whole or in part articulated to retract so as to reduce resistance to fluid that passes around the outside of the tool. A segmented diverter can have fixed and movable components that are guided. The movable components can become longitudinally offset from the fixed components for movement in the direction where maximum flow bypass around the outside of the tool is desired. In an alternative embodiment, the diverter segments can all be movable on an inclined track to retract against a bias force for fluid bias with movement of the tool in the opposite direction allowing the bias to push the segments on the inclined track for diversion of debris laden fluid into a capture volume in the tool.

Abstract: A technique utilizes a fishing tool that enables fishing operations for retrieval of well tools that may have a variety of sizes and configurations. The fishing tool is adjustable to enable selection of a desired size for engagement with a specific wellbore tool. The fishing tool is moved downhole to the well tool and engaged with the well tool. Once the fishing tool is engaged, the well tool can be retrieved to the surface.

Abstract: A device (12) is disclosed which is for use in retrieving debris from a well. In one embodiment, the device includes an elongate body (20); a main bore (22) extending part way along a length of the body, along which fluid flows into the device; an opening (24) towards a lower end of the body; a main fluid chamber (28) in the body in fluid communication with the main bore; a flow restriction (30) provided in the main bore, through which fluid flows from the main bore and into the main fluid chamber; at least one chamber outlet (32) for directing fluid from the main fluid chamber into an annulus defined between the device and a well borehole wall; a return flow passage (40) extending between the body opening and the main fluid chamber, for return flow of fluid from the annulus to the main fluid chamber, to facilitate retrieval of debris from the well; and at least one fluid exit (44), for flow of fluid returned to the main fluid chamber through the return flow passage out of the device.

Abstract: An apparatus for freeing a cable that is lodged in a wellbore without dislodging the well tool carried by cable includes a housing connectable about the cable and means for engaging the cable upon impact with the well tool to reduce the impact of the outer housing on the well tool.

Abstract: A wellbore cleanup tool features a flow diverter that comprises a series of bristles mounted on a sleeve that slides on a spiral track on a mandrel. For run in the sleeve is in an upper position with respect to the mandrel and allows flow around the outside of the screen and through passages defined between the sleeve and the mandrel. When coming out of the hole, the sleeve shifts down and the bristles block flow through themselves so as to direct the debris laden fluid under the sleeve that now rests on top of the screen. The defined flow path is under the sleeve and behind the screen leaving the debris trapped and allowing the fluid to pass through the screen without the debris.

Abstract: A magnetic tool for retrieval of metal debris from a well bore particularly adapted for use in coil tubing systems. The tool has a cylindrical body and a plurality of separate magnet assemblies mounted on the tool body. The magnet assemblies are separated by spacers, which define a secondary settling area for the metal objects attracted to the magnetic tool.

Abstract: Milling in casing that is over 4½ inches is done with coiled tubing that is anchored against torque reaction. An improved debris catcher is part of the bottom hole assembly to capture cuttings from the milling. A thruster can be used to maintain weight on the mill during the milling. The coiled tubing supports a mud motor to drive the mill. Return fluid is separated from the cuttings and returned to the surface.

Abstract: A flow sensor is incorporated into a junk basket to sense a flow stoppage due to a plugged screen or plugged cuttings ports in a mill. The sensor triggers a signal to the surface to warn personnel that a problem exists before the equipment is damaged. The sensor signal to the surface can take a variety of forms including mud pulses, a detectable pressure buildup at the surface, electromagnetic energy, electrical signal on hard wire or radio signals in a wifi system to name a few options. Surface personnel can interrupt the signal to take corrective action that generally involves pulling out of the hole or reverse circulating to try to clear the screen or mill cuttings inlets. Other variables can be measured such as the volume or weight or rate of change of either and a signal can be sent to the surface corresponding to one of those variables to allow them to be detected at the surface in near real time.

Abstract: An improved perforation gun includes an outer gun barrel, which is used in conjunction with an inner movable charge carrier or an inner movable sleeve to trap virtually all of the debris created by the firing of the perforation gun. The charge carrier has a plurality of explosive charges initially aligned with complementary, pre-existing holes in the wall of the charge carrier, which are initially aligned with complementary, pre-existing scalloped sections of the outer gun barrel.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for retrieving metal objects. The apparatus includes a housing with an inner part, with the housing having a first wall. The apparatus further includes a sleeve disposed within the housing, with the sleeve being constructed of a non-magnetic conduction material. A magnet is disposed within the sleeve, with the magnet having a north pole and a south pole. The apparatus further includes a container disposed within the sleeve, the container having a second wall. In the most preferred embodiment, the first wall defines a first pathway for magnetic lines of flux for the north pole of the magnet and wherein the second wall defines a second pathway for magnetic lines of flux for the south pole of the magnet so that a toroidal magnetic field is formed about the distal end of the sleeve.

Abstract: A wellbore cleanup tool collects debris when moved in one direction downhole. A flow diverter is extended for such flow diversion when debris is collected. When running the tool in the opposite direction in the wellbore, the flow diverter is in whole or in part articulated to retract so as to reduce resistance to fluid that passes around the outside of the tool. A segmented diverter can have fixed and movable components that are guided. The movable components can become longitudinally offset from the fixed components for movement in the direction where maximum flow bypass around the outside of the tool is desired. In an alternative embodiment, the diverter segments can all be movable on an inclined track to retract against a bias force for fluid bias with movement of the tool in the opposite direction allowing the bias to push the segments on the inclined track for diversion of debris laden fluid into a capture volume in the tool.

Abstract: A downhole tool for use in a cased or lined well bore (40), the tool including a barrier (36) arranged on an outer surface of the tool. The barrier may be of a resilient material so that it can be deformed on actuation to control the passage of fluid between the tool and the casing or liner. Fluid flow is thus selectively diverted through flow paths (22) in the tool. Embodiments are described for actuating the barrier by hydraulic means and for filtering the fluid within the flow paths.

Abstract: A flow sensor is incorporated into a junk basket to sense a flow stoppage due to a plugged screen or plugged cuttings ports in a mill. The sensor triggers a signal to the surface to warn personnel that a problem exists before the equipment is damaged. The sensor signal to the surface can take a variety of forms including mud pulses, a detectable pressure buildup at the surface, electromagnetic energy, electrical signal on hard wire or radio signals in a wifi system to name a few options. Surface personnel can interrupt the milling to take corrective action that generally involves pulling out of the hole or reverse circulating to try to clear the screen or mill cuttings inlets. Other variables can be measured such as the volume or weight or rate of change of either and a signal can be sent to the surface corresponding to one of those variables to allow them to be detected at the surface in real time.

Abstract: A lift-out device for attachment to a pitless adapter in a water well assembly for use when servicing well pumps including a light source mounted near the lower end of the lift-out device for illuminating the interior of a well casing to facilitate attachment of the device to a pitless adapter. Apertures are located in the side of the tubular pipe member adjacent the light source, and a socket for electrically connecting said light source to an external power source such as a rechargeable battery pack is preferably mounted in the handle of the device. The illumination device is preferably cushioned in order to prevent breakage during use and storage.

Abstract: A downhole magnetic debris tool is disclosed that may be connected to the bottom of a packer isolation plug. The downhole magnetic debris tool may include a magnetic shield assembly that shields the magnets and prevent the collection of magnetic debris as the packer isolation plug assembly is run into the well. The packer isolation plug assembly is inserted into the internal seal bore of a set packer. The assembly protects the seal bore from damage and prevents debris from moving downhole. The magnets of the downhole magnetic debris tool may be unsheathed upon removal of the packer isolation plug from the packer. The downhole magnetic debris tool may be used to collect magnetic debris that has collected on top of the packer. Additionally, the magnet shield assembly may act as a debris basket collecting downhole debris while the assembly is pulled from the hole.

Abstract: A tool 10 for suspending in a well retrieves various metal debris from the well, and includes an elongate tool body 12 within a plurality of circumferentially shaped slots 14. Each slot having a radially outward portion with a circumferential width less than a circumferential width of a radially inward portion. The plurality of magnets 16 are provided in each slot, and one or more stop rings 18 retain the plurality of magnets in the slots while allowing for removal of the magnets from the slots. Each of the plurality of magnets 16 may be substantially enclosed within a non-ferrous carrier 26 having an outer configuration for fitting within a respective of one of the plurality of slots. According to the method of invention, the magnets are postioned within the slots and are retained within the slots by the one or more stop rings, and the elongate tool body and the plurality of the magnets are suspended in a well.

Abstract: A boot basket for retrieving debris from a well bore, and a method for retrieving debris from said well bore. The boot basket includes a mandrel having an internal wall and an external wall. The mandrel is connectable to a work string. The boot basket further includes a basket having an inner wall and an outer wall, wherein the basket is disposed on the mandrel such that an annular space exists between the inner wall of the basket and the external wall of the mandrel. A plurality of fingers is pivotally mounted and movable between a first open position and a second closed position. Each of the plurality of fingers blocks a portion of the annular space existing between the inner wall of the basket and the external wall of the mandrel when in the second closed position.

Abstract: A bailer is configured to remove particulate solids from fluid passing through the bailer. The bailer preferably includes a housing that includes an intake and an outlet to permit the flow if well fluids through the housing. The bailer also includes a magnetic plate that includes at least one aperture that provides a path for the fluid flow. The bailer optionally includes one or more elongate magnetic bars that extend along the longitudinal axis of the bailer housing. The bailer can be used in conjunction with other components in a downhole pumping system, a surface pumping system or a transport system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a downhole tool for removing metallic debris from a well bore. The downhole tool includes a plurality of magnets disposed on the tool body. The plurality of magnets are arranged in a bucking arrangement such that repulsing forces are generated between neighboring pairs of the plurality of magnets. The bucking arrangement results in an expanded reach of the magnetic fields of the magnets to enhance the removal of metallic debris.

Abstract: A bit retention apparatus for the use of retrieving the hammer bit in cases of shankage. The apparatus incorporates a dual sleeve design that fits over the chuck and the extended head section of the hammer bit. The first, “inner” sleeve has two or more ring pieces that fit onto the chuck and have the retention ring fitted into the lower section of the sleeve. The second, “outer” sleeve fits onto the chuck over the inner sleeve to provide protect to the inner sleeve while pulling the shanked bit out of the well bore. Attachment to the bit is accomplished by collars, knobs, or threads on the interior of the sleeves that correspond with holding bands, retention rings, or threads on the bit and chuck.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for guiding a fish into engagement with a latch mechanism on a fishing tool, by expanding the ends of a set of fingers into contact with a bore hole. The ends of the fingers surround the fish and guide the fish and the latch mechanism together, as the tool is lowered, until the latch mechanism latches onto the fish.

Abstract: A downhole tool (1) for providing the dual role of cleaning and milling within a wellbore casing or liner is described. In an embodiment scraper blades (6) are mounted on a body (2) together with a milling sleeve (4). Additionally, a centralizer sleeve (3) is incorporated as is a filter and/or junk basket for collecting debris is dislodged from the casing or liner during the cleaning and milling operation. The milling sleeve (4) can be locked onto the body (2) while the cleaning members e.g. scraper blades (6) may be free floating around the tool (1).

Abstract: A method of freeing stuck objects (16) from a bore (14) comprises running a string (12) into the bore (14), the string (12) including a flow modifier, such as a valve, for producing variations in the flow of fluid through the string, and a device for location in the string and adapted to axially extend or contract in response to variations in the flow of fluid through the string. A portion of the string (12) engages the stuck object (16). Fluid is then passed through the string while applying tension to the string, whereby the tension applied to the stuck object varies in response to the operation of the flow modifier and the extending or retracting device.

Abstract: A jar provided with an adjustable triggering load has a housing defining an anvil surface and a mandrel, movable relative to the housing under an applied load, defining a hammer surface to impact the anvil surface. A trigger mechanism for releasing the mandrel to cause the hammer surface to impact the anvil surface includes a trigger sleeve axially positioned within the housing and a collet that engages the mandrel during application of a load to the mandrel. The collet releases the mandrel to cause the hammer surface to impact the anvil surface upon being moved into registration with the trigger sleeve against the resistance of the spring disposed within the housing.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for cleaning the open perforations in a well and for bailing a well. The apparatus has a tubular conduit with at least one seal attached to it that forms a seal between the well casing and the exterior of the conduit. The seal is held in place on the tubular conduit by two shoulders formed where the upper and lower sections of the conduit meet a middle section. The upper end of the conduit is adapted to releasably engage the lower end of a bailer. The upper end of the conduit releasably engages the middle section and can be removed to replace the seals when worn. The apparatus has a valve section designed to releasably engage the lower end of the tubular conduit or the lower end of a bailer.

Abstract: Junk basket 10 is provided for collecting debris from a wellbore cleaning operation, and includes a central mandrel 14 having a throughbore 16 and an outer shell 24 defining a generally annular junk space 40. The outer shell 24 may be configured such that the annulus 27 includes a reduced portion 28. Flow holes 30 in the outer shell are preferably angled substantially upward, and are positioned to discharge fluid to the annulus 27. According to a method of the invention, fluid is passed from an upper tubing string, through the central mandrel, into the wellbore and upward through the annulus and past the flow holes, thereby reducing pressure of flow past the well holes to pass fluid from the junk space through the flow holes.

Abstract: A method for the retrieval of an object from a well (16) with a tool (30) is described, in which the object, by lowering of the tool (30), is directed into a lower inlet section (40) to a hollow holding area (46) in the tool (30). The method is characterized in that a tool (30) is applied which comprises an inlet section (40) with a barbed section (56), which lets the object pass into the holding area (46), but which prevents the object (22) from being led out of the holding area. A tool that can be used to carry out the method is also described, as well as an application.

Abstract: A wellbore plunger retrieving tool including a substantially cylindrical retrieving plunger body having a reduced diameter top end and an opposed bottom end. The body bottom end has a threaded recess. A plunger receiving collet includes a threaded male top end engageable with the threaded recess and an opposed bottom end with a plurality of extending fingers. The fingers are capable of flexing to engage a downhole stuck plunger.

Abstract: There is referred to a process for retrieving equipment (70, 72, 90) which is stuck, from a bore hole, where the equipment is connected to a tool and is brought to the surface, and the method is characterised in that a tool is lowered in the bore hole, such as mounted to the lower end of a string or the like, said tool comprising a stationary grip part (14, 44) which is arranged substantially enclosingly about the equipment residue (70, 72, 90) between its outer wall and the wall of the bore hole, after which a central axially movable grip part (16) of the tool is caused to be forced downwards for fixing the equipment residue against the stationary grip part. There is also disclosed a device for accomplishing the method.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for guiding a fish into engagement with a latch mechanism on a fishing tool, by hydraulically expanding the ends of a set of fingers into contact with a bore hole. The ends of the fingers surround the fish and guide the fish and the latch mechanism together, as the tool is lowered, until the latch mechanism latches onto the fish.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for guiding a fish into engagement with a latch mechanism on a fishing tool, by hydraulically expanding the ends of a set of fingers into contact with a bore hole. The ends of the fingers surround the fish and guide the fish and the latch mechanism together, as the tool is lowered, until the latch mechanism latches onto the fish.

Abstract: A method for the retrieval of an object from a well (16) with a tool (30) is described, in which the object, by lowering of the tool (30), is directed into a lower inlet section (40) to a hollow holding area (46) in the tool (30). The method is characterised in that a tool (30) is applied which comprises an inlet section (40) with a barbed section (56), which lets the object pass into the holding area (46), but which prevents the object (22) from being led out of the holding area. A tool that can be used to carry out the method is also described, as well as an application.

Abstract: The present invention provides a simple debris removal apparatus for use in a wellbore. In one aspect of the invention a modular, interchangeable venturi is provided which can be retrofit into an existing debris bailer having a filter and a debris collection container. In another aspect of the invention, a venturi is utilized to create a negative pressure in a wellbore sufficient to actuate a retrieval tool for a downhole device. In yet another aspect of the invention, a combination tool is provided which can evacuate debris in a wellbore, thereby uncovering a downhole device which can then be removed in a single trip. In yet another aspect of the invention, a debris removal apparatus is provided with a method for utilizing the apparatus in a wellbore on coiled tubing.

Abstract: Apparatus which can collect loose debris, particularly ferrous debris, has a body 2 with upper 3 and lower 4 stabiliser sleeve. The body 2 has a one or more integral magnets or magnetic areas 5. In one embodiment the magnets are located in a first and second row on a split sleeve 6 and are covered by a protective stainless steel sleeve7. The apparatus may alternatively comprise magnetic scraper blades or a magnetic sub. The magnets are selectively activated. There is also described a method of trapping or retaining debris in a well bore.

Abstract: A simple debris removal apparatus for use in a wellbore. In one aspect of the invention a modular, interchangeable venturi is provided which can be retrofit into an existing debris bailer having a filter and a debris collection container. In another aspect of the invention, a venturi is utilized to create a negative pressure in a wellbore sufficient to actuate a retrieval tool for a downhole device. In yet another aspect of the invention, a combination tool is provided which can evacuate debris in a wellbore, thereby uncovering a downhole device which can then be removed in a single trip. In yet another aspect of the invention, a debris removal apparatus is provided with a method for utilizing the apparatus in a wellbore on coiled tubing.

Abstract: A method of providing for a single trip removal of packer tools by providing a flapper valve in the upper packer tools which opens when pressure below the tool exceeds the pressure above the tool to allow the tools to be released and allowing flow up the center of the tubing. Additionally, the retrieval tool seals with the stinger tool during removal to allow flow downwardly around the released packer down to the next lower packer and up through the released packer to work only on the next lower packer. The method also contemplates that increased flow circulation will allow forced flow to clear the next lower stinger from sand and other debris to increase the chance of a successful mating of the retrieval tool to the stinger during removal.

Abstract: The invention is a system for retrieving loose metallic debris, such as stray radioactive marker bullets, from a borehole in a subterranean formation. The system can be used to retrieve stray radioactive marker bullets during placement of the radioactive marker bullets in the subterranean formation. The system utilizes a downhole fishing tool having at least one recessed magnetic surface for attracting and holding stray radioactive marker bullets. The recessed magnetic surface allows the fishing tool to be removed from the borehole without scraping off retrieved marker bullets that are held against the magnetic surface.

Abstract: A system for retrieving stray radioactive marker bullets from a borehole in a subterranean formation during placement of the radioactive marker bullets in the formation.

Abstract: A downhole debris filtering apparatus has the flow diverter retracted as the tool is run in. Settling velocity is the rate at which debris will fall through the fluid. Settling velocity is dependent on the density of the fluid and the debris density. If the fluid velocity exceeds the settling velocity, the debris will rise. The restricted annular area outside the screens raises the fluid velocity. Above the cup sleeve, the annular area increases significantly and the fluid velocity is reduce to below the settling velocity to allow debris to settle to the bottom of the tool. On run in, the fluid merely bypasses on the outside of the filter. Large debris will settle into the tool as described. When pulled out of the hole the swab cup/flow diverter is actuated into casing or liner wall contact and a large passage is opened to allow flow though the filter. Small debris that has risen above the tool will be captured as the fluid is filtered through the screen.

Abstract: A method of removing lining from a tubing in a well includes: reaming at least a portion of the lining material; cutting at least a segment of the lining along a spiral path; engaging the lining for applying a pulling force to the lining; and applying a pulling force to lift the engaged lining out of the tubing. Individual aspects of this also form parts of the present invention, such as a lining reamer, a method of excavating material of a lining in tubing in a well, a spiral-cut cutting tool, a method of spiral cutting lining in a tubing in a well, various inner engagement members to navigate through a bent lining segment in a lining in tubing in a well, a lining removal tool in which the components are rotationally fixed so that all rotate together, a lining removal tool in which an inner engagement member (such as a flat cutting blade or a plurality of resilient but stiff wires) is connected to an inner surface of the outer engagement member, and lining removal methods.