| BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20160139030 | ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSOR FOR MONITORING UNDER-DEPOSIT CORROSION - An under-deposit corrosion (UDC) sensor includes a probe body with a curved concave probe surface that may have pre-deposited or in-situ formed thereon a material that accelerates the process of under deposit corrosion. The UDC sensor uses electrochemically-based localized monitoring techniques for assessing under-deposit pitting corrosion and the effectiveness of chemical treatment programs that mitigate under-deposit corrosion in well tubing, pipelines, vessels, and/or tanks. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138387 | FLUID FLOW LOCATION IDENTIFICATION POSITIONING SYSTEM, METHOD OF DETECTING FLOW IN A TUBULAR AND METHOD OF TREATING A FORMATION - A fluid flow location identification positioning system includes, at least one component that is attachable within a tubular at any user selectable location within the tubular, and an identifier in operable communication with the at least one component configured to be eroded by fluid that flows therepast, at least trace amounts of the identifier are releasable into fluid that erodes the identifier | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138385 | Subsurface Pipe Dimension and Position Indicating Device - A sensing system provides real time information as to the location of a stand in a tubular string at a predetermined elevation such as where the rams are located. This allows a determination of whether the upsets are aligned with the ramps or whether the stand is aligned with the rams in a manner that the rams will close on the tubular between the end upsets. The surrounding pipe has circumferentially spaced transmitters and receivers to allow a determination of the outer dimension of the pipe and to transmit such information to the surface by conductors or other means. The position of a tubular in an open hole can also be determined by sending a signal from the tubular to the open hole and back to the tubular. Different signal regimes are contemplated as well as power supply options. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138373 | Electronically-Activated Liner Hangers and Methods of Setting Same in Wellbore - A method of hanging a liner in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes: conveying a liner having a liner hanger and a liner hanger actuator into the wellbore by a service string that includes controller that determines a downhole parameter of interest relating to setting of the liner hanger; determining by the controller the parameter of interest relating to setting of the liner hanger in the wellbore; and sending a wireless liner hanger command signal from the controller in response to the determined parameter of interest to cause the liner hanger actuator to set the liner hanger in the wellbore. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138370 | MECHANICAL DIVERTER - An apparatus for performing a wellbore operation includes a retrievable tubular defining an axial flowbore and having at least one opening providing fluid communication between the flowbore and a formation, and a degradable diverter disposed at least partially in an annulus between a wellbore and the retrievable tubular, and adjacent to the at least one opening. The degradable diverter comprises a material that structurally degrades over an engineered time interval in response to an applied stimulus. The degradable diverter also directs a stimulation fluid exiting through the at least one opening towards the formation. The degradable diverter is connected to the retrievable tubular, a stimulation fluid is pumped through the flowbore. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the general subject matter of the technical disclosure. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138359 | SWELLABLE COMPOSITIONS, ARTICLES FORMED THEREFROM, AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE THEREOF - A swellable composition comprises: a matrix material; and a condensed expandable graphite material disposed in the matrix material. A seal arrangement comprises: a swellable member and a sealing member disposed on a surface of the swellable member; wherein the swellable member comprises a condensed expandable graphite material. The condensed expandable graphite material in the swellable composition and the swellable member has a bulk density of about 1 to about 8 g/cm | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160136928 | METHODS OF FORMING POLYMER COATINGS ON METALLIC SUBSTRATES - An article comprises a substrate; a polymer coating; and an intermediate layer disposed between the substrate and the polymer coating, the intermediate layer comprising a carbon composite, wherein the carbon composite comprises carbon and a binder containing one or more of the following: SiO | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160136923 | REINFORCED COMPOSITES, METHODS OF MANUFACTURE, AND ARTICLES THEREFROM - A reinforced composite comprises: a reinforcement material comprising one or more of the following: a carbon fiber based reinforcing material; a fiberglass based reinforcing material; a metal based reinforcing material; or a ceramic based reinforcing material; and a carbon composite; wherein the carbon composite comprises carbon and a binder containing one or more of the following: SiO | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160130929 | PROPERTY MONITORING BELOW A NONPENETRATED SEAL - A nonpenetrated barrier system includes: one or more elements and a component having properties configured to reliably respond to impetus downhole of the one or more elements of the barrier system in a way that is measurable uphole of the one or more of the one or more elements of the barrier system. The system further includes one or more sensors positioned in operable communication with the component uphole of the one or more elements. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160130911 | Wellbore Systems and Methods for Supplying Treatment Fluids Via More Than One Path to a Formation - In one aspect an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes an assembly deployable in the wellbore that includes a first fluid flow path for supplying a first fluid from a surface location to a formation zone along the wellbore and a second fluid flow path for supplying a second fluid from a surface location to the formation zone and a flow control device that combines the first fluid and the second fluid before supplying the combined fluid to the zone and may controls the proportions of such fluid to the formation zone. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160130908 | ADJUSTABLE ORFICE IN FLOW CONTROL DEVICE (ICD) - An inflow control device (ICD) includes an annular body having an outer surface and an inner surface. An annular recess extends along the inner surface. An opening extends through the outer surface into the annular recess, and a removable orifice plug is arranged in the opening. The removable orifice plug includes a body member having an annular wall including a first end arranged at the outer surface and a second end extending through the annular recess. The removable orifice plug further includes an orifice passage extending into the annular body from the second end and at least one channel extending through the annular wall into the orifice. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160130896 | HIGH COLLAPSE PRESSURE CHAMBER AND METHOD FOR DOWNHOLE TOOL ACTUATION - A setting tool for performing a wellbore operation includes a mandrel, a cylinder slidably engaged with the mandrel, and a variable volume first chamber formed between the mandrel and the cylinder and a containment member having a second chamber adjacent to the first chamber. The setting tool also includes a support fluid disposed in the first chamber, a slidable support axially and circumferentially distributed inside the first chamber, and a valve disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber. The valve is configured to flow the support fluid from the first chamber to the second chamber. The support fluid and the slidable support support the cylinder against a downhole pressure. The setting tool is conveyed into the wellbore and connected to a consumer. The setting tool is actuated to set the consumer. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the general subject matter of the technical disclosure. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160130519 | METHODS FOR PREPARING ANTI-FRICTION COATINGS - An article comprises a substrate; a coating comprising a carbon composite; and a binding layer disposed between the substrate and the coating. The carbon composite comprises carbon and a binder containing one or more of the following: SiO | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160123129 | SHORT HOP COMMUNICATIONS FOR A SETTING TOOL - A downhole tool for performing a wellbore operation includes a perforating gun, a detector module connected to the perforating gun, wherein the detector module transmits a command in response to a signal, a signal generator configured to transmit the signal to the detector module, and a plug dropping mechanism located adjacent to the detector module, the plug dropping mechanism releasing an object upon receiving the command from the detector module. The perforating gun is fired, and the downhole tool is activated. A plug-mate positioned adjacent to the plug dropping mechanism receives the object. The plug-mate has a profile complementary to the object, and the plug-mate and the object cooperating to block flow along the wellbore. In another mode of operation, an actuation member actuates the plug-mate. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the general subject matter of the technical disclosure. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160123113 | Flow-Activated Flow Control Device and Method of Using Same in Wellbore Completion Assemblies - A completion assembly for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes a tubular member having at least one packer to isolate a zone between the completion assembly and the wellbore, and a flow control device for closing flow of fluid through the tubular member, the flow control device including a valve that includes a fluid flow path and a seal member configured to close the fluid flow path, and a fluid-activated device that cycles each time a pressure differential is created across the flow path and moves the seal member to close the valve after completion of a selected number of cycles. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160123107 | Control Interface for Seal Back-Up/Slip - Plug devices have an expander swage element, a rupturable slip element and a pusher sub. The pusher sub and slip element have a control protrusion and recess interface which guides segments of the ruptured slip element radially outwardly into engagement with a surrounding tubular. The slip element is formed of a degradable material. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160123096 | IN-SITU MINING OF ORES FROM SUBSURFACE FORMATIONS - An in situ method of mining is disclosed. In one non-limiting embodiment, the method includes: defining an ore volume; drilling a large number of vertical boreholes; forming lateral boreholes from at least some of the vertical boreholes; transporting the ore cut during drilling of the vertical and lateral boreholes to a surface location; and separating the ore received at the surface from other materials. Additional ore may be extracted fracturing and/or leaching the formation surrounding the drilled boreholes. The residual ore at the surface may be disposed by pumping it into already drilled boreholes or underground storage facilities. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160123080 | AUTOMATED SPIRALING DETECTION - An embodiment of a method of detecting and correcting for spiraling in a downhole carrier includes: deploying the carrier in a borehole in an earth formation as part of a subterranean operation; acquiring time based data from at least one sensor disposed at the carrier; acquiring time and depth data, the time and depth data correlating time values with depths of the carrier; generating a depth based profile based on the time based data and the time and depth data; generating a frequency profile by transforming the depth based profile into the frequency domain; detecting a spiraling event based on an amplitude of the frequency profile; and taking corrective action based on detecting the spiraling event. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160122659 | METAL REMOVAL FROM LIQUID HYDROCARBON STREAMS - Multi-valent metals, such as mercury, may be removed from a liquid hydrocarbon stream, such as crude oil, by optionally blending the liquid hydrocarbon stream with water or alternatively utilizing the water existing in the hydrocarbon as received, to give a homogeneous blend, and adding at least one demulsifier to the liquid hydrocarbon, water and/or homogeneous blend. Water is then extracted leaving a treated liquid hydrocarbon, and the treated liquid hydrocarbon is passed through at least one particle filter and optionally a series of filters of sequentially decreasing pore size. The resulting at least partially demetallized liquid hydrocarbon (e.g. crude oil) having reduced metal content will cause fewer problems for production, transportation, downstream refinery operations, and the environment. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160118209 | CONTROL SYSTEM INCLUDING SINGLE LINE SWITCHES AND METHOD - A control system and method of controlling a control system includes a set of pressure-controlled devices having at least a first device and a second device movable between at least first and second positions, and a set of single line switches including at least a first switch and a second switch, each switch configured to move the pressure-controlled devices, respectively, between the first and second positions. The first device alternates between the first position and the second position with every position changing pressure pulse to the first switch, and the second device alternates between the first position and the second position with every two position changing pressure pulses to the first switch. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160117424 | STATISTICAL APPROACH TO INCORPORATE UNCERTAINTIES OF PARAMETERS IN SIMULATION RESULTS AND STABILITY ANALYSIS FOR EARTH DRILLING - A method for estimating a probability of a drilling dysfunction or a drilling performance indicator value occurring includes entering drilling-related data having a probability distribution into a mathematical model of a drill string drilling a borehole penetrating the earth and entering drilling parameters into the model for drilling the borehole. The method further includes performing a plurality of drilling simulations using the model, each simulation providing a probability of the drilling dysfunction occurring or a probability of a drilling performance indicator value occurring with associated drilling parameters used in the simulation, selecting a set of drilling parameters that optimizes a drilling objective using the probabilities of the drilling dysfunction occurring or the probabilities of a drilling performance indicator value occurring; and transmitting the selected set of drilling parameters to a signal receiving device. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160116629 | FORMATION EVALUATION UTILIZING DUAL WAIT TIME NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE - A system for measuring a property of fluid in an earth formation includes a downhole tool disposed in a borehole and configured to be movable within the borehole and a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurement device including a transmitter configured to emit at least two pulse trains of magnetic energy into the earth formation and a detector configured to detect a long-TW echo train and a short-TW echo train resulting from the at least two pulse trains. The system also includes a processor configured to combine the information from the at least two pulse trains and a rate of penetration of the downhole tool to form a measurement of the property. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160116369 | ARRAYED WAVE DIVISION MULTIPLEX TO EXTEND RANGE OF IOFDR FIBER BRAGG SENSING SYSTEM - An apparatus for performing a measurement of a downhole property includes an optical fiber having a first section that has a first set of fiber Bragg gratings with a first resonant wavelength inscribed therein and a second section that has a second set of fiber Bragg gratings with a second resonant wavelength different from the first resonant wavelength inscribed therein. The second section is in series with the first section. An optical interrogator emits a swept-wavelength frequency domain light signal having varying wavelength amplitude modulation into the optical fiber, receives a frequency domain return light signal, and transforms the frequency domain return signal into a time domain to determine a resonant wavelength shift of each fiber Bragg grating and the corresponding location of each interrogated fiber Bragg grating. A processor converts the resonant wavelength shift of each interrogated fiber Bragg grating into the downhole property measurement. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160116098 | TUBULAR OCCLUSION AND PRESSURE DAMPING SYSTEM AND TEMPORAL PRESSURE CONTROLLING ARRANGEMENT - A tubular occlusion and pressure damping system includes, a tubular, an occlusion configured to block flow through the tubular, the occlusion having, a first chamber in pressure communication with an inside of the tubular, a second chamber in fluidic communication with the first chamber, and a flow restrictor in operable communication with the first chamber and the second chamber. The flow restrictor configured to throttle flow between the first chamber and the second chamber such that pressure increases within the second chamber lag behind pressure increases in the inside of the tubular at least until the second chamber has reached a selected volume after which pressure within the second chamber increases toward the pressure in the inside of the tubular. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160115782 | WIRELESS RETRIEVABLE INTELLIGENT DOWNHOLE PRODUCTION MODULE - An apparatus for performing an operation in a borehole penetrating the earth includes a downhole module configured to perform the operation and having an anchor device configured to anchor the module in the borehole, the anchor device being releasable in order to retrieve the module. A power source is disposed on the module and configured to provide power to the module while a signal transducer is disposed on the module and configured to at least one of transmit a wireless signal and receive a wireless signal. The apparatus further includes a downhole electronic device disposed on the module, coupled to the signal transducer, and configured to operate the module and provide communications to the module including repeating a signal for transmission downhole or uphole. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160110481 | MODELING AND SIMULATION OF DRILL STRINGS WITH ADAPTIVE SYSTEMS - A method and system of predicting behavior of a drill bit is disclosed, including generating a mathematical representation of a characteristic of at least one of a plurality of components of a drill bit, the plurality of components including at least one moveable cutter; at least one moveable rubbing element; and at least one moveable gage pad; simulating one or more operating conditions incident on the mathematical representation, and simulating an interaction between the plurality of components and an earth formation; and predicting physical responses of the mathematical representation to the one or more operating conditions. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160109607 | FORMATION COLLAPSE SENSOR AND RELATED METHODS - A sensor for detecting well conditions includes at least one transducer positioned at an end of the carrier. The carrier is positioned adjacent to and exposed to a wellbore wall and the transducer is configured to generate mechanical waves in the carrier. The carrier conveys the mechanical waves and has one or more sections initially free of a physical deformation that causes reflection of the mechanical waves. The sections physically deform to cause reflected mechanical waves when subjected to a loading from the formation. The transducer generates a signal representative of reflected mechanical waves received at the end of the carrier. The location of the loading is estimated using the received signal. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the general subject matter of the technical disclosure. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160109603 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CHARACTERIZING ELASTIC ANISOTROPY FOR TRANSVERSELY ISOTROPIC UNCONVENTIONAL SHALE - A method for estimating elastic properties of a subsurface material having a bedding plane includes disposing a single sample of the subsurface material in a core holder, the core holder having (i) a first acoustic transducer set having a first acoustic source and a first acoustic receiver and (ii) a second acoustic transducer set having a second acoustic source and a second acoustic receiver. The method also includes performing at least five acoustic wave velocity measurements on the single sample that include compressional acoustic wave velocities and shear wave acoustic velocities with a certain direction of shear acoustic wave polarization using the first set of acoustic transducers and the second set of acoustic transducers, estimating, with a controller, the elastic properties using the at least five acoustic wave velocity measurements, and providing an output signal having the elastic properties to an output signal receiving device. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108730 | THREE-PHASE FLOW IDENTIFICATION AND RATE DETECTION USING ACOUSTIC GUIDE ARRAY - An apparatus for estimating a fraction of each component of a fluid of interest flowing in a cased borehole and a property of the fluid includes an acoustic waveguide sensor having a waveguide configured to guide an acoustic signal along a waveguide path and an array of acoustic transducers coupled to the waveguide for transmitting and receiving an acoustic signal, the acoustic waveguide sensor being configured to transmit and receive a compression-wave acoustic signal that is reflected off of the casing and transmit and receive a shear-wave acoustic signal that propagates along the path. A controller is coupled to the waveguide sensor and configured to perform a compression-wave acoustic measurement on the fluid using the acoustic waveguide sensor in order to estimate the fraction of each component of the fluid and to perform a shear-wave acoustic measurement in order to estimate the property of the fluid. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108717 | DETECTION OF CAVITATION OR GAS LOCK - A system and method to identify a condition of cavitation or gas lock in a pump configured to convey a liquid to a surface from a subsurface environment via tubing are described. The system includes a tool to create a binary event based on the condition, the binary event representing a change in state of a parameter. The system also includes a sensor to detect the binary event based on the parameter, and a processor to process output from the sensor to identify the condition. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108703 | ARTICLES CONTAINING CARBON COMPOSITES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - Articles comprising carbon composites are disclosed. The carbon composites contain carbon microstructures having interstitial spaces among the carbon microstructures; and a binder disposed in at least some of the interstitial spaces; wherein the carbon microstructures comprise unfilled voids within the carbon microstructures. Alternatively, the carbon composites contain: at least two carbon microstructures; and a binding phase disposed between the at least two carbon microstructures; wherein the binding phase comprises a binder comprising one or more of the following: SiO | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108700 | COMPENSATING PRESSURE CHAMBER FOR SETTING IN LOW AND HIGH HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE APPLICATIONS - A setting tool for actuating a well tool within a wellbore includes a mandrel, a sleeve telescopically engaging the mandrel, a floating piston disposed between the sleeve and the mandrel. The floating piston has a first face subjected to a downhole hydrostatic pressure. The setting tool also includes a pressure chamber formed between the floating piston and the valve, a working fluid in the pressure chamber, and a fluid-tight collapse chamber formed between the valve and a sealed end of the sleeve. The valve is configured to flow the working fluid from the pressure chamber into the collapse chamber if the working fluid reaches a predetermined primary pressure setting of the valve. The setting tool is connected to a consumer and is actuated to set the consumer. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the general subject matter of the technical disclosure. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108680 | REVERSE CIRCULATION HYBRID BIT - A hybrid rotary drill having at least one fixed blade and at least one rolling cutter assembly is configured for reverse fluid flow from the annulus, through junk slots and into a fluid pathway system located substantially centrally to the bit body. The fluid pathway system may be located underneath a portion of the at least one fixed blade. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160102547 | RESONATOR ASSEMBLY LIMITING MAGNETIC PARTICLE ACCUMULATION FROM WELL FLUIDS - Systems, devices and methods for determining a parameter of interest of a well fluid relating to a well intersecting a subterranean formation using resonant vibration. The apparatus may include a resonator assembly. The resonator assembly may comprise a plurality of resonant tines structurally coupled to behave as a single resonator. At least one resonant tine of the plurality of resonant tines may include a soft magnetic tine head comprising soft magnetic material uncontained by a supporting surface. Each corresponding tine of the plurality of resonant tines may be formed by at least the resonant tine head and a tine shaft. Each corresponding tine may have a cross section perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the corresponding tine, the cross section including a tine head, where the cross section has a substantially continuous material composition. Each tine shaft may terminate at the tine head. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160102546 | FLUID FLOW LOCATION IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF DETERMINING LOCATION OF FLOW CONTRIBUTIONS IN A COMMINGLED FLUID - A fluid flow location identification system includes, a tubular having at least a first opening and a second opening therethrough, wherein the first component is degraded at least by fluid flowing from an outside of the tubular to an inside of the tubular through the first opening and the second component is degraded at least by fluid flowing from an outside of the tubular to the inside of the tubular through the second opening. Trace amounts of a first identifier are releasable into fluid degrading the first component, trace amounts of a second identifier are releasable into fluid degrading the second component. The trace amounts of the first identifier and the trace amounts of the second identifier are detectable in fluid after having comingled to allow determination of whether each of the first opening and the second opening have fluid flowing therethrough. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160102545 | WIRELESS PASSIVE PRESSURE SENSOR FOR DOWNHOLE ANNULUS MONITORING - A downhole pressure sensor to measure absolute pressure in an annulus and a method of measuring absolute pressure in an annulus are described. The sensor includes an inductor including primary windings and secondary windings, and a capacitor coupled to the secondary windings and disposed in the annulus, at least one of the plates of the capacitor being flexible. The sensor also includes a controller coupled to the primary windings, the controller introducing an input signal to the primary windings and receive a return signal from the primary windings, the return signal resulting from the input signal being transferred through the secondary windings to the capacitor and back through the secondary windings to the primary windings. The controller determines the absolute pressure from the return signal. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160102395 | THREE STEP SURFACE ENHANCEMENT PROCESS FOR CARBON ALLOY FLUID ENDS - A method for improving corrosion resistance and fatigue performance of a metallic surface of an article comprises nitrocarburizing the metallic surface to provide a nitrocarburized surface; forming an oxide layer on the nitrocarburized surface; and treating the oxide layer with a mechanical process. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160102239 | MICROEMULSIONS, MESOPHASE SURFACTANT AND MICELLAR SOLUTIONS, AND IN SITU-FORMED FLUIDS FORMULATED WITH HIGH DENSITY BRINE - Mesophase surfactant solutions and/or micellar solutions, pre-formed single phase microemulsions (SPMEs), and in situ-formed fluids may be used to clean up and remove hydrocarbons and synthetic oils such as oil-based mud filter cake and near wellbore damage in oil and gas wells. Removal occurs by solubilization of the hydrocarbons and synthetic oils into the micellar solutions, SPME, in situ-formed fluids, etc. when the fluid formulation contacts the hydrocarbons and synthetic oils. An in situ-formed fluid (e.g. microemulsion), may be formed when one or more surfactant, an optional linker, optional co-surfactant, optional acid, optional cosolvent and a polar high-density brine phase, and eventually some amount of organic phase, contacts the subterranean location and solubilizes the hydrocarbons and synthetic oils encountered, such as in the near wellbore of a subterranean formation. The micellar solutions, microemulsions, in situ-formed fluids, etc. are effective for removing the formation damage caused by hydrocarbons and synthetic oils. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160097274 | Apparatus and Methods for Leak Detection in Wellbores Using Nonradioactive Tracers - In one aspect, a wellbore system is disclosed for determining breach of cement section in the wellbore, wherein the system includes a cement section in the wellbore formed to prevent flow of fluids including hydrocarbons through the cement section, nonradioactive tracers that emit radioactive emission when activated by a radiation source , a radioactive source that generates radioactive particles to activate the nonradioactive tracers that have migrated through the cement to cause the nonradioactive tracers to emit radiation, a detector for detecting the radioactive emission from the nonradioactive tracer, and a processor that determines from the detected radioactive emission a fluid leak through the cement section. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160097267 | MULTI-ZONE COMPLETION ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION AND TESTING - A method of deploying a multi-zone completion assembly in a wellbore is disclosed. In one non-limiting embodiment, the method includes: placing an outer assembly below a surface location, wherein the outer assembly includes an activation device; placing an inner assembly in the outer assembly, the inner assembly including a lower opening tool spaced from an upper opening tool; activating the lower opening tool using the activation device; and activating the upper opening tool independent of the lower opening tool using the activation device. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160097255 | SEAT ARRANGEMENT, METHOD FOR CREATING A SEAT AND METHOD FOR FRACTURING A BOREHOLE - A degradable seat arrangement consisting of a pusher; a cone having a tapered face; and a seal having a seal deformation face configured to contact the tapered face. A method for creating a seat in a borehole. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160097253 | Packer or Plug Element Backup Ring with Folding Feature - A backup ring design for a packer sealing element features a folding shape where opposed legs are pushed together for extension in a radial direction toward the surrounding tubular to span the extrusion gap. The design can use a V-shape where the vertex is toward the mandrel and the legs are oriented toward the surrounding tubular. The legs in that instance can be thicker than the vertex thickness to aid in folding while providing enhanced strength at the surrounding tubular where shear forces apply as a result of seal compression against the surrounding tubular. The design features a single or multiple vertices that are similarly aligned or alternatingly oppositely aligned to create a zigzag shape in cross-section. Material selection can vary with the expected service conditions. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160097248 | SUBSEA WELL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING FLUID FROM THE WELLBORE TO THE SURFACE - A subsea wellbore system is disclosed in which a return fluid flows from a wellbore to the surface via an annulus between a drill string and a casing and then between the drill string and a riser, wherein the system includes a device configured to prevent flow of the return fluid flowing through the annulus between the drill string and the riser, and a bypass line configured to divert the flow of the return fluid from the annulus between the drill string and the riser to the surface. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160097237 | DRILL BIT WITH EXTENDABLE GAUGE PADS - A drill bit for use in a wellbore is disclosed, including a bit body having a longitudinal axis; and at least one moveable member associated with a lateral extent of the bit body, wherein the at least one moveable member is configured to translate in a member axis that is substantially longitudinal. Further, a method of drilling a wellbore is disclosed, including providing a drill bit including a bit body having a longitudinal axis and at least one movable member associated with a lateral extent of the bit body; conveying a drill string into a formation, the drill string having the drill bit at the end thereof; drilling the wellbore using the drill string; and selectively translating at least one movable member in a member axis that is substantially longitudinal. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160096240 | Subterranean Screen Assembly Manufacturing Method - A filtering assembly is laid flat on an outer shroud. An inner drainage layer is set over the filtering assembly while laid flat such that the inner drainage layer overlaps the filtering assembly. The inner drainage layer is sealed and secured to the outer shroud by diffusion bonding or welding while overlaying the filtering assembly. With the filtering assembly held firm between the inner drainage layer and the outer shroud a spiral winding procedure is commenced to roll the flat assembly into a cylindrical shape. The edges are sealed by welding or diffusion bonding. The spiral winding and seam closure can be done on a perforated base pipe or the base pipe can be inserted into the finished assembly at a later time and secured. Alternatively the filtering assembly and outer shroud, with or without the drainage layer can be wound over a perforated base pipe or a complete screen assembly. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160090833 | DOWNHOLE HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method of installing multi-trip completions in a borehole. The method includes interfacing a health monitoring system with a first section of the multi-trip completions, the health monitoring system configured to engage with at least one of a first control line and first equipment of the first section. Running the health monitoring system and the first section downhole to a selected position within the borehole; storing information about a health of the at least one of the first control line and first equipment of the first section within the health monitoring system. Removing the health monitoring system from the borehole while leaving the first section within the borehole; accessing the information from the health monitoring system; and, determining, based on the information, whether or not to run a second section having a second control line into the borehole. The second control line configured to connect with the first control line. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160090813 | EXPANDABLE SUPPORT RING FOR PACKING ELEMENT CONTAINMENT SYSTEM - A packing element containment system includes a support member extending from a first end to a second end. One of the first and second ends includes a support ring engagement section. A support ring is carried by the support ring engagement section of the support member. The support ring is configured and disposed to shift relative to the support member converting an axial movement of one of the support ring and the support member to a radial expansion of the support ring to provide one of a support to an anti-extrusion ring and containment for a packing element. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160090812 | DEPLOYMENT OF EXPANDABLE GRAPHITE - A method of deploying an apparatus in a wellbore comprises positioning a device at a predetermined location; wherein the device comprises a composition that contains an expandable graphite, and a metallic binder, and wherein the composition has a first shape; and exposing the composition to a microwave energy to cause the composition to attain a second shape different from the first shape. Alternatively, the composition further comprises an activation material comprising a thermite, a mixture of Al and Ni, or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing and a method of deploying an apparatus comprising such a composition includes exposing the composition to a selected form of energy. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160090787 | LINEAR DRIVE SYSTEM FOR DOWNHOLE APPLICATIONS - An apparatus for use in a borehole may include a rotor having at least one set of magnetic elements and a cylindrical stator having a winding flowing current in a direction transverse to a long axis of the stator. The polarity of each magnetic element of the rotor may be arranged to alternate along a long axis of the rotor. The stator may be in sliding engagement with the rotor and have a core formed at least partially of laminations aligned along a plane co-planar with the long axis of the stator. Energizing the winding principally causes relative sliding between the rotor and the stator. A method for performing an operation in a borehole includes forming a well tool having at least one linear motor as described above, conveying the linear motor into the borehole, and operating a well tool by activating the linear motor. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160089648 | CARBON COMPOSITES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - A method for the manufacture of a carbon composite comprises compressing a combination comprising carbon and a binder at a temperature of about 350° C. to about 1200° C. and a pressure of about 500 psi to about 30,000 psi to form the carbon composite; wherein the binder comprises a nonmetal, metal, alloy of the metal, or a combination thereof; wherein the nonmetal is selected from the group consisting of SiO | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160084719 | STRAIN-FREE SENSOR - A strain-free sensor includes a conductor extending from a first end to a second end through an intermediate portion. The conductor has a first coefficient of thermal expansion. A coating is bonded to the intermediate portion of the conductor. The coating has a second coefficient of thermal expansion that is distinct from the first coefficient of thermal expansion. A tube is disposed about the conductor. The tube includes an inner surface provided with a plurality of projections. The conductor is slidingly arranged within the tube with the plurality of projections being configured and disposed to establish a substantially friction-free interface between the tube and the conductor forming the strain-free sensor. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160084390 | MULTISTAGE FLOW CONTROL DEVICE AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING FLOW OF FLUID THROUGH A TUBULAR - A multistage flow control device includes, a tubular with a plurality of one or more openings, a plurality of seats positioned at the tubular, and a plurality of plugs that are movable relative to the tubular between at least a first position sealingly engaged with one of the plurality of seats and a second position displaced from the one of the plurality of seats. Each of the plurality of plugs is movable from the first position to the second position in response to a pressure differential applied thereacross achieving a threshold value with a first of the plurality of plugs moving at a first threshold value and a second of the plurality of plugs moving at a second threshold value. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160084077 | MUD PULSE TELEMETRY WITH CONTINUOUS CIRCULATION DRILLING - A system for performing a wellbore operation while a fluid circulates in a wellbore may include a string, a fluid circulation system, a control device, The string may include at least a first tubular section and a second tubular section. The a fluid circulating system has a first fluid path and a second fluid path, wherein only one of the first fluid path and the second fluid path circulate the fluid into the string at a specified time. The control device selects one of the first or second fluid path through which to convey the fluid into the string, at least one signal generator in hydraulic communication with the circulating fluid, the at least one signal generator configured to impart at least one pressure signal into the circulating fluid, and at least one pressure transducer in pressure communication with the circulating fluid and configured to detect the imparted at least one pressure signal, wherein the at least one signal generator and the at least one pressure transducer form a communication link, the communication link configured to convey information between at least two locations along a flow path of the circulating drilling fluid, irrespective of the fluid path selected by the control device to convey the fluid into the drill string. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160084076 | COMMUNICATION BETWEEN DOWNHOLE TOOLS AND A SURFACE PROCESSOR USING A NETWORK - A system for communicating with subsurface components includes: a surface host connected to a subsurface location; a subsurface host connected to the surface host by a communication link, the subsurface host configured to communicate with the surface host using a communication protocol; and a plurality of tools configured to be disposed in a borehole, the plurality of downhole tools communicatively coupled to the subsurface host via a communication network. The communication network is divided into a plurality of network subsets, each network subset of the plurality of network subsets including one or more downhole tools, all of the one or more downhole tools configured to communicate using a common protocol, each network subset including a network device configured to receive data and translate the data to the common protocol, the common protocol of one network subset being different than the common protocol of at least one other network subset. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160084074 | DAS-BASED DOWNHOLE TOOL ORIENTATION DETERMINATION - A downhole tool orientation determination system to determine a radial orientation of a tool conveyed downhole into a pipe via a carrier and a method of determining a radial orientation of a tool conveyed downhole into a pipe via a carrier are described. The system includes an orientation tool conveyed downhole by the carrier that conveys the tool, and a distributed acoustic sensor (DAS). The DAS includes an optical fiber disposed axially along an outer surface of the pipe; and a processor to determine an orientation of the orientation tool with respect to the optical fiber based on a measurement by the optical fiber at different rotational positions of the orientation tool. The processor determines the radial orientation of the tool with respect to the optical fiber based on the orientation of the orientation tool with respect to the optical fiber. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160084072 | HYDRAULIC INJECTION DIAGNOSTIC TOOL - An apparatus can include a conveyance device having a flow bore, an isolator forming a testing volume at least partially defined by an inner surface of a wellbore tubular, and one or more pressure sensors generating signals representative of a pressure in the testing volume while the conveyance device moves the isolator axially through the wellbore tubular. The isolator substantially isolates a testing fluid received from the flow bore in the testing volume from an adjacent bore of the wellbore tubular. A location of at least one flow path in the wellbore tubular is identified by estimating a pressure of the testing fluid in the testing volume. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the general subject matter of the technical disclosure. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160084046 | CROSSOVER TOOL, METHOD OF MAKING A CROSSOVER TOOL AND TWO PARTS OF A TWO-PART CROSSOVER TOOL - A cross over tool includes, a first tubular forming part of a structure having a channel formed radially through a wall thereof and having a passageway formed longitudinally through the wall. The tool includes a second tubular forming part of a tool string, the second tubular is positionable radially of the first tubular, and has a port through a wall thereof, the port is alignable with the channel. The crossover tool is configured such that while the a port is aligned with the a channel fluid can flow through an inside of the tool string radially through the a port and the a channel and back into the inside of the tool string and through the a passageway and through an annular space defined between the tool string and the structure. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160084027 | DOWNHOLE SYSTEM HAVING SELECTIVE LOCKING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A selective locking apparatus for an indicating tool, the selective locking apparatus includes a mandrel having a rotational collet finger receiving area including a plurality of unlocked-position tracks alternatingly arranged with a plurality of locked-position detents. A rotational collet rotatably supported on the mandrel, the rotational collet including a j-track on an outer periphery of the rotational collet, the rotational collet further including a plurality of rotational collet fingers having heads engageable within the rotational collet finger receiving area of the mandrel. An indicating collet supported on the mandrel, the indicating collet including a plurality of indicating collet fingers; and, at least one pin fixedly mounted on the indicating collet for receipt within the j-track of the rotational collet; wherein longitudinal movement of the mandrel with respect to the indicating collet cycles the rotational collet via j-track interaction and selectively places the heads of the rotational collet fingers into either the plurality of unlocked-position tracks or the plurality of locked-position detents. A method of selectively locking an indicating tool. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160084018 | Completion Method Featuring a Thermally Actuated Lock Assembly for a Telescoping Joint - A completion method involves a telescoping joint in the completion string that needs to be locked when pumping fluid through it as part of the completion method. The joint is locked with two locks and one is thermally activated using a shape memory locking member to handle the stresses from component contraction. The setting of the thermally actuated lock occurs when the temperature is lowered during pumping. At other times the temperature of well fluid defeats the thermal lock leaving a non-thermal lock actuated until such time that the telescoping joint can be used in production. The non-thermal lock is defeated so allow normal telescoping action during production. The non-thermal lock is defeated with string manipulation or pressure or other ways depending on its design. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160077235 | DISPLACEMENT MEASUREMENTS USING SIMULATED MULTI-WAVELENGTH LIGHT SOURCES - An embodiment of an apparatus for estimating a parameter includes a multi-wavelength electromagnetic source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation beams having multiple wavelengths at a fixed angle relative to an interferometer, the multi-wavelength source having a stabilizer configured to lock each beam to one of a plurality of discrete wavelength ranges. The apparatus also includes the interferometer, which has a fixed reference reflector and a moveable reflecting assembly coupled to a moveable mass, the mass configured to move in response to the parameter. The apparatus further includes a detector configured to detect an interference pattern generated by the interferometer for each beam, and a processor configured to combine the interference patterns and estimate the parameter based on the combined interference pattern. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160076368 | METHOD OF DETERMINING WHEN TOOL STRING PARAMETERS SHOULD BE ALTERED TO AVOID UNDESIRABLE EFFECTS THAT WOULD LIKELY OCCUR IF THE TOOL STRING WERE EMPLOYED TO DRILL A BOREHOLE AND METHOD OF DESIGNING A TOOL STRING - A method of determining when tool string parameters should be altered to avoid undesirable effects that would likely occur if the tool string were employed to drill a borehole includes, modeling portions or an entirety of the tool string in the borehole under steady state loading conditions, identifying deflections of the tool string with the modeling when buckling would occur for specific tool string parameters, and calculating whether whirl exhibiting similar deflections of the tool string to those identified during buckling would be undesirable. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160076364 | TRANSMISSION LINE FOR DRILL PIPES AND DOWNHOLE TOOLS - A method of forming a wired pipe transmission line includes: providing an assembly that includes an inner conductor surrounded by an insulating material; attaching a fixation element to the assembly at or near an end thereof; providing a tubular outer conductor; disposing the assembly and the fixation element within the outer conductor; and fixedly attaching the fixation element to the inner portion of the tubular outer conductor. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160076343 | TREATING AND COMPLETION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF TREATING A FORMATION - A method of treating a formation includes, running a first string having at least one first port into a completion string having a plurality of second ports, flowing treating fluid through the first string, and flowing treating fluid through the at least one first port and through at least one of the plurality of second ports and into the formation | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160076342 | MANUFACTURED PORTED MANDREL AND METHOD FOR MAKING SAME - A ported mandrel additively manufactured with at least two different materials. A unitary ported mandrel includes a mandrel body of a base material; one or more ports including an erosion resistant material; and one or more return pathways. A method for making a unitary ported mandrel for a downhole fracturing operation. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160076337 | TUBULAR ASSEMBLY INCLUDING A SLIDING SLEEVE HAVING A DEGRADABLE LOCKING ELEMENT - A tubular assembly includes a turbular member having at least one opening, and a sleeve slidingly mounted relative to the tubular member. The sleeve is shiftable between an open configuration in which the at least one opening is exposed and a closed configuration in which the at least one opening is covered by the sleeve. A degradable locking member is mounted relative to one of the turbular and the sleeve. The degradable locking member selectively retains the sleeve in the open configuration. The degradable locking member is configured to degrade when exposed to a downhole fluid allowing the sleeve to be shifted to the closed configuration. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160076332 | DISINTEGRABLE INVERTED SEAL - An inverted seal includes a disintegrable body; one or more inside dimension seals disposed in the body. A method for deploying a conventional seal after an inverted seal in a borehole. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160075932 | Foamed Fluid Compositions Having High Salinity Using Anionic Surfactants and Methods Therefor - An effective amount of at least one anionic surfactant may be present within a high salinity foamed fluid composition in an effective amount to generate an IFT as low as 10 | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160070022 | FAST SCINTILLATION HIGH DENSITY OXIDE AND OXY-FLUORIDE GLASS AND NANO-STRUCTURED MATERIALS FOR WELL LOGGING APPLICATIONS - An apparatus for estimating a property of an earth formation penetrated by a borehole includes: a carrier configured to be conveyed through the borehole and a gamma-ray detector disposed on the carrier and comprising a scintillation material. The scintillation material includes a barium silicate glass or glass ceramic transparent to light doped with Ce and containing ions of elements with atomic numbers greater than or equal to 55, and having a density greater than 4.5 g/cm | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160070016 | DOWNHOLE SENSOR, ULTRASONIC LEVEL SENSING ASSEMBLY, AND METHOD - A downhole sensor including a body configured for attachment to a downhole pump. The body having a fluid receiving portion; and, an ultrasonic transducer supported by the body; wherein ultrasonic pulses transmitted by the ultrasonic transducer are directed towards the fluid receiving portion, and reflected waves receivable by the ultrasonic transducer are indicative of a liquid fluid level and type of fluid within the fluid receiving portion. A method of determining a liquid fluid level and a type of fluid adjacent a downhole pump. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160070014 | GUIDED ACOUSTIC WAVES ISOLATION SYSTEM FOR DOWNHOLE APPLICATIONS - An apparatus for estimating a property of a subsurface material includes a carrier configured to convey an acoustic wave guide though a borehole. The acoustic wave guide includes an acoustic plate configured to guide an acoustic wave along a path of the plate and an acoustic reservoir coupled to the acoustic plate and at least partially surrounding the acoustic plate. The acoustic reservoir has a mass greater than the mass of the acoustic plate and is configured to absorb acoustic wave leakage from the acoustic plate. A first acoustic transducer is coupled to the acoustic plate and configured to transmit an acoustic wave along the path. A second acoustic transducer is coupled to the acoustic plate and configured to receive the acoustic wave that travels along the path. A controller is configured to operate the first acoustic transducer and the second acoustic transducer in order to estimate the property. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160069145 | Utilizing Dissolvable Metal for Activating Expansion and Contraction Joints - A system, tool and method of providing the tool downhole is disclosed. The tool is conveyed downhole on a tool string. The tool includes a first member and a second member locked in a first configuration by a locking member. The locking member is dissolvable upon introduction of a dissolving agent to the locking member. Dissolving the locking member allows motion between the second member and the first member. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160067826 | POROUS STRUCTURE FOR DOWNHOLE FLUID CONTROL APPLICATIONS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - An embodiment of a method of manufacturing a downhole fluid control apparatus includes generating, using a processor, a design for a metallic porous structure configured to be deployed with a fluid control device, the fluid control device configured to be disposed in a borehole in an earth formation and inhibit the flow of particulates between a flow conduit and at least one of the borehole and the formation. The method also includes applying an energy beam from an energy source to a granular metallic material, and additively forming the metallic porous structure based on the design as a single structure having a distribution of pores therein. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160061629 | Acoustic Interface Device - A system is provided including an acoustic interface device, configured for coupling to a transducer and to a specimen, the acoustic interface device comprising a material composition having a shear wave attenuation coefficient a | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160061373 | FLOW DEVICE AND METHODS OF CREATING DIFFERENT PRESSURE DROPS BASED ON A DIRECTION OF FLOW - A flow device includes a flow-through region comprising at least one stage having a pocket configured to create a first pressure drop across the flow-through region in response to flow through the flow-through region in a first direction and a second pressure drop in response to flow through the flow-through region in a second direction. The first pressure drop is less than the second pressure drop under the same flow rates. The flow device has no moving parts to create the difference in pressure drop between the first direction and the second direction, the pocket has a larger cross sectional flow area than a first opening and a second opening fluidically connected to the pocket and a baffle positioned within the pocket having a “U” shape with a concave side of the baffle facing toward the second opening. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160061018 | CONDITIONAL OCCLUSION RELEASE DEVICE - In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed, including an occlusion retaining mechanism; an integrated controller configured to compare a plurality of downhole conditions to a plurality of predetermined release conditions and release an occlusion from the occlusion retaining mechanism in response to the plurality of downhole conditions satisfying the plurality of predetermined release conditions. In another aspect, a method for isolating a portion of a wellbore is disclosed, including deploying a frac plug in the wellbore; setting the frac plug in the wellbore; deploying a frac ball release tool in the wellbore; selectively retaining a frac ball within the frac ball release tool; releasing the frac ball in response to a plurality of downhole conditions satisfying a plurality of predetermined release conditions. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160061011 | Apparatus and Methods for Oriented-Fracturing of Formations - In one aspect, an apparatus for treating a formation is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes a first string for placement in the wellbore that includes a first flow port that enables a treatment fluid to flow from inside the first string to the formation via an annulus between the first string and the formation, a second string for placement in the first string, wherein the second string includes a second flow port that supplies the treatment fluid to the first flow port along a selected radial orientation to direct the treatment fluid in the selected radial direction. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160061009 | INERTIAL OCCLUSION RELEASE DEVICE - In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed, including an occlusion retaining mechanism; a rupture member associated with the occlusion retaining mechanism; an inertial member configured to puncture the rupture member in response an inertial event to release an occlusion from the occlusion retaining mechanism. In another aspect, a method for isolating a portion of a wellbore is disclosed, including providing a tubular in the wellbore; deploying a perforation gun in the tubular; deploying a frac plug in the wellbore; setting the frac plug in the wellbore; deploying a frac ball release tool associated with the perforation gun; selectively retaining a frac ball within the frac ball release tool; releasing the frac ball in response to an inertial event via an inertial member associated with the frac ball release tool. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160061006 | Expandable Brush - Expandable brushes for cleaning a surrounding tubular member. Brushes include a housing to be disposed within the surrounding tubular member and a brush shoe that retains at least one brush bristle, the brush shoe being radially moveable with respect to the housing between a radially retracted position and a radially expanded position. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160060966 | FLOW DEVICE AND METHODS OF CREATING DIFFERENT PRESSURE DROPS BASED ON A DIRECTION OF FLOW - A flow device, includes a flow-through region comprising at least one stage and configured to create a first pressure drop across the flow-through region in response to flow through the flow-through region in a first direction and a second pressure drop in response to flow through the flow-through region in a second direction. The first pressure drop being less than the second pressure drop under the same flow rates. The flow device having no moving parts to create the difference in pressure drop between the first direction and the second direction. A method of creating different pressure drops based on a direction of flow. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160060959 | DRILLING SYSTEM WITH ADAPTIVE STEERING PAD ACTUATION - A bottomhole assembly (BHA) has a first section, a second section, and a drilling motor disposed along the second BHA section. The first BHA section is connected to the second BHA section with a flex sub. A steering assembly positioned along the BHA includes a first steering unit and an axially spaced apart second unit. Each steering unit has at least one pad. During operation, the first steering unit generates a force in a first direction and the second steering unit generates a force in a second direction different from the first direction. The first and the second steering units thereby cooperate to axially misalign the first BHA section and the second BHA section at the flex sub. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160060958 | DOWNHOLE MOTOR FOR EXTENDED REACH APPLICATIONS - An apparatus for forming a wellbore in a subterranean formation includes a drill bit, a connector connected to the drill bit and configured to transmit torque and thrust to the drill bit, and a drilling motor energized by a pressurized fluid. The drilling motor may include a stator and a rotor disposed in the stator and having a torque transmitting connection to the connector. The apparatus may also include a thrust generator associated with the rotor and having a pressure face in pressure communication with a fluid flowing through the drilling motor and a force application assembly selectively anchoring the stator to a wellbore wall. A related method uses the apparatus to drill a wellbore. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160060520 | SCAVENGERS FOR SULFUR SPECIES AND/OR PHOSPHORUS CONTAINING COMPOUNDS - A scavenger additive, treated system, and method of using the same may treat a system having at least one sulfur species and/or at least one phosphorous-containing compound. At least one scavenger compound may be circulated or added to the system and may include, but is not limited to, aminals, dibutylamine, and combinations thereof. The scavenger compound(s) may increase the amount of inactivated sulfur species and/or inactivated phosphorous-containing compounds. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160060503 | NANOPARTICLE MODIFIED FLUIDS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE THEREOF - Disclosed herein is a nanoparticle modified fluid that includes nanoparticles that are surface modified to increase a viscosity of the nanoparticle modified fluid and that have at least one dimension that is less than or equal to about 50 nanometers; nanoparticles that are surface modified to increase a viscosity of the nanoparticle modified fluid and that have at least one dimension that is less than or equal to about 70 nanometers; and a liquid carrier; wherein the nanoparticle modified fluid exhibits a viscosity above that of a comparative nanoparticle modified fluid that contains the same nanoparticles but whose surfaces are not modified, when both nanoparticle modified fluids are tested at the same shear rate and temperature. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160060133 | REMOVAL OF METALS AND CATIONS THEREOF FROM WATER-BASED FLUIDS - At least one solid may be separated from a water-based fluid by flowing the water-based fluid through a filter media in combination with filtration equipment, such as a filter press. In a non-limiting embodiment, the filter media may be or include, but is not limited to, diatomaceous earth and at least one alkaline earth metal(s). The solid(s) may be or include a metal, such as but not limited to zinc, iron, manganese, mercury, nickel, cations thereof, and combinations thereof. In a non-limiting embodiment, the water-based fluid may be or include a production fluid, a drilling fluid, a drill-in fluid, a completions fluid, a fracturing fluid, a servicing fluid, a stimulation fluid, a treating fluid, and combinations thereof. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160053586 | Manufacturing Method and Apparatus for a Collet Assembly with Congruent Corners - A flexible collet on a subterranean tool has sacrificial soft components to protect seal bores through which the collets have to compress to get through. The sacrificial components can be replaced when the tool is removed to the surface. In one embodiment, threaded fasteners are used alone or with washers for height adjustment such that the heads of the fasteners which are softer than the seal bore material ride on the seal bore and take the wear. The tool can ultimately be used to latch into shifting sleeves to move such sleeves to open or close wall ports. Alternatively axial ridges with beveled profile ends can be used or rolling members such as wheels or balls can be used to keep sharp edges off the seal bore. EDM method can be used to create multiple fingers with an axial ridge profile and rounded end transitions. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053585 | Shifting Tool Collet with Rolling Component - A flexible collet on a subterranean tool has sacrificial soft components to protect seal bores through which the collets have to compress to get through. The sacrificial components can be replaced when the tool is removed to the surface. In one embodiment, threaded fasteners are used alone or with washers for height adjustment such that the heads of the fasteners which are softer than the seal bore material ride on the seal bore and take the wear. The tool can ultimately be used to latch into shifting sleeves to move such sleeves to open or close wall ports. Alternatively axial ridges with beveled profile ends can be used or rolling members such as wheels or balls can be used to keep sharp edges off the seal bore. EDM method can be used to create multiple fingers with an axial ridge profile and rounded end transitions. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053584 | Non-marring Shifting Tool Collet - A flexible collet on a subterranean tool has sacrificial soft components to protect seal bores through which the collets have to compress to get through. The sacrificial components can be replaced when the tool is removed to the surface. In one embodiment, threaded fasteners are used alone or with washers for height adjustment such that the heads of the fasteners which are softer than the seal bore material ride on the seal bore and take the wear. The tool can ultimately be used to latch into shifting sleeves to move such sleeves to open or close wall ports. Alternatively axial ridges with beveled profile ends can be used or rolling members such as wheels or balls can be used to keep sharp edges off the seal bore. EDM method can be used to create multiple fingers with an axial ridge profile and rounded end transitions. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053583 | Shifting Tool Collet with Axial Ridge and Edge Relief - A flexible collet on a subterranean tool has sacrificial soft components to protect seal bores through which the collets have to compress to get through. The sacrificial components can be replaced when the tool is removed to the surface. In one embodiment, threaded fasteners are used alone or with washers for height adjustment such that the heads of the fasteners which are softer than the seal bore material ride on the seal bore and take the wear. The tool can ultimately be used to latch into shifting sleeves to move such sleeves to open or close wall ports. Alternatively axial ridges with beveled profile ends can be used or rolling members such as wheels or balls can be used to keep sharp edges off the seal bore. EDM method can be used to create multiple fingers with an axial ridge profile and rounded end transitions. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053577 | PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL DEVICE WITH CONSTANT PRESSURE DROP - In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed, including: an inlet; an outlet; and a variable flow restriction configured to provide a predetermined constant pressure drop between the inlet and the outlet in response to a range of inlet flow rates. In another aspect, a method for providing a fluid flow within a wellbore is disclosed, including: providing the fluid flow to an inlet; restricting the fluid flow to provide a predetermined constant pressure drop between the inlet and an outlet in response to a range of fluid flow rates; and providing the fluid flow to the wellbore from the outlet. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053574 | FAILSAFE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A SAFETY VALVE HAVING A CONDITION SENSING AND CHEMICAL INJECTION FEATURE - A control system for a Subsurface Safety Valve (SSSV), includes an actuating piston mounted in a housing with at least one seal and connected to the SSSV. The actuating piston having a first end and a second end, the first end in fluid communication with a control line; a primary pressure reservoir in fluid communication with the second end of the actuating piston, the reservoir configured to contain a fluid under an amount of pressure selected to act against a prospective hydrostatic pressure expected in the control line based upon the selected position of the control system in a downhole environment. An equalizing piston in fluid communication with both the control line and with the second end of the actuating piston, the equalizing piston remaining in a closed position during shifting of the actuating piston with pressure applied or removed from the control line, the equalizing piston movable to an open position upon a control system failure that reduces pressure in the primary reservoir to below a threshold value; and a condition sensing and chemical injection assembly in fluid communication with the primary reservoir. A method for operating a control system for a Subsurface Safety Valve (SSSV). | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053565 | Drive Off Method from Subsea Well with Pipe Retention Capability - This invention involves a method of securing pipe (also referred to as a “string of tools”) when driving off a subsea well or sealing off a well in onshore applications where there is an emergency by grabbing the pipe before it is cut. A pipe ram then is closed on the pipe before a shear ram is actuated to cut the pipe. In subsea applications, the top of the pipe may then be raised clear of the blowout preventer within a marine riser. A blind ram and annular preventer can then be closed above the remnant of the pipe being retained by the pipe catcher. The pipe above the cut is removed through the marine riser and the marine riser itself is then disconnected. The rig is then driven off the well. If the well is reactivated the steps are reversed but the well is safely secured before the blowout preventer components are opened. The pipe supported by the catcher is independently supported before the catcher is released and the pipe lifted through the riser. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053563 | Support Cone for Retrievable Packer - Opposed cones for slips on a packer have an annular undercut in general alignment with the end of the cone that has the slip ramp. The undercut faces the mandrel on which the cones can be driven together to radially extend the slips. A high modulus insert sleeve is interference fitted to the undercut. This results in the cone exterior surface being in hoop stress tension before the slips are set. Once the slips are set and a reaction load comes radially back from the surrounding tubular into which the slips have extended there is a tendency for the reaction force to put the exterior surface of the cones into compressive hoop stress. The initial tensile hoop stress from the sleeve placement acts to at least in part offset the reaction force tending to create compressive hoop stress. The net loading and deflection of the mandrel is minimized. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053164 | HYDRAULIC FRACTURING APPLICATIONS EMPLOYING MICROENERGETIC PARTICLES - Microenergetic particles can be employed in hydraulic fracturing of oil or gas wells. By exciting the microenergetic particles, an operator performing a fracture job can better map the fracture process and/or increase the extent of fracturing over what can be accomplished using only pumps. By deploying microenergetic particles during the fracturing of an oil or gas well, but not exciting the microenergetic particles until there is a reduction of production, an operator can extend the time periods between well stimulations. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160049718 | WIRED PIPE COUPLER CONNECTOR - A wired pipe segment includes a body extending from a box end to a pin end and a coupler located in one of the box and pin ends. The coupler includes a carrier having at least one electrical component disposed therein and one or more antennas supported by and spaced from the carrier and being electrically coupled to the carrier through at least one of the electrical components, the antennas being formed in the carrier in a same molding machine. The segment also includes a transmission line extending away from the coupler towards the other of the box and pin end and in communication with the one or more antennas. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160047502 | Quick Connection Arrangements with Locking Mechanisms - Quick connect arrangements for securing together first and second tubular members. A securing sleeve helps secure the connection together and include locking arrangements which ensure that the securing sleeve cannot be inadvertently unthreaded. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160047373 | Reciprocating Pump Cavitation Detection and Avoidance - Systems and methods for detecting cavitation in a reciprocating positive displacement pump. Fluid pressure proximate the pump's suction manifold is compared to a predetermined pressure that would be conducive to cavitation. If the detected pressure approximates the predetermined pressure, the presence of cavitation is confirmed via correlation of increased vibration. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160047230 | Real-Time Data Acquisition and Interpretation for Coiled Tubing Fluid Injection Operations - Methods for acquiring and interpreting operating parameter data during an operation to inject a work fluid into a wellbore. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160047190 | BARRIER DEVICE WITH FLUID BYPASS FOR MULTI-ZONE WELLBORES - In one aspect, a device for use in a wellbore includes a tubular body; a barrier member associated with an outer surface of the tubular body configured to retain a proppant; an actuating member associated with the barrier member configured to expand the barrier member in an annular direction; and a fluid channel associated with an upper extent and a lower extent of the barrier member, configured to allow a fluid flow therethrough. In another aspect, a method for completing a multi-zone wellbore, includes deploying a barrier device at a downhole location within the wellbore; expanding a barrier member in an annulus of the wellbore; providing proppant in the annulus of the wellbore; retaining the proppant in the annulus via the barrier member; and providing a fluid flow between an upper extent and a lower extent of the barrier member. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160047174 | DOWNHOLE CLAMP SYSTEM - A downhole clamp system includes a first clamp member having a first body having a first outer surface and a first inner annular surface configured to engage a downhole tubular. One or more lugs extend radially outwardly from the first outer surface, and a first clamping finger extends radially outwardly from the first outer surface. A second clamp member is arranged adjacent to the first clamp member. The second clamp member includes a second body having a second outer surface and a second inner annular surface configured to engage a downhole tubular. One or more lugs extend radially outwardly from the second outer surface, and a second clamping finger extends radially outwardly from the second outer surface. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160042100 | UNPHYSICAL PHASE SPLIT DETECTION - An apparatus for estimating conditions of a fluid in an underground reservoir includes one or more sensors for measuring a temperature and a pressure of the fluid a processor that estimates the conditions by enforcing a full liquid requirement to a flash solver when under certain conditions. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160041142 | METHOD OF DETERMINING AND UTILIZING SCALE AND SHAPE FACTOR EQUATION COEFFICIENTS FOR RESERVOIR FLUIDS - An apparatus for estimating conditions of reservoir fluid in an underground reservoir that includes a sensor for measuring one or more measured parameters of that fluid, the measured parameters including at least one of: temperature, pressure and density of the fluid and a processor. The processor is configured to: receive data representing the one or more measured parameters; determine or receive coefficients for an extended corresponding states (XCS) model, wherein propane is used as a reference fluid in determining the coefficients or was used in the forming of the received coefficients; and solve the XCS model with the coefficients to form estimates of the fluid conditions. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160040532 | RESERVOIR WATER VOLUME SHIFT MODEL - A method of estimating properties of a reservoir fluid in an underground reservoir includes: calculating the density ρ of the mixture containing water; determining component-specific volume shift parameters c | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160040527 | STRAIN LOCKED FIBER OPTIC CABLE AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - An embodiment of a method of manufacturing a fiber optic cable includes selecting a cable support structure configured to support an optical fiber sensor, adhering the optical fiber sensor to the cable support structure by applying a temporary adhesive, and installing a protective layer around the cable support structure and the temporarily adhered optical fiber sensor. The method further includes removing a bond between the optical fiber sensor and the temporary adhesive, wherein removing the bond includes injecting a debonding material into a space formed between the cable support structure and the protective layer, and injecting a permanent adhesive into the space, the permanent adhesive configured to immobilize the optical fiber sensor relative to the protective layer and allow strain to be transferred from the protective layer to the optical fiber sensor. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160040513 | HYBRID RESERVOIR BRINE MODEL - A method of estimating saturation conditions of reservoir brines in an underground reservoir includes: receiving data representing a temperature of the brine; determining if the temperature is greater than a preset value; and selecting either a first method or second method, different than the first method, of calculating the saturation conditions based on the determination. The first method is selected when the temperature is greater than the preset value and the second method is selected when the temperature is less than the preset value. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160040505 | HIGH EFFICIENCY NOZZLE - A system, method and apparatus for cleaning a wellbore is disclosed. A workstring is conveyed in a wellbore. A jet sub provided associated with the wellbore, wherein the jet sub includes at least one nozzle, the nozzle including: an inlet; an outlet; at least four successive concentric stages in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet, wherein each of the at least four stages has a discrete length, and the stages have progressive smaller discrete diameters, and an interface formed between each stage. A completion fluid is provided to the at least one nozzles via the work string and jet sub. The completion fluid is expelled via the at least one nozzles. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160040504 | Suction Nozzle - A system, method and apparatus for cleaning a wellbore is disclosed. A workstring is conveyed in a wellbore. A jet sub provided associated with the wellbore, wherein the jet sub includes at least one nozzle, the nozzle including: a nozzle body; a bore formed in the nozzle body, the bore having an outlet; and a plurality of inlet jets disposed tangentially about the bore and opposite the outlet of the bore. A completion fluid is provided to the at least one nozzles via the work string and jet sub. The completion fluid is expelled via the at least one nozzles. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160040485 | WELLBORE RETENTION SYSTEM - In one aspect, a wellbore system including a longitudinal member disposed within a wellbore; a retention device associated with the longitudinal member, wherein the retention device is configured to deploy in response to a critical fluid flow rate to decelerate the longitudinal member subject to an unimpeded travel within the wellbore. In another aspect, a method of retaining a longitudinal member within a wellbore, including providing the longitudinal member within the wellbore; associating a retention device with the longitudinal member; subjecting the longitudinal member to an unimpeded travel within the wellbore; deploying the retention device in response to a critical fluid flow rate; and decelerating the longitudinal member within the wellbore via the retention device. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160034818 | OILFIELD DATA ANALYTICS AND DECISION WORKFLOW SOLUTION - A method for presenting oilfield data to a user includes: searching a plurality of oilfield data sources for raw oilfield data; applying an algorithm as needed to the raw oilfield data; providing a quality control check on the oilfield data; deleting any oilfield data that does not pass the quality control check; tagging oilfield data that passes the quality control check with one or more searchable identifiers; storing any oilfield data that passes the quality control check and associated one or more identifiers in a storage medium; receiving a request for specified oilfield data from a user; searching identifiers in the storage medium to identify the specified oilfield data; and sending the identified specified oilfield data in the storage medium to the user. The method may also include planning an oilfield action using the specified oilfield data and implementing the planned oilfield action using oilfield equipment. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160033675 | GRAVITY AND/OR ACCELERATION MEASUREMENTS USING DUAL INTERFEROMETER CONFIGURATIONS - An apparatus for estimating gravitational properties includes an optical source, a first interferometer including a fixed reference reflector and a first reflector coupled to a first moveable mass, a second interferometer including the fixed reference reflector and a second reflector coupled to a second moveable mass, a first detector configured to detect a first interference pattern generated by the first interferometer, and a second detector configured to detect a second interference pattern generated by the second interferometer. The first mass is configured to move a first amount in response to a change in gravitational force, and the second mass is configured to move a second amount in response to a change in gravitational force, the second amount being smaller than the first amount. The apparatus also includes a processor configured to estimate the change in gravitational force based on a combination of the first and second interference patterns. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160032715 | RIG TELEMETRY SYSTEM - A drillstring communications system includes one or more pipe segments, a communication sub coupled to the pipe segment that includes a communication sub antenna, and a leaky feeder antenna in communication with the communication sub antenna. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160032683 | DOWNHOLE COMMUNICATION AND CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NON-SEQUENTIAL DOWNHOLE OPERATIONS - A downhole communication and control system configured for use in a non-sequential order of treating a borehole, the system includes a string having at least three ports including first, second, and third longitudinally spaced ports arranged sequentially in a downhole to uphole manner in the string; at least three frac sleeve systems including first, second, and third frac sleeve systems arranged sequentially in a downhole to uphole manner in the string and arranged to open and close the first, second, and third ports, respectively, each frac sleeve system having self-powered, electronically triggered first and second sleeves; and, communication signals to trigger the first, second, and third frac sleeve systems into moving the first and second sleeves to open and close the ports. Also included is a method of completing downhole operations in a non-sequential order. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160032680 | SELF-BOOSTING EXPANDABLE SEAL WITH CANTILEVERED SEAL ARM - A downhole seal assembly includes a body extending from an uphole end to a downhole end. The body includes a first sealing surface and an opposing, second sealing surface that is angled relative to the first sealing surface. A first void is formed in the second sealing surface adjacent the uphole end, and a seal is arranged in the first void. A second void is formed in the second sealing surface adjacent the downhole end. One or more passages is formed in the downhole end and fluidically coupled to the second void. The one or more passages is configured and disposed to guide downhole fluids into the second void forcing the first sealing surface against a wellbore. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160032671 | FERROUS DISINTEGRABLE POWDER COMPACT, METHOD OF MAKING AND ARTICLE OF SAME - A process for preparing a disintegrable powder compact, the process comprises: combining: a primary particle comprising a ferrous alloy which comprises carbon; and a secondary particle to form a composition; compacting the composition to form a preform; and sintering the preform to form the disintegrable powder compact by forming a matrix from one of the primary particle or the secondary particle; and forming a plurality of dispersed particles from the other of the primary particle or the secondary particle, wherein the dispersed particles are dispersed in the matrix, the disintegrable powder compact is configured to disintegrate in response to contact with a disintegration fluid, and the primary particle and secondary particle have different standard electrode potentials. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160032663 | FATIGUE RESISTANT THREAD PROFILE WITH COMBINED CURVE ROUNDING - A threaded connector that includes a pin end having external threads and a box end having internal threads that are complementary to the external threads has a thread profile that defines at least a portion of either or both of the internal threads and the external threads. The thread profile may include a thread root connecting a first flank to a second flank and the thread root may be at least partially defined by a plurality of tangentially interconnected radii. The plurality of radii may include at least a medial radius, a first distal radius on one side of the medial radius, and a second distal radius on the another side of the medial radius. The medial radius may be larger than the first and the second distal radius. Alternatively, the thread profile includes a thread root connecting a first flank to a second flank that is at least partially defined by a plurality of radii, each radius having a different length and each defining a circular arc. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160032658 | DRILL BIT WITH SELF-ADJUSTING GAGE PADS - A drill bit and a method of drilling a wellbore utilizing the drill bit is disclosed, including: providing a drill bit including a bit body and at least one movable member associated with a lateral extent of the bit body; conveying a drill string into a formation, the drill string having the drill bit at the end thereof; drilling the wellbore using the drill string; selectively extending the at least one moveable member from the lateral extent of the bit body at a first rate; and selectively retracting the at least one moveable member to a retracted position at a second rate that is less than the first rate. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160032161 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR DECREASING THE VISCOSITY OF HYDROCARBON-BASED FLUIDS DURING REFINING - At least one biosurfactant may be added to a hydrocarbon-based fluid to decrease the viscosity of the hydrocarbon-based fluid. The biosurfactant(s) may be less toxic to the environment than other diluents typically used to decrease the viscosity of such fluids. The biosurfactant(s) may be or include, but are not limited to mycolic acids, glycolipids, lipopolysaccharides, lipoproteins-lipopeptides, phospholipids, and combinations thereof. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160025884 | REFLECTION-ONLY SENSOR AT MULTIPLE ANGLES FOR NEAR REAL-TIME DETERMINATION OF ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES OF A FLUID DOWNHOLE - Methods, systems, and devices for determining a parameter of interest of downhole fluid using an acoustic assembly comprising a single solid acoustic transmission medium having a face immersed in the downhole fluid. Methods include using characteristics of a plurality of acoustic pulse reflections from a solid-liquid interface at the face of the solid acoustic transmission medium to estimate the parameter of interest in near real-time. The characteristics may comprise a corresponding reflection amplitude and the corresponding unique angle of reflection for each acoustic pulse reflection. Methods may include generating a two dimensional data set from measured characteristics, generating a curve by performing data fitting on the two dimensional data set, and using the reciprocal slope of the curve to estimate the parameter of interest. Methods may include estimating time-dependent values for the parameter of interest substantially continuously while the acoustic assembly is on a single logging run in the borehole. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160024916 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DOWNHOLE ORGANIC SCALE MONITORING AND INTERVENTION IN A PRODUCTION WELL - An apparatus for estimating an ambient environment at which organic scale will form in a downhole fluid includes a stress chamber disposed in a borehole in a production zone at a location of maximum pressure and configured to receive a sample of the fluid from the production zone and to apply an ambient condition to the sample that causes the formation of organic scale. A sensor is configured to sense formation of organic scale within the chamber and an ambient environment sensor is configured to sense an ambient environment within the chamber at which the formation of organic scale occurs. The apparatus further includes a processor configured to receive measurement data from the organic scaling sensor and the ambient environment sensor and to identify the ambient environment at which the formation of organic scale occurs using the organic scaling sensor measurement data and ambient environment sensor measurement data. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160024915 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DOWNHOLE INORGANIC SCALE MONITORING AND INTERVENTION IN A PRODUCTION WELL - An apparatus for estimating an ambient environment at which inorganic scale will form in a downhole fluid includes a stress chamber disposed in a borehole in a production zone at a location within a specified range of maximum pressure and configured to receive a sample of the fluid from the production zone and to apply an ambient condition to the sample that causes the formation of inorganic scale. An inorganic scale sensor is configured to sense formation of inorganic scale within the chamber and an ambient environment sensor is configured to sense an ambient environment within the chamber at which the formation of inorganic scale occurs. The apparatus further includes a processor configured to receive measurement data from the inorganic scale sensor and the ambient environment sensor and to identify the ambient environment at which the formation of inorganic scale occurs. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160024889 | Multi-purpose Through Tubing Tool - A tubular cleaning tool can be delivered through tubing and then hydraulically or mechanically actuated to rotate blades about respective pivot location into approximately a 45 degree orientation for commencement of tool rotation and cleaning a larger tubular that is below. Each of the blades has a cantilevered distal end that further features at least one articulated link. The outer periphery of the articulated distal segment has hard facing to enhance the cleaning effect and to reduce blade wear. The remainder of the blade outer surface can also have hard facing for similar reasons. The distal segment can be biased toward the surrounding tubular when the blades extend to put the segment in the needed orientation for cleaning. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160024859 | DOWNHOLE SYSTEM USING PACKER SETTING JOINT AND METHOD - A downhole system including tubular casing string and a packer setting joint configured to receive a packer therein. The packer setting joint includes an interior and an exterior, and all interior and exterior surfaces from an uphole to a downhole end of the packer setting joint are machined surfaces. The uphole end of the packer setting joint is connected to the casing string, and the downhole end of the packer setting joint is connected to the casing string. The packer setting joint has a greater burst strength than a burst strength of a casing joint connected to the packer setting joint within the casing string. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160024374 | FERROFLUIDS ABSORBED ON GRAPHENE/GRAPHENE OXIDE FOR EOR - Magnetic materials, such as ferrofluids, are known to produce large amounts of heat per unit volume. Other magnetic materials include iron, iron oxide, iron carbide, iron nitride, cobalt-nickel alloy, iron-platinum alloy, cobalt-platinum alloy, iron-molybdenum alloy, iron-palladium alloy, cobalt ferrite, and combinations thereof. These magnetic materials may be absorbed onto a graphene-like component or may be encapsulated by a graphene-like component to give thermal particles. These thermal particles may in turn be suspended in a carrier fluid such as water and/or brine to give a heat transfer fluid that may be used for the dissipation of heat in downhole and subterranean environments, particularly for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes, including, but not necessarily limited to, carbon dioxide (CO | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160017702 | RADAR IMAGING OF BOREHOLES - A method of estimating a characteristic of a formation includes: disposing a radar imaging tool in a borehole; generating a high frequency radar signal by a radar transmitter, the high frequency radar signal having a frequency configured to limit penetration of the radar signal to a near-borehole region of the formation, the near-borehole region including a surface of the borehole and a region of the borehole proximate to the surface; detecting return signals reflected from the near-borehole region; generating an image of the near-borehole region based on the return signals; and estimating a characteristic of the formation based on the image. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160017697 | COMPLETION TOOL, STRING COMPLETION SYSTEM, AND METHOD OF COMPLETING A WELL - A completion system includes, a tool string having, a plurality of packers configured to isolate a plurality of zones along a borehole that the tool string is positioned within. A plurality of ports along the tool string are configured to be selectively opened and a plurality of screens in operable communication with the plurality of ports are configured to filter fluid flowing between the zones and an inside of the tool string through the plurality of ports. The tool string is also configured to be run into the borehole, the plurality of packers set, the plurality of ports selectively opened, and fluid to flow between the plurality of zones and an inside of the tool string without intervention. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160017202 | ELECTRICALLY CONDUCTIVE OIL-BASED FLUIDS - Capped nanoparticles may be added to an oil-based fluid to improve the electrical conductivity of the oil-based fluid. The oil-based fluid may be a drilling fluid, a completion fluid, a drill-in fluid, a stimulation fluid, a servicing fluid, and combinations thereof. In a non-limiting embodiment, the oil-based fluid composition may be circulated in a subterranean reservoir wellbore. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160017201 | ELECTRICALLY CONDUCTIVE OIL-BASED FLUIDS - At least one petroleum coke may be added to an oil-based fluid to improve the electrical conductivity of the oil-based fluid. The oil-based fluid may be a drilling fluid, a completion fluid, a drill-in fluid, a stimulation fluid, a servicing fluid, and combinations thereof. In a non-limiting embodiment, the downhole fluid composition may be circulated in a subterranean reservoir wellbore. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160003963 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INVERSION IN DIELECTRIC LOGGING - A method for inverting dielectric logging tool measurement data to estimate an electrical characteristic of an earth formation includes: receiving measurement data from the logging tool having a transmitter antenna and receiver antennas spaced known distances from the transmitter antenna; establishing an equation relating magnetic field measurements made by the receiver antennas to the distances and a wave vector; establishing an error equation that quantifies a difference between the magnetic field measurements made by the receiver antennas to magnetic field measurements made by the receiver antennas that would be obtained with an estimated formation electrical characteristic; calculating an error using the error equation for an initial estimated value of the wave vector that comprises a term having a first number multiplied times a second number of radians to provide a plurality of calculated errors; and determining a minimum error from the plurality of calculated errors to estimate the electrical characteristic. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160003013 | MULTI-ZONE SINGLE TREATMENT GRAVEL PACK SYSTEM - A gravel pack system includes a tool string having an inner string member, an outer string member, and a passage arranged between the outer string member and the inner string member. A packing element is provided on the outer string member. A first valve is coupled to one of the outer string member and the inner string member outwardly of the packing element in a downhole direction. The first valve fluidically connects the passage and the open hole wellbore. The first valve is configured and disposed to shift from a closed position to an open position. A second valve is coupled to one of the outer string member and the inner string member outwardly of the packing element in an uphole direction. The second valve selectively fluidically connects the passage and the open hole wellbore. The second valve shifts from an open position to a closed position. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160001366 | ALUMINUM ALLOY POWDER METAL COMPACT - A powder metal compact is disclosed. The powder metal compact includes a cellular nanomatrix comprising a nanomatrix material. The powder metal compact also includes a plurality of dispersed particles comprising a particle core material that comprises an Al—Cu—Mg, Al—Mn, Al—Si, Al—Mg, Al—Mg—Si, Al—Zn, Al—Zn—Cu, Al—Zn—Mg, Al—Zn—Cr, Al—Zn—Zr, or Al—Sn—Li alloy, or a combination thereof, dispersed in the cellular nanomatrix. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20150377692 | OFDR SYSTEM FOR LOCALIZED VIBRATION DETECTION - A vibration detector and method of measuring vibration are described. The vibration detector includes an optical fiber comprising a reference reflector and a delay coil, and one or more sensors comprised at respective one or more locations in the optical fiber, each of the one or more sensors including a center reflector and two side reflectors on either side of the center reflector, the delay coil eliminating detection of interference among reflections from the one or more sensors. The vibration detector also includes a light source to introduce light into the optical fiber to interrogate the optical fiber, a detector to obtain interference signals, each of the interference signals being based on interference between reflections from the reference reflector and one of the one or more sensors; and a processor to process each of the interference signals to obtain vibration measurements. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150377661 | MULTICHANNEL CORRELATION ANALYSIS FOR DISPLACEMENT DEVICE - Methods, systems and devices for estimating a parameter of interest in a borehole. The apparatus may include a displacement device configured for displacement responsive to the parameter of interest and environmental noise; a detector array configured to provide information comprising a first signal and a second signal both relating to the displacement; and at least one processor configured to mitigate effects of the environmental noise on the information by determining correlated portions of each corresponding signal representative of effects of common mode elements of the environmental noise on each corresponding signal. The displacement device may be an optical displacement device configured to receive a first electromagnetic beam with a first value of a beam property and a second electromagnetic beam with a second value of the beam property, which comprises a displacement element configured for displacement responsive to the parameter of interest and the environmental noise. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150377022 | USE OF LONG CHAIN ALCOHOLS, KETONES AND ORGANIC ACIDS AS TRACERS - Non-halogenated molecules having from 10 to 30 carbon atoms selected from the group consisting of aliphatic, aromatic, saturated, unsaturated (and combinations thereof) alcohols, ketones, organic acids, organic acid salts, sulfonated derivatives of these compounds, and combinations thereof are used as tracers to measure oil and/or water fluid returns, such as from a hydraulic fracturing job. The non-halogenated molecules may be absorbed onto and/or adsorbed onto substrates and introduced into a subterranean location, desorbed and recovered from the subterranean location with a fluid, reacted with a reagent (e.g. pentafluoro benzyl chloride, and the like) to give a derivatized tracer. The presence of the derivatized tracer is then detected in at least a portion of the recovered fluid. A different non-halogenated tracer may be used for each hydraulic fracturing stage, thus, it can be determined from which fracturing stage water is produced and from which fracturing stage oil is produced, for example. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150377010 | USE OF LONG CHAIN AMINES AND DIFUNCTIONAL COMPOUNDS AS TRACERS - Non-halogenated molecules including, but are not necessarily limited, to alkyl and aromatic amines having from 8 to 18 carbon atoms and salts of these amines, diols having the formula HO—(CH | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150376997 | USE OF LONG CHAIN ALCOHOLS, KETONES AND ORGANIC ACIDS AS TRACERS - Non-halogenated molecules having 10-30 carbons including aliphatic, aromatic, saturated, unsaturated (and combinations thereof) alcohols, ketones, organic acids, organic acid salts, sulfonated derivatives, and/or other derivatives are used as tracers to measure oil and/or water fluid returns, such as from a hydraulic fracturing job. The non-halogenated molecules may be combined with substrates and introduced into a subterranean location, desorbed and recovered from the subterranean location with a fluid, reacted with a reagent (e.g. pentafluoro benzyl chloride) to give a derivatized tracer. Alternatively, the tracer molecule release can be delayed by use of an emulsion or a coating that allows slower diffusion of the tracer into the fluid. The presence of the derivatized tracer is then detected in the recovered fluid. A different non-halogenated tracer may be used for each hydraulic fracturing stage, e.g. to determine from which fracturing stage water is produced and from which oil is produced. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150376799 | NON-PHOSPHOROUS CONTAINING CORROSION INHIBITORS FOR AQUEOUS SYSTEMS - Hydroxycarboxylic acids and/or transition metal salts may be added to an aqueous system to inhibit corrosion and/or scale deposition within the aqueous system. In a non-limiting embodiment, a phosphorous-containing component may not be added to or include in the aqueous system. The hydroxycarboxylic acid may have two or more carboxylic acid groups. The transition metal salt may have or include a transition metal, such as but not limited to, Zn (II), Zn (IV), Sn, Al, Mn, and combinations thereof. The aqueous system may be or include a cooling tower, a cooling water system, and combinations thereof. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150376516 | Method and Compositions for Inhibition of Naphthenic Acid Induced Corrosion - Corrosion induced by the presence of naphthenic acids in hydrocarbon fluids, particularly where such fluids are at elevated temperatures, may be inhibited or controlled through use of corrosion inhibiting compositions comprising a combination of a minor portion of a phosphorus-based constituent and a major portion of a sulfur-based constituent, nitrogen-based constituent, or combination thereof. In another embodiment the sulfur-based constituent and/or nitrogen-based constituent may be used without any phosphorus-based constituent. Where the compounds are appropriately selected, the compositions may inhibit corrosion to a degree comparable or nearly comparable to the inhibition provided by an equal amount of some conventional phosphorus-based compounds alone, but are significantly less likely to impair catalyst activity in downstream cracking and refinery operations. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150376041 | AQUEOUS SYSTEMS HAVING LOW LEVELS OF CALCIUM CONTAINING COMPONENTS - Hydroxycarboxylic acids and/or transition metal salts may be added to an aqueous system to inhibit corrosion and/or scale deposition within the aqueous system. The aqueous system may include a calcium containing component in an amount ranging from about 0.01 ppm to about 200 ppm. The hydroxycarboxylic acid may have two or more carboxylic acid groups. The transition metal salt may have or include a transition metal, such as but not limited to, Zn (II), Zn (IV), Sn, Al, Mn, Mo, and combinations thereof. The aqueous system may be or include a cooling tower, a cooling water system, and combinations thereof. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150376040 | ADDITIVES FOR OLEFIN PLANT QUENCHING FLUID pH CONTROL - A neutralizing additive composition may contact a fluid, such as a quench medium composition, an effluent stream, a dilution steam condensate, a dilution steam, and combinations thereof for neutralizing any neutralizable components therein. A non-limiting example of neutralizing components may be organic acids. The neutralizing additive may be or include at least one strong base and at least one amine. The strong bases(s) may be or include metal hydroxides, metal carbonates, and combinations thereof. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20150369024 | METHOD OF COMPLETING A WELL - A method of completing a well includes, pumping treating fluid into a tool string in the well, displacing drilling mud within the tool string with the treating fluid, and treating an earth formation with the treating fluid. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150365635 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING REAL-TIME MAINTENANCE, TROUBLE-SHOOTING, AND PROCESS ASSURANCE FOR THE OILFIELD - An operation, communication, and executions facilitation system includes at least one modular system device including at least one onsite fixed-base camera configurable at an onsite location directed at job equipment for remote live operation viewing by at least one offsite actor. At least one onsite hand-held camera directable by at least one onsite actor at selected equipment for remote live viewing of custom images by the at least one offsite actor. At least one audio communication device usable by the at least one onsite actor, and at least one personal computer configurable to receive data from onsite equipment. A secured or dedicated network connected to one or more of the at least one modular system device. A data center in communication with the secured or dedicated network; and, at least one operations center at an offsite location configured to be manned by the at least one offsite actor and configured to receive data via the data center from the at least one modular system device. Wherein two-way communication between the at least one offsite actor and the at least one onsite actor is accomplished through one or more of the at least one onsite hand-held camera, the at least one audio communication device, and the at least one personal computer. A method of providing and facilitating real-time equipment maintenance, trouble-shooting, and targeted remote operational process assurance of an operation. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150361758 | Disintegrating Packer Slip/Seal - An annularly shaped structure serves as a support and seal when pushed out on a ramp. A continuous seal in a groove is used on one or two sides to enhance sealing. A separate annular structure for sealing can be disposed adjacent to the shape having alternating longitudinal slots so that each structure is targeted to a different purpose. The structures disintegrate when made of a disintegrating material such as for example a controlled electrolytic material (CEM) so that removal of the barrier can occur after a treating operation such as fracturing where many such barriers are deployed. The slots have enlarged holes at their ends to reduce stress concentration that can lead to cracking. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150361373 | PROCESS FOR CLARIFYING BIOFUELS - Haze may be removed from a biofuel or biofuel intermediate by using a clarifier. The clarifier includes copolymer prepared using a formulation comprising an alpha olefin and maleic anhydride. The clarifier may also be used with admixtures of biofuels, biofuel intermediates, or biofuel feedstocks with conventional hydrocarbons. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150354350 | Downhole Vibratory Communication System and Method - Systems and methods for controlling one or more downhole tools. A vibratory signal is produced by interaction between an actuation profile and a contact profile. In response to the vibratory signal, a controller actuates one or more downhole tools. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354348 | DOWNHOLE COMMUNICATIONS ARRANGEMENT AND DOWNHOLE SYSTEM - A downhole communications arrangement including one or more electromagnetic (EM) devices; and a shield disposed relative to the one or more devices. The shield preventing or reducing passage of one or more EM frequencies and being alterable by one or more selected conditions to allow passage of the one or more frequencies. A method for communicating in a downhole environment. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354344 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO QUANTIFY DAMAGE TO GRAVEL PACK SCREENS - A system and method to quantify damage to a gravel pack screen are described. The system includes a flux leakage tool to record electromagnetic field measurements at a plurality of points on the gravel pack screen. The system also includes a processor to obtain the electromagnetic field measurements recorded at the plurality of points and to suppress a baseline signal associated with electromagnetic field measurements resulting from perforations of the gravel pack screen to isolate and quantify flux leakage resulting from the damage to the gravel pack screen from flux leakage resulting from the perforations. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354339 | Downhole Camera - A camera apparatus that is at least partially incorporated within a downhole tool to be disposed to a subterranean location by a running arrangement. The camera apparatus includes a camera sensor for capturing one or more visual images of a subterranean location and a memory storage operably associated with camera sensor, the camera sensor providing one or more visual images to the storage memory. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354334 | Refracturing an Already Fractured Borehole - A well with existing perforations is re-fractured by positioning isolators at locations offset from the existing perforations and perforating through those isolators. The isolators are part of a bottom hole assembly that can be delivered on coiled or rigid tubing. The initial fractures can be straddled by the isolators with no mandrel openings between them to effectively isolate the existing perforations as new perforations take place through the isolators. The elements of the isolators can have internal gaps to allow for axial shifting after perforation that is thermally induced. The gaps assure remaining alignment with the new perforations despite some axial shifting. The bottom hole assembly can alternatively have an anchor to resist thermally induced forces that can cause axial shifting. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354324 | Subterranean Hydraulic Jack - A system and method allows the operation of a remotely located tool in an application where there is a telescoping space out joint in such a manner that the hanger need not be released. A hydraulic piston is surface actuated to move gripping teeth against the pipe and then take the pipe with the gripping teeth so that a tool that is engaged by the string can be remotely operated while safety features for the well can remain operative. The shifted position is held with maintained control line pressure. Some release of the control line pressure will not allow the operating piston to return. Rather, a check valve holds the shifted piston position until a differential pressure on the check valve drops to a predetermined value so that the check valve acts as a dump valve. The system operates off annulus pressure if the control line is damaged. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354322 | MODULAR HYBRID LOW EMISSIONS POWER FOR HYDROCARBON EXTRACTION - A system for supplying electric power includes: a plurality of electric motors coupled to well treatment pumps; a mobile substation that receives power from a utility electric grid; a plurality of mobile electric power generating units; a controller configured to (i) receive a total required flow rate of the liquid; (ii) calculate a total amount of electric power required to achieve the required total flow rate; (iii) receive an amount of power available from the utility electric grid; (iv) direct the substation to provide electric power to the plurality of electric motors; and (v), direct one or more electric power generating units in the plurality of electric power generating units to provide electric power to the plurality of electric motors according to a priority order to meet the total amount of electric power, if the required amount of electric power exceeds the amount of power available from the utility grid. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354317 | Wellbore Strings Containing Annular Flow Valves - In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment contains a flow control device for use in a wellbore that includes a bore that provides a first flow path, a second flow path via an annulus around the first flow path, a closing device that closes the second flow path when the closing device is mechanically moved in a first direction and an opening device that opens the second flow path when a fluid under pressure is supplied to the annulus when the valve is closed. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354316 | Control Line Sharing Between a Lower and an Insert Safety Valve - A system involving a lower tubing mounted safety valve having one or two control lines further contains a landing nipple above for a wireline insert valve. One line that serves the lower safety valve is tied to a connection on the landing nipple for the insert valve. When the lower safety valve malfunctions the landing nipple wall is penetrated to get communication to the line coming from the lower safety valve so that such line can serve as a balance line for the insert valve. The other line from the surface to the other connection on the landing nipple serves as the operating line for the insert valve. Making one line serve a dual purpose eliminates one control line from the surface. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354312 | CORRODIBLE DOWNHOLE ARTICLE AND METHOD OF REMOVING THE ARTICLE FROM DOWNHOLE ENVIRONMENT - A method of removing a corrodible downhole article having a surface coating includes eroding the surface coating by physical abrasion, chemical etching, or a combination of physical abrasion and chemical etching, the surface coating comprising a metallic layer of a metal resistant to corrosion by a corrosive material. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354304 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THERMALLY ACTUATING AND UNACTUATING DOWNHOLE TOOLS - A method for actuating a downhole tool comprising disposing a phase change material having selected volumetric change upon phase change in contact with a tool or tool component. Raising a temperature of the material above the phase change point of the material. Directing a resultant force of the volumetric increase of the phase change material to the tool or tool component. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150346382 | MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUE UTILIZING NOVEL RADIATION DETECTORS IN AND NEAR PULSED NEUTRON GENERATOR TUBES FOR WELL LOGGING APPLICATIONS USING SOLID STATE MATERIALS - An apparatus for estimating a property of an earth formation includes a pulsed neutron generator configured to emit a pulse of neutrons, a formation radiation detector configured to detect radiation emitted from the formation due to interactions with the pulse of neutrons, and a neutron generator radiation detector having a crystal structure and configured to detect a radiation particle emitted from the pulsed neutron generator and to provide a location within the neutron radiation detector at which the particle was detected. The crystal structure includes a plurality of detection cells, each detection cell having at least two electrically conducting columns with an applied potential difference such that electrons generated in the crystal structure by interaction with the radiation particle are collected by at least one of the electrically conducting columns to provide detection locations. A processor estimates the property using the detected formation radiation and the detection locations. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150346377 | WETTABILITY ESTIMATION USING MAGNETIC RESONANCE - A method of estimating a wettability characteristic of a formation includes: disposing a magnetic resonance (MR) measurement apparatus in a borehole; generating a low gradient static magnetic field and an oscillating magnetic field in a region of the formation; detecting a MR signal generated in the region; calculating relaxation parameters for at least one fluid in the region; and estimating the wettability characteristic of the region based on the relaxation parameters. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150346370 | METHOD OF CALIBRATION FOR DOWNHOLE FIBER OPTIC DISTRIBUTED ACOUSTIC SENSING - A method of operating a distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) system and a DAS system are described. The method includes disposing the DAS system to measure acoustic signals in a borehole, positioning a vibration tool at a specified depth in the borehole, and obtaining two or more DAS signals, obtaining at least one of the two or more DAS signals while the vibration tool is activated at a respective specified frequency and a respective specified amplitude. The method also includes calibrating the DAS system based on the two or more DAS signals, and the specified depth, the respective specified frequency, and the respective specified amplitude. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150345922 | Igniter for Downhole Use Having Flame Control - An igniter initiates combustion in an amount of explosive that is downhole and adjacent the igniter. The igniter includes an amount of combustible material and a resistive igniter element disposed on a side of the combustible material that faces the amount of explosive. Applying a designated amount of electricity to the resistive igniter element generates sufficient heat to ignite the combustible material. Strategically initiating ignition adjacent the amount of explosive generates a flame front that travels away from the explosive, which in turn directs a flame against the explosive substantially the entire time the combustible material burns. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150345264 | MULTILATERAL SAND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A multilateral sand management system including a multilateral junction device disposed at a multilateral junction area of a primary borehole and a lateral borehole. The multilateral junction device including a lateral leg disposed within an upholemost portion of the lateral borehole. An electric submersible pump disposed within the lateral leg of the multilateral junction device. The pump when operating placing the multilateral junction area under a positive pressure compared to a pressure in the lateral borehole and in the primary borehole downhole of the multilateral junction area. A method of controlling sand at a multilateral junction area of a primary borehole and a lateral borehole. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150345262 | AUTOMATED DRILLNG OPTIMIZATION - A method implemented by a processor for drilling a borehole includes: inputting drilling parameters used to drill one or more offset boreholes, rate of penetration for the one or more offset boreholes, and one or more lithologies for the one or more offset boreholes; identifying those drilling parameters that correspond to a rate of penetration (ROP) that meets or exceeds a selected ROP threshold for each input lithology; correlating a borehole plan comprising a borehole path to be drilled and one or more assumed lithologies as a function of depth to the one or more lithologies of the one or more offset boreholes; sending the identified drilling parameters to a drill rig controller for each of the assumed lithologies in the borehole plan; and drilling the borehole with the drill rig using the identified drilling parameters for each of the one or more assumed lithologies in the borehole plan. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150345261 | HIGH-SPEED CAMERA TO MONITOR SURFACE DRILLING DYNAMICS AND PROVIDE OPTICAL DATA LINK FOR RECEIVING DOWNHOLE DATA - An apparatus for drilling a borehole into the earth includes a drill string configured to drill the borehole and a high-speed camera configured to capture a series of images of the drill tubular at a speed high enough to image information of interest while the drill tubular is in operation. The apparatus further includes a processor configured to receive and process the series of images to provide the information of interest. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150345255 | DISSOLVABLE SIEVE, PARTICULATE TOLERANT SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROTECTING A TOOL FROM PARTICULATE - A dissolvable sieve includes a body that is permeable to fluid flow therethrough constructed of a material configured to dissolve in a target environment. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150345244 | Removable Treating Plug with Run In Protected Agglomerated Granular Sealing Element - A fully disintegrating plug has a passage therethrough and a ball seat at an upper end. The seal material that comprises plastic nuggets, sand and a grease binder is initially disposed behind a protective sleeve. A wireline setting tool creates relative movement between a plunger and a mandrel body that has a ramp surface adjacent the outlet of the protective sleeve. The sleeve outlet is closed for running in but plunger movement pushes the seal material so as to displace the closure at the sleeve outlet with the seal material that is forced up the mandrel ramp surface and against the surrounding tubular. After an object is landed on the mandrel seat and the treating is concluded, the plug components are caused to disintegrate or otherwise fail for complete removal. Multiple plugs are contemplated for fracturing or other treating applications. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150345240 | Drilling Apparatus Including a Fluid Bypass Device and Methods of Using Same - A method and apparatus for drilling a wellbore is disclosed. The wellbore is drilled with a drill string that includes a bypass device having a fluid passage therethrough by supplying a fluid through the bypass device at a first flow rate, wherein the fluid circulates to a surface location via an annulus between the drill string and the wellbore. The flow rate of the fluid is altered to a second flow rate. A time period is defined and a mechanical motion of the bypass device is initiated. A parameter related to the mechanical motion of the bypass device and a parameter related to flow rate are detected. The bypass device is activated to divert a portion of the fluid to the annulus when the parameter related to mechanical motion is detected and the parameter related to flow rate is present during the defined time period. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150345229 | METHODS OF FORMING POLYCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND AND CUTTING ELEMENTS AND TOOLS COMPRISING POLYCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND - A method of forming polycrystalline diamond includes encapsulating diamond particles, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide in a container. The encapsulated diamond particles, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide are subjected to a pressure of at least 4.5 GPa and a temperature of at least 1400° C. to form inter-granular bonds between the diamond particles. A cutting element includes polycrystalline diamond material comprising inter-bonded grains of diamond. The polycrystalline diamond material is substantially free of graphitic carbon and metallic compounds. The polycrystalline diamond material exhibits a density of at least about 3.49 g/cm | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150344786 | METHODS OF OBTAINING A HYDROCARBON MATERIAL FROM A MINED MATERIAL, AND RELATED STABILIZED EMULSIONS - A method of obtaining a hydrocarbon material from a mined material comprises forming a colloidal dispersion comprising solid particles and a carrier fluid. The colloidal dispersion is mixed with a mined, hydrocarbon-containing material to form an emulsion stabilized by the solid particles. At least one property of the emulsion is modified to destabilize the emulsion. Additional methods of obtaining a hydrocarbon material from a mined material, and a stabilized emulsion are also described. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150344769 | SUSPENSIONS INCLUDING ORGANIC BASES FOR ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY AND METHODS OF OBTAINING HYDROCARBONS USING SUCH SUSPENSIONS - Suspensions comprising an organic base and at least one carrier fluid. The organic base comprises an amine group and at least one hydrophobic group attached to the amine group. The at least one hydrophobic group may be functionalized with one or more functional groups. Methods of extracting and obtaining a hydrocarbon material from a subterranean formation or bitumen using the suspension are disclosed. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150339056 | CLIENT-SIDE DATA CACHING - An apparatus for processing data from a host storage device includes a client processing device configured to be connected by a communication channel to the host storage device. The client processing device includes: a processor configured to request a data set stored at the host storage device, the data set associated with a globally unique identifier; and a cache configured to store a copy of the data set and the globally unique identifier based on the processor receiving the data set from the host storage device, the cache being a persistent storage configured to retain the copy of the data set until the processor stores a new data set in the cache, the cache configured to retain the copy of the data set independent of an amount of time that the data set is stored in the cache. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150338540 | DUAL MODE BALANCING IN OBM RESISTIVITY IMAGING - Methods, systems, and devices for evaluating an earth formation. Methods may include conveying the carrier into a formation borehole; and using measure electrodes, in one mode of measurement, to make current measurements by applying a voltage to each measure electrode in a first set of sensor arrays while making first current measurements; and applying another high frequency voltage to each measure electrode in a second set of sensor arrays while making second current measurements. Optionally, methods include using the measure electrodes, in another mode of measurement, to make further resistivity measurements by applying a voltage to each measure electrode in both sets of sensor arrays while making third current measurements. Methods include combining first current measurements, second current measurements, and third current measurements to simulate a virtual impedance for each measure electrode. Optionally, any two consecutive sensor arrays around the circumference of the tool body are in different sets. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337655 | PACKER ELEMENT WITH LAMINAR FLUID ENTRY - An apparatus for retrieving a fluid from a sampling zone in a borehole intersecting a formation may include a sampling tool having a port positioned in the sampling zone and a permeable media filling an annular space surrounding the port. The permeable media may include a circumferential support face, a first plurality of radial flow channels, and a second plurality of radial flow channels. The support face extends axially and uniformly along a length of the sampling zone. The circumferential support face contacts a borehole wall. The first plurality of radial flow channels conveys fluid between the borehole wall and the port. The second plurality of radial flow channels conveys fluid between the borehole wall and a location isolated from the port. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337646 | Magnetostrictive Apparatus and Method for Determining Position of a Tool in a Wellbore - A system, method and apparatus for controlling a downhole operation is disclosed. A tool is operated to perform the downhole operation at a selected downhole location using a first value of an operation parameter of the tool. A magnetostrictive position sensor is used to determine a relative position along a section of a wellbore related to the operation being performed using the first value of the operation parameter. The determined relative position is compared to a selected threshold. The operation parameter is altered to a second value based on the comparison of the relative position to the selected threshold. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337644 | REMOVEABLE ELECTRONIC COMPONENT ACCESS MEMBER FOR A DOWNHOLE SYSTEM - A downhole tool includes a tool body having an outer surface portion and an inner surface portion and a recess formed in one of the outer surface portion and inner surface portion. At least one removable electronic component access member is detachably mounted to the tool body. The removable electronic component access member provides access to electronic components housed in the recess. A metallic seal is provided on at least one of the tool body and the removable electronic component access member. The metallic seal prevents fluid ingress into the recess through the at least one removable electronic component access member. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337641 | DOWNHOLE TOOL INCLUDING A MULTI-CHIP MODULE HOUSING - A downhole tool includes a tool body having an in inner surface portion and an outer surface portion. The outer surface portion includes a recess having a peripheral wall and an inner surface. A multi-chip module (MCM) housing is defined in the recess. The MCM housing includes one or more fortifying members that support axial and radial loading of the downhole tool and include one or more electronics receiving zones. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337633 | DOWNHOLE SYSTEM WITH FILTERING AND METHOD - A downhole system includes a tubular having a plurality of spaced apertures radially extending through a wall of the tubular. A section of the tubular blocking radial fluid flow through the wall between an interior and exterior of the tubular. The section arranged from a first end to a second end of the tubular. A plurality of filter pucks respectively inserted into at least some of the plurality of apertures. The filter pucks each including a body configured for insertion in one of the apertures and a filtering element within each body; and, at least one control or monitoring line arranged on the section. Further is a method of controlling sand in a downhole system. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337628 | Mechanically Actuated Variable Choke System for Subterranean Use - A series of independently operated chokes, using a shift tool in registry with a profile unique to each choke, have a tubular valve member that aligns or misaligns openings for the fully open or closed positions for the choke and for intermediate positions as the valve opens or closes. The valve member is actuated axially using a reversing screw and a j-slot. A shifting tool latches a unique profile to operate the j-slot to cause a sleeve to rotate in place. The sleeve has a pin in registry with a profile on a profile shaft. The profile shaft can move axially in opposite direction but is restrained against rotation. The profile is shaped so that continuous j-slot operation causes the registered pin to move in the profile to then axially drive the profile shaft which is connected to the valve member. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337623 | Degradable Fluid Loss and Pressure Barrier for Subterranean Use - A tubular segment that has openings that are initially closed so that pressure can be conducted through the segment has the ability to open the segments by making a degradable material unblock the openings to facilitate another completion operation or production. Some applications include a slotted liner with a screen where an intermediate layer of a controlled electrolytic material initially allows the structure to conduct pressure and then after degradation allows access through the screen and the slotted liner for production. Other variations can be simply using slotted liner where the slots are closed for running it to allow circulation and then opened for production or other completion steps. The transformation can take place over time using available well fluids or it can take place with induced well conditions at the location that are initiated from the surface or locally at the location. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337619 | Partly Disintegrating Plug for Subterranean Treatment Use - A disintegrating plug uses a setting tool to push a swage into the plug body that has external ribs that contact the wall of the surrounding tubular. The ribs retain the body to the surrounding tubular wall with frictional contact. Some leakage may ensue but in fracturing some leakage does not matter if enough volume under the right pressure reaches the formation. The sheared member during the setting comes out with the mandrel that is part of the setting tool. In an alternative embodiment one or more o-rings are used to seal while anchoring is assisted by the hardened insert(s) that can be snap fitted in using rib flexing or that can be a c-ring that is expanded and snapped in. The o-ring(s) are axially spaced from the insert(s). | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337618 | Disintegrating Plug for Subterranean Treatment Use - A disintegrating plug uses a setting tool to push a swage into the plug body that has external ribs that contact the wall of the surrounding tubular. The ribs retain the body to the surrounding tubular wall with frictional contact. Some leakage may ensue but in fracturing some leakage does not matter if enough volume under the right pressure reaches the formation. The sheared member during the setting comes out with the mandrel that is part of the setting tool. In an alternative embodiment one or more o-rings are used to seal while anchoring is assisted by the hardened insert(s) that can be snap fitted in using rib flexing or that can be a c-ring that is expanded and snapped in. The o-ring(s) are axially spaced from the insert(s). | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337614 | DOWNHOLE SEAL PROTECTOR ARRANGEMENT - A seal protection arrangement including a seal. One or more projections disposed proximate the seal and having rigidity/flexibility to deflect components passing thereby that are not intended to seal with the seal. Rigidity/flexibility to allow a component intended to seal with the seal to engage and seal therewith. A method for protecting a seal in a downhole assembly. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337603 | HYBRID BIT WITH MECHANICALLY ATTACHED ROLLER CONE ELEMENTS - A modular hybrid bit is disclosed comprising a plurality of fixed blades and at least one rolling cutter assembly that is mechanically fastened to the bit body by a plurality of mechanical fasteners. The rolling cutter assembly can be adjusted to change the axial and radial exposure of the rolling cutter elements. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150331411 | AUTOMATED CONFLICT RESOLUTION MANAGEMENT - A system, a method of performing conflict management in a system, and a conflict manager in a system are described. The system includes two or more controllers to issue corresponding two or more commands to one or more actors to accomplish a respective activity, the actor being one of a tool to be controlled based on the command, an application to be executed based on the command, or an operator to be instructed based on the command. The system also includes a conflict manager, implemented by a processor, to resolve a conflict with one of the two or more commands or between the two or more commands. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150331138 | Real-Time, Limited Orientation Sensor Auto-Calibration - A system method and computer-readable medium for correcting measurements obtained by a down hole tool for residual measurement errors is disclosed. A down hole tool having at least two directional field sensors is disposed in a borehole. The at least two directional sensors are substantially orthogonal to each other and to a longitudinal axis of the down hole tool. Measurements are obtained from the at least two directional sensors during rotation of the tool by at least 360 degrees around the longitudinal axis of the tool. Residual measurement errors are determined for the obtained measurements, and a quality level of the determined residual measurement errors selected. The determined residual measurement errors are applied to the obtained measurements when the determined residual measurement errors are consistent with the selected quality level. In various embodiments, the residual measurement errors are reduced from a first value that does not match the selected quality level to a second value that are consistent with the selected quality level. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330216 | USE OF A FRACTAL ANTENNA IN ARRAY DIELECTRIC LOGGING - An apparatus for estimating a property of an earth formation includes: a carrier configured to be conveyed through a borehole penetrating an earth formation; a first fractal-shaped antenna element disposed on the carrier and configured to at least one of transmit electromagnetic energy into the formation and receive electromagnetic energy from the formation; and a second fractal-shaped antenna element electrically connected to the first fractal-shaped antenna element at a connection and configured to at least one of transmit electromagnetic energy into the formation and receive electromagnetic energy from the formation; wherein the second fractal-shaped antenna element is substantially a mirror image of the first fractal antenna element with respect to a reflection about the connection. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330214 | Wellbore Systems with Hydrocarbon Leak Detection Apparatus and Methods - In one aspect, a wellbore system is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes a cement section in the wellbore formed to prevent flow of fluids including hydrocarbons through the cement section, a plug disposed uphole of the cement section to provide a space between the cement section and the plug and a sensor in the space for providing measurements relating to a parameter of interest. In one aspect, the parameter of interest may include one or more of presence and extent of a hydrocarbon, presence of moisture; pressure; and temperature. The system may further include a transmitter that transmits measurements from the sensor via a communication line or wirelessly to a receiver for processing the sensor measurements. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330208 | MULTI CHIP MODULE HOUSING MOUNTING IN MWD, LWD AND WIRELINE DOWNHOLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES - An apparatus for protecting an electronics module used in a borehole includes a borehole string section having an outer circumferential surface on which at least one pocket is formed, a mount associated with the at least one pocket, and a sleeve surrounding the section of the borehole string. The mount includes a housing, a lid, and a biasing member. The housing receives the electronics module and is seated on a seating surface of the at least one pocket. The lid encloses the housing within the at least one pocket. The biasing member is positioned between the lid and the housing. The sleeve presses the lid against the biasing member and the biasing member may responsively urge the housing against the seating surface. Related methods include protecting the electronics module with the mount. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330201 | AUTOMATED DELIVERY OF WELLBORE CONSTRUCTION SERVICES - A system and a method to providing a drilling service are described. The system includes a processor to identify two or more tasks associated with the service and one or more procedures associated with each of the one or more tasks. The system also includes an output interface to output commands to complete the one or more procedures associated with each of the two or more tasks, the commands being directed to actors that complete the one or more procedures, the actors including a downhole tool, a surface tool, or a human operator. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330200 | Apparatus and Method for Operating a Device in a Wellbore Using Signals Generated in Response to Strain on a Downhole Member - An apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one non-limiting embodiment includes a tubular having an inside and an outside, a sensor on the outside of the tubular that provides a sensor signal in response to a strain induced in the tubular, and a processor that provides a signal responsive to the sensor signal to operate a device in the wellbore. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330199 | METHOD FOR ENHANCING ACIDIZING TREATMENT OF A FORMATION HAVING A HIGH BOTTOM HOLE TEMPERATURE - An injection process to treat sandstone or limestone subterranean formations using carboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids and/or aminocarboxylic acids (e.g. glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA); methylglycine N,N-diacetic acid (MGDA); diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA), etc.), further involves at least a two step injection process which may include, in one non-limiting embodiment, injecting a relatively higher concentration of organic acid to create wormholes accompanied by a relatively lower concentration of the same or different organic acid to enhance the permeability of the formation. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330178 | Travel Stop for Expansion Tool to Limit Stress on a Surrounding Tubular - An expandable anchor/seal is pushed up a ramp until making contact with the surrounding tubular as or after the anchor/seal contacts the same tubular. The setting sleeve is made from high yield steel that has a weakened leading end to reduce the force required to push the leading end and the anchor/seal and an outer surface treatment at a leading end that engages or penetrates the wall of the surrounding tubular. Preferably a plurality of fingers are formed with axially oriented slots starting from a leading end allowing fingers to flex as they ride up the ramp on the mandrel for setting the anchor/seal and locking that set with the setting sleeve exterior surface configuration that can abut or penetrate the surrounding tubular. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330177 | Self-locking Expandable Seal Activator - An expandable anchor/seal is pushed up a ramp until making contact with the surrounding tubular as or after the anchor/seal contacts the same tubular. The setting sleeve is made from high yield steel that has a weakened leading end to reduce the force required to push the leading end and the anchor/seal and an outer surface treatment at a leading end that engages or penetrates the wall of the surrounding tubular. Preferably a plurality of fingers are formed with axially oriented slots starting from a leading end allowing fingers to flex as they ride up the ramp on the mandrel for setting the anchor/seal and locking that set with the setting sleeve exterior surface configuration that can abut or penetrate the surrounding tubular. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330176 | Expandable Seal with Adjacent Radial Travel Stop - An expandable anchor/seal is pushed up a ramp until making contact with the surrounding tubular as or after the anchor/seal contacts the same tubular. The setting sleeve is made from high yield steel that has a weakened leading end to reduce the force required to push the leading end and the anchor/seal and an outer surface treatment at a leading end that engages or penetrates the wall of the surrounding tubular. Preferably a plurality of fingers are formed with axially oriented slots starting from a leading end allowing fingers to flex as they ride up the ramp on the mandrel for setting the anchor/seal and locking that set with the setting sleeve exterior surface configuration that can abut or penetrate the surrounding tubular. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330175 | Expansion Limiter for Expandable Seal - An expandable seal has at least one travel stop designed to engage the surrounding tubular to limit expansion of the ring shape of the seal and in so doing limit the stress of circumferential ribs that extend from the ring base shape as they engage the surrounding tubular. The travel stop can be a solid ring or segments and can have a rounded outer surface designed to engage the surrounding tubular in a flush relationship. Alternatively the outer surface can also have hardened particles for a bite into the wall of the surrounding tubular before the blunt portions of the travel stop come into contact with the inside wall of the surrounding tubular. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330171 | System and Method for Providing a Resillient Solid Fuel Source in a Wellbore - A system, method and apparatus for providing a fuel source in a wellbore is disclosed. A tool is placed into a wellbore. A primary charge is associated with the tool. A secondary charge associated with the tool is provided. The secondary charge includes a resilient solid propellant. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330152 | Enhanced Backup Ring Edge Features for Metal Face Seal in Roller Cone Drill Bits - A backup ring for a face seal in a roller cone bit is configured to resist wear from drilling fluids present adjacent exposed faces of the backup ring. Portions are removed from an exposed end face in a variety of shapes while the hardness of the material is increased. The removal of material offsets an increase in force that would be transmitted through the backup ring on face seal assembly due to flexing. A spring can optionally be included in the removed material location. Another way is to increase the edge density of all or part of the exposed edges while leaving the interior portions unaffected by using electron beam radiation to increase the crosslink density or by other techniques that allow a unitary structure with a more durable edge region. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150329987 | Electrochemical Machining Method for Rotors or Stators for Moineau Pumps - An ECM method involves the use of a thin hollow electrode assembly that carries the electrolyte within and that is advanced relatively to the workpiece. The small profile of the electrode results in a minimal removal of metal in forming the desired rotor or stator shape. The electrode profile allows significant power consumption reduction or increased machining speed for a given rate of power input. The electrode can be a unitary ring shape or can be made of segments that are placed adjacent each other so that a continuous shape is cut. Not all the lobes of the stator or rotor have to be cut in the same pass. Electrode segments can be used to sequentially provide the desired lobe count in separate passes. The lobe shapes in the electrode can be slanted to get the desired rotor or stator pitch or they can be aligned with the workpiece axis. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150323683 | NEUTRON AND GAMMA SENSITIVE FIBER SCINTILLATORS - One general embodiment according to the present disclosure may be formation evaluation tool for detecting radiation in a borehole in a volume of an earth formation. The tool may include a detector including a monolithic scintillation element comprising a coherent assemblage of joined fibers, wherein the fibers are made of an optically transparent scintillation media. The fibers may be at least one of i) gamma ray responsive; and ii) neutron responsive. The coherent assemblage of fibers may be a continuous mass, may be heat-joined. The fibers may be solid. The scintillation media may comprise at least one of i) organic crystalline scintillation materials, ii) amorphous glass, and iii) nanostructured glass ceramics. The coherent assemblage of fibers may be asymmetric. The coherent assemblage of fibers may surround a further scintillation media having different scintillation characteristics than the scintillation media. The scintillation element may be azimuthally sensitive. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323130 | Oil Injection Unit - An oil injection unit to provide motor oil to the motor of an electric submersible pump. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323108 | TUBULAR CONNECTING ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD OF SEALINGLY CONNECTING TUBULARS - A tubular connecting arrangement includes, a first tubular having a first shoulder and first threads, a second tubular having a second shoulder and second threads, a seal sealingly engagable to both the first shoulder and the second shoulder, an insert and a sleeve. The insert is attachable to the second tubular and configured to provide radial support to the second tubular. The sleeve threadably engagable with both the first threads and the second threads in response to being rotated in a same direction relative to both the first tubular and the second tubular such that the first shoulder and the second shoulder are moved toward one another to compress the seal therebetween without rotational movement of the first tubular relative to the second tubular. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323079 | ESP Mechanical Seal Lubrication - Seal sections for electric submersible pumps. Seal sections are described which include a combination of a barrier fluid to protect a seal from unfavorable ingress and control of differential pressure across the face of the seal. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150322782 | GUIDED WAVE DOWNHOLE FLUID SENSOR - Methods, systems, and devices for downhole evaluation using a sensor assembly that includes a sensor plate, wherein a surface of the sensor plate forms a portion of an exterior surface of a downhole tool. Methods may include submerging the surface of the sensor plate in a downhole fluid in a borehole; activating the sensor assembly to generate a guided wave that propagates along the sensor plate, wherein propagation of the guided wave along the sensor plate is dependent upon a parameter of interest of the downhole fluid; and using information from the sensor assembly relating to the propagation of the guided wave along the sensor plate to estimate the parameter of interest. Methods may include isolating an opposing surface of the sensor plate from the downhole fluid. The guided wave may be an interface guided wave or may propagate in the plate between the surface and an opposing surface. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150322770 | Metal Bellows Equalizer Capacity Monitoring System - A bellows position monitoring arrangement to determine the axial position of a bellows assembly within the outer housing of a seal section or equalizer. The position can be correlated to an amount of motor oil being retained within the bellows assembly. | 11-12-2015 |
