Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080277114 | Screen Saver Sub - A transition piece is provided near an end of a screen assembly to allow transition from a lighter weight and collapse resistant pipe under the screen sections to a heavier wall and higher collapse strength pipe between the top of the screen and the isolation packer. When a screen out occurs, the heavier wall pipe can handle the new pressures that are applied to the formation and to the tubular to try to collapse it. The screen portion can still be built with thinner wall pipe as the screen out condition protects that pipe from collapse pressure because the fully gravel packed annular space keeps the surface applied pump pressure from exerting a collapse force on the base pipe under the screen. The internal diameter under the screen does not have to be reduced because the heavy wall pipe is not provided there. Above the screen, a heavy wall pipe can be provided because the absence of the screen layer allows more room for a larger pipe with thicker wall without decrease in internal diameter as compared to under the screen. | 11-13-2008 |
20080296019 | Completion Method for Fracturing and Gravel Packing - In one embodiment telescoping members are extended to bridge an annular gap either before or after it is cemented. Some of the telescoping members have screens and others have flow passages that can be selectively opened with associated valves to frac an interval in any order desired. The valves are then closed after the frac job and the other telescoping members are made to allow screened flow from the fractured formation. In another embodiment an interval to be gravel packed and fractured has a series of screens and selectively opened valves on a bottom hole assembly such as a liner. One or more external packers are provided. The entire interval is gravel packed at one time followed by packer actuation and then selective opening of ports to conduct a fracture operation in any of the zones defined by the set packers and in any desired order. | 12-04-2008 |
20080308274 | Lower Completion Module - A technique that is usable with a well includes installing a lower completion module as a unit in the well. The lower completion module includes a flow control mechanism, an annular packer, a sand screen and a flow monitoring device. Either a single unit or a plurality of the units may be installed in the well for zonal isolation and control. | 12-18-2008 |
20080314588 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING EROSION OF COMPONENTS DURING WELL TREATMENT - A technique is provided for use in treating one or more well zones by directing a treatment fluid downwardly through a delivery tube and then outwardly through one or more nozzles into a desired well zone. The treatment fluid is delivered downhole to the desired well zone and at least a portion of that fluid is directed laterally outward from the well treatment completion through the one or more nozzles. Each nozzle comprises a material that protects both the nozzle and proximate portions of the delivery tube from detrimental erosion due to the passage of treatment fluid. | 12-25-2008 |
20080314589 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CREATING A GRAVEL PACK - A technique is provided for forming a gravel pack at a well zone. A completion assembly is positioned in a wellbore and cooperates with a service tool engaging the completion assembly. The completion assembly comprises a completion assembly central bore. A return is located radially outward of the central bore at a specific well zone or zones and comprises a flow path for returning a carrier fluid. The location of the return allows flow of the returning carrier fluid to remain outside of the completion assembly central bore at a specific well zone or zones. | 12-25-2008 |
20080314590 | INFLOW CONTROL DEVICE - A system that is usable with a well includes a tubular member and an inflow control device. The screen receives a well fluid flow, and the tubular member has a well fluid communication passageway. The inflow control device changes a momentum of the well fluid flow and/or introduces a flow resistance to regulate a pressure of the well fluid. The number of momentum changes and/or the flow resistance may be changed while the inflow control device is deployed downhole in the well. | 12-25-2008 |
20090008092 | Wellbore Method and Apparatus For Sand And Inflow Control During Well Operations - A method, system and apparatus associated with the production of hydrocarbons are described. The system includes a wellbore that accesses a subsurface reservoir; a production tubing string disposed within the wellbore; and one or more sand control devices coupled to the production tubing string and disposed within the wellbore. At least one of the sand control devices includes a first tubular member having a permeable section and a non permeable section; a second tubular member disposed within the first tubular member. The second tubular member has a plurality of openings and an inflow control device that each provide a flow path to the interior of the second tubular member. Also, the at least one of the sand control devices includes a sealing mechanism disposed between the first tubular member and the second tubular member. The sealing mechanism is configured to provide a pressure loss during gravel packing operations that is less than the pressure loss during at least some of the production operations. | 01-08-2009 |
20090025932 | System and Method for Low Damage Gravel Packing - A method is disclosed for low damage gravel packing. The method includes combining a carrier fluid, a first amount of particulates, and a second amount of particulates into a slurry. The first amount of particulates have a first average size distribution and the second amount of particulates have a second average size distribution, and the first average size distribution is at least three times larger than the second average size distribution. The slurry includes particles which are at least partially degradable material, and with reactive solid constituents. The reactive solid reacts with the degradable material and/or a hydrolysis product of the degradable material. The method further includes positioning a screen in a wellbore, and circulating the slurry through the wellbore such that the first amount of particulates and the second amount of particulates are deposited on an outer surface of the screen. | 01-29-2009 |
20090065207 | Well Treatment To Inhibit Fines Migration - A method of treating a formation with a well treatment fluid comprising a clay stabilizer comprising a polyamine ether before or during a well treatment such as cleanup, gravel packing, fracturing, or the like. The stabilizer can continue to inhibit fines migration in the treatment zone even after an aqueous fluid without the stabilizer, e.g. a production fluid or injection fluid, displaces the original treatment fluid. When the stabilizer is used in a viscoelastic system (VES) with an acid blend component, the viscosity of the VES is essentially unchanged relative to the VES alone without the stabilizer. | 03-12-2009 |
20090078417 | Emulsion System for Sand Consolidation - A sand consolidation system and a method for use of the system is provided. The consolidation system includes an emulsion having an oil phase and an aqueous phase, wherein the emulsion contains a source of insoluble silica particles and a source of calcium hydroxide, wherein the calcium hydroxide particles are present in the oil phase, and the insoluble silica particles are contained in the aqueous phase. Both types of particles must have average particle sizes which will fit into the pores of the formations. | 03-26-2009 |
20090084549 | Downhole tools having screens for insertion into gravel disposed in wellbores and methods of installing same - Downhole tools for gravel pack completion processes in wellbores comprise a screen, an isolation device comprising a sealing element disposed above the screen, and an artificial lifting device disposed above the isolation device. Upon actuation, the sealing element divides the wellbore into an upper zone and a lower zone so that the screen is disposed in the lower zone and the artificial lifting device is disposed in the upper zone. The two zones are in fluid communication with each other through a longitudinal bore within the downhole tool. In operation, the artificial lifting device of the downhole tool creates a negative pressure so wellbore fluid is transported from the lower zone into the upper zone. Due to this flow of fluid through the downhole tool, gravel disposed within the wellbore becomes sufficiently fluidized to facilitate the screen being inserted into the gravel form the gravel pack completion. | 04-02-2009 |
20090090506 | Downhole Release of Friction Reducers in Gravel Packing Operations - A method of introducing friction reducing agents within a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation during a gravel packing operation is accomplished by providing a length of tubing located downhole within the wellbore for conducting fluids within the wellbore through the tubing during circulating of gravel packing fluids introduced from the surface within the wellbore. At least a portion of the tubing is surrounded by a screen for screening out particulate matter during the gravel packing operation. An annular space is defined between an interior of the screen and the exterior of the tubing. A friction reducing agent is dispensed from a dispensing apparatus that locates downhole with the tubing. The dispensing apparatus includes a housing and a chamber disposed within the housing that has one or more outlets that open into the annular space defined by the screen and tubing for dispensing the friction reducing agent. The dispensing apparatus further includes a piston and a trigger mechanism for actuating the piston. When the trigger mechanism is activated to actuate the piston, the friction reducing agent is dispensed through the one or more outlets at a position downhole remote from the surface during the circulating. | 04-09-2009 |
20090090507 | WELLBORE AND RESERVOIR TREATMENT DEVICE - A modular wellbore treatment system having a reservoir for holding wellbore/reservoir treatment material, a pump for pressurizing and delivering the wellbore/reservoir treatment fluid, and a sealing section for creating a localized pressurized zone proximate to a region of a formation to be treated. The wellbore treatment fluid includes permeability modifiers, gel, acids, stimulation fluids, epoxy type substances, void fillers, gravel pack fixing compounds, brine, reactive fluids to water, oil, and gas, and alcohol. | 04-09-2009 |
20090095471 | MULTI-ZONE GRAVEL PACK SYSTEM WITH PIPE COUPLING AND INTEGRATED VALVE - Apparatus having a first outer tubular member and a first inner tubular member. The first outer tubular member and the first inner tubular member can define a first space therebetween. The first inner tubular member can have a first internal bore. The apparatus can further include a second outer tubular member and a second inner tubular member. The second outer tubular member and the second inner tubular member can define a second space therebetween. The second inner tubular member can have a second internal bore. A first coupling flowpath can be positioned between the first and second spaces. A second coupling flowpath can be positioned between the first and second internal bores. A selectively closeable flowpath can be positioned between the first coupling flowpath and the second coupling flowpath. | 04-16-2009 |
20090101343 | HIGH RATE GRAVEL PACKING - A method of gravel packing a portion of a cased wellbore proximate perforations by using coiled tubing is disclosed. The portion of the wellbore containing perforations is isolated from the portion of the wellbore below the perforations. A connection apparatus is installed between a bottom hole assembly and the coiled tubing and this connection apparatus comprises a crossover tool. The bottom hole assembly is lowered into the wellbore using the coiled tubing until the bottom hole assembly is proximate the perforations. Then, a slurry comprising a gravel and a carrier fluid is pumpdown the coiled tubing and into the annulus between the coiled tubing and the casing. A second fluid which is compatible with the slurry is pumpdown the annulus between the coiled tubing and the casing while the slurry is above the connection apparatus between the bottom hole assembly and the coiled tubing. The second fluid and the slurry mixture reduce the slurry concentration prior to reaching the perforations. | 04-23-2009 |
20090120641 | Well Flow Control Systems and Methods - Flow control systems and methods for use in hydrocarbon well operations include a tubular and a flow control apparatus. The tubular defines a well annulus and includes an outer member defining a flow conduit. Fluid communication between the well annulus and the flow conduit is provided by permeable portion(s) of the outer member. The flow control apparatus is disposed within the flow conduit and comprises conduit-defining and chamber-defining structural members. The conduit-defining structural member(s) is configured to divide the flow conduit into at least two flow control conduits. The chamber-defining structural member(s) is configured to divide at least one of the at least two flow control conduits into at least two flow control chambers. Each of the flow control chambers has at least one inlet and one outlet, each of which is adapted to allow fluid flow therethrough and to retain particles larger than a predetermined size. | 05-14-2009 |
20090133874 | Wellbore Apparatus and Method for Completion, Production and Injection - A method and apparatus associated with the production of hydrocarbons is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a tubular member having a central opening within an internal portion of the tubular member, wherein the central opening allows hydrocarbons to flow through the tubular member. Also, the tubular member includes openings between the central opening and a region external to the tubular member. In addition to the tubular member, at least two adjacent wire segments are disposed around the tubular member. The at least two adjacent wire segments create at least two flow paths to the central opening. Also, the at least two adjacent wire segments form at least two openings configured to prevent particles greater than a specific size from entering the openings in the tubular member. | 05-28-2009 |
20090133875 | GRAVEL PACKING APPARATUS UTILIZING DIVERTER VALVES - Method and apparatus for gravel packing an open-hole wellbore are disclosed. The apparatus includes a sandscreen disposed in the wellbore thereby creating an annulus between the wellbore and the sandscreen for receiving a gravel slurry. The apparatus further comprises a tubular member or wash pipe which is concentrically disposed in the sandscreen for receiving carrier fluid which passes through the sandscreen and for returning the carrier fluid to the earth's surface. At least one diverter valve is installed in the tubular member for permitting flow of the carrier fluid into the tubular member. | 05-28-2009 |
20090139717 | Multi-Position Valves for Fracturing and Sand Control and Associated Completion Methods - A completion tubular is placed in position adjacent the zone or zones to be fractured and produced. It features preferably sliding sleeve valves one series of which can be put in the wide open position after run in for gravel packing and fracturing zones one at a time or in any desired order. These valves are then closed and another series of valves can be opened wide but with a screen material juxtaposed in the flow passage to selectively produce from one or more fractured zones. An annular path behind the gravel is provided by an offset screen to promote flow to the screened production port. The path can be a closed annulus that comes short of the production port or goes over it. For short runs an exterior screen or shroud is eliminated for a sliding sleeve with multiple screened ports that can be opened in tandem. | 06-04-2009 |
20090151942 | SAND CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SAND PRODUCTION - A method for controlling sand production in a well drilled in a subterranean formation comprising installing an expandable sand screen assembly in the well. The expandable sand screen assembly comprises an expandable sand screen in an unexpanded configuration. A slurry is pumped down the well and circulated through the annular space defined by the expandable sand screen and the formation. The expandable sand screen is expanded thereby dehydrating the slurry in the annular space. | 06-18-2009 |
20090159279 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR COMPLETING MULTI-ZONE OPENHOLE FORMATIONS - Methods and systems for completing multi-zone formations. One or more embodiments of the method can include placing a gravel pack assembly within a borehole. The gravel pack assembly can include a first sand control extension. A first sand control screen can be disposed adjacent the first sand control extension. The first sand control extension can have a flowpath that is selectively opened and closed. A first isolation packer can be disposed adjacent the first sand control screen. A second isolation packer can be disposed adjacent the first isolation packer. A second sand control extension can be disposed adjacent the second isolation packer. The second sand control extension can include at least a second flowpath that is selectively opened and closed. A second sand control screen can be disposed adjacent the second sand control extension. A lower seal can be disposed adjacent the second sand control screen. | 06-25-2009 |
20090166038 | Organic Acid Compositions and Methods of Use in Subterranean Operations - Subterranean treatment fluids comprising one or more organic acids and methods of use in subterranean operations are provided. In one embodiment, the methods comprise: providing a treatment fluid that comprises an aqueous base fluid, a plurality of particulates, a gelling agent, and one or more organic acids; introducing the treatment fluid into at least a portion of a subterranean formation; and depositing at least a portion of the particulates in a portion of the subterranean formation so as to form a gravel pack in a portion of the subterranean formation. | 07-02-2009 |
20090173498 | Screen coupler for modular screen packs - A coupler for gravel packing completions comprising an annular member having an upper end, a lower end, at least one flange disposed along an inner wall surface of the annular member intermediate the upper and lower ends, and at least one deformable portion is disclosed. The coupler may be used to connect one or more screens to a base pipe in a gravel packing completion by deforming the deformable portion such as by passing a swage over the outer wall surface of the annular member. In a similar manner, the coupler may also be used to connect a gravel packing completion component, such as an inflow control device to the base pipe of the gravel packing completion, to contemporaneously connect a screen section and a gravel pakcing completion component to the base pipe. | 07-09-2009 |
20090183873 | Profile Control Apparatus and Method for Production and Injection Wells - Systems and associated methods for use in the production of hydrocarbons are described. The systems include a first tubular member and a second tubular member at least partially enclosing the first tubular member. Each of the first and second tubular members have a non-permeable longitudinal section and a permeable longitudinal section. The non-permeable longitudinal section of the second tubular member is disposed adjacent to the permeable longitudinal section of the first tubular member. Similarly, the permeable longitudinal section of the second tubular member is disposed adjacent to the non-permeable longitudinal section of the first tubular member. The permeable longitudinal section of the second tubular member is separated from the permeable longitudinal section of the first tubular member by a specific longitudinal distance. | 07-23-2009 |
20090205824 | Polymeric Microspheres As Degradable Fluid Loss Additives In Oilfield Applications - Methods and apparatus for forming a fluid for use within in a subterranean formation including crosslinking a polymer along the surface of microspheres in a water-in-water emulsion and introducing the microspheres into the subterranean formation. Methods and apparatus for forming a fluid for use within in a subterranean formation including crosslinking a polymer along the surface of microspheres in a water in water emulsion, isolating the microspheres from the emulsion, and introducing the microspheres into the subterranean formation. Methods and apparatus for forming a fluid to treat a subterranean formation including introducing a crosslinkable polymer, partitioning agent, and crosslinker into a solvent, crosslinking the crosslinkable polymer, isolating beads of the crosslinkable polymer from the partitioning agent, introducing the beads into a fluid for treating a subterranean formation. | 08-20-2009 |
20090260815 | System and Method to Facilitate Treatment and Production in a Wellbore - A technique enables simultaneous deployment of both treatment equipment and screen assemblies for use during production. The technique utilizes a multi-stage well treatment system deployed in a wellbore to enable treatment of a plurality of sections along the wellbore. Additionally, a plurality of screen assemblies are positioned at the plurality of sections, and each screen assembly comprises a valve to control the flow of fluids through the screen assembly. | 10-22-2009 |
20090301718 | System, Method and Apparatus for Enhanced Friction Reduction In Gravel Pack Operations - A system includes a wellbore intersecting a subterranean formation and a treatment flowpath disposed in the wellbore including a fluid path from a surface location to the subterranean formation and returning to the surface location. The treatment flowpath has a delivery flowpath upstream of the subterranean formation and a pertinent flowpath at and downstream of the subterranean formation. The system further includes a gravel pack assembly having a first crossover port fluidly coupling the delivery flowpath to the pertinent flowpath, a screen, a washpipe, and a second crossover port fluidly coupling the washpipe to a return portion of the pertinent flowpath. The system further includes a friction reducing agent that is effective in at least part of the pertinent flowpath, but that is not a friction reducer in solution in the treatment fluid at the surface location. | 12-10-2009 |
20100012318 | Completion assembly - A completion assembly useful to fracture pack, gravel pack or otherwise treat production intervals traversed by an uncased wellbore to stimulate production and/or prevent production of solid particles from the production intervals and a single trip method to fracture pack, gravel pack or otherwise treat multiple zones in an open-hole wellbore having no liner or casing string installed through a production open hole portion. | 01-21-2010 |
20100018709 | METHOD OF GRAVEL PACKING A WELL CONTAINING SYNTHETIC OR OIL-BASED DRILLING FLUIDS - A method of gravel packing a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is provided. The wellbore has a cased section and an uncased section and contains synthetic or oil-based drilling fluids containing drilled solids. To carry out the method, fresh synthetic or oil-based displacement fluid that is free of drilled solids is introduced into the wellbore to displace the synthetic or oil-based drilling fluids from the uncased section of the wellbore. A water-based displacement fluid is introduced into the wellbore to displace fluids within the cased section of the wellbore. A sand control screen assembly is run to a selected depth within the uncased section of the wellbore. A gravel pack slurry containing gravel and a water-based carrier fluid is then introduced into the wellbore. | 01-28-2010 |
20100025037 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SAND PRODUCTION IN WELLS - A technique is provided for controlling sand in a well. The technique may utilize a vent screen assembly having a main screen, a vent screen, and a tubular member extending from the main screen to the vent screen. An expandable element is positioned around the tubular member between the main screen and the vent screen. After the vent screen assembly is deployed into a wellbore, a gravel pack can be formed around at least the main screen. The expandable element is selectively expanded in a radial direction to secure the gravel pack and to enable higher production rates. | 02-04-2010 |
20100032158 | Wellbore Method and Apparatus for Completion, Production and Injection - A method, system and apparatus associated with the production of hydrocarbons are described. The method includes disposing a plurality of sand control devices having a primary flow path and a secondary flowpath within a wellbore adjacent to a subsurface reservoir. A packer having primary and secondary flow paths is then coupled between two of the sand control devices such that the primary and secondary flow paths of the packer are in fluid flow communication with the primary and secondary flowpaths of the sand control devices. The packer is then set within an interval, which may be an open-hole section of the wellbore. With the packer set, gravel packing of the sand control devices in different intervals may be performed. The interval above the packer may be packed before the interval below the packer. A treatment fluid may then be injected into the wellbore via the secondary flow paths of the packer and sand control devices. Then, hydrocarbons are produced from the wellbore by passing hydrocarbons through the sand control devices with the different intervals providing zonal isolation. | 02-11-2010 |
20100032159 | Proppant-containing treatment fluids and methods of use - Substantially non-porous particulates formed from a starting mixture comprising at least one igneous or metamorphic material and which are suitable for use in subterranean operations such as gravel packing, frac-packing, and hydraulic fracturing and methods of using such particulates. Methods of using such particulates include fracturing, frac-packing, and gravel packing. | 02-11-2010 |
20100051270 | Sand Control Screen Assembly and Method for Use of Same - A sand control screen assembly ( | 03-04-2010 |
20100051271 | Sand Control Screen Assembly and Method For Use of Same - A sand control screen assembly ( | 03-04-2010 |
20100065271 | LOW TEMPERATURE COATED PARTICLES FOR USE AS PROPPANTS OR IN GRAVEL PACKS, METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING THE SAME - Disclosed herein are free flowing coated particles and low temperature methods of making same. Each particle has a curable coating disposed upon a substrate. The substrate is a particulate substrate including an inorganic material, a particulate substrate including an organic material, a composite substantially homogeneous formed particle including a first portion of an at least partly cured binder and filler particles, or a hybrid particle having an inorganic particle as a core and a composite coating including at least partially cured resin and filler. The curable coating includes a continuous phase including a curable liquid resin and reactive powder particles embedded or adhered to the continuous phase. The reactive powder particles typically include one or more of a resole phenolic-formaldehyde resin, a novolak phenolic-formaldehyde resin, a polyester resin, an acrylic polymer resin, a urethane resin or an epoxy resin. A method including applying a coating including the continuous phase including the curable resin and reactive or non-reactive powder particles embedded or adhered to the continuous phase. | 03-18-2010 |
20100084133 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ALLOWING FLUID FLOW INSIDE AT LEAST ONE SCREEN AND OUTSIDE A PIPE DISPOSED IN A WELL BORE - In some embodiments, apparatus for allowing fluid flow inside at least one screen and outside a span of pipe disposed in a well bore includes at least one flow path for fluid entering at least one screen. The flow path extends from the screen(s) along the outside of the pipe to at least one desired entry inlet into the pipe without at least substantial entry at any point therebetween. | 04-08-2010 |
20100096130 | TOE-TO-HEEL GRAVEL PACKING METHODS - Gravel packing of a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is carried out in a wellbore having a cased section and an uncased section that contains water-based drilling fluids. A first water-based displacement fluid that contains a shale inhibitor is introduced into the wellbore to displace the water-based drilling fluids from the uncased section of the wellbore. A second water-based displacement fluid is introduced into the wellbore to displace fluids within the cased section of the wellbore. A sand control screen assembly is run to a selected depth within the uncased section of the wellbore to facilitate a gravel packing operation. A gravel pack slurry containing gravel and a viscosified carrier fluid is introduced into the wellbore to facilitate gravel packing of the uncased section. The gravel packing operation may be carried without the use of shunt flow paths and with the use of a sand screen assembly having at least one diverter valve to divert fluid returns to facilitate prevention of pressure build up. | 04-22-2010 |
20100122814 | Apparatus and Method for Depositing a Slurry in a Well - A wireline apparatus for depositing slurry in a well. The apparatus includes a container for holding slurry to be deposited in the well. The container is operatively associated with and disassociated from a packer. The apparatus also includes a displacement valve actuated by a predetermined pressure and a cross-over tool operatively associated with the displacement valve. Actuation of the displacement valve causes the slurry to enter and pass through the cross-over tool and into the well. A method of gravel packing a well with the wireline deployed apparatus is also disclosed. | 05-20-2010 |
20100126722 | WELLBORE SYSTEM AND METHOD OF COMPLETING A WELLBORE - A wellbore system comprises a borehole formed in an earth formation, the borehole having a borehole section containing a volume of gravel pack particles and at least one body of a swellable material. Each body of swellable material is adapted to expand from an unexpanded state to an expanded state upon contact of the swellable material with a selected fluid, wherein a flow passage is present in said borehole section allowing fluid to bypass the volume of gravel pack particles when the body of swellable material is in the unexpanded state. The body of swellable material is arranged to substantially close the flow passage upon expansion of the body of swellable material to the expanded state. | 05-27-2010 |
20100139917 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SEALING GRAVEL EXIT PORTS IN GRAVEL PACK ASSEMBLIES - A system having a sealing assembly for a gravel port in a gravel pack apparatus. The sealing assembly includes a sealing element around an outer circumference of the gravel pack assembly above the gravel pack and below the gravel port. The sealing element is on the outside housing of the gravel pack apparatus or on a separate piece of equipment located above the gravel pack and below the gravel port, permitting a larger flow bore through the gravel pack apparatus. The sealing element may be selectively actuated after the gravel pack operation has concluded, thus maintaining the gravel pack in the desired location. The removal of a gravel pack tool may permit the sealing element to be actuated. | 06-10-2010 |
20100139918 | METHOD TO PREVENT WELL SANDING USING GRAVEL PACKING - The invention is related to the methods of well sanding prevention, particularly to the technologies of gravel pack making, and may be used for underground formations treatment, particularly for the operations to prevent sand inrush from the oil formation into the well. The sanding prevention method includes placement of the gravel pack in the well where polydicyclopentadiene material is used as the gravel pack. The method enables better sand and fines filtration through a denser and more uniform distribution of the gravel pack as polydicyclopentadiene material, its high thermal stability and high crushing strength. | 06-10-2010 |
20100139919 | Gravel Packing Methods - A method associated with the production of hydrocarbons is described. The method includes drilling a wellbore using a drilling fluid, conditioning the drilling fluid, running a production string in the wellbore and gravel packing an interval of the wellbore with a carrier fluid. The production string includes a joint assembly comprising a main body portion having primary and secondary fluid flow paths, wherein the main body portion is attached to a load sleeve assembly at one end and a torque sleeve assembly at the opposite end, the load sleeve assembly having at least one transport conduit and at least one packing conduit disposed therethrough. The main body portion may include a sand control device, a packer, or other well tool for use in a downhole environment. The joint assembly also includes a coupling assembly having a manifold region in fluid flow communication with the second fluid flow path of the main body portion and facilitating the make-up of first and second joint assemblies with a single connection. | 06-10-2010 |
20100155064 | Apparatus and Method for Providing an Alternate Flow Path in Isolation Devices - An apparatus for use in a wellbore is described, the apparatus having a tubular body and a throughbore which defines a primary fluid path through the apparatus. An expanding element is disposed around the tubular body and is configured to provide an annular barrier in a space between the tubular body and a surrounding wall. A conduit defining a secondary flow path through the apparatus is provided, and is configured to be in fluid communication with at least one alternate path, such as a shunt tube. The conduit is arranged to vary the secondary flow path along a longitudinal direction of the apparatus, for example to redirect the flow path to a radial position closer to the tool body. The conduit is configured to have a reduced effect on the operation of the expanding element, while still allowing the conduit to be coupled to alternate flow paths of adjacent apparatus. | 06-24-2010 |
20100163234 | Surface-Modifying Agents for Wettability Modification - A method and composition for treating a subterranean formation with a fluid, including forming a fluid including a particulate and an organosilane with the chemical formula R | 07-01-2010 |
20100163235 | EFFICIENT SINGLE TRIP GRAVEL PACK SERVICE TOOL - A service tool and methods for performing subterranean hydrocarbon services in a wellbore. The service tool can include a body that having an aperture formed therethrough. A valve system can be connected to the body. The valve system can selectively form a flow path between a first portion of the aperture and a second portion of the aperture; a flow path between a first flow port formed through a first portion of the body, the aperture, and the outer diameter of the body; and/or a flow path between a channel formed in a portion of the body, a second flow port formed through a second portion of the body, and the second portion of the aperture. | 07-01-2010 |
20100186953 | MEASURING A CHARACTERISTIC OF A WELL PROXIMATE A REGION TO BE GRAVEL PACKED - A gravel pack service tool is lowered into a well. At least one sensor proximate a well region to be gravel packed measures at least one characteristic of the well, where the measuring is performed during a gravel pack operation by the gravel pack service tool. The gravel pack service tool is removed from the well after the gravel pack operation. | 07-29-2010 |
20100212895 | Screen Flow Equalization System - An assembly of inflow control devices on a string along with isolation devices can be delivered into an existing or newly delivered screen assembly that requires inflow control for balanced flow from the formation. In newly delivered screen assemblies, any gravel packing that needs to be done can be accomplished without the presence of the inflow devices for faster circulation and improved gravel deposition. External annular barriers can also be delivered with an original screen assembly in a new well installation. The inflow devices and barriers can be of a variety of designs and the internal string can be removable if the barriers are retrievable to facilitate further drilling or completion below the screen assembly. | 08-26-2010 |
20100212896 | GRAVEL-PACKING CARRIER FLUID WITH INTERNAL BREAKER - A method of gravel packing a hole in a subterranean formation having a filter cake coated on the surface thereof that includes injecting into the hole a gravel pack composition comprising gravel and a carrier fluid comprising a base fluid and at least one iminodiacetic acid or salt thereof is disclosed. | 08-26-2010 |
20100218947 | Methods for Improving Low-Quality Proppant and Method of Using Low-Quality Proppant in Subterranean Operations - The present invention relates to improved low-quality particulates and methods of making such improved particulates. A method of treating a portion of a subterranean formation, comprising providing a slurry comprising a treatment fluid and low-quality particulates at least partially coated with an aqueous tackifying composition, wherein the aqueous tackifying composition comprises an aqueous tackifier compound and an aqueous liquid; introducing the slurry into a subterranean formation; and, depositing the coated, low-quality particulates into the portion of this subterranean formation. A method of improving particulates, comprising at least partially coating low-quality particulates with an aqueous tackifying composition, wherein the aqueous tackifying composition comprises an aqueous tackifier compound and an aqueous liquid. | 09-02-2010 |
20100218948 | Conveyance Device and Method of Use in Gravel Pack Operations - The present invention provides for a conveyance device to bypass regions within a wellbore that may disrupt the desired distribution of gravel in a gravel pack. | 09-02-2010 |
20100230098 | One Trip Gravel Pack Assembly - A method of completing a wellbore is provided. The method comprises running in a screen, a gravel pack assembly comprising a flow diversion tool, and a completion string in a first trip. The method also comprises gravel packing the well and removing the flow diversion tool from the gravel pack assembly and from the completion string. | 09-16-2010 |
20100236779 | Apparatus and Method for Use with Alternate Path Sand Control Completions - The invention provides an apparatus and method for a sand control completion in a wellbore. The apparatus has a body comprising a swellable material configured to surround a wellbore tubular which defines a primary flow path for wellbore fluids. The body is also configured to surround at least one secondary flow path disposed externally of the wellbore tubular. The secondary flow path is configured for a carrier fluid containing particulate matter for a gravel pack. The body also comprises a longitudinal discontinuity which permits a radial opening to be formed on the body, through which the body is operable to be applied to the tubular. | 09-23-2010 |
20100243250 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LOW DAMAGE GRAVEL PACKING - A gravel packing system, method and slurry. The system comprises a blending device to prepare a slurry comprising a carrier fluid suspending first, second and third particulates, wherein the carrier fluid comprises a brine and less than about 2.4 g/L (20 lb per 1000 gallons) of a viscosifier, and wherein the sum of the mass of the particulates is greater than about 2.4 kg/L (20 pounds per gallon), wherein the first average particle volume is between 27 and 3375 times larger than the second average particle volume, which in turn is between 27 and 3375 times larger than the third average particle volume. The system can also include tubing to position a screen in the wellbore and a slurry pump to circulate the slurry from the blending device in the wellbore in any order such that the particulates are deposited in the screen annulus to form a gravel pack. | 09-30-2010 |
20100252261 | CASING DEFORMATION AND CONTROL FOR INCLUSION PROPAGATION - Casing deformation and control for inclusion propagation in earth formations. A method of forming at least one inclusion in a subterranean formation includes the steps of: installing a liner within a casing section in a wellbore intersecting the formation; and expanding the liner and the casing section, thereby applying an increased compressive stress to the formation. Another method of forming the inclusion includes the steps of: installing an expansion control device on a casing section, the device including at least one latch member; expanding the casing section radially outward in a wellbore, the expanding step including widening at least one opening in a sidewall of the casing section, and displacing the latch member in one direction; and preventing a narrowing of the opening after the expanding step, the latch member resisting displacement thereof in an opposite direction. | 10-07-2010 |
20100263864 | Bidirectional Gravel Packing in Subterranean Wells - Systems and methods for bidirectional gravel packing of wells. A gravel packing method includes flowing a gravel slurry in one direction in an annulus formed between a wellbore and a gravel packing assembly, and flowing another gravel slurry in an opposite direction in the annulus. A well system includes a gravel packing assembly positioned in a wellbore; one or more well screens interconnected in the gravel packing assembly; a flow control device, interconnected in the gravel packing assembly, and which selectively permits and prevents flow of a gravel slurry outward from the gravel packing assembly to an exterior of the well screens; another flow control device, interconnected in the gravel packing assembly, and which selectively permits and prevents flow of another gravel slurry outward from the gravel packing assembly to the exterior of the well screens; and the well screens being positioned between the flow control devices. | 10-21-2010 |
20100288495 | METHODS OF TREATING SUBTERRANEAN WELLS USING CHANGEABLE ADDITIVES - Fluid compositions and methods of making and using same are described, one composition comprising a well treatment fluid and an additive combined with the well treatment fluid, wherein the additive is selected from solids, liquids and combinations thereof, the additive having a surface shape, at least one property of the surface shape enabling it to change under influence of a controllable parameter after the composition is deployed into a hydraulic fracture or gravel pack. In methods of the disclosure, the additive exists initially in a first state, and then is changed to a second state. The first state may increase proppant flowback efficiency, while the second state may increase hydraulic conductivity. In certain embodiments, the additive may change back to its first state. | 11-18-2010 |
20100294495 | Open Hole Completion Apparatus and Method for Use of Same - An open hole completion apparatus ( | 11-25-2010 |
20100300686 | Multiple Zone Isolation Method - Multiple producing zones separated by a non-producing zone are gravel packed together. The non-producing zone has locations to take returns so as to get a consistent pack in the non-producing zone. The production string features external seals and/or an internal plug so that no matter which producing zone is aligned to produce, the screens in the non-producing zone are selectively isolated so that the producing zone that is not intended to be produced has only the path through the gravel pack to get to the actual zone being produced. Since the annulus can be long and full of gravel this path will make flow from the zone that is not of interest minimal into the flow from the zone of interest without using a packer between pairs of spaced apart producing zones. | 12-02-2010 |
20100300687 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF SAND MANAGEMENT - A technique facilitates sand control in a wellbore. A lower completion and an upper completion are run downhole into the wellbore and deployed. The lower completion assembly employs a plurality of packers to isolate well zones. The lower completion assembly also has gravel pack ports which are independently opened to enable gravel packing of each individual zone via a tool run downhole. Additionally, the lower completion assembly has a production port in each zone. A shifting tool is employed to open the production ports and to enable production from the well zones. | 12-02-2010 |
20100307749 | Tackifying agent pre-coated particulates - The present invention involves methods of using particulates coated with a tackifying agent that need not be used immediately once they are prepared and that provide increased viscosity when placed into an aqueous fluid. The described methods include the steps of contacting particulates with a tackifying agent to create tackified particulates; contacting the tackified particulates with a partitioning agent to form coated particulates that are capable of being stored for a time period, wherein the partitioning agent comprises a hydratable polymeric material; and, placing the coated particulates in an aqueous treatment fluid whereby the partitioning agent hydrates and increases the viscosity of the treatment fluid. | 12-09-2010 |
20100314109 | GRAVEL PACK COMPLETIONS IN LATERAL WELLBORES OF OIL AND GAS WELLS - A technique enables an efficient, dependable approach to gravel packing lateral wellbores. The technique employs alternate path gravel placement technology which includes alternate path equipment deployed along a gravel pack screen positioned in an open hole lateral wellbore disposed above a lower lateral wellbore. A crossover system is positioned in the lateral wellbore, and the alternate path is provided by connecting a shunt tube or other appropriate alternate path equipment to the crossover system. A flow of gravel slurry is directed along an exterior of the gravel pack screen through the alternate path equipment to enable uniform distribution of the gravel pack along the gravel pack screen. | 12-16-2010 |
20100314110 | METHOD OF TREATING A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION USING A RHEOLOGY MODEL FOR FLUID OPTIMIZATION - Subterranean formation treatment methods incorporating a rheology model which enables prediction of fluid rheology properties during a treatment operation, where the foundation of the model is a description of the reaction chemistry which describes how the number of crosslinks and broken polymer linkages develops in time under the influence of crosslinkers, breakers, and/or thermally induced effects and pressure effects. In one aspect, when used as a tool for simulating the fluid viscosity, the model can help optimizing the fluid design and optional breaker schedule for a hydraulic fracturing treatment. | 12-16-2010 |
20100319915 | APPLICATION OF DEGRADABLE FIBERS IN INVERT EMULSION FLUIDS FOR FLUID LOSS CONTROL - A method of treating a subterranean formation including emplacing in a wellbore a fluid, comprising an oleaginous continuous phase, a non-oleaginous discontinuous phase, an emulsifier, at least one degradable material, and at least one bridging material, and contacting the formation with the fluid. A method and apparatus related to an invert emulsion fluid loss pill including an oleaginous continuous phase, a non-oleaginous discontinuous phase, an emulsifier, at least one degradable material, wherein the degradable material hydrolyzes to release an organic acid, and at least one bridging material. | 12-23-2010 |
20100319916 | THERMOSET NANOCOMPOSITE PARTICLES, PROCESSING FOR THEIR PRODUCTION, AND THEIR USE IN OIL AND NATURAL GAS DRILLING APPLICATIONS - Thermoset polymer particles are used in many applications requiring lightweight particles possessing high stiffness, strength, temperature resistance, and/or resistance to aggressive environments. The present invention relates to the use of two different methods, either each by itself or in combination, to enhance the stiffness, strength, maximum possible use temperature, and environmental resistance of such particles. One method is the application of post-polymerization process steps (and especially heat treatment) to advance the curing reaction and to thus obtain a more densely crosslinked polymer network. In general, its main benefits are the enhancement of the maximum possible use temperature and the environmental resistance. The other method is the incorporation of nanofillers, resulting in a heterogeneous “nanocomposite” morphology. In general, its main benefits are increased stiffness and strength. Nanofiller incorporation and post-polymerization heat treatment can also be combined to obtain the benefits of both methods simultaneously. The present invention relates to the development of thermoset nanocomposite particles. It also relates to the optional further improvement of the heat resistance and environmental resistance of said particles via post-polymerization heat treatment. Furthermore, it also relates to processes for the manufacture of said particles. Finally, it also relates to the use of said particles in the construction, drilling, completion and/or fracture stimulation of oil and natural gas wells; for example, as a proppant partial monolayer, a proppant pack, an integral component of a gravel pack completion, a ball bearing, a solid lubricant, a drilling mud constituent, and/or a cement additive. | 12-23-2010 |
20100319917 | Methods of Using Particulates in Subterranean Operations - Among the methods described herein are methods using low-specific gravity particulates wherein the particulates comprise silica and an aluminum oxide in an amount of about 0.1% to about 25% by weight and having at least one void, a specific gravity of less than about 2.2, a particle size of 8 U.S. Mesh or smaller, and a substantially spherical shape. | 12-23-2010 |
20110011585 | Apparatus and Method for Controlling Flow of Solids Into Wellbores Using Filter Media Containing an Array of Three-Dimensional Elements - In aspects, the disclosure provides an apparatus that may include a member having fluid flow passages and a filter member placed proximate the member with the fluid flow passages, the filter member including an array of three-dimensional elements configured to inhibit flow of solid particles of a selected size when a fluid containing such solid particles flows from the filter member to the member with the fluid flow passages. | 01-20-2011 |
20110011586 | SAND CONTROL SCREEN ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR USE OF SAME - A sand control screen assembly ( | 01-20-2011 |
20110017450 | METHOD FOR MAKING GRAVEL FILTERS IN OIL WELLS - A method for making gravel filters in oil well bores by ascertaining the location of a producing formation adjacent to a cemented casing in a well bore. Water formation may exist between oil formations. The next step involves cutting a portion of the casing adjacent to the producing formation. A section mill equipment is used to cut, continuously, the cemented casing. The bore adjacent to the producing formation is enlarged. An underreamer is utilized to remove the surrounding cemented space and enlarge the oil well diameter. Then a sufficient amount of gravel is deposited in the enlarged portion of the bore to create an effective filter for a producing tube with a screen at its distal end positioned adjacent to the cemented bottom of the well bore. | 01-27-2011 |
20110017451 | PIT AND RELATED COVERED FILTER TUBE - This invention relates to a method to make a pit to withdraw or store or infiltrate water; a pit to withdraw or store or infiltrate water; a method to withdraw water from a water bearing package or to store or infiltrate water, particularly wherein use is made of a filter tube contrary to a drainage tube. The filter tube can be provided with a sheath/jacket of filter sand of gravel. | 01-27-2011 |
20110024111 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INSERTING AND REMOVING TRACER MATERIALS IN DOWNHOLE SCREENS - A downhole screen assembly for dispensing a tracer material and methods for using the same are provided. The downhole screen assembly can include a body having a screen disposed thereabout. The downhole screen assembly can also include chamber proximate the screen. The downhole screen assembly can further include a first member disposed about the body. The first member can have a port in fluid communication with the chamber. The downhole screen assembly can further include a second member at least partially disposed on the first member. The second member can be removable and can seal the port. | 02-03-2011 |
20110024112 | DEBRIS-CATCHING ATTACHMENT DEVICE AND METHOD THEREFOR - A debris-catching attachment device and method therefor is disclosed. When positioned in wellbore tubing, the device collects solid impurities found in well environments, thereby preventing the solids from settling onto the pump and its components when pumping operations are halted. The device comprises a ring having one of a plurality of brushes and a plurality of wiper segments coupled to a surface of the ring. As fluid is being forced naturally upward or is pumped, it flows past the components of the ring and is caused to rotate or spin in a cyclonic motion. During the first phase of well production, this directs the fluid and solids toward the tubing wall, allowing gas to escape upward. During the second phase of production, solids are caused to move toward the wall of the tubing, allowing any water and oil to move upward to the surface, with the surface tension dragging the solids along the wall of the tubing. The solids may accumulate on the brushes or wiper segments when pumping operations are halted. | 02-03-2011 |
20110030951 | INTEGRATED FLUID FILTRATION AND RECIRCULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - An integrated fluid filtration and recirculation system and method are provided for re-circulating and filtering fluid that is used in well cleaning operations. The system is incorporated within an enclosure, which is transportable, such as on a vehicle trailer. The system has power generation capability, thereby making the system capable of operating as a stand-alone unit. Chemicals may be infused into the filtered fluid from an integral chemical supply allowing the system to also function as a treatment facility for the fluid. The components of the system are arranged in a linear fashion that enables the system to maintain a minimum profile for transport upon a conventional trailer, yet the system provides enough room within the enclosure to allow operators to repair/inspect each of the system components. The enclosure may be climate controlled, and the enclosure may include removable panels for operation of the system in temperate conditions when climate control is unnecessary. | 02-10-2011 |
20110030952 | METHODS OF GRAVEL PACKING LONG INTERVAL WELLS - Changing concentrations of brine in a gravel pack carrier fluid gelled with a viscoelastic surfactant (VES) increases the fluid efficiency for gravel packing long interval wells, such as wellbore producing interval greater than about 100 feet (about 30 m). VES-gelled fluids used as gravel packing fluids herein also include surfactants, fluid loss control agents, internal breakers and brine in addition to the grave. The viscoelasticity of fluid system can suspend and deliver high concentration of the gravels while reducing carrier fluid volume. | 02-10-2011 |
20110048704 | Fracturing and Gravel Packing Tool with Upper Annulus Isolation in a Reverse Position without Closing a Wash Pipe Valve - A fracturing and gravel packing tool has features that prevent well swabbing when the tool is picked up with respect to a set isolation packer. An upper or jet valve allows switching between the squeeze and circulation positions without risk of closing the wash pipe valve. The wash pipe valve can only be closed with multiple movements in opposed direction that occur after a predetermined force is held for a finite time to allow movement that arms the wash pipe valve. The jet valve can prevent fluid loss to the formation when being set down whether the crossover tool is supported on the packer or on the smart collet. | 03-03-2011 |
20110048705 | Fracturing and Gravel Packing Tool with Anti-Swabbing Feature - A fracturing and gravel packing tool has features that prevent well swabbing when the tool is picked up with respect to a set isolation packer. An upper or multi-acting circulation valve allows switching between the squeeze and circulation positions without risk of closing the low bottom hole pressure ball valve. The low bottom hole pressure ball valve can only be closed with multiple movements in opposed direction that occur after a predetermined force is held for a finite time to allow movement that arms the low bottom hole pressure ball valve. The multi-acting circulation valve can prevent fluid loss to the formation when being set down with the crossover tool supported or on the reciprocating set down device and the multi-acting circulation valve is closed without risk of closing the wash pipe valve. | 03-03-2011 |
20110048706 | Fracturing and Gravel Packing Tool with Multi-position Lockable Sliding Sleeve - A fracturing and gravel packing tool has features that prevent well swabbing when the tool is picked up with respect to a set isolation packer. An upper or jet valve allows switching between the squeeze and circulation positions without risk of closing the wash pipe valve. The wash pipe valve can only be closed with multiple movements in opposed direction that occur after a predetermined force is held for a finite time to allow movement that arms the wash pipe valve. The jet valve can prevent fluid loss to the formation when being set down whether the crossover tool is supported on the packer or on the smart collet. | 03-03-2011 |
20110056686 | Flow Rate Dependent Flow Control Device - An apparatus for performing a wellbore operation, such as a gravel packing, includes a tool body, a flow passage formed in the tool body, the flow passage connecting a first space with a second space; and a flow control device positioned along the flow space. The flow control device may include a valve element configured to allow uni-directional; and a flow control element configured to allow flow in bi-directional flow. The valve element and the flow control element may be arranged to form a split flow path between the first space and the second space. | 03-10-2011 |
20110056687 | PROPPANT FOR USE IN A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION - The invention provides a proppant for treating a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore, wherein a typical specimen of the proppant has a non-globular and non-fibrous shape. The invention also provides a method for stimulating a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore, the method comprising the steps of forming the treatment fluid and introducing the treatment fluid through the wellbore and into the subterranean formation at a sufficient pressure to fracture the formation. | 03-10-2011 |
20110056688 | DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR WELL COMPLETION AND CONTROL AND METHOD FOR COMPLETING AND CONTROLLING A WELL - A screen assembly includes a tubular having one or more openings therein. A screen disposed about the tubular. The one or more devices disposed within the one or more openings. The devices each include a beaded matrix and a housing. Also included is a method for completing a wellbore with a sand screen. | 03-10-2011 |
20110067861 | Fracturing and Gravel Packing Tool with Shifting Ability between Squeeze and Circulate while Supporting an Inner String Assembly in a Single Position - A fracturing and gravel packing tool has features that prevent well swabbing when the tool is picked up with respect to a set isolation packer. An upper or jet valve allows switching between the squeeze and circulation positions without risk of closing the wash pipe valve. The wash pipe valve can only be closed with multiple movements in opposed direction that occur after a predetermined force is held for a finite time to allow movement that arms the wash pipe valve. The jet valve can prevent fluid loss to the formation when being set down whether the crossover tool is supported on the packer or on the smart collet. | 03-24-2011 |
20110067862 | Fracturing and Gravel Packing Tool with Multi Movement Wash Pipe Valve - A fracturing and gravel packing tool has features that prevent well swabbing when the tool is picked up with respect to a set isolation packer. An upper or jet valve allows switching between the squeeze and circulation positions without risk of closing the wash pipe valve. The wash pipe valve can only be closed with multiple movements in opposed direction that occur after a predetermined force is held for a finite time to allow movement that arms the wash pipe valve. The jet valve can prevent fluid loss to the formation when being set down whether the crossover tool is supported on the packer or on the smart collet. | 03-24-2011 |
20110067863 | SLURRY BYPASS SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED GRAVEL PACKING - Apparatus and methods for gravel packing. The method is particularly useful for deploying a sand screen assembly having shunt tubes. The apparatus can include two or more tubulars disposed about at least one expandable member. The tubulars are longitudinally aligned with one another and bundled together in a run-in position, and the bundled tubulars radially expand when the expandable member is activated. | 03-24-2011 |
20110073308 | VALVE APPARATUS FOR INFLOW CONTROL - A downhole gravel pack completion with an integrated inflow control device. The gravel pack completion with an integrated inflow control device can include a first tubular member disposed at least partially within a second tubular member. A chamber can be formed between the first tubular member and second tubular member. A screen can be connected with the second tubular member and can encircle at least a portion of the first tubular member. A selectively openable flow port can be formed through the first tubular member, and an inflow control device can be formed through the first tubular member. The flow port and the inflow control device can be located within the chamber. | 03-31-2011 |
20110094740 | METHOD OF TREATING SUBTERRANEAN FORMATIONS WITH POROUS CERAMIC PARTICULATE MATERIALS - Methods and compositions useful for subterranean formation treatments, such as hydraulic fracturing treatments and sand control that include porous materials. Such porous materials may be selectively configured porous material particles manufactured and/or treated with selected glazing materials, coating materials and/or penetrating materials to have desired strength and/or apparent density to fit particular downhole conditions for well treating such as hydraulic fracturing treatments and sand control treatments. Porous materials may also be employed in selected combinations to optimize fracture or sand control performance, and/or may be employed as relatively lightweight materials in liquid carbon dioxide-based well treatment systems. | 04-28-2011 |
20110114312 | Self-Diverting High-Rate Water Packs - Methods of forming gravel packs while reducing fluid loss to the surrounding subterranean formation. The methods involve suspending gravel that has been coated with a tackifying agent and degradable fines into a low viscosity carrier fluid and then placing that suspension into a subterranean formation so as to form a gravel pack wherein, as the gravel pack is placed, the degradable fines to de-adhere from the gravel and to fill at least a portion of the pore spaces within the gravel pack so as to reducing fluid loss through the gravel pack. | 05-19-2011 |
20110146984 | CONSTANT PRESSURE OPEN HOLE WATER PACKING SYSTEM - A system for conveying fluid into a wellbore, including a tubular member, a packer, a hydrodynamic flow device, and a seal device. The tubular member is disposed in the wellbore through a first zone, a second zone, and a hydrocarbon producing zone of the wellbore. The packer is disposed adjacent to the tubular member, and is configured to at least partially isolate the hydrocarbon producing zone from at least one of the first and second zones. The hydrodynamic flow device is disposed around the tubular member and comprises a pump fluidly connected to a discharge in fluid communication with the first zone and an inlet in fluid communication with the second zone. The seal device is disposed around the hydrodynamic flow device to isolate a first annulus of the first zone from a second annulus of the second zone. | 06-23-2011 |
20110155370 | DUAL COMPLETION STRING GRAVEL PACK SYSTEM AND METHOD - Gravel packing a wellbore can include simultaneously conveying separate gravel slurry delivery and production strings into the wellbore, flowing a gravel slurry through the gravel slurry delivery string and into an annulus about the production string, and producing fluid from the wellbore via the production string. A gravel packing system can include the gravel slurry delivery and production strings positioned laterally adjacent each other in a wellbore, and the gravel slurry delivery string being in direct fluid communication with one passage in a packer, and the production string being in direct fluid communication with another passage in the packer. Another gravel packing method can include flowing a gravel slurry through a gravel slurry delivery string and into an annulus about a production string, producing fluid from the wellbore via the production string, and these steps being performed without manipulation of either of the strings in the wellbore. | 06-30-2011 |
20110155371 | HIGH SOLIDS CONTENT SLURRIES AND METHODS - A slurry and method are disclosed for low damage gravel packing. The slurry comprises a solids mixture comprising a plurality of volume-averaged particle size distribution (PSD) modes such that a packed volume fraction (PVF) exceeds 0.75; a carrier fluid in an amount to provide a solids volume fraction (SVF) less than the PVF of the solids mixture; and a stability additive to inhibit settling of the solids mixture. The method comprises circulating the slurry into a wellbore to deposit the slurry downhole; terminating the slurry circulation for a period of time, wherein the stability additive inhibits settling of the solids mixture; and thereafter circulating the deposited slurry in contact with a surface of a screen. Stability additives disclosed include colloidal particles, hydratable polymer particles, and particles having an aspect ratio above | 06-30-2011 |
20110155372 | HIGH SOLIDS CONTENT SLURRY METHODS - A method and system are disclosed for low damage gravel packing. The method comprises: combining a carrier fluid and a solids mixture into a slurry, wherein the solids mixture comprises a plurality of particle size distribution modes such that a packed volume fraction exceeds 0.75; contacting a screen with leak-off control agent to form a bridge; positioning the screen and circulating the slurry through the wellbore in any order such that the solids mixture is deposited between the screen and the wellbore; degrading the degradable material to increase porosity and permeability of the pack; removing the bridge; and producing a reservoir fluid from the formation. The system comprises the slurry, a tubing string and slurry pump to position the screen and circulate the slurry to form the bridge on the screen. | 06-30-2011 |
20110162840 | Wellbore Method and Apparatus For Sand and Inflow Control During Well Operations - Method and apparatus for producing hydrocarbons including a wellbore that accesses a subsurface reservoir; a production tubing string disposed within the wellbore; and sand control devices coupled to the production tubing string. At least one of the sand control devices includes a first tubular member having a permeable section and a non permeable section; a second tubular member disposed within the first tubular member. The second tubular member has a plurality of openings and an inflow control device that provides a flow path to the interior. The sand control devices include a sealing mechanism disposed between the first tubular member and the second tubular member to provide pressure loss during gravel packing operations that is less than the pressure loss during production operations. | 07-07-2011 |
20110180258 | FLOW CONTROL SYSTEM WITH SAND SCREEN - A technique enables long-lasting control over fluid flow in a wellbore. The technique employs a base pipe, a flow control device, and a sand control screen. The sand control screen is coupled to the flow control device and mounted over the base pipe. Additionally, the sand control screen comprises longitudinal ribs positioned along the base pipe and a filter media positioned along the longitudinal ribs. A protective shroud is mounted over the filter media and cooperates with the other components of the system to provide a simple but durable system and method for controlling fluid flow. | 07-28-2011 |
20110203793 | METHOD OF GRAVEL PACKING MULTIPLE ZONES WITH ISOLATION - A gravel pack system and method for zonal isolation is disclosed by using a swellable element in conjunction with a primary isolation device, such as a cup packer. The zones may be isolated by both the isolation device and the swellable element. Shunt tubes may be used to convey a gravel slurry to each zone. At least one upper shunt tube extends through the isolation device to provide the slurry to the zone therebelow. Once the gravel packing is completed, the swellable member may be activated to provide and supplement a hydraulic seal between adjacent zones. | 08-25-2011 |
20110240290 | SHUNT ISOLATION VALVE - Gravel packing apparatus and method. The apparatus can include a conduit configured to extend between first and second wellbore intervals and through an isolation valve assembly separating the first and second intervals, and a sliding sleeve configured to slide between an open position and a closed position, wherein the sliding sleeve in the open position is configured to allow a flow of gravel slurry through the conduit between the first and second intervals, and the sliding sleeve in the closed position is configured to completely isolate the first and second intervals from each other. | 10-06-2011 |
20110247812 | METHODS TO GRAVEL PACK A WELL USING EXPANDING MATERIALS - An apparatus and a method for treating a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore comprising combining a carrier fluid, a first amount of particulates, and a second amount of particulates into a slurry, wherein the first amount of particulates have a first average size distribution and the second amount of particulates have a second average size distribution, wherein the first amount of particulates comprise an expanding material, placing the slurry in the wellbore, and lowering a screen into the slurry. An apparatus and a method of treating a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore, the method comprising combining a carrier fluid, a first amount of particulates, a second amount of particulates, and a third amount of particulates into a slurry, wherein the first amount of particulates have a first average size distribution, the second amount of particulates have a second average size distribution, and the third amount of particulates have a third average size distribution, wherein the first average size distribution is at least two times larger than the second average size distribution, and wherein second average size distribution is at least two times larger than the third average size distribution, wherein at least one of the second amount of particulates and the third amount of particulates comprise a expanding material, positioning a screen in a wellbore, and circulating the slurry through the wellbore such that the first amount of particulates and the second amount of particulates are deposited on an outer surface of the screen. | 10-13-2011 |
20110247813 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING FLOW THROUGH A SAND SCREEN - A technique enables an improved filtering of sand, a desired distribution of produced or injected fluid, and a reduction in erosion of completion components positioned in a production or injection well. The technique employs a base pipe and a sand screen surrounding the base pipe. The base pipe comprises a plurality of flow restriction elements arranged in a selected pattern along the base pipe to provide a desired distribution of the fluid flowing into or out of the sand screen. The pattern of flow restriction elements also maintains a flow rate of the flowing fluid below an erosive flow rate across the entire sand screen. | 10-13-2011 |
20110297376 | Sand Control Screen Assembly Having Control Line Capture Capability - A sand control screen assembly having control line capture capability is operable for use in a subterranean wellbore. The sand control screen assembly includes a base pipe having a screen jacket positioned therearound for preventing the flow of particulate material of a predetermined size therethrough and allowing the flow of production fluids therethrough. The sand control screen assembly also includes a control line capture assembly. The control line capture assembly includes an axially extending flange that couples to the screen jacket and is operable to protect the control line during installation and operation of the sand control screen in the wellbore. The control line capture assembly also includes an axially extending spring channel that couples to the flange. The channel is operable to receive and retain the control line during installation and operation of the sand control screen in the wellbore. | 12-08-2011 |
20120000651 | HIGH SOLIDS CONTENT SLURRY SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method includes providing a slurry comprising a carrier fluid and a solids mixture, and injecting said slurry in a wellbore wherein the solids mixture comprises at least two volume-averaged particle size distribution (PSD) modes, wherein a first PSD mode comprises solids having a volume-average median size at least three times larger than the volume-average median size of a second PSD mode such that a packed volume fraction (PVF) of the solids mixture exceeds 0.75. | 01-05-2012 |
20120000652 | WELL TREATMENT FLUID - A method of drilling with a wellbore fluid, wherein the wellbore fluid forms a filtercake on a wellbore wall, that includes pumping the wellbore fluid with an oxidative degradable polymer and an inactivated oxidant; forming a filtercake in a downhole environment by the pumping of the wellbore fluid into a well and allowing some of the fluid to filter into a subterranean rock formation to produce a filtercake comprising the oxidative degradable polymer and inactivated oxidant; and removing the filtercake formed by the wellbore fluid from the wellbore walls by exposing the filterckae with a breaker fluid comprising an aqueous fluid, and at least one iminodiacetic acid or a salt thereof is disclosed. | 01-05-2012 |
20120006544 | Apparatus and Method for Depositing a Slurry in a Well - A wireline apparatus for depositing slurry in a well. The apparatus includes a container for holding slurry to be deposited in the well. The container is operatively associated with and disassociated from a packer. The apparatus also includes a displacement valve actuated by a predetermined pressure and a cross-over tool operatively associated with the displacement valve. Actuation of the displacement valve causes the slurry to enter and pass through the cross-over tool and into the well. A method of gravel packing a well with the wireline deployed apparatus is also disclosed. | 01-12-2012 |
20120012312 | System and Method for Facilitating Downhole Operations - A technique is provided to facilitate use of a service tool at a downhole location. The service tool has different operational configurations that can be selected and used without moving the service string. | 01-19-2012 |
20120018153 | Systems and Methods For Providing Zonal Isolation In Wells - Systems and methods for providing zonal isolation in a hydrocarbon well include or utilize a tubular assembly having an upstream manifold, a gravel packing conduit, a transport conduit, a leak-off conduit, and a downstream flow path. The tubular assembly is adapted to receive a gravel-laden slurry and to direct at least a portion of the same to the gravel packing conduit. The gravel-laden slurry exiting the gravel packing conduit packs the annulus between the tubular assembly and the wellbore by dehydrating at least in part through the leak-off conduit. The leak-off conduit is further gravel-packed by the gravel-laden slurry received by the tubular assembly. The leak-off conduit is dehydrated through a flow control valve. Together, the gravel packed annulus and the gravel packed leak-off conduit provide a gravel-based zonal isolation system. | 01-26-2012 |
20120024526 | Self-Diverting High-Rate Water Packs - A method for diverting fluids across a perforation tunnel in high-rate water pack operations may include providing a wellbore extending into a subterranean formation, wherein a perforation tunnel provides a fluid connection between the wellbore and the subterranean formation; providing a diverting particulate that comprises a degradable plasticized polymer coating on a particulate; placing the diverting particulate into the perforation tunnel, wherein the step of placing the diverting particulate forms a particulate pack within the subterranean formation and the perforation tunnel; allowing the degradable plasticized polymer coating to deform and fill the interstitial spaces within the particulate pack in the perforation tunnel such that the fluid conductivity between the wellbore and the subterranean formation is substantially blocked; and allowing the plasticized polymer coating to degrade over time thereby substantially restoring the fluid conductivity between the wellbore and the subterranean formation. | 02-02-2012 |
20120031612 | Swellable Elastomer for Water Shut Off in Gravel Pack - An improved gravel pack material includes granules of a swellable elastomer selected to trigger by a surrounding fluid. When a fluid breakthrough occurs in a gravel-packed well, the swellable elastomer granules swell in the presence of the fluid at the point of the breakthrough, sealing off or reducing the flow of the fluid through the breakthrough into the well. | 02-09-2012 |
20120067574 | SELECTIVE CONTROL OF FLOW THROUGH A WELL SCREEN - A method of selectively controlling flow through a well screen can include installing the well screen in a wellbore, and then exposing the well screen to an aqueous fluid, thereby permitting flow through the well screen. A well screen assembly can include a well screen and an acid containing structure which dissolves in response to contact with an aqueous fluid, whereby flow through the well screen is selectively permitted. | 03-22-2012 |
20120067575 | METHODS OF USING INVERT EMULSION FLUIDS WITH HIGH INTERNAL PHASE CONCENTRATION - In a method of gravel packing a wellbore in a subterranean formation, the wellbore comprising a cased section and an uncased section, the method may include pumping into the wellbore a gravel pack composition comprising gravel and a carrier fluid comprising an invert emulsion fluid, where the invert emulsion fluid may comprise: an oleaginous external phase; a non-oleaginous internal phase, wherein a ratio of the oleaginous external phase and non-oleaginous internal phase is less than 50:50 and an emulsifier stabilizing the oleaginous external phase and the non-oleaginous internal phase. | 03-22-2012 |
20120080188 | Multi-position Valves for Fracturing and Sand Control and Associated Completion Methods - A completion tubular is placed in position adjacent the zone or zones to be fractured and produced. It features preferably sliding sleeve valves one series of which can be put in the wide open position after run in for gravel packing and fracturing zones one at a time or in any desired order. These valves are then closed and another series of valves can be opened wide but with a screen material juxtaposed in the flow passage to selectively produce from one or more fractured zones. An annular path behind the gravel is provided by an offset screen to promote flow to the screened production port. The path can be a closed annulus that comes short of the production port or goes over it. For short runs an exterior screen or shroud is eliminated for a sliding sleeve with multiple screened ports that can be opened in tandem. | 04-05-2012 |
20120090839 | Screen Assembly - A screen assembly that contains a tubular carrier and a gravel pack layer (containing gravel) is run in position in a stage of the well; and the screen assembly is expanded in the stage, an expansion that includes expanding the tubular carrier and the gravel pack layer. | 04-19-2012 |
20120103606 | Gravel Pack Assembly For Bottom Up/Toe-to-Heel Packing - A gravel pack assembly gravel packs a horizontal borehole. Operators wash down the borehole using a tool in a first position by flowing fluid from the tool through the apparatus' toe. Operators then gravel pack by moving the tool to a first flow port between a screen and the toe. Slurry flows into the borehole from the first flow port, and returns from the borehole flow through the screen. The gravel in the slurry can pack the borehole in an alpha-beta wave from toe to heel. When the tool has a sleeve, operators can break any bridges by flowing fluid from the passage of the assembly into the tool. In another condition, operators can move the tool to a second flow port. Slurry can flow into to the borehole through a shunt extending from the second flow port. Meanwhile, returns can flow from the borehole through a bypass in the assembly. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103607 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CREATING AN ANNULAR BARRIER IN A SUBTERRANEAN WELLBORE - Presented is a method of completing a subterranean well having an open wellbore extending through a subterranean formation having a target zone. In a preferred embodiment, a tubing assembly is placed in the wellbore, extending through the target zone. An annular space is defined between the outer surface of the tubing assembly and the wellbore wall. A gravel pack is placed in the annular space along at least a length of the target zone. Then an annular barrier forming material is flowed into the annular space along at least a length of the target zone. Then the annular barrier forming material is “set” to create an annular barrier in the annular space. The annular barrier forming material can be carried on the tubing assembly or pumped downhole. Flow restrictors, such as packers or a gravel pack, can be used to restrict flow of the annular barrier forming material to allow the material to set into an annular barrier. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103608 | Gravel Pack Bypass Assembly - A gravel pack operation disposes slurry from an inner string into the annulus around a shoe track. A valve on the shoe track can open and close flow through a port, and seats around the port allow an outlet of the tool to seal with the port. When the valve is open and the outlet sealed with the port, the slurry in the string is pumped into the borehole around the shoe track by flowing the slurry from the outlet into the borehole through the flow port. As this occurs, gravel collects around the shoe track, and fluid returns in the borehole flow back into the shoe track through a screen disposed toward the track's toe. Once inside the shoe track, the fluid returns communicate through a bypass on the shoe track around the sealed outlet and port. At this point, the fluid returns can pass uphole in the gravel pack assembly. | 05-03-2012 |
20120145389 | WELL SCREENS HAVING ENHANCED WELL TREATMENT CAPABILITIES - A well screen assembly with enhanced well treatment capabilities. A well screen assembly can include a well treatment substance secured to the well screen assembly, and at least one reactive component of a well treatment stimulant. The reactive component can also be secured to the well screen assembly. A method of treating a well can include expanding a well screen assembly outward in a wellbore of the well, thereby decreasing a distance between a well treatment substance and a wall of the wellbore. Another method of treating a well can include contacting multiple reactive components of a well treatment stimulant with each other in the well, thereby dispersing a well treatment substance about a well screen assembly. | 06-14-2012 |
20120152538 | Compositions and Methods Relating to Establishing Circulation in Stand-Alone-Screens Without Using Washpipes - Of the methods provided herein, one example of a method that is disclosed includes the steps of placing a stand-alone-screen that does not comprise a concentric washpipe in a well bore, and forming an in situ coated stand-alone-screen in the well bore by placing a screen-plugging filter cake on the interior surface of the stand-alone-screen, the screen-plugging filter cake comprising particulate plugging agents deposited by a packing slurry. | 06-21-2012 |
20120168159 | SECONDARY FLOW PATH MODULE, GRAVEL PACKING SYSTEM INCLUDING THE SAME, AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLY THEREOF - An apparatus for gravel packing includes a sand screen and a secondary flow path module. The module is installed over the sand screen with the sand screen positioned radially inward the secondary flow path module. The secondary flow path module includes a protective cover to which the secondary flow path hardware is attached on an interior of the protective cover. | 07-05-2012 |
20120175111 | Fish-Thru Screen Apparatus and Method - A down hole apparatus for filtering debris from a fluid in a well bore including a screen sub, a diverter assembly connected to the screen sub, a screen section extending from the diverter assembly and connected to the screen sub. The screen section includes a plurality of openings for filtering debris from the fluid. The debris collects in an annulus between the screen section and the screen sub. The diverter assembly includes a detachable plug having a fishing portion capable of engaging a fishing tool. Removal of the detachable plug with a fishing tool opens a central passage through the diverter assembly and the screen section. The diverter assembly may include an outer and an inner body and one or more passages between the outer and inner bodies. The detachable plug may include one or more dog members capable of engaging the inner body. | 07-12-2012 |
20120175112 | GRAVEL PACKING IN LATERAL WELLBORE - A technique facilitates performance of a treatment application in a lateral wellbore. The technique may be employed in an open lateral wellbore and comprises deploying a completion within the open wellbore wall of the lateral wellbore. A service tool is used in cooperation with the completion to perform a gravel packing or other well treatment operation while maintaining hydrostatic pressure on the open lateral wellbore to prevent collapse of the open lateral wellbore. A variety of features may be incorporated into the completion or used in cooperation with the completion to facilitate the well treatment operation while maintaining the hydrostatic pressure until completion of the desired gravel pack. | 07-12-2012 |
20120175113 | CONTROLLED HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE COMPLETION SYSTEM - A method of drilling and completing a well can include drilling a section of a wellbore, positioning a perforated shroud in the section of the wellbore, securing the perforated shroud by setting a hanger, and isolating the section of the wellbore from a remainder of the wellbore vertically above the section of the wellbore. The drilling, positioning, securing and isolating steps can be performed while the section of the wellbore is not exposed to a liquid column extending to a surface location. The drilling, positioning, securing and isolating steps can be performed in a single trip of a drill string into the wellbore. | 07-12-2012 |
20120181024 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING FORMATION FLUID PARTICULATES - A gravel packing apparatus includes: a screen assembly including at least one screen configured to be disposed in a borehole in an earth formation, the screen configured to prevent particulate matter from passing therethrough; an axially extending conduit configured to transmit a gravel slurry from a remote location to a borehole region located between the screen and a portion of the borehole wall; and an exit port including an opening having a first end in fluid communication with the conduit and a second end in fluid communication with the borehole region, the exit port including at least one standoff member extending radially from the second end and configured to prevent blockage of the opening. | 07-19-2012 |
20120199346 | COMPLETION ASSEMBLY - A technique includes running a lower completion assembly into a well in a single trip. The lower completion assembly includes a screen, a first valve and a second valve. The technique includes performing a gravel packing operation using the lower completion assembly, where performing the gravel packing operation includes running a service assembly into the lower completion assembly to operate the first valve. The technique further includes removing the service assembly from the well and subsequently installing an upper completion assembly in the well. The installation of the upper completion assembly enables remote control of the second valve of the lower completion assembly for purposes of regulating the production of fluid from the well. | 08-09-2012 |
20120211226 | SCREEN, METHOD OF EXPANDING A SCREEN AND METHOD OF CONFORMING A SCREEN TO A BOREHOLE - A screen includes, a body having a permeable material with energy stored therein configured to change the body from a first volume to a second volume, and a binder in operable communication with the body configured to retain the body in the first volume until the binder is weakened sufficiently for the energy stored within the body to overcome the binder and allow the body to change from the first volume toward the second volume. | 08-23-2012 |
20120217010 | Open-Hole Packer For Alternate Path Gravel Packing, and Method For Completing An Open-Hole Wellbore - Zonal isolation apparatus includes at least one packer assembly and can be used in completing an open-hole potion of a wellbore, which open-hole portion extends through at least two subsurface intervals. The zonal isolation apparatus includes base pipe and filter medium, which together form a sand screen. Each packer assembly comprises at least two mechanically set packer elements. Intermediate the at least two mechanically set packer elements is at least one swellable packer element. The swellable packer element is actuated over time in the presence of a fluid such as water, oil, or a chemical. Swelling may occur should one of the mechanically set packer elements fail. The zonal isolation apparatus also includes alternate flow channel(s) that serve to divert gravel pack slurry from an upper interval to lower intervals during gravel packing operations. A method for completing a wellbore using the zonal isolation apparatus is also provided herein. | 08-30-2012 |
20120247761 | Apparatus and Method for Completing Wells Using Slurry Containing a Shape-Memory Material Particles - In aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of performing a wellbore operation, which in one embodiment includes supplying a mixture containing a fluid and shape memory particles of a first size into a selected region in the wellbore, retaining the shape memory particles of the first size in the selected region while expelling the fluid from the selected region, and activating the shape memory particles retained in the selected region to cause them to expand to attain a second shape to fill the selected region with shape memory particles having the second shape. | 10-04-2012 |
20120247762 | Anti-Channeling Pack-Off Particles Used in a Production Section of an Oil-Gas Well, and Completion Method and Production Method Using Such Particles - Anti-channeling pack-off particles used in a production section of an oil-gas well, a completion method, and a production method are provided. The anti-channeling pack-off particles are macromolecule polymer particles having an average particle diameter of 0.05-1.0 mm and a real density of 0.8-1.4 g/cm | 10-04-2012 |
20120267100 | SEGMENTAL FLOW-CONTROL METHOD FOR FLOW-CONTROL FILTER STRING IN OIL -GAS WELL AND OIL-GAS WELL STRUCTURE - A segmental flow-control method for a flow-control filter string in an oil-gas well and an oil-gas well structure are disclosed. The oil-gas well includes a well wall( | 10-25-2012 |
20120267101 | Application of Degradable Polymers in Sand Control - Degradable polylactic or polyhydroxyalkanoate polymers may be used to viscosify aqueous fluids for use in wells, Sand control screen or liner can be coated with a solid degradable polymer during placement in a well. Mechanical changes or flow changes in a well can be caused by solid degradable polymer that changes physical properties after it is placed in a well. Parts of devices or entire devices can be made of solid degradable polymer that converts to a fluid after selected times in an aqueous environment in a well. | 10-25-2012 |
20120273197 | COMPOSITES FOR CONTROLLED RELEASE OF WELL TREATMENT AGENTS - A well treatment composite which allows for the slow release of one or more well treatment agents into a subterranean formation and/or a wellbore penetrating the formation has a nano-sized calcined porous substrate (adsorbent) of high surface area onto which is applied the well treatment agent. The composites are suitable for use in such well treatment operations as hydraulic fracturing and sand control. | 11-01-2012 |
20130000899 | One Trip Toe-to-Heel Gravel Pack and Liner Cementing Assembly - A gravel packing assembly gravel packs a horizontal borehole. Operators wash down the borehole using an inner string in a first position by flowing fluid from the inner string through the apparatus' toe. Operators then gravel pack by moving the inner string to one or more flow ports between a screen and the toe. Slurry flows into the borehole from the flow ports, and returns from the borehole flow through the screen. The gravel in the slurry can pack the borehole in an alpha-beta wave from toe to heel. In another condition, operators can move the inner string to a second flow port so slurry can flow into the borehole through a shunt extending from the second flow port. When gravel packing is done, operators move the inner string to a port collar in a liner of the assembly to cement the liner in the borehole. | 01-03-2013 |
20130008652 | Gravel Pack and Sand Disposal Device - An apparatus and method allow gravel pack slurry to be placed in a borehole annulus from the toe towards the heel to reduce the pressure acting upon the heel of the borehole during the gravel placement operation. By reducing the pressure on the heel, the gravel pack slurry may be placed in longer sections of the borehole in a single operation. Additionally, excess slurry in the inner string can be disposed in the borehole annulus around the shoe track of the apparatus, and fluid returns can flow up the apparatus through a bypass. | 01-10-2013 |
20130025859 | Polymer Compositions for Use in Downhole Tools and Components Thereof - Methods including providing a downhole tool or a component thereof comprising a plasticized polymer composition that comprises a polymer and a water-soluble plasticizer, wherein the plasticized polymer composition has a first deflection test value; exposing the downhole tool or the component thereof to an aqueous-based medium; allowing the water-soluble plasticizer to leach out of the downhole tool or the component thereof, wherein the plasticized polymer composition has a second deflection test value after exposure to the aqueous-based medium, and wherein the second deflection test value is less than about 10% of the first deflection test value; and placing the downhole tool or the component thereof in a subterranean formation. | 01-31-2013 |
20130032343 | PERMEABLE MATERIAL COMPACTING METHOD AND APPARATUS - A permeable material compacting method includes, positioning a portion of at least one elongated member within the interior of a tubular, moving a portion of the at least one elongated member through the interior of the tubular, moving a permeable material through the interior of the tubular with the portion of the at least one elongated member, and radially compacting the permeable material as the permeable material passes through the interior of the tubular. | 02-07-2013 |
20130048280 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GRAVEL PACKING WELLS - Assemblies, systems, and methods to facilitate gravel packing of a wellbore having a flow restricting device are described. The assemblies, systems, and methods can include a flow restricting device and an alternative-path gravel packing system to provide a gravel pack about the flow restricting device. The assemblies, systems, and methods can allow uniform and complete annular sand control pack placement together with reduced flow of unwanted fluids. | 02-28-2013 |
20130048281 | Wellbore servicing fluids and methods of making and using same - A method of servicing a wellbore comprising placing a composition comprising a microemulsion surfactant and a completion fluid into a wellbore, wherein the composition is substantially free of an organic solvent. A method of servicing a wellbore having a permeable zone comprising introducing a composition comprising a brine and a microemulsion surfactant to the wellbore proximate to the permeable zone wherein at least a portion of the composition enters the permeable zone and wherein the composition excludes an organic solvent. A wellbore servicing fluid comprising a microemulsion surfactant and a completion fluid. | 02-28-2013 |
20130068459 | GRAVEL PACK CARRIER FLUIDS - A method of gravel packing a hole in a subterranean formation having a filter cake coated on the surface thereof is disclosed. The method may include: injecting into the hole a gravel pack composition comprising gravel and a carrier fluid comprising a base fluid and at least one alkyl glycoside. Also disclosed is a solution including an aqueous fluid, at least one alkyl glycoside, and gravel which may be used as a composition for a gravel pack operation, for example. | 03-21-2013 |
20130081810 | METHODS OF PREVENTING PREMATURE FRACTURING OF A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION USING A SHEATH - A method of completing at least a portion of an open-hole wellbore comprises: positioning a sand control assembly in the portion of the open-hole wellbore, wherein the sand control assembly comprises a screen; positioning at least one conduit adjacent to the sand control assembly; positioning a sheath in the portion of the open-hole wellbore, wherein the sheath is a non-porous tubular, and wherein the sheath is positioned such that a sheath annulus exists between the inside wall of the sheath and the outside wall of at least a portion of both, the sand control assembly and the at least one conduit; and introducing a treatment fluid into the portion of the open-hole wellbore. | 04-04-2013 |
20130098611 | ALKALINE PERSULFATE FOR LOW-TEMPERATURE BREAKING OF POLYMER VISCOSIFIED FLUID - A persulfate compound activated by a strong base is used for low-temperature breaking of fluids viscosified with one or more water-soluble synthetic polymers, wherein the water-soluble synthetic polymers are selected from the group consisting of polyacrylamides, copolymers of polyacrylamide, derivatives of polyacrylamide or of copolymers of polyacrylamide, and any combination thereof. The breaker system can be used in an oilfield or pipeline application where such a synthetic polymer, a multi-chain polysaccharide, or combination thereof may be present in a fluid. It is particularly useful at low temperatures of less than 100° F. | 04-25-2013 |
20130112409 | Proppant particulates and methods of using such particulates in subterranean applications - The invention pertains to improved proppant particles comprising an aromatic polycondensation polymer having a glass transition temperature (T | 05-09-2013 |
20130118738 | GRAVEL PACK ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE - A method of conducting a gravel pack operation comprising lowering a fluid control assembly into a wellbore and supplying a fluid mixture comprising gravel into an annulus between the fluid control assembly and the wellbore to form a gravel pack. A washout assembly surrounds a pre-determined length of the fluid control assembly to remove gravel pack from around the predetermined length. A tattle-tale sub provides an indication of the location of the washout assembly relative to the fluid control assembly. The placement of a cement or inflatable packer is controlled relative to the pre-determined length of the fluid control assembly. | 05-16-2013 |
20130161000 | Downhole isolation methods and apparatus therefor - The invention provides a method and apparatus for use in a wellbore gravel pack operation. The method comprises providing an apparatus in a downhole annulus. The apparatus comprises a mandrel and a swellable element formed from a material selected to increase in volume when exposed to a downhole stimulus. The method comprises placing a gravel pack below the apparatus via the downhole annulus in which the apparatus is located, and placing a gravel pack above the apparatus. Subsequent to placing the gravel packs, the swellable element is increased in volume to create an annular barrier in the wellbore. The invention allows isolation of multiple intervals of a well in a single gravel pack operation using swellable elastomers, and does not rely on the use of shunt tube alternate path systems. | 06-27-2013 |
20130199782 | GRAVEL AND FRACTURE PACKING USING FIBERS - A technique includes completing a well, including installing a tubing string that includes a screen in the well and installing a fiber-based material outside of the screen. The technique further includes using the well as an injection well, including communicating a fluid into the tubing string to cause an injection flow to be communicated in a fluid flow path from an interior of the tubing string, through the screen and into a formation. | 08-08-2013 |
20130206406 | ECONOMICAL CONSTRUCTION OF WELL SCREENS - A well screen for use in a subterranean well can include a loose filter media, a sandstone, a square weave mesh material, a foam, and/or a nonmetal mesh material. A method of installing a well screen in a subterranean well can include dispersing a material in a filter media of the well screen, after the well screen has been installed in the well, thereby permitting a fluid to flow through the filter media. A method of constructing a well screen can include positioning a loose filter media in an annular space between a base pipe and a shroud, so that the filter media filters fluid which flows through a wall of the base pipe. | 08-15-2013 |
20130220606 | SCREEN ASSEMBLY - An assembly that is usable with a well includes a base pipe, a shroud that is disposed radially outside of the base pipe and tubes. The tubes are disposed radially outside of the base pipe and are radially inside the shroud. The tubes longitudinally extend along the base pipe and radially expand to radially expand the shroud in response to pressurization of the tubes. | 08-29-2013 |
20130233541 | Apparatus and Method for Providing an Alternate Flow Path in Isolation Devices - An apparatus for use in a wellbore is described, the apparatus having a tubular body and a throughbore which defines a primary fluid path through the apparatus. An expanding element is disposed around the tubular body and is configured to provide an annular barrier in a space between the tubular body and a surrounding wall. A conduit defining a secondary flow path through the apparatus is provided, and is configured to be in fluid communication with at least one alternate path, such as a shunt tube. The conduit is arranged to vary the secondary flow path along a longitudinal direction of the apparatus, for example to redirect the flow path to a radial position closer to the tool body. The conduit is configured to have a reduced effect on the operation of the expanding element, while still allowing the conduit to be coupled to alternate flow paths of adjacent apparatus. | 09-12-2013 |
20130248178 | Wellbore Apparatus and Methods For Zonal Isolations and Flow Contgrol - Method for completing a wellbore in a subsurface formation includes providing a sand control device representing one or more joints of sand screens, and a packer assembly along the joints with at least one mechanically-set packer with at least one alternate flow channel therein. Running the packer assembly and connected sand screen into the wellbore, setting a mechanically-set packer into engagement with the surrounding wellbore, injecting gravel slurry into the wellbore to form a gravel pack. An elongated isolation string is run into the sand control device across the packer assembly with valves that serve as an inflow control device. Thereafter, seals are activated around the isolation string and adjacent the packer assembly. A zonal isolation apparatus allows flow control to be provided above and below packer assembly. | 09-26-2013 |
20130248179 | Packer For Alternate Flow Channel Gravel Packing and Method For Completing A Wellbore - Apparatus and method for completing a wellbore including providing a packer having an inner mandrel, alternate flow channels along the inner mandrel, and a sealing element external to the inner mandrel, including connecting packer to tubular body, then running the packer and connected tubular body into the wellbore. In one aspect, the packer and connected tubular body may be placed along an open-hole portion of the wellbore. Tubular body may be a sand screen, with the sand screen comprising a base pipe, a surrounding filter medium, and alternate flow channels. The method includes setting a packer and injecting a gravel slurry into an annular region formed between the tubular body and the surrounding wellbore, and then further injecting the gravel slurry through the alternate flow channels to allow the gravel slurry to at least partially bypass sealing element of the packer. | 09-26-2013 |
20130255943 | Crossover Joint For Connecting Eccentric Flow Paths to Concentric Flow Paths - A wellbore apparatus and method comprising a first wellbore tool having a primary flow path and at least one secondary flow path and a second wellbore tool having a primary flow path and secondary flow path. A radial center of the primary flow path in the first wellbore tool is offset from a radial center of the primary flow path in the second wellbore tool which comprises a crossover joint connecting the first wellbore tool to the second wellbore tool having a primary flow path fluidly connecting the primary flow path of the first wellbore tool to the primary flow path of the second wellbore tool, and at least one secondary flow path fluidly connecting the at least one secondary flow path of the first wellbore tool to the at least one secondary flow path of the second wellbore tool. | 10-03-2013 |
20130277051 | ONE TRIP TREATMENT SYSTEM WITH ZONAL ISOLATION - A treatment system including a seal assembly operatively arranged with respect to a first zone in a borehole for isolating the first zone from a second zone and a third zone. The second and third zones are located on opposite sides of the first zone. A string assembly extends between the second zone and the third zone, forms a first fluid pathway operatively arranged to bypass the first zone and enable fluid communication between the second and third zones. The first fluid pathway is fluidly connected to an annulus of the borehole for enabling a treatment of the second and third zones to be performed simultaneously. A method of operating a treatment system is also included. | 10-24-2013 |
20130277052 | Swellable Packer In Hookup Nipple - A screening assembly with a swellable packer incorporated onto the exterior of the screen that swells in the presence of water or hydrocarbons. The swellable packer swells at a rate that allows the gravel pack operation to proceed without hindering the gravel pack operation but then swells to seal the annular region around the exterior of a blank tubular at the upper end of the screen. By running in a swellable packer with the screen assembly at least one additional trip into the wellbore may be eliminated. | 10-24-2013 |
20130277053 | Wellbore Apparatus and Methods For Multi-Zone Well Completion, Production and Injection - Completing a wellbore in a subsurface formation with packer assembly having first mechanically-set packer as first zonal isolation tool, and second zonal isolation tool comprises internal bore for receiving production fluids, and alternate flow channels. First packer has alternate flow channels around inner mandrel, and sealing element external to inner mandrel and includes operatively connecting packer assembly to a sand screen, and running into wellbore. First packer set by actuating sealing element into engagement with surrounding open-hole portion of the wellbore. Thereafter, injecting a gravel slurry and further injecting the gravel slurry through the alternate flow channels to allow it to bypass the sealing element, resulting in a gravel packed wellbore within an annular region between sand screen and surrounding formation below packer assembly. | 10-24-2013 |
20130292117 | COMPLIANT SAND SCREEN - Embodiments disclose a sand screen apparatus for use in a well that intersects a hydrocarbon formation. The sand screen apparatus comprises a composite, the composite having a compressed state and an expanded state. In embodiments, the composite comprises a base polymer and one or a plurality of reactive fillers where the reactive fillers react with the base polymer in the expanded state after exposure to a first trigger. | 11-07-2013 |
20130306313 | WASHPIPE ISOLATION VALVE AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method can include closing a valve interconnected between sections of a washpipe of a service tool string by displacing the service tool string relative to a completion string, thereby preventing flow through the washpipe. A well system can include a service tool string reciprocably received in a completion string, the service tool string including a washpipe received in a well screen, and a valve which selectively permits and prevents flow through the washpipe. The completion string can include a structure which operates the valve in response to displacement of the service tool string relative to the completion string. Another method can include closing a valve by partially withdrawing a service tool string from a completion string, thereby preventing flow through a washpipe of the service tool string. | 11-21-2013 |
20130312960 | SHUNT ISOLATION VALVE - Gravel packing apparatus and method. The apparatus can include a conduit configured to extend between first and second wellbore intervals and through an isolation valve assembly separating the first and second intervals. A sliding sleeve can be configured to slide between an open position and a closed position. When the sliding sleeve is in the open position, it is configured to allow a flow of gravel slurry through the conduit between the first and second intervals, and when the sliding sleeve is in the closed position, it is configured to completely isolate the first and second intervals from each other. | 11-28-2013 |
20130319666 | Gravel Packing Method for Multilateral Well Prior to Locating a Junction - A lateral is gravel packed without a junction in place in a single trip into the wellbore. A disconnect is provided between the isolation packer in the lateral and a main bore packer. The inner string assembly in the gravel packing completion releases a disconnect with a shift tool and then releases the main bore packer so that the inner string assembly takes out the main bore packer and the upper portion of the disconnect when pulling out of the hole. A junction is then placed into the main and lateral legs with a packer having a seal bore into which the production string is sealingly stabbed to produce out of the main bore and/or the just completed lateral. | 12-05-2013 |
20130327526 | EXPANDABLE SAND SCREEN AND METHOD FOR WELL CASING FOR THERMAL OIL RECOVERY - A method of well casing permitting thermal oil recovery includes drilling a wellbore to the top of productive formation, casing the wellbore with a casing string, drilling through the productive with a smaller diameter bit, running in a sand screen to the productive formation and subsequent drainage or heat carrier injection into the formation. The sand screen contains longitudinally-corrugated pipes with slots, mutually connected by the end cylindrical portions with a limited longitudinal shift possibility. Besides, the sand screen slots are internally hermetically sealed with a thermoplastic material. Running-in of the screen down to the target depth, include creating an internal excess pressure to expand the sand screen along its entire length except for cylindrical sections, fixing and hermetical anchoring to the casing. Pumping-in of a heat-carrier, under influence of which the thermoplastic material melts up, unseals the slots. | 12-12-2013 |
20130333886 | BREAKING DIUTAN WITH METAL ACTIVITOR DOWN TO 140 .degree.F OR LOWER - A method of gravel packing a treatment zone of a well includes the steps of: (A) forming a treatment fluid including a continuous aqueous phase and gravel, wherein the aqueous phase includes: (i) water; (ii) diutan; (iii) oxidizer in the range of 0.1% to 2% by weight of the water; (iv) organic acid in the range of 0.5% to 5% by weight of the water; and (v) transition metal compound in the range of 0.001% to 0.25% by weight of the water; and (B) introducing the treatment fluid into the treatment zone; wherein the design temperature is less than 180° F.; wherein the continuous phase of the treatment fluid has a viscosity in the range of 10 cP to 75 cP at the design temperature; and wherein the concentration of the organic acid is less than would cause the diutan to salt out at the design temperature. | 12-19-2013 |
20130333887 | WASHPIPE ISOLATION VALVE AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method can include closing a valve interconnected between sections of a washpipe of a service tool string by displacing the service tool string relative to a completion string, thereby preventing flow through the washpipe. A well system can include a service tool string reciprocably received in a completion string, the service tool string including a washpipe received in a well screen, and a valve which selectively permits and prevents flow through the washpipe. The completion string can include a structure which operates the valve in response to displacement of the service tool string relative to the completion string. Another method can include closing a valve by partially withdrawing a service tool string from a completion string, thereby preventing flow through a washpipe of the service tool string. | 12-19-2013 |
20140008066 | Shunt Tube Assembly Entry Device - A shunt tube entry device comprises one or more inlet ports, a shroud disposed at least partially about a wellbore tubular, and a shunt tube in fluid communication with the chamber. The shroud defines a chamber between the shroud and the wellbore tubular, and the chamber is in fluid communication with the one or more entry ports. | 01-09-2014 |
20140014337 | Single Trip Gravel Pack System And Method - Systems and methods for completing a well. A lower completion assembly is run into a wellbore adjacent to a subsurface formation in a single trip. The lower completion assembly includes a screen assembly, an inner string, and a sealing device. The inner string has a return opening and at least one inflow control device communicating with an interior of the inner string. The barrier device actuates between a gravel packing position and an inflow control position. Gravel flows about the screen assembly with the barrier device in the gravel packing position during at least a portion of gravel pack operations. The barrier device is actuated to the inflow control position to restrict flow through the screen assembly during at least a portion of a well operation. | 01-16-2014 |
20140027115 | Pipe-in-Pipe Shunt Tube Assembly - A shunt tube assembly comprises a wellbore tubular, a packing tube, a transport tube, at least one valve configured to provide selective fluid communication between an interior passageway through the transport tube and the packing tube. At least a portion of the transport tube is disposed within the packing tube. | 01-30-2014 |
20140041869 | Method and System for Servicing a Wellbore - A wellbore servicing composition comprising a base fluid, the base fluid comprising a substantially aqueous fluid, a brine, an emulsion, an invert emulsion, an oleaginous fluid, or combinations thereof, a quantity of template assisted crystallization beads, and a wellbore servicing fluid component, the wellbore servicing fluid component comprising a quantity of proppant, a quantity of gravel, or combinations thereof. A wellbore servicing system comprising a flowpath, the flowpath comprising at least one component of wellbore servicing equipment, and a conduit extending from the at least one component of wellbore servicing equipment to a wellbore, and a wellbore servicing fluid disposed within the flowpath, wherein the wellbore servicing fluid comprises a plurality of template assisted crystallization beads. A wellbore servicing method comprising forming a wellbore servicing fluid comprising a quantity of template assisted crystallization beads, and introducing the wellbore servicing fluid into a wellbore, a subterranean formation, or combinations thereof. | 02-13-2014 |
20140069643 | ELECTRON-POOR ORTHOESTER FOR GENERATING ACID IN A WELL FLUID - In an embodiment, a method is provided including the steps of: (A) introducing a well fluid comprising an electron-poor orthoester into a well; and (B) allowing or causing the electron-poor orthoester to hydrolyze to produce an acid and an alcohol in the well. In another embodiment, a water-based well fluid is provided, the well fluid including: (A) a continuous aqueous phase having a pH of a least 6; (B) an electron-poor orthoester; and (C) a viscosity-increasing agent. | 03-13-2014 |
20140069644 | Wellbore Servicing Compositions and Methods of Making and Using Same - A method of servicing a wellbore in a subterranean formation comprising preparing a wellbore servicing fluid comprising a snake-in-cage composition; and placing the wellbore servicing fluid into a wellbore wherein the snake dissociates from the cage and enters one or more permeable zones within the wellbore. A wellbore treatment composition comprising a snake disposed within a cage wherein the cage comprises a crosslinked polymer. | 03-13-2014 |
20140069645 | METHODS TO DELIVER FLUIDS ON A WELL SITE WITH VARIABLE SOLIDS CONCENTRATION FROM SOLID SLURRIES - The application discloses a storable composition for oilfield application including a slurry of a carrier fluid and a particulate blend made of proppant; the particulate blend comprising at least a first amount of particulates having a first average particle size between about 100 and 5000 μm and at least a second amount of particulates having a second average particle size between about three and twenty times smaller than the first average particle size; such that a packed volume fraction of the particulate blend exceeds 0.74 and the particulate blend volume is sufficient to substantially avoid settling of the particulate in the carrier fluid. | 03-13-2014 |
20140090840 | GRAVEL PACK CARRIER FLUIDS - A method of gravel packing a hole in a subterranean formation having a filter cake coated on the surface thereof is disclosed. The method may include: injecting into the hole a gravel pack composition comprising gravel and a carrier fluid comprising a base fluid and at least one alkyl glycoside. Also disclosed is a solution including an aqueous fluid, at least one alkyl glycoside, and gravel which may be used as a composition for a gravel pack operation, for example. | 04-03-2014 |
20140096963 | FLOW RESTRICTOR FOR USE IN A SERVICE TOOL - A system, apparatus, and method for gravel packing a wellbore are provided. The system includes a service tool extending through a packer that isolates a proximal annulus of the wellbore from a distal annulus thereof. The service tool defines an inner bore and a conduit, with the conduit being in fluid communication with the proximal annulus and the distal annulus. The system also includes a flow restrictor disposed in the conduit. The flow restrictor is configured to induce a first pressure drop in fluid flowing through the conduit in a first direction and to induce a second pressure drop in fluid flowing through the conduit in a second direction, with the second pressure drop being greater than the first pressure drop. | 04-10-2014 |
20140116693 | Gravel Pack Apparatus Having Actuated Valves - A device and method allows a bore valve in the washpipe and in certain instances a port valve or sliding sleeve to open or close upon command from the surface so that gravel slurry may be placed in a wellbore. | 05-01-2014 |
20140116694 | GRAVEL PACKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A gravel packing system includes at least two packers with at least one of the two packers being sealable to an open hole, a barrier sealably engaged with the at least two packers defining an annular space between the open hole and the barrier, a cross-over tool operably connectable to at least one of the at least two packers and the barrier, and at least one regulator in operable communication with the barrier configured to maintain a substantially constant pressure in the annular space while gravel is packed at a location downstream of at least one of the at least two packers, downstream being defined by a direction of travel of gravel being packed. | 05-01-2014 |
20140151042 | Chelate Compositions And Methods And Fluids For Use In Oilfield Operations - A breaker fluid may include a base fluid; and an inactive chelating agent. A process may include pumping a first wellbore fluid comprising an inactive chelating agent into a wellbore through a subterranean formation; and activating the inactive chelating agent to release an active chelating agent into the wellbore. | 06-05-2014 |
20140202695 | Treatment Fluids Comprising Stabilized Heteropolysaccharides and Related Methods - Treatment fluids employing stabilized heteropolysaccharide-based gels in brines are used as part of gravel packing and combined gravel packing-fracturing operations; a method includes providing a treatment fluid which includes an aqueous brine base, a heteropolysaccharide including one selected from the group consisting of diutan, scleroglucan, and succinoglycan, and a protein present in an amount sufficient to stabilize the heteropolysaccharide and hence minimizing the salting out phenomenon, the method including placing the treatment fluid in a subterranean formation. | 07-24-2014 |
20140231082 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR TREATING SUBTERRANEAN FORMATIONS WITH INTERLOCKING LOST CIRCULATION MATERIALS - The present invention provides for methods of treating a fluid loss zone in a wellbore in a subterranean formation including providing interlocking notched particulates having an outer face comprising at least one notch therethrough; wherein the at least one notch has a shape and an inner perimeter value; providing interlocking protruding particulates having an outer perimeter portion that protrudes in an approximate equivalent to the shape and value of the inner perimeter of the at least one notch; introducing the interlocking protruding particulates and the interlocking notched particulates into the wellbore in the subterranean formation; interlocking the interlocking protruding particulates and the interlocking notched particulates through the at least one notch to form an interlocking network of at least one interlocking protruding particulate and at least one interlocking notched particulate; sealing at least a portion of the fluid loss zone. | 08-21-2014 |
20140231083 | Fluid Filtering Device for a Wellbore and Method for Completing a Wellbore - A sand control device for restricting flow of particles from a subsurface formation into a tubular body within a wellbore, the device being divided into compartments along its length, each compartment comprises a base pipe. The base pipe defines an elongated tubular body having a permeable section and an impermeable section within each compartment, also comprising a first filtering conduit and a second filtering conduit. The filtering conduits are arranged so that the first filtering conduit is adjacent to the non-permeable section of the base pipe, while the second filtering conduit is adjacent to the permeable section of the base pipe. | 08-21-2014 |
20140231084 | Drill Cuttings Re-Injection - A method for re-injecting formation solids into a subsurface formation includes obtaining a volume of solid particles from drilling returns, and then obtaining an aqueous operations fluid comprising at least one surfactant. Mixing a volume of the operations fluid with the volume of solid particles to form a slurry which is injected into a disposal well which includes a NAF filter cake. Then injecting the slurry into one or more fractures formed in the subsurface formation such that the slurry contacts the NAF filter cake en route to the one or more fractures. | 08-21-2014 |
20140238673 | METHODS OF STABILIZING WEAKLY CONSOLIDATED SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION INTERVALS - Methods of fracturing a weakly consolidated target interval in a wellbore in a subterranean formation including providing a pad fluid comprising an aqueous base fluid and nanoparticulates; providing a fracturing fluid comprising an aqueous base fluid and gravel; introducing the pad fluid in the wellbore at or above a fracture gradient rate so as to create or enhance at least one fracture at or near the weakly consolidated target interval, such that the nanoparticulates in the pad fluid penetrate into the weakly consolidated target interval and into the at least one fracture; introducing the fracturing fluid in the wellbore at or above the fracture gradient rate so as to enhance the at least one fracture and form a proppant pack in the at least one fracture; and consolidating the weakly consolidated target interval. | 08-28-2014 |
20140251609 | Assembly for Toe-to-Heel Gravel Packing and Reverse Circulating Excess Slurry - A treatment assembly treats zones of a horizontal borehole. For example, the assembly can gravel pack a zone by delivering slurry down a workstring. The slurry exits the workstring's outlet and pass to the borehole annulus of the zone through a flow port in the assembly. The gravel in the slurry can pack the borehole in an alpha-beta wave from toe to heel, and the fluid returns from the borehole flow through a screen back into the assembly. After gravel packing, operators remove excess slurry from the workstring by reverse circulating down the assembly to carry the excess slurry uphole through the workstring. Closures on the assembly prevent the reverse circulation from communicating through the screens to the borehole annulus. Additionally, flow valves can be used on the flow ports to selectively open and close them. | 09-11-2014 |
20140262260 | Sand Control Screen Having Improved Reliability - A sand control device is used for restricting the flow of particles from a subsurface formation into a tubular body within a wellbore during production operations. The sand control device is divided into compartments along its length that provide redundancy for particle filtration. Each compartment first comprises a base pipe. The base pipe defines an elongated tubular body having a permeable section and an impermeable section within each compartment. Each compartment also comprises a first filtering conduit and a second filtering conduit. The filtering conduits comprise filtering media and generally circumscribe the base pipe. The filtering conduits are arranged so that the first filtering conduit is adjacent to the non-permeable section of the base pipe, while the second filtering conduit is adjacent to the permeable section of the base pipe. | 09-18-2014 |
20140305641 | CERAMIC SCREEN - A screen assembly for removing particulates from a fluid in a well bore said well bore being provided with a tubing for transport of fluids inside the tube, said tube being provided with sliding sleeve doors through which the fluids flow from the well bore external the tube and into the tube. The screen assembly comprises a filter arranged external the tubing and covering the sliding sleeve doors, such that the filter prevents particles above a predefined size from entering through the sliding sleeve doors: The screen assembly further comprises a supportive tube having apertures allowing well bore fluids to pass. Furthermore said filter is arranged on the inner side of said supportive tube, such that the filter is placed between the supportive tube and the tube with the sliding sleeve doors. The filter is made from ceramic material. | 10-16-2014 |
20140305642 | SINGLE TRIP MULTI-ZONE COMPLETION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Disclosed are systems and methods of producing from multiple production zones with a single trip multi-zone completion system. One method includes arranging an outer completion string within a wellbore adjacent the one or more formation zones, the outer completion string having at least one sand screen arranged thereabout and a flow control device movably disposed within the sand screen, locating an insert string within the outer completion string, the insert string having at least one control and data acquisition module disposed thereon that has one or more mechanical coupling mechanisms, locating the flow control device with the one or more mechanical coupling mechanisms, and moving the flow control device between a closed position and an open position with the one or more mechanical coupling mechanisms. | 10-16-2014 |
20140318777 | Scale Prevention Treatment Method, System, and Apparatus for Wellbore Stimulation - A method of servicing a wellbore comprising placing a wellbore servicing apparatus into a wellbore, wherein the wellbore servicing apparatus contains a plurality of mobilized template-assisted crystallization beads and contacting a fluid comprising scale-forming ions with at least a portion of the template-assisted crystallization beads. A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising contacting a fluid comprising scale-forming ions with a quantity of template-assisted crystallization beads in a vessel to form a treated fluid, wherein the template-assisted crystallization beds are mobile within the vessel and placing the treated fluid into a wellbore, a subterranean formation, or a combination thereof. | 10-30-2014 |
20140326452 | HYDROLYZABLE PARTICLE COMPOSITIONS, TREATMENT FLUIDS AND METHODS - A composition, treatment fluid and method using hydrolyzable fines. A treatment fluid, which may optionally include a high solids content fluid (HSCF) and/or an Apollonianistic solids mixture, includes a fluid loss control agent comprising a dispersion of hydrolyzable fines, optionally with one or more of a surfactant, plasticizer, dispersant, degradable particles, reactive particles and/or submicron particles selected from silicates, γ-alumina, MgO, γ-Fe2O3, TiO2, and combinations thereof. | 11-06-2014 |
20140332211 | Shunt Tube Connection Assembly and Method - A method of gravel packing comprises passing a slurry through a first shunt tube, passing the slurry through a coupling, and disposing the slurry about a well screen assembly below the coupling. The first shunt tube comprises a first cross-sectional shape along its length, and the coupling comprises a coupling between the first shunt tube and a jumper tube. The jumper tube comprises a substantially round cross-section at the coupling. | 11-13-2014 |
20140352960 | Ampholyte Polymeric Compounds in Subterranean Applications - Ampholyte polymeric compound that comprises at least one nonionic monomer, at least one sulfonic acid-containing monomer, and at least one cationic monomer may be useful in viscosifying treatment fluids for use in subterranean operations at a concentration of about 0.5 v/v % to about 30 v/v % of the treatment fluid. Such operations may involve introducing the treatment fluid into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation optionally at a pressure sufficient to create or extend at least one fracture in the subterranean formation. | 12-04-2014 |
20150027699 | PICKERING EMULSION TREATMENT FLUID - A well treatment fluid comprising a Pickering particle emulsion comprising particles of a first liquid phase dispersed in a continuous second liquid phase, and comprising a plurality of colloidal particles adsorbed to a liquid-liquid interface between the first liquid phase and the second liquid phase. Methods, equipment and/or systems for treating a subterranean formation utilizing such treatment fluids are also disclosed. | 01-29-2015 |
20150027700 | SAND CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHODOLOGY - A technique facilitates a well operation employing at least one dehydration tube. The at least one dehydration tube is located along an exterior of a plurality of screen assemblies deployed in a wellbore and is fluidly coupled to a base pipe of at least one of the screen assemblies. The fluid coupling provides fluid access to the base pipe through a base pipe opening. Fluid flow along the at least one dehydration tube is controlled with a flow control mechanism. Additionally, an inflow of fluid from an exterior to an interior of select screen assemblies is separately controlled with an inflow control device associated with each select screen assembly. | 01-29-2015 |
20150027701 | METHODS OF USING OLEAGINOUS FLUIDS FOR COMPLETION OPERATIONS - In a method of gravel packing a wellbore in a subterranean formation, the wellbore having a cased section and an uncased section, the method may include pumping into the wellbore a gravel pack composition having gravel and a carrier fluid, where the carrier fluid includes an oleaginous fluid and an inorganic solid aggregator material. | 01-29-2015 |
20150068743 | Multi-Zone Bypass Packer Assembly for Gravel Packing Boreholes - A gravel pack assembly includes screen sections with a packer between them. A first screen section communicates an uphole annulus with the assembly's interior passage, and a second screen section communicates a downhole annulus with the interior passage. A housing of the packer has an internal bore communicating with the assembly's interior passage and has an internal bypass communicating external ports with one another. A first packer element disposed between the external ports restricts gravel passage at least from the uphole to the downhole annulus. A second packer element disposed downhole from a second of the external ports is independently actuated to isolate fluid passage between the uphole and downhole annulus. One or more transport tubes communicate slurry from the uphole annulus to the internal bypass once the uphole annulus is packed with gravel. | 03-12-2015 |
20150075789 | Boronated Biopolymer Crosslinking Agents and Methods Relating Thereto - Boronated biopolymer crosslinking agents useful in producing viscosified treatment fluids that include an aqueous fluid, a base polymer, and the boronated biopolymer crosslinking agent, wherein the boronated biopolymer crosslinking agent comprises a biopolymer derivatized with a boronic acid, a boronate ester, or both. Such viscosified treatment fluids may be useful in fracturing operations, gravel packing operations, drilling operations, and the like. | 03-19-2015 |
20150101804 | Screen Communication Sleeve Assembly and Method - Fluid flow between screen-pipe annuli of pipe sections in a down-hole well structure is provided by a fluid communication sleeve assembly that may be installed where adjacent pipe sections are connected. A flow ring is provided at each pipe section end, each flow ring providing fluid communication from and to an annulus between a screen and a corresponding base pipe. The fluid communication sleeve assembly includes a screen shield spaced from the adjoining pipes and the pipe joint, the screen shield connected to a flow ring at each screen shield end, and a lock nut at each screen shield end, the lock nut retaining a screen shield end to a corresponding flow ring. A method for providing fluid flow between screen-pipe annuli of pipe is also provided. | 04-16-2015 |
20150101805 | VISCOELASTIC SURFACTANT BASED WELLBORE FLUIDS AND METHODS OF USE - A wellbore fluid that includes an aqueous based fluid; an amphoteric, viscoelastic surfactant; and a modified starch is disclosed. Methods of drilling subterranean wells, methods of reducing the loss of fluid out of subterranean wells, and methods of completing wellbores using aqueous-based fluids having an ampoteric, viscoelastic surfactant and a modified starch are also disclosed. | 04-16-2015 |
20150136391 | GRAVEL PACKING APPARATUS HAVING A JUMPER TUBE PROTECTION ASSEMBLY - A gravel packing apparatus is provided, including first and second joints, each including a sand control screen assembly including a base pipe and a filter medium positioned exteriorly of the base pipe; and a slurry delivery subassembly positioned exteriorly of the sand control screen assembly, the slurry delivery subassembly including a ring assembly positioned around the base pipe; and a transport tube extending through the ring assembly and longitudinally along the sand control screen assembly; a jumper tube coupled to, and extending between, the transport tube of the first joint and the transport tube of the second joint; and a cage assembly extending circumferentially about respective portions of the first and second joints and positioned exteriorly of the jumper tube, the cage assembly comprising a plurality of cage sections that are each independently connected to the respective ring assemblies of the first and second joints. A method is also provided. | 05-21-2015 |
20150291872 | Activators for Use in the Viscosification of Non-Aqueous Fluids - A composition for viscosifying a nonaqueous base liquid. The composition has an alkoxylated alcohol having the general formula: | 10-15-2015 |
20150299559 | Folded or Crumpled Proppants With Increased Material Strength for Hydraulic Fracturing, Gravel Packing and Frac Packing - Relatively low strength and/or relatively low density, but ductile materials may be folded or crumpled and finely divided to give proppants for introduction into hydraulic fractures, where the folded or crumpled structure of the proppants gives relatively increased strength relative to the relatively low strength and/or relatively low density of the materials. Materials not previously considered suitable for proppants may be considered when structure or configured in this manner. Similarly to the case where crumpled paper within a cardboard box keeps it from collapsing, the folded or crumpled material spontaneously develops structural rigidity at relatively low volume fractions without a specific externally imposed design. The folded or crumpled proppants may also be used alone or together with conventional proppants for sand control in gravel packs or frac packs. | 10-22-2015 |
20150300131 | SELF-DEGRADABLE HYDRAULIC DIVERSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAKING AND USING SAME - Systems and methods for treating formation intervals including forming a low permeability layer on a surface of the interval and pumping a treating fluid, where the treatment fluid is diverted through the layer permitting improved treatment uniformity across the formation or intervaland permitting a longer interval to be treated, where the layer comprises self-degradable material that degrade over time without harm to the formation or interval surfaces. | 10-22-2015 |
20150300139 | METHOD OF USING SOPHOROLIPIDS IN WELL TREATMENT OPERATIONS - Recovery of fluids from a subterranean formation during a well treatment operation is enhanced by injecting into the formation a treatment fluid comprising a sophorolipid. | 10-22-2015 |
20150308238 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GRAVEL PACKING A WELLBORE - A downhole tool includes a housing having a screen. An inner tubular member is positioned radially-inward from the housing such that an annulus is formed therebetween, and a first opening is formed radially-through the inner tubular member. A valve is positioned within the annulus. A flow control device is positioned within the annulus. A degradable member is configured to at least partially degrade in response to contact with a fluid. The valve is configured to actuate from a first position to a second position in response to the degradable member at least partially degrading. This changes a proportion of the fluid that flows through the flow control device after entering through the screen. | 10-29-2015 |
20150308239 | VALVE FOR GRAVEL PACKING A WELLBORE - A downhole tool includes a housing. The housing includes a screen. A valve system is positioned within the housing. The valve system includes a valve and a flow control device. The valve system has a first position where the valve allows a flow within the housing, a second position where the valve directs at least a portion of the flow through the flow control device, and a third position stopping flow through the flow control device. | 10-29-2015 |
20150322328 | COLLOIDAL HIGH ASPECT RATIO NANOSILICA ADDITIVES IN SEALANTS AND METHODS RELATING THERETO - Colloidal high aspect ratio nanosilica additives that comprise colloidal high aspect ratio nanosilica particles having an average diameter of about 100 nm or less and an average aspect ratio of about 1.5 or greater may be useful in forming sealants in a wellbore, a subterranean formation, or both. For example, a method may include introducing a wellbore fluid into a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation, the wellbore fluid comprising an aqueous base fluid, an activator, and a colloidal high aspect ratio nanosilica additive; placing the wellbore fluid into a portion of the wellbore, a portion of the subterranean formation, or both; and forming a sealant that comprises the colloidal high aspect ratio nanosilica additive therein. | 11-12-2015 |
20150361322 | Method for Enhancing Fiber Bridging - Fluid compositions comprising rigid fibers, flexible fibers and solid plugging particles may effectively control the egress of fluids from a subterranean wellbore into vugs, cracks and fissures in the subterranean formation rock. The compositions may be effective in drilling fluids, cement slurries, gravel packing fluids, acidizing fluids and hydraulic fracturing fluids. Such fluids may also have utility for providing fluid diversion during well stimulation treatments, allowing the stimulation fluid to avoid higher permeability regions in the formation rock and treat the lower permeability regions, thereby improving stimulation results. | 12-17-2015 |
20150369019 | METHOD FOR STABILIZING A CAVITY IN A WELL - A method for stabilizing a cavity at a production or injection zone in an underground well is described. The method includes providing a filtering element in the well at the cavity that is to be stabilized, the filtering element being formed with openings. The method further includes injecting a first fluid including expandable particles through the filtering element into the cavity, where the expandable particles in a non-expanded state have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the openings of the filtering element. The method further includes injecting a second fluid through the filtering element, the second fluid configured to react with the expandable particles such that the expandable particles expand to a diameter larger than the diameter of the openings in the filtering element, whereby the expanded particles and the filtering element form a filter at the production or injection zone in the well. | 12-24-2015 |
20150376999 | DOWNHOLE POLYMER FOAM APPLICATIONS - A method of treating a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore by contacting an energized fluid with the subterranean formation; and reducing a partial pressure of the energized fluid by an amount sufficient to form polymeric foam structure within the subterranean formation | 12-31-2015 |
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 |
20160003014 | Exterior Drain Tube for Well Screen Assemblies - A well screen system for use in a wellbore has an elongate base pipe and a screen encircling the base pipe. The screen is configured to filter against passage of particulate into a center bore of the base pipe. The base pipe has a fluid impermeable portion exterior to the screen. A cover sleeve resides over the fluid impermeable portion of the base pipe. A drain tube with a fluid permeable sidewall resides exterior to the base pipe and screen, affixed to the cover sleeve. The drain tube is adapted to communicate fluid from the wellbore around the fluid impermeable portion to the screen. | 01-07-2016 |
20160024894 | Completion System - An expandable completion system and method of completing a well in which gravel packing of multiple completion zones is achieved by morphing a sleeve across a gravel packed annulus to secure it to a well bore wall by the use of fluid pressure to provide a zonal isolation barrier between two gravel packed zones in a wellbore. An embodiment provides gravel packing for multiple completion zones by circulation. A further embodiment allows selective isolation barriers to be created along the length of the completion string after the gravel has been pumped into the annulus. | 01-28-2016 |
20160083644 | FRACTURING OR GRAVEL-PACKING FLUID WITH CMHEC IN BRINE - Treatment fluid suitable for use in subterranean formations may comprise: (i) an aqueous phase comprising water having at least 1,000 ppm total dissolved inorganic salts, wherein the aqueous phase comprises at least one of: a sulfate concentration of about 4,000 ppm or greater, a phosphate concentration of about 100 ppm or greater, a carbonate concentration of about 100 ppm or greater, or a barium concentration of about 37,000 ppm or greater; (ii) a carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, wherein: (a) the carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose has a carboxymethyl degree of substitution is in the range of about 0.3 to about 0.45 per glucopyranose unit in the polymer; and (b) the carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose has a hydroxyethyl molecular substitution is in the range of about 2.1 to about 2.9 per glucopyranose unit in the polymer; and (c) the treatment fluid is substantially free of any crosslinker; and (iii) a breaker. | 03-24-2016 |
20160102236 | HYDROPHOBICALLY AND HYDROPHILICALLY MODIFIED POLYSACCHARIDES AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME FOR TREATMENT OF A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION - The present invention relates to hydrophobically and hydrophilically modified polysaccharides and methods of using the same for treatment of a subterranean formation. In various embodiments, the present invention provides a method of treating a subterranean formation. The method includes obtaining or providing a composition including a hydrophobically and hydrophilically modified polysaccharide (HHMP). The method includes placing the composition in a subterranean formation. | 04-14-2016 |
20160108303 | VISCOELASTIC SURFACTANTS IN MIXED BRINES - A wellbore fluid is provided that includes at least one viscoelastic surfactant, a first brine solution including one or more water soluble monovalent cation salts, and a second brine solution including one or more water soluble divalent cation salts in an amount effective to increase the viscosity of the wellbore fluid. The wellbore fluid may be injected into a wellbore as a gravel packing agent, to enhance the thermal insulation of a production tubing or transfer pipe surrounded by at least one annuli, or to reduce fluid loss. | 04-21-2016 |
20160160615 | WELL SCREEN ASSEMBLY INCLUDING AN EROSION RESISTANT SCREEN SECTION - An assembly, comprising a production tubing having at least one flow port defined therein; a well screen arranged about the production tubing and in fluid communication with the at least one flow port; and an erosion resistant screen section arranged about the production tubing uphole from the well screen and in fluid communication with the at least one flow port. | 06-09-2016 |
20160160617 | SAND CONTROL USING SHAPE MEMORY MATERIALS - An embodiment of a method of controlling fluid flow in a borehole in an earth formation includes: deploying a fluid flow apparatus in the borehole, the apparatus including a carrier and a shape memory component disposed at the carrier, the shape memory component including a shape memory material having a transition temperature, the shape memory material having a first shape; activating the shape memory material by causing the shape memory material to soften and change from the first shape to a second shape, the second shape configured to cause the shape memory material to control fluid flow; and deactivating the shape memory material by applying a deactivation fluid to the shape memory material, the deactivation fluid configured to cause the shape memory material to stiffen and maintain the second shape, and control fluid flow through the fluid flow apparatus. | 06-09-2016 |
20160376876 | Annular Screen Communication System - Screen sections have opposed open ends near the threaded connection of a base pipe and on opposed ends. The base pipes have premium threads for connection. A shroud is placed over the premium bases pipe connection that spans from one open ended screen section to another that is adjacent. Collectively a long annular space is created under the screens and alternating shrouds with access to within the base pipes provided preferably at opposed ends. The valve on one end takes returns during gravel packing and the other takes production to the surface. | 12-29-2016 |
20180022989 | TREATMENT FLUIDS COMPRISING ANHYDROUS AMMONIA FOR USE IN SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION OPERATIONS | 01-25-2018 |
20180023370 | SELECTIVE ROTATIONALLY ALIGNING INDICATING MECHANISM | 01-25-2018 |