| Entries |
| Document | Title | Date |
|---|
| 20080202770 | Wellbore Bypass Method and Apparatus | 08-28-2008 |
| 20080217025 | DEFORMABLE BALL SEAT AND METHOD - Disclosed herein is a disappearing ball seat. The disappearing ball seat includes, a tubular member having an inside dimension, and a restricted dimension portion of the tubular member dimensioned to prevent passage of a tripping ball therethrough, the restricted dimension portion being reconfigurable to a dimension capable of passing the tripping ball therethrough. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080223586 | BALL RELEASE PROCEDURE AND RELEASE TOOL - A ball release tool includes: a tubular body including an upper end, a lower end, an inner bore defined by an inner wall surface and extending from the upper end to the lower end; a pocket in the inner wall; a slidable sleeve carried by the tubular body and including a throughbore positioned in line with the tubular body inner bore, the slidable sleeve moveable along the inner bore from a first position substantially covering the pocket to a second position exposing the recess to the inner bore; a check valve in driving communication with the sleeve, the check valve selected to permit flow of fluid through the inner bore from the upper end to the lower end, but to act against flow from the lower end to the upper end and, when resisting flow, operable to drive the sleeve upwardly toward the second position, and a ball positionable in the pocket to be either held in the pocket behind the sleeve or released into the inner bore when the sleeve exposes the pocket. | 09-18-2008 |
| 20080223587 | BALL INJECTING APPARATUS FOR WELLBORE OPERATIONS - Apparatus is provided injecting drop balls into a wellbore, such as for actuating downhole tools. A ball magazine adapted for storing drop balls, in two or more transverse ball chambers, is axially movable in a magazine housing mounted at a transverse port to a fluid passage in fluid communication with the wellbore. The magazine is serially actuable for aligning a first and subsequent chambers with the transverse port for injecting stored balls to the wellbore. An indicator, such as a rod extending from the magazine housing, can be used to indicate the relative location of the chamber and transverse port. The apparatus can be used in a system and methodology for actuating two or more downhole tools spaced at intervals along the wellbore. | 09-18-2008 |
| 20080236843 | INFLOW CONTROL DEVICE - The present invention generally relates to the control of fluid flow in a wellbore. In one aspect, a flow control device for use in a wellbore is provided. The flow control device includes an inner member having at least one aperture formed therein. The flow control device also includes an outer member disposed around the inner member such that a flow path is defined between the inner member and the outer member. Additionally, the flow control device includes an elastomer member disposed within the outer member adjacent a portion of the flow path, wherein the elastomer member is capable of swelling upon contact with an actuating agent. In another aspect, a method of controlling fluid flow in a wellbore is provided. In yet a further aspect, an apparatus for controlling the flow of fluid in a wellbore is provided. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080302542 | Riserless Deployment System - A method of deploying a tool into a pressurized well is provided that includes providing the well with a wellhead having a blow out preventer coupled thereto; setting a pressure barrier within the well at a distance below the blow out preventer that is at least as long as the length of the tool to create a pressure chamber between the blow out preventer and the pressure barrier; and opening the blow out preventer to allow for conveyance of the tool into the pressure chamber. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20090020295 | Deep water hurricane valve - A storm plug for temporarily isolating an offshore well in deep water includes a retrievable service packer connected to a valve housing containing a movable isolation sleeve and a standing valve. The standing valve precludes the fluid flow through a portion of the isolation sleeve. The isolation sleeve being hydraulically actuated from an open position to a closed position. In the open position, fluid may flow through flow ports in the standing valve to an annular bypass area between the valve housing and the isolation sleeve. In the closed position, the isolation sleeve prevents fluid flow through the valve housing. The valve may be hydraulically actuated as compared to conventional storm valve that are set by workstring rotation. The running tool used to run the storm plug into the well may be hydraulically disconnected from the valve housing. | 01-22-2009 |
| 20090032267 | FLOW CONTROL FOR INCREASED PERMEABILITY PLANES IN UNCONSOLIDATED FORMATIONS - Flow control for increased permeability planes in unconsolidated formations. A well system includes a casing expansion device interconnected in a casing string for initiating an inclusion propagated into a formation surrounding the casing string. The device has at least one opening in a sidewall for fluid communication between the inclusion and an interior of the casing string. A flow control device is retrievably installed in the expansion device and controls flow between the formation and an interior of the casing string. A method of controlling flow of fluid between a formation and an interior of a casing string includes the steps of interconnecting a casing expansion device in the casing string; expanding the device to thereby initiate propagation of an inclusion into the formation; and installing a flow control device in the expansion device to thereby control flow between the inclusion and the casing string interior. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090032268 | INSTALLATION OF LINES IN WELL TOOLS - Installation of lines in well tools. A well tool for use in conjunction with a subterranean well includes connectors at opposite ends of the well tool, a line extending between the connectors; at least one threaded connection at a position between the connectors; and an anti-rotation device which permits make-up of the threaded connection without relative rotation between ends of the line. A method of installing a line in a well tool includes the steps of: making-up a threaded connection at a position between end connectors of the well tool; and preventing relative rotation between ends of the line during the threaded connection making-up step, the line extending between the connectors. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090050335 | DOWNHOLE VALVE HAVING INCREMENTALLY ADJUSTABLE OPEN POSITIONS AND A QUICK CLOSE FEATURE - A valve that is usable with a well includes an indexer and a closing mechanism. The indexer includes a profile to establish a sequence of open settings for the valve, and the indexer is adapted to respond to first control stimuli to transition the valve through the settings according to the sequence. The closing mechanism is adapted to operate independently of the sequence in response to a second control stimulus to close the valve. | 02-26-2009 |
| 20090056953 | ENCLOSED COILED TUBING RIG - An apparatus comprising a mobile trailer, a coiled tubing unit coupled to the mobile trailer, and an enclosure surrounding the coiled tubing unit. The coiled tubing unit may comprise a coiled tubing reel and a coiled tubing injector, wherein the reel and the injector may be positionally fixed relative to one another and collectively move relative to the mobile trailer as an integral unit. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090056954 | HIGH ANGLE WATER FLOOD KICKOVER TOOL - A kickover tool for placing and extracting a valve in a mandrel having a tool body extending in a longitudinal direction and having a hydraulic piston chamber therein; a hydraulic piston located inside the hydraulic piston chamber; a kickover arm portion mechanically connected to the hydraulic piston, the kickover arm portion comprising a kickover arm having a tool portion; the kickover arm has a non-kicked-over position where the kickover arm is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal direction and a kicked-over position where the kickover arm is substantially non-coaxial with the longitudinal direction; wherein the kickover arm moves to the kicked-over position upon extension of the hydraulic piston. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090056955 | Burst Plug for a Downhole Fluid Passage - A burst plug for positioning in a downhole fluid passage, the burst plug comprising: a shear disc installable in a sealing position in the fluid passage and openable by applying fluid at a burst pressure against the shear disc, a first part formed to retain the shear disc in a fluid flow blocking position after the shear disc is removed from its sealing position and the first part being selected to assume a shear disc retaining position when fluid at burst pressure is in communication therewith and thereafter to assume a second shear disc removal position when fluid in communication therewith is reduced to a selected pressure lower than the burst pressure. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090090518 | DEBRIS BARRIER FOR DOWNHOLE VALVE IN WELL - An apparatus has a housing with an internal passage. When deployed, a barrier positions in an upward direction in an annular space between a sleeve and the housing and folds towards one of its sides to conform to the annular space. When debris collection is desired, operators lift the sleeve with a tool, the barrier rotates down and positions across the internal passage, and the tool releases the sleeve. In this stage, the barrier can collect debris to protect a downhole valve. In further stages, operators open the downhole valve, and flow moves the barrier, cage body, and sleeve together in upward direction. Eventually, the sleeve is biased downward again, and the barrier positions within the annular space by reversibly folding towards its opposing side. In this position, barrier points in a downward direction and folds towards its opposing side to conform to the annular space. | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090151960 | Method and Apparatus for Sealing and Cementing a Wellbore - A well casing cementing apparatus includes a housing and an inner assembly of movable parts. The housing includes a cementing port and a packer on its outer surface below the cementing port. The inner assembly includes three movable parts comprising a closing sleeve for closing the cementing port after a cementing operation, a closing sleeve seat for moving the closing sleeve and a packer setting sleeve for setting the packer. A rupture disk is provided closing the cementing port in a run in condition and is selected to have a rupture pressure at or above a pressure selected for setting the packer. An expandable collet on a lower end of the housing permits the closing sleeve and the setting sleeve to be pumped out the lower end of the housing, but prevents the pumped out parts from moving back into the housing, e.g. during production of fluids from the well. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090159298 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR COMPLETING A WELL WITH FLUID TIGHT LOWER COMPLETION - Disclosed herein is a methods and systems for completing a well with fluid—gas and liquid—tight lower completion and an apparatus for doing the same which includes a packer located downhole of a formation isolation well control barrier device and a formation isolation device located downhole of a sand control device. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090188678 | Float collar and method - A float collar | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090236102 | WATER SENSITIVE VARIABLE COUNTERWEIGHT DEVICE DRIVEN BY OSMOSIS - A method for producing fluid from a subterranean formation includes configuring a body to at least partially fill with a selected fluid; and actuating a flow restriction element using the body. The selected fluid may be water. An apparatus for controlling flow of a fluid into a wellbore tubular may include a selectively buoyant body, and a flow restriction element responsive to a movement of the selectively buoyant body. The selectively buoyant body includes a membrane configured to block a flow of hydrocarbons into the selectively buoyant body. The flow restriction element may include a flapper, a sliding sleeve, and a poppet valve. The body may be at least partially filled with a permeable material, which includes, but is not limited to, open-cell foam, reticulated metal foam, shaped sintered powder and capillary tubes. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090250227 | A System And Method For Plugging A Side Pocket Mandrel Using A Swelling Plug - Plugging a side pocket mandrel using a swelling plug. A system for plugging a port in a side pocket of a mandrel in a subterranean well includes a plugging device installed in the side pocket of the mandrel, the plugging device including a swellable seal material, whereby the seal material swells at least after installation of the plugging device in the side pocket to thereby prevent fluid transfer through the port. A method of plugging a port in a side pocket of a mandrel in a subterranean well includes the steps of: providing the plugging device with a swellable seal material; installing the plugging device in the side pocket; and the seal material swelling in the side pocket, thereby preventing fluid transfer through the port. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090277650 | REACTIVE IN-FLOW CONTROL DEVICE FOR SUBTERRANEAN WELLBORES - An apparatus for controlling fluid in-flow into a wellbore tubular includes a translating flow control element having one or more fluid conveying conduits; and a reactive element that actuates the flow control element. The reactive element may be responsive to a change in composition of the in-flowing fluid. The reactive element may change volume or shape when exposed to or not exposed to a selected fluid. The selected fluid may be oil, water, or some other fluid (e.g., liquid, gas, mixture, etc.). The reactive element may slide the flow control element such that a conduit formed on the flow control element changes length, which then changes a pressure differential across the flow control element. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090294136 | Surface controlled subsurface safety valve having integral pack-off - A safety valve apparatus has a housing with a bore and a projection in the bore. A flapper rotatably disposed on the housing is movable relative to the bore between opened and closed positions, and a packing element disposed on the housing is compressible to engage an inner conduit wall surrounding the housing. An upper sleeve disposed within the bore above the projection is hydraulically movable from a first position to a second position via the hydraulic communication with a port in the projection. The first sleeve when moved to the second position compresses the packing element. A piston disposed in the housing hydraulically communicates with the port and couples to a second sleeve disposed within the bore below the projection. The second sleeve conceals the piston and is hydraulically movable via the hydraulic communication of the port with the piston to open and close the flapper. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090301734 | Downhole Application for a Backpressure Valve - A backpressure valve. The backpressure valve may be configured to maintain a substantially controlled pressure in bottom hole assembly while simultaneously being compatible with a pressure pulse tool downhole thereof. The backpressure valve includes pressure generating capacity below its internal valve assembly so as to avoid the tendency of the assembly to throttle open and closed. Furthermore, the pressure generation is achieved in a manner avoiding cavitation. As a result, once the backpressure valve is opened, the pressure pulse tool is able to reliably communicate with surface equipment at the oilfield. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090314499 | Downhole Shut Off Assembly for Artificially Lifted Wells - A multi-string well has an electric submersible pump (ESP) that can be removed without killing the well. A slotted liner is sealingly secured externally to casing and internally to a guide string that remains in the wellbore when the ESP is removed. A ported sub is part of the guide string and a concentric screen that can have instruments that moves relatively to the guide string can selectively allow flow in an annulus between them and to the ported sub or that annulus between the guide and concentric strings can be blocked off by manipulation of the concentric string to close the ported sub. With the lower portion of the well now blocked off, the wellhead can be removed so that the ESP can come out with the production string. The device has particular application to steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) systems as well as other downhole applications. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090321087 | EXPANDABLE PLUG - An absorbent charge for plugging a well includes a plurality of bentonite particles intermixed with a water-soluble binding agent. The mixture of bentonite particles and binding agent are compressed to define the charge. Alternatively, an absorbent charge may include a plurality of bentonite particles encapsulated by a water-soluble shell. Methods of manufacturing and delivering the charges are also discussed. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090321088 | SHEAR ACTIVATED SAFETY VALVE SYSTEM - A safety valve system includes a safety valve having an actuator and a line connected to the actuator. The safety valve is operable by opening the line in the well, with the line being free of any connection to a surface control system. Another safety valve system includes multiple safety valves. An actuator of each safety valve is connected to an actuator of another safety valve via a line. A biasing force in each of the actuators is operative to close the respective one of the safety valves in response to opening of the line. The biasing force is produced at least in part by hydrostatic pressure in a well. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100006303 | SHAPE MEMORY MATERIAL SEALS - The invention relates to a shape memory sleeve to create an annular tightness. More precisely, the invention relates to a ring to provide tightness, made from shape memory alloy material and including an interior annular portion and an exterior annular portion, comprising at least one annular groove or one annular rib on its interior annular portion. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100071911 | System and Method for Forming a Seal in a Wellbore - A technique involves a packer formed as an expandable packer with an internal expandable bladder. The internal expandable bladder is surrounded with a plurality of packer slats oriented in a manner to enable expansion and contraction of the packer. Additional features are incorporated into the bladder and/or slats to facilitate repeated expansion and contraction of the packer while limiting leaks between wellbore regions and preventing extrusion of the bladder. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100084145 | Multiple Activation-Device Launcher For A Cementing Head - The invention relates to a multiple activation-device launching system for a cementing head, comprising a launcher body comprising at least one launching chamber and a device chamber, the launching chamber sized to receive one or more activation devices therein, the launching chamber in fluid communication with a power source for launching the activation device into the device chamber. Then the invention relates to various methods involving such system. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100084146 | BALL SEAT SUB - A downhole tool for providing a pressure differential between sub-assemblies, the downhole tool including an elongated body, a tubular assembly disposed within the elongated body, the tubular assembly including a central flowbore with an inner diameter and a central longitudinal axis, a camming device, an actuator member located below the tubular assembly, having a dual-bore configuration, the actuator member including a first bore, a second bore, and a concave seating surface formed within the second bore for receiving a obstructing device, wherein the first bore and the second bore are oriented 90 degrees to one another so that fluid may flow through the actuator while it is in either a first or a second position, and a stationary sleeve concentrically disposed between the actuator member and the elongated body is disclosed. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100089594 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DROPPING A PUMP DOWN PLUG OR BALL - An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured valving member with curved and flat portions that alternatively direct fluid flow through a bore or opening in the valving member via an inner channel or around the periphery of the valving member in an outer channel. In one embodiment, the ball(s), dart(s) or plug(s) are contained in a sliding sleeve that shifts position responsive to valve rotation. An optional indicator indicates to a user or operator that a ball or plug has passed a selected one of the valving members. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100096145 | DOWNHOLE SAFETY VALVE APPARATUS AND METHOD - The application discloses a safety valve to replace an existing safety valve in order to isolate a production zone from a string of tubing when closed. Preferably, the safety valve includes a flow interruption device displaced by an operating conduit extending from a surface location to the safety valve through the inside of the production tubing. The application also discloses a bypass-conduit which allows communication from a surface location to the production zone through the safety valve without affecting the operation of the safety valve. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100108332 | Valve Assembly - A valve assembly ( | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100122819 | Inserts with Swellable Elastomer Seals for Side Pocket Mandrels - Improved inserts for use in side pocket mandrels which include one or more annular sealing elements that are formed of an elastomeric material that swell in response to heat or fluid saturation. When the insert is emplaced within a side pocket mandrel, the swellable elastomer can then be swelled, using either heat or fluid saturation, to cause the sealing element(s) to expand and seal against the seal bore of the side pocket mandrel. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100132959 | Frac Sleeve with Rotational Inner Diameter Opening - The present application is to a method of sequentially drilling a number of frac sleeves in a down hole well. The design enables the removal of fracture sleeve pistons from between treatment zones without requiring drilling or milling of the sleeve while allowing for full flow of fluids after treatment. A number of plugs or pistons having sequentially smaller central bores allows for balls to sequentially be inserted through the tool to selectively close off the pistons to isolate one zone from another. A release tool may inserted into the tool to engage and unthread the plugs to open up the inner diameter of the tool to allow greater production flow through the tool. The plugs may have mating tabs and holes so that as each plug is unthreaded it falls to the next plug and engages so that each plug may sequentially be unthreaded from the sleeve. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100155085 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SEALING WELLS IN CO2 SEQUESTRATION PROJECTS - Method for forming a downhole plug within an abandoned well casing for preventing the flow of gas through the plug and reaching the surface, particularly for CO2 sequestration projects. A milling tool mills out a longitudinal section of the perimeter of the well casing and surrounding cement and detritus to expose the well bore. A heater containing solid metallic alloy is lowered into the casing and the alloy is melted so that it fills the milled out area and flows into the face of the well bore. The heater is removed to allow the alloy to solidify. The upper casing acts to restrain any movement of the plug following solidification of the alloy. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100170681 | TREE PLUG | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100181079 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CEMENTING A LINER IN A BOREHOLE USING A TUBULAR MEMBER HAVING AN OBSTRUCTION - A method and apparatus are disclosed for cementing a liner in place in an open borehole using a tubular member having at least one obstruction in the tubular member to pass the cement into the liner and through the liner into an annular space surrounding the liner to position the liner in the open borehole. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100206587 | One Trip Cemented Expandable Monobore Liner System and Method - An apparatus to protect the mounting area of casing and a locating profile and optionally a sliding sleeve valve and a flow path from the outside of the valve to the annulus when subsequent attachment of an expanded liner is intended and the expanded liner is to be cemented in place. A barrier sleeve, nose, and outer sleeve define a sealed cavity having a loose incompressible material inside that covers the mounting location on the casing. A locating profile and an optional sliding sleeve valve and a flow path from the outside of the valve to the annulus can be provided. The cementing of the casing takes place through the barrier sleeve. After the cementing, the sleeve and nose are drilled out and the incompressible material is removed to the surface with the drill cuttings. A liner is inserted in the casing and is preferably expanded into sealing contact with the mounting location on the casing. After expansion a cement retainer positioned at the bottom of the expanded liner and the sliding sleeve located either above the mounting location of the liner in the casing shoe or in the liner below the mounted top section allow cement to be delivered outside the expanded liner and the displaced wellbore fluid to return into the casing through so that the liner can be cemented. The cement retainer can be delivered with either the liner or the expansion tools to allow expansion and cementing in a single trip. A shifting tool can be run on the expansion string to actuate the sliding sleeve and if necessary to allow for cement to be pumped from the drill string into the annulus through the sliding sleeve. The cement retainer can be milled out in a separate trip. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100236793 | Activating mechanism - The present invention relates to an activating mechanism ( | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100252280 | System and Method for Servicing a Wellbore - A wellbore servicing system, comprising a plurality of sleeve systems disposed in a wellbore, each sleeve system comprising a seat and a dart configured to selectively seal against the seat to the exclusion of other seats, the seats each comprising an upper seat landing surface and the darts each comprising a dart landing surface, wherein the darts each comprise a dart landing surface that is configured to complement an upper seat landing surface of the seat to which the dart is configured to selectively seal against. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100252281 | DOWNHOLE FLOW CONTROL TOOL AND METHOD - A downhole flow control tool | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100276160 | Systems and Methods For Regulating Flow In A Wellbore - Isolation systems for use in a wellbore include two or more tubular segments and at least one coupling assembly. The at least one coupling system is adapted to couple the first and second tubular segments together. The at least one coupling system is further adapted to block at least a portion of the wellbore annulus. The at least one coupling system is further configured as a leaky isolation assembly to separate the wellbore annulus into at least two isolated zones when disposed in the wellbore. At least one isolation zone has at least two outlets including a first outlet through an opening into the tubular and a second outlet past the leaky isolation assembly. The isolation system is configured to provide the isolation with hydraulics during well operation that preferentially drives fluids through the first outlet and at least substantially prevents fluid from passing the isolation assembly. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100276161 | DUAL PACKER FOR A HORIZONTAL WELL - A dual packer for at least partially defining a production zone in a wellbore, the dual packer including a packer body having an up-hole side and a down-hole side. A first through bore and a second through bore each extend through the packer body from the up-hole side to the down-hole side. A first piping extends from the down-hole side of the first through bore and includes a perforated sub adjacent the down-hole side of the packer body. A second piping extends from the down-hole side of the second through bore and is communicably connected to the first piping down-hole of the first perforated sub. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100282478 | Activation-Device Launcher For A Cementing Head - The present invention relates in general to equipment for servicing subterranean wells and in particular to a cementing head that is intended to drop a combination of darts, balls, bombs and canisters in order to activate downhole equipment, launch cementing plugs, deliver chemical products, or the like. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100294514 | SELECTIVE PLUG AND METHOD - A selective plug including a body; and an incrementing configuration in operable communication with the body capable of causing the plug to selectively pass a number of borehole restrictions to reach and engage a target restriction and method. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100294515 | SELECTIVE PLUG AND METHOD - A selective plug including a body; and a rotator configuration in operable communication with the body capable of causing the plug to selectively pass a number of borehole restrictions to reach and engage a target restriction and method. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100307769 | FLUID CONTROL MODULES FOR USE WITH DOWNHOLE TOOLS - Downhole tool fluid flow control apparatus including a first fluid valve between a first portion of a first flowline and a second portion of a second flowline. The first and second flowlines are adjacent each other. A second fluid valve is between a second portion of the first flowline and a first portion of the second flowline. The first and second fluid valves are controllable to cause fluid flow between the first portion of the first flowline and the second portion of the second flowline or between the first portion of the second flowline and the second portion of the first flowline. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100314133 | FRAC SLEEVE SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system including a plurality of differential pressure actuated tools; a seat receptive to a plug; a first conduit fluidly communicating tubing pressure upstream of the seat to one end of each of the plurality of tools; and a second conduit fluidly communicating tubing pressure downstream of the seat to an opposite end of each of the plurality of tools and method. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20110000684 | FLOW CONTROL DEVICE WITH ONE OR MORE RETRIEVABLE ELEMENTS - An apparatus and associated method for controlling a flow of a fluid between a wellbore tubular and a formation may utilize a particulate control device positioned external to the wellbore tubular and a retrievable flow control element that controls a flow parameter of a fluid flowing between the particulate control device and a bore of the wellbore tubular. The flow control element may be re-configured in the wellbore and/or be used to inject a fluid into the formation. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110011598 | INTERNAL LOCKDOWN SNUBBING PLUG - A snubbing plug is configured to be secured within a component of a mineral extraction system by an internal locking mechanism. In addition, the snubbing plug enables pressure equalization of regions above and below the plug before removal of the plug. Upon insertion of the snubbing plug into a well component, pressure may be equalized via fluid pathways through the snubbing plug. The pathways are sealed closed during snubbing operations and opened again when snubbing operations are complete. Manipulation of the fluid pathways may be accomplished via rotation of a load ring within the snubbing plug. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110011599 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR ISOLATING WELLHEAD PRESSURE - A wellhead is provided. In one embodiment, the wellhead includes a plug for sealing a side passage of the wellhead. The plug may include an outer member, an inner member extending through the outer member and coupled to the outer member with at least one degree of freedom of movement relative to the outer member, and a moveable seal disposed around the outer member. In some embodiments, the moveable seal is configured to seal against the side passage in response to being moved on the outer member by the inner member. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110030975 | TUBULAR SYSTEM WITH SELECTIVELY ENGAGABLE SLEEVES AND METHOD - A tubular system with selectively engagable sleeves includes, a tubular, a plurality of sleeves disposed at the tubular, and a plurality of engagable members being movable through the tubular with each of the plurality of engagable members being configurable to selectively engage with at least one of the plurality of sleeves and such engagement at least temporarily preventing passage of an engaged engagable member by an engaged sleeve. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110036596 | DUAL BARRIER PLUG SYSTEM FOR A WELLHEAD - A dual barrier plug system includes a frac spool, having a dual barrier plug disposed within the interior of the frac spool; a valve selector member disposed within the interior of the dual barrier plug; and the plurality of seals are used to seal fluid flow from below the frac spool, and the seals provide two barriers to each fluid flow. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110042107 | Sliding Sleeve Locking Mechanisms - Systems and methods for locking a sliding sleeve valve in an open position and/or a closed position to prevent inadvertent operation of the sleeve valve during other operations. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110048742 | Downhole Safety Valve Having Flapper and Protected Opening Procedure - A downhole valve has a closure device (e.g., one or more flappers) for closing off the valve. A no-go actuation mechanism protects the flappers from damage. When the flappers are closed, the mechanism prevents a tool from passing into the valve and causing damage to the flappers. Yet, the mechanism may open the valve's flappers when the tool string is forced into the valve. When the valve has successfully opened, then the mechanism moves out of the way of the toolstring so it can pass through the valve. For the mechanically operated valves, operators use a shifting profile in the valve only in the upward direction to return the valve to the closed position. For hydraulic actuated valves, hydraulic pressure may be used or exhausted, depending on the design, to allow the flappers to go closed. Once the flappers have closed, the no-go mechanism is once again realized. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048743 | DISSOLVABLE BRIDGE PLUG - A dissolvable bridge plug configured with components for maintaining anchoring and structural integrity for high pressure applications. Embodiments of the plug are configured such that these components may substantially dissolve to allow for ease of plug removal following such applications. In one embodiment the plug may effectively provide isolation in a cased well for applications generating over about 8,000-10,000 psi. At the same time, by employment of a dissolve period for the noted components, such a plug may be drilled-out in less than about 30 minutes, even where disposed in a lateral leg of the well. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110061876 | Method and Apparatus for Cementing a Liner in a Borehole Using a Tubular Member Having an Obstruction - An open hole is drilled with coiled tubing that has an electric line. At the conclusion of drilling the drilling bottom hole assembly is removed and a liner running tool is connected between the coiled tubing and the liner. The electric line remains in the coiled tubing but spacers can be added to keep the lower end of the electric line away from the running tool. A wiper plug has a passage therethrough and a movable stinger that can hold open a pair of flapper valves. The liner is released from the running tool and cement is delivered through the stinger with a bit of excess that is above the running tool. The lifting of the stinger with the coiled tubing closes the flappers and allows circulation out of excess cement. Setting down on the coiled tubing allows a seal to re-engage in the deployment sleeve, allowing pressure to be placed against the wiper plug, such that it can be launched to displace the remaining cement within the liner into the annulus around the liner. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110061877 | FLOW CONTROL USING A TORTUOUS PATH - Generally, an apparatus for use in a wellbore includes a flow conduit and a structure defining a tortuous fluid path proximate the flow conduit, where the tortuous fluid path receives a flow of fluid. The tortuous fluid path is defined by at least first and second members of the structure, and the first and second members are movable with respect to each other to adjust a cross-sectional flow area of the tortuous fluid path. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110067888 | PLUG COUNTER AND METHOD - A plug counter including a j-slot sleeve; a helix sleeve in operable communication with the j-slot sleeve such that axial movement of the j-slot sleeve causes rotational movement of the helix sleeve; an anti-rotation sleeve disposed about the helix sleeve and having a keyway therein; and a key disposed in the keyway and responsive to movement of the helix sleeve and method. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067889 | EXPANDABLE AND DEGRADABLE DOWNHOLE HYDRAULIC REGULATING ASSEMBLY - A hydraulic regulating mechanism for disposal in a well. The mechanism includes a degradable metal based element and a swellable component for hydraulic regulation. The mechanism is configured for ease of setting and removal by allowing degrading of the metal based element upon exposure of certain downhole conditions to trigger shrinking of the swellable component. Further, the swellable component may be initially set by exposure to downhole conditions as well. Ultimately, a mechanism is provided which may effectively regulate high pressure applications downhole and yet, as a practical matter, be removed via a displacement or drill out that may take less than 15 to 30 minutes to achieve. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110083860 | SAND CONTROL SCREEN ASSEMBLY WITH FLOW CONTROL CAPABILITY - A flow control screen ( | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110088915 | Bottom Hole Assembly for Subterranean Operations - Methods and systems for stimulating a wellbore. A coil tubing bottom hole assembly is disclosed which includes a jetting tool. A non-caged ball sub is coupled to the jetting tool and a ported sub is coupled to the non-caged ball sub. Additionally, a caged ball sub is coupled to the ported sub. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110100647 | Tubular Actuator, System and Method - A tubular actuating system includes a tubular, a plurality of same plugs runnable within the tubular, an actuator disposed within the tubular, and a seatable member disposed at the actuator configured to be respositionable relative to the actuator between an unseated position and a seated position upon passage of at least one of the plurality of same plugs. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110114339 | WELL DRILLING WASH DOWN END CAP - An end cap for a well drilling screen for use in a water producing well. The end cap provides a water jet for use in inserting the screen into a layer of sand, and includes a check valve which prevents sand and particulates from entering the well tube. Also provided is a connection which allows the end cap to disengage from a drill string. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110127047 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR WELLBORE FLUID TREATMENT - An apparatus for fluid treatment of a borehole, the apparatus comprising: a tubing string having a long axis and an upper end, a first port opened through the wall of the tubing string, a second port opened through the wall of the tubing string, the second port axially offset from the first port and positioned between the first port and the upper end, a third port opened through the wall of the tubing string, the third port axially offset from the second port and positioned between the second port and the upper end, a first packer operable to seal about the tubing string and mounted on the tubing string to act in a position offset from the first port along the long axis of the tubing string, a second packer operable to seal about the tubing string and mounted on the tubing string to act in a position between the first port and the second port along the long axis of the tubing string; a third packer operable to seal about the tubing string and mounted on the tubing string to act in a position between the second port and the third port along the long axis of the tubing string; a first closure positioned relative to the first port, the first closure being actuable relative to the first port between a closed port position and a position permitting fluid flow through the first port from the tubing string inner bore; a second closure being actuable relative to the second port between a closed port position and a position permitting fluid flow through the second port from the tubing string inner bore; and a third closure being actuable relative to the third port between a closed port position and a position permitting fluid flow through the third port from the tubing string inner bore; a closure actuating mechanism for actuating the first closure and the second closure together from their closed port positions to their positions permitting fluid flow, while the third closure remains in the closed port position. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110132625 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DROPPING A PUMP DOWN PLUG OR BALL - An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured valving member with curved and flat portions that alternatively direct fluid flow through a bore or opening in the valving member via an inner channel or around the periphery of the valving member in an outer channel. In one embodiment, the ball(s), dart(s) or plug(s) are contained in a sliding sleeve that shifts position responsive to valve rotation. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110155396 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND DEVICE FOR ACTUATING A DOWNHOLE TOOL - An actuating component for a downhole tool is provided that includes a main actuating bore and an actuating liner configured to be accommodated within the main actuating bore. The actuating component may further include a piston configured to sealingly and translatably fit within the actuating liner and be coupled to the downhole tool wherein movement of the piston relative to the actuating liner actuates the downhole tool. A method of actuating a downhole tool is also provide that may include installing an actuating liner within a main actuating bore and providing a piston configured to translatably and sealably be accommodated within the actuating liner. The method may further comprise coupling the piston to an operative component of the downhole tool and applying pressure to a surface of the piston, thereby moving the piston relative to the actuating liner. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110168410 | DRILL STRING FLOW CONTROL VALVE AND METHODS OF USE - A drill string flow control valve may comprise a valve housing, a valve sleeve axially movable within a valve housing from a closed position to an open position, a biasing mechanism biasing the valve sleeve into a closed position, and a plurality of pressure ports for allowing a differential pressure to be exerted on the valve sleeve. The valve may include a piston axially movable within the valve housing and bearing against the valve sleeve which piston may be used to initiate movement of the valve sleeve. The piston includes a flow passage therethrough in fluid communication with the interior of the valve sleeve and a ball valve disposed to control fluid flow through the piston. The valve may include a flow restriction in the flow path within the valve sleeve and disposed between pressure ports formed in the wall of the valve sleeve. Methods of use are also provided. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110174504 | WELL TOOLS OPERABLE VIA THERMAL EXPANSION RESULTING FROM REACTIVE MATERIALS - Methods of actuating a well tool can include releasing chemical energy from at least one portion of a reactive material, thermally expanding a substance in response to the released chemical energy, and applying pressure to a piston as a result of thermally expanding the substance, thereby actuating the well tool, with these steps being repeated for each of multiple actuations of the well tool. A well tool actuator can include a substance contained in a chamber, one or more portions of a reactive material from which chemical energy is released, and a piston to which pressure is applied due to thermal expansion of the substance in response to each release of chemical energy. A well tool actuator which can be actuated multiple times may include multiple portions of a gas generating reactive material, and a piston to which pressure is applied due to generation of the gas. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110174505 | BALL DROP MODULE - A pressurizing device includes a main housing having a central bore therethrough and a ball drop module removably disposed within the main housing, the ball drop module including a ball seat hingedly attached within the ball drop module and configured to receive a dropped ball, wherein the ball seat is configured to rotate about a hinge from a closed position to an open position when a pressure above the ball seat exceeds a preset limit. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110180274 | DEFORMABLE DART AND METHOD - An apparatus and method for plugging a wellbore completion. The apparatus includes a body and a variable diameter ring. The body includes a first portion having a first diameter, and a second portion having a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. The variable diameter ring is disposed around the body and slidable on the first and second portions. The ring is configured to engage a flow path reduction device when located on the first portion, and to move past the flow path reduction device when located on the second portion. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110186306 | OILFIELD ISOLATION ELEMENT AND METHOD - An isolation element includes a body having at least one sealing surface, an internal cavity within the body, and a chemical agent disposed within the internal cavity. The chemical agent is configured to substantially increase a rate of degradation of the body. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110186307 | Downhole Tool Having Setting Valve for Packing Element - A downhole tool has a mandrel with packing elements. Collars between the packing elements define ports communicating with gaps between the packing elements and the mandrels. Opposing piston housings on the mandrel can move in opposing directions to compress the packing elements against the collars. Each piston housing defines a space with the mandrel and has a second port communicating with the gap. Pistons disposed in the spaces are temporarily affixed thereto. Hydraulic pressure communicated through the mandrel's bore acts against the pistons. While affixed to the piston housings, the pistons move the piston housings toward the packing elements to compress then. When the packing elements set, continued pressure breaks shear pins affixing the pistons to the piston housings so the pistons move and eventually seal fluid communication between the second ports in the pistons and the gaps. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110198100 | Expandable Ball Seat - Apparatus for a drop ball activated device, where a ball seat is concentrically and axially slidably disposed within an outer sleeve having a first internal cylindrical surface, wherein the ball seat comprises at least one radially extending lug, which in a first position extends radially inwards from the internal cylindrical surface, thereby defining a first ball seat diameter less than the diameter of the drop ball. The sleeve comprises at least one groove in its internal surface, and the lug may be received in the groove, thereby defining a second ball seat diameter at least as large as the diameter of the drop ball. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110203809 | WELLBORE BYPASS TOOL AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - Disclosed is a bypass tool for connection in a tubing string suspended in a subterranean location in a wellbore. The bypass tool has a tubular body for connection to a tubing string with ports in the body wall to inject fluid into the annulus, surrounding the tubing string. In some applications, nozzles are placed in the ports to create fluid jets which can be utilized, for example, for cleaning a subsea BOP. In other applications, fluids are injected into the annulus to assist circulation. An axially shiftable sleeve is mounted in the body's internal bore and acts as a valve to open and block flow through the ports. Spring-loaded detents in the body engage openings in the sleeve to lock the sleeve against axial movement. The detents extend into the sleeve to be engaged by an actuator ball pumped down the tubing string to the bypass tool. In operation, the bypass tool is run into the wellbore in the closed position with the sleeve closing the ports in the mandrel. When bypass flow is desired, an actuation ball is pumped down the wellbore to the bypass tool. The ball engages a seat in the sleeve to block flow down the tubing string. The ball also engages and depresses the detents, unlocking the sleeve to shift axially down the wellbore to the bypass position where ports in the sleeve align with ports in the mandrel to permit flow through the ports. To return the bypass tool to the closed position, a second ball of the same diameter as the first ball is pumped down the well to abut the first ball and engage and depress the detents to allow the sleeve to shift to a closed position. In this closed position, flow through the tubing string is reopened by shifting the ball-seat assembly to an enlarged area of the mandrel bore where fluid is free to flow around the ball seat. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110232922 | FOOT VALVE ASSEMBLY FOR A DOWN HOLE DRILL - A retaining assembly for a cylindrical member and support sleeve in the bore of a component of a DTH. The cylindrical member and support sleeve may, for example, be a foot valve assembly for insertion into a counter bore in a bit. The cylindrical member has a cylindrical member rigidity and at least a portion of the support sleeve has a rigidity greater than the cylindrical member rigidity. A gap is provided between the sleeve and the component bore of the DTH. The cylindrical member deforms in the gap, resulting in the cylindrical member being fixedly sandwiched between the support sleeve and the component bore. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232923 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DROPPING A PUMP DOWN PLUG OR BALL - An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured tool body assembly having valving members (e.g., safety or kelly values) and valving members holding plugs, balls, or darts to be dropped. In one embodiment, the ball(s), dart(s) or plug(s) are contained in a sliding sleeve that shifts position responsive to valve rotation. An optional indicator indicates to a user or operator that a ball or plug has passed a selected one of the valving members. A transmitter (or transceiver) provides an ability to generate a wireless signal that is received by receivers (or transceivers) on the tool body assembly. Each receiver (or transceiver) controls an electrical actuator that engages a valving member or the indicator. Wireless signals can be used to open or close a valve or to reset a “tripped” indicator. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110240315 | Segmented Ball Seat Assembly Valve - The segmented ball seat valve is an annular communication valve normally installed in a string of pipe that is to be deployed to a depth within a well. The segmented ball seat valve provides communication between the inside of the pipe and the well bore or casing through open ports. The segmented ball seat valve can be closed to shut off communication by dropping/pumping a ball to the segmented ball seat valve and applying pressure to close the valve. The application of pressure causes the ball seat assembly to move downward into an enlarged portion of the bore. The segments of the seat assembly move outward in the enlarged area to permit passage of the ball. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240316 | Apparatus And Method For Launching Plugs In Cementing Operations - An apparatus for use in launching cement plugs in a well cementing operation, comprising: —a cylinder ( | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110247833 | HIGH STRENGTH DISSOLVABLE STRUCTURES FOR USE IN A SUBTERRANEAN WELL - A well tool can include a flow path, and a flow blocking device which selectively prevents flow through the flow path. The device can include an anhydrous boron compound. A method of constructing a downhole well tool can include forming a structure of a solid mass comprising an anhydrous boron compound, and incorporating the structure into the well tool. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110247834 | MULTIPLE ACTIVATION-DEVICE LAUNCHER FOR A CEMENTING HEAD - The invention relates to a multiple activation-device launching system for a cementing head, comprising a launcher body comprising at least one launching chamber and a device chamber, the launching chamber sized to receive one or more activation devices therein, the launching chamber in fluid communication with a power source for launching the activation device into the device chamber. Then the invention relates to various methods involving such system. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110253391 | Sand Control Screen Assembly Having Remotely Disabled Reverse Flow Control Capability - A flow control screen having a fluid flow path between a perforated section of a base pipe and a filter medium positioned around a blank pipe section of the base pipe. A valve assembly, including a piston body and a valve plug, is disposed within the fluid flow path. The piston body has an internal seat and a collet assembly that is radially outwardly constrained in a first operating position of the piston body to retain the valve plug therein and radially outwardly unconstrained in a second operating position of the piston body. Reverse flow is initially prevented as an internal differential pressure seats the valve plug on the internal seat and causes the piston body to shift to the second operating position upon reaching a predetermined threshold. Thereafter, an external differential pressure causes the valve plug to be expelled through the collet assembly, thereby no longer preventing reverse flow. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253392 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING FLOW IN A WELLBORE - A technique enables control over flow in a wellbore with a flow control system. The flow control system combines a flow reduction mechanism with a flow control device, such as a valve. The flow reduction mechanism comprises a closure member which can be selectively moved between an unactuated and actuated position, allowing relatively greater flow through the flow control device in the unactuated position. The flow reduction mechanism actuates prior to or in conjunction with the flow control device to reduce flow and thus reduce the loading forces that would otherwise act against the flow control mechanism upon closure of the flow control device. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110259610 | HIGH PRESSURE AND HIGH TEMPERATURE BALL SEAT - An isolation device for a frac plug, the isolation device including a ball seat having a seating surface and a ball configured to contact the seating surface, wherein a profile of the seating surface corresponds to a profile of the ball. A frac plug including a mandrel having an upper end and a lower end, a sealing element disposed around the mandrel, and a ball seat disposed within a central bore of the mandrel, wherein the ball seat includes a seating surface having a non-linear profile. A method of isolating zones of a production formation, the method including setting a frac plug between a first zone and a second zone, disposing a ball within the frac plug, and seating a ball in a ball seat of the frac plug, the ball seat including a seating surface having a profile that substantially corresponds to the profile of the ball. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110278021 | Wellhead Control Line Deployment - Wellhead control line deployment involves replacing the seat/retainer plate of a master valve of the wellhead with a modified retainer plate. The retainer plate defines a first port communicating from a central opening of the plate to outside the plate. A modified bonnet installs on the master valve, and the bonnet has two ports, one communicating with the first port in the retainer plate and the second communicating with a needle valve port. The communication ports are linked by a tube with outside diameter seals that inserts between the retainer plate and the bonnet. A control line hanger can be retained by locking into an adapter sleeve or directly in the back-pressure valve threads of a tubing hanger. The adapter sleeve can be attached to the retainer plate or have a collet to snap into the back-pressure valve threads of the tubing hanger. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110278022 | Plug for Setting in a Pipe - A pipe plug comprising a shaft, a force transmission body disposed in a rotatable and axially movable manner about the shaft via a thread connection, and a stop body. Between the force transmission body and the stop body there is a first compression body disposed in an axially movable manner about the shaft in proximity of the force transmission body; a conical support body disposed in an axially movable manner about the shaft; at least one movable anchoring body on the outside of the support body; a second compression body disposed in an axially movable manner about the shaft; and at least one elastic sealing body disposed about the shaft. The shaft and the first compression body are in direct contact with each other and are connected in a non-rotational manner via complementary connection elements to prevent the compression body from rotating. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110284245 | FLUID COMPOSITION COMPRISING PARTICLES AND METHOD OF MODIFYING A WELLBORE USING THE SAME - Composition including a fluid and a plurality of solid particles dispersed in the fluid. The plurality of solid particles includes a thermoplastic composition having a softening temperature in a range from 50° C. to 180° C. and a curable resin; optionally at least some of the particles in the plurality of solid particles comprise both the thermoplastic composition and the curable resin. The solid particles have an average aspect ratio of less than 2:1. A method of modifying a wellbore within a geological formation is also disclosed. The method includes introducing the composition into the wellbore. A method of making a plurality of particles, for example, to use in the composition, is also disclosed. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110284246 | PERFORATING GUN ASSEMBLY TO CONTROL WELLBORE FLUID DYNAMICS - A downhole tool used in the pressure isolation of adjacent subterranean formations. The downhole tool may comprise flow restriction devices along the outer circumference for impeding flow along the length of the tool. The tool may further comprise a perforating gun and an accumulator. Impeding flow along the length of the tool provides a dynamic flow restriction within the wellbore that precludes fluid flowing from one subterranean zone to an adjacent zone. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110297399 | INJECTION-POINT FLOW CONTROL OF UNDAMAGED POLYMER - A device that allows gradually regulation, i.e., non-destructively controlling the flow of injected polymer flooding enhanced oil recovery fluids at each point of injection, using: at least one conduit providing a variable length flow path combined with the centrifugal and other retarding or decelerative forces accessible to a formation engineer by configuring and otherwise arranging the spatial orientation and relative position of each section of such conduit, so as to achieve a never before attained degree of non-damaging flow control density within a compact space. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110303421 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SEALING PORTIONS OF A WELLBORE - An apparatus for controlling fluid flow in a borehole in an earth formation includes: a carrier configured to be deployed in the borehole; and a sealing device including at least one deformable element disposed at the carrier, the deformable element configured to have a first position and a second position, the first position forming a void in the sealing device configured to retain a flowable sealing material therein, the second position causing the void to be in flowable communication with leak paths formed in at least one of the sealing device and the borehole. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303422 | LOW IMPACT BALL-SEAT APPARATUS AND METHOD - An apparatus for restricting fluid flow includes: a ball receiving element disposed in a first fluid conduit and configured to receive a ball that has been advanced through the first fluid conduit and at least partially restrict a fluid flow in the first fluid conduit; and at least one second fluid conduit in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit at an upstream location relative to the ball receiving element, the at least one second fluid conduit configured to divert a portion of the fluid from the first fluid conduit and reduce an impact between the ball and the ball receiving element. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110315402 | METHOD FOR FORMING AN ISOLATING PLUG - Method of the subject disclosure can be used in the oil and gas production industry, in particular, for plugging fractures in the near-wellbore zone during the fracturing fluid removal, as well as for plugging different kinds of fractures and branches in the casing. For formation of an isolating-plug, a catch is placed upstream of the point where the isolating plug shall be formed, so as to prevent the passing of fibers and to promote the forming of fiber aggregates. A fluid containing dispersed fibers is then injected into a well, and the catch is periodically opened to release the fiber aggregates and to allow their free flow to the location where the plug shall be formed. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20120000675 | MULTIPLE ACTIVATION-DEVICE LAUNCHER FOR A CEMENTING HEAD - The invention relates to a multiple activation-device launching system for a cementing head, comprising a launcher body comprising at least one launching chamber and a device chamber, the launching chamber sized to receive one or more activation devices therein, the launching chamber in fluid communication with a power source for launching the activation device into the device chamber. Then the invention relates to various methods involving such system. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120006568 | Apparatus and Method for Capping an Underwater Oil Well - An apparatus and method for capping an oil well such as an underwater oil well comprising a pipe extending from the vicinity of the oil well head to the sea surface. Optionally, the pipe is equipped with a pump. A pile of large objects such as boulders is disposed around the lower end of the pipe. Preferably, smaller objects are disposed around the larger objects forming a first canopy. Additional canopies of progressively smaller objects are disposed about the first canopy, defining a pile. One or more of the canopies may include a cement mixture. An impermeable membrane may be included within to the pile. The size and weight of the pile is sufficient to prevent oil leakage to the sea. The entire flow from the well head thus may be drawn through the pipe by an optional pump, or the well may be shut off by closing the pipe. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120012339 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SEALING A WELLBORE - Systems and methods for sealing a wellbore are provided. The system is for sealing a wellbore having a pipe therein for the passage of fluid therethrough. The system is provided with a BOP positionable about the pipe and at least one seal assembly positionable about the BOP. Each of the seal assemblies comprises a plurality of blocks positionable within the BOP, at least one actuator for selectively moving the blocks to a contact position surrounding the pipe and a plurality of pipe seals for creating a seal about the pipe. The seals are carried by the plurality of blocks. At least one of the pipe seals in each block is selectively extendable therefrom for sealing engagement about the pipe after the blocks are moved to the contact position whereby the pipe seals are prevented from extending between the blocks as the blocks are moved to the contact position. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012340 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SEALING A WELLBORE - Systems and methods for sealing a wellbore are provided. The wellbore has a pipe therein for the passage of fluid therethrough. The system is provided with a BOP positionable about the pipe and at least one seal assembly positionable about the BOP. Each of the seal assemblies has a plurality of blocks positionable within the BOP, at least one actuator for selectively moving the blocks to a contact position surrounding the pipe, and a plurality of pipe seals carried by the blocks for creating a seal about the pipe of the wellbore. Each block has an opening extending into a cavity therein. Each pipe seal is positionable in one of the cavities and flowable through the opening thereof as the blocks are moved into the contact position whereby at least a portion of a pressure applied to the pipe seals is released from the blocks. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012341 | DRILLING OPERATION SUSPENSION SPOOL - A drilling operation suspension spool system which operates to provide a dual sealing barrier for a well during suspension of drilling operations. The system includes a spool having a spool adapted to be secured in fixed relation to a wellhead and a dummy hanger adapted to be matedly inserted into the spool. The dummy hanger includes an annular sleeve and a removable axial plug disposed within the annular sleeve insert. A plurality of extendable and retractable locking pins secure the dummy hanger in place. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120018174 | Method And Apparatus For Controlling The Flow Of Fluids From A Well Below The Surface Of The Water - An apparatus and method is provided for controlling and/or halting the uncontrolled flow of petroleum and/or natural gas from an open well head on the sea floor in which the well head is in communication with a subterranean formation. The method includes lowering a fluid control device from a drilling ship to an alignment means positioned above an open well casing through which the petroleum and/or natural gas is flowing in an uncontrolled manner, then lowering the fluid control device through and/or adjacent to the alignment means and into the open well casing until a lower section of a fluid control device enters the open well casing. The fluid control device includes an elongated member at its tip, having a diameter smaller than the inside diameter of the well head casing. A tapered section is in connection with the elongated section, the tapered section, or another section in connection with the tapered section, having a maximum diameter equal to or greater than the inside diameter of the well casing, and an end section in communication with the tapered section having a diameter greater than or equal to the outside diameter of the well head casing. The fluid control device can have a mass sufficiently great to overcome any upward forces created by flowing petroleum and/or natural gas, resulting in sufficient downward movement of the fluid control device and contact with the open well casing to seal same. Alternatively, a drilling rig in connection with the fluid control device can exert sufficient downward pressure thereon so as to overcome the pressure of the flowing petroleum, gas, etc., thereby creating a seal between the fluid control device and the well head. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120024546 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR AUTOFILL EQUIPMENT ACTIVATION - Equipment for servicing subterranean wells are disclosed. Particularly, a cementing plug that is equipped to activate autofill float equipment, and a method by which the plug is employed to activate autofill equipment. The bottom cementing plug contains an activation device that is released when the plug lands on the autofill equipment, then enters the autofill equipment, triggering the activation of check valves. The activation device may also contain a chemical substance that is released into the well when the activation device exits the bottom cementing plug. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120055684 | Arrangement of Isolation Sleeve and Cluster Sleeves Having Pressure Chambers - For wellbore fluid treatment, sliding sleeves deploy on tubing in a wellbore annulus. Operators deploy a plug down the tubing to a first sleeve. The plug seats in this first sleeve, and pumped fluid pressure opens the first sleeve and communicates from the tubing to the wellbore annulus. In the annulus, the fluid pressure creates a pressure differential between the wellbore annulus pressure and a pressure chamber on second sleeves on the tubing. The resulting pressure differential opens the second sleeves so that fluid pressure from the tubing can communicate through the second open sleeves. Using this arrangement, one sleeve can be opened in a cluster of sleeves without opening all of them at the same time. The deployed plug is only required to open the fluid pressure to the annulus by opening the first sleeve. The pressure chambers actuate the second sleeves to open up the tubing to the annulus. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120061102 | ANHYDROUS BORON-BASED TIMED DELAY PLUGS - A well tool for use with a subterranean well can include an elongated passageway and a plug which prevents fluid communication through the passageway for a predetermined period of time. The plug can including an anhydrous boron compound, whereby the predetermined period of time is determined by a length of the anhydrous boron compound. A method of operating a well tool in conjunction with a subterranean well can include exposing an anhydrous boron compound to an aqueous fluid, with the anhydrous boron compound being included in a plug which prevents fluid communication through a passageway of the well tool. The well tool can be operated in response to fluid communication being permitted through the passageway a predetermined period of time after the exposing step. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120061103 | MULTIPLE BALL- BALL SEAT FOR HYDRAULIC FRACTURING WITH REDUCED PUMPING PRESSURE - A downhole isolation tool including a sub, a sleeve disposed in the sub, and a ball seat mandrel coupled to the sleeve, the ball seat mandrel having at least two ball seats axially aligned with at least two throughbores disposed within the ball seat mandrel. A method of isolating a well, the method including running a downhole isolation system into a well, wherein the downhole isolation system includes a first downhole isolation tool, the first downhole isolation tool including a first sub, a first sleeve disposed in the sub, and a first ball seat mandrel coupled to the first sleeve, the first ball seat mandrel having at least two ball seats of a first size axially aligned with at least two throughbores disposed within the first ball seat mandrel, dropping at least two balls of a first size into the well, and seating the at least two balls of the first size in the at least two ball seats of the first ball seat mandrel. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120080201 | DOUBLE SWIVEL APPARATUS AND METHOD - A double swivel for use with a top drive power unit supported for connection with a well string in a well bore to selectively impart longitudinal and/or rotational movement to the well string, a feeder for supplying a pumpable substance such as cement and the like from an external supply source to the interior of the well string in the well bore without first discharging it through the top drive power unit including a mandrel extending through double sleeves which are sealably and rotatably supported thereon for relative rotation between the sleeves and mandrel. The mandrel and sleeves have flow passages for communicating the pumpable substance from an external source to discharge through the sleeve and mandrel and into the interior of the well string below the top drive power unit. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120090856 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A HIGH SIDE ORIENTING SUB FOR MULTI-LATERAL INSTALLATIONS - An apparatus for indicating the orientation of a structure which includes an orienting sub releasably connected at an outer case. The orienting sub is at a preselected orientation relative to the structure. A change in fluid pressure of a predetermined magnitude of flow rate through the orienting sub will indicate that the structure is at a desired orientation in the well. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120125639 | METHOD OF USING GELLED FLUIDS WITH DEFINED SPECIFIC GRAVITY - Gelled barrier fluids preventing the ingress of undesired fluids from subsurface environments into subsurface apparatus have a specific gravity which is within ±0.05 of the specific gravity of the undesired fluid. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120132442 | CONTROL OF FLUID FLOW IN OIL WELLS - A flow restrictor for controlling the flow of cement or other fluid in oil wells comprises a plurality of restrictor elements, each defining first and second apertures, which are assembled in a stacked configuration and slidingly inserted into the well casing or other tubing so that the first apertures define a direct flowpath, preferably including a non-return valve, and the second apertures define a second, indirect flowpath between the elements and the inner surface of the tubing. The elements include seals for fluidly sealing each element in the bore of the tubing which are preferably slidably retractable and resiliently radially outwardly biased so as to adapt conformably to different tubing types having different internal diameters. The restrictor may slide along the tubing in use. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120152569 | PLURAL BARRIER VALVE SYSTEM WITH WET CONNECT - A barrier valve system includes one or more barrier valves, a connection sub having a first portion and a second portion connecting one or more control lines to each other, and a replacement portion of the connection sub connectable to the first portion subsequent to retrieval of the second portion. The replacement portion has a port from an outside diameter of the replacement portion to an inside diameter of the replacement portion and seals disposed to define an annular space between the replacement portion and the first portion encompassing only valve opening ports in the first portion. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120160519 | TRIGGERED POLYMER VISCOUS PILL AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - The invention provides a method comprising providing a composition comprising a pH trigger and a polymer able to be hydrated in a defined pH zone; injecting the composition with a pH outside the defined pH zone; triggering the pH trigger to adjust the pH of the composition within the defined pH zone; and allowing viscosity of the composition to increase and form a plug. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120160520 | COMPLETION ASSEMBLY FOR STIMULATING, SEGMENTING AND CONTROLLING ERD WELLS - The invention relates to an assembly to be run with a well tubular having openings provided in the wall and for being arranged in a well bore and thereby forming a space between said tubing and the well bore surface. The assembly comprising: first fluid control means and second fluid control means being provided in another opening in said well tubular. The assembly further having a set of packers for sealing of the space between said tubing and the well bore surface, said set of packers being positioned such that a part the tubular having both first and second fluid control means is located between the set of packers. The first fluid control means is adapted such that it is capable of blocking fluid flow from the interior of said well tubular to said space between said tubing and the well bore surface. The second fluid control means is adapted such that it is capable of blocking fluid flow. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120168180 | Isolation of Zones for Fracturing Using Removable Plugs - An interval can be divided into zones by inserting a series of plugs that register with specific profiles at predetermined intervals along a section of pipe. Each plug supports a releasable perforating gun that can release from the plug and perforate an interval for treatment such as fracturing or acidizing. A subsequent plug then isolates the just treated zone and the process is repeated working up toward the surface. When the full interval is treated the plugs can then be removed by making their cores disappear using a reaction or dissolving techniques. Mechanical alternative that push all the plugs to hole bottom or that retrieve them together or individually are possible alternative techniques for removal of the plugs from the treated interval before production is initiated. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120168181 | CONFORMABLE INFLOW CONTROL DEVICE AND METHOD - A conformable inflow control device includes a first tubular having a plurality of perforations therethrough, a second tubular positioned radially of the first tubular defining an annular space therebetween having at least one port therethrough, and a pressure drop device disposed at the annular space positioned between the plurality of perforations and the at least one port configured to create a drop in pressure in response to fluid flow therethrough. Also included is an expandable media disposed radially outwardly of the first tubular configured to expand while permitting fluid flow therethrough. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120175132 | Low Equivalent Circulation Density Setting Tool - A downhole oilfield tool assembly is provided. The tool assembly comprises a mandrel, a valve oriented to block downwards flow through the mandrel in a closed position, a first piston located above the valve and at least partly around an outside of the mandrel. The first piston is configured to develop motive force from a pressure differential between an interior of the mandrel and an exterior of the downhole oilfield tool assembly. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120175133 | DAMPERED DROP PLUG - A dampered drop plug drops down a bore of a drill string. The dampered drop plug includes a retainer configured to land on an upward facing shoulder of a tubular sleeve, and a plug releasably coupled to the retainer. The plug couples to the retainer while at a first pressure in the bore and decouples from the retainer at a second pressure in the bore. The dampered drop plug lands on the upward facing shoulder of a tubular sleeve and actuates a first function. The plug then releases from the retainer, and passes fluid through the retainer at a controlled flowrate. The plug then lands on a ball seat and actuates a second function. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120181048 | DEBRIS BARRIER ASSEMBLY - A method and apparatus for a debris barrier assembly having a sleeve, an outer housing assembly coupled to the sleeve, and first and second biasing members disposed within the outer housing assembly. A support member is coupled to the sleeve and is in contact with an end of the first and second biasing members. The debris barrier assembly is coupled to a polished bore receptacle to prevent debris from entering the PBR. The debris barrier assembly is operable to compensate for a pressure differential between the internal region of the PBR and the external region of the surrounding wellbore. The debris barrier assembly and the PBR may be run in the wellbore on a work string, and the sleeve may be actuated to actuate a downhole tool connected to the sleeve to perform a downhole operation. The debris barrier assembly may be retrieved from the wellbore using the work string. | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120234561 | DUAL WIPER PLUG SYSTEM - A dual wiper plug system having a first wiper including a first body having a first bore therethrough, and at least one wiper fin disposed around the body, a second wiper disposed axially above the first wiper, the second wiper including a second body having a second bore therethrough and a first shoulder formed on the inner surface of the second body, and at least one wiper fin disposed around the body, and a first collet ring coupled to the first wiper and including at least one collet finger extending axially upward, and a collet head disposed on an upper end of the collet finger and configured to engage the first shoulder of the second body. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120261139 | PRESSURE EQUALIZATION APPARATUS AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A pressure equalization apparatus can include separate longitudinal bores which form a continuous flowpath, the flowpath alternating direction between the bores, and the bores being interconnected at opposite ends thereof. A well system can include a well tool with a chamber therein containing an assembly in a dielectric fluid, and a pressure equalization apparatus including a flowpath having one end connected to the chamber, and the other end connected to a source of a another fluid, the flowpath extending in opposite directions between the flowpath ends through multiple separate bores. A method of installing a well tool can include attaching a mandrel to the well tool, then lowering the well tool at least partially into the well suspended from the mandrel, and then securing a pressure equalization apparatus to the mandrel, a flowpath of the apparatus being connected to a chamber of the well tool containing an assembly. | 10-18-2012 |
| 20120261140 | DEVICES FOR REDUCING BALL IMPACT INTO BALL SEATS AND METHODS OF REDUCING BALL IMPACT INTO BALL SEATS - Seats for receiving a plug member comprise a tubular member having a seat disposed therein and a fluid flow reduction member that reduces the velocity of the fluid flowing through the tubular member as it approaches the seat so as to reduce the impact of the plug member landing on the seat. The fluid flow reduction member may be disposed on a fluid flow reduction device, such as on an inner wall surface of a sleeved insert, or formed in the inner wall surface of the tubular member. The fluid reduction member can comprise one or more longitudinal channels, one or more apertures, or one or more curved-shaped grooves disposed either on the inner wall surface of the tubular member or on a fluid flow reduction device, such as on an inner wall surface of a sleeved insert disposed within the tubular member. | 10-18-2012 |
| 20120279727 | ENHANCING DELAYING IN SITU GELATION OF WATER SHUTOFF SYSTEMS - Gel compositions are disclosed including a high molecular weight water-soluble acrylamide polymer, a chromium III/carboxylate complex capable of crosslinking the polymer and a buffered aqueous solvent. The gel compositions are prepared at the surface and injected into a zone of a formation assessable by a wellbore to form a continuous single-phase gel. The gel compositions may be tailored to a specific formation by predetermining gelation rate, gel strength and/or gel stability to form gels having predetermined properties suitable for the zone. | 11-08-2012 |
| 20120285704 | Deep-Water Oil Well Spill Controller and Container - The present invention provides a deep-water oil well plug apparatus having a plunger member on an elongate shaft and a plurality of inflatable members configured and shapes to seal within the well bore, and a bell-shaped chamber placed on top of the oil well and adapted to be filled with concrete, and a hydraulic mechanism to remove and release the bell-shaped chamber from the oil well. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120292052 | Easy Drill Slip - A design for a bridge plug wherein the slip elements include an outer contact portion to engage a surrounding tubular member and an inner body portion designed to easily disintegrate during removal of the bridge plug by subsequent milling. The inner body portion is formed of a softer material than the outer contact portion. Also, the inner body portion is made up of a plurality of segments that are readily separated and dispsersed during milling out. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120312557 | SLEEVED BALL SEAT - Apparatuses for restricting fluid flow through a conduit comprise a seat sleeve disposed in a housing, the housing being disposed in a tubular member. The seat sleeve comprises a seat and one or more ports in fluid communication with a seat sleeve bore. One or more seat bypass fluid flow channels are disposed in the housing and are initially placed in fluid communication with at least one of the seat sleeve ports. Landing a plug element on the seat blocks fluid flow through the seat, but fluid flow is permitted to flow through the seat bypass fluid flow channels, through the seat sleeve ports, and into the seat sleeve bore. Movement of the seat sleeve downward closes the seat sleeve ports. Thus, a plug element can restrict fluid flowing through an area of the apparatus that is larger than the plug element. | 12-13-2012 |
| 20120312558 | Radial Flow Valve - A radial flow valve is disclosed which includes a plurality of flow openings, a first piston and a second piston, the first and second pistons being independently actuable relative to one another, and a sleeve operatively coupled to the second piston, the sleeve adapted to be positioned so as to cover the plurality of flow openings. A method is also disclosed which includes positioning a radial flow valve in a subterranean well bore having an upper zone pressure and a lower zone pressure, increasing a pressure within the valve to a value above the upper zone pressure to release a first piston within the valve and, after releasing the first piston, reducing the pressure within the valve to a value that is less than the lower zone pressure to thereby cause a second piston within the valve to move and thereby permit fluid flow through the valve. | 12-13-2012 |
| 20120325500 | WELL-BASED FLUID COMMUNICATION CONTROL ASSEMBLY - An apparatus includes a base pipe, a screen and a first assembly. The screen at least partially circumscribes the base pipe to create a flow path between a first region that is outside of the screen and a second region that is inside the base pipe. The flow path includes at least one radial port of the base pipe and a third region between the screen and the exterior of the base pipe. The first assembly regulates fluid communication through the flow path. The first assembly includes a second assembly that is disposed in and mounted to the base pipe and a flow control device that is slidably connected to the second assembly. The flow control device is adapted to translate between at least two positions to regulate the fluid communication through the flow path. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130000926 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COMPLETING A MULTI-STAGE WELL - A technique includes deploying a string that includes a seat assembly in a well; and running a shifting tool in a passageway of the string. The shifting tool shifts the seat assembly to cause the seat assembly to transition between a first state in which the seat assembly forms a seat that is adapted to allow an untethered object communicated in the passageway of the string to pass through the seat assembly to a second state in which the seat assembly is adapted to catch the object to form a fluid barrier in the string. The fluid barrier is used to divert fluid in the tubing string to perform, for example, a stimulation operation. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130008670 | SAFETY SYSTEM FOR OIL AND GAS DRILLING OPERATIONS - A sub-surface safety system for hydrocarbon drilling operations is provided and includes at least one casing within a wellbore that extends into a first portion of a formation from the surface of the formation. A shut-in device is positioned in the casing so as to be below the surface of the formation. The well shut-in device defines a device passageway and is operable to sever a drill string extending through the device passageway and form a barrier in the device passageway that restricts wellbore fluids below the barrier from migrating up the casing to the surface. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130008671 | WELLBORE PLUG AND METHOD - Disclosed is a wellbore plug having a design that allows the mandrel of the plug to be made of concrete or other easy-to-drill materials. Disclosed is a wellbore plug assembly with slip and packing assemblies configured to hold the plug in place during setting and use without tensioning the mandrel, thereby allowing the mandrel to be made from easily drillable material, such as concrete. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130014958 | RETRIEVABLE STIMULATION FRAC (RSF) PLUGAANM Jani; WilliamAACI CalgaryAACO CAAAGP Jani; William Calgary CA - A retrievable stimulation frac (retrievable stimulation frac) plug for a well casing having an elongate mandrel having a fluid flow bore, a check valve mandrel seal moveable between an open position and a closed position for selectively sealing the fluid flow bore, a sealing mechanism for sealing between the mandrel and the casing, and a locking mechanism for axially locking the retrievable stimulation frac plug in the casing. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130020097 | DOWNHOLE FLUID-FLOW COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE - A method of wireless communication with a downhole assembly in absence of pressure pulse or hard wired communications. Tools and techniques for achieving such wireless communications are directed fluid-flow communication which may be utilized in circumstances where a completions assembly is open to the well in a pressure sense. Notably, a trigger is included with detection equipment which may be utilized to detect fluid-flow generated by surface equipment. In certain embodiments, such equipment may even be mounted exterior of completions equipment tubing through which fluid-flow communication is directed. Thus, wireless downhole communication capacity may even be provided without the need for obstructing tubing with such detection equipment. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130025886 | Shock Tolerant Heat Dissipating Electronics Package - An electronics package of substantially monolithic configuration. The package is particularly adept at enhancing heat dissipation and avoiding secondary shock when placed in harsh application environments. Thus, the package may be particularly well suited for use in conjunction with high shock producing downhole application environments such as bridge plug setting. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130032361 | Recovery Valve - A tubing hanger landing system includes a tubing hanger running tool, a locking flowline to lock the tubing hanger running tool into a tubing hanger, and a lower body shear joint having a recovery valve. The recovery valve includes a valve body having an operational port, a bi-directional port, and a relief port and an internal piston cavity. The piston cavity includes a radially inwardly extending stop, a valve piston housed in the valve body piston cavity and partially extending through the radially inwardly extending stop and movable between an operational position and a relief position by moving relative to the radially inwardly extending stop. The valve piston includes a radially extending collar. The valve body further includes a shear port that allows pressure communication between the exterior of the recovery valve and the valve piston, a shear ring attached and surrounding the piston collar and sized larger than the radially inwardly extending stop such that the valve piston is prevented from moving from the operational position to the relief position. The shear ring is shearable from the valve piston when subjected to a pressure of the exterior of the recovery valve through the shear port that exceeds a shear force of the shear ring, allowing the valve piston to be movable to the relief position. In the relief position, the valve piston provides fluid communication through a relief flowpath between the bi-directional port and the relief port to release pressure from the locking flowline. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130037275 | Wellbore Pressure Control Device - An apparatus for controlling fluid pressure, useful in the production of hydrocarbons from underground reservoirs comprises at least one conical segment. A conical segment comprises: an inner conical cylinder with a central axis; an outer conical cylinder, outside of, and coaxial with, the inner conical cylinder; and a swirl chamber disposed between a conical outer surface of the inner conical cylinder and a conical inner surface of the outer conical cylinder. There is a fluid entrance through a wall of the outer conical cylinder of at least one conical segment at an upstream end of the apparatus for directing fluids into such conical segment's swirl chamber. There is also a fluid exit through a wall of the inner conical cylinder of at least one conical segment at a downstream end of the apparatus for directing fluids out of such conical segment's swirl chamber. | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130037276 | EXTERNALLY ADJUSTABLE INFLOW CONTROL DEVICE - A flow regulating system can include multiple flow restrictors, at least one of which selectively restricts flow between an interior of a tubular string and an external annulus, a plug which prevents flow through a respective one of the flow restrictors, the plug being aligned substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the flow restrictor. A method of variably restricting fluid flow in a well can include installing one or more plugs in selected one(s) of multiple openings in a housing, each installed plug preventing fluid flow through a respective flow restrictor, and externally accessing the openings, without removing any cover. An externally adjustable inflow control device can include a housing having multiple openings, multiple flow restrictors, a plug in selected one(s) of the openings, each plug preventing fluid flow through a respective flow restrictor, and each plug being externally accessible, without removal of any cover. | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130056226 | Diverter spool and methods of using the same - A well containment assembly comprising a first pressure-containing device, and a diverter spool, the diverter spool comprising a body having a longitudinal central axis and at least partially defining a primary flowbore, an upper connection assembly coupled to the body, a lower connection assembly coupled to the body, and a plurality of side outlets, each of the plurality of side outlets having a longitudinal central axis and at least partially defining a secondary flowbore, wherein each of the plurality secondary flowbores are in communication with the primary flowbore, and wherein the angle between the longitudinal central axis of the body and the longitudinal central axis of the plurality of side outlets is less than 90° with respect to the primary flowbore, wherein the first pressure-containing device is coupled to the diverter spool via the upper connection assembly. | 03-07-2013 |
| 20130062077 | METHODS AND EQUIPMENT TO IMPROVE RELIABILITY OF PINPOINT STIMULATION OPERATIONS - Apparatuses and methods for improving the reliability of pinpoint stimulation operations is disclosed. A pinpoint stimulation improvement apparatus is disclosed which includes a hold down device, at least one flow reducer coupled to the hold down device, and a jetting tool coupled to the flow reducer. The flow reducer is positioned downstream from the jetting tool. A fluid flowing through the jetting tool passes through the flow reducer and forms a sand plug downstream from the pinpoint stimulation improvement apparatus. | 03-14-2013 |
| 20130068484 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR WELLBORE FLUID TREATMENT - A tubing string assembly for fluid treatment of a wellbore includes substantially pressure holding closures spaced along the tubing string, which each close at least one port through the tubing string wall. The closures are openable by a sleeve drivable through the tubing string inner bore. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130081827 | MULTIZONE TREATMENT SYSTEM - A technique provides a system and methodology for treating a plurality of zones, e.g. well zones. A plurality of flow control devices is located along a tubular structure, such as a well string in a wellbore. Each flow control device comprises a seat member with an annularly located recess having a unique profile relative to the annularly located recesses of the other flow control devices. Darts are designed with engagement features sized to correspond with selected annularly located recesses. Each dart may have an engagement feature of a specific length designed to engage the corresponding recess of a specific flow control device to enable actuation of that flow control device once the dart is dropped through the tubular structure. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130098635 | RECEPTACLE SUB - A receptacle sub that increases the venting flowrate during retrieval of a running tool is disclosed. The sub includes a sleeve with a bypass port in a central bore defined by a tubular body. The sleeve is selectively moveable from an upper position to a lower position. A seal on the sleeve seals the sleeve to the bore while a retainer holds the sleeve in the upper position. A bypass passage in the body is in fluid communication with the bypass port. A drop member lands on the sleeve, blocking downward flow through the sleeve and actuating a hydraulic function. The drop member receives a fluid pressure greater than the hydraulic function fluid pressure, releasing the retainer to move the sleeve to the lower position. This allows fluid communication from above the central bore through the bypass passage and through the bypass ports of the sleeve below the drop member. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130112434 | Apparatus and method of forming a plug in a wellbore - A method of forming a plug in a wellbore includes disposing a work string in a wellbore. The work string includes a first tool comprising a port providing fluid communication between an interior space of the first tool to an exterior space to permit placement of a plug in a wellbore. The method includes introducing a first fluid volume via the work string to form a plug in the wellbore, and includes load testing the plug at least in part by applying an axial force on the plug with the work string to determine that the plug is set. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112435 | Completion Method for Stimulation of Multiple Intervals - A technique provides for stimulating or otherwise treating multiple intervals/zones of a well by controlling flow of treatment fluid via a plurality of flow control devices. The flow control devices are provided with internal profiles and flow through passages. Mechanical darts are designed for engagement with the internal profiles of specific flow control devices, and each mechanical dart may be moved downhole for engagement with and activation of the specific flow control device associated with that mechanical dart. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112436 | Completion Method for Stimulation of Multiple Intervals - A technique provides for stimulating or otherwise treating multiple intervals/zones of a well by controlling flow of treatment fluid via a plurality of flow control devices. The flow control devices are provided with internal profiles and flow through passages. Hydraulic darts are designed for selective engagement with the internal profiles of specific flow control devices, and each hydraulic dart may be moved downhole for engagement with and activation of a specific flow control device. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130118762 | Wireline supported bi-directional shifting tool with pumpdown feature - A shifting tool for sleeves is supported on wireline or slickline and is pumped to the desired location by pressure from above delivered against the tool and passing around its periphery or against an articulated peripheral extending member that can optionally seal. Once in the vicinity of the desired sleeve to be shifted the shifting key is engaged to the sleeve and further applied pressure on the articulated peripheral seal shifts the sleeve in a downhole direction. The sleeve can also be shifted in an uphole direction with an anchor that grabs near the sleeve and a latch key that grabs the sleeve and is configured to retain grip as a motor moves the latch key uphole. Power can come from a wireline or can be locally provided if using slickline. The seal or extending member is retractable for tool removal or relocation. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130140040 | DOWNHOLE FLUID RECIRCULATION VALVE - A downhole valve for insertion in a production tubing string permits recirculation of fluid pumped into the casing annulus. The valve includes a cylindrical housing defining an opening, an internal mandrel disposed within the housing, defining a central bore and defining an opening, a valve between the housing and the mandrel, wherein said valve opens to allow fluid communication from the mandrel central bore to the annulus space in response to a pressure differential between the mandrel central bore and the annular space, and biasing means for biasing the valve in a closed position. The valve may be set within a completion string by wireline techniques | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130146310 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DROPPING A PUMP DOWN PLUG OR BALL - An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured valving member with curved and flat portions that alternatively direct fluid flow through a bore or opening in the valving member via an inner channel or around the periphery of the valving member in an outer channel. In one embodiment, the ball(s), dart(s) or plug(s) are contained in a sliding sleeve that shifts position responsive to valve rotation. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130161028 | COMBINATION BURST-DISC SUBASSEMBLY FOR HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL WELL COMPLETIONS - A combination profile and burst-disc subassembly is provided for use in directional, horizontal or deviated or vertical wells during snubbing, bridge plug retrieval or zone separation operations in combination with packers and/or completion strings; the sub provides an plug for non-vertical situations which can be opened without wireline, while providing a landing for a wireline plug which may be required for vertical well sections during related operations. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130175052 | PERFORMING MULTI-STAGE WELL OPERATIONS - Plugs are deployed along a wellbore to form fluid barriers for associated stages. The plugs include a first plug that includes a first material that reacts with a first agent and does not react with a second agent and a second plug that includes a second material that reacts with the second agent and does not react with the first agent. A first stimulation operation is performed in the stage that is associated with the first plug; and a first agent is communicated into the well to react with the first material to remove the first plug. A second stimulation operation is performed in the stage that is associated with the second plug. The second agent is communicated into the well to react with the second material to remove the second plug. | 07-11-2013 |
| 20130180731 | Pressure Activated Down Hole Systems and Methods - Systems and methods for activating a down hole tool in a wellbore. A trigger is moveably positioned in the interior of a base pipe and includes a first end and a second, smaller end. The trigger is moveable between an unactivated position where a port in the base pipe is blocked and an activated position where the port is open. At least one latch member prevents movement of the trigger from the unactivated position to the activated position until a predetermined force is applied to the trigger. Increasing pressure in the interior increases a force differential between the first end and the second end. When the force differential is substantially equal to the predetermined force, the latch releases and allows the trigger to move from the unactivated position to the activated position, thereby opening the port to permit activation of the down hole tool. | 07-18-2013 |
| 20130186650 | TREATMENT PLUG AND METHOD OF ANCHORING AND SEALING THE SAME TO A STRUCTURE - A treatment plug includes, an anchor runnable and settable within a structure having, at least two slips movably engaged with one another to cause the at least two slips to move radially into engagement with the structure in response to longitudinal movement between the at least two slips. The treatment plug also has at least one seal having a deformable metal member configured to radially deform into sealing engagement with the structure in response to longitudinal compression of the deformable metal member, and a seat that is sealingly receptive to a plug. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130192852 | VALVE ASSEMBLY - A downhole valve assembly including at least one membrane permeable to a flow of a downhole fluid, the at least one membrane defining a passage through a chamber. A quantity of particles is disposed in the chamber and the at least one membrane is impermeable to the particles. The particles are responsive to a magnetic field. At least one magnetic element is operatively arranged to produce the magnetic field for enabling the at least one magnetic element to selectively move the particles between a first position at which the particles impede the flow of the downhole fluid through the at least one membrane and a second position at which the particles do not impede the flow of the downhole fluid through the at least one membrane. A method of controlling a flow of fluid is also included. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130199800 | WIPER PLUG ELEMENTS AND METHODS OF STIMULATING A WELLBORE ENVIRONMENT - Methods for preparing a wellbore casing for stimulation operations comprise the steps of cementing a wellbore casing in a wellbore, the wellbore casing having a downhole tool comprising a valve and an apparatus for restricting fluid flow through the valve, such as a ball seat, disposed above the valve. Actuation of the valve opens the valve to establish fluid communication between the wellbore casing and the formation. A plug element is disposed on a seat of the ball seat and a casing pressure test is performed. The plug element then dissolves or disintegrates over time increasing fluid communication between the wellbore casing and the formation, thereby preparing the wellbore casing for stimulation operations without additional wellbore intervention after the casing pressure test. In certain embodiments, during or after dissolution of the plug element, clean-out of the bore of the valve is performed by the plug element. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130213673 | DECOUPLING A REMOTE ACTUATOR OF A WELL TOOL - A well tool with a housing has an actuator sleeve in the housing. The actuator sleeve has an internal shifting tool engaging profile. An actuator is in the housing. The actuator is responsive to a remote signal to move the actuator sleeve from a first position to a second position. A dog is in the housing, supported to couple the actuator sleeve to the actuator when the actuator sleeve is in the first position and unsupported to allow the actuator sleeve to uncouple from the actuator when the actuator sleeve is in the second position. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130220640 | Flow Control Devices on Expandable Tubing Run Through Production Tubing and Into Open Hole - Disclosed is a downhole completion assembly for sealing and supporting an open hole section of a wellbore and providing flow control through the downhole completion assembly. One downhole completion system includes a first sealing structure arranged within an open hole section of a wellbore and being movable between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration, a second sealing structure arranged axially adjacent the first sealing structure and also being movable between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration, and a flow control device arranged between the first and second sealing structures and configured to provide a flow path for fluids to communicate between a surrounding subterranean formation and an interior of the downhole completion system. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130220641 | Expandable Conical Tubing Run Through Production Tubing and Into Open Hole - Disclosed is a downhole completion assembly for sealing and supporting an open hole section of a wellbore. One downhole completion system includes a first sealing structure having opposing first and second ends and being arranged within an open hole section of a wellbore, the first sealing structure being movable between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration, and a second sealing structure having opposing first and second ends and being arranged proximate the first sealing structure within the wellbore, the second sealing structure also being movable between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein, when in their respective expanded configurations, the first and second sealing structures are frustoconical in shape and the first end of the second sealing structure is at least partially nested within the second end of the first sealing structure. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130264072 | Adjustable Flow Control Device - A flow control device comprises a fluid pathway configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of a wellbore tubular and an interior of the wellbore tubular, a flow restriction disposed in the fluid pathway, wherein the flow restriction is disposed in a radial alignment with respect to the wellbore tubular, and a flow blockage disposed in the fluid pathway, wherein the flow blockage substantially prevents a fluid flow through the fluid pathway. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130292137 | Adjustable Pressure Hydrostatic Setting Module - An adjustable pressure hydrostatic setting module includes a collapsible pressure chamber and a setting chamber. The pressure chamber is precharged at a fluid pressure that is greater than atmospheric pressure and greater than the fluid pressure within the setting chamber. In a described embodiment, the setting module also includes a frangible rupture member that closes off the setting chamber from annulus pressure. A regulator governs the transfer of fluid pressure from the collapsible chamber to the setting chamber. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130299198 | Downhole Fluid Flow Control System and Method Having Autonomous Closure - A downhole fluid flow control system for autonomously controlling the inflow of production fluids. The fluid flow control system includes a flow control assembly having a fluid flow path through which a fluid flows. A support structure is positioned in the fluid flow path. A plug is releasably coupled to the support structure such that when fluid flow through the fluid flow path induces sufficient movement in the support structure, the movement causes release of the plug from the support structure into the fluid flow path, thereby restricting subsequent fluid flow in at least one direction through the fluid flow path. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130299199 | SEAT ASSEMBLY WITH COUNTER FOR ISOLATING FRACTURE ZONES IN A WELL - A specially designed rotary indexing system and associated operational methods are incorporated in a downhole control device, representatively a sliding sleeve valve, having an outer tubular member in which an annular plug seat is coaxially disposed. The plug seat is resiliently expandable between a first diameter and a larger second diameter and is illustratively of a circumferentially segmented construction. The rotary indexing system is operative to detect the number of plug members that pass through and diametrically expand the plug seat, and responsively preclude passage of further plug members therethrough when such number reaches a predetermined magnitude. Such predetermined magnitude is correlated to the total rotation of an indexing system counter ring portion rotationally driven by axial camming forces transmitted to the rotary indexing system by successive plug member passage-generated diametrical expansions of the plug seat. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130327547 | AQUIFIER FLOW CONTROLLING VALVE ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - A valve assembly for use in aquifer liquid flow control in accordance with one embodiment can be used to deliver liquid to and/or from at least one selected aquifer in a plural aquifer system. In accordance with an embodiment, the valve can be used to route liquid to or from a first aquifer without delivering liquid to or from a second aquifer, or to or from the second aquifer without delivering liquid to or from the first aquifer. As an aspect of an embodiment, the valve assembly can be used to shut off the flow of liquid to both the first and second aquifers. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20130341050 | DEVICE HAVING A HARD SEAT SUPPORT - A device having a hard seat support disposed with a hard seat to reduce or prevent buckling, bursting, and/or permanent deformation of the hard seat that compromises the seal across the hard sealing surface and flapper sealing surface interface. The hard seat support may be positioned along an inner periphery of the hard seat or in direct contact with an outer periphery of the hard seat. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20140096978 | Safety Valve System for Cable Deployed Electric Submersible Pump - A safety valve system for downhole use in a wellbore comprises a safety valve comprising a sealable flow path; an annulus safety valve configured to provide fluid communication between a central flow path and an annular flow path; a landing nipple, wherein the landing nipple comprises ports configured to provide fluid communication between the annular flow path and the central flow path; and a cable passing through the sealable flow path, wherein the cable comprises a sealing mechanism and latch mechanism configured to engage the landing nipple. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140102722 | Downhole System and Method for Facilitating Remedial Work - A downhole system and related method, the system comprising an annulus sealing device having a flow path therethrough, a first side, a second side, and a sealing element; a latch element positioned at the first side of the annulus sealing device; at least one check valve assembly positioned at the second side of the annulus sealing device, the at least one check valve assembly having an annular seat, a seat-engaging element rotatably movable relative to the annular seat, and a biasing member urging the seat-engaging element toward the annular seat element; a rigid elongate member extending at least partially through the latch element and having a first end, a second end, and an outer surface extending between the first end and the second end; and a fluid communication path between the annular seat and through the latch element at least partially defined by the rigid elongate member. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102723 | TELESCOPING LATCHING MECHANISM FOR CASING CEMENTING PLUG - Improved cementing plugs and methods of using these cementing plugs in subterranean wells are disclosed. A cementing plug comprises a hollow mandrel and one or more wiper elements coupled to the mandrel. A nose is coupled to the hollow mandrel and is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A portion of the nose is positioned within the mandrel when in the retracted position. This portion of the nose is positioned outside the mandrel when in the extended position. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102724 | SECONDARY BARRIER FOR USE IN CONJUNCTION WITH AN ISOLATION DEVICE IN A HORIZONTAL WELLBORE - A secondary barrier for use in conjunction with an isolation device in a portion of a non-vertical wellbore comprises: a swellable material, wherein the swellable material: (A) has dimensions such that, prior to swelling, the secondary barrier is capable of being placed into the portion of the non-vertical wellbore, and (B) fills a void within the portion of the non-vertical wellbore, wherein the swellable material fills the void after the swelling of at least a portion of the swellable material has occurred, wherein the secondary barrier is positioned adjacent to the isolation device in the portion of the non-vertical wellbore. A method of creating a secondary barrier comprises: introducing the secondary barrier into the portion of the non-vertical wellbore; and contacting or allowing the swellable material to come in contact with the swelling fluid or the increase in temperature. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140116731 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR WELLBORE FLUID TREATMENT - A tubing string assembly for fluid treatment of a wellbore includes substantially pressure holding closures spaced along the tubing string, which each close at least one port through the tubing string wall. The closures are openable by a sleeve drivable through the tubing string inner bore. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140158380 | Pump Deployment Via Cable - A method can include providing a pump connected to a power cable with a smooth surface; providing a stuffing box with a valve configured to form a seal with the smooth surface of the power cable in a closed state and to form a passage for the pump as connected to the power cable in an open state; providing a lubricator; providing a blow-out protector with a valve configured to form a seal with the smooth surface of the power cable in a closed state and to form a passage for the pump as connected to the power cable in an open state; and controlling the states of the valves while lowering the pump via the power cable through the stuffing box, the lubricator, and the blow-out protector to position the pump into a bore of a well. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140196913 | BRIDGE PLUG TOOL - A bridge plug tool for use in a well, comprising: a tool body; a mandrel ( | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140202713 | Well Intervention Pressure Control Valve - A system comprising a control valve comprising a flapper either activated or inactivated, when activated the flapper may be closed or open and, when inactivated the flapper is open, a first sleeve transitional from a first to a second position, and a second sleeve transitional from a first to a second position, when the first and second sleeves are in the first position, the flapper is activated, when the first sleeve is in the second and the second sleeve is in the first position, the flapper is inactivated, when the first and second sleeves are in the second position, the flapper is activated, the application of pressure to the first sleeve via a first member transitions the first sleeve from the first to the second position, and the application of pressure to the second sleeve via a second member transitions the second sleeve from the first to the second position. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140216761 | DOWNHOLE ACTIVATION ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A downhole activation assembly for activating a downhole component of a downhole tool positionable in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The activation assembly includes a housing operatively connectable to the downhole tool, a spring-loaded sleeve, and a ball catcher. The sleeve slidably positionable in the housing, and having a flow channel therethrough and an outer surface defining a chamber between the sleeve and the housing. The sleeve having inlets therethrough about a sleeve end thereof to permit fluid from the flow channel to pass therethrough. The ball catcher slidably positionable in the housing, and having a catcher end engageable with the sleeve end to selectively divert the fluid thereabout and a ball seat therein to receivingly engage a ball passing through the sleeve whereby the ball catcher selectively moves the downhole component between activation positions. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140216762 | System and Method for Activating a Down Hole Tool - One disclosed sleeve assembly disposed within a base pipe includes a first sleeve portion having a first shear resistance for resisting movement of the sleeve assembly with respect to the base pipe, and a second sleeve portion moveable with respect the first sleeve portion and having a second shear resistance for resisting movement of the second sleeve portion with respect to the first sleeve portion, the second shear resistance being greater than the first shear resistance. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140231099 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DROPPING A PUMP DOWN PLUG OR BALL - An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured tool body assembly having valving members (e.g., safety or kelly values) and valving members holding plugs, balls, or darts to be dropped. In one embodiment, the ball(s), dart(s) or plug(s) are contained in a sliding sleeve that shifts position responsive to valve rotation. An optional indicator indicates to a user or operator that a ball or plug has passed a selected one of the valving members. A transmitter (or transceiver) provides an ability to generate a wireless signal that is received by receivers (or transceivers) on the tool body assembly. Each receiver (or transceiver) controls an electrical actuator that engages a valving member or the indicator. Wireless signals can be used to open or close a valve or to reset a “tripped” indicator. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140238697 | DOWNHOLE TOOL WITH REMOTELY ACTUATED DRAG BLOCKS & METHODS - Apparatus useful for remotely actuating the drag blocks of a downhole tool includes at least one remotely actuated sleeve configured to allow the drag blocks to move from one position to another when the downhole tool is disposed in a well bore. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140238698 | CAPILLARY HANGER ARRANGEMENT FOR DEPLOYING CONTROL LINE IN EXISTING WELLHEAD - To deploy a capillary string through a wellhead to a downhole safety valve, a control port and a retention port are drilled in an adapter between a casing hanger and a gate valve or elsewhere. The capillary string is connected to a first port of a capillary hanger and installed through the wellhead. The capillary hanger is landed on a tubing hanger, and a side port on the capillary hanger communicates with the control port. Because the side port's location may not align with the control port, operators may need to measure how long the capillary hanger should be. A control line connects to the control port in the wellhead's side to communicate with the capillary line, and a retention rod inserts in the retention port to support the capillary hanger. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140262348 | METHOD OF USING GELLED FLUIDS WITH DEFINED SPECIFIC GRAVITY - Gelled barrier fluids preventing the ingress of undesired fluids from subsurface environments into subsurface apparatus have a specific gravity which is within ±0.05 of the specific gravity of the undesired fluid. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140305662 | CROSSOVER TOOL FOR REVERSE CEMENTING A LINER STRING - A liner deployment assembly (LDA) for use in a wellbore includes: a crossover tool. The crossover tool includes: a seal for engaging a tubular string cemented into the wellbore; a tubular housing carrying the seal and having bypass ports straddling the seal; a mandrel having a bore therethrough and a port in fluid communication with the mandrel bore, the mandrel movable relative to the housing between a bore position where the mandrel port is isolated from the bypass ports and a bypass position where the mandrel port is aligned with one of the bypass ports; a bypass chamber formed between the housing and the mandrel and extending above and below the seal; and a control module. The control module includes: an electronics package; and an actuator in communication with the electronics package and operable to move the mandrel between the positions. | 10-16-2014 |
| 20140311759 | ANNULAR BARRIER SYSTEM WITH FLOW LINES - The present invention relates to an annular barrier system ( | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140318815 | ACTUATOR BALL RETRIEVER AND VALVE ACTUATION TOOL - Disclosed is a tool for changing a plurality of sleeve valves in a well from a ball catching restricted bored state to an open bore state and for retrieving sleeve valve actuator balls of substantially the same diameter from the well. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140318816 | Downhole Tools With Ball Trap - The described embodiments relate to a downhole tool that can capture a ball in a trap to prevent both upwell and downwell movement of the ball. Further, certain embodiments described herein may prevent fluid from flowing past a captured ball in either the upwell or downwell directions. Ball and seat valves incorporating such ball trap assemblies can be used to create a bi-directional plug which prevents fluid flow in either direction when the ball trap is engaged with an appropriately configured ball. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140367122 | FLOWABLE DEVICES AND METHODS OF SELF-ORIENTING THE DEVICES IN A WELLBORE - A wellbore flowable device comprises an orientor, wherein the orientor causes the flowable device to be oriented within the wellbore such that the flowable device has a higher pressure differential rating than a similar flowable device without the orientor. A method of orienting the wellbore flowable device comprises: introducing the wellbore flowable device comprising the orientor into the wellbore; and allowing the flowable device to orient itself within the wellbore in a preselected orientation. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20150008003 | SELECTIVE PLUGGING ELEMENT AND METHOD OF SELECTIVELY PLUGGING A CHANNEL THEREWITH - An assembly for assisting performance of an operation involving a hardenable fluid in an axial flowbore of a casing string including a carrier disposed at the casing string. An operative device is carried by the carrier. A channel connects between the operative device and the axial flowbore. A plugging element is positioned in the channel that protects the operative device by preventing the hardenable fluid from entering the channel, and the plugging element is reconfigurable to selectively permit communication between the operative device and the axial flowbore via the channel. A method of protecting and using an operative device disposed at a casing string is also included. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150034338 | WELLHEAD PRESSURE PLUG - A wellhead plug and a method for using a wellhead plug are presented. The ahead plug includes a plug body having at least a locking module, multiple sealing members, and a threaded connection tool. The wellhead plug according to the present disclosure offers multiple advantages over existing technologies. For example, the device may serve duplex roles as a wellhead pressure plug and/or a connection test tool. The device may, for example, serve as a blowout preventer (BOP) connection test tool, as well as an emergency drill pipe hang off tool (EDPHOT). This Abstracts submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150041154 | ANNULAR BARRIER HAVING A FLEXIBLE CONNECTION - An annular barrier ( | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150041155 | ELECTROMAGNETIC OIL PIPE PLUGGER - An electromagnetic chemical adhesive pipe plugging system is provided, including an elongated hollow injection quill, said quill having a plurality of circumferentially spaced magnetic jaws, a plurality of circumferentially spaced shoes, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced magnetic heads, wherein the magnetic jaws, shoes, and magnetic heads are capable of being pushed radially outward into gripping engagement with the inner diameter of a pipe assisted by chemical adhesive bonds against the pressure forces acting thereon, and the magnetic heads are capable of creating an intense magnetic field. Methods and means of deploying, positioning, maintaining, controlling, and operating the system are also provided and include insertion through the BOP primary exit line or choke and kill lines within a BOP device. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150053428 | METHOD OF SETTING AND MAINTAINING A TOOL IN A SET POSITION FOR A PERIOD OF TIME - A method of setting and maintaining a tool in a set position for a period of time includes the following. Causing a component of a device to move relative to another component of the device, interengaging one or more features of at least one of the components with the another component, creating a set condition of a tool engaged with the component and the another component with the causing and interengaging. The method further includes dissolving at least the one or more features when removal of the tool is desired. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150068771 | Downhole Ball Dropping Systems and Methods - A downhole ball dropping system operable to be positioned in a well. The system includes a tool string having a flow path. A ball dropper assembly is interconnected in the tool string. The ball dropper assembly has a sliding sleeve including a port. A ball is releasably retained by the ball dropper assembly. An actuation assembly is operably associated with the ball dropper assembly and is operable to receive a deployment signal. A release assembly is disposed within the ball dropper assembly. A sensor is operable to detect deployment of the ball and is operable to generate a signal indicating whether the ball deployed. In operation, responsive to the deployment signal, the actuation assembly triggers shifting of the sliding sleeve to align the port with the ball and shifting of the release assembly to push the ball into the flow path through the port. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150068772 | Downhole Ball Dropping Systems and Methods with Redundant Ball Dropping Capability - A downhole ball dropping system operable to be positioned in a well. The system includes a tool string having a flow path. First and second ball dropper assemblies are interconnected in the tool string. The first ball dropper assembly releasably retains a first ball and the second ball dropper assembly releasably retains a second ball. A sensor is operable to detect deployment of the first ball and is operable to generate a signal to prevent release of the second ball from the second ball dropper assembly. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150107858 | FLUID PRESSURE TRANSMISSION PILL - A pill for wellbore operations, that includes a base fluid; and at least two polymers that interact to form a gelatinous structure characterized as isolating and controllably transmitting hydrostatic pressure between a first wellbore fluid above the pill in a wellbore and a second wellbore fluid below the pill in the wellbore is disclosed. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150144360 | DRILL ELEMENT AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT AND METHODS - A drill string element for use in the drilling of a borehole, the drill string element comprising: a main body; and a flow control mechanism, wherein the drill string element defines a first aperture, another aperture and a passage configured to provide a fluid flow path between the first aperture and the other aperture, the first and other apertures provide fluid communication between a volume around the drill string element and the passage, and the flow control mechanism is configured to inhibit the flow of fluid through the passage in a first operating mode and to permit the flow of fluid through the passage in a second operating mode. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150300115 | PLUGGING OF A FLOW PASSAGE IN A SUBTERRANEAN WELL - A method of plugging a flow passage in a well can include conveying a plug into an isolation tool in the well, and then contracting a plug seat of the isolation tool. An isolation tool for plugging a flow passage in a subterranean well can include a piston, and a longitudinally displaceable plug seat. The plug seat longitudinally displaces in response to displacement of the piston. Another method of plugging a flow passage can include conveying a plug into an isolation tool in the well, and then longitudinally displacing a plug seat of the isolation tool, thereby radially contracting the plug seat. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150308215 | Composite Segmenting Backup Ring for a Subterranean Plug - A composite plug that can be used in fracturing has backup rings for the seal that are preferably made of a composite material. The backup rings are essentially connected segments that allow the connections to break when the plug is set and the cones are brought closer together. When the rings break to form gaps between segments in a specific ring, the adjacent ring has offset gaps so that as a whole there are no extrusion gaps that would allow the seal element to pass. The rings can be rotationally locked to each other initially at the adjacent segments that are formed when the plug is set to maintain their relative positions so that gaps between segments adjacent the seal are overlapped with segments from the adjacent ring. The segmenting backup rings can be used on one or on both sides of a sealing element. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150308229 | Downhole Apparatus and Method - A downhole apparatus ( | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150337628 | Mechanically Actuated Variable Choke System for Subterranean Use - A series of independently operated chokes, using a shift tool in registry with a profile unique to each choke, have a tubular valve member that aligns or misaligns openings for the fully open or closed positions for the choke and for intermediate positions as the valve opens or closes. The valve member is actuated axially using a reversing screw and a j-slot. A shifting tool latches a unique profile to operate the j-slot to cause a sleeve to rotate in place. The sleeve has a pin in registry with a profile on a profile shaft. The profile shaft can move axially in opposite direction but is restrained against rotation. The profile is shaped so that continuous j-slot operation causes the registered pin to move in the profile to then axially drive the profile shaft which is connected to the valve member. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150376977 | NON-ROTATING METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ISOLATING WELLHEAD PRESSURE - Embodiments of the present disclosure include a plugging assembly configured to be disposed within a production flow bore of a tubing spool tree, wherein the plugging assembly includes a body having a central bore, a lock ring disposed about the body, a support sleeve slidably disposed about the body, and an inner body support pin coupled to the support sleeve and extending into the central bore of the body, wherein axial actuation of the inner body support pin drives the support sleeve between the body and the lock ring to actuate the lock ring radially outward, and wherein the plugging assembly is configured to be disposed within a production flow bore of a tubing spool tree. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160024860 | Neck Clamp for Electrical Submersible Pump and Method of Installation - A well pump assembly has a number modules, including a pump and a motor, secured together. Each of the modules has a housing, and at least one of the modules has a neck of reduced diameter relative to the housing. A clamp is secured around the neck. The clamp has a dovetail groove extending around and within the outer surface of the clamp. An accessary member protrudes radially outward from the outer surface of the clamp and has an inner portion located in the groove. A threaded fastener secures the accessary member to the clamp. The accessary member is slidable along the groove to a selected orientation prior to tightening the fastener. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160024872 | Revolving Ball Seat for Hydraulically Actuating Tools - A downhole tool has a housing, a piston, and a seat and is for use with a deployed plug or ball and applied fluid pressure. The housing defines a bore, and the piston is disposed in the bore of the housing and is biased to move from a first position to a second position. The seat is also disposed in the bore of the housing and is operably connected to the piston. The seat rotates from a first orientation for engaging the deployed plug to a second orientation for passing the deployed plug in response to movement of the piston from the first position near the seat to the second position away from the seat. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160024873 | METHOD AND STRUCTURE FOR PROTECTING A CRUSHABLE PLUG IN A PIPE SECTION FOR HYDROCARBON PRODUCTION, AND USE THEREOF - A method to protect a crushable plug in a pipe section for hydrocarbon production against falling objects is described, and it is characterised in that one or more layers of a thick, viscous liquid is arranged on the topside of the crushable plug, where the topside of the thick, viscous liquid is given a completely covering protective layer to cover and seal the liquid layer on top of the plug, and in particular, several layers of viscous liquid are placed on top of the plug and between each layer of viscous liquid a completely covering protective layer is arranged to protect the plug. Also described is a construction of a plug unit comprising a crushable plug. The invention can be used to protect test plug units fitted in a section of casing tubing to carry out pressure testing. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160040492 | Composite Fracture Plug and Associated Methods - A plug is engageable with a ball for seating in a tubular having an internal profile. The plug has a body with a bore with a seat. One or more blocks disposed on the body are temporarily held in a retracted condition, but the one or more blocks are biased outward to an expanded condition for engaging inside the tubular. A seal is disposed on the body for sealing inside the tubular. The plug sets in the tubular with the one or more blocks released from the retracted condition to the expanded condition. With the ball dropped downhole, the seat engages the ball so that fluid pressure is sealed from uphole to downhole through the bore. With applied fluid pressure against the seated ball, the plug can move through the tubular until the blocks seat in the internal profile of the tubing, sliding sleeve, or other component. The seal on the plug can then seal inside the tubular while the blocks seat in the profile and applied pressure pushes on the seated ball on the plug's mandrel. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160040501 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ISOLATING A SECTION OF A PIPE RISER BORE IN THE COURSE OF RISER RENEWAL - The isolation tool works at depth in the bore of a pipe whose upper end is to be severed and replaced. The tool isolates the lower pipe bore from the upper bore so that flammable downhole fluid is prevented from reaching a welding site along the pipe wall. The tool incorporates: means for establishing a pair of axially spaced apart annular seals engaging the pipe inner surface; means for venting downhole fluid to ground surface; and means for monitoring for seal leakage. The tool is primarily mechanical in nature. It finds use in connection with off-shore platform riser renewal operations. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160047209 | Fullbore Wireline Pumpthrough Tool - A pumpdown sub for use with a downhole tool during pumpdown operations includes a valve with a valve member that selectively opens and closes. When the valve is open, fluid can flow axially past the pumpdown sub, thus the downhole tool can be moved up and down in the wellbore without flow resistance from the pumpdown sub. When the valve is closed, the valve member blocks substantially the entire cross sectional area of the wellbore, so that when pumpdown fluid is added to the wellbore, the fluid does not flow around the valve, but instead all of the pumped fluid exerts a pumpdown force onto the valve and tool. The sub is adjustable for use within | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160061001 | Shortened Tubing Baffle with Large Sealable Bore - Devices for controlling the flow of fluids past a location in a wellbore and methods for using such devices are disclosed. Embodiment devices are configured such that the throughbore is maximized because of the devices' thin cross sectional length. The devices disclosed may use balls, darts or other plugs to seal against a plug seat and prevent flow therethrough, external seals prevent flow therearound and gripping elements, such as slips, prevent movement of the device within the well. Relatively high pressure rating may be accomplished with such thin cross sections by keeping the length of mandrel wall exposed to such pressures short. Some embodiment devices may have a plug seat that is integral, at least in part, with a setting ring and/or have a setting ring that is of one piece with the mandrel. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160123107 | Control Interface for Seal Back-Up/Slip - Plug devices have an expander swage element, a rupturable slip element and a pusher sub. The pusher sub and slip element have a control protrusion and recess interface which guides segments of the ruptured slip element radially outwardly into engagement with a surrounding tubular. The slip element is formed of a degradable material. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160145964 | DEGRADABLE CASING SEAL CONSTRUCTION FOR DOWNHOLE APPLICATIONS - In one aspect, a degradable apparatus is disclosed, including: an inner core with a first degradation rate in a downhole environment; an outer sheath disposed around an outer extent of the inner core with a second degradation rate less than the first degradation rate in the downhole environment. In another aspect, a method of temporarily sealing a downhole zone is disclosed, including: providing an inner core with a first degradation rate in a downhole environment; providing an outer sheath disposed around an outer extent of the inner core with a second degradation rate less than the first degradation rate in the downhole environment; sealing the downhole zone with the outer sheath; exposing the outer sheath to the downhole environment; and exposing the inner core to the downhole environment. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160145968 | Smart Cellular Structures For Composite Packer And Mill-Free Bridgeplug Seals Having Enhanced Pressure Rating - A smart device includes a scaffold that responds to an applied stimulation and an encapsulating structure that encapsulates the scaffold. The scaffold is formed from at least one smart material that responds to the applied stimulation. The encapsulating structure is formed from a material that yields to the response of the scaffold. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160160601 | TELESCOPING LATCHING MECHANISM FOR CASING CEMENTING PLUG - Improved cementing plugs and methods of using these cementing plugs in subterranean wells are disclosed. A cementing plug comprises a hollow mandrel and one or more wiper elements coupled to the mandrel. A nose is coupled to the hollow mandrel and is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. A portion of the nose is positioned within the mandrel when in the retracted position. This portion of the nose is positioned outside the mandrel when in the extended position. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160160602 | ANNULUS SEALING ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD OF SEALING AN ANNULUS - An annulus sealing arrangement includes, at least one member positionable within an annulus, a first radial dimension of the at least one member is initially less than a second radial dimension defined by the annulus, and a plurality of plates in operable communication with the at least one member initially positioned with surfaces of the plurality of plates forming acute angles relative to an axis defined by the annulus, at least a first portion of each of the plurality of plates perimetrically overlapping a second portion of at least one other of the plurality of plates positioned perimetrically adjacent thereto, the annulus sealing arrangement is configured such that increases in the first radial dimension cause the acute angles to increase | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160194930 | MULTILATERAL WELLBORE STIMULATION | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160251929 | OFF-SET TUBING STRING SEGMENTS FOR SELECTIVE LOCATION OF DOWNHOLE TOOLS | 09-01-2016 |
| 20170234099 | APPARATUS AND METHOD USABLE FOR OPEN-WATER RIGLESS AND RISERLESS PLUG AND ABANDONMENT (P&A) WORK | 08-17-2017 |
| 20190145206 | ADJUSTABLE FLOW CONTROL DEVICE | 05-16-2019 |
