Patent classifications
E21B17/028
DOWNHOLE MULTIPLEXED ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
A control module for operation of downhole well tools and apparatuses is disclosed. The control module can control multiple tools, electronics, subs, etc. based on one electronic input and optionally one hydraulic input from the wellhead or surface. The control module can transmit along selected electronic lines and optionally hydraulic lines in order to control specific apparatuses of the downhole well tools. By allowing a single electronic line from the surface or shut in to control multiple tools, total electronic complexity is reduced. A three conductor control module can control operations of up to twelve downhole tools, and a two conductor control module can control operations of up to six downhole tools, in some embodiments.
ELECTRIC SUBMERSIBLE PUMP COMPLETION WITH WET-MATE RECEPTACLE, ELECTRICAL COUPLING (STINGER), AND HYDRAULIC ANCHOR
A system includes an upper section, having a first lateral end. The upper section has upper production tubing configured to be a conduit for production fluids, an upper electrical cable configured to transmit electricity, and a sub-surface safety valve fixed to the upper production tubing. The system further includes a lower section having a second lateral end, lower production tubing configured to be a conduit for the production fluids, a lower electrical cable configured to transmit electricity, an electric submersible pump assembly, and an anchor configured to hold the lower section within the casing string. A stinger assembly is fixed to the first lateral end of the upper section, and a stinger receptacle is fixed to the second lateral end of the lower section. The stinger receptacle is configured to receive the stinger assembly and create an electrical connection between the upper section and the lower section.
Methods for mitigating whirl
A method of mitigating whirl on a rotating device includes detecting force on a outer surface of the rotating device and switching the rotating device between a rotating mode and a non-rotating mode. In the rotating mode, the outer surface may rotate with an inner sleeve. In the non-rotating mode, the outer surface may be rotationally isolated from the inner sleeve. The rotating device may include a stabilizer with an active or passive system for switching modes. The stabilizer can include an outer collar, an inner sleeve, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is changeable between a first mode in which the outer collar is rotationally fixed to the inner sleeve and a second mode in which the outer collar is rotationally isolated relative to the inner sleeve. An example passive device may include a magnetic clutch where the detected force overcomes magnetic forces to change mode.
Wet mate connector for an electric submersible pump (ESP)
A method for making a wet mate electrical connection in an underground borehole with a static downhole conductor pin that is protected from the borehole environment by a non-sealed shuttle and a moveable mating receptacle/conductor which presses on the outer body of the shuttle thus causing it to move along the conductor pin tube. The conductor pin inserts into the receptacle connector and connects to the contacts. Both connectors are filled with a dielectric fluid for isolation and are pressure balanced to counteract volume variation due to temperature changes. The moveable receptacle connector uses a non-conductive pin which is replaced by the conductor pin and provides a surface for wiper seals. As mating occurs, the conductor pin replaces the non-conductive pin, so no volume change occurs, and pressure change is eliminated. A reverse labyrinth isolates the heavy dielectric of the static connector from borehole fluid.
Transmission line tension anchor for drill string components
An apparatus for retaining a transmission line within a drill string component includes a drill string component comprising a bore having an internal diameter. A slot is formed in the internal diameter to receive a transmission line. A shoulder within the slot is configured to engage a tension anchor attached to the transmission line. The tension anchor is configured to hold tension in the transmission line. The tension anchor includes a first component that is attached to the transmission line, and a second component that is threaded onto the first component. In certain embodiments, the second component contains a connector configured to enable connection to the transmission line. A corresponding system is also disclosed.
Cable Guard for Securing Cables to Downhole Systems
An improved cable guard and methods of use are provided for securing an MLE cable to an ESP system in a wellbore casing, the system having flange bolts and an annular channel. The cable guard may be unitary (i.e., one piece), comprising a body having a bridge portion and two side portions forming a cavity for securing the cable to the system, two connectors extending from the side portions, each connector forming at least one aperture for receiving a flange bolt, and skids extending from the side portions for guiding movement of the system within the casing. In some embodiments, methods of using the improved cable guard may comprise providing the cable guard, positioning the cable guard to receive the cable within the cavity and to receive at least one flange bolt within an aperture, and securing the cable guard to the system.
Direct Connectingh Gun Assemblies for Drilling Well Perforations
A perforation gun assembly comprising a plurality of guns with a box fitting at one end and a modified pin fitting at the distal end; the modified pin fitting further comprising an end cap secured to an internal charger carrier, aligning a plurality of shape charges with scallops in the gun casing; and having a pressure switch, which connects to an electrical connection point at the box end of a charger carrier in an adjacent gun. The end cap being captured between the pin of one gun and the internal edge of the mating gun to protect and channel blast force to the pressure switch.
Method and apparatus for testing of the downhole connector electrical system during installation
Disclosed are methods and devices for testing downhole connector electrical systems and cable integrity during installation of a permanent completion, including a customized retrievable plug arm assembly connectable to the completion during RIH, the tool mimicking a retrievable ESP, but without motor, and can be employed with or without pressure isolation. Another method employs a slidable starpoint located within the downhole wet mate connector of the completion to provide continuous electrical contact between the phases when no retrievable assembly is in place. When a retrievable assembly is later put in place, the slidable starpoint is moved into a second position that no longer provides electrical contact between the phases. Another method uses fusible links installed between two conductors within the downhole electrical connector system of the completion to provide similar electrical contact between phases, the fusible link configured to melt away once motor current is sent through the conductors.
EXTRACTABLE CYLINDRICAL HOUSING FOR DATA TRANSMISSION
A cylindrical tool string assembly for downhole data transmission comprises a cylinder comprising a transmission element such as an inductive coupler installed within a groove in its top surface connected to a transmission line housed within its exterior wall. The assembly includes a split spring ring housed within a groove formed in a bore wall of a tool string component such as a drill pipe or a downhole tool within the bottom hole assembly. The spring ring may be compressed and released when positioned within the groove. The spring ring provides a platform on which cylinder may be mounted. The split provides a passageway for the transmission line to exit the cylinder. The cylinder includes a recess in its top surface housing an extractor to facilitate removal of the cylinder. An anti-rotation lock between the cylinder and bore of the tool string component may prevent movement of the cylinder.
DRILLSTRING COUPLER HAVING FLOATING MCEI CORE
A coupler comprising a hub comprising a longitudinal hub axis and a chamber disposed therein. A shaft having a longitudinal shaft axis, a first end, and a second end, wherein the second end of the shaft is pivotally coupled to the hub. A positioning assembly disposed in the chamber of the hub that engages the second end of the shaft. The positioning assembly being configured to allow the longitudinal shaft axis to become laterally offset from the longitudinal hub axis. A lower coil plate assembly positioned adjacent to an end cap assembly. A floating coil assembly disposed in an open chamber having walls bounded by the coil plate assembly and the end cap assembly for electromagnetically communicating with an adjacent coil assembly of a tubular member connected to the hub. Seals between the floating coil assembly and walls of the chamber provide a sealed off portion of the chamber.