US20050072572A1 - Downhole bypass valve - Google Patents
Downhole bypass valve Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050072572A1 US20050072572A1 US10/996,553 US99655304A US2005072572A1 US 20050072572 A1 US20050072572 A1 US 20050072572A1 US 99655304 A US99655304 A US 99655304A US 2005072572 A1 US2005072572 A1 US 2005072572A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- tool
- sleeve
- fluid
- flow
- operating sleeve
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B23/00—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing, or removing tools, packers or the like in the boreholes or wells
- E21B23/004—Indexing systems for guiding relative movement between telescoping parts of downhole tools
- E21B23/006—"J-slot" systems, i.e. lug and slot indexing mechanisms
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B21/00—Methods or apparatus for flushing boreholes, e.g. by use of exhaust air from motor
- E21B21/10—Valve arrangements in drilling-fluid circulation systems
- E21B21/103—Down-hole by-pass valve arrangements, i.e. between the inside of the drill string and the annulus
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B34/00—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
- E21B34/06—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells
- E21B34/08—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells responsive to flow or pressure of the fluid obtained
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a downhole tool which is actuatable between at least two tool configurations.
- the present invention relates to a downhole tool comprising a bypass tool for location in a borehole of a well, wherein the bypass tool is actuatable between a closed configuration and an open configuration in response to the flow of fluid through the borehole.
- Bypass tools are typically disposed within a borehole of, for example, an oil well, for selectively allowing fluid communication between a bore defined by a tubular string disposed in the borehole, and an annulus defined between an outer wall of the tubing string and an inner wall of the borehole.
- Typical known assemblies are often complex, comprising many interconnected components, and often require, for example, multiple fluid pressure cycles of fluid in the borehole to actuate the bypass tool between two or more distinct tool configurations.
- a fluid flow actuated downhole tool being configurable in at least a first tool configuration and a second tool configuration, the tool comprising:
- the invention also relates to a method of operating a fluid flow actuated tool, the method comprising:
- the tool prior to the sleeve being caught in the tool, the tool is “dormant”, and may only be actuated after the sleeve is received in the tool.
- the sleeve is simply dropped into the string and is allowed to fall through the string, or may in addition also be carried into the string by circulating fluid.
- a tool activating sleeve allows fluid to continue to flow through the string and tool, and may permit access to the section of the bore below the tool. Also, the use of a sleeve allows fluid to be circulated while the sleeve is moving down through the string; unlike a ball or other flow-occluding device, the sleeve will not induce a large hydraulic shock on engaging the tool.
- the sleeve may define a flow restriction, such as a nozzle, which flow restriction permits or facilitates fluid actuation of the tool.
- the restriction may be defined by another part of the tool, which part is fixed before the sleeve is caught in the tool. Two or more axially spaced flow restrictions may be provided, allowing creation of a greater fluid pressure force without a significant restriction in bore diameter.
- the tool may be a bypass tool, preferably the tool being initially closed, and after the sleeve is caught in the tool the tool may be re-configured to permit flow between the tool bore and the surrounding annulus.
- the tool may be repeatedly actuated between the first and second configurations.
- a further aspect of the invention relates to a method of operating a fluid flow actuated tool, the method comprising:
- the activating device is a sleeve, which may define a restriction or nozzle, incorporate a rupture disc, or contain an extrudable or soluble material.
- the activation for the tool may be achieved by releasing a coupling to permit relative movement of parts of the tool, which coupling may be, for example, a shear coupling or a sprung coupling.
- Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of actuating a downhole tool, the method comprising:
- This method is particularly useful in drilling or circulating operations, as there is no requirement to stop fluid circulation as the device moves through the string and then engages the tool, such that drilling or circulation may continue with the device in the string with a fluid flow rate sufficient to entrain drill cutting and carry them to surface, or to allow continuation of some other fluid circulation-related activity.
- the activating device may be a sleeve, such that the device restricts fluid flow to a limited extent but does not occlude the string bore.
- a still further aspect of the present invention provides a downhole tool for disposition in a borehole of a well, the tool being configurable in at least a first and a second tool configuration, the tool comprising:
- the present invention allows a downhole tool to be disposed in a borehole, which tool may be actuated between two or more tool configurations by supplying fluid to the tool in the borehole and by varying the flow rate of the fluid through the tool.
- the downhole tool is a bypass tool.
- the bypass tool may be in a closed configuration in the first tool configuration and an open configuration in the second tool configuration.
- the tubular housing may form part of a liner, casing, or drill string or any other tubing string for disposition in the borehole.
- the tubular housing of the bypass tool may comprise at least one bypass port extending through a wall of the housing.
- the at least one bypass port may extend radially through the wall of the housing.
- the sleeve assembly may be axially movable to selectively move to the open configuration, to allow fluid communication between the housing interior wall, and an annulus defined by an outer face of the housing wall and the borehole wall.
- the fluid responsive means may include a flow restriction, such that flow of fluid induces a pressure differential, and therefore a fluid pressure force, across the restriction.
- said means may define a differential piston with, for example, one piston face experiencing internal housing pressure and another face experiencing annulus pressure, such that an increase in internal pressure will actuate the tool.
- the tubular sleeve assembly may comprise a control sleeve and a flow restriction within the control sleeve for restricting the flow of fluid through the control sleeve.
- the restriction is defined by an insert which may be dropped or lowered from the surface into the tubing string and may travel through the string and engage the control sleeve. Fluid flow through the flow restriction creates a force acting axially across the flow restriction, and thus on the control sleeve, urging the sleeve assembly to move axially.
- the flow restriction may be integral with the control sleeve.
- the flow restriction may comprise an annular, radially inwardly extending ring defining a nozzle.
- the maintaining means may comprise a releasable connection, such as one or more sprung dogs, keys or a shear connection, such as one or more shear pins, for engaging the control sleeve and maintaining it in a selected one of said first and second tool configurations.
- a releasable connection such as one or more sprung dogs, keys or a shear connection, such as one or more shear pins, for engaging the control sleeve and maintaining it in a selected one of said first and second tool configurations.
- the bypass tool may further comprise a flow restriction-engaging insert, such as a nozzle, dart, sleeve or ball, for engaging the flow restriction, although as noted above in other embodiments the insert may itself provide the flow restriction.
- a pressure force acting across the insert may be caused to urge the tubular sleeve assembly axially downwardly to release the connection, and in addition or alternatively to actuate the tool.
- the flow restriction engaging insert may be injected into the tubing string at the surface and may travel through the string bore to engage the flow restriction.
- the insert is a ball, preferably the ball is deformable to allow the ball to be forced through the flow restriction in response to an increase in the pressure of the fluid in the tubing string above the ball.
- the tubular insert may be adapted to release the connection on engaging the control sleeve.
- the downhole tool further comprises indexing means for selectively allowing actuation of the tool between said first and second tool configurations.
- the indexing means may comprise a cam arrangement such as a groove, slot or other profile extending around an outer circumference of the tubular sleeve assembly, and a cam follower such as a pin extending radially inwardly from an inner surface of the housing for engaging the groove.
- the groove or the like may be defined by the housing, and the pin or the like mounted on the sleeve assembly.
- the indexing means may be provided between different parts of the sleeve assembly.
- the pin and groove may cooperate to rotate the tubular sleeve assembly, or at least a part of the assembly, when it is moved axially.
- the groove defines first and second axial pin rest positions.
- the groove defines a plurality of first and second axial pin rest positions.
- the first axial pin rest position may correspond to a valve open configuration and the second axial pin rest position may correspond to a valve closed configuration.
- the groove may further define a plurality of third axial pin rest positions for allowing actuation of the tool to an intermediate configuration between said first and second tool configurations, and which intermediate position may provide a further tool function, or may correspond to the function provided by one of the first or second tool configurations.
- the third axial pin rest positions may be provided between second axial pin rest positions.
- the maintaining means may further or alternatively comprise a spring for applying a force upon the sleeve assembly.
- the spring may be a fluid spring or a compression or tension spring.
- the spring is disposed in an annular cavity between the housing and the sleeve assembly, to impart an upward force upon the sleeve assembly, to maintain it in a closed configuration.
- FIG. 1A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of a pin and groove arrangement forming part of the downhole tool of FIG. 1A ;
- FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4A is a longitudinal sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4B is a schematic illustration of a pin and groove arrangement forming part of the tool of FIG. 4A ;
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of part of the tool of FIG. 4A ;
- FIG. 6 is a further enlarged sectional view on line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 1 there is shown a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the downhole tool indicated generally by reference numeral 10 .
- the downhole tool 10 forms part of a drill string (not shown) run into a borehole (not shown) of an oil well, and is coupled at its upper and lower ends to sequential sections of drill string tubing via threaded joints, in a fashion known in the art.
- the downhole tool 10 shown in FIG. 1A is a bypass tool comprising a tubular outer housing 12 , a tubular bypass sleeve 14 , a tubular flow restriction insert 16 , a bypass sleeve spring 18 and a pin and groove assembly indicated generally by reference numeral 19 .
- the tubular outer housing 12 includes flow ports 20 extending radially through a wall 22 of the housing 12 , and spaced circumferentially around the housing 12 .
- the housing 12 has an inner face 24 and the internal diameter of the housing 12 defined by the inner face 24 varies along the length of the housing 12 from top to bottom.
- an upper portion 26 of the housing 12 is of a first general internal diameter
- a lower portion 28 of the housing 12 is of a smaller, second general internal diameter.
- the tubular bypass sleeve 14 includes flow ports 32 , and is axially movable within the housing 12 , to enable the flow ports 20 of the housing 12 and the flow ports 32 of the sleeve 14 to be aligned. This allows communication between an internal tool bore 34 and an annulus defined between an outer face 36 of the housing 12 and the borehole wall.
- the bypass sleeve spring 18 is a compression spring and is disposed in the cavity 30 between a washer 38 and a radially outwardly extending shoulder 40 of the bypass sleeve 14 . In the position shown in FIG. 1A , the bypass sleeve spring 18 maintains the bypass sleeve 14 in a closed configuration wherein an upper end 42 of the bypass sleeve 14 is disposed adjacent to the upper end of the housing 12 .
- the tubular flow restriction insert 16 When it is desired to move the bypass sleeve 14 axially downwardly against the force of the bypass sleeve spring 18 , to align the flow ports 20 and 32 , the tubular flow restriction insert 16 is inserted into the drill string at the surface and carried down the internal string bore 34 until it engages the bypass sleeve 14 as shown in FIG. 1A .
- the flow restriction insert 16 includes annular, radially inwardly extending shoulders 43 and 45 , which define first and second restrictions respectively. These restrictions to the flow of fluid through the internal bore 34 are such that, when fluid flows through the flow restriction insert 16 , a pressure differential is created across each restriction and a downward axial force is imparted upon the flow restriction insert 16 by the flowing fluid. Until the insert 16 is located in the sleeve 14 , the tool 10 is effectively dominant, as changes in fluid flow rate or pressure in the bore 34 will have no effect on the sleeve position.
- the flow rate of the fluid through the string and tool is increased until the force upon the flow restriction insert 16 becomes sufficiently large to overcome the force imparted upon the bypass sleeve 14 by the bypass sleeve spring 18 .
- the flow restriction insert 16 and the bypass sleeve 14 then move axially downwardly, compressing the spring 18 until the bypass sleeve 14 reaches the end of its travel, wherein a lower end 44 is disposed adjacent to the lower end of the housing 12 .
- the flow ports 20 and 32 are then aligned, allowing fluid communication between the internal bore 34 and the annulus bore. This may allow operations such as a “clean-up” operation to be carried out, wherein drill cuttings or the like lying in sections of the borehole may be entrained with and carried back to the surface by the fluid flowing through the aligned bypass ports 32 and 20 .
- bypass sleeve 14 When it is desired to move the bypass sleeve 14 back to the closed configuration shown in FIG. 1A , the flow rate of the fluid flowing through the internal bore 34 is reduced, until the fluid pressure force applied by the fluid upon the bypass sleeve 14 and the flow restriction insert 16 drops below the force imparted upon the bypass sleeve 14 by the spring 18 . The bypass sleeve 14 is then moved axially upwardly by the spring 18 acting against the shoulder 40 of the bypass sleeve 14 .
- FIG. 1B there is shown a schematic illustration of the pin and groove arrangement 19 shown in FIG. 1A .
- the arrangement 19 includes an annular circumferential extending groove 46 and a pin 48 , though for clarity the illustrated portion of the groove 46 is shown as a planar groove.
- the groove 46 is notched or corrugated and defines a number of first pin rest positions 50 a and 50 b , a number of second pin rest positions 52 , and a number of third pin rest positions 54 .
- the second and third pin rest positions 52 and 54 are spaced alternately around the circumference of the bypass sleeve 14 .
- the pin 48 is shown in FIG. 1B in one of the first pin rest positions 50 a where the bypass sleeve 14 is in the closed configuration of FIG. 1A .
- bypass sleeve 14 moves axially downwardly until the pin 48 engages the sloping face 56 of the groove 46 , which rotates the bypass sleeve 14 .
- the pin 48 then becomes engaged in a slot 58 and comes to rest in a second pin rest position 52 , where the bypass sleeve 14 is in the open configuration with the flow ports 20 and 32 aligned.
- bypass sleeve spring 18 carries the bypass sleeve 14 axially upwardly, and the pin 48 moves over the surface of a sloping face 60 of the groove 46 , rotating the sleeve 14 , to one of the first pin rest positions 50 b.
- the bypass sleeve 14 When the flow rate is again increased, the bypass sleeve 14 again moves axially downwardly. However, movement of the sleeve 14 is stayed when the pin 48 comes to rest in the third pin rest position 54 . Retention of the pin 48 in the third pin rest position 54 prevents the flow ports 20 and 32 from becoming aligned. This may be useful when, for example, it is desired to drill with drilling fluid flowing of an elevated rate but without opening the tool 10 .
- the pin 48 comes to rest in a first pin rest position 50 a , whereupon subsequent increase of the fluid flow rate allows the bypass sleeve 14 to move fully axially downwardly, with the pin 48 engaged in the second pin rest position 52 . Thus alternate opening of the bypass sleeve 14 may be achieved.
- FIG. 2 there is shown a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally by reference numeral 110 .
- the downhole tool 110 comprises a tubular outer housing 112 , a tubular bypass sleeve 114 , a bypass sleeve spring 118 and a pin and groove arrangement 119 .
- Flow ports 120 extend through a wall 122 of the housing 112 , and the bypass sleeve 114 includes flow ports 132 which may be aligned with the flow ports 120 of the housing 112 , when the bypass sleeve 114 is moved axially downwardly, in a similar fashion to the bypass sleeve 14 of the downhole tool 10 of FIG. 1A .
- the bypass sleeve spring 118 is disposed in an annular cavity 130 between a washer 138 and a shoulder 140 of the bypass sleeve 114 .
- the housing 112 includes shear pins 162 disposed in the wall 122 , which extend radially inwardly to engage the bypass sleeve 114 . These shear pins 162 initially maintain the bypass sleeve 114 in a closed configuration as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the bypass sleeve 114 includes an annular, radially inwardly extending shoulder 164 which defines a flow restriction.
- a deformable ball 166 is inserted into the string bore and travels down to the tool 110 through the string bore 134 .
- the ball 166 is carried in a fluid such as drilling mud through the internal bore 134 , and engages in the shoulder 164 of the bypass sleeve 114 . This effectively blocks the internal bore 134 .
- a further increase of the pressure of the fluid above the ball 166 causes the ball 166 to deform, elastically or plastically, and to pass through the restriction created by the shoulder 164 of the bypass sleeve 114 , allowing fluid to flow through the bypass tool 110 , through the flow ports 132 and 120 , and into the annulus bore.
- a ball catcher may be provided (not shown) disposed in the part of the drill string tubing below the tool 110 , to catch the ball 166 when it has passed through the bypass sleeve 114 , or alternatively the ball may disintegrate or otherwise degrade.
- the pin and groove arrangement 119 includes a groove 146 and a pin 148 and functions in a similar manner to the pin and groove arrangement 19 shown in FIG. 1B and described above. This therefore allows subsequent opening and closing of the bypass sleeve 114 in response to variations in the fluid flow rate acting on the flow restriction 164 .
- FIG. 3 there is shown a downhole tool in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally by reference numeral 210 .
- reference numeral 210 For clarity, like components of the tool 210 with the tool 10 of FIG. 1A share the same reference numerals incremented by 200.
- the downhole tool 210 comprises a tubular outer housing 212 , a tubular bypass sleeve 214 , a bypass sleeve spring 218 , a pin and groove arrangement 219 and a tubular release sleeve 268 .
- the housing 212 includes flow ports 220 disposed in a wall 222 of the housing 212 and extending radially therethrough.
- the tubular bypass sleeve 214 includes flow ports 232 and is mounted in the housing 212 to define an annular cavity 230 , in which the spring 218 is disposed, between a washer 238 and a shoulder 240 of the housing 212 .
- Elastomeric O-ring type seals 270 and 272 respectively are provided in the wall 222 of the housing 212 , to seal the annular cavity 230 and isolate it from fluid in the internal tool bore 234 .
- bleed holes 274 extend through the wall 222 of the housing 212 , to fluidly couple the annular cavity 230 with the annulus of the borehole in which the tool 210 is disposed. Thus fluid in the annular cavity 230 experiences the same pressure as fluid in the annulus.
- the bypass sleeve 214 includes openings 276 at its upper end 242 , for engaging spring-loaded locking dogs 278 , to retain the sleeve 214 in the closed configuration shown in FIG. 3 , whereby the flow ports 220 and 232 are misaligned. This prevents fluid communication between the internal bore 234 and the annulus bore.
- the leading end 280 of each locking dog 278 is chamfered. This allows the release sleeve 268 to be run into the borehole and located within the bypass sleeve 214 as shown in FIG. 3 , wherein a radially outwardly extending shoulder 282 of the sleeve 268 engages the leading end 280 of each locking dog 278 . This compresses a spring 284 of each locking dog 278 , forcing each locking dog 278 radially outwardly such that only the chamfered leading end 280 protrudes into the apertures 276 .
- the pressure of fluid flowing through the internal bore 234 is increased such that the differential pressure between the fluid in the internal bore 234 and the fluid in the annulus bore increases.
- the seal 270 defines a larger diameter than the seal 272 , a net axially downward force is imparted upon the bypass sleeve 214 due to this differential pressure. This causes the actuating sleeve 268 and the bypass sleeve 214 to move axially downwardly.
- the locking dogs 278 are disengaged from the engaging apertures 276 of the bypass sleeve 214 by the bypass sleeve 214 passing over the chamfered leading end 280 of each locking dog 278 .
- the pin and groove arrangement 219 comprises a groove 246 and a pin 248 similar to the groove 46 and pin 48 of FIG. 1B and the tool 10 of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 4A of the drawings illustrates a bypass tool 310 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- the tool 310 is similar in some respects to the tool 210 or FIG. 3 , and therefore common features of the tools 210 , 310 will not be described again in any detail.
- the tool 310 comprises a housing 312 , a two-part bypass sleeve 314 , a flow restriction sleeve 316 , a pair of sleeve springs 318 a , 318 b , and a sleeve movement controlling pin and groove assembly 319 .
- the tool 310 is illustrated in a configuration in which the tool 310 is experiencing elevated fluid flow therethrough, but the sleeve movement controlling assembly 319 has not transmitted the corresponding axial movement of the restriction sleeve 316 and the associated part of the bypass sleeve 314 a to the other part of the sleeve 314 b defining the flow ports 312 , as will be described below.
- the tool 310 is initially run in without the restriction sleeve 316 .
- the bypass sleeve 314 is in two parts 314 a , 314 b , coupled by the pin and groove arrangement 319 , the form of which is illustrated in FIG. 4B of the drawings.
- the upper sleeve part 314 a which defines the groove 346 , is initially locked to the housing 312 by an arrangement of sprung dogs 378 , as illustrated in FIG. 6 of the drawings.
- the dogs 378 are mounted in the sleeve 314 a and are biased radially outwardly to engage recesses 376 in a sleeve 386 located on the housing 312 between a circlip 388 and a housing shoulder 390 .
- the tool 310 is effectively dormant, and variations in fluid flow or pressure differentials will have no effect on the tool configuration. This allows the tool 310 to be effectively “ignored”, until the tool 310 is required. This is useful as it allows, for example, drilling operators to vary drilling mud flow rate and pressure, and to switch mud pumps on and off without any concern for the tool configuration.
- the sleeve 316 When it is desired to utilize the tool 310 , the sleeve 316 is placed in the drill string, and will be carried to the tool 310 in the drilling fluid.
- the presence of restrictions 343 , 345 in the sleeve 316 facilitates the sleeve 316 being carried by the flow, however the relatively minor flow restriction created by the free-falling sleeve 316 allows the drilling operators to maintain drilling fluid flow at the normal drilling rate, such that drilling is not interrupted by the passage of the sleeve 316 through the string to the tool 310 .
- the sleeve 316 engages the upper part of the bypass sleeve 314 a , and in doing so pushes the release pins 392 outwardly to disengage the sleeve 314 a from the housing 312 .
- the engagement of the restriction sleeve 316 with the bypass sleeve 314 a creates a restriction in the fluid pathway through the string, but not to the extent that a significant hydraulic shock is induced.
- Flow through the restrictions 343 , 345 creates a differential pressure force across the sleeve 316 and, if the force is sufficient, the upper by-pass sleeve 314 a will move downwards, compressing the spring 318 a . Further, depending on the position of the pin 348 in the groove 346 , the pressure force will be transferred to the lower bypass sleeve 314 b . If sufficient force is created, the sleeve 314 b may be moved downwards, compressing the spring 318 b , and aligning the ports 332 , 320 .
- the sleeve 316 may be retrieved by wireline or the like and using a fishing tool adapted to engage a profile 390 in the upper end of the sleeve 316 .
- the downhole tool may be any tool capable of being actuated between first and second tool configurations.
Abstract
A fluid flow actuated downhole tool is configurable in at least a first tool configuration and a second tool configuration. The tool comprises a tubular housing and an activating sleeve, the housing being adapted to catch the sleeve when the sleeve is dropped from surface and the engagement of the sleeve with the housing permitting actuation of the tool between the first and second tool configurations. A flow restriction is provided for permitting fluid flow actuation of the tool when the activating sleeve has been caught in the body.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/031,219 filed Jan. 15, 2002, which is a 371 of PCT/GB00/02712 filed Jul. 14, 2000, which claims priority of United Kingdom Patent Application 9916513.6 filed Jul. 15, 1999.
- The present invention relates to a downhole tool which is actuatable between at least two tool configurations. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a downhole tool comprising a bypass tool for location in a borehole of a well, wherein the bypass tool is actuatable between a closed configuration and an open configuration in response to the flow of fluid through the borehole.
- Bypass tools are typically disposed within a borehole of, for example, an oil well, for selectively allowing fluid communication between a bore defined by a tubular string disposed in the borehole, and an annulus defined between an outer wall of the tubing string and an inner wall of the borehole. Typical known assemblies are often complex, comprising many interconnected components, and often require, for example, multiple fluid pressure cycles of fluid in the borehole to actuate the bypass tool between two or more distinct tool configurations.
- It is amongst the objects of the present invention to obviate or mitigate at least one of the foregoing disadvantages.
- According to the present invention there is provided a fluid flow actuated downhole tool being configurable in at least a first tool configuration and a second tool configuration, the tool comprising:
-
- a tubular housing;
- an activating sleeve, the housing being adapted to catch the sleeve when dropped from surface and then permitting actuation of the tool between the first and second tool configurations; and
- flow restriction means for permitting fluid flow actuation of the tool when the activating sleeve has been caught in the body.
- The invention also relates to a method of operating a fluid flow actuated tool, the method comprising:
-
- running the tool into a borehole in a tubular string;
- circulating fluid through the string and the tool;
- passing an activating sleeve into the string;
- catching the sleeve in the tool; and
- circulating fluid through the string, the sleeve and a flow restriction in the tool to actuate the tool.
- Thus, prior to the sleeve being caught in the tool, the tool is “dormant”, and may only be actuated after the sleeve is received in the tool.
- As noted above the sleeve is simply dropped into the string and is allowed to fall through the string, or may in addition also be carried into the string by circulating fluid.
- Unlike a ball or other flow occluding tool activating member, which will substantially occlude the string bore, the use of a tool activating sleeve allows fluid to continue to flow through the string and tool, and may permit access to the section of the bore below the tool. Also, the use of a sleeve allows fluid to be circulated while the sleeve is moving down through the string; unlike a ball or other flow-occluding device, the sleeve will not induce a large hydraulic shock on engaging the tool.
- The sleeve may define a flow restriction, such as a nozzle, which flow restriction permits or facilitates fluid actuation of the tool. Alternatively, the restriction may be defined by another part of the tool, which part is fixed before the sleeve is caught in the tool. Two or more axially spaced flow restrictions may be provided, allowing creation of a greater fluid pressure force without a significant restriction in bore diameter.
- The tool may be a bypass tool, preferably the tool being initially closed, and after the sleeve is caught in the tool the tool may be re-configured to permit flow between the tool bore and the surrounding annulus.
- Preferably, following activation of the tool by the sleeve, the tool may be repeatedly actuated between the first and second configurations.
- A further aspect of the invention relates to a method of operating a fluid flow actuated tool, the method comprising:
-
- (a) running the tool into a borehole in or as a part of a tubular string;
- (b) circulating fluid through the string and tool;
- (c) passing an activating device into the tool;
- (d) catching the device in the tool;
- (e) circulating fluid through the string and the tool including the device, to actuate the tool; and
- (f) repeating step (e) at least once.
- Preferably, the activating device is a sleeve, which may define a restriction or nozzle, incorporate a rupture disc, or contain an extrudable or soluble material.
- The activation for the tool may be achieved by releasing a coupling to permit relative movement of parts of the tool, which coupling may be, for example, a shear coupling or a sprung coupling.
- Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of actuating a downhole tool, the method comprising:
-
- running a tool into a borehole in a tubular string;
- circulating fluid through the string and tool;
- locating an activating device in the string; and
- circulating fluid through the string and tool as the device travels down through the string, as the device engages the tool, and following engagement of the device and the tool.
- This method is particularly useful in drilling or circulating operations, as there is no requirement to stop fluid circulation as the device moves through the string and then engages the tool, such that drilling or circulation may continue with the device in the string with a fluid flow rate sufficient to entrain drill cutting and carry them to surface, or to allow continuation of some other fluid circulation-related activity. This contrasts with conventional methods, in which it is necessary to stop or at least substantially reduce circulation to prevent the occurrence of a hydraulic shock on the activating device, typically in the form of a steel ball, engaging the tool. Such a hydraulic shock would result in damage to the ball and tool, and possibly also to the string itself.
- The activating device may be a sleeve, such that the device restricts fluid flow to a limited extent but does not occlude the string bore.
- A still further aspect of the present invention provides a downhole tool for disposition in a borehole of a well, the tool being configurable in at least a first and a second tool configuration, the tool comprising:
-
- a tubular housing for running into a borehole on a tubing string;
- a tubular sleeve assembly for disposition within the tubular housing and axially movable therein and including fluid responsive means for actuating the tool between said first and second tool configurations; and
- means for maintaining said sleeve assembly in a selected one of said first and second tool configurations.
- Thus the present invention allows a downhole tool to be disposed in a borehole, which tool may be actuated between two or more tool configurations by supplying fluid to the tool in the borehole and by varying the flow rate of the fluid through the tool.
- Preferably, the downhole tool is a bypass tool. The bypass tool may be in a closed configuration in the first tool configuration and an open configuration in the second tool configuration. The tubular housing may form part of a liner, casing, or drill string or any other tubing string for disposition in the borehole.
- The tubular housing of the bypass tool may comprise at least one bypass port extending through a wall of the housing. The at least one bypass port may extend radially through the wall of the housing. The sleeve assembly may be axially movable to selectively move to the open configuration, to allow fluid communication between the housing interior wall, and an annulus defined by an outer face of the housing wall and the borehole wall.
- The fluid responsive means may include a flow restriction, such that flow of fluid induces a pressure differential, and therefore a fluid pressure force, across the restriction. Alternatively, said means may define a differential piston with, for example, one piston face experiencing internal housing pressure and another face experiencing annulus pressure, such that an increase in internal pressure will actuate the tool.
- The tubular sleeve assembly may comprise a control sleeve and a flow restriction within the control sleeve for restricting the flow of fluid through the control sleeve. Preferably, the restriction is defined by an insert which may be dropped or lowered from the surface into the tubing string and may travel through the string and engage the control sleeve. Fluid flow through the flow restriction creates a force acting axially across the flow restriction, and thus on the control sleeve, urging the sleeve assembly to move axially. Alternatively, the flow restriction may be integral with the control sleeve. The flow restriction may comprise an annular, radially inwardly extending ring defining a nozzle.
- The maintaining means may comprise a releasable connection, such as one or more sprung dogs, keys or a shear connection, such as one or more shear pins, for engaging the control sleeve and maintaining it in a selected one of said first and second tool configurations.
- The bypass tool may further comprise a flow restriction-engaging insert, such as a nozzle, dart, sleeve or ball, for engaging the flow restriction, although as noted above in other embodiments the insert may itself provide the flow restriction. Thus, in response to pressurization of the fluid in the tubing string above the insert, a pressure force acting across the insert may be caused to urge the tubular sleeve assembly axially downwardly to release the connection, and in addition or alternatively to actuate the tool. The flow restriction engaging insert may be injected into the tubing string at the surface and may travel through the string bore to engage the flow restriction. When the insert is a ball, preferably the ball is deformable to allow the ball to be forced through the flow restriction in response to an increase in the pressure of the fluid in the tubing string above the ball.
- In an alternative arrangement, the tubular insert may be adapted to release the connection on engaging the control sleeve.
- Preferably, the downhole tool further comprises indexing means for selectively allowing actuation of the tool between said first and second tool configurations. The indexing means may comprise a cam arrangement such as a groove, slot or other profile extending around an outer circumference of the tubular sleeve assembly, and a cam follower such as a pin extending radially inwardly from an inner surface of the housing for engaging the groove. Of course, in alternative arrangements the groove or the like may be defined by the housing, and the pin or the like mounted on the sleeve assembly. In still further arrangements, the indexing means may be provided between different parts of the sleeve assembly. The pin and groove may cooperate to rotate the tubular sleeve assembly, or at least a part of the assembly, when it is moved axially. Conveniently, the groove defines first and second axial pin rest positions. Preferably, the groove defines a plurality of first and second axial pin rest positions. The first axial pin rest position may correspond to a valve open configuration and the second axial pin rest position may correspond to a valve closed configuration. The groove may further define a plurality of third axial pin rest positions for allowing actuation of the tool to an intermediate configuration between said first and second tool configurations, and which intermediate position may provide a further tool function, or may correspond to the function provided by one of the first or second tool configurations. The third axial pin rest positions may be provided between second axial pin rest positions. Thus the groove and pin may allow the tool to be disposed in the intermediate configuration alternatively when the pressure in the borehole is increased.
- The maintaining means may further or alternatively comprise a spring for applying a force upon the sleeve assembly. The spring may be a fluid spring or a compression or tension spring. Preferably, the spring is disposed in an annular cavity between the housing and the sleeve assembly, to impart an upward force upon the sleeve assembly, to maintain it in a closed configuration.
- Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of a pin and groove arrangement forming part of the downhole tool ofFIG. 1A ; -
FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4A is a longitudinal sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4B is a schematic illustration of a pin and groove arrangement forming part of the tool ofFIG. 4A ; -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of part of the tool ofFIG. 4A ; and -
FIG. 6 is a further enlarged sectional view on line 6-6 ofFIG. 5 . - Referring firstly to
FIG. 1 , there is shown a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the downhole tool indicated generally byreference numeral 10. Thedownhole tool 10 forms part of a drill string (not shown) run into a borehole (not shown) of an oil well, and is coupled at its upper and lower ends to sequential sections of drill string tubing via threaded joints, in a fashion known in the art. - The
downhole tool 10 shown inFIG. 1A is a bypass tool comprising a tubularouter housing 12, atubular bypass sleeve 14, a tubularflow restriction insert 16, abypass sleeve spring 18 and a pin and groove assembly indicated generally byreference numeral 19. - Those of skill in the art will understand that the
tool 10 will be provided with a variety of appropriate seals, however in the interest of brevity the individual seals will not be identified and described. - The tubular
outer housing 12 includesflow ports 20 extending radially through awall 22 of thehousing 12, and spaced circumferentially around thehousing 12. For clarity, only twosuch ports 20 are shown inFIG. 1A , however it will be appreciated that any suitable number ofsuch flow ports 20 may be provided in thehousing 12. Thehousing 12 has aninner face 24 and the internal diameter of thehousing 12 defined by theinner face 24 varies along the length of thehousing 12 from top to bottom. In particular, anupper portion 26 of thehousing 12 is of a first general internal diameter, whilst alower portion 28 of thehousing 12 is of a smaller, second general internal diameter. This enables thehousing 12, in conjunction with thetubular bypass sleeve 14, to define anannular cavity 30 in which thebypass sleeve spring 18 is located, as will be described in more detail below. - The
tubular bypass sleeve 14 includesflow ports 32, and is axially movable within thehousing 12, to enable theflow ports 20 of thehousing 12 and theflow ports 32 of thesleeve 14 to be aligned. This allows communication between an internal tool bore 34 and an annulus defined between anouter face 36 of thehousing 12 and the borehole wall. - The
bypass sleeve spring 18 is a compression spring and is disposed in thecavity 30 between awasher 38 and a radially outwardly extendingshoulder 40 of thebypass sleeve 14. In the position shown inFIG. 1A , thebypass sleeve spring 18 maintains thebypass sleeve 14 in a closed configuration wherein anupper end 42 of thebypass sleeve 14 is disposed adjacent to the upper end of thehousing 12. - When it is desired to move the
bypass sleeve 14 axially downwardly against the force of thebypass sleeve spring 18, to align theflow ports flow restriction insert 16 is inserted into the drill string at the surface and carried down the internal string bore 34 until it engages thebypass sleeve 14 as shown inFIG. 1A . Theflow restriction insert 16 includes annular, radially inwardly extendingshoulders internal bore 34 are such that, when fluid flows through theflow restriction insert 16, a pressure differential is created across each restriction and a downward axial force is imparted upon theflow restriction insert 16 by the flowing fluid. Until theinsert 16 is located in thesleeve 14, thetool 10 is effectively dominant, as changes in fluid flow rate or pressure in thebore 34 will have no effect on the sleeve position. - The flow rate of the fluid through the string and tool is increased until the force upon the
flow restriction insert 16 becomes sufficiently large to overcome the force imparted upon thebypass sleeve 14 by thebypass sleeve spring 18. Theflow restriction insert 16 and thebypass sleeve 14 then move axially downwardly, compressing thespring 18 until thebypass sleeve 14 reaches the end of its travel, wherein alower end 44 is disposed adjacent to the lower end of thehousing 12. Theflow ports internal bore 34 and the annulus bore. This may allow operations such as a “clean-up” operation to be carried out, wherein drill cuttings or the like lying in sections of the borehole may be entrained with and carried back to the surface by the fluid flowing through the alignedbypass ports - When it is desired to move the
bypass sleeve 14 back to the closed configuration shown inFIG. 1A , the flow rate of the fluid flowing through theinternal bore 34 is reduced, until the fluid pressure force applied by the fluid upon thebypass sleeve 14 and theflow restriction insert 16 drops below the force imparted upon thebypass sleeve 14 by thespring 18. Thebypass sleeve 14 is then moved axially upwardly by thespring 18 acting against theshoulder 40 of thebypass sleeve 14. - Referring now to
FIG. 1B , there is shown a schematic illustration of the pin andgroove arrangement 19 shown inFIG. 1A . Thearrangement 19 includes an annularcircumferential extending groove 46 and apin 48, though for clarity the illustrated portion of thegroove 46 is shown as a planar groove. Thegroove 46 is notched or corrugated and defines a number of first pin rest positions 50 a and 50 b, a number of second pin rest positions 52, and a number of third pin rest positions 54. The second and third pin rest positions 52 and 54 are spaced alternately around the circumference of thebypass sleeve 14. Thepin 48 is shown inFIG. 1B in one of the first pin rest positions 50 a where thebypass sleeve 14 is in the closed configuration ofFIG. 1A . - When the
flow restriction insert 16 has been located in thebypass sleeve 14, and the flow rate of fluid through theinternal bore 34 has been increased to counteract the force of thebypass sleeve spring 18, thebypass sleeve 14 moves axially downwardly until thepin 48 engages the slopingface 56 of thegroove 46, which rotates thebypass sleeve 14. Thepin 48 then becomes engaged in aslot 58 and comes to rest in a secondpin rest position 52, where thebypass sleeve 14 is in the open configuration with theflow ports bypass sleeve spring 18 carries thebypass sleeve 14 axially upwardly, and thepin 48 moves over the surface of a slopingface 60 of thegroove 46, rotating thesleeve 14, to one of the first pin rest positions 50 b. - When the flow rate is again increased, the
bypass sleeve 14 again moves axially downwardly. However, movement of thesleeve 14 is stayed when thepin 48 comes to rest in the thirdpin rest position 54. Retention of thepin 48 in the thirdpin rest position 54 prevents theflow ports tool 10. When the fluid flow rate is next reduced, thepin 48 comes to rest in a firstpin rest position 50 a, whereupon subsequent increase of the fluid flow rate allows thebypass sleeve 14 to move fully axially downwardly, with thepin 48 engaged in the secondpin rest position 52. Thus alternate opening of thebypass sleeve 14 may be achieved. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , there is shown a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a downhole tool in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally byreference numeral 110. For ease of reference, like components with thedownhole tool 10 ofFIG. 1A share the same reference numerals incremented by 100. Thedownhole tool 110 comprises a tubularouter housing 112, atubular bypass sleeve 114, abypass sleeve spring 118 and a pin andgroove arrangement 119.Flow ports 120 extend through awall 122 of thehousing 112, and thebypass sleeve 114 includesflow ports 132 which may be aligned with theflow ports 120 of thehousing 112, when thebypass sleeve 114 is moved axially downwardly, in a similar fashion to thebypass sleeve 14 of thedownhole tool 10 ofFIG. 1A . - The
bypass sleeve spring 118 is disposed in anannular cavity 130 between awasher 138 and ashoulder 140 of thebypass sleeve 114. However, thehousing 112 includes shear pins 162 disposed in thewall 122, which extend radially inwardly to engage thebypass sleeve 114. These shear pins 162 initially maintain thebypass sleeve 114 in a closed configuration as shown inFIG. 2 . Furthermore, thebypass sleeve 114 includes an annular, radially inwardly extendingshoulder 164 which defines a flow restriction. - When it is desired to move the
bypass sleeve 114 to the open configuration, where theflow ports deformable ball 166 is inserted into the string bore and travels down to thetool 110 through the string bore 134. Theball 166 is carried in a fluid such as drilling mud through theinternal bore 134, and engages in theshoulder 164 of thebypass sleeve 114. This effectively blocks theinternal bore 134. When the pressure of the fluid in theinternal bore 134 above thetool 110 is increased, which may occur instantaneously on theball 166 engaging therestriction 164, this creates a considerable pressure force acting axially downwardly upon theball 166 and thus upon thebypass sleeve 114, which compresses thespring 118 and shears thepins 162. This moves thebypass sleeve 114 to the open configuration. - However, the
internal bore 132 remains blocked by theball 166. A further increase of the pressure of the fluid above theball 166, or indeed a continuation of the hydraulic shock which created the initial force to shear thepins 162, causes theball 166 to deform, elastically or plastically, and to pass through the restriction created by theshoulder 164 of thebypass sleeve 114, allowing fluid to flow through thebypass tool 110, through theflow ports tool 110, to catch theball 166 when it has passed through thebypass sleeve 114, or alternatively the ball may disintegrate or otherwise degrade. - The pin and
groove arrangement 119 includes agroove 146 and apin 148 and functions in a similar manner to the pin andgroove arrangement 19 shown inFIG. 1B and described above. This therefore allows subsequent opening and closing of thebypass sleeve 114 in response to variations in the fluid flow rate acting on theflow restriction 164. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , there is shown a downhole tool in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, indicated generally byreference numeral 210. For clarity, like components of thetool 210 with thetool 10 ofFIG. 1A share the same reference numerals incremented by 200. - The
downhole tool 210 comprises a tubularouter housing 212, atubular bypass sleeve 214, abypass sleeve spring 218, a pin andgroove arrangement 219 and atubular release sleeve 268. Thehousing 212 includesflow ports 220 disposed in awall 222 of thehousing 212 and extending radially therethrough. - The
tubular bypass sleeve 214 includesflow ports 232 and is mounted in thehousing 212 to define anannular cavity 230, in which thespring 218 is disposed, between awasher 238 and ashoulder 240 of thehousing 212. Elastomeric O-ring type seals 270 and 272 respectively are provided in thewall 222 of thehousing 212, to seal theannular cavity 230 and isolate it from fluid in the internal tool bore 234. Also, bleedholes 274 extend through thewall 222 of thehousing 212, to fluidly couple theannular cavity 230 with the annulus of the borehole in which thetool 210 is disposed. Thus fluid in theannular cavity 230 experiences the same pressure as fluid in the annulus. - The
bypass sleeve 214 includesopenings 276 at itsupper end 242, for engaging spring-loaded lockingdogs 278, to retain thesleeve 214 in the closed configuration shown inFIG. 3 , whereby theflow ports internal bore 234 and the annulus bore. As shown inFIG. 3 , theleading end 280 of each lockingdog 278 is chamfered. This allows therelease sleeve 268 to be run into the borehole and located within thebypass sleeve 214 as shown inFIG. 3 , wherein a radially outwardly extendingshoulder 282 of thesleeve 268 engages theleading end 280 of each lockingdog 278. This compresses aspring 284 of each lockingdog 278, forcing each lockingdog 278 radially outwardly such that only the chamfered leadingend 280 protrudes into theapertures 276. - To actuate the
tool 210 to an open configuration, the pressure of fluid flowing through theinternal bore 234 is increased such that the differential pressure between the fluid in theinternal bore 234 and the fluid in the annulus bore increases. As theseal 270 defines a larger diameter than theseal 272, a net axially downward force is imparted upon thebypass sleeve 214 due to this differential pressure. This causes theactuating sleeve 268 and thebypass sleeve 214 to move axially downwardly. The lockingdogs 278 are disengaged from the engagingapertures 276 of thebypass sleeve 214 by thebypass sleeve 214 passing over the chamfered leadingend 280 of each lockingdog 278. This allows theflow ports internal bore 234 is reduced sufficiently such that the net force upon thebypass sleeve 214 falls below the restoring force of thespring 218, thespring 218 returns thebypass sleeve 214 to the closed configuration shown inFIG. 3 , by acting against theshoulder 240 of thehousing 212. - The pin and
groove arrangement 219 comprises agroove 246 and apin 248 similar to thegroove 46 andpin 48 ofFIG. 1B and thetool 10 ofFIG. 1A . When thebypass sleeve 214 returns to the closed configuration ofFIG. 3 , the lockingdogs 278 again engage the engagingholes 276 of thebypass sleeve 214 to retain the sleeve in the closed configuration, until the pressure of the fluid in theinternal bore 234 is increased sufficiently to counteract thespring force 218 and force the lockingdogs 278 radially outwardly. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 4A of the drawings, which illustrates abypass tool 310 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thetool 310 is similar in some respects to thetool 210 orFIG. 3 , and therefore common features of thetools - The
tool 310 comprises ahousing 312, a two-part bypass sleeve 314, aflow restriction sleeve 316, a pair of sleeve springs 318 a, 318 b, and a sleeve movement controlling pin andgroove assembly 319. - Unlike the previous illustrated tools, the
tool 310 is illustrated in a configuration in which thetool 310 is experiencing elevated fluid flow therethrough, but the sleevemovement controlling assembly 319 has not transmitted the corresponding axial movement of therestriction sleeve 316 and the associated part of thebypass sleeve 314 a to the other part of thesleeve 314 b defining theflow ports 312, as will be described below. - The
tool 310 is initially run in without therestriction sleeve 316. As noted above, thebypass sleeve 314 is in twoparts groove arrangement 319, the form of which is illustrated inFIG. 4B of the drawings. Theupper sleeve part 314 a, which defines thegroove 346, is initially locked to thehousing 312 by an arrangement of sprungdogs 378, as illustrated inFIG. 6 of the drawings. Thedogs 378 are mounted in thesleeve 314 a and are biased radially outwardly to engagerecesses 376 in asleeve 386 located on thehousing 312 between acirclip 388 and ahousing shoulder 390. Four circumferentially spaced dogs are provided, and are adapted to be retracted by the radial movements of respective release pins 392 coupled to thedogs 378 byrocker arms 394. In this position, thesprings respective sleeve parts - In this initial configuration, the
tool 310 is effectively dormant, and variations in fluid flow or pressure differentials will have no effect on the tool configuration. This allows thetool 310 to be effectively “ignored”, until thetool 310 is required. This is useful as it allows, for example, drilling operators to vary drilling mud flow rate and pressure, and to switch mud pumps on and off without any concern for the tool configuration. - When it is desired to utilize the
tool 310, thesleeve 316 is placed in the drill string, and will be carried to thetool 310 in the drilling fluid. The presence ofrestrictions sleeve 316 facilitates thesleeve 316 being carried by the flow, however the relatively minor flow restriction created by the free-fallingsleeve 316 allows the drilling operators to maintain drilling fluid flow at the normal drilling rate, such that drilling is not interrupted by the passage of thesleeve 316 through the string to thetool 310. - On reaching the tool location, the
sleeve 316 engages the upper part of thebypass sleeve 314 a, and in doing so pushes the release pins 392 outwardly to disengage thesleeve 314 a from thehousing 312. The engagement of therestriction sleeve 316 with thebypass sleeve 314 a creates a restriction in the fluid pathway through the string, but not to the extent that a significant hydraulic shock is induced. - Flow through the
restrictions sleeve 316 and, if the force is sufficient, the upper by-pass sleeve 314 a will move downwards, compressing thespring 318 a. Further, depending on the position of thepin 348 in thegroove 346, the pressure force will be transferred to thelower bypass sleeve 314 b. If sufficient force is created, thesleeve 314 b may be moved downwards, compressing thespring 318 b, and aligning theports - By varying the drilling fluid flow rate through the
tool 310, it is thus possible to cycle the position of thesleeve parts ports - If there comes a point in the drilling operation where the
tool 310 is no longer required, thesleeve 316 may be retrieved by wireline or the like and using a fishing tool adapted to engage aprofile 390 in the upper end of thesleeve 316. - Various modifications may be made to the foregoing embodiments within the scope of the present invention. For example, the downhole tool may be any tool capable of being actuated between first and second tool configurations.
Claims (12)
1. A downhole bypass tool comprising:
a body adapted to be mounted on a tubular string and defining an axial through bore to allow fluid to flow through the body and including a wall defining a fluid port for permitting passage of fluid between the body bore and the exterior of the body;
an operating sleeve mounted to the body and normally positioned to close the fluid port;
an activating device adapted to be dropped through the string to land on the operating sleeve; and
a flow restriction operatively associated with the operating sleeve and located upstream of the port, the flow restriction being configured to create a fluid flow-related force on the operating sleeve in response to fluid flowing through the restriction and of a magnitude sufficient to move the sleeve to open the body port following landing of the activating device.
2. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the activating device provides the flow restriction.
3. The tool of claim 1 , further comprising a biasing member for urging the operating sleeve to close the fluid port.
4. The tool of claim 1 , further comprising locking means for retaining the operating sleeve in position to close the fluid port, the locking means releasing the operating sleeve on landing of the activating device on the sleeve.
5. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the locking means includes a coupling for releasably coupling the operating sleeve to the body.
6. The tool of claim 1 , further comprising at least two axially spaced flow restrictions associated with the operating sleeve and located upstream of the port.
7. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the activating device is an activating sleeve having an axial through bore.
8. The tool of claim 1 , wherein the activating device is a deformable plug.
9. The tool of claim 8 , wherein the deformable plug is a ball.
10. The tool of claim 1 , further comprising indexing means for controlling movement of the operating sleeve and configured to permit the operating sleeve to be retained in one of the port open and port closing positions while fluid flow through the tool is maintained at a normal operational level.
11. The tool of claim 10 , wherein the indexing means includes a cam arrangement.
12. A downhole bypass tool comprising:
a body adapted to be mounted on a tubular string and defining an axial through bore to allow fluid to flow through the body and including a wall defining a fluid port for permitting passage of fluid between the body bore and the exterior of the body;
an operating sleeve mounted to the body and normally positioned to close the fluid port;
an activating device adapted to be dropped through the string to land on the operating sleeve; and
a flow restriction operatively associated with the operating sleeve and located upstream of the port, the flow restriction being configured to create a fluid flow-related force on the operating sleeve in response to fluid flowing through the restriction and of a magnitude sufficient to move the sleeve, allowing the port to be opened for moving the sleeve following landing of the activating device.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/996,553 US20050072572A1 (en) | 1999-07-15 | 2004-11-23 | Downhole bypass valve |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GBGB9916513.6A GB9916513D0 (en) | 1999-07-15 | 1999-07-15 | Bypass tool |
GB9916513.6 | 1999-07-15 | ||
US10/031,219 US6820697B1 (en) | 1999-07-15 | 2000-07-14 | Downhole bypass valve |
US10/996,553 US20050072572A1 (en) | 1999-07-15 | 2004-11-23 | Downhole bypass valve |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/031,219 Continuation US6820697B1 (en) | 1999-07-15 | 2000-07-14 | Downhole bypass valve |
PCT/GB2000/002712 Continuation WO2001006086A1 (en) | 1999-07-15 | 2000-07-14 | Downhole bypass valve |
Publications (1)
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US20050072572A1 true US20050072572A1 (en) | 2005-04-07 |
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US10/996,553 Abandoned US20050072572A1 (en) | 1999-07-15 | 2004-11-23 | Downhole bypass valve |
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US10/031,219 Expired - Fee Related US6820697B1 (en) | 1999-07-15 | 2000-07-14 | Downhole bypass valve |
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EP (1) | EP1198656A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU778372B2 (en) |
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GB (1) | GB9916513D0 (en) |
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WO (1) | WO2001006086A1 (en) |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6820697B1 (en) | 2004-11-23 |
CA2381360A1 (en) | 2001-01-25 |
NO20020229L (en) | 2002-03-06 |
HK1046161A1 (en) | 2002-12-27 |
AU6169800A (en) | 2001-02-05 |
GB9916513D0 (en) | 1999-09-15 |
NO321496B1 (en) | 2006-05-15 |
AU778372B2 (en) | 2004-12-02 |
EP1198656A1 (en) | 2002-04-24 |
NO20020229D0 (en) | 2002-01-15 |
WO2001006086A1 (en) | 2001-01-25 |
CA2381360C (en) | 2008-06-10 |
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