CA2441814C - Tubing seal - Google Patents
Tubing seal Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2441814C CA2441814C CA2441814A CA2441814A CA2441814C CA 2441814 C CA2441814 C CA 2441814C CA 2441814 A CA2441814 A CA 2441814A CA 2441814 A CA2441814 A CA 2441814A CA 2441814 C CA2441814 C CA 2441814C
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- tubular member
- recess
- tubular
- anchoring
- anchoring member
- 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.)
- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D17/00—Forming single grooves in sheet metal or tubular or hollow articles
- B21D17/04—Forming single grooves in sheet metal or tubular or hollow articles by rolling
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D39/00—Application of procedures in order to connect objects or parts, e.g. coating with sheet metal otherwise than by plating; Tube expanders
- B21D39/04—Application of procedures in order to connect objects or parts, e.g. coating with sheet metal otherwise than by plating; Tube expanders of tubes with tubes; of tubes with rods
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D39/00—Application of procedures in order to connect objects or parts, e.g. coating with sheet metal otherwise than by plating; Tube expanders
- B21D39/08—Tube expanders
- B21D39/10—Tube expanders with rollers for expanding only
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B29/00—Cutting or destroying pipes, packers, plugs or wire lines, located in boreholes or wells, e.g. cutting of damaged pipes, of windows; Deforming of pipes in boreholes or wells; Reconditioning of well casings while in the ground
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B29/00—Cutting or destroying pipes, packers, plugs or wire lines, located in boreholes or wells, e.g. cutting of damaged pipes, of windows; Deforming of pipes in boreholes or wells; Reconditioning of well casings while in the ground
- E21B29/002—Cutting, e.g. milling, a pipe with a cutter rotating along the circumference of the pipe
- E21B29/005—Cutting, e.g. milling, a pipe with a cutter rotating along the circumference of the pipe with a radially-expansible cutter rotating inside the pipe, e.g. for cutting an annular window
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B29/00—Cutting or destroying pipes, packers, plugs or wire lines, located in boreholes or wells, e.g. cutting of damaged pipes, of windows; Deforming of pipes in boreholes or wells; Reconditioning of well casings while in the ground
- E21B29/10—Reconditioning of well casings, e.g. straightening
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B33/00—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells
- E21B33/10—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells in the borehole
- E21B33/13—Methods or devices for cementing, for plugging holes, crevices or the like
- E21B33/138—Plastering the borehole wall; Injecting into the formation
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B43/00—Methods or apparatus for obtaining oil, gas, water, soluble or meltable materials or a slurry of minerals from wells
- E21B43/02—Subsoil filtering
- E21B43/10—Setting of casings, screens, liners or the like in wells
- E21B43/103—Setting of casings, screens, liners or the like in wells of expandable casings, screens, liners, or the like
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B43/00—Methods or apparatus for obtaining oil, gas, water, soluble or meltable materials or a slurry of minerals from wells
- E21B43/02—Subsoil filtering
- E21B43/10—Setting of casings, screens, liners or the like in wells
- E21B43/103—Setting of casings, screens, liners or the like in wells of expandable casings, screens, liners, or the like
- E21B43/105—Expanding tools specially adapted therefor
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B43/00—Methods or apparatus for obtaining oil, gas, water, soluble or meltable materials or a slurry of minerals from wells
- E21B43/02—Subsoil filtering
- E21B43/10—Setting of casings, screens, liners or the like in wells
- E21B43/103—Setting of casings, screens, liners or the like in wells of expandable casings, screens, liners, or the like
- E21B43/106—Couplings or joints therefor
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Geology (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Gasket Seals (AREA)
- Earth Drilling (AREA)
- Joints With Pressure Members (AREA)
- Shaping Of Tube Ends By Bending Or Straightening (AREA)
- Tires In General (AREA)
Abstract
A method of forming a seal between two tubular members (30, 32) comprises providing a first tubular member (30) having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, with a recess (34) in the external surface at a seal portion of the first tubular member. A deformable circumferentially extending sealing member (36) is located in the recess, the sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter. The first tubular member (30) is located within a second tubular member (32) and the seal portion of the first tubular member (30) is expanded such that the sealing member (36) engages an inner surface of the second tubular member (32).
Description
TUBING SEAL
Aspects of this invention relate to a tubing seal, and in particular to a method and arrangement for producing a seal between two tubing sections. Other aspects of the invention relate to a tubing anchor, and to a method and arrangement for anchoring one tubing section relative to another. The different aspects of the invention have particular utility in downhole applications.
In many instances it is desired to provide a seal between two overlapping tubing sections in a downhole environment. Where space permits, the seals may be formed of elastomeric packer elements or perhaps as metal-to-metal seals which are energised by spring packs or the like.
However, in many applications there will not be sufficient space to accommodate such a sealing arrangement, for example in thin-wall tubing, and in such cases the seals are more often provided in the form of O-ring or chevron sealing members.' it has also been proposed to create seals around expandable tubing using sealing members in the form of bands of relatively soft metal, as described in PCT/GB99/04365. In such cases, in order to create an effective seal, it is necessary for the sealing member to extend beyond the surface of the tubing. This makes the seal vulnerable to damage and dislodgement as the tubing is run into the bore.
It is among the objectives of aspects of the present invention to provide a method of forming a seal which obviates' or mitigates these and other disadvantages of the prior art.
In other instances it is desired to anchor or secure
Aspects of this invention relate to a tubing seal, and in particular to a method and arrangement for producing a seal between two tubing sections. Other aspects of the invention relate to a tubing anchor, and to a method and arrangement for anchoring one tubing section relative to another. The different aspects of the invention have particular utility in downhole applications.
In many instances it is desired to provide a seal between two overlapping tubing sections in a downhole environment. Where space permits, the seals may be formed of elastomeric packer elements or perhaps as metal-to-metal seals which are energised by spring packs or the like.
However, in many applications there will not be sufficient space to accommodate such a sealing arrangement, for example in thin-wall tubing, and in such cases the seals are more often provided in the form of O-ring or chevron sealing members.' it has also been proposed to create seals around expandable tubing using sealing members in the form of bands of relatively soft metal, as described in PCT/GB99/04365. In such cases, in order to create an effective seal, it is necessary for the sealing member to extend beyond the surface of the tubing. This makes the seal vulnerable to damage and dislodgement as the tubing is run into the bore.
It is among the objectives of aspects of the present invention to provide a method of forming a seal which obviates' or mitigates these and other disadvantages of the prior art.
In other instances it is desired to anchor or secure
2 one tubing section or tool relative to another. This is often achieved by means of slips, typically fingers or keys having a serrated or grooved outer face which co-operate with wedges or cams to push the, slips radially outwards to engage with surrounding casing. However, such slips, and the associated slip energising or setting arrangement, occupy a relatively large volume. As described in applicant's International (PCT) Application Publication No WO 2000/037773, it has been proposed to overcome this difficulty in some situations by providing a hanger arrangement in which inner tubing carrying small hard elements on its outer surface is expanded into engagement with surrounding tubing. However, the gripping elements are exposed to damage as the inner tubing is run into the bore and may, for example, be scraped from the tubing by contact with a ledge or other restriction. Also, the relatively hard elements may score or scrape the relatively soft material of the existing casing, or bore restrictions such as valve seats, as the tubing is run in.
It is. among the objects of other aspects of the invention to provide an anchoring arrangement which obviates or mitigates these disadvantages.
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of forming a seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at a seal portion of the first tubular member while retaining the wall thickness of the tubular member;
It is. among the objects of other aspects of the invention to provide an anchoring arrangement which obviates or mitigates these disadvantages.
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of forming a seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at a seal portion of the first tubular member while retaining the wall thickness of the tubular member;
3 locating a deformable sealing member in the recess such that the sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the sealing member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable seal portion of the first tubular member, said seal portion having a wall thickness substantially equal to the wall thickness of the tubular member adjacent said seal portion; and a deformable sealing member in the recess, the sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter, wherein expansion of at least the seal portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter of the sealing member to at least said first diameter.
Preferably, the sealing member initially describes a diameter less than said first diameter, that is the outer surface of the sealing member is recessed from the exterior of the tubular member.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of forming a seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the sealing member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable seal portion of the first tubular member, said seal portion having a wall thickness substantially equal to the wall thickness of the tubular member adjacent said seal portion; and a deformable sealing member in the recess, the sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter, wherein expansion of at least the seal portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter of the sealing member to at least said first diameter.
Preferably, the sealing member initially describes a diameter less than said first diameter, that is the outer surface of the sealing member is recessed from the exterior of the tubular member.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of forming a seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal
4 surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at a seal portion of the first tubular member;
locating a deformable circumferentially extending sealing member in the recess and such that the sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the sealing member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface of a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable seal portion of the first tubular member; and a deformable sealing member in the recess, the sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter, wherein expansion of at least the seal portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter of the sealing member to at least said first diameter.
As the sealing member is located within the recess, and does not initially extend beyond the external surface of the first tubular member, the sealing member is protected from damage during handling and running into the second tubular member. This is particularly useful in downhole applications, in which the first tubular member may have to pass through several thousand metres of tubing defining ledges, restrictions and other hazards, before reaching the sealing location.
Where reference is made to a second tubular member,
providing at least one recess in said external surface at a seal portion of the first tubular member;
locating a deformable circumferentially extending sealing member in the recess and such that the sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the sealing member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface of a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable seal portion of the first tubular member; and a deformable sealing member in the recess, the sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter, wherein expansion of at least the seal portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter of the sealing member to at least said first diameter.
As the sealing member is located within the recess, and does not initially extend beyond the external surface of the first tubular member, the sealing member is protected from damage during handling and running into the second tubular member. This is particularly useful in downhole applications, in which the first tubular member may have to pass through several thousand metres of tubing defining ledges, restrictions and other hazards, before reaching the sealing location.
Where reference is made to a second tubular member,
5 this is intended to encompass any appropriate tubing or bore, including a bore formed in a non-cylindrical object, and a drilled bore in an earth formation.
The recess may take any appropriate form, and preferably will be in the form of an annular or part-annular depression. Alternatively, adjacent surface portions of the first tubular member may be upset, or may define ribs or other projections to protect the sealing member.
The recess may be formed by one or more of a variety of methods, including: deforming the first tubular member at said seal portion to create a localised reduction in external diameter, which may occur while retaining the wall thickness of the tubular member; or moving or removing material from said seal location to create a region of reduced wall thickness. Alternatively, the tubular member may be cast or otherwise formed with the recess.
The sealing member receiving recess may itself be provided within a larger recess. This provides still further protection for the sealing member; for example, fluid flowing in an annulus between the first and second tubular members will decelerate on encountering the larger recess, and thus there is less likelihood of the sealing member being :washed out of the recess.
The sealing member may be formed of any appropriate material, including an elastomer or a metal, which metal may be relatively ductile or, alternatively, may be adapted
The recess may take any appropriate form, and preferably will be in the form of an annular or part-annular depression. Alternatively, adjacent surface portions of the first tubular member may be upset, or may define ribs or other projections to protect the sealing member.
The recess may be formed by one or more of a variety of methods, including: deforming the first tubular member at said seal portion to create a localised reduction in external diameter, which may occur while retaining the wall thickness of the tubular member; or moving or removing material from said seal location to create a region of reduced wall thickness. Alternatively, the tubular member may be cast or otherwise formed with the recess.
The sealing member receiving recess may itself be provided within a larger recess. This provides still further protection for the sealing member; for example, fluid flowing in an annulus between the first and second tubular members will decelerate on encountering the larger recess, and thus there is less likelihood of the sealing member being :washed out of the recess.
The sealing member may be formed of any appropriate material, including an elastomer or a metal, which metal may be relatively ductile or, alternatively, may be adapted
6 to experience only elastic deformation in the creation of a sealing contact with the second tubing member.
on expanding the seal portion, the sealing member may be deformed to a lens-shaped cross-section.
Preferably, the seal portion is expanded by rolling expansion, with an expansion member being rotated within the first tubular member with a face in rolling contact with an internal surface thereof. Such expansion creates a hoop stress in the first tubular member, which tends to increase the ability of the member to withstand external compressive or crush forces, including external fluid pressure. Most preferably, the seal portion is deformed by compressive plastic deformation, which may produce a localised reduction in wall thickness and a subsequent increase in diameter.
The first tubular member may be expanded only at or in the area of the seal portion, or an extended portion of the tubular member may be expanded; this may be useful in anchoring the first tubular member in the. second tubular member.
Preferably, a plurality of longitudinally spaced-apart circumferential seal members are provided.
Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at an anchor portion of the first tubular member;
locating an anchoring member in the recess,. the
on expanding the seal portion, the sealing member may be deformed to a lens-shaped cross-section.
Preferably, the seal portion is expanded by rolling expansion, with an expansion member being rotated within the first tubular member with a face in rolling contact with an internal surface thereof. Such expansion creates a hoop stress in the first tubular member, which tends to increase the ability of the member to withstand external compressive or crush forces, including external fluid pressure. Most preferably, the seal portion is deformed by compressive plastic deformation, which may produce a localised reduction in wall thickness and a subsequent increase in diameter.
The first tubular member may be expanded only at or in the area of the seal portion, or an extended portion of the tubular member may be expanded; this may be useful in anchoring the first tubular member in the. second tubular member.
Preferably, a plurality of longitudinally spaced-apart circumferential seal members are provided.
Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at an anchor portion of the first tubular member;
locating an anchoring member in the recess,. the
7 PCT/GB02/01315 anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an anchor-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface of a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor portion of the first tubular member; and an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter, wherein expansion of at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter of the anchoring member to at least said first diameter.
As the anchoring member is located within the recess, and does not initially extend beyond the external surface of the first tubular member, the anchoring member is protected from damage during handling and running into the second tubular member and will itself not cause damage to the second tubular member.
The anchoring member may be formed of any appropriate material, and typically is formed of a relatively hard material, that is a material harder than the material of the tubular member. The anchoring member may take any appropriate form, and is preferably in the form of a ring, which may be split or otherwise segmented. The member may
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an anchor-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface of a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor portion of the first tubular member; and an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter, wherein expansion of at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter of the anchoring member to at least said first diameter.
As the anchoring member is located within the recess, and does not initially extend beyond the external surface of the first tubular member, the anchoring member is protected from damage during handling and running into the second tubular member and will itself not cause damage to the second tubular member.
The anchoring member may be formed of any appropriate material, and typically is formed of a relatively hard material, that is a material harder than the material of the tubular member. The anchoring member may take any appropriate form, and is preferably in the form of a ring, which may be split or otherwise segmented. The member may
8 define serrations or teeth. Alternatively, the anchoring member may be in the form of a volume or area of hard material, or an area of blocks or pieces of relatively hard material.
The anchoring member may be releasable, that is the member may be movable to disengage from the an inner surface of the second tubular member. This may be achieved by moving the engaged anchor member relative to the second tubular member to locate the anchor member above a groove or the like, or by otherwise removing support for the anchor member.
The invention also relates to a method of reinforcing a thin-walled tubular member against crush forces, the method comprising:
locating a thin-walled first tubular member within a larger diameter second tubular member; and expanding the first tubular member by rolling expansion to create a hoop stress in the member and to bring an outer surface of the first member into contact with the second member, whereby subsequent collapse of the first member requires circumferential compression of the wall of the first member or deformation of the second member.
This aspect of the invention allows relatively thin walled tubing to be utilised as, for example, a patch or straddle in circumstances where the tubing, before expansion, would not be capable of resisting the external pressure forces which the expanded tubing will experience.
This allows use of thinner wall and thus less expensive tubing, and also facilitates expansion of the tubing.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
8a providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at an anchor portion of the first tubular member;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and disengaging the anchoring member from the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a coupling arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor portion of the first tubular member; and an anchoring sealing member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter described by the anchoring member to at least said first diameter;
and wherein the anchoring member is arranged to be retractable.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of 8b forming a seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface describing a first diameter;
providing a recess in said external surface at a seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth;
locating a deformable sealing member in the recess such that the sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member to reduce the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth such that the sealing member engages an inner surface of,the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing a recess in said external surface at an anchor portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the anchor portion of the first 8c tubular member to reduce the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining a recess in said external surface at a deformable seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth; and a deformable sealing member in the recess, the sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the seal portion of the first tubular member reduces the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth and increases the diameter of the sealing member to at least said first diameter.
In one aspect, the invention provides a coupling arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining a recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth; and an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member reduces the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth and increases the diameter described by the anchoring member to at least 8d said first diameter.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter at a substantially single axial location relative to the first tubular member no greater than the first diameter, wherein the anchor member is a continuous ring;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of reinforcing a thin-walled tubular member against crush forces, the method comprising:
locating a thin-walled first tubular member within a larger diameter second tubular member, wherein the thin-walled first tubular member is configured as a patch in the larger diameter second member; and .
expanding the first tubular member by rolling expansion to create a hoop stress in the member and to bring an outer surface of the first member into contact with the second member, whereby subsequent collapse of the first member requires circumferential compression of the wall of the first member of deformation of the second member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of 8f providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess and a second deeper recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection and the at least one recess includes a tapered profile;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, 8g the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at a seal portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member;
positioning a tool proximate the anchor portion such that a port in the tool aligns with a fluid port in the anchor portion of the first tubular; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of 8h forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess and a second deeper recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection and the at least one recess includes a tapered profile;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of 8i forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface describing a first diameter;
providing a recess in said external surface at an anchor of seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth;
locating an anchoring member or deformable sealing member in the recess such that the anchoring member or sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member to reduce the depth of said recess to 8j a final depth smaller than said initial depth such that the anchoring member or sealing member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and retracting the anchoring member or sealing member.
In another aspect, the invention provides a coupling or seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining a recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth; and an anchoring member or deformable sealing member in the recess, the anchoring member or sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member reduces the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth and increases the diameter of the anchoring member or sealing member to at least said first diameter; and wherein the anchoring member or sealing member is arranged to be retractable.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter at a 8k substantially single axial location relative to the first tubular member no greater than the first diameter, wherein the anchor member is a continuous ring;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and retracting the anchoring member.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding a circumferential portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
These and other aspects of the present invention will
The anchoring member may be releasable, that is the member may be movable to disengage from the an inner surface of the second tubular member. This may be achieved by moving the engaged anchor member relative to the second tubular member to locate the anchor member above a groove or the like, or by otherwise removing support for the anchor member.
The invention also relates to a method of reinforcing a thin-walled tubular member against crush forces, the method comprising:
locating a thin-walled first tubular member within a larger diameter second tubular member; and expanding the first tubular member by rolling expansion to create a hoop stress in the member and to bring an outer surface of the first member into contact with the second member, whereby subsequent collapse of the first member requires circumferential compression of the wall of the first member or deformation of the second member.
This aspect of the invention allows relatively thin walled tubing to be utilised as, for example, a patch or straddle in circumstances where the tubing, before expansion, would not be capable of resisting the external pressure forces which the expanded tubing will experience.
This allows use of thinner wall and thus less expensive tubing, and also facilitates expansion of the tubing.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
8a providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at an anchor portion of the first tubular member;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and disengaging the anchoring member from the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a coupling arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor portion of the first tubular member; and an anchoring sealing member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter described by the anchoring member to at least said first diameter;
and wherein the anchoring member is arranged to be retractable.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of 8b forming a seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface describing a first diameter;
providing a recess in said external surface at a seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth;
locating a deformable sealing member in the recess such that the sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member to reduce the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth such that the sealing member engages an inner surface of,the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing a recess in said external surface at an anchor portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the anchor portion of the first 8c tubular member to reduce the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining a recess in said external surface at a deformable seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth; and a deformable sealing member in the recess, the sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the seal portion of the first tubular member reduces the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth and increases the diameter of the sealing member to at least said first diameter.
In one aspect, the invention provides a coupling arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining a recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth; and an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member reduces the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth and increases the diameter described by the anchoring member to at least 8d said first diameter.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter at a substantially single axial location relative to the first tubular member no greater than the first diameter, wherein the anchor member is a continuous ring;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member; and expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of reinforcing a thin-walled tubular member against crush forces, the method comprising:
locating a thin-walled first tubular member within a larger diameter second tubular member, wherein the thin-walled first tubular member is configured as a patch in the larger diameter second member; and .
expanding the first tubular member by rolling expansion to create a hoop stress in the member and to bring an outer surface of the first member into contact with the second member, whereby subsequent collapse of the first member requires circumferential compression of the wall of the first member of deformation of the second member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of 8f providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess and a second deeper recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection and the at least one recess includes a tapered profile;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, 8g the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at a seal portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member;
positioning a tool proximate the anchor portion such that a port in the tool aligns with a fluid port in the anchor portion of the first tubular; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of 8h forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess and a second deeper recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection and the at least one recess includes a tapered profile;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In one aspect, the invention provides a method of 8i forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface describing a first diameter;
providing a recess in said external surface at an anchor of seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth;
locating an anchoring member or deformable sealing member in the recess such that the anchoring member or sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member to reduce the depth of said recess to 8j a final depth smaller than said initial depth such that the anchoring member or sealing member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and retracting the anchoring member or sealing member.
In another aspect, the invention provides a coupling or seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining a recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth; and an anchoring member or deformable sealing member in the recess, the anchoring member or sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member reduces the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth and increases the diameter of the anchoring member or sealing member to at least said first diameter; and wherein the anchoring member or sealing member is arranged to be retractable.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter at a 8k substantially single axial location relative to the first tubular member no greater than the first diameter, wherein the anchor member is a continuous ring;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and retracting the anchoring member.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding a circumferential portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
These and other aspects of the present invention will
9 now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions of the walls of two tubing members of a seal-forming arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member.
Figure 2 corresponds to Figure 1, but shows the tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 3a, 3b and. 3c illustrate steps in the creation of a seal in accordance with an embodirmient of the present invention and utilising the seal forming arrangement of Figure 1;
Figures 4 and 5, 6 and 7, 8 and 9, 10 and 11, and 12 and 13, are diagrammatic sectional views of portions of the walls of tubing members of seal forming arrangements in accordance with further embodiments of the present invention, shown prior to and following expansion of the inner tubing member, respectively;
Figure 14 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions of the walls of tubing members of a tubing coupling arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of a further aspect of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figure 15 corresponds to Figure 14, but shows the tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 16a, 16b and 16c illustrate the expansion of the inner tubing member of Figure 14;
Figures 17a, 17b and 17c illustrate an alternative expansion process for the inner cubing member of Figure 14;
Figures 18 and 19 are diagrammatic sectional views of portions of the walls of tubing members of a tubing coupling arrangement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, shown prior to and following expansion of the inner tubing member, respectively;
Figure 20 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions 5 of the walls of two tubing members of a coupling arrangement in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figure 21 corresponds to Figure 20, but shows the
Figure 1 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions of the walls of two tubing members of a seal-forming arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member.
Figure 2 corresponds to Figure 1, but shows the tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 3a, 3b and. 3c illustrate steps in the creation of a seal in accordance with an embodirmient of the present invention and utilising the seal forming arrangement of Figure 1;
Figures 4 and 5, 6 and 7, 8 and 9, 10 and 11, and 12 and 13, are diagrammatic sectional views of portions of the walls of tubing members of seal forming arrangements in accordance with further embodiments of the present invention, shown prior to and following expansion of the inner tubing member, respectively;
Figure 14 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions of the walls of tubing members of a tubing coupling arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of a further aspect of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figure 15 corresponds to Figure 14, but shows the tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 16a, 16b and 16c illustrate the expansion of the inner tubing member of Figure 14;
Figures 17a, 17b and 17c illustrate an alternative expansion process for the inner cubing member of Figure 14;
Figures 18 and 19 are diagrammatic sectional views of portions of the walls of tubing members of a tubing coupling arrangement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, shown prior to and following expansion of the inner tubing member, respectively;
Figure 20 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions 5 of the walls of two tubing members of a coupling arrangement in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figure 21 corresponds to Figure 20, but shows the
10 tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 22a and 22b show steps in the creation of the coupling arrangement of Figure 21;
Figure 23 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions of the walls of two tubing members of a coupling arrangement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figure 24 corresponds to Figure 23, but shows the tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 25a and 25b show steps in the release of-the coupling arrangement of Figure 24;
Figure 26 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions of the walls of two tubing members of a coupling arrangement in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figure 27 corresponds to Figure 26, but shows the tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 28a and 28b show steps in the release of the coupling arrangement of Figure 27; and Figures 29, 30 and 31 are perspective, side and
Figures 22a and 22b show steps in the creation of the coupling arrangement of Figure 21;
Figure 23 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions of the walls of two tubing members of a coupling arrangement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figure 24 corresponds to Figure 23, but shows the tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 25a and 25b show steps in the release of-the coupling arrangement of Figure 24;
Figure 26 is a diagrammatic sectional view of portions of the walls of two tubing members of a coupling arrangement in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, prior to expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figure 27 corresponds to Figure 26, but shows the tubing walls after expansion of the inner tubing member;
Figures 28a and 28b show steps in the release of the coupling arrangement of Figure 27; and Figures 29, 30 and 31 are perspective, side and
11 sectional views of an inner tubing member of a coupling arrangement in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention.
Reference is first made to Figure 1 of the drawings, which illustrates parts of portions of the walls of first and second tubular members 30, 32 of a seal-forming arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The larger diameter outer second tubing member 32 may be located downhole in the form of, for example, metal bore-lining casing. The inner first tubing member 30 may be part of a packer or the upper end of a section of bore-lining casing or liner which is to be sealed relative to the second tubing member 32, as will be described.
Machined in an outer face of the first tubing member 30 is an annular groove 34, which groove is occupied by a sealing member in the form of an elastomeric sealing ring 36. The outer surface of the sealing ring 36 has a maximum diameter which is less than the adjacent portions of the tubing member 30.
To form a seal between the tubing members 30, 32, the first tubing member 30 is expanded by a rolling expansion process which reduces the thickness of the wall of the first tubing member from T to t, as illustrated in Figure 2, and further decreases the depth of the groove 34 from D
to d. The reduction in depth of the groove 34, which results in the groove 34 being shallower than the sealing ring 36, urges the sealing ring 36 radially outwards relative to the outer surface of the tubing member 30 and into sealing contact with the inner surface of the second tubing member 32.
Reference is now made to Figures 3a, 3b and 3c of the
Reference is first made to Figure 1 of the drawings, which illustrates parts of portions of the walls of first and second tubular members 30, 32 of a seal-forming arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The larger diameter outer second tubing member 32 may be located downhole in the form of, for example, metal bore-lining casing. The inner first tubing member 30 may be part of a packer or the upper end of a section of bore-lining casing or liner which is to be sealed relative to the second tubing member 32, as will be described.
Machined in an outer face of the first tubing member 30 is an annular groove 34, which groove is occupied by a sealing member in the form of an elastomeric sealing ring 36. The outer surface of the sealing ring 36 has a maximum diameter which is less than the adjacent portions of the tubing member 30.
To form a seal between the tubing members 30, 32, the first tubing member 30 is expanded by a rolling expansion process which reduces the thickness of the wall of the first tubing member from T to t, as illustrated in Figure 2, and further decreases the depth of the groove 34 from D
to d. The reduction in depth of the groove 34, which results in the groove 34 being shallower than the sealing ring 36, urges the sealing ring 36 radially outwards relative to the outer surface of the tubing member 30 and into sealing contact with the inner surface of the second tubing member 32.
Reference is now made to Figures 3a, 3b and 3c of the
12 drawings, which illustrate the expansion of the inner tubing member 30. The Figures illustrate an expansion device 38 including a body 40 carrying three piston-mounted rollers 42. The device 38 is mounted on an appropriate running string (not shown) and by supplying pressurised fluid to the interior of the bony 40 the rollers 42 are urged radially outwards and into contact with the inner wall of the first tubing member 30. If the device 38 is rotated and axially advanced, the rollers 42 reduce the wall thickness of the tubing member 30, and thereby increase the diameter of the member 30. Thus, the sealing arrangement as illustrated in Figure 2 may be formed.
Figures 4 and 5 of the drawings illustrate an arrangement in which the groove 50 which receives the sealing ring 52, in the form of an elastomer 0-ring, is formed in the first tubing member 54, while retaining the wall thickness at the seal portion 56 of the member 54, in contrast to the reduction in wall thickness which occurs when the groove is machined, as illustrated in Figure 1 above.
As will be noted from Figure 4, forming the groove in the tubing member 54 creates an inner shoulder or protrusion 58, however following expansion of the tubing member 54, utilising a similar method as that illustrated in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the member 54 presents a smooth inner surface. In this example, the sealing ring 52 is illustrated as initially being in the form of an 0-ring which, following expansion of the first tubing member 54, is deformed co a lens shape 60, occupying a shallow depression of corresponding shape 61. The configuration of the deformed sealing ring 60 provides for a large contact
Figures 4 and 5 of the drawings illustrate an arrangement in which the groove 50 which receives the sealing ring 52, in the form of an elastomer 0-ring, is formed in the first tubing member 54, while retaining the wall thickness at the seal portion 56 of the member 54, in contrast to the reduction in wall thickness which occurs when the groove is machined, as illustrated in Figure 1 above.
As will be noted from Figure 4, forming the groove in the tubing member 54 creates an inner shoulder or protrusion 58, however following expansion of the tubing member 54, utilising a similar method as that illustrated in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the member 54 presents a smooth inner surface. In this example, the sealing ring 52 is illustrated as initially being in the form of an 0-ring which, following expansion of the first tubing member 54, is deformed co a lens shape 60, occupying a shallow depression of corresponding shape 61. The configuration of the deformed sealing ring 60 provides for a large contact
13 area with both the outer surface of the first tubing member 54 and the inner surface of the outer second tubing member 62. Further, the area of the deformed seal 60 exposed to pressurised fluid attempting to pass between the tubing members 54, 62 is relatively small, such that the pressure forces acting on the sleeves 60 will also be relatively small.
Reference is now made to Figure 6 and 7 of the drawings, which show an alternative groove and sealing member configuration, in particular the formed groove 70 being relatively broad, and the sealing member 72 having a corresponding axial extent, and being relatively shallow such that the outer face of the sealing member 72 lies below the outer surface of the first tubing member.
Figures 8 and 9 of the drawings illustrate an arrangement in which a sealing member 80 is located in a machined narrow groove 82 itself formed in the middle of a machined broad groove 84, this configuration offering additional protection for the sealing member 80 while the first tubing member 86 is being run into the bore.
In the arrangement illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, a sealing member 90 is located in a machined narrow groove 92 itself located centrally within a relatively broad formed groove 94.
In Figures 12 and 12, a sealing member 100 is located in a formed narrow groove 102 itself located centrally within a formed broad groove 104.
It will be noted by comparing the different forms of groove arrangements that the use of formed grooves tends to result in a greater degree of deformation of the sealing member. Thus, the form of the groove and the form of the
Reference is now made to Figure 6 and 7 of the drawings, which show an alternative groove and sealing member configuration, in particular the formed groove 70 being relatively broad, and the sealing member 72 having a corresponding axial extent, and being relatively shallow such that the outer face of the sealing member 72 lies below the outer surface of the first tubing member.
Figures 8 and 9 of the drawings illustrate an arrangement in which a sealing member 80 is located in a machined narrow groove 82 itself formed in the middle of a machined broad groove 84, this configuration offering additional protection for the sealing member 80 while the first tubing member 86 is being run into the bore.
In the arrangement illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, a sealing member 90 is located in a machined narrow groove 92 itself located centrally within a relatively broad formed groove 94.
In Figures 12 and 12, a sealing member 100 is located in a formed narrow groove 102 itself located centrally within a formed broad groove 104.
It will be noted by comparing the different forms of groove arrangements that the use of formed grooves tends to result in a greater degree of deformation of the sealing member. Thus, the form of the groove and the form of the
14 sealing member may be varied according to the intended application.
Reference is now made to Figures 14 and 15 of the drawings, which illustrate portions of the wall of first and second tubing members 110 and 112 of a coupling arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the further aspect of the present invention. In this embodiment a ring slip member 114 having a toothed outer face is located in a machined groove 116 located centrally within a relatively broad formed groove 118. As will be described, if the first tubing member 110 is expanded by rolling expansion, the thickness of the first tubing member 110 is reduced from T to t, with a corresponding increases in diameter, the formed groove 118 is "removed", and the depth of the machined groove 116 relative to the adjacent outer surface of the first tubing member 110 is reduced from D to d.
One example of the expansion process is illustrated in Figures 16a, 16b and 16c, and utilises an expansion device 38 similar to the device described above with reference Figures 3a, 3b and 3c. The expansion process is illustrated in 16a, 16b and 16c, and involves rotation and axial advancement of the energised expansion device 38.
Following expansion of the first tubing member 110, the teeth on the outer surface of the ring slip member 114 engage the inner face of the second tubing member 112, as illustrated in Figure 15.
A slightly different expansion operation is illustrated in Figure 17a, 17b and 17c of the drawings, however in this case the degree of expansion is selected such that the broad formed groove 118 is retained in the expanded first tubing member 120, although the groove 122 is of decreased depth with respect to the original groove in the unexpanded member.
Figures 18 and 19 illustrate an alternative anchoring or coupling arrangement, in which a ring slip member 124 is located in a relatively narrow machined groove 126.
5 Reference is now made to Figures 20, 21 and 22a and 22b, which show a further alternative arrangement in which a ring slip member 130 is located in a narrow machined groove 132 positioned centrally within a broader formed groove 134. In addition, substantially conventional 0-ring 10 seals 136, 137 are located above and below the groove 134 and provide a seal between the outer surface of the first tubing member 136 and the inner surface of the second tubing member 140. Also, a fluid communicating passage 142 extends between the internal bore of the first tubing
Reference is now made to Figures 14 and 15 of the drawings, which illustrate portions of the wall of first and second tubing members 110 and 112 of a coupling arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the further aspect of the present invention. In this embodiment a ring slip member 114 having a toothed outer face is located in a machined groove 116 located centrally within a relatively broad formed groove 118. As will be described, if the first tubing member 110 is expanded by rolling expansion, the thickness of the first tubing member 110 is reduced from T to t, with a corresponding increases in diameter, the formed groove 118 is "removed", and the depth of the machined groove 116 relative to the adjacent outer surface of the first tubing member 110 is reduced from D to d.
One example of the expansion process is illustrated in Figures 16a, 16b and 16c, and utilises an expansion device 38 similar to the device described above with reference Figures 3a, 3b and 3c. The expansion process is illustrated in 16a, 16b and 16c, and involves rotation and axial advancement of the energised expansion device 38.
Following expansion of the first tubing member 110, the teeth on the outer surface of the ring slip member 114 engage the inner face of the second tubing member 112, as illustrated in Figure 15.
A slightly different expansion operation is illustrated in Figure 17a, 17b and 17c of the drawings, however in this case the degree of expansion is selected such that the broad formed groove 118 is retained in the expanded first tubing member 120, although the groove 122 is of decreased depth with respect to the original groove in the unexpanded member.
Figures 18 and 19 illustrate an alternative anchoring or coupling arrangement, in which a ring slip member 124 is located in a relatively narrow machined groove 126.
5 Reference is now made to Figures 20, 21 and 22a and 22b, which show a further alternative arrangement in which a ring slip member 130 is located in a narrow machined groove 132 positioned centrally within a broader formed groove 134. In addition, substantially conventional 0-ring 10 seals 136, 137 are located above and below the groove 134 and provide a seal between the outer surface of the first tubing member 136 and the inner surface of the second tubing member 140. Also, a fluid communicating passage 142 extends between the internal bore of the first tubing
15 member 138 and the groove 134.
To engage the ring slip member 130 with the second tubing member 140, and lock the first tubing member 138 relative the second tubing member 140, an expander is passed through the first tubing member 138 to "take out"
the protrusion 144 created in forming the groove 134.
After expansion, and as illustrated in Figure 21, a slightly shallower groove 146 is retained in the expanded tubing.
To subsequently release the first tubing member 138 from the second tubing member 140, a tool 148 is run into the bore to provide fluid communications between the tool interior 150 and the fluid port 142, as illustrated in Figure 22a. If pressurised fluid is then supplied through the tool 148 and into the groove 146, the tubing wall around the ring slip member 130 may be plastically deformed to such an extent that the ring slip member 130 is moved
To engage the ring slip member 130 with the second tubing member 140, and lock the first tubing member 138 relative the second tubing member 140, an expander is passed through the first tubing member 138 to "take out"
the protrusion 144 created in forming the groove 134.
After expansion, and as illustrated in Figure 21, a slightly shallower groove 146 is retained in the expanded tubing.
To subsequently release the first tubing member 138 from the second tubing member 140, a tool 148 is run into the bore to provide fluid communications between the tool interior 150 and the fluid port 142, as illustrated in Figure 22a. If pressurised fluid is then supplied through the tool 148 and into the groove 146, the tubing wall around the ring slip member 130 may be plastically deformed to such an extent that the ring slip member 130 is moved
16 radially inwards, out of engagement with the inner surface of the second tubing member 140, as illustrated in Figure 22b.
Reference is now made to Figures 23, 24 and 25 of the drawings, which are a diagrammatic sectional views of portions of the walls of two tubing members 156, 158 of a coupling arrangement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a ring slip member 160 is located in a machined groove 162 in the inner tubing member 156, the groove having a shallow portion 162a and a deeper portion 162b. The slip member 160 is initially located in the shallow groove portion 162a, and is retained there by a shear pin 164.
The ring slip member 160 is engaged with the outer tubing 158, to lock the tubing members 156, 158 together, in a similar manner to the above described embodiments, that is by passing an expander through the inner tubing member 156. The ring slip 160 may or may not be split, however during the locking process the slip member 160 is not deformed completely past the yield point of the material; this provides a restoring force to facilitate release of the member 160, as described below.
To release the inner tubing member 156, an upwards force is applied to the inner tubing member 156, which force may be applied mechanically or hydraulically. The release force must be sufficient to shear the pin 164, allowing the tubing 156 to move upwards relative to the outer tubing 158 and the slip member 160, which is of course locked relative to the tubing 158. This relative movement positions the slip member 160 in the deeper portion of the groove 162b (Figure 25a), and subsequent
Reference is now made to Figures 23, 24 and 25 of the drawings, which are a diagrammatic sectional views of portions of the walls of two tubing members 156, 158 of a coupling arrangement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a ring slip member 160 is located in a machined groove 162 in the inner tubing member 156, the groove having a shallow portion 162a and a deeper portion 162b. The slip member 160 is initially located in the shallow groove portion 162a, and is retained there by a shear pin 164.
The ring slip member 160 is engaged with the outer tubing 158, to lock the tubing members 156, 158 together, in a similar manner to the above described embodiments, that is by passing an expander through the inner tubing member 156. The ring slip 160 may or may not be split, however during the locking process the slip member 160 is not deformed completely past the yield point of the material; this provides a restoring force to facilitate release of the member 160, as described below.
To release the inner tubing member 156, an upwards force is applied to the inner tubing member 156, which force may be applied mechanically or hydraulically. The release force must be sufficient to shear the pin 164, allowing the tubing 156 to move upwards relative to the outer tubing 158 and the slip member 160, which is of course locked relative to the tubing 158. This relative movement positions the slip member 160 in the deeper portion of the groove 162b (Figure 25a), and subsequent
17 movement of the tubing 156, combined with the restoring force within the elastically deformed member 160, moves the slip member radially inwardly and into the deeper slot portion 162b (Figure 25b), thus releasing the tubing 156 such that it may be withdrawn or otherwise moved in the bore.
Reference is now made to Figures 26, 27, 28a and 28b of the drawings, which are diagrammatic sectional views of portions of the walls of two tubing members 170, 172 of another releasable coupling arrangement. The arrangement differs from that of Figures 23 to 25 in that the ring slip member 174 features a tapering profile, as does the machined groove 176 in which the slip member 174 is located. The setting and release procedures are the same as for the embodiment of Figures 23 to 25, however load is supported against the interference of the slip member 174 compressively on the tapered groove profile, as opposed to on the upper face or flank of the slip member.
Reference is now made to Figures 29, 30 and 31, which illustrate tubing 260 forming part of a hanger system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The tubing 260 defines two circumferential grooves 262, 263 which accommodate resilient sealing members (not shown).
Further, the tubing 260 defines a number of formed recesses which accommodate generally circular slip areas 264 formed of small blocks of relatively hard material held in a softer matrix.
When the tubing 260 is located within a larger diameter tubing (not shown), and expanded as described above, the sealing members in the grooves 262, 263 form seals with the outer tubing, and the blocks of material in the slip areas 264 key into this surrounding larger
Reference is now made to Figures 26, 27, 28a and 28b of the drawings, which are diagrammatic sectional views of portions of the walls of two tubing members 170, 172 of another releasable coupling arrangement. The arrangement differs from that of Figures 23 to 25 in that the ring slip member 174 features a tapering profile, as does the machined groove 176 in which the slip member 174 is located. The setting and release procedures are the same as for the embodiment of Figures 23 to 25, however load is supported against the interference of the slip member 174 compressively on the tapered groove profile, as opposed to on the upper face or flank of the slip member.
Reference is now made to Figures 29, 30 and 31, which illustrate tubing 260 forming part of a hanger system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The tubing 260 defines two circumferential grooves 262, 263 which accommodate resilient sealing members (not shown).
Further, the tubing 260 defines a number of formed recesses which accommodate generally circular slip areas 264 formed of small blocks of relatively hard material held in a softer matrix.
When the tubing 260 is located within a larger diameter tubing (not shown), and expanded as described above, the sealing members in the grooves 262, 263 form seals with the outer tubing, and the blocks of material in the slip areas 264 key into this surrounding larger
18 diameter tubing. Thus, the expanded tubing 260 is sealed and anchored within the larger diameter tubing.
It will be apparent to those of skill in the art that the above-described embodiments provide relatively simple yet effective means for sealing and anchoring a thin wall tubing member within a larger diameter tubing. Further, the provision of one or both of an anchor and a seal may be achieved without any significant loss of diameter, and the arrangement of seals and slip members is such that the seals and slip members are protected from damage while running in and are thus more likely to provide an effective sealing and anchoring arrangement.
It will further be apparent to those of skill in the art that the above-described embodiments are merely exemplary of the present invention, and that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the present invention. For example, the invention is not limited to use in thin wall tubing, and may be utilised in any deformable tubing. Further, the deformable tubing may form part of a larger tubing member which is otherwise non-deformable, or not intended for deformation.
It will be apparent to those of skill in the art that the above-described embodiments provide relatively simple yet effective means for sealing and anchoring a thin wall tubing member within a larger diameter tubing. Further, the provision of one or both of an anchor and a seal may be achieved without any significant loss of diameter, and the arrangement of seals and slip members is such that the seals and slip members are protected from damage while running in and are thus more likely to provide an effective sealing and anchoring arrangement.
It will further be apparent to those of skill in the art that the above-described embodiments are merely exemplary of the present invention, and that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the present invention. For example, the invention is not limited to use in thin wall tubing, and may be utilised in any deformable tubing. Further, the deformable tubing may form part of a larger tubing member which is otherwise non-deformable, or not intended for deformation.
Claims (98)
1. A method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at an anchor portion of the first tubular member;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and disengaging the anchoring member from the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter;
providing at least one recess in said external surface at an anchor portion of the first tubular member;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and disengaging the anchoring member from the inner surface of the second tubular member.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the second tubular member is located downhole.
3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the anchoring member initially describes a diameter less than said first diameter.
4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the recess is provided in the form of an annular depression.
5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the recess is formed at least in part by deforming the first tubular member at said anchor portion to create a localised reduction in external diameter.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein the deformation of the first tubular member at said anchor portion occurs while retaining the wall thickness of the tubular member.
7. The method of claim 5, wherein the deformation of the first tubular member at said anchor portion is achieved by at least one of moving or removing material from said anchor location to create a region of reduced wall thickness.
8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the anchoring member receiving recess is provided within a larger recess.
9. The method of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the anchor portion is expanded by rolling expansion, with an expansion member being rotated within the first tubular member with a face in rolling contact with an internal surface thereof.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the anchor portion is deformed by compressive plastic deformation, producing a localised reduction in wall thickness and a subsequent increase in diameter.
11. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first tubular member is expanded only at or in the region of the anchor portion.
12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein an extended portion of the tubular member is expanded.
13. The method of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein a plurality of longitudinally spaced anchoring members are provided at the anchor portion of the first tubular member and expanding said anchor portion of the first tubular member brings the anchoring members into engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
14. The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said first tubular member is thin-walled and the anchor portion thereof is expanded by rolling expansion to create a hoop stress in the member and to bring at least a portion of the external surface of the first member into contact with the second member, whereby subsequent collapse of the first member requires circumferential compression of the wall of the first member or deformation of the second member.
15. The method of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said disengagement is achieved by moving the anchoring member relative to the first tubular member.
16. A coupling arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor portion of the first tubular member; and an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter described by the anchoring member to at least said first diameter;
and wherein the anchoring member is arranged to be retractable.
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining at least one recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor portion of the first tubular member; and an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member increases the diameter described by the anchoring member to at least said first diameter;
and wherein the anchoring member is arranged to be retractable.
17. The arrangement of claim 16, wherein the first tubular member is tubing adapted for location downhole.
18. The arrangement of claim 16 or 17, wherein the anchoring member initially defines a diameter less than said first diameter.
19. The arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the recess is in the form of an annular depression.
20. The arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the recess is defined by a localised reduction in external diameter of the first tubular member.
21. The arrangement of claim 20, wherein wall thickness of the tubular member is retained at the anchor location.
22. The arrangement of claim 20, wherein there is a region of reduced wall thickness at the seal location.
23. The arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the sealing member receiving recess is located within a larger recess.
24. The arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 23, wherein the anchoring member is of a relatively hard material.
25. The arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein the anchoring member is in the form of a ring.
26. The arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein the anchoring member is in the form of an area of relatively hard material.
27. The arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 26, wherein the anchoring member is initially releasably retained in a shallow part of a recess in the external surface of the first tubular member and is movable to a deeper part of said recess.
28. The arrangement of any one of claims 16 to 27, wherein a plurality of longitudinally spaced anchoring members are provided on the first tubular member.
29. A method of forming a coupling or seal between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface describing a first diameter;
providing a recess in said external surface at an anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth;
locating an anchoring member or deformable sealing member in the recess such that the anchoring member or sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member to reduce the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth such that the anchoring member or sealing member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and retracting the anchoring member or sealing member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, the external surface describing a first diameter;
providing a recess in said external surface at an anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth;
locating an anchoring member or deformable sealing member in the recess such that the anchoring member or sealing member describes an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member to reduce the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth such that the anchoring member or sealing member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and retracting the anchoring member or sealing member.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein the anchoring member is metallic.
31. The method of claim 29 or 30, comprising initially releasably retaining the anchoring member in a shallow part of a recess in the external surface of the first tubular member and subsequently moving the anchoring member to a deeper part of said recess.
32. The method of claim 29, wherein on expanding the anchor or seal portion, the sealing member is deformed to assume a substantially convex cross-section in contact with the external surface of the first tubular member.
33. The method of any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the sealing member is of an elastomer.
34. The method of any one of claims 29 to 33, wherein the sealing member is of a ductile material.
35. The method of any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein the anchoring member or sealing member forms a continuous band circumferentially.
36. The method of any one of claims 29 to 35, wherein the second tubular member is located downhole.
37. The method of any one of claims 29 to 36, wherein the anchoring member or sealing member initially describes a diameter smaller than said first diameter.
38. The method of any one of claims 29 to 37, wherein the recess is provided in the form of an annular depression.
39. The method of claim 38, wherein the annular depression is formed at least in part by deforming the first tubular member at said anchor or seal portion to create a localised reduction in external diameter.
40. The method of claim 39, wherein the deformation of the first tubular member at said anchor or seal portion occurs while retaining the wall thickness of the first tubular member.
41. The method of claim 39, wherein the deformation of the first tubular member at said anchor or seal portion is achieved by at least one of moving or removing material from said anchor or seal portion to create a region of reduced wall thickness.
42. The method of any one of claims 29 to 41, wherein the recess is provided within a larger recess.
43. The method of any one of claims 29 to 42, wherein the anchor or seal portion is expanded by rolling expansion, with an expansion member being rotated within the first tubular member with a face in rolling contact with an internal surface thereof.
44. The method of claim 43, wherein the anchor or seal portion is deformed by compressive plastic deformation, producing a localised reduction in wall thickness and a subsequent increase in diameter.
45. The method of any one of claims 29 to 44, wherein the first tubular member is expanded only at or in the region of the anchor or seal portion.
46. The method of any one of claims 29 to 44, wherein an extended portion of the first tubular member is expanded.
47. The method of any one of claims 29 to 46, wherein a plurality of longitudinally spaced sealing/anchoring members are provided at the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member and expanding said anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member brings the sealing/anchoring members into engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
48. The method of any one of claims 29 to 47, wherein said first tubular member is thin-walled and the anchor or seal portion thereof is expanded by rolling expansion to create a hoop stress in the member and to bring the external surface of the first member into contact with the second member, whereby subsequent collapse of the first member requires circumferential compression of the wall of the first member or deformation of the second member.
49. The method of any one of claims 29 to 48, further comprising disengaging the anchoring member or sealing member from the inner surface of the second tubular member.
50. The method of claim 49, wherein said disengagement is achieved by moving the anchoring member or sealing member relative to the first tubular member.
51. A coupling or seal-forming arrangement comprising:
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining a recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth; and an anchoring member or deformable sealing member in the recess, the anchoring member or sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member reduces the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth and increases the diameter of the anchoring member or sealing member to at least said first diameter; and wherein the anchoring member or sealing member is arranged to be retractable.
a first tubular member having an internal surface, and an external surface describing a first diameter, the tubular member defining a recess in said external surface at a deformable anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member, said recess having an initial depth; and an anchoring member or deformable sealing member in the recess, the anchoring member or sealing member describing an external diameter no greater than said first diameter;
wherein expansion of at least the anchor or seal portion of the first tubular member reduces the depth of said recess to a final depth smaller than said initial depth and increases the diameter of the anchoring member or sealing member to at least said first diameter; and wherein the anchoring member or sealing member is arranged to be retractable.
52. The arrangement of claim 51, wherein the anchoring member is of a material hard relative to the material of the second tubular member.
53. The arrangement of claim 51 or 52, wherein the anchoring member is in the form of a ring.
54. The arrangement of claim 51 or 52, wherein the anchoring member is in the form of an area of material hard relative to the material of the second tubular member.
55. The arrangement of any one of claims 51 to 54, wherein the anchoring member is initially releasably retained in a shallow part of a recess in the external surface of the first tubular member and is movable to a deeper part of said recess.
56. The arrangement of claim 51, wherein the sealing member is of an elastomer.
57. The arrangement of claim 51 or 56, wherein the sealing member is of a ductile metal.
58. The arrangement of any one of claims 51 to 57, wherein the first tubular member is tubing adapted for location downhole.
59. The arrangement of any one of claims 51 to 58, wherein the anchoring member or sealing member initially defines a diameter smaller than said first diameter.
60. The arrangement of any one of claims 51 to 59, wherein .the recess is in the form of an annular depression.
61. The arrangement of claim 60, wherein the annular depression is defined by a localised reduction in external diameter of the first tubular member.
62. The arrangement of claim 61, wherein the wall thickness of the first tubular member is retained at the anchor or seal portion.
63. The arrangement of claim 61, wherein there is a region of reduced wall thickness at the anchor or seal portion.
64. The arrangement of any one of claims 51 to 63, wherein the anchoring member or sealing member receiving recess is located within a larger recess.
65. The arrangement of any one of claims 51 to 64, wherein a plurality of longitudinally spaced sealing/anchoring members are provided on the first tubular member.
66. The arrangement of any one of claims 51 to 65, wherein the recess is wedge shaped.
67. A method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
68. The method of claim 67, wherein the first tubular includes a second deeper recess in the external surface and the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection.
69. The method of claim 68, further including applying a force to the first tubular member to shear the shearable connection and cause the anchoring member to move from the at least one recess to the second deeper recess.
70. The method of claim 69, wherein the anchoring member moves radially inward when the anchoring member is in the second deeper recess, thereby releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the second tubular member.
71. A method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter at a substantially single axial location relative to the first tubular member no greater than the first diameter, wherein the anchor member is a continuous ring;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and retracting the anchoring member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at an anchor portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter at a substantially single axial location relative to the first tubular member no greater than the first diameter, wherein the anchor member is a continuous ring;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and retracting the anchoring member.
72. The method of claim 71, wherein the anchoring member initially describes a diameter less than the first diameter.
73. The method of claim 71 or 72, wherein the recess is provided in the form of an annular depression.
74. The method of claim 71 or 72, wherein the recess is formed at least in part by deforming the first tubular member at the anchor portion to create a localised reduction in external diameter.
75. The method of claim 74, wherein the deformation of the first tubular member at the anchor portion occurs while retaining the wall thickness of the tubular member.
76. A method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding a circumferential portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding a circumferential portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
77. A method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member;
positioning a tool proximate the seal portion such that a port in the tool aligns with a fluid port in the seal portion of the first tubular; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member;
positioning a tool proximate the seal portion such that a port in the tool aligns with a fluid port in the seal portion of the first tubular; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
78. The method of claim 77, further including pumping fluid through the fluid port and into the at least one recess.
79. The method of claim 78, wherein the fluid causes the anchoring member to move radially inward, thereby releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the second tubular member.
80. A method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess and a second deeper recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess and a second deeper recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
81. The method of claim 80, further including applying a force to the first tubular member to shear the shearable connection and cause the anchoring member to move from the at least one recess to the second deeper recess.
82. The method of claim 81, wherein the anchoring member moves radially inward when the anchoring member is in the second deeper recess, thereby releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the second tubular member.
83. A method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection and the at least one recess includes a tapered profile;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes a seal portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection and the at least one recess includes a tapered profile;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
84. The method of claim 83, further including applying a force to the first tubular member to shear the shearable connection and cause the anchoring member to move along the tapered profile of the at least one recess.
85. The method of claim 84, wherein movement along the tapered profile causes the anchoring member to move radially inward, thereby releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the second tubular member.
86. A method of forming a coupling or anchor between two tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at a seal portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface describing a first diameter, wherein the first tubular includes at least one recess in the external surface at a seal portion;
locating an anchoring member in the recess, the anchoring member describing an external diameter no greater than the first diameter;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the seal portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
87. The method of claim 86, wherein the first tubular includes a second deeper recess in the external surface and the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection.
88. The method of claim 87, further including applying a force to the first tubular member to shear the shearable connection and cause the anchoring member to move from the at least one recess to the second deeper recess.
89. The method of claim 88, wherein the anchoring member moves radially inward when the anchoring member is in the second deeper recess, thereby releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the second tubular member.
90. A method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member;
positioning a tool proximate the anchor portion such that a port in the tool aligns with a fluid port in the anchor portion of the first tubular; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member;
positioning a tool proximate the anchor portion such that a port in the tool aligns with a fluid port in the anchor portion of the first tubular; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
91. The method of claim 90, further including pumping fluid through the fluid port and into the at least one recess.
92. The method of claim 91, wherein the fluid causes the anchoring member to move radially inward, thereby releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the second tubular member.
93. A method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess and a second deeper recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess and a second deeper recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
94. The method of claim 93, further including applying a force to the first tubular member to shear the shearable connection and cause the anchoring member to move from the at least one recess to the second deeper recess.
95. The method of claim 94, wherein the anchoring member moves radially inward when the anchoring member is in the second deeper recess, thereby releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the second tubular member.
96. A method of forming a coupling between tubular members, the method comprising:
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection and the at least one recess includes a tapered profile;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
providing a first tubular member having an internal surface and an external surface, wherein the first tubular includes an anchor portion comprising at least one recess in the external surface and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is secured in the at least one recess with a shearable connection and the at least one recess includes a tapered profile;
locating the first tubular member within a second tubular member;
expanding at least the anchor portion of the first tubular member such that the anchoring member engages an inner surface of the second tubular member; and releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the inner surface of the second tubular member.
97. The method of claim 96, further including applying a force to the first tubular member to shear the shearable connection and cause the anchoring member to move along the tapered profile of the at least one recess.
98. The method of claim 97, wherein movement along the tapered profile causes the anchoring member to move radially inward, thereby releasing the anchoring member from engagement with the second tubular member.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB0106820.4 | 2001-03-20 | ||
| GBGB0106820.4A GB0106820D0 (en) | 2001-03-20 | 2001-03-20 | Tubing anchor |
| PCT/GB2002/001315 WO2002075107A1 (en) | 2001-03-20 | 2002-03-20 | Tubing seal |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2441814A1 CA2441814A1 (en) | 2002-09-26 |
| CA2441814C true CA2441814C (en) | 2011-01-04 |
Family
ID=9911055
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2441814A Expired - Fee Related CA2441814C (en) | 2001-03-20 | 2002-03-20 | Tubing seal |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US20020175474A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2441814C (en) |
| GB (2) | GB0106820D0 (en) |
| NO (1) | NO333993B1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2002075107A1 (en) |
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-
2001
- 2001-03-20 GB GBGB0106820.4A patent/GB0106820D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2002
- 2002-03-20 GB GB0322532A patent/GB2390866B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2002-03-20 US US10/102,543 patent/US20020175474A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2002-03-20 WO PCT/GB2002/001315 patent/WO2002075107A1/en not_active Ceased
- 2002-03-20 CA CA2441814A patent/CA2441814C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2003
- 2003-09-17 NO NO20034136A patent/NO333993B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| NO333993B1 (en) | 2013-11-11 |
| CA2441814A1 (en) | 2002-09-26 |
| WO2002075107A1 (en) | 2002-09-26 |
| GB2390866B (en) | 2005-06-22 |
| NO20034136L (en) | 2003-11-12 |
| NO20034136D0 (en) | 2003-09-17 |
| GB0106820D0 (en) | 2001-05-09 |
| GB0322532D0 (en) | 2003-10-29 |
| US20020175474A1 (en) | 2002-11-28 |
| GB2390866A (en) | 2004-01-21 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20180320 |