CA2526837C - Downhole surge pressure reduction and filtering apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a downhole cementing apparatus (100) run into a borehole on a tubular. The apparatus is constructed on the pipe (110) in such a way that pressure surge during run-in is reduced by allowing fluid to enter the pipe and utilise the fluid pathway of the cement. In one aspect of the invention, a inner member (135) is provided that filters fluid as it enters the fluid pathway. In another aspect of the invention, various methods are provided within the cementing apparatus to loosen and displace sediment in the borehole prior to cementing.

Description

DOWNHOLE SURGE PRESSURE REDUCTION AND
FILTERING APPARATUS
This is a divisional application of Canadian Patent Application Serial No.

2,400,973 filed on March 12, 2001.

The present invention provides a downhole surge pressure reduction apparatus for use in the oil well industry. More particularly, the invention provides a surge pressure reduction apparatus that is run into a well with a pipe string or other tubular to be cemented and facilitates the cementing by reducing surge pressure and inner well sediments during run-in. It should be understood that the expression "the invention" and the like encompasses the subject matter of both the parent and the divisional applications.
In the drilling of a hydrocarbon well, the bore hole is typically lined with strings of pipe or tubulars (pipe or casing) to prevent the walls of the bore hole from collapsing and to provide a reliable path for well production fluid, drilling mud and other fluids that are naturally present or that may be introduced into the well. Typically, after the well is drilled to a new depth, the drill bit and drill string are removed and a string of pipe is lowered into the well to a predetermined position whereby the top of the pipe is at about the same height as the bottom of the existing string of pipe (liner). In other instances, the new pipe string extends back to the surface of the well casing. In either case, the top of the pipe is fixed with a device such as a mechanical hanger. A column of cement is then pumped into the pipe or a smaller diameter run-in string and forced to the bottom of the bore hole where it flows out of the pipe and flows upwards into an annulus defined by the bore hole and pipe. The two principal functions of the cement between the pipe and the bore hole are to restrict fluid movement between formations and to support the pipe.
To save time and money, apparatus to facilitate cementing are often lowered into the bore hole along with a hanger and pipe to be cemented. Cementing apparatus typically includes a number of difference components made up at the surface prior to run-in. These include a tapered nose portion located at the downhole end of the pipe to facilitate insertion thereof into the bore hole. A check valve at least partially seals the end of the tubular and prevents entry of well fluid during run-in while permitting cement to subsequently flow outwards. Another valve or plug typically located in a baffle collar above the cementing tool prevents the cement in the annulus from back flowing into the pipe. Components of the cementing apparatus are made of plastic, fibreglass or other disposable material that, like cement remaining in the pipe, can be drilled when the cementing is completed and the borehole is drilled to a new depth.

There are problems associated with running a cementing apparatus into a well 5- with a string of pipe. One such problem is surge pressure created as the pipe and cementing apparatus are lowered into the borehole filled with drilling mud or other well fluid. Because the end of the pipe is at least partially flow restricted, sane of the well fluid is necessarily directed into the annular area between the borehole and the pipe.
Rapid lowering of the pipe results in a corresponding increase or surge in pressure, at or below the pipe, generated by restricted fluid flow in the annulus. Surge pressure has many detrimental effects. For example, it can cause drilling fluid to be lost into the earth formation and it can weaken the exposed formation when the surge pressure in the borehole exceeds the formation pore pressure of the well. Additionally, surge pressure can cause a loss of cement to the formation during the cementing of the pipe due to formations that have become fractured by the surge pressure.

One response to the surge pressure problem is to decrease the running speed of the pipe downhole in order to maintain the surge pressure at an acceptable level. An acceptable level would be a level at least where the drilling fluid pressure, including the surge pressure is less than the formation pore pressure to minimise the above detrimental effects. However, any reduction of surge pressure is beneficial because the more surge pressure is reduced, the faster the pipe can be run into the borehole and the more profitable a drilling operation becomes.

The problem of surge pressure has been further addressed by the design of cementing apparatus that increases the flow path for drilling fluids through the pipe during run-in. In one such design, the check valve at the downhole end of the cementing apparatus is partially opened to flow during run-in to allow well fluid to enter the pipe and pressure to thereby be reduced. Various other paths are also provided higher in the apparatus to allow the well fluid to migrate upwards in the pipe during run-in. For example, baffle collars used at the top of cementing tools have been designed to permit the through flow of fluid during run-in by utilising valves that are held in a partially open position during run-in and then remotely closed later to prevent

3 back flow of cement. While these designs have been somewhat successful, the flow of well fluid is still impeded by restricted passages. Subsequent closing of the valves in the cementing tool and the baffle collar is also problematic because of mechanical failures and contamination.

Another problem encountered by prior art cementing apparatus relates to sediment, sand, drill cuttings and other particulates collected at the bottom of a newly drilled borehole and suspended within the drilling mud that fills the borehole prior to running-in a new pipe. Sediment at the borehole bottom becomes packed and prevents the pipe and cementing apparatus from being seated at the very bottom of the borehole after run-in. This misplacement of the cementing apparatus results in difficulties having the pipe in the well or at the wellhead. Also, the sediment below the cementing apparatus tends to be transported into the annulus with the cement where it has a detrimental effect on the quality of the cementing job. In those prior art designs that allow the drilling fluid to enter the pipe to reduce surge pressure, the fluid borne sediment can foul mechanical parts in the borehole and can subsequently contaminate the cement.

There is a need therefore for a cementing apparatus that reduces surge pressure as it is run-into the well with a string of pipe. There is a further need, for a cementing apparatus that more effectively utilises the flow path of cement to transport well fluid and reduced pressure surge during run-in. There is a further need for a cementing apparatus that filters sediments and particles from well fluid during run-in.

According to a first aspect the present invention provides a tool for use in a tubular string comprising:
a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to allow fluid to be filtered therethrough to pass therein as the tool is run into a borehole; and a flow restrictor proximate the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from enteri-ng the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.

3a The present invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string comprising a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to allow fluid to be filtered therethrough to pass therein as the tool is run into a borehole, a flow restrictor proximate the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the downhole end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the downhole end of the inner member, a tubular outer body substantially open at a downhole end to the inward flow of fluid, and an annular area defined between the outside of the inner member and the inside of the outer body.
The tool can further provide a flow path for fluid from the tool to a pipe thereabove. The inner member can include a plurality of perforations formed therein, providing a fluid flow path therethrough. . The tool can further include at least one layer of filtering medium disposed around the perforations of the inner member. The filtering medium can be disposed within the inner member, and can be composed of a non-woven material.
The tool can further include a layer of braided material disposed around the perforations of the inner member. The perforations in the inner member may be selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough. When the perforations in the inner member are closed, a sealed chamber can be formed within the interior of the inner member. When the tool is run-into the borehole with the perforations closed, a pressure differential can be created between the pressure in the borehole and the pressure in the inner member. When the perforations are opened in the borehole, the pressure differential urges material from the wellbore into the tool.
The inner member can further include an inner sleeve disposed therein, the inner sleeve having perforations therethrough. The perforations through the inner sleeve may be aligned with the perforations through the inner member allowing fluid to flow therethrough and the perforations through the inner sleeve may be misaligned with the perforations through the inner member thereby preventing fluid from flowing therethrough. The perforations through the inner sleeve can be aligned and misaligned with the perforations through the inner member by moving the sleeve axially within in the inner member. Alternatively, the perforations through the inner sleeve can be aligned and misaligned with the perforations in the inner member by moving the sleeve rotationally within the inner member.
The perforations through the inner member can be remotely opened or closed.
The perforations can be remotely opened through the use of coiled tubing, through the use of wire line, or through the use of a projectile dropped from above.

3b The tool can further include a baffle collar disposed proximate an upper end of the tool, the baffle collar permitting the upward flow of fluid therethrough.
The upward flow path of fluid through the baffle collar can be sealed remotely.
The baffle collar can have:
at least one sealable by-pass channel permitting the upward flow of fluid as the tool is run into the borehole; and a restrictor permitting one-way fluid passage therethrough for the downward flow of fluid.
The baffle collar can include a flapper valve that is temporarily opened as the tool is run into the borehole, allowing fluid to pass upward therethrough. The flapper valve can be remotely closeable, thereby preventing the upward flow of fluid therethrough while allowing the downward flow of fluid therethrough. The tool can further include a plug assembly located in pipe above the tool, the plug assembly having an intermediate member disposed therein, the intermediate member having a central aperture therethrough and at least one sealable, by-pass aperture formed therearound to increase the flow volume of fluid through the intermediate member.
The plug assembly can further include a dart constructed and arranged to land in the plug, thereby sealing the central and the at least one by-pass aperture.
The annular area between the inner member and the outer body can be divided into an upper and lower chambers by an axially movable, donut-shaped member sealing the annular area and creating an atmospheric chamber in the upper chamber.
The donut-shaped member can be fixed within the annular area at a first location and retained by a releasable, locking member adjacent the donut-shaped member.
When the releasable locking member releases the donut-shaped member, a pressure differential between the upper and lower chambers can cause the donut-shaped member to move axially into the upper chamber, thereby creating a suction in the lower chamber.
In another embodiment, the annular area between the inner member and the outer body can be divided into an upper and lower chambers, the chambers divided by an axially locatable donut-shaped member sealing the annular area between the upper and lower chambers. That portion of the inner member extending through the upper chamber can include a shoulder formed therein and at least one aperture therearound, the shoulder arranged to hold an atmospheric chamber tool. An atmospheric chamber contained in the atmospheric chamber tool can create a pressure differential between the upper and lower chambers, thereby causing the donut-shaped member to move 3c axially in an upward direction and reducing the volume of the upper chamber and creating a suction in the lower chamber.
The outer body can be a wellbore casing, and the tool can be constructed of drillable material.
The tool can further include at least one collection member disposed within the annulus, the collection member constructed and arranged to allow fluid and particles to pass in the direction of the well surface while preventing the particles from returning to the borehole. In addition, the tool can further include at least one centring member disposed in the annular area. Also, the tool can further include a swabbing member disposable within a pipe thereabove, the swabbing member, when urged upwards, creating a suction in the tool therebelow. The swabbing member can be disposed in a non-perforated portion of the inner member.
The invention also provides a perforated tubular outer body having a closed downhole end, the perforations allowing:
well fluid from the borehole to be filtered therethrough; and a tubular inner member disposed within the outer body, the inner member isolated from an annulus between the inner member and the outer body and having a entryway for fluid at an upper end and an exit way for fluid at a lower end.
The invention also provides a baffle collar for use with a cementing tool, the baffle collar comprising:
an upper end constructed to receive a sealing member;
a lower end including a flow restrictor arranged to allow the downward flow of fluid though the collar; and at least one selectively sealable, by-pass channel permitting upward flow of fluid through the collar and into a pipe thereabove.
The invention also provides a plug assembly for use in a well, the assembly comprising:
a plug having an aperture therethrough, the plug connectable to pipe at an upper and a lower end;
a reduced diameter portion within the aperture constructed and arranged to provide a sealing surface whereby the aperture can be sealed with a first portion of a dart; and at least one bypass channel formed around the perimeter of the reduced diameter portion, the bypass channel constructed and arranged to permit the flow of fluid therethrough and to be sealed by a second portion of a dart.

3d The at least one by-pass channel can be sealed by contract between an enlarged diameter portion of a displaceable, inner member and an inside wall of the plug.
The invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string, comprising:
an outer body perforated along its length for filtering fluid and having and providing a one way flow path to a pipe thereabove; and an inner member disposed within the centre body, the inner member having a flow path for fluid into the upper end thereof and a one way flow path for fluid from the lower end thereof.
The invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string, comprising:
a perforated inner member having a one-way flow path for fluid at a lower end thereof and a closed upper end, the inner member constructed and arranged to filter fluid from the inside to the outside thereof, and an outer body disposed around the inner member, the outer body providing a flow path for filtered fluid to a pipe thereabove and providing a one way flow path therethrough for fluid.
The invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string, comprising:
an outer body substantially open to the flow of fluid at a lower end and having a plurality of longitudinal channels formed in the upper end thereof providing fluid communication between the outer body and a pipe thereabove.
The tool can further include filter material disposed within the outer body.
The tool can also further include a baffle collar at an upper end thereof, the baffle collar having a central aperture therethrough and a plurality of sealable by pass apertures and providing a flow path through the wall of the outer member.
The invention also provides a filtering apparatus for facilitating the filtering of fluid in a borehole comprising:
a body, connectable in a tubular string;
a filter member;
a particulate retention portion for retaining filtered particles; and a fluid flow channel directed through the retention portion and the filter member.
The invention also provides a method of filtering the fluid in a borehole by running a tubular string therein comprising the steps of:
attaching a filtering apparatus in the tubular string, the filtering apparatus comprising a filter member, a particulate retention portion and a fluid flow channel directed through the retention portion and the filter member; and 3e running the tubular string into the borehole, thereby causing the borehole fluid to be filtered through the filtering apparatus.
The invention also provides a method of separating a first density material in a bore hole from a second density material in the bore hole by running a tubular string therein comprising the steps of:
attaching a separation apparatus in the tubular string, the separation apparatus comprising a separation chamber, a second density material retention chamber and a flow channel directed through the separation chamber and in communication with the second density material retention chamber; and running the tubular string in to the bore hole, thereby causing the material in the bore hole to flow through the separation chamber.
The invention also provides a method of removing sediment from within a borehole comprising the steps of (a) inserting a tubular into the well to location proximate the sediment to be removed; and (b) creating a suction at a downhole end of the tubular through a pressure differential between a first chamber and a second chamber formed within the tubular, thereby urging sediment into the tool.
The first and second chambers can be separated by an axially movable member sealing the inner diameter of the tubular.
The invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string comprising:
an outer body;
an intermediate body disposed within the outer body;
a flow path for fluid into an outer annulus between the outer and intermediate bodies;
a tube channelling the flow of fluid from the outer annulus to an inner annulus between the intermediate body an the inner body;
a fluid passage in the wall of the inner body to allow fluid to pass from a filtering portion formed along the inner body to filter fluid passing from the inner annulus into the inner body;
a sealable flow path from the top of the inner body to a pipe thereabove; and a one way flow path from the inner body to the annulus therebelow.

4 At least in its preferred embodiments the invention provides a downhole apparatus run into a borehole on pipe. The apparatus is constructed on or in a string of pipe in such a way that pressure surge during run-in is reduced by allowing well fluid travel into a through the tool. In one aspect of the invention, an inner member is provided that filters or separates sediment from well fluid as it enters the fluid pathway.
In another aspect of the invention, various methods are provided within the apparatus to loosen, displace or suction sediment in the borehole.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member, a tubular outer body substantially open at a downhole end to the inward flow of fluid, and a baffle collar disposed proximate an upper end of the tool, the baffle collar permitting the upward flow of fluid therethrough.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member, a tubular outer body substantially open at a downhole end to the inward flow of fluid, and a baffle collar proximate an upper end thereof, the baffle collar having at least one sealable bypass channel permitting the upward flow of fluid as the tool is run into the bore hole, and a restrictor permitting one-way fluid passage therethrough for the downward flow of fluid.

4a In another aspect, the invention provides a cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member, and at least one collection member disposed within the annulus, the collection member constructed and arranged to allow fluid and particles to pass in the direction of the well surface while preventing the particles from returning to the bore hole.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cementing apparatus for facilitating the filtering of fluid in a bore hole comprising a body, connectable in a tubular string, a filter member, a particulate retention chamber for retaining filtered particles, a fluid flow channel directed through the retention chamber and the filter member, and a cement flow channel that substantially bypasses the filter member.

In another aspect, the invention provides an apparatus for use in a bore hole comprising a body, connectable in a tubular string, a filter member, a particulate retention chamber for retaining filtered particles, a fluid flow channel directed through the retention chamber and the filter member, and a cement flow channel that substantially bypasses the filter member.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, wherein the inner member includes a plurality of perforations formed therein and providing a fluid flow path therethrough, wherein the plurality of perforations may be selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough, an inner sleeve disposed therein, the inner sleeve having perforations therethrough that may be aligned with the perforations through the inner member allowing fluid to flow therethrough and the perforations through the inner sleeve may be misaligned with the perforations through the inner member thereby preventing fluid from flowing therethrough, wherein the perforations through the inner sleeve are 4b aligned and misaligned with the perforations through the inner member by moving the sleeve axially within the inner member, and a flow restrictor at a downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, the tubular inner member having a plurality of perforations formed therein and providing a fluid flow path therethrough, wherein the plurality of perforations may be remotely, selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough through the use of coiled tubing, and a flow restrictor at a downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, the tubular inner member having a plurality of perforations formed therein and providing a fluid flow path therethrough, wherein the plurality of perforations may be remotely, selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough through the use of wire line, and a flow restrictor at a downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.

In another aspect, the invention provides a cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, the tubular inner member having a plurality of perforations formed therein and providing a fluid flow path therethrough, wherein the plurality of perforations may be remotely, selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough through the use of a projectile dropped from 4c above, and a flow restrictor at a downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.
The present invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string comprising:
a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;
a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a plug assembly located in a pipe above the tubular inner member, the plug assembly comprising:
an intermediate member disposed therein, the intermediate member having a central aperture therethrough and at least one sealable, by-pass aperture formed therearound to increase the flow volume of fluid through the intermediate member; and a sealing member that is constructed and arranged to land in the plug assembly, thereby sealing the central aperture and the at least one by-pass aperture.
The present invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string comprising:
a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;
a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a baffle collar for use with a cementing tool, the baffle collar comprising:
an upper end constructed to receive a sealing member;
a lower end including a flow restrictor arranged to allow the downward flow of fluid through the collar; and at least one selectively sealable, by-pass channel permitting upward flow of fluid through the collar and into a pipe thereabove.
The present invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string comprising:
a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;

4d a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a plug assembly comprising:
a plug having an aperture therethrough, the plug connectable to pipe at an upper and a lower end;
a reduced diameter portion within the aperture constructed and arranged to provide a sealing surface whereby the aperture can be sealed with a first portion of a sealing member; and at least one by-pass channel formed around the perimeter of the reduced diameter portion, the by-pass channel constructed and arranged to permit the flow of fluid therethrough.
The present invention also provides a tool for use in a tubular string comprising:
a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;
a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a plug assembly located in a pipe above the tubular inner member, the plug assembly comprising:
a plug having an aperture therethrough, the plug connectable to pipe at an upper and a lower end; and an intermediate member disposed in the plug, the intermediate member having a central aperture therethrough and at least one by-pass aperture formed therearound to increase the flow volume of fluid through the intermediate member;
wherein the intermediate member is configured to receive a sealing member and is displaceable relative to the plug so that the central aperture is sealed by the sealing member and the at least one by-pass aperture is sealed by displacement of the intermediate member into contact with an inner surface of the plug.
The present invention also provides a method for using a tool in a wellbore comprising:

providing a tool, comprising:

4e a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;
a flow restrictor at the down hole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a plug assembly located in a pipe above the tubular inner member, the plug assembly comprising an intermediate member disposed therein, the intermediate member having a central aperture therethrough and at least one sealable, by-pass aperture formed therearound to increase the flow volume of fluid through the intermediate member; and cementing a string of tubulars in the wellbore using the tool.

Some preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures IA and B are section views of the tool of the present invention as it would appear in a borehole of a well;

Figure 2 is a section view showing a first embodiment of a baffle collar for use.
with the tool;

Figure 2A is an end view of the baffle collar of Figure 2, taken along lines 2A;

Figure 3 is a section view showing a second embodiment of a baffle collar;
Figure 4 is an end view.of a centralise located within the tool, taken along lines 4-4;

Figure 5 is a section view showing a third einbodiment of a baffle collar for use with the tool;

Figure 6A is a section view of a plug at the end of a run-in string illustrating the flow of fluid through the plug during run-in;

Figure 6B is an end view of the plug of Figure 6A;

Figure 6C is a section view of the plug of Figure 6A showing the flow paths of the plug sealed by a dart;

5 Figure 6D is a section view of a plug at the end of a run-in string illustrating the flow of fluid through the plug during run-in;

Figure 6E is an end view of the by-pass apertures illustrated in Figure 6D;

Figure 6F is a section view of the plug of Figure 6D showing the flow paths of the plug sealed by a dart;

Figure 7 is a section view showing a plug and dart assembly landed within a baffle collar.and sealing channels formed therein;
Figure 8 is an end view showing the nose portion of the tool, taken along lines 8-8;

Figures 9A and B are enlarged views of the lower portion of the tool;
Figures IOA and B depict an adjustment feature of the inner member of the tool;
Figure 10C is an enlarged view of the inner member of the tool showing the relationship between an inner member and an inner sleeve disposed therein;
Figures 11 A and B are section views showing the tool with an additional sediment trapping member disposed therein;

Figures 12A and B are section views showing the tool with an atmospheric chamber for evacuating sediment from the borehole;

Figures 13A, B and C are section views showing the tool of the present invention with a remotely locatable, atmospheric chamber placed therein;

6 PCT/GBOI/01070 Figures 14A and B are section views showing an alternative embodiment of the tool;

Figures 1SA and B are section views showing an alternative embodiment of the tool;

Figures 16A and B are section views showing an altemative embodiment of the tool;
Figure 17 is a section view showing an alternative embodiment of the tool;
Figure 18 is a section view showing an alternative embodiment of the tool;

Figures 19A, B and C are section views showing an alternative embodiment of the invention; and Figures 20A, B and C are section views showing an alternative embodiment of the invention.
Figures lA and B are section views showing the surge reduction and cementing tool 100 of the present invention. Figures 9A, B are enlarged views of the lower portion of the tool. In the Figures, the tool is depicted as it would appear after being inserted into a borehole 115. The tool 100 generally includes an outer body 110, a inner member 135 disposed within the outer body 110, a nose portion 120 and a baffle collar 125. Outer body 110 is preferably formed by the lower end of the pipe to be cemented in the borehole and the cementing tool 100 will typically be constructed and housed within the end of the pipe prior to being run-into the well. The terms "tubing,"
"tubular," "casing," "pipe" and "string" all relate to pipe used in a well or an operation within a well and are all used interchangeably herein. The term "pipe assembly" refers to a string of pipe, a hanger and a cementing tool all of which are run-into a borehole together on a run-in string of pipe. While the tool is shown in the Figures at the end of a

7 tubular string, it will be understood that the tool described and claimed herein could also be inserted at any point in a string of tubulars.

Nose portion 120 is installed at the lower end of outer body 110 as depicted in Figure 1B to facilitate insertion of the tool 100 into the borehole 115 and to add strength and support to the lower end of the apparatus 100. Figure 8 is an end view of the downhole end of the tool 100 showing the nose portion 120 with a plurality of radially spaced apertures 122 formed therearound and a centre aperture 124 formed therein.
Apertures 122 allow the inflow of fluid into the tool 100 during run-in and centre aperture 124 allows cement to flow out into the borehole.

Centrally disposed within the outer body 110 is inner member 135 providing a filtered path for well fluid during run-in and a path for cement into the borehole during the subsequent cementing job. At a lower end, inner member 135 is supported by nose portion 120. Specifically, support structure 121 formed within nose portion surrounds and supports the lower end of inner member 135. Disposed between the lower end of inner member 135 and nose portion 120 is check valve 140. The purpose of valve 140 is to restrict the flow of well fluid into the lower end of inner member 135 while allowing the outward flow of cement from the end of inner member as will be decried herein. As shown in Figure 1B, check valve 140 is preferably a spring-loaded type valve having a ball to effectively seal the end of a tubular and withstand pressure generated during run-in. However, any device capable of restricting fluid flow in a single direction can be utilized and all are within the scope of the invention as claimed.

Along the length of inner portion 135 are a number of centralizers 145 providing additional support for inner member 135 and ensuring the inner member retains its position in the center of outer body 110. Figure 4 is an end view of a centralizer 145 depicting its design and showing specifically its construction of radial spokes 146 extending from the inner member 135 to the inside wall of outer body 110, whereby fluid can freely pass though the annular area 155 fornned between inner member and outer body 110. Also visible in Figures lA , IB and 4 are funnel-shaped traps 147 designed to catch and retain sediment and particles that flow into the annular area 155, preventing them from falling back towards the bottom of the well. In the preferred WO 01/69036 PCT/GBOl/01070

8 embodiment, the sediment traps are nested at an upper end of each centralizer 145.
Depending upon the length of the inner member 135, any number of centralizers and sediment traps can be utilized in a tool 100.

Inner member 135 includes a inner portion formed therealong consisting of, in the preferred embodiment, perforations 160 extending therethrough to create a fluid path to the interior of the inner member 135. The perforations, while allowing the passage of fluid to reduce pressure surge, are also designed to prevent the passage of sediment or particles, thereby ensuring that the fluid traveling up the tool and into the pipe string above will be free of contaminants. The terms "filtering" and "separating"
will be used interchangeably herein and both related to the removal, separation or isolation of any type of particle or other contarninate from the fluid passing through the tool. The size, shape and number of the perforations 160 are variable depending upon run-in speed and pressure surge generated during lowering of the pipe. Various material can be used to increase or define the inner properties of the inner member.
For example, the inner member can be wrapped in or have installed in a membrane material made of corrosive resistant, polymer material and strengthened with a layer of braided metal wrapped therearound. Additionally, membrane material can be used to line the inside of the inner member.
The upper end of inner member 135 is secured within outer body I10 by a drillable cement ring 165 formed therearound. Inner member 135 terminates in a perforated cap 168 which can provide additional filteringoffluids and, in an.
alternative embodiment, can also serve to catch a ball or other projectile used to actuate some device higher in the borehole. Between the upper end of inner member 135 and baffle collar 125 is a space 180 that provides an accumulation point for cement being pumped into the tool 100.

At the upper end of tool 100 is a funnel-shaped baffle collar 125. In the preferred embodiment, the baffle collar provides a seat for a plug or other device which travels down the pipe behind a column of cement that is urged out the bottom of tool 100 and into the annulus 130 formed therearound. In the embodiment shown in Figure IA, the baffle collar is held within outer body 110 by cement or other drillable material.

9 A mid-portion of baffle collar 125 includes by-pass holes 172 and by-pass channels 175 extending therefrom to provide fluid communication between the baffle collar 125 and space 180 therebelow. At a lower portion of the baflle collar 125 is a check valve 178 to prevcnt the inward flow of fluid into the bafQe coIIar 125 whule allowing cement to flow outward into the space 180 therebelow. During run i.u, well fluid tzavels through channels 175. Fignre 2 is an enlarged section view showing the various components of the baffle collar. Figure 2A is a section view showing the by-pass channels 175 and the plaeement of the check valve 178.

Figure 7 illustrates a plug and dart assembly 190, having Ianded in baffle collar 125 sad sealed the fluid path of well fluid into the baffle collar'through by-pass holes 172 and by-pass channels 175. In the preferred embodiment, after cement has been injected into the borehole and a dart has travelled down the run-in string and landed in the plug, the plug and dart assembly 190 are launched from the running string and urged downward in the pipe behind the column of cement that will be used to cement the pipe in the borehole 115. The plug and dart assembly 190 are designed to seat in the bat'f1e collar 125 where they also function to prevent subsequent back flow of cement into the baffle collar 125 and the pipe (not shown) thereabove.

Figure 3 is a section view showing an alternative embodiment of a baffle eollar 300. In this ecnbodiment, the upper portion of the baffle collar 300 fozms a male portioA 301 with apertures 302 in fluid communication with by-pass channels 303.
Male portion 301 is received by a plug and dart having a mating female portion formed therein. In this manner, the apertures 302 in the male portion of the baffle collar are = covered and seated by the female portion of the plug and dart assembly (not shown).
Figure 5 illustrates a third embodiment of a baffle coIlar 400 for use in the tool of the present invention. In this embodiment, a flapper valve 405 is propped open during ran in tv allow well fluid to pass through the baffle collar 400 to relieve surge pressure. Once the pipe has been.run in into the well, the flapper valve 405 is reanotely closed by dropping a ball 410 into a seat 415 which allows the spring-loaded flapper valve 405 to elose. Thexeafter, the baffle collar 400 is sealed to the upper flow of fluid while the flapper valve 405 can be freely opened to allow the downward flow of cement. In this embodiment, the plug and dart assembly (not shown) includes wavy formations which mate with the wavy 420 formations formed in the baffle collar 400.
This embodiment is particularly useful anytime an object must be lowered or dropped into the cementing apparatus. Because it provides a clear path for a ball or other 5- projectile into the cementing tool, baffle collar 400' is particularly useful with a remotely locatable portable atmospheric chamber described hereafter and illustrated in Figures 13A-C.

Figures 6A-C illustrate a plug 194 and dart 200 at the end of a run-in string 185.

10 The run-in string transports the pipe into the borehole, provides a fluid path from the well surface and extends at least some distance into the pipe to be cemented.
The run-in string provides a flow path therethrough for well fluid during run-in and for cement as it passes from the well surface to the cementing tool at the end of the pipe. An intermediate member 192, disposed within the plug 194 and having a centre aperture 197 therethrough, provides a seal for the nose of dart 200 (Figure 6C) that lands in the plug 194 and seals the flow path therethrough. In order to increase the flow area through intermediate member 192 yet retain the dimensional tolerances necessary for an effective seal between the plug 194 and the dart 200, a number of by-pass apertures 193 are formed around the perimeter of the intermediate member 192. Figure 6B is a section view of the nose portion 190 of the plug 194 clearly showing the centre aperture 197 and by-pass apertures 193 of intermediate member 192. In the preferred embodiment, the by-pass apertures 193 are elliptical in shape.

Figure 6C is a section view showing the plug 194 with dart 200 seated therein.
Centre aperture 197 of the intermediate member 192 is sealed by the dart nose 198 and the by-pass apertures 193 are sealed by dart fin 201 once the intermediate member 192 is urged downward in interior of the plug 194 by the dart 200.

Figures 6D-F illustrate an altemative embodiment in which the by-pass apertures 220 of an intermediate member 222 are sealed when the intermediate member 222 is urged downward in the interior of the plug 225 by the dart 200, thereby creating a metal to metal seal between the plug surface 227 and outer diameter portion 226 of intermediate member 222.

11 Generally, the tool of the present invention is used in the same manner as those of the prior art. After the well has been drilled to a new dcpth, the drill string and bit are removed from the well leaving the borehole at least partially f.~lled with drilling fluid.
Thereafter, pipe is lowered into the borehole having the cementing tool of the present invention at a downhole end and a run in tool at an upper end. The entire assembly is run into the well at the end of a run-in string, a string of tubulars typically having a smaller diameter than the pipe and capable of providing an upward flow path for well fluid during run-in and a downward flow path for cement durittg the cementing operation, During run-in, the assembly rn;nirnises surge by passing well fluid through the radially spaced apertures 122 of nose portion and into the outer body 110 where it is filtered as it passes into the inner member 135. While some of the fluid will travel up the annulus 130 formed between the outer body 110 and the borehole 115, the tool 100 is designed to permit a greater volume of fluid to enter the intetior of the tubular being run into the well. Arrows 182 in Figure IB illustrate the path of fluid as it travels between outer body 110 and inner member 135. As the run-in operation continues and the pipe continues downwards in the borehole, the fluid level rises within inner member 135 reaching and filling space 180 between the upper end of the inner member 135 and the baffle collar 125. Prevented by check valve 178 from flowing into the bottom portion of the baffle collar 125, the fluid enters the baffle collar 125 through by-pass channels 175 and by-pass holes 172. Thereafter, the fluid can continue towards the surface of the well using the interior of the pipe and/or the inside diameter of the run-in string as a flow path.

With the nose portion 120 of the tool at the bottom of the well and the upper end located either at the surface well head or near the end of the previously cemented pipe, the pipe may be hung in place, either at the well head or near the bott,vm of the preceding string through the remote actuation of a hanger, usually using a slip and cone mechanism to wedge the pipe in place. Cementing of the pipe in the borehole can then be accomplished by kmown methods, concluding with the seating of a plug assembly on or in a baffle collar.

12 Figures IOA-C illustrate an attemative embodiment of the tool 500 wherein the perforations formed in an inner member 535 may be opened or closed depending upon well conditions or goals of the operator. In this embodiment, an inner sleeve 501 is located within the inner member 535. The inner sleeve 501 has perforations 502 formed therein and can be manipulated to cause alignment or misalignment with the mating perforations 503 in the inner member 535. For example, Figure l0A illustrates the inner member 535 having an inner sleeve 501 which has been manipulated to block the perforations 503 of the inner member 535. Specifically, the perforations of the inner member and the inner sleeve 502, 503 visible in Figure IOA at point "A" are misaligned, vertically blocking the flow of fluid therethrough. In contrast, Figure lOB
at point "B" illustrates the perforations 502, 503 vertically aligned whereby fluid can flow therethrough. The relationship between the inner sleeve 501 and inner member 135 is more closely illustrated in Figure IOC, showing the perforations 502, 503 of the inner sleeve 501 and inner member 535 aligned.

Manipulation of the inner sleeve 501 within the inner member 535 to align or misalign perforations 502, 503 can be performed any number of ways. For example, a ball or other projectile can be dropped into the tool 100 moving the inner sleeve 501 to cause its perforations 503 to align or misalign with the perforations 502 in inner member 535. Alternatively, the manipulation can be perfonned with wireline.
While the inner sleeve can be moved vertically in the embodiment depicted, it will be understood that the perforations 502, 503 could be aligned or misaligned through rotational as well as axial movement. For example, remote rotation of the sleeve could be performed with a projectile and a cam mechanism to impart rotational movement.

In operation, the perforations 502, 503 would be opened during run-in to allow increased surge reduction and inner of well fluid as described herein. Once the tool has been run into the well, the perforations 502, 503 could be remotely misaligned or closed, thereby causing the cement to exit the tool directly through the centre aperture 124 in the nose portion 120 of the tool, rather than through the perforations and into the annulus 130 between the inner member 135 and the outer body 110.

13 Figures l IA and B show an alternative embodiment of a cementing tool 550 including a sediment trap 555 formed between an inner member 560 and an outer body 110. As depicted in Figure I l B, the sediment trap 555 is a cone-shaped structure having a tapered lower end extending from an upper end of nose portion 120 and continuing upwards and outwards in a conical shape towards outer body 110. An annular area 565 is thereby formed between the outer wall of sediment trap 555 and the inside wall of outer body 110 for the flow of well fluid during run-in. The direction of flow is illustrated by arrows 570 in Figure I 1B. As the too1550 is run into a well, well fluid and any sediment is routed through annulus 565 and into the upper annulus 557 formed between inner member 560 and outer body 110. As the well fluid is filtered into inner member 560, particles 580 and sediment removed by inner member 560 fall back towards the bottom of the well into the sediment trap 555 where they are retained as illustrated in Figure 1 IB. Because that portion of inner member 565 extending through sediment trap 555 includes no inner perforations, contents of the sediment trap 555 remain separated from well fluid as it is filtered into inner member 560.

Figures 12A and B show an alternative embodiment of a tool 600, including an apparatus for displacing and removing sediment from the bottom of the borehole, thereby allowing the tool 600 to be more accurately placed at the bottom of the borehole prior to cementing. In the tool 600 depicted in Figures 12A and B an annular area between the inner member 610 and outer body 110 is separated into an upper chamber 605 and a lower chamber 615 by a donut-shaped member 620. The upper chamber 605, because it is isolated from well fluid and sealed at the well surface, forms an atmospheric chamber as the tool 600 is run into the borehole. Donut-shaped member 620 is axially movable within outer body 110 but is fixed in place by a frangible member 625, the body of which is mounted in the interior of inner member 610.
Pins 621 between the frangible member 625 and the donut-shaped member 620 hold the donut-shaped member in place.

After the tool 600 has been run into the borehole, a ball or other projectile (not shown) is released from above the tool 600. Upon contact between the projectile and the frangible member 625, the frangible member is fractured and the donut-shaped member 620 is released. The pressure differential between the upper 605 and lower 615

14 chambers of the tool causes the donut-shaped member 620 to move axially towards the well surface. This movement of the donut-shaped member 620 creates a suction in the lower chamber 615 of the tool which causes loose sediment (not shown) to be drawn into the lower chamber 615. In this manner, sediment is displaced from the borehole and the tool can be more accurately placed prior to a cementing job.

Figures 13A and B illustrate yet another embodiment of the tool 650, wherein a remotely locatable, atmospheric chamber 655 is placed in the interior of inner member 660. As with the embodiment described in Figures 12A and B, the annular area between inner member 660 and outer body 110 is divided into an upper 665 and lower 670 chambers with a donut-shaped member 675 dividing the two chambers. That portion of the inner member 680 extending through upper chamber 665 is not perforated but includes only a plurality of ports therearound. In this embodiment, pressure in the upper and lower chambers remain equalized during run-in of the tool into the borehole.
Atmospheric chamber 655 is contained within a tool 677. After run-in, atmospheric chamber tool 677 is lowered into the borehole by any known method including a separate running string or wireline. The atmospheric chamber tool 677 lands on a shoulder 682 formed in the interior of the inner member 680 at which point apertures 684 in the atmospheric chamber tool 677 and apertures 686 in the inner member 680 are aligned. In order to actuate the atmospheric chamber tool 850 and create a pressure differential between the upper 655 and lower 670 chambers, the atmospheric chamber tool 677 is urged downward until the apertures 684 and 685 are aligned. Upon alignment of the various apertures, the upper chamber 665 is exposed to the atmospheric chamber 655 and a pressure differential is created between the upper and lower chambers. The pressure differential causes the donut-shaped member 825 to move axially towards the top of the tool because the hydrostatic pressure in the lower chamber is greater than the in the upper chamber. Therefore, a suction is created in the lower chamber 820 which evacuates loose sediment from the borehole and improves positioning of the tool in the borehole for the cementing job.
In another embodiment, a swabbing device (not shown) is run-into the pipe above the tool or may be run-into the inner member 135 of the tool 100 to a location above the perforations 160. The swabbing device is then retracted in order to create a suction at the downhole end of the tool and urge sediment into the tool from the bottom of the borehole. The swabbing device is well known in the art and typically has a perimeter designed to allow fluid by-pass upon insertion into a tubular in one direction but expand to create a seal with the inside wall of the tubular when pulled in the other 5 direction. In the present embodiment, the swabbing device is inserted into the well at the surface and run-into the well to a predetermined location after the pipe assembly has been run-into the well, but before cementing. The swabbing device is then pulled upwards in the borehole creating a suction that is transmitted to the downhole end of the tool, thereby evacuating sediment from the borehole.
In yet another embodiment, the tool 100 is run-into the well with the perforations 502 and 503 misaligned. As the tool is run into the borehole with the pipe assembly, a pressure differential develops such that the hydrostatic pressure in the borehole is greater than the pressure in the pipe and/or the tool. When the perforations of the inner member are remotely opened at the pressure differential between the inner member and the fluid in the borehole creates a suction and sediment in the borehole is pulled into the tool and out of the well.

Figures 14A and B depict a tool 700, another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the outer body 705 is perforated along its length to allow the flow of well fluid therethrough during run-in of the tool into a borehole. The flow of fluid is indicated by arrows 710. Upon filling the outer body, the well fluid passes through two one-way check valves 715 into a baffle collar and thereafter into a pipe thereabove (not shown). The check valves 715 prevent fluid from retuming into the outer body 705. In this embodiment, the inner member 720 is non-perforated and is isolated from the annulus between the inner member and outer body. In operation, the inner member 720 carries cement from its upper end to its lower end where the cement passes through a lower check valve 725 and into the annular area between the outer body and the borehole (not shown).
Figures 15A and B are section views of another embodiment of the present invention depicting a tool 750. In this embodiment, well fluid travels through apertures 755 in the nose portion 760 of the tool 750 and into an annular area created between the inner member 765 and the outer body 770. From this annular area, flWd is filtered as it -passes into perforated filtering mernbers 775a,b which rernovE sand and sediment from the fluid before it passes through check valves 780 to a baffle collar and into a pipe.
The check valves prevent fluid from returning into the filtering members 775a,b. Like the cmbodiment of Figure 14, inner member 765 is a non-perforated member and provides a flow path for cement through a check valve 777 at the downhole end of the tool and, into the annulus to be cemented.

Figures.16A and B are section views of tool 8.00, another embodiment of the present invention. During run-in of the tool into the borehole, well fluid enters a cmtre aperture 815 at a downhole end of an inner member 805 passing through a flapper valve 810 located in the centre aperture 815 which prevents well fluid from subsequently exiting the centre aperture. Well fluid is filtered as it passes fronl the inside of the inner member 805 to the outer body 825. The fluid continues upwards through channels formed in the upper portion of the tool and into a pipe thereabove.
Subsequently, cement is urged into the tool through the channels 830 and tmvels within the outer body =825 to the.bottom of the tool where it exits through one-way check valves 835.

Fignre 17 is a section view of tool 850,- another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, well fluid enters nose portion 885 of tool through centre aperture 860 and radial apertures 865 and is filtered tbmugh a filter medium 870 such as packed fibre material, which is housed within an outer body 875. After being filtered through the filter medium, the well fluid passes through the upper portion of the tool, through channels 880 formed in the upper portion of the tool 850 and then through a baffle collar and into a pipe thereabove. Thereafter, the cement is introduced into the tool through the channels 880 and urged through the filter material to the bottom of the tool where it exits centre 860 and radial apertures 865 into the annular -area to be cemented.

Figure 18 is a section view of tool 900, another embodimeat of the present invention_ Like the embodiment shown in Figure 17, during run-in well fluid enters centre 905 and side 910 apertures at the bottom of the tool and is then filtered through woven fibre material 920 housed in the outer body 925. The well fluid passes through a baffle collar and into pipe thereabove through channels 930 formed at the upper end of the tool. In this embodiment, unlike the embodiment described in relation to Figure 17, the cement introduced into the annulus of the borehole by-passes the filter material 920 in the outer body 925. Specifically, ports 935 formed in the tool above the channels 930 provide an exit path for cement. During run-in, the ports 935 are sealed with a moveable sleeve allowing well fluid to pass from the filter material of the tool into the pipe thereabove. After the tool is run into the well, a plug is landed in the sleeve and urges the sleeve downward, thereby exposing the ports 935 which provide fluid communication between the inside of the tool and the borehole therearound.
Because the cement travels through the open ports 935 during the cementing job, there is no need to pump the cement through the woven fibre material 920 in the outer body 925.

Figures 19A, B and C are section views of an altemative embodiment of the present invention depicting a tool 950 for reducing surge during run-in and having a vortex separator for filtering sediment from well fluid. The vertex separator is well known in the art and operates by separating material based upon density. In the present invention, the fluid having a first density is separated from particles having a second density. In this embodiment, fluid enters the nose portion 957 of the tool through apertures 955 formed on each side of the nose portion. Thereafter, the fluid travels through an annular area 960 formed between the outer body 962 and intermediate member 964. The path of the fluid is demonstrated by arrows 965. At the upper end of annulus 960, the fluid enters swirl tube 968 where it is directed to another annular area 966 formed between the inner wall of intermediate 964 and inner member 967. As the fluid travels downwards in annulus 966, it enters a third annular area 971 defined by the outer wall of the inner member 967 and an inner wall of an enclosure 972 open at a lower end and closed at an upper end. The fluid is filtered as it enters perforations 968 formed in inner member 967 and thereafter, filtered fluid travels upwards. in inner member 967 through a baffle collar (not shown) and into a pipe thereabove. In the embodiment shown in Figure 19B, any sediment travelling with the fluid through annular area 966 is separated from the fluid as it enters inner member 967 through perforations 968. The sediment falls to the bottom of annular area 966 as illustrated in Figure 19. Cement is thereafter carried downward through inner member 967, exiting centre aperture 969 through one-way check valve 970.

Figure 20 is an alternative embodiment of the invention illustrating a tool that includes a venturi jet bailer formed within. This embodiment is particularly effective for removing or bailing sediment encountered at any point in a wellbore.
During run-in, well fluid enters the tool through centre aperture 976 formed in nose portion 977. Flapper valve 978 prevents fluid from returning to the wellbore.
After entering the tool, fluid is filtered through apertures 980 formed along the length of two filtering members 982. Thereafter, filtered fluid travels into a pipe 988 above the tool through nozzle 984, in order to reduce pressure'during run-in of the tool.
Wherever sediment is encountered in the wellbore, the tool can be operated as a bailer by pressurising fluid above the tool and causing a stream of high velocity, low pressure fluid to travel downward through nozzle 984. The flow of fluid during the bailing operation is illustrated by arrows 985. Specifically, fluid travels through the nozzle and into diverter 986 where the fluid is directed out of the tool through ports 987 and into an annular area outside of the tool (not shown). As the high velocity fluid is channelled through nozzle 984, a low pressure area is created adjacent the nozzle and a suction is thereby created in the lower portion of the tool. This suction causes any sediment present at the lower end of the tool to be urged into the tool through flapper valve 978. The sediment is prevented from falling back into the wellbore by the flapper valve and remains within the interior of the tool. Cementing is thereafter performed by pumping cement through the nozzle 984, into diverter 986 and into the annular area to be cemented (not shown) through ports 987.

While foregoing is directed to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.

Claims (29)

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:

1. A cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole;

a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member;

a tubular outer body substantially open at a downhole end to the inward flow of fluid;
and a baffle collar disposed proximate an upper end of the tool, the baffle collar permitting the upward flow of fluid therethrough.

2. The tool of claim 1, wherein the upward flow path of fluid through the baffle collar can be sealed remotely.

3. A cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole;

a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member;

a tubular outer body substantially open at a downhole end to the inward flow of fluid;
and a baffle collar proximate an upper end thereof, the baffle collar having:

at least one sealable bypass channel permitting the upward flow of fluid as the tool is run into the bore hole; and a restrictor permitting one-way fluid passage therethrough for the downward flow of fluid.

4. The tool of claim 3, wherein the baffle collar includes a flapper valve that is temporarily opened as the tool is run into the bore hole, allowing fluid to pass upward therethrough.

5. The tool of claim 4, wherein the flapper valve is remotely closeable, thereby preventing the upward flow of fluid therethrough while allowing the downward flow of fluid therethough.

6. A cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole;

a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and at least one collection member disposed within the annulus, the collection member constructed and arranged to allow fluid and particles to pass in the direction of the well surface while preventing the particles from returning to the bore hole.

7. The tool of claim 6, wherein the tool is drillable.

8. A cementing apparatus for facilitating the filtering of fluid in a bore hole comprising:

a body, connectable in a tubular string;
a filter member;

a particulate retention chamber for retaining filtered particles;

a fluid flow channel directed through the retention chamber and the filter member; and a cement flow channel that substantially bypasses the filter member.

9. An apparatus for use in a bore hole comprising:
a body, connectable in a tubular string;
a filter member;

a particulate retention chamber for retaining filtered particles;

a fluid flow channel directed through the retention chamber and the filter member; and a cement flow channel that substantially bypasses the filter member.

10. A cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, wherein the inner member includes:

a plurality of perforations formed therein and providing a fluid flow path therethrough, wherein the plurality of perforations may be selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough;

an inner sleeve disposed therein, the inner sleeve having perforations therethrough that may be aligned with the perforations through the inner member allowing fluid to flow therethrough and the perforations through the inner sleeve may be misaligned with the perforations through the inner member thereby preventing fluid from flowing therethrough, wherein the perforations through the inner sleeve are aligned and misaligned with the perforations through the inner member by moving the sleeve axially within the inner member; and a flow restrictor at a downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.

11. A cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, the tubular inner member having a plurality of perforations formed therein and providing a fluid flow path therethrough, wherein the plurality of perforations may be remotely, selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough through the use of coiled tubing; and a flow restrictor at a downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.

12. A cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, the tubular inner member having a plurality of perforations formed therein and providing a fluid flow path therethrough, wherein the plurality of perforations may be remotely, selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough through the use of wire line; and a flow restrictor at a downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.

13. A cementing tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a bore hole, the tubular inner member having a plurality of perforations formed therein and providing a fluid flow path therethrough, wherein the plurality of perforations may be remotely, selectively opened or closed to the flow of fluid therethrough through the use of a projectile dropped from above; and a flow restrictor at a downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member.

14. A tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;

a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a plug assembly located in a pipe above the tubular inner member, the plug assembly comprising:

an intermediate member disposed therein, the intermediate member having a central aperture therethrough and at least one sealable, by-pass aperture formed therearound to increase the flow volume of fluid through the intermediate member; and a sealing member that is constructed and arranged to land in the plug assembly, thereby sealing the central aperture and the at least one by-pass aperture.

15. The tool of claim 14, wherein the sealing member is a dart.

16. A tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;

a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a baffle collar for use with a cementing tool, the baffle collar comprising:
an upper end constructed to receive a sealing member;

a lower end including a flow restrictor arranged to allow the downward flow of fluid through the collar; and at least one selectively sealable, by-pass channel permitting upward flow of fluid through the collar and into a pipe thereabove.

17. The tool of claim 16, further comprising:
the sealing member, comprising:

a plug having an aperture therethrough, the plug connectable to pipe at an upper and a lower end; and an intermediate member disposed in the plug, the intermediate member having a central aperture therethrough and at least one by-pass aperture formed therearound to increase the flow volume of fluid through the intermediate member.

18. The tool of claim 17, wherein the sealing member further comprises a second sealing member that is constructed and arranged to land in the plug, thereby sealing the central aperture and the at least one by-pass aperture.

19. The tool of claim 17 or 18, wherein the intermediate member is configured to receive a second sealing member and is displaceable relative to the plug so that the central aperture is sealed by the sealing member and the at least one by-pass aperture is sealed by displacement of the intermediate member into contact with an inner surface of the plug.

20. A tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;

a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a plug assembly comprising:

a plug having an aperture therethrough, the plug connectable to pipe at an upper and a lower end;

a reduced diameter portion within the aperture constructed and arranged to provide a sealing surface whereby the aperture can be sealed with a first portion of a sealing member; and at least one by-pass channel formed around the perimeter of the reduced diameter portion, the by-pass channel constructed and arranged to permit the flow of fluid therethrough.

21. The tool of claim 20, wherein the at least one by-pass channel is sealed by contact between an enlarged diameter portion of a displaceable, inner member and an inside wall of the plug.

22. The tool of claim 20 or 21, wherein the at least one by-pass channel is further constructed and arranged to be sealed by a second portion of the sealing member.

23. The tool of claim 22, wherein:
the sealing member is a dart;

the first portion of the sealing member is a nose of the dart; and the second portion of the sealing member is a fin of the dart.

24. A tool for use in a tubular string comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;

a flow restrictor at the downhole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a plug assembly located in a pipe above the tubular inner member, the plug assembly comprising:

a plug having an aperture therethrough, the plug connectable to pipe at an upper and a lower end; and an intermediate member disposed in the plug, the intermediate member having a central aperture therethrough and at least one by-pass aperture formed therearound to increase the flow volume of fluid through the intermediate member;

wherein the intermediate member is configured to receive a sealing member and is displaceable relative to the plug so that the central aperture is sealed by the sealing member and the at least one by-pass aperture is sealed by displacement of the intermediate member into contact with an inner surface of the plug.

25. The tool of claim 24, wherein the sealing member is a dart.

26. A method for using a tool in a wellbore comprising:

providing a tool, comprising:

a tubular inner member constructed and arranged to filter and pass fluid through the member as the tool is run into a borehole;

a flow restrictor at the down hole end of the inner member to at least partially prevent fluid from entering the end of the inner member while allowing fluid to exit the end of the inner member; and a plug assembly located in a pipe above the tubular inner member, the plug assembly comprising an intermediate member disposed therein, the intermediate member having a central aperture therethrough and at least one sealable, by-pass aperture formed therearound to increase the flow volume of fluid through the intermediate member; and cementing a string of tubulars in the wellbore using the tool.

27. The method of claim 26, further comprising launching a sealing member into the wellbore, wherein the sealing member will land in the plug assembly, thereby sealing the central aperture and the at least one by-pass aperture.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising launching the sealing member and plug assembly, wherein the sealing member and plug assembly will be received by a baffle collar.

29. The method of claim 27 or 28, wherein the sealing member is a dart.