CA2914394A1

CA2914394A1 - Apparatus for ball catching

Info

Publication number: CA2914394A1
Application number: CA2914394A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Matthew Webster; Cameron Smith
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: SPM Oil and Gas PC Canada Ltd
Priority date: 2015-01-06
Filing date: 2015-12-09
Publication date: 2016-07-06
Anticipated expiration: 2035-12-09
Also published as: CA2914394C; CA2876453A1

Abstract

There is provided an apparatus for ball catching and a system including the apparatus. The apparatus includes a ball-collection body, a chamber, a first blockage, a bypass line, a second blockage and a fluid directing mechanism. The apparatus is generally configured to collect balls while preventing the passage of the at least one ball during collection of balls from the chamber and to allow for removal of collected balls without disrupting the fluid flow. The system includes a frac tree configured to connect to a wellhead, a ball catcher, and downstream equipment.

Description

, APPARATUS FOR BALL CATCHING
Cross-Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority from Canadian Patent Application 2,876,653, filed Jan. 6, 2015, the contents all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Technical Field [0001] This disclosure relates in general to an apparatus for oil and gas recovery and, in particular, to an improved apparatus for ball catching during oil and gas recovery operations.
Background of the Disclosure

[0002] Hydraulic fracturing (also referred to as fracking) is a technique used to improve recovery rates in oil and gas wells. Typically, fracking involves pumping a fluid containing a proppant (e.g. sand, ceramic beads) down the well and into the formation from which oil or gas is to be recovered. The fluid creates or enlarges fissures in the formation, and the proppant prevents the fissures from closing when pumping of the fluid ceases. After the pumping of fracking fluid down the well ceases, oil or gas is allowed to flow up the well for recovery.

[0003] In some well operations, it is desirable to isolate different zones of the formation through which the well extends before pumping fracturing fluid down the well, in order to fracture only a particular zone. The above-mentioned isolation is often achieved by inserting frac balls into the well. The frac balls, carried down the well by the fracturing fluid, seal against seats within the well casing, preventing fracturing fluid from reaching the portion of the well beyond the seats. Once the fracking operation is complete, the oil or gas flowing up the well carries the frac balls with it.

[0004] When the oil or gas and frac balls reach the frac tree connected to the top of the well, they are directed to a ball catcher mechanism, which generally includes a long horizontal pipe extending from the well, and a vertical chamber depending from the horizontal pipe. The oil, gas and frac balls flow from the well through the horizontal pipe, and the frac balls fall into the vertical chamber while the oil or gas flows on to downstream equipment. The ball catcher can then be isolated from the horizontal pipe and the balls can be recovered.

[0005] In known solutions of separating debris and/or balls from a fluid flow, a screen or filter is used within the flow line to catch the debris and/or balls. This screen or filter may be designed with holes that are small enough to prevent debris and/or balls from passing and thus removing the debris and/or balls from the fluid flow. Some prior art designs exist which allow for removal of debris and/or balls from the screen without stopping the fluid flow.

[0006] For example, U.S. Patent No. 2,977,616 discloses a pig ball receiver 20 adapted to receive or recover a pig ball 21 from a flow line 22 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The principal purpose of the pig ball 21 is to remove deposits from the walls of the flow line 22. FIG. 1 shows the pig ball receiver 20 with a valve 23 in a first position for receiving the pig ball 21. FIG. 2 shows the pig ball receiver 20 with the valve 23 in a second position for preventing flow into a receiver housing 24 to allow for removal of the pig ball 21.

[0007] As another example, Canadian patent 2,635,852 discloses a ball catcher 25 fluidly connected to a wellhead port 26 to receive well bore fluids and balls 27 carried therewith, as shown in FIG. 3. The ball catcher 25 includes an isolation valve 28 to isolate the ball recovery chamber 29 temporarily from the catcher body 30 for servicing.
Summary

[0008] In an aspect, there is provided an apparatus for ball catching. The apparatus includes a ball-collection body having an inlet for receiving fluid and at least one ball, a fluid outlet for permitting fluid to exit the body, and a ball-collection outlet for accommodating at least one ball.
The apparatus further includes a chamber in communication with the ball-collection outlet. The chamber is for receiving the at least one ball. The apparatus also includes a first blockage disposed within the fluid outlet. The first blockage is configured to prevent the passage of at least one ball through the fluid outlet and encourage at least one ball toward the ball-collection outlet and configured to permit the passage of fluid through the fluid outlet.
In addition, the apparatus includes a bypass line configured to direct fluid around the body.
Furthermore, the apparatus includes a second blockage configured to prevent the passage of at least one ball through the bypass line and configured to permit the passage of fluid through the bypass line.
Also, the apparatus includes a fluid directing mechanism configured to permit or prevent fluid flow to the bypass line and the inlet of the body.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the fluid directing mechanism may include a three-way valve.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the fluid directing mechanism may include a bypass body for receiving fluid and at least one ball, the bypass body having a bypass outlet to enable fluid to bypass the ball-collection body, and a main outlet to enable fluid to pass through the ball-collection body. The fluid directing mechanism may also include a bypass valve configured to limit fluid flow to the bypass outlet. The fluid directing mechanism may also include a main valve configured to limit fluid flow to the main outlet.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the apparatus may include a check valve disposed downstream of the fluid outlet of the ball-collection body for preventing the fluid from flowing into the ball-collection body via the fluid outlet.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the chamber may include a drain valve connected to the chamber, the drain valve for relieving pressure within the chamber.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the chamber may include a cleanout port for removing at least one ball.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the apparatus may include a wing valve connected to the apparatus for controlling flow into the apparatus.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the wing valve may be connected upstream from the ball-collection body.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the first blockage may include a diverter screen that is welded to the fluid outlet of the ball-collection body.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the first blockage may include holes for allowing the fluid and at least some debris to pass through

[0018] In certain embodiments, the second blockage may include a filter screen that is welded to the bypass line.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the second blockage may include holes for allowing the fluid and at least some debris to pass through.

[0020] In another aspect, there is provided an apparatus for ball catching.
The apparatus includes means for receiving fluid and at least one ball at an inlet into a ball-collection body.
The apparatus also includes means for permitting fluid to exit the ball-collection body via a fluid outlet. The apparatus further includes means for permitting at least one ball to enter a chamber via a ball-collection outlet, the chamber in communication with the ball-collection outlet. In addition, the apparatus includes means for preventing the passage of at least one ball through the fluid outlet. Furthermore, the apparatus includes a bypass line configured to direct fluid around the ball-collection body. Additionally, the apparatus includes a blockage for preventing the passage of at least one ball through the bypass line. Also, the apparatus includes, means for permitting and preventing fluid flow the bypass line and the inlet of the ball-collection body.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the apparatus may include means for relieving pressure in the chamber.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the apparatus may include means for removing at least one ball from the chamber.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the apparatus may include means for controlling flow of fluid.

,

[0024] In certain embodiments, the means for controlling flow of fluid may be connected upstream from the means receiving fluid and at least one ball at the inlet into the ball-collection body.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the means for preventing the passage of at least one ball through the fluid outlet may be fixed to the fluid outlet.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the apparatus may include means for allowing fluid and at least some debris to pass through the fluid outlet.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the blockage may be welded to the bypass line.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the blockage may include a filter screen that comprises holes for allowing fluid and at least some debris to pass through.

[0029] In another aspect, there is provided a system for hydraulic fracturing of a well. The system includes a frac tree configured to connect to a wellhead of the well and configured to receive fluid and at least one ball from the wellhead. The system also includes a ball catcher connected to the frac tree. The ball catcher includes a ball-collection body having an inlet for receiving fluid and at least one ball, a fluid outlet for permitting fluid to exit the ball-collection body, and a ball-collection outlet for accommodating at least one ball. In addition, the ball catcher includes a chamber in communication with the ball-collection outlet, the chamber for receiving the at least one ball. Furthermore, the ball catcher includes a first blockage disposed within the fluid outlet, the first blockage configured to prevent the passage of at least one ball through the fluid outlet and encourage at least one ball toward the ball-collection outlet and configured to permit the passage of fluid through the fluid outlet. Also, the ball catcher includes a bypass line configured to direct fluid around the ball-collection body. The ball catcher also includes a second blockage configured to prevent the passage of the at least one ball through the bypass line and configured to permit the passage of fluid through the bypass line. The ball catcher further includes a fluid directing mechanism configured to permit or prevent fluid flow to the bypass line and the inlet of the body. Furthermore, the system includes downstream equipment connected to the fluid outlet of the ball catcher, the downstream equipment configured to process fluid.
Description of the Figures

[0030] The accompanying drawings facilitate an understanding of the various embodiments:

[0031] FIG 1 is a schematic representation of an example of a prior art apparatus in an open position;

[0032] FIG 2 is a schematic representation of the prior art apparatus of FIG. 1 in a closed position;

[0033] FIG 3 is a schematic representation of another example of a prior art apparatus in an open position;

[0034] FIG 4 is a schematic representation of an apparatus with a three-way valve in a first position in accordance with an embodiment;

[0035] FIG 5 is a schematic representation of the apparatus of FIG. 4 with a three-way valve in a second position;

,

[0036] FIG 6 is a schematic representation of an apparatus with a valve in a first configuration and in accordance with another embodiment;

[0037] FIG 7 is a schematic representation of the apparatus of FIG. 6 in a second configuration;

[0038] FIG 8a is a front view of a diverter screen of the apparatus of FIG. 6;

[0039] FIG 8b is a side view of the diverter screen of the apparatus of FIG. 6;

[0040] FIG 9 is a schematic representation showing the placement of the diverter screen of the apparatus of FIG. 6; and

[0041] FIG 10 is a schematic representation of a system for hydraulic fracturing in accordance with an embodiment.
Detailed Description

[0042] Referring now to FIG. 4, an apparatus for ball catching is shown generally at 50. It is to be understood that the apparatus 50 is purely exemplary and variations are contemplated. In the present embodiment, the apparatus 50 is generally configured to receive fluid from a cross 40 on a frac tree. The apparatus 50 includes a body 52, a chamber 54, a three-way valve 56, a diverter screen 58, a check valve 80, a bypass line 82, and a filter screen 84.

[0043] In the present embodiment, the body 52 includes an inlet 60 for receiving fluid flow A and at least one ball 90 carried by the fluid. It is to be appreciated that the fluid flow A is not particularly limited and can be a liquid or gas and can contain solids, such as debris or proppant. The body 52 also includes a first outlet 62 (also referred to herein as a fluid outlet) for permitting fluid to exit body 52. In the present embodiment, the fluid can be delivered to testers or any other piece of downstream equipment. The body 52 further includes a second outlet 64 (also referred to herein as a ball-collection outlet) through which the ball 90 can enter the chamber 54.

[0044] The chamber 54 is in communication with the ball-collection outlet 64. In the present embodiment, the chamber 54 is configured to receive the ball 90 via the ball-collection outlet 64 and to store the ball 90, which allows for the collection of multiple balls before the chamber 54 is emptied. Accordingly, this allows for the apparatus 50 to be in operation for longer periods of time without servicing to remove an accumulation of balls obstructing the fluid flow A. The chamber 54 is not particularly limited and can be constructed of any material or from any design that can provide sufficient mechanical properties to sustain the pressure. In the present embodiment, the chamber also optionally includes a drain valve 66 generally configured to relieve pressure within the chamber 54. The chamber further optionally includes a cleanout port 68 generally configured to allow for removal of the ball 90 from the chamber 54.

[0045] The diverter screen 58 is disposed at least partially within the fluid outlet 62 and generally configured to prevent the passage of the ball 90 from body 52 while allowing the fluid to flow through. Any other part or blockage can be disposed within fluid outlet 62 to similarly prevent the passage of the ball 90 from body 52 while allowing the fluid to flow through. In the present embodiment, the diverter screen 58 is configured to encourage the ball 90 toward the chamber 54 by preventing the ball 90 from entering the fluid outlet 62. The diverter screen 58 is not particularly limited and can be integral to the body 52 (i.e. non-removable, such as welded), or can be removably attached to the fluid outlet 62 (or other nearby component). In addition, the design of the diverter screen 58 can be modified to be any other part capable of preventing the ball 90 from passing through the fluid outlet 62 while allowing fluid to flow through.

[0046] In the present embodiment, the check valve 80 is connected downstream from the fluid outlet 62 of the body 52 and generally configured to prevent the fluid from flowing backwards and into the body 52 via the fluid outlet 62. When the bypass line 82 is used (as discussed below), the fluid can flow toward the body 52 from the tee 86 since there is no flow back through the body 52. The check valve 80 is not particularly limited and can be any valve capable of limiting fluid flow to one direction. For example, the check valve 80 can be a swing valve, piston valve or a wafer valve. In other embodiments, the check valve 80 can also be substituted with a manually operated valve that is opened and closed depending on whether the bypass line 82 is in use.

[0047] The bypass line 82 is generally configured to provide a fluid path around the body 52.
Although the bypass line 82 is shown be a straight pipe, it is not necessarily limited and can be modified to be any configuration capable of bypassing the body 52.

[0048] The filter screen 84 is disposed upstream of the bypass line 82 and generally configured to prevent the passage of the ball 90 while allowing the fluid to flow through. Any other part or blockage can be disposed upstream of the bypass line 82 to similarly prevent the passage of the ball 90 while allowing the fluid to flow through. In the present embodiment, the filter screen 84 is different in size from the diverter screen 58 as shown in FIG. 4. However, in other embodiments, the filter screen 84 can be identical to the diverter screen 58. Similar to the diverter screen 58, the filter screen 84 is not particularly limited and can be integral (i.e. non-removable, such as welded), or can be removably inserted into the fluid path.
In addition, the design of the filter screen 84 can be modified to be any other part capable of preventing the ball 90 from passing into the bypass line 82 while allowing fluid to flow through.

[0049] The three-way valve 56 is disposed upstream of the bypass line and the inlet 60 of the body 52 and generally configured to direct the fluid to one of the inlet 60 or the bypass line 82.
In the present embodiment, three-way valve 56 includes a rotatable plug 57 having three channels in fluid communication with each other forming a "T" connection that can freely rotate within the valve 56 guided, for example, by a plurality of valve seats 57. It is to be appreciated that the three-way valve 56 is not particularly limited and that variations are contemplated. For example, the three-way valve 56 can be substituted with other types of valves, such as Y valve.
As another example, the three-way valve 56 can include more or less than three channels, and the channels need not be at 90 degrees with respect with each other.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4, the three-way valve 56 is positioned to allow fluid to flow from the cross 40 to the inlet 60 while preventing fluid or the ball 90 from entering the bypass line 82.
For example, as fluid and the ball 90 reach the diverter screen 58, fluid will pass through to the fluid outlet 62 while the ball 90 will be prevented from passing the diverter screen 58 and encouraged toward chamber 54 via the ball-collection outlet 64. Accordingly, the apparatus 50 operates to separate the ball 90 from fluid that passes through fluid outlet 62 when the three-way valve 56 is in the position shown in FIG. 4.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 5, the apparatus 50 is illustrated with the three-way valve 56 in a second position for preventing fluid flow to the body 52. In this position, the fluid flow is directed toward the filter screen 84 and into the bypass line 82. The filter screen 84 prevents the ball 90 from entering the bypass line 82. Accordingly, the ball 90 would remain in the three-way valve 56 or further upstream while the fluid is allowed to flow through the bypass line 82. Upon reaching the tee 86, the fluid is prevented from flowing toward the body 52 by the check valve 80 and, instead, flows out of the apparatus 50 and downstream, such as to the testers or other downstream equipment. Furthermore, it is to be appreciated that when the three-way valve 56 in the position shown in FIG. 5, fluid is prevented from entering the chamber 54 by the three-way valve 56 and the check valve 80. Accordingly, the chamber 54 can be opened at the cleanout port 68 to remove any balls that may have entered without stopping the flow of fluid through the apparatus 50.

[0052] In the present embodiment, three-way valve 56 can comprise a third position where all three openings are in use, such as if the channels of three-way valve 56 are aligned with both the entrance to bypass line 82 and inlet 60. Accordingly, fluid would pass from cross 40 to both the bypass line 82 and the body 52. In this third position, the ball 90 is prevented from flowing into the bypass line 82 due to screen 84. Such a configuration decreases the resistance for the fluid flow and operates similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 4.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, another embodiment of an apparatus for ball catching is shown generally at 50a. Like components of the apparatus 50a bear like reference to their counterparts in the apparatus 50, except followed by the suffix "a". The apparatus 50a includes a body 52a, a chamber 54a, a diverter screen 58a, a check valve 80a, a bypass line 82a, and a filter screen 84a, a tee 92a, an isolation valve 94a, and a bypass valve 96a.

[0054] In the present embodiment, the body 52a includes an inlet 60a for receiving fluid flow A and at least one ball 90 carried by the fluid. The body 52a also includes a fluid outlet 62a for permitting fluid to exit body 52a. In the present embodiment, the fluid can be delivered to testers via the tee 86a or any other piece of downstream equipment. The body 52a further includes a ball-collection outlet 64a for through which the ball 90 can enter the chamber 54a.

[0055] The chamber 54a is in communication with the ball-collection outlet 64a. In the present embodiment, the chamber 54a is configured to receive the ball 90 via the ball-collection outlet 64a and to store the ball 90, which allows for the collection of multiple balls before the chamber 54a is emptied. Accordingly, this allows for the apparatus 50a to be in operation for longer periods of time without servicing to remove an accumulation of balls obstructing the fluid flow A'. The chamber 54a is not particularly limited and can be constructed of any material or from any design that can provide sufficient mechanical properties to sustain the pressure from the well while receiving the ball 90. In the present embodiment, the chamber 54a also includes a drain valve 66a generally configured to relieve pressure within the chamber 54a. The chamber 54a further includes a cleanout port 68a generally configured to allow for removal of the ball 90 from the chamber 54a.

[0056] In the present embodiment, the diverter screen 58a is disposed at least partially within the fluid outlet 62a and generally configured to prevent the passage of the ball 90 from body 52a and / or other debris while allowing fluid and at least some debris to flow therethrough. Any other part or blockage can be disposed upstream of the bypass line 82a to similarly prevent the passage of the ball 90 while allowing the fluid to flow through. In particular, the diverter screen 58a is configured to encourage the ball 90 toward the chamber 54a through the ball-collection outlet 64a. The diverter screen 58a is not particularly limited and can be integral to the body 52a (i.e., non-removable, such as welded), or can be removably attached to the fluid outlet 62a (or other nearby components). Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the diverter screen 58a is welded onto the sidewall of the fluid outlet 62a using a weld joint 70a.

[0057] In the present embodiment, the check valve 80a is connected downstream from the fluid outlet 62a of the body 52a and generally configured to prevent the fluid from flowing backwards and into the body 52a via the fluid outlet 62a. When the bypass line 82a is used (as discussed below), the fluid can flow toward the body 52a from the tee 86a since there is no flow back through the body 52a.

[0058] The bypass line 82a is generally configured to provide a fluid path around the body 52a. In the present embodiment, the bypass line 82a is a straight pipe connecting the filter screen 84a to the tee 86a. However, the bypass line 82a is not necessarily limited and can be modified to be any configuration capable of bypassing the body 52a.

[0059] The filter screen 84a is disposed upstream of the bypass line 82a and generally configured to prevent the passage of the ball 90 while allowing the fluid to flow through. Any other part or blockage can be disposed upstream of the bypass line 82a to similarly prevent the passage of the ball 90 while allowing fluid to flow through. In the present embodiment, the filter screen 84a is longer than the diverter screen 58a as shown in FIG. 6. It is to be appreciated that the filter screen 84a and the diverter screen 58a are not particularly limited and that, in some embodiments, the filter screen 84a can be shorter than the diverter screen 58a. In further embodiments, the filter screen 84a can be identical to the diverter screen 58a. Similar to the diverter screen 58a, the filter screen 84a is not particularly limited and can be integral (i.e., non-removable, such as welded), or can be removably inserted into the fluid path.
In addition, the design of the filter screen 84a can be modified to be any other part capable of preventing the ball 90 from passing into the bypass line 82a while allowing fluid to flow through.
In the present embodiment, the filter screen 84a is welded to the walls of the bypass line 82a.

[0060] The tee 92a is disposed upstream of the bypass line and the inlet 60a of the body 52a and generally configured to split the flow of fluid between at least one of two paths: a first path through the inlet 60a and the body 52a, and a second path through the bypass line 82a. In the present embodiment, the isolation valve 94a and the bypass valve 96a can be used to control the flow of the fluid through either the body 52a or the bypass line 82a, or both.
In the present embodiment, the isolation valve 94a and the bypass valve 96a are both identical gate valves.
However, the isolation valve 94a and the bypass valve 96a are not particularly limited and can be any type of valve capable of controlling flow through a pipe.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 6, the isolation valve 94a is in an open position and the bypass valve 96a is in a closed position to allow fluid to flow from the cross 40a to the inlet 60a while preventing fluid or the ball 90 from entering the bypass line 82a. As the fluid and the ball 90 reach the diverter screen 58a, diverter screen 58a permits fluid to pass through to the fluid outlet 62a and prevents ball 90 from passing through to the fluid outlet 62a.
Accordingly, apparatus 50a operates to separate the ball 90 from the fluid passing through outlet 62a when the isolation valve 94a is in an open position and the bypass valve 96a is in a closed position as shown in FIG. 6.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 7, the apparatus 50a is illustrated with the isolation valve 94a in a closed position and the bypass valve 96a in an open position for preventing fluid flow to the body 52a. In this position, the fluid flow is directed toward the filter screen 84a and into the bypass line 82a. The filter screen 84a prevents the ball 90 from entering the bypass line 82a.
Accordingly, the ball 90 would remain in the tee 92a while the fluid is allowed to flow through the bypass line 82a. Upon reaching the tee 86a, the fluid is prevented from flowing toward the body 52a by the check valve 80a and, instead, flows out of the apparatus 50a downstream, such as to the testers or other downstream equipment (not shown). Furthermore, it is to be appreciated that when the isolation valve 94a is in a closed position and the bypass valve 96a is in an open position, fluid is prevented from entering the chamber 54a by the isolation valve 94a and the check valve 80a. Accordingly, the chamber 54a can be opened at the cleanout port 68a to remove any balls that may have entered without stopping the flow of fluid through the apparatus 50a.

[0063]
In the present embodiment, isolation valve 94a and bypass valve 96a can comprise a third position where both isolation valve 94a and the bypass valve 96a are open (not show).
Accordingly, fluid would pass from the cross 40a to both the bypass line 82a and the body 52a.
In this third position, the ball 90 is prevented from flowing into the bypass line 82a due to screen 84a. Such a configuration decreases the resistance for the fluid flow and operates similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 6.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the diverter screen 58a is shown in greater detail. It is to be understood that the diverter screen 58a is purely exemplary, and a variety of screens are contemplated for the present embodiment as well as other embodiments. The diverter screen 58a includes a face 100a, a side 105a and a base 110a. In the present embodiment, the diverter screen 58a is a unitary body; however, it is to be appreciated that variations are contemplated.
For example, the diverter screen 58a can be constructed from separate pieces that are welded or otherwise attached together.

[0065] The face 100a is generally configured to allow fluid and at least some debris to pass through face 100a. In the present embodiment, the face 100a includes a plurality of circular holes 115a dimensioned to prevent the ball 90 as well as larger pieces of debris from passing through face 100a. It is to be understood that the face 100a is not particularly limited to any material and that several different types of materials are contemplated. In the present embodiment, the face 100a is a steel plate of sufficient thickness to stop the ball 90 in the fluid flow. The minimum thickness of face 100a depends, for example, on the material of the face 100a.

[0066] The side 105a is generally configured to allow fluid and at least some debris to continue along the fluid path and to support the face 100a within the fluid outlet 62a.
In the present embodiment, the side 105a includes a plurality of slots 120a dimensioned to allow fluid and small debris to pass through slots 120a. In particular, each slot 120a extends almost the length of the side 105a from the face 100a to the base 110a. It is to be understood that the side 105a is not particularly limited to any material and that several different types of materials are contemplated.
In the present embodiment, the side 105a is made from steel. In other embodiments, side 105a can be replaced or supplemented by a plurality of support rods for supporting the face 100a while allowing fluid and debris to pass between adjacent rods. In the present embodiment, the side 105a is configured to allow substantially all debris to pass through via the slot 120a so that debris does not build up in the annular chamber formed between the diverter screen 58a and the sidewall of the fluid outlet 62a. However, some further embodiments can be configured to prevent larger debris from passing through the side 105a of the diverter screen 58a.

[0067] The base 110a is generally configured to support the diverter screen 58a within the fluid outlet 62a. In particular, the base 110a is configured to be welded to the sidewall of the fluid outlet 62a using a weld joint 70a to increase the rigidity of the body 52a. It is to be understood that the base 110a is not particularly limited to any material and that several different , types of materials are contemplated. In the present embodiment, the base 110a is an annular steel ring.

[0068] The manner by which the diverter screen 58a is welded into the fluid outlet 62a of the body 52a is not particularly limited. To encourage ball 90 to enter outlet 64a, face 100a can be positioned substantially close to an end of the fluid outlet 62a in the present embodiment.

[0069] The manner by which the diverter screen 58a is positioned during assembly of the ball catcher prior to welding is not particularly limited. For example, FIG. 9 shows one manner by which the face 100a is to be positioned substantially close to the end of the entry of the fluid outlet 62a within the body 52a. During assembly of the apparatus 50a, a pipe 200 is inserted through the body 52a passing through the ball-collection outlet 64a. The diverter screen 58a is subsequently inserted into the body 52a until the face 100 abuts against the pipe 200. The diverter screen 58a is then welded to the sidewall of the passage 62a, and the pipe 200 is removed from the body 52a. Assembly of the remainder of the apparatus 50a is carried out accordingly.
100701 Referring to FIG. 10, a system for hydraulic fracturing of a well is shown at 500 including the apparatus 50. It is to be understood that the system 500 is purely exemplary and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that a variety of configurations are contemplated. As an example of a variation, the apparatus 50a can be substituted. The system 500 further includes a frac tree 508 and downstream equipment 512. The downstream equipment 512 can include, for example, any combination of pipes, testing devices, storage vessels and the like. The frac tree 508 is connected, at a wellhead end 516, to a well 517 extending through a ground surface 518 to the underground formations from which the recovery of oil or gas is desired.

[0071] In the foregoing description of certain embodiments, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes other technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "left" and right", "front" and "rear", "above" and "below" and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.
[0072] In this specification, the word "comprising" is to be understood in its "open" sense, that is, in the sense of "including", and thus not limited to its "closed"
sense, that is the sense of "consisting only of". A corresponding meaning is to be attributed to the corresponding words "comprise", "comprised" and "comprises" where they appear.
[0073] In addition, the foregoing describes only some embodiments of the invention(s), and alterations, modifications, additions and/or changes can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments, the embodiments being illustrative and not restrictive.
[0074] Furthermore, invention(s) have described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the invention(s). Also, the various embodiments described above may be implemented in conjunction with other embodiments, e.g., aspects of one embodiment may be combined with aspects of another embodiment to realize yet other embodiments. Further, each independent feature or component of any given assembly may constitute an additional embodiment.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An apparatus for ball catching, the apparatus comprising:
a ball-collection body having an inlet for receiving fluid and at least one ball, a fluid outlet for permitting fluid to exit the body, and a ball-collection outlet for accommodating at least one ball;
a chamber in communication with the ball-collection outlet, the chamber for receiving the at least one ball;
a first blockage disposed within the fluid outlet, the first blockage configured to prevent the passage of at least one ball through the fluid outlet and encourage at least one ball toward the ball-collection outlet and configured to permit the passage of fluid through the fluid outlet;
a bypass line configured to direct fluid around the body;
a second blockage configured to prevent the passage of at least one ball through the bypass line and configured to permit the passage of fluid through the bypass line;
and a fluid directing mechanism configured to permit or prevent fluid flow to the bypass line and the inlet of the body.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid directing mechanism comprises a three-way valve.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid directing mechanism comprises:
a bypass body for receiving fluid and at least one ball, the bypass body having a bypass outlet to enable fluid to bypass the ball-collection body, and a main outlet to enable fluid to pass through the ball-collection body;
a bypass valve configured to limit fluid flow to the bypass outlet; and a main valve configured to limit fluid flow to the main outlet.

4. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a check valve disposed downstream of the fluid outlet of the ball-collection body for preventing the fluid from flowing into the ball-collection body via the fluid outlet.

5. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the chamber includes a drain valve connected to the chamber, the drain valve for relieving pressure within the chamber.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the chamber includes a cleanout port for removing at least one ball.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a wing valve connected to the apparatus for controlling flow into the apparatus.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the wing valve is connected upstream from the ball-collection body.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first blockage comprises a diverter screen that is welded to the fluid outlet of the ball-collection body.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first blockage comprises holes for allowing the fluid and at least some debris to pass through.

11. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the second blockage comprises a filter screen that is welded to the bypass line.

12. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the second blockage comprises holes for allowing the fluid and at least some debris to pass through.

13. An apparatus for ball catching, the apparatus comprising:
means for receiving fluid and at least one ball at an inlet into a ball-collection body;
means for permitting fluid to exit the ball-collection body via a fluid outlet;
means for permitting at least one ball to enter a chamber via a ball-collection outlet, the chamber in communication with the ball-collection outlet;
means for preventing the passage of at least one ball through the fluid outlet;
a bypass line configured to direct fluid around the ball-collection body;
a blockage for preventing the passage of at least one ball through the bypass line; and means for permitting and preventing fluid flow the bypass line and the inlet of the ball-collection body.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising means for relieving pressure in the chamber.

15. The apparatus of claim 13 or 14, further comprising means for removing at least one ball from the chamber.

16. The apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 15, further comprising means for controlling flow of fluid.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the means for controlling flow of fluid is connected upstream from the means receiving fluid and at least one ball at the inlet into the ball-collection body.

18. The apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the means for preventing the passage of at least one ball through the fluid outlet is fixed to the fluid outlet.

19. The apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 18, further comprising means for allowing fluid and at least some debris to pass through the fluid outlet.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the blockage is welded to the bypass line.

21. The apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the blockage comprises a filter screen that comprises holes for allowing fluid and at least some debris to pass through.

22. A system for hydraulic fracturing of a well, the system comprising:
a frac tree configured to connect to a wellhead of the well and configured to receive fluid and at least one ball from the wellhead;

a ball catcher connected to the frac tree, wherein the ball catcher comprises:
a ball-collection body having an inlet for receiving fluid and at least one ball, a fluid outlet for permitting fluid to exit the ball-collection body, and a ball-collection outlet for accommodating at least one ball;
a chamber in communication with the ball-collection outlet, the chamber for receiving the at least one ball;
a first blockage disposed within the fluid outlet, the first blockage configured to prevent the passage of at least one ball through the fluid outlet and encourage at least one ball toward the ball-collection outlet and configured to permit the passage of fluid through the fluid outlet;
a bypass line configured to direct fluid around the ball-collection body;
a second blockage configured to prevent the passage of the at least one ball through the bypass line and configured to permit the passage of fluid through the bypass line; and a fluid directing mechanism configured to permit or prevent fluid flow to the bypass line and the inlet of the body;
downstream equipment connected to the fluid outlet of the ball catcher, the downstream equipment configured to process fluid.