EP2776659B1 - Horizontal fracturing tree - Google Patents

Horizontal fracturing tree Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2776659B1
EP2776659B1 EP12778584.8A EP12778584A EP2776659B1 EP 2776659 B1 EP2776659 B1 EP 2776659B1 EP 12778584 A EP12778584 A EP 12778584A EP 2776659 B1 EP2776659 B1 EP 2776659B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
horizontal
bore
tree
land
fracturing
Prior art date
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Active
Application number
EP12778584.8A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2776659A1 (en
Inventor
Kirk Paul Guidry
Stefan Marek Radwanski
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Cameron Technologies Ltd
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Cameron Technologies Ltd
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Priority to PL12778584T priority Critical patent/PL2776659T3/en
Publication of EP2776659A1 publication Critical patent/EP2776659A1/en
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    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21BEARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B43/00Methods or apparatus for obtaining oil, gas, water, soluble or meltable materials or a slurry of minerals from wells
    • E21B43/25Methods for stimulating production
    • E21B43/26Methods for stimulating production by forming crevices or fractures
    • E21B43/2607Surface equipment specially adapted for fracturing operations

Definitions

  • Hydraulic fracturing is a technique used to enhance and increase recovery of oil and natural gas from subterranean natural reservoirs. More specifically, fracing involves injecting a fracing fluid, e.g., a mixture of mostly water and sand, into an oil or gas well at high pressures. The fracing fluid is injected to increase the downhole pressure of the well to a level above the fracture gradient of the subterranean rock formation in which the well is drilled. The high pressure fracing fluid injection causes the subterranean rock formation to crack. Thereafter, the fracing fluid enters the cracks formed in the rock and causes the cracks to propagate and extend further into the rock formation. In this manner, the porosity and permeability of the subterranean rock formation is increased, thereby allowing oil and natural gas to flow more freely to the well.
  • fracing fluid e.g., a mixture of mostly water and sand
  • fracing fluid blenders for example, fracing units having high volume and high pressure pumps, fracing tanks, and so forth may be used in a fracing operation.
  • a fracing tree is generally coupled between the wellhead of a well and the fracing unit. The fracing tree has a variety of valves to control the flow of fracing fluid and production fluid through the fracing tree.
  • US 2009/0145597 discloses a tapered sleeve and fracturing head system for introducing fracturing fluid into a wellbore.
  • US2009/0090515 discloses a wellhead isolation sleeve assembly.
  • US 2008/0257540 discloses a multipart frac head with replaceable components.
  • US 2006/0090891 discloses a fracturing head with replaceable inserts for improved wear resistance and a method of refurbishing the same.
  • GB 2 184 149 discloses a well injection system
  • Examples of the present disclosure include a frac tree having a horizontal configuration (e.g., a horizontal frac tree), which is configured to reduce the bending moments caused by vibrations, external loads (e.g., connected piping), and so forth.
  • the horizontal frac tree is specifically designed for a surface application, e.g., land-based in an air environment.
  • the horizontal frac tree may have a variety of mounts, supports, connectors, and other features designed for the surface application.
  • the concepts described herein are not limited to frac trees. In fact, these concepts are also applicable to other flow control devices, such as production trees, workover trees, to name a few.
  • Hydraulic fracturing involves injecting a fracing fluid into a wellbore to create and propagate cracks in the subterranean rock formation beneath the wellhead. In this manner, the porosity and permeability of the rock formation is increased, leading to enhanced recovery of natural gas and oil from natural reservoirs beneath the earth's surface.
  • the fracing fluid is introduced to the well through a frac tree connected to the wellhead.
  • the disclosed examples provide a frac tree with a horizontal configuration.
  • the frac tree may have one or more arms or branches extending horizontally from a master valve of the frac tree.
  • the branches of the frac tree include one or more piping connections (e.g., goathead connections) to enable connection with a fracing system.
  • the horizontal configuration of the frac tree places the frac connections closer to ground level than frac trees with a vertical configuration. As a result, the frac tree may experience reduced external bending moments caused by excessive vibration and other loads experienced during the fracing process.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic of a fracing system 10 having a horizontal frac tree 12 (e.g., a surface frac tree).
  • the fracing system 10 is used to pump a high pressure fracing fluid into a well 14 formed in a subterranean rock formation 16.
  • the well 14 may be a natural gas and/or oil well.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 is coupled to a wellhead 18 of the well 14.
  • a frac system 20 introduces a high pressure fracing fluid into the well 14 through the horizontal frac tree 12 coupled to the well head 18.
  • the frac system 20 may include a variety of high volume and high pressure pumps and monitoring units configured to supply the fracing fluid to the horizontal frac tree 12.
  • the fracing fluid may include water.
  • the fracing fluid may include other components such as chemical gels or foams, as well as gases such as air, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.
  • gases such as air, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.
  • the particular contents of the fracing fluid may depend on different factors such as the type of rock formation 16, the desired pressure of the fracing fluid, and so forth.
  • the fracing fluid passes through the horizontal frac tree 12 and the well head 18 into a well bore 22. From the well bore 22, the fracing fluid enters the well 14, and the high pressure of the fracing fluid causes the subterranean rock formation 16 to crack and propagate. As cracks are formed and propagated in the rock formation 16, additional natural gas and/or oil from the rock formation 16 is released and may flow into the well 14 to be recovered.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 has a horizontal branch 24 that extends along a horizontal axis 26 from the well head 18.
  • the horizontal branch 24 includes at least one piping connection (e.g., goathead connection 28, which may itself comprise multiple connections) to couple with the frac system 20.
  • the horizontal branch 24 may include multiple goathead connections 28 in a variety of orientations.
  • the goathead connections 28 may include WECO union connectors, compression fit connectors, or other types of pipe connectors for coupling to the frac system 20.
  • the horizontal orientation of the horizontal frac tree 12 positions the goathead connections 28 closer to ground level.
  • the disclosed horizontal fracing system 10 has a vertical dimension or height 11 that is substantially less than that of a vertical fracing system, and a horizontal dimension or width 13 that is substantially greater than that of a vertical fracing system.
  • the height 11 may be less than approximately 30,48 cm (12 inches), 45,72 cm (18 inches), 60,96 cm (24 inches), 76,2 cm (30 inches), 91,44 cm (36 inches), 106,68 cm (42 inches), 121,92 cm (48 inches).
  • the height 11 may be approximately 12 to 60, 18 to 48, or 24 to 36 inches.
  • the width 13 may be approximately 1 to 20, 2 to 15, or 3 to 10 feet.
  • a width/height ratio of the width 13 to the height 11 may be approximately 2:1 to 20:1, 3:1 to 15:1, or 4:1 to 10:1.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 i.e., above the wellhead 18
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 may have a vertical dimension or height 15 that is substantially less than a vertical frac tree, and the horizontal dimension or width 13 that is substantially greater than a vertical frac tree.
  • the height 15 may be less than approximately 30,48 cm (12 inches), 45,72 (18 inches), 60,96 cm (24 inches), 76,2 cm (30 inches), 91,4 cm (36 inches), 106,68 cm (42 inches), or 121,92 cm (48 inches).
  • the height 15 may be approximately 12 to 48, 18 to 42, or 24 to 36 inches.
  • the width 13 may be approximately 1 to 20, 2 to 15, or 3 to 10 feet.
  • a width/height ratio of the width 13 to the height 15 may be approximately 2:1 to 20:1, 3:1 to 15:1, or 4:1 to 10:1.
  • a frac tree may be subjected to vibrations and other forces that create a bending moment in the frac tree 12.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 reduces the possibility of bending moments exceeding specified parameters at a connection 17 (e.g., a flanged connection) between the well head 18 and the horizontal frac tree 12 by positioning external loads (e.g., piping, valves, and other components) closer to the ground level.
  • the external loads are vertically closer to the connection 17, thereby substantially reducing any bending moment relative to the connection 17.
  • the bending moment about a vertical axis 30 of the well 14 may be reduced with the illustrated horizontal frac tree 12.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 may have a variety of mounts, connections, and supports to help retain the horizontal branch 24 in the horizontal orientation without subjecting the connection 17 to bending.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 also improves serviceability, because a technician can more easily inspect and repair the tree 12 at the ground level.
  • operators of the fracing system 10 may not need an external lifting or raising apparatus (e.g., a ladder, hydraulic lift, or scaffolding) to reach the goathead connections 28.
  • all components and connections of the horizontal frac tree 12 may be accessed from the ground level.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 also includes a vertical access connection 32. Consequently, a well operator may have separate access to the well 14, while the frac system 20 is coupled to the horizontal frac tree 12.
  • the vertical access connection 32 is generally in line with the vertical axis 30 of the well 14.
  • the vertical access connection 32 may be used to access the well 14 in a variety of circumstances.
  • the vertical access connection 32 may be used for natural gas and/or oil recovery, fracing fluid recovery, insertion of a frac mandrel, and so forth. During the fracing process, the vertical access connection 32 may not be in use.
  • the vertical access connection 32 may be plugged or sealed in order to maintain a high pressure in the well 14. More specifically, the vertical access connection 32 may be plugged with one or more of a variety of plugs 34, such as metal or elastomer seals. For example, a one-way back pressure valve (BPV) plug 36 or a wireline set plug 38 may be used to plug the vertical access connection 32. In certain embodiments, a lubricator 40 may be used to seal the vertical access connection 32. As will be appreciated, one or more plugs 34 may be used in the vertical access connection 32 to isolate the well 14 and the wellbore 22. Additionally, as discussed below, one or more plugs 34 may be used below a horizontal bore (72; see FIG. 2 ) in the horizontal frac tree 12 to isolate any equipment coupled the vertical access connection 32 above the horizontal frac tree 12. The vertical access connection 32 also may be used to insert a variety of tools and other equipment into the wellbore 22.
  • a plugs 34 such as metal or elastomer seals.
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic of an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating the horizontal frac tree 12 having one branch 24 with three goathead connections 28.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 is coupled to a master valve block 60 having a master valve 62. More specifically, in this example, the horizontal frac tree 12 is coupled to the master valve block 60 by a flange 64.
  • the master valve block 60 and the horizontal frac tree 12 may be part of a single unified block or may be coupled through a union nut assembly that draws the two components together.
  • the master valve 62 regulates the flow through a main bore 66 coupled to the wellbore 22.
  • the flow through the main bore 66 may be a production fluid such as natural gas and/or oil or a fracing fluid supplied by the frac system 20.
  • the main bore 66 and a vertical bore 67 of the tree 12 may be sized to provide "full bore access", such that tools may be inserted through the main and vertical bores 66 and 67 into the wellbore 22, without restrictions from the main and vertical bores 66 and 67. This can be accomplished by, for example, ensuring the main and vertical bores 66 and 67 have an internal diameter that is equal to or greater than the internal diameter of a production casing 69 within the wellbore 22.
  • the master valve 62 may be manually operated. In other examples, the master valve 62 may be hydraulically operated.
  • plugs 34 may be disposed in the main bore 66 to isolate a desired portion of the bore 66.
  • a plug 68 may be disposed in the main bore 66 to isolate a flow of fracing fluid to the well bore 22.
  • a plug 70 may be disposed in the main bore 66 to isolate equipment coupled to the vertical access connection 32.
  • the illustrated example includes only one master valve 62, a well operator may access the well bore 22 through the vertical access connection 32 without needing to go through multiple valves.
  • a horizontal bore 72 extends through the horizontal frac tree 12 along the horizontal axis 26 of the frac tree 12 (e.g., along horizontal branch 24), and is operatively connected to the main bore 66.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 also includes valves 74 disposed along the horizontal bore 72.
  • the valves 74 are configured to control and regulate the flow of fracing fluid from the fracing system to the main bore 66 and the well bore 22.
  • the valves 74 of the horizontal frac tree 12 may be manually or hydraulically operated.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 also includes three goathead connections 28 at an end 76 of the branch 24 opposite the main bore 66.
  • the frac tree 12 includes a horizontal goathead connection 78, a top vertical goathead connection 80, and a bottom vertical goathead connection 82. While the illustrated example includes three goathead connections 38, other examples may include 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, or more goathead connections 28 or other types of piping connections. Each goathead connection 28 is operatively connected to the horizontal bore 72. As will be appreciated, each of the three goathead connections 28 may be connected to the frac system 20 by a pipe or other conduit configured to flow a fracing fluid. Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the horizontal frac tree 12 is supported by a brace 84 extending from the frac tree 12 to the master valve block 60.
  • the brace 84 may be mechanically coupled (e.g., bolted) or welded between the frac tree 12 and the block 60.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 may be supported by a post or brace mounted to a skid.
  • the brace 84 helps to retain the horizontal branch 24 in the horizontal orientation, thereby reducing the possibility of any bending or pivoting of the horizontal branch 24 relative to the block 60, well head 18, or various connections (e.g., flange 64).
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic of an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating the horizontal frac tree 12 having two horizontal branches 24.
  • the illustrated example includes similar elements and element numbers as the example shown in FIG. 2 .
  • Both horizontal branches 24 extend from the main bore 66 along the horizontal axis 26.
  • the horizontal branches 24 of the frac tree 12 extend in opposite horizontal directions.
  • a first branch 100 extends in a first direction 102 horizontally away from the well head 18
  • a second branch 104 extends in a second direction 106 horizontally away from the well head 18, and the first and second directions 102 and 106 are approximately 180 degrees apart.
  • the first and second directions 102 and 106 may be 1 to 179, 2 to 150, 3 to 100, 4 to 50, or 5 to 25 degrees apart.
  • other examples of the horizontal frac tree 12 may include three or more horizontal branches 24.
  • the branches 24 of the horizontal frac tree 12 may be configured in a symmetrical arrangement (e.g., two branches 24 at 180 degrees apart, three branches 24 at 120 degrees apart, four branches at 90 degrees apart, five branches 24 at 72 degrees apart, or six branches 24 at 60 degrees apart) about the well head 18, thereby reducing the possibility of any bending or pivoting relative to the well head 18, block 60, and associated connections (e.g., flange 64).
  • the symmetrical arrangement of branches 24 may include substantially equal lengths, diameters, and/or weights to help distribute the loads symmetrically about the well head 18.
  • the branches 24 may not be in a symmetrical arrangement about the well head 18.
  • each of the first and second branches 100 and 104 of the horizontal frac tree 12 is operatively connected to the main bore 66.
  • two flows of fracing fluid may enter the main bore 66 during a fracing operation, as indicated by arrows 103.
  • both horizontal branches 100 and 104 have three goathead connections 28, wherein each goathead connection 28 is operatively connected to the respective horizontal bore 72 of the first and second branches 100 and 104.
  • the horizontal branches 24 may have other numbers of goathead connections 28, such as 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, or more goathead connections 28.
  • the first and second horizontal branches 100 and 104 and the master valve block 60 form a single, continuous block 108.
  • the first and second horizontal branches 100 and 104 and the master valve block 60 may be a single piece, and are not coupled to one another by the flange 64.
  • a single block of metal may be used to form the branches 100 and 104 and the block 60, rather than connecting separate metal components together.
  • the first and second horizontal branches 100 and 104 and the master valve block 60 may be fixedly coupled together via welded joints or other permanent connections. In this manner, the number of flanges 64 and other removable connections in the fracing system 10 is reduced, thereby increasing the structural integrity in the fracing system 10 and reducing the effects of bending moments on the fracing system 10.
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic of an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating the horizontal frac tree 12 mounted to a skid 120.
  • the illustrated example includes similar elements and element numbers as the example shown in FIG. 2 .
  • the skid 120 is disposed about the wellhead 18 and supports the horizontal frac tree 12.
  • the skid 120 may include a central opening that is completely surrounded by structural elements (e.g. beams and framework), such that the well head 18 fits in the central opening and is completely surrounded by the structural elements.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 may be installed by moving the the skid 120 to a position above the well head 18, and then gradually lowering the skid 120 downward such that the well head 18 fits within the central opening.
  • the skid 120 may include an opening or slot that extends horizontally from an edge of the skid 120 to a central portion of the skid 120. Accordingly, the horizontal frac tree 12 may be installed by moving the skid 120 horizontally toward the well head 18, such that the well head gradually moves along the slot until the tree 12 is in the proper position. In either example, the skid 120 helps to support, level, and generally align the tree 12 during and after the installation of the tree 12.
  • the horizontal frac tree 12 is supported by braces 122, which extend between the horizontal frac tree 12 and the skid 120.
  • the braces 122 may be mechanically secured (e.g., bolted) or welded between the horizontal frac tree 12 and the skid 120.
  • the skid 120 is secured to the ground by anchored posts 124.
  • the anchored posts 124 may be secured to the ground by concrete or other anchoring material.
  • the skid 120 includes adjustment legs 126.
  • the adjustment legs 126 enable height adjustability of a height 128 of the skid 120 from the ground.
  • the adjustment legs 126 may be pneumatically-driven legs, hydraulically-driven legs, motorized legs, threaded legs, or any combination thereof.
  • the adjustment legs 126 may be manually adjusted by an operator, or the adjustment legs 126 may be automatically adjusted by a controller that incorporates sensor feedback, user input, and various models (e.g., a CAD model of the tree 12, a model of the landscape, and so forth.
  • the adjustment legs 126 may be used to provide additional vertical support to hold the horizontal frac tree 12 in place, thereby blocking any undesired movement of the tree 12.
  • the adjustment legs 126 also may be used to level the tree 12 relative to the ground and/or align the tree 12 relative to the well head 18.
  • the rightward adjustment leg(s) 126 may be used to raise or lower the right portion of the skid 120, and thus the horizontal frac tree 12.
  • the leftward adjustment leg(s) 126 may be used to raise or lower the left portion of the skid 120, and thus the horizontal frac tree 12.
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic of an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating a horizontal frac tree 12 having two horizontal goathead connections 28.
  • the illustrated example includes similar elements and element numbers as the example shown in FIG. 2 .
  • the end 76 of the branch 24 of the frac tree 12 includes two goathead connections 28. More specifically, each goathead connection 28 extends horizontally from the end 76 of the branch 24. In other words, each of the goathead connections 28 extends from the end 76 along the horizontal axis 26 of the horizontal frac tree 12. As discussed above, each goathead connection 28 is operatively connected to the horizontal bore 72.
  • FIG. 6 is an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating the wellhead 18 having a casing hanger 140 with an access port 142 for the horizontal bore 72.
  • the illustrated example includes similar elements and element numbers as the example shown in FIG. 2 .
  • the horizontal bore 72 extends through the access port 142 of the casing hanger 140 and is coupled to the main bore 66.
  • the master valve 62 is located on the horizontal frac tree 12 and along the horizontal bore 72.
  • the connection of the horizontal bore 72 to the main bore 66 through the access port 142 of the casing hanger 140 enables an operator to access the casing hanger 140 (e.g., through the vertical access 32) without needing to move the horizontal frac tree 12.
  • an operator may access the main bore 66 and the wellbore 22 without removing the horizontal frac tree 12 from the wellhead 18.

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Description

    BACKGROUND
  • This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present invention, which are described and/or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.
  • Hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as fracing, is a technique used to enhance and increase recovery of oil and natural gas from subterranean natural reservoirs. More specifically, fracing involves injecting a fracing fluid, e.g., a mixture of mostly water and sand, into an oil or gas well at high pressures. The fracing fluid is injected to increase the downhole pressure of the well to a level above the fracture gradient of the subterranean rock formation in which the well is drilled. The high pressure fracing fluid injection causes the subterranean rock formation to crack. Thereafter, the fracing fluid enters the cracks formed in the rock and causes the cracks to propagate and extend further into the rock formation. In this manner, the porosity and permeability of the subterranean rock formation is increased, thereby allowing oil and natural gas to flow more freely to the well.
  • A variety of equipment is used in the fracing process. For example, fracing fluid blenders, fracing units having high volume and high pressure pumps, fracing tanks, and so forth may be used in a fracing operation. Additionally, a fracing tree is generally coupled between the wellhead of a well and the fracing unit. The fracing tree has a variety of valves to control the flow of fracing fluid and production fluid through the fracing tree.
    US 2009/0145597 discloses a tapered sleeve and fracturing head system for introducing fracturing fluid into a wellbore.
    US2009/0090515 discloses a wellhead isolation sleeve assembly.
    US 2008/0257540 discloses a multipart frac head with replaceable components.
    US 2006/0090891 discloses a fracturing head with replaceable inserts for improved wear resistance and a method of refurbishing the same.
    GB 2 184 149 discloses a well injection system
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Various features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying figures in which like characters represent like parts throughout the figures, wherein:
    • FIG. 1 is a schematic of a horizontal frac tree system coupled to a well head assembly in a surface application;
    • FIG. 2 is an example of a horizontal frac tree system having a single horizontal branch;
    • FIG. 3 is an example of a horizontal frac tree system having a unified block configuration and two horizontal branches;
    • FIG. 4 is an example of a horizontal frac tree system mounted to a skid;
    • FIG. 5 is an example of a horizontal frac tree system having two horizontal goathead connections; and
    • FIG. 6 is an example of a horizontal frac tree system having a casing hangar with an access port for a horizontal bore.
    DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
  • One or more specific aspects of the present invention will be described below. These described aspects are only exemplary of the present invention. Additionally, in an effort to provide a concise description of these exemplary aspects, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.
  • When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present invention, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Moreover, the use of "top," "bottom," "above," "below," and variations of these terms is made for convenience, but does not require any particular orientation of the components.
  • Examples of the present disclosure include a frac tree having a horizontal configuration (e.g., a horizontal frac tree), which is configured to reduce the bending moments caused by vibrations, external loads (e.g., connected piping), and so forth. In particular, the horizontal frac tree is specifically designed for a surface application, e.g., land-based in an air environment. Accordingly, the horizontal frac tree may have a variety of mounts, supports, connectors, and other features designed for the surface application. The concepts described herein are not limited to frac trees. In fact, these concepts are also applicable to other flow control devices, such as production trees, workover trees, to name a few.
  • Hydraulic fracturing, or fracing, involves injecting a fracing fluid into a wellbore to create and propagate cracks in the subterranean rock formation beneath the wellhead. In this manner, the porosity and permeability of the rock formation is increased, leading to enhanced recovery of natural gas and oil from natural reservoirs beneath the earth's surface. The fracing fluid is introduced to the well through a frac tree connected to the wellhead.
  • As discussed in detail below, the disclosed examples provide a frac tree with a horizontal configuration. Specifically, the frac tree may have one or more arms or branches extending horizontally from a master valve of the frac tree. The branches of the frac tree include one or more piping connections (e.g., goathead connections) to enable connection with a fracing system. The horizontal configuration of the frac tree places the frac connections closer to ground level than frac trees with a vertical configuration. As a result, the frac tree may experience reduced external bending moments caused by excessive vibration and other loads experienced during the fracing process.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic of a fracing system 10 having a horizontal frac tree 12 (e.g., a surface frac tree). As mentioned above, the fracing system 10 is used to pump a high pressure fracing fluid into a well 14 formed in a subterranean rock formation 16. As will be appreciated, the well 14 may be a natural gas and/or oil well. The horizontal frac tree 12 is coupled to a wellhead 18 of the well 14. As discussed above, a frac system 20 introduces a high pressure fracing fluid into the well 14 through the horizontal frac tree 12 coupled to the well head 18. The frac system 20 may include a variety of high volume and high pressure pumps and monitoring units configured to supply the fracing fluid to the horizontal frac tree 12. In certain embodiments, the fracing fluid may include water. In other embodiments, the fracing fluid may include other components such as chemical gels or foams, as well as gases such as air, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. As will be appreciated, the particular contents of the fracing fluid may depend on different factors such as the type of rock formation 16, the desired pressure of the fracing fluid, and so forth.
  • The fracing fluid passes through the horizontal frac tree 12 and the well head 18 into a well bore 22. From the well bore 22, the fracing fluid enters the well 14, and the high pressure of the fracing fluid causes the subterranean rock formation 16 to crack and propagate. As cracks are formed and propagated in the rock formation 16, additional natural gas and/or oil from the rock formation 16 is released and may flow into the well 14 to be recovered.
  • As shown, the horizontal frac tree 12 has a horizontal branch 24 that extends along a horizontal axis 26 from the well head 18. The horizontal branch 24 includes at least one piping connection (e.g., goathead connection 28, which may itself comprise multiple connections) to couple with the frac system 20. As discussed in detail below, the horizontal branch 24 may include multiple goathead connections 28 in a variety of orientations. Moreover, the goathead connections 28 may include WECO union connectors, compression fit connectors, or other types of pipe connectors for coupling to the frac system 20. In certain embodiments, the goathead connections 28 may have threaded or butt welded ends and may be configured to withstand pressures up 344,7 bar (5,000 psi), 689,4 bar (10,000 psi), 1034 bar (15,000 psi), 1378,8 bar (20,000 psi), 1723,5 bar (25,000 psi), or more. Furthermore, as discussed below, the horizontal frac tree 12 includes a variety of valves to regulate the flow of the fracing fluid through the horizontal frac tree 12.
  • As will be appreciated, the horizontal orientation of the horizontal frac tree 12 positions the goathead connections 28 closer to ground level. For example, the disclosed horizontal fracing system 10 has a vertical dimension or height 11 that is substantially less than that of a vertical fracing system, and a horizontal dimension or width 13 that is substantially greater than that of a vertical fracing system. In certain embodiments, the height 11 may be less than approximately 30,48 cm (12 inches), 45,72 cm (18 inches), 60,96 cm (24 inches), 76,2 cm (30 inches), 91,44 cm (36 inches), 106,68 cm (42 inches), 121,92 cm (48 inches). For example, the height 11 may be approximately 12 to 60, 18 to 48, or 24 to 36 inches. Furthermore, the width 13 may be approximately 1 to 20, 2 to 15, or 3 to 10 feet. In certain examples, a width/height ratio of the width 13 to the height 11 may be approximately 2:1 to 20:1, 3:1 to 15:1, or 4:1 to 10:1. By further example, the horizontal frac tree 12 (i.e., above the wellhead 18) may have a vertical dimension or height 15 that is substantially less than a vertical frac tree, and the horizontal dimension or width 13 that is substantially greater than a vertical frac tree. In certain embodiments, the height 15 may be less than approximately 30,48 cm (12 inches), 45,72 (18 inches), 60,96 cm (24 inches), 76,2 cm (30 inches), 91,4 cm (36 inches), 106,68 cm (42 inches), or 121,92 cm (48 inches). For example, the height 15 may be approximately 12 to 48, 18 to 42, or 24 to 36 inches. Furthermore, the width 13 may be approximately 1 to 20, 2 to 15, or 3 to 10 feet. In certain examples, a width/height ratio of the width 13 to the height 15 may be approximately 2:1 to 20:1, 3:1 to 15:1, or 4:1 to 10:1.
  • As mentioned above, a frac tree may be subjected to vibrations and other forces that create a bending moment in the frac tree 12. The horizontal frac tree 12 reduces the possibility of bending moments exceeding specified parameters at a connection 17 (e.g., a flanged connection) between the well head 18 and the horizontal frac tree 12 by positioning external loads (e.g., piping, valves, and other components) closer to the ground level. In other words, the external loads are vertically closer to the connection 17, thereby substantially reducing any bending moment relative to the connection 17. Specifically, the bending moment about a vertical axis 30 of the well 14 may be reduced with the illustrated horizontal frac tree 12. Furthermore, the horizontal frac tree 12 may have a variety of mounts, connections, and supports to help retain the horizontal branch 24 in the horizontal orientation without subjecting the connection 17 to bending. The horizontal frac tree 12 also improves serviceability, because a technician can more easily inspect and repair the tree 12 at the ground level. As a result, operators of the fracing system 10 may not need an external lifting or raising apparatus (e.g., a ladder, hydraulic lift, or scaffolding) to reach the goathead connections 28. Indeed, all components and connections of the horizontal frac tree 12 may be accessed from the ground level.
  • In addition to the goathead connections 28 that may be used for the fracing process, the horizontal frac tree 12 also includes a vertical access connection 32. Consequently, a well operator may have separate access to the well 14, while the frac system 20 is coupled to the horizontal frac tree 12. As shown, the vertical access connection 32 is generally in line with the vertical axis 30 of the well 14. The vertical access connection 32 may be used to access the well 14 in a variety of circumstances. For example, the vertical access connection 32 may be used for natural gas and/or oil recovery, fracing fluid recovery, insertion of a frac mandrel, and so forth. During the fracing process, the vertical access connection 32 may not be in use. In such circumstances, the vertical access connection 32 may be plugged or sealed in order to maintain a high pressure in the well 14. More specifically, the vertical access connection 32 may be plugged with one or more of a variety of plugs 34, such as metal or elastomer seals. For example, a one-way back pressure valve (BPV) plug 36 or a wireline set plug 38 may be used to plug the vertical access connection 32. In certain embodiments, a lubricator 40 may be used to seal the vertical access connection 32. As will be appreciated, one or more plugs 34 may be used in the vertical access connection 32 to isolate the well 14 and the wellbore 22. Additionally, as discussed below, one or more plugs 34 may be used below a horizontal bore (72; see FIG. 2) in the horizontal frac tree 12 to isolate any equipment coupled the vertical access connection 32 above the horizontal frac tree 12. The vertical access connection 32 also may be used to insert a variety of tools and other equipment into the wellbore 22.
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic of an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating the horizontal frac tree 12 having one branch 24 with three goathead connections 28. In the illustrated aspect, the horizontal frac tree 12 is coupled to a master valve block 60 having a master valve 62. More specifically, in this example, the horizontal frac tree 12 is coupled to the master valve block 60 by a flange 64. In other examples, as discussed below, the master valve block 60 and the horizontal frac tree 12 may be part of a single unified block or may be coupled through a union nut assembly that draws the two components together. As will be appreciated, the master valve 62 regulates the flow through a main bore 66 coupled to the wellbore 22. The flow through the main bore 66 may be a production fluid such as natural gas and/or oil or a fracing fluid supplied by the frac system 20. The main bore 66 and a vertical bore 67 of the tree 12 may be sized to provide "full bore access", such that tools may be inserted through the main and vertical bores 66 and 67 into the wellbore 22, without restrictions from the main and vertical bores 66 and 67. This can be accomplished by, for example, ensuring the main and vertical bores 66 and 67 have an internal diameter that is equal to or greater than the internal diameter of a production casing 69 within the wellbore 22. In certain examples, the master valve 62 may be manually operated. In other examples, the master valve 62 may be hydraulically operated. Additionally, plugs 34 may be disposed in the main bore 66 to isolate a desired portion of the bore 66. For example, a plug 68 may be disposed in the main bore 66 to isolate a flow of fracing fluid to the well bore 22. Similarly, a plug 70 may be disposed in the main bore 66 to isolate equipment coupled to the vertical access connection 32. Moreover, because the illustrated example includes only one master valve 62, a well operator may access the well bore 22 through the vertical access connection 32 without needing to go through multiple valves.
  • As shown, a horizontal bore 72 extends through the horizontal frac tree 12 along the horizontal axis 26 of the frac tree 12 (e.g., along horizontal branch 24), and is operatively connected to the main bore 66. The horizontal frac tree 12 also includes valves 74 disposed along the horizontal bore 72. The valves 74 are configured to control and regulate the flow of fracing fluid from the fracing system to the main bore 66 and the well bore 22. As with the master valve 62, the valves 74 of the horizontal frac tree 12 may be manually or hydraulically operated. The horizontal frac tree 12 also includes three goathead connections 28 at an end 76 of the branch 24 opposite the main bore 66. More specifically, the frac tree 12 includes a horizontal goathead connection 78, a top vertical goathead connection 80, and a bottom vertical goathead connection 82. While the illustrated example includes three goathead connections 38, other examples may include 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, or more goathead connections 28 or other types of piping connections. Each goathead connection 28 is operatively connected to the horizontal bore 72. As will be appreciated, each of the three goathead connections 28 may be connected to the frac system 20 by a pipe or other conduit configured to flow a fracing fluid. Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the horizontal frac tree 12 is supported by a brace 84 extending from the frac tree 12 to the master valve block 60. For example, the brace 84 may be mechanically coupled (e.g., bolted) or welded between the frac tree 12 and the block 60. In other examples, as discussed below, the horizontal frac tree 12 may be supported by a post or brace mounted to a skid. The brace 84 helps to retain the horizontal branch 24 in the horizontal orientation, thereby reducing the possibility of any bending or pivoting of the horizontal branch 24 relative to the block 60, well head 18, or various connections (e.g., flange 64).
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic of an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating the horizontal frac tree 12 having two horizontal branches 24. The illustrated example includes similar elements and element numbers as the example shown in FIG. 2. Both horizontal branches 24 extend from the main bore 66 along the horizontal axis 26. Additionally, the horizontal branches 24 of the frac tree 12 extend in opposite horizontal directions. In other words, a first branch 100 extends in a first direction 102 horizontally away from the well head 18, a second branch 104 extends in a second direction 106 horizontally away from the well head 18, and the first and second directions 102 and 106 are approximately 180 degrees apart. In other examples, the first and second directions 102 and 106 may be 1 to 179, 2 to 150, 3 to 100, 4 to 50, or 5 to 25 degrees apart. Similarly, other examples of the horizontal frac tree 12 may include three or more horizontal branches 24. For example, the branches 24 of the horizontal frac tree 12 may be configured in a symmetrical arrangement (e.g., two branches 24 at 180 degrees apart, three branches 24 at 120 degrees apart, four branches at 90 degrees apart, five branches 24 at 72 degrees apart, or six branches 24 at 60 degrees apart) about the well head 18, thereby reducing the possibility of any bending or pivoting relative to the well head 18, block 60, and associated connections (e.g., flange 64). The symmetrical arrangement of branches 24 may include substantially equal lengths, diameters, and/or weights to help distribute the loads symmetrically about the well head 18. In other examples, the branches 24 may not be in a symmetrical arrangement about the well head 18.
  • As shown, the horizontal bore 72 of each of the first and second branches 100 and 104 of the horizontal frac tree 12 is operatively connected to the main bore 66. As a result, two flows of fracing fluid may enter the main bore 66 during a fracing operation, as indicated by arrows 103. Additionally, both horizontal branches 100 and 104 have three goathead connections 28, wherein each goathead connection 28 is operatively connected to the respective horizontal bore 72 of the first and second branches 100 and 104. As discussed above, the horizontal branches 24 may have other numbers of goathead connections 28, such as 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, or more goathead connections 28.
  • In the illustrated example, the first and second horizontal branches 100 and 104 and the master valve block 60 form a single, continuous block 108. In other words, the first and second horizontal branches 100 and 104 and the master valve block 60 may be a single piece, and are not coupled to one another by the flange 64. For example, a single block of metal may be used to form the branches 100 and 104 and the block 60, rather than connecting separate metal components together. In other examples, the first and second horizontal branches 100 and 104 and the master valve block 60 may be fixedly coupled together via welded joints or other permanent connections. In this manner, the number of flanges 64 and other removable connections in the fracing system 10 is reduced, thereby increasing the structural integrity in the fracing system 10 and reducing the effects of bending moments on the fracing system 10.
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic of an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating the horizontal frac tree 12 mounted to a skid 120. The illustrated example includes similar elements and element numbers as the example shown in FIG. 2. As shown, the skid 120 is disposed about the wellhead 18 and supports the horizontal frac tree 12. In certain examples the skid 120 may include a central opening that is completely surrounded by structural elements (e.g. beams and framework), such that the well head 18 fits in the central opening and is completely surrounded by the structural elements. Accordingly, the horizontal frac tree 12 may be installed by moving the the skid 120 to a position above the well head 18, and then gradually lowering the skid 120 downward such that the well head 18 fits within the central opening. In other examples, the skid 120 may include an opening or slot that extends horizontally from an edge of the skid 120 to a central portion of the skid 120. Accordingly, the horizontal frac tree 12 may be installed by moving the skid 120 horizontally toward the well head 18, such that the well head gradually moves along the slot until the tree 12 is in the proper position. In either example, the skid 120 helps to support, level, and generally align the tree 12 during and after the installation of the tree 12. In addition, the horizontal frac tree 12 is supported by braces 122, which extend between the horizontal frac tree 12 and the skid 120. In certain examples, the braces 122 may be mechanically secured (e.g., bolted) or welded between the horizontal frac tree 12 and the skid 120. The skid 120 is secured to the ground by anchored posts 124. For example, the anchored posts 124 may be secured to the ground by concrete or other anchoring material.
  • Additionally, the skid 120 includes adjustment legs 126. The adjustment legs 126 enable height adjustability of a height 128 of the skid 120 from the ground. For example, the adjustment legs 126 may be pneumatically-driven legs, hydraulically-driven legs, motorized legs, threaded legs, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the adjustment legs 126 may be manually adjusted by an operator, or the adjustment legs 126 may be automatically adjusted by a controller that incorporates sensor feedback, user input, and various models (e.g., a CAD model of the tree 12, a model of the landscape, and so forth.
  • As the height 128 of the skid 120 is adjusted, the height of the horizontal frac tree 12 is adjusted. The adjustment legs 126 may be used to provide additional vertical support to hold the horizontal frac tree 12 in place, thereby blocking any undesired movement of the tree 12. The adjustment legs 126 also may be used to level the tree 12 relative to the ground and/or align the tree 12 relative to the well head 18. For example, the rightward adjustment leg(s) 126 may be used to raise or lower the right portion of the skid 120, and thus the horizontal frac tree 12. Likewise, the leftward adjustment leg(s) 126 may be used to raise or lower the left portion of the skid 120, and thus the horizontal frac tree 12.
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic of an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating a horizontal frac tree 12 having two horizontal goathead connections 28. The illustrated example includes similar elements and element numbers as the example shown in FIG. 2. As shown, the end 76 of the branch 24 of the frac tree 12 includes two goathead connections 28. More specifically, each goathead connection 28 extends horizontally from the end 76 of the branch 24. In other words, each of the goathead connections 28 extends from the end 76 along the horizontal axis 26 of the horizontal frac tree 12. As discussed above, each goathead connection 28 is operatively connected to the horizontal bore 72.
  • FIG. 6 is an aspect of the fracing system 10, illustrating the wellhead 18 having a casing hanger 140 with an access port 142 for the horizontal bore 72. The illustrated example includes similar elements and element numbers as the example shown in FIG. 2. As shown, the horizontal bore 72 extends through the access port 142 of the casing hanger 140 and is coupled to the main bore 66. Additionally, in the illustrated example, the master valve 62 is located on the horizontal frac tree 12 and along the horizontal bore 72. As will be appreciated, the connection of the horizontal bore 72 to the main bore 66 through the access port 142 of the casing hanger 140 enables an operator to access the casing hanger 140 (e.g., through the vertical access 32) without needing to move the horizontal frac tree 12. Similarly, an operator may access the main bore 66 and the wellbore 22 without removing the horizontal frac tree 12 from the wellhead 18.
  • While the invention may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific aspects have been shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in detail herein.

Claims (20)

  1. A system (10), characterised by comprising:
    a land-based fracturing tree (12) having a horizontal width (13) and a vertical height (15), the tree (12) comprising:
    a first hydraulic fracturing bore configured to flow a first fluid, wherein the first hydraulic fracturing bore comprises: a first horizontal bore (72) extending along a first horizontal axis and a vertical bore (67); and wherein the first horizontal axis is generally perpendicular to a vertical axis of a wellhead (18) when the fracturing tree (12) is coupled to the well head (18), characterized in that the horizontal width (13) of the tree (12) is greater than the vertical height (15).
  2. The system (10) of claim 1, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (12) comprises a first goathead connection, wherein the first goathead connection (28) is operatively connected to the first hydraulic fracturing bore (72).
  3. The system (10) of claim 2, wherein the first goathead connection (28) extends along one of the first horizontal axis or the vertical axis.
  4. The system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (12) comprises a second goathead connection (28) operatively coupled to the first hydraulic fracturing bore.
  5. The system of claim 3, wherein the first goathead connection (28) extends along the first horizontal axis and the second goathead connection (28) extends along the vertical axis.
  6. The system of claim 3, wherein the first goathead connection (28) extends along the first horizontal axis and the second goathead connection (28) extends along the first horizontal axis.
  7. The system (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (12) is coupled to a master valve block (60) having a master valve (62), and the master valve block (60) is coupled to a wellhead (18).
  8. The system of claim 7, further comprising a brace (84) extending from the land-based fracturing tree (12) to the master valve block {60}, wherein the brace (84) is configured to support the land-based fracturing tree (12).
  9. The system (10) of claim 7, comprising:
    a skid (120) disposed about the wellhead (18) and configured to be secured to a ground surface;
    and at least one brace (122) disposed between the skid (120) and the land-based fracturing tree (12), wherein the brace (122) is configured to support the land-based fracturing tree (12);
  10. The system (10) of claim 9, preferably wherein the skid (120) comprises at least one height adjustment leg (126) configured to adjust a height of the skid (120) from the ground surface.
  11. The system (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (72) comprises a vertical access connection (32) extending along the vertical axis.
  12. The system (10) of claim 11, wherein the vertical access connection (32) is configured to receive a plug (70) or a tool.
  13. The system (10) of claim 1, comprising:
    a first valve (74) disposed along the first horizontal bore (72); and
    a second valve (74) disposed along the first horizontal bore (72).
  14. The system (10) of claim 13, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (12) comprises a master valve (62) and a vertical access connection (32) in line with the vertical axis of the wellhead (18), and the first and second valves (74) are horizontally offset from the vertical axis.
  15. The system (10) of claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (12) comprises:
    a second hydraulic fracturing bore (72) configured to flow a second fluid,
    wherein the second hydraulic fracturing bore (72) extends along a second horizontal axis, the second horizontal axis is generally perpendicular to the vertical axis of the wellhead (18), and the second hydraulic fracturing bore (72) is different from the first hydraulic fracturing bore (72); and
    a third valve (74) disposed along the second hydraulic fracturing bore (72).
  16. The system (10) of any of claims 13 to 15, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (12) comprises a one-piece body having the first hydraulic fracturing bore (72).
  17. The system (10) of any of claims 13 to 16, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (12) is supported by a skid (120) having at least one height adjustment mechanism (126).
  18. The system (10) of claim 1, comprising:
    a first horizontal fracturing tree branch (24) having the first hydraulic fracturing bore (72); and
    a first support (84) configured to support the first horizontal fracturing tree branch (24) in a first horizontal orientation, wherein the length of the first horizontal fracturing tree branch (24) is greater than the vertical height (15).
  19. The system (10) of claim 18, wherein the land-based fracturing tree (12) comprises:
    a second horizontal fracturing tree branch (24), wherein the second horizontal fracturing tree branch (24) comprises a second hydraulic fracturing bore (72); and
    a second support (84) configured to support the second horizontal fracturing tree branch (24) in a second horizontal orientation.
  20. The system (10) of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the first horizontal fracturing tree branch (24) comprises at least one goathead connection (28), and the at least one goathead connection (28) is operatively coupled to the first hydraulic fracturing bore (72).
EP12778584.8A 2012-10-10 2012-10-10 Horizontal fracturing tree Active EP2776659B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

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PCT/US2012/059616 WO2014058424A1 (en) 2012-10-10 2012-10-10 Horizontal fracturing tree

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BR (1) BR112014002714B1 (en)
CA (2) CA2850071C (en)
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US11834941B2 (en) * 2016-12-14 2023-12-05 Cameron International Corporation Frac stack well intervention
CN111503517A (en) * 2020-05-28 2020-08-07 烟台杰瑞石油装备技术有限公司 Fracturing conveying ground manifold system
CN114110219B (en) * 2020-08-28 2024-02-23 中国石油化工股份有限公司 Automatic control device for high-low pressure limit valve

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GB8531001D0 (en) * 1985-12-17 1986-01-29 British Petroleum Co Plc Well injection system
US7213641B2 (en) * 2004-11-02 2007-05-08 Stinger Wellhead Protection, Inc. Fracturing head with replaceable inserts for improved wear resistance and method of refurbishing same
US7478673B2 (en) * 2006-10-06 2009-01-20 Boyd's Bit Service, Inc. Frac head including a mixing chamber
US7828053B2 (en) * 2007-04-17 2010-11-09 Stinger Wellhead Protection, Inc. Multipart frac head with replaceable components
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CA2640505C (en) * 2007-12-10 2010-09-28 Isolation Equipment Services, Inc. A tapered sleeve and fracturing head system for protecting a conveyance string
CN201461291U (en) * 2009-07-27 2010-05-12 河南省煤层气开发利用有限公司 Underground fracturing plunger pump unit in coal mine
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BR112014002714A8 (en) 2017-06-20
MX360842B (en) 2018-11-20
CA3106920A1 (en) 2014-04-17
CA3106920C (en) 2023-06-13
BR112014002714B1 (en) 2021-02-23
CA2850071A1 (en) 2014-04-17
EP2776659A1 (en) 2014-09-17
WO2014058424A1 (en) 2014-04-17
PL2776659T3 (en) 2020-10-05
MX2014001191A (en) 2015-01-07
CA2850071C (en) 2021-03-23
BR112014002714A2 (en) 2017-06-13
CN104520526A (en) 2015-04-15

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