EP3237723B1 - Device for insulating a portion of a well or a pipeline, and control means implemented in such an insulation device - Google Patents

Description

1. Field of the invention

The invention relates to the field of drilling, including but not limited to the field of oil and geothermal drilling.

More specifically, the invention relates to a device for isolating a portion of a well or pipe comprising a tubular conduit provided along its outer face with at least one radially expandable sleeve.

2. Solutions of the prior art

In the remainder of the description, the invention will be described, by way of example, in the field of oil production.

The operation of wells, whether vertical or horizontal, requires sealing certain areas of this well relative to others, for example to delimit an area within which it will be possible to intervene later. To do this, it is known to use an isolation device.

To illustrate the state of the art in this field, we have shown on the Figures 1 and 2 appended, a portion of metal tubular conduit BP, known in the English terminology of " casing ", an isolation device. The BP line is placed inside a well A (it could however be a casing).

On the outer surface of the BP line are several cylindrical metal jackets, only one sleeve C being shown on the Figures 1 and 2 . The ends of the jacket C are sealingly attached to the face on the outer surface of the pipe BP, for example by means of rings or rings B.

An expansion opening O is formed in the wall of the LP pipe (it can be provided several openings), so as to communicate the internal space of the BP pipe with the annular space formed between the wall of the BP pipe and the shirt C.

Conventionally, the jacket C is covered over all or part of its length with a layer of elastically deformable material, for example elastomer, which constitutes a "sheet", or "strip", annular sealing D, a few millimeters thick. In a variant, the liner may be covered with several sealing modules, spaced apart from one another.

The jacket C, and in particular the annular sealing ply D, is fixed against the internal wall of the formation F, at the level of the zone to be sealed, by radial expansion. This expansion operation is carried out, in the example illustrated, by hydroforming a fluid under pressure.

On the figure 1 , the liner is shown in its initial state, when its wall is not yet deformed, the pressure inside the pipe BP being noted P0.

As illustrated on the figure 2 when a predetermined pressure P1 of fluid (preferably a liquid such as water) is implemented inside the pipe BP (this is illustrated by the arrows), this pressure is communicated in the interior space E of the jacket C, via the opening O, which expands radially (relative to the axis X-X ') beyond its limit of elastic deformation. In doing so, the sheet D of elastomeric material comes into contact with the inner wall of the formation F and compresses against the latter so as to seal the annular spaces EA1 and EA2 which are arranged on either side of the formation. the shirt C.

It sometimes happens that the jacket C is expanded facing a cavity formed in the wall of the formation F. The behavior of the material constituting the jacket C is such that it is possible for the jacket C to continue to expand as long as P1 pressure is applied ( figure 3A ). If the cavity is large enough, the material of the jacket C can then reach its limit of elongation and the jacket C can break, as illustrated in FIG. figure 3B . The fluid coming from the pipe BP then spreads in the annular spaces EA1 and EA2 as illustrated by the arrows of the figure 3B .

The opening O is not closed, a pressure drop occurs inside the BP line since the latter is in communication with the annular spaces EA1 and EA2.

It is then no longer possible to expand the other shirts (not visible) carried by the BP line, which is problematic.

In addition, this causes a loss of integrity (that is to say, sealing) of the metal tubular pipe BP.

Solutions have been proposed to close the opening O in this type of situation.

The patent document EP 2,607,613 A1 proposes a self-actuated shutter device which is in the form of a valve disposed in the communication opening between the inside of the pipe and the jacket. In case of rupture of the jacket, the valve moves from an open position, in which the fluid passes from the inside of the pipe inside the jacket, to a closed position, in which the fluid passage of the inside of the pipe inside the shirt is prevented.

This approach is, according to its principle, interesting. However, its implementation is not very effective.

Indeed, in a first version, the valve is, in its closed position, applied against the body in which is formed the opening of communication so as to close the latter. The seal, which is metal-on-metal, is not optimal. In addition, when the pressure inside the pipe is released, the valve moves under the effect of a spring to its open position.

In a second version, there is provided a radially expandable locking member which prevents the return of the valve to its open position.

However, if the pressure increases in the annular space between the outside of the pipe and the formation, the locking element must ensure only the locking of the valve in its closed position.

There is therefore a significant need for improving this approach, to optimize the locking of the valve in its closed position, in case of rupture of the sleeve, in a simple and effective manner.

3. Objectives of the invention

The invention therefore particularly aims to overcome all or part of these disadvantages of the prior art.

More specifically, the object of the invention is, in at least one embodiment, to provide a device for controlling the fluid passage which is efficient and which fully fulfills its function in case of rupture of the jacket of a device. insulation of part of a well or pipe.

The shutter and sealing functions must be ensured whatever the liquid or gaseous medium in which the isolation device is used.

• qui est simple à mettre en oeuvre et compact ;
• qui conserve ses qualités d'étanchéité sur une plage large de températures et de pressions ;
• qui présente une bonne tenue dans le temps.

Another object of the invention, in at least one embodiment, is to provide such a control device:

• which is simple to implement and compact;
• which maintains its sealing qualities over a wide range of temperatures and pressures;
• which presents a good behavior in time.

4. Presentation of the invention

The invention manages to fulfill all or part of these objectives by means of an isolation device of a portion of a well or pipe comprising a pipe provided on its outer face with at least one outer jacket surrounding said pipe, the ends of the jacket being sealingly attached to the outer surface of the pipe, the jacket being able to expand radially and sealingly against the inner wall of the well or pipe, at least one expansion pipe communicating the interior of the pipe with the space between the outer surface of the pipe and the inner wall of the jacket, the at least one expansion pipe comprising passage control means of fluid under pressure between the inside of the pipe and the space.

• un boîtier situé dans la conduite d'expansion et communiquant d'une part avec l'intérieur de la conduite et d'autre part avec l'espace,
• un premier organe d'obturation situé dans ledit boîtier et mobile entre une première position fermée et étanche où le fluide ne peut pas circuler de l'espace vers la conduite, une deuxième position fermée, la deuxième position fermée étant atteinte lorsque le débit de fluide de la conduite vers l'espace dépasse un seuil prédéterminé et au moins une positon intermédiaire ouverte entre ces deux positions fermées dans laquelle l'écoulement de fluide de la conduite vers l'espace est autorisé ;
• un deuxième organe d'obturation monté fixe dans ledit boîtier et configuré pour se désolidariser dudit boîtier lorsque le premier organe d'obturation est dans la deuxième position fermée et que la différence de pression entre la conduite et l'espace dépasse un seuil prédéterminé, de façon à coopérer avec le premier organe d'obturation et à empêcher l'écoulement du fluide de la conduite vers l'espace ou de l'espace vers la conduite, quelle que soit la pression à l'intérieur ou à l'extérieur de la conduite.

According to the invention, said control means comprise:

• a casing located in the expansion duct and communicating on the one hand with the inside of the duct and on the other hand with the space,
• a first shutter member located in said housing and movable between a first closed and sealed position where the fluid can not flow from the space to the pipe, a second closed position, the second closed position being reached when the fluid flow the pipe to the space exceeds a predetermined threshold and at least one open intermediate position between these two closed positions in which the flow of fluid from the pipe to the space is allowed;
• a second shutter member fixedly mounted in said housing and configured to disengage from said housing when the first shutter member is in the second closed position and the pressure difference between the pipe and the space exceeds a predetermined threshold, to cooperate with the first closure member and to prevent the flow of the fluid from the pipe to space or from the space to the pipe, regardless of the pressure inside or outside the pipe.

The invention thus proposes a device for controlling the passage of fluid (or valve) between a tubular conduit, or " casing ", and a sleeve, or sleeve, that can be expanded by an isolation device for part of a well. or a pipe, such a control device being disposed in the expansion pipe connecting the " casing " to the inner space of the sleeve.

Typically, the control device comprises a first shutter member, in the form of a valve, movable between at least one open position allowing the passage of fluid during expansion of the liner and a first closed position when the fluid intended to expand the jacket and coming from the " casing " is purged (that is to say once the shirt has been expanded).

In the case where the jacket breaks during its expansion, the first closure element can also take a second closed position (but not necessarily perfectly sealed), the second closed position being reached when the flow of fluid from the " casing " exceeds a predetermined threshold (typically 100l / min).

In addition, the control device comprises a second shutter element which, during the expansion phase of the jacket, is fixed.

The liner being broken, in the case where the pressure " casing " increases and exceeds a predetermined threshold, the second shutter member becomes movable and cooperates with the first shutter member to ensure an optimum seal between the inside and the outside. outside the pipe.

This second shutter element thus constitutes a locking element which prevents the return of the first movable shutter element to its open position, in the event of rupture of the jacket, thus preventing the flow of fluid from the inside of the casing. "outward or outside the" casing "towards the inside of the" casing ".

Such an approach makes it possible not only to prevent a pressure drop inside the " casing ", but also to ensure the blocking of the first shutter element in its closed position if the pressure increases in the annular space situated between outside the " casing " and training.

The solution of the invention thus solves the problems of the prior art simply and efficiently.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said second shutter member is a hollow element in which is mounted movably, along the longitudinal axis of said housing, said first shutter member.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said second shutter member has an inlet communicating with the inside of the pipe and an outlet orifice communicating with the space, said first movable shutter member closing said orifice in the first closed position and said outlet in the second closed position.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said second closure member disengaged from said housing, said first closure member and said second closure member cooperate by moving along the longitudinal axis of said housing so as to permanently close off said inlet port.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said first shutter member is integral with at least one spring secured to said housing and tending to move said first shutter member to said inlet port.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said second closure member is attached to a breakable portion of said housing.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, the attachment of said second shutter member to said breakable portion is implemented by welding.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said breakable portion of said housing remains fixed to said second closure member when the latter closes from said housing.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said housing has a zone of weakness connecting said breakable portion of said housing to the remainder of said housing, said zone of weakness comprising at least one lumen formed in the wall of said housing.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, the first movable shutter member carries first sealing means intended to come into contact with said second shutter member when the first movable shutter member closes said inlet orifice.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said second closure member carries second sealing means coming into contact with the inner wall of said housing.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said second closure member is fixed to said housing by gluing.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said second closure member is fixed to said housing by at least one shear pin.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said second closure member is held in said housing by a cover carrying breakable spring blades integral with said housing.

• dans une ouverture ménagée dans la paroi de la conduite en regard de la chemise, ou
• dans les moyens de fixation de la chemise sur ladite conduite, ou encore
• à l'extérieur de ladite chemise, entre la paroi de la conduite et les moyens de fixation de la chemise.

According to a particular aspect of the invention, said control means are arranged at least in part:

• in an opening in the wall of the pipe opposite the shirt, or
• in the fastening means of the jacket on said pipe, or
• outside said liner, between the wall of the pipe and the fastening means of the liner.

The invention also relates to control means implemented in an isolation device as described above.

• un boîtier situé dans la conduite d'expansion et communiquant d'une part avec l'intérieur de la conduite et d'autre part avec l'espace,
• un premier organe d'obturation situé dans ledit boîtier et mobile entre une première position fermée et étanche où le fluide ne peut pas circuler de l'espace vers la conduite, une deuxième position fermée, la deuxième position fermée étant atteinte lorsque le débit de fluide de la conduite vers l'espace dépasse un seuil prédéterminé et au moins une positon intermédiaire ouverte entre ces deux positions fermées dans laquelle l'écoulement de fluide de la conduite vers l'espace est autorisé ;
• un deuxième organe d'obturation monté fixe dans ledit boîtier et configuré pour se désolidariser dudit boîtier lorsque le premier organe d'obturation est dans la deuxième position fermée et que la différence de pression entre la conduite et l'espace dépasse un seuil prédéterminé, de façon à coopérer avec le premier organe d'obturation et à empêcher l'écoulement du fluide de la conduite vers l'espace ou de l'espace vers la conduite, quelle que soit la pression à l'intérieur ou à l'extérieur de la conduite.

According to the invention, said control means comprise:

• a casing located in the expansion duct and communicating on the one hand with the inside of the duct and on the other hand with the space,
• a first shutter member located in said housing and movable between a first closed and sealed position where the fluid can not flow from the space to the pipe, a second closed position, the second closed position being reached when the fluid flow the pipe to the space exceeds a predetermined threshold and at least one open intermediate position between these two closed positions in which the flow of fluid from the pipe to the space is allowed;
• a second shutter member fixedly mounted in said housing and configured to disengage from said housing when the first shutter member is in the second closed position and the pressure difference between the duct and the space exceeds a predetermined threshold, so as to cooperate with the first shutter member and to prevent the flow of fluid from the pipe to the space or space to the pipe, whatever the pressure inside or outside the pipe.

5. List of figures

• les figures 1 et 2 sont des vues schématiques, selon un plan de coupe longitudinal, d'un dispositif d'isolation conforme à l'état de la technique, montrant respectivement une chemise expansible à l'état d'origine et une fois déformé radialement ;
• les figures 3A et 3B sont des vues en coupe schématique longitudinale du dispositif d'isolation des figures 1 et 2 lorsque la chemise est expansée face à une cavité formée dans la paroi d'un puits de forage ;
• la figure 4A est une vue en coupe schématique d'un dispositif de commande selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• la figure 4B est une vue en perspective du deuxième élément d'obturation du dispositif de commande de la figure 4A ;
• les figures 5A à 5H illustrent le fonctionnement du dispositif de commande de la figure 4A ;
• la figure 6A est une vue en coupe schématique d'un dispositif de commande selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention, la figure 6B étant une vue de détail de la figure 6A;
• la figure 7A est une vue en coupe schématique d'un dispositif de commande selon un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention, la figure 7B étant une vue de détail de la figure 7A ;
• la figure 8 est une vue en coupe schématique d'un dispositif de commande selon un quatrième mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• les figures 9A à 9H illustrent le fonctionnement du dispositif de commande de la figure 6A ;
• les figures 10 à 12 illustrent schématiquement différentes mises en oeuvre possibles du dispositif de commande de l'invention.

Other features and advantages of the described technique will appear more clearly on reading the following description of several embodiments, given as simple illustrative and non-limiting examples, and the appended drawings, among which:

• the Figures 1 and 2 are schematic views, in a longitudinal section plane, of an isolation device according to the state of the art, respectively showing an expandable sleeve in the original state and once deformed radially;
• the Figures 3A and 3B are schematic longitudinal sectional views of the insulation device of the Figures 1 and 2 when the jacket is expanded facing a cavity formed in the wall of a wellbore;
• the Figure 4A is a schematic sectional view of a control device according to a first embodiment of the invention;
• the Figure 4B is a perspective view of the second shutter member of the control device of the Figure 4A ;
• the Figures 5A to 5H illustrate the operation of the control device of the Figure 4A ;
• the Figure 6A is a schematic sectional view of a control device according to a second embodiment of the invention, the Figure 6B being a detail view of the Figure 6A ;
• the Figure 7A is a schematic sectional view of a control device according to a third embodiment of the invention, the Figure 7B being a detail view of the Figure 7A ;
• the figure 8 is a schematic sectional view of a control device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;
• the Figures 9A to 9H illustrate the operation of the control device of the Figure 6A ;
• the Figures 10 to 12 illustrate schematically different possible implementations of the control device of the invention.

6. Description

Several embodiments of the fluid passage control device, or valve, according to the invention, intended to be put in place in an isolation device as described, for example, in connection with the Figures 1 and 2 .

• dans la paroi de la conduite BP et une des extrémités B soudées (figure 10) d'un tel dispositif d'isolation, ou
• dans la paroi de la conduite BP sous la chemise C (figure 11), ou
• dans la paroi de la conduite BP, à l'extérieur de la chemise C et des extrémités soudées B, sur un côté de ces dernières (figure 12).

It is noted, in the preamble, that the control device of the fluid passage according to the invention can be mounted:

• in the wall of the BP pipe and one of the welded ends B ( figure 10 ) of such an isolation device, or
• in the wall of the BP line under the jacket C ( figure 11 ), or
• in the wall of the BP pipe, outside the jacket C and the welded ends B, on one side of the latter ( figure 12 ).

To do this, it is necessary to provide an expansion opening O in the wall of the BP line in which is mounted the control device of the fluid passage according to the invention.

The control device of the fluid passage according to the invention is intended to close / seal this expansion opening O in case of rupture of the jacket.

Arrows schematically illustrate the passage of fluid under pressure from the inside of the pipe BP to the inner space E of the jacket C, via the control device of the fluid passage 1 according to the invention.

Alternatively, the control device of the fluid passage according to the invention is disposed in the pipe connecting the expansion opening O of the BP line to the inner space E of the jacket C.

First embodiment

In the first embodiment described in connection with the Figure 4A , the control device of the fluid passage, or valve, 1 is disposed in the expansion opening O which opens into the welded end of an isolation device, that is to say in the configuration of the figure 10 .

The control device of the fluid passage 1 is in the form of a sealed housing of substantially cylindrical shape. This housing consists of a hollow base 2 closed by a hollow plug 3A delimiting a cylindrical interior space. In this space is mounted a first movable shutter member, in the form of a valve 4, which can sealingly close the expansion opening O, so that the fluid passage is prohibited, in one sense as in the other.

In an intermediate position (for example that of the Figure 4A ), the valve 4 allows the passage of the pressurized fluid from the inside of the BP line to the inner space E of the jacket C.

The valve 4 is biased downwards, that is to say towards the inside of the pipe BP, by a spring 8 which is fixed to the inner wall of the plug 3A.

The valve, or piston, 4 is vertically movable along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis XX 'of the BP line, as shown in FIG. figure 10 .

The base 2 is screwed into the wall of the pipe, or " casing " BP. The seal between the base 2 and the pipe BP is ensured, for example, by a conventional commercial product which seals the threads and which hardens after tightening (for example, a composition which cures in the absence of oxygen, said anaerobic curing composition).

The base 2, which is represented alone on the Figure 4B , is machined so as to present a zone of rupture or fragility (in the form of weak points) which is intended to break under a high pressure differential. More specifically, the base 2 is of hollow cylindrical shape and comprises an upper portion 201 breakable, a lower portion 206 and a central portion 204, the latter two portions being delimited on the outer surface of the base 2 by a circular rim 205 not continuous.

In this example, the breakable zone comprises three oblong slots 202 formed in the wall of the base 2 between the upper portion 201 and the central portion 204. These slots 202 extend in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the base 2 and are separated by material links 203 of small width / section which form break points, or weak points, intended to break under a high pressure differential of predetermined value.

As shown on the Figure 4A , the valve 4 comprises three parts, namely a cylindrical first end 41 of diameter greater than a cylindrical second end 43, the two ends being connected by a cylindrical central portion 42 of greater diameter than the first cylindrical end 41.

The first cylindrical end 41 of the valve 4 is integral with a cylindrical spiral spring 8 and is housed in the latter. The spring 8 is further secured to the plug 3A. The cylindrical second end 43 of the valve 4 is slidably guided in a cylindrical housing 132 formed in the base of a second closure member, hereinafter called base 13.

The base 13, which is cylindrical in shape, is mounted in the base 2 and is fixed, by its upper part, to the base 2 by at least one weld which is implemented above the breaking points 203 of the base 2, on the inner wall of the upper portion 201. In other words, the weld or welds (tent) to block the translation of the base 13 relative to the base 2

Of course, other types of connection of the base 13 in the base 2 may be envisaged, particularly by gluing.

The base 13 comprises an inlet orifice 131 of the annular fluid which is disposed in the base of the base 13 around the housing 132. The inlet orifice 131 is connected to the inside of the pipe BP. It is noted that the outside diameter and the height of the base 13 are slightly smaller than the inside diameter and the height respectively of the base 2.

A ring 9 forming a stop is screwed into the upper part of the base 13. The inner part 92 of the ring 9 defines a fluid passage, called an outlet orifice, in which the first cylindrical end 41 of the valve 4 moves. The central part 42 of the valve 4 is able to move in the inner central portion 91 of the base 13, which forms a fluid passage. In particular, the central portion 42 of the valve 4 is adapted to abut against one face of the ring 9, defining a first seat, so as to close the outlet orifice 92 or against the base of the base 13, defining a second seat, so as to close the inlet port 131. The central portion 42 may further take at least one open intermediate position between these two closed positions where the valve 4 is "closed".

An annular-shaped seal 5 is adhered in an annular recess of the central portion 42 of the valve 4 so that even when a large flow of fluid passes into the control device 1, the seal 5 is not expelled from its housing. .

The inflation or expansion phase of the sleeve C of the device 1 is illustrated in FIG. Figure 5A . When a predetermined pressure P1 of the fluid is reached in the BP line, the valve 4 opens. The central portion of the valve 4 is located between the base 13 and the stop 9, at a distance from these two elements.

In the open position of the valve 4 of the Figures 4A and 5A , the fluid (schematically illustrated by arrows) can pass from the inside of the BP line to the inner space E of the jacket (not shown) through the inlet port 131, and then fluid passages 91, 92, 93 and finally the output port 94, the latter communicating with the inner space E of the sleeve (not shown).

It is recalled that during this expansion phase of the jacket C, the base 13 is fixedly mounted in the base 2, the seal between these two parts 2, 13 being provided by the O-ring 6.

During this phase of filling the jacket C, the flow of fluid in the control device 1 can create a significant pressure drop. The base 2 is dimensioned to resist this pressure drop. More precisely, the breaking points 203 are dimensioned so as not to break when subjected to this pressure drop.

The purge phase is illustrated on the Figure 5B . As soon as the pressure in the BP line is purged, the valve 4 moves downwardly sliding under the effect of the spring 8 (that is to say towards the base of the base 13), and closes. The central portion 42 of the valve 4 is pressed against the base of the base 13 thus closing the inlet port 131 sealingly through the seal 5 (it is the second closed position of the valve 4).

As a result, a pressure close to the end inflation pressure is maintained inside the jacket C. As illustrated by the arrow on the Figure 5B the fluid from the jacket C can not pass from the passage 91 to the inlet 131 communicating with the inside of the BP line.

In the case where the expansible sleeve C breaks during the filling phase (illustrated on the Figure 5A ), the large volume under pressure in the BP line, released by rupture of the jacket C, causes a large increase in the flow of fluid to the passage of the valve 4. When the fluid flow exceeds a predetermined threshold ", which is for example equal to 100 l / min, the pressure drop at the passage of the valve 4 is sufficient to exceed the force of the spring 8 and come close the valve 4, as shown in the Figure 5C .

In other words, the valve 4 moves upwards (that is to say towards the ring 9) and its central portion 42 is pressed against the ring 9 preventing, or at least minimizing, the passage of the fluid from the passage 91 to the outlet orifice 92, and therefore from the BP line to the sleeve C, as shown by the arrows of the Figure 5C . The valve 4 is then in its first closed position which is not, in this example, completely sealed because any leakage would be minimal compared to the flow of fluid flowing through the pipe BP (it can be provided a seal for optimize tightness however).

The Figures 5D and 5E illustrate the activation of the locking function in the closed position of the valve 4 through the base 13, when the sleeve C is broken.

Once the valve 4 in the closed position, this position being illustrated on the Figure 5C , if the pressure in the BP line exceeds a predetermined threshold (typically between 50 to 100 bar) to break the breaking points 203 of the base 2 (arrows of the figure 5D ), then the base 13 disengages from the base 2 and is pushed upwardly (that is to say towards the plug 3A) under the effect of the pressure ( figure 5E ). Note that the upper portion 201 of the base 2 is disengaged from the latter but remains secured to the base 13 once the breaking points 203 are broken.

The predetermined pressure (typically between 50 and 100 bar) allowing rupture of the breaking points 203 of the base 2 is determined by the material sections remaining on the base 2. The ring 9 being secured to the base 13 which moves upwards, the central portion 42 of the valve 4 is no longer in contact with the ring 9 but comes into contact with the base of the base 13 thus closing the inlet orifice 131, the seal being provided through joints 5 and 6 ( figure 5E ).

It is noted that in the positions of the valve 4 illustrated on the Figures 5D and 5E , the upper portion 41 of the valve 4 is in contact with the inner surface of the plug 3A.

In summary, in the case where the jacket C breaks during its expansion, the base 13 becomes movable and cooperates with the valve 4 to ensure an optimum seal between the inside and outside of the BP line.

This base 13 thus constitutes a locking element which prevents the return of the valve 4 to its open position, in case of rupture of the jacket C.

Such an approach makes it possible not only to avoid a pressure drop inside the BP line, but also to ensure the blocking of the valve 4 in its closed position if the pressure increases in the annular space situated between the outside. BP driving and well formation.

The solution of the invention thus solves the problems of the prior art simply and efficiently.

The figure 5F illustrates the purge phase. When the pressure is purged in the BP line, the spring 8 pushes the valve 4 and the base 13, which is now mobile, down (that is to say to the BP line). The central portion 42 of the valve 4 is always in contact with the base of the base 13 thus closing the inlet orifice 131, sealing being ensured during this movement by the joints 5 and 6.

As illustrated on the figure 5G if the pressure increases inside the pipe BP, the assembly formed by the valve 4 and the base 13 is displaced, by pressure, in sliding in the base 2 until it abuts against the plug 3A , the seal being permanently ensured by the seals 5 and 6. The spring 8 is dimensioned so that the valve 4 keeps a sealed contact with the base of the base 13 during the movement of these two parts upwards (ie to say towards the stopper 3A). As illustrated by the arrows, the fluid from the BP line can not pass from the inlet port 131 to the fluid passage 91.

As illustrated on the figure 5H if the pressure increases between the pipe BP and the wall of the well (it is called "annular side"), the sleeve C being broken, the assembly formed by the valve 4 and the base 13 is pushed into abutment by the spring 8 and the pressure against the base 2, the seal being permanently ensured by the seals 5 and 6. The valve 4 keeps a sealed contact with the base of the base 13 during the movement of these two parts downwards (it is ie towards the BP line). As illustrated by the arrows, the fluid from the outlet port 94 can not pass from the fluid passage 91 to the inlet port 131 communicating with the interior of the BP line.

In other words, once the base 13 disengages from the base 2, the base 13 cooperates with the valve 4 to close the fluid passage between the inside and the outside of the BP pipe, whatever the pressures inside and outside the BP line.

Second embodiment

In the second embodiment illustrated on the Figure 6A , the control device of the fluid passage, or valve, 11 according to the invention is also integrated in the welded end 110 of an isolation device, that is to say in the configuration of the figure 10 .

The control device of the fluid passage, or valve, 11 is of substantially cylindrical shape and comprises a hollow base 12 closed by a hollow plug 13A delimiting a sealed or substantially sealed cylindrical interior space. In this space is mounted a first closure member, in the form of a valve or piston, 14, which is vertically movable along an axis perpendicular to the axis XX 'of the pipe as shown in FIG. figure 10 .

The base 12 is screwed into the wall of the pipe, or " casing " BP.

The first cylindrical end 141 of the valve 14 is integral with a spring 18 and is housed in the latter. The spring 18 is further secured to the plug 13A. The cylindrical second end 143 of the valve 14 is slidably guided in a cylindrical housing 1132 formed in the base of a second closure member, called a base 113. The base 113, which is cylindrical in shape, is fixedly mounted in the base 12 and comprises an inlet 1131 of the annular fluid which is disposed in the base of the base 113, around the housing 1132. The inlet port 1131 is connected to the inside of the BP line. It is noted that the outside diameter and the height of the base 113 are slightly smaller than the inside diameter and the height respectively of the base 12.

The two cylindrical ends 141, 143 of the valve 14 are connected by a cylindrical central portion 142.

In this example, a commercial adhesive blocks the translation of the base 113 relative to the base 12, this adhesive being applied in the game 112 formed between the base 12 and the base 113. As shown in the detail view of the Figure 6B , two seals 17 whose function is to prevent the liquid glue from flowing in the game 112 are placed between the base 12 and the base 113 (the adhesive remaining liquid several hours after application).

An annular-shaped seal 15 is adhered in an annular housing of the central portion 142 of the valve 14 so that even when a large flow of fluid passes into the closure device 11, the seal 15 is not expelled from its seal. housing.

A ring 19 forming a seat for the valve 14 is screwed into the upper part of the base 113.

In the open position of the valve 14 illustrated on the Figure 6A , the fluid can flow from the inside of the BP line to the jacket (not shown) through the inlet port 1131, then communication spaces 191, 192, 193 and finally the outlet port 194, the latter communicating with the interior space of the shirt.

The inflation or expansion phase of the liner of the isolation device is illustrated on the Figure 9A . When a certain pressure is reached in the BP line, the valve 14 opens. The central portion of the valve 14 is located between the base 113 and the ring 19, substantially equidistant from these two elements.

As illustrated by the arrows, the fluid passes from the inlet port 1131 connected to the inside of the BP line to the outlet port 194 connected to the sleeve C. It is noted that the base 113 is fixedly mounted in the base 12.

During this phase of filling the jacket, the flow in the shutter device 11 creates a significant pressure drop.

The clearance 112 between the base 12 and the base 113, the width and the diameter of the ring of adhesive applied in the game 112 (to block the translation of the base 113 relative to the base 12), and the shear resistance of this glue are dimensioned to withstand this loss of load and avoid shearing of the ring of glue (and thus the displacement of the base 113 relative to the base 12).

The purge phase is illustrated on the Figure 9B . As soon as the pressure in the LP line is purged, the valve 14 slidably moves downward (it closes under the effect of the spring 18), its central portion 142 coming to press against the base 113 then closing the orifice 1131 inlet sealingly through the seal 15. As a result, a pressure close to the end inflation pressure is kept inside the liner. As illustrated by the arrow, the fluid from the jacket can not pass into the BP line.

In the case where the expansible folder breaks during the filling phase (this phase is illustrated on the Figure 9A ), the large volume under pressure in the BP line, released by the rupture of the liner, will cause a large increase in the flow rate at the passage of the valve 14. When the flow exceeds a predetermined threshold of the order of 1000 l / min, the pressure drop at the passage of the valve 14 is sufficient to exceed the force of the spring 18 and come close the valve 14, as shown in the Figure 9C . In other words, the valve 14 moves upwards and is pressed against the ring 19 preventing or minimizing the passage of fluid from the BP line to the jacket as shown by the arrows.

The Figures 9D and 9E illustrate the activation of the locking of the valve 14 in the closed position. Once the valve 14 in the closed position, in the position of the Figure 9C , if the pressure in the BP line exceeds a predetermined threshold (typically between 50 and 100 bar) to shear the ring of glue contained in the space / clearance 112 between the pieces 113 and 12 ( Figure 9D ), then the base 113 disengages from the base 12 and is pushed upwards, that is to say towards the ring 19, by the pressure ( Figure 9E ). The pressure to shear the glue is determined by the width, the diameter of the glue ring, the clearance 112 and the shear strength of the glue. The ring 19 being integral with the base 113 which moves upwards, the central portion 142 of the valve 14 is no longer in contact with the ring 19 but comes into contact with the base of the base 113, the seal being provided by the intermediate of seals 15 and 16 ( Figure 9E ).

The figure 9F illustrates the purge phase. When the pressure is purged in the BP line, the spring 18 pushes the valve 14 and the base 113 downwards (that is to say towards the BP line), the valve 14 keeping a tight contact with the base of the base 113. In this movement, the seals 15 and 16 always seal.

As illustrated on the Figure 9G if the pressure increases inside the pipe BP, the assembly formed by the valve 14 and the base 113 is pushed by the pressure in abutment to the plug 13A and the seal is permanently ensured by the seals 15 and 16. The spring 18 is dimensioned so that the valve 14 keeps a sealed contact with the base 113 during the upward movement, that is to say towards the plug 13A, of these two parts 14, 113 which cooperate.

As illustrated on the figure 9H , if the pressure increases in the annular space between the LP line and the formation of the well, the assembly formed by the valve 14 and the base 113 is pushed, by the spring 18 and the pressure, in abutment against the base 12, the sealing being ensured permanently during this movement by the joints 15 and 16.

A third embodiment of a fluid passage control device, or valve, 21 is illustrated on the Figures 7A and 7B . The operation of the valve 21 is substantially identical to that of the valves 1, 11 described above. The valve 21 similarly comprises a base 22, a valve 24, a base 213 and a ring 29 which is fixedly mounted in the base 213.

Unlike the previous embodiments which provide a joining by welding or gluing of the base 13, 113 with the base 2, 12, there is provided here a ring 295 having in its center an opening 2951 for the passage of the upper portion 241 of the valve 24, and which is provided on its periphery with leaf spring 2952 spaced apart from each other. The ring 295 is fixed on the top of the base 22, shirt side, the ends of the spring blades 2952 being "clipped" in a groove machined in the base 22.

The length and the thickness of the spring blades 2952 as well as the depth of the groove of the base 12 are calibrated to break at a determined pressure. The seal 25 is here of the type of flange seal.

In the fourth embodiment illustrated on the figure 8 shear pins 396 are provided which are arranged (by screwing, for example) in radial holes formed around the periphery of the base 32. These shear pins 396 are integral with the base 313. The diameter and the material of the shear pins 396 are calibrated to break at a predetermined pressure.

• de remplir la chemise pour l'expanser avec un débit élevé sans que le clapet ne ferme l'ouverture d'expansion O. En effet, une des contraintes du terrain est la taille des pompes utilisées pour effectuer l'expansion de la chemise. Les pompes utilisées sont des pompes qui servent pour l'injection de fluide lors des phases de forage ou de cimentation, et qui présentent donc un fort débit (supérieur à 100 litres/min, le volume d'expansion d'une chemise étant de 3 à 30 litres environ). Ce fort débit ne doit pas fermer le clapet lors de la phase d'expansion ;
• de conserver la pression à l'intérieur de la chemise après son expansion ;
• de bloquer/obturer l'ouverture d'expansion O en cas de rupture de la chemise, le blocage se faisant de façon permanente avec un joint en élastomère notamment.

The fluid passage control device, or valve, according to the invention thus allows:

• fill the jacket to expand with a high flow without the valve closes the expansion opening O. Indeed, one of the constraints of the field is the size of the pumps used to carry out the expansion of the folder. The pumps used are pumps which are used for the injection of fluid during the drilling or cementing phases, and which therefore have a high flow rate (greater than 100 liters / min, the expansion volume of a jacket being 3 about 30 liters). This high flow rate must not close the valve during the expansion phase;
• keep the pressure inside the liner after expansion;
• to block / seal the expansion opening O in case of rupture of the jacket, the locking being made permanently with an elastomer seal in particular.

Claims (16)

1. Device for insulating a portion of a well or a pipeline comprising a duct (BP) provided, on its outer face, with at least one outer liner that surrounds the said duct (BP), the ends of the liner (C) being hermetically connected to the outer face of the duct (BP), the liner (21) being able to expand radially and to press hermetically against the inner wall of the well or pipeline, at least one expansion duct (O) connecting the interior of the duct (BP) with the space (E) located between the outer face of the duct (BP) and the inner wall of the liner (C),
   the said at least one expansion duct (O) comprising means for controlling the passage of pressurised fluid between the interior of the duct (BP) and the space (E), the said device being characterised in that the said control means comprise:

   - a case (2, 3A) located in the expansion duct (O) and communicating on the one hand with the interior of the duct (BP) and on the other hand with the space (E);

   - a first closing member (4) located in the said case (2, 3A) and movable between a first closed and watertight position in which the fluid cannot travel from the space (E) to the duct (BP), a second closed position reached when the flow of fluid from the duct (BP) to the space (E) exceeds a predetermined threshold and at least one intermediate open position between these two closed positions in which the flow of fluid from the duct (BP) to the space (E) is permitted;

   - a second closing member (13) fixedly mounted in the said case (2, 3A) and configured to disengage from the said case (2, 3A) when the first closing member (4) is in the second closed position and when the pressure difference between the duct (BP) and the space (E) exceeds a predetermined threshold, in such a way as to cooperate with the first closing member (4) and to prevent the flow of the fluid from the duct (BP) to the space (E) or from the space (E) to the duct (BP), whatever the pressure inside or outside the duct (BP).
2. Insulating device according to claim 1, characterised in that the said second closing member (13) is a hollow element in which the said first closing member (4) is movably mounted along the longitudinal axis of the said case (2, 3A).
3. Insulating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the said second closing member (13) has an inlet opening (131) communicating with the interior of the duct (BP) and an outlet opening (92) communicating with the space (E), the said first movable closing member (4) closing the said inlet opening (131) in the first closed position and the said outlet opening (92) in the second closed position.
4. Insulating device according to claim 3, characterised in that once the said second closing member (13) has disengaged from the said case (2, 3A), the said first closing member (4) and the said second closing member (13) cooperate by moving along the longitudinal axis of the said case (2, 3A) in such a way as to permanently close the said inlet opening (131).
5. Insulating device according to claim 3 or 4, characterised in that the said first closing member (4) is attached to at least one spring (8) attached to the said case (2, 3A) and designed to move the said first closing member (4) towards the said inlet opening (131).
6. Insulating device according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the said second closing member (13) is attached to a divisible portion of the said case (2, 3A).
7. Insulating device according to claim 6, characterised in that the attachment of the said second closing member (13) to the said divisible portion is performed by welding.
8. Insulating device according to claim 6 or 7, characterised in that the said divisible portion of the said case (2, 3A) remains attached to the said second closing member (13) when the latter disengages from the said case (2, 3A).
9. Insulating device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterised in that the said case (2, 3A) has a weakened area linking the said divisible portion of the said case (2, 3A) to the rest of the said case (2, 3A), the said weakened area comprising at least one pinhole arranged in the wall of the said case (2, 3A).
10. Insulating device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterised in that the first movable closing member (4) has first sealing means (5) intended to come into contact with the said second closing member (13) when the first movable closing member (4) closes the said inlet opening (131).
11. Insulating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the said second closing member (13) has second sealing means (6) coming into contact with the inner wall of the said case (2, 3A).
12. Insulating device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the said second closing member (13) is attached to the said case (2, 3A) by bonding.
13. Insulating device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the said second closing member (13) is attached to the said case (2, 3A) by at least one shear pin.
14. Insulating device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the said second closing member (13) is maintained in the said case (2, 3A) by a cover with divisible leaf springs attached to the said case (2, 3A).
15. Insulating device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterised in that the said control means are arranged at least in part:

    - in an opening (O) arranged in the wall of the duct (BP) facing the liner (C), or

    - in the means for attaching the liner (C) to the said duct (BP), or

    - outside the said liner (C), between the wall of the duct (BP) and the means for attaching the liner (C) .
16. Control means implemented in a device for insulating a portion of a well or a pipeline according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the said insulating device comprising a duct (BP) provided, on its outer face, with at least one outer liner that surrounds the said duct (BP), the ends of the liner (C) being hermetically connected to the outer face of the duct (BP), the liner (21) being able to expand radially and to press hermetically against the inner wall of the well or pipeline, at least one expansion duct (O) connecting the interior of the duct (BP) with the space (E) located between the outer face of the duct (BP) and the inner wall of the liner (C), the said at least one expansion duct (O) comprising the said means for controlling the passage of pressurised fluid between the interior of the duct (BP) and the space (E), characterised in that the said control means comprise:

    - a case (2, 3A) located in the expansion duct (O) and communicating on the one hand with the interior of the duct (BP) and on the other hand with the space (E);

    - a first closing member (4) located in the said case (2, 3A) and movable between a first closed and watertight position in which the fluid cannot travel from the space (E) to the duct (BP), a second closed position reached when the flow of fluid from the duct (BP) to the space (E) exceeds a predetermined threshold and at least one intermediate open position between these two closed positions in which the flow of fluid from the duct (BP) to the space (E) is permitted;

    - a second closing member (13) fixedly mounted in the said case (2, 3A) and configured to disengage from the said case (2, 3A) when the first closing member (4) is in the second closed position and when the pressure difference between the duct (BP) and the space (E) exceeds a predetermined threshold, in such a way as to cooperate with the first closing member (4) and to prevent the flow of the fluid from the duct (BP) to the space (E) or from the space (E) to the duct (BP), whatever the pressure inside or outside the duct (BP).

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