US20150144335A1 - Power retrieving tool - Google Patents

Power retrieving tool Download PDF

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Publication number
US20150144335A1
US20150144335A1 US14/547,231 US201414547231A US2015144335A1 US 20150144335 A1 US20150144335 A1 US 20150144335A1 US 201414547231 A US201414547231 A US 201414547231A US 2015144335 A1 US2015144335 A1 US 2015144335A1
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United States
Prior art keywords
retrieval
casing string
tool
bottom hole
seal
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US14/547,231
Inventor
Erik P. Eriksen
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Schlumberger Technology Corp
Smith International Inc
Original Assignee
Schlumberger Technology Corp
Smith International Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Schlumberger Technology Corp, Smith International Inc filed Critical Schlumberger Technology Corp
Priority to US14/547,231 priority Critical patent/US20150144335A1/en
Priority to PCT/US2014/066731 priority patent/WO2015077517A1/en
Assigned to SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC. reassignment SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: ERIKSEN, ERIK P.
Publication of US20150144335A1 publication Critical patent/US20150144335A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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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
    • E21B10/00Drill bits
    • E21B10/64Drill bits characterised by the whole or part thereof being insertable into or removable from the borehole without withdrawing the drilling pipe
    • E21B10/66Drill bits characterised by the whole or part thereof being insertable into or removable from the borehole without withdrawing the drilling pipe the cutting element movable through the drilling pipe and laterally shiftable
    • 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
    • E21B31/00Fishing for or freeing objects in boreholes or wells
    • E21B31/12Grappling tools, e.g. tongs or grabs
    • 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
    • E21B23/00Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells
    • 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
    • E21B23/00Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells
    • E21B23/14Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells for displacing a cable or a cable-operated tool, e.g. for logging or perforating operations in deviated wells
    • 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
    • E21B33/00Sealing or packing boreholes or wells
    • E21B33/10Sealing or packing boreholes or wells in the borehole
    • E21B33/12Packers; Plugs
    • E21B33/126Packers; Plugs with fluid-pressure-operated elastic cup or skirt
    • 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
    • E21B47/00Survey of boreholes or wells
    • E21B47/06Measuring temperature or pressure
    • 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
    • E21B7/00Special methods or apparatus for drilling
    • E21B7/20Driving or forcing casings or pipes into boreholes, e.g. sinking; Simultaneously drilling and casing boreholes

Definitions

  • aspects relate to casing while drilling for downhole applications. More specifically, aspects relate to a power retrieving tool for casing drilling applications.
  • Casing-while-drilling is a technique that involves running a casing simultaneously with drilling a wellbore or borehole.
  • the operator locks a bottom hole assembly to the lower end portion of the casing.
  • the bottom hole assembly has a pilot drill bit and a reamer for drilling the borehole as the casing is lowered into the earth.
  • the operator pumps drilling mud or fluid down the casing string, which returns up the annulus surrounding the casing string, along with cuttings from the drilling operation.
  • the operator may rotate the casing via the bottom hole assembly.
  • the operator may employ a mud motor that is powered by the downward flowing drilling mud or fluid and that rotates the drill bit.
  • the operator will want to retrieve the drill bit and related bottom hole assembly (one or more of an under reamer, downhole motor, directional drilling tools, MWD and/or LWD tools) through the casing string and install a cement valve for cementing the casing string. Further, the bottom hole assembly may need to be retrieved through the casing string prior to reaching total depth to replace the drill bit and/or under reamer or repair instruments associated with the bottom hole assembly.
  • the drill bit and related bottom hole assembly one or more of an under reamer, downhole motor, directional drilling tools, MWD and/or LWD tools
  • One retrieval method uses a wireline retrieval tool that is lowered on wireline into engagement with the bottom hole assembly.
  • Wireline alone has a limited pulling capacity; wireline combined with a tractor arrangement has low speed.
  • wireline retrieval an operator pulls upward on the wireline to retrieve the bottom hole assembly. While this is a workable solution in many cases, in some wells, the force to pull loose the bottom hole assembly and retrieve it to the surface may be too high, resulting in breakage of the cable.
  • the operator reverse circulates to pump the bottom hole assembly back up the casing.
  • Reverse out systems operate at increased bottom hole pressure or use a lighter fluid inside the tubular.
  • One concern about reverse circulation is that the amount of pressure to force the bottom hole assembly upward may be damaging to the formation via the open borehole.
  • the pressure applied to the annulus of the casing may break down certain formations, causing lost circulation or drilling fluid flow into the formation. This technique may also cause formation fluid to flow into the drilling fluid and be circulated up the casing string.
  • the apparatus may include a latching device that couples to a tool or bottom hole assembly to be retrieved and at least one seal extending radially from the apparatus to engage an inner diameter of a tubular, such as a casing string.
  • a pump inlet is disposed in or through an outer surface of the apparatus uphole of the at least one seal.
  • a pump outlet is disposed in or through an outer surface of the apparatus downhole of the at least one seal.
  • the apparatus may also include a pump for pumping a drilling fluid from the pump inlet to the pump outlet in order to generate a differential pressure across the at least one seal and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of the tool or bottom hole assembly.
  • the method of retrieving a tool or bottom hole assembly may include latching or coupling a retrieval apparatus to a tool or a bottom hole assembly to be retrieved, the retrieval apparatus having at least one seal extending radially therefrom and arranged to sealingly engage an inner diameter of a tubular, such as a casing string.
  • the method may also include pumping fluid from an inlet of the retrieval apparatus positioned uphole of the at least one seal to an outlet of the retrieval apparatus positioned downhole of the at least one seal to generate a differential pressure and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of the tool or bottom hole assembly.
  • the method of retrieving a tool or bottom hole assembly may involve circulating fluids during a wireline retrieval operation.
  • Such method may include flowing fluid through a casing string to an inlet of a retrieval apparatus.
  • the method may also include pumping fluid from the inlet to an outlet of the retrieval apparatus to generate a differential pressure across the retrieval apparatus and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of a tool or a bottom hole assembly.
  • the method may further include circulating fluid from the casing string into a casing string annulus.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a drilling system for employing apparatuses and/or practicing methods according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates one implementation of a drill lock assembly.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a power retrieving tool according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a power retrieving tool according to one or more implementations disclosed herein coupled to a drill lock assembly.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a power retrieving tool according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a sectioned part of a power retrieving tool according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating a retrieval operation according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • a borehole or wellbore 11 is shown being drilled into a subterranean formation.
  • the bore as represented by borehole 11 is not limited to a bore into a subterranean formation but may be a bore drilled into any drillable material. Further, the bore as represented by borehole 11 may be disposed in any orientation, such as vertical, horizontal or therebetween.
  • a casing string 13 is lowered into borehole 11 .
  • An annulus 15 is located between the sidewall of borehole 11 and casing string 13 .
  • One or more strings of casing 17 have already been installed and cemented in place by cement 18 .
  • FIG. 1 shows one string of casing 17 . Annulus 15 thus extends from the bottom of casing string 13 up the annular space between casing string 13 and casing 17 .
  • a wellhead assembly 19 is located at or near the surface (or at or near the sea floor for an offshore wellbore).
  • Wellhead assembly 19 will differ from one drilling rig to another, but as shown has a blowout preventer 21 (BOP) that is capable of closing and sealing around casing string 13 .
  • BOP blowout preventer
  • An annulus outlet flow line 22 extends from wellhead assembly 19 at a point above BOP 21 .
  • An annulus inlet flow line 23 extends from wellhead assembly 19 from a point below BOP 21 .
  • a valve 61 and a flow meter 63 are also located in annulus inlet flow line 23 . Choke valves and other components may also be disposed proximate the surface.
  • Casing string 13 extends upward through an opening in rig floor 25 that has a set of slips (not shown).
  • a casing string gripper 27 engages and supports the weight of casing string 13 and is also capable of rotating casing string 13 .
  • Casing string gripper 27 may grip the inner side of casing string 13 , as shown, or it may alternately grip the outer side of casing string 13 .
  • Casing string gripper 27 has a seal 29 that seals to the interior of casing string 13 .
  • Casing string gripper 27 is secured to a top drive 31 , which moves casing string gripper 27 up and down the derrick (not shown).
  • a flow passage 33 extends through top drive 31 and casing gripper 27 for communication with the interior of casing string 13 .
  • a hose 35 couples to the upper end portion of flow passage 33 at top drive 31 .
  • Hose 35 is in fluid communication with a discharge port 36 of a mud pump 37 .
  • Mud pump 37 may be a conventional pump, which may have reciprocating pistons.
  • a valve 39 is located at outlet 36 for selectively opening and closing communication with hose 35 .
  • the drilling fluid or mud circulation system includes one or more mud tanks 41 that hold a quantity of drilling fluid or mud 43 .
  • the circulation system also has screening devices (not shown) that remove cuttings from drilling fluid 43 returning from borehole 11 via annulus outlet flow line 22 .
  • Mud pump 37 has a flow line inlet 45 that couples to mud tank 41 for receiving drilling fluid 43 after cuttings have been removed.
  • a valve 46 selectively opens and closes the flow from mud tank 41 to an inlet of mud pump 37 .
  • a centrifugal charging pump (not shown) may be mounted in flow line 45 for supplying drilling fluid 43 to mud pump 37 .
  • a bottom hole assembly 47 is shown located at the lower end portion of casing string 13 .
  • Bottom hole assembly 47 may include a drill lock assembly 49 that has movable dogs 51 that engage an annular recess in a sub near the lower end portion of casing string 13 to lock bottom hole assembly 47 in place.
  • Drill lock assembly 49 also has keys that engage vertical slots for transmitting rotation of casing string 13 to bottom hole assembly 47 . Dogs 51 could be eliminated, with the bottom hole assembly 47 retained at the lower end portion of casing string 13 by drilling fluid pressure in casing string 13 .
  • An extension pipe 53 extends downward from drill lock assembly 49 out the lower end portion of casing string 13 .
  • a drill bit 55 is coupled to the lower end portion of extension pipe 53 and a reamer 57 is mounted to extension pipe 53 above drill bit 55 . Alternately, reamer 57 could be located at the lower end portion of casing string 13 .
  • Logging instruments may also be incorporated within or coupled to extension pipe 53 .
  • a centralizer 59 centralizes
  • mud pump 37 receives drilling fluid 43 from mud tank 41 and pumps it through outlet 36 into hose 35 , as illustrated in FIG. 1 .
  • the drilling fluid flows through casing string gripper 27 , down casing string 13 and out nozzles (not shown) at the lower end portion of drill bit 55 .
  • Drilling fluid 43 flows back up casing annulus 15 and through annulus outlet flow line 22 back into mud tank 41 .
  • the fluid circulation path is illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a drill lock assembly 49 , such as a DLA-8SP drill lock assembly, which is available from Schlumberger Technology Corporation.
  • drill lock assembly 49 may include movable dogs 51 that engage an annular recess in a sub near the lower end portion of casing string 13 to lock bottom hole assembly 47 (attached to a lower end portion 50 of drill lock assembly 49 ) in place.
  • Drill lock assembly 49 also has keys 52 that engage vertical slots for transmitting rotation of casing string 13 to the bottom hole assembly 47 .
  • the power retrieving tool assembly 100 may also be referred to herein as a “retrieving tool,” a “retrieval apparatus,” or other like terms.
  • Power retrieving tool assembly 100 may include a retrieving sub assembly 101 and a power retrieving tool sub assembly 102 .
  • Retrieving sub assembly 101 also referred to as a latching device, may be configured to latch or couple to the particular drill lock assembly 49 being used (see FIG. 1 ), so as to facilitate retrieval of the bottom hole assembly 47 ( FIG. 1 ).
  • Retrieval sub assembly 101 may be similar to that as described in, for example, U.S. patent application publication US2009/0288839, which provides mechanisms for both latching and detaching from a drill lock assembly.
  • the power retrieving tool assembly 100 may also be coupled to an electric wireline 103 .
  • the electric line may be part of a commercially available wireline service, such as those provided by Schlumberger Technology Corporation, among others.
  • the wireline service may provide pressure control equipment to seal between the wireline and the top end portion of the casing string.
  • Such wireline service may also provide a wireline BOP arrangement, as is well known to those skilled in the art.
  • Wireline 103 may, for example, be a 0.53-inch OD 7-conductor 16 gauge cable.
  • Power retrieving tool assembly 100 includes a pump 108 , one or more pump inlets 107 , and one or more pump outlets 118 .
  • Power retrieving tool assembly 100 also includes one or more sealing devices 116 configured to sealingly engage the inner diameter of the casing string 13 ( FIG. 1 ).
  • Pump inlets 107 may be located above sealing devices 116
  • pump outlets 118 may be located below sealing devices 116 .
  • Sealing devices 116 may be, for example, cup seals.
  • Power retrieving tool assembly 100 may include upwards facing cup seals 116 , sealing against fluid flow downhole past power retrieving tool assembly 100 , as well as downward facing cup seals 116 to seal against fluid flow uphole.
  • power retrieving tool sub assembly 102 may also include a cable head 104 configured to couple wireline 103 to the power retrieving tool assembly 100 .
  • Wireline 103 may provide one or more of: power to an electric motor (not shown) to operate pump 108 , power and/or communications between an electric and electronic control module 105 , and/or means to apply additional upward force to the retrieval apparatus 100 (such as by pulling on or tensioning wireline 103 ).
  • the exterior of electronic control module 105 may include external wickers thread for fishing tool engagement.
  • the power retrieving tool assembly 100 may be deployed, lowered into the casing string 13 ( FIG. 1 ) to retrieve a tool or a bottom hole assembly 47 ( FIG. 1 ).
  • the power retrieving tool assembly 100 may be lowered by gravitational forces or may be pumped through the casing string 13 .
  • the power retrieving tool assembly 100 is configured for use in highly deviated well profiles as well as in horizontal well profiles.
  • fluid may be pumped into the casing string 13 through a side inlet or spool part (not shown) of the surface pressure control equipment.
  • the pressure will act against an upward facing sealing device 116 , with flow passing over the outside of the retrieval apparatus 100 , thereby expanding the upward facing sealing device 116 into sealing engagement with the inner diameter of the casing string 13 .
  • the seal does not need to form a tight seal against casing string 13 , but should provide sufficient sealing so as to promote conveyance of the retrieving assembly through the casing string.
  • Retrieving sub assembly 101 latches to drill lock assembly 49 and also releases dogs 51 to allow bottom hole assembly 47 to be retrieved. Once the power retrieving tool assembly 100 , such as that illustrated in FIG. 3 engages the drill lock assembly 49 , such as that illustrated in FIG. 2 , the drill lock assembly 49 may be released by an upwards pull on the internal components of the drill lock assembly 49 .
  • FIG. 4 illustrates power retrieving tool assembly 100 latched with drill lock assembly 49 .
  • the complete bottom hole assembly 47 ( FIG. 1 ) may be moved uphole and retrieved from the casing string 13 ( FIG. 1 ).
  • the force needed to initiate movement of the bottom hole assembly 47 may be created by operating pump 108 via electric power supplied through the wireline 103 . Fluid flows into the pump suction via one or more inlets 107 , downward through the interior ( FIG. 6 ) of the power retrieving tool assembly 100 via pump discharge outlet 110 , flow paths 111 , 117 , to one or more outlets 118 . Pump 108 thus moves fluid from above the sealing devices 116 to below sealing devices 116 , thus causing a differential pressure across the sealing devices 116 and forming a low pressure region 122 ( FIG. 4 ).
  • the pressure below the sealing device 116 i.e., region 120 , remains the bottom hole pressure as defined by the annulus hydrostatic pressure.
  • the pressure differential provides a hydraulic force (upwardly acting) to effect retrieval of the bottom hole assembly 47 . If desired, additional force may be provided to effect retrieval via pulling on or tensioning wireline 103 .
  • flow of drilling fluid within the borehole 11 may be as illustrated by the arrows, where fluid above the power retrieving tool assembly 100 enters one or more inlets 107 of the power retrieving tool assembly 100 , is pumped through the internal cavities of the power retrieving tool assembly 100 via pump 108 , exits from one or more outlets 118 of the power retrieving tool assembly 100 , flows downwardly internally through the bottom hole assembly 47 , exits via outlets in drill bit 55 , and flows into the wellbore/borehole annulus 15 for recirculation to the surface.
  • the pressure above and below the sealing devices 116 during the retrieval operation may be measured, and the pressure above the sealing devices 116 may be controlled.
  • the pressure may be continuously measured via a pressure measurement system, such as a dual gauge 112 ( FIG. 6 ), where downhole pressure may be monitored via port 115 ( FIG. 6 ).
  • Port 115 may be in communication with the casing fluid at a point below the sealing devices 116 , and the pressure above the sealing devices 116 may be measured through a port (not shown) in gauge 112 .
  • the pressure measurement (and/or differential pressure measurement) results may then be transmitted to a surface control unit (not shown) through gauge cable 109 ( FIG. 6 ), control module 105 ( FIG. 5 ), and through one of the conductors in wireline 103 ( FIG. 5 ).
  • the pressure differential across seals 116 may be continuously monitored and controlled by adjusting the speed of pump 108 or by operating pump 108 intermittently.
  • the retrieval speed may thus be controlled by the differential pressure (the hydraulic force applied) across seals 116 , as well as by application of additional force to the wireline 103 .
  • the retrieval speed may be further adjusted by varying the differential pressure, the force applied to the wireline 103 , or both.
  • the retrieval operations as described above may be performed with fluid static in the borehole 11 or with fluid circulating through the borehole 11 .
  • fluid static in the borehole 11 no fluid is being introduced via flow line 35 ( FIG. 1 ).
  • the pumping action reduces the level of fluid above the retrieval apparatus 100 and reduces the pump inlet pressure, as well as decreases the weight of fluid bearing down on the retrieval apparatus 100 , progressively moving the retrieval apparatus 100 upward through the casing string 13 .
  • the pump speed (and thus the differential pressure) may be adjusted throughout the retrieval operation to maintain the fluid relatively static within the annulus 15 .
  • fluid may be circulated and returned to the surface through the annulus 15 between the casing string 13 and the borehole 11 .
  • the effect on the bottom hole pressure will be similar to that of any other normal circulation operation with the annulus 15 fully open at the surface.
  • Adding fluid to the casing string 13 above the retrieval apparatus 100 may facilitate the complete retrieval of the bottom hole assembly 47 .
  • lost level due to initial pumping or to other inefficiencies during the retrieval operation may result in a fluid level insufficient to attach the retrieval apparatus 100 to a grapple (not shown).
  • fluid added to the casing string 13 may provide for continued pumping and hydraulic force to lift the retrieval apparatus 100 to a point where it may be engaged with a grapple and held in place along with the bottom hole assembly 47 .
  • the well pressure may be monitored.
  • the surface pressure control equipment may be disconnected from the upper end portion of the casing string 13 and the wireline tools, and the bottom hole assembly 47 may be recovered.
  • retrieval operations disclosed herein may be performed while circulating fluids through the borehole 11 .
  • Fluid may be continually added to the casing string 13 at the surface.
  • the pump speed may be operated to generate a differential pressure across the retrieval apparatus 100 to effect retrieval, compensate for the upwards movement of the bottom hole assembly 47 , as well as to provide sufficient fluid flow rate to maintain fluid circulation from the casing string 13 , to the casing string annulus 15 , and back to the surface.
  • the power retrieving tool assembly adds a powered element to wireline retrieval methods while allowing an operator to keep the bottom hole pressure constant or nearly constant.
  • the tool e.g., a bottom hole assembly, to be retrieved is carried out of the borehole partly by tension from the wireline and partly by lift across a sealing element with the lift created by a reduced height of the fluid column inside the tubular, e.g., casing string, from where it is retrieved.
  • One or more implementations disclosed herein also greatly increase the pulling capacity of a retrieving tool by synergistically combining hydraulic lift force with cable tension.
  • the hydraulic lift force is created by pumping fluid from above the retrieving tool to below the retrieving tool.
  • the concepts described above may be further expanded by adding a slip-arrangement that can anchor the power retrieving tool to the casing in the event of unforeseen problems.
  • One or more implementations disclosed herein may provide an improvement in the time to retrieve a tool from downhole. For example, a 10,000 foot retrieval using wireline retrieval may take twenty-four hours to complete. In contrast, one or more implementations disclosed herein may perform the same 10,000 foot retrieval in less than about 8 hours.
  • the method may maintain atmospheric pressure below the wireline stuffing box at the surface.
  • the bottom hole pressure is kept constant to the same degree as it would be in any other slow circulation of the well.
  • one or more of the retrieval tools disclosed herein may be equally suited to other drilling and production operations, such as retrieving a tool or bottom hole assembly through a casing string in a conventional drilling or completion operation, as well as retrieval through a tubular string in a conventional well service operation, among others.
  • one or more of the retrieval tools disclosed herein may be equally suited for non-drilling applications in which a tool or other object is desired to be removed from a tubular.
  • One or more implementations disclosed herein may also provide for faster retrieval as compared to drill pipe retrieval. Rigging may be similar to that used for conventional wireline operation, with running in and retrieval speeds higher than for drill pipe. Such implementations may also allow for continuous circulation during retrieval, continuously having pressure control equipment engaged at the surface, and being able to circulate while retrieving tools. It may also be possible to reciprocate the casing while performing the retrieving operation.
  • wireline-only retrieval may also be useful over wireline-only retrieval. While using wireline, such implementations provide a much greater upward force at depth, such as when the bottom hole assembly is exposed to open hole (e.g., when not within the casing). Further, such implementations may provide zero pressure on the stuffing box during retrieval, thus allowing for continuous circulation during the retrieval process, and less wear on the stuffing box. Higher retrieval speeds, due to the greater force available, are also possible as compared to wireline-only retrieval.
  • One or more implementations are described above with regard to retrieval of bottom hole assemblies or other downhole tools/objects. Such implementations may also be useful for other wireline conveyed operations, for example, as an alternative to tractors or as a complimentary technique to tractors.
  • the terms “inner” and “outer”; “up” and “down”; “upper” and “lower”; “upward” and “downward”; “above” and “below”; “inward” and “outward”; and other like refer to relative positions to one another and are not intended to denote a particular direction or spatial orientation.
  • the terms “couple,” “coupled,” “connect,” “connection,” “connected,” “in connection with,” and “connecting” refer to “in direct connection with” or “in connection with via one or more intermediate elements or members.”

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
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Abstract

Apparatuses and methods for retrieving a tool or bottom hole assembly. The apparatus may include a latching device that couples to a tool or bottom hole assembly to be retrieved and at least one seal extending radially from the apparatus to engage an inner diameter of a tubular, such as a casing string. A pump inlet is disposed in or through an outer surface of the apparatus uphole of the at least one seal. A pump outlet is disposed in or through an outer surface of the apparatus downhole of the at least one seal. The apparatus may also include a pump for pumping a drilling fluid from the pump inlet to the pump outlet in order to generate a differential pressure across the at least one seal and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of the tool or bottom hole assembly.

Description

    CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
  • The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 61/908,605, filed, Nov. 25, 2013, the entirety of which is included by reference.
  • FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • Aspects relate to casing while drilling for downhole applications. More specifically, aspects relate to a power retrieving tool for casing drilling applications.
  • BACKGROUND
  • Casing-while-drilling is a technique that involves running a casing simultaneously with drilling a wellbore or borehole. The operator locks a bottom hole assembly to the lower end portion of the casing. The bottom hole assembly has a pilot drill bit and a reamer for drilling the borehole as the casing is lowered into the earth. The operator pumps drilling mud or fluid down the casing string, which returns up the annulus surrounding the casing string, along with cuttings from the drilling operation. The operator may rotate the casing via the bottom hole assembly. The operator may employ a mud motor that is powered by the downward flowing drilling mud or fluid and that rotates the drill bit.
  • When the total depth has been reached, unless the drill bit is to be cemented in the well, the operator will want to retrieve the drill bit and related bottom hole assembly (one or more of an under reamer, downhole motor, directional drilling tools, MWD and/or LWD tools) through the casing string and install a cement valve for cementing the casing string. Further, the bottom hole assembly may need to be retrieved through the casing string prior to reaching total depth to replace the drill bit and/or under reamer or repair instruments associated with the bottom hole assembly.
  • One retrieval method uses a wireline retrieval tool that is lowered on wireline into engagement with the bottom hole assembly. Wireline alone has a limited pulling capacity; wireline combined with a tractor arrangement has low speed. During wireline retrieval, an operator pulls upward on the wireline to retrieve the bottom hole assembly. While this is a workable solution in many cases, in some wells, the force to pull loose the bottom hole assembly and retrieve it to the surface may be too high, resulting in breakage of the cable.
  • In another method, the operator reverse circulates to pump the bottom hole assembly back up the casing. Reverse out systems operate at increased bottom hole pressure or use a lighter fluid inside the tubular. One concern about reverse circulation is that the amount of pressure to force the bottom hole assembly upward may be damaging to the formation via the open borehole. The pressure applied to the annulus of the casing may break down certain formations, causing lost circulation or drilling fluid flow into the formation. This technique may also cause formation fluid to flow into the drilling fluid and be circulated up the casing string.
  • SUMMARY
  • This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
  • Implementations of apparatuses and methods for retrieving a tool or bottom hole assembly are disclosed. The apparatus may include a latching device that couples to a tool or bottom hole assembly to be retrieved and at least one seal extending radially from the apparatus to engage an inner diameter of a tubular, such as a casing string. A pump inlet is disposed in or through an outer surface of the apparatus uphole of the at least one seal. A pump outlet is disposed in or through an outer surface of the apparatus downhole of the at least one seal. The apparatus may also include a pump for pumping a drilling fluid from the pump inlet to the pump outlet in order to generate a differential pressure across the at least one seal and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of the tool or bottom hole assembly.
  • The method of retrieving a tool or bottom hole assembly, such as through a casing string in a casing-while-drilling operation, may include latching or coupling a retrieval apparatus to a tool or a bottom hole assembly to be retrieved, the retrieval apparatus having at least one seal extending radially therefrom and arranged to sealingly engage an inner diameter of a tubular, such as a casing string. The method may also include pumping fluid from an inlet of the retrieval apparatus positioned uphole of the at least one seal to an outlet of the retrieval apparatus positioned downhole of the at least one seal to generate a differential pressure and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of the tool or bottom hole assembly.
  • In another implementation, the method of retrieving a tool or bottom hole assembly may involve circulating fluids during a wireline retrieval operation. Such method may include flowing fluid through a casing string to an inlet of a retrieval apparatus. The method may also include pumping fluid from the inlet to an outlet of the retrieval apparatus to generate a differential pressure across the retrieval apparatus and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of a tool or a bottom hole assembly. The method may further include circulating fluid from the casing string into a casing string annulus.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
  • So that the recited features may be understood in detail, a more particular description, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to one or more implementations, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings are illustrative implementations, and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a drilling system for employing apparatuses and/or practicing methods according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates one implementation of a drill lock assembly.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a power retrieving tool according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a power retrieving tool according to one or more implementations disclosed herein coupled to a drill lock assembly.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a power retrieving tool according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a sectioned part of a power retrieving tool according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating a retrieval operation according to one or more implementations disclosed herein.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION
  • Referring to FIG. 1, a borehole or wellbore 11 is shown being drilled into a subterranean formation. The bore as represented by borehole 11 is not limited to a bore into a subterranean formation but may be a bore drilled into any drillable material. Further, the bore as represented by borehole 11 may be disposed in any orientation, such as vertical, horizontal or therebetween. A casing string 13 is lowered into borehole 11. An annulus 15 is located between the sidewall of borehole 11 and casing string 13. One or more strings of casing 17 have already been installed and cemented in place by cement 18. For convenience, FIG. 1 shows one string of casing 17. Annulus 15 thus extends from the bottom of casing string 13 up the annular space between casing string 13 and casing 17.
  • A wellhead assembly 19 is located at or near the surface (or at or near the sea floor for an offshore wellbore). Wellhead assembly 19 will differ from one drilling rig to another, but as shown has a blowout preventer 21 (BOP) that is capable of closing and sealing around casing string 13. An annulus outlet flow line 22 extends from wellhead assembly 19 at a point above BOP 21. An annulus inlet flow line 23 extends from wellhead assembly 19 from a point below BOP 21. As illustrated in FIG. 1, a valve 61 and a flow meter 63 are also located in annulus inlet flow line 23. Choke valves and other components may also be disposed proximate the surface.
  • Casing string 13 extends upward through an opening in rig floor 25 that has a set of slips (not shown). A casing string gripper 27 engages and supports the weight of casing string 13 and is also capable of rotating casing string 13. Casing string gripper 27 may grip the inner side of casing string 13, as shown, or it may alternately grip the outer side of casing string 13. Casing string gripper 27 has a seal 29 that seals to the interior of casing string 13. Casing string gripper 27 is secured to a top drive 31, which moves casing string gripper 27 up and down the derrick (not shown). A flow passage 33 extends through top drive 31 and casing gripper 27 for communication with the interior of casing string 13.
  • A hose 35 couples to the upper end portion of flow passage 33 at top drive 31. Hose 35 is in fluid communication with a discharge port 36 of a mud pump 37. Mud pump 37 may be a conventional pump, which may have reciprocating pistons. A valve 39 is located at outlet 36 for selectively opening and closing communication with hose 35. The drilling fluid or mud circulation system includes one or more mud tanks 41 that hold a quantity of drilling fluid or mud 43. The circulation system also has screening devices (not shown) that remove cuttings from drilling fluid 43 returning from borehole 11 via annulus outlet flow line 22. Mud pump 37 has a flow line inlet 45 that couples to mud tank 41 for receiving drilling fluid 43 after cuttings have been removed. A valve 46 selectively opens and closes the flow from mud tank 41 to an inlet of mud pump 37. A centrifugal charging pump (not shown) may be mounted in flow line 45 for supplying drilling fluid 43 to mud pump 37.
  • A bottom hole assembly 47 is shown located at the lower end portion of casing string 13. Bottom hole assembly 47 may include a drill lock assembly 49 that has movable dogs 51 that engage an annular recess in a sub near the lower end portion of casing string 13 to lock bottom hole assembly 47 in place. Drill lock assembly 49 also has keys that engage vertical slots for transmitting rotation of casing string 13 to bottom hole assembly 47. Dogs 51 could be eliminated, with the bottom hole assembly 47 retained at the lower end portion of casing string 13 by drilling fluid pressure in casing string 13. An extension pipe 53 extends downward from drill lock assembly 49 out the lower end portion of casing string 13. A drill bit 55 is coupled to the lower end portion of extension pipe 53 and a reamer 57 is mounted to extension pipe 53 above drill bit 55. Alternately, reamer 57 could be located at the lower end portion of casing string 13. Logging instruments may also be incorporated within or coupled to extension pipe 53. A centralizer 59 centralizes extension pipe 53 within casing string 13.
  • During drilling, mud pump 37 receives drilling fluid 43 from mud tank 41 and pumps it through outlet 36 into hose 35, as illustrated in FIG. 1. The drilling fluid flows through casing string gripper 27, down casing string 13 and out nozzles (not shown) at the lower end portion of drill bit 55. Drilling fluid 43 flows back up casing annulus 15 and through annulus outlet flow line 22 back into mud tank 41. The fluid circulation path is illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a drill lock assembly 49, such as a DLA-8SP drill lock assembly, which is available from Schlumberger Technology Corporation. As noted above, drill lock assembly 49 may include movable dogs 51 that engage an annular recess in a sub near the lower end portion of casing string 13 to lock bottom hole assembly 47 (attached to a lower end portion 50 of drill lock assembly 49) in place. Drill lock assembly 49 also has keys 52 that engage vertical slots for transmitting rotation of casing string 13 to the bottom hole assembly 47.
  • Referring now to FIG. 3, a power retrieving tool assembly 100 according to one or more implementations disclosed herein is illustrated. The power retrieving tool assembly 100 may also be referred to herein as a “retrieving tool,” a “retrieval apparatus,” or other like terms. Power retrieving tool assembly 100 may include a retrieving sub assembly 101 and a power retrieving tool sub assembly 102. Retrieving sub assembly 101, also referred to as a latching device, may be configured to latch or couple to the particular drill lock assembly 49 being used (see FIG. 1), so as to facilitate retrieval of the bottom hole assembly 47 (FIG. 1). Retrieval sub assembly 101 may be similar to that as described in, for example, U.S. patent application publication US2009/0288839, which provides mechanisms for both latching and detaching from a drill lock assembly.
  • The power retrieving tool assembly 100 may also be coupled to an electric wireline 103. The electric line may be part of a commercially available wireline service, such as those provided by Schlumberger Technology Corporation, among others. The wireline service may provide pressure control equipment to seal between the wireline and the top end portion of the casing string. Such wireline service may also provide a wireline BOP arrangement, as is well known to those skilled in the art. Wireline 103 may, for example, be a 0.53-inch OD 7-conductor 16 gauge cable.
  • Power retrieving tool assembly 100 includes a pump 108, one or more pump inlets 107, and one or more pump outlets 118. Power retrieving tool assembly 100 also includes one or more sealing devices 116 configured to sealingly engage the inner diameter of the casing string 13 (FIG. 1). Pump inlets 107 may be located above sealing devices 116, and pump outlets 118 may be located below sealing devices 116.
  • Sealing devices 116 may be, for example, cup seals. Power retrieving tool assembly 100 may include upwards facing cup seals 116, sealing against fluid flow downhole past power retrieving tool assembly 100, as well as downward facing cup seals 116 to seal against fluid flow uphole.
  • As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, power retrieving tool sub assembly 102 may also include a cable head 104 configured to couple wireline 103 to the power retrieving tool assembly 100. Wireline 103 may provide one or more of: power to an electric motor (not shown) to operate pump 108, power and/or communications between an electric and electronic control module 105, and/or means to apply additional upward force to the retrieval apparatus 100 (such as by pulling on or tensioning wireline 103). In at least one implementation, the exterior of electronic control module 105 may include external wickers thread for fishing tool engagement.
  • Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3 through 7 in combination, when a retrieval operation is desired, the power retrieving tool assembly 100 may be deployed, lowered into the casing string 13 (FIG. 1) to retrieve a tool or a bottom hole assembly 47 (FIG. 1). The power retrieving tool assembly 100 may be lowered by gravitational forces or may be pumped through the casing string 13. It should be noted that the power retrieving tool assembly 100 is configured for use in highly deviated well profiles as well as in horizontal well profiles. To pump the power retrieving tool assembly 100 through the casing string 13, fluid may be pumped into the casing string 13 through a side inlet or spool part (not shown) of the surface pressure control equipment. The pressure will act against an upward facing sealing device 116, with flow passing over the outside of the retrieval apparatus 100, thereby expanding the upward facing sealing device 116 into sealing engagement with the inner diameter of the casing string 13. The seal does not need to form a tight seal against casing string 13, but should provide sufficient sealing so as to promote conveyance of the retrieving assembly through the casing string.
  • Retrieving sub assembly 101 latches to drill lock assembly 49 and also releases dogs 51 to allow bottom hole assembly 47 to be retrieved. Once the power retrieving tool assembly 100, such as that illustrated in FIG. 3 engages the drill lock assembly 49, such as that illustrated in FIG. 2, the drill lock assembly 49 may be released by an upwards pull on the internal components of the drill lock assembly 49. FIG. 4 illustrates power retrieving tool assembly 100 latched with drill lock assembly 49.
  • After the release, or unlocking, of the drill lock assembly 49, the complete bottom hole assembly 47 (FIG. 1) may be moved uphole and retrieved from the casing string 13 (FIG. 1). The force needed to initiate movement of the bottom hole assembly 47 may be created by operating pump 108 via electric power supplied through the wireline 103. Fluid flows into the pump suction via one or more inlets 107, downward through the interior (FIG. 6) of the power retrieving tool assembly 100 via pump discharge outlet 110, flow paths 111, 117, to one or more outlets 118. Pump 108 thus moves fluid from above the sealing devices 116 to below sealing devices 116, thus causing a differential pressure across the sealing devices 116 and forming a low pressure region 122 (FIG. 4). The pressure below the sealing device 116, i.e., region 120, remains the bottom hole pressure as defined by the annulus hydrostatic pressure. The pressure differential provides a hydraulic force (upwardly acting) to effect retrieval of the bottom hole assembly 47. If desired, additional force may be provided to effect retrieval via pulling on or tensioning wireline 103. During retrieval operations, as illustrated in FIG. 7, flow of drilling fluid within the borehole 11 may be as illustrated by the arrows, where fluid above the power retrieving tool assembly 100 enters one or more inlets 107 of the power retrieving tool assembly 100, is pumped through the internal cavities of the power retrieving tool assembly 100 via pump 108, exits from one or more outlets 118 of the power retrieving tool assembly 100, flows downwardly internally through the bottom hole assembly 47, exits via outlets in drill bit 55, and flows into the wellbore/borehole annulus 15 for recirculation to the surface.
  • The pressure above and below the sealing devices 116 during the retrieval operation may be measured, and the pressure above the sealing devices 116 may be controlled. For example, the pressure may be continuously measured via a pressure measurement system, such as a dual gauge 112 (FIG. 6), where downhole pressure may be monitored via port 115 (FIG. 6). Port 115 may be in communication with the casing fluid at a point below the sealing devices 116, and the pressure above the sealing devices 116 may be measured through a port (not shown) in gauge 112. The pressure measurement (and/or differential pressure measurement) results may then be transmitted to a surface control unit (not shown) through gauge cable 109 (FIG. 6), control module 105 (FIG. 5), and through one of the conductors in wireline 103 (FIG. 5). The pressure differential across seals 116 may be continuously monitored and controlled by adjusting the speed of pump 108 or by operating pump 108 intermittently.
  • The retrieval speed may thus be controlled by the differential pressure (the hydraulic force applied) across seals 116, as well as by application of additional force to the wireline 103. The retrieval speed may be further adjusted by varying the differential pressure, the force applied to the wireline 103, or both.
  • The retrieval operations as described above may be performed with fluid static in the borehole 11 or with fluid circulating through the borehole 11. For example, with fluid static in the borehole 11, no fluid is being introduced via flow line 35 (FIG. 1). The pumping action reduces the level of fluid above the retrieval apparatus 100 and reduces the pump inlet pressure, as well as decreases the weight of fluid bearing down on the retrieval apparatus 100, progressively moving the retrieval apparatus 100 upward through the casing string 13. The pump speed (and thus the differential pressure) may be adjusted throughout the retrieval operation to maintain the fluid relatively static within the annulus 15.
  • During the initial pumping (even during static operations), to create a reduced fluid level inside the casing string 13, fluid may be circulated and returned to the surface through the annulus 15 between the casing string 13 and the borehole 11. The effect on the bottom hole pressure will be similar to that of any other normal circulation operation with the annulus 15 fully open at the surface.
  • Adding fluid to the casing string 13 above the retrieval apparatus 100 may facilitate the complete retrieval of the bottom hole assembly 47. For example, lost level due to initial pumping or to other inefficiencies during the retrieval operation may result in a fluid level insufficient to attach the retrieval apparatus 100 to a grapple (not shown). As such, fluid added to the casing string 13 may provide for continued pumping and hydraulic force to lift the retrieval apparatus 100 to a point where it may be engaged with a grapple and held in place along with the bottom hole assembly 47.
  • Once the bottom hole assembly 47 approaches the fluid level in the casing string 13, additional fluid may be added to the casing string 13 to reduce the differential pressure (hydraulic lift). The lost force may be replaced by increasing or adding tension from the wireline 103. There is more force available from the wireline 103 near the surface, as the reduction of available force due to the weight of the wireline 103 in the borehole 11 is small near the surface. Further, the effect of pulling slowly for a short section near surface has a small overall effect on the time needed for the retrieval operation.
  • Once at the surface, the well pressure may be monitored. When static, the surface pressure control equipment may be disconnected from the upper end portion of the casing string 13 and the wireline tools, and the bottom hole assembly 47 may be recovered.
  • As noted above, retrieval operations disclosed herein may be performed while circulating fluids through the borehole 11. Fluid may be continually added to the casing string 13 at the surface. The pump speed may be operated to generate a differential pressure across the retrieval apparatus 100 to effect retrieval, compensate for the upwards movement of the bottom hole assembly 47, as well as to provide sufficient fluid flow rate to maintain fluid circulation from the casing string 13, to the casing string annulus 15, and back to the surface.
  • As described above, one or more implementations disclosed herein relate to a power retrieving tool assembly. The power retrieving tool assembly adds a powered element to wireline retrieval methods while allowing an operator to keep the bottom hole pressure constant or nearly constant. The tool, e.g., a bottom hole assembly, to be retrieved is carried out of the borehole partly by tension from the wireline and partly by lift across a sealing element with the lift created by a reduced height of the fluid column inside the tubular, e.g., casing string, from where it is retrieved.
  • One or more implementations disclosed herein also greatly increase the pulling capacity of a retrieving tool by synergistically combining hydraulic lift force with cable tension. The hydraulic lift force is created by pumping fluid from above the retrieving tool to below the retrieving tool. In an alternative configuration the concepts described above may be further expanded by adding a slip-arrangement that can anchor the power retrieving tool to the casing in the event of unforeseen problems.
  • One or more implementations disclosed herein, whether using pump-only or pump-and-pull operations, may provide an improvement in the time to retrieve a tool from downhole. For example, a 10,000 foot retrieval using wireline retrieval may take twenty-four hours to complete. In contrast, one or more implementations disclosed herein may perform the same 10,000 foot retrieval in less than about 8 hours.
  • Additionally, it is feasible to circulate the wellbore or borehole at the same time as retrieving a tool by increasing the pump rate through the retrieving tool beyond the rate to move the tool, while simultaneously adding fluid to the tubular string at the surface. This method allows circulating while retrieving without having to work against the pressure drop created by fluid flowing through the retrieving tool and the tool to be retrieved.
  • Further, the method may maintain atmospheric pressure below the wireline stuffing box at the surface. The bottom hole pressure is kept constant to the same degree as it would be in any other slow circulation of the well. While described above in relation to casing-while-drilling operations, one or more of the retrieval tools disclosed herein may be equally suited to other drilling and production operations, such as retrieving a tool or bottom hole assembly through a casing string in a conventional drilling or completion operation, as well as retrieval through a tubular string in a conventional well service operation, among others. Furthermore, one or more of the retrieval tools disclosed herein may be equally suited for non-drilling applications in which a tool or other object is desired to be removed from a tubular.
  • One or more implementations disclosed herein may also provide for faster retrieval as compared to drill pipe retrieval. Rigging may be similar to that used for conventional wireline operation, with running in and retrieval speeds higher than for drill pipe. Such implementations may also allow for continuous circulation during retrieval, continuously having pressure control equipment engaged at the surface, and being able to circulate while retrieving tools. It may also be possible to reciprocate the casing while performing the retrieving operation.
  • One or more implementations disclosed herein may also be useful over wireline-only retrieval. While using wireline, such implementations provide a much greater upward force at depth, such as when the bottom hole assembly is exposed to open hole (e.g., when not within the casing). Further, such implementations may provide zero pressure on the stuffing box during retrieval, thus allowing for continuous circulation during the retrieval process, and less wear on the stuffing box. Higher retrieval speeds, due to the greater force available, are also possible as compared to wireline-only retrieval.
  • One or more implementations are described above with regard to retrieval of bottom hole assemblies or other downhole tools/objects. Such implementations may also be useful for other wireline conveyed operations, for example, as an alternative to tractors or as a complimentary technique to tractors.
  • As used herein, the terms “inner” and “outer”; “up” and “down”; “upper” and “lower”; “upward” and “downward”; “above” and “below”; “inward” and “outward”; and other like refer to relative positions to one another and are not intended to denote a particular direction or spatial orientation. The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “connect,” “connection,” “connected,” “in connection with,” and “connecting” refer to “in direct connection with” or “in connection with via one or more intermediate elements or members.”
  • Although only a few example implementations have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the example implementations without materially departing from “Power Retrieving Tool.” Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Thus, although a nail and a screw may not be structural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface to secure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw may be equivalent structures.
  • Certain implementations and features have been described using a set of numerical upper limits and a set of numerical lower limits. It should be appreciated that ranges including the combination of any two values, e.g., the combination of any lower value with any upper value, the combination of any two lower values, and/or the combination of any two upper values are contemplated unless otherwise indicated. Certain lower limits, upper limits and ranges appear in one or more claims below. All numerical values are “about” or “approximately” the indicated value, and take into account experimental error and variations that would be expected by a person having ordinary skill in the art.
  • Various terms have been defined above. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined above, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in at least one printed publication or issued patent. Furthermore, all patents, test procedures, and other documents cited in this application are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with this application and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted.

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for retrieving one of a tool and a bottom hole assembly, comprising:
a latching device arranged and designed to couple to a tool or bottom hole assembly to be retrieved;
at least one seal extending radially from the apparatus and configured to engage an inner diameter of a tubular;
a pump inlet disposed in an outer surface of the apparatus uphole of the at least one seal;
a pump outlet disposed in an outer surface of the apparatus downhole of the at least one seal; and
a pump for pumping a drilling fluid from the pump inlet to the pump outlet to generate a differential pressure across the at least one seal and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of the tool or bottom hole assembly.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one seal includes a downward facing packer cup configured to sealingly engage the inner diameter of the tubular during the retrieval operation.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one seal includes an upward facing packer cup configured to sealingly engage the inner diameter of the tubular during and allow the apparatus to be pumped downhole.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an electric wireline configured to provide at least one of the following:
power to an electric motor to operate the pump;
communications to a control module for monitoring or controlling retrieval operations; and
application of additional upward force to the apparatus.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the control module has external wickers thread.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a pressure measurement system arranged and designed to determine a differential pressure across the at least one seal.
7. A method of retrieving a tool or a bottom hole assembly, comprising:
coupling a retrieval apparatus to one of a tool and a bottom hole assembly to be retrieved, the retrieval apparatus having at least one seal extending radially therefrom and configured to sealingly engage an inner diameter of a tubular; and
pumping fluid from an inlet of the retrieval apparatus positioned uphole of the at least one seal to an outlet of the retrieval apparatus positioned downhole of the at least one seal to generate a differential pressure across the at least one seal and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of the tool or bottom hole assembly.
8. The method of claim 7, further comprising deploying the retrieval apparatus downhole and engaging a drill lock assembly or tool lock assembly.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein the deploying comprises pumping the retrieval apparatus downhole.
10. The method of claim 7, wherein the tubular is a casing string and the method further comprising sealingly engaging an inner diameter of the casing string via the at least one seal.
11. The method of claim 7, further comprising pulling a wireline coupled to the retrieval apparatus to provide additional upward force to the retrieval apparatus.
12. The method of claim 7, further comprising at least one of measuring and controlling the differential pressure.
13. The method of claim 7, further comprising adding fluid to the casing string above the retrieval apparatus.
14. A method of circulating fluids during a wireline retrieval operation, comprising:
flowing fluid through a casing string to an inlet of a retrieval apparatus; and
pumping fluid from the inlet to an outlet of the retrieval apparatus to:
generate a differential pressure across the retrieval apparatus and provide a hydraulic force to effect retrieval of a tool or a bottom hole assembly; and
circulate fluid from the casing string into a casing string annulus.
15. The method of claim 14, further comprising withdrawing fluid from the casing string annulus.
16. The method of claim 14, further comprising at least one of measuring and controlling the differential pressure.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein controlling the differential pressure includes adjusting a fluid pumping rate from the inlet to the outlet.
18. The method of claim 14, further comprising pulling a wireline coupled to the retrieval apparatus to provide additional upward force to the retrieval apparatus.
19. The method of claim 14, further comprising reciprocating the casing string while performing the wireline retrieval operation.
20. The method of claim 14, further comprising when the retrieval tool is at surface:
monitoring a pressure of the well;
when static, disconnecting surface pressure control equipment from an upper end portion of the casing string; and
recovering the tool or the bottom hole assembly.
US14/547,231 2013-11-25 2014-11-19 Power retrieving tool Abandoned US20150144335A1 (en)

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