US20240026751A1 - Tapered collet mechanism for shifting plug release - Google Patents
Tapered collet mechanism for shifting plug release Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20240026751A1 US20240026751A1 US17/870,129 US202217870129A US2024026751A1 US 20240026751 A1 US20240026751 A1 US 20240026751A1 US 202217870129 A US202217870129 A US 202217870129A US 2024026751 A1 US2024026751 A1 US 2024026751A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- collet
- valve
- recited
- downhole tool
- inner sleeve
- 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.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 34
- 239000004568 cement Substances 0.000 claims description 21
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000002002 slurry Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910001092 metal group alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 description 2
- 229910000838 Al alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000007792 addition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012217 deletion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037430 deletion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000013505 freshwater Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010008 shearing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B33/00—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells
- E21B33/10—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells in the borehole
- E21B33/13—Methods or devices for cementing, for plugging holes, crevices or the like
- E21B33/14—Methods or devices for cementing, for plugging holes, crevices or the like for cementing casings into boreholes
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B34/00—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
- E21B34/06—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells
- E21B34/14—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells operated by movement of tools, e.g. sleeve valves operated by pistons or wire line tools
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B34/00—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
- E21B34/06—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells
- E21B34/14—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells operated by movement of tools, e.g. sleeve valves operated by pistons or wire line tools
- E21B34/142—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells operated by movement of tools, e.g. sleeve valves operated by pistons or wire line tools unsupported or free-falling elements, e.g. balls, plugs, darts or pistons
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B2200/00—Special features related to earth drilling for obtaining oil, gas or water
- E21B2200/05—Flapper valves
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B2200/00—Special features related to earth drilling for obtaining oil, gas or water
- E21B2200/06—Sleeve valves
Definitions
- cement compositions can be used in primary or secondary cementing operations, well-plugging, or squeeze cementing.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a downhole tool designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure being positioned within a well system;
- FIGS. 3 A and 3 B illustrate various different views of an inner sleeve designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIGS. 4 A through 4 D illustrate a set of cross-sectional drawings illustrating various different operational states for a downhole tool designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
- connection Unless otherwise specified, use of the terms “connect,” “engage,” “couple,” “attach,” or any other like term describing an interaction between elements is not meant to limit the interaction to direct interaction between the elements and may also include indirect interaction between the elements described.
- the present disclosure recognizes that traditional cement operations have inherent drawbacks.
- the present disclosure further recognizes that reverse cementing operations were developed to overcome some of the disadvantages to traditional cement operations.
- traditional cementing operations the setting time of the cement composition is longer in order for the cement slurry to travel through the casing or an inner tubing string and back up into the annulus before setting.
- the amount of cement slurry that is pumped is generally greater than in reverse cementing.
- reverse cementing the cement slurry is pumped directly into the annulus instead of into the annulus via the casing string or tubing string. Accordingly, reverse cementing generally requires less of the cement slurry, faster setting times, and lower pump pressures because gravity assists the cement slurry in being placed in the annulus.
- One method of reverse cementing employs an inner tubing or drill string to prop open a check valve for the duration of reverse cementing. Once completed, retracting the tubing or drill string from the check valve allows it to close and check the further flow of cement into the casing string.
- the use of an inner tubing is expensive, requiring extra equipment, time, and personnel to complete the job. Thus, there is a need for improved ways to perform a reverse cementing operation that requires less time, money, and personnel.
- the present disclosure based at least in part upon the above recognitions, has developed an improved inner sleeve, downhole tool, and a method for cementing in a wellbore.
- the inner sleeve in at least one embodiment, may include a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface.
- the inner sleeve may further include a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle ( ⁇ 0 ) when the collet is in its natural state.
- the downhole tool in at least one embodiment, may include a valve connector housing, and an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing.
- the inner sleeve in at least one embodiment, may include a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface.
- the inner sleeve may further include a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is configured such that: when the collet is in its natural state outside of the valve connector housing the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle ( ⁇ 0 ); and when the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface are angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ).
- the method may include obtaining a casing string and a downhole tool installed therein, wherein the downhole tool includes: a body coupled to the casing string, a valve connector housing located within the body, an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing.
- the inner sleeve in at least one embodiment, may include a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface, and a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing, the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ).
- the downhole tool may further include a first valve located within the body and configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the first valve is in a first valve open position, and a second valve located within the body and configured to open and close the fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the second valve is in a second valve closed position.
- the method may further include introducing the casing string and the downhole tool into a wellbore.
- FIG. 1 illustrates the downhole tool 118 during introduction into a wellbore of a well system 100 —commonly known in the industry as being run-in-hole.
- the downhole tool 118 includes a body 120 .
- the body 120 can be configured to fit within a casing string 115 , for example, via casing box X pin connectors.
- the casing string 115 and the downhole tool 118 can be introduced into a wellbore that is defined by a wellbore wall 105 .
- An annulus can be defined as the space located between the wellbore wall 105 and the outside of the casing string 115 and body 120 .
- the downhole tool 118 can include an inner sleeve 125 and a valve connector housing 192 .
- the inner sleeve 125 can be releasably attached to the valve connector housing 192 by a frangible device 180 .
- the frangible device 180 can be any device that is capable of withstanding a predetermined amount of force and capable of releasing at a force above the predetermined amount of force.
- the frangible device 180 can be, for example, a shear pin, a shear screw, a shear ring, a load ring, a lock ring, a pin, or a lug.
- the frangible device 180 or multiple frangible devices can be selected based on the force rating of the device, the total number of devices used, and the predetermined amount of force needed to release the device. For example, if the total force required to break or shear the frangible device is 15,000 pounds force (lbf) and each frangible device has a rating of 5,000 lbf, then a total of three frangible devices may be used.
- the downhole tool 118 may also include a first valve 150 and a second valve 155 .
- the first and second valves 150 / 155 can be flapper valves.
- FIG. 1 the downhole tool 118 is shown in the run-in-hole position wherein the first valve 150 is in an open position and the second valve 155 is in a closed position.
- drilling mud is usually introduced along with the casing string 115 and the downhole tool 118 from a wellhead in the direction D 1 .
- the first valve 150 is located above the second valve 155 at a location that is closer to the wellhead.
- the run-in-hole fluid (e.g., a drilling mud) can flow within a fluid flow path through the body 120 in the direction D 1 .
- the second valve 155 can partially or fully open when a sufficient volume of run-in-hole fluid enters the downhole tool 118 .
- the second valve 155 will naturally return to the closed position if pumping of the run-in-hole fluid stops.
- the run-in-hole fluid can then enter the annulus in the direction D 2 .
- the inner sleeve 125 can also include one or more sealing elements 145 that restrict or prevent fluid flow between the outside of the inner sleeve 125 and the inside of the valve connector housing 192 .
- the methods can include causing the inner sleeve 125 to shift after introduction and placement of the casing string 115 and the downhole tool 118 into the wellbore.
- the downhole tool 118 can include two or more plug seats 190 that are located on the inner sleeve 125 above the second valve 155 .
- a plug 185 can be introduced into the casing string 115 and be flowed through the inner sleeve 125 of the downhole tool 118 .
- a plug 185 is not meant to limit the geometric shape of the plug, but rather is meant to include any device that is capable of engaging with a seat.
- the plug 185 is a ball, but in other embodiments the plug 185 could be a dart, a bar, or any other shape.
- Shifting of the inner sleeve 125 can be accomplished via the two or more plug seats 190 and the plug 185 , for example by dropping the plug 185 from the wellhead onto the two or more plug seats 190 that are located within the downhole tool 118 .
- the plug 185 engages with the two or more plug seats 190 , and the seal created by this engagement prevents fluid communication downstream of the plug 185 and two or more plug seats 190 .
- a pressure differential is created after the seal is created by engagement of the plug 185 with the two or more plug seats 190 .
- the pressure differential can cause the frangible device 180 to shear, thereby releasing the inner sleeve 125 from connection with the valve connector housing 192 .
- the inner sleeve 125 is caused to move downward within the body 120 due to the pressure differential and shearing of the frangible device 180 .
- a lower end of the inner sleeve 125 causes a flapper on the second valve 155 to convert from the closed position shown in FIG. 1 to an open position as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the flapper can rotate into the open position via a hinge 175 on a second valve body 165 .
- the inner sleeve 125 can continue to travel in a downward direction until a sleeve shoulder 135 shoulders up against a valve connector housing shoulder 195 . Continued travel of the inner sleeve 125 is prevented after the sleeve shoulder 135 engages with the valve connector housing shoulder 195 .
- the inner sleeve 125 and the valve connector housing 192 can also include a lock ring (not shown). The lock ring can become locked as shown in FIG. 2 after shouldering occurs. Locking of the lock ring can help secure the inner sleeve 125 from further movement within the body 120 , particularly back uphole toward the first valve 150 .
- the downward movement of the inner sleeve 125 can cause the first valve 150 to convert from an open position into a closed position.
- a flapper of the first valve 150 is no longer held open by the inner sleeve 125 and can rotate into the closed position via a hinge 170 located on a first valve body 160 .
- a bottom portion of the inner sleeve 125 can push a flapper of the second valve 155 open and continue to travel downward into a bottom portion 198 of the downhole tool 118 .
- the second valve 155 can be locked in the open position via the inner sleeve 125 .
- the first valve hinge 170 being located opposite from the second valve hinge 175 , it is to be understood that the hinges 170 / 175 can be located on the same side of the valve connector housing 192 .
- the plug 185 , the two or more plug seats 190 , and/or the collet and collet fingers of the inner sleeve 125 can be configured to allow the plug 185 to disengage from the two or more plug seats 190 .
- the collet and collet fingers of the inner sleeve 125 are no longer restrained by the valve connector housing 192 , the collet and collet fingers are allowed to return to their natural state, and thus flare outward allowing the plug to disengage from the two or more plug seats and leave the downhole tool.
- the methods can further include causing or allowing the plug 185 to disengage from the two or more plug seats 190 , for example after the inner sleeve 125 has shouldered up, as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the second valve 155 is maintained in the open position and prevented from closing due to the protrusion of the lower end of the inner sleeve 125 into the bottom portion 198 of the downhole tool 118 .
- a surface indication of increased pressure can signal that the second valve 155 is in the open position and reverse cementing can commence.
- the components of the downhole tool 118 can be made from a variety of components including, but not limited to, metals, metal alloys, composites, plastics, and rubbers.
- the components of the inner sleeve 125 can be made from a variety of components including, but not limited to, metals, metal alloys, composites, plastics, and rubbers, for example so long as they are capable of returning to or returning substantially to its natural state.
- the inner sleeve 125 or at least the collet and/or collet fingers, comprise a fiber wound composite that has the flexibility to be compressed but are capable of returning to or returning substantially to its natural state.
- the inner sleeve 125 or at least the collet and/or collet fingers, comprise aluminum or an aluminum alloy that has the flexibility to be compressed but are capable of returning to or returning substantially to its natural state.
- the phrase “returning substantially to,” as used herein, means the inner sleeve 125 returns to a state that allows the plug 185 to pass through the two or more plug seats 190 .
- the methods further include introducing a cement composition 110 into an annulus located between a wall 105 of the wellbore and an outside of the casing string 115 .
- the annulus and inside of the casing string 115 can contain a fluid.
- the fluid can be a run-in-hole fluid, for example, a drilling mud.
- the methods can include introducing a first fluid into the annulus prior to introduction of the cement composition 110 .
- the first fluid can be a spacer fluid.
- a spacer fluid can help separate a drilling mud from the cement composition 110 .
- the cement composition 110 can then be introduced into the annulus.
- any of the fluids can be introduced into the annulus in the direction D 3 and can enter the downhole tool 118 in the direction D 4 .
- the first valve 150 can open as fluids enter the inner sleeve 125 from direction D 4 . With the cement composition 110 in place, it may be allowed to set to fix the casing string 115 and body 120 within the wellbore.
- FIGS. 3 A and 3 B illustrated is an inner sleeve 300 designed manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
- FIG. 3 A illustrates the inner sleeve 300 in a natural state
- FIG. 3 B illustrates the inner sleeve in a compressed state.
- the term “natural state,” as used herein, means the state in which the inner sleeve 300 begins with or returns to when not compressed.
- the inner sleeve 300 in the illustrated embodiment, includes a tubular 310 having an uphole end 315 a , a downhole end 315 b , an inside tubular surface 315 c and an outside tubular surface 315 d.
- the inner sleeve 300 further includes a collet 320 having two or more collet fingers 330 coupled to one end (e.g., downhole end 315 b ) of the tubular 310 .
- the collet 320 has three or more collet fingers 330 , if not four or more collet fingers 330 .
- the collet 320 in at least one embodiment, has an inside collet surface 325 a and an outside collet surface 325 b.
- the inside collet surface 325 a flares outward from the inside tubular surface 315 c by an angle ( ⁇ 0 ) when the collet is in its natural state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 A ).
- the angle ( ⁇ 0 ) is at least 1 degree. In one or more other embodiments, the angle ( ⁇ 0 ) is at least 3 degrees, if not at least 10 degrees. In yet another embodiment, the angle ( ⁇ 0 ) ranges from 5 degrees to 15 degrees.
- the inner sleeve 300 in at least one embodiment, includes two or more plug seats 340 extending radially inward from the inside collet surface 325 a .
- an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats 340 is radially outside of the inside tubular surface 315 c when the collet 320 is in its natural state. For instance, when in the natural state, a plug big enough to travel through the tubular 310 would pass through the two or more plug seats 340 .
- the inside tubular surface 315 c and the inside collet surface 325 a are angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ).
- the lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ) is less than the angle ( ⁇ 0 ).
- the lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ) is 2 degrees or less.
- the lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ) is 1 degree or less, if not 0 degrees.
- a gap between the collet fingers 330 is minimal (if not nonexistent or touching) when the collet 320 is in the compressed state.
- the minimum gap, or no gap at all, will further aid in sufficient hydraulic sealing against flow when a plug lands on the two or more plug seats 340 .
- the fluid column behind the plug will provide the maximum inertia to push the inner sleeve 300 to its full travel position. At this point the plug will be free to fall inside the casing to the shoe in preparation for reverse cementing.
- FIGS. 4 A through 4 D illustrated are a set of cross-sectional drawings illustrating various different operational states for a downhole tool 400 designed, manufactured and operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
- the downhole tool 400 may include many of the same features as the downhole tools disclosed above.
- the downhole tool 400 includes a valve connector housing 410 , as well as an inner sleeve 420 located at least partially within the valve connector housing 410 .
- the inner sleeve 420 includes a tubular 425 .
- the inner sleeve 420 additionally includes a collet 430 having two or more collet fingers 435 .
- the collet 430 in the illustrated embodiment, additionally includes two or more plug seats 440 .
- the downhole tool 400 additionally includes a body 450 coupled to the valve connector housing 410 .
- the downhole tool 400 additionally includes a first valve 460 and second valve 465 located within the body 450 .
- the first valve 460 and second valve 465 in the illustrated embodiment, are configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing 410 .
- the inner sleeve 420 is positioned in its run-in-hole state. Accordingly, the first valve 460 is propped open by the inner sleeve 420 , while the inner sleeve 420 allows the second valve 465 to remain closed. Furthermore, the valve connector housing 410 is holding the inner sleeve 420 , and thus the two or more plug seats 440 , in their radially compressed state.
- a plug 470 has been dropped within the valve connector housing 410 and the inner sleeve 420 . As shown, the plug 470 engages with the two or more plug seats 440 , thereby forming a seal and closing the fluid path in the inner sleeve 420 .
- fluid pressure has been applied to the plug 470 , thereby moving the inner string 420 at least partially downhole.
- the inner string 420 starts to open the second valve 465 , while it allows the first valve 460 to start closing.
- the valve connector housing 410 is still holding the inner sleeve 420 , and thus the two or more plug seats 440 , in their radially compressed state. Accordingly, the two or more plug seats 440 continue to engage with the plug 470 .
- fluid pressure continues to be applied to the plug 470 , thereby moving the inner string 420 downhole to its final axial position.
- the final axial position of the inner string 420 allows the first valve 460 to close.
- the final axial position of the inner sleeve 420 allows the collet fingers 435 of the collet 430 to extend past the valve connector housing 410 , and thereby move to their natural state, and thus to the angle ( ⁇ 0 ), thereby allowing the plug 470 to fall out from the inner sleeve 420 .
- An inner sleeve including: 1) a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and 2) a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle ( ⁇ 0 ) when the collet is in its natural state.
- a downhole tool including: 1) a valve connector housing; and 2) an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing, the inner sleeve including: a) a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and b) a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is configured such that: when the collet is in its natural state outside of the valve connector housing the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle ( ⁇ 0 ); and when the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface are angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ).
- a method for cementing in a wellbore including: 1) obtaining a casing string and a downhole tool installed therein, wherein the downhole tool includes: a) a body coupled to the casing string; b) a valve connector housing located within the body; c) an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing, the inner sleeve including: i) a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and ii) a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing, the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ); d) a first valve located within the body and configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the first valve is in a first valve open position
- aspects A, B, and C may have one or more of the following additional elements in combination: Element 1: wherein the angle ( ⁇ 0 ) is at least 1 degree. Element 2: wherein the angle ( ⁇ 0 ) is at least 3 degrees. Element 3: wherein the angle ( ⁇ 0 ) is at least 10 degrees. Element 4: wherein the angle ( ⁇ 0 ) ranges from 5 degrees to 15 degrees. Element 5: further including two or more plug seats extending radially inward from the inside collet surface. Element 6: wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially outside of the inside tubular surface when the collet is in its natural state.
- Element 7 further including: a body coupled to the valve connector housing and configured to fit within a casing string; a first valve located within the body and configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the first valve opens to a first valve open position in a direction towards a wellhead of the wellbore; and a second valve located within the body and configured to open and close the fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the second valve opens to a second valve open position in a direction away from the wellhead of the wellbore.
- Element 8 wherein the first valve is configured to be in the first valve open position and the second valve is configured to be in a second valve closed position during placement of the downhole tool in the wellbore.
- Element 9 wherein the inner sleeve is configured to shift the collet from the compressed state to the natural state after placement of the downhole tool in the wellbore to move the first valve to a first valve closed position and the second valve to the second valve open position.
- Element 10 further including two or more plug seats extending radially inward from the inside collet surface.
- Element 11 wherein the collet is in the compressed state, and further wherein a plug engages with the two or more plug seats.
- Element 12 wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially inside of the inside tubular surface.
- Element 13 wherein the collet is in the natural state, and further wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially outside of the inside tubular surface.
- Element 14 wherein the lesser angle ( ⁇ 1 ) is 2 degrees or less.
- Element 15 further including introducing cement composition into an annulus located between a wall of the wellbore and an outside of the casing string after introducing the casing string and the downhole tool into the wellbore.
- Element 16 wherein two or more plug seats extend radially inward from the inside collet surface, and further including introducing a plug into the casing string and the inner sleeve, wherein the plug engages with the two or more plug seats to create a seal and a pressure differential, and wherein the pressure differential causes the inner sleeve to shift from the compressed state to the natural state.
- Element 17 wherein the shift from the compressed state to the natural state moves the first valve to a first valve closed position and the second valve to a second valve open position.
- Element 18 wherein the shift from the compressed state to the natural state allows the inside collet surface to flare outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle ( ⁇ 0 ) allowing the plug to disengage from the two or more plug seats and leave the downhole tool.
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Abstract
Provided is an inner sleeve, a downhole tool, and a method for cementing. The inner sleeve, in at least one aspect, includes a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface. The inner sleeve, according to this aspect, further includes a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0) when the collet is in its natural state.
Description
- During well completion, it is common to introduce a cement composition into an annulus in a wellbore. For example, in a cased-hole wellbore, a cement composition can be placed into and allowed to set in the annulus between the wellbore and the casing in order to stabilize and secure the casing in the wellbore. By cementing the casing in the wellbore, fluids are prevented from flowing into the annulus. Consequently, oil or gas can be produced in a controlled manner by directing the flow of oil or gas through the casing and into the wellhead. Cement compositions can also be used in primary or secondary cementing operations, well-plugging, or squeeze cementing.
- Reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a downhole tool designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure being positioned within a well system; -
FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate various different views of an inner sleeve designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure; and -
FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate a set of cross-sectional drawings illustrating various different operational states for a downhole tool designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. - In the drawings and descriptions that follow, like parts are typically marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals, respectively. The drawn figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features of the disclosure may be shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and some details of certain elements may not be shown in the interest of clarity and conciseness. The present disclosure may be implemented in embodiments of different forms.
- Specific embodiments are described in detail and are shown in the drawings, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the disclosure, and is not intended to limit the disclosure to that illustrated and described herein. It is to be fully recognized that the different teachings of the embodiments discussed herein may be employed separately or in any suitable combination to produce desired results.
- Unless otherwise specified, use of the terms “connect,” “engage,” “couple,” “attach,” or any other like term describing an interaction between elements is not meant to limit the interaction to direct interaction between the elements and may also include indirect interaction between the elements described.
- Unless otherwise specified, use of the terms “up,” “upper,” “upward,” “uphole,” “upstream,” or other like terms shall be construed as generally away from the bottom, terminal end of a well, regardless of the wellbore orientation; likewise, use of the terms “down,” “lower,” “downward,” “downhole,” or other like terms shall be construed as generally toward the bottom, terminal end of a well, regardless of the wellbore orientation. Use of any one or more of the foregoing terms shall not be construed as denoting positions along a perfectly vertical axis. Unless otherwise specified, use of the term “subterranean formation” shall be construed as encompassing both areas below exposed earth and areas below earth covered by water such as ocean or fresh water.
- The present disclosure recognizes that traditional cement operations have inherent drawbacks. The present disclosure further recognizes that reverse cementing operations were developed to overcome some of the disadvantages to traditional cement operations. For example, in traditional cementing operations, the setting time of the cement composition is longer in order for the cement slurry to travel through the casing or an inner tubing string and back up into the annulus before setting. Additionally, the amount of cement slurry that is pumped is generally greater than in reverse cementing. In reverse cementing, the cement slurry is pumped directly into the annulus instead of into the annulus via the casing string or tubing string. Accordingly, reverse cementing generally requires less of the cement slurry, faster setting times, and lower pump pressures because gravity assists the cement slurry in being placed in the annulus.
- To perform reverse cementing operations successfully, the ability of holding displaced cement in place has proven to be difficult. One method of reverse cementing employs an inner tubing or drill string to prop open a check valve for the duration of reverse cementing. Once completed, retracting the tubing or drill string from the check valve allows it to close and check the further flow of cement into the casing string. The use of an inner tubing is expensive, requiring extra equipment, time, and personnel to complete the job. Thus, there is a need for improved ways to perform a reverse cementing operation that requires less time, money, and personnel.
- The present disclosure, based at least in part upon the above recognitions, has developed an improved inner sleeve, downhole tool, and a method for cementing in a wellbore. The inner sleeve, in at least one embodiment, may include a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface. The inner sleeve, according to this embodiment, may further include a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0) when the collet is in its natural state.
- The downhole tool, in at least one embodiment, may include a valve connector housing, and an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing. The inner sleeve, in at least one embodiment, may include a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface. The inner sleeve, in at least one embodiment, may further include a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is configured such that: when the collet is in its natural state outside of the valve connector housing the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0); and when the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface are angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle (θ1).
- The method, in at least one embodiment, may include obtaining a casing string and a downhole tool installed therein, wherein the downhole tool includes: a body coupled to the casing string, a valve connector housing located within the body, an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing. The inner sleeve, in at least one embodiment, may include a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface, and a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing, the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle (θ1). The downhole tool may further include a first valve located within the body and configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the first valve is in a first valve open position, and a second valve located within the body and configured to open and close the fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the second valve is in a second valve closed position. The method may further include introducing the casing string and the downhole tool into a wellbore.
- Turning to the figures,
FIG. 1 illustrates thedownhole tool 118 during introduction into a wellbore of awell system 100—commonly known in the industry as being run-in-hole. Thedownhole tool 118 includes abody 120. Thebody 120 can be configured to fit within acasing string 115, for example, via casing box X pin connectors. Thecasing string 115 and thedownhole tool 118 can be introduced into a wellbore that is defined by awellbore wall 105. An annulus can be defined as the space located between thewellbore wall 105 and the outside of thecasing string 115 andbody 120. - The
downhole tool 118 can include aninner sleeve 125 and avalve connector housing 192. Theinner sleeve 125 can be releasably attached to the valve connector housing 192 by afrangible device 180. Thefrangible device 180 can be any device that is capable of withstanding a predetermined amount of force and capable of releasing at a force above the predetermined amount of force. Thefrangible device 180 can be, for example, a shear pin, a shear screw, a shear ring, a load ring, a lock ring, a pin, or a lug. There can also be more than onefrangible device 180 that connects theinner sleeve 125 to thevalve connector housing 192. Thefrangible device 180 or multiple frangible devices can be selected based on the force rating of the device, the total number of devices used, and the predetermined amount of force needed to release the device. For example, if the total force required to break or shear the frangible device is 15,000 pounds force (lbf) and each frangible device has a rating of 5,000 lbf, then a total of three frangible devices may be used. - The
downhole tool 118 may also include afirst valve 150 and asecond valve 155. The first andsecond valves 150/155 can be flapper valves. As shown inFIG. 1 , thedownhole tool 118 is shown in the run-in-hole position wherein thefirst valve 150 is in an open position and thesecond valve 155 is in a closed position. In practice, drilling mud is usually introduced along with thecasing string 115 and thedownhole tool 118 from a wellhead in the direction D1. As shown, thefirst valve 150 is located above thesecond valve 155 at a location that is closer to the wellhead. With thefirst valve 150 held in the open position during run-in-hole via theinner sleeve 125, the run-in-hole fluid (e.g., a drilling mud) can flow within a fluid flow path through thebody 120 in the direction D1. Thesecond valve 155 can partially or fully open when a sufficient volume of run-in-hole fluid enters thedownhole tool 118. Thesecond valve 155 will naturally return to the closed position if pumping of the run-in-hole fluid stops. The run-in-hole fluid can then enter the annulus in the direction D2. Theinner sleeve 125 can also include one ormore sealing elements 145 that restrict or prevent fluid flow between the outside of theinner sleeve 125 and the inside of thevalve connector housing 192. - The methods can include causing the
inner sleeve 125 to shift after introduction and placement of thecasing string 115 and thedownhole tool 118 into the wellbore. Thedownhole tool 118 can include two ormore plug seats 190 that are located on theinner sleeve 125 above thesecond valve 155. After thedownhole tool 118 has been placed at the desired location within the wellbore, aplug 185 can be introduced into thecasing string 115 and be flowed through theinner sleeve 125 of thedownhole tool 118. It is to be understood that reference to a “plug” is not meant to limit the geometric shape of the plug, but rather is meant to include any device that is capable of engaging with a seat. In at least one embodiment, theplug 185 is a ball, but in other embodiments theplug 185 could be a dart, a bar, or any other shape. - Shifting of the
inner sleeve 125 can be accomplished via the two ormore plug seats 190 and theplug 185, for example by dropping theplug 185 from the wellhead onto the two ormore plug seats 190 that are located within thedownhole tool 118. Theplug 185 engages with the two ormore plug seats 190, and the seal created by this engagement prevents fluid communication downstream of theplug 185 and two or more plug seats 190. A pressure differential is created after the seal is created by engagement of theplug 185 with the two or more plug seats 190. The pressure differential can cause thefrangible device 180 to shear, thereby releasing theinner sleeve 125 from connection with thevalve connector housing 192. - Turning now to
FIG. 2 , theinner sleeve 125 is caused to move downward within thebody 120 due to the pressure differential and shearing of thefrangible device 180. A lower end of theinner sleeve 125 causes a flapper on thesecond valve 155 to convert from the closed position shown inFIG. 1 to an open position as shown inFIG. 2 . The flapper can rotate into the open position via ahinge 175 on asecond valve body 165. - The
inner sleeve 125 can continue to travel in a downward direction until asleeve shoulder 135 shoulders up against a valveconnector housing shoulder 195. Continued travel of theinner sleeve 125 is prevented after thesleeve shoulder 135 engages with the valveconnector housing shoulder 195. Theinner sleeve 125 and thevalve connector housing 192 can also include a lock ring (not shown). The lock ring can become locked as shown inFIG. 2 after shouldering occurs. Locking of the lock ring can help secure theinner sleeve 125 from further movement within thebody 120, particularly back uphole toward thefirst valve 150. - As can also be seen in
FIG. 2 , the downward movement of theinner sleeve 125 can cause thefirst valve 150 to convert from an open position into a closed position. As theinner sleeve 125 moves downward, a flapper of thefirst valve 150 is no longer held open by theinner sleeve 125 and can rotate into the closed position via ahinge 170 located on afirst valve body 160. A bottom portion of theinner sleeve 125 can push a flapper of thesecond valve 155 open and continue to travel downward into abottom portion 198 of thedownhole tool 118. Thesecond valve 155 can be locked in the open position via theinner sleeve 125. Although shown in the figures with thefirst valve hinge 170 being located opposite from thesecond valve hinge 175, it is to be understood that thehinges 170/175 can be located on the same side of thevalve connector housing 192. - The
plug 185, the two ormore plug seats 190, and/or the collet and collet fingers of theinner sleeve 125 can be configured to allow theplug 185 to disengage from the two or more plug seats 190. For example, once the collet and collet fingers of theinner sleeve 125 are no longer restrained by thevalve connector housing 192, the collet and collet fingers are allowed to return to their natural state, and thus flare outward allowing the plug to disengage from the two or more plug seats and leave the downhole tool. Thus, the methods can further include causing or allowing theplug 185 to disengage from the two ormore plug seats 190, for example after theinner sleeve 125 has shouldered up, as shown inFIG. 2 . Thesecond valve 155 is maintained in the open position and prevented from closing due to the protrusion of the lower end of theinner sleeve 125 into thebottom portion 198 of thedownhole tool 118. A surface indication of increased pressure can signal that thesecond valve 155 is in the open position and reverse cementing can commence. - The components of the
downhole tool 118 can be made from a variety of components including, but not limited to, metals, metal alloys, composites, plastics, and rubbers. The components of theinner sleeve 125 can be made from a variety of components including, but not limited to, metals, metal alloys, composites, plastics, and rubbers, for example so long as they are capable of returning to or returning substantially to its natural state. In at least one embodiment, theinner sleeve 125, or at least the collet and/or collet fingers, comprise a fiber wound composite that has the flexibility to be compressed but are capable of returning to or returning substantially to its natural state. In at least one other embodiment, theinner sleeve 125, or at least the collet and/or collet fingers, comprise aluminum or an aluminum alloy that has the flexibility to be compressed but are capable of returning to or returning substantially to its natural state. The phrase “returning substantially to,” as used herein, means theinner sleeve 125 returns to a state that allows theplug 185 to pass through the two or more plug seats 190. - The methods further include introducing a
cement composition 110 into an annulus located between awall 105 of the wellbore and an outside of thecasing string 115. The annulus and inside of thecasing string 115 can contain a fluid. The fluid can be a run-in-hole fluid, for example, a drilling mud. The methods can include introducing a first fluid into the annulus prior to introduction of thecement composition 110. The first fluid can be a spacer fluid. A spacer fluid can help separate a drilling mud from thecement composition 110. Thecement composition 110 can then be introduced into the annulus. There can also be a second, third, etc. fluid introduced into the annulus after the first fluid and before thecement composition 110. Any of the fluids can be introduced into the annulus in the direction D3 and can enter thedownhole tool 118 in the direction D4. Thefirst valve 150 can open as fluids enter theinner sleeve 125 from direction D4. With thecement composition 110 in place, it may be allowed to set to fix thecasing string 115 andbody 120 within the wellbore. - Turning to
FIGS. 3A and 3B , illustrated is aninner sleeve 300 designed manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.FIG. 3A illustrates theinner sleeve 300 in a natural state, whereasFIG. 3B illustrates the inner sleeve in a compressed state. The term “natural state,” as used herein, means the state in which theinner sleeve 300 begins with or returns to when not compressed. Theinner sleeve 300, in the illustrated embodiment, includes a tubular 310 having anuphole end 315 a, adownhole end 315 b, an insidetubular surface 315 c and anoutside tubular surface 315 d. - In accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure, the
inner sleeve 300 further includes acollet 320 having two ormore collet fingers 330 coupled to one end (e.g.,downhole end 315 b) of the tubular 310. In at least one embodiment, thecollet 320 has three ormore collet fingers 330, if not four ormore collet fingers 330. Thecollet 320, in at least one embodiment, has aninside collet surface 325 a and anoutside collet surface 325 b. - In at least one embodiment, the
inside collet surface 325 a flares outward from the insidetubular surface 315 c by an angle (θ0) when the collet is in its natural state (e.g., as shown inFIG. 3A ). In one or more embodiments, the angle (θ0) is at least 1 degree. In one or more other embodiments, the angle (θ0) is at least 3 degrees, if not at least 10 degrees. In yet another embodiment, the angle (θ0) ranges from 5 degrees to 15 degrees. - The
inner sleeve 300, in at least one embodiment, includes two ormore plug seats 340 extending radially inward from theinside collet surface 325 a. In at least one embodiment, an inner most radial point of the two ormore plug seats 340 is radially outside of the insidetubular surface 315 c when thecollet 320 is in its natural state. For instance, when in the natural state, a plug big enough to travel through the tubular 310 would pass through the two or more plug seats 340. - Referring to
FIG. 3B , when thecollet 320 is in its compressed state (e.g., inside of the valve connector housing) the insidetubular surface 315 c and theinside collet surface 325 a are angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle (θ1). The lesser angle (θ1) is less than the angle (θ0). In at least one embodiment, the lesser angle (θ1) is 2 degrees or less. In at least one other embodiment, the lesser angle (θ1) is 1 degree or less, if not 0 degrees. When thecollet 320 is in the compressed state, an inner most radial point of the two ormore plug seats 340 is radially inside of the insidetubular surface 315 c. - In at least one embodiment, a gap between the
collet fingers 330 is minimal (if not nonexistent or touching) when thecollet 320 is in the compressed state. The minimum gap, or no gap at all, will further aid in sufficient hydraulic sealing against flow when a plug lands on the two or more plug seats 340. By limiting the flow area through thecollet fingers 330 the fluid column behind the plug will provide the maximum inertia to push theinner sleeve 300 to its full travel position. At this point the plug will be free to fall inside the casing to the shoe in preparation for reverse cementing. - Turning to
FIGS. 4A through 4D , illustrated are a set of cross-sectional drawings illustrating various different operational states for a downhole tool 400 designed, manufactured and operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The downhole tool 400 may include many of the same features as the downhole tools disclosed above. In the illustrated embodiment, the downhole tool 400 includes avalve connector housing 410, as well as aninner sleeve 420 located at least partially within thevalve connector housing 410. In the illustrated embodiment, theinner sleeve 420 includes a tubular 425. Theinner sleeve 420 additionally includes acollet 430 having two ormore collet fingers 435. Thecollet 430, in the illustrated embodiment, additionally includes two or more plug seats 440. - The downhole tool 400 according to the embodiment of
FIGS. 4A through 4D , additionally includes abody 450 coupled to thevalve connector housing 410. The downhole tool 400 additionally includes afirst valve 460 andsecond valve 465 located within thebody 450. Thefirst valve 460 andsecond valve 465, in the illustrated embodiment, are configured to open and close a fluid flow path through thevalve connector housing 410. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 4A , theinner sleeve 420 is positioned in its run-in-hole state. Accordingly, thefirst valve 460 is propped open by theinner sleeve 420, while theinner sleeve 420 allows thesecond valve 465 to remain closed. Furthermore, thevalve connector housing 410 is holding theinner sleeve 420, and thus the two ormore plug seats 440, in their radially compressed state. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 4B , aplug 470 has been dropped within thevalve connector housing 410 and theinner sleeve 420. As shown, theplug 470 engages with the two ormore plug seats 440, thereby forming a seal and closing the fluid path in theinner sleeve 420. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 4C , fluid pressure has been applied to theplug 470, thereby moving theinner string 420 at least partially downhole. In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 4C , theinner string 420 starts to open thesecond valve 465, while it allows thefirst valve 460 to start closing. At this axial position of theinner sleeve 420, thevalve connector housing 410 is still holding theinner sleeve 420, and thus the two ormore plug seats 440, in their radially compressed state. Accordingly, the two ormore plug seats 440 continue to engage with theplug 470. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 4D , fluid pressure continues to be applied to theplug 470, thereby moving theinner string 420 downhole to its final axial position. In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 4D , the final axial position of theinner string 420 allows thefirst valve 460 to close. Furthermore, the final axial position of theinner sleeve 420 allows thecollet fingers 435 of thecollet 430 to extend past thevalve connector housing 410, and thereby move to their natural state, and thus to the angle (θ0), thereby allowing theplug 470 to fall out from theinner sleeve 420. - Aspects disclosed herein include:
- A. An inner sleeve, the inner sleeve including: 1) a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and 2) a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0) when the collet is in its natural state.
- B. A downhole tool, the downhole tool including: 1) a valve connector housing; and 2) an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing, the inner sleeve including: a) a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and b) a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is configured such that: when the collet is in its natural state outside of the valve connector housing the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0); and when the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface are angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle (θ1).
- C. A method for cementing in a wellbore, the method including: 1) obtaining a casing string and a downhole tool installed therein, wherein the downhole tool includes: a) a body coupled to the casing string; b) a valve connector housing located within the body; c) an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing, the inner sleeve including: i) a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and ii) a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing, the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle (θ1); d) a first valve located within the body and configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the first valve is in a first valve open position; and e) a second valve located within the body and configured to open and close the fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the second valve is in a second valve closed position; 2) introducing the casing string and the downhole tool into a wellbore.
- Aspects A, B, and C may have one or more of the following additional elements in combination: Element 1: wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 1 degree. Element 2: wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 3 degrees. Element 3: wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 10 degrees. Element 4: wherein the angle (θ0) ranges from 5 degrees to 15 degrees. Element 5: further including two or more plug seats extending radially inward from the inside collet surface. Element 6: wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially outside of the inside tubular surface when the collet is in its natural state. Element 7: further including: a body coupled to the valve connector housing and configured to fit within a casing string; a first valve located within the body and configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the first valve opens to a first valve open position in a direction towards a wellhead of the wellbore; and a second valve located within the body and configured to open and close the fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the second valve opens to a second valve open position in a direction away from the wellhead of the wellbore. Element 8: wherein the first valve is configured to be in the first valve open position and the second valve is configured to be in a second valve closed position during placement of the downhole tool in the wellbore. Element 9: wherein the inner sleeve is configured to shift the collet from the compressed state to the natural state after placement of the downhole tool in the wellbore to move the first valve to a first valve closed position and the second valve to the second valve open position. Element 10: further including two or more plug seats extending radially inward from the inside collet surface. Element 11: wherein the collet is in the compressed state, and further wherein a plug engages with the two or more plug seats. Element 12: wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially inside of the inside tubular surface. Element 13: wherein the collet is in the natural state, and further wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially outside of the inside tubular surface. Element 14: wherein the lesser angle (θ1) is 2 degrees or less. Element 15: further including introducing cement composition into an annulus located between a wall of the wellbore and an outside of the casing string after introducing the casing string and the downhole tool into the wellbore. Element 16: wherein two or more plug seats extend radially inward from the inside collet surface, and further including introducing a plug into the casing string and the inner sleeve, wherein the plug engages with the two or more plug seats to create a seal and a pressure differential, and wherein the pressure differential causes the inner sleeve to shift from the compressed state to the natural state. Element 17: wherein the shift from the compressed state to the natural state moves the first valve to a first valve closed position and the second valve to a second valve open position. Element 18: wherein the shift from the compressed state to the natural state allows the inside collet surface to flare outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0) allowing the plug to disengage from the two or more plug seats and leave the downhole tool.
- Those skilled in the art to which this application relates will appreciate that other and further additions, deletions, substitutions, and modifications may be made to the described embodiments.
Claims (30)
1. An inner sleeve, comprising:
a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and
a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0) when the collet is in its natural state.
2. The inner sleeve as recited in claim 1 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 1 degree.
3. The inner sleeve as recited in claim 1 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 3 degrees.
4. The inner sleeve as recited in claim 1 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 10 degrees.
5. The inner sleeve as recited in claim 1 , wherein the angle (θ0) ranges from degrees to 15 degrees.
6. The inner sleeve as recited in claim 1 , further including two or more plug seats extending radially inward from the inside collet surface.
7. The inner sleeve a recited in claim 6 , wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially outside of the inside tubular surface when the collet is in its natural state.
8. A downhole tool, comprising:
a valve connector housing; and
an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing, the inner sleeve including:
a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and
a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is configured such that:
when the collet is in its natural state outside of the valve connector housing the inside collet surface flares outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0); and
when the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface are angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle (θ1).
9. The downhole tool as recited in claim 8 , further including:
a body coupled to the valve connector housing and configured to fit within a casing string;
a first valve located within the body and configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the first valve opens to a first valve open position in a direction towards a wellhead of the wellbore; and
a second valve located within the body and configured to open and close the fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the second valve opens to a second valve open position in a direction away from the wellhead of the wellbore.
10. The downhole tool as recited in claim 9 , wherein the first valve is configured to be in the first valve open position and the second valve is configured to be in a second valve closed position during placement of the downhole tool in the wellbore.
11. The downhole tool as recited in claim 9 , wherein the inner sleeve is configured to shift the collet from the compressed state to the natural state after placement of the downhole tool in the wellbore to move the first valve to a first valve closed position and the second valve to the second valve open position.
12. The downhole tool as recited in claim 8 , further including two or more plug seats extending radially inward from the inside collet surface.
13. The downhole tool as recited in claim 12 , wherein the collet is in the compressed state, and further wherein a plug engages with the two or more plug seats.
14. The downhole tool as recited in claim 13 , wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially inside of the inside tubular surface.
15. The downhole tool a recited in claim 12 , wherein the collet is in the natural state, and further wherein an inner most radial point of the two or more plug seats is radially outside of the inside tubular surface.
16. The downhole tool as recited in claim 8 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 1 degree.
17. The downhole tool as recited in claim 8 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 3 degrees.
18. The downhole tool as recited in claim 8 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least degrees.
19. The downhole tool as recited in claim 8 , wherein the angle (θ0) ranges from 5 degrees to 15 degrees.
20. The downhole tool as recited in claim 8 , wherein the lesser angle (θ1) is 2 degrees or less.
21. A method for cementing in a wellbore, comprising:
obtaining a casing string and a downhole tool installed therein, wherein the downhole tool includes:
a body coupled to the casing string;
a valve connector housing located within the body;
an inner sleeve located at least partially within the valve connector housing, the inner sleeve including:
a tubular having an inside tubular surface and an outside tubular surface; and
a collet including two or more collet fingers coupled to one end of the tubular, the collet having an inside collet surface and an outside collet surface, and further wherein the collet is in its compressed state inside of the valve connector housing, the inside tubular surface and the inside collet surface angled with regard to each other by a lesser angle (θ1);
a first valve located within the body and configured to open and close a fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the first valve is in a first valve open position; and
a second valve located within the body and configured to open and close the fluid flow path through the valve connector housing, wherein the second valve is in a second valve closed position; and
introducing the casing string and the downhole tool into a wellbore.
22. The method as recited in claim 21 , further including introducing cement composition into an annulus located between a wall of the wellbore and an outside of the casing string after introducing the casing string and the downhole tool into the wellbore.
23. The method as recited in claim 22 , wherein two or more plug seats extend radially inward from the inside collet surface, and further including introducing a plug into the casing string and the inner sleeve, wherein the plug engages with the two or more plug seats to create a seal and a pressure differential, and wherein the pressure differential causes the inner sleeve to shift from the compressed state to the natural state.
24. The method as recited in claim 23 , wherein the shift from the compressed state to the natural state moves the first valve to a first valve closed position and the second valve to a second valve open position.
25. The method as recited in claim 23 , wherein the shift from the compressed state to the natural state allows the inside collet surface to flare outward from the inside tubular surface by an angle (θ0) allowing the plug to disengage from the two or more plug seats and leave the downhole tool.
26. The method as recited in claim 23 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 1 degree.
27. The method as recited in claim 23 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 3 degrees.
28. The method as recited in claim 23 , wherein the angle (θ0) is at least 10 degrees.
29. The method as recited in claim 23 , wherein the angle (θ0) ranges from degrees to 15 degrees.
30. The method as recited in claim 21 , wherein the angle (θ1) is 2 degrees or less.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US17/870,129 US20240026751A1 (en) | 2022-07-21 | 2022-07-21 | Tapered collet mechanism for shifting plug release |
PCT/US2023/025761 WO2024019852A1 (en) | 2022-07-21 | 2023-06-20 | Tapered collet mechanism for shifting plug release |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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US17/870,129 US20240026751A1 (en) | 2022-07-21 | 2022-07-21 | Tapered collet mechanism for shifting plug release |
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US20240026751A1 true US20240026751A1 (en) | 2024-01-25 |
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US17/870,129 Pending US20240026751A1 (en) | 2022-07-21 | 2022-07-21 | Tapered collet mechanism for shifting plug release |
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WO (1) | WO2024019852A1 (en) |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US4360063A (en) * | 1980-12-04 | 1982-11-23 | Otis Engineering Corporation | Valve |
US20090151960A1 (en) * | 2007-12-12 | 2009-06-18 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Method and Apparatus for Sealing and Cementing a Wellbore |
US20160115765A1 (en) * | 2013-06-06 | 2016-04-28 | Trican Completion Solutions As | Protective sleeve for ball activated device |
US20180320479A1 (en) * | 2017-05-02 | 2018-11-08 | Advanced Completions Asset Corporation | Tool assembly with collet and shiftable valve and process for directing fluid flow in a wellbore |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4474241A (en) * | 1983-02-14 | 1984-10-02 | Halliburton Company | Differential fill valve assembly |
US4893678A (en) * | 1988-06-08 | 1990-01-16 | Tam International | Multiple-set downhole tool and method |
US6966368B2 (en) * | 2003-06-24 | 2005-11-22 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Plug and expel flow control device |
US8261761B2 (en) * | 2009-05-07 | 2012-09-11 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Selectively movable seat arrangement and method |
US20110187062A1 (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-08-04 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Collet system |
-
2022
- 2022-07-21 US US17/870,129 patent/US20240026751A1/en active Pending
-
2023
- 2023-06-20 WO PCT/US2023/025761 patent/WO2024019852A1/en unknown
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4360063A (en) * | 1980-12-04 | 1982-11-23 | Otis Engineering Corporation | Valve |
US20090151960A1 (en) * | 2007-12-12 | 2009-06-18 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Method and Apparatus for Sealing and Cementing a Wellbore |
US20160115765A1 (en) * | 2013-06-06 | 2016-04-28 | Trican Completion Solutions As | Protective sleeve for ball activated device |
US20180320479A1 (en) * | 2017-05-02 | 2018-11-08 | Advanced Completions Asset Corporation | Tool assembly with collet and shiftable valve and process for directing fluid flow in a wellbore |
Also Published As
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WO2024019852A1 (en) | 2024-01-25 |
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