WO2014016614A1 - Appareil et procédé d'étanchéité - Google Patents

Appareil et procédé d'étanchéité Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014016614A1
WO2014016614A1 PCT/GB2013/052011 GB2013052011W WO2014016614A1 WO 2014016614 A1 WO2014016614 A1 WO 2014016614A1 GB 2013052011 W GB2013052011 W GB 2013052011W WO 2014016614 A1 WO2014016614 A1 WO 2014016614A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
seal
collar
support member
seal element
secured
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2013/052011
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Nicholas Atkins
David Hare
Vijayamirtharaj AVANASHIAPPAN
Original Assignee
Rubberatkins Limited
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 Rubberatkins Limited filed Critical Rubberatkins Limited
Priority to US14/417,388 priority Critical patent/US20150191989A1/en
Priority to CA2879895A priority patent/CA2879895A1/fr
Publication of WO2014016614A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014016614A1/fr

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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
    • E21B33/12—Packers; Plugs
    • E21B33/1208—Packers; Plugs characterised by the construction of the sealing or packing means
    • 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
    • E21B23/00—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells
    • E21B23/06—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells for setting packers
    • 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
    • E21B33/12—Packers; Plugs
    • E21B33/1208—Packers; Plugs characterised by the construction of the sealing or packing means
    • E21B33/1216—Anti-extrusion means, e.g. means to prevent cold flow of rubber packing
    • 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
    • E21B33/12—Packers; Plugs
    • E21B33/127—Packers; Plugs with inflatable sleeve
    • 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
    • E21B33/12—Packers; Plugs
    • E21B33/128—Packers; Plugs with a member expanded radially by axial pressure

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a sealing apparatus and method for use in establishing a seal in an annulus between a mandrel and a bore wall, and to a back-up assembly for use in such apparatus and methods. More particularly, but not exclusively, embodiments of the invention may take the form of a downhole packer for use in sealing a wellbore annulus or bore-lining tubular bore annulus.
  • Sealing apparatus and methods are used in many industries where it is desired to isolate, seal off or otherwise control movement of fluid in a given environment.
  • sealing devices known as packers are commonly used to seal the annulus between a tubing string, such as a production conduit or the like, and a surrounding casing or other tubular.
  • one or more packer may be used to prevent undesired movement of fluid up or down the annulus in order to seal off the wellbore.
  • a number of packers may be used to create an isolated annular region which, amongst other things, permits isolation of a problematic formation or permits controlled production from, or access into, a selected region of the formation.
  • Known packers may comprise an elastomeric annular sealing element mounted on a mandrel and which is capable of being extended radially outwardly to engage, for example, the wall of a bore in which the packer is located, thus providing a seal in the annulus defined between the mandrel and the bore wall.
  • the seal element may be axially compressed, for example by a setting tool, to effect radial expansion.
  • the pressure difference acting across the seal elements may be sufficient to cause extrusion of the seal element, thereby reducing seal performance or making activation more difficult or in more extreme cases risking failure of the seal.
  • a sealing apparatus for use in establishing a seal in an annulus between a mandrel and a bore wall, the apparatus comprising:
  • a seal element for providing sealing engagement with a bore wall
  • a back-up assembly comprising:
  • a support member arranged to extend over at least an end of the seal element
  • a collar having a seal-engaging surface arranged to engage the end of the seal element, the collar interposed between the end of the seal element and the support member.
  • Embodiments of the present invention may, for example, provide support for the seal element in maintaining sealing engagement with the bore wall; prevent or resist extrusion of the seal element; and/or prevent damage to the support member which may otherwise result in reduced performance, control or failure of the seal.
  • the apparatus may be configurable to define a first, retracted, configuration and a second, expanded, configuration. In use, the apparatus may be run into the bore in the first configuration and activated or otherwise moved from the first configuration to the second configuration to urge the seal element into sealing engagement with the bore wall.
  • the collar may be configured to assist in supporting the end of the seal element, and in particular to support the end of the seal element when the apparatus is moved from the first configuration to the second configuration during activation and operation of the apparatus.
  • the collar may prevent the seal element from coming into hard contact with the support member and so prevent damage to the support member from the seal element.
  • embodiments of the present invention resist the transfer of axial forces resulting from the temperature or pressure differentials being transmitted through the seal element to the support member which may otherwise damage or inhibit the ability of the support member to perform its required function of supporting the seal element.
  • embodiments of the present invention may resist the transfer of the axial forces generated by any axial expansion of the seal element from being transmitted to the support member.
  • the collar may assist in preventing or mitigating extrusion of the seal element along the inside of the support member and/or past the ring member, which may otherwise result in reduced performance, control or failure of the seal.
  • the collar may be of any suitable form and construction.
  • the collar may be annular and may extend around, or at least partially around, the mandrel.
  • the collar may be mounted on, or secured to, the mandrel.
  • the collar may be mounted or secured to the mandrel by any suitable means.
  • the collar may be mounted or secured to the mandrel by at least one of a bonded connection, thread connection, interference connection or snap-fit connection.
  • the collar may be mounted on or secured to the ring member.
  • the collar may be mounted or secured to the ring member by any suitable means.
  • the collar may be mounted or secured to the ring member by at least one of a bonded connection, thread connection, interference connection or snap-fit connection.
  • the collar may be mounted on or secured to the seal element.
  • the collar may be mounted or secured to the seal element by any suitable means.
  • the collar may be mounted or secured to the seal element by at least one of a bonded connection, thread connection, interference connection or snap-fit connection.
  • the collar may comprise a first portion defining a first outer diameter and a second portion defining a second outer diameter.
  • the second outer diameter may be greater than the first outer diameter.
  • the collar may define a continuous outer surface between the first and second portions.
  • the collar may comprise a curved outer surface between the first and second portions.
  • the collar may define a stepped profile between the first and second portions. The collar may thus define a distinct radially extending second portion.
  • the collar may further comprise a third portion defining a third outer diameter, which may be of the same or different outer diameter to the first or second portions.
  • the collar may be constructed from any suitable material.
  • the collar may be constructed from at least one of: a plastic material; a metallic material or alloy; a composite material; and a ceramic material.
  • the collar may be constructed from PTFE.
  • the collar may be configured or arranged to seal against the mandrel.
  • the collar may comprise a recess for receiving a seal element, such as an o-ring, although any other suitable seal element may be used as appropriate.
  • the collar may be configured to engage the support member.
  • the collar may be configured to retain the support member.
  • the collar may be configured to provide a seal between the collar and the support member and/or between the collar and the ring member.
  • the seal-engaging surface may be provided on an end surface of the collar.
  • the seal-engaging surface may be offset from an end face of the ring member.
  • the seal-engaging surface may be provided on an axially directed surface of the collar.
  • the seal-engaging surface may be provided on the second portion.
  • the seal-engaging surface may be provided an axially directed surface of the second portion.
  • the support member may be configured to provide support for the seal element and assist the seal element in maintaining sealing engagement with the bore wall.
  • the support member may be configured to prevent or resist extrusion of the seal element into the annulus between the apparatus and the surrounding bore wall.
  • the support member may be of any suitable form and construction.
  • the support member may be mounted on or secured to the collar.
  • the support member may be mounted or secured to the collar by any suitable means.
  • the support member may be mounted or secured to the collar by at least one of a bonded connection, thread connection, interference connection or snap-fit connection.
  • the support member may be mounted on or secured to the ring member.
  • the support member may be mounted or secured to the ring member by any suitable means.
  • the support member may be mounted or secured to the ring member by at least one of a bonded connection, thread connection, interference connection or snap-fit connection.
  • the support member may be mounted on or secured to the seal element.
  • the support member may be mounted or secured to the seal element by any suitable means.
  • the support member may be mounted or secured to the seal element at least one of a bonded connection, thread connection, interference connection or snap-fit connection.
  • At least part of the support member may be interposed between the collar and the ring member.
  • the maximum diameter defined by the support member may be less than or equal to the maximum diameter defined by the ring member.
  • the support member may comprise a single component.
  • the support member may comprise a first back-up element.
  • the support member may comprise a plurality of components and the support member may comprise the first back-up element and a second back-up element.
  • the support member may comprise a plurality of each of the first and second back-up elements.
  • the apparatus may be configured so that the second back-up element is provided between the sealing element and the first back-up element.
  • first back-up element and the second back-up element may be configured to be moved under the action of the sealing element from the first, run-in, configuration to the second, set, configuration.
  • the first back-up element may comprise a slotted portion.
  • the first back-up element may define discrete petals, which may be formed between the slots.
  • the provision of slots and petals permits the back-up element to expand to radially greater distances than a non-slotted element and permits the material to expand without elongation.
  • a back-up element comprising slots and petals may expand more easily than a continuous element, resulting in lower stress levels in the sealing element.
  • the second back-up element may be configured or arranged to cover and/or deform into the gaps between the petals of the first back-up element, in particular on expansion of the first back-up element.
  • the second back-up element can remove any clearances between the first and second back-up elements and any curvature mismatches between the first back-up element and the bore wall. Removal of these clearances and mismatches is important, since the properties of some sealing elements, for example rubber elements, are poor at high temperatures, i.e. around 200°C. At this temperature, rubber is capable of extrusion through any clearances in the back-up elements or between the apparatus and the bore wall.
  • the first and second back-up elements second back-up element may be of any suitable form and construction.
  • the first back-up element may be annular.
  • the second back-up element may be annular. In particular embodiments, both of the first and second back-up elements are annular.
  • the second back-up element may be of thinner construction may facilitate the expansion of the back-up system as the sealing element moves from the first, run-in, configuration to the second, set, configuration. This may be of particular benefit in applications and environments where the apparatus is required to seal across a relatively large annular gap.
  • a thinner construction back-up element may also be more compliant and may result in a reduced level of stress being built up in the sealing element during deployment, which stress may otherwise have a detrimental effect on the mechanical properties of the seal element.
  • the first back-up element may comprise a non-slotted portion.
  • the first back-up element may at least partially comprise a deformable and/or ductile material.
  • the first back-up element in the run-in configuration, may be adapted to engage the bore wall. This permits the first back-up element, in use, to be pinned to the wellbore surface by friction once the sealing apparatus is set. This method of constraint removes any shear loading applied to the first back-up element, which in turn allows for a thinner section to be used. A thinner section reduces the stress imparted into the sealing element as the sealing element moves into the set configuration, and once fully deployed.
  • first and/or second back-up elements reduces the radial extent of the support member and of the apparatus during deployment/run-in into the bore, thereby reducing the risk that the apparatus will be damaged during deployment.
  • the first back-up element may comprise or define a bore engaging surface.
  • more than 50% of the bore engaging surface is, in use, engaged with the bore surface in the set configuration.
  • More than 50% of the slotted portion surface may be engaged with the bore surface in the set configuration.
  • the bore engaging surface may be of relatively high frictional coefficient.
  • the bore-engaging surface may comprise at least one of a material, profile or coating of high friction co-efficient.
  • the second back-up element may comprise a ductile material.
  • Providing a ductile element, which can form and adapt in shape, may assist in minimising or at least reducing the stress imparted to the seal element during setting of the apparatus and, when used with a slotted first back-up element, may assist in directing the second back-up element into the between adjacent first back-up element petals.
  • the ductile material may comprise stainless steel, although other suitable material may be used where appropriate.
  • the first back-up element may comprise an upper edge.
  • the upper edge may be chamfered.
  • the upper edge may be chamfered towards the bore wall.
  • the provision of a chamfered edge may easily deform into close engagement with the bore wall, thereby reducing the possibility of clearances between the first back-up element and the bore wall opening up.
  • each petal may comprise side edges which lie in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sealing apparatus.
  • the side edges may be chamfered.
  • the side edges may be chamfered towards the bore wall.
  • the second back-up element may comprise an upper edge.
  • the second backup element upper edge may be chamfered.
  • the second back-up element upper edge may extend above the first back-up element upper edge.
  • the first back-up element upper edge may extend above the at least one second back-up element upper edge.
  • the side edges may be less exposed than the upper edge, it may be possible to make the edge of the side edge chamfers sharper as they are not as exposed as the upper edge. A sharp edge may form a tighter fit with the second back-up element, thereby minimising the possibility of clearances between the first back-up element and the bore wall opening up.
  • the second back-up element may comprise a slotted portion.
  • the provision of a slotted second back-up element may also provide for additional expansion.
  • the second back-up element may comprise fewer slots than the first back-up element.
  • the second back-up element may comprise a sealing element engaging surface.
  • the sealing element engaging surface may comprise a low friction coating.
  • a low friction coating reduces the stresses imparted into the element material during deployment and under pressure.
  • At least one of the first and second back-up elements may deform under the action of the sealing element.
  • the back-up elements may plastically deform. Plastic deformation may reduce the stresses imparted to the sealing element by the back-up elements once the sealing apparatus is set.
  • the back-up elements may elastically deform. Elastic deformation may allow the back-up elements to at least partially recover to the run-in configuration when it is desired to retrieve the sealing apparatus.
  • a first back-up element upper portion may be bent inwards towards a sealing apparatus longitudinal axis.
  • first back-up element biases the first back-up element to a run in configuration such that the first back-up element at least partially recovers to the run- in configuration when it is desired to retrieve the sealing apparatus.
  • Such an arrangement may be most effective in an apparatus in which the first back-up element upper edge extends above the at least one second back-up element upper edges.
  • the first back-up element may comprises spring steel.
  • Spring steel can be used to assist in returning the sealing apparatus to the run-in configuration when it is desired to recover the sealing apparatus from the bore.
  • At least one of the back-up elements may be of substantially constant cross- sections.
  • the use of a constant cross-section material, particularly for the first back-up element, may assist in reducing stress concentrations in the first back-up element and may enable a relatively thin section to be used. A thin section will bend more easily and will reduce the stress imparted into the sealing element.
  • a lower portion of the first back-up element may be received within the ring member.
  • the ring member may be attached to the non-slotted portion of the first back-up element.
  • An interface between the slotted and non-slotted portions of the first back-up element may be received within the ring member.
  • the ring member may be connected to an external surface of the first back-up element lower portion.
  • the second back-up element may be connected to the ring member.
  • the ring member may be of any suitable form and construction.
  • the ring member may beneficially withstand hoop stress imparted to the back-up elements by the differential pressure held by the sealing element.
  • the ring member may define a profiled surface.
  • the ring member may comprise a profiled outer surface.
  • the first backup element may bend around at least a portion of the profiled surface. At least a portion of the first back-up element, in the first configuration, may be displaced from the ring member profiled surface.
  • the ring member profiled surface may taper axially away from the first back-up element in the first configuration.
  • the apparatus may comprise a single back-up assembly. In some embodiments, the apparatus may comprise two back-up assemblies. For example, the apparatus may comprise a back-up assembly at both of the respective ends of the seal element.
  • the seal element may be of any suitable form or construction.
  • the seal element may comprise an elastomeric seal element.
  • the seal element may comprise a compression seal element.
  • the sealing element may comprise a packing element, a cup, an expandable element, a swellable element, an inflatable element or any suitable style of element.
  • the seal element may be configured to expand in the presence of an activation medium.
  • the seal element may be configured to expand in the presence of oil.
  • the seal element may be configured to expand in the presence of water.
  • the seal element may comprise a unitary component.
  • the seal element may comprise a plurality of components.
  • the seal element may comprise a first seal member and a second member.
  • the first and second seal members may be of different construction.
  • the second seal member may comprise a material of greater hardness than the first seal member.
  • the provision of a second seal member having greater hardness provides an anti-extrusion effect.
  • the second seal member may be provided between the first seal member and the support member.
  • the seal element and in particular embodiments the second seal member of the seal element, may comprise a recess to permit relative movement with the support member.
  • the seal element may be configured for activation by any suitable means.
  • the seal element may be configured to support a two or multi-stage activation.
  • the apparatus may be configured to provide an initial engagement with the bore wall. Following the initial activation, the apparatus may be configured to permit pressurised fluid between the seal element and the mandrel which acts to urge or inflate the end of the seal element and the support member.
  • the apparatus may be configured or arranged for location on the mandrel.
  • the apparatus may be mounted or otherwise secured to the mandrel.
  • the apparatus may comprise end rings for use in securing the apparatus to the mandrel.
  • the method may further comprise de-activating the apparatus.
  • the method may further comprise retrieving the apparatus from the bore.
  • a backup assembly for use with a sealing apparatus used to establish a seal in an annulus between a mandrel and a bore wall, the back-up assembly comprising:
  • a support member arranged to extend over at least an end of a seal element of the sealing apparatus
  • a collar having a seal-engaging surface arranged to engage the end of the seal element, the collar interposable between the end of the seal element and the support member.
  • an assembly comprising a plurality of the apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a sealing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of part of the apparatus of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 3 is a diagrammatic longitudinal section view of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2;
  • Figure 4 is a cut-away view of part of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 , 2 and
  • Figure 5 is a longitudinal section view of an apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 6 is an enlarged view of part of the apparatus shown in Figure 5;
  • Figure 7 is a longitudinal section view of an apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 8 is an enlarged view of part of the apparatus shown in Figure 7;
  • Figure 9 is an end view of an apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 10 is a longitudinal section view of section A-A of Figure 9.
  • Figure 1 1 is an enlarged view of part of the apparatus shown in Figures 9 and
  • FIG. 1 there is shown a perspective view of a sealing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the apparatus 10 establishes a seal in an annulus 12 between a mandrel 14 and a bore wall, such as a wellbore or bore-lining tubular bore wall (shown diagrammatically by at 16).
  • the apparatus 10 is provided on the mandrel 14, the mandrel forming part of a tubing string such as a drill string, production conduit or the like (not shown).
  • the apparatus 10 is run into the bore wall 16 on the mandrel 14 in a first, retracted, configuration before being activated to a second, expanded, configuration in which the apparatus 10 sealing engages the bore wall 16.
  • the apparatus 10 includes an annular seal element 18 mounted on the mandrel 14 and, in use, it is the seal element 18 which expands to sealingly engage the bore wall 16.
  • the seal element 18 is bonded to the mandrel 14.
  • the seal element 18 - or indeed any other component of the apparatus 10 - may alternatively be a slip on component and the apparatus 10 may be located over a tubular string component, such as a drill string, completion string or the like.
  • annular gauge rings 20, 22 are provided at respective ends of the apparatus 10. As shown most clearly in Figure 2, the gauge rings 20, 22 having radially extending holes defining bores 24 for receiving grub screws (not shown). The bores 24 are provided in an annular portion 26 of the gauge rings 20, 22 which also have a tapered portion 28 at their distal ends.
  • a back-up assembly 30 for supporting an end 32 of the seal element 18 is provided at one end of the apparatus 10.
  • a single back-up assembly 30 is provided.
  • backup assemblies may be provided at both ends of the seal element 18.
  • the back-up assembly 30 is provided around the mandrel 14 and between the gauge ring 20 and around the end 32 of the seal element 18.
  • the back-up assembly 30 amongst other things supports the expanding seal element 18 in maintaining sealing engagement with the bore wall 16 and prevents or resists extrusion of the seal element 18 which may otherwise reduce performance or risk failure of the seal.
  • the back-up assembly 30 comprises an annular ring member 34 mounted on the mandrel 14.
  • a seal recess or groove 36 is provided on an inner surface 38 of the ring member 34, the seal groove 36 receiving a seal element in the form of a o-ring (not shown), although other seal elements may be used where appropriate.
  • the o- ring prevents fluid leakage between the ring member 34 and the mandrel 14.
  • the back-up assembly 30 further comprises a support member 40 which supports the end 32 of the seal element 18. During expansion of the seal element 18, the support member 40 supports the expanding seal element 18 in maintaining sealing engagement with the bore wall 16 and prevents or resists extrusion of the seal element 18 into the annulus 12.
  • the support member 40 is formed from two elements or layers, a first back-up element 42 and a second back-up element 44.
  • the first back-up element 42 has an annular portion 46 and a slotted portion defining a number of petals 48.
  • the petals 48 extend over the end 32 of the seal element 18 and bend or pivot radially outwards towards the bore 16 as the seal element 18 expands.
  • the second back-up element 44 is provided within the first backup element 42 and between the first back-up element 42 and the seal element 18 and has an annular portion 50 and a slotted portion defining a number of petals 52. In use, the second back-up element 44 is formed and arranged to cover, deform into, or otherwise fill the gaps created between the petals 48 of the first back-up element 42 as they extend.
  • the annular portions 46, 50 of the support member 40 are provided between the ring member and the mandrel 14 and may be used to secure the support member to the other parts of the apparatus 10.
  • annular insert or collar 54 is positioned on the mandrel 14.
  • the collar 54 comprises a first diameter portion 56, a second diameter portion 58 having a diameter greater than the first diameter portion 56 and a seal-engaging surface 60.
  • the collar 54 defines a curved tapering outer surface between the first diameter portion and the second diameter portion. In use, the collar 54 prevents damage to the support member 40 from seal element 18, in particular from axial forces transmitted through or generated in the seal element 18 during use and which may otherwise result in reduced performance, control or failure of the seal.
  • the seal element 18 in this embodiment comprises a first inner seal member 62 and a second outer seal member 64.
  • the seal members 62, 64 may be formed separately and bonded or moulded together to define the seal element 18 of the apparatus 10.
  • the second outer seal member 64 beneficially is constructed from a material of greater hardness than the first seal member 62 and, in use, provides an anti-extrusion effect at a selected region or regions of the seal element, in particular at the end region 32 of the seal element.
  • FIG. 5 there is shown an apparatus 1 10 according to another embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5 showing a longitudinal section view and Figure 6 showing an enlarged view of part of the apparatus 1 10.
  • the apparatus 1 10 is similar to the apparatus 10 shown and described with reference to Figures 1 to 4 and, for brevity and ease of reference, like components of the apparatus are represented by like numerals incremented by 100.
  • the apparatus 1 10 comprises two back-up assemblies 130 located at ends 132 of a seal element 1 18 and, in use, the apparatus 1 10 is activated by compression, whereby relative movement of the back-up assemblies 130 towards each other (or of one assembly 130 moving closer to the other) results in axial compression and radial expansion of the seal element 1 18 into sealing engagement with the bore.
  • the annular collar 154 of this embodiment comprises a first diameter portion 156 and a second diameter portion 158 and a seal- engaging surface 160.
  • the first diameter portion 156 does not extend axially beyond the end face of ring member 120.
  • the collar 154 defines a distinct radial step between the first diameter portion 156 and the second diameter portion 158.
  • the seal element 1 18 comprises a single seal member 162. However, it will be recognised that the seal element 1 18 may also comprise a second seal member similar or identical to the seal element 18 described above.
  • FIG. 7 there is shown an apparatus 210 according to another embodiment of the present invention, Figure 7 showing a longitudinal section view and Figure 8 showing an enlarged view of part of the apparatus 210.
  • the apparatus 210 is similar to the apparatus previously described and, for brevity and ease of reference, like components of the apparatus are represented by like numerals incremented by 200.
  • the apparatus 210 comprises two back-up assemblies 230 located at ends 232 of a seal element 218 and, in use, like the apparatus 1 10 the apparatus 210 is activated by compression, whereby relative movement of the back-up assemblies 230 towards each other (or of one assembly 230 moving closer to the other) results in axial compression and radial expansion of the seal element 218 into sealing engagement with the bore.
  • the annular collar 254 of this embodiment comprises a first diameter portion 256 and a second diameter portion 258 and a seal- engaging surface 260.
  • the collar 254 defines a curved tapering outer surface between the first diameter portion 256 and the second diameter portion 258.
  • the collar 254 in addition to being axially interposed between the end 232 of the seal element 218 and the support member 240, the collar 254 is also radially interposed between the support member 240 and the mandrel 214 and, in use, the collar 254 may be utilised to retain the support member 240.
  • the seal element 218 comprises a single seal member 262.
  • the seal element 218 may also comprise a second seal member similar or identical to the seal element 18 described above.
  • the illustrated seal element 1 18 further comprises internal and external grooves.
  • FIG. 9 there is shown an apparatus 310 according to another embodiment of the present invention, Figure 9 showing an end view, Figure 10 showing a longitudinal section view along A-A, and Figure 1 1 showing an enlarged view of part of the apparatus 310.
  • the apparatus 310 is similar to the apparatus previously described and, for brevity and ease of reference, like components of the apparatus are represented by like numerals incremented by 300.
  • the apparatus 310 comprises a single back-up assembly 330 located at an end 332 of seal element 318 and, in use, the apparatus 310 is activated to define a cup seal with the bore.
  • the annular collar 354 comprises a first diameter portion 356 and a second diameter portion 358 and a seal- engaging surface 360.
  • the first diameter portion 356 extends axially towards and into a recess in the inner surface of in a similar manner to the collars 54, 254.
  • the collar 354 also defines a distinct radial step between the first diameter portion 356 and the second diameter portion 358.
  • the collar 354 in addition to being axially interposed between the end 332 of the seal element 318 and the support member 340 and radially interposed between the support member 340 and the mandrel 314, the collar 354 is also radially interposed between the seal element 318 and the mandrel and is bonded, moulded or otherwise secured to the seal element 318.
  • the collar 354 comprises a third diameter portion.
  • the third diameter portion has a greater diameter than the first diameter portion 356 and a smaller diameter than the second diameter portion 358.
  • the seal element 318 comprises a second seal member (as shown most clearly in Figure 1 1 ) and a third seal member positioned adjacent to seal member.
  • the seal members may be of different or similar construction and made from different or similar materials, as required.
  • this embodiment differs from those shown and described in Figures 5 to 8 in that the apparatus 310 defines a cup seal with the bore.
  • gauge ring 322 comprises bores which permit fluid passage between the inner surface of the seal element 318 and the mandrel 314.
  • fluid may be directed through the bores and between the inner surface of the seal element 318 and the mandrel, thereby providing an additional inflation force to assisting in setting and maintenance of the seal.
  • the apparatus may further comprise an intermediate layer between the first back-up element and the/each second back-up element.
  • the intermediate layer may extend above and below the first back-up element upper edge.
  • the intermediate layer may comprise a strong flexible material, and in particular embodiments the intermediate layer may comprise a woven steel mesh.
  • a flexible intermediate layer such as a woven steel mesh further minimises the existence of gaps between the first and second back-up elements in the second, expanded, configuration.
  • the flexible material fills gaps which may exist between the first and second back-up elements.
  • the intermediate layer may be thinner than either or both of the first and second back-up elements and, in some embodiments, the intermediate layer may be wrapped over an upper edge of the second back-up element. In alternative embodiments, the intermediate layer may be wrapped over the upper edge of the first back up element.

Landscapes

  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
  • Gasket Seals (AREA)
  • Joints Allowing Movement (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur un appareil d'étanchéité (10), lequel appareil est destiné à être utilisé pour établir un joint d'étanchéité dans un anneau (12) entre un mandrin (14) et une paroi de forage (16), et lequel a un élément de joint d'étanchéité annulaire (18) qui s'étend de façon à venir en prise de façon étanche avec la paroi de forage (16), et un ensemble de support (30) pour supporter l'élément de joint d'étanchéité (18) et empêcher l'extrusion de l'élément de joint d'étanchéité (18) ou résister à celle-ci. L'ensemble de support (30) comprend un collier (54) interposé entre un élément de support (40) de l'ensemble de support (30) et l'extrémité (32) de l'élément de joint d'étanchéité (18), et qui définit une surface de prise de joint d'étanchéité (60), le collier (54), lors de l'utilisation, empêchant ou limitant une détérioration à l'élément de support (40) à partir de l'élément de joint d'étanchéité (18).
PCT/GB2013/052011 2012-07-26 2013-07-26 Appareil et procédé d'étanchéité WO2014016614A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US14/417,388 US20150191989A1 (en) 2012-07-26 2013-07-26 Sealing apparatus and method
CA2879895A CA2879895A1 (fr) 2012-07-26 2013-07-26 Appareil et procede d'etancheite

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1213270.0 2012-07-26
GB1213270.0A GB2504319A (en) 2012-07-26 2012-07-26 Annular seal back up assembly

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2014016614A1 true WO2014016614A1 (fr) 2014-01-30

Family

ID=46881982

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2013/052011 WO2014016614A1 (fr) 2012-07-26 2013-07-26 Appareil et procédé d'étanchéité

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US20150191989A1 (fr)
CA (1) CA2879895A1 (fr)
GB (1) GB2504319A (fr)
WO (1) WO2014016614A1 (fr)

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008056109A1 (fr) * 2006-11-08 2008-05-15 Rubberatkins Limited Dispositif d'étanchéité amelioré
WO2009074785A2 (fr) * 2007-12-11 2009-06-18 Rubberatkins Limited Outil d'étanchéification

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2296520A (en) * 1994-12-23 1996-07-03 Petroleum Eng Services Improvements in or relating to down-hole tools
US7963321B2 (en) * 2009-05-15 2011-06-21 Tam International, Inc. Swellable downhole packer
GB0914416D0 (en) * 2009-08-18 2009-09-30 Rubberatkins Ltd Pressure control device
RU2543011C2 (ru) * 2010-04-23 2015-02-27 Смит Интернэшнл, Инк. Шаровое седло для высокого давления и высокой температуры
US8393388B2 (en) * 2010-08-16 2013-03-12 Baker Hughes Incorporated Retractable petal collet backup for a subterranean seal
US8479809B2 (en) * 2010-11-30 2013-07-09 Baker Hughes Incorporated Anti-extrusion backup system, packing element system having backup system, and method

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008056109A1 (fr) * 2006-11-08 2008-05-15 Rubberatkins Limited Dispositif d'étanchéité amelioré
WO2009074785A2 (fr) * 2007-12-11 2009-06-18 Rubberatkins Limited Outil d'étanchéification

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2879895A1 (fr) 2014-01-30
GB201213270D0 (en) 2012-09-05
US20150191989A1 (en) 2015-07-09
GB2504319A (en) 2014-01-29

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