WO2017053552A1 - Downhole seal - Google Patents

Downhole seal Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2017053552A1
WO2017053552A1 PCT/US2016/053089 US2016053089W WO2017053552A1 WO 2017053552 A1 WO2017053552 A1 WO 2017053552A1 US 2016053089 W US2016053089 W US 2016053089W WO 2017053552 A1 WO2017053552 A1 WO 2017053552A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
seal
sealing
sealing elements
exterior
sealing member
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.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US2016/053089
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Rocky A. Turley
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Weatherford Technology Holdings LLC
Original Assignee
Weatherford Technology Holdings LLC
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 Weatherford Technology Holdings LLC filed Critical Weatherford Technology Holdings LLC
Priority to GB1804440.4A priority Critical patent/GB2558447B/en
Priority to CA2998378A priority patent/CA2998378C/en
Priority to AU2016326496A priority patent/AU2016326496B2/en
Publication of WO2017053552A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017053552A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Priority to NO20180457A priority patent/NO20180457A1/en
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21BEARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B33/00Sealing or packing boreholes or wells
    • E21B33/10Sealing or packing boreholes or wells in the borehole
    • E21B33/12Packers; Plugs
    • E21B33/1208Packers; Plugs characterised by the construction of the sealing or packing means
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16LPIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L7/00Supporting pipes or cables inside other pipes or sleeves, e.g. for enabling pipes or cables to be inserted or withdrawn from under roads or railways without interruption of traffic
    • F16L7/02Supporting pipes or cables inside other pipes or sleeves, e.g. for enabling pipes or cables to be inserted or withdrawn from under roads or railways without interruption of traffic and sealing the pipes or cables inside the other pipes, cables or sleeves
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21BEARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B33/00Sealing or packing boreholes or wells
    • E21B33/10Sealing or packing boreholes or wells in the borehole
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16JPISTONS; CYLINDERS; SEALINGS
    • F16J15/00Sealings
    • F16J15/02Sealings between relatively-stationary surfaces
    • F16J15/021Sealings between relatively-stationary surfaces with elastic packing
    • F16J15/022Sealings between relatively-stationary surfaces with elastic packing characterised by structure or material
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21BEARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B2200/00Special features related to earth drilling for obtaining oil, gas or water
    • E21B2200/01Sealings characterised by their shape

Definitions

  • the present disclosure generally relates to apparatus and methods for sealing between two tubulars.
  • embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a seal between a polished bore receptacle and a tubular mandrel.
  • seals have been used to handle high temperature and pressure downhole applications. Some applications involve seals on tools that have to engage a seal bore receptacle downhole in an extreme temperature and pressure environment. For example, a tubular such as a production tubing may be "stabbed" into a liner downhole.
  • Chevron shaped sealing members have typically been used to seal between the tubular and the liner. Because chevron shaped sealing members provide only unidirectional sealing, one or more pairs of these sealing members are arranged 180 degrees apart on the tubular.
  • Chevron seals are problematic because they have pressure limitations and can trap pressure between the seals, thereby damaging the seals after they are pulled out of the PBR.
  • the Chevron seals may also be damaged or washed off if the tripped in speed is too fast, thereby limiting the trip in speed.
  • a downhole seal includes cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body.
  • a downhole seal includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body.
  • the seal also includes a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member.
  • a downhole seal in another embodiment, includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction.
  • a downhole seal in another embodiment, includes a first sealing member; a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction; and a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member, wherein the respective sealing elements of the first sealing member and the second sealing member are angled in opposite directions.
  • Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a downhole seal disposed around a mandrel.
  • Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sealing member.
  • Figure 3 is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member of Figure 2.
  • Figure 3A is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member of Figure 3 in operation.
  • Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment of a seal.
  • Figure 5 is an enlarged partial view of the seal of Figure 4.
  • Figure 6 is an enlarged partial view of the seal of Figure 4.
  • Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a downhole sealing member.
  • Figure 8 is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member of Figure 7.
  • Figure 9 is an enlarged partial view of the sealing member of Figure 8.
  • Figure 10 is an enlarged partial view of the sealing member of Figure 8.
  • Figure 1 1 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a downhole seal.
  • Figure 12 is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member of Figure 1 1 .
  • Figure 13 is an enlarged partial view of the sealing member of Figure 12.
  • Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a downhole seal 100 disposed around a mandrel 15 that is configured to be stabbed into a tubular such as a polished bore receptacle ("PBR") or a liner.
  • the seal 100 is disposed between two protrusions 20 for axially retaining the seal 100 on the mandrel 15.
  • the protrusions 20 may be attached to the mandrel 15 or formed integrally with the mandrel 15.
  • the seal 100 may be disposed on a recess in the mandrel.
  • the seal 100 includes two sealing members 1 1 1 1 , 1 12 disposed on opposite sides of a third sealing member 1 13.
  • An exemplary third sealing member 1 13 is an o-ring.
  • Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a sealing member 1 1 1 , 1 12, and Figure 3 is an enlarged, partial view of Figure 2.
  • Each of the opposing sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 has a tubular shape and includes a y-shaped end 1 15.
  • the y- shaped end 1 15 forms a pocket 1 16 for engaging the third sealing member 1 13.
  • the third sealing member 1 13 is disposed between and engaged with the y-shaped ends 1 15 of the two sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12.
  • the y-shaped ends 1 15 of the opposing sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 and the third sealing member 1 13 are configured to form an interference fit with the downhole tubular.
  • the opposing sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 include a cylindrical body 120 and one or more sealing elements 1 12e, 122i disposed on the interior surface and the exterior surface of the cylindrical body 120.
  • the interior sealing elements 122i extend radially inward from the body 120, and the exterior sealing elements 122e extend radially outward from the body 120.
  • the sealing elements 122e, 122i extend circumferentially around the cylindrical body 120.
  • the sealing elements 122e, 122i are integral with the body 120, thereby forming a one-piece sealing member.
  • the sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 may comprise a thermosplatic material.
  • the sealing elements 122e, 122i allow the seal 100 to be self-sealing when a fluid pressure is encountered.
  • Exemplary fluids include liquid, gas, and combinations thereof.
  • the sealing elements 122e, 122i on the same side of the body 120 are equally spaced along the body 120. However, the sealing elements 122e, 122i may be spaced at any suitable distance from each other.
  • the interior sealing elements 122i are axially offset from the exterior sealing elements 122e. In this respect, the offsetting sealing elements 122e, 122i may provide flexibility to seal member 1 1 1 , 1 12. This embodiment may be referred to herein as a "wave" seal.
  • the interior sealing elements 122i are alternately spaced with the exterior sealing elements 122e.
  • a pocket 1 19 is formed by two adjacent interior sealing elements 122i and interior surface of the body 120.
  • the exterior sealing element 122e located on the exterior side of the body 120 opposite the pocket 1 19 can move toward the pocket 1 19 in response to a fluid pressure. It may be possible that the exterior sealing element 122e moves sufficiently away from the PBR to lose contact with the PBR. Similarly, outer pockets are formed between two adjacent exterior sealing elements 122e and the exterior surface of the body 120.
  • the body 120 may be sufficiently rigid to prevent movement of the exterior sealing element 122e toward the pocket, or may allow a small amount of movement but maintaining the sealing element 122e in contact with the PBR. Some flexibility of the body 120 is preferable, especially during insertion of the mandrel 15. In another embodiment, the sealing elements 122i, 122e may bend relative to the body 120 during insertion into the PBR.
  • the exterior sealing elements 122e may bend upward due to frictional contact with the PBR.
  • the side of the body 120 forming the pocket 1 19 may be arcuate.
  • the arcuate surface may be recessed and shallower than the sealing element on the opposite side. This example would result in a sealing member 1 1 1 having an overall shape with similarities to an "S" shape.
  • one or more of the interior sealing elements 122i may be axially aligned or partially overlap with a respective exterior sealing element 122e.
  • two sealing elements 122e, 122i on one side of the body 120 may be positioned between two sealing elements 122e, 122i on the other side of the body 120.
  • the sealing elements 122e, 122i closest to the y-shaped ends 1 15 may be either an interior sealing element 122i or an exterior sealing element 122e.
  • the sealing element 122e, 122i has an arcuate shape.
  • the sealing elements 122e, 122i have a semicircle outer shape.
  • the outer shape may have a curved transition with the outer surface of the body 120.
  • the ratio of the height of the sealing elements 122e, 122i extending from the surface of the cylindrical body 120 to the thickness of the cylindrical body 120 may be from 0.3: 1 to 1 : 1.3; preferably from 0.5 to 1 .
  • the outer diameter of the outer sealing element 122e is larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical body 120, while the outer diameter of the inner sealing elements 122i is smaller than the outer diameter of the cylindrical body 120.
  • the outer diameters of the exterior and interior sealing elements 122e, 122i have sufficient size to form an interference fit with the downhole PBR (or the liner) and the mandrel 15, respectively.
  • the ratio of the width of the sealing elements 122e, 122i to the distance between two adjacent sealing elements 122e, 122i on the same side of the body 120 may be from 0.3: 1 to 1 :1 .3; preferably from 0.5 to 1 .
  • the width is twice the height of the sealing elements 122e, 122i.
  • Each side of the body 120 may have the same or different number of sealing elements 122e, 122i.
  • each side of the body 120 may have one, two, four, five, six, or more sealing elements 122e, 122i. It is also contemplated the opposing sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 may have different number of sealing elements 122e, 122i.
  • the seal 100 is disposed on the exterior of a mandrel 15 and lowered into the wellbore.
  • the seal 100 may be installed by heat shrinking the seal 100 around the mandrel 15.
  • the seal 100 may be made from a thermoplastic material or other suitable material.
  • the mandrel 15 is stabbed into the bore of a tubular such as a PBR 35.
  • the exterior and interior sealing elements 122e, 122i form an interference fit with the PBR 35 and the mandrel 15.
  • the sealing elements 122e, 122i form a tortuous path for the fluid pressure. See Figure 3A.
  • the fluid pressure acts on the alternating sealing elements 122e, 122i, which causes the seal 100 to form a fluid tight seal between the mandrel 15 and the PBR 35.
  • the fluid pressure initially acts on the distal sealing elements 122ea, 122ia.
  • the fluid pressure has moved the exterior sealing element 122ea away from the PBR 35 and toward the pocket 1 19.
  • the fluid pressure has compressed the interior sealing elements 122ia, 122ib toward the mandrel 15. Moving inward, the exterior sealing element 122eb remains in contact with the PBR 35. In this manner, a fluid tight seal is formed to prevent passage of fluids such as liquid and gas through the seal 100.
  • Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment of a seal 200.
  • Figures 5 and 6 are enlarged partial views of the seal 200 of Figure 4.
  • the seal 200 may be interchanged with the seal 100 on the mandrel 15.
  • the seal 200 is an integrated seal 200 having sealing elements 222e, 222i on either side of the y- shaped members 215.
  • the y-shaped members 215 are connected and oppose each other in direction.
  • the arrangement and size of the interior and exterior sealing elements 222e, 222i may be the same as the sealing elements 122e, 122i described above with respect to Figures 1 to 3, and will not be described in detail.
  • the seal 200 may have the same or different number of sealing elements 222e, 222i on either side of the y-shaped members 215.
  • the portion 217 connecting the y-shaped members 215 may have an outer diameter that is smaller than or same as the outer diameter of the y-shaped members 215.
  • Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a downhole sealing member 31 1 .
  • the sealing member 31 1 may be disposed around the mandrel 15 and stabbed into a tubular such as a polished bore receptacle ("PBR") or a liner instead of sealing member 1 1 1 of Figure 1 .
  • PBR polished bore receptacle
  • two sealing members 31 1 may be disposed on opposites sides of a third sealing member 1 13.
  • the sealing members 31 1 may be disposed between two protrusions 20 for axially retaining the sealing members 31 1 and the third sealing member 1 13 on the mandrel 15.
  • An exemplary third sealing member 1 13 is an o-ring.
  • Figure 8 is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member 31 1 of Figure
  • Each of the sealing members 31 1 has a tubular shape and includes a y-shaped end 315.
  • the y-shaped end 315 forms a pocket 316 for engaging the third sealing member 313.
  • the third sealing member 313 is disposed between and engaged with the y-shaped ends 315 of the two sealing members 31 1 .
  • the y-shaped ends 315 of the opposing sealing members 31 1 and the third sealing member 313 are configured to form an interference fit with the downhole tubular.
  • the opposing sealing members 31 1 include a cylindrical body 320 and one or more sealing elements 322e, 322i disposed on the interior surface and the exterior surface of the cylindrical body 320.
  • the interior sealing elements 322i extend radially inward from the body 320, and the exterior sealing elements 322e extend radially outward from the body 320.
  • the sealing elements 322e, 322i extend circumferentially around the cylindrical body 320. As shown, the sealing elements 322e, 322i are angled toward the y-shaped member 315. In one embodiment, the sealing elements 322e, 322i are integral with the body 320, thereby forming a one- piece sealing member 31 1 .
  • the sealing members 31 1 may comprise a thermosplatic material.
  • the front edge 331 of the sealing element 322e may have a smaller angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the body 320 than the back edge 332 of the sealing element 322e.
  • the distal end of the back edge 332 may angle back toward the base 328 formed between the front edge 331 and the back edge 332 of the sealing elements 333e, 322i.
  • This embodiment may be referred to herein as an "arrow" seal.
  • a spacer portion 334 connects the distal end of the front edge 331 to the distal end of the back edge 332. It is contemplated that the distal ends may connect directly to each other.
  • the sealing elements 322e, 322i on the same side of the body 320 are equally spaced along the body 320.
  • the sealing elements 322e, 322i may be spaced at any suitable distance from each other.
  • the interior sealing elements 322i are axially aligned with the exterior sealing elements 322e.
  • the sealing elements 322e, 322i may be axially offset from each other. It is contemplated that one or more of the interior sealing elements 322i may be axially aligned or partially overlap with a respective exterior sealing element 322e. It is also contemplated that two sealing elements 322e, 322i on one side of the body 320 may be positioned between two sealing elements 322e, 322i on the other side of the body 320.
  • the ratio of the radial height of the sealing elements 322e, 322i extending from the surface of the cylindrical body 320 to the thickness of the cylindrical body 320 may be from 0.3: 1 to 1 :1 .3; preferably from 0.5 to 1 .
  • the outer diameter of the sealing member 31 1 should have sufficient size to form an interference fit with the downhole PBR or the liner.
  • the length of the base 328 between the front edge 331 and the back edge 332 of a sealing element 322e, 322i may be from 2.5X to 20X the distance 336 between two adjacent sealing elements 322e, 322i on the same side of the body 320.
  • the length of the base 328 is from 5X to 10X the distance 336 between two adjacent sealing elements 322e, 322i. In another embodiment, the base 328 is longer than the spacer portion 334.
  • Each side of the body 320 may have the same or different number of sealing elements 322e, 322i. In one embodiment, four sealing elements 322e, 322i are positioned on each side of the body 320. However, each side of the body 320 may have one, two, three, five, six, or more sealing elements 322e, 322i. It is also contemplated the opposing sealing members 31 1 may have different number of sealing elements 322e, 322i. In one embodiment, the sealing element 31 1 may have a front portion 340.
  • the back edge 342 of the front portion 340 may have the same or larger angle 343 relative to the longitudinal axis of the body 320 than the angle 346 of the back edge 332 of a sealing element 332e, 322i.
  • the back edge 342 of the front portion 340 may have a 60 degree angle 343, and the back edge 332 of the sealing element 322e may have a 30 degree angle 346.
  • the outer diameter of the front portion 340 may be smaller than the outer diameter of the sealing element 322e.
  • two sealing members 31 1 are used in combination with an o- ring to form a seal between a mandrel 15 and a tubular such as a PBR.
  • the two sealing members 31 1 are disposed on opposite sides of the o-ring and arranged such that the front end 340 of the sealing members 31 1 are positioned distally from the o-ring.
  • the mandrel 15 and the sealing members 31 1 , 1 13 are lowered into the wellbore and stabbed into the bore of a tubular such as a PBR.
  • the exterior and interior sealing elements 322e, 322i form an interference fit with the PBR and the mandrel 15.
  • the sealing elements 322e, 322i may bend relative to the body 320 due to frictional contact with the PBR.
  • a fluid pressure from one side of the sealing members 31 1 , 1 13 may flow past the sealing member 31 1 on the same side and act on the sealing elements 322e, 322i of the sealing member 31 1 on the opposite side as well as the o-ring.
  • the sealing members 31 1 , 1 13 cooperate to form a fluid tight seal between the mandrel 15 and the PBR.
  • Figures 1 1 -13 illustrate another embodiment of a seal 400.
  • Figure 12 is an enlarged partial view of the seal 400 of Figure 1 1
  • Figure 13 is an enlarged partial view of Figure 12.
  • the seal 400 may be exchanged with the seals 100, 200, 31 1 on the mandrel 15.
  • the seal 400 is an integrated seal 400 having one or more pairs of sealing elements 422e, 422i arranged in opposite axial directions of the cylindrical body 420.
  • sealing elements 422e, 422i may be substantially the same as the sealing elements 322e, 322i described above with respect to Figures 7 to 10, and will not be further described in detail.
  • the opposing pairs of sealing elements are connected via a connecting portion 416.
  • the seal 400 includes five pairs of sealing elements 422i, 422e on each side of the connecting portion 416. It is contemplated that the seal 400 may have the same or different number of sealing elements 422e, 422i on either side of the connecting portion 416. For example, each side may individually have two, three, four, six, or seven pairs of sealing elements 422e, 422i.
  • the connecting portion 416 may have an outer diameter that is smaller than or same as the outer diameter of the sealing elements 422e, 422i. In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the connecting portion 416 is smaller than the outer diameter of the sealing elements 422e, 422i, but larger than the outer diameter of the body 420.
  • Each side of the connecting portion 416 may include an incline 418 having a smaller angle 419 than the angle 443 of the back edge 432 of the sealing elements 422e.
  • the incline 418 may have a 20 degree angle while the angle 443 of the back edge 432 is 30 degrees.
  • Each side of the seal 400 may include a front portion 440 substantially similar to the front portion 340 of Figure 8.
  • the seal 400 is installed around the mandrel 15.
  • the seal 400 may be heated and disposed around the mandrel 15, where it will shrink fit around the mandrel 15.
  • the mandrel 15 and the seal 400 are lowered into the wellbore and stabbed into the bore of a tubular such as a PBR.
  • the exterior and interior sealing elements 422e, 422i form an interference fit with the PBR and the mandrel 15.
  • a fluid pressure from one side of the seal 400 may flow past the sealing elements on the same side and act on the sealing elements of the seal 400 on the opposite side. In this manner, the seal 400 forms a fluid tight seal between the mandrel 15 and the PBR.
  • the present disclosure encompasses apparatus and method for aligning any suitable tools.
  • a downhole seal includes cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body.
  • a downhole seal in another embodiment, includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction.
  • the plurality of exterior sealing elements extends radially from the body.
  • the plurality of exterior sealing elements includes a front edge; and a back edge, wherein the front edge and the back edge are inclined at different angles relative to a longitudinal axis of the body.
  • the seal includes a spacer portion connecting the front edge and the back edge.
  • the seal further comprises oppositely angled sealing members.
  • the seal includes a connecting portion disposed between the oppositely angled sealing members.
  • the seal comprises a thermoplastic material.
  • the plurality of exterior sealing elements comprises an arcuate shape.
  • the seal further comprises a y-shaped end.
  • the seal further comprises opposing y-shaped portions.
  • the seal includes a plurality of exterior and interior sealing elements disposed on either side of the opposing y-shaped portions.
  • a downhole seal in another embodiment, includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body.
  • the seal also includes a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member.
  • a downhole seal in another embodiment, includes a first sealing member; a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction; and a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member, wherein the respective sealing elements of the first sealing member and the second sealing member are angled in opposite directions.
  • each of the first and second sealing members include a y-shaped end, and the y-shaped ends face each other.
  • the y-shaped ends contact the third sealing member.
  • the third sealing member comprises an elastomer.
  • the second sealing member comprises a thermoplastic material.
  • the third sealing member comprises an o-ring.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Gasket Seals (AREA)
  • Building Environments (AREA)
  • Finishing Walls (AREA)
  • Laying Of Electric Cables Or Lines Outside (AREA)

Abstract

A seal having a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body.

Description

DOWNHOLE SEAL
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE Field of the Disclosure
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to apparatus and methods for sealing between two tubulars. In particular, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a seal between a polished bore receptacle and a tubular mandrel.
Description of the Related Art
[0002] Many different types of seals have been used to handle high temperature and pressure downhole applications. Some applications involve seals on tools that have to engage a seal bore receptacle downhole in an extreme temperature and pressure environment. For example, a tubular such as a production tubing may be "stabbed" into a liner downhole.
[0003] Chevron shaped sealing members have typically been used to seal between the tubular and the liner. Because chevron shaped sealing members provide only unidirectional sealing, one or more pairs of these sealing members are arranged 180 degrees apart on the tubular.
[0004] However, Chevron seals are problematic because they have pressure limitations and can trap pressure between the seals, thereby damaging the seals after they are pulled out of the PBR. The Chevron seals may also be damaged or washed off if the tripped in speed is too fast, thereby limiting the trip in speed.
[0005] There is, therefore, a need for an improved seal for use with a mandrel that can be stabbed into another tubular.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0006] In one embodiment, a downhole seal includes cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body. [0007] In another embodiment, a downhole seal includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body. The seal also includes a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member.
[0008] In another embodiment, a downhole seal includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction.
[0009] In another embodiment, a downhole seal includes a first sealing member; a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction; and a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member, wherein the respective sealing elements of the first sealing member and the second sealing member are angled in opposite directions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments. [0011] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a downhole seal disposed around a mandrel.
[0012] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sealing member.
[0013] Figure 3 is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member of Figure 2.
[0014] Figure 3A is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member of Figure 3 in operation.
[0015] Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment of a seal.
[0016] Figure 5 is an enlarged partial view of the seal of Figure 4.
[0017] Figure 6 is an enlarged partial view of the seal of Figure 4.
[0018] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a downhole sealing member.
[0019] Figure 8 is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member of Figure 7.
[0020] Figure 9 is an enlarged partial view of the sealing member of Figure 8.
[0021] Figure 10 is an enlarged partial view of the sealing member of Figure 8.
[0022] Figure 1 1 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a downhole seal.
[0023] Figure 12 is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member of Figure 1 1 .
[0024] Figure 13 is an enlarged partial view of the sealing member of Figure 12.
[0025] To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements disclosed in one embodiment may be beneficially utilized on other embodiments without specific recitation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0026] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a downhole seal 100 disposed around a mandrel 15 that is configured to be stabbed into a tubular such as a polished bore receptacle ("PBR") or a liner. The seal 100 is disposed between two protrusions 20 for axially retaining the seal 100 on the mandrel 15. The protrusions 20 may be attached to the mandrel 15 or formed integrally with the mandrel 15. In one embodiment, the seal 100 may be disposed on a recess in the mandrel.
[0027] The seal 100 includes two sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 disposed on opposite sides of a third sealing member 1 13. An exemplary third sealing member 1 13 is an o-ring. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a sealing member 1 1 1 , 1 12, and Figure 3 is an enlarged, partial view of Figure 2. Each of the opposing sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 has a tubular shape and includes a y-shaped end 1 15. The y- shaped end 1 15 forms a pocket 1 16 for engaging the third sealing member 1 13. The third sealing member 1 13 is disposed between and engaged with the y-shaped ends 1 15 of the two sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12. The y-shaped ends 1 15 of the opposing sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 and the third sealing member 1 13 are configured to form an interference fit with the downhole tubular.
[0028] The opposing sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 include a cylindrical body 120 and one or more sealing elements 1 12e, 122i disposed on the interior surface and the exterior surface of the cylindrical body 120. The interior sealing elements 122i extend radially inward from the body 120, and the exterior sealing elements 122e extend radially outward from the body 120. The sealing elements 122e, 122i extend circumferentially around the cylindrical body 120. In one embodiment, the sealing elements 122e, 122i are integral with the body 120, thereby forming a one-piece sealing member. The sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 may comprise a thermosplatic material. The sealing elements 122e, 122i allow the seal 100 to be self-sealing when a fluid pressure is encountered. Exemplary fluids include liquid, gas, and combinations thereof. As shown, the sealing elements 122e, 122i on the same side of the body 120 are equally spaced along the body 120. However, the sealing elements 122e, 122i may be spaced at any suitable distance from each other. In one embodiment, the interior sealing elements 122i are axially offset from the exterior sealing elements 122e. In this respect, the offsetting sealing elements 122e, 122i may provide flexibility to seal member 1 1 1 , 1 12. This embodiment may be referred to herein as a "wave" seal. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the interior sealing elements 122i are alternately spaced with the exterior sealing elements 122e. A pocket 1 19 is formed by two adjacent interior sealing elements 122i and interior surface of the body 120. The exterior sealing element 122e located on the exterior side of the body 120 opposite the pocket 1 19 can move toward the pocket 1 19 in response to a fluid pressure. It may be possible that the exterior sealing element 122e moves sufficiently away from the PBR to lose contact with the PBR. Similarly, outer pockets are formed between two adjacent exterior sealing elements 122e and the exterior surface of the body 120. In another embodiment, the body 120 may be sufficiently rigid to prevent movement of the exterior sealing element 122e toward the pocket, or may allow a small amount of movement but maintaining the sealing element 122e in contact with the PBR. Some flexibility of the body 120 is preferable, especially during insertion of the mandrel 15. In another embodiment, the sealing elements 122i, 122e may bend relative to the body 120 during insertion into the PBR. For example, the exterior sealing elements 122e may bend upward due to frictional contact with the PBR. In another embodiment, the side of the body 120 forming the pocket 1 19 may be arcuate. For example, the arcuate surface may be recessed and shallower than the sealing element on the opposite side. This example would result in a sealing member 1 1 1 having an overall shape with similarities to an "S" shape. It is contemplated that one or more of the interior sealing elements 122i may be axially aligned or partially overlap with a respective exterior sealing element 122e. It is also contemplated that two sealing elements 122e, 122i on one side of the body 120 may be positioned between two sealing elements 122e, 122i on the other side of the body 120. Also, the sealing elements 122e, 122i closest to the y-shaped ends 1 15 may be either an interior sealing element 122i or an exterior sealing element 122e.
[0029] In one embodiment, the sealing element 122e, 122i has an arcuate shape. In one example, the sealing elements 122e, 122i have a semicircle outer shape. The outer shape may have a curved transition with the outer surface of the body 120. The ratio of the height of the sealing elements 122e, 122i extending from the surface of the cylindrical body 120 to the thickness of the cylindrical body 120 may be from 0.3: 1 to 1 : 1.3; preferably from 0.5 to 1 . The outer diameter of the outer sealing element 122e is larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical body 120, while the outer diameter of the inner sealing elements 122i is smaller than the outer diameter of the cylindrical body 120. In one embodiment, the outer diameters of the exterior and interior sealing elements 122e, 122i have sufficient size to form an interference fit with the downhole PBR (or the liner) and the mandrel 15, respectively. Also, the ratio of the width of the sealing elements 122e, 122i to the distance between two adjacent sealing elements 122e, 122i on the same side of the body 120 may be from 0.3: 1 to 1 :1 .3; preferably from 0.5 to 1 . When the sealing elements 122e, 122i have a semicircle shape, the width is twice the height of the sealing elements 122e, 122i. Each side of the body 120 may have the same or different number of sealing elements 122e, 122i. In one embodiment, three sealing elements 122e, 122i are positioned on each side of the body 120. However, each side of the body 120 may have one, two, four, five, six, or more sealing elements 122e, 122i. It is also contemplated the opposing sealing members 1 1 1 , 1 12 may have different number of sealing elements 122e, 122i.
[0030] In operation, the seal 100 is disposed on the exterior of a mandrel 15 and lowered into the wellbore. The seal 100 may be installed by heat shrinking the seal 100 around the mandrel 15. The seal 100 may be made from a thermoplastic material or other suitable material. The mandrel 15 is stabbed into the bore of a tubular such as a PBR 35. The exterior and interior sealing elements 122e, 122i form an interference fit with the PBR 35 and the mandrel 15. When encountering a fluid pressure, the sealing elements 122e, 122i form a tortuous path for the fluid pressure. See Figure 3A. The fluid pressure acts on the alternating sealing elements 122e, 122i, which causes the seal 100 to form a fluid tight seal between the mandrel 15 and the PBR 35. As shown in Figure 3A, the fluid pressure initially acts on the distal sealing elements 122ea, 122ia. In this example, the fluid pressure has moved the exterior sealing element 122ea away from the PBR 35 and toward the pocket 1 19. Also, the fluid pressure has compressed the interior sealing elements 122ia, 122ib toward the mandrel 15. Moving inward, the exterior sealing element 122eb remains in contact with the PBR 35. In this manner, a fluid tight seal is formed to prevent passage of fluids such as liquid and gas through the seal 100.
[0031] Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment of a seal 200. Figures 5 and 6 are enlarged partial views of the seal 200 of Figure 4. The seal 200 may be interchanged with the seal 100 on the mandrel 15. In this embodiment, the seal 200 is an integrated seal 200 having sealing elements 222e, 222i on either side of the y- shaped members 215. The y-shaped members 215 are connected and oppose each other in direction. For sake of clarity, the arrangement and size of the interior and exterior sealing elements 222e, 222i may be the same as the sealing elements 122e, 122i described above with respect to Figures 1 to 3, and will not be described in detail. It is contemplated that the seal 200 may have the same or different number of sealing elements 222e, 222i on either side of the y-shaped members 215. The portion 217 connecting the y-shaped members 215 may have an outer diameter that is smaller than or same as the outer diameter of the y-shaped members 215.
[0032] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a downhole sealing member 31 1 . The sealing member 31 1 may be disposed around the mandrel 15 and stabbed into a tubular such as a polished bore receptacle ("PBR") or a liner instead of sealing member 1 1 1 of Figure 1 . In this respect, two sealing members 31 1 may be disposed on opposites sides of a third sealing member 1 13. The sealing members 31 1 may be disposed between two protrusions 20 for axially retaining the sealing members 31 1 and the third sealing member 1 13 on the mandrel 15. An exemplary third sealing member 1 13 is an o-ring.
[0033] Figure 8 is an enlarged, partial view of the sealing member 31 1 of Figure
7. Figures 9 and 10 are enlarged partial views of the sealing member 31 1 of Figure
8. Each of the sealing members 31 1 has a tubular shape and includes a y-shaped end 315. The y-shaped end 315 forms a pocket 316 for engaging the third sealing member 313. The third sealing member 313 is disposed between and engaged with the y-shaped ends 315 of the two sealing members 31 1 . The y-shaped ends 315 of the opposing sealing members 31 1 and the third sealing member 313 are configured to form an interference fit with the downhole tubular.
[0034] The opposing sealing members 31 1 include a cylindrical body 320 and one or more sealing elements 322e, 322i disposed on the interior surface and the exterior surface of the cylindrical body 320. The interior sealing elements 322i extend radially inward from the body 320, and the exterior sealing elements 322e extend radially outward from the body 320. The sealing elements 322e, 322i extend circumferentially around the cylindrical body 320. As shown, the sealing elements 322e, 322i are angled toward the y-shaped member 315. In one embodiment, the sealing elements 322e, 322i are integral with the body 320, thereby forming a one- piece sealing member 31 1 . The sealing members 31 1 may comprise a thermosplatic material. Referring to Figure 9, in one embodiment, the front edge 331 of the sealing element 322e may have a smaller angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the body 320 than the back edge 332 of the sealing element 322e. The distal end of the back edge 332 may angle back toward the base 328 formed between the front edge 331 and the back edge 332 of the sealing elements 333e, 322i. This embodiment may be referred to herein as an "arrow" seal. As shown, a spacer portion 334 connects the distal end of the front edge 331 to the distal end of the back edge 332. It is contemplated that the distal ends may connect directly to each other. The sealing elements 322e, 322i on the same side of the body 320 are equally spaced along the body 320. However, the sealing elements 322e, 322i may be spaced at any suitable distance from each other. In this embodiment, the interior sealing elements 322i are axially aligned with the exterior sealing elements 322e. However, the sealing elements 322e, 322i may be axially offset from each other. It is contemplated that one or more of the interior sealing elements 322i may be axially aligned or partially overlap with a respective exterior sealing element 322e. It is also contemplated that two sealing elements 322e, 322i on one side of the body 320 may be positioned between two sealing elements 322e, 322i on the other side of the body 320.
[0035] In one embodiment, the ratio of the radial height of the sealing elements 322e, 322i extending from the surface of the cylindrical body 320 to the thickness of the cylindrical body 320 may be from 0.3: 1 to 1 :1 .3; preferably from 0.5 to 1 . The outer diameter of the sealing member 31 1 should have sufficient size to form an interference fit with the downhole PBR or the liner. Also, the length of the base 328 between the front edge 331 and the back edge 332 of a sealing element 322e, 322i may be from 2.5X to 20X the distance 336 between two adjacent sealing elements 322e, 322i on the same side of the body 320. In one embodiment, the length of the base 328 is from 5X to 10X the distance 336 between two adjacent sealing elements 322e, 322i. In another embodiment, the base 328 is longer than the spacer portion 334. Each side of the body 320 may have the same or different number of sealing elements 322e, 322i. In one embodiment, four sealing elements 322e, 322i are positioned on each side of the body 320. However, each side of the body 320 may have one, two, three, five, six, or more sealing elements 322e, 322i. It is also contemplated the opposing sealing members 31 1 may have different number of sealing elements 322e, 322i. In one embodiment, the sealing element 31 1 may have a front portion 340. The back edge 342 of the front portion 340 may have the same or larger angle 343 relative to the longitudinal axis of the body 320 than the angle 346 of the back edge 332 of a sealing element 332e, 322i. For example, the back edge 342 of the front portion 340 may have a 60 degree angle 343, and the back edge 332 of the sealing element 322e may have a 30 degree angle 346. Also, the outer diameter of the front portion 340 may be smaller than the outer diameter of the sealing element 322e.
[0036] In operation, two sealing members 31 1 are used in combination with an o- ring to form a seal between a mandrel 15 and a tubular such as a PBR. The two sealing members 31 1 are disposed on opposite sides of the o-ring and arranged such that the front end 340 of the sealing members 31 1 are positioned distally from the o-ring. The mandrel 15 and the sealing members 31 1 , 1 13 are lowered into the wellbore and stabbed into the bore of a tubular such as a PBR. The exterior and interior sealing elements 322e, 322i form an interference fit with the PBR and the mandrel 15. During insertion, the sealing elements 322e, 322i may bend relative to the body 320 due to frictional contact with the PBR. A fluid pressure from one side of the sealing members 31 1 , 1 13 may flow past the sealing member 31 1 on the same side and act on the sealing elements 322e, 322i of the sealing member 31 1 on the opposite side as well as the o-ring. In this respect, the sealing members 31 1 , 1 13 cooperate to form a fluid tight seal between the mandrel 15 and the PBR.
[0037] Figures 1 1 -13 illustrate another embodiment of a seal 400. Figure 12 is an enlarged partial view of the seal 400 of Figure 1 1 , and Figure 13 is an enlarged partial view of Figure 12. The seal 400 may be exchanged with the seals 100, 200, 31 1 on the mandrel 15. In this embodiment, the seal 400 is an integrated seal 400 having one or more pairs of sealing elements 422e, 422i arranged in opposite axial directions of the cylindrical body 420. For sake of clarity, sealing elements 422e, 422i may be substantially the same as the sealing elements 322e, 322i described above with respect to Figures 7 to 10, and will not be further described in detail. The opposing pairs of sealing elements are connected via a connecting portion 416. As shown, the seal 400 includes five pairs of sealing elements 422i, 422e on each side of the connecting portion 416. It is contemplated that the seal 400 may have the same or different number of sealing elements 422e, 422i on either side of the connecting portion 416. For example, each side may individually have two, three, four, six, or seven pairs of sealing elements 422e, 422i. The connecting portion 416 may have an outer diameter that is smaller than or same as the outer diameter of the sealing elements 422e, 422i. In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the connecting portion 416 is smaller than the outer diameter of the sealing elements 422e, 422i, but larger than the outer diameter of the body 420. Each side of the connecting portion 416 may include an incline 418 having a smaller angle 419 than the angle 443 of the back edge 432 of the sealing elements 422e. For example, the incline 418 may have a 20 degree angle while the angle 443 of the back edge 432 is 30 degrees. Each side of the seal 400 may include a front portion 440 substantially similar to the front portion 340 of Figure 8.
[0038] In operation, the seal 400 is installed around the mandrel 15. The seal 400 may be heated and disposed around the mandrel 15, where it will shrink fit around the mandrel 15. The mandrel 15 and the seal 400 are lowered into the wellbore and stabbed into the bore of a tubular such as a PBR. The exterior and interior sealing elements 422e, 422i form an interference fit with the PBR and the mandrel 15. A fluid pressure from one side of the seal 400 may flow past the sealing elements on the same side and act on the sealing elements of the seal 400 on the opposite side. In this manner, the seal 400 forms a fluid tight seal between the mandrel 15 and the PBR. [0039] Even though the above disclosure describes apparatus and method for aligning drilling tools, casing tools, and cementing tools with a top drive, the present disclosure encompasses apparatus and method for aligning any suitable tools.
[0040] In one embodiment, a downhole seal includes cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body.
[0041] In another embodiment, a downhole seal includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction.
[0042] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the plurality of exterior sealing elements extends radially from the body.
[0043] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the plurality of exterior sealing elements includes a front edge; and a back edge, wherein the front edge and the back edge are inclined at different angles relative to a longitudinal axis of the body.
[0044] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the seal includes a spacer portion connecting the front edge and the back edge.
[0045] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the seal further comprises oppositely angled sealing members.
[0046] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the seal includes a connecting portion disposed between the oppositely angled sealing members.
[0047] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the seal comprises a thermoplastic material. [0048] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the plurality of exterior sealing elements comprises an arcuate shape.
[0049] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the seal further comprises a y-shaped end.
[0050] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the seal further comprises opposing y-shaped portions.
[0051] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the seal includes a plurality of exterior and interior sealing elements disposed on either side of the opposing y-shaped portions.
[0052] In another embodiment, a downhole seal includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body. The seal also includes a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member.
[0053] In another embodiment, a downhole seal includes a first sealing member; a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members includes a cylindrical body; a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction; and a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member, wherein the respective sealing elements of the first sealing member and the second sealing member are angled in opposite directions.
[0054] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, each of the first and second sealing members include a y-shaped end, and the y-shaped ends face each other. [0055] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the y-shaped ends contact the third sealing member.
[0056] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the third sealing member comprises an elastomer.
[0057] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the second sealing member comprises a thermoplastic material.
[0058] In one or more of the embodiments described herein, the third sealing member comprises an o-ring.
[0059] While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow.

Claims

Claims:
1 . A downhole seal, comprising:
a cylindrical body;
a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and
a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body.
2. The seal of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of exterior sealing elements extends radially from the body.
3. The seal of claims 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of exterior sealing elements comprises an arcuate shape.
4. The seal of any preceding claim, wherein the seal further comprises a y- shaped end.
5. The seal of any preceding claim, wherein the seal further comprises opposing y-shaped portions.
6. The seal of claim 5, further comprising a plurality of exterior and interior sealing elements disposed on either side of the opposing y-shaped portions.
7. The seal of any preceding claim, wherein the seal comprises a thermoplastic material.
8. The seal of any preceding claim, wherein the body is flexible.
9. The seal of any preceding claim, wherein a pocket is formed between two adjacent interior sealing elements.
10. The seal of claim 9, wherein the seal is a one-piece seal.
1 1 . A downhole seal, comprising:
a first sealing member;
a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members include:
a cylindrical body;
a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed on an exterior surface of the body; and
a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are offset from the interior sealing elements along the body; and
a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member.
12. The seal of claim 1 1 , wherein each of the first and second sealing members include a y-shaped end, and the y-shaped ends face each other.
13. The seal of claim 12, wherein the y-shaped ends contact the third sealing member.
14. The seal of any of claims 1 1 -13, wherein the body is flexible.
15. The seal of any of claims 1 1 -14, wherein a pocket is formed between two adjacent interior sealing elements.
16. The seal of claim 15, wherein the second sealing member comprises a one- piece sealing member.
17. The seal of claim any of claims 1 1 -16, wherein the third sealing member comprises an elastomer.
18. The seal of claim 17, wherein the second sealing member comprises a thermoplastic material.
19. The seal of claim any of claims 1 1 -18, wherein the third sealing member comprises an o-ring.
20. A downhole seal, comprising:
a cylindrical body;
a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and
a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction.
21 . The seal of claim 20, wherein the plurality of exterior sealing elements extends radially from the body.
22. The seal of claims 20 or 21 , wherein the plurality of exterior sealing elements include:
a front edge; and
a back edge, wherein the front edge and the back edge are inclined at different angles relative to a longitudinal axis of the body.
23. The seal of claim 22, further comprising a spacer portion connecting the front edge and the back edge.
24. The seal of any of claims 20-23, wherein the seal further comprises oppositely angled sealing members.
25. The seal of claim 24, further comprising a connecting portion disposed between the oppositely angled sealing members.
26. The seal of claim any of claims 20-25, wherein the seal comprises a thermoplastic material.
27. A downhole seal, comprising:
a first sealing member;
a second sealing member, wherein each of the first and second sealing members include:
a cylindrical body;
a plurality of exterior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an exterior surface of the body; and
a plurality of interior sealing elements disposed at an angle on an interior surface of the body, wherein the exterior sealing elements are aligned with the interior sealing elements and angled in the same direction; and a third sealing member disposed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member,
wherein the respective sealing elements of the first sealing member and the second sealing member are angled in opposite directions.
28. The seal of claim 27, wherein the third sealing member comprises an elastomer.
29. The seal of claim 28, wherein the second sealing member comprises a thermoplastic material.
30. The seal of any of claims 27-29, wherein the third sealing member comprises an o-ring.
PCT/US2016/053089 2015-09-23 2016-09-22 Downhole seal Ceased WO2017053552A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1804440.4A GB2558447B (en) 2015-09-23 2016-09-22 Downhole seal
CA2998378A CA2998378C (en) 2015-09-23 2016-09-22 Downhole seal
AU2016326496A AU2016326496B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2016-09-22 Downhole seal
NO20180457A NO20180457A1 (en) 2015-09-23 2018-04-04 Downhole seal

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201562222620P 2015-09-23 2015-09-23
US62/222,620 2015-09-23

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2017053552A1 true WO2017053552A1 (en) 2017-03-30

Family

ID=57113742

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2016/053089 Ceased WO2017053552A1 (en) 2015-09-23 2016-09-22 Downhole seal

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US20170081937A1 (en)
AU (1) AU2016326496B2 (en)
CA (1) CA2998378C (en)
GB (1) GB2558447B (en)
NO (1) NO20180457A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2017053552A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10655733B2 (en) * 2016-11-18 2020-05-19 Schaublin Sa Elastomeric seal having impact protecting protrusions
US20260071681A1 (en) * 2024-09-12 2026-03-12 Freudenberg-Nok General Partnership Method for making a seal for metal-to-metal press-fit joints

Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1059749A (en) * 1964-05-28 1967-02-22 Bibby Foundry Ltd Pipe seal
GB1083451A (en) * 1963-03-11 1967-09-13 Allied Ironfounders Ltd A sealing member and a pipe joint incorporating the same
US4085950A (en) * 1974-08-06 1978-04-25 Perfection Corporation Gas riser apparatus and method
US4131287A (en) * 1977-07-11 1978-12-26 Exxon Production Research Company Annular seal
EP0994287A1 (en) * 1998-10-16 2000-04-19 Artech Rubber B.V. Composite sleeve-shaped sealing means
DE20219220U1 (en) * 2002-12-12 2003-02-27 Buderus Heiztechnik Gmbh, 35576 Wetzlar Connecting arrangement especially for connecting pipes of solar collectors has sleeve of elastic material fitting in end of metal corrugated pipe and centrally accommodates metal pipe being connected to corrugated pipe
US20100007097A1 (en) * 2008-07-08 2010-01-14 Worldwide Oilfield Machine, Inc. Resilient High Pressure Metal-to-Metal Seal and Method
GB2487669A (en) * 2011-01-31 2012-08-01 Scott A Benzie Expanding tubular with grooves and protrusions
WO2014146662A1 (en) * 2013-03-22 2014-09-25 Ngi A/S Coupling and use
US20140319783A1 (en) * 2013-04-29 2014-10-30 Baker Hughes Incorporated Expandable High Pressure and High Temperature Seal

Family Cites Families (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2692066A (en) * 1952-08-19 1954-10-19 Baker Oil Tools Inc Quick mounting and demountable pressure head
DE2346332A1 (en) * 1973-09-14 1975-03-27 Babcock & Wilcox Ag SEAL FOR THE CLOSURE OF A PRESSURE VESSEL
US4832125A (en) * 1987-04-30 1989-05-23 Cameron Iron Works Usa, Inc. Wellhead hanger and seal
US4949786A (en) * 1989-04-07 1990-08-21 Vecto Gray Inc. Emergency casing hanger
US5183268A (en) * 1991-04-30 1993-02-02 Fmc Corporation Metal-to-metal wellhead seal for rough casing
US5246236A (en) * 1992-01-21 1993-09-21 Halliburton Company Seal for long-time exposures in oil and gas well tools
US6869079B2 (en) * 2002-02-15 2005-03-22 Fmc Technologies, Inc. Stackable metallic seal and method of using same
US6966537B2 (en) * 2003-03-11 2005-11-22 Worldwide Oilfield Machine, Inc. Valve with seat assembly
US20080290602A1 (en) * 2007-05-21 2008-11-27 Baker Hughes Incorporated Self energizing seal element

Patent Citations (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1083451A (en) * 1963-03-11 1967-09-13 Allied Ironfounders Ltd A sealing member and a pipe joint incorporating the same
GB1059749A (en) * 1964-05-28 1967-02-22 Bibby Foundry Ltd Pipe seal
US4085950A (en) * 1974-08-06 1978-04-25 Perfection Corporation Gas riser apparatus and method
US4131287A (en) * 1977-07-11 1978-12-26 Exxon Production Research Company Annular seal
EP0994287A1 (en) * 1998-10-16 2000-04-19 Artech Rubber B.V. Composite sleeve-shaped sealing means
DE20219220U1 (en) * 2002-12-12 2003-02-27 Buderus Heiztechnik Gmbh, 35576 Wetzlar Connecting arrangement especially for connecting pipes of solar collectors has sleeve of elastic material fitting in end of metal corrugated pipe and centrally accommodates metal pipe being connected to corrugated pipe
US20100007097A1 (en) * 2008-07-08 2010-01-14 Worldwide Oilfield Machine, Inc. Resilient High Pressure Metal-to-Metal Seal and Method
GB2487669A (en) * 2011-01-31 2012-08-01 Scott A Benzie Expanding tubular with grooves and protrusions
WO2014146662A1 (en) * 2013-03-22 2014-09-25 Ngi A/S Coupling and use
US20140319783A1 (en) * 2013-04-29 2014-10-30 Baker Hughes Incorporated Expandable High Pressure and High Temperature Seal

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB2558447B (en) 2019-12-11
NO20180457A1 (en) 2018-04-04
GB2558447A (en) 2018-07-11
GB201804440D0 (en) 2018-05-02
CA2998378C (en) 2022-07-05
CA2998378A1 (en) 2017-03-30
AU2016326496A1 (en) 2018-04-19
US20170081937A1 (en) 2017-03-23
AU2016326496B2 (en) 2022-03-03

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
AU2016407199B2 (en) Wiper dart with reinforced drive element
US20060219404A1 (en) Gravel pack multi-pathway tube with control line retention and method for retaining control line
CN103348094B (en) With passing through to expand the inflatable packer supporting parts that induction is axially movable
BR112017024171B1 (en) EXPANDABLE METALLIC BOTTOM TUBULAR, ANNULAR PROTECTION, BOTTOM FINALIZATION AND SEALING METHOD
US20110147015A1 (en) Seal Bore for High Expansion Bridge Plugs
WO2018191535A1 (en) Multi-layer packer backup ring with closed extrusion gaps
US20170051563A1 (en) Centraliser
NO20170201A1 (en) SELF-BOOSTING EXPANDABLE SEAL WITH CANTILEVERED SEAL ARM
CA2998378C (en) Downhole seal
CN105705726B (en) Scalable tool with helical geometry
CA2899178C (en) Multi-component diffuser assembly
US9291027B2 (en) Packer and packer outer layer
US10760371B2 (en) System for limiting radial expansion of an expandable seal
NO20240706A1 (en) Resettable backup and system
CA2984810C (en) Swellable choke packer
US10260310B2 (en) High temperature and pressure packer
US20170051583A1 (en) Sand screen
US9617822B2 (en) Compliant seal for irregular casing
US11802464B2 (en) Segmented expansion cone, method and system
AU2024256564A1 (en) Resettable backup and system
WO2017030699A1 (en) Sand screen

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 16778582

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2998378

Country of ref document: CA

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 201804440

Country of ref document: GB

Kind code of ref document: A

Free format text: PCT FILING DATE = 20160922

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2016326496

Country of ref document: AU

Date of ref document: 20160922

Kind code of ref document: A

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 16778582

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1