Hydraulic release running tool

Abstract

A running tool for a liner hanger has a mandrel supported by latch segments housed in a latch cage, the latch segments being engaged in the tubular portion of the hanger. In one mode, the latch cage is supported on latch shoulders temporarily restrained to the mandrel by a locking cylinder. Support of the latch cage ensures the latch segments remain engaged. Hydraulic actuation of the locking cylinder releases the latch shoulders, releasing the latch cage to move axially and disengage the latch segments. The mandrel is also supported using a drive housing axially engaging the liner hanger. If the hydraulic actuation fails, an indexed and relative reverse rotation of the mandrel releases the mandrel to lower through the drive housing and through the latch cage housing to the disengaged position. A barrel ratchet enables transmission of driving torque in one direction and ratcheting in a reverse direction.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION [0001] The invention relates to hydraulic release running tools for setting rotatable liner hangers; and more particularly to running tools having a secondary mechanical release and backlash relief. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Running tools are used in combination with liner hangers in wellbore drilling and completion operations. Following drilling of at least a segment of a wellbore, casing is positioned into the open hole and cemented into place. Drilling is continued below the cemented casing to extend the depth of the wellbore. At least a second length of smaller diameter casing is lowered into the extended wellbore on a tubing string equipped with a releasable running tool and a liner hanger. Mechanical release running tools are often used for vertical wellbores. Hydraulic running tools are often preferred for high angle and horizontal wells due to increased difficulty in relying on mechanical manipulation to release the running tool from the liner han...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006] In one embodiment of the invention, apparatus is provided for hydraulic release of a running tool from a downhole tool such as a liner hanger. In another embodiment, secondary apparatus is provided for mechanical release actuation of components of the hydraulic release as a backup. In yet another embodiment, a latch for releasably supporting a mandrel in a tubular tool is provided In yet another embodiment, a clutch is provided and in another embodiment the clutch is integrated with a running tool for avoiding accidental actuation of the secondary mechanical release apparatus. In an embodiment of the clutch, a ratchet is provided.

Problems solved by technology

Hydraulic running tools are often preferred for high angle and horizontal wells due to increased difficulty in relying on mechanical manipulation to release the running tool from the liner hanger once properly located.

The conditions of liner installation introduce non-trivial challenges for a running tool.

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