Downhole cleaning apparatus

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a downhole cleaning apparatus and a method of cleaning a wellbore. The downhole cleaning apparatus has a body and a cleaning element coupled to the body. The cleaning element is selectively movable relative to the body from a retracted position to an extended position. When the cleaning element is in the retracted position, the cleaning element is held by retention formations inside the tool that are coupled together. The retention formations can be slidably released from one another to enable the cleaning element to move to the extended position. The force required to slidably release the retention formations exceeds any force encountered upon entry of the apparatus, thereby preventing premature extension of the cleaning element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to well cleaning. In particular, this invention relates to cleaning equipment operable to clean well casing to remove unwanted material and debris from the inner surface of the well casing. Background Technology

[0002] When drilling oil and gas wells, the wellbore is typically cleaned after the main activities are completed. Wellbore cleaning can be performed during a designated cleaning operation or during the same operation as the main activities. Cleaning equipment can take many forms and offer a variety of functions; however, cleaning equipment shares some common characteristics, such as cleaning elements that engage with the wellbore; these cleaning elements include, but are not limited to, blades, wipers, or pads.

[0003] In some cases, it is desirable for cleaning equipment, such as cleaning tools, to enter the well in an inactive state where the cleaning element is not in contact with the wellbore, and for the equipment to be selectively "activated," i.e., to make the cleaning element usable for cleaning the wellbore. Typically, this requires holding the cleaning element in the retracted position until needed, and then extending it when required.

[0004] Odfjell Partners Invest Ltd. describes a device in which a helical array of cleaning elements is held within the tool body by a series of shear pins actuated by a sliding sleeve. The tool can be activated using a ball or dart to block the internal orifice, and the internal fluid pressure changes to first set the sleeve, then activate the cleaning elements, and then reopen the orifice to allow fluid flow during the cleaning operation.

[0005] However, in some applications, shear pin-based actuation mechanisms are prone to failure or premature activation, such as when the tool enters the well or during major drilling operations, due to metal fatigue in the pin or shearing caused by g-forces and axial forces transmitted to or through the tool. These problems can be particularly severe, for example, in deviated or single-well wells.

[0006] In practice, there is still a need to deploy this cleaning equipment more reliably. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a downhole cleaning device is provided, comprising:

[0008] The main body and the cleaning element connected to the main body;

[0009] The cleaning element is selectively movable relative to the body from a retracted position to an extended position; and the cleaning element has an inner portion including a first retaining portion and an outer portion including a cleaning portion; and

[0010] An actuation system, the actuation system including a second holding forming part, the second holding forming part being slidable relative to the body between a holding position and a release position;

[0011] In the retracted position, the first retaining part is connected to the second retaining part; the first retaining part and the second retaining part can be slidably released from each other by sliding the second retaining part from the retaining position to the release position; in the release position, the cleaning element can be moved to the extended position.

[0012] Therefore, the force required to move the second retaining forming part can be selected to exceed or greatly exceed any force that the downhole cleaning equipment may encounter during entry or, for example, during major drilling operations, thereby preventing premature extension of the cleaning element.

[0013] The internal portion of the cleaning element, as referred to herein, defines those surfaces or areas of the cleaning element that are not exposed to the wellbore or pipe to be cleaned during use. The external portion of the cleaning element includes those surfaces or areas of the cleaning element that are exposed during use, at least in the extended position.

[0014] The position of the first retaining portion within the cleaning element ensures that it is not located in the fluid flow around the tool in the well. This, in turn, prevents or limits contact with debris that could otherwise interfere with the tool (e.g., movement of the cleaning element from its retracted to its extended position, operation of the actuation system interacting with the first retaining portion, etc.).

[0015] The actuation system can be operated to selectively move the cleaning element, or to facilitate selective movement of the cleaning element.

[0016] The body can be tubular. The body can define a through hole.

[0017] The second retaining forming part can slide or rotate about the axis between the retaining position and the release position along the axis (e.g., extending through the body or along the longitudinal axis of the working column).

[0018] The second retaining forming part can be locked in the retaining position, and / or the second retaining forming part can be offset toward the retaining position.

[0019] In the retracted position, the cleaning element is spaced apart from the wellbore during use. For example, the retracted cleaning element may be stored in the outer surface of the body, recessed into the outer surface of the body, or flush with the outer surface of the body.

[0020] In the extended position, the cleaning element extends from the body during use, allowing the cleaning forming portion to engage with the wellbore. For example, when the cleaning element is extended, the cleaning forming portion extends radially beyond the outer surface of the body.

[0021] When the second retaining part of the actuation system is in the retaining position, the second retaining part of the actuation system and / or another movable part can be locked by a shearing element (e.g., a shearing pin or multiple shearing pins or shearing rings).

[0022] The second retaining part can be biased toward the retaining position by, for example, an elastic biasing arrangement of one or more springs that acts (directly or indirectly) between the body and the second retaining part.

[0023] In the retracted position, the first retaining forming part and the second retaining forming part can engage with each other cooperatively.

[0024] The first and second retaining portions can be used as latches to lock the cleaning element in the retracted position.

[0025] The first retaining portion may include a protrusion from the cleaning element, and the second retaining portion may include a recess or hole sized to receive at least a portion of the first retaining portion. The actuation system may include the recess.

[0026] The first retaining portion can extend from the inner surface of the cleaning element (inner part); that is, the surface of the cleaning element is oriented away from the cleaning portion and is therefore generally oriented radially inward.

[0027] The second retaining part can be set in a part of the actuation system, such as in the outer surface of the setting sleeve.

[0028] Alternatively, the first retaining portion may include a recess, and the second retaining portion may include a protrusion from or a part of the actuation system. The second retaining portion may extend from the outside of the actuation system, and the first retaining portion may be set into the inner surface of the cleaning element. The recess of the retaining portion may have an inlet and a closed region extending from the inlet. The closed region may be closed by a lip that partially extends over the recess. The cleaning element may be prevented from radially outward movement by engagement of the radially outward surface (as applicable) of the first or second retaining portion with the radially inner surface of the lip.

[0029] The protrusion of the retaining forming portion may have a radially extending portion (e.g., corresponding to the depth of the recess) and a circumferentially extending portion and / or a longitudinally extending portion (e.g., sized to be received in the closed region of the recess).

[0030] The protrusion may generally be L-shaped in cross-section (in the direction of movement between the held position and the released position).

[0031] Other interlocking retainers can also be envisioned, such as tapered wedges, pins / holes, and / or forms adapted to slide out of each other.

[0032] The actuation system may include a setting sleeve or a portion thereof. The setting sleeve may include a second retaining portion. The outward-facing surface of the setting sleeve may include the second retaining portion. The sleeve may be operatively coupled to the second retaining portion (e.g., such that movement of the sleeve moves or enables the second retaining portion to move). The sleeve may be movable to engage with the second retaining portion such that further movement of the sleeve enables movement of the second retaining portion.

[0033] The sleeve is axially rotatable and / or longitudinally movable relative to the body, wherein such longitudinal or rotational movement causes the second retaining portion to slidably move relative to the first retaining portion.

[0034] The sleeve can slide within the body.

[0035] The sleeve can be guided along a path defined, for example, by a pin extending from the sleeve or the body, thereby running within the trajectory of the other in the sleeve or the body. The body and the set sleeve can each include angled profiles such that movement of the sleeve relative to the tubular body is guided.

[0036] The sleeve can be activated by a mechanical trigger, an electronic signal, or applied fluid pressure.

[0037] The second retaining portion may include a recess in the sleeve or a protrusion from the sleeve.

[0038] At least a portion of the first retaining forming portion and / or the second retaining forming portion may be annular or partially annular.

[0039] The cleaning element may include two or more (identical or different types) first retaining portions. The actuation system may include two or more (identical or different types) second retaining portions associated with the cleaning element.

[0040] The cleaning element can be retractable or selectively retractable. That is, the cleaning element can move (selectively) relative to the body from an extended position to a retracted position.

[0041] The cleaning element can be reset to the retracted position. For example, after use, the tool can be retrieved and the cleaning element can be pushed to the retracted position, thus resetting the actuation system.

[0042] In some implementations, the cleaning element can be selectively retracted during downhole use.

[0043] Moving the second retaining portion from the release position to the retaining position can move the cleaning element from the extended position to the retracted position. This can be achieved, for example, by a first retaining portion and / or a second retaining portion having an inclined surface.

[0044] The cleaning element can be biased toward the extended position. For example, a biasing member such as a spring or elastomer (or two or more biasing members) can act between the cleaning element and the body. The biasing member can act directly between the cleaning element and the body.

[0045] It can provide bias force between magnetic components.

[0046] The force of the biasing member can act between the cleaning element (e.g., the inner surface of the cleaning element) and a part of the actuation system (e.g., the adjacent outer surface of the actuation system), such as the setting sleeve.

[0047] The cleaning element, biased in this manner, can move radially inward to a certain extent during use in its extended position to accommodate the size of the pipe or well shaft to be cleaned. The first and second retaining portions, released from each other, do not interfere with this movement of the cleaning element.

[0048] The biasing member can elastically deform (e.g., compress) when the cleaning element is in the retracted position, such that when the second retaining form is in the released position, it pushes the cleaning element toward the extended position.

[0049] In some embodiments, the cleaning element may be unbiased at least in the retracted position and when the second retaining form is in the retaining position. For example, the biasing element may be compressed or otherwise activated by moving the second retaining form to the release position.

[0050] The cleaning element can be biased toward a retracted position. This cleaning element can extend under fluid pressure and / or can extend mechanically, for example, by a sliding wedge or ramp acting between the cleaning element and the body.

[0051] Mechanical triggers, electronic signals, or fluid pressure can cause the cleaning element to move from retracted to extended. Magnetic force can cause the cleaning element to move from retracted to extended. The cleaning element may include a magnetic element (e.g., a permanent magnet), and another magnetic element may be coupled (directly or indirectly) to the body.

[0052] In some embodiments, movement of the second retaining portion or another operation of the actuation system can bring the magnetic element of the cleaning element closer to the magnetic element of the actuation system (e.g., mounted to the setting sleeve), whereby the repulsion between the magnetic elements pushes the cleaning element toward the extended position.

[0053] The cleaning element can be held in the retracted position by an actuation system until it is needed. The actuation system can operate to at least "start" the cleaning element for movement from the retracted position to the extended position by moving the second retaining form to the release position. For example, once the second retaining form is in the release position, further force or action may be required to move the cleaning element to the extended position—such as an increase in fluid pressure within the body, compression of the drill string, operation of the extension mechanism, or further operation of the actuation system (e.g., supporting a sliding sleeve or wedge on the cleaning element, adapted to push the cleaning element outward), etc.

[0054] In use, the actuation system may include one or more operating stages, wherein one or more of the following may be applied: a mechanical trigger, an electronic signal, and applied fluid pressure. When multiple operating stages are used, each stage may be activated sequentially, allowing the positional change of the cleaning element from retraction to extension (and in some embodiments, from extension to retraction) to be controlled in a predictable manner.

[0055] An actuation system may include one or more of the following: a ball; a dart.

[0056] When the ball or dart is released into the body, it can rest in the seat. The through hole can thus be at least partially blocked to facilitate an increase in internal pressure within the body, which causes the second retaining part to move from the retaining position to the releasing position.

[0057] The increased pressure can be used to break or shear at least one shearing element, allowing the actuation system to be operated to move the second retaining formation. Alternatively, or additionally, the increased pressure can be used to overcome the forces of the resiliently biased arrangement.

[0058] The ball or dart can be released by a mechanical trigger, an electronic signal, or applied fluid pressure.

[0059] The ball can be made of deformable materials.

[0060] The seat can be configured to allow a ball or dart to pass through. The seat is deformable under pressure. The seat may include a chuck. The chuck may include displaceable, expanding jaws or claws, thereby allowing the dart or ball to pass through.

[0061] The seat can be connected to the second retaining forming part, for example, to the setting sleeve, so that the force applied to the seat is transmitted to the second retaining forming part.

[0062] Alternatively, the actuation system can be operated by compressing the cleaning device. For example, a setting sleeve can slide longitudinally relative to the body and be biased to abut the body at the end of the setting sleeve's range of motion (which may correspond to the second retaining element being in a holding position). Compression of the cleaning device can compress the body, thereby moving the sleeve.

[0063] The body may include a first body portion and a second body portion that can move longitudinally relative to each other to facilitate this compression operation.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, further action may be required for the actuation system to achieve movement of the second retaining member between a retaining position and a release position. For example, the setting sleeve may move into engagement with the second retaining member in a first action, and in a second action, the setting sleeve may move to move the second retaining member. The first action may be axial. The second action may be rotational.

[0065] Further movement of the setting sleeve or ball can be initiated by a mechanical trigger, electronic signal, or applied fluid pressure.

[0066] The cleaning element includes a cutting profile that can be operated in use by axial reciprocating motion and / or rotational reciprocating motion to remove debris from the surface in contact with the cleaning element.

[0067] The device may include two, three, or more cleaning elements. The cleaning elements may be arranged symmetrically about a longitudinal axis passing through the body. For example, the device may include a tubular body defining a longitudinal axis and cleaning elements arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis.

[0068] The body may include openings corresponding to each cleaning element.

[0069] Each opening can be sized to accommodate the cleaning element in a slidable manner. However, it will be understood that gaps around the outer periphery of each cleaning element and the inner wall of the body around each opening are desirable to prevent clogging.

[0070] The body may be a tubular body including multiple openings passing through the body, and the device may include multiple cleaning elements; the outer portion of each cleaning element is configured to extend at least partially through the openings and outward from the outer surface of the body when in the extended position.

[0071] Cleaning elements can be grouped in one or more generally longitudinal, radial, or helical paths (extending along and / or around the body).

[0072] The cleaning elements are grouped to define a generally continuous spiral path. The spiral path can define an effective cleaning surface of at least 360 degrees.

[0073] The cleaning element can define multiple spiral paths. The spiral paths can be arranged such that the combined spiral paths have a circumferential range of at least 360 degrees; that is, defining at least 360 degrees of effective cleaning surface. For example, in an embodiment including three spiral paths, each path extends circumferentially by at least 120 degrees. Such an arrangement of spiral paths defined by openings and cleaning elements can define at least 360 degrees of effective cleaning surface.

[0074] Therefore, the entire circumference of the wellbore can be cleaned by the reciprocating motion of the cleaning device along the longitudinal axis of the tubular body, or by means of a combination of reciprocating and rotation. Known devices use rotational motion combined with slow axial motion to clean the casing wall. Typically, the scraper reciprocates three times over a given area to be cleaned. A typical scraper consists of three blades, each measuring 228 mm (9 ft) in length, with a rotational speed of approximately 60 revolutions per minute. The longitudinal reciprocating speed is typically a maximum of 0.23 m / s (45 ft / min). In contrast, cleaning devices with an effective cleaning surface of at least 360 degrees, as disclosed herein, can reciprocate at speeds up to 0.76 m / s (150 ft / min), thus providing reduced cleaning time and / or more efficient cleaning.

[0075] Downhole cleaning equipment may include one or more longitudinal grooves or helical grooves, each groove being defined between longitudinal ribs or helical ribs.

[0076] The longitudinal or helical path defined by the cleaning element can extend along the rib.

[0077] The opening can be set on the rib.

[0078] The opening can be provided by multiple slots, wherein at least a corresponding number of cleaning elements are provided, wherein one or more cleaning elements extend through each slot.

[0079] The cleaning device may include at least three ribs defined by three recesses.

[0080] Cleaning elements may include one or more scraper blades. Cleaning elements may be brushes. Cleaning devices may include more than one type of cleaning element. For example, some may be scraper blades, and some may be brushes. In practice, cleaning devices may include cleaning elements adapted (e.g., by the orientation of the scraper blades) to clean most effectively when the device is rotating and / or adapted to clean most effectively when the device is reciprocating longitudinally.

[0081] Downhole equipment can be connected to drilling tools or drill strings. In downhole applications, downhole cleaning equipment can be connected above the drill bit of the drilling tool. Downhole cleaning equipment may also include convex or concave connections configured to connect each end of a tubular body to a drilling element.

[0082] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for cleaning the interior of a well shaft is provided, the method comprising:

[0083] A cleaning device is provided, the cleaning device having a body and a cleaning element coupled to the body; the cleaning element having an inner portion including a first retaining forming portion and an outer portion including a cleaning forming portion;

[0084] The cleaning equipment is inserted into the wellbore with the cleaning elements in the retracted position.

[0085] Operate the actuation system to slide the second retaining forming part from the retaining position where the second retaining forming part is connected to the first retaining forming part to the release position where the first retaining forming part and the second retaining forming part are released from each other;

[0086] Then move the cleaning element from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0087] This method may include cleaning the interior of a wellbore by moving a cleaning device relative to the wellbore using cleaning elements. The device may, for example, reciprocate, rotate, and / or translate along the wellbore (longitudinally and / or rotatably) to achieve cleaning.

[0088] The cleaning equipment can be the first type of cleaning equipment.

[0089] The method may also include the step of attaching the downhole cleaning equipment to the working string and thereby installing the downhole cleaning equipment together with the working string before installing the downhole equipment into the well casing. The working string may be a drill string.

[0090] The method may also include the step of moving the cleaning element from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0091] Moving the cleaning element from the retracted position to the extended position, and in some embodiments, moving the cleaning element from the extended position to the retracted position, may include an actuation system.

[0092] Moving the cleaning element may include changing the fluid pressure within the body. For example, moving the cleaning element from a retracted position to an extended position may include increasing the fluid pressure. In some embodiments, the method may include blocking a through-hole through the body (e.g., using a ball or dart). In some embodiments, when the through-hole is blocked, pressure is increased to move a second retaining form and / or break a shearing element, such as a pin or ring.

[0093] The method may include, for example, a stage of compressing the cleaning device by applying a longitudinal force via a working column to perform an operation actuation system. For example, the cleaning device may be compressed to move the second retaining form (or to break the shearing element to allow such movement).

[0094] This method may include moving more than one cleaning element (usually simultaneously).

[0095] Cleaning the interior of a wellbore may include circulating fluid within the wellbore. The body may have through-holes, and the method may include, for example, allowing fluid to flow through the body during cleaning.

[0096] The method may also include withdrawing the downhole cleaning equipment from the wellbore. Before or after removing the downhole cleaning equipment from the wellbore, one or more cleaning elements may be moved from an extended position to a retracted position.

[0097] As described above, the method may include additional steps required to operate the cleaning equipment of the first aspect.

[0098] The invention is extended in other respects to components of cleaning equipment, such as cleaning elements that include one or more of the first retaining portions.

[0099] It will be understood that preferred and optional features of each aspect of the invention correspond to preferred and optional features of any other aspect of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0100] Non-limiting examples of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0101] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of downhole cleaning equipment, in which the cleaning element is in the retracted position;

[0102] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of downhole cleaning equipment, in which the cleaning element is in the extended position;

[0103] Figure 3 Is it like this? Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the axial cross-section of the downhole cleaning equipment shown;

[0104] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of region B;

[0105] Figure 5 Is it like this? Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the axial cross-section of the downhole cleaning equipment shown;

[0106] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of region B;

[0107] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A view of region E, where the through-hole is reopened for fluid flow;

[0108] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the components of the cannula cleaner; and

[0109] Figure 9 The following is an enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of region B, which is an alternative example of a downhole cleaning device, (a) in which the cleaning element is in the retracted position, and (b) in which the cleaning element is in the extended position. Detailed Implementation

[0110] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Each is shown as a casing cleaner 10 (downhole cleaning device), representing a downhole cleaning device. The casing cleaner 10 includes a tubular body 12, which includes an axial through-hole (in... Figure 1 or Figure 2 (Not visible in the image). In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve cleaner 10 includes three outer ribs 14. Recesses 16 (in...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The groove 16 (which can be seen in the image) separates the rib 14 and defines the area through which debris removed from the sleeve wall (not shown) can be discharged during use.

[0111] In the illustrated embodiment, the rib 14 and the groove 16 each define a portion of a spiral 18 that extends end-to-end on the outer surface of the body 12.

[0112] Each rib 14 includes a cleaning element 22 extending through a groove 20. (Example) Figures 3 to 6 As shown in the cross-sectional view, the cleaning element 22 is connected to the body 12 by a locking pin 38 to prevent the cleaning element 22 from being completely discharged from the tubular body 12. The locking pin 38 is attached to the body and extends into the groove 20 and into the groove 40 provided on the side of each cleaning element 22. The groove is radially oriented relative to the longitudinal axis A of the body 12. The range of movement of the cleaning element 22 is thus limited by the length of the groove 40.

[0113] The groove 20 and the cleaning element 22 each define a portion of the spiral 18 defined by the rib 14 and the groove 16. In the illustrated embodiment, each spiral rib 14 includes four grooves 20 and four cleaning elements 22.

[0114] In alternative embodiments (not shown), the cannula cleaner may have a different number of grooves or ribs, a longitudinal (rather than spiral) array of cleaning elements, or any number of one or more cleaning elements.

[0115] Regarding the sleeve cleaner 10, as illustrated, each spiral 18 has a circumferential range of at least 120 degrees, allowing the cleaning element 22 to operate in contact with the entire 360-degree sleeve surface during use. The spiral arrangement of the ribs 14 and the cleaning element 22 means that the sleeve cleaner 10 only needs to be operated in a reciprocating manner during use.

[0116] The cleaning element 22 in the illustrated embodiment has an outer portion (generally indicated as 22a) including a scraper blade 23 (cleaning forming portion). The scraper blade includes multiple cutting edges that act on the sleeve wall as the cleaner passes through the sleeve to remove debris. The sleeve scraper can be made of, for example, machined low-alloy steel. Alternatively, the blade can be forged. The choice of material and construction of the blade is to exhibit durable performance and excellent scraping properties. Alternatively, the cleaning element may include another type of cleaning forming portion, such as a brush that can be used to brush and clean the inner surface / circumferential direction of the sleeve to remove dirt, rust, sludge, and other types of debris. The scraper blade and brush are configured to act in an abrasive manner to clean the sleeve wall.

[0117] Cleaning element 22 is configured to remain in the retracted position when the sleeve cleaner 10 enters (e.g., Figure 1 As shown in the diagram. In the retracted position, the cleaning element is recessed relative to the outer surface of the body to prevent wear on the scraper blade or sleeve during insertion.

[0118] Cleaning element 22 can be relative to body 12 from Figure 1 The retraction position shown in the figure is selectively moved to Figure 2 The extended position is shown in the diagram. In the extended position, the scraper blade extends radially from the outermost surface of the body and can therefore be used to clean the sleeve.

[0119] As discussed in further detail below, the cleaning element 22 is biased outward by a spring 50, which is positioned at the outer end of the cleaning element 22 in a cavity 52 on the inner surface of the cleaning element and at the inner end of the cleaning element 22 in a tapering cavity 36 outside the setting sleeve 32. In an alternative embodiment, the cleaning element is not biased outward until the spring 50 slides out of the tapering cavity 36 in the manner discussed below.

[0120] The tapering cavity is optional, and in other embodiments (not shown), the sleeve has a constant outer diameter in the region where it interacts with the spring during use.

[0121] The sleeve cleaner 10 can be sized such that the entire maximum diameter of the extended cleaning element exceeds the diameter of the sleeve to be cleaned, causing the blade to be biased into contact with the inner wall of the sleeve by a biasing force F1. The sleeve cleaner 10 includes an actuation system, see reference. Figures 3 to 6 The structure and operation of the actuation system are described.

[0122] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of tool 10 is shown, in which cleaning element 22 is in its retracted position (see [reference]). Figure 1 ). Figure 4 Enlarged portion B shows a simplified schematic cross-sectional view of the cleaning element and adjacent portions of tool 10.

[0123] In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning element 22 is radially outwardly biased toward the extended position by a spring force F1 applied between the sleeve 32 and the cleaning element 22. The cleaning element has an inner portion 22b, which includes a first retaining portion in the form of a protrusion 56.

[0124] The cleaning element 22 is held in the retracted position by a protrusion 56 extending from the inner surface 58 of each cleaning element (an example of the first retaining portion). The protrusion 56 is received within a recess 60 (an example of the second retaining portion) located in the outer surface 62 of the setting sleeve 32, which is positioned together with the axial through-hole 35 of the tool 10. The first retaining portion 58 and the second retaining portion 60 are thus joined together.

[0125] The protrusion 56 is L-shaped in cross-section along axis A, and includes a radially extending portion 56a and a longitudinally extending portion 56b. The recess has a wider entrance that extends slightly further in the longitudinal direction than the longitudinal extent of the protrusion 56.

[0126] The lip 64 extends partially over the recess 60 to define a closed region 66. Thus, the longitudinally extending portion 56b of the protrusion 56 is received within the closed region 64 of the recess, thereby connecting the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion, and the longitudinally extending portion 56b is prevented from being pushed radially outward by the lip.

[0127] As discussed in further detail below, the sleeve 32 is designed to slide relative to the body. Therefore, the recess 60 can slide relative to the body 12. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The holding position shown in the figure is the same as Figure 5 and Figure 6 Slide longitudinally between the release positions shown in the diagram.

[0128] The movement of the second retaining portion 56b from the retaining position to the releasing position causes the longitudinal portion 56b to move away from the lip 64, thereby releasing the first retaining portion 56 and the second retaining portion 60 from each other and allowing the cleaning element to move to its extended position.

[0129] The first and second retaining portions, the protrusion 56, and the recess 60 form part of an actuation system operable to selectively move the cleaning element from a retracted position to an extended position. The shear pin 24 is used to restrict longitudinal movement of the setting sleeve 32 within the axial through-hole 35.

[0130] The ball seat 30 is positioned in the bore 35 at the distal end of the body 12 and is connected to the sleeve 32. To allow the cleaning element 22 to selectively move to the extended position, the axial bore 35 is sealed by the release of the ball 34, which is either pumped downwards from the surface or allowed to fall freely. The ball 34 rests on the ball seat 30 such that the fluid pressure within the axial bore 35 can increase to a predetermined level, at which point the pin 24 shears or breaks to release the set sleeve 32, which will begin to move downwards (in direction D).

[0131] Therefore, the sleeve and the recess 60 slide to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in the figure, in this position, the longitudinal portion 56b is separated from the lip 64. The first retaining portion and the second retaining portion are thus slidably released from each other, and the cleaning element is able to move radially outward under the action of the spring 50 to the extended position of the cleaning element.

[0132] The forming part is kept inside the tool (i.e., the internal part 22a of the cleaning element 22 and the adjacent part of the actuation system), and therefore is not positioned in the fluid flow in the wellbore during use.

[0133] When the set sleeve 32 moves in direction D, the inner end of the spring 50 slides out from the converging cavity 36 onto the wider diameter portion 37 of the sleeve 32, thus increasing the efficiency of the spring 50.

[0134] In some examples, the spring is not compressed when it is seated in the converging cavity and the cleaning element is in its retracted position. In this case, the spring bias is provided when the spring rides up and exits cavity 36.

[0135] In another example (not shown), the sleeve may be rotatable at least when moved to its furthest position, so that the spring arches upward and exits the converging chamber. In this case, the longitudinal movement of the sleeve actuates the cleaning element for extension, and rotation causes the extension to occur. In some cases, the internal fluid pressure in the orifice may also be used to extend the cleaning element.

[0136] In other examples, the body itself is compressible and is formed of two parts. A sleeve may be adjacent to or connected to one of the parts, such that compression of the body causes a slidable disengagement of the first and second retaining portions, typically as described above.

[0137] At this stage, the cleaning element 22 extends and prepares the cleaning sleeve.

[0138] For some applications, it may be desirable to restore fluid flow through the orifice 35 during cleaning, for example by pumping fluid through the orifice and creating a flow within the sleeve that allows fluid backflow to flush chips away from the cutting element 22 during use.

[0139] Reference Figure 7 By increasing the fluid pressure within the axial bore 34 to a predetermined level, the shear pin 28 located at the ball seat 30 is sheared, and the ball seat sleeve 42 is released and moves downward (in direction D) a sufficient distance to allow fluid flow F2 through the axial bore 35. Alternatively, the ball and / or ball seat may be deformable, such that by further increasing the pressure within the bore, the ball is forced through the ball seat and into the well.

[0140] The cannula cleaner 10 according to the above embodiment can remove debris from the inner cannula wall by means of an axial reciprocating motion in which the cannula cleaner 10 moves only upward (to the left in the illustrated embodiment) and downward (to the right in the illustrated embodiment). Any debris is discharged via grooves.

[0141] The configuration of the cannula cleaner 10 according to an embodiment of the invention makes the reciprocating motion combined with the rotation of the cannula cleaner 10 effective in quickly and efficiently removing debris from the cannula wall.

[0142] like Figure 8 As shown, the casing cleaner 10 is attached to the drill string 50 via a suitable convex mechanical connection 52 or concave mechanical connection 54. Figure 8 As shown, the connecting parts 52 and 54 are adapted to be attached to the drill string 50.

[0143] The casing cleaner 10 is attached to the upper part of the drill string 50, which includes the drill bit 51. The assembly of the drill string 50 and the casing cleaner 10 then enters the casing 56 in a known manner. The cleaning element 10 retracts into the tubular body for entry and extends for cleaning.

[0144] The drill string 50 is used in a known manner to drill holes, such as new wellbores. This may involve drilling through the base of an existing casing 56 using a suitable drill bit 51, with the drill string 50 entering the casing 56 and creating a new hole in the direction of the target drilling area.

[0145] When the drilling step is completed, the cleaning operation can be initiated by extending the cleaning element as described above. When cleaning is complete, the method also includes retrieving the casing cleaner 10 from the surface as the drill string 50 is removed from the casing 56. After use, the cleaning element may be forced back to its retracted position, for example, during tool dressing or inspection / modification, and the setting sleeve can be reset, and a replacement shear pin is applied, thereby returning the recess to its holding position for reuse.

[0146] Figure 9 a and Figure 9 Region B in the diagram illustrates an alternative implementation of the actuation system for the cleaning equipment, wherein, with Figure 6 The same reference numerals are used in the same implementation, but with an additional 100.

[0147] The associated tool includes a setting sleeve 32, which is biased by an annular spring (not shown) acting between the body and the sleeve to force the sleeve toward direction C. As previously described, a shear pin 24 is used to limit the longitudinal movement of the setting sleeve 32 within the axial through-hole 35.

[0148] In this embodiment, the sleeve 32 is provided with a recess 160. A lip 164 extends partially beyond the recess to define a closed region 166. The radially inward surface 165 of the lip 164 is tapered.

[0149] The cleaning element 22 is provided with a protrusion 156. The protrusion 156 has a longitudinally extending portion 156b, which has a tapered radially outward surface 157.

[0150] When the second retaining forming part is Figure 9 The holding position shown in 'a' is related to... Figure 9 When moving between the release positions shown in b, the tapered surfaces 165 and 157 are slidable relative to each other. The cleaning element is pushed outward by the spring 50 to the extended position of the cleaning element. However, in this case, the tip 156c of the protrusion remains below the lip 164 when the cleaning element 22 is fully extended.

[0151] This allows the cleaning element to selectively extend from its protruding position downhole. Figure 9 b) Move to its retracted position ( Figure 9(a) The pressure reduction in the wellbore can be achieved by pumping at the shear stop surface of the shear pin 28 as described above, or by forcing the ball 34 through the ball seat portion 30 to reopen the orifice as described above. The spring-biased setting sleeve 32 then moves rearward in direction C, and the second retaining portion (recess 160) moves rearward toward the retracted position. Advantageously, the spring 50 slides back into the tapered cavity 36 during this process to reduce or remove the outward bias applied by the spring 50, so that the cleaning element is effectively locked in place by the spring bias applied to the sleeve 32.

[0152] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described above, it will be understood that deviations from the described embodiments may still fall within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A downhole cleaning device, comprising: The main body and the cleaning element connected to the main body; The cleaning element is selectively movable relative to the body from a retracted position to an extended position; and the cleaning element has an inner portion including a first retaining portion and an outer portion including a cleaning portion; as well as An actuation system includes a second holding portion that is slidable relative to the body between a holding position and a releasing position; the actuation system also includes a setting sleeve that is slidable within the body, wherein the setting sleeve includes the second holding portion or is operatively coupled to the second holding portion; In the retracted position, the first retaining portion is connected to the second retaining portion, and the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion together serve as a latch to latch the cleaning element in the retracted position; The first retaining portion and the second retaining portion are slidably released from each other by sliding the second retaining portion from the retaining position to the release position, in which the cleaning element is movable to the extended position.

2. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The second retaining portion is capable of sliding along the axis or rotating about the axis between the retaining position and the releasing position.

3. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second retaining portion is biased toward the retaining position.

4. The cleaning equipment according to claim 3, wherein, The second retaining portion is biased toward the retaining position by an elastic biasing arrangement structure acting between the body and the second retaining portion.

5. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, When the second retaining portion is in the retaining position, the second retaining portion of the actuation system and / or another movable component are locked by a shear pin or a plurality of shear pins.

6. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first retaining forming portion and the second retaining forming portion engage with each other in a cooperative manner.

7. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, One of the first retaining portion or the second retaining portion includes a protrusion, and the other of the first retaining portion or the second retaining portion includes a recess or hole sized to receive at least a portion of the protrusion.

8. The cleaning equipment according to claim 7, wherein, The first retaining portion includes a protrusion from the inner surface of the cleaning element, and the second retaining portion includes a recess or hole sized to receive at least a portion of the first retaining portion.

9. The cleaning equipment according to claim 7, wherein: The recess has an entrance and a closed area extending from the entrance, the closed area being closed by a lip that extends partially across the recess; The protrusion has a radially extending portion and a circumferentially extending portion and / or an axially extending portion sized to be received in the enclosed area; Furthermore, the cleaning element is prevented from moving radially outward by the engagement of the radially outward surface of the protrusion with the radially inner surface of the lip.

10. The cleaning equipment according to claim 7, wherein, The protrusion has an L-shaped cross-section when taken along the direction of movement between the holding position and the releasing position.

11. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The outer surface of the setting sleeve includes the second retaining forming portion.

12. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cleaning element can be selectively moved from the extended position to the retracted position by moving the second retaining forming portion from the released position to the retaining position.

13. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The cleaning element includes two or more identical or different types of first retaining forming portions; and The actuation system includes two or more corresponding second holding formations.

14. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cleaning element is biased toward the protruding position by a biasing member acting between the cleaning element and the body.

15. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cleaning element is biased toward the retracted position, and the cleaning element is one or more of the following: It can extend under fluid pressure; It can extend mechanically.

16. The cleaning equipment according to claim 15, wherein, The cleaning element can be mechanically extended by a sliding wedge or ramp acting between the cleaning element and the body.

17. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The actuation system includes: Ball and / or dart; and The seat receives the ball or dart and thereby at least partially blocks the through-hole through the body to facilitate an increase in internal pressure within the body, which causes the second retaining portion to move from the retaining position to the releasing position.

18. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The actuation system includes a setting sleeve that is longitudinally slidable relative to the body and biased at the end of the setting sleeve's range of motion to be adjacent to the body, wherein the actuation system is operable by compressing the body to thereby move the setting sleeve.

19. The cleaning equipment according to claim 18, wherein, The setting sleeve is biased to be adjacent to the body at the end of the setting sleeve's range of motion that corresponds to the second retaining forming portion being in the retaining position.

20. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cleaning forming part includes a cutting element or a brush that can be operated in use by axial reciprocating motion and / or rotational reciprocating motion to remove debris from the surface in contact with the cleaning element.

21. The cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising two, three or more cleaning elements.

22. The cleaning device of claim 21, wherein the body is a tubular body defining a longitudinal axis, and wherein, The cleaning elements are arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis.

23. The cleaning equipment according to claim 21, wherein, The body includes an opening corresponding to each cleaning element, wherein the outer portion of each cleaning element is configured to extend at least partially through the opening and outward from the outer surface of the body when in the extended position of the cleaning element.

24. The cleaning equipment according to claim 21, wherein, The cleaning elements are grouped along one or more generally longitudinal, radial, or spiral paths extending along the body and / or around the body.

25. The cleaning equipment according to claim 24, wherein, The cleaning elements are grouped to define one or more generally continuous spiral paths, which are configured to define an effective cleaning surface of at least 360 degrees.

26. The cleaning device of claim 24, comprising one or more longitudinal grooves or helical grooves, each groove defined between longitudinal ribs or helical ribs, wherein, The longitudinal or helical path defined by the cleaning element extends accordingly along the longitudinal or helical ribs.

27. A method for cleaning the interior of a well shaft, the method comprising: A cleaning device is provided, the cleaning device having a body and a cleaning element coupled to the body; The cleaning element has an inner portion including a first retaining forming portion and an outer portion including a cleaning forming portion; The cleaning equipment is then inserted into the wellbore. The actuation system is operated to slide the second retaining portion from a retaining position where it is coupled to the first retaining portion to a release position where the first and second retaining portions release each other, and in the retaining position, the first and second retaining portions together act as a latch to latch the cleaning element in a retracted position; wherein operating the actuation system includes sliding a setting sleeve within the body, wherein the setting sleeve includes or is operatively coupled to the second retaining portion; and Then the cleaning element is moved from the retracted position to the extended position.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising cleaning the interior of the wellbore using the cleaning element by moving the cleaning equipment relative to the wellbore.

29. The method of claim 28, further comprising allowing fluid to flow through a through-hole in the body during cleaning.

30. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, comprising moving the cleaning element from the extended position to the retracted position.

31. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein, Moving the cleaning element from the retracted position to the extended position and moving the cleaning element from the extended position to the retracted position can include: operating the actuation system.

32. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, further comprising changing the fluid pressure in the body and one or more of the following: The cleaning element is moved from the retracted position to the extended position by increasing the fluid pressure. Block the through-hole through the body and increase the pressure to move the second retaining form and / or destroy the shear pin.

33. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, comprising compressing the cleaning device to move the second retaining portion, or breaking the shear pin to allow such movement.

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