Apparatus for oil well completion using retrievable rotating packer hanger

Abstract

The invention presents a retrievable packer assembly designed for enhanced downhole operations. Featuring a bidirectional internal coupling subassembly, the assembly efficiently transfers torque and downward force, overcoming resistance during descent. Safeguarding joint integrity, bypassing subassemblies are integrated. The lowest section houses a unique retrieving subassembly, allowing controlled packer release for retrieval. The assembly incorporates isolating, anchoring, and locking systems for versatile functionality. A groove shaft in the coupling subassembly facilitates topside drive engagement, ensuring seamless torque transfer. Innovative mechanisms, including a sheer ring and support ring with a slotted component, enable controlled release. This retrievable packer assembly offers a robust solution for diverse well conditions, prioritizing operational efficiency and component integrity.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not applicable.FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

[0003] Not applicable.REFERENCE TO A “SEQUENCE LISTING”, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING APPENDIX SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC AND AN INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF THE MATERIAL ON THE COMPACT DISC

[0004] Not applicable.PRIOR ART

[0005] Not applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The oil and gas market stands as a pivotal entity within the global energy landscape, playing a foundational role in meeting the ever-growing demand for energy resources. Comprising a vast spectrum of operations from exploration and extraction to refining and distribution, this multifaceted industry is integral to powering economies and sustaining modern lifestyles. It serves as the bedrock for the production of not only conventional fuels but also essential petrochemical products that permeate various facets of daily life, from plastics to pharmaceuticals.

[0007] However, amidst its significance, the oil and gas sector grapples with a variety of challenges that shape its trajectory and demand continuous adaptation. One of the foremost challenges is the environmental impact associated with fossil fuel consumption. The industry is under increasing scrutiny due to its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Consequently, there is a growing imperative to transition towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources and practices.

[0008] Technological advancements, while driving efficiency and opening new avenues for exploration, extraction, and production, also pose challenges. The industry must continually adopt and integrate cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics. The transformation towards digitalization and automation requires substantial investments and a skilled workforce capable of navigating this technological frontier.

[0009] In conclusion, the oil and gas market, while indispensable for meeting current energy demands, operates within a dynamic landscape fraught with challenges. The push towards sustainability, coupled with economic, geopolitical, and technological complexities, necessitates a strategic and adaptable approach. The industry's resilience and ability to innovate amid these challenges will determine its role in shaping the future of global energy.

[0010] The present invention is related to the completion operation of an oil and gas well. The completion process in oil and gas operations is a multifaceted undertaking that marks the transition from drilling to the extraction phase. This critical phase involves a series of carefully orchestrated steps to prepare the well for optimal production. One key element in this process is the casing, a robust metal pipe inserted into the drilled hole to reinforce and stabilize the wellbore walls, preventing collapse and facilitating safe drilling. Tubing, another essential component, is installed within the casing to facilitate the flow of hydrocarbons from the reservoir to the surface. It acts as a conduit for the extracted fluids and is a crucial element in the well's completion design. The selection and configuration of tubing are tailored to the specific conditions of the well, ensuring efficient extraction.

[0011] Liner hangers play a pivotal role in well completion by securing liners, additional casing sections, within the existing wellbore. These devices enable zonal isolation, crucial for effective reservoir management. Packers, meanwhile, are deployed to create seals within the wellbore, isolating specific zones and preventing the unwanted migration of fluids. Packers contribute to well integrity and ensure the efficient production of hydrocarbons.

[0012] The completion process, therefore, involves the meticulous integration of these devices and components to optimize the well for production. Each element serves a specific purpose, contributing to the overall efficiency, safety, and longevity of the well. The challenges inherent in well completion, such as achieving zonal isolation, managing sand production, and ensuring well integrity, require a strategic approach and continuous technological innovation. As the industry evolves, the completion process continues to be refined to meet the demands of efficient and sustainable hydrocarbon extraction.

[0013] In order to install a casing or slotted casing, it is required the use of a liner hanger o packer hanger. The process of running a packer hanger into an open hole well in the oil and gas industry is a critical aspect of well completion, designed to establish zonal isolation and facilitate efficient hydrocarbon production. In open hole completions, where the wellbore lacks the protective casing of other completion methods, this operation becomes particularly crucial.

[0014] The initial phase involves comprehensive planning and preparation, with engineers analyzing well data and conditions to select a suitable packer hanger. Factors such as wellbore size, formation characteristics, and completion objectives guide the choice. Once selected, the packer hanger is meticulously assembled and configured to meet the specific requirements of the well.

[0015] Connected to the drill string, the packer hanger becomes an integral part of the Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA). As the entire assembly is carefully lowered into the open hole, precise placement at the intended depth is monitored to ensure accuracy.

[0016] Upon reaching the desired depth, the setting of the packer hanger is initiated. This critical step involves activating the packer elements to create a secure seal against the wellbore walls. The successful setting of the packer hanger is paramount for achieving zonal isolation, preventing unwanted fluid migration between different wellbore sections.

[0017] Verification and testing procedures follow the setting of the packer hanger. Rigorous pressure tests may be conducted to confirm the integrity of the seal established by the packer. This meticulous verification process ensures that the packer hanger is securely in place and capable of withstanding the downhole conditions.

[0018] While the process is designed to enhance well completion, running a packer hanger into an open hole well presents several challenges. The lack of casing in open hole completions exposes the wellbore to instability, making precise placement and effective setting of the packer hanger more challenging. Additionally, uncertainties in downhole conditions, such as unexpected formations or variations in wellbore geometry, can pose challenges to the accurate execution of the operation.

[0019] Despite these challenges, the running of a packer hanger remains a fundamental operation in open hole well completions. The emphasis on precision, zonal isolation, and adaptability to varying downhole conditions underscores the significance of this operation in optimizing well performance and ensuring the integrity of oil and gas extraction in diverse geological settings.

[0020] As the packer hanger becomes an integral part of the Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) and is lowered into the open hole, the challenges begin to unfold. The absence of casing in open hole completions exposes the wellbore to instability, increasing the complexity of achieving precise placement and effective setting of the packer hanger. The risk of encountering unexpected formations or variations in wellbore geometry adds a layer of uncertainty, demanding adaptability in real-time decision-making.

[0021] Upon reaching the desired depth, the setting of the packer hanger is initiated. This critical step involves activating the packer elements to create a secure seal against the wellbore walls, ensuring zonal isolation. However, challenges such as differential sticking—where the packer hanger becomes lodged in the wellbore due to differential pressure—pose a persistent threat. Mitigating these risks requires a nuanced understanding of downhole conditions and the implementation of contingency measures to avoid operational setbacks.

[0022] During oil well completion, sometimes the resistance that occurs during the running of the completion system, may prevent the system to reach the desired depth. In these situations, sometimes applying downward force on the tool helps to overcome the resistance, but there are limitations to amount of force that completion tools can handle without compromising the integrity of the joints. Therefore, sometimes the only solution is the complete recovery of downhole tools for additional well reconditioning trips. This issue extends operation time and increases the cost.

[0023] To overcome this issue some packers, have the ability to rotate to open their way down the well, but those packers are not retrievable, therefore for any maintenance or workover on the well, they must be removed by milling, which is also increases the time and cost.

[0024] To overcome the above-mentioned limitations, there is a need for a retrievable apparatus that can carry out torque and force to overcome the well resistances and allow the tool to reach the desired depth.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Embodiments of the invention provide a retrievable packer assembly that is capable of rotating and transferring downward force to overcome resistance while traveling downhole, the packer assembly comprising of an internal coupling subassembly that is capable of rotating in either direction and transferring torque and downward force to the bottom section of the packer bypassing subassemblies in between to protect the integrity of their joints. The apparatus further comprises a retrieving subassembly at the lowest section that can be activated to release the packer to retrieve it.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the packing assembly comprise an isolating system, anchoring system, and locking systems.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the invention, the coupling subassembly comprises a groove shaft to engage with topside drive to transfer the torque.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the invention, the retrieving subassembly comprises a sheer ring that breaks and releases the packer assembly when packer assembly is pulled.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the invention, the retrieving subassembly comprises a support ring that supports a slotted component and will release it when shifted upward by using a retrieving tool.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, the retrieving subassembly comprises a releasing sleeve which will release the anchoring assembly when turned using a retrieving tool.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0031] FIG. 1 show a general view of the packer-hanger. Is illustrated the activation system, the isolation system, the anchoring system, and the releasing system.

[0032] FIG. 2 shows the activation system on its run position. It can be seen the shear screw 103 holding the activation sleeve 102 and the coupling slots 104 / 101 that are used to connect a running tool.

[0033] FIG. 3 shows the isolation system in detail, where 301 are sealing elements made of rubber (FKM, NBR or HNBR for example) and the backup rings 302 that are intended to give support to the rubber seals when the device is on activated position, enhancing the pressure performance. This backup rings are usually made of soft metals (low carbon steel or brass alloy).

[0034] FIG. 4 shows the anchoring system where it can be appreciated the devices used to hold the assembly in a lock position into the oil well by expanding and colliding with the inside diameter of the casing. This device has an external sharp geometry that mut be hardened to have a higher surface hardness that the casing steel.

[0035] FIG. 5 shows the locking system that is designed to hold the mechanisms of the tool in an activated position. This is made by using a specific kind of thread that have one-directional displacement degree of freedom, in that way that these components only can move in one direction but stay lock in the opposite direction.

[0036] FIG. 6 show a type of releasing mechanism that employs a shear ring 611. This shear ring is designed and calibrated to break (shear) at certain amount of axial force, releasing the lock mechanism and allowing the tool to be retrieved.

[0037] FIG. 7 show a type of releasing mechanism that employs a collet-type system. The collet support 621 is intended to be moved upwards (to the left) with a retrieving tool, so the collet 622 loses support and can be collapsed allowing the tool to be retrieved.

[0038] FIG. 8 shows the rotate to release mechanism, this type of releasing system is intended to be activated by the rotation of the tool, allowing the part 631 to move in that way the locking mechanisms can be deactivated, and the tool can be retrieved.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] Some embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout. Also, reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appurtenance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, the terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

[0040] The embodiments are described herein for illustrative purposes and are subject to many variations. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient but are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting. Any heading utilized within this description is for convenience only and has no legal or limiting affect.

[0041] The Packer described in this document is a tool used in oil well completion operations. In these operations, in most cases due to the nature of this of the wells, resistance occurs during the running of the complete system prior to reach the desired depth. The developed equipment allows to carry out torque and weight transmission operations to overcome the resistances that may manifest during the lower completion run and has the capability to be retrieved.

[0042] FIG. 1, shows a cross section of a packing assembly in accordance to an exemplary embodiment. The activation assembly 100 receives and transfers rotation and downward force to overcome well resistance, locking assemblies 200 and 400 lock during packer activation, isolation assembly 300 isolates the space between the outside of the packer and the inside of the casing, anchoring assembly 500 expands to reach the well inner wall to anchor the packing assembly in its position, and retrieving assembly 600 releases the packer assembly when activate to enable retrieve.

[0043] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of activation assembly. This system is in the top section of the assembly 100. It is composed of shafts 101 and coupling 104 that is compatible with the auxiliary settling tools, and an activation sleeve 102 that activates when a certain amount of force is applied to it. Shaft assembly 101 / 104 receives rotation from auxiliary tool which can be applied clockwise or counterclockwise as required; additionally, the shaft is capable to transmit downward force to the tool simultaneously with the application of torque.

[0044] In one embodiment of the invention, activation sleeve 102 has a series of tapped holes that are evenly distributed radially. Shear screws 103 are installed in these holes to hold the tool in its running position until a force greater than the resistance of all shear screws is applied to activate the packer. Actuation force can be adjusted by changing the number of shear screws.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, activation sleeve 102 is connected to a series of components that transmit the seating force, generated by the auxiliary tools, to give way to the anchor of the packer and the pressure isolation generated by the seals (may be called packing elements 404).

[0046] FIG. 3 shows a system that generates a barrier to divide the space between the outside of the packer and the inside of the casing into two, this system may be called isolation system.

[0047] FIG. 4 shows an example of anchoring assembly 500 can expand radially under pressure, to reach the wells inside wall to anchor the packer.

[0048] FIG. 5 shows an example of locking system. The packer assembly may have double locking system 200 / 400, one for packing elements and one for anchoring assembly. This means that when the force of the auxiliary tools is withdrawn, the isolation and anchoring system remain engaged since the locking system does not allow displacement of the components in the opposite direction.

[0049] FIG. 6 shows an example of retrieving assembly 600 used to release and retrieve packer assembly were 610 is designed so that, by applying tension to the body of the packer using an auxiliary tool, a shear apparatus 611 is broken, which releases the locking systems, leading to the deactivation of the anchoring assembly.

[0050] Another example of retrieving assembly 600 is shown in FIG. 7 in this example assembly 620 works by using auxiliary tool to move a component that is located at the bottom of the assembly that may be called ring support 621, ring support supports a slotted part that may be called releasing collet 622, when ring support 621 moves upward from its position, releasing collet collapses disabling anchoring and isolation systems. This assembly may be called shift-to-release retrieving assembly.

[0051] Another example of retrieving assembly 600 is shown in FIG. 8, in this example assembly 630 is retrieved by using retrieving tool to rotate releasing sleeve 631 which releases the anchoring assembly support so packer can be retrieved.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0039]Some embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout. Also, reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appurtenance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not applicable.FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

[0003] Not applicable.REFERENCE TO A “SEQUENCE LISTING”, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING APPENDIX SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC AND AN INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF THE MATERIAL ON THE COMPACT DISC

[0004] Not applicable.PRIOR ART

[0005] Not applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The oil and gas market stands as a pivotal entity within the global energy landscape, playing a foundational role in meeting the ever-growing demand for energy resources. Comprising a vast spectrum of operations from exploration and extraction to refining and distribution, this multifaceted industry is integral to powering economies and sustaining modern lifestyles. It serves as the bedrock for the production of not only conventional fuels but also essential petrochemical products that permeate various facets of daily life, from plastics to pharmaceuticals.

[0007] However, amidst its significance, the oil and gas sector grapples with a variety of challenges that shape its trajectory and demand continuous adaptation. One of the foremost challenges is the environmental impact associated with fossil fuel consumption. The industry is under increasing scrutiny due to its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Consequently, there is a growing imperative to transition towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources and practices.

[0008] Technological advancements, while driving efficiency and opening new avenues for exploration, extraction, and production, also pose challenges. The industry must continually adopt and integrate cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics. The transformation towards digitalization and automation requires substantial investments and a skilled workforce capable of navigating this technological frontier.

[0009] In conclusion, the oil and gas market, while indispensable for meeting current energy demands, operates within a dynamic landscape fraught with challenges. The push towards sustainability, coupled with economic, geopolitical, and technological complexities, necessitates a strategic and adaptable approach. The industry's resilience and ability to innovate amid these challenges will determine its role in shaping the future of global energy.

[0010] The present invention is related to the completion operation of an oil and gas well. The completion process in oil and gas operations is a multifaceted undertaking that marks the transition from drilling to the extraction phase. This critical phase involves a series of carefully orchestrated steps to prepare the well for optimal production. One key element in this process is the casing, a robust metal pipe inserted into the drilled hole to reinforce and stabilize the wellbore walls, preventing collapse and facilitating safe drilling. Tubing, another essential component, is installed within the casing to facilitate the flow of hydrocarbons from the reservoir to the surface. It acts as a conduit for the extracted fluids and is a crucial element in the well's completion design. The selection and configuration of tubing are tailored to the specific conditions of the well, ensuring efficient extraction.

[0011] Liner hangers play a pivotal role in well completion by securing liners, additional casing sections, within the existing wellbore. These devices enable zonal isolation, crucial for effective reservoir management. Packers, meanwhile, are deployed to create seals within the wellbore, isolating specific zones and preventing the unwanted migration of fluids. Packers contribute to well integrity and ensure the efficient production of hydrocarbons.

[0012] The completion process, therefore, involves the meticulous integration of these devices and components to optimize the well for production. Each element serves a specific purpose, contributing to the overall efficiency, safety, and longevity of the well. The challenges inherent in well completion, such as achieving zonal isolation, managing sand production, and ensuring well integrity, require a strategic approach and continuous technological innovation. As the industry evolves, the completion process continues to be refined to meet the demands of efficient and sustainable hydrocarbon extraction.

[0013] In order to install a casing or slotted casing, it is required the use of a liner hanger o packer hanger. The process of running a packer hanger into an open hole well in the oil and gas industry is a critical aspect of well completion, designed to establish zonal isolation and facilitate efficient hydrocarbon production. In open hole completions, where the wellbore lacks the protective casing of other completion methods, this operation becomes particularly crucial.

[0014] The initial phase involves comprehensive planning and preparation, with engineers analyzing well data and conditions to select a suitable packer hanger. Factors such as wellbore size, formation characteristics, and completion objectives guide the choice. Once selected, the packer hanger is meticulously assembled and configured to meet the specific requirements of the well.

[0015] Connected to the drill string, the packer hanger becomes an integral part of the Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA). As the entire assembly is carefully lowered into the open hole, precise placement at the intended depth is monitored to ensure accuracy.

[0016] Upon reaching the desired depth, the setting of the packer hanger is initiated. This critical step involves activating the packer elements to create a secure seal against the wellbore walls. The successful setting of the packer hanger is paramount for achieving zonal isolation, preventing unwanted fluid migration between different wellbore sections.

[0017] Verification and testing procedures follow the setting of the packer hanger. Rigorous pressure tests may be conducted to confirm the integrity of the seal established by the packer. This meticulous verification process ensures that the packer hanger is securely in place and capable of withstanding the downhole conditions.

[0018] While the process is designed to enhance well completion, running a packer hanger into an open hole well presents several challenges. The lack of casing in open hole completions exposes the wellbore to instability, making precise placement and effective setting of the packer hanger more challenging. Additionally, uncertainties in downhole conditions, such as unexpected formations or variations in wellbore geometry, can pose challenges to the accurate execution of the operation.

[0019] Despite these challenges, the running of a packer hanger remains a fundamental operation in open hole well completions. The emphasis on precision, zonal isolation, and adaptability to varying downhole conditions underscores the significance of this operation in optimizing well performance and ensuring the integrity of oil and gas extraction in diverse geological settings.

[0020] As the packer hanger becomes an integral part of the Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) and is lowered into the open hole, the challenges begin to unfold. The absence of casing in open hole completions exposes the wellbore to instability, increasing the complexity of achieving precise placement and effective setting of the packer hanger. The risk of encountering unexpected formations or variations in wellbore geometry adds a layer of uncertainty, demanding adaptability in real-time decision-making.

[0021] Upon reaching the desired depth, the setting of the packer hanger is initiated. This critical step involves activating the packer elements to create a secure seal against the wellbore walls, ensuring zonal isolation. However, challenges such as differential sticking—where the packer hanger becomes lodged in the wellbore due to differential pressure—pose a persistent threat. Mitigating these risks requires a nuanced understanding of downhole conditions and the implementation of contingency measures to avoid operational setbacks.

[0022] During oil well completion, sometimes the resistance that occurs during the running of the completion system, may prevent the system to reach the desired depth. In these situations, sometimes applying downward force on the tool helps to overcome the resistance, but there are limitations to amount of force that completion tools can handle without compromising the integrity of the joints. Therefore, sometimes the only solution is the complete recovery of downhole tools for additional well reconditioning trips. This issue extends operation time and increases the cost.

[0023] To overcome this issue some packers, have the ability to rotate to open their way down the well, but those packers are not retrievable, therefore for any maintenance or workover on the well, they must be removed by milling, which is also increases the time and cost.

[0024] To overcome the above-mentioned limitations, there is a need for a retrievable apparatus that can carry out torque and force to overcome the well resistances and allow the tool to reach the desired depth.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Embodiments of the invention provide a retrievable packer assembly that is capable of rotating and transferring downward force to overcome resistance while traveling downhole, the packer assembly comprising of an internal coupling subassembly that is capable of rotating in either direction and transferring torque and downward force to the bottom section of the packer bypassing subassemblies in between to protect the integrity of their joints. The apparatus further comprises a retrieving subassembly at the lowest section that can be activated to release the packer to retrieve it.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the packing assembly comprise an isolating system, anchoring system, and locking systems.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the invention, the coupling subassembly comprises a groove shaft to engage with topside drive to transfer the torque.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the invention, the retrieving subassembly comprises a sheer ring that breaks and releases the packer assembly when packer assembly is pulled.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the invention, the retrieving subassembly comprises a support ring that supports a slotted component and will release it when shifted upward by using a retrieving tool.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, the retrieving subassembly comprises a releasing sleeve which will release the anchoring assembly when turned using a retrieving tool.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0031] FIG. 1 show a general view of the packer-hanger. Is illustrated the activation system, the isolation system, the anchoring system, and the releasing system.

[0032] FIG. 2 shows the activation system on its run position. It can be seen the shear screw 103 holding the activation sleeve 102 and the coupling slots 104 / 101 that are used to connect a running tool.

[0033] FIG. 3 shows the isolation system in detail, where 301 are sealing elements made of rubber (FKM, NBR or HNBR for example) and the backup rings 302 that are intended to give support to the rubber seals when the device is on activated position, enhancing the pressure performance. This backup rings are usually made of soft metals (low carbon steel or brass alloy).

[0034] FIG. 4 shows the anchoring system where it can be appreciated the devices used to hold the assembly in a lock position into the oil well by expanding and colliding with the inside diameter of the casing. This device has an external sharp geometry that mut be hardened to have a higher surface hardness that the casing steel.

[0035] FIG. 5 shows the locking system that is designed to hold the mechanisms of the tool in an activated position. This is made by using a specific kind of thread that have one-directional displacement degree of freedom, in that way that these components only can move in one direction but stay lock in the opposite direction.

[0036] FIG. 6 show a type of releasing mechanism that employs a shear ring 611. This shear ring is designed and calibrated to break (shear) at certain amount of axial force, releasing the lock mechanism and allowing the tool to be retrieved.

[0037] FIG. 7 show a type of releasing mechanism that employs a collet-type system. The collet support 621 is intended to be moved upwards (to the left) with a retrieving tool, so the collet 622 loses support and can be collapsed allowing the tool to be retrieved.

[0038] FIG. 8 shows the rotate to release mechanism, this type of releasing system is intended to be activated by the rotation of the tool, allowing the part 631 to move in that way the locking mechanisms can be deactivated, and the tool can be retrieved.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] Some embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout. Also, reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appurtenance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, the terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

[0040] The embodiments are described herein for illustrative purposes and are subject to many variations. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient but are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting. Any heading utilized within this description is for convenience only and has no legal or limiting affect.

[0041] The Packer described in this document is a tool used in oil well completion operations. In these operations, in most cases due to the nature of this of the wells, resistance occurs during the running of the complete system prior to reach the desired depth. The developed equipment allows to carry out torque and weight transmission operations to overcome the resistances that may manifest during the lower completion run and has the capability to be retrieved.

[0042] FIG. 1, shows a cross section of a packing assembly in accordance to an exemplary embodiment. The activation assembly 100 receives and transfers rotation and downward force to overcome well resistance, locking assemblies 200 and 400 lock during packer activation, isolation assembly 300 isolates the space between the outside of the packer and the inside of the casing, anchoring assembly 500 expands to reach the well inner wall to anchor the packing assembly in its position, and retrieving assembly 600 releases the packer assembly when activate to enable retrieve.

[0043] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of activation assembly. This system is in the top section of the assembly 100. It is composed of shafts 101 and coupling 104 that is compatible with the auxiliary settling tools, and an activation sleeve 102 that activates when a certain amount of force is applied to it. Shaft assembly 101 / 104 receives rotation from auxiliary tool which can be applied clockwise or counterclockwise as required; additionally, the shaft is capable to transmit downward force to the tool simultaneously with the application of torque.

[0044] In one embodiment of the invention, activation sleeve 102 has a series of tapped holes that are evenly distributed radially. Shear screws 103 are installed in these holes to hold the tool in its running position until a force greater than the resistance of all shear screws is applied to activate the packer. Actuation force can be adjusted by changing the number of shear screws.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, activation sleeve 102 is connected to a series of components that transmit the seating force, generated by the auxiliary tools, to give way to the anchor of the packer and the pressure isolation generated by the seals (may be called packing elements 404).

[0046] FIG. 3 shows a system that generates a barrier to divide the space between the outside of the packer and the inside of the casing into two, this system may be called isolation system.

[0047] FIG. 4 shows an example of anchoring assembly 500 can expand radially under pressure, to reach the wells inside wall to anchor the packer.

[0048] FIG. 5 shows an example of locking system. The packer assembly may have double locking system 200 / 400, one for packing elements and one for anchoring assembly. This means that when the force of the auxiliary tools is withdrawn, the isolation and anchoring system remain engaged since the locking system does not allow displacement of the components in the opposite direction.

[0049] FIG. 6 shows an example of retrieving assembly 600 used to release and retrieve packer assembly were 610 is designed so that, by applying tension to the body of the packer using an auxiliary tool, a shear apparatus 611 is broken, which releases the locking systems, leading to the deactivation of the anchoring assembly.

[0050] Another example of retrieving assembly 600 is shown in FIG. 7 in this example assembly 620 works by using auxiliary tool to move a component that is located at the bottom of the assembly that may be called ring support 621, ring support supports a slotted part that may be called releasing collet 622, when ring support 621 moves upward from its position, releasing collet collapses disabling anchoring and isolation systems. This assembly may be called shift-to-release retrieving assembly.

[0051] Another example of retrieving assembly 600 is shown in FIG. 8, in this example assembly 630 is retrieved by using retrieving tool to rotate releasing sleeve 631 which releases the anchoring assembly support so packer can be retrieved.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0039]Some embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout. Also, reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appurtenance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other...

Claims

1. A rotary packer capable of pumping high flow fluid through it.

2. The rotary packer of claim 1, with the use of a “Shift to release” recovery system on a rotary hanger packer.

3. The rotary packer of claim 1, with the use of a “Shear to release” retrieval system on a rotary hanger packer.

4. The rotary packer of claim 1, with the use of a “Rotate to release” recovery system on a rotary hanger packer.

5. A rotary packer that allows for well washes, stimulations, and fractures during its run in the well.

6. A rotary packer of claim 5, with compatibility to accommodate V-Stack seals (with PBR).

7. A packer that can be rotated and loaded with the ability to be retrieved.

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