| CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120121403 | REMOVABLE THROAT MOUNTED INLET GUIDE VANE - In certain embodiments, a system includes an inlet guide vane assembly. The inlet guide vane assembly includes a plurality of inlet guide vanes disposed in a radial pattern around a central axis and configured to rotate about axes orthogonal to the central axis. The inlet guide vane assembly also includes a plurality of vane shafts, each connected to a respective inlet guide vane and configured to rotate with the respective inlet guide vane about the respective orthogonal axis. The inlet guide vane assembly further includes a drive shaft directly connected to one of the vane shafts and configured to directly cause rotation of the vane shaft to which it is directly connected and to indirectly cause rotation of the remaining vane shafts in the plurality of vane shafts. In addition, the inlet guide vane assembly includes a rotary actuator connected to the drive shaft and configured to cause rotation of the drive shaft. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120121402 | CENTRIFUGAL COMPRESSOR DIFFUSER - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a centrifugal compressor diffuser vane including a leading edge, a trailing edge, and a constant thickness section extending between the leading edge and the trailing edge. A radius of curvature of the leading edge and a radius of curvature of the trailing edge vary along a span of the vane. A ratio of a length of the constant thickness section to a chord length of the vane is at least approximately 50%, and the ratio is substantially constant along the span of the vane. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120119125 | Drive Device - A driving device for adjusting an activating element of a throttle, of a valve, of a connecting device, of a metering device or the like in particular in the field of oil and gas exploration with at least one rotary gear movably connected to the activating element and a gear arranged between the rotary gear and at least one motor. To improve such a drive device in that the structure is simple and compact and efficiency is increased wherein simultaneously high axial forces are avoided and only a small number of assembly parts are necessary, the gear unit comprises a reduction gear assigned to the rotary gear in particular the so called harmonic drive gear, and a spare gear assigned to the motor which is in particular self locking. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118263 | POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT RADICAL INJECTION SYSTEM - A system, comprising, a combustion chamber, and a free-radical ignition system configured to inject free radicals into the combustion chamber at an ignition timing to trigger combustion of a fuel-air mixture. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118262 | SPARK IGNITED RADICAL INJECTION SYSTEM - A system, including, a free-radical ignition system, that includes a pre-combustion chamber configured to combust a first fuel-air mixture to generate a flame, a shockwave, and free radicals, an injection passage configured to inject the free radicals driven by the shock wave from the pre-combustion chamber toward a combustion chamber, and a quench system configured to extinguish the flame in the pre-combustion chamber or the injection passage. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120111573 | GASKET TEST PROTECTOR SLEEVE FOR SUBSEA MINERAL EXTRACTION EQUIPMENT - A gasket test protector sleeve is provided for subsea mineral extraction equipment. The gasket test protector sleeve includes a gasket test isolation portion. The gasket test isolation portion is configured to isolate a gasket between a first tubular and a second tubular of a subsea mineral extraction system. The bore protection portion is configured to protect a first bore of the first tubular during downhole procedures. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120097038 | Method of Fabricating a Separator Helix - A separator with a helix assembly and methods for fabricating the helix assembly. In some embodiments, the helix assembly includes a plurality of segments disposed end to end and forming an intermediate casing. Each of the segments has a tubular portion with a first circumferential edge and a second circumferential edge and a helical portion extending from the second circumferential edge. The tubular portions of the segments form an intermediate casing, while the helical portions of the segments form a spiral helix. The helix assembly further includes an inner casing concentrically disposed within the intermediate casing and coupled to the spiral helix. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120096949 | BETA RATIO CHANGER FOR FLOW MEASUREMENT DEVICES - A beta ratio changer is provided for a flow measurement device having a fluid displacement member. The beta ratio changer includes a flange and a sleeve extending axially from the flange. The sleeve may be inserted into a fluid conduit of the fluid measurement device, reducing the inner diameter of the fluid conduit around the fluid displacement member. A new beta ratio may be determined from the diameter of the edge of the fluid displacement member and the inner diameter of the sleeve. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120073544 | SEAL ASSEMBLY FOR A PRESSURIZED FUEL FEED SYSTEM FOR AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE - A sealing assembly for a pressurized fuel feed system for an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The seal assembly comprises providing a fuel conduit having a fluid flow passage therethrough for conveyance of a pressurized fuel-containing gas in a general fluid-flow direction with a first sealing surface disposed on the fuel conduit. A second sealing surface engages with the first sealing surface, such as to provide a fluid-tight connection preventing pressurized gas from leaving the fluid flow passage. The said first and second sealing surfaces are substantially perpendicular to the general fluid-flow direction. An o-ring is disposed between the first sealing surface and second sealing surface, the o-ring being compressed by the first and second sealing surfaces to form said fluid-tight connection. Preferably the o-ring is subjected to a squeeze of at least 40%, more preferably 50%, when the first and second sealing surfaces are coupled together. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120067133 | Pressure Sensor Configuration for Pressurized Tank - In at least some embodiments, a pressure sensor configuration includes a pressure sensor and a switchable valve coupled to the pressure sensor. The switchable valve enables the pressure sensor to measure pressure at multiple ports of a pressurized tank. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120056413 | MULTI-COMPONENT TUBULAR COUPLING FOR WELLHEAD SYSTEMS - A multi-component tubular coupling is provided for wellhead assemblies. In one embodiment, the multi-component tubular coupling may include a first tubular member, a landing ring, and a second tubular member. The second tubular member may include internal threads, lock screws, or any combination thereof to couple to a wellhead component. In another embodiment, the multi-component tubular coupling may only include the first tubular member and the landing ring. In such an embodiment, a wellhead component may be secured to the coupling via lock screws. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120038112 | FLOW DISTRIBUTED BUFFERED/EDUCTED GAS SEAL - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a seal assembly having a seal body. The seal body includes an inlet buffer port and an outlet eduction port. The inlet buffer port is configured to receive a compressed buffer gas, such as shop air, which is injected into the inlet buffer port. The compressed buffer gas blocks the flow of a compressed process gas, such as land fill gas, by opposing the flow of the compressed process gas through the seal assembly. Both the compressed buffer gas and the compressed process gas may be expelled through the outlet eduction port. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037377 | ALUMINUM AUXILIARY LINES FOR DRILLING RISER - A drilling riser joint is provided that may include one or more auxiliary lines ( | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037356 | UNIVERSAL FRAC SLEEVE - A wellhead assembly is provided. In one embodiment, the wellhead assembly includes a universal frac sleeve assembly for isolating portions of a wellhead assembly from pressurized fracing fluid. The universal frac sleeve assembly may include an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve, and a seal. Axial movement of the inner sleeve relative to the outer sleeve causes the seal to expand radially, thereby forming a seal within the wellhead assembly. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120032042 | SAFETY-HARNESS ATTACHMENT - A safety-harness attachment for attaching a safety harness thereto. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120024542 | HANGER FLOATING RING AND SEAL ASSEMBLY SYSTEM AND METHOD - Systems and methods are provided for isolating a landing ring of a hanger from pressure inside a wellhead and sealing a portion of the hanger via a seal assembly. The hanger includes a floating ring axially interposed between the landing ring and the seal assembly, and between the landing ring and a shoulder of the hanger. The seal assembly includes one or more radially retractable elastomeric seals that are radially retracted during run in of the seal assembly. The radially retractable seals may be radially expanded via shearing of one or more shear pins by torque applied to the seal assembly. The seal assembly may also include one or more metal seals having a plurality of rings having a nib configuration that includes three smaller nibs for sealing and a larger flat nib for withstanding the energizing load on the seal assembly. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024540 | Tubing Hanger Assembly with Single Trip Internal Lock Down Mechanism - A tubing hanger assembly for suspending a tubing string into a wellbore comprises a hanger body having a radially outer surface including external threads having a first thread handedness. In addition, the assembly comprises a load ring coaxially disposed about the hanger body. The load ring has a radially inner surface including a first set of internal threads that matingly engage with the external threads of the hanger body and a second set of internal threads having a second thread handedness that is opposite the first thread handedness. The load ring also has a radially outer surface including a frustoconical cam surface. Further, the assembly comprises an expandable ring disposed about the hanger body adjacent the lower end of the load ring. The expandable ring has a radially inner surface including a frustoconical surface that slidingly engages the cam surface. Still further, the assembly comprises a load sleeve coaxially disposed about the hanger body and having an upper end that engages the expandable ring. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023991 | ONBOARD VEHICLE COMPRESSION STORAGE SYSTEM - A system, including a motion-driven air compressor, configured to compress air in response to motion of a vehicle, and an air storage enclosure configured to store a compressed air from the motion-driven air compressor, wherein the system is configured to deliver the compressed air to a vehicle subsystem to decrease a cost of operating the vehicle. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120018171 | Outer Casing String and Method of Installing Same - An outer casing string, including a surface casing head, and associated installation method. In some embodiments, the surface casing head includes an outer tubular member insertable through a diverter of an installed conductor system, an inner tubular member at least partially disposed within and moveable relative to the outer tubular member, and a sleeve ring rotatably coupled to the inner tubular. The outer tubular member has an annular recess. The sleeve ring includes a snap ring that is displaceable between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, at least a portion of the snap ring is received within the annular recess, and the outer tubular member is axially immovable relative to the inner tubular member. In the retracted position, no portion of the snap ring is received within the annular recess, and the outer tubular member is axially moveable relative to the inner tubular member. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120014801 | DIFFUSER HAVING DETACHABLE VANES WITH POSITIVE LOCK - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a centrifugal compressor diffuser that includes an elliptical plate including multiple vane receptacles disposed about an axis of the plate and multiple detachable vanes attached to the plate. Each vane receptacle includes a first two dimensional (2D) projection along a plane of the elliptical plate and each detachable vane includes a second two dimensional (2D) projection along a base portion of the vane, where each detachable vane is disposed in a respective vane receptacle with the first and second 2D projections blocking movement of the detachable vane in at least a first axial direction relative to the elliptical plate. In certain embodiments, the first and second 2D projections may include a first tab to fit in a recess between a pair of second tabs, respectively, or vice versa. However, in other embodiments, the first and second 2D projections may include alternative mating surfaces. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120014788 | DIFFUSER USING DETACHABLE VANES - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a plurality of detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes attached to a diffuser plate of a centrifugal compressor. In certain embodiments, the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may be attached to the diffuser plate using threaded fasteners. In addition, dowel pins may be used to align the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes with respect to the diffuser plate. However, in other embodiments, the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may include a tab configured to fit securely within a groove in the diffuser plate. In addition, the tabs of the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may include indentions that mate with extensions extending from the diffuser plate, wherein the tabs may slide into slots between the extensions and the grooves of the diffuser plate. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012302 | Compact Surface Wellhead System and Method - A low-profile wellhead system having a nested hanger configuration, annular communication, elastomeric seals, and seal verification is provided. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120011871 | COMPRESSOR WASTE HEAT DRIVEN COOLING SYSTEM - Provided in some embodiments is a system that includes a gas compressor including an engine, a compressor driven by the engine, and a vapor absorption cycle (VAC) system driven by waste heat from the compressor, wherein the VAC system is configured to cool at least one medium. In other embodiments is provided a method that includes generating waste heat while compressing a gas, driving a vapor absorption cycle (VAC) system with the waste heat, and cooling at least one medium via the VAC system. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120007314 | FULL BORE COMPRESSION SEALING METHOD - An annular seal, in certain embodiments, includes a top seal section, a bottom seal section, and a core seal section including non-orthogonal top and bottom faces relative to a radial axis of the core seal section disposed between the top seal section and the bottom seal section. The core seal section is configured to expand radially when an axial load is applied to the top and bottom faces of the core seal section such that the top and bottom faces are deformed into an orthogonal alignment relative to the radial axis of the core seal section. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006556 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROVIDING HIGH PRESSURE FLUID INJECTION WITH METERING USING LOW PRESSURE SUPPLY LINES - An apparatus that includes a chemical-injection management system of a sub-sea oil and gas extraction system. The chemical-injection management system may include a flow path having an inlet and an outlet. The chemical-injection management system may also include a pump disposed in the flow path between the inlet and the outlet; wherein the pump is configured to increase the pressure of a fluid flow through the flow path. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120001482 | DC POWERED SUBSEA INVERTER - There is provided a system and method for driving AC powered subsea loads. Disclosed embodiments include a system having a rectifier and DC filter configured to be located at a surface vessel and configured to convert AC power supplied by a surface AC power source into DC power. The DC power is transmitted from the surface vessel to an inverter configured to be located remotely from the surface vessel at a subsea location. The subsea inverter converts the transmitted DC power back into AC power, which may then be utilized for driving one or more AC powered subsea loads. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110308815 | MULTI-PRESSURE FLANGE CONNECTION - A multi-pressure flange is disclosed that includes a first set of fasteners comprising four fasteners in a first rectangular pattern for attachment in a first pressure rating and a second set of fasteners comprising four fasteners in a second rectangular pattern in which the first rectangular pattern is perpendicular to the second rectangular pattern. The second set of fasteners is selectively combinable with the first set of fasteners for attachment in a higher second pressure rating. The flange may include a recess to receive sealing component and a receptacle configured to receive a pipe fitting. Systems and methods including the multi-pressure flange are also disclosed. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308619 | ELECTRONICALLY ACTUATED GATE VALVE - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a gate valve including a gate disposed within a valve body. The gate valve also includes a motorized ball screw actuator having an actuating rod assembly directly coupled to the gate. The motorized ball screw actuator is configured to linearly actuate the actuating rod assembly to drive the gate between an open position and a closed position. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110303490 | INTEGRATED LUBRICATION MODULE FOR COMPRESSORS - In accordance with certain embodiments, the present invention provides a modular approach to a lubrication package. Certain components such as the filter and cooler are directly connected to a block that has connections to accept them and internal porting to establish the proper flow paths for circulation, cooling and filtration of the circulating lubricant. The block can accept one or more coolers and one or more filters. The isolation valving for redundant equipment can also be integrated into the block. Many connections that had been used in past designs for the piping network are integrated into the block. The block can also be close mounted to the reservoir while a submersible pump further saves space and piping connections. Indeed, having the ability to maintain mechanical equipment (e.g., remove and replace filters and coolers) without shutting down, allows for continuous process flow, which eliminates down-town scheduling, loss of product and/or redundant backup, all of which comes at a considerable cost. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110297392 | SUB-SEA CHEMICAL INJECTION METERING VALVE - An apparatus that includes a chemical injection management system. The chemical injection management system may include an interface configured to couple the chemical injection management system to a mineral extraction system. In addition, the chemical injection management system may include an ultrasonic flow meter. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297387 | Integrated Installation Workover Control System - A subsea production system for controlling fluid flow from a well. The system includes a subsea production tree and a drilling riser engageable with the well. The tree includes electrical and hydraulic lines to communicate with equipment in the tree and downhole in the well. The system also includes a tieback tool that can be installed in the tree through the drilling riser to establish communication with the tree electrical and hydraulic lines and permit access into the well bore. The system also includes an umbilical connectable with the tieback tool and extendable inside the drilling riser to the surface. The umbilical can be used to communicate the tieback tool. The umbilical can also be used to communicate with the tree and downhole equipment through the tieback tool connection with the tree. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110290500 | Apparatus and Method for Recovering Fluids From a Well and/or Injecting Fluids Into a Well - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110284206 | MULTI-COMPONENT C-RING COUPLING - A multi-component C-ring coupling is provided that includes a connector, an internal C-ring, and a lower ring. In one embodiment, the multi-component C-ring coupling may include a diverter connector to weldlessly couple a diverter to a pipe, such as a conductor. In other embodiment, the coupling may include a casing housinghead connector to couple to a casing housinghead. The lower ring may be engaged with the connector via axial fasteners. The lower ring and connector may include angled internal surfaces to exert radial forces on the C-ring and cause engagement of the teeth of the C-ring with the outer wall of a pipe. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110278005 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TEMPORARILY LOCKING A TUBULAR - There is provided a system and method for temporarily locking a wellhead component while cementing it in place within a mineral extraction system. As cement is pumped into the wellhead, its temperature may be increased, leading to thermal expansion of the cement and movement of wellhead components. Disclosed embodiments include a hold-down ring configured to cooperate with tie-down screws to temporarily lock a running tool in place within the wellhead during cementing. In another embodiment, the tie-down screws may cooperate directly with the running tool. The locked running tool then blocks other wellhead components, such as a hanger run into the wellhead by the running tool, from upward axial movement due to thermal expansion of the cement during the cementing process. After the hanger is cemented in place, the running tool may be unlocked and retrieved from the wellhead. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277985 | DRIVE SLEEVE AND SEALING MECHANISM FOR NON-RISING STEM GATE VALVE - A non-rising stem gate valve is provided that includes a drive sleeve disposed between the gate and the stem. The drive sleeve is coupled to the stem and isolates the moveable connection between the sleeve and the stem from fluid in the valve. The drive sleeve is also coupled to the gate such that movement of the drive sleeve along the stem moves the gate between the open and closed positions of the valve. Systems and methods incorporating the non-rising stem gate valve are also disclosed. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110272607 | Tunable Floating Seal Insert - A system comprising, a mineral extraction component, a conduit fitting coupled to the mineral extraction component, a floating seal insert disposed in the conduit fitting. The floating seal insert comprises a feature configured to tune a fluid dynamic characteristic along a liquid flow path through the conduit fitting and the floating seal insert. Furthermore, the fluid dynamic characteristic can be shockwaves, flow rate, turbulence, etc. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110266752 | SEAL HAVING STRESS CONTROL GROOVE - A seal, in certain embodiments, includes a seal body having a groove on a face of the seal body. The face is configured to contact a surface of a separate component to form a seal. The groove interrupts continuity of the face between a first face portion and a second face portion. In addition, the groove enables material deformation laterally between the first face portion and the second face portion. Furthermore, the groove increases contact stress at corners between opposite walls of the groove and the respective first and second face portions. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110253389 | SINGLE TRIP POSITIVE LOCK ADJUSTABLE HANGER LANDING SHOULDER DEVICE - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a landing assembly. The landing assembly includes a top ring. The landing assembly also includes a bottom ring disposed axially below the top ring. A radially interior surface of the top ring is configured to engage a radially exterior surface of the bottom ring via first threading. The landing assembly also includes a lock ring disposed between the top ring and the bottom ring on a radially exterior side of the landing assembly. The landing assembly further includes a landing ring disposed axially below the bottom ring. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253380 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RECOVERING FLUIDS FROM A WELL AND/OR INJECTING FLUIDS INTO A WELL - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replace the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110247799 | TUBING HANGER RUNNING TOOL WITH INTEGRATED LANDING FEATURES - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a tubing hanger running tool (THRT) configured to position a tubing hanger within a wellhead. The THRT includes an integrated pressure equalization system including a tube having a first end in fluid communication with an annulus of the wellhead, and a second end in fluid communication with a control line. The integrated pressure equalization system also includes a piston disposed within the tube. The piston is configured to move within the tube to balance a pressure differential between a first fluid within the annulus and a second fluid within the control line. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110247798 | TUBING HANGER RUNNING TOOL WITH INTEGRATED PRESSURE RELEASE VALVE - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a subsurface safety valve (SSV) biased toward a closed position, and configured to open by application of hydraulic pressure. The system also includes a tubing hanger running tool (THRT), including a conduit in fluid communication with the SSV, and a pressure release valve fluidly coupled to the conduit. The pressure release valve is configured to maintain sufficient hydraulic pressure within the conduit to hold the SSV in an open position while the pressure release valve is in a closed position. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110240532 | Hydrocyclone Reject Orifice Treated to Prevent Blockage - A reject port of a hydrocyclone has an orifice that is treated or coated to prevent blockage thereof when materials pass therethrough, such as produced water, asphaltenes, waxes, “schmoo” or other materials having high potential for scaling. Such surfaces may include, but are not necessarily limited to, superhydrophobic surfaces and/or superoleophobic surfaces such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), tungsten disulfide (WS2), siloxanes, nanomaterials, surfaces created by diffusion of carbon into a stainless steel without forming chromium carbides (e.g. KOLSTERISING®), anti-scale treatment materials, and combinations thereof. The treated orifice may optionally be removable from the reject port. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240307 | Wellhead Hanger Shoulder - A well production system including a wellhead and a first casing string supported from a first casing hanger landed on a shoulder in the wellhead bore. A loading shoulder assembly is installable in the wellhead and includes an energizing ring, a loading ring threaded into the interior of the energizing ring, a lock ring, and a hold-down ring threaded into the interior of the loading ring. The hold-down ring engages the first casing hanger to prevent rotation of the hold-down ring and restrain rotation of the loading ring. The lock ring is expandable from an unset position into supporting engagement with the wellhead in a set position upon rotation of the energizing ring. The hold-down ring is also moveable axially out of the loading ring to restrain the first casing hanger. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110232920 | Full Bore System Without Stop Shoulder - A production assembly for controlling production from a well, the assembly including a wellhead that includes a body and a bore through the body. The bore does not include a hanger support shoulder but does include an engagement profile extending into the body. The assembly also includes a tubing hanger assembly installable in the wellhead. The assembly includes a load shoulder including a load segment expandable into supporting engagement with the bore engagement profile. The assembly also includes a tubing hanger and attached production tubing capable of being run in with the load shoulder and supportable on the load shoulder when the shoulder is engaged with the wellhead. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232599 | AIR INTAKE PORTING FOR A TWO STROKE ENGINE - A two stroke engine of a particular configuration can have its power output increased by running bigger pistons and using ports in the piston skirt through which to conduct compressed air within the skirt through short passages in the cylinder housing that conduct the air from within the skirt to above the piston. As a result a larger piston can be used for the same spacing and opening size in the block to save the need to redesign the block and the crankshaft. A position adjuster for the piston moves it axially without rotation of the piston ports out of alignment with inlet ports in the housing. The piston rod is held in the crosshead using a flat to prevent rotation while an adjuster nut that is turned creates axial movement in the piston rod with a lock nut securing the final piston position. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232405 | COMPACT-ACTUATOR GEAR SET - A gearbox assembly for an actuator is provided. The gearbox assembly includes a rack, a spur pinion, a bevel pinion, and a bevel gear. Vertical translation of the rack causes rotation of the spur pinion and bevel pinion around a horizontal axis. The rotation of the bevel pinion causes rotation of the bevel gear around a vertical axis. The gearbox assembly may be coupled to a movable member of a valve so that actuation of the gearbox assembly moves the movable member. Systems including the gearbox assembly and methods of operation are also disclosed. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110226490 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ONE-TRIP HANGER INSTALLATION - There is provided a system and method for installing a wellhead component in a single trip. Generally, a wellhead component may be run into a wellhead using a running tool. The running tool may then be retrieved from the wellhead and replaced with a locking tool, which is also run into the wellhead. Additional tools may be used to over-pull the wellhead component and to cementing the wellhead component in place. The process of retrieving and running tools into the wellhead is both time-consuming and costly. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments include a one-trip tool configured to run a wellhead component into a wellhead, engage an internal coupling to lock the wellhead component in place, over-pull the wellhead component to ensure the internal coupling was properly engaged, and cement the wellhead component in place within the wellhead. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226487 | POSITIVE LOCKED SLIM HOLE SUSPENSION AND SEALING SYSTEM WITH SINGLE TRIP DEPLOYMENT AND RETRIEVABLE TOOL - A tool is provided for installing a mandrel in a wellhead assembly. The tool includes an assembly having multiple independently translatable and rotatable members. The tool includes an inner member disposed in an inner sleeve. The inner member may be disposed in a first position and second position, such that in the first position the inner sleeve freely rotates and in the second position rotation of the inner sleeve causes rotation of the inner member. An outer sleeve is disposed over the inner sleeve and may be coupled to a hold down ring. The inner member may be coupled to mandrel. The tool may be inserted into a wellhead assembly and the outer rotated to engage the hold down ring, the inner and outer sleeve may be translated axially to allow rotation of the inner member to disengage the tool from the mandrel. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226483 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RECOVERING FLUIDS FROM A WELL AND/OR INJECTING FLUIDS INTO A WELL - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retrofitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replace the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110209767 | COMPRESSOR THROTTLING VALVE ASSEMBLY - A throttling valve assembly has an outer housing that is sealed. An actuator is connected to a pressure balanced shaft that extends into the housing to operate a plurality of linkages that can rotate blades in tandem. With the surrounding housing sealed, the shaft penetrations of the blade support shafts no longer need seals or a purge system to supply process gas during times of reduced pressure in situations with the blades nearly closed. A pressure equalization system has balance passages internal to the housing to allow flow from higher pressure zones to lower pressure zone of the process gas so as to avoid creation of a condition that can draw air into any zones of reduced pressure in the housing. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110203810 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR HYDRAULICALLY PRESETTING A METAL SEAL - A system and method is provided for hydraulically presetting a metal-to-metal seal, which may be installed in an annular space between wellhead components. A hydraulic running tool may be landed on a first wellhead component and coupled to a second wellhead component, for example, via a hydraulic or mechanical coupling assembly. Fluid pressure may then be applied to the hydraulic running tool to move the components axially together, thereby setting the metal-to-metal seal (i.e., axially compressing and radially expanding the seal). A coupling may secure the wellhead components in place relative to one another, while fluid pressure is being applied so that the metal-to-metal seal remains in the set position after the hydraulic tool is removed. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110200457 | PUMP DEVICE FOR THE HYDRAULIC ACTUATION OF A VALVE - Pump device for hydraulically activating a valve in particular used for oil and gas exploration wherein such a valve may be a safety valve assigned to a riser or a tree, said pump device including a piston cylinder unit from which pressurized hydraulic fluid can be pumped in direction to the valve. To improve such a pump device so that the pressure of the hydraulic fluid is produced in particular at the corresponding site and near to the valve and is safe and constructed in a simple way an electrical drive means is movably connected to a piston of the piston cylinder unit for alternating movement in axial direction of the piston within the cylinder. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110198072 | INTEGRATED WELLHEAD ASSEMBLY - An integrated wellhead assembly is provided to enable free flow production and artificial lift production from a well without requiring removal and/or reconfiguration of the wellhead assembly. The wellhead assembly includes an upper portion and a lower portion forming an integrated assembly. The upper portion includes a flow tee and at least one set of rams. The lower portion includes a shoulder to receive a hanger. The upper portion may seal the bore of the wellhead assembly and provide full bore access to the bore of the wellhead assembly. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110194931 | CENTRIFUGAL COMPRESSOR DIFFUSER VANELET - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a centrifugal compressor diffuser including a flow path having a first surface and a second surface defining opposite axial sides of the flow path. The centrifugal compressor diffuser also includes multiple vanes extending from the first surface to the second surface of the flow path. A first profile of each vane varies along an axial direction. The centrifugal compressor diffuser further includes multiple vanelets extending from the first surface toward the second surface in the axial direction. A first axial extent of each vanelet is less than a second axial extent of the flow path. In addition, a second profile of each vanelet varies along the axial direction and/or the vanelets form a non-periodic pattern around a circumference of the flow path. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110185892 | Apparatus, Systems and Methods for Sampling and Conditioning A Flluid - A system of sampling a fluid comprises a fluid separator having a central axis. The fluid separator includes an insulating sleeve. In addition the fluid separator includes a separator assembly coaxially disposed within the sleeve. Further, the fluid separator includes an annulus radially disposed between the sleeve and the separator assembly. The separator assembly includes a conduit, a support rod coaxially disposed within the conduit, and a plurality of separator members coupled to the support rod within the conduit. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110181141 | Electric Motor and Position Holding Device for Such an Electric Motor - An electric motor, particularly for an actuating device for displacing a control device, such as a valve, a gate valve, a blow-out preventer or the like, for use in oil or gas production includes a stator and a rotor assigned to a motor shaft, and a position holding device for exerting a holding torque on the motor shaft. To improve an electric motor of this type such that said motor is of a compact structure, includes less additional parts for a corresponding position holding device and, particularly in case of failure of an external power supply, reliably prevents a situation where the motor shaft is moved out of the attained position upon corresponding pressure application e.g. by the control device, the position holding device comprises a plurality of permanent magnets, the permanent magnets being arranged in radial direction relative to the rotor and the motor shaft, respectively. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110169224 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SETTING A METAL SEAL - A system and method is provided for setting a metal-to-metal seal (e.g., in an annular space between wellhead components) using a temporary elastomer seal. For example, the annular space may be sealed with one or more elastomer seals before hydraulically setting the metal-to-metal seal. A seal assembly may include the elastomer seals and the metal-to-metal seal. Positioning the seal assembly in the annular space between the wellhead components may isolate pressure in the annular space below the seal such that the metal-to-metal seal may be set. In an exemplary embodiment, a hydraulic mechanism axially compresses the metal-to-metal seal between two members of the seal assembly, thereby radially expanding and setting the metal-to-metal seal. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110162852 | WELLHEAD COMPONENT COUPLING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A wellhead system is provided. In one embodiment, the wellhead system includes first and second wellhead components or members. An exemplary first wellhead member includes an internal bore and a first groove, while an exemplary second wellhead member is at least partially disposed within the internal bore such that a second groove of the second wellhead member is aligned with the first groove. The wellhead system may include a locking ring positioned within at least one of the first or second grooves, and a retaining ring at least partially disposed within the internal bore between the first and second wellhead members. Further, in one embodiment, the retaining ring is configured to selectively engage the locking ring to facilitate securing of the second wellhead member to the first wellhead member. Other embodiments of wellhead systems, devices, and methods of coupling the same are also provided. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110159217 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REDUCING HEAT LOSS FROM SUBSEA STRUCTURES - There is provided a system and method for using a thermal insulating paint in a subsea environment. In accordance with one embodiment of the present technique, the thermal insulating paint may be applied to a casing for use in a subsea mineral extraction system. In another embodiment, a surface-rated thermal insulating paint may be applied to any component for use in a subsea mineral extraction system. The insulated component may be protected from the subsea environment to prevent damage to the surface-rated thermal insulating paint. For example, protecting the component may include burying it in cement or concrete, encasing it in another subsea structure or enclosure, or applying a protective sealant over the surface-rated thermal insulating paint. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155386 | Multi-Deployable Subsea Stack System - Methods for deploying a subsea blowout preventer stack system comprising a lower marine riser package, a blowout preventer stack with a first ram blowout preventer, and an additional blowout preventer package releasably coupled to the blowout preventer stack and comprising a second ram blowout preventer. The subsea blowout preventer stack assembly can be deployed by coupling a drilling riser to the lower marine riser package that is releasably connected to the blowout preventer stack. The lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack are then toward a subsea wellhead and then landed on the additional blowout preventer package that is coupled to the subsea wellhead. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110147002 | Subsea Differential-Area Accumulator - An accumulator for a subsea blowout preventer unit including a blowout preventer includes a body. The body includes a hydraulic fluid chamber and a gas chamber. The hydraulic fluid chamber has a smaller inner diameter than the gas chamber. The accumulator further includes a hydraulic fluid port in fluid communication between the hydraulic fluid chamber and the subsea blowout preventer, a hydraulic piston slidably and sealingly mounted in the hydraulic fluid chamber, and a charge piston slidably and sealingly mounted in the gas chamber. A pressure port receives pressure to provide a force on the opposite side of the charge piston from the hydraulic piston. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110146808 | Bi-Directional Valve with Cavity Pressure Relief - A valve operable to control flow between two adjacent pipe sections and having a system for relieving pressure from an enclosed cavity within the valve. The valve includes a first pressure port, a second pressure port, and a seal. When the valve is closed, the first pressure port is in fluid communication with one pipe section and the second pressure port in fluid communication with the enclosed cavity. The seal isolates the second pressure port from the first pressure port when fluid pressure within the enclosed cavity is less than a pre-selected valve and is displaceable to enable fluid communication between the second pressure port and the first pressure port when fluid pressure in the enclosed cavity is equal to or greater than the pre-selected value. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110138998 | AIR INTAKE PORTING FOR A TWO STROKE ENGINE - A two stroke engine of a particular configuration can have its power output increased by running bigger pistons and using ports in the piston skirt through which to conduct compressed air within the skirt through short passages in the cylinder housing that conduct the air from within the skirt to above the piston. As a result a larger piston can be used for the same spacing and opening size in the block to save the need to redesign the block and the crankshaft. A position adjuster for the piston moves it axially without rotation of the piston ports out of alignment with inlet ports in the housing. The piston rod is held in the crosshead using a flat to prevent rotation while an adjuster nut that is turned creates axial movement in the piston rod with a lock nut securing the final piston position. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110138995 | COMPRESSION SYSTEM HAVING SEAL WITH MAGNETIC COUPLING OF PISTONS - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a barrier with magnetic coupling between opposite sides of the barrier. For example, the system may include a first member with a first magnet that translates along with the first member, and a second member having a second magnet that translates along with the second member. The system also may include the barrier completely isolating the first member from the second member, wherein the first magnet magnetically couples with the second magnet through the barrier to impart translational motion from the first member to the second member. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110131964 | SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY POWERED HYDRAULIC ACCUMULATOR - A system, in certain embodiments, includes an accumulator. The accumulator includes a first cylinder configured to receive a fluid within an internal volume of the first cylinder. The accumulator also includes a piston configured to move axially within the first cylinder. Axial movement of the piston within the first cylinder adjusts the internal volume of the first cylinder. The accumulator further includes a plurality of shape memory alloy wires configured to cause the axial movement of the piston within the first cylinder. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110121565 | SUBSEA CHOKE INSERT LOCKING APPARATUS - A connection for sub-sea use employs locking dogs that are isolated from seawater and a backup system for operating the backup sleeve to the dogs. The normal actuation system for the backup sleeve is also isolated from seawater exposure. The set position of the backup sleeve is positively retained against the prospect of axial movement that could be triggered by transmitted vibration into the connection. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110116940 | VISCOELASTIC COMPRESSOR PULSATION DAMPENER - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a pulsation dampener for minimizing the adverse effects of pulsation waves in a process fluid generated by a reciprocating compressor. The pulsation dampener may be installed proximate to the source of the pulsation waves and external to a main flow path of the process fluid being compressed within the reciprocating compressor. More specifically, in certain embodiments, the pulsation dampener may be a pulsation dampening valve enclosure configured to at least partially encase a valve assembly of the reciprocating compressor. The pulsation dampening valve enclosure may be filled with a pulsation dampening material, such as a wire mesh material, a viscoelastic material, an elastomeric material, or a combination thereof. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110114337 | NON-ROTATION LOCK SCREW - A non-rotation lock screw for a wellhead assembly is provided that includes a rotating portion and a non-rotating portion. The non-rotating portion includes a distal end configured to engage a component of the wellhead assembly, and may include one or more seals. The rotating portion may be rotating into a component of wellhead assembly such that the non-rotating portion translates in a radial direction. The rotating portion and non-rotating portion may be coupled together via a bearing to enable free rotation of the rotating portion. Systems and methods of operation that include the non-rotation lock screw are also provided. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110114321 | Open/Close Outlet Internal Hydraulic Device - A fluid-driven adapter for a mineral extraction system is provided. The adapter includes a sleeve (e.g., annular piston) that engages a mandrel disposed in a wellhead component and moves in an axial direction in response to fluid pressure. The adapter moves the mandrel between a first position and a second position to open or close passages in the wellhead component. The adapter includes a lock ring that moves in response to fluid pressure and that locks the adapter to a wellhead assembly to prevent axial movement of the adapter. Methods of operation are also provided. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110108279 | SELF-SEALING CHEMICAL INJECTION LINE COUPLING - There is provided a chemical injection line connector including first and second couplings configured to automatically seal shut when the members are disengaged. There is further provided a method for blocking contamination or pressure transfer of chemical injection lines by securing first and second couplings to corresponding ends of a chemical injection line and automatically sealing the couplings shut when the couplings are disengaged. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110095526 | WELLHEAD TUBULAR CONNECTOR - Systems and methods are provided that may include employing a lockscrew to provide radial and axial force in connecting tubular members in a mineral extraction system. The lockscrew may be angled relative to the tubular members, at an angle that is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. Further, the lockscrew may have an end portion which mates with a slot in a locking segment, and the lockscrew and locking segment may be moved from an unlocked to a locked position. In a locked position, the lockscrew exerts force axially downward and radially inward to push the locking segment against a tubular member, locking the member in place. The interconnection between the lockscrew and the locking segment may enable easier installation and may utilize parts which may be easier to manufacture. Furthermore, the angle of the lockscrew may provide improved support for tubular members. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110094607 | CHOKE VALVE WITH FLOW-IMPEDING RECESSES - Disclosed is a device that includes a choke valve. The choke valve may include a generally tubular throttling member having a sealing shoulder disposed in an inner volume of the throttling member, a plurality of openings configured to flow a fluid between the inner volume of the throttling member and an outer volume of the throttling member, and a flow-impeding recess disposed between the sealing should and the plurality of openings in the inner volume of the throttling member. The choke valve may also include a valve member disposed at least partially in the inner volume of the throttling member. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110083852 | FRAC ADAPTER FOR WELLHEAD - There is provided a frac adapter configured to couple a frac tree to a wellhead component. The frac adapter may couple the frac tree to a casing head without a tubing head, thereby enabling the well to be fractured before the tubing head is installed. As a result, the tubing head used in well production may be pressure-rated for production pressures rather than for fracing pressures. The frac adapter may be coupled to or integral with the frac tree. In addition, a union-nut coupling may be employed to quickly and easily assemble and disassemble the frac adapter from the wellhead component, such as the casing head. The union-nut coupling may further enable the components to be pressure-tested before the fracturing process is initiated. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110083746 | SMART VALVE UTILIZING A FORCE SENSOR - A valve, in certain embodiments, includes a body having a flow path, a stem, a flow element coupled to the stem, wherein the flow element interfaces with the flow path to regulate flow of a fluid through the flow path, and a force sensor coupled to the stem and configured to indicate an amount of force exerted on the stem. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110079399 | Hydra-Connector - A hydraulic connector for a wellhead hub is provided that includes a piston and a bottom portion configured to move in an axial direction via hydraulic pressure applied to one or more hydraulic ports in the connector. The movement of the piston and the bottom portion moves a ring and a segment of the connector in a radial direction to engage recesses in the wellhead hub. The connector may be unlocked by applying hydraulic pressure to a hydraulic port of the connector. A system and method of operating the connector are also provided. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110076136 | GAS COMPRESSOR MAGNETIC COUPLER - Provided in some embodiments is a gas compression system that includes a gas compressor having a drive shaft, an impeller drive shaft magnetically coupled to the drive shaft, and a shroud disposed between the drive shaft and the impeller drive shaft. In other embodiments provided is method that includes magnetically coupling a first drive shaft to a second drive shaft, receiving a rotational torque at the first drive shaft, transmitting the rotational torque from the first drive shaft to the second drive shaft via the magnetic coupling, and rotating a gas compressor impeller coupled to the second drive shaft. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110070113 | SYSTEM AND DEVICES INCLUDING VALVES COUPLED TO ELECTRIC DEVICES AND METHODS OF MAKING, USING, AND OPERATING THE SAME - Systems, methods, and devices are disclosed, including a compressor having a piston and a valve assembly. In some embodiments, the valve assembly includes a check valve having a valve member, a magnet coupled to the valve member, and an electrical conductor near the magnet. The check valve may be configured to change state in response to a change in fluid pressure. The compressor may also have an electric device coupled to the electrical conductor. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110057647 | Apparatus Detecting Relative Body Movement - The invention relates to a measuring device for detecting a body moving in relation to an, in particular, tubular container. Said device comprises at least one magnet unit which generates a magnetic field, measures this magnetic field and which is assigned to the container and/or to the magnetic body. The device also comprises at least one evaluation device connected to the magnet units and provided for receiving measurement signals of the magnet units. The aim of the invention is to improve a measuring device of this type in order to be able to easily determine, in addition to the position of the body in relation to the container in a longitudinal direction, the position of the body in relation to the container in the transverse direction with a relatively high level of accuracy. To this end, the magnet units comprise a maximum magnetic flux that is essentially perpendicular to the direction of the relative motion of the body and container. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110056769 | INTEGRATED LUBRICATION MODULE FOR COMPRESSORS - In accordance with certain embodiments, the present invention provides a modular approach to a lubrication package. Certain components such as the filter and cooler are directly connected to a block that has connections to accept them and internal porting to establish the proper flow paths for circulation, cooling and filtration of the circulating lubricant. The block can accept one or more coolers and one or more filters. The isolation valving for redundant equipment can also be integrated into the block. Many connections that had been used in past designs for the piping network are integrated into the block. The block can also be close mounted to the reservoir while a submersible pump further saves space and piping connections. Indeed, having the ability to maintain mechanical equipment (e.g., remove and replace filters and coolers) without shutting down, allows for continuous process flow, which eliminates down-town scheduling, loss of product and/or redundant backup, all of which comes at a considerable cost. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110056566 | Dual-Acting Multi-Actuation Mode Gate Valve - A dual acting multi actuation gate valve is provided that includes a secondary actuation mechanism. The valve may include a body, a shaft, a movable portion disposed within the body and coupled to the shaft, wherein the movable portion is configured to allow fluid flow through the valve when in a first position and to prevent fluid flow through the valve when in a second position. The valve includes an actuator coupled to the shaft, wherein the actuator is configured to move the movable portion between the first position and the second position, a mechanical connection between the actuator and the shaft, wherein the mechanical connection is configured to fail in response to an internal pressure, wherein the failure of the mechanical connection maintains the movable portion in the second position. A method of operation and testing the valve are also provided. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110052111 | MODULAR ROTOR ASSEMBLY - Portions of the drive system for a piece of rotating equipment are pre-assembled into a subassembly. The subassembly can be held together by a carrier that is fabricated to accept the components in a proper alignment so that the carrier can be installed as a unit. In the preferred embodiment the carrier becomes a gearbox housing component that is installed saving the need for individual component alignment. Using the modular approach. The modular approach allows an assembly having a single part number to apply to a given compressor unit and further allows standardization of air ends of compressors with specific impellers and inlets added to meet requirements of a specific application. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110049408 | BALL VALVE STEM RETAINING SYSTEM - A system, in certain embodiments, includes a ball valve including a body and a ball disposed within the body. The ball valve also includes a stem disposed within an opening in the ball. The stem is removable by passage through the opening into a bore of the ball. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110042592 | CONTROL VALVE - Provided is a valve, including an in-line flow passage, a shut-off mechanism, and a multi-stage throttling section disposed in the in-line flow passage. Further provided is an in-line valve, including a flow control component and a sealing component, wherein the flow control component and the sealing component are separate from one another. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110042304 | Method And Apparatus To Enhance Separation Performance Of A Lean And Low Mean Size Dispersed Phase From A Continuous Phase - Two hydrocyclones used in series enhances the removal of a dispersed liquid phase from a continuous liquid phase by cyclonic action. The first hydrocyclone has no overflow outlet and serves to coalesce the droplets or particles of the disperse phase together thereby increasing contaminant size distribution. The second hydrocyclone functions as a separator operating at higher removal efficiency. The method and apparatus are useful to clarify produced water from hydrocarbon recovery operations. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110042288 | Enhanced Coalescer - A coalescer is used in series with a hydrocyclone to enhance the removal of a dispersed phase from a continuous phase by first using a coalescer that lacks removal of any separated dispersed phase prior to cyclonic action in the hydrocyclone. The dispersed phase may be oil and the continuous phase may be water. The coalescer has no oil outlet and serves to coalesce the droplets or particles of the disperse phase together thereby increasing contaminant size distribution. The hydrocyclone functions as a separator operating at higher removal efficiency. The method and apparatus are useful to clarify produced water from hydrocarbon recovery operations, particularly those on offshore platforms where it is desirable to reduce weight and footprint area but still achieve very low oil concentration in the clarified water—even to levels sufficient for the water to be discharged directly into the environment, e.g. the ocean. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110037257 | BREECH LOCK COUPLING - There is provided a breech lock coupling for coupling riser sections together. The breech lock coupling may be used non-pre-loaded or pre-loaded according to the user's preferences. In addition, the breech lock coupling may be disassembled for inspection and maintenance and reassembled. A locking ring secures two coupling components together. The coupling components may be attached to opposite ends of the riser sections, such as via welding. The locking ring may be pre-attached to the first coupling component for easy storage and fast assembly. Assembly of the riser may be accomplished by inserting the second coupling component into the locking ring and the first coupling component, then rotating the locking ring with respect to the second component. Furthermore, the coupling may be pre-loaded by tightening fasteners on the locking ring to provide a more stable coupling. Unlike with traditional riser couplings, the pre-load fasteners may be tightened via hand-held tools. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110030974 | Slip Hanger Assembly and Actuator - A slip hanger assembly for installation of casing in a wellhead, the assembly including a slip ring capable of restraining the casing in the wellhead. The assembly including a seal assembly with an inner and outer seal. The assembly also includes a hanger assembly actuator including a load ring flange, a BOP adapter including a horizontal torque provider and the BOP adapter being connectable to the wellhead, and a seal assembly actuator. The hanger assembly actuator can set the inner and outer seals independently of each other. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110030352 | TWO-STROKE LEAN BURN GAS ENGINE WITH A SILENCER/CATALYTIC CONVERTER - A low emissions 2-stroke natural gas fueled engine includes at least one cylinder with an exhaust port in communication with a silencer/catalytic converter unit. The unit has first and second volumes in communication with each other. The first volume dampens spurious exhaust pressure excursions and removes particulates in the exhaust. The second volume houses an oxidation catalyst for treating exhaust to reduce exhaust emissions. The engine oil has at most 10 ppm zinc content to reduce metal poisons contained in the exhaust prior to contact with the oxidation catalyst. The engine oil preferably has a very low ash content to minimize sulfur combustion components in the exhaust to reduce masking of the oxidation catalyst. The first volume preferably has a pressure relief valve set to relieve at a pressure greater than the maximum normal operating pressure of the engine to avoid excessive pressure excursions of the engine exhaust from damaging the oxidation catalyst. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110027008 | MODULAR CRANKSHAFT - In accordance with certain embodiments, a modular crankshaft features a connection system between modules that features opposed female receptacles. A pin having opposed beveled ends and hydraulic passages with it is inserted into the opposed receptacles. A pair of seals is disposed on the beveled ends and straddles a hydraulic fluid outlet. The crankshaft wall that defines each receptacle is designed to flex in response to applied hydraulic pressure between the seals on the tapered pin portion. A notch at the base of the receptacle in the crankshaft reduces stress concentration and enables the wall defining the crankshaft receptacle to come back when hydraulic pressure through the pin is removed. The opposed crankshaft receptacles are flanged to allow them to be pulled together over the pin. An interference fit results around the pin after the flanges are mated and the hydraulic pressure is removed. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110024108 | Mineral Extraction System Having Multi-Barrier Lock Screw - A dual barrier lock screw for a wellhead assembly is provided that includes a first seal disposed at a first axial location along the body of the screw and a second seal disposed at a second axial location along the body of the screw, wherein the first and second axial locations are different from one another. The screw may also include a passage extending axially through the body of the screw and coupled to a port at the end of the screw. The port is configured to receive external pressure and allow testing of the dual barrier seals of the lock screws. A system that includes the lock screw and methods of operating and testing the lock screw are also provided. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110020144 | VARIABLE-VOLUME HEAD - Disclosed is a device that includes a natural-gas compression system having a natural-gas powered combustion engine, a compression cylinder configured to receive natural gas and output compressed natural gas, a piston disposed in the compression cylinder and configured to translate through the compression cylinder in response to mechanical power received from the natural-gas powered combustion engine, and a variable-volume head mounted to the compression cylinder and configured to vary a compressed volume of the compression cylinder. In some instances, the variable-volume head includes a head body, an adjustment screw rotatably coupled to the head body, a plug moveable in threaded engagement with the adjustment screw, and an anti-rotation device coupled to the plug, the head body, or both. The anti-rotation device may be configured to impede the plug from rotating relative to the head body as the adjustment screw rotates. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110019385 | Arrangement System - An arrangement system composed of a plurality of electrical/electronic components particularly of a voltage converter device of a power supply system for use in oil/natural gas production composed of at least one support member that is provided on at least one side with a surrounded accommodating recess, a circuit carrier which is arranged in the accommodating recess and electrically connected to the components, and a holding member fixing the circuit carrier and/or the components in the accommodating recess. An insulating material is arranged at least in part between the circuit carrier and/or components and the support member. Such an arrangement system permits an adequate electrical insulation of the corresponding components and optionally also of the circuit carrier in relation to the support member together with an adequately high heat conduction. At the same time an arrangement system for components is provided that is mechanically stable and permits a good electrical insulation of the components with heat transfer to the outside with respect to the arrangement system. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017467 | Multi-Section Tree Completion System - A subsea well production system for a well including a subsea wellhead. The system includes a multi-section production tree that includes a landing section engageable with the subsea wellhead and including a landing section bore. The tree also includes a valve section separate from and engageable with the landing section, the valve section including a lateral production port extending through a valve section wall and in communication with a valve section bore. A production tubing supported by a tubing hanger is installed and supported in the landing section bore such that the tubing hanger extends into the valve section bore. The tubing hanger and production tubing are retrievable through the section bores without disengaging the valve section from the landing section. The valve section is also disengageable from the landing section with the tubing hanger remaining in the landing section. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110011796 | Compacted Hydrocyclone Apparatus in Vessels - A particular stacking configuration may be used for installing or orienting a plurality of hydrocyclones in a vessel in order to reduce vessel size and make process systems more compact at higher flow rates. Vessel size and footprint reduction may be achieved by stacking one or more hydrocyclone packs, modules or groups one above the other in a vertically oriented vessel. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110011599 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR ISOLATING WELLHEAD PRESSURE - A wellhead is provided. In one embodiment, the wellhead includes a plug for sealing a side passage of the wellhead. The plug may include an outer member, an inner member extending through the outer member and coupled to the outer member with at least one degree of freedom of movement relative to the outer member, and a moveable seal disposed around the outer member. In some embodiments, the moveable seal is configured to seal against the side passage in response to being moved on the outer member by the inner member. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110011598 | INTERNAL LOCKDOWN SNUBBING PLUG - A snubbing plug is configured to be secured within a component of a mineral extraction system by an internal locking mechanism. In addition, the snubbing plug enables pressure equalization of regions above and below the plug before removal of the plug. Upon insertion of the snubbing plug into a well component, pressure may be equalized via fluid pathways through the snubbing plug. The pathways are sealed closed during snubbing operations and opened again when snubbing operations are complete. Manipulation of the fluid pathways may be accomplished via rotation of a load ring within the snubbing plug. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110011575 | STRAIGHT-BORE BACK PRESSURE VALVE - A system in some embodiments includes a back pressure valve. The back pressure valve includes a body, a plunger disposed internal to the body, and a friction member disposed about the exterior of the body. The friction member is configured to expand radially to contact an internal surface of a bore. In some embodiments, a method includes disposing a back pressure valve into a straight bore and expanding a friction member of the back pressure valve radially into contact with an internal surface of the straight bore. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110005765 | Sampling Skid for Subsea Wells - A system for sampling production well production fluids from a manifold interface panel on a subsea production manifold. In some embodiments, the system includes a remotely operated vehicle, a skid coupled to the remotely operated vehicle, a sample tank supported on the skid, and a fluid transfer pump operable to convey production fluid from at least one of the production wells through the manifold interface panel into the sample tank. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110005478 | PRE-CHAMBER - A pre-chamber is provided. In one embodiment, the pre-chamber is part of a two-stroke combustion engine having a cylinder head with a sparkplug receptacle that has a generally frustoconical shape, and the pre-chamber is coupled to the sparkplug receptacle. The pre-chamber may include a cooling jacket with a generally frustoconical shape and a combustion chamber having an upper zone and a lower zone, which may be narrower than the upper zone. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20100326674 | Torque-Provider - An assembly for providing torque to an object in a wellhead. The assembly includes a body attachable to the wellhead and including a bore with a centerline. The body further includes a first set of pistons within cylinders oriented at angles offset from and perpendicular to the centerline of the bore. The pistons are moveable within the cylinders between a retracted position and an extended position where the pistons are extended into the body bore. The movement of the pistons between the retracted and extended positions imparts a linear force capable of rotating the object in the wellhead in a first direction. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100320695 | ANNULAR SEAL - A seal assembly capable of low temperature service is disclosed. It features upper and lower metallic backup rings that are specially shaped to act as a spring to keep the sidewalls of such rings in contact with the inside and outside surfaces to be sealed to prevent extrusion of the seal material even in low temperature situations. Inner and outer grooves are provided. O-ring seals, used for the ID of the seal, are manufactured to have a slightly greater diameter than the groove into which they will be installed. The greater length provides stored energy to promote sealing functionality in cold temperature situations. The O-rings used for the OD of the seal are manufactured to have a slightly smaller diameter than the groove into which they will be installed. The shorter length provides stored energy to promote sealing functionality in cold temperature situations. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100319655 | INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE WITH SHROUDED INJECTION VALVE AND PRE-COMBUSTION CHAMBER SYSTEM - An engine is provided. In one embodiment, the engine includes a precombustion chamber having a body, a secondary combustion chamber disposed at least partially in the body, and a plurality of passages configured to place the precombustion chamber in fluid communication with a main combustion chamber. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100314129 | Running Tool - A running tool for delivering a hanger into a wellcomprises a main body. In addition, the running tool comprise an attachment means for connecting a hanger to the main body. Further, the running tool comprises a sleeve having an external profile and being rotatably mounted around the main body. The sleeve has engagement means for releasably connecting the sleeve to a landing ring mounted via a thread on the hanger such that rotational movement of the sleeve causes rotational and thus axial movement of the landing shoulder on the hanger. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100300700 | Wellhead Assembly - An assembly for use on a wellhead includes a tree body including an internal main bore arranged in use to be aligned with the bore of a wellhead housing; the tree body including a lateral bore extending through the tree body from the internal bore; the tree body further including means for connecting to a connector so as to align the internal bore of the tree body with an internal bore in the connector, in use the tree body and the connector together forming a horizontal tree. The tree body may include one or more integrally formed bores and valves to provide fluid flowpaths for the annulus and/or cross-over functions. A wellhead assembly including the tree assembly is also provided. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100294492 | Function Spool - A production assembly and method for controlling production from production tubing supported by a tubing hanger in a well including a wellhead. The assembly includes a function spool engaged with the wellhead and a tree engaged with the function spool. The tubing hanger is landable in the tree bore such that the production tubing is supported in the well by the tree. A function mandrel separate from the tubing hanger is engaged with the production tubing and positionable inside the function spool bore. The function mandrel includes a passage connected to a line extending into the well that is connectable with a port in the function spool such that communication with a downhole component through the line is allowable from outside the function spool. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100294482 | Variable Bore Packer for a Blowout Preventer - A variable bore packer used in a blowout preventer to form a seal against different diameter tubular members for oil and gas drilling operations. The variable bore packer includes a packer member molded of elastomeric material with certain mechanical properties and including an inside curved surface. The packer also includes a plurality of packer inserts molded within the packer member to form an insert array. Additionally, the packer includes a protrusion extending from and bonded to the packer member inside curved surface, the protrusion including increased mechanical properties compared to the packer member. The packer member, the insert array, and the protrusion are molded into a unitary structure and sized to form a seal against the different diameter tubular members upon closure of the blowout preventer. Also, the insert array and the protrusion diminishing extrusion of the elastomeric material between the packer inserts and the tubular members. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100294481 | ANGLED-PENETRATOR DEVICE AND SYSTEM - In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a tubing hanger having an angled auxiliary bore is provided. The auxiliary bore may receive a penetrator for a cabling system that powers a submersible pump. The auxiliary bore is angled with respect to the production bore of the tubing hanger. As a result, the penetrator exits the lower end of the tubing hanger at a location relatively close to the production tubing. This facilitates the use of a smaller-diameter production casing or casing hanger, in turn helping to reduce potential costs, for instance. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100289668 | Power and Signal Distribution System - A power and signal distribution system comprises a converter unit connected to a plurality of control units. The converter unit and the control units are arranged in areas difficult to access, for instance on the sea bed. The converter unit is connected to a remote monitoring and supplying device via at least one cable connection. Each control unit has assigned thereto at least one production apparatus for crude oil or natural gas corresponding gate valves, chokes, biops, actuators. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100288504 | Subsea Connection Apparatus for a Surface Blowout Preventer Stack - A subsea connection apparatus to allow connecting a surface blowout preventer stack and riser to a subsea wellhead is disclosed. The subsea connection apparatus uses a single cavity blowout preventer with a set of shearing blind rams. Hydraulically actuated wellhead connectors are secured to the top and bottom of the blowout preventer to allow connection to a subsea wellhead below the subsea connection apparatus and a well head hub profile on the lower end of a riser above the apparatus. A control system can operate both of the hydraulically actuated connectors and the blowout preventer independently. A frangible bore protector is disposed in the bore of the blowout preventer to protect the shearing blind rams from pipe, tools, and fluids being passed through the blowout preventer and can be sheared by the shearing blind rams along with any drill pipe in the bore. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100288389 | Choke Assembly - A choke assembly. In some embodiments, the choke assembly includes a choke element having a fluid flow passage therethrough. The choke element includes a cage having a plurality of apertures therethrough for the passage of fluid and a plug moveable with respect to the cage. The plug has an end surface that defines a boundary of the fluid flow passage through the choke and is moveable to open or close each of the apertures through the cage, whereby the flow of fluid through the cage is controlled. The apertures in the cage are disposed in a first portion and a second portion separated by a land. Each of the first and second portions has a least one aperture therein. The plug may be positioned with its end surface disposed to intersect the land, such that each aperture is fully open or fully closed to the flow of fluid. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100288253 | AIR INTAKE PORTING FOR A TWO STROKE ENGINE - A two stroke engine of a particular configuration can have its power output increased by running bigger pistons and using ports in the piston skirt through which to conduct compressed air within the skirt through short passages in the cylinder housing that conduct the air from within the skirt to above the piston. As a result a larger piston can be used for the same spacing and opening size in the block to save the need to redesign the block and the crankshaft. A position adjuster for the piston moves it axially without rotation of the piston ports out of alignment with inlet ports in the housing. The piston rod is held in the crosshead using a flat to prevent rotation while an adjuster nut that is turned creates axial movement in the piston rod with a lock nut securing the final piston position. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100281099 | Systems and Methods of Providing Redundant Communication to an Electronic Device - In at least some embodiments a system may comprise a first master device, a second master device, a redundancy manager coupled to the first and second master devices, and a slave device coupled to the redundancy manager. The redundancy manager is operable to receive a first data stream from the first master device and a second data stream from the second master device. The redundancy manager is further operable to selectively forward one of the first and second data streams to the slave device according to a prioritization of factors calculated to optimize an amount of valid communication to the slave device. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100275772 | COMPRESSOR SYSTEM AND FRAME - A reciprocating compressor is provided. In one embodiment, a reciprocating compressor frame includes a central body and at least two crosshead guides extending from opposite sides of the central body. Additionally, the compressor frame crosshead guide support structures extending outwardly from the central body along a respective crosshead guide. Other embodiments of compression systems, devices, and frames of such systems are also provided. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100264648 | CONNECTION METHODS AND SYSTEMS - Various novel connectors are provided. In one embodiment, the connector includes a collar configured to receive first and second components. In this embodiment, the connector may also include a load ring configured to be received in a groove of the second component and to move into and out of engagement with the collar when the second component is received by the collar. The connector of this illustrative embodiment may also include a cotter configured for installation to the second component and to inhibit disengagement of the load ring from the collar. In some embodiments, engagement of the load ring and the collar effects securing of the first and second components to one another. Other devices, systems, and methods related to connectors are also disclosed. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100264091 | Process for Separating One or More Solids From Water Miscible Fluids and an Apparatus Therefor - This invention relates to a process for removing solid matter from process liquids that are miscible with water. A brine made from water and dissolved salt and which is more dense than the process liquid is placed underneath and in contact with the mixture of process liquid and solid matter. The particles and pieces of solid matter move from the process liquid and then through the brine. In so doing the process liquid that is carried with the solid matter is displaced by the more dense brine. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100258319 | BACK PRESSURE VALVE - A system in some embodiments includes a back pressure valve configured to mount in a mineral extraction system. The back pressure valve comprises a cylindrical body comprising a venting port coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body and a plunger disposed in the venting port, wherein the plunger comprises a stem that extends from the venting port into an adjacent cavity of the cylindrical body. In some embodiments, a method of operating a valve, includes biasing a plunger to an open position, biasing a valve locking mechanism to a locked position in relation to a bore of a mineral extraction system, and biasing a plunger to a closed position. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100258295 | FRAC SYSTEM SPLIT RING DEVICE - A wellhead system, in an embodiment, includes a first wellhead component with an internal bore, and a second wellhead component with a lower end disposed within the first wellhead component internal bore and an upper end disposed outside of the first wellhead component internal bore. The upper end of the second wellhead component has a groove disposed on an outer surface thereof. The wellhead system also includes a retaining member with a plurality of sections, wherein a portion of the retaining member is at least partially disposed in the groove on the second wellhead component, the retaining member is coupled to the first wellhead component, and an anti-rotation mechanism engages both the retaining member and the second wellhead component. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100252768 | CONTROL VALVE TRIM - Provided is a control valve trim, including a plug having a plurality of sections arranged in series along a longitudinal axis, wherein each of the plurality of sections has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the preceding section, and a plurality of slots in the surface of each of the plurality of sections, and a liner, wherein the plug is disposed internal to the liner. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100252251 | SAFETY DEVICE FOR RETRIEVING COMPONENT WITHIN WELLHEAD - A system is provided that include a safety device configured to mount in a mineral extraction system and block axial movement of a plug in the mineral extraction system while the plug is released from a retainer. In one embodiment, the safety device may be a sleeve configured to receive screws or other retention mechanism in a tubular. A method is provided that includes installing a plug safety catch into a tubular of a mineral extraction system in which the plug is configured to block axial movement of a plug in response to a pressure differential while the plug is released from a mount position. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100244561 | DC Voltage Converting Device - A DC voltage converting device is on the output side connected to a DC voltage source and, on the output side, supplies a converted DC voltage to at least one electrical consumer via a cable connection. To improve such a DC voltage converting device in that also with high DC voltages on the input side, a conversion into another DC voltage is possible without any special constructional efforts and high costs while complicated cooling means or the like, are avoided at the same time, the DC voltage converting device comprises a plurality of DC voltage converting units of which each is serially connected to the DC voltage source on the input side and connected in parallel with the cable connection on the output side for supplying the converted DC voltage. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100243268 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SNUBBING UNDER PRESSURE - A snubbing plug is configured to enable pressure equalization above and below the plug before it is removed from a mineral extraction well. The pressure may be equalized via fluid pathways through the snubbing plug. While the snubbing operations are ongoing, the fluid pathways are closed and sealed by a valve. Upon completion of the snubbing operations, the valve is opened to enable fluid flow through the pathways. The valve includes a piston disposed within a body of the snubbing plug. The piston may be coupled to pins disposed within L slots in the body. While the valve is closed, the pins are disposed in a horizontal portion of the L slot, blocking vertical movement of the piston. To open the valve, the piston is rotated until the pins reach a vertical portion of the L slot, whereupon a spring biases the piston upward to open the fluid pathways. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100243261 | Rotation Mechanism - A system for rotating an element inside a pressure containing housing. In some embodiments, the mechanism includes a pressure containing housing having an opening through a wall of the housing into an internal chamber in which, in use, the element to be rotated is located, a bushing located within the opening, and a worm gear rotatably mounted in the bushing. The worm gear is offset from the axial centre of the bushing such that rotation of the bushing moves the worm gear between an extended position, wherein the thread of the worm gear engages an element in the chamber, and a retracted position, wherein the thread is disengaged from the element in the chamber. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100229981 | SELF-SEALING HYDRAULIC CONTROL LINE COUPLING - There is provided a hydraulic fluid control line connector including first and second couplings configured to automatically seal shut when the members are disengaged. There is further provided a method for blocking contamination or pressure transfer of hydraulic fluid control lines by securing first and second couplings to corresponding ends of a hydraulic line and automatically sealing the couplings shut when the couplings are disengaged. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100221564 | EROSION RESISTANT MATERIAL - A cermet and method of forming the cermet, the cermet including a Sialon and an alloy comprising nickel aluminide and boron, wherein the Sialon includes silicon aluminum oxynitride, and wherein at least a portion of the Sialon is bonded with at least a portion of the alloy. In one example, the cermet is about 70 weight percent to about 90 weight percent of the Sialon, and about 10 weight percent to about 30 weight percent of the alloy. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100218955 | OIL FIELD SYSTEM FOR THROUGH TUBING ROTARY DRILLING - An oil field system comprising a main body having a bore therethrough, the main body having a connection at one end of the bore for, in use, connecting the main body to an existing wellhead, tree or other oil field equipment, a transverse cavity through the bore, the cavity having at least one opening to the outside of the main body, a plurality of flow control devices for insertion, at different times, into the cavity in order to selectively control fluid flow through the bore, wherein the plurality of flow control devices includes a gate valve and drilling BOP rams. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100213143 | Apparatus for Inhibiting Fines Carryover - Apparatus for inhibiting fines carryover in the form of a settlement tank comprising: a filter which divides the tank into upper and lower portions; a fluid inlet in the lower portion for admitting into the tank a fluid with entrained solids; and a fluid outlet in the upper portion through which filtered fluid can leave the tank. The filter comprises filter media supported on a permeable wall, the wall including a filter media outlet which is normally closed, and opening means for opening the filter media outlet to allow the filter media to discharge into the lower portion of the tank. The invention also relates to a method of refilling the filter with filter media. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100206588 | SEAL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system in some embodiments includes a tool for setting an annular seal, including an inner body, wherein the inner body is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the tool and is configured to bias a retaining ring, a first outer body coaxial with the longitudinal axis and configured to couple to a portion of a mineral resource system, and a second outer body coaxial with the longitudinal axis, wherein the second outer body is coupled to the first outer body, and the second outer body is configured to move along the longitudinal axis to bias the annular seal. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206576 | Apparatus and Method for Recovering Fluids From a Well and/or Injecting Fluids Into a Well - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retrofitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206575 | Self-Energizing Annular Seal - An annular seal assembly for forming a seal between two annular surfaces. The seal assembly includes an annular base including a sealing surface. The seal assembly also includes a pair of spaced apart rims extending from the annular base opposite the base sealing surface and in opposite directions, the rims also including sealing surfaces. The base is elastically deformable and the rims are elastically deformable relative to the base to effect a self-energized seal between the two annular surfaces. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206547 | Apparatus and Method for Recovering Fluids From a Well and/or Injecting Fluids Into a Well - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retrofitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206546 | Apparatus and Method for Recovering Fluids From a Well and/or Injecting Fluids Into a Well - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retrofitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206545 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO SEAL MULTIPLE CONTROL LINES - A system in some embodiments includes sealing system including an energizing member that simultaneously seats a plurality of sealing elements about a plurality of control lines, respectively. Further embodiments provide a method including disposing a plurality of sealing elements about a plurality of control lines, respectively, and fastening an energizing member to simultaneously seat each of the sealing elements. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206389 | PRESSURE-COMPENSATED ACCUMULATOR BOTTLE - A pressure-compensated accumulator bottle is provided. In one embodiment, the accumulator bottle includes a housing and an interior wall that generally define first, second, and third chambers within the housing. In this embodiment, a spring is disposed in the second chamber and configured to apply a biasing force on a first piston disposed within the first chamber. Further, in this embodiment, an additional piston is disposed within the third chamber and is configured to facilitate balancing of the pressure of a fluid disposed in the second chamber with the pressure of the external environment such that the magnitude of a second biasing force applied on the first piston by the pressure of the fluid depends at least in part on the pressure of the external environment. Hydraulic circuits and systems including a pressure-compensated accumulator bottle are also disclosed. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100200241 | FUNNEL SYSTEM ANAD METHOD - A system in some embodiments includes a two-part funnel that guides a first component to engage or connect with a second component of a mineral extraction system. The two-part funnel having a first funnel portion, and a second funnel portion, wherein the second funnel portion is configured to be disposed in at least two positions relative to the position of the first funnel portion. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100200240 | Multicoupler - A multicoupler, particularly for gas or oil production, comprises at least one male and one female part. Said parts comprise a plurality of fluid coupling members which can be assigned to one another and which are in engagement with one another when male part and female part are in the coupling position. One of the parts comprises a connecting means including a spindle, which connecting means in the coupling position is in engagement with a mating connecting means on the other part. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100194049 | MULTI-ELASTOMER SEAL - A system, in certain embodiments has, a fluid seal having a seal body, including a seal interface having one or more engagement portions, a first elastomer portion disposed along the seal interface, and a second elastomer portion disposed along the seal interface, wherein the first and second elastomers have material properties that are different from one another. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100193195 | SEAL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system in some embodiments includes a system, having a seal assembly, including an inner energizing ring, an outer energizing ring, a load ring disposed between the inner energizing ring and the outer energizing ring, a sealing element, and a lock ring. Further other embodiments provide a method of sealing, including rotating an inner energizing ring in a direction to move the inner energizing ring in a first axial direction to seat a seal, rotating an outer energizing ring in the direction to wedgingly engage and set a lock ring in a radial direction, and rotating a load ring in the direction to move the load ring in a second axial direction to set the lock ring. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100191023 | REMOVING SOLIDS IN MONOETHYLENE GLYCOL RECLAMATION - The seeding of calcium carbonate into a calcium chloride-contaminated monoethylene glycol (MEG) stream accelerates the growth of calcium carbonate particles to a size that enhances their removal from the stream by filtration. A seeding vessel allows the calcium carbonate particles a time period to grow. Sodium carbonate may be added to the contaminated stream to facilitate calcium carbonate particle growth. A recycle seeding conduit may recycle seeds from a filtration unit to the seeding vessel. A base such as sodium hydroxide may be added to accelerate the precipitation process. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100186835 | MULTI-STAGE TRIM - Systems, methods, and devices are disclosed, including a system that has a trim with a plurality of flow paths. In certain embodiments, each flow path includes a series of stages and an expansion zone disposed in series between each of the stages. The expansion zones are configured to flow a fluid in a direction that is generally perpendicular to directions of flow in both an adjacent-upstream stage and an adjacent-downstream stage. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100183360 | CONNECTOR SYSTEM AND METHOD - A novel connector is provided, in one embodiment, the connector includes a collar ( | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100178131 | THEFT-DETERRENCE DEVICE - In accordance with certain embodiments, the present invention provides a theft-deterrence device, which can be used to deter theft of oil-and-gas equipment. For example, one such embodiment provides a nut-and-bolt assembly that includes an extended bolt and a standard the hexagonal nut. To deter theft, the exemplary assembly includes an outer sleeve that is disposed about the nut and extended bolt and that is free to rotate. Resultantly, the sleeve prevents the application of torque to the nut and also protects against shearing of the extended stud. The exemplary assembly also includes a tamper-resistant screw extending through the stud and cooperating with a retaining ring disposed above the nut, to prevent removal of the outer sleeve. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100176327 | GATE-COATING PROCESS - An apparatus that includes a body of a gate configured to seal a gate valve. In certain embodiments, the body has a first face with a first coating disposed thereon, and a second face opposite the first face and having a second coating disposed thereon. The body also may include a flow bore that extends from the first face, through the body of the gate, to the second face and a reference structure that does not have either the first coating or the second coating disposed thereon. In some embodiments, the reference structure is configured to define a plane on the first face, the second face, or both during a planarization process. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100171056 | Gate Valve Rotary Actuator - A valve actuator comprising a screw member coupled to a valve stem and a sleeve such that rotation of the sleeve causes translation of the valve stem. The sleeve has a first end that is rotatably coupled to a housing that is fixably coupled to a valve body and a second end that projects out of the housing. The valve stem is partially disposed within the sleeve and extends into the valve body. A transmission is coupled to the housing and engaged with the sleeve. A motor is coupled to the transmission so that operation of the motor causes rotation of the sleeve. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100127646 | Actuating Device and Method of Operating an Actuating Device - An actuating device for displacing a control device, such as a gate valve or other control mechanism, in particular for use in oil or gas production systems, includes a motor-gear unit and a threaded spindle drive, which is operable by said motor-gear unit. The threaded spindle drive includes at least a threaded spindle and a screw nut. The threaded spindle is displaceable in an essentially axial-direction so as to displace the control device between an advance position and a retracted position. The threaded spindle drive further includes a position holding means holding the attained position of the threaded spindle. The position holding means is directly connected to a motor shaft of the motor-gear unit so as to apply a holding torque to said motor shaft. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100127566 | Power Supply System - A power supply system, particularly to be used in maritime oil/natural gas production includes at least one data transfer/voltage conversion unit arranged above sea level and one electrical means such as a choke, gate valve, production tree, power control/communication unit and the like arranged below sea level, which are electrically connected via a cable connection at least for power supply. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100116488 | TUBING HANGER WITH INTEGRAL ANNULUS SHUTOFF VALVE - Apparatus and method for isolating an annular bore below a tubing hanger body disposed in a wellhead assembly. The hanger body is characterized by at least two annulus flowby passages that are capable of fluid communication with areas outside the hanger body through the central bore of the hanger body. An integral valve piston is disposed within the central bore of the hanger body, and is operable to axially displace within the central bore between a closed and opened position. The displacement of the piston is caused by the alternating introduction of pressurizing fluid into separate actuation chambers. In the closed position, the piston is positioned so that at least one of the flowby passages is sealingly engaged in a manner that prevents fluid flow through the hanger body from outside sources such as an annulus bore located below the hanger body. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100108163 | CAGED POPPET VALVE - A novel valve assembly is provided. In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes a seat plate having a plurality of fluid conduits. The valve assembly may also include a plurality of poppet cages. In some embodiments, a poppet cage of such a plurality includes a mounting portion for coupling the poppet cage to the seat plate, and a receiving portion for receiving a poppet therein. Other devices, systems, and methods related to poppet cages are also disclosed. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100101800 | Subsea Completion with a Wellhead Annulus Access Adapter - A subsea completion assembly for a subsea well including installed casing and a wellhead. The assembly includes a production casing forming a B annulus between the outside of the production casing and the installed casing. The assembly also includes an annulus access adapter installed in the wellhead, the adapter including a manipulatable valve controlling fluid communication with the fluid in the B annulus across the annulus access adapter. A property of the fluid in the B annulus can be monitored by fluid communicated across the annulus access adapter. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100098534 | INTEGRAL SCROLL AND GEARBOX FOR A COMPRESSOR WITH SPEED CHANGE OPTION - The volute is cast integrally with the gearbox base to allow closer radial tolerances to be used to improve efficiency. In the preferred embodiment, compressors for multi-stage compression are assembled with intercoolers and the integral volute is cast together with the impeller housing and the lower gearbox housing and the associated intercooler. Efficiency increases of 2% or more are achievable. In multistage applications, efficiency gains in the early stages are compounded in each subsequent stage. Speed changes that change center distance between bull gear and pinion are accommodated by an offset opening in the inlet and diffuser that can line up with the impeller shaft as well as an offset opening in the fluid seal despite a pinion gear change, by reorientation and remounting of those parts. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100096577 | COMPRESSOR THROTTLING VALVE ASSEMBLY - A throttling valve assembly has an outer housing that is sealed. An actuator is connected to a pressure balanced shaft that extends into the housing to operate a plurality of linkages that can rotate blades in tandem. With the surrounding housing sealed, the shaft penetrations of the blade support shafts no longer need seals or a purge system to supply process gas during times of reduced pressure in situations with the blades nearly closed. A pressure equalization system has balance passages internal to the housing to allow flow from higher pressure zones to lower pressure zone of the process gas so as to avoid creation of a condition that can draw air into any zones of reduced pressure in the housing. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100090639 | Control System of an Actuator for the Actuation of Submarine Devices - Electronic control system for a submarine actuator, said actuator comprising a container body, from which a drive shaft projects that is suitable for inserting in a seat of said submarine device. The system comprises an electronic control board for at least one electric motor arranged inside said container body suitable for moving said drive shaft. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100078174 | STRESS DISTRIBUTING WELLHEAD CONNECTOR - In accordance with certain embodiments, the present inveniton provides a connector for attaching to a multi-toothed profile on a wellhead features a tooth profile that staggers loading preferably starting at a loading surface furthest from the connector body sitting on the wellhead and moving toward the connector body. The staggered loading more evenly distributes stresses on the matching loading surfaces as compared to the result of using a tooth profile on the connector that nearly exactly matches the profile on the wellhead. The joint can then take advantage of an increased preload and exhibit improved stress characteristics when operating at high loading conditions. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100072707 | METAL ENCAPSULATED COMPOSITE SEAL - A system, in certain embodiments, has a composite seal with both a metal shell and an elastic core, such as an elastomer core. In one embodiment, the composite seal has an annular metal shell with a top, a bottom, and a seal interface disposed between the top and the bottom. The composite seal also has an elastomer disposed within the annular metal shell, wherein the elastomer is configured to impart pressure against the seal interface. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100071790 | DIVERTER VALVE - Provided is a diverter valve including a housing assembly having a plurality of ports and a drum assembly disposed in the housing. The drum assembly including a plurality of passages for selectively coupling the ports, wherein an axial position of the drum assembly with respect to the ports determines which ports are active and which parts are dormant. Further provided is a method of operating a diverter valve, including disposing a drum of the diverter valve in a first position, wherein the first position is configured to provide a first passage from an inlet of the diverter valve to a first outlet of the diverter valve, the first passage comprising a first bend-pipe extending crosswise to an axis of the drum and comprising a first radius of curvature that is at least five times an internal diameter of the first bend-pipe, and moving the drum along the longitudinal axis through the diverter valve to a second position, wherein the second position is configured to provide a second passage from the inlet of the diverter valve to a second outlet of the diverter valve, the second passage comprising a second bend-pipe extending crosswise to the axis of the drum and comprising a second radius of curvature that is at least five times an internal diameter of the second bend-pipe. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100064893 | Separator and Method of Separation - A method of separating a multiphase fluid, the fluid including a relatively high density component and a relatively low density component, that includes introducing the fluid into a separation region; imparting a rotational movement into the multiphase fluid; forming an outer annular region of rotating fluid of predetermined thickness within the separation region; and forming and maintaining a core of fluid in an inner region. Fluid entering the separation vessel is directed into the outer annular region and the thickness of the outer annular region is such that the high density component is concentrated and substantially contained within this region, the low density component being concentrated in the rotating core. A separation system employing the method is also provided. The method and system are particularly suitable for the separation of solid debris from the fluids produced by a subterranean oil or gas well at wellhead flow pressure. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100052436 | POWER SUPPLY DEVICE - A power supply device ( | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100044038 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROCESSING FLUIDS FROM A WELL - Provided is a system, including a first module ( | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100043897 | CHEMICAL-INJECTION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - An apparatus that includes a chemical-injection management system. The chemical-injection management system may include a tree interface configured to couple the chemical-injection management system to a tree and a positive-displacement flow meter. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100040497 | POPPET VALVE ASSEMBLY - A novel valve assembly is provided. In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes a seat plate having a plurality of fluid conduits. The valve assembly may also include a plurality of poppet assemblies. In some embodiments, a poppet assembly of such a plurality includes at least one fluid port and a housing configured to be coupled to the seat plate to facilitate flow of a fluid through a respective fluid conduit via the at least one fluid port of the respective poppet assembly. Other devices, systems, and methods related to poppet assemblies are also disclosed. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100025604 | Slide Valve Control Device and a Drive Device for Use With It - A valve control device, in particular for control pods or similar equipment used in the mining and/or production of mineral oil/natural gas, comprises a valve housing in which hole or boring sections are arranged, and a valve slide movable relative to the hole sections, with at least a first and a second flow hole for the alternative connection of a feed line from a fluid pressure hose with at least one actuator or of the actuator to return line for leading the fluid away, wherein in each case one of the connections is made and the other is interrupted. To improve such a valve control device in that with only slight and economical constructional modifications with retention of all the advantages of known valve control devices, a substantial reduction in the leakage flow is facilitated or even almost completely suppressed, at least first and second valve elements which in the closed position can be pressed onto a valve seat formed especially at a hole section are laterally assigned to the flow holes, wherein in the connection position of the first flow hole the second valve element is in the closed position and in the connecting position of the second flow hole the first valve element is in the closed position each pressed onto the respective assigned valve seat in its closed position. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100025034 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROCESSING FLUIDS FROM A WELL - Provided is a system, including a first module ( | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100019573 | ELECTRIC CONTROL AND SUPPLY SYSTEM - In at least some embodiments, an electrically controlled subsea production system includes a subsea electrical distributor that receives a high direct current (DC) voltage. The electrical distributor converts the high DC voltage to a lower DC voltage. The electrically controlled subsea production system also includes a plurality of subsea trees coupled to the subsea electrical distributor, wherein valves of the subsea trees selectively operate based on the lower DC voltage. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100011557 | Flow Block - A method of manufacturing a flow block for use as a T-Block, tree block, manifold block or valve block, the method including: machining a main bore in a body; forming an opening in the body in a side wall of the main bore; providing an insert including a first bore intersecting with a second bore and being in fluid communication with each other; forming a substantially curved surface on at least part of the intersection between the first bore and the second bore; and inserting the insert into the opening, such that the first bore is substantially aligned with the main bore in order to provide a fluid flow path between the main bore and the second bore. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100008805 | VALVE ASSEMBLY AND SYSTEM - A novel valve assembly is provided. In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes a seat plate that includes a fluid conduit and an impact bushing that is coupled to the seat plate at a position adjacent to the fluid conduit. The valve assembly also includes a sealing assembly that is configured to form a seal with the impact bushing and to control flow of a fluid through the fluid conduit via relative displacement of the sealing assembly from the impact bushing. Systems and methods related to such a valve assembly are also disclosed. Data supplied from the esp@cenet database-Worldwide | 01-14-2010 |
| 20090301728 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RECOVERING FLUIDS FROM A WELL AND/OR INJECTING FLUIDS INTO A WELL - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retrofitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090301727 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RECOVERING FLUIDS FROM A WELL AND/OR INJECTING FLUIDS INTO A WELL - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090296428 | CONTROL AND SUPPLY SYSTEM - In accordance with at least some embodiments, a maritime well system includes a sea-surface control unit. The maritime well system also includes a sea-bed control unit coupled to the sea-surface control unit by a sub-sea cable configured to carry a direct current (DC) voltage output from the sea-surface control unit at least 30 kilometers to the sea-bed control unit. The maritime well system also includes a sub-sea tree coupled to the sea-bed control unit via a connecting line configured to carry a converted voltage output from the sea-bed control unit to the sub-sea tree. In accordance with at least some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the sub-sea cable is designed to carry a predetermined amount of power to the sea-bed control unit as DC power and is at least 10 times smaller than a cross-sectional area needed for carrying the predetermined amount of power to the sea-bed control unit as alternating current (AC) power. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090294717 | COMPRESSOR THROTTLING VALVE ASSEMBLY - A throttling valve assembly has an outer housing that is sealed. An actuator is connected to a pressure balanced shaft that extends into the housing to operate a plurality of linkages that can rotate blades in tandem. With the surrounding housing sealed, the shaft penetrations of the blade support shafts no longer need seals or a purge system to supply process gas during times of reduced pressure in situations with the blades nearly closed. A pressure equalization system has balance passages internal to the housing to allow flow from higher pressure zones to lower pressure zone of the process gas so as to avoid creation of a condition that can draw air into any zones of reduced pressure in the housing. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090294132 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RECOVERING FLUIDS FROM A WELL AND/OR INJECTING FLUIDS INTO A WELL - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retrofitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090294125 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RECOVERING FLUIDS FROM A WELL AND/OR INJECTING FLUIDS INTO A WELL - Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retrofitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090283081 | AIR INTAKE PORTING FOR A TWO STROKE ENGINE - A two stroke engine of a particular configuration can have its power output increased by running bigger pistons and using ports in the piston skirt through which to conduct compressed air within the skirt through short passages in the cylinder housing that conduct the air from within the skirt to above the piston. As a result a larger piston can be used for the same spacing and opening size in the block to save the need to redesign the block and the crankshaft. A position adjuster for the piston moves it axially without rotation of the piston ports out of alignment with inlet ports in the housing. The piston rod is held in the crosshead using a flat to prevent rotation while an adjuster nut that is turned creates axial movement in the piston rod with a lock nut securing the final piston position. | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090266542 | CAPILLARY INJECTOR - Provided is a mineral extraction system, including a branch having a branch passage, a diverter coupled to the branch passage, and a capillary injection conduit disposed inside to the branch passage. Further provided is a method of injecting chemicals, including injecting a chemical into a capillary injection conduit disposed internal to a production passage, wherein the chemical injection capillary conduit comprises an inlet and an outlet configured to terminate proximate a well formation. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090242490 | Method and Apparatus for Fluid Separation - A method is disclosed for separating a multiphase fluid stream comprising a heavier fluid component and a lighter fluid component, the method comprising causing the fluid to flow along a first helical flowpath, the first helical flowpath having a first pitch, the first helical flowpath being sufficiently long to establish a stabilised rotating fluid flow pattern for the stream causing the uniform rotating fluid to flow along a second helical flowpath, the second helical flowpath having a second pitch, wherein the second pitch is greater than the first pitch; and removing the lighter fluid from a radially inner region of the second helical flowpath. An apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed. The method and apparatus are particular suitable for the separation of oil droplets from water, especially from water for reinjection into a subterranean formation as part of an oil and gas production operation. The method and apparatus are conveniently applied on a modular basis. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090235779 | MODULAR CRANKSHAFT - In accordance with certain embodiments, a modular crankshaft features a connection system between modules that features opposed female receptacles. A pin having opposed beveled ends and hydraulic passages with it is inserted into the opposed receptacles. A pair of seals is disposed on the beveled ends and straddles a hydraulic fluid outlet. The crankshaft wall that defines each receptacle is designed to flex in response to applied hydraulic pressure between the seals on the tapered pin portion. A notch at the base of the receptacle in the crankshaft reduces stress concentration and enables the wall defining the crankshaft receptacle to come back when hydraulic pressure through the pin is removed. The opposed crankshaft receptacles are flanged to allow them to be pulled together over the pin. An interference fit results around the pin after the flanges are mated and the hydraulic pressure is removed. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090211749 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES FOR ISOLATING PORTIONS OF A WELLHEAD FROM FLUID PRESSURE - A wellhead system is provided. In one embodiment, the wellhead system includes a bypass sleeve for temporarily isolating portions of a wellhead assembly from pressurized fracing fluid. The bypass sleeve may include a generally tubular body having a tool interface, a lock ring disposed at least partially around the body, and an anti-rotation device coupled to the body. In some embodiments, the anti-rotation device includes a resilient member disposed in a cavity in the body, and an anti-rotation member biased away from the body by the resilient member. The anti-rotation member of some embodiments extends radially outward from the body. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090159426 | Electrostatic Separator with Multiple Horizontal Electrodes - An electrostatic dehydrator or separator having at least two generally horizontal electrodes will function as a separator for water and oil, and also for gas, water and oil. Gas/liquid separation occurs in the front section of the vessel. Oil/water separation takes place in a subsequent section of the vessel which may have two or three independent generally horizontal electrodes or grids spaced at different distances above the generally horizontal oil/water interface. The two or three independent electrodes or grids will each have their own transformer. The higher grid(s) will continue to operate even if the lower grid(s) short out. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090157839 | NETWORKED SERIES OF SENSORS HAVING DISTRIBUTED MEASUREMENT AND CONTROL FOR USE IN A HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENT - The invention is a networked system of devices positioned in a hazardous environment to monitor/control process conditions. The devices include sensors and controls such as valves. The sensors detect process conditions/control device settings and are monitored by a slave devices having, generally microprocessor controlled and having associated memory to receive and record the sensor/control device data. The network includes master devices, each master device may be associated with one or more slaved devices and associated sensors, where the master device communicates to is associated slave devices through a digital communication bus. The master device can automatically detect its associated slave devices and detect the communication and data characteristics of the slave devices. The master may also set parameters for detected slave devices, such as needed for computations performed by the master (using its own microprocessor) using data received form the slave device(s). The master device receives slave device data by requesting or polling the data from the slave device over a digital communication bus. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090155096 | HEAT EXCHANGER - Systems, methods, and devices are disclosed, including a heat exchanger having a manifold with a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet and a plurality of tubes with interiors fluidly connected to the manifold. In some embodiments, the plurality of tubes and the manifold are configured to fit within a bonnet of a compressor. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090040799 | Universal Energy Supply System - A universal energy supply system for at least one electrical consumer comprises at least one AC voltage source and a cable connection connecting the source with the electrical consumer, wherein an AC/DC converting means is assigned to the AC voltage source for converting the AC voltage into DC voltage which DC voltage can be supplied to the electrical consumer via the cable connection. To improve such a universal energy supply system in that with small constructional efforts and with low costs, the energy supply to an electrical consumer is guaranteed also over great distances and the corresponding voltage supply is stabilized, the efficiency being relatively high at the same time and the system being redundant, the AC/DC conversion means comprises a number of AC/DC converting units which are connected in parallel with the AC voltage source on the input side and are serially connected to the electric consumer on the output side, each converting unit being constructed as a blocked switch mode power supply. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090039003 | Single-Cell Mechanical Flotation System - A mechanical flotation system having only one cell may be nearly as efficient as one having two or more cells, yet provide an apparatus with a considerably smaller footprint, significantly reduced capital and operating costs, as well as be resistant to floating oil recovery platform wave effects. The single-cell mechanical flotation system may have one skim collection channel that at least partially surrounds a single gas ingestion and mixing mechanism. At least one baffle may direct suspended matter or floc toward the skim collection which may be circular. The gas layer over the liquid is not vented for the purpose of gasification. The vessel may be a cylindrical pressure vessel oriented vertically, and optionally the inlet may be tangential to the periphery of the vessel to impart liquid rotation inside the vessel when liquid is introduced. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090021076 | DC CONVERTER - A DC converter is connected to a DC source on its input side. On the output side, the DC delivers a converted DC voltage to at least one electric consumer via a cable connection. To improve such a DC converter in that it has a comparatively simple structural design and is able to reliably convert high DC voltages even in the case of high power, and in such a way that the reliability of the converter is increased and cooling systems entailing high costs can be dispensed with, the DC converter comprises a plurality of DC converter components, each of said DC components being, on the input side, serially connected to the DC source and, on the output side connected in parallel to the cable connection so as to provide the converted DC voltage for the electric consumer. | 01-22-2009 |
| 20090014368 | Mechanical Flotation Device for Reduction of Oil, Alkalinity and Undesirable Gases - A mechanical vessel may effectively and simultaneously displace a first undesired gas from within water with a second desired gas, and remove at least one alkaline species and oily matter from the water. The vessel raises the pH of the water and reduces the lime requirement for subsequent lime softening. The vessel receives the water containing the first gas and passes the water through a series of gasification chambers. Each gasification chamber may have a mechanism that ingests and mixes a second gas into the water thereby physically displacing at least a portion of the first gas into a vapor space at the top of each gasification chamber from which it is subsequently removed. There is an absence of communication between the vapor spaces of adjacent chambers. An acid is added to remove the alkaline species, where the first gas is an optional by-product that is also removed. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090014244 | INTEGRATED ROTARY VALVE - A system in some embodiments includes a machine block comprising features configured to support moving machine components within a lubricating fluid, wherein the machine block includes an integral valve block configured to route the lubricating fluid through a first filter without a second filter and configured to route the lubricating fluid through the second filter without the first filter. Further embodiments include a method that includes switching circulation of a lubricant between a first filter and a second filter in response to an angular position of a valve disposed in a valve block integral to a machine block having moving components lubricated by the lubricant | 01-15-2009 |
| 20080302536 | Multi-Deployable Subsea Stack System - Methods for deploying a subsea blowout preventer stack system comprising a lower marine riser package, a blowout preventer stack with a first ram blowout preventer, and an additional blowout preventer package releasably coupled to the blowout preventer stack and comprising a second ram blowout preventer. The subsea blowout preventer stack assembly can be deployed by coupling a drilling riser to the lower marine riser package that is releasably connected to the blowout preventer stack. The lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack are then toward a subsea wellhead and then landed on the additional blowout preventer package that is coupled to the subsea wellhead. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080273991 | AIR COOLED PACKAGED MULTI-STAGE CENTRIFUGAL COMPRESSOR METHOD - Provided is a method including routing a compressed gas from a centrifugal gas compressor through at least one of a plurality of air coolers, and directing air flow through the plurality of air coolers, wherein the plurality of air coolers are arranged adjacent to one another in a single plane that is transverse to the air flow. Further provided is a method including removing tube cores from a cooler chamber of a liquid cooler of a centrifugal gas compressor, coupling a chamber port of the cooler chamber to a first port of an air cooler, and coupling a second port of the air cooler to a compressor port of a stage of the centrifugal gas compressor. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080245432 | Subsea Equipment - A subsea equipment ( | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080223459 | SPRINGLESS COMPRESSOR VALVE - A fluid-handling system that, in some embodiments, includes a poppet having a body, a magnet, and a mounting member configured to secure the magnet to the body is disclosed. Additionally, a method of forming a valve is disclosed. In some embodiments, the method includes providing a poppet body for a valve, providing a magnet, and providing a mounting member configured to attach the magnet to the poppet body | 09-18-2008 |
| 20080202109 | Hydraulic Actuation Assembly - An assembly for the hydraulic actuation of safety equipment includes a hydraulic actuator disposed between a fluid feed line and a supply line in fluid communication with the safety equipment. A pump valve in the supply line downstream of the hydraulic actuator is adjustable between open and closed positions for providing hydraulic fluid to supply line. A fluid source communicates with a bypass line in fluid communication with the supply line. A bypass valve is disposed between the fluid source and the supply line and is lockable between open and closed positions for providing other hydraulic fluid to supply line. | 08-28-2008 |
