US 2011/0079394 A1 · Multi-stage Pressure Equalization Valve Assembly for Subterranean Valves

Abstract

A downhole valve that operates on turning of a member having a passage through it with a control system also features a passage from above an uphole seat for the member which communicates to the isolated passage within the member when the valve is closed. The passage features a check valve assembly that preferably has redundant sealing features and filters to prevent debris entry. Pressure applied from above the closed member gets through the check valve assembly to equalize the higher pressure below the ball with the pressure raised in the ball from pressure application at the surface. Removal of the applied pressure reseats the check valve or valves to allow the hydraulic system to rotate the member while the member is no longer subject to a high differential pressure.

Claims22

Dependent claims

A pressure equalizing system for a subterranean tool, comprising:

a movable component in a housing having a housing passage extending from an uphole end to a downhole end, said component having at least two positions and configured in said passage to trap pressure in a first zone of said housing when said movable component is placed in a first position where said trapped pressure is at a lower pressure than pressure isolated adjacent said downhole end by said movable component in said first position;
a selectively opened pressure responsive bypass with flow access to said uphole end that extends into said zone so that pressure delivered to said uphole end will enter said zone to equalize pressure in said zone with pressure near said isolated downhole end to facilitate moving said movable member to a second position.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Multi-stage Pressure Equalization Valve Assembly for Subterranean Valves

Life of this patent

Multi-stage Pressure Equalization Valve Assembly for Subterranean Valves

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims22