Management technique for hydraulic line leaks
AssigneeSchlumberger Technology Corporation
InventorsIves D. Loretz, Erdinc Cosgun, Spyro Kotsonis
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A self-seeking plug for deployment in a hydraulic line with a leak therein. The plug is configured for circulation through the line and to a resting location adjacently below or past the location of the leak in the line. As a result, the location of the leak may be identified, for example with reference to a tether running between the resting location and the site of deployment. Thus, line repair may more readily ensue. Additionally, and/or alternatively, sealing repair may ensue by way of sealing element(s) outfitted on the plug. Such may or may not be accompanied by an exposable bypass channel through the plug for sake of full hydraulic restoration of the line.
Claims20
A plug for a hydraulic line having a leak, the plug comprising:
- a main body for fluid driven advancement through an inner channel defined by the line to a resting location adjacent the leak;
- and
- a substantially sealable biasing outer surface of said body for guided interfacing of said body relative an inner wall of the line during the advancement.
A method of managing a hydraulic control line with a leak therein, the method comprising:
- inserting a self-seeking leak plug into the control line from an oilfield surface location adjacent a well accommodating the line;
- and
- circulating the plug through the line to a resting location adjacent the leak.
A method of repairing a leak in a hydraulic line, the method comprising:
- inserting a self-seeking leak plug into the line;
- circulating the plug through the line to a resting location adjacent the leak;
- and
- sealing the line at a location above the leak.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.