Inductive coupler assembly for downhole transmission line

Abstract

Inductive coupler assemblies for controlling the stray magnetic fields of an inductive coupler to reduce the associated losses are disclosed. This results in reduced attenuation (increased efficiency) of the inductive coupler even in the presence of gaps. The assembly includes an inductive coupler having a housing, a biasing element, and a retention mechanism. The assembly further includes a wire surrounded by a ring of flux channel material disposed in the housing. In some embodiments, the retention mechanism is adapted for removal of the inductive coupler from a pipe joint end. The biasing element may be a circumferential spring disposed between the housing and the pipe joint end. The retention mechanism may be a retention snap ring, press fit, or threaded, to removably couple the housing to the pipe joint end.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.