Deployment/retrieval method and apparatus for well tools used with coiled tubing

Abstract

A method of inserting a well service tool for operating a coiled tubing which avoids the high and/or remote mounting of the heavy coiled tubing injector drive mechanism is disclosed. The method comprises assembling the well service tool within a closed end lubricator, mounting the lubricator or the wellhead and lowering the tool into the wellbore to a distance whereby at least a portion of the tool is adjacent the pipe rams of the wellhead. The pipe rams are then closed against the tool to effect a fluid tight seal and to hold the tool in position within the wellhead. The lubricator is then removed and the coiled tubing and injector drive mechanism are connected to the tool and wellhead, respectively. The pipe rams can then be released and normal coiled tubing operations carried out. The method offers the additional safety advantage of permitting pressure testing at each stage of the insertion process. Retrieval of the tool can be effected merely by reversing the process.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.