Sample chamber with dead volume flushing
US6467544B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 14, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 22, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B49/082
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A sample module for use in a downhole tool includes a sample chamber for receiving and storing pressurized fluid. A piston is slidably disposed in the chamber to define a sample cavity and a buffer cavity, and the cavities have variable volumes determined by movement of the piston. A first flowline is provided for communicating fluid obtained from a subsurface formation through the sample module. A second flowline connects the first flowline to the sample cavity, and a third flowline connects the sample cavity to one of the first flowline and an outlet port. A first valve is disposed in the second flowline for controlling the flow of fluid from the first flowline to the sample cavity, and a second valve is disposed in the third flowline for controlling the flow of fluid out of the sample cavity, whereby any fluid preloaded in the sample cavity may be flushed therefrom using the formation fluid in the first flowline and the first and second valves.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.