Drillable inflatable packer & methods of use
US6578638B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 27, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jun 17, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 27, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B33/13
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Methods for reclaiming a borehole extending from an earth surface into the earth, part of which borehole is in a lost circulation zone. The methods include the steps of closing off the borehole to fluid flow above the lost circulation zone by installing a packer system with an inflatable packer element, inflating the inflatable packer element with cement, allowing the cement to set so that the inflatable packer effectively seals off the borehole to fluid flow, and then drilling out the inflatable packer. Such a method also may include a further operation conducted in the borehole within the lost circulation zone. The packer system comprises in one arrangement a packer body, an inflatable bladder around the packer body, a plurality of ribs mounted around at least a portion of the inflatable bladder, and a valve apparatus, all of which are fabricated from a drillable material.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.