Expandable sand control device and specialized completion system and method
US6766862B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 15, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jul 27, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 15, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B43/103
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
In general, a method is provided for completing a subterranean wellbore, and an apparatus for using the method. The method comprises positioning an expandable sand-control device in the wellbore thereby forming an annulus between the sand-control device and the wellbore; depositing a filter media in the annulus; and after the depositing step, radially expanding the sand-control device to decrease the volume of the annulus. The sand-control device can be a sand screen or slotted or perforated liner having radially extending passageways in the walls thereof, the passageways designed to substantially prevent movement of the particulate material through the passageways and into the sand-control device. Where a slotted liner is desired, the passageways can be plugged during positioning and later unplugged for production. Another embodiment of the method and apparatus presented herein comprises positioning a well-completion device into the wellbore, thereby forming an annulus between the well-completion device and the wellbore, the well-completion device having a flexible, permeable membrane sleeve surrounding an expandable sand-control device; and thereafter radially expanding the sand-…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.