Method and apparatus for dropping a pump down plug or ball
US8651174B2 · kind B2 · utility
28Cited by
40References
41Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 5, 2011 |
| Grant date | Feb 18, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 16, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B2200/04
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured tool body assembly having valving members (e.g., safety or kelly valves) and valving members holding plugs, balls, or darts to be dropped. A transmitter (or transceiver) provides an ability to generate a wireless signal that is received by receivers (or transceivers) on the tool body assembly. Each receiver (or transceiver) controls an electrical actuator that engages a valving member. Wireless signals can be used to open or close a selected valving member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.