U.S. patent application number 11/573018 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-10 for expandable tubular.
This patent application is currently assigned to ENVENTURE GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY, LLC. Invention is credited to Mark Shuster, Kevin K. Waddell, Edwin Arnold Zwald, JR..
Application Number | 20090301733 11/573018 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35839840 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090301733 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shuster; Mark ; et
al. |
December 10, 2009 |
EXPANDABLE TUBULAR
Abstract
An expandable tubular member.
Inventors: |
Shuster; Mark; (Voorburg,
NL) ; Waddell; Kevin K.; (Houston, TX) ;
Zwald, JR.; Edwin Arnold; (Houston, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Conley Rose, P.C
P.O. Box 3267
Houston
TX
77253-3267
US
|
Assignee: |
ENVENTURE GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY,
LLC
Houston
TX
|
Family ID: |
35839840 |
Appl. No.: |
11/573018 |
Filed: |
July 29, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
July 29, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2005/027318 |
371 Date: |
July 31, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60598020 |
Aug 2, 2004 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
166/378 ;
166/207 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16L 55/1657 20130101;
E21B 43/106 20130101; F16L 55/1653 20130101; E21B 43/103
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
166/378 ;
166/207 |
International
Class: |
E21B 19/00 20060101
E21B019/00; E21B 43/10 20060101 E21B043/10 |
Claims
1-990. (canceled)
991. An expandable tubular assembly, comprising: a structure
defining a passage therein; an expandable tubular member positioned
in the passage; and one or more of the following: means for
providing a substantially uniform distance between the expandable
tubular member and the structure after radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member in the passage; means
for creating a circumferential tensile force in the structure upon
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular
member in the passage, whereby the circumferential tensile force
increases the collapse strength of the combined structure and
expandable tubular member; and means positioned between the
expandable tubular member and the structure for increasing the
collapse strength of the expandable tubular member upon radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member
in the passage.
992. The assembly of claim 1, comprising the means for providing a
substantially uniform distance between the expandable tubular
member and the structure after radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member in the passage.
993. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the structure comprises at
least one of a wellbore casing and a tubular member.
994. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the means for providing a
substantially uniform distance between the expandable tubular
member and the structure after radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member in the passage
comprises one or more of the following: an interstitial layer
comprising a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member; an
interstitial layer comprising aluminum; an interstitial layer
comprising aluminum and zinc; an interstitial layer comprising a
plastic; an interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped around
an outer surface of the expandable tubular member; an interstitial
layer comprising a material wrapped around an outer surface of the
expandable tubular member and comprising a soft metal having a
yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising a
material wrapped around an outer surface of the expandable tubular
member and comprising aluminum; an interstitial layer comprising a
material lining an inner surface of the structure; an interstitial
layer comprising a material lining an inner surface of the
structure and comprising a soft metal having a yield strength which
is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular member;
an interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner surface
of the structure and comprising aluminum; an interstitial layer
having multiple layers; and an interstitial layer having multiple
layers comprising respective materials selected from the group
consisting of a soft metal having a yield strength which is less
than the yield strength of the expandable tubular member, a
plastic, a composite material, and combinations thereof.
995. The assembly of claim 1, comprising the means for creating a
circumferential tensile force in the structure upon radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member
in the passage, whereby the circumferential tensile force increases
the collapse strength of the combined structure and expandable
tubular member.
996. The assembly of claim 5 wherein the structure comprises at
least one of a wellbore casing and a tubular member.
997. The assembly of claim 5 wherein the means for creating a
circumferential tensile force in the structure upon radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member
in the passage comprises one or more of the following: an
interstitial layer comprising a soft metal having a yield strength
which is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular
member; an interstitial layer comprising aluminum; an interstitial
layer comprising aluminum and zinc; an interstitial layer
comprising a plastic; an interstitial layer comprising a material
wrapped around an outer surface of the expandable tubular member;
an interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped around an outer
surface of the expandable tubular member and comprising a soft
metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength
of the expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising
a material wrapped around an outer surface of the expandable
tubular member and comprising aluminum; an interstitial layer
comprising a material lining an inner surface of the structure; an
interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner surface of
the structure and comprising a soft metal having a yield strength
which is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular
member; an interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner
surface of the structure and comprising aluminum; an interstitial
layer of varying thickness; a non uniform interstitial layer; an
interstitial layer having multiple layers; and an interstitial
layer having multiple layers comprising respective materials
selected from the group consisting of a soft metal having a yield
strength which is less than the yield strength of the expandable
tubular member, a plastic, a composite material, and combinations
thereof.
998. The assembly of claim 1, comprising the means positioned
between the expandable tubular member and the structure for
increasing the collapse strength of the expandable tubular member
upon radial expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable
tubular member in the passage.
999. The assembly of claim 8 wherein the structure comprises at
least one of a wellbore casing and a tubular member.
1000. The assembly of claim 8 wherein the structure is in
circumferential tension.
1001. The assembly of claim 8 wherein the means positioned between
the expandable tubular member and the structure for increasing the
collapse strength of the expandable tubular member upon radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member
in the passage comprises one or more of the following: an
interstitial layer comprising a soft metal having a yield strength
which is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular
member; an interstitial layer comprising aluminum; an interstitial
layer comprising aluminum and zinc; an interstitial layer
comprising a plastic; an interstitial layer comprising a material
wrapped around an outer surface of the expandable tubular member;
an interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped around an outer
surface of the expandable tubular member and comprising a soft
metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength
of the expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising
a material wrapped around an outer surface of the expandable
tubular member and comprising aluminum; an interstitial layer
comprising a material lining an inner surface of the structure; an
interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner surface of
the structure and comprising a soft metal having a yield strength
which is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular
member; an interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner
surface of the structure and comprising aluminum; an interstitial
layer of varying thickness; a non uniform interstitial layer; an
interstitial layer having multiple layers; and an interstitial
layer having multiple layers comprising respective materials
selected from the group consisting of a soft metal having a yield
strength which is less than the yield strength of the expandable
tubular member, a plastic, a composite material, and combinations
thereof.
1002. A method comprising: providing the expandable tubular member;
applying a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member to the outer
surface of the expandable tubular member; positioning the
expandable tubular member in the preexisting structure; and
radially expanding and plastically deforming the expandable tubular
member such that the soft metal engages the preexisting
structure.
1003. The method of claim 12 wherein radially expanding and
plastically deforming the expandable tubular member such that the
soft metal engages the preexisting structure comprises: radially
expanding and plastically deforming the expandable tubular member
such that the soft metal forms an interstitial layer between the
preexisting structure and the expandable tubular member.
1004. The method of claim 13 wherein selecting a soft metal having
a yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member comprises: selecting a soft metal having
a yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member such that, upon radial expansion and
plastic deformation, the interstitial layer results in an increased
collapse strength of the combined expandable tubular member and the
preexisting structure.
1005. The method of claim 13 further comprising: providing a
substantially uniform distance between the expandable tubular
member and the preexisting structure with the interstitial layer
after radial expansion and plastic deformation.
1006. The method of claim 12 further comprising: creating a
circumferential tensile force in the preexisting structure
resulting in an increased collapse strength of the combined
expandable tubular member and the preexisting structure.
1007. The method of claim 12 further comprising: creating a
circumferential tensile force in the preexisting structure by
radially expanding and plastically deforming the expandable tubular
member such that the soft metal engages the preexisting
structure.
1008. The method of claim 12 wherein a tubular assembly comprising
the expandable tubular member and the preexisting structure is
formed in response to radially expanding and plastically deforming
the expandable tubular member such that the soft metal engages the
preexisting structure; and wherein the tubular assembly has a
collapse strength which exceeds a theoretical collapse strength of
a tubular member having a thickness equal to the sum of a thickness
of the expandable tubular member and a thickness of the preexisting
structure.
1009. A method comprising: providing an expandable tubular member;
applying a layer of material to the outer surface of the expandable
tubular member; positioning the expandable tubular member in a
preexisting structure; radially expanding and plastically deforming
the expandable tubular member to form a tubular assembly comprising
the expandable tubular member and the preexisting structure; and
providing a substantially uniform distance between the expandable
tubular member and the preexisting structure with the interstitial
layer after radial expansion and plastic deformation; wherein the
collapse strength of the tubular assembly is increased in response
to providing a substantially uniform distance between the
expandable tubular member and the preexisting structure with the
interstitial layer after radial expansion and plastic
deformation.
1010. An expandable tubular assembly, comprising: a first tubular
member comprising a first tubular member wall thickness and
defining a passage; a second tubular member comprising a second
tubular member wall thickness and positioned in the passage; and
means for increasing the collapse strength of the combined first
tubular member and the second tubular member upon radial expansion
and plastic deformation of the first tubular member in the passage,
whereby the increased collapse strength exceeds the theoretically
calculated collapse strength of a tubular member having a thickness
approximately equal to the sum of the first tubular wall thickness
and the second tubular wall thickness.
1011. The assembly of claim 20 wherein the first tubular member
comprises a wellbore casing.
1012. The assembly of claim 20 wherein the theoretically calculated
collapse strength of a tubular member having a thickness
approximately equal to the sum of the first tubular wall thickness
and the second tubular wall thickness is calculated using API
collapse modeling.
1013. The assembly of claim 20 wherein the means for increasing the
collapse strength of the combined first tubular member and the
second tubular member upon radial expansion and plastic deformation
of the first tubular member in the passage comprises one or more of
the following: an interstitial layer comprising a soft metal having
a yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising
aluminum; an interstitial layer comprising aluminum and zinc; an
interstitial layer comprising a plastic; an interstitial layer
comprising a material wrapped around an outer surface of the
expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising a
material wrapped around an outer surface of the expandable tubular
member and comprising a soft metal having a yield strength which is
less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular member; an
interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped around an outer
surface of the expandable tubular member and comprising aluminum;
an interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner surface
of the structure; an interstitial layer comprising a material
lining an inner surface of the structure and comprising a soft
metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength
of the expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising
a material lining an inner surface of the structure and comprising
aluminum; an interstitial layer of varying thickness; a non uniform
interstitial layer; an interstitial layer having multiple layers;
and an interstitial layer having multiple layers comprising
respective materials selected from the group consisting of a soft
metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength
of the expandable tubular member, a plastic, a composite material,
and combinations thereof.
1014. An expandable tubular assembly, comprising: a first tubular
member comprising a first tubular member wall thickness and
defining a passage; a second tubular member comprising a second
tubular member wall thickness and positioned in the passage; and
means for increasing the collapse strength of the combined first
tubular member and the second tubular member upon radial expansion
and plastic deformation of the first tubular member in the passage,
whereby the increased collapse strength exceeds the theoretically
calculated collapse strength of a tubular member having a thickness
approximately equal to the sum of the first tubular wall thickness
and the second tubular wall thickness; wherein the first tubular
member comprises a wellbore casing; wherein the theoretically
calculated collapse strength of a tubular member having a thickness
approximately equal to the sum of the first tubular wall thickness
and the second tubular wall thickness is calculated using API
collapse modeling; and wherein the means for increasing the
collapse strength of the combined first tubular member and the
second tubular member upon radial expansion and plastic deformation
of the first tubular member in the passage comprises one or more of
the following: an interstitial layer comprising a soft metal having
a yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising
aluminum; an interstitial layer comprising aluminum and zinc; an
interstitial layer comprising a plastic; an interstitial layer
comprising a material wrapped around an outer surface of the
expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising a
material wrapped around an outer surface of the expandable tubular
member and comprising a soft metal having a yield strength which is
less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular member; an
interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped around an outer
surface of the expandable tubular member and comprising aluminum;
an interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner surface
of the structure; an interstitial layer comprising a material
lining an inner surface of the structure and comprising a soft
metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength
of the expandable tubular member; an interstitial layer comprising
a material lining an inner surface of the structure and comprising
aluminum; an interstitial layer of varying thickness; a non uniform
interstitial layer; an interstitial layer having multiple layers;
and an interstitial layer having multiple layers comprising
respective materials selected from the group consisting of a soft
metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength
of the expandable tubular member, a plastic, a composite material,
and combinations thereof.
1015. A method comprising: providing the expandable tubular member;
applying a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member to the outer
surface of the expandable tubular member; positioning the
expandable tubular member in the preexisting structure; and
radially expanding and plastically deforming the expandable tubular
member such that the soft metal engages the preexisting structure;
wherein radially expanding and plastically deforming the expandable
tubular member such that the soft metal engages the preexisting
structure comprises radially expanding and plastically deforming
the expandable tubular member such that the soft metal forms an
interstitial layer between the preexisting structure and the
expandable tubular member; wherein the method further comprises:
providing a substantially uniform distance between the expandable
tubular member and the preexisting structure with the interstitial
layer after radial expansion and plastic deformation; and creating
a circumferential tensile force in the preexisting structure by
radially expanding and plastically deforming the expandable tubular
member such that the soft metal engages the preexisting structure;
wherein a tubular assembly comprising the expandable tubular member
and the preexisting structure is formed in response to radially
expanding and plastically deforming the expandable tubular member
such that the soft metal engages the preexisting structure; and
wherein the tubular assembly has a collapse strength which exceeds
a theoretical collapse strength of a tubular member having a
thickness equal to the sum of a thickness of the expandable tubular
member and a thickness of the preexisting structure.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of the filing date of
U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/598,020, attorney
docket number 25791.329, filed on Aug. 2, 2004, the disclosure
which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of PCT
Application PCT/US2004/028887, attorney docket number 25791.304.02,
filed on Sep. 7, 2004.
This application is related to the following co-pending
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patent application Ser. No. 09/454,139, attorney docket no.
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U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/502,350, attorney docket no.
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U.S. Pat. No. 6,328,113, which was filed as U.S. patent application
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1, 2002, which claims priority from provisional application
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10, 2000, which claims priority from provisional application
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No. 60/318,386, attorney docket no. 25791.67.02, filed on Sep. 10,
2001, (45) PCT application US 02/39425, filed on Dec. 10, 2002,
attorney docket no. 25791.68.02, which claims priority from U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/343,674, attorney docket
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of U.S. Pat. No. 6,328,113, which was filed as U.S. patent
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application 60/108,558, filed on Nov. 16, 1998, (47) U.S. utility
patent application Ser. No. 10/516,467, attorney docket no.
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continuation-in-part application of U.S. Pat. No. 6,328,113, which
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Ser. No. 10/074,703, attorney docket no. 25791.74, filed on Feb.
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Ser. No. 10/076,660, attorney docket no. 25791.76, filed on Feb.
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Ser. No. 10/076,659, attorney docket no. 25791.78, filed on Feb.
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Ser. No. 10/078,922, attorney docket no. 25791.80, filed on Feb.
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priority from provisional application 60/121,841, filed on Feb. 26,
1999, (56) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/078,921, attorney
docket no. 25791.81, filed on Feb. 20, 2002, which is a divisional
of U.S. Pat. No. 6,568,471, which was filed as patent application
Ser. No. 09/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791.12.02, filed on Feb.
24, 2000, which claims priority from provisional application
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Ser. No. 10/261,928, attorney docket no. 25791.82, filed on Oct. 1,
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provisional application 60/137,998, filed on Jun. 7, 1999, (58)
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/079,276, attorney docket no.
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Pat. No. 6,568,471, which was filed as patent application Ser. No.
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U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/092,481, attorney docket no.
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(65) PCT application US 03/15020, filed on May 12, 2003, attorney
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U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/372,048, attorney
docket no. 25791.93, filed on Apr. 12, 2002, (68) U.S. patent
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filed on Dec. 30, 2002, which is a divisional U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/679,906, filed on Oct. 5, 2000, attorney
docket no. 25791.37.02, which claims priority from provisional
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(70) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/261,927, attorney docket
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Pat. No. 6,557,640, which was filed as patent application Ser. No.
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which claims priority from provisional application 60/137,998,
filed on Jun. 7, 1999, (71) U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/262,008, attorney docket no. 25791.98, filed on Oct. 1, 2002,
which is a divisional of U.S. Pat. No. 6,557,640, which was filed
as patent application Ser. No. 09/588,946, attorney docket no.
25791.17.02, filed on Jun. 7, 2000, which claims priority from
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U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/261,925, attorney docket no.
25791.99, filed on Oct. 1, 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. Pat.
No. 6,557,640, which was filed as patent application Ser. No.
09/588,946, attorney docket no. 25791.17.02, filed on Jun. 7, 2000,
which claims priority from provisional application 60/137,998,
filed on Jun. 7, 1999, (73) U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/199,524, attorney docket no. 25791.100, filed on Jul. 19, 2002,
which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 6,497,289, which was filed
as U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 09/454,139, attorney docket no.
25791.03.02, filed on Dec. 3, 1999, which claims priority from
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application US 03/10144, filed on Mar. 28, 2003, attorney docket
no. 25791.101.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional
patent application Ser. No. 60/372,632, attorney docket no.
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application Ser. No. 60/412,542, attorney docket no. 25791.102,
filed on Sep. 20, 2002, (76) PCT application US03/14153, filed on
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priority from U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/380,147, attorney docket no. 25791.104, filed on May 6, 2002,
(77) PCT application US03/19993, filed on Jun. 24, 2003, attorney
docket no. 25791.106.02, which claims priority from U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/397,284, attorney docket
no. 25791.106, filed on Jul. 19, 2002, (78) PCT application
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which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application Ser.
No. 60/387,486, attorney docket no. 25791.107, filed on Jun. 10,
2002, (79) PCT application US03/18530, filed on Jun. 11, 2003,
attorney docket no. 25791.108.02, which claims priority from U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/387,961, attorney docket
no. 25791.108, filed on Jun. 12, 2002, (80) PCT application
US03/20694, filed on Jul. 1, 2003, attorney docket no.
25791.110.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/398,061, attorney docket no. 25791.110,
filed on Jul. 24, 2002, (81) PCT application US 03/20870, filed on
Jul. 2, 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.111.02, which claims
priority from U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/399,240, attorney docket no. 25791.111, filed on Jul. 29, 2002,
(82) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/412,487,
attorney docket no. 25791.112, filed on Sep. 20, 2002, (83) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/412,488, attorney docket
no. 25791.114, filed on Sep. 20, 2002, (84) U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/280,356, attorney docket no. 25791.115, filed on Oct.
25, 2002, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 6,470,966, which
was filed as patent application Ser. No. 09/850,093, filed on May
7, 2001, attorney docket no. 25791.55, as a divisional application
of U.S. Pat. No. 6,497,289, which was filed as U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/454,139, attorney docket no. 25791.03.02,
filed on Dec. 3, 1999, which claims priority from provisional
application 60/111,293, filed on Dec. 7, 1998, (85) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/412,177, attorney docket
no. 25791.117, filed on Sep. 20, 2002, (86) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/412,653, attorney docket no. 25791.118,
filed on Sep. 20, 2002, (87) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/405,610, attorney docket no. 25791.119, filed on Aug.
23, 2002, (88) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/405,394, attorney docket no. 25791.120, filed on Aug. 23, 2002,
(89) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/412,544,
attorney docket no. 25791.121, filed on Sep. 20, 2002, (90) PCT
application US03/24779, filed on Aug. 8, 2003, attorney docket no.
25791.125.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/407,442, attorney docket no. 25791.125,
filed on Aug. 30, 2002, (91) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/423,363, attorney docket no. 25791.126, filed on Dec.
10, 2002, (92) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/412,196, attorney docket no. 25791.127, filed on Sep. 20, 2002,
(93) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/412,187,
attorney docket no. 25791.128, filed on Sep. 20, 2002, (94) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/412,371, attorney docket
no. 25791.129, filed on Sep. 20, 2002, (95) U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/382,325, attorney docket no. 25791.145, filed on Mar.
5, 2003, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 6,557,640, which
was filed as patent application Ser. No. 09/588,946, attorney
docket no. 25791.17.02, filed on Jun. 7, 2000, which claims
priority from provisional application 60/137,998, filed on Jun. 7,
1999, (96) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/624,842, attorney
docket no. 25791.151, filed on Jul. 22, 2003, which is a divisional
of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/502,350, attorney docket no.
25791.8.02, filed on Feb. 10, 2000, which claims priority from
provisional application 60/119,611, filed on Feb. 11, 1999, (97)
U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/431,184, attorney
docket no. 25791.157, filed on Dec. 5, 2002, (98) U.S. provisional
patent application Ser. No. 60/448,526, attorney docket no.
25791.185, filed on Feb. 18, 2003, (99) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/461,539, attorney docket no. 25791.186,
filed on Apr. 9, 2003, (100) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/462,750, attorney docket no. 25791.193, filed on Apr.
14, 2003, (101) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/436,106, attorney docket no. 25791.200, filed on Dec. 23, 2002,
(102) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/442,942,
attorney docket no. 25791.213, filed on Jan. 27, 2003, (103) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/442,938, attorney docket
no. 25791.225, filed on Jan. 27, 2003, (104) U.S. provisional
patent application Ser. No. 60/418,687, attorney docket no.
25791.228, filed on Apr. 18, 2003, (105) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/454,896, attorney docket no. 25791.236,
filed on Mar. 14, 2003, (106) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/450,504, attorney docket no. 25791.238, filed on Feb.
26, 2003, (107) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/451,152, attorney docket no. 25791.239, filed on Mar. 9, 2003,
(108) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/455,124,
attorney docket no. 25791.241, filed on Mar. 17, 2003, (109) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/453,678, attorney docket
no. 25791.253, filed on Mar. 11, 2003, (110) U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/421,682, attorney docket no. 25791.256,
filed on Apr. 23, 2003, which is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/523,468, attorney docket no. 25791.11.02,
filed on Mar. 10, 2000, which claims priority from provisional
application 60/124,042, filed on Mar. 11, 1999, (111) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/457,965, attorney docket
no. 25791.260, filed on Mar. 27, 2003, (112) U.S. provisional
patent application Ser. No. 60/455,718, attorney docket no.
25791.262, filed on Mar. 18, 2003, (113) U.S. Pat. No. 6,550,821,
which was filed as patent application Ser. No. 09/811,734, filed on
Mar. 19, 2001, (114) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/436,467,
attorney docket no. 25791.268, filed on May 12, 2003, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent number 6,604,763, which was filed as
application Ser. No. 09/559,122, attorney docket no. 25791.23.02,
filed on Apr. 26, 2000, which claims priority from provisional
application 60/131,106, filed on Apr. 26, 1999, (115) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/459,776, attorney docket
no. 25791.270, filed on Apr. 2, 2003, (116) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/461,094, attorney docket no. 25791.272,
filed on Apr. 8, 2003, (117) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/461,038, attorney docket no. 25791.273, filed on Apr.
7, 2003, (118) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/463,586, attorney docket no. 25791.277, filed on Apr. 17, 2003,
(119) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/472,240,
attorney docket no. 25791.286, filed on May 20, 2003, (120) U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/619,285, attorney docket no.
25791.292, filed on Jul. 14, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part
of U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 09/969,922, attorney
docket no. 25791.69, filed on Oct. 3, 2001, which is a
continuation-in-part application of U.S. Pat. No. 6,328,113, which
was filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/440,338, attorney
docket number 25791.9.02, filed on Nov. 15, 1999, which claims
priority from provisional application 60/108,558, filed on Nov. 16,
1998, (121) U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 10/418,688,
attorney docket no. 25791.257, which was filed on Apr. 18, 2003, as
a division of U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 09/523,468,
attorney docket no. 25791.11.02, filed on Mar. 10, 2000, which
claims priority from provisional application 60/124,042, filed on
Mar. 11, 1999, (122) PCT patent application serial no.
PCT/US2004/06246, attorney docket no. 25791.238.02, filed on Feb.
26, 2004, (123) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/08170, attorney docket number 25791.40.02, filed on Mar.
15, 2004, (124) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/08171, attorney docket number 25791.236.02, filed on
Mar. 15, 2004, (125) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/08073, attorney docket number 25791.262.02, filed on
Mar. 18, 2004, (126) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/07711, attorney docket number 25791.253.02, filed on
Mar. 11, 2004, (127) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/029025, attorney docket number 25791.260.02, filed on
Mar. 26, 2004, (128) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/010317, attorney docket number 25791.270.02, filed on
Apr. 2, 2004, (129) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/010712, attorney docket number 25791.272.02, filed on
Apr. 6, 2004, (130) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/010762, attorney docket number 25791.273.02, filed on
Apr. 6, 2004, (131) PCT patent application serial number
PCT/US2004/011973, attorney docket number 25791.277.02, filed on
Apr. 15, 2004, (132) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/495,056, attorney docket number 25791.301, filed on Aug. 14,
2003, (133) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/600,679, attorney docket number 25791.194, filed on Aug. 11,
2004, (134) PCT patent application serial number PCT/______,
attorney docket number 25791.329, filed on ______, the disclosures
of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0003] BACKGROUND
[0004] This disclosure relates generally to oil and gas
exploration, and in particular to forming and repairing wellbore
casings to facilitate oil and gas exploration.
SUMMARY
[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method
of forming a tubular liner within a preexisting structure is
provided that includes positioning a tubular assembly within the
preexisting structure; and radially expanding and plastically
deforming the tubular assembly within the preexisting structure,
wherein, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation of
the tubular assembly, a predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly has a lower yield point than another portion of the
tubular assembly.
[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided that includes a steel alloy
including: 0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01%
Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.02% Cr.
[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided that includes a steel alloy
including: 0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01%
Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.03% Cr.
[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided that includes a steel alloy
including: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30% Si, 0.16%
Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr.
[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided that includes a steel alloy
including: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02% P, 0.001% S, 0.45% Si, 9.1% Ni,
and 18.7% Cr.
[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the yield point of
the expandable tubular member is at most about 46.9 ksi prior to a
radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield
point of the expandable tubular member is at least about 65.9 ksi
after the radial expansion and plastic deformation.
[0011] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein a yield point of the
expandable tubular member after a radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 40% greater than the yield point of
the expandable tubular member prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation.
[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the anisotropy of
the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is at least about 1.48.
[0013] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the yield point of
the expandable tubular member is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield
point of the expandable tubular member is at least about 74.4 ksi
after the radial expansion and plastic deformation.
[0014] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the yield point of
the expandable tubular member after a radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of
the expandable tubular member prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation.
[0015] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the anisotropy of
the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is at least about 1.04.
[0016] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the anisotropy of
the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is at least about 1.92.
[0017] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the anisotropy of
the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is at least about 1.34.
[0018] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the anisotropy of
the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to about 1.92.
[0019] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the yield point of
the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, ranges from about 47.6 ksi to about 61.7
ksi.
[0020] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the expandability
coefficient of the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is greater than 0.12.
[0021] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the expandability
coefficient of the expandable tubular member is greater than the
expandability coefficient of another portion of the expandable
tubular member.
[0022] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the tubular member
has a higher ductility and a lower yield point prior to a radial
expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation.
[0023] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of radially expanding and plastically deforming a tubular
assembly including a first tubular member coupled to a second
tubular member is provided that includes radially expanding and
plastically deforming the tubular assembly within a preexisting
structure; and using less power to radially expand each unit length
of the first tubular member than to radially expand each unit
length of the second tubular member.
[0024] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
system for radially expanding and plastically deforming a tubular
assembly including a first tubular member coupled to a second
tubular member is provided that includes means for radially
expanding the tubular assembly within a preexisting structure; and
means for using less power to radially expand each unit length of
the first tubular member than required to radially expand each unit
length of the second tubular member.
[0025] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of manufacturing a tubular member is provided that includes
processing a tubular member until the tubular member is
characterized by one or more intermediate characteristics;
positioning the tubular member within a preexisting structure; and
processing the tubular member within the preexisting structure
until the tubular member is characterized one or more final
characteristics.
[0026] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
apparatus is provided that includes an expandable tubular assembly;
and an expansion device coupled to the expandable tubular assembly;
wherein a predetermined portion of the expandable tubular assembly
has a lower yield point than another portion of the expandable
tubular assembly.
[0027] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein a yield point of the
expandable tubular member after a radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 5.8% greater than the yield point of
the expandable tubular member prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation.
[0028] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of determining the expandability of a selected tubular
member is provided that includes determining an anisotropy value
for the selected tubular member, determining a strain hardening
value for the selected tubular member; and multiplying the
anisotropy value times the strain hardening value to generate an
expandability value for the selected tubular member.
[0029] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of radially expanding and plastically deforming tubular
members is provided that includes selecting a tubular member;
determining an anisotropy value for the selected tubular member;
determining a strain hardening value for the selected tubular
member; multiplying the anisotropy value times the strain hardening
value to generate an expandability value for the selected tubular
member; and if the anisotropy value is greater than 0.12, then
radially expanding and plastically deforming the selected tubular
member.
[0030] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
radially expandable tubular member apparatus is provided that
includes a first tubular member; a second tubular member engaged
with the first tubular member forming a joint; and a sleeve
overlapping and coupling the first and second tubular members at
the joint; wherein, prior to a radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the apparatus, a predetermined portion of the
apparatus has a lower yield point than another portion of the
apparatus.
[0031] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
radially expandable tubular member apparatus is provided that
includes: a first tubular member; a second tubular member engaged
with the first tubular member forming a joint; a sleeve overlapping
and coupling the first and second tubular members at the joint; the
sleeve having opposite tapered ends and a flange engaged in a
recess formed in an adjacent tubular member; and one of the tapered
ends being a surface formed on the flange; wherein, prior to a
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the apparatus, a
predetermined portion of the apparatus has a lower yield point than
another portion of the apparatus.
[0032] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of joining radially expandable tubular members is provided
that includes: providing a first tubular member; engaging a second
tubular member with the first tubular member to form a joint;
providing a sleeve; mounting the sleeve for overlapping and
coupling the first and second tubular members at the joint; wherein
the first tubular member, the second tubular member, and the sleeve
define a tubular assembly; and radially expanding and plastically
deforming the tubular assembly; wherein, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, a predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly has a lower yield point than another portion of
the tubular assembly.
[0033] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of joining radially expandable tubular members is provided
that includes providing a first tubular member; engaging a second
tubular member with the first tubular member to form a joint;
providing a sleeve having opposite tapered ends and a flange, one
of the tapered ends being a surface formed on the flange; mounting
the sleeve for overlapping and coupling the first and second
tubular members at the joint, wherein the flange is engaged in a
recess formed in an adjacent one of the tubular members; wherein
the first tubular member, the second tubular member, and the sleeve
define a tubular assembly; and radially expanding and plastically
deforming the tubular assembly; wherein, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, a predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly has a lower yield point than another portion of
the tubular assembly.
[0034] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly is provided that includes a first
tubular member; a second tubular member coupled to the first
tubular member; a first threaded connection for coupling a portion
of the first and second tubular members; a second threaded
connection spaced apart from the first threaded connection for
coupling another portion of the first and second tubular members; a
tubular sleeve coupled to and receiving end portions of the first
and second tubular members; and a sealing element positioned
between the first and second spaced apart threaded connections for
sealing an interface between the first and second tubular member;
wherein the sealing element is positioned within an annulus defined
between the first and second tubular members; and wherein, prior to
a radial expansion and plastic deformation of the assembly, a
predetermined portion of the assembly has a lower yield point than
another portion of the apparatus.
[0035] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of joining radially expandable tubular members is provided
that includes: providing a first tubular member; providing a second
tubular member; providing a sleeve; mounting the sleeve for
overlapping and coupling the first and second tubular members;
threadably coupling the first and second tubular members at a first
location; threadably coupling the first and second tubular members
at a second location spaced apart from the first location; sealing
an interface between the first and second tubular members between
the first and second locations using a compressible sealing
element, wherein the first tubular member, second tubular member,
sleeve, and the sealing element define a tubular assembly; and
radially expanding and plastically deforming the tubular assembly;
wherein, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, a
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a lower yield
point than another portion of the tubular assembly.
[0036] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the carbon content
of the tubular member is less than or equal to 0.12 percent; and
wherein the carbon equivalent value for the tubular member is less
than 0.21.
[0037] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided, wherein the carbon content
of the tubular member is greater than 0.12 percent; and wherein the
carbon equivalent value for the tubular member is less than
0.36.
[0038] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of selecting tubular members for radial expansion and
plastic deformation is provided that includes selecting a tubular
member from a collection of tubular member; determining a carbon
content of the selected tubular member; determining a carbon
equivalent value for the selected tubular member; and if the carbon
content of the selected tubular member is less than or equal to
0.12 percent and the carbon equivalent value for the selected
tubular member is less than 0.21, then determining that the
selected tubular member is suitable for radial expansion and
plastic deformation.
[0039] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of selecting tubular members for radial expansion and
plastic deformation is provided that includes selecting a tubular
member from a collection of tubular member; determining a carbon
content of the selected tubular member; determining a carbon
equivalent value for the selected tubular member; and if the carbon
content of the selected tubular member is greater than 0.12 percent
and the carbon equivalent value for the selected tubular member is
less than 0.36, then determining that the selected tubular member
is suitable for radial expansion and plastic deformation.
[0040] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member is provided that includes a tubular body;
wherein a yield point of an inner tubular portion of the tubular
body is less than a yield point of an outer tubular portion of the
tubular body.
[0041] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method of manufacturing an expandable tubular member has been
provided that includes: providing a tubular member; heat treating
the tubular member; and quenching the tubular member; wherein
following the quenching, the tubular member comprises a
microstructure comprising a hard phase structure and a soft phase
structure.
[0042] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member has been provided that includes a steel
alloy comprising: 0.07% Carbon, 1.64% Manganese, 0.011% Phosphor,
0.001% Sulfur, 0.23% Silicon, 0.5% Nickel, 0.51% Chrome, 0.31%
Molybdenum, 0.15% Copper, 0.021% Aluminum, 0.04% Vanadium, 0.03%
Niobium, and 0.007% Titanium.
[0043] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member has been provided that includes a
collapse strength of approximately 70 ksi comprising: 0.07% Carbon,
1.64% Manganese, 0.011% Phosphor, 0.001% Sulfur, 0.23% Silicon,
0.5% Nickel, 0.51% Chrome, 0.31% Molybdenum, 0.15% Copper, 0.021%
Aluminum, 0.04% Vanadium, 0.03% Niobium, and 0.007% Titanium,
wherein, upon radial expansion and plastic deformation, the
collapse strength increases to approximately 110 ksi.
[0044] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member has been provided that includes an outer
surface and means for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly when the expandable tubular member is radially expanded
and plastically deformed against a preexisting structure, the means
coupled to the outer surface.
[0045] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
preexisting structure for accepting an expandable tubular member
has been provided that includes a passage defined by the structure,
an inner surface on the passage and means for increasing the
collapse strength of a tubular assembly when an expandable tubular
member is radially expanded and plastically deformed against the
preexisting structure, the means coupled to the inner surface.
[0046] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and means for increasing the collapse
strength of the assembly when the expandable tubular member is
radially expanded and plastically deformed against the structure,
the means positioned between the expandable tubular member and the
structure.
[0047] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
tubular assembly has been provided that includes a structure
defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member positioned
in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned between the
structure and expandable tubular member, wherein the collapse
strength of the assembly with the interstitial layer is at least
20% greater than the collapse strength without the interstitial
layer.
[0048] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
tubular assembly has been provided that includes a structure
defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member positioned
in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned between the
structure and expandable tubular member, wherein the collapse
strength of the assembly with the interstitial layer is at least
30% greater than the collapse strength without the interstitial
layer.
[0049] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
tubular assembly has been provided that includes a structure
defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member positioned
in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned between the
structure and expandable tubular member, wherein the collapse
strength of the assembly with the interstitial layer is at least
40% greater than the collapse strength without the interstitial
layer.
[0050] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
tubular assembly has been provided that includes a structure
defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member positioned
in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned between the
structure and expandable tubular member, wherein the collapse
strength of the assembly with the interstitial layer is at least
50% greater than the collapse strength without the interstitial
layer.
[0051] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes an
outer tubular member comprising a steel alloy and defining a
passage, an inner tubular member comprising a steel alloy and
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer between the
inner tubular member and the outer tubular member, the interstitial
layer comprising an aluminum material lining an inner surface of
the outer tubular member, whereby the collapse strength of the
assembly with the interstitial layer is greater than the collapse
strength of the assembly without the interstitial layer.
[0052] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular assembly
has been provided that includes providing a preexisting structure
defining a passage therein, providing an expandable tubular member,
coating the expandable tubular member with an interstitial
material, positioning the expandable tubular member in the passage
defined by the preexisting structure and expanding the expandable
tubular member such that the interstitial material engages the
preexisting structure, whereby the collapse strength of the
preexisting structure and expandable tubular member with the
interstitial material is greater than the collapse strength of the
preexisting structure and expandable tubular member without the
interstitial material.
[0053] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular assembly
has been provided that includes providing a preexisting structure
defining a passage therein, providing an expandable tubular member,
coating the preexisting structure with an interstitial material,
positioning the expandable tubular member in the passage defined by
the preexisting structure and expanding the expandable tubular
member such that the interstitial material engages the expandable
tubular member, whereby the collapse strength of the preexisting
structure and expandable tubular member with the interstitial
material is greater than the collapse strength of the preexisting
structure and expandable tubular member without the interstitial
material.
[0054] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular member has been provided that includes an outer
surface and an interstitial layer on the outer surface, wherein the
interstitial layer comprises an aluminum material resulting in a
required expansion operating pressure of approximately 3900 psi for
the tubular member.
[0055] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes an
outer surface and an interstitial layer on the outer surface,
wherein the interstitial layer comprises an aluminum/zinc material
resulting in a required expansion operating pressure of
approximately 3700 psi for the tubular member.
[0056] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes an
outer surface and an interstitial layer on the outer surface,
wherein the interstitial layer comprises an plastic material
resulting in a required expansion operating pressure of
approximately 3600 psi for the tubular member.
[0057] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the expandable tubular member and the structure, wherein
the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 0.05 inches
to 0.15 inches.
[0058] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the expandable tubular member and the structure, wherein
the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 0.07 inches
to 0.13 inches.
[0059] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the expandable tubular member and the structure, wherein
the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 0.06 inches
to 0.14 inches.
[0060] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the expandable tubular member and the structure, wherein
the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 1.6 mm to
2.5 mm between the structure and the expandable tubular member.
[0061] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the expandable tubular member and the structure, wherein
the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 2.6 mm to
3.1 mm between the structure and the expandable tubular member.
[0062] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the expandable tubular member and the structure, wherein
the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 1.9 mm to
2.5 mm between the structure and the expandable tubular member.
[0063] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage, an interstitial layer positioned between
the expandable tubular member and the structure and a collapse
strength greater than approximately 20000 psi.
[0064] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage, an interstitial layer positioned between
the expandable tubular member and the structure and a collapse
strength greater than approximately 14000 psi.
[0065] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method for determining the collapse resistance of a tubular
assembly has been provided that includes measuring the collapse
resistance of a first tubular member, measuring the collapse
resistance of a second tubular member, determining the value of a
reinforcement factor for a reinforcement of the first and second
tubular members and multiplying the reinforcement factor by the sum
of the collapse resistance of the first tubular member and the
collapse resistance of the second tubular member.
[0066] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly has been provided that includes a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and means for modifying the residual
stresses in at least one of the structure and the expandable
tubular member when the expandable tubular member is radially
expanded and plastically deformed against the structure, the means
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the
structure.
[0067] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly is provided that includes a structure
defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member positioned
in the passage, and means for providing a substantially uniform
distance between the expandable tubular member and the structure
after radial expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable
tubular member in the passage.
[0068] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly is provided that includes a structure
defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member positioned
in the passage, and means for creating a circumferential tensile
force in the structure upon radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member in the passage,
whereby the circumferential tensile force increases the collapse
strength of the combined structure and expandable tubular
member.
[0069] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly is provided that includes a first
tubular member comprising a first tubular member wall thickness and
defining a passage, a second tubular member comprising a second
tubular member wall thickness and positioned in the passage, and
means for increasing the collapse strength of the combined first
tubular member and the second tubular member upon radial expansion
and plastic deformation of the first tubular member in the passage,
whereby the increased collapse strength exceeds the theoretically
calculated collapse strength of a tubular member having a thickness
approximately equal to the sum of the first tubular wall thickness
and the second tubular wall thickness.
[0070] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an
expandable tubular assembly is provided that includes a structure
defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member positioned
in the passage, and means for increasing the collapse strength of
the expandable tubular member upon radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member in the passage, the
means positioned between the expandable tubular member and the
structure.
[0071] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular assembly
is provided that includes providing an expandable tubular member,
selecting a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member, applying the
soft metal to an outer surface of the expandable tubular member,
positioning the expandable tubular member in a preexisting
structure, and radially expanding and plastically deforming the
expandable tubular member such that the soft metal forms an
interstitial layer between the preexisting structure and the
expandable tubular member, whereby the selecting comprises
selecting a soft metal such that, upon radial expansion and plastic
deformation, the interstitial layer results in an increased
collapse strength of the combined expandable tubular member and the
preexisting structure.
[0072] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular assembly
is provided that includes providing an expandable tubular member,
selecting a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member, applying the
soft metal to an outer surface of the expandable tubular member,
positioning the expandable tubular member in a preexisting
structure, radially expanding and plastically deforming the
expandable tubular member such that the soft metal forms an
interstitial layer between the preexisting structure and the
expandable tubular member, and creating a circumferential tensile
force in the preexisting structure resulting in an increased
collapse strength of the combined expandable tubular member and the
preexisting structure.
[0073] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular assembly
is provided that includes providing an expandable tubular member,
applying a layer of material to the outer surface of the expandable
tubular member, positioning the expandable tubular member in a
preexisting structure, radially expanding and plastically deforming
the expandable tubular member, and providing a substantially
uniform distance between the expandable tubular member and the
preexisting structure with the interstitial layer after radial
expansion and plastic deformation.
[0074] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular assembly
is provided that includes providing an expandable tubular member,
applying a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member to the outer
surface of the expandable tubular member, positioning the
expandable tubular member in a preexisting structure, and creating
a circumferential tensile force in the preexisting structure by
radially expanding and plastically deforming the expandable tubular
member such that the soft metal engages the preexisting
structure.
[0075] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular assembly
is provided that includes providing an expandable tubular member,
applying a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member to the outer
surface of the expandable tubular member, positioning the
expandable tubular member in a preexisting structure, and creating
a tubular assembly by expanding the expandable tubular member such
that the soft metal engages the preexisting structure, whereby the
tubular assembly has a collapse strength which exceeds a
theoretical collapse strength of a tubular member having a
thickness equal to the sum of a thickness of the expandable tubular
member and a thickness of the preexisting structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0076] FIG. 1 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of an exemplary
embodiment of an expandable tubular member positioned within a
preexisting structure.
[0077] FIG. 2 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 1 after positioning an expansion
device within the expandable tubular member.
[0078] FIG. 3 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 2 after operating the expansion
device within the expandable tubular member to radially expand and
plastically deform a portion of the expandable tubular member.
[0079] FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 3 after operating the expansion
device within the expandable tubular member to radially expand and
plastically deform another portion of the expandable tubular
member.
[0080] FIG. 5 is a graphical illustration of exemplary embodiments
of the stress/strain curves for several portions of the expandable
tubular member of FIGS. 1-4.
[0081] FIG. 6 is a graphical illustration of the an exemplary
embodiment of the yield strength vs. ductility curve for at least a
portion of the expandable tubular member of FIGS. 1-4.
[0082] FIG. 7 is a fragmentary cross sectional illustration of an
embodiment of a series of overlapping expandable tubular
members.
[0083] FIG. 8 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of an exemplary
embodiment of an expandable tubular member positioned within a
preexisting structure.
[0084] FIG. 9 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 8 after positioning an expansion
device within the expandable tubular member.
[0085] FIG. 10 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 9 after operating the expansion
device within the expandable tubular member to radially expand and
plastically deform a portion of the expandable tubular member.
[0086] FIG. 11 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 10 after operating the expansion
device within the expandable tubular member to radially expand and
plastically deform another portion of the expandable tubular
member.
[0087] FIG. 12 is a graphical illustration of exemplary embodiments
of the stress/strain curves for several portions of the expandable
tubular member of FIGS. 8-11.
[0088] FIG. 13 is a graphical illustration of an exemplary
embodiment of the yield strength vs. ductility curve for at least a
portion of the expandable tubular member of FIGS. 8-11.
[0089] FIG. 14 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of an
exemplary embodiment of an expandable tubular member positioned
within a preexisting structure.
[0090] FIG. 15 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 14 after positioning an expansion
device within the expandable tubular member.
[0091] FIG. 16 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 15 after operating the expansion
device within the expandable tubular member to radially expand and
plastically deform a portion of the expandable tubular member.
[0092] FIG. 17 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the
expandable tubular member of FIG. 16 after operating the expansion
device within the expandable tubular member to radially expand and
plastically deform another portion of the expandable tubular
member.
[0093] FIG. 18 is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary
embodiment of a method of processing an expandable tubular
member.
[0094] FIG. 19 is a graphical illustration of the an exemplary
embodiment of the yield strength vs. ductility curve for at least a
portion of the expandable tubular member during the operation of
the method of FIG. 18.
[0095] FIG. 20 is a graphical illustration of stress/strain curves
for an exemplary embodiment of an expandable tubular member.
[0096] FIG. 21 is a graphical illustration of stress/strain curves
for an exemplary embodiment of an expandable tubular member.
[0097] FIG. 22 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view illustrating
an embodiment of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of a
portion of a first tubular member having an internally threaded
connection at an end portion, an embodiment of a tubular sleeve
supported by the end portion of the first tubular member, and a
second tubular member having an externally threaded portion coupled
to the internally threaded portion of the first tubular member and
engaged by a flange of the sleeve. The sleeve includes the flange
at one end for increasing axial compression loading.
[0098] FIG. 23 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view illustrating
an embodiment of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of a
portion of a first tubular member having an internally threaded
connection at an end portion, a second tubular member having an
externally threaded portion coupled to the internally threaded
portion of the first tubular member, and an embodiment of a tubular
sleeve supported by the end portion of both tubular members. The
sleeve includes flanges at opposite ends for increasing axial
tension loading.
[0099] FIG. 24 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of a portion of a first
tubular member having an internally threaded connection at an end
portion, a second tubular member having an externally threaded
portion coupled to the internally threaded portion of the first
tubular member, and an embodiment of a tubular sleeve supported by
the end portion of both tubular members. The sleeve includes
flanges at opposite ends for increasing axial compression/tension
loading.
[0100] FIG. 25 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of a portion of a first
tubular member having an internally threaded connection at an end
portion, a second tubular member having an externally threaded
portion coupled to the internally threaded portion of the first
tubular member, and an embodiment of a tubular sleeve supported by
the end portion of both tubular members. The sleeve includes
flanges at opposite ends having sacrificial material thereon.
[0101] FIG. 26 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of a portion of a first
tubular member having an internally threaded connection at an end
portion, a second tubular member having an externally threaded
portion coupled to the internally threaded portion of the first
tubular member, and an embodiment of a tubular sleeve supported by
the end portion of both tubular members. The sleeve includes a thin
walled cylinder of sacrificial material.
[0102] FIG. 27 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of a portion of a first
tubular member having an internally threaded connection at an end
portion, a second tubular member having an externally threaded
portion coupled to the internally threaded portion of the first
tubular member, and an embodiment of a tubular sleeve supported by
the end portion of both tubular members. The sleeve includes a
variable thickness along the length thereof.
[0103] FIG. 28 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of a portion of a first
tubular member having an internally threaded connection at an end
portion, a second tubular member having an externally threaded
portion coupled to the internally threaded portion of the first
tubular member, and an embodiment of a tubular sleeve supported by
the end portion of both tubular members. The sleeve includes a
member coiled onto grooves formed in the sleeve for varying the
sleeve thickness.
[0104] FIG. 29 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of an
exemplary embodiment of an expandable connection.
[0105] FIGS. 30a-30c are fragmentary cross-sectional illustrations
of exemplary embodiments of expandable connections.
[0106] FIG. 31 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of an
exemplary embodiment of an expandable connection.
[0107] FIGS. 32a and 32b are fragmentary cross-sectional
illustrations of the formation of an exemplary embodiment of an
expandable connection.
[0108] FIG. 33 is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of an
exemplary embodiment of an expandable connection.
[0109] FIGS. 34a, 34b and 34c are fragmentary cross-sectional
illustrations of an exemplary embodiment of an expandable
connection.
[0110] FIG. 35a is a fragmentary cross-sectional illustration of an
exemplary embodiment of an expandable tubular member.
[0111] FIG. 35b is a graphical illustration of an exemplary
embodiment of the variation in the yield point for the expandable
tubular member of FIG. 35a.
[0112] FIG. 36a is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary
embodiment of a method for processing a tubular member.
[0113] FIG. 36b is an illustration of the microstructure of an
exemplary embodiment of a tubular member prior to thermal
processing.
[0114] FIG. 36c is an illustration of the microstructure of an
exemplary embodiment of a tubular member after thermal
processing.
[0115] FIG. 37a is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary
embodiment of a method for processing a tubular member.
[0116] FIG. 37b is an illustration of the microstructure of an
exemplary embodiment of a tubular member prior to thermal
processing.
[0117] FIG. 37c is an illustration of the microstructure of an
exemplary embodiment of a tubular member after thermal
processing.
[0118] FIG. 38a is a flow chart illustration of an exemplary
embodiment of a method for processing a tubular member.
[0119] FIG. 38b is an illustration of the microstructure of an
exemplary embodiment of a tubular member prior to thermal
processing.
[0120] FIG. 38c is an illustration of the microstructure of an
exemplary embodiment of a tubular member after thermal
processing.
[0121] FIG. 39 is a schematic view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of a method for increasing the collapse strength of a
tubular assembly.
[0122] FIG. 40 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of an expandable tubular member used in the method of
FIG. 39.
[0123] FIG. 41a is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member of FIG. 40 coated with
a layer of material according to the method of FIG. 39.
[0124] FIG. 41b is a cross sectional view taken along line 41b in
FIG. 41a illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the expandable
tubular member of FIG. 40 coated with a layer of material according
to the method of FIG. 39.
[0125] FIG. 41c is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer of FIG. 41a
where the coating layer is plastic according to the method of FIG.
39.
[0126] FIG. 41d is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer of FIG. 41a
where the coating layer is aluminum according to the method of FIG.
39.
[0127] FIG. 42 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer of FIG. 41a
positioned within a preexisting structure according to the method
of FIG. 39.
[0128] FIG. 43 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer within the
preexisting structure of FIG. 42 with the expandable tubular member
being expanded according to the method of FIG. 39.
[0129] FIG. 44 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer within the
preexisting structure of FIG. 42 with the expandable tubular member
expanded according to the method of FIG. 39.
[0130] FIG. 45 is a schematic view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of a method for increasing the collapse strength of a
tubular assembly.
[0131] FIG. 46 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of a preexisting structure used in the method of FIG.
45.
[0132] FIG. 47a is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the preexisting structure of FIG. 46 being coated
with a layer of material according to the method of FIG. 45.
[0133] FIG. 47b is a cross sectional view taken along line 47b in
FIG. 47a illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the preexisting
structure of FIG. 46 coated with a layer of material according to
the method of FIG. 45.
[0134] FIG. 48 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of an expandable tubular member positioned within the
preexisting structure and layer of material of FIG. 47a according
to the method of FIG. 45.
[0135] FIG. 49 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member within the preexisting
structure and layer of FIG. 48 with the expandable tubular member
being expanded according to the method of FIG. 45.
[0136] FIG. 50 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member within the preexisting
structure and layer of FIG. 48 with the expandable tubular member
expanded according to the method of FIG. 45.
[0137] FIG. 51a is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member of FIG. 40 coated with
multiple layers of material according to the method of FIG. 39.
[0138] FIG. 51b is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the preexisting structure of FIG. 46 coated with
multiple layers of material according to the method of FIG. 39.
[0139] FIG. 52a is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member of FIG. 40 coated by
winding a wire around its circumference according to the method of
FIG. 39.
[0140] FIG. 52b is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member of FIG. 40 coated by
winding wire around its circumference according to the method of
FIG. 39.
[0141] FIG. 52c is a cross sectional view taken along line 52c of
FIG. 52b illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the expandable
tubular member of FIG. 40 coated by winding wire around its
circumference according to the method of FIG. 39.
[0142] FIG. 52d is a cross sectional view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member of FIG. 40 coated by
winding wire around its circumference according to the method of
FIG. 39 after expansion in the preexisting structure of FIG.
42.
[0143] FIG. 53 is a chart view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the energy required to expand a
plurality of tubular assemblies produced by the methods of FIG. 39
and FIG. 45.
[0144] FIG. 54a is a cross sectional view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of a tubular assembly produced by the
method of FIG. 39.
[0145] FIG. 54b is a cross sectional view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of a tubular assembly produced by the
method of FIG. 39.
[0146] FIG. 54c is a chart view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the interstitial layer
for a plurality of tubular assemblies produced by the method of
FIG. 39.
[0147] FIG. 55a is a chart view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the interstitial layer
for a plurality of tubular assemblies produced by the method of
FIG. 39.
[0148] FIG. 55b is a chart view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the interstitial layer
for a plurality of tubular assemblies produced by the method of
FIG. 39.
[0149] FIG. 56 is a cross sectional view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of a tubular assembly produced by the
method of FIG. 39 but omitting the coating with a layer of
material.
[0150] FIG. 56a is a close up cross sectional view illustrating an
exemplary experimental embodiment of a tubular assembly produced by
the method of FIG. 39 but omitting the coating with a layer of
material.
[0151] FIG. 57a is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the collapse strength for a tubular
assembly produced by the method of FIG. 39 but omitting the coating
with a layer of material.
[0152] FIG. 57b is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the air gap for a
tubular assembly produced by the method of FIG. 39 but omitting the
coating with a layer of material.
[0153] FIG. 58 is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the air gap and the
collapse strength for a tubular assembly produced by the method of
FIG. 39 but omitting the coating with a layer of material.
[0154] FIG. 59 is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the interstitial layer
and the collapse strength for a tubular assembly produced by the
method of FIG. 39.
[0155] FIG. 60a is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the air gap for a
tubular assembly produced by the method of FIG. 39 but omitting the
coating with a layer of material.
[0156] FIG. 60b is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the interstitial layer
for a tubular assembly produced by the method of FIG. 39.
[0157] FIG. 60c is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the thickness of the interstitial layer
for a tubular assembly produced by the method of FIG. 39.
[0158] FIG. 61a is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the wall thickness of an expandable
tubular member for a tubular assembly produced by the method of
FIG. 39 but omitting the coating with a layer of material.
[0159] FIG. 61b is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the wall thickness of an expandable
tubular member for a tubular assembly produced by the method of
FIG. 39.
[0160] FIG. 61c is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the wall thickness of an expandable
tubular member for a tubular assembly produced by the method of
FIG. 39.
[0161] FIG. 62a is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the wall thickness of a preexisting
structure for a tubular assembly produced by the method of FIG. 39
but omitting the coating with a layer of material.
[0162] FIG. 62b is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the wall thickness of a preexisting
structure for a tubular assembly produced by the method of FIG.
39.
[0163] FIG. 62c is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the wall thickness of a preexisting
structure for a tubular assembly produced by the method of FIG.
39.
[0164] FIG. 63 is a graphical view illustrating an exemplary
experimental embodiment of the collapse strength for a tubular
assembly produced by the method of FIG. 39.
[0165] FIG. 64 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary embodiment
of a method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly.
[0166] FIG. 65 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of an expandable tubular member used in the method of
FIG. 64.
[0167] FIG. 66a is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member of FIG. 65 coated with
a layer of material according to the method of FIG. 64.
[0168] FIG. 66b is a cross sectional view taken along line 66b in
FIG. 66a illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the expandable
tubular member of FIG. 65 coated with a layer of material according
to the method of FIG. 64.
[0169] FIG. 67 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer of FIG. 66a
positioned within a preexisting structure according to the method
of FIG. 64.
[0170] FIG. 68 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer within the
preexisting structure of FIG. 67 with the expandable tubular member
being expanded according to the method of FIG. 64.
[0171] FIG. 69a is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer within the
preexisting structure of FIG. 67 with the expandable tubular member
expanded according to the method of FIG. 64.
[0172] FIG. 69b is a schematic view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer expanded
within the preexisting structure of FIG. 69a with a circumferential
tensile force in the preexisting structure.
[0173] FIG. 70 is a cross sectional view illustrating an exemplary
embodiment of the expandable tubular member and layer expanded
within the preexisting structure of FIG. 69a with a testing
aperture formed in the preexisting structure in order to collapse
test the expandable tubular member.
[0174] FIG. 71 is a graph illustrating an exemplary experimental
embodiment of a collapse test conducted on the expandable tubular
member and the preexisting structure of FIG. 69a but with an air
gap rather than the layer between them.
[0175] FIG. 72 is a graph illustrating an exemplary experimental
embodiment of a collapse test conducted on the expandable tubular
member and the preexisting structure of FIG. 69a with a plastic
used as the layer between them.
[0176] FIG. 73 is a graph illustrating an exemplary experimental
embodiment of a collapse test conducted on the expandable tubular
member and the preexisting structure of FIG. 69a with an aluminum
material used as the layer between them.
[0177] FIG. 74 is a graph illustrating an exemplary experimental
embodiment of a collapse test conducted on the expandable tubular
member and the preexisting structure of FIG. 69a with an aluminum
and zinc material used as the layer between them.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0178] Referring initially to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of an
expandable tubular assembly 10 includes a first expandable tubular
member 12 coupled to a second expandable tubular member 14. In
several exemplary embodiments, the ends of the first and second
expandable tubular members, 12 and 14, are coupled using, for
example, a conventional mechanical coupling, a welded connection, a
brazed connection, a threaded connection, and/or an interference
fit connection. In an exemplary embodiment, the first expandable
tubular member 12 has a plastic yield point YP.sub.1, and the
second expandable tubular member 14 has a plastic yield point
YP.sub.2. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular
assembly 10 is positioned within a preexisting structure such as,
for example, a wellbore 16 that traverses a subterranean formation
18.
[0179] As illustrated in FIG. 2, an expansion device 20 may then be
positioned within the second expandable tubular member 14. In
several exemplary embodiments, the expansion device 20 may include,
for example, one or more of the following conventional expansion
devices: a) an expansion cone; b) a rotary expansion device; c) a
hydroforming expansion device; d) an impulsive force expansion
device; d) any one of the expansion devices commercially available
from, or disclosed in any of the published patent applications or
issued patents, of Weatherford International, Baker Hughes,
Halliburton Energy Services, Shell Oil Co., Schlumberger, and/or
Enventure Global Technology L.L.C. In several exemplary
embodiments, the expansion device 20 is positioned within the
second expandable-tubular member 14 before, during, or after the
placement of the expandable tubular assembly 10 within the
preexisting structure 16.
[0180] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the expansion device 20 may then
be operated to radially expand and plastically deform at least a
portion of the second expandable tubular member 14 to form a
bell-shaped section.
[0181] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the expansion device 20 may then
be operated to radially expand and plastically deform the remaining
portion of the second expandable tubular member 14 and at least a
portion of the first expandable tubular member 12.
[0182] In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of at least a
portion of at least one of the first and second expandable tubular
members, 12 and 14, are radially expanded into intimate contact
with the interior surface of the preexisting structure 16.
[0183] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the
plastic yield point YP.sub.1 is greater than the plastic yield
point YP.sub.2. In this manner, in an exemplary embodiment, the
amount of power and/or energy required to radially expand the
second expandable tubular member 14 is less than the amount of
power and/or energy required to radially expand the first
expandable tubular member 12.
[0184] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the
first expandable tubular member 12 and/or the second expandable
tubular member 14 have a ductility D.sub.PE and a yield strength
YS.sub.PE prior to radial expansion and plastic deformation, and a
ductility D.sub.AE and a yield strength YS.sub.AE after radial
expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment,
D.sub.PE is greater than D.sub.AE, and YS.sub.AE is greater than
YS.sub.PE. In this manner, the first expandable tubular member 12
and/or the second expandable tubular member 14 are transformed
during the radial expansion and plastic deformation process.
Furthermore, in this manner, in an exemplary embodiment, the amount
of power and/or energy required to radially expand each unit length
of the first and/or second expandable tubular members, 12 and 14,
is reduced. Furthermore, because the YS.sub.AE is greater than
YS.sub.PE, the collapse strength of the first expandable tubular
member 12 and/or the second expandable tubular member 14 is
increased after the radial expansion and plastic deformation
process.
[0185] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7,
following the completion of the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular assembly 10 described above
with reference to FIGS. 1-4, at least a portion of the second
expandable tubular member 14 has an inside diameter that is greater
than at least the inside diameter of the first expandable tubular
member 12. In this manner a bell-shaped section is formed using at
least a portion of the second expandable tubular member 14. Another
expandable tubular assembly 22 that includes a first expandable
tubular member 24 and a second expandable tubular member 26 may
then be positioned in overlapping relation to the first expandable
tubular assembly 10 and radially expanded and plastically deformed
using the methods described above with reference to FIGS. 1-4.
Furthermore, following the completion of the radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the expandable tubular assembly 20, in an
exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the second expandable
tubular member 26 has an inside diameter that is greater than at
least the inside diameter of the first expandable tubular member
24. In this manner a bell-shaped section is formed using at least a
portion of the second expandable tubular member 26. Furthermore, in
this manner, a mono-diameter tubular assembly is formed that
defines an internal passage 28 having a substantially constant
cross-sectional area and/or inside diameter.
[0186] Referring to FIG. 8, an exemplary embodiment of an
expandable tubular assembly 100 includes a first expandable tubular
member 102 coupled to a tubular coupling 104. The tubular coupling
104 is coupled to a tubular coupling 106. The tubular coupling 106
is coupled to a second expandable tubular member 108. In several
exemplary embodiments, the tubular couplings, 104 and 106, provide
a tubular coupling assembly for coupling the first and second
expandable tubular members, 102 and 108, together that may include,
for example, a conventional mechanical coupling, a welded
connection, a brazed connection, a threaded connection, and/or an
interference fit connection. In an exemplary embodiment, the first
and second expandable tubular members 12 have a plastic yield point
YP.sub.1, and the tubular couplings, 104 and 106, have a plastic
yield point YP.sub.2. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable
tubular assembly 100 is positioned within a preexisting structure
such as, for example, a wellbore 110 that traverses a subterranean
formation 112.
[0187] As illustrated in FIG. 9, an expansion device 114 may then
be positioned within the second expandable tubular member 108. In
several exemplary embodiments, the expansion device 114 may
include, for example, one or more of the following conventional
expansion devices: a) an expansion cone; b) a rotary expansion
device; c) a hydroforming expansion device; d) an impulsive force
expansion device; d) any one of the expansion devices commercially
available from, or disclosed in any of the published patent
applications or issued patents, of Weatherford International, Baker
Hughes, Halliburton Energy Services, Shell Oil Co., Schlumberger,
and/or Enventure Global Technology L.L.C. In several exemplary
embodiments, the expansion device 114 is positioned within the
second expandable tubular member 108 before, during, or after the
placement of the expandable tubular assembly 100 within the
preexisting structure 110.
[0188] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the expansion device 114 may then
be operated to radially expand and plastically deform at least a
portion of the second expandable tubular member 108 to form a
bell-shaped section.
[0189] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the expansion device 114 may then
be operated to radially expand and plastically deform the remaining
portion of the second expandable tubular member 108, the tubular
couplings, 104 and 106, and at least a portion of the first
expandable tubular member 102.
[0190] In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of at least a
portion of at least one of the first and second expandable tubular
members, 102 and 108, are radially expanded into intimate contact
with the interior surface of the preexisting structure 110.
[0191] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the
plastic yield point YP.sub.1 is less than the plastic yield point
YP.sub.2. In this manner, in an exemplary embodiment, the amount of
power and/or energy required to radially expand each unit length of
the first and second expandable tubular members, 102 and 108, is
less than the amount of power and/or energy required to radially
expand each unit length of the tubular couplings, 104 and 106.
[0192] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the
first expandable tubular member 12 and/or the second expandable
tubular member 14 have a ductility D.sub.PE and a yield strength
YS.sub.PE prior to radial expansion and plastic deformation, and a
ductility D.sub.AE and a yield strength YS.sub.AE after radial
expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment,
D.sub.PE is greater than D.sub.AE, and YS.sub.AE is greater than
YS.sub.PE. In this manner, the first expandable tubular member 12
and/or the second expandable tubular member 14 are transformed
during the radial expansion and plastic deformation process.
Furthermore, in this manner, in an exemplary embodiment, the amount
of power and/or energy required to radially expand each unit length
of the first and/or second expandable tubular members, 12 and 14,
is reduced. Furthermore, because the YS.sub.AE is greater than
YS.sub.PE, the collapse strength of the first expandable tubular
member 12 and/or the second expandable tubular member 14 is
increased after the radial expansion and plastic deformation
process.
[0193] Referring to FIG. 14, an exemplary embodiment of an
expandable tubular assembly 200 includes a first expandable tubular
member 202 coupled to a second expandable tubular member 204 that
defines radial openings 204a, 204b, 204c, and 204d. In several
exemplary embodiments, the ends of the first and second expandable
tubular members, 202 and 204, are coupled using, for example, a
conventional mechanical coupling, a welded connection, a brazed
connection, a threaded connection, and/or an interference fit
connection. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the radial
openings, 204a, 204b, 204c, and 204d, have circular, oval, square,
and/or irregular cross sections and/or include portions that extend
to and interrupt either end of the second expandable tubular member
204. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular assembly
200 is positioned within a preexisting structure such as, for
example, a wellbore 206 that traverses a subterranean formation
208.
[0194] As illustrated in FIG. 15, an expansion device 210 may then
be positioned within the second expandable tubular member 204. In
several exemplary embodiments, the expansion device 210 may
include, for example, one or more of the following conventional
expansion devices: a) an expansion cone; b) a rotary expansion
device; c) a hydroforming expansion device; d) an impulsive force
expansion device; d) any one of the expansion devices commercially
available from, or disclosed in any of the published patent
applications or issued patents, of Weatherford International, Baker
Hughes, Halliburton Energy Services, Shell Oil Co., Schlumberger,
and/or Enventure Global Technology L.L.C. In several exemplary
embodiments, the expansion device 210 is positioned within the
second expandable tubular member 204 before, during, or after the
placement of the expandable tubular assembly 200 within the
preexisting structure 206.
[0195] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the expansion device 210 may then
be operated to radially expand and plastically deform at least a
portion of the second expandable tubular member 204 to form a
bell-shaped section.
[0196] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the expansion device 20 may then
be operated to radially expand and plastically deform the remaining
portion of the second expandable tubular member 204 and at least a
portion of the first expandable tubular member 202.
[0197] In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy ratio AR for the
first and second expandable tubular members is defined by the
following equation:
AR=In(WT.sub.f/WT.sub.o)/In(D.sub.f/D.sub.o);
[0198] where AR=anisotropy ratio;
[0199] where WT.sub.f=final wall thickness of the expandable
tubular member following the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member;
[0200] where WT.sub.i=initial wall thickness of the expandable
tubular member prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member;
[0201] where D.sub.f=final inside diameter of the expandable
tubular member following the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member; and
[0202] where D.sub.i=initial inside diameter of the expandable
tubular member prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member.
[0203] In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy ratio AR for the
first and/or second expandable tubular members, 204 and 204, is
greater than 1.
[0204] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, the second
expandable tubular member 204 had an anisotropy ratio AR greater
than 1, and the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
second expandable tubular member did not result in any of the
openings, 204a, 204b, 204c, and 204d, splitting or otherwise
fracturing the remaining portions of the second expandable tubular
member. This was an unexpected result.
[0205] Referring to FIG. 18, in an exemplary embodiment, one or
more of the expandable tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104,
106, 108, 202 and/or 204 are processed using a method 300 in which
a tubular member in an initial state is thermo-mechanically
processed in step 302. In an exemplary embodiment, the
thermo-mechanical processing 302 includes one or more heat treating
and/or mechanical forming processes. As a result, of the
thermo-mechanical processing 302, the tubular member is transformed
to an intermediate state. The tubular member is then further
thermo-mechanically processed in step 304. In an exemplary
embodiment, the thermo-mechanical processing 304 includes one or
more heat treating and/or mechanical forming processes. As a
result, of the thermo-mechanical processing 304, the tubular member
is transformed to a final state.
[0206] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 19,
during the operation of the method 300, the tubular member has a
ductility D.sub.PE and a yield strength YS.sub.PE prior to the
final thermo-mechanical processing in step 304, and a ductility
D.sub.AE and a yield strength YS.sub.AE after final
thermo-mechanical processing. In an exemplary embodiment, D.sub.PE
is greater than D.sub.AE, and YS.sub.AE is greater than YS.sub.PE.
In this manner, the amount of energy and/or power required to
transform the tubular member, using mechanical forming processes,
during the final thermo-mechanical processing in step 304 is
reduced. Furthermore, in this manner, because the YS.sub.AE is
greater than YS.sub.PE, the collapse strength of the tubular member
is increased after the final thermo-mechanical processing in step
304.
[0207] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the expandable
tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or
204, have the following characteristics:
TABLE-US-00001 Characteristic Value Tensile Strength 60 to 120 ksi
Yield Strength 50 to 100 ksi Y/T Ratio Maximum of 50/85% Elongation
During Radial Expansion and Minimum of 35% Plastic Deformation
Width Reduction During Radial Expansion Minimum of 40% and Plastic
Deformation Wall Thickness Reduction During Radial Minimum of 30%
Expansion and Plastic Deformation Anisotropy Minimum of 1.5 Minimum
Absorbed Energy at -4 F. (-20 C.) 80 ft-lb in the Longitudinal
Direction Minimum Absorbed Energy at -4 F. (-20 C.) 60 ft-lb in the
Transverse Direction Minimum Absorbed Energy at -4 F. (-20 C.) 60
ft-lb Transverse To A Weld Area Flare Expansion Testing Minimum of
75% Without A Failure Increase in Yield Strength Due To Radial
Greater than 5.4% Expansion and Plastic Deformation
[0208] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the expandable
tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or
204, are characterized by an expandability coefficient f: [0209] i.
f=r.times.n [0210] ii. where f=expandability coefficient; [0211] 1.
r=anisotropy coefficient; and [0212] 2. n=strain hardening
exponent.
[0213] In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy coefficient for
one or more of the expandable tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102,
104, 106, 108, 202 and/or 204 is greater than 1. In an exemplary
embodiment, the strain hardening exponent for one or more of the
expandable tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202
and/or 204 is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the
expandability coefficient for one or more of the expandable tubular
members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or 204 is
greater than 0.12.
[0214] In an exemplary embodiment, a tubular member having a higher
expandability coefficient requires less power and/or energy to
radially expand and plastically deform each unit length than a
tubular member having a lower expandability coefficient. In an
exemplary embodiment, a tubular member having a higher
expandability coefficient requires less power and/or energy per
unit length to radially expand and plastically deform than a
tubular member having a lower expandability coefficient.
[0215] In several exemplary experimental embodiments, one or more
of the expandable tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106,
108, 202 and/or 204, are steel alloys having one of the following
compositions:
TABLE-US-00002 Steel Element and Percentage By Weight Alloy C Mn P
S Si Cu Ni Cr A 0.065 1.44 0.01 0.002 0.24 0.01 0.01 0.02 B 0.18
1.28 0.017 0.004 0.29 0.01 0.01 0.03 C 0.08 0.82 0.006 0.003 0.30
0.16 0.05 0.05 D 0.02 1.31 0.02 0.001 0.45 -- 9.1 18.7
[0216] In exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.
20, a sample of an expandable tubular member composed of Alloy A
exhibited a yield point before radial expansion and plastic
deformation YP.sub.BE, a yield point after radial expansion and
plastic deformation of about 16% YP.sub.AE16%, and a yield point
after radial expansion and plastic deformation of about 24%
YP.sub.AE24%. In an exemplary experimental embodiment,
YP.sub.AE24%>YP.sub.AE16%>YP.sub.BE. Furthermore, in an
exemplary experimental embodiment, the ductility of the sample of
the expandable tubular member composed of Alloy A also exhibited a
higher ductility prior to radial expansion and plastic deformation
than after radial expansion and plastic deformation. These were
unexpected results.
[0217] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, a sample of an
expandable tubular member composed of Alloy A exhibited the
following tensile characteristics before and after radial expansion
and plastic deformation:
TABLE-US-00003 Yield Wall Point Yield Width Thickness ksi Ratio
Elongation % Reduction % Reduction % Anisotropy Before 46.9 0.69 53
-52 55 0.93 Radial Expansion and Plastic Deformation After 16% 65.9
0.83 17 42 51 0.78 Radial Expansion After 24% 68.5 0.83 5 44 54
0.76 Radial Expansion % Increase 40% for 16% radial expansion 46%
for 24% radial expansion
[0218] In exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.
21, a sample of an expandable tubular member composed of Alloy B
exhibited a yield point before radial expansion and plastic
deformation YP.sub.BE, a yield point after radial expansion and
plastic deformation of about 16% YP.sub.AE16%, and a yield point
after radial expansion and plastic deformation of about 24%
YP.sub.AE24%. In an exemplary embodiment,
YP.sub.AE24%>YP.sub.AE16%>YP.sub.BE. Furthermore, in an
exemplary experimental embodiment, the ductility of the sample of
the expandable tubular member composed of Alloy B also exhibited a
higher ductility prior to radial expansion and plastic deformation
than after radial expansion and plastic deformation. These were
unexpected results.
[0219] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, a sample of an
expandable tubular member composed of Alloy B exhibited the
following tensile characteristics before and after radial expansion
and plastic deformation:
TABLE-US-00004 Yield Wall Point Yield Width Thickness ksi Ratio
Elongation % Reduction % Reduction % Anisotropy Before 57.8 0.71 44
43 46 0.93 Radial Expansion and Plastic Deformation After 16% 74.4
0.84 16 38 42 0.87 Radial Expansion After 24% 79.8 0.86 20 36 42
0.81 Radial Expansion % Increase 28.7% increase for 16% radial
expansion 38% increase for 24% radial expansion
[0220] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, samples of
expandable tubulars composed of Alloys A, B, C, and D exhibited the
following tensile characteristics prior to radial expansion and
plastic deformation:
TABLE-US-00005 Elonga- Absorbed Steel Yield Yield tion Energy
Expandability Alloy ksi Ratio % Anisotropy ft-lb Coefficient A 47.6
0.71 44 1.48 145 B 57.8 0.71 44 1.04 62.2 C 61.7 0.80 39 1.92 268 D
48 0.55 56 1.34 --
[0221] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the expandable
tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or 204
have a strain hardening exponent greater than 0.12, and a yield
ratio is less than 0.85.
[0222] In an exemplary embodiment, the carbon equivalent C.sub.e,
for tubular members having a carbon content (by weight percentage)
less than or equal to 0.12%, is given by the following
expression:
C.sub.e=C+Mn/6+(Cr+Mo+V+Ti+Nb)/5+(Ni+Cu)/15
[0223] where C.sub.e carbon equivalent value;
[0224] a. C=carbon percentage by weight;
[0225] b. Mn=manganese percentage by weight;
[0226] c. Cr=chromium percentage by weight;
[0227] d. Mo=molybdenum percentage by weight;
[0228] e. V=vanadium percentage by weight;
[0229] f. Ti=titanium percentage by weight;
[0230] g. Nb=niobium percentage by weight;
[0231] h. Ni=nickel percentage by weight; and
[0232] i. Cu=copper percentage by weight.
[0233] In an exemplary embodiment, the carbon equivalent value
C.sub.e, for tubular members having a carbon content less than or
equal to 0.12% (by weight), for one or more of the expandable
tubular members, 12,14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106,108, 202 and/or 204
is less than 0.21.
[0234] In an exemplary embodiment, the carbon equivalent C.sub.e,
for tubular members having more than 0.12% carbon content (by
weight), is given by the following expression:
C.sub.e=C+Si/30+(Mn+Cu+Cr)/20+Ni/60+Mo/15+V/10+5*B [0235] where
C.sub.e=carbon equivalent value;
[0236] a. C=carbon percentage by weight;
[0237] b. Si=silicon percentage by weight;
[0238] c. Mn=manganese percentage by weight;
[0239] d. Cu=copper percentage by weight;
[0240] e. Cr=chromium percentage by weight;
[0241] f. Ni=nickel percentage by weight;
[0242] g. Mo=molybdenum percentage by weight;
[0243] h. V=vanadium percentage by weight; and
[0244] i. B=boron percentage by weight.
[0245] In an exemplary embodiment, the carbon equivalent value
C.sub.e, for tubular members having greater than 0.12% carbon
content (by weight), for one or more of the expandable tubular
members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or 204 is less
than 0.36.
[0246] Referring to FIG. 22 in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 2210 includes an internally threaded connection 2212
at an end portion 2214. A first end of a tubular sleeve 2216 that
includes an internal flange 2218 having a tapered portion 2220, and
a second end that includes a tapered portion 2222, is then mounted
upon and receives the end portion 2214 of the first tubular member
2210. In an exemplary embodiment, the end portion 2214 of the first
tubular member 2210 abuts one side of the internal flange 2218 of
the tubular sleeve 2216, and the internal diameter of the internal
flange 2218 of the tubular sleeve 2216 is substantially equal to or
greater than the maximum internal diameter of the internally
threaded connection 2212 of the end portion 2214 of the first
tubular member 2210. An externally threaded connection 2224 of an
end portion 2226 of a second tubular member 2228 having an annular
recess 2230 is then positioned within the tubular sleeve 2216 and
threadably coupled to the internally threaded connection 2212 of
the end portion 2214 of the first tubular member 2210. In an
exemplary embodiment, the internal flange 2218 of the tubular
sleeve 2216 mates with and is received within the annular recess
2230 of the end portion 2226 of the second tubular member 2228.
Thus, the tubular sleeve 2216 is coupled to and surrounds the
external surfaces of the first and second tubular members, 2210 and
2228.
[0247] The internally threaded connection 2212 of the end portion
2214 of the first tubular member 2210 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 2224 of the end portion 2226 of the
second tubular member 2228 is a pin connection. In an exemplary
embodiment, the internal diameter of the tubular sleeve 2216 is at
least approximately 0.020'' greater than the outside diameters of
the first and second tubular members, 2210 and 2228. In this
manner, during the threaded coupling of the first and second
tubular members, 2210 and 2228, fluidic materials within the first
and second tubular members may be vented from the tubular
members.
[0248] As illustrated in FIG. 22, the first and second tubular
members, 2210 and 2228, and the tubular sleeve 2216 may be
positioned within another structure 2232 such as, for example, a
cased or uncased wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically
deformed, for example, by displacing and/or rotating a conventional
expansion device 2234 within and/or through the interiors of the
first and second tubular members. The tapered portions, 2220 and
2222, of the tubular sleeve 2216 facilitate the insertion and
movement of the first and second tubular members within and through
the structure 2232, and the movement of the expansion device 2234
through the interiors of the first and second tubular members, 2210
and 2228, may be, for example, from top to bottom or from bottom to
top.
[0249] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members, 2210 and 2228, the tubular sleeve
2216 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. As a
result, the tubular sleeve 2216 may be maintained in
circumferential tension and the end portions, 2214 and 2226, of the
first and second tubular members, 2210 and 2228, may be maintained
in circumferential compression.
[0250] Sleeve 2216 increases the axial compression loading of the
connection between tubular members 2210 and 2228 before and after
expansion by the expansion device 2234. Sleeve 2216 may, for
example, be secured to tubular members 2210 and 2228 by a heat
shrink fit.
[0251] In several alternative embodiments, the first and second
tubular members, 2210 and 2228, are radially expanded and
plastically deformed using other conventional methods for radially
expanding and plastically deforming tubular members such as, for
example, internal pressurization, hydroforming, and/or roller
expansion devices and/or any one or combination of the conventional
commercially available expansion products and services available
from Baker Hughes, Weatherford International, and/or Enventure
Global Technology L.L.C.
[0252] The use of the tubular sleeve 2216 during (a) the coupling
of the first tubular member 2210 to the second tubular member 2228,
(b) the placement of the first and second tubular members in the
structure 2232, and (c) the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the first and second tubular members provides a
number of significant benefits. For example, the tubular sleeve
2216 protects the exterior surfaces of the end portions, 2214 and
2226, of the first and second tubular members, 2210 and 2228,
during handling and insertion of the tubular members within the
structure 2232. In this manner, damage to the exterior surfaces of
the end portions, 2214 and 2226, of the first and second tubular
members, 2210 and 2228, is avoided that could otherwise result in
stress concentrations that could cause a catastrophic failure
during subsequent radial expansion operations. Furthermore, the
tubular sleeve 2216 provides an alignment guide that facilitates
the insertion and threaded coupling of the second tubular member
2228 to the first tubular member 2210. In this manner, misalignment
that could result in damage to the threaded connections, 2212 and
2224, of the first and second tubular members, 2210 and 2228, may
be avoided. In addition, during the relative rotation of the second
tubular member with respect to the first tubular member, required
during the threaded coupling of the first and second tubular
members, the tubular sleeve 2216 provides an indication of to what
degree the first and second tubular members are threadably coupled.
For example, if the tubular sleeve 2216 can be easily rotated, that
would indicate that the first and second tubular members, 2210 and
2228, are not fully threadably coupled and in intimate contact with
the internal flange 2218 of the tubular sleeve. Furthermore, the
tubular sleeve 2216 may prevent crack propagation during the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members, 2210 and 2228. In this manner, failure modes such as, for
example, longitudinal cracks in the end portions, 2214 and 2226, of
the first and second tubular members may be limited in severity or
eliminated all together. In addition, after completing the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members, 2210 and 2228, the tubular sleeve 2216 may provide a fluid
tight metal-to-metal seal between interior surface of the tubular
sleeve 2216 and the exterior surfaces of the end portions, 2214 and
2226, of the first and second tubular members. In this manner,
fluidic materials are prevented from passing through the threaded
connections, 2212 and 2224, of the first and second tubular
members, 2210 and 2228, into the annulus between the first and
second tubular members and the structure 2232. Furthermore,
because, following the radial expansion and plastic deformation of
the first and second tubular members, 2210 and 2228, the tubular
sleeve 2216 may be maintained in circumferential tension and the
end portions, 2214 and 2226, of the first and second tubular
members, 2210 and 2228, may be maintained in circumferential
compression, axial loads and/or torque loads may be transmitted
through the tubular sleeve.
[0253] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 2210 and 2228, and the
tubular sleeve 2216 have one or more of the material properties of
one or more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102,104,106,
108, 202 and/or 204.
[0254] Referring to FIG. 23, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 210 includes an internally threaded connection 2312
at an end portion 2314. A first end of a tubular sleeve 2316
includes an internal flange 2318 and a tapered portion 2320. A
second end of the sleeve 2316 includes an internal flange 2321 and
a tapered portion 2322. An externally threaded connection 2324 of
an end portion 2326 of a second tubular member 2328 having an
annular recess 2330, is then positioned within the tubular sleeve
2316 and threadably coupled to the internally threaded connection
2312 of the end portion 2314 of the first tubular member 2310. The
internal flange 2318 of the sleeve 2316 mates with and is received
within the annular recess 2330.
[0255] The first tubular member 2310 includes a recess 2331. The
internal flange 2321 mates with and is received within the annular
recess 2331. Thus, the sleeve 2316 is coupled to and surrounds the
external surfaces of the first and second tubular members 2310 and
2328.
[0256] The internally threaded connection 2312 of the end portion
2314 of the first tubular member 2310 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 2324 of the end portion 2326 of the
second tubular member 2328 is a pin connection. In an exemplary
embodiment, the internal diameter of the tubular sleeve 2316 is at
least approximately 0.020'' greater than the outside diameters of
the first and second tubular members 2310 and 2328. In this manner,
during the threaded coupling of the first and second tubular
members 2310 and 2328, fluidic materials within the first and
second tubular members may be vented from the tubular members.
[0257] As illustrated in FIG. 23, the first and second tubular
members 2310 and 2328, and the tubular sleeve 2316 may then be
positioned within another structure 2332 such as, for example, a
wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically deformed, for
example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion device 2334
through and/or within the interiors of the first and second tubular
members. The tapered portions 2320 and 2322, of the tubular sleeve
2316 facilitates the insertion and movement of the first and second
tubular members within and through the structure 2332, and the
displacement of the expansion device 2334 through the interiors of
the first and second tubular members 2310 and 2328, may be from top
to bottom or from bottom to top.
[0258] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members 2310 and 2328, the tubular sleeve
2316 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an
exemplary embodiment, as a result, the tubular sleeve 2316 may be
maintained in circumferential tension and the end portions 2314 and
2326, of the first and second tubular members 2310 and 2328, may be
maintained in circumferential compression.
[0259] Sleeve 2316 increases the axial tension loading of the
connection between tubular members 2310 and 2328 before and after
expansion by the expansion device 2334. Sleeve 2316 may be secured
to tubular members 2310 and 2328 by a heat shrink fit.
[0260] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 2310 and 2328, and the
tubular sleeve 2316 have one or more of the material properties of
one or more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106,
108, 202 and/or 204.
[0261] Referring to FIG. 24, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 2410 includes an internally threaded connection 2412
at an end portion 2414. A first end of a tubular sleeve 2416
includes an internal flange 2418 and a tapered portion 2420. A
second end of the sleeve 2416 includes an internal flange 2421 and
a tapered portion 2422. An externally threaded connection 2424 of
an end portion 2426 of a second tubular member 2428 having an
annular recess 2430, is then positioned within the tubular sleeve
2416 and threadably coupled to the internally threaded connection
2412 of the end portion 2414 of the first tubular member 2410. The
internal flange 2418 of the sleeve 2416 mates with and is received
within the annular recess 2430. The first tubular member 2410
includes a recess 2431. The internal flange 2421 mates with and is
received within the annular recess 2431. Thus, the sleeve 2416 is
coupled to and surrounds the external surfaces of the first and
second tubular members 2410 and 2428.
[0262] The internally threaded connection 2412 of the end portion
2414 of the first tubular member 2410 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 2424 of the end portion 2426 of the
second tubular member 2428 is a pin connection. In an exemplary
embodiment, the internal diameter of the tubular sleeve 2416 is at
least approximately 0.020'' greater than the outside diameters of
the first and second tubular members 2410 and 2428. In this manner,
during the threaded coupling of the first and second tubular
members 2410 and 2428, fluidic materials within the first and
second tubular members may be vented from the tubular members.
[0263] As illustrated in FIG. 24, the first and second tubular
members 2410 and 2428, and the tubular sleeve 2416 may then be
positioned within another structure 2432 such as, for example, a
wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically deformed, for
example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion device 2434
through and/or within the interiors of the first and second tubular
members. The tapered portions 2420 and 2422, of the tubular sleeve
2416 facilitate the insertion and movement of the first and second
tubular members within and through the structure 2432, and the
displacement of the expansion device 2434 through the interiors of
the first and second tubular members, 2410 and 2428, may be from
top to bottom or from bottom to top.
[0264] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members, 2410 and 2428, the tubular sleeve
2416 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an
exemplary embodiment, as a result, the tubular sleeve 2416 may be
maintained in circumferential tension and the end portions, 2414
and 2426, of the first and second tubular members, 2410 and 2428,
may be maintained in circumferential compression.
[0265] The sleeve 2416 increases the axial compression and tension
loading of the connection between tubular members 2410 and 2428
before and after expansion by expansion device 2424. Sleeve 2416
may be secured to tubular members 2410 and 2428 by a heat shrink
fit.
[0266] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 2410 and 2428, and the
tubular sleeve 2416 have one or more of the material properties of
one or more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106,
108, 202 and/or 204.
[0267] Referring to FIG. 25, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 2510 includes an internally threaded connection 2512
at an end portion 2514. A first end of a tubular sleeve 2516
includes an internal flange 2518 and a relief 2520. A second end of
the sleeve 2516 includes an internal flange 2521 and a relief 2522.
An externally threaded connection 2524 of an end portion 2526 of a
second tubular member 2528 having an annular recess 2530, is then
positioned within the tubular sleeve 2516 and threadably coupled to
the internally threaded connection 2512 of the end portion 2514 of
the first tubular member 2510. The internal flange 2518 of the
sleeve 2516 mates with and is received within the annular recess
2530. The first tubular member 2510 includes a recess 2531. The
internal flange 2521 mates with and is received within the annular
recess 2531. Thus, the sleeve 2516 is coupled to and surrounds the
external surfaces of the first and second tubular members 2510 and
2528.
[0268] The internally threaded connection 2512 of the end portion
2514 of the first tubular member 2510 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 2524 of the end portion 2526 of the
second tubular member 2528 is a pin connection. In an exemplary
embodiment, the internal diameter of the tubular sleeve 2516 is at
least approximately 0.020'' greater than the outside diameters of
the first and second tubular members 2510 and 2528. In this manner,
during the threaded coupling of the first and second tubular
members 2510 and 2528, fluidic materials within the first and
second tubular members may be vented from the tubular members.
[0269] As illustrated in FIG. 25, the first and second tubular
members 2510 and 2528, and the tubular sleeve 2516 may then be
positioned within another structure 2532 such as, for example, a
wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically deformed, for
example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion device 2534
through and/or within the interiors of the first and second tubular
members. The reliefs 2520 and 2522 are each filled with a
sacrificial material 2540 including a tapered surface 2542 and
2544, respectively. The material 2540 may be a metal or a
synthetic, and is provided to facilitate the insertion and movement
of the first and second tubular members 2510 and 2528, through the
structure 2532. The displacement of the expansion device 2534
through the interiors of the first and second tubular members 2510
and 2528, may, for example, be from top to bottom or from bottom to
top.
[0270] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members 2510 and 2528, the tubular sleeve
2516 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an
exemplary embodiment, as a result, the tubular sleeve 2516 may be
maintained in circumferential tension and the end portions 2514 and
2526, of the first and second tubular members, 2510 and 2528, may
be maintained in circumferential compression.
[0271] The addition of the sacrificial material 2540, provided on
sleeve 2516, avoids stress risers on the sleeve 2516 and the
tubular member 2510. The tapered surfaces 2542 and 2544 are
intended to wear or even become damaged, thus incurring such wear
or damage which would otherwise be borne by sleeve 2516. Sleeve
2516 may be secured to tubular members 2510 and 2528 by a heat
shrink fit.
[0272] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 2510 and 2528, and the
tubular sleeve 2516 have one or more of the material properties of
one or more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104,106,
108,202 and/or 204.
[0273] Referring to FIG. 26, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 2610 includes an internally threaded connection 2612
at an end portion 2614. A first end of a tubular sleeve 2616
includes an internal flange 2618 and a tapered portion 2620. A
second end of the sleeve 2616 includes an internal flange 2621 and
a tapered portion 2622. An externally threaded connection 2624 of
an end portion 2626 of a second tubular member 2628 having an
annular recess 2630, is then positioned within the tubular sleeve
2616 and threadably coupled to the internally threaded connection
2612 of the end portion 2614 of the first tubular member 2610. The
internal flange 2618 of the sleeve 2616 mates with and is received
within the annular recess 2630.
[0274] The first tubular member 2610 includes a recess 2631. The
internal flange 2621 mates with and is received within the annular
recess 2631. Thus, the sleeve 2616 is coupled to and surrounds the
external surfaces of the first and second tubular members 2610 and
2628.
[0275] The internally threaded connection 2612 of the end portion
2614 of the first tubular member 2610 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 2624 of the end portion 2626 of the
second tubular member 2628 is a pin connection. In an exemplary
embodiment, the internal diameter of the tubular sleeve 2616 is at
least approximately 0.020'' greater than the outside diameters of
the first and second tubular members 2610 and 2628. In this manner,
during the threaded coupling of the first and second tubular
members 2610 and 2628, fluidic materials within the first and
second tubular members may be vented from the tubular members.
[0276] As illustrated in FIG. 26, the first and second tubular
members 2610 and 2628, and the tubular sleeve 2616 may then be
positioned within another structure 2632 such as, for example, a
wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically deformed, for
example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion device 2634
through and/or within the interiors of the first and second tubular
members. The tapered portions 2620 and 2622, of the tubular sleeve
2616 facilitates the insertion and movement of the first and second
tubular members within and through the structure 2632, and the
displacement of the expansion device 2634 through the interiors of
the first and second tubular members 2610 and 2628, may, for
example, be from top to bottom or from bottom to top.
[0277] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members 2610 and 2628, the tubular sleeve
2616 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an
exemplary embodiment, as a result, the tubular sleeve 2616 may be
maintained in circumferential tension and the end portions 2614 and
2626, of the first and second tubular members 2610 and 2628, may be
maintained in circumferential compression.
[0278] Sleeve 2616 is covered by a thin walled cylinder of
sacrificial material 2640. Spaces 2623 and 2624, adjacent tapered
portions 2620 and 2622, respectively, are also filled with an
excess of the sacrificial material 2640. The material may be a
metal or a synthetic, and is provided to facilitate the insertion
and movement of the first and second tubular members 2610 and 2628,
through the structure 2632.
[0279] The addition of the sacrificial material 2640, provided on
sleeve 2616, avoids stress risers on the sleeve 2616 and the
tubular member 2610. The excess of the sacrificial material 2640
adjacent tapered portions 2620 and 2622 are intended to wear or
even become damaged, thus incurring such wear or damage which would
otherwise be borne by sleeve 2616. Sleeve 2616 may be secured to
tubular members 2610 and 2628 by a heat shrink fit.
[0280] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 2610 and 2628, and the
tubular sleeve 2616 have one or more of the material properties of
one or more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106,
108, 202 and/or 204.
[0281] Referring to FIG. 27, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 2710 includes an internally threaded connection 2712
at an end portion 2714. A first end of a tubular sleeve 2716
includes an internal flange 2718 and a tapered portion 2720. A
second end of the sleeve 2716 includes an internal flange 2721 and
a tapered portion 2722. An externally threaded connection 2724 of
an end portion 2726 of a second tubular member 2728 having an
annular recess 2730, is then positioned within the tubular sleeve
2716 and threadably coupled to the internally threaded connection
2712 of the end portion 2714 of the first tubular member 2710. The
internal flange 2718 of the sleeve 2716 mates with and is received
within the annular recess 2730.
[0282] The first tubular member 2710 includes a recess 2731. The
internal flange 2721 mates with and is received within the annular
recess 2731. Thus, the sleeve 2716 is coupled to and surrounds the
external surfaces of the first and second tubular members 2710 and
2728.
[0283] The internally threaded connection 2712 of the end portion
2714 of the first tubular member 2710 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 2724 of the end portion 2726 of the
second tubular member 2728 is a pin connection. In an exemplary
embodiment, the internal diameter of the tubular sleeve 2716 is at
least approximately 0.020'' greater than the outside diameters of
the first and second tubular members 2710 and 2728. In this manner,
during the threaded coupling of the first and second tubular
members 2710 and 2728, fluidic materials within the first and
second tubular members may be vented from the tubular members.
[0284] As illustrated in FIG. 27, the first and second tubular
members 2710 and 2728, and the tubular sleeve 2716 may then be
positioned within another structure 2732 such as, for example, a
wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically deformed, for
example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion device 2734
through and/or within the interiors of the first and second tubular
members. The tapered portions 2720 and 2722, of the tubular sleeve
2716 facilitates the insertion and movement of the first and second
tubular members within and through the structure 2732, and the
displacement of the expansion device 2734 through the interiors of
the first and second tubular members 2710 and 2728, may be from top
to bottom or from bottom to top.
[0285] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members 2710 and 2728, the tubular sleeve
2716 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an
exemplary embodiment, as a result, the tubular sleeve 2716 may be
maintained in circumferential tension and the end portions 2714 and
2726, of the first and second tubular members 2710 and 2728, may be
maintained in circumferential compression.
[0286] Sleeve 2716 has a variable thickness due to one or more
reduced thickness portions 2790 and/or increased thickness portions
2792.
[0287] Varying the thickness of sleeve 2716 provides the ability to
control or induce stresses at selected positions along the length
of sleeve 2716 and the end portions 2724 and 2726. Sleeve 2716 may
be secured to tubular members 2710 and 2728 by a heat shrink
fit.
[0288] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 2710 and 2728, and the
tubular sleeve 2716 have one or more of the material properties of
one or more of the tubular members 12,14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106,
108, 202 and/or 204.
[0289] Referring to FIG. 28, in an alternative embodiment, instead
of varying the thickness of sleeve 2716, the same result described
above with reference to FIG. 27, may be achieved by adding a member
2740 which may be coiled onto the grooves 2739 formed in sleeve
2716, thus varying the thickness along the length of sleeve
2716.
[0290] Referring to FIG. 29, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 2910 includes an internally threaded connection 2912
and an internal annular recess 2914 at an end portion 2916. A first
end of a tubular sleeve 2918 includes an internal flange 2920, and
a second end of the sleeve 2916 mates with and receives the end
portion 2916 of the first tubular member 2910. An externally
threaded connection 2922 of an end portion 2924 of a second tubular
member 2926 having an annular recess 2928, is then positioned
within the tubular sleeve 2918 and threadably coupled to the
internally threaded connection 2912 of the end portion 2916 of the
first tubular member 2910. The internal flange 2920 of the sleeve
2918 mates with and is received within the annular recess 2928. A
sealing element 2930 is received within the internal annular recess
2914 of the end portion 2916 of the first tubular member 2910.
[0291] The internally threaded connection 2912 of the end portion
2916 of the first tubular member 2910 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 2922 of the end portion 2924 of the
second tubular member 2926 is a pin connection. In an exemplary
embodiment, the internal diameter of the tubular sleeve 2918 is at
least approximately 0.020'' greater than the outside diameters of
the first tubular member 2910. In this manner, during the threaded
coupling of the first and second tubular members 2910 and 2926,
fluidic materials within the first and second tubular members may
be vented from the tubular members.
[0292] The first and second tubular members 2910 and 2926, and the
tubular sleeve 2918 may be positioned within another structure such
as, for example, a wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically
deformed, for example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion
device through and/or within the interiors of the first and second
tubular members.
[0293] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members 2910 and 2926, the tubular sleeve
2918 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an
exemplary embodiment, as a result, the tubular sleeve 2918 may be
maintained in circumferential tension and the end portions 2916 and
2924, of the first and second tubular members 2910 and 2926,
respectively, may be maintained in circumferential compression.
[0294] In an exemplary embodiment, before, during, and after the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second
tubular members 2910 and 2926, and the tubular sleeve 2918, the
sealing element 2930 seals the interface between the first and
second tubular members. In an exemplary embodiment, during and
after the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and
second tubular members 2910 and 2926, and the tubular sleeve 2918,
a metal to metal seal is formed between at least one of: the first
and second tubular members 2910 and 2926, the first tubular member
and the tubular sleeve 2918, and/or the second tubular member and
the tubular sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, the metal to metal
seal is both fluid tight and gas tight.
[0295] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 2910 and 2926, the tubular
sleeve 2918, and the sealing element 2930 have one or more of the
material properties of one or more of the tubular members 12, 14,
24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or 204.
[0296] Referring to FIG. 30a, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 3010 includes internally threaded connections 3012a
and 3012b, spaced apart by a cylindrical internal surface 3014, at
an end portion 3016. Externally threaded connections 3018a and
3018b, spaced apart by a cylindrical external surface 3020, of an
end portion 3022 of a second tubular member 3024 are threadably
coupled to the internally threaded connections, 3012a and 3012b,
respectively, of the end portion 3016 of the first tubular member
3010. A sealing element 3026 is received within an annulus defined
between the internal cylindrical surface 3014 of the first tubular
member 3010 and the external cylindrical surface 3020 of the second
tubular member 3024.
[0297] The internally threaded connections, 3012a and 3012b, of the
end portion 3016 of the first tubular member 3010 are box
connections, and the externally threaded connections, 3018a and
3018b, of the end portion 3022 of the second tubular member 3024
are pin connections. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing
element 3026 is an elastomeric and/or metallic sealing element.
[0298] The first and second tubular members 3010 and 3024 may be
positioned within another structure such as, for example, a
wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically deformed, for
example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion device through
and/or within the interiors of the first and second tubular
members.
[0299] In an exemplary embodiment, before, during, and after the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second
tubular members 3010 and 3024, the sealing element 3026 seals the
interface between the first and second tubular members. In an
exemplary embodiment, before, during and/or after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members 3010 and 3024, a metal to metal seal is formed between at
least one of: the first and second tubular members 3010 and 3024,
the first tubular member and the sealing element 3026, and/or the
second tubular member and the sealing element. In an exemplary
embodiment, the metal to metal seal is both fluid tight and gas
tight.
[0300] In an alternative embodiment, the sealing element 3026 is
omitted, and during and/or after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the first and second tubular members 3010 and 3024,
a metal to metal seal is formed between the first and second
tubular members.
[0301] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 3010 and 3024, the sealing
element 3026 have one or more of the material properties of one or
more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202
and/or 204.
[0302] Referring to FIG. 30b, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 3030 includes internally threaded connections 3032a
and 3032b, spaced apart by an undulating approximately cylindrical
internal surface 3034, at an end portion 3036. Externally threaded
connections 3038a and 3038b, spaced apart by a cylindrical external
surface 3040, of an end portion 3042 of a second tubular member
3044 are threadably coupled to the internally threaded connections,
3032a and 3032b, respectively, of the end portion 3036 of the first
tubular member 3030. A sealing element 3046 is received within an
annulus defined between the undulating approximately cylindrical
internal surface 3034 of the first tubular member 3030 and the
external cylindrical surface 3040 of the second tubular member
3044.
[0303] The internally threaded connections, 3032a and 3032b, of the
end portion 3036 of the first tubular member 3030 are box
connections, and the externally threaded connections, 3038a and
3038b, of the end portion 3042 of the second tubular member 3044
are pin connections. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing
element 3046 is an elastomeric and/or metallic sealing element.
[0304] The first and second tubular members 3030 and 3044 may be
positioned within another structure such as, for example, a
wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically deformed, for
example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion device through
and/or within the interiors of the first and second tubular
members.
[0305] In an exemplary embodiment, before, during, and after the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second
tubular members 3030 and 3044, the sealing element 3046 seals the
interface between the first and second tubular members. In an
exemplary embodiment, before, during and/or after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members 3030 and 3044, a metal to metal seal is formed between at
least one of: the first and second tubular members 3030 and 3044,
the first tubular member and the sealing element 3046, and/or the
second tubular member and the sealing element. In an exemplary
embodiment, the metal to metal seal is both fluid tight and gas
tight.
[0306] In an alternative embodiment, the sealing element 3046 is
omitted, and during and/or after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the first and second tubular members 3030 and 3044,
a metal to metal seal is formed between the first and second
tubular members.
[0307] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 3030 and 3044, the sealing
element 3046 have one or more of the material properties of one or
more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202
and/or 204.
[0308] Referring to FIG. 30c, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 3050 includes internally threaded connections 3052a
and 3052b, spaced apart by a cylindrical internal surface 3054
including one or more square grooves 3056, at an end portion 3058.
Externally threaded connections 3060a and 3060b, spaced apart by a
cylindrical external surface 3062 including one or more square
grooves 3064, of an end portion 3066 of a second tubular member
3068 are threadably coupled to the internally threaded connections,
3052a and 3052b, respectively, of the end portion 3058 of the first
tubular member 3050. A sealing element 3070 is received within an
annulus defined between the cylindrical internal surface 3054 of
the first tubular member 3050 and the external cylindrical surface
3062 of the second tubular member 3068.
[0309] The internally threaded connections, 3052a and 3052b, of the
end portion 3058 of the first tubular member 3050 are box
connections, and the externally threaded connections, 3060a and
3060b, of the end portion 3066 of the second tubular member 3068
are pin connections. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing
element 3070 is an elastomeric and/or metallic sealing element.
[0310] The first and second tubular members 3050 and 3068 may be
positioned within another structure such as, for example, a
wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically deformed, for
example, by displacing and/or rotating an expansion device through
and/or within the interiors of the first and second tubular
members.
[0311] In an exemplary embodiment, before, during, and after the
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second
tubular members 3050 and 3068, the sealing element 3070 seals the
interface between the first and second tubular members. In an
exemplary embodiment, before, during and/or after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members, 3050 and 3068, a metal to metal seal is formed between at
least one of: the first and second tubular members, the first
tubular member and the sealing element 3070, and/or the second
tubular member and the sealing element. In an exemplary embodiment,
the metal to metal seal is both fluid tight and gas tight.
[0312] In an alternative embodiment, the sealing element 3070 is
omitted, and during and/or after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the first and second tubular members 950 and 968, a
metal to metal seal is formed between the first and second tubular
members.
[0313] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 3050 and 3068, the sealing
element 3070 have one or more of the material properties of one or
more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202
and/or 204.
[0314] Referring to FIG. 31, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 3110 includes internally threaded connections, 3112a
and 3112b, spaced apart by a non-threaded internal surface 3114, at
an end portion 3116. Externally threaded connections, 3118a and
3118b, spaced apart by a non-threaded external surface 3120, of an
end portion 3122 of a second tubular member 3124 are threadably
coupled to the internally threaded connections, 3112a and 3112b,
respectively, of the end portion 3122 of the first tubular member
3124.
[0315] First, second, and/or third tubular sleeves, 3126, 3128, and
3130, are coupled the external surface of the first tubular member
3110 in opposing relation to the threaded connection formed by the
internal and external threads, 3112a and 3118a, the interface
between the non-threaded surfaces, 3114 and 3120, and the threaded
connection formed by the internal and external threads, 3112b and
3118b, respectively.
[0316] The internally threaded connections, 3112a and 3112b, of the
end portion 3116 of the first tubular member 3110 are box
connections, and the externally threaded connections, 3118a and
3118b, of the end portion 3122 of the second tubular member 3124
are pin connections.
[0317] The first and second tubular members 3110 and 3124, and the
tubular sleeves 3126, 3128, and/or 3130, may then be positioned
within another structure 3132 such as, for example, a wellbore, and
radially expanded and plastically deformed, for example, by
displacing and/or rotating an expansion device 3134 through and/or
within the interiors of the first and second tubular members.
[0318] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members 3110 and 3124, the tubular sleeves
3126, 3128 and/or 3130 are also radially expanded and plastically
deformed. In an exemplary embodiment, as a result, the tubular
sleeves 3126, 3128, and/or 3130 are maintained in circumferential
tension and the end portions 3116 and 3122, of the first and second
tubular members 3110 and 3124, may be maintained in circumferential
compression.
[0319] The sleeves 3126, 3128, and/or 3130 may, for example, be
secured to the first tubular member 3110 by a heat shrink fit.
[0320] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 3110 and 3124, and the
sleeves, 3126, 3128, and 3130, have one or more of the material
properties of one or more of the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26,
102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or 204.
[0321] Referring to FIG. 32a, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 3210 includes an internally threaded connection 3212
at an end portion 3214. An externally threaded connection 3216 of
an end portion 3218 of a second tubular member 3220 are threadably
coupled to the internally threaded connection 3212 of the end
portion 3214 of the first tubular member 3210.
[0322] The internally threaded connection 3212 of the end portion
3214 of the first tubular member 3210 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 3216 of the end portion 3218 of the
second tubular member 3220 is a pin connection.
[0323] A tubular sleeve 3222 including internal flanges 3224 and
3226 is positioned proximate and surrounding the end portion 3214
of the first tubular member 3210. As illustrated in FIG. 32b, the
tubular sleeve 3222 is then forced into engagement with the
external surface of the end portion 3214 of the first tubular
member 3210 in a conventional manner. As a result, the end
portions, 3214 and 3218, of the first and second tubular members,
3210 and 3220, are upset in an undulating fashion.
[0324] The first and second tubular members 3210 and 3220, and the
tubular sleeve 3222, may then be positioned within another
structure such as, for example, a wellbore, and radially expanded
and plastically deformed, for example, by displacing and/or
rotating an expansion device through and/or within the interiors of
the first and second tubular members.
[0325] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members 3210 and 3220, the tubular sleeve
3222 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an
exemplary embodiment, as a result, the tubular sleeve 3222 is
maintained in circumferential tension and the end portions 3214 and
3218, of the first and second tubular members 3210 and 3220, may be
maintained in circumferential compression.
[0326] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 3210 and 3220, and the sleeve
3222 have one or more of the material properties of one or more of
the tubular niembers 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or
204.
[0327] Referring to FIG. 33, in an exemplary embodiment, a first
tubular member 3310 includes an internally threaded connection 3312
and an annular projection 3314 at an end portion 3316.
[0328] A first end of a tubular sleeve 3318 that includes an
internal flange 3320 having a tapered portion 3322 and an annular
recess 3324 for receiving the annular projection 3314 of the first
tubular member 3310, and a second end that includes a tapered
portion 3326, is then mounted upon and receives the end portion
3316 of the first tubular member 3310.
[0329] In an exemplary embodiment, the end portion 3316 of the
first tubular member 3310 abuts one side of the internal flange
3320 of the tubular sleeve 3318 and the annular projection 3314 of
the end portion of the first tubular member mates with and is
received within the annular recess 3324 of the internal flange of
the tubular sleeve, and the internal diameter of the internal
flange 3320 of the tubular sleeve 3318 is substantially equal to or
greater than the maximum internal diameter of the internally
threaded connection 3312 of the end portion 3316 of the first
tubular member 3310. An externally threaded connection 3326 of an
end portion 3328 of a second tubular member 3330 having an annular
recess 3332 is then positioned within the tubular sleeve 3318 and
threadably coupled to the internally threaded connection 3312 of
the end portion 3316 of the first tubular member 3310. In an
exemplary embodiment, the internal flange 3332 of the tubular
sleeve 3318 mates with and is received within the annular recess
3332 of the end portion 3328 of the second tubular member 3330.
Thus, the tubular sleeve 3318 is coupled to and surrounds the
external surfaces of the first and second tubular members, 3310 and
3328.
[0330] The internally threaded connection 3312 of the end portion
3316 of the first tubular member 3310 is a box connection, and the
externally threaded connection 3326 of the end portion 3328 of the
second tubular member 3330 is a pin connection. In an exemplary
embodiment, the internal diameter of the tubular sleeve 3318 is at
least approximately 0.020'' greater than the outside diameters of
the first and second tubular members, 3310 and 3330. In this
manner, during the threaded coupling of the first and second
tubular members, 3310 and 3330, fluidic materials within the first
and second tubular members may be vented from the tubular
members.
[0331] As illustrated in FIG. 33, the first and second tubular
members, 3310 and 3330, and the tubular sleeve 3318 may be
positioned within another structure 3334 such as, for example, a
cased or uncased wellbore, and radially expanded and plastically
deformed, for example, by displacing and/or rotating a conventional
expansion device 3336 within and/or through the interiors of the
first and second tubular members. The tapered portions, 3322 and
3326, of the tubular sleeve 3318 facilitate the insertion and
movement of the first and second tubular members within and through
the structure 3334, and the movement of the expansion device 3336
through the interiors of the first and second tubular members, 3310
and 3330, may, for example, be from top to bottom or from bottom to
top.
[0332] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members, 3310 and 3330, the tubular sleeve
3318 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. As a
result, the tubular sleeve 3318 may be maintained in
circumferential tension and the end portions, 3316 and 3328, of the
first and second tubular members, 3310 and 3330, may be maintained
in circumferential compression.
[0333] Sleeve 3316 increases the axial compression loading of the
connection between tubular members 3310 and 3330 before and after
expansion by the expansion device 3336. Sleeve 3316 may be secured
to tubular members 3310 and 3330, for example, by a heat shrink
fit.
[0334] In several alternative embodiments, the first and second
tubular members, 3310 and 3330, are radially expanded and
plastically deformed using other conventional methods for radially
expanding and plastically deforming tubular members such as, for
example, internal pressurization, hydroforming, and/or roller
expansion devices and/or any one or combination of the conventional
commercially available expansion products and services available
from Baker Hughes, Weatherford International, and/or Enventure
Global Technology L.L.C.
[0335] The use of the tubular sleeve 3318 during (a) the coupling
of the first tubular member 3310 to the second tubular member 3330,
(b) the placement of the first and second tubular members in the
structure 3334, and (c) the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the first and second tubular members provides a
number of significant benefits. For example, the tubular sleeve
3318 protects the exterior surfaces of the end portions, 3316 and
3328, of the first and second tubular members, 3310 and 3330,
during handling and insertion of the tubular members within the
structure 3334. In this manner, damage to the exterior surfaces of
the end portions, 3316 and 3328, of the first and second tubular
members, 3310 and 3330, is avoided that could otherwise result in
stress concentrations that could cause a catastrophic failure
during subsequent radial expansion operations. Furthermore, the
tubular sleeve 3318 provides an alignment guide that facilitates
the insertion and threaded coupling of the second tubular member
3330 to the first tubular member 3310. In this manner, misalignment
that could result in damage to the threaded connections, 3312 and
3326, of the first and second tubular members, 3310 and 3330, may
be avoided. In addition, during the relative rotation of the second
tubular member with respect to the first tubular member, required
during the threaded coupling of the first and second tubular
members, the tubular sleeve 3318 provides an indication of to what
degree the first and second tubular members are threadably coupled.
For example, if the tubular sleeve 3318 can be easily rotated, that
would indicate that the first and second tubular members, 3310 and
3330, are not fully threadably coupled and in intimate contact with
the internal flange 3320 of the tubular sleeve. Furthermore, the
tubular sleeve 3318 may prevent crack propagation during the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members, 3310 and 3330. In this manner, failure modes such as, for
example, longitudinal cracks in the end portions, 3316 and 3328, of
the first and second tubular members may be limited in severity or
eliminated all together. In addition, after completing the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members, 3310 and 3330, the tubular sleeve 3318 may provide a fluid
tight metal-to-metal seal between interior surface of the tubular
sleeve 3318 and the exterior surfaces of the end portions, 3316 and
3328, of the first and second tubular members. In this manner,
fluidic materials are prevented from passing through the threaded
connections, 3312 and 3326, of the first and second tubular
members, 3310 and 3330, into the annulus between the first and
second tubular members and the structure 3334. Furthermore,
because, following the radial expansion and plastic deformation of
the first and second tubular members, 3310 and 3330, the tubular
sleeve 3318 may be maintained in circumferential tension and the
end portions, 3316 and 3328, of the first and second tubular
members, 3310 and 3330, may be maintained in circumferential
compression, axial loads and/or torque loads may be transmitted
through the tubular sleeve.
[0336] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more portions of
the first and second tubular members, 3310 and 3330, and the sleeve
3318 have one or more of the material properties of one or more of
the tubular members 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202 and/or
204.
[0337] Referring to FIGS. 34a, 34b, and 34c, in an exemplary
embodiment, a first tubular member 3410 includes an internally
threaded connection 1312 and one or more external grooves 3414 at
an end portion 3416.
[0338] A first end of a tubular sleeve 3418 that includes an
internal flange 3420 and a tapered portion 3422, a second end that
includes a tapered portion 3424, and an intermediate portion that
includes one or more longitudinally aligned openings 3426, is then
mounted upon and receives the end portion 3416 of the first tubular
member 3410.
[0339] In an exemplary embodiment, the end portion 3416 of the
first tubular member 3410 abuts one side of the internal flange
3420 of the tubular sleeve 3418, and the internal diameter of the
internal flange 3420 of the tubular sleeve 3416 is substantially
equal to or greater than the maximum internal diameter of the
internally threaded connection 3412 of the end portion 3416 of the
first tubular member 3410. An externally threaded connection 3428
of an end portion 3430 of a second tubular member 3432 that
includes one or more internal grooves 3434 is then positioned
within the tubular sleeve 3418 and threadably coupled to the
internally threaded connection 3412 of the end portion 3416 of the
first tubular member 3410. In an exemplary embodiment, the internal
flange 3420 of the tubular sleeve 3418 mates with and is received
within an annular recess 3436 defined in the end portion 3430 of
the second tubular member 3432. Thus, the tubular sleeve 3418 is
coupled to and surrounds the external surfaces of the first and
second tubular members, 3410 and 3432.
[0340] The first and second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, and the
tubular sleeve 3418 may be positioned within another structure such
as, for example, a cased or uncased wellbore, and radially expanded
and plastically deformed, for example, by displacing and/or
rotating a conventional expansion device within and/or through the
interiors of the first and second tubular members. The tapered
portions, 3422 and 3424, of the tubular sleeve 3418 facilitate the
insertion and movement of the first and second tubular members
within and through the structure, and the movement of the expansion
device through the interiors of the first and second tubular
members, 3410 and 3432, may be from top to bottom or from bottom to
top.
[0341] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, the tubular sleeve
3418 is also radially expanded and plastically deformed. As a
result, the tubular sleeve 3418 may be maintained in
circumferential tension and the end portions, 3416 and 3430, of the
first and second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, may be maintained
in circumferential compression.
[0342] Sleeve 3416 increases the axial compression loading of the
connection between tubular members 3410 and 3432 before and after
expansion by the expansion device. The sleeve 3418 may be secured
to tubular members 3410 and 3432, for example, by a heat shrink
fit.
[0343] During the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, the grooves 3414
and/or 3434 and/or the openings 3426 provide stress concentrations
that in turn apply added stress forces to the mating threads of the
threaded connections, 3412 and 3428. As a result, during and after
the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and
second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, the mating threads of the
threaded connections, 3412 and 3428, are maintained in metal to
metal contact thereby providing a fluid and gas tight connection.
In an exemplary embodiment, the orientations of the grooves 3414
and/or 3434 and the openings 3426 are orthogonal to one another. In
an exemplary embodiment, the grooves 3414 and/or 3434 are helical
grooves.
[0344] In several alternative embodiments, the first and second
tubular members, 3410 and 3432, are radially expanded and
plastically deformed using other conventional methods for radially
expanding and plastically deforming tubular members such as, for
example, internal pressurization, hydroforming, and/or roller
expansion devices and/or any one or combination of the conventional
commercially available expansion products and services available
from Baker Hughes, Weatherford International, and/or Enventure
Global Technology L.L.C.
[0345] The use of the tubular sleeve 3418 during (a) the coupling
of the first tubular member 3410 to the second tubular member 3432,
(b) the placement of the first and second tubular members in the
structure, and (c) the radial expansion and plastic deformation of
the first and second tubular members provides a number of
significant benefits. For example, the tubular sleeve 3418 protects
the exterior surfaces of the end portions, 3416 and 3430, of the
first and second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, during handling
and insertion of the tubular members within the structure. In this
manner, damage to the exterior surfaces of the end portions, 3416
and 3430, of the first and second tubular members, 3410 and 3432,
is avoided that could otherwise result in stress concentrations
that could cause a catastrophic failure during subsequent radial
expansion operations. Furthermore, the tubular sleeve 3418 provides
an alignment guide that facilitates the insertion and threaded
coupling of the second tubular member 3432 to the first tubular
member 3410. In this manner, misalignment that could result in
damage to the threaded connections, 3412 and 3428, of the first and
second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, may be avoided. In addition,
during the relative rotation of the second tubular member with
respect to the first tubular member, required during the threaded
coupling of the first and second tubular members, the tubular
sleeve 3416 provides an indication of to what degree the first and
second tubular members are threadably coupled. For example, if the
tubular sleeve 3418 can be easily rotated, that would indicate that
the first and second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, are not fully
threadably coupled and in intimate contact with the internal flange
3420 of the tubular sleeve. Furthermore, the tubular sleeve 3418
may prevent crack propagation during the radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members, 3410
and 3432. In this manner, failure modes such as, for example,
longitudinal cracks in the end portions, 3416 and 3430, of the
first and second tubular members may be limited in severity or
eliminated all together. In addition, after completing the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members, 3410 and 3432, the tubular sleeve 3418 may provide a fluid
and gas tight metal-to-metal seal between interior surface of the
tubular sleeve 3418 and the exterior surfaces of the end portions,
3416 and 3430, of the first and second tubular members. In this
manner, fluidic materials are prevented from passing through the
threaded connections, 3412 and 3430, of the first and second
tubular members, 3410 and 3432, into the annulus between the first
and second tubular members and the structure. Furthermore, because,
following the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first
and second tubular members, 3410 and 3432, the tubular sleeve 3418
may be maintained in circumferential tension and the end portions,
3416 and 3430, of the first and second tubular members, 3410 and
3432, may be maintained in circumferential compression, axial loads
and/or torque loads may be transmitted through the tubular
sleeve.
[0346] In several exemplary embodiments, the first and second
tubular members described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 34c
are radially expanded and plastically deformed using the expansion
device in a conventional manner and/or using one or more of the
methods and apparatus disclosed in one or more of the following:
The present application is related to the following: (1) U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/454,139, attorney docket no.
25791.03.02, filed on Dec. 3, 1999, (2) U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/510,913, attorney docket no. 25791.7.02, filed on Feb.
23, 2000, (3) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/502,350, attorney
docket no. 25791.8.02, filed on Feb. 10, 2000, (4) U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/440,338, attorney docket no. 25791.9.02,
filed on Nov. 15, 1999, (5) U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/523,460, attorney docket no. 25791.11.02, filed on Mar. 10,
2000, (6) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/512,895, attorney
docket no. 25791.12.02, filed on Feb. 24, 2000, (7) U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/511,941, attorney docket no. 25791.16.02,
filed on Feb. 24, 2000, (8) U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/588,946, attorney docket no. 25791.17.02, filed on Jun. 7, 2000,
(9) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/559,122, attorney docket
no. 25791.23.02, filed on Apr. 26, 2000, (10) PCT patent
application serial no. PCT/US00/18635, attorney docket no.
25791.25.02, filed on Jul. 9, 2000, (11) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/162,671, attorney docket no. 25791.27,
filed on Nov. 1, 1999, (12) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/154,047, attorney docket no. 25791.29, filed on Sep.
16, 1999, (13) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/159,082, attorney docket no. 25791.34, filed on Oct. 12, 1999,
(14) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/159,039,
attorney docket no. 25791.36, filed on Oct. 12, 1999, (15) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/159,033, attorney docket
no. 25791.37, filed on Oct. 12, 1999, (16) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/212,359, attorney docket no. 25791.38,
filed on Jun. 19, 2000, (17) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/165,228, attorney docket no. 25791.39, filed on Nov.
12, 1999, (18) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/221,443, attorney docket no. 25791.45, filed on Jul. 28, 2000,
(19) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/221,645,
attorney docket no. 25791.46, filed on Jul. 28, 2000, (20) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/233,638, attorney docket
no. 25791.47, filed on Sep. 18, 2000, (21) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/237,334, attorney docket no. 25791.48,
filed on Oct. 2, 2000, (22) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/270,007, attorney docket no. 25791.50, filed on Feb.
20, 2001, (23) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/262,434, attorney docket no. 25791.51, filed on Jan. 17, 2001,
(24) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/259,486,
attorney docket no. 25791.52, filed on Jan. 3, 2001, (25) U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/303,740, attorney docket
no. 25791.61, filed on Jul. 6, 2001, (26) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/313,453, attorney docket no. 25791.59,
filed on Aug. 20, 2001, (27) U.S. provisional patent application
Ser. No. 60/317,985, attorney docket no. 25791.67, filed on Sep. 6,
2001, (28) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/3318,386, attorney docket no. 25791.67.02, filed on Sep. 10,
2001, (29) U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 09/969,922,
attorney docket no. 25791.69, filed on Oct. 3, 2001, (30) U.S.
utility patent application Ser. No. 10/016,467, attorney docket no.
25791.70, filed on Dec. 10, 2001, (31) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/343,674, attorney docket no. 25791.68,
filed on Dec. 27, 2001; and (32) U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 60/346,309, attorney docket no. 25791.92,
filed on Jan. 7, 2002, the disclosures of which are incorporated
herein by reference.
[0347] Referring to FIG. 35a an exemplary embodiment of an
expandable tubular member 3500 includes a first tubular region 3502
and a second tubular portion 3504. In an exemplary embodiment, the
material properties of the first and second tubular regions, 3502
and 3504, are different. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield
points of the first and second tubular regions, 3502 and 3504, are
different. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the first
tubular region 3502 is less than the yield point of the second
tubular region 3504. In several exemplary embodiments, one or more
of the expandable tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106,
108, 202 and/or 204 incorporate the tubular member 3500.
[0348] Referring to FIG. 35b, in an exemplary embodiment, the yield
point within the first and second tubular regions, 3502a and 3502b,
of the expandable tubular member 3502 vary as a function of the
radial position within the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point increases as a function of
the radial position within the expandable tubular member 3502. In
an exemplary embodiment, the relationship between the yield point
and the radial position within the expandable tubular member 3502
is a linear relationship. In an exemplary embodiment, the
relationship between the yield point and the radial position within
the expandable tubular member 3502 is a non-linear relationship. In
an exemplary embodiment, the yield point increases at different
rates within the first and second tubular regions, 3502a and 3502b,
as a function of the radial position within the expandable tubular
member 3502. In an exemplary embodiment, the functional
relationship, and value, of the yield points within the first and
second tubular regions, 3502a and 3502b, of the expandable tubular
member 3502 are modified by the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member.
[0349] In several exemplary embodiments, one or more of the
expandable tubular members, 12, 14, 24, 26, 102,104,106, 108, 202,
204 and/or 3502, prior to a radial expansion and plastic
deformation, include a microstructure that is a combination of a
hard phase, such as martensite, a soft phase, such as ferrite, and
a transitionary phase, such as retained austentite. In this manner,
the hard phase provides high strength, the soft phase provides
ductility, and the transitionary phase transitions to a hard phase,
such as martensite, during a radial expansion and plastic
deformation. Furthermore, in this manner, the yield point of the
tubular member increases as a result of the radial expansion and
plastic deformation. Further, in this manner, the tubular member is
ductile, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
thereby facilitating the radial expansion and plastic deformation.
In an exemplary embodiment, the composition of a dual-phase
expandable tubular member includes (weight percentages): about 0.1%
C, 1.2% Mn, and 0.3% Si.
[0350] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIGS. 36a-36c, one or more of the expandable tubular members, 12,
14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202, 204 and/or 3502 are processed
in accordance with a method 3600, in which, in step 3602, an
expandable tubular member 3602a is provided that is a steel alloy
having following material composition (by weight percentage):
0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01%
Ni, 0.02% Cr, 0.05% V, 0.01% Mo, 0.01% Nb, and 0.01% Ti. In an
exemplary experimental embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3602a provided in step 3602 has a yield strength of 45 ksi, and a
tensile strength of 69 ksi.
[0351] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIG. 36b, in step 3602, the expandable tubular member 3602a
includes a microstructure that includes martensite, pearlite, and
V, Ni, and/or Ti carbides.
[0352] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3602a is then heated at a temperature of 790.degree. C. for about
10 minutes in step 3604.
[0353] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3602a is then quenched in water in step 3606.
[0354] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIG. 36c, following the completion of step 3606, the expandable
tubular member 3602a includes a microstructure that includes new
ferrite, grain pearlite, martensite, and ferrite. In an exemplary
experimental embodiment, following the completion of step 3606, the
expandable tubular member 3602a has a yield strength of 67 ksi, and
a tensile strength of 95 ksi.
[0355] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3602a is then radially expanded and plastically deformed using one
or more of the methods and apparatus described above. In an
exemplary embodiment, following the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member 3602a, the yield
strength of the expandable tubular member is about 95 ksi.
[0356] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIGS. 37a-37c, one or more of the expandable tubular members, 12,
14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202, 204 and/or 3502 are processed
in accordance with a method 3700, in which, in step 3702, an
expandable tubular member 3702a is provided that is a steel alloy
having following material composition (by weight percentage): 0.18%
C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni,
0.03% Cr, 0.04% V, 0.01% Mo, 0.03% Nb, and 0.01% Ti. In an
exemplary experimental embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3702a provided in step 3702 has a yield strength of 60 ksi, and a
tensile strength of 80 ksi.
[0357] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIG. 37b, in step 3702, the expandable tubular member 3702a
includes a microstructure that includes pearlite and pearlite
striation.
[0358] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3702a is then heated at a temperature of 790.degree. C. for about
10 minutes in step 3704.
[0359] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3702a is then quenched in water in step 3706.
[0360] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIG. 37c, following the completion of step 3706, the expandable
tubular member 3702a includes a microstructure that includes
ferrite, martensite, and bainite. In an exemplary experimental
embodiment, following the completion of step 3706, the expandable
tubular member 3702a has a yield strength of 82 ksi, and a tensile
strength of 130 ksi.
[0361] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3702a is then radially expanded and plastically deformed using one
or more of the methods and apparatus described above. In an
exemplary embodiment, following the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member 3702a, the yield
strength of the expandable tubular member is about 130 ksi.
[0362] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIGS. 38a-38c, one or more of the expandable tubular members, 12,
14, 24, 26, 102, 104, 106, 108, 202, 204 and/or 3502 are processed
in accordance with a method 3800, in which, in step 3802, an
expandable tubular member 3802a is provided that is a steel alloy
having following material composition (by weight percentage): 0.08%
C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30% Si, 0.06% Cu, 0.05% Ni,
0.05% Cr, 0.03% V, 0.03% Mo, 0.01% Nb, and 0.01% Ti. In an
exemplary experimental embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3802a provided in step 3802 has a yield strength of 56 ksi, and a
tensile strength of 75 ksi.
[0363] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIG. 38b, in step 3802, the expandable tubular member 3802a
includes a microstructure that includes grain pearlite,
widmanstatten martensite and carbides of V, Ni, and/or Ti.
[0364] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3802a is then heated at a temperature of 790.degree. C. for about
10 minutes in step 3804.
[0365] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3802a is then quenched in water in step 3806.
[0366] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in
FIG. 38c, following the completion of step 3806, the expandable
tubular member 3802a includes a microstructure that includes
bainite, pearlite, and new ferrite. In an exemplary experimental
embodiment, following the completion of step 3806, the expandable
tubular member 3802a has a yield strength of 60 ksi, and a tensile
strength of 97 ksi.
[0367] In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3802a is then radially expanded and plastically deformed using one
or more of the methods and apparatus described above. In an
exemplary embodiment, following the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member 3802a, the yield
strength of the expandable tubular member is about 97 ksi.
[0368] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 39 and
40, a method 3900 for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly begins with step 3902 in which an expandable tubular
member 3902a is provided. The expandable tubular member 3902a
includes an inner surface 3902b having an inner diameter D.sub.1,
an outer surface 3902c having an outer diameter D.sub.2, and a wall
thickness 3902d. In an exemplary embodiment, expandable tubular
member 3902a may be, for example, the tubular member 12, 14, 24,
26, 102, 108, 202, 204, 2210, 2228, 2310, 2328, 2410, 2428, 2510,
2528, 2610, 2628, 2710, 2728, 2910, 2926, 3010, 3024, 3030, 3044,
3050, 3068, 3110, 3124, 3210, 3220, 3310, 3330, 3410, 3432, or
3500. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
3902a may be, for example, the tubular assembly 10, 22, 100, or
200.
[0369] Referring now to FIGS. 39, 41a, 41b, 41c and 41d, the method
3900 continues at step 3904 in which the expandable tubular member
3902a is coated with a layer 3904a of material. In an exemplary
embodiment, the layer 3904a of material includes a plastic such as,
for example, a PVC plastic 3904aa as illustrated in FIG. 41c,
and/or a soft metal such as, for example, aluminum 3904ab as
illustrated in FIG. 41d, an aluminum/zinc combination, or
equivalent metals known in the art, and/or a composite material
such as, for example, a carbon fiber material, and substantially
covers the outer surface 3902c of expandable tubular member 3902a.
In an exemplary embodiment, the layer 3904a of material is applied
using conventional methods such as, for example, spray coating,
vapor deposition, adhering layers of material to the surface, or a
variety of other coating methods known in the art. In an exemplary
embodiment, soft metals include metals having a lower yield
strength than the expandable tubular member 3902a.
[0370] Referring now to FIGS. 39, 40 and 42, the method 3900
continues at step 3906 in which the expandable tubular member 3902a
is positioned within a passage 3906a defined by a preexisting
structure 3906b which includes an inner surface 3906c, an outer
surface 3906d, and a wall thickness 3906e. In an exemplary
embodiment, the preexisting structure 3906b may be, for example,
the wellbores 16, 110, or 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the
preexisting structure 3906b may be, for example, the tubular member
12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 108, 202, 204, 2210, 2228, 2310, 2328, 2410,
2428, 2510, 2528, 2610, 2628, 2710, 2728, 2910, 2926, 3010, 3024,
3030, 3044, 3050, 3068, 3110, 3124, 3210, 3220, 3310, 3330, 3410,
3432, or 3500. In an exemplary embodiment, preexisting structure
3906b may be, for example, the tubular assembly 10, 22, 100, or
200. In an exemplary embodiment, the cross sections of expandable
tubular member 3902a and preexisting structure 3906b are
substantially concentric when the expandable tubular member 3902a
is positioned in the passage 3906a defined by preexisting structure
3906b.
[0371] Referring now to FIGS. 39, 43, and 44a, the method continues
at step 3908 in which the expandable tubular member 3902a is
radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an exemplary
embodiment, a force F is applied radially towards the inner surface
3902b of expandable tubular member 3902a, the force F being
sufficient to radially expand and plastically deform the expandable
tubular member 3902a and the accompanying layer 3904a on its outer
surface 3902c. The force F increases the inner diameter D.sub.1 and
the outer diameter D.sub.2 of expandable tubular member 3902a until
the layer 3904a engages the inner surface 3906c of preexisting
structure 3906b and forms an interstitial layer between the
expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting structure
3906b. In several exemplary embodiments, the expandable tubular
member 3902a is radially expanded and plastically deformed using
one or more conventional commercially available devices and/or
using one or more of the methods disclosed in the present
application.
[0372] In an exemplary embodiment, following step 3908 of method
3900, the layer 3904a forms an interstitial layer filling some or
all of the annulus between the expandable tubular member 3902a and
the preexisting structure 3906b. In an exemplary embodiment, the
interstitial layer formed from the layer 3904a between the
expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting structure 3906b
results in the combination of expandable tubular member 3902a, the
layer 3904a, and the preexisting structure 3906b exhibiting a
higher collapse strength than would be exhibited without the
interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of expandable tubular member
3902a with layer 3904a into engagement with preexisting structure
3906b results in a modification of the residual stresses in one or
both of the expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting
structure 3906b. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial expansion
and plastic deformation of expandable tubular member 3902a with
layer 3904a into engagement with preexisting structure 3906b places
at least a portion of the wall thickness of preexisting structure
3906b in circumferential tension.
[0373] In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 45 and
46, a method 4000 for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly begins with step 4002 in which a preexisting structure
4002a is provided. The preexisting structure 4002a defines a
substantially cylindrical passage 4002b and includes an inner
surface 4002c. In an exemplary embodiment, the preexisting
structure 4002a may be, for example, the wellbores 16, 110, or 206.
In an exemplary embodiment, the preexisting structure 4002a may be,
for example, the tubular member 12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 108, 202, 204,
2210, 2228, 2310, 2328, 2410, 2428, 2510, 2528, 2610, 2628, 2710,
2728, 2910, 2926, 3010, 3024, 3030, 3044, 3050, 3068, 3110, 3124,
3210, 3220, 3310, 3330, 3410, 3432, or 3500. In an exemplary
embodiment, the preexisting structure 4002a may be, for example,
the tubular assembly 10, 22, 100, or 200.
[0374] Referring now to FIGS. 45, 47a and 47b, the method 4000
continues at step 4004 in which the inner surface 4002c in passage
4002b of preexisting structure 4002a is coated with a layer 4004a
of material. In an exemplary embodiment, the layer 3904a of
material includes a plastic, and/or a soft metal such as, for
example, aluminum, aluminum and zinc, or equivalent metals known in
the art, and/or a composite material such as, for example, carbon
fiber, and substantially covers the inner surface 4002c of
preexisting structure 4002a. In an exemplary embodiment, the layer
3904a of material is applied using conventional methods such as,
for example, spray coating, vapor deposition, adhering layers of
material to the surface, or a variety of other coating methods
known in the art. In an exemplary embodiment, soft metals include
metals having a lower yield strength than the preexisting structure
4002a.
[0375] Referring now to FIGS. 40, 45 and 48, the method 4000
continues at step 4006 in which expandable tubular member 3902a
including inner surface 3902b, outer surface 3902c, and wall
thickness 3902d, is positioned within passage 4002b defined by
preexisting structure 4002a. In an exemplary embodiment, the cross
sections of expandable tubular member 3902a and preexisting
structure 4002a are substantially concentric when the expandable
tubular member 3902a is positioned in the passage 4002b defined by
preexisting structure 4002a.
[0376] Referring now to FIGS. 45, 49, and 50, the method 4000
continues at step 4008 in which the expandable tubular member 3902a
is radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an exemplary
embodiment, a force F is applied radially towards the inner surface
3902b of expandable tubular member 3902a, the force F being
sufficient to radially expand and plastically deform the expandable
tubular member 3902a. The force F increases the inner diameter
D.sub.1 and the outer diameter D.sub.2 of expandable tubular member
3902a until the outer surface 3902c of expandable tubular member
3902a engages layer 4004a on preexisting structure 4002a and forms
an interstitial layer between the expandable tubular member 3902a
and the preexisting structure 4002a. In several exemplary
embodiments, the expandable tubular member 3902a is radially
expanded and plastically deformed using one or more conventional
commercially available devices and/or using one or more of the
methods disclosed in the present application.
[0377] In an exemplary embodiment, following step 4008 of method
4000, the layer 4004a forms an interstitial layer filling some or
all of the annulus between the expandable tubular member 3902a and
the preexisting structure 4002a. In an exemplary embodiment, the
interstitial layer formed from the layer 4004a between the
expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting structure 4002a
results in the combination of the expandable tubular member 3902a,
the layer 3904a, and the preexisting structure 4002a exhibiting a
higher collapse strength than would be exhibited without the
interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of expandable tubular member
3902a into engagement with preexisting structure 4002a with layer
4004a results in a modification of the residual stresses in one or
both of the expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting
structure 4002a. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial expansion
and plastic deformation of expandable tubular member 3902a with
layer 4004a into engagement with preexisting structure 4002a places
at least a portion of the wall thickness of the preexisting
structure 4002a in circumferential tension.
[0378] In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 51a,
step 3904 of method 3900 may include coating multiple layers of
material such as, for example, layers 3904a and 4100, on tubular
member 3902a, illustrated in FIG. 40. In an exemplary embodiment,
the layers 3904a and/or 4100 may be applied using conventional
methods such as, for example, spray coating, vapor deposition,
adhering layers of material to the surface, or a variety of other
coating methods known in the art.
[0379] In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 51b,
step 4004 of method 4000 may include coating multiple layers of
material such as, for example, layers 4002c and 4200, on tubular
member 4002a. In an exemplary embodiment, the layers 4002c and 4200
may be applied using conventional methods such as, for example,
spray coating, vapor deposition, adhering layers of material to the
surface, or a variety of other coating methods known in the
art.
[0380] In an exemplary embodiment, steps 3904 of method 3900 and
step 4004 of method 4000 may include coating the expandable tubular
member 3902a with a layer 3904a of varying thickness. In an
exemplary embodiment, step 3904 of method 3900 may include coating
the expandable tubular member 3902a with a non uniform layer 3904a
which, for example, may include exposing portions of the outer
surface 3902c of expandable tubular member 3902a. In an exemplary
embodiment, step 4004 of method 4000 may include coating the
preexisting structure 4002a with a non uniform layer 4004a which,
for example, may include exposing portions of the inner surface
4002c of preexisting structure 4002a.
[0381] In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 52a,
52b, 52c and 52d, step 3904 of method 3900 may be accomplished by
laying a material 4300 around an expandable tubular member 4302,
which may be the expandable tubular member 3902a in FIG. 40. The
material 4300 may be positioned about the outer surface of the
expandable tubular member 4302, as illustrated in FIGS. 52a, 52b,
and 52c, such that after expansion of the tubular member 4302, the
material 4300 forms an interstitial layer between the tubular
member 4302 and the preexisting structure 4002a, illustrated in
FIG. 52d, that increases the collapse strength of the tubular
assembly which includes the tubular member 4302 and the preexisting
structure 4002a. In an alternative embodiment, step 4004 of method
4000 may be accomplished by using the material 4300 to line the
inner surface of the preexisting structure such as, for example,
the inner surface 4002c of preexisting structure 4002a. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material 4300 may be a plastic, and/or a
metal such as, for example, aluminum, aluminum/zinc, or other
equivalent metals known in the art, and/or a composite material
such as, for example, carbon fiber. In an exemplary embodiment, the
material 4300 may include a wire that is wound around the
expandable tubular member 4302 or lined on the inner surface 4002c
of preexisting structure 4002a. In an exemplary embodiment, the
material 4300 may include a plurality of rings place around the
expandable tubular member 4302 or lined on the inner surface 4002c
of preexisting structure 4002a. In an exemplary embodiment, the
material 4300 may be a plurality of discrete components placed on
the expandable tubular member 4302 or lined on the inner surface
4002c or preexisting structure 4002a.
[0382] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.1 of method
3900, as illustrated in FIG. 53, a plurality of tubular members
3902a were provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900, which had a
75/8 inch diameter. Each tubular member 3902a was coated, as per
step 3904 of method 3900, with a layer 3904a. The tubular member
3902a was then radially expanded and plastically deformed and the
energy necessary to radially expand and plastically deform it such
as, for example, the operating pressure required to radially expand
and plastically deform the tubular member 3902a, was recorded. In
EXP.sub.1A, the layer 3904a was aluminum, requiring a maximum
operating pressure of approximately 3900 psi to radially expand and
plastically deform the tubular member 3902a. In EXP.sub.1B, the
layer 3904a was aluminum/zinc, requiring a maximum operating
pressure of approximately 3700 psi to radially expand and
plastically deform the tubular member 3902a. In EXP.sub.1c, the
layer 3904a was PVC plastic, requiring a maximum operating pressure
of approximately 3600 psi to radially expand and plastically deform
the tubular member 3902a. In EXP.sub.1D, the layer 3904a was
omitted resulting in an air gap, and requiring a maximum operating
pressure of approximately 3400 psi to radially expand and
plastically deform the tubular member 3902a.
[0383] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.2 of method
3900, as illustrated in FIGS. 54a, 54b, and 54c, a plurality of
expandable tubular members 3902a were provided, as per step 3902 of
method 3900. Each tubular member 3902a was coated, as per step 3904
of method 3900, with a layer 3904a. Each tubular member 3902a was
then positioned within a preexisting structure 3906b as per step
3906 of method 3900. Each tubular member 3902a was then radially
expanded and plastically deformed 13.3% and the thickness of layer
3904a between the tubular member 3902a and the preexisting
structure 3906b was measured. In EXP.sub.2A, the layer 3904a was
aluminum and had a thickness between approximately 0.05 inches and
0.15 inches. In EXP.sub.2B, the layer 3904a was aluminum/zinc and
had a thickness between approximately 0.07 inches and 0.13 inches.
In EXP.sub.2C, the layer 3904a was PVC plastic and had a thickness
between approximately 0.06 inches and 0.14 inches. In EXP.sub.2D,
the layer 3904a was omitted which resulted in an air gap between
the tubular member 3902a and the preexisting structure 3906b
between approximately 0.02 and 0.04 inches.
[0384] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.3 of method
3900, illustrated in FIGS. 55a and 55b, a plurality of expandable
tubular members 3902a were provided, as per step 3902 of method
3900. Each tubular member 3902a was coated, as per step 3904 of
method 3900, with a layer 3904a. Each tubular member 3902a was then
positioned within a preexisting structure 3906b as per step 3906 of
method 3900. Each tubular member 3902a was then radially expanded
and plastically deformed in a preexisting structure 3906b and the
thickness of layer 3904a between the tubular member 3902a and the
preexisting structure 3906b was measured. In EXP.sub.3A, the layer
3904a was plastic with a thickness between approximately 1.6 mm and
2.5 mm. In EXP.sub.3B, the layer 3904a was aluminum with a
thickness between approximately 2.6 mm and 3.1 mm. In EXP.sub.3C,
the layer 3904a was aluminum/zinc with a thickness between
approximately 1.9 mm and 2.5 mm. In EXP.sub.3D, the layer 3904a was
omitted, resulting in an air gap between the tubular member 3902a
and the preexisting structure 3906b between approximately 1.1 mm
and 1.7 mm. FIG. 55b illustrates the distribution of the gap
thickness between the tubular member and the preexisting structure
for EXP.sub.3A, EXP.sub.3B, EXP.sub.3C, and EXP.sub.3D,
illustrating that combinations with an layer between the tubular
member 3902a and the preexisting structure 3906b exhibit a more
uniform gap distribution.
[0385] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.4 of method
3900, a plurality of expandable tubular members 3902a were
provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. Each tubular member
3902a was coated, as per step 3904 of method 3900, with a layer
3904a. Each tubular member 3902a was then positioned within a
preexisting structure 3906b as per step 3906 of method 3900. Each
tubular member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically
deformed in a preexisting structure 3906b, and conventional
collapse testing was performed on the tubular assembly comprised of
the tubular member 3902a, layer 3904a and preexisting structure
3906b combination. For the testing, the preexisting structure 3906b
was composed of a P-110 Grade pipe with an inner diameter of
approximately 95/8 inches. The expandable tubular member 3902a was
composed of an LSX-80 Grade pipe, commercially available from Lone
Star Steel, with an inner diameter of approximately 75/8 inches.
The tubular member assemblies exhibited the following collapse
strengths:
TABLE-US-00006 Collapse Layer Strength EXP.sub.4 3904a (psi)
Remarks EXP.sub.4A plastic 14230 This was an unexpected result.
EXP.sub.4B aluminum/zinc 20500 This was an unexpected result.
EXP.sub.4C air 14190 This was an unexpected result. EXP.sub.4D
aluminum 20730 This was an unexpected result.
EXP.sub.4A, EXP.sub.4B, EXP.sub.4C, and EXP.sub.4D illustrate that
using a soft metal such as, for example aluminum and or
aluminum/zinc, as layer 3904a in method 3900 increases the collapse
strength of the tubular assembly comprising the expandable tubular
member 3902a, layer 3904a, and preexisting structure 3906b by
approximately 50% when compared to using a layer 3904a of plastic
or omitting the layer 3904a. This was an unexpected result.
[0386] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.5 of method
3900, as illustrated in FIGS. 56 and 56a, an expandable tubular
member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The
coating of step 3904 with a layer 3904a was omitted. The tubular
member 3902a was then positioned within a preexisting structure
3906b as per step 3906 of method 3900. The tubular member 3902a was
then radially expanded and plastically deformed in a preexisting
structure 3906b, resulting in an air gap between the tubular member
3902a and the preexisting structure.
[0387] In an exemplary embodiment, the collapse resistance of a
tubular assembly that includes a pair of overlapping tubular
members coupled to each other may be determined using the following
equation:
P.sub.ct=K(P.sub.co+P.sub.ci)
P.sub.co is the collapse resistance of an outer casing such as, for
example, the preexisting structure 3906b or 4002a, or the wellbores
16, 110, or 206. P.sub.ci is the collapse resistance of an inner
casing such as, for example, the tubular member 12, 14, 24, 26,
102, 108, 202, 204, 2210, 2228, 2310, 2328, 2410, 2428, 2510, 2528,
2610, 2628, 2710, 2728, 2910, 2926, 3010, 3024,3030,3044,
3050,3068,3110,3124, 3210,3220,3310,3330, 3410,3432, 3500, or
3902a, or the tubular assembly 10, 22, 100, or 200. K is a
reinforcement factor provided by a coating such as, for example,
the coating 3904a or 4004a. In an exemplary embodiment, the
reinforcement factor K increases as the strength of the material
used for the coating increases.
[0388] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.6 of method
3900, as illustrated in FIGS. 57a, 57b, a computer simulation was
run for an expandable tubular member 3902a provided, as per step
3902 of method 3900, positioned within a preexisting structure
3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900, and radially expanded and
plastically deformed in the preexisting structure 3906b. The
coating of step 3904 with a layer 3904a was omitted. The radial
expansion and plastic deformation of expandable tubular member
3902a resulted in an air gap distribution between the expanded
tubular member 3902a and the preexisting structure 3906b,
illustrated in FIG. 58b. The tubular member 3902a was a LSX-80
Grade pipe, commercially available from Lone Star Steel, with a
75/8 inch inner diameter and the preexisting structure 3906b was a
P110 Grade pipe with a 95/8 inch inner diameter. The tubular member
3902a was radially expanded and plastically deformed 13.3% from its
original diameter. After expansion, the maximum air gap was
approximately 2 mm. The expandable tubular member 3902a and
preexisting structure 3906b combination exhibited a collapse
strength of approximately 13200 psi. This was an unexpected
result.
[0389] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.7 of method
3900, as illustrated in FIG. 58, a computer simulation was run for
an expandable tubular members 3902a provided, as per step 3902 of
method 3900, positioned within a preexisting structure 3906b, as
per step 3906 of method 3900, and radially expanded and plastically
deformed in the preexisting structure 3906b. The coating of step
3904 with a layer 3904a was omitted. The radial expansion and
plastic deformation of expandable tubular member 3902a resulted in
an air gap distribution between the expanded tubular member 3902a
and the preexisting structure 3906b, illustrated. The tubular
member 3902a was a LSX-80 Grade pipe, commercially available from
Lone Star Steel, with a 75/8 inch inner diameter and the
preexisting structure 3906b was a P110 Grade pipe with a 95/8 inch
inner diameter. The tubular member 3902a was radially expanded and
plastically deformed 14.9% from its original diameter. After
expansion, the maximum air gap was approximately 1.55 mm. The
expandable tubular member 3902a and preexisting structure 3906b
combination exhibited a collapse strength of approximately 13050
psi. This was an unexpected result.
[0390] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.8 of method
3900, as illustrated in FIG. 59, a computer simulation was run for
an expandable tubular member 3902a provided, as per step 3902 of
method 3900, coated with a layer 3904a of soft metal, as per step
3904 of method 3900, positioned within a preexisting structure
3906b as per step 3906 of method 3900, and radially expanded and
plastically deformed in a preexisting structure 3906b. The tubular
member 3902a was a LSX-80 Grade pipe, commercially available from
Lone Star Steel, with a 75/8 inch inner diameter and the
preexisting structure 3906b was a P110 Grade pipe with a 95/8 inch
inner diameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the soft metal
distribution between the tubular member 3902a and the preexisting
structure 3906b included aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the
soft metal distribution between the tubular member 3902a and the
preexisting structure 3906b included aluminum and zinc. The tubular
member 3906 was radially expanded and plastically deformed 13.3%
from its original diameter. After expansion, the soft metal layer
3904a included a maximum thickness of approximately 2 mm. The
expandable tubular member 3902a, preexisting structure 3906b, and
soft metal layer 3904a combination exhibited a collapse strength of
greater than 20000 psi. This was an unexpected result.
[0391] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.9A of method
3900, as illustrated in FIG. 60a, an expandable tubular member
3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then positioned within a preexisting
structure 3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The coating of
step 3904 with a layer 3904a was omitted. The expandable tubular
member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically deformed in
the preexisting structure 3906b, resulting in an air gap
distribution between the expandable tubular member 3902a and the
preexisting structure 3906b, which was then measured. A minimum air
gap of approximately 1.2 mm and a maximum air gap of approximately
3.7 mm were exhibited. In an exemplary embodiment, the existence
and non-uniformity of the air gap between the expandable tubular
member 3902a and the preexisting structure 3906b results in
portions of the preexisting structure 3906b which are not supported
by the expanded expandable tubular member 3902a, lowering the
collapse strength of the tubular assembly which includes the
expanded expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting
structure 3906b.
[0392] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.9B of method
3900, as illustrated in FIG. 60b, an expandable tubular member
3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then coated with a layer 3904a of soft
metal, as per step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable tubular
member 3902a was then positioned within a preexisting structure
3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The expandable tubular
member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically deformed in
the preexisting structure 3906b and the soft metal layer 3904a
between the expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting
structure 3906b was measured. A minimum soft metal layer 3904a
thickness of approximately 3.2 mm and a maximum soft metal layer
3904a thickness 5202b of approximately 3.7 mm were exhibited. In an
exemplary embodiment, the existence and uniformity of the soft
metal layer 3904a between the expandable tubular member 3902a and
the preexisting structure 3906b results in a more uniform support
of the preexisting structure 3906b by the expanded expandable
tubular member 3902a, increasing the collapse strength of the
tubular assembly which includes the expanded expandable tubular
member 3902a and the preexisting structure 3906b with the soft
metal layer 3904a between them.
[0393] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.9c of method
3900, as illustrated in FIG. 60c, an expandable tubular member
3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then coated with a layer 3904a of plastic,
as per step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable tubular member
3902a was then positioned within a preexisting structure 3906b, as
per step 3906 of method 3900. The expandable tubular member 3902a
was then radially expanded and plastically deformed in the
preexisting structure 3906b and the plastic layer 3904a between the
expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting structure 3906b
was measured. A minimum plastic layer 3904a thickness 5204a of
approximately 1.7 mm and a maximum plastic layer 3904a thickness
5204b of approximately 2.5 mm were exhibited. In an exemplary
embodiment, the uniformity of the plastic layer 3904a between the
expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting structure 3906b
results in a more uniform support of the preexisting structure
3906b by the expanded expandable tubular member 3902a.
[0394] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.10A of
method 3900, as illustrated in FIG. 61a, an expandable tubular
member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The
expandable tubular member 3902a was then positioned within a
preexisting structure 3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The
coating of step 3904 with a layer 3904a was omitted. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically
deformed in the preexisting structure, resulting in an air gap
between the expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting
structure 3906b. The wall thickness of the expandable tubular
member 3902a was then measured. A minimum wall thickness for the
expandable tubular member 3902a of approximately 8.6 mm and a
maximum wall for the expandable tubular member 3902a of
approximately 9.5 mm were exhibited.
[0395] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.10B of
method 3900, as illustrated in FIG. 61b, an expandable tubular
member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The
expandable tubular member 3902a was then coated with a layer 3904a
of plastic, as per step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable tubular
member 3902a was then positioned within a preexisting structure
3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The expandable tubular
member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically deformed in
the preexisting structure 3906b. The wall thickness of the
expandable tubular member 3902a was then measured. A minimum wall
thickness for the expandable tubular member 3902a of approximately
9.1 mm and a maximum wall thickness for the expandable tubular
member 3902a of approximately 9.6 mm were exhibited.
[0396] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.10C of
method 3900, as illustrated in FIG. 61c, an expandable tubular
member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The
expandable tubular member 3902a was then coated with a layer 3904a
of soft metal, as per step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then positioned within a preexisting
structure 3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically
deformed in the preexisting structure 3906b. The wall thickness of
the expandable tubular member 3902a was then measured. A minimum
wall thickness for the expandable tubular member 3902a of
approximately 9.3 mm and a maximum wall thickness for the
expandable tubular member 3902a of approximately 9.6 mm were
exhibited.
[0397] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.11A of
method 3900, as illustrated in FIG. 62a, an expandable tubular
member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The
expandable tubular member 3902a was then positioned within a
preexisting structure 3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The
coating of step 3904 with a layer 3904a was omitted. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically
deformed in the preexisting structure, resulting in an air gap
between the expandable tubular member 3902a and the preexisting
structure 3906b. The wall thickness of the preexisting structure
3906b was then measured. A minimum wall thickness for the
preexisting structure 3906b of approximately 13.5 mm and a maximum
wall thickness for the preexisting structure 3906b of approximately
14.6 mm were exhibited.
[0398] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.11B of
method 3900, as illustrated in FIG. 62b, an expandable tubular
member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The
expandable tubular member 3902a was then coated with a layer 3904a
of soft metal, as per step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then positioned within a preexisting
structure 3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically
deformed in the preexisting structure 3906b. The wall thickness of
the preexisting structure 3906b was then measured. A minimum wall
thickness for the preexisting structure 3906b of approximately 13.5
mm and a maximum wall thickness for the preexisting structure 3906b
of approximately 14.3 mm were exhibited.
[0399] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.11C of
method 3900, as illustrated in FIG. 62c, an expandable tubular
member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The
expandable tubular member 3902a was then coated with a layer 3904a
of plastic, as per step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable tubular
member 3902a was then positioned within a preexisting structure
3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The expandable tubular
member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically deformed in
the preexisting structure 3906b. The wall thickness of the
preexisting structure 3906b was then measured. A minimum wall
thickness for the preexisting structure 3906b of approximately 13.5
mm and a maximum wall thickness for the preexisting structure 3906b
of approximately 14.6 mm were exhibited.
[0400] In an exemplary experimental embodiment EXP.sub.12 of method
3900, as illustrated in FIG. 63, an expandable tubular member 3902a
was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then coated with a layer 3904a, as per
step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable tubular member 3902a was
then positioned within a preexisting structure 3906b, as per step
3906 of method 3900. The expandable tubular member 3902a was then
radially expanded and plastically deformed in the preexisting
structure 3906b. The expandable tubular member 3902a was radially
expanded and plastically deformed 13.3% from its original inner
diameter against the preexisting structure 3906b. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was an LSX-80 Grade pipe, commercially
available from Lone Star Steel, with a 75/8 inch inner diameter and
the preexisting structure 3906b was a P110 Grade pipe with a 95/8
inch inner diameter. The collapse strength of the expandable
tubular member 3902a with layer 3904a and preexisting structure
3906b was measured at approximately 6300 psi. This was an
unexpected result.
[0401] In an exemplary experimental embodiment of method 3900, an
expandable tubular member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of
method 3900. The expandable tubular member 3902a was then coated
with a layer 3904a, as per step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then positioned within a preexisting
structure 3906b, as per step 3906 of method 3900. The expandable
tubular member 3902a was then radially expanded and plastically
deformed in the preexisting structure 3906b. an expandable tubular
member 3902a was provided, as per step 3902 of method 3900. The
expandable tubular member 3902a was then coated with a layer 3904a,
as per step 3904 of method 3900. The expandable tubular member
3902a was then positioned within a preexisting structure 3906b, as
per step 3906 of method 3900. The expandable tubular member 3902a
was then radially expanded and plastically deformed in the
preexisting structure 3906b, expanding the preexisting structure
3096b by approximately 1 mm. The measurements and grades for the
expandable tubular member 3902a and preexisting structure 3906b
where:
TABLE-US-00007 Outside diameter Wall thickness (mm) (mm) Grade
Preexisting structure 219.1 13.58 X65 Expandable tubular 178.9 2.5
316L member
The collapse strength of the expandable tubular member 3902a and
the preexisting structure 3906b combination was measure before and
after expansion and found to increase by 21%.
[0402] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, an expandable
tubular member was provided which had a collapse strength of
approximately 70 ksi and included, by weight percent, 0.07% Carbon,
1.64% Manganese, 0.011% Phosphor, 0.001% Sulfur, 0.23% Silicon,
0.5% Nickel, 0.51% Chrome, 0.31% Molybdenum, 0.15% Copper, 0.021%
Aluminum, 0.04% Vanadium, 0.03% Niobium, and 0.007% Titanium. Upon
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular
member, the collapse strength of the expandable tubular member
increased to approximately 110 ksi.
[0403] In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 64 and
65, a method 4400 for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly begins with step 4402 in which an expandable tubular
member 4402a is provided. The expandable tubular member 4402a
includes an inner surface 4402b having an inner diameter D.sub.1,
an outer surface 4402c having an outer diameter D.sub.2, and a wall
thickness 4402d. In an exemplary embodiment, expandable tubular
member 4402a may be, for example, the tubular member 12, 14, 24,
26, 102, 108, 202, 204, 2210, 2228, 2310, 2328, 2410, 2428, 2510,
2528, 2610, 2628, 2710, 2728, 2910,2926,3010,3024,
3030,3044,3050,3068, 3110,3124,3210,3220, 3310, 3330, 3410, 3432,
or 3500. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable tubular member
4402a may be, for example, the tubular assembly 10, 22, 100, or
200.
[0404] Referring now to FIGS. 64, 66a and 66b, the method 4400
continues at step 4404 in which the expandable tubular member 4402a
is coated with a layer 4404a of material. In an exemplary
embodiment, the layer 4404a of material includes a plastic such as,
for example, a PVC plastic, and/or a soft metal such as, for
example, aluminum, an aluminum/zinc combination, or equivalent
metals known in the art, and/or a composite material such as, for
example, a carbon fiber material, and substantially covers the
outer surface 4402c of expandable tubular member 4402a. In an
exemplary embodiment, the layer 4404a of material is applied using
conventional methods such as, for example, spray coating, vapor
deposition, adhering layers of material to the surface, or a
variety of other coating methods known in the art. In an exemplary
embodiment, soft metals include metals having a lower yield
strength than the expandable tubular member 4402a.
[0405] Referring now to FIGS. 64, 65 and 67, the method 4400
continues at step 4406 in which the expandable tubular member 4402a
is positioned within a passage 4406a defined by a preexisting
structure 4406b which includes an inner surface 4406c, an outer
surface 4406d, and a wall thickness 4406e. In an exemplary
embodiment, the preexisting structure 4406b may be, for example,
the wellbores 16, 110, or 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the
preexisting structure 4406b may be, for example, the tubular member
12, 14, 24, 26, 102, 108, 202, 204, 2210, 2228, 2310,2328, 2410,
2428, 2510, 2528, 2610, 2628,2710,2728,2910, 2926,3010,
3024,3030,3044,3050, 3068,3110,3124,3210, 3220, 3310, 3330, 3410,
3432, or 3500. In an exemplary embodiment, preexisting structure
4406b may be, for example, the tubular assembly 10, 22, 100, or
200. In an exemplary embodiment, the cross sections of expandable
tubular member 4402a and preexisting structure 4406b are
substantially concentric when the expandable tubular member 4402a
is positioned in the passage 4406a defined by preexisting structure
4406b.
[0406] Referring now to FIGS. 64, 68, 69a, and 69b, the method 4400
continues at step 4408 in which the expandable tubular member 4402a
is radially expanded and plastically deformed. In an exemplary
embodiment, a force F is applied radially towards the inner surface
4402b of expandable tubular member 4402a, the force F being
sufficient to radially expand and plastically deform the expandable
tubular member 4402a and the accompanying layer 4404a on its outer
surface 4402c. The force F increases the inner diameter D.sub.1 and
the outer diameter D.sub.2 of expandable tubular member 4402a until
the layer 4404a engages the inner surface 4406c of preexisting
structure 4406b and forms an interstitial layer between the
expandable tubular member 4402a and the preexisting structure
4406b. In several exemplary embodiments, the expandable tubular
member 4402a is radially expanded and plastically deformed using
one or more conventional commercially available devices and/or
using one or more of the methods disclosed in the present
application.
[0407] In an exemplary embodiment, following step 4408 of method
4400, the layer 4404a forms an interstitial layer filling some or
all of the annulus between the expandable tubular member 4402a and
the preexisting structure 4406b. In an exemplary embodiment, the
interstitial layer formed from the layer 4404a between the
expandable tubular member 4402a and the preexisting structure 4406b
results in the combination of expandable tubular member 4402a, the
layer 4404a, and the preexisting structure 4406b exhibiting a
higher collapse strength than would be exhibited without the
interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial
expansion and plastic deformation of expandable tubular member
4402a with layer 4404a into engagement with preexisting structure
4406b results in a modification of the residual stresses in one or
both of the expandable tubular member 4402a and the preexisting
structure 4406b. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial expansion
and plastic deformation of expandable tubular member 4402a with
layer 4404a into engagement with preexisting structure 4406b places
at least a portion of the wall thickness of preexisting structure
4406b in circumferential tension.
[0408] In an exemplary embodiment, the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of expandable tubular member 4402a with layer 4404a
into engagement with preexisting structure 4406b provides a
circumferential tensile force 4408a in the preexisting structure
4406b which exists about the circumference of the preexisting
structure 4406b and is directed radially outward on the preexisting
structure 4406b, as illustrated in FIG. 69b. The circumferential
tensile force 4408a results in a tubular assembly 4408b which
includes the tubular member 4402a, the layer 4404a, and the
preexisting structure 4406b and which exhibits a higher collapse
strength than is theoretically calculated using API Collapse
modeling for a tubular member having a wall thickness equal to the
sum of the wall thickness 4402d of the tubular member 4402a and the
wall thickness 4406e of the preexisting structure 4406b. In an
exemplary embodiment, the circumferential tensile force 4408a
increases the collapse strength of the tubular assembly 4408b by
providing a force which is opposite to a collapse inducing force,
such that the collapse inducing force must be sufficient to
collapse the tubular member 4402a and the preexisting structure
4406b, while also overcoming the circumferential tensile force
4408a.
[0409] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, the method 4400 was
carried out to provide a tubular assembly 4408b with which to
conduct collapse testing. The tubular member 4402a was provided
having a 75/8 inch outside diameter D.sub.2 and a 0.375 inch wall
thickness 4402d. The theoretical collapse strength of the tubular
member 4402a was calculated to be approximately 2600 psi using API
Collapse modeling. The preexisting structure 4406b was provided
having a 95/8 inch outside diameter and a 0.535 inch wall thickness
4406e. The theoretical collapse strength of the preexisting
structure 4406b was calculated to be approximately 7587 psi using
API Collapse modeling. The tubular member 4402a was then expanded
13.3% inside the preexisting structure 4406b such that the tubular
member 4402a had an 8.505 inch outside diameter D.sub.2, a 7.790
inch inside diameter D.sub.1, and a 0.357 inch wall thickness
4402d. The expansion of the tubular member 4402a was conducted
similar to method 4400, but without adding the layer 4404a to the
outside surface of the tubular member 4402a, resulting in an air
gap between the tubular member 4402a and the preexisting structure
4406b. The theoretical collapse strength of a tubular member having
a 95/8 inch outside diameter and an approximately 0.9 inch wall
thickness, which is the combined thickness of the tubular member
4402a and the preexisting structure 4406b, was calculated to be
approximately 16850 psi using API Collapse modeling. Collapse
testing was then performed on the tubular assembly including the
tubular member 4402a and the preexisting structure 4406b but
without the layer 4404a, and a collapse pressure of 13197 psi was
recorded. The following table summarizes the results of the
collapse testing conducted on the tubular assembly 4408b including
the tubular member 4402a and the preexisting structure 4406b but
without the layer 4404a:
TABLE-US-00008 tubular preexisting tubular tubular member 4402a
structure 4406b assembly 4408b assembly 4408b theoretical collapse
theoretical collapse theoretical collapse measured collapse
strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) remarks
2600 7587 16850 13197 None.
[0410] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, the method 4400 was
carried out to provide a tubular assembly 4408b with which to
conduct collapse testing. The tubular member 4402a was provided
having a 75/8 inch outside diameter D.sub.2 and a 0.375 inch wall
thickness 4402d. The theoretical collapse strength of the tubular
member 4402a was calculated to be approximately 2600 psi using API
Collapse modeling. The preexisting structure 4406b was provided
having a 95/8 inch outside diameter and a 0.535 inch wall thickness
4406e. The theoretical collapse strength of the preexisting
structure 4406b was calculated to be approximately 7587 psi using
API Collapse modeling. The tubular member 4402a was then expanded
13.3% inside the preexisting structure 4406b such that the tubular
member 4402a had an 8.505 inch outside diameter D.sub.2, a 7.790
inch inside diameter D.sub.1, and a 0.357 inch wall thickness
4402d. The expansion of the tubular member 4402a was conducted as
per the method 4400, using a plastic material for the layer 4404a
added to the outside surface of the tubular member 4402a. The
theoretical collapse strength of a tubular member having a 95/8
inch outside diameter and an approximately 0.9 inch wall thickness,
which is the combined thickness of the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b, was calculated to be approximately
16850 psi using API Collapse modeling. Collapse testing was then
performed on the tubular assembly including the tubular member
4402a with the plastic material layer 4404a and the preexisting
structure 4406b, and a collapse pressure of 15063 psi was recorded.
The 15063 psi collapse strength was a 14.14% collapse strength
improvement over a tubular assembly including the tubular member
4402a and the preexisting structure 4406b but without the layer
4404a. This was an unexpected result. The following table
summarizes the results of the collapse testing conducted on the
tubular assembly 4408b including the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b with the plastic material layer
4404a:
TABLE-US-00009 tubular preexisting tubular tubular member 4402a
structure 4406b assembly 4408b assembly 4408b theoretical collapse
theoretical collapse theoretical collapse measured collapse
strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) remarks
2600 7587 16850 15063 This was an unexpected result.
[0411] In an exemplary experimental embodiment, the method 4400 was
carried out to provide a tubular assembly 4408b with which to
conduct collapse testing. The tubular member 4402a was provided
having a 75/8 inch outside diameter D.sub.2 and a 0.375 inch wall
thickness 4402d. The theoretical collapse strength of the tubular
member 4402a was calculated to be approximately 2600 psi using API
Collapse modeling. The preexisting structure 4406b was provided
having a 95/8 inch outside diameter and a 0.535 inch wall thickness
4406e. The theoretical collapse strength of the preexisting
structure 4406b was calculated to be approximately 7587 psi using
API Collapse modeling. The tubular member 4402a was then expanded
13.3% inside the preexisting structure 4406b such that the tubular
member 4402a had an 8.505 inch outside diameter D.sub.2, a 7.790
inch inside diameter D.sub.1, and a 0.357 inch wall thickness
4402d. The expansion of the tubular member 4402a was conducted as
per the method 4400, using a aluminum material for the layer 4404a
added to the outside surface of the tubular member 4402a. The
theoretical collapse strength of a tubular member having a 95/8
inch outside diameter and an approximately 0.9 inch wall thickness,
which is the combined thickness of the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b, was calculated to be approximately
16850 psi using API Collapse modeling. Collapse testing was then
performed on the tubular assembly including the tubular member
4402a with the aluminum material layer 4404a and the preexisting
structure 4406b, and a collapse pressure of at least 20000 psi was
recorded. The tubular assembly including the tubular member 4402a
with the aluminum material layer 4404a and the preexisting
structure 4406b withstood the maximum 20000 psi pressure that the
test chamber was capable of producing. The at least 20000 psi
collapse strength was at least a 51.15% collapse strength
improvement over a tubular assembly including the tubular member
4402a and the preexisting structure 4406b but without the layer
4404a. This was an unexpected result. The at least 20000 psi
collapse strength also exceeded the 16850 psi theoretical collapse
strength calculated using API Collapse modeling. This was an
unexpected result. The following table summarizes the results of
the collapse testing conducted on the tubular assembly 4408b
including the tubular member 4402a and the preexisting structure
4406b with the aluminum material layer 4404a:
TABLE-US-00010 tubular preexisting tubular tubular member 4402a
structure 4406b assembly 4408b assembly 4408b theoretical collapse
theoretical collapse theoretical collapse measured collapse
strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) remarks
2600 7587 16850 at least 20000 This was an unexpected result.
[0412] Referring now to FIG. 70, in an exemplary experimental
embodiment, the method 4400 was carried out to provide a tubular
assembly 4408b with which to conduct collapse testing. The tubular
member 4402a was provided having a 75/8 inch outside diameter
D.sub.2 and a 0.375 inch wall thickness 4402d. The theoretical
collapse strength of the tubular member 4402a was calculated to be
approximately 2600 psi using API Collapse modeling. The preexisting
structure 4406b was provided having a 95/8 inch outside diameter
and a 0.535 inch wall thickness 4406e. The theoretical collapse
strength of the preexisting structure 4406b was calculated to be
approximately 7587 psi using API Collapse modeling. The tubular
member 4402a was then expanded 13.3% inside the preexisting
structure 4406b such that the tubular member 4402a had an 8.505
inch outside diameter D.sub.2, a 7.790 inch inside diameter
D.sub.1, and a 0.357 inch wall thickness 4402d. The expansion of
the tubular member 4402a was conducted as per the method 4400,
using an aluminum/zinc material for the layer 4404a added to the
outside surface of the tubular member 4402a. A test aperture 4500
was formed in the preexisting structure 4406b which extended from
the outside surface 4406d, through the wall thickness 4406e, and to
the inside surface 4406c of the preexisting structure 4406b.
Pressure was applied to the tubular member 4402a through the
testing aperture 4500, and a collapse pressure of 6246 psi was
recorded. The 6246 psi collapse strength exceeded the 2600 psi
theoretical collapse strength calculated using API Collapse
modeling. This was an unexpected result. The following table
summarizes the results of the collapse testing conducted on the
tubular member 4402a after expanding the tubular member 4402a in
the preexisting structure 4406b with the aluminum/zinc material
layer 4404a:
TABLE-US-00011 tubular preexisting tubular tubular member 4402a
structure 4406b assembly 4408b member 4402a theoretical collapse
theoretical collapse theoretical collapse measured collapse
strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) remarks
2600 7587 16850 6246 This was an unexpected result.
[0413] Referring now to FIG. 71, in an exemplary experimental
embodiment EXP.sub.13, the method 4400 was carried out to provide a
tubular assembly 4408b with which to conduct collapse testing. The
tubular member 4402a was provided which was fabricated from a
LSX-80 Grade material, commercially available from Lone Star Steel,
and included a 75/8 inch outside diameter D.sub.2. The theoretical
collapse strength of the tubular member 4402a was calculated to be
approximately 2600 psi using API Collapse modeling. The preexisting
structure 4406b was provided which was fabricated from a P-110
Grade material and included a 95/8 inch outside diameter. The
theoretical collapse strength of the preexisting structure 4406b
was calculated to be approximately 7587 psi using API Collapse
modeling. The tubular member 4402a was then expanded inside the
preexisting structure 4406b. The expansion of the tubular member
4402a was conducted similar to method 4400, but without adding the
layer 4404a to the outside surface of the tubular member 4402a,
resulting in an air gap between the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b. The theoretical collapse strength of a
tubular assembly including the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b was calculated to be approximately
16850 psi using API Collapse modeling. Collapse testing was then
performed on the tubular assembly including the tubular member
4402a and the preexisting structure 4406b but without the layer
4404a, as illustrated in FIG. 71. The graph of FIG. 71 shows
pressure plotted on the X axis and time plotted on the Y axis. The
pressure was increased to a data point EXP.sub.13A where the
tubular assembly 4408a collapsed. The pressure recorded at data
point EXP.sub.13A was 14190 psi. The following table summarizes the
results of the collapse testing conducted on the tubular assembly
4408b including the tubular member 4402a and the preexisting
structure 4406b but without the layer 4404a:
TABLE-US-00012 tubular preexisting tubular tubular member 4402a
structure 4406b assembly 4408b assembly 4408b theoretical collapse
theoretical collapse theoretical collapse measured collapse
strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) remarks
2600 7587 16850 14190 None.
[0414] Referring now to FIG. 72, in an exemplary experimental
embodiment EXP.sub.14, the method 4400 was carried out to provide a
tubular assembly 4408b with which to conduct collapse testing. The
tubular member 4402a was provided which was fabricated from a
LSX-80 Grade material, commercially available from Lone Star Steel,
and included a 75/8 inch outside diameter D.sub.2. The theoretical
collapse strength of the tubular member 4402a was calculated to be
approximately 2600 psi using API Collapse modeling. The preexisting
structure 4406b was provided which was fabricated from a P-110
Grade material and included a 95/8 inch outside diameter. The
theoretical collapse strength of the preexisting structure 4406b
was calculated to be approximately 7587 psi using API Collapse
modeling. The tubular member 4402a was then expanded inside the
preexisting structure 4406b. The expansion of the tubular member
4402a was conducted as per the method 4400, using a plastic
material for the layer 4404a added to the outside surface of the
tubular member 4402a. The theoretical collapse strength of a
tubular assembly including the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b was calculated to be approximately
16850 psi using API Collapse modeling. Collapse testing was then
performed on the tubular assembly including the tubular member
4402a with the plastic material layer 4404a and the preexisting
structure 4406b, as illustrated in FIG. 72. The graph of FIG. 72
shows pressure plotted on the X axis and time plotted on the Y
axis. The pressure was increased to a data point EXP.sub.14A where
the tubular assembly 4408a collapsed. The pressure recorded at data
point EXP.sub.14A was 14238 psi. The following table summarizes the
results of the collapse testing conducted on the tubular assembly
4408b including the tubular member 4402a and the preexisting
structure 4406b with the plastic material layer 4404a: Plastic
material layer 4404a results:
TABLE-US-00013 tubular preexisting tubular tubular member 4402a
structure 4406b assembly 4408b assembly 4408b theoretical collapse
theoretical collapse theoretical collapse measured collapse
strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) remarks
2600 7587 16850 14238 This was an unexpected result.
[0415] Referring now to FIG. 73, in an exemplary experimental
embodiment EXP.sub.15, the method 4400 was carried out to provide a
tubular assembly 4408b with which to conduct collapse testing. The
tubular member 4402a was provided which was fabricated from a
LSX-80 Grade material, commercially available from Lone Star Steel,
and included a 75/8 inch outside diameter D.sub.2. The theoretical
collapse strength of the tubular member 4402a was calculated to be
approximately 2600 psi using API Collapse modeling. The preexisting
structure 4406b was provided which was fabricated from a P-110
Grade material and included a 95/8 inch outside diameter. The
theoretical collapse strength of the preexisting structure 4406b
was calculated to be approximately 7587 psi using API Collapse
modeling. The tubular member 4402a was then expanded inside the
preexisting structure 4406b. The expansion of the tubular member
4402a was conducted as per the method 4400, using an aluminum
material for the layer 4404a added to the outside surface of the
tubular member 4402a. The theoretical collapse strength of a
tubular assembly including the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b was calculated to be approximately
16850 psi using API Collapse modeling. Collapse testing was then
performed on the tubular assembly including the tubular member
4402a with the aluminum material layer 4404a and the preexisting
structure 4406b, as illustrated in FIG. 73. The graph of FIG. 73
shows pressure plotted on the X axis and time plotted on the Y
axis. The pressure was increased to a data point EXP.sub.15A where
the tubular assembly 4408a collapsed. The pressure recorded at data
point EXP.sub.15A was 20730 psi. The 20730 psi collapse strength
was a 46.09% collapse strength improvement over a tubular assembly
including the tubular member 4402a and the preexisting structure
4406b but without the layer 4404a. This was an unexpected result.
The 20730 psi collapse strength also exceeded the 16850 psi
theoretical collapse strength calculated using API Collapse
modeling. This was an unexpected result. The following table
summarizes the results of the collapse testing conducted on the
tubular assembly 4408b including the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b with the aluminum material layer
4404a:
TABLE-US-00014 tubular preexisting tubular tubular member 4402a
structure 4406b assembly 4408b assembly 4408b theoretical collapse
theoretical collapse theoretical collapse measured collapse
strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) remarks
2600 7587 16850 20730 This was an unexpected result.
[0416] Referring now to FIG. 74, in an exemplary experimental
embodiment EXP.sub.16, the method 4400 was carried out to provide a
tubular assembly 4408b with which to conduct collapse testing. The
tubular member 4402a was provided which was fabricated from a
LSX-80 Grade material, commercially available from Lone Star Steel,
and included a 75/8 inch outside diameter D.sub.2. The theoretical
collapse strength of the tubular member 4402a was calculated to be
approximately 2600 psi using API Collapse modeling. The preexisting
structure 4406b was provided which was fabricated from a P-110
Grade material and included a 95/8 inch outside diameter. The
theoretical collapse strength of the preexisting structure 4406b
was calculated to be approximately 7587 psi using API Collapse
modeling. The tubular member 4402a was then expanded inside the
preexisting structure 4406b. The expansion of the tubular member
4402a was conducted as per the method 4400, using an aluminum-zinc
material for the layer 4404a added to the outside surface of the
tubular member 4402a. The theoretical collapse strength of a
tubular assembly including the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b was calculated to be approximately
16850 psi using API Collapse modeling. Collapse testing was then
performed on the tubular assembly including the tubular member
4402a with the aluminum-zinc material layer 4404a and the
preexisting structure 4406b, as illustrated in FIG. 74. The graph
of FIG. 74 shows pressure plotted on the X axis and time plotted on
the Y axis. The pressure was increased to a data point EXP.sub.16A
where the tubular assembly 4408a collapsed. The pressure recorded
at data point EXP.sub.16A was 20200 psi. The 20200 psi collapse
strength was a 42.35% collapse strength improvement over a tubular
assembly including the tubular member 4402a and the preexisting
structure 4406b but without the layer 4404a. This was an unexpected
result. The 20200 psi collapse strength also exceeded the 16850 psi
theoretical collapse strength calculated using API Collapse
modeling. This was an unexpected result. The following table
summarizes the results of the collapse testing conducted on the
tubular assembly 4408b including the tubular member 4402a and the
preexisting structure 4406b with the aluminum material layer
4404a:
TABLE-US-00015 tubular preexisting tubular tubular member 4402a
structure 4406b assembly 4408b assembly 4408b theoretical collapse
theoretical collapse theoretical collapse measured collapse
strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) strength (psi) remarks
2600 7587 16850 20200 This was an unexpected result.
[0417] In several exemplary embodiments, the teachings of the
present disclosure are combined with one or more of the teachings
disclosed in FR 2 841 626, filed on Jun. 28, 2002, and published on
Jan. 2, 2004, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
[0418] A method of forming a tubular liner within a preexisting
structure has been described that includes positioning a tubular
assembly within the preexisting structure; and radially expanding
and plastically deforming the tubular assembly within the
preexisting structure, wherein, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the tubular assembly, a predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly has a lower yield point than
another portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a
higher ductility and a lower yield point prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a higher
ductility prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation
than after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly has a lower yield point prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation than after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly has a larger inside diameter after the
radial expansion and plastic deformation than other portions of the
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further
includes positioning another tubular assembly within the
preexisting structure in overlapping relation to the tubular
assembly; and radially expanding and plastically deforming the
other tubular assembly within the preexisting structure, wherein,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
tubular assembly, a predetermined portion of the other tubular
assembly has a lower yield point than another portion of the other
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the inside diameter
of the radially expanded and plastically deformed other portion of
the tubular assembly is equal to the inside diameter of the
radially expanded and plastically deformed other portion of the
other tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly includes an end
portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly includes a plurality
of predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly
includes a plurality of spaced apart predetermined portions of the
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the other portion of
the tubular assembly includes an end portion of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the
tubular assembly includes a plurality of other portions of the
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the other portion of
the tubular assembly includes a plurality of spaced apart other
portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular assembly includes a plurality of tubular members coupled to
one another by corresponding tubular couplings. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular couplings include the predetermined
portions of the tubular assembly; and wherein the tubular members
comprise the other portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, one or more of the tubular couplings include the
predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, one or more of the tubular members include the
predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly
defines one or more openings. In an exemplary embodiment, one or
more of the openings include slots. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy for the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is
greater than 1. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 1. In
an exemplary embodiment, the strain hardening exponent for the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 0.12.
In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 1; and the strain
hardening exponent for the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is a first steel
alloy including: 0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S, 0.24% Si,
0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.02% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is
at most about 46.9 ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation; and the yield point of the predetermined portion of
the tubular assembly is at least about 65.9 ksi after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly
after the radial expansion and plastic deformation is at least
about 40% greater than the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.48. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly
includes a second steel alloy including: 0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017%
P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.03% Cr. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation; and the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly includes a third
steel alloy including: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30%
Si, 0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is
about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly includes a fourth steel alloy including:
0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02% P, 0.001% S, 0.45% Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7%
Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is about 1.34. In an exemplary embodiment, the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is
at most about 46.9 ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation; and wherein the yield point of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is at least about 65.9 ksi after
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic deformation
is at least about 40% greater than the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is at least
about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at most about 57.8
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is
at least about 74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 28% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is at least about 1.04. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is at least about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is
at least about 1.34. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to
about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, ranges from about 47.6 ksi to
about 61.7 ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandability
coefficient of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is greater
than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandability
coefficient of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is
greater than the expandability coefficient of the other portion of
the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular
assembly includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural
support. In an exemplary embodiment, the carbon content of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is less than or equal
to 0.12 percent; and wherein the carbon equivalent value for the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is less than 0.21. In
an exemplary embodiment, the carbon content of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 0.12 percent; and
wherein the carbon equivalent value for the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly is less than 0.36. In an exemplary
embodiment, a yield point of an inner tubular portion of at least a
portion of the tubular assembly is less than a yield point of an
outer tubular portion of the portion of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, yield point of the inner tubular portion of
the tubular body varies as a function of the radial position within
the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the inner tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an linear
fashion as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner
tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an non-linear fashion
as a function of the radial position within the tubular body. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the outer tubular portion
of the tubular body varies as a function of the radial position
within the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield
point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an
linear fashion as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an non-linear
fashion as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner
tubular portion of the tubular body varies as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body; and wherein the yield
point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies as a
function of the radial position within the tubular body. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion
of the tubular body varies in a linear fashion as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body; and wherein the yield
point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a
linear fashion as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
inner tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a linear
fashion as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body; and wherein the yield point of the outer tubular portion of
the tubular body varies in a non-linear fashion as a function of
the radial position within the tubular body. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion of the
tubular body varies in a non-linear fashion as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body; and wherein the yield
point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a
linear fashion as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
inner tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a non-linear
fashion as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body; and wherein the yield point of the outer tubular portion of
the tubular body varies in a non-linear fashion as a function of
the radial position within the tubular body. In an exemplary
embodiment, the rate of change of the yield point of the inner
tubular portion of the tubular body is different than the rate of
change of the yield point of the outer tubular portion of the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the rate of change of the
yield point of the inner tubular portion of the tubular body is
different than the rate of change of the yield point of the outer
tubular portion of the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, at least a
portion of the tubular assembly comprises a microstructure
comprising a hard phase structure and a soft phase structure. In an
exemplary embodiment, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, at least a portion of the tubular assembly comprises a
microstructure comprising a transitional phase structure. In an
exemplary embodiment, the hard phase structure comprises
martensite. In an exemplary embodiment, the soft phase structure
comprises ferrite. In an exemplary embodiment, the transitional
phase structure comprises retained austentite. In an exemplary
embodiment, the hard phase structure comprises martensite; wherein
the soft phase structure comprises ferrite; and wherein the
transitional phase structure comprises retained austentite. In an
exemplary embodiment, the portion of the tubular assembly
comprising a microstructure comprising a hard phase structure and a
soft phase structure comprises, by weight percentage, about 0.1% C,
about 1.2% Mn, and about 0.3% Si.
[0419] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes a steel alloy including: 0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P,
0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.02% Cr. In an
exemplary embodiment, a yield point of the tubular member is at
most about 46.9 ksi prior to a radial expansion and plastic
deformation; and a yield point of the tubular member is at least
about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation.
In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the tubular member
after the radial expansion and plastic deformation is at least
about 40% greater than the yield point of the tubular member prior
to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the tubular member, prior to a radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.48. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a
pipeline, or a structural support.
[0420] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes a steel alloy including: 0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P,
0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.03% Cr. In an
exemplary embodiment, a yield point of the tubular member is at
most about 57.8 ksi prior to a radial expansion and plastic
deformation; and the yield point of the tubular member is at least
about 74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation.
In an exemplary embodiment, a yield point of the of the tubular
member after a radial expansion and plastic deformation is at least
about 28% greater than the yield point of the tubular member prior
to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the tubular member, prior to a radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.04. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a
pipeline, or a structural support.
[0421] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes a steel alloy including: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P,
0.003% S, 0.30% Si, 0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the tubular member, prior
to a radial expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.92. In an
exemplary embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore
casing, a pipeline, or a structural support.
[0422] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes a steel alloy including: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02% P,
0.001% S, 0.45% Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the tubular member, prior to a radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.34. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a
pipeline, or a structural support.
[0423] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
yield point of the expandable tubular member is at most about 46.9
ksi prior to a radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the expandable tubular member is at
least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular member
includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural
support.
[0424] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein a
yield point of the expandable tubular member after a radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater
than the yield point of the expandable tubular member prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a
pipeline, or a structural support.
[0425] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
anisotropy of the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.48. In an
exemplary embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore
casing, a pipeline, or a structural support.
[0426] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
yield point of the expandable tubular member is at most about 57.8
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the expandable tubular member is at
least about 74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular member
includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural
support.
[0427] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
yield point of the expandable tubular member after a radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 28% greater
than the yield point of the expandable tubular member prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a
pipeline, or a structural support.
[0428] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
anisotropy of the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.04. In an
exemplary embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore
casing, a pipeline, or a structural support.
[0429] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
anisotropy of the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.92. In an
exemplary embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore
casing, a pipeline, or a structural support.
[0430] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
anisotropy of the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.34. In an
exemplary embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore
casing, a pipeline, or a structural support.
[0431] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
anisotropy of the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to about
1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular member includes a
wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural support.
[0432] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
yield point of the expandable tubular member, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, ranges from about 47.6 ksi to
about 61.7 ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular member
includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural
support.
[0433] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
expandability coefficient of the expandable tubular member, prior
to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is greater than
0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular member includes a
wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural support.
[0434] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
expandability coefficient of the expandable tubular member is
greater than the expandability coefficient of another portion of
the expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a
structural support.
[0435] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
tubular member has a higher ductility and a lower yield point prior
to a radial expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a
structural support.
[0436] A method of radially expanding and plastically deforming a
tubular assembly including a first tubular member coupled to a
second tubular member has been described that includes radially
expanding and plastically deforming the tubular assembly within a
preexisting structure; and using less power to radially expand each
unit length of the first tubular member than to radially expand
each unit length of the second tubular member. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a
pipeline, or a structural support.
[0437] A system for radially expanding and plastically deforming a
tubular assembly including a first tubular member coupled to a
second tubular member has been described that includes means for
radially expanding the tubular assembly within a preexisting
structure; and means for using less power to radially expand each
unit length of the first tubular member than required to radially
expand each unit length of the second tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore
casing, a pipeline, or a structural support.
[0438] A method of manufacturing a tubular member has been
described that includes processing a tubular member until the
tubular member is characterized by one or more intermediate
characteristics; positioning the tubular member within a
preexisting structure; and processing the tubular member within the
preexisting structure until the tubular member is characterized one
or more final characteristics. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a
structural support. In an exemplary embodiment, the preexisting
structure includes a wellbore that traverses a subterranean
formation. In an exemplary embodiment, the characteristics are
selected from a group consisting of yield point and ductility. In
an exemplary embodiment, processing the tubular member within the
preexisting structure until the tubular member is characterized one
or more final characteristics includes: radially expanding and
plastically deforming the tubular member within the preexisting
structure.
[0439] An apparatus has been described that includes an expandable
tubular assembly; and an expansion device coupled to the expandable
tubular assembly; wherein a predetermined portion of the expandable
tubular assembly has a lower yield point than another portion of
the expandable tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
expansion device includes a rotary expansion device, an axially
displaceable expansion device, a reciprocating expansion device, a
hydroforming expansion device, and/or an impulsive force expansion
device. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of
the tubular assembly has a higher ductility and a lower yield point
than another portion of the expandable tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly has a higher ductility than another portion of the
expandable tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a lower yield
point than another portion of the expandable tubular assembly. In
an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly includes an end portion of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly includes a plurality of predetermined portions of the
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly includes a plurality of spaced
apart predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly
includes an end portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly includes a
plurality of other portions of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly
includes a plurality of spaced apart other portions of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular assembly includes
a plurality of tubular members coupled to one another by
corresponding tubular couplings. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular couplings comprise the predetermined portions of the
tubular assembly; and wherein the tubular members comprise the
other portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment,
one or more of the tubular couplings comprise the predetermined
portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, one
or more of the tubular members comprise the predetermined portions
of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly defines one or more
openings. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the openings
comprise slots. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 1. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 1. In an exemplary
embodiment, the strain hardening exponent for the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 0.12. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly is greater than 1; and wherein the strain
hardening exponent for the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly includes a first
steel alloy including: 0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S, 0.24%
Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.02% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment,
the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is at most about 46.9 ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is
about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly includes a second steel alloy including:
0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01%
Ni, and 0.03% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at most about
57.8 ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is about 1.04. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly includes a third steel alloy including: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn,
0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30% Si, 0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is about 1.92. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly
includes a fourth steel alloy including: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02%
P, 0.001% S, 0.45% Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at least about 1.34. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 46.9 ksi. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at least about 1.48. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at least about 1.04. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at least about 1.92. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at least about 1.34. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly ranges from about 1.04 to about 1.92. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly ranges from about 47.6 ksi to about 61.7
ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than
0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than
the expandability coefficient of the other portion of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular assembly includes
a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural support. In an
exemplary embodiment, the carbon content of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is less than or equal to 0.12
percent; and wherein the carbon equivalent value for the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is less than 0.21. In
an exemplary embodiment, the carbon content of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 0.12 percent; and
wherein the carbon equivalent value for the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly is less than 0.36. In an exemplary
embodiment, a yield point of an inner tubular portion of at least a
portion of the tubular assembly is less than a yield point of an
outer tubular portion of the portion of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion
of the tubular body varies as a function of the radial position
within the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield
point of the inner tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an
linear fashion as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
inner tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an non-linear
fashion as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the outer
tubular portion of the tubular body varies as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the outer tubular portion of the
tubular body varies in an linear fashion as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the outer tubular portion of the
tubular body varies in an non-linear fashion as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion of the
tubular body varies as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body; and wherein the yield point of the outer tubular
portion of the tubular body varies as a function of the radial
position within the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the
yield point of the inner tubular portion of the tubular body varies
in a linear fashion as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body; and wherein the yield point of the outer tubular
portion of the tubular body varies in a linear fashion as a
function of the radial position within the tubular body. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion
of the tubular body varies in a linear fashion as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body; and wherein the yield
point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a
non-linear fashion as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
inner tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a non-linear
fashion as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body; and wherein the yield point of the outer tubular portion of
the tubular body varies in a linear fashion as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion of the
tubular body varies in a non-linear fashion as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body; and wherein the yield
point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a
non-linear fashion as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the rate of change of the
yield point of the inner tubular portion of the tubular body is
different than the rate of change of the yield point of the outer
tubular portion of the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment,
the rate of change of the yield point of the inner tubular portion
of the tubular body is different than the rate of change of the
yield point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body. In an
exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the tubular assembly
comprises a microstructure comprising a hard phase structure and a
soft phase structure. In an exemplary embodiment, prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation, at least a portion of the
tubular assembly comprises a microstructure comprising a
transitional phase structure. In an exemplary embodiment, wherein
the hard phase structure comprises martensite. In an exemplary
embodiment, wherein the soft phase structure comprises ferrite. In
an exemplary embodiment, wherein the transitional phase structure
comprises retained austentite. In an exemplary embodiment, the hard
phase structure comprises martensite; wherein the soft phase
structure comprises ferrite; and wherein the transitional phase
structure comprises retained austentite. In an exemplary
embodiment, the portion of the tubular assembly comprising a
microstructure comprising a hard phase structure and a soft phase
structure comprises, by weight percentage, about 0.1% C, about 1.2%
Mn, and about 0.3% Si. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a
portion of the tubular assembly comprises a microstructure
comprising a hard phase structure and a soft phase structure. In an
exemplary embodiment, the portion of the tubular assembly
comprises, by weight percentage, 0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P,
0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, 0.02% Cr, 0.05% V, 0.01%
Mo, 0.01% Nb, and 0.01% Ti. In an exemplary embodiment, the portion
of the tubular assembly comprises, by weight percentage, 0.18% C,
1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, 0.03%
Cr, 0.04% V, 0.01% Mo, 0.03% Nb, and 0.01% Ti. In an exemplary
embodiment, the portion of the tubular assembly comprises, by
weight percentage, 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30% Si,
0.06% Cu, 0.05% Ni, 0.05% Cr, 0.03% V, 0.03% Mo, 0.01% Nb, and
0.01% Ti. In an exemplary embodiment, the portion of the tubular
assembly comprises a microstructure comprising one or more of the
following: martensite, pearlite, vanadium carbide, nickel carbide,
or titanium carbide. In an exemplary embodiment, the portion of the
tubular assembly comprises a microstructure comprising one or more
of the following: pearlite or pearlite striation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the portion of the tubular assembly comprises a
microstructure comprising one or more of the following: grain
pearlite, widmanstatten martensite, vanadium carbide, nickel
carbide, or titanium carbide. In an exemplary embodiment, the
portion of the tubular assembly comprises a microstructure
comprising one or more of the following: ferrite, grain pearlite,
or martensite. In an exemplary embodiment, the portion of the
tubular assembly comprises a microstructure comprising one or more
of the following: ferrite, martensite, or bainite. In an exemplary
embodiment, the portion of the tubular assembly comprises a
microstructure comprising one or more of the following: bainite,
pearlite, or ferrite. In an exemplary embodiment, the portion of
the tubular assembly comprises a yield strength of about 67 ksi and
a tensile strength of about 95 ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, the
portion of the tubular assembly comprises a yield strength of about
82 ksi and a tensile strength of about 130 ksi. In an exemplary
embodiment, the portion of the tubular assembly comprises a yield
strength of about 60 ksi and a tensile strength of about 97
ksi.
[0440] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein a
yield point of the expandable tubular member after a radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 5.8% greater
than the yield point of the expandable tubular member prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular member includes a wellbore casing, a
pipeline, or a structural support.
[0441] A method of determining the expandability of a selected
tubular member has been described that includes determining an
anisotropy value for the selected tubular member, determining a
strain hardening value for the selected tubular member; and
multiplying the anisotropy value times the strain hardening value
to generate an expandability value for the selected tubular member.
In an exemplary embodiment, an anisotropy value greater than 0.12
indicates that the tubular member is suitable for radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular
member includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural
support.
[0442] A method of radially expanding and plastically deforming
tubular members has been described that includes selecting a
tubular member; determining an anisotropy value for the selected
tubular member; determining a strain hardening value for the
selected tubular member; multiplying the anisotropy value times the
strain hardening value to generate an expandability value for the
selected tubular member; and if the anisotropy value is greater
than 0.12, then radially expanding and plastically deforming the
selected tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular
member includes a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural
support. In an exemplary embodiment, radially expanding and
plastically deforming the selected tubular member includes:
inserting the selected tubular member into a preexisting structure;
and then radially expanding and plastically deforming the selected
tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the preexisting
structure includes a wellbore that traverses a subterranean
formation.
[0443] A radially expandable multiple tubular member apparatus has
been described that includes a first tubular member; a second
tubular member engaged with the first tubular member forming a
joint; a sleeve overlapping and coupling the first and second
tubular members at the joint; the sleeve having opposite tapered
ends and a flange engaged in a recess formed in an adjacent tubular
member; and one of the tapered ends being a surface formed on the
flange. In an exemplary embodiment, the recess includes a tapered
wall in mating engagement with the tapered end formed on the
flange. In an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve includes a flange at
each tapered end and each tapered end is formed on a respective
flange. In an exemplary embodiment, each tubular member includes a
recess. In an exemplary embodiment, each flange is engaged in a
respective one of the recesses. In an exemplary embodiment, each
recess includes a tapered wall in mating engagement with the
tapered end formed on a respective one of the flanges.
[0444] A method of joining radially expandable multiple tubular
members has also been described that includes providing a first
tubular member; engaging a second tubular member with the first
tubular member to form a joint; providing a sleeve having opposite
tapered ends and a flange, one of the tapered ends being a surface
formed on the flange; and mounting the sleeve for overlapping and
coupling the first and second tubular members at the joint, wherein
the flange is engaged in a recess formed in an adjacent one of the
tubular members. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further
includes providing a tapered wall in the recess for mating
engagement with the tapered end formed on the flange. In an
exemplary embodiment, the method further includes providing a
flange at each tapered end wherein each tapered end is formed on a
respective flange. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further
includes providing a recess in each tubular member. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes engaging each flange in a
respective one of the recesses. In an exemplary embodiment, the
method further includes providing a tapered wall in each recess for
mating engagement with the tapered end formed on a respective one
of the flanges.
[0445] A radially expandable multiple tubular member apparatus has
been described that includes a first tubular member; a second
tubular member engaged with the first tubular member forming a
joint; and a sleeve overlapping and coupling the first and second
tubular members at the joint; wherein at least a portion of the
sleeve is comprised of a frangible material.
[0446] A radially expandable multiple tubular member apparatus has
been described that includes a first tubular member; a second
tubular member engaged with the first tubular member forming a
joint; and a sleeve overlapping and coupling the first and second
tubular members at the joint; wherein the wall thickness of the
sleeve is variable.
[0447] A method of joining radially expandable multiple tubular
members has been described that includes providing a first tubular
member; engaging a second tubular member with the first tubular
member to form a joint; providing a sleeve comprising a frangible
material; and mounting the sleeve for overlapping and coupling the
first and second tubular members at the joint.
[0448] A method of joining radially expandable multiple tubular
members has been described that includes providing a first tubular
member; engaging a second tubular member with the first tubular
member to form a joint; providing a sleeve comprising a variable
wall thickness; and mounting the sleeve for overlapping and
coupling the first and second tubular members at the joint.
[0449] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member; a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member; and means for increasing the axial
compression loading capacity of the coupling between the first and
second tubular members before and after a radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members.
[0450] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member; a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member; and means for increasing the axial
tension loading capacity of the coupling between the first and
second tubular members before and after a radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members.
[0451] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member; a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member; and means for increasing the axial
compression and tension loading capacity of the coupling between
the first and second tubular members before and after a radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members.
[0452] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member; a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member; and means for avoiding stress risers in
the coupling between the first and second tubular members before
and after a radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first
and second tubular members.
[0453] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member; a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member; and means for inducing stresses at
selected portions of the coupling between the first and second
tubular members before and after a radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the first and second tubular members.
[0454] In several exemplary embodiments of the apparatus described
above, the sleeve is circumferentially tensioned; and wherein the
first and second tubular members are circumferentially
compressed.
[0455] In several exemplary embodiments of the method described
above, the method further includes maintaining the sleeve in
circumferential tension; and maintaining the first and second
tubular members in circumferential compression before, during,
and/or after the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members.
[0456] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member, a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member, a first threaded connection for coupling
a portion of the first and second tubular members, a second
threaded connection spaced apart from the first threaded connection
for coupling another portion of the first and second tubular
members, a tubular sleeve coupled to and receiving end portions of
the first and second tubular members, and a sealing element
positioned between the first and second spaced apart threaded
connections for sealing an interface between the first and second
tubular member, wherein the sealing element is positioned within an
annulus defined between the first and second tubular members. In an
exemplary embodiment, the annulus is at least partially defined by
an irregular surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the annulus is at
least partially defined by a toothed surface. In an exemplary
embodiment, the sealing element comprises an elastomeric material.
In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing element comprises a
metallic material. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing element
comprises an elastomeric and a metallic material.
[0457] A method of joining radially expandable multiple tubular
members has been described that includes providing a first tubular
member, providing a second tubular member, providing a sleeve,
mounting the sleeve for overlapping and coupling the first and
second tubular members, threadably coupling the first and second
tubular members at a first location, threadably coupling the first
and second tubular members at a second location spaced apart from
the first location, and sealing an interface between the first and
second tubular members between the first and second locations using
a compressible sealing element. In an exemplary embodiment, the
sealing element includes an irregular surface. In an exemplary
embodiment, the sealing element includes a toothed surface. In an
exemplary embodiment, the sealing element comprises an elastomeric
material. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing element comprises
a metallic material. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing
element comprises an elastomeric and a metallic material.
[0458] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member, a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member, a first threaded connection for coupling
a portion of the first and second tubular members, a second
threaded connection spaced apart from the first threaded connection
for coupling another portion of the first and second tubular
members, and a plurality of spaced apart tubular sleeves coupled to
and receiving end portions of the first and second tubular members.
In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the tubular sleeves is
positioned in opposing relation to the first threaded connection;
and wherein at least one of the tubular sleeves is positioned in
opposing relation to the second threaded connection. In an
exemplary embodiment, at least one of the tubular sleeves is not
positioned in opposing relation to the first and second threaded
connections.
[0459] A method of joining radially expandable multiple tubular
members has been described that includes providing a first tubular
member, providing a second tubular member, threadably coupling the
first and second tubular members at a first location, threadably
coupling the first and second tubular members at a second location
spaced apart from the first location, providing a plurality of
sleeves, and mounting the sleeves at spaced apart locations for
overlapping and coupling the first and second tubular members. In
an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the tubular sleeves is
positioned in opposing relation to the first threaded coupling; and
wherein at least one of the tubular sleeves is positioned in
opposing relation to the second threaded coupling. In an exemplary
embodiment, at least one of the tubular sleeves is not positioned
in opposing relation to the first and second threaded
couplings.
[0460] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member, a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member, and a plurality of spaced apart tubular
sleeves coupled to and receiving end portions of the first and
second tubular members.
[0461] A method of joining radially expandable multiple tubular
members has been described that includes providing a first tubular
member, providing a second tubular member, providing a plurality of
sleeves, coupling the first and second tubular members, and
mounting the sleeves at spaced apart locations for overlapping and
coupling the first and second tubular members.
[0462] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member, a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member, a threaded connection for coupling a
portion of the first and second tubular members, and a tubular
sleeves coupled to and receiving end portions of the first and
second tubular members, wherein at least a portion of the threaded
connection is upset. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion
of tubular sleeve penetrates the first tubular member.
[0463] A method of joining radially expandable multiple tubular
members has been described that includes providing a first tubular
member, providing a second tubular member, threadably coupling the
first and second tubular members, and upsetting the threaded
coupling. In an exemplary embodiment, the first tubular member
further comprises an annular extension extending therefrom, and the
flange of the sleeve defines an annular recess for receiving and
mating with the annular extension of the first tubular member. In
an exemplary embodiment, the first tubular member further comprises
an annular extension extending therefrom; and the flange of the
sleeve defines an annular recess for receiving and mating with the
annular extension of the first tubular member.
[0464] A radially expandable multiple tubular member apparatus has
been described that includes a first tubular member, a second
tubular member engaged with the first tubular member forming a
joint, a sleeve overlapping and coupling the first and second
tubular members at the joint, and one or more stress concentrators
for concentrating stresses in the joint. In an exemplary
embodiment, one or more of the stress concentrators comprises one
or more external grooves defined in the first tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, one or more of the stress concentrators
comprises one or more internal grooves defined in the second
tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the
stress concentrators comprises one or more openings defined in the
sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the stress
concentrators comprises one or more external grooves defined in the
first tubular member; and one or more of the stress concentrators
comprises one or more internal grooves defined in the second
tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the
stress concentrators comprises one or more external grooves defined
in the first tubular member; and one or more of the stress
concentrators comprises one or more openings defined in the sleeve.
In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the stress concentrators
comprises one or more internal grooves defined in the second
tubular member; and one or more of the stress concentrators
comprises one or more openings defined in the sleeve. In an
exemplary embodiment, one or more of the stress concentrators
comprises one or more external grooves defined in the first tubular
member; wherein one or more of the stress concentrators comprises
one or more internal grooves defined in the second tubular member;
and wherein one or more of the stress concentrators comprises one
or more openings defined in the sleeve.
[0465] A method of joining radially expandable multiple tubular
members has been described that includes providing a first tubular
member, engaging a second tubular member with the first tubular
member to form a joint, providing a sleeve having opposite tapered
ends and a flange, one of the tapered ends being a surface formed
on the flange, and concentrating stresses within the joint. In an
exemplary embodiment, concentrating stresses within the joint
comprises using the first tubular member to concentrate stresses
within the joint. In an exemplary embodiment, concentrating
stresses within the joint comprises using the second tubular member
to concentrate stresses within the joint. In an exemplary
embodiment, concentrating stresses within the joint comprises using
the sleeve to concentrate stresses within the joint. In an
exemplary embodiment, concentrating stresses within the joint
comprises using the first tubular member and the second tubular
member to concentrate stresses within the joint. In an exemplary
embodiment, concentrating stresses within the joint comprises using
the first tubular member and the sleeve to concentrate stresses
within the joint. In an exemplary embodiment, concentrating
stresses within the joint comprises using the second tubular member
and the sleeve to concentrate stresses within the joint. In an
exemplary embodiment, concentrating stresses within the joint
comprises using the first tubular member, the second tubular
member, and the sleeve to concentrate stresses within the
joint.
[0466] A system for radially expanding and plastically deforming a
first tubular member coupled to a second tubular member by a
mechanical connection has been described that includes means for
radially expanding the first and second tubular members, and means
for maintaining portions of the first and second tubular member in
circumferential compression following the radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members.
[0467] A system for radially expanding and plastically deforming a
first tubular member coupled to a second tubular member by a
mechanical connection has been described that includes means for
radially expanding the first and second tubular members; and means
for concentrating stresses within the mechanical connection during
the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and
second tubular members.
[0468] A system for radially expanding and plastically deforming a
first tubular member coupled to a second tubular member by a
mechanical connection has been described that includes means for
radially expanding the first and second tubular members; means for
maintaining portions of the first and second tubular member in
circumferential compression following the radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members; and
means for concentrating stresses within the mechanical connection
during the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first
and second tubular members.
A radially expandable tubular member apparatus has been described
that includes a first tubular member; a second tubular member
engaged with the first tubular member forming a joint; and a sleeve
overlapping and coupling the first and second tubular members at
the joint; wherein, prior to a radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the apparatus, a predetermined portion of the
apparatus has a lower yield point than another portion of the
apparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, the carbon content of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus is less than or equal to
0.12 percent; and wherein the carbon equivalent value for the
predetermined portion of the apparatus is less than 0.21. In an
exemplary embodiment, the carbon content of the predetermined
portion of the apparatus is greater than 0.12 percent; and wherein
the carbon equivalent value for the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is less than 0.36. In an exemplary embodiment, the
apparatus further includes means for maintaining portions of the
first and second tubular member in circumferential compression
following the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first
and second tubular members. In an exemplary embodiment, the
apparatus further includes means for concentrating stresses within
the mechanical connection during the radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the first and second tubular members. In an
exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes means for
maintaining portions of the first and second tubular member in
circumferential compression following the radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members; and
means for concentrating stresses within the mechanical connection
during the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first
and second tubular members. In an exemplary embodiment, the
apparatus further includes one or more stress concentrators for
concentrating stresses in the joint. In an exemplary embodiment,
one or more of the stress concentrators comprises one or more
external grooves defined in the first tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, one or more of the stress concentrators
comprises one or more internal grooves defined in the second
tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the
stress concentrators comprises one or more openings defined in the
sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the stress
concentrators comprises one or more external grooves defined in the
first tubular member; and wherein one or more of the stress
concentrators comprises one or more internal grooves defined in the
second tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of
the stress concentrators comprises one or more external grooves
defined in the first tubular member; and wherein one or more of the
stress concentrators comprises one or more openings defined in the
sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the stress
concentrators comprises one or more internal grooves defined in the
second tubular member; and wherein one or more of the stress
concentrators comprises one or more openings defined in the sleeve.
In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the stress concentrators
comprises one or more external grooves defined in the first tubular
member; wherein one or more of the stress concentrators comprises
one or more internal grooves defined in the second tubular member;
and wherein one or more of the stress concentrators comprises one
or more openings defined in the sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment,
the first tubular member further comprises an annular extension
extending therefrom; and wherein the flange of the sleeve defines
an annular recess for receiving and mating with the annular
extension of the first tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment,
the apparatus further includes a threaded connection for coupling a
portion of the first and second tubular members; wherein at least a
portion of the threaded connection is upset. In an exemplary
embodiment, at least a portion of tubular sleeve penetrates the
first tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus
further includes means for increasing the axial compression loading
capacity of the joint between the first and second tubular members
before and after a radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
first and second tubular members. In an exemplary embodiment, the
apparatus further includes means for increasing the axial tension
loading capacity of the joint between the first and second tubular
members before and after a radial expansion and plastic deformation
of the first and second tubular members. In an exemplary
embodiment, the apparatus further includes means for increasing the
axial compression and tension loading capacity of the joint between
the first and second tubular members before and after a radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes
means for avoiding stress risers in the joint between the first and
second tubular members before and after a radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members. In an
exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further includes means for
inducing stresses at selected portions of the coupling between the
first and second tubular members before and after a radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members. In an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve is
circumferentially tensioned; and wherein the first and second
tubular members are circumferentially compressed. In an exemplary
embodiment, the means for increasing the axial compression loading
capacity of the coupling between the first and second tubular
members before and after a radial expansion and plastic deformation
of the first and second tubular members is circumferentially
tensioned; and wherein the first and second tubular members are
circumferentially compressed. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
for increasing the axial tension loading capacity of the coupling
between the first and second tubular members before and after a
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second
tubular members is circumferentially tensioned; and wherein the
first and second tubular members are circumferentially compressed.
In an exemplary embodiment, the means for increasing the axial
compression and tension loading capacity of the coupling between
the first and second tubular members before and after a radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the first and second tubular
members is circumferentially tensioned; and wherein the first and
second tubular members are circumferentially compressed. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means for avoiding stress risers in the
coupling between the first and second tubular members before and
after a radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first and
second tubular members is circumferentially tensioned; and wherein
the first and second tubular members are circumferentially
compressed. In an exemplary embodiment, the means for inducing
stresses at selected portions of the coupling between the first and
second tubular members before and after a radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members is
circumferentially tensioned; and wherein the first and second
tubular members are circumferentially compressed. In an exemplary
embodiment, at least a portion of the sleeve is comprised of a
frangible material. In an exemplary embodiment, the wall thickness
of the sleeve is variable. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the apparatus has a higher ductility and a
lower yield point prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation than after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the apparatus has a higher ductility prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the apparatus has a lower yield point
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation than after
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus has a larger
inside diameter after the radial expansion and plastic deformation
than other portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the sleeve is circumferentially tensioned; and wherein
the first and second tubular members are circumferentially
compressed. In an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve is
circumferentially tensioned; and wherein the first and second
tubular members are circumferentially compressed. In an exemplary
embodiment, the apparatus further includes positioning another
apparatus within the preexisting structure in overlapping relation
to the apparatus; and radially expanding and plastically deforming
the other apparatus within the preexisting structure; wherein,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
apparatus, a predetermined portion of the other apparatus has a
lower yield point than another portion of the other apparatus. In
an exemplary embodiment, the inside diameter of the radially
expanded and plastically deformed other portion of the apparatus is
equal to the inside diameter of the radially expanded and
plastically deformed other portion of the other apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus
comprises an end portion of the apparatus. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus comprises a
plurality of predetermined portions of the apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus
comprises a plurality of spaced apart predetermined portions of the
apparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the
apparatus comprises an end portion of the apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the apparatus comprises
a plurality of other portions of the apparatus. In an exemplary
embodiment, the other portion of the apparatus comprises a
plurality of spaced apart other portions of the apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a plurality of
tubular members coupled to one another by corresponding tubular
couplings. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular couplings
comprise the predetermined portions of the apparatus; and wherein
the tubular members comprise the other portion of the apparatus. In
an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the tubular couplings
comprise the predetermined portions of the apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, one or more of the tubular members comprise
the predetermined portions of the apparatus. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus defines one
or more openings. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the
openings comprise slots. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy
for the predetermined portion of the apparatus is greater than 1.
In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined
portion of the apparatus is greater than 1. In an exemplary
embodiment, the strain hardening exponent for the predetermined
portion of the apparatus is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is greater than 1; and wherein the strain hardening
exponent for the predetermined portion of the apparatus is greater
than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of
the apparatus comprises a first steel alloy comprising: 0.065% C,
1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and
0.02% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus is at most about 46.9 ksi
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein
the yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus is at
least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater than the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
is about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined
portion of the apparatus comprises a second steel alloy comprising:
0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01%
Ni, and 0.03% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the apparatus is at most about 57.8
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is at least about 74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and
plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the apparatus after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 28% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion
of the apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the apparatus comprises a third steel
alloy comprising: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30% Si,
0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the apparatus, prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.92. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus
comprises a fourth steel alloy comprising: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02%
P, 0.001% S, 0.45% Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
is about 1.34. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus is at most about 46.9 ksi
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein
the yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus is at
least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater than the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
is at least about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point
of the predetermined portion of the apparatus is at most about 57.8
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is at least about 74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and
plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the apparatus after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 28% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion
of the apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is at least about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the apparatus, prior
to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about
1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.34. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion
of the apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to about 1.92. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
ranges from about 47.6 ksi to about 61.7 ksi. In an exemplary
embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the predetermined
portion of the apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the
expandability coefficient of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is greater than the expandability coefficient of the
other portion of the apparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, the
apparatus comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment,
the apparatus comprises a pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, the
apparatus comprises a structural support.
[0470] A radially expandable tubular member apparatus has been
described that includes a first tubular member; a second tubular
member engaged with the first tubular member forming a joint; a
sleeve overlapping and coupling the first and second tubular
members at the joint; the sleeve having opposite tapered ends and a
flange engaged in a recess formed in an adjacent tubular member;
and one of the tapered ends being a surface formed on the flange;
wherein, prior to a radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
apparatus, a predetermined portion of the apparatus has a lower
yield point than another portion of the apparatus. In an exemplary
embodiment, the recess includes a tapered wall in mating engagement
with the tapered end formed on the flange. In an exemplary
embodiment, the sleeve includes a flange at each tapered end and
each tapered end is formed on a respective flange. In an exemplary
embodiment, each tubular member includes a recess. In an exemplary
embodiment, each flange is engaged in a respective one of the
recesses. In an exemplary embodiment, each recess includes a
tapered wall in mating engagement with the tapered end formed on a
respective one of the flanges. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the apparatus has a higher ductility and a
lower yield point prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation than after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the apparatus has a higher ductility prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the apparatus has a lower yield point
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation than after
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus has a larger
inside diameter after the radial expansion and plastic deformation
than other portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the apparatus further includes positioning another
apparatus within the preexisting structure in overlapping relation
to the apparatus; and radially expanding and plastically deforming
the other apparatus within the preexisting structure; wherein,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
apparatus, a predetermined portion of the other apparatus has a
lower yield point than another portion of the other apparatus. In
an exemplary embodiment, the inside diameter of the radially
expanded and plastically deformed other portion of the apparatus is
equal to the inside diameter of the radially expanded and
plastically deformed other portion of the other apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus
comprises an end portion of the apparatus. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus comprises a
plurality of predetermined portions of the apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus
comprises a plurality of spaced apart predetermined portions of the
apparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the
apparatus comprises an end portion of the apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the apparatus comprises
a plurality of other portions of the apparatus. In an exemplary
embodiment, the other portion of the apparatus comprises a
plurality of spaced apart other portions of the apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a plurality of
tubular members coupled to one another by corresponding tubular
couplings. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular couplings
comprise the predetermined portions of the apparatus; and wherein
the tubular members comprise the other portion of the apparatus. In
an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the tubular couplings
comprise the predetermined portions of the apparatus. In an
exemplary embodiment, one or more of the tubular members comprise
the predetermined portions of the apparatus. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus defines one
or more openings. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the
openings comprise slots. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy
for the predetermined portion of the apparatus is greater than 1.
In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined
portion of the apparatus is greater than 1. In an exemplary
embodiment, the strain hardening exponent for the predetermined
portion of the apparatus is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is greater than 1; and wherein the strain hardening
exponent for the predetermined portion of the apparatus is greater
than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of
the apparatus comprises a first steel alloy comprising: 0.065% C,
1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and
0.02% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus is at most about 46.9 ksi
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein
the yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus is at
least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater than the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
is about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined
portion of the apparatus comprises a second steel alloy comprising:
0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01%
Ni, and 0.03% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the apparatus is at most about 57.8
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is at least about 74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and
plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the apparatus after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 28% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion
of the apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the apparatus comprises a third steel
alloy comprising: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30% Si,
0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the apparatus, prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.92. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the apparatus
comprises a fourth steel alloy comprising: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02%
P, 0.001% S, 0.45% Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
is about 1.34. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus is at most about 46.9 ksi
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein
the yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus is at
least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater than the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
is at least about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point
of the predetermined portion of the apparatus is at most about 57.8
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is at least about 74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and
plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the apparatus after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 28% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the apparatus
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion
of the apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is at least about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the apparatus, prior
to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about
1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the
predetermined portion of the apparatus, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.34. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion
of the apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to about 1.92. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation,
ranges from about 47.6 ksi to about 61.7 ksi. In an exemplary
embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the predetermined
portion of the apparatus, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the
expandability coefficient of the predetermined portion of the
apparatus is greater than the expandability coefficient of the
other portion of the apparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, the
apparatus comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment,
the apparatus comprises a pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, the
apparatus comprises a structural support.
[0471] A method of joining radially expandable tubular members has
been provided that includes: providing a first tubular member;
engaging a second tubular member with the first tubular member to
form a joint; providing a sleeve; mounting the sleeve for
overlapping and coupling the first and second tubular members at
the joint; wherein the first tubular member, the second tubular
member, and the sleeve define a tubular assembly; and radially
expanding and plastically deforming the tubular assembly; wherein,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, a
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a lower yield
point than another portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the carbon content of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is less than or equal to 0.12 percent; and wherein
the carbon equivalent value for the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is less than 0.21. In an exemplary embodiment, the
carbon content of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly
is greater than 0.12 percent; and wherein the carbon equivalent
value for the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is less
than 0.36. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes:
maintaining portions of the first and second tubular member in
circumferential compression following a radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the first and second tubular members. In an
exemplary embodiment, the method further includes: concentrating
stresses within the joint during a radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the first and second tubular members. In an
exemplary embodiment, the method further includes: maintaining
portions of the first and second tubular member in circumferential
compression following a radial expansion and plastic deformation of
the first and second tubular members; and concentrating stresses
within the joint during a radial expansion and plastic deformation
of the first and second tubular members. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes: concentrating stresses
within the joint. In an exemplary embodiment, concentrating
stresses within the joint comprises using the first tubular member
to concentrate stresses within the joint. In an exemplary
embodiment, concentrating stresses within the joint comprises using
the second tubular member to concentrate stresses within the joint.
In an exemplary embodiment, concentrating stresses within the joint
comprises using the sleeve to concentrate stresses within the
joint. In an exemplary embodiment, concentrating stresses within
the joint comprises using the first tubular member and the second
tubular member to concentrate stresses within the joint. In an
exemplary embodiment, concentrating stresses within the joint
comprises using the first tubular member and the sleeve to
concentrate stresses within the joint. In an exemplary embodiment,
concentrating stresses within the joint comprises using the second
tubular member and the sleeve to concentrate stresses within the
joint. In an exemplary embodiment, concentrating stresses within
the joint comprises using the first tubular member, the second
tubular member, and the sleeve to concentrate stresses within the
joint. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the sleeve
is comprised of a frangible material. In an exemplary embodiment,
the sleeve comprises a variable wall thickness. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes maintaining the sleeve in
circumferential tension; and maintaining the first and second
tubular members in circumferential compression. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes maintaining the sleeve in
circumferential tension; and maintaining the first and second
tubular members in circumferential compression. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes: maintaining the sleeve in
circumferential tension; and maintaining the first and second
tubular members in circumferential compression. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes: threadably coupling the
first and second tubular members at a first location; threadably
coupling the first and second tubular members at a second location
spaced apart from the first location; providing a plurality of
sleeves; and mounting the sleeves at spaced apart locations for
overlapping and coupling the first and second tubular members. In
an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the tubular sleeves is
positioned in opposing relation to the first threaded coupling; and
wherein at least one of the tubular sleeves is positioned in
opposing relation to the second threaded coupling. In an exemplary
embodiment, at least one of the tubular sleeves is not positioned
in opposing relation to the first and second threaded couplings. In
an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes: threadably
coupling the first and second tubular members; and upsetting the
threaded coupling. In an exemplary embodiment, the first tubular
member further comprises an annular extension extending therefrom;
and wherein the flange of the sleeve defines an annular recess for
receiving and mating with the annular extension of the first
tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly has a higher ductility and a lower
yield point prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation
than after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly has a higher ductility prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation than after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly has a lower yield point prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a larger inside
diameter after the radial expansion and plastic deformation than
the other portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes: positioning another
tubular assembly within the preexisting structure in overlapping
relation to the tubular assembly; and radially expanding and
plastically deforming the other tubular assembly within the
preexisting structure; wherein, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the tubular assembly, a predetermined
portion of the other tubular assembly has a lower yield point than
another portion of the other tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the inside diameter of the radially expanded and
plastically deformed other portion of the tubular assembly is equal
to the inside diameter of the radially expanded and plastically
deformed other portion of the other tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly comprises an end portion of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly comprises a plurality of predetermined portions of the
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly comprises a plurality of spaced
apart predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly
comprises an end portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly comprises a
plurality of other portions of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly
comprises a plurality of spaced apart other portions of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular assembly
comprises a plurality of tubular members coupled to one another by
corresponding tubular couplings. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular couplings comprise the predetermined portions of the
tubular assembly; and wherein the tubular members comprise the
other portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment,
one or more of the tubular couplings comprise the predetermined
portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, one
or more of the tubular members comprise the predetermined portions
of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly defines one or more
openings. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the openings
comprise slots. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 1. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 1. In an exemplary
embodiment, the strain hardening exponent for the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 0.12. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly is greater than 1; and wherein the strain
hardening exponent for the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a first
steel alloy comprising: 0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S,
0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.02% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 46.9 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 40% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a second
steel alloy comprising: 0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S,
0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.03% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a third
steel alloy comprising: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S,
0.30% Si, 0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a fourth
steel alloy comprising: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02% P, 0.001% S, 0.45%
Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is about
1.34. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at most about 46.9
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is at least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and
plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is at least about 1.48. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is at least about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is
at least about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.34.
In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to about 1.92. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, ranges from about 47.6 ksi to about 61.7 ksi. In an
exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is greater than 0.12. In an
exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than the
expandability coefficient of the other portion of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular assembly
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular assembly comprises a pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment,
the tubular assembly comprises a structural support.
[0472] A method of joining radially expandable tubular members has
been described that includes: providing a first tubular member;
engaging a second tubular member with the first tubular member to
form a joint; providing a sleeve having opposite tapered ends and a
flange, one of the tapered ends being a surface formed on the
flange; mounting the sleeve for overlapping and coupling the first
and second tubular members at the joint, wherein the flange is
engaged in a recess formed in an adjacent one of the tubular
members; wherein the first tubular member, the second tubular
member, and the sleeve define a tubular assembly; and radially
expanding and plastically deforming the tubular assembly; wherein,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, a
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a lower yield
point than another portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes: providing a tapered wall
in the recess for mating engagement with the tapered end formed on
the flange. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further
includes: providing a flange at each tapered end wherein each
tapered end is formed on a respective flange. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes: providing a recess in each
tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further
includes: engaging each flange in a respective one of the recesses.
In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes: providing
a tapered wall in each recess for mating engagement with the
tapered end formed on a respective one of the flanges. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly has a higher ductility and a lower yield point prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a higher
ductility prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation
than after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly has a lower yield point prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation than after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly has a larger inside diameter after the
radial expansion and plastic deformation than the other portion of
the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the method
further includes: positioning another tubular assembly within the
preexisting structure in overlapping relation to the tubular
assembly; and radially expanding and plastically deforming the
other tubular assembly within the preexisting structure; wherein,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
tubular assembly, a predetermined portion of the other tubular
assembly has a lower yield point than another portion of the other
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the inside diameter
of the radially expanded and plastically deformed other portion of
the tubular assembly is equal to the inside diameter of the
radially expanded and plastically deformed other portion of the
other tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises an end
portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a plurality
of predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly
comprises a plurality of spaced apart predetermined portions of the
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the other portion of
the tubular assembly comprises an end portion of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the
tubular assembly comprises a plurality of other portions of the
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the other portion of
the tubular assembly comprises a plurality of spaced apart other
portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular assembly comprises a plurality of tubular members coupled
to one another by corresponding tubular couplings. In an exemplary
embodiment, the tubular couplings comprise the predetermined
portions of the tubular assembly; and wherein the tubular members
comprise the other portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, one or more of the tubular couplings comprise the
predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, one or more of the tubular members comprise the
predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly
defines one or more openings. In an exemplary embodiment, one or
more of the openings comprise slots. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy for the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is greater than 1. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy for the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is
greater than 1. In an exemplary embodiment, the strain hardening
exponent for the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is
greater than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than
1; and wherein the strain hardening exponent for the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 0.12. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly comprises a first steel alloy comprising: 0.065% C, 1.44%
Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.02% Cr.
In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is at most about 46.9 ksi prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield
point of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at
least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a second
steel alloy comprising: 0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S,
0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.03% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a third
steel alloy comprising: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S,
0.30% Si, 0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a fourth
steel alloy comprising: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02% P, 0.001% S, 0.45%
Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is about
1.34. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at most about 46.9
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is at least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and
plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is at least about 1.48. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is at least about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is
at least about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.34.
In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to about 1.92. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, ranges from about 47.6 ksi to about 61.7 ksi. In an
exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is greater than 0.12. In an
exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than the
expandability coefficient of the other portion of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular assembly
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular assembly comprises a pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment,
the tubular assembly comprises a structural support.
[0473] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member; a second tubular member coupled to
the first tubular member; a first threaded connection for coupling
a portion of the first and second tubular members; a second
threaded connection spaced apart from the first threaded connection
for coupling another portion of the first and second tubular
members; a tubular sleeve coupled to and receiving end portions of
the first and second tubular members; and a sealing element
positioned between the first and second spaced apart threaded
connections for sealing an interface between the first and second
tubular member; wherein the sealing element is positioned within an
annulus defined between the first and second tubular members; and
wherein, prior to a radial expansion and plastic deformation of the
assembly, a predetermined portion of the assembly has a lower yield
point than another portion of the apparatus. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the assembly has a higher
ductility and a lower yield point prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation than after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the assembly has a higher ductility prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the assembly has a lower yield point prior
to the radial expansion and plastic deformation than after the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the assembly has a larger
inside diameter after the radial expansion and plastic deformation
than other portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the assembly further includes: positioning another
assembly within the preexisting structure in overlapping relation
to the assembly; and radially expanding and plastically deforming
the other assembly within the preexisting structure; wherein, prior
to the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the assembly, a
predetermined portion of the other assembly has a lower yield point
than another portion of the other assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the inside diameter of the radially expanded and
plastically deformed other portion of the assembly is equal to the
inside diameter of the radially expanded and plastically deformed
other portion of the other assembly. In an exemplary embodiment,
the predetermined portion of the assembly comprises an end portion
of the assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined
portion of the assembly comprises a plurality of predetermined
portions of the assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the assembly comprises a plurality of
spaced apart predetermined portions of the assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the assembly comprises
an end portion of the assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
other portion of the assembly comprises a plurality of other
portions of the assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the other
portion of the assembly comprises a plurality of spaced apart other
portions of the assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the assembly
comprises a plurality of tubular members coupled to one another by
corresponding tubular couplings. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular couplings comprise the predetermined portions of the
assembly; and wherein the tubular members comprise the other
portion of the assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of
the tubular couplings comprise the predetermined portions of the
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the tubular
members comprise the predetermined portions of the assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the assembly
defines one or more openings. In an exemplary embodiment, one or
more of the openings comprise slots. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy for the predetermined portion of the assembly is
greater than 1. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the
predetermined portion of the assembly is greater than 1. In an
exemplary embodiment, the strain hardening exponent for the
predetermined portion of the assembly is greater than 0.12. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined portion
of the assembly is greater than 1; and wherein the strain hardening
exponent for the predetermined portion of the assembly is greater
than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of
the assembly comprises a first steel alloy comprising: 0.065% C,
1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and
0.02% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the assembly is at most about 46.9 ksi
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein
the yield point of the predetermined portion of the assembly is at
least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the assembly after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater than the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the assembly prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is
about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the assembly comprises a second steel alloy comprising: 0.18% C,
1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and
0.03% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein
the yield point of the predetermined portion of the assembly is at
least about 74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the assembly after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation is at least about 28% greater than the
yield point of the predetermined portion of the assembly prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is
about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the assembly comprises a third steel alloy comprising: 0.08% C,
0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30% Si, 0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and
0.05% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the
predetermined portion of the assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.92. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the assembly comprises a
fourth steel alloy comprising: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02% P, 0.001%
S, 0.45% Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the assembly, prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is about 1.34. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the assembly is at most about 46.9 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the assembly is at least about 65.9
ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the assembly after the radial expansion and plastic deformation
is at least about 40% greater than the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the assembly prior to the radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy
of the predetermined portion of the assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.48. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the assembly is at least about 74.4
ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the assembly after the radial expansion and plastic deformation
is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the assembly prior to the radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy
of the predetermined portion of the assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.04. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion
of the assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is at least about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the assembly, prior
to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about
1.34. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the
predetermined portion of the assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to about
1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, ranges from about 47.6 ksi to
about 61.7 ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandability
coefficient of the predetermined portion of the assembly, prior to
the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is greater than 0.12.
In an exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the
predetermined portion of the assembly is greater than the
expandability coefficient of the other portion of the assembly. In
an exemplary embodiment, the assembly comprises a wellbore casing.
In an exemplary embodiment, the assembly comprises a pipeline. In
an exemplary embodiment, the assembly comprises a structural
support. In an exemplary embodiment, the annulus is at least
partially defined by an irregular surface. In an exemplary
embodiment, the annulus is at least partially defined by a toothed
surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing element comprises
an elastomeric material. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing
element comprises a metallic material. In an exemplary embodiment,
the sealing element comprises an elastomeric and a metallic
material.
[0474] A method of joining radially expandable tubular members is
provided that includes providing a first tubular member; providing
a second tubular member; providing a sleeve; mounting the sleeve
for overlapping and coupling the first and second tubular members;
threadably coupling the first and second tubular members at a first
location; threadably coupling the first and second tubular members
at a second location spaced apart from the first location; sealing
an interface between the first and second tubular members between
the first and second locations using a compressible sealing
element, wherein the first tubular member, second tubular member,
sleeve, and the sealing element define a tubular assembly; and
radially expanding and plastically deforming the tubular assembly;
wherein, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, a
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a lower yield
point than another portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the sealing element includes an irregular surface. In
an exemplary embodiment, the sealing element includes a toothed
surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing element comprises
an elastomeric material. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing
element comprises a metallic material. In an exemplary embodiment,
the sealing element comprises an elastomeric and a metallic
material. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of
the tubular assembly has a higher ductility and a lower yield point
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation than after
the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a
higher ductility prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation than after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly has a lower yield point prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation than after the radial expansion
and plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly has a larger inside
diameter after the radial expansion and plastic deformation than
the other portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the method further includes: positioning another
tubular assembly within the preexisting structure in overlapping
relation to the tubular assembly; and radially expanding and
plastically deforming the other tubular assembly within the
preexisting structure; wherein, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation of the tubular assembly, a predetermined
portion of the other tubular assembly has a lower yield point than
another portion of the other tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the inside diameter of the radially expanded and
plastically deformed other portion of the tubular assembly is equal
to the inside diameter of the radially expanded and plastically
deformed other portion of the other tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly comprises an end portion of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly comprises a plurality of predetermined portions of the
tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly comprises a plurality of spaced
apart predetermined portions of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly
comprises an end portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary
embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly comprises a
plurality of other portions of the tubular assembly. In an
exemplary embodiment, the other portion of the tubular assembly
comprises a plurality of spaced apart other portions of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular assembly
comprises a plurality of tubular members coupled to one another by
corresponding tubular couplings. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular couplings comprise the predetermined portions of the
tubular assembly; and wherein the tubular members comprise the
other portion of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment,
one or more of the tubular couplings comprise the predetermined
portions of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, one
or more of the tubular members comprise the predetermined portions
of the tubular assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly defines one or more
openings. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the openings
comprise slots. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 1. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 1. In an exemplary
embodiment, the strain hardening exponent for the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly is greater than 0.12. In an
exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy for the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly is greater than 1; and wherein the strain
hardening exponent for the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is greater than 0.12. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a first
steel alloy comprising: 0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P, 0.002% S,
0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.02% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 46.9 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 40% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.48. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a second
steel alloy comprising: 0.18% C, 1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S,
0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, and 0.03% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a third
steel alloy comprising: 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S,
0.30% Si, 0.16% Cu, 0.05% Ni, and 0.05% Cr. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly comprises a fourth
steel alloy comprising: 0.02% C, 1.31% Mn, 0.02% P, 0.001% S, 0.45%
Si, 9.1% Ni, and 18.7% Cr. In an exemplary embodiment, the
anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly,
prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is about
1.34. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at most about 46.9
ksi prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation; and
wherein the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly is at least about 65.9 ksi after the radial expansion and
plastic deformation. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly after the radial
expansion and plastic deformation is at least about 40% greater
than the yield point of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In
an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, is at least about 1.48. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly is at most about 57.8 ksi prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation; and wherein the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is at least about
74.4 ksi after the radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly after the radial expansion and plastic
deformation is at least about 28% greater than the yield point of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation. In an exemplary
embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the
tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, is at least about 1.04. In an exemplary embodiment,
the anisotropy of the predetermined portion of the tubular
assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic deformation, is
at least about 1.92. In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of
the predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the
radial expansion and plastic deformation, is at least about 1.34.
In an exemplary embodiment, the anisotropy of the predetermined
portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and
plastic deformation, ranges from about 1.04 to about 1.92. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the predetermined portion
of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial expansion and plastic
deformation, ranges from about 47.6 ksi to about 61.7 ksi. In an
exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly, prior to the radial
expansion and plastic deformation, is greater than 0.12. In an
exemplary embodiment, the expandability coefficient of the
predetermined portion of the tubular assembly is greater than the
expandability coefficient of the other portion of the tubular
assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular assembly
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular assembly comprises a pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment,
the tubular assembly comprises a structural support. In an
exemplary embodiment, the sleeve comprises: a plurality of spaced
apart tubular sleeves coupled to and receiving end portions of the
first and second tubular members. In an exemplary embodiment, the
first tubular member comprises a first threaded connection; wherein
the second tubular member comprises a second threaded connection;
wherein the first and second threaded connections are coupled to
one another; wherein at least one of the tubular sleeves is
positioned in opposing relation to the first threaded connection;
and wherein at least one of the tubular sleeves is positioned in
opposing relation to the second threaded connection. In an
exemplary embodiment, the first tubular member comprises a first
threaded connection; wherein the second tubular member comprises a
second threaded connection; wherein the first and second threaded
connections are coupled to one another; and wherein at least one of
the tubular sleeves is not positioned in opposing relation to the
first and second threaded connections. In an exemplary embodiment,
the carbon content of the tubular member is less than or equal to
0.12 percent; and wherein the carbon equivalent value for the
tubular member is less than 0.21. In an exemplary embodiment, the
tubular member comprises a wellbore casing.
[0475] An expandable tubular member has been described, wherein the
carbon content of the tubular member is greater than 0.12 percent;
and wherein the carbon equivalent value for the tubular member is
less than 0.36. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubular member
comprises a wellbore casing.
[0476] A method of selecting tubular members for radial expansion
and plastic deformation has been described that includes: selecting
a tubular member from a collection of tubular member; determining a
carbon content of the selected tubular member; determining a carbon
equivalent value for the selected tubular member; and if the carbon
content of the selected tubular member is less than or equal to
0.12 percent and the carbon equivalent value for the selected
tubular member is less than 0.21, then determining that the
selected tubular member is suitable for radial expansion and
plastic deformation.
[0477] A method of selecting tubular members for radial expansion
and plastic deformation has been described that includes: selecting
a tubular member from a collection of tubular member; determining a
carbon content of the selected tubular member; determining a carbon
equivalent value for the selected tubular member; and if the carbon
content of the selected tubular member is greater than 0.12 percent
and the carbon equivalent value for the selected tubular member is
less than 0.36, then determining that the selected tubular member
is suitable for radial expansion and plastic deformation.
[0478] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes: a tubular body; wherein a yield point of an inner tubular
portion of the tubular body is less than a yield point of an outer
tubular portion of the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment,
the yield point of the inner tubular portion of the tubular body
varies as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner
tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an linear fashion as
a function of the radial position within the tubular body. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion
of the tubular body varies in an non-linear fashion as a function
of the radial position within the tubular body. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the outer tubular portion of the
tubular body varies as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the
outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an linear
fashion as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the outer
tubular portion of the tubular body varies in an non-linear fashion
as a function of the radial position within the tubular body. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion
of the tubular body varies as a function of the radial position
within the tubular body; and wherein the yield point of the outer
tubular portion of the tubular body varies as a function of the
radial position within the tubular body. In an exemplary
embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion of the
tubular body varies in a linear fashion as a function of the radial
position within the tubular body; and wherein the yield point of
the outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a linear
fashion as a function of the radial position within the tubular
body. In an exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner
tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a linear fashion as a
function of the radial position within the tubular body; and
wherein the yield point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular
body varies in a non-linear fashion as a function of the radial
position within the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the
yield point of the inner tubular portion of the tubular body varies
in a non-linear fashion as a function of the radial position within
the tubular body; and wherein the yield point of the outer tubular
portion of the tubular body varies in a linear fashion as a
function of the radial position within the tubular body. In an
exemplary embodiment, the yield point of the inner tubular portion
of the tubular body varies in a non-linear fashion as a function of
the radial position within the tubular body; and wherein the yield
point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body varies in a
non-linear fashion as a function of the radial position within the
tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment, the rate of change of the
yield point of the inner tubular portion of the tubular body is
different than the rate of change of the yield point of the outer
tubular portion of the tubular body. In an exemplary embodiment,
the rate of change of the yield point of the inner tubular portion
of the tubular body is different than the rate of change of the
yield point of the outer tubular portion of the tubular body.
[0479] A method of manufacturing an expandable tubular member has
been described that includes: providing a tubular member; heat
treating the tubular member; and quenching the tubular member;
wherein following the quenching, the tubular member comprises a
microstructure comprising a hard phase structure and a soft phase
structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the provided tubular member
comprises, by weight percentage, 0.065% C, 1.44% Mn, 0.01% P,
0.002% S, 0.24% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, 0.02% Cr, 0.05% V, 0.01%
Mo, 0.01% Nb, and 0.01% Ti. In an exemplary embodiment, the
provided tubular member comprises, by weight percentage, 0.18% C,
1.28% Mn, 0.017% P, 0.004% S, 0.29% Si, 0.01% Cu, 0.01% Ni, 0.03%
Cr, 0.04% V, 0.01% Mo, 0.03% Nb, and 0.01% Ti. In an exemplary
embodiment, the provided tubular member comprises, by weight
percentage, 0.08% C, 0.82% Mn, 0.006% P, 0.003% S, 0.30% Si, 0.06%
Cu, 0.05% Ni, 0.05% Cr, 0.03% V, 0.03% Mo, 0.01% Nb, and 0.01% Ti.
In an exemplary embodiment, the provided tubular member comprises a
microstructure comprising one or more of the following: martensite,
pearlite, vanadium carbide, nickel carbide, or titanium carbide. In
an exemplary embodiment, the provided tubular member comprises a
microstructure comprising one or more of the following: pearlite or
pearlite striation. In an exemplary embodiment, the provided
tubular member comprises a microstructure comprising one or more of
the following: grain pearlite, widmanstatten martensite, vanadium
carbide, nickel carbide, or titanium carbide. In an exemplary
embodiment, the heat treating comprises heating the provided
tubular member for about 10 minutes at 790.degree. C. In an
exemplary embodiment, the quenching comprises quenching the heat
treated tubular member in water. In an exemplary embodiment,
following the quenching, the tubular member comprises a
microstructure comprising one or more of the following: ferrite,
grain pearlite, or martensite. In an exemplary embodiment,
following the quenching, the tubular member comprises a
microstructure comprising one or more of the following: ferrite,
martensite, or bainite. In an exemplary embodiment, following the
quenching, the tubular member comprises a microstructure comprising
one or more of the following: bainite, pearlite, or ferrite. In an
exemplary embodiment, following the quenching, the tubular member
comprises a yield strength of about 67 ksi and a tensile strength
of about 95 ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, following the
quenching, the tubular member comprises a yield strength of about
82 ksi and a tensile strength of about 130 ksi. In an exemplary
embodiment, following the quenching, the tubular member comprises a
yield strength of about 60 ksi and a tensile strength of about 97
ksi. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes:
positioning the quenched tubular member within a preexisting
structure; and radially expanding and plastically deforming the
tubular member within the preexisting structure.
[0480] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes: a steel alloy comprising: 0.07% Carbon, 1.64% Manganese,
0.011% Phosphor, 0.001% Sulfur, 0.23% Silicon, 0.5% Nickel, 0.51%
Chrome, 0.31% Molybdenum, 0.15% Copper, 0.021% Aluminum, 0.04%
Vanadium, 0.03% Niobium, and 0.007% Titanium.
[0481] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes: a collapse strength of approximately 70 ksi and
comprising: 0.07% Carbon, 1.64% Manganese, 0.011% Phosphor, 0.001%
Sulfur, 0.23% Silicon, 0.5% Nickel, 0.51% Chrome, 0.31% Molybdenum,
0.15% Copper, 0.021% Aluminum, 0.04% Vanadium, 0.03% Niobium, and
0.007% Titanium, wherein, upon radial expansion and plastic
deformation, the collapse strength increases to approximately 110
ksi.
[0482] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes: an outer surface and means for increasing the collapse
strength of a tubular assembly when the expandable tubular member
is radially expanded and plastically deformed against a preexisting
structure, the means coupled to the outer surface. In an exemplary
embodiment, the means comprises a coating comprising a soft metal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a coating
comprising aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises a coating comprising aluminum and zinc. In an exemplary
embodiment, the means comprises a coating comprising plastic. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a material wrapped around
the outer surface of the tubular member. In an exemplary
embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal. In an exemplary
embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an exemplary
embodiment, the means comprises a coating of varying thickness. In
an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a non uniform coating.
In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a coating having
multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the multiple layers
are selected from the group consisting of a soft metal, a plastic,
a composite material, and combinations thereof.
[0483] A preexisting structure for accepting an expandable tubular
member has been described that includes: a passage defined by the
structure, an inner surface on the passage and means for increasing
the collapse strength of a tubular assembly when an expandable
tubular member is radially expanded and plastically deformed
against the preexisting structure, the means coupled to the inner
surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a coating
comprising a soft metal. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises a coating comprising aluminum. In an exemplary
embodiment, the coating comprises aluminum and zinc. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a coating comprising a
plastic. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a coating
comprising a material lining the inner surface of the tubular
member. In an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft
metal. In an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum.
In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a coating of
varying thickness. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises
a non uniform coating. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises a coating having multiple layers. In an exemplary
embodiment, the multiple layers are selected from the group
consisting of a soft metal, a plastic, a composite material, and
combinations thereof.
[0484] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage and means for increasing
the collapse strength of the assembly when the expandable tubular
member is radially expanded and plastically deformed against the
structure, the means positioned between the expandable tubular
member and the structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
structure comprises a tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment,
the means comprises an interstitial layer comprising a soft metal.
In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial
layer comprising aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising aluminum and zinc. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a plastic. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped
around an outer surface of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a material lining an inner surface of the structure. In
an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer of
varying thickness. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises
a non uniform interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the
means comprises an interstitial layer having multiple layers. In an
exemplary embodiment, the multiple layers are selected from the
group consisting of a soft metal, a plastic, a composite material,
and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
is in circumferential tension.
[0485] A tubular assembly has been described that includes: a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the structure and expandable tubular member, wherein the
collapse strength of the assembly with the interstitial layer is at
least 20% greater than the collapse strength without the
interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
structure comprises a tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment,
the interstitial layer comprises aluminum. In an exemplary
embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises aluminum and zinc. In
an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises plastic.
In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer has a varying
thickness. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer is
non uniform. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer
comprises multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the multiple
layers are selected from the group consisting of a soft metal, a
plastic, a composite material, and combinations thereof. In an
exemplary embodiment, the structure is in circumferential
tension.
[0486] A tubular assembly has been described that includes: a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the structure and expandable tubular member, wherein the
collapse strength of the assembly with the interstitial layer is at
least 30% greater than the collapse strength without the
interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
structure comprises a tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment,
the interstitial layer comprises aluminum. In an exemplary
embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises aluminum and zinc. In
an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises plastic.
In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer has a varying
thickness. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer is
non uniform. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer
comprises multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the multiple
layers are selected from the group consisting of a soft metal, a
plastic, a composite material, and combinations thereof. In an
exemplary embodiment, the structure is in circumferential
tension.
[0487] A tubular assembly has been described that includes: a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the structure and expandable tubular member, wherein the
collapse strength of the assembly with the interstitial layer is at
least 40% greater than the collapse strength without the
interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
structure comprises a tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment,
the interstitial layer comprises aluminum. In an exemplary
embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises aluminum and zinc. In
an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises plastic.
In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer has a varying
thickness. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer is
non uniform. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer
comprises multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the multiple
layers are selected from the group consisting of a soft metal, a
plastic, a composite material, and combinations thereof. In an
exemplary embodiment, the structure is in circumferential
tension.
[0488] A tubular assembly has been described that includes: a
structure defining a passage therein, an expandable tubular member
positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer positioned
between the structure and expandable tubular member, wherein the
collapse strength of the assembly with the interstitial layer is at
least 50% greater than the collapse strength without the
interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
structure comprises a tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment,
the interstitial layer comprises aluminum. In an exemplary
embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises aluminum and zinc. In
an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises plastic.
In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer has a varying
thickness. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer is
non uniform. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer
comprises multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the multiple
layers are selected from the group consisting of a soft metal, a
plastic, a composite material, and combinations thereof. In an
exemplary embodiment, the structure is in circumferential
tension.
[0489] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: an outer tubular member comprising a steel alloy and
defining a passage, an inner tubular member comprising a steel
alloy and positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer
between the inner tubular member and the outer tubular member, the
interstitial layer comprising an aluminum material lining an inner
surface of the outer tubular member, whereby the collapse strength
of the assembly with the interstitial layer is greater than the
collapse strength of the assembly without the interstitial
layer.
[0490] A method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly has been described that includes: providing a preexisting
structure defining a passage therein, providing an expandable
tubular member, coating the expandable tubular member with an
interstitial material, positioning the expandable tubular member in
the passage defined by the preexisting structure and expanding the
expandable tubular member such that the interstitial material
engages the preexisting structure, whereby the collapse strength of
the preexisting structure and expandable tubular member with the
interstitial material is greater than the collapse strength of the
preexisting structure and expandable tubular member without the
interstitial material. In an exemplary embodiment, the preexisting
structure comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment,
the preexisting structure comprises a tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises applying a soft metal
layer on an outer surface of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises applying an aluminum
layer on an outer surface of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises applying an
aluminum/zinc layer on an outer surface of the expandable tubular
member. In an exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises applying
a plastic layer on an outer surface of the expandable tubular
member. In an exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises wrapping
a material around an outer surface of the expandable tubular
member. In an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft
metal. In an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum.
In an exemplary embodiment, the expanding results in the expansion
of the preexisting structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the
expansion places the preexisting structure in circumferential
tension.
[0491] A method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly has been described that includes: providing a preexisting
structure defining a passage therein, providing an expandable
tubular member, coating the preexisting structure with an
interstitial material, positioning the expandable tubular member in
the passage defined by the preexisting structure and expanding the
expandable tubular member such that the interstitial material
engages the expandable tubular member, whereby the collapse
strength of the preexisting structure and expandable tubular member
with the interstitial material is greater than the collapse
strength of the preexisting structure and expandable tubular member
without the interstitial material. In an exemplary embodiment, the
preexisting structure is a wellbore casing. In an exemplary
embodiment, the preexisting structure is a tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises applying a soft metal
layer on a surface of the passage in the preexisting structure. In
an exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises applying an aluminum
layer on a surface of the passage in the preexisting structure. In
an exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises applying an
aluminum/zinc layer on a surface of the passage in the preexisting
structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the coating comprises
applying a plastic layer on a surface of the passage in the
preexisting structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the coating
comprises lining a material around a surface of the passage in the
preexisting structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the material
comprises a soft metal. In an exemplary embodiment, the material
comprises aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the expanding
results in the expansion of the preexisting structure. In an
exemplary embodiment, the expanding places the preexisting
structure in circumferential tension.
[0492] An expandable tubular member has been described that
includes: an outer surface and an interstitial layer on the outer
surface, wherein the interstitial layer comprises an aluminum
material resulting in a required expansion operating pressure of
approximately 3900 psi for the tubular member. In an exemplary
embodiment, the expandable tubular member comprises an expanded
75/8 inch diameter tubular member.
[0493] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: an outer surface and an interstitial layer on the outer
surface, wherein the interstitial layer comprises an aluminum/zinc
material resulting in a required expansion operating pressure of
approximately 3700 psi for the tubular member. In an exemplary
embodiment, the expandable tubular member comprises an expanded
75/8 inch diameter tubular member.
[0494] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: an outer surface and an interstitial layer on the outer
surface, wherein the interstitial layer comprises an plastic
material resulting in a required expansion operating pressure of
approximately 3600 psi for the tubular member. In an exemplary
embodiment, the expandable tubular member comprises an expanded
75/8 inch diameter tubular member.
[0495] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the structure,
wherein the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately
0.05 inches to 0.15 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the
interstitial layer comprises aluminum.
[0496] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the structure,
wherein the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately
0.07 inches to 0.13 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the
interstitial layer comprises aluminum and zinc.
[0497] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the structure,
wherein the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately
0.06 inches to 0.14 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the
interstitial layer comprises plastic.
[0498] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the structure,
wherein the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 1.6
mm to 2.5 mm between the structure and the expandable tubular
member. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer
comprises plastic.
[0499] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the structure,
wherein the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 2.6
mm to 3.1 mm between the structure and the expandable tubular
member. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer
comprises aluminum.
[0500] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage and an interstitial layer
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the structure,
wherein the interstitial layer has a thickness of approximately 1.9
mm to 2.5 mm between the structure and the expandable tubular
member. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer
comprises aluminum and zinc.
[0501] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage, an interstitial layer
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the structure
and a collapse strength greater than approximately 20000 psi. In an
exemplary embodiment, the structure comprises a tubular member
comprising a diameter of approximately 95/8 inches. In an exemplary
embodiment, the expandable tubular member comprises diameter of
approximately 75/8 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the
expandable tubular member has been expanded by at least 13%. In an
exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises a soft
metal. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises
aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer
comprises aluminum and zinc.
[0502] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage, an interstitial layer
positioned between the expandable tubular member and the structure
and a collapse strength greater than approximately 14000 psi. In an
exemplary embodiment, the structure comprises a tubular member
comprising a diameter of approximately 95/8 inches. In an exemplary
embodiment, the expandable tubular member comprises diameter of
approximately 75/8 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the
expandable tubular member has been expanded by at least 13%. In an
exemplary embodiment, the interstitial layer comprises a
plastic.
[0503] A method for determining the collapse resistance of a
tubular assembly has been described that includes: measuring the
collapse resistance of a first tubular member, measuring the
collapse resistance of a second tubular member, determining the
value of a reinforcement factor for a reinforcement of the first
and second tubular members and multiplying the reinforcement factor
by the sum of the collapse resistance of the first tubular member
and the collapse resistance of the second tubular member.
[0504] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes: a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage and means for modifying
the residual stresses in at least one of the structure and the
expandable tubular member when the expandable tubular member is
radially expanded and plastically deformed against the structure,
the means positioned between the expandable tubular member and the
structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure comprises a
wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
comprises a tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising a soft metal. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising aluminum and zinc. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a plastic. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped
around an outer surface of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a material lining an inner surface of the structure. In
an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer of
varying thickness. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises
a non uniform interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the
means comprises an interstitial layer having multiple layers. In an
exemplary embodiment, the multiple layers are selected from the
group consisting of a soft metal, a plastic, a composite material,
and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
is in circumferential tension.
[0505] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage, and means for providing a
substantially uniform distance between the expandable tubular
member and the structure after radial expansion and plastic
deformation of the expandable tubular member in the passage. In an
exemplary embodiment, the structure comprises a wellbore casing. In
an exemplary embodiment, the structure comprises a tubular member.
In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial
layer comprising a soft metal having a yield strength which is less
than the yield strength of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising aluminum and zinc. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a plastic. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped
around an outer surface of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal having a
yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the material
comprises aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises
an interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner surface
of the structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the material
comprises a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
having multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the multiple
layers are selected from the group consisting of a soft metal
having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength of
the expandable tubular member, a plastic, a composite material, and
combinations thereof.
[0506] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage, and means for creating a
circumferential tensile force in the structure upon radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member
in the passage, whereby the circumferential tensile force increases
the collapse strength of the combined structure and expandable
tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure comprises
a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
comprises a tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising a soft metal having a
yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising aluminum and zinc. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising a plastic. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a material wrapped around an outer surface of the
expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the material
comprises a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a material lining an inner surface of the structure. In
an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal having
a yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the material
comprises aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises
an interstitial layer of varying thickness. In an exemplary
embodiment, the means comprises a non uniform interstitial layer.
In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial
layer having multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the
multiple layers are selected from the group consisting of a soft
metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength
of the expandable tubular member, a plastic, a composite material,
and combinations thereof.
[0507] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a first tubular member comprising a first tubular member
wall thickness and defining a passage, a second tubular member
comprising a second tubular member wall thickness and positioned in
the passage, and means for increasing the collapse strength of the
combined first tubular member and the second tubular member upon
radial expansion and plastic deformation of the first tubular
member in the passage, whereby the increased collapse strength
exceeds the theoretically calculated collapse strength of a tubular
member having a thickness approximately equal to the sum of the
first tubular wall thickness and the second tubular wall thickness.
In an exemplary embodiment, the first tubular member comprises a
wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an
interstitial layer comprising a soft metal having a yield strength
which is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular
member. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an
interstitial layer comprising aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment,
the means comprises an interstitial layer comprising aluminum and
zinc. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an
interstitial layer comprising a material wrapped around an outer
surface of the expandable tubular member. In an exemplary
embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal having a yield
strength which is less than the yield strength of the expandable
tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises
aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an
interstitial layer comprising a material lining an inner surface of
the structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a
soft metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield
strength of the expandable tubular member. In an exemplary
embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an exemplary
embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer of varying
thickness. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises a non
uniform interstitial layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer having multiple layers. In an
exemplary embodiment, the multiple layers are selected from the
group consisting of a soft metal having a yield strength which is
less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular member, a
plastic, a composite material, and combinations thereof. In an
exemplary embodiment, the theoretically calculated collapse
strength of a tubular member having a thickness approximately equal
to the sum of the first tubular wall thickness and the second
tubular wall thickness is calculated using API collapse
modeling.
[0508] An expandable tubular assembly has been described that
includes a structure defining a passage therein, an expandable
tubular member positioned in the passage, and means for increasing
the collapse strength of the expandable tubular member upon radial
expansion and plastic deformation of the expandable tubular member
in the passage, the means positioned between the expandable tubular
member and the structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
comprises a wellbore casing. In an exemplary embodiment, the
structure comprises a tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment,
the means comprises an interstitial layer comprising a soft metal
having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength of
the expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the
means comprises an interstitial layer comprising aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising aluminum and zinc. In an exemplary embodiment, the means
comprises an interstitial layer comprising a plastic. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a material wrapped around an outer surface of the
expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the material
comprises a soft metal having a yield strength which is less than
the yield strength of the expandable tubular member. In an
exemplary embodiment, the material comprises aluminum. In an
exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial layer
comprising a material lining an inner surface of the structure. In
an exemplary embodiment, the material comprises a soft metal having
a yield strength which is less than the yield strength of the
expandable tubular member. In an exemplary embodiment, the material
comprises aluminum. In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises
an interstitial layer of varying thickness. In an exemplary
embodiment, the means comprises a non uniform interstitial layer.
In an exemplary embodiment, the means comprises an interstitial
layer having multiple layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the
multiple layers are selected from the group consisting of a soft
metal having a yield strength which is less than the yield strength
of the expandable tubular member, a plastic, a composite material,
and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure
is in circumferential tension.
[0509] A method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly has been described that includes providing an expandable
tubular member, selecting a soft metal having a yield strength
which is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular
member, applying the soft metal to an outer surface of the
expandable tubular member, positioning the expandable tubular
member in a preexisting structure, and radially expanding and
plastically deforming the expandable tubular member such that the
soft metal forms an interstitial layer between the preexisting
structure and the expandable tubular member, whereby the selecting
comprises selecting a soft metal such that, upon radial expansion
and plastic deformation, the interstitial layer results in an
increased collapse strength of the combined expandable tubular
member and the preexisting structure.
[0510] A method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly has been described that includes providing an expandable
tubular member, selecting a soft metal having a yield strength
which is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular
member, applying the soft metal to an outer surface of the
expandable tubular member, positioning the expandable tubular
member in a preexisting structure, radially expanding and
plastically deforming the expandable tubular member such that the
soft metal forms an interstitial layer between the preexisting
structure and the expandable tubular member, and creating a
circumferential tensile force in the preexisting structure
resulting in an increased collapse strength of the combined
expandable tubular member and the preexisting structure.
[0511] A method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly has been described that includes providing an expandable
tubular member, applying a layer of material to the outer surface
of the expandable tubular member, positioning the expandable
tubular member in a preexisting structure, radially expanding and
plastically deforming the expandable tubular member, and providing
a substantially uniform distance between the expandable tubular
member and the preexisting structure with the interstitial layer
after radial expansion and plastic deformation.
[0512] A method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly has been described that includes providing an expandable
tubular member, applying a soft metal having a yield strength which
is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular member to
the outer surface of the expandable tubular member, positioning the
expandable tubular member in a preexisting structure, and creating
a circumferential tensile force in the preexisting structure by
radially expanding and plastically deforming the expandable tubular
member such that the soft metal engages the preexisting
structure.
[0513] A method for increasing the collapse strength of a tubular
assembly has been described that includes providing an expandable
tubular member, applying a soft metal having a yield strength which
is less than the yield strength of the expandable tubular member to
the outer surface of the expandable tubular member, positioning the
expandable tubular member in a preexisting structure; and creating
a tubular assembly by expanding the expandable tubular member such
that the soft metal engages the preexisting structure, whereby the
tubular assembly has a collapse strength which exceeds a
theoretical collapse strength of a tubular member having a
thickness equal to the sum of a thickness of the expandable tubular
member and a thickness of the preexisting structure.
[0514] It is understood that variations may be made in the
foregoing without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For
example, the teachings of the present illustrative embodiments may
be used to provide a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural
support. Furthermore, the elements and teachings of the various
illustrative embodiments may be combined in whole or in part in
some or all of the illustrative embodiments. In addition, one or
more of the elements and teachings of the various illustrative
embodiments may be omitted, at least in part, and/or combined, at
least in part, with one or more of the other elements and teachings
of the various illustrative embodiments.
[0515] Although illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have
been shown and described, a wide range of modification, changes and
substitution is contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. In some
instances, some features of the present disclosure may be employed
without a corresponding use of the other features. Accordingly, it
is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in
a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure.
* * * * *