Method and apparatus for controlling fluid flow using movable flow diverter assembly
First Claim
1. A fluid flow control apparatus for use in an oilfield tubular positioned in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation, the oilfield tubular for flowing fluid therethrough, the apparatus comprising:
- a tubular defining a fluid passageway;
a port positioned in the passageway;
a rotational, fluid-driven valve member, the valve member mounted for rotation about a longitudinal axis in the passageway, fluid flow through the fluid passageway imparting rotation to the valve member, wherein the valve member comprises a plurality of balance members mounted for radial movement in response to rotation of the valve member; and
a valve restriction member movably mounted to the valve member and movable to restrict flow through the port.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for controlling the flow of fluid, such as formation fluid, through an oilfield tubular positioned in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation. Fluid flow is autonomously controlled in response to change in a fluid flow characteristic, such as density or viscosity. A fluid diverter is movable between an open and closed position in response to fluid density change and operable to restrict fluid flow through a valve assembly inlet. The diverter can be pivotable, rotatable or otherwise movable in response to the fluid density change. The diverter is operable to control a fluid flow ratio through two valve inlets. The fluid flow ratio is used to operate a valve member to restrict fluid flow through the valve.
404 Citations
10 Claims
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1. A fluid flow control apparatus for use in an oilfield tubular positioned in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation, the oilfield tubular for flowing fluid therethrough, the apparatus comprising:
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a tubular defining a fluid passageway; a port positioned in the passageway; a rotational, fluid-driven valve member, the valve member mounted for rotation about a longitudinal axis in the passageway, fluid flow through the fluid passageway imparting rotation to the valve member, wherein the valve member comprises a plurality of balance members mounted for radial movement in response to rotation of the valve member; and a valve restriction member movably mounted to the valve member and movable to restrict flow through the port. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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Specification