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EP1747344B1 - Enlarging and stabilising tool for a borehole and method for the use thereof - Google Patents

Enlarging and stabilising tool for a borehole and method for the use thereof Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1747344B1
EP1747344B1 EP05742758A EP05742758A EP1747344B1 EP 1747344 B1 EP1747344 B1 EP 1747344B1 EP 05742758 A EP05742758 A EP 05742758A EP 05742758 A EP05742758 A EP 05742758A EP 1747344 B1 EP1747344 B1 EP 1747344B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
drive pipe
tubular body
cutter element
wedge
axial
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
EP05742758A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1747344A1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Pierre Lassoie
Philippe Fanuel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Halliburton Energy Services BV
Halliburton Energy Services Inc
Original Assignee
Halliburton Energy Services BV
Halliburton Energy Services Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Halliburton Energy Services BV, Halliburton Energy Services Inc filed Critical Halliburton Energy Services BV
Publication of EP1747344A1 publication Critical patent/EP1747344A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1747344B1 publication Critical patent/EP1747344B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B10/00—Drill bits
    • E21B10/26—Drill bits with leading portion, i.e. drill bits with a pilot cutter; Drill bits for enlarging the borehole, e.g. reamers
    • E21B10/32—Drill bits with leading portion, i.e. drill bits with a pilot cutter; Drill bits for enlarging the borehole, e.g. reamers with expansible cutting tools
    • E21B10/322—Drill bits with leading portion, i.e. drill bits with a pilot cutter; Drill bits for enlarging the borehole, e.g. reamers with expansible cutting tools cutter shifted by fluid pressure

Definitions

  • the present invention therefore aims to develop a widening and stabilization tool as indicated at the beginning, which allows a great flexibility of use of the tool depending on the geological formations in which it must widen a hole drilling and great ease of replacement of the knife elements after their wear.
  • This tool therefore makes it easy to replace the corner elements by detaching them from the drive tube on which they are supported. Therefore it is possible without difficulty to replace them with other corner elements having a different configuration.
  • knife elements which react more flexibly during enlargement because they rely on steep corner elements.
  • knife elements reacting harder, because the corner elements will then be provided with a lower slope.
  • Such a transformation of the tool thus requires only the replacement of the corner elements and the substitution of the knife elements by others adapted to these corner elements. It is thus also possible to provide in the same radial guide channels, knife elements having different active lengths, without having to change tools.
  • each knife element and the inclined outer surface of each wedge element on which the knife element bears is provided with mutual retaining means in the radial direction. which are arranged so that the knife element in the up position in its guide channel makes a radial descent to a low position by retraction from the retaining means of said at least one wedge element during the axial displacement thereof. this.
  • the thrust of the knife members radially outwardly and the retraction thereof within the tubular body therefore result solely from a cooperation between wedge elements and a corresponding knife element, trapped in a channel which serves only radial guidance.
  • the tubular body remains the same and the drive tube too.
  • the drive tube comprises a piston which separates, in the tubular body, a first section in which a hydraulic fluid is under an internal pressure and a second section which is in communication with the external by said at least one radial guide channel which are accommodated said at least one corner element and their corresponding knife element.
  • the present invention also relates to a method for implementing an enlargement and stabilization tool to be put into service in a borehole.
  • Such a method allows assembly and disassembly of the tool particularly easy and fast axial introduction of all other elements in the cavity of the tubular body.
  • a simple rotation of the drive tube blocks the wedge elements on the drive tube in the axial direction. Then a simple blocking of the drive tube in its new angular position immediately allows the tool to be put into service.
  • the introduction of the knife elements axially that is to say by the inside of the tubular body, eliminates any risk of them becoming detached from the tool during operation, as it is the case for tools of the prior art.
  • the knife elements according to the invention are indeed locked in their guide channel for example by appropriate stops which prevent any radial output of the knife elements.
  • each knife element further comprises, before the step of axial introduction of each knife element, an arrangement on at least one inclined inner surface of each knife element of at least a wedge element having an external surface inclined in the same way, so that during this axial introduction step, these elements remain integral with each other and, after the step of pivoting the drive tube these elements are disengaged so that the knife element can slide on the inclined surface of said at least one corner element.
  • the separation between the corner elements and the knife elements can be done for example by shearing, from a threshold hydraulic pressure, the pins which retain the knife elements on their corner elements, that is, while the widening tool has already descended into the borehole.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 each represent a partially broken perspective view of an enlargement and stabilization tool according to the invention, the figure 1 in the retracted position of the knife elements, and the figure 2 in the deployed position thereof.
  • the figure 3 is a partially broken perspective view of the drive tube with wedge members and knife elements.
  • the figure 4 represents a perspective view of the drive tube.
  • FIGS. 7 to 9 represent an axial sectional view of the tool according to the invention provided on both sides of connecting elements for fixing the tool in the drill string.
  • FIGS. 10 and 11 are cross-sectional views along line XX of the figure 8 and respectively along the line XI-XI of this figure.
  • FIGS. 12 to 14 each represent a partially broken perspective view of an activation device of the tool according to the invention in three different positions.
  • the Figures 15 and 16 each represent a partially broken perspective view of a capture device of the drive tube, in two different positions.
  • the figure 17 represents an axial sectional view of an alternative device for activating the tool according to the invention.
  • the figure 18 represents an axial sectional view identical to the figure 8 , through another embodiment of tool according to the invention.
  • the figure 19 represents a perspective view of a corner element variant.
  • the tool according to the invention comprises a tubular body 1 which is mounted between two sections of a drill string not shown.
  • This tubular body 1 has an axial cavity 2 which is open towards the outside by three radial guide channels, of which only two 3 and 4 are visible in the figures. Of course, another number of guide channels could be provided, as needed.
  • each guide channel is arranged radially displaceable a knife element 5 and respectively 6.
  • Each knife element comprises, in the example illustrated, an outer surface provided with cutting inserts which has a front portion 7 inclined towards the before (that is, to the right on the Figures 1 and 2 ) with respect to the longitudinal axis 8 (see figure 3 ), a central portion 9 substantially parallel to the axis 8 and a rear portion 10 inclined rearwardly with respect to the axis 8.
  • the front portion 7 is intended to produce an enlargement of the borehole during its descent , the central portion 9 to stabilize the tool relative to the enlarged hole and the rear portion 10 to produce an enlargement of the borehole during a recovery of the drill string.
  • the tool according to the invention also comprises a drive tube 11 which is mounted inside the axial cavity 2 so as to be able to perform axial displacements according to a hydraulic pressure.
  • This tube is also able to pivot about the longitudinal axis 8 above.
  • the drive tube 11 also has an axial cavity 12 through which can flow the drilling muds.
  • the driving tube 11 comprises a piston 13 which separates, in the tubular body, a first section 14 (see FIG. figure 7 ) and a second section 15 (see figure 8 ).
  • first section 14 can penetrate a fluid hydraulically under pressure, for example from the axial cavity 12 of the drive tube passing through filtration means formed by the holes 16.
  • the second section 15 of the tubular body 1 is in communication with the outside by the guide channels 3 and 4 where are housed the knife elements 5 and 6.
  • the tool according to the invention further comprises, in the example illustrated, two wedge elements 17 and 18 per knife element, these wedge elements being supported by the drive tube 11. It can be understood that one could provide a single corner element per knife element or more than two, depending on the needs.
  • Each knife element has at least one internal surface inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis 8. In the exemplary embodiment shown there are two 19 and 20. Each corner element has an outer surface 21 inclined in the same way that is resting on the inner surface 19 or 20 of the corresponding knife element.
  • each knife element 5 has a U-shaped cross-section and thus overlaps the corresponding wedge element 17 or 18.
  • the surfaces 19 or 20 and 21 of these elements, which are supported on one another, have mutual retaining means in the radial direction which, in the example illustrated, are in the form of a groove in dovetail and a groove 38, of corresponding shape.
  • the corner elements are fixed on the knife elements by shear pins 22 which retain the corner elements with respect to the knife elements in the position illustrated on the figure 1 .
  • these pins are introduced into a perforation 37 provided for this purpose in the knife element and a corresponding perforation of the corner element (see figure 10 ).
  • the drive tube 11 is provided at its periphery with longitudinal grooves 23 in which the wedge members 17 and 18 can effect a relative axial sliding movement with respect to the drive tube 11, as shown in FIG. figure 3 .
  • the driving tube 11 also has at its periphery peripheral grooves 24, 25 in each of which can slide a wedge member when the drive tube is pivoted about its axis 8 between a first angular position illustrated on the figures 3 and 6 and a second angular position illustrated for example on Figures 1 and 2 .
  • the corner elements 17, 18 are retained radially inside the peripheral grooves 24, 25.
  • the peripheral grooves have a dovetail-shaped cross section and the edges of the corner 17, 18 flare correspondingly at 26 and 27 (see figure 8 ).
  • the tool according to the invention further comprises detachable stop means which are capable of locking the drive tube 11 in its second angular position, allowing its axial displacements.
  • These stop means comprise at least one orifice in the tubular body 1 and at least one groove which extends longitudinally on the periphery of the drive tube 11.
  • the drive tube 11 is provided with 3 orifices and 3 grooves.
  • Two orifices 28 and 29 are shown in particular on the Figures 1 and 2 and two grooves 30 and 31 are shown in particular on the figure 4 .
  • Another number of orifices and grooves can of course be imagined. In the illustrated example, these grooves have a different length, the groove 31 being smaller than the groove 30.
  • each groove is located opposite a corresponding orifice 29, 30 .
  • the aforementioned stop means further comprise a blocking element 32 which has passed through the orifice 28 situated in front of the groove 30 whose length corresponds to the desired sliding of the drive tube, and through this groove. , which will prevent the drive tube from performing a pivoting movement without hindering its axial sliding.
  • the other holes are provided with plugs 33.
  • the piston 13 has a passage in the form of at least one small diameter duct 36 (see FIG. figure 8 ) which allows communication between the pressure section 14 (see figure 7 ) of the tubular body and the section 15 (see figure 8 ) who is in communication with the outside.
  • the constriction achieved by this conduit 36 has the effect of injecting high pressure hydraulic fluid jets in the section 15. This makes it possible to prevent penetration into the tool of the drilling mud which circulates outside the drill string and to clean the elements of the wedge, knife elements and radial guide channels.
  • each knife element 5 is provided, in the illustrated example, with two wedge members 17 and 18.
  • the dovetail grooves 38 of the wedge members are slid into the grooves at the bottom. corresponding dovetail of the knife element, to the position illustrated in FIG. figure 5 .
  • each corner member is attached to its knife member by a shear pin 22 which passes through each corner member and at least one hole 37 provided in the knife member (see FIG. figure 10 ). In this way, the corner elements and the knife element remain integral during the assembly operations.
  • the knife element 5 provided with its two corner elements is then introduced axially inside the cavity 2 of the tubular body 1 in the direction of the arrow F1 of the figure 5 where the knife element is shown in two successive insertion positions.
  • the knife element 5 is opposite the corresponding radial guide channel 3, it is pulled radially outwards in the direction of the arrow F2, either manually or with the aid of a machine, and he is kept in this engaged position.
  • the driving tube 11 is then pivoted about its axis 8 along the double arrow F4 of the figure 6 , to arrive in the second angular position illustrated on the Figures 1 and 2 .
  • the corner elements are, in this angular position, driven by the drive tube when it slides axially in the tubular body 1.
  • the drive tube 11 can then be locked in its second angular position by the locking element 32 which is passed through a suitable orifice, for example 28, and the groove for example 30 whose length corresponds to the sliding chosen for the application of the tool.
  • the sliding of the drive tube may be shorter, and vice versa.
  • the assembly and of course the disassembly of the tool are very simple and fast.
  • the knife elements can easily be replaced by new ones and other knife models can be introduced into the tool without having to replace the tool itself.
  • the tool according to the invention also comprises an activation device which is capable of axially holding the driving tube 11 in its initial position shown on the drawing. figure 1 . It is in this position of withdrawal of the knife elements that the tool is lowered into the borehole.
  • this activating device comprises a shear pin 39 which passes through an orifice 40 provided in the tubular body penetrating into a blind hole provided on an extension tube 41 fixedly connected to the drive tube 11.
  • a shear pin 39 which passes through an orifice 40 provided in the tubular body penetrating into a blind hole provided on an extension tube 41 fixedly connected to the drive tube 11.
  • the tool according to the invention is also provided, in the illustrated example, with a return spring 42 which is supported on the one hand on the extension tube 41 secured to the drive tube 11 and on the other hand on a connecting element 43, fixed on the tubular body 1 and allow to insert it into the drill string.
  • a return spring 42 which is supported on the one hand on the extension tube 41 secured to the drive tube 11 and on the other hand on a connecting element 43, fixed on the tubular body 1 and allow to insert it into the drill string.
  • the activation device comprises, at the end of the extension tube 41, a sleeve 44 which envelops this end.
  • This bushing is provided with several lateral holes 45.
  • the bushing 44 is slidably disposed inside a sleeve 46 which is fixedly incorporated in the connecting element 43.
  • a shear pin 47 holds place the sleeve 44 over the end of the extension tube 41, in the initial position of the drive tube and the sleeve 44 prevents axial displacement of the extension tube 41 and therefore the drive tube 11.
  • the sludge drilling passes through the drive tube 11, the extension tube 41 and the sleeve 46 and then join the drill string.
  • An electric control known per se is for example located on the surface and, as illustrated on the figure 17 connected to the latch 70 via an electronic device 71, which can be controlled by pulsations of fluid.
  • the electronic device can then in turn control a movement of the latch by a latch activator 72, and this in an open position in which it releases the drive tube.
  • the tool according to the invention can also advantageously be provided with a capture device of the drive tube.
  • the drive tube 11 is provided with a tubular extension 51 fixed on it.
  • This elongate 51 is surrounded by a sleeve 52 capable of sliding over said elongate 51 and inside two successive bushes 53 and 54 interconnected in a fixed manner.
  • These bushings 53 and 54 are themselves stationarily embedded within a junction member 57 fixedly connected to the tubular body 1 to allow its insertion into a string of rods.
  • a first elastic clamping collar 55 is housed in an internal groove 58 of the sleeve 52 and can therefore slide with it on the elongate member 51.
  • a second elastic clamping collar 59 is housed in an internal groove 60 formed between the two bushes 53 and 54, so as to slide on the sleeve 52.
  • the sleeve 52 In the initial position of the driving tube 11 and during the putting into service of the tool the sleeve 52 is held axially inside the fixed bushing 53 by a shear pin 61. The sludge passes inside. the sleeve 52, then the elongate 51 and finally the drive tube 11.
  • a second ball 62 of diameter greater than that of the sleeve 52 is sent into the drill string. It comes to apply to the inlet of the sleeve 52 by plugging the passage. By the mechanical shock of the ball and the immediate and strong increase in pressure, the pin 61 is sheared and the sleeve 52 can slide downstream.
  • a peripheral groove 64 of the sleeve 52 is placed in front of the second elastic clamping collar 59 and the latter is housed therein, thus securing the sleeve 52 and the fixed bushings 53 and 54, and thus the joining element 57 of the tubular body 1.
  • the first elastic clamping collar 55 is housed in a peripheral groove 63 provided between the elongate 51 and the drive tube 11, which is raised to its initial position, which secures them with the sleeve 52. In this position, the drive tube is captured by the tubular body 1 and he can not move.
  • the sludge can, in this capture position, continue to circulate by passing laterally around the ball 62 in a space 67 formed between the sleeve 53 and the sleeve 52, then in the lateral holes 66 and finally in the sleeve 52.
  • the driving piston is driven in its axial displacements by totally or partially mechanical means located for example above the tool.
  • the tool comprises a latch which, in a closed position, axially holds the capture device in an unactivated position and an electrical control member, connected to the latch and capable of controlling a movement of the latch in a latch. open position in which the capture device is moved to its capture position.
  • corner elements 80 and 81 which are rigidly connected to each other for example by a spacer 82. These corner elements 80 and 81 are locked in the second angular position of the drive tube 11 in one and the same peripheral groove 83 of this tube which has a dovetail-shaped cross section.
  • the corner elements 80 and 81 rigidly connected are also able to slide, in the first angular position of the drive tube 11, in the longitudinal grooves thereof, which also have a dovetail section.
  • This embodiment offers the advantage of better resistance to tilting of the corner elements in the dovetail grooves and thus to avoid any inadvertent jamming of the corner elements.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
  • Earth Drilling (AREA)
  • Cutting Tools, Boring Holders, And Turrets (AREA)

Description

La présente invention est relative à un outil d'élargissement et de stabilisation à mettre en oeuvre dans un trou de forage, comprenant

  • un corps tubulaire, à monter entre une première section d'un train de tiges et une deuxième section de celui-ci, ce corps tubulaire présentant une cavité axiale qui est ouverte vers l'extérieur par au moins un canal de guidage radial,
  • un élément de couteau agencé de manière radialement déplaçable dans chaque canal de guidage radial susdit, et
  • des moyens de coin qui, par un déplacement axial à l'intérieur du corps tubulaire, induisent un mouvement radial de chaque élément de couteau dans son canal de guidage.
The present invention relates to a widening and stabilization tool to be implemented in a borehole, comprising
  • a tubular body, to be mounted between a first section of a drill string and a second section thereof, this tubular body having an axial cavity which is open outwardly by at least one radial guide channel,
  • a knife member arranged radially displaceable in each said radial guide channel, and
  • wedge means which, by axial displacement within the tubular body, induces radial movement of each knife element in its guide channel.

On connaît depuis longtemps de tels outils (voir par exemple US-A-5.368.114 , US-B-6.189.631 , US-B-6.615.933 et US-A-2003/0155155 ).Such tools have been known for a long time (see for example US Patent 5,368,114 , US-B-6189631 , US-B-6615933 and US-2003/0155155 ).

Il est devenu de plus en plus nécessaire, au cours de forages dans des formations géologiques dures et abrasives, de disposer d'outils d'élargissement pourvus de beaucoup d'éléments de couteaux, ayant la forme de bras volumineux. Les bras élargisseurs sont donc de plus en plus allongés et riches en plaquettes de coupe. Enfin, avantageusement les éléments de couteau en forme de bras élargisseurs, qui habituellement élargissent le trou de forage lors d'une descente de l'outil vers le bas, sont à présent pourvus de parties renforcées de dômes en diamant pour stabiliser l'outil pendant l'élargissement et de parties capables d'élargir le trou en remontant l'outil d'élargissement vers la surface.It has become increasingly necessary, during drilling in hard and abrasive geological formations, to have widening tools with many knife elements in the form of bulky arms. The expanding arms are therefore more and more elongated and rich in cutting inserts. Finally, advantageously the knife members in the form of expanding arms, which usually widen the borehole during downward movement of the tool, are now provided with reinforced portions of diamond domes to stabilize the tool while widening and parts capable of widening the hole by raising the enlargement tool to the surface.

Les outils connus de la technique antérieure présentent malheureusement l'inconvénient d'être adéquats uniquement pour leur mise en oeuvre dans un type de formation géologique. Lors d'un changement de formation géologique, l'outil d'élargissement doit être complètement remplacé, c'est-à-dire que tout l'outil doit être extrait du train de tiges et remplacé par un autre outil dont la configuration convient mieux pour l'élargissement du trou de forage dans la nouvelle formation géologique. Il en est de même en cas d'usure ou de défaillance des éléments de couteau. II en résulte un coût d'exploitation important.The tools known from the prior art unfortunately have the disadvantage of being adequate only for their implementation in a type of geological formation. During a change in geological formation, the enlargement tool must be completely replaced, ie all the tool must be extracted from the drill string and replaced by another tool whose configuration is better suited for the widening of the borehole in the new geological formation. It is the same in case of wear or failure of the knife elements. This results in a significant operating cost.

La présente invention a donc pour but de mettre au point un outil d'élargissement et de stabilisation tel qu'indiqué au début, qui permette une grande souplesse d'utilisation de l'outil en fonction des formations géologiques dans lesquelles il doit élargir un trou de forage et une grande facilité de remplacement des éléments de couteau après leur usure.The present invention therefore aims to develop a widening and stabilization tool as indicated at the beginning, which allows a great flexibility of use of the tool depending on the geological formations in which it must widen a hole drilling and great ease of replacement of the knife elements after their wear.

On a résolu ce problème, suivant l'invention, par un outil d'élargissement et de stabilisation, tel qu'indiqué au début, qui comprend en outre

  • un tube d'entraînement qui est monté à l'intérieur de ladite cavité axiale de manière à pouvoir y effectuer des déplacements axiaux, et qui présente un axe longitudinal autour duquel il est capable de pivoter,
  • comme moyens de coin, au moins un élément de coin par élément de couteau qui est supporté de manière détachable à la périphérie du tube d'entraînement, ledit au moins un élément de coin et le tube d'entraînement étant, dans une première position angulaire du tube d'entraînement, capables d'effectuer entre eux un mouvement de coulissement axial relatif, tandis que, dans une deuxième position angulaire du tube d'entraînement, ledit au moins un élément de coin est entraîné par le tube d'entraînement dans ses déplacements axiaux susdits, et
  • des moyens d'arrêt détachables qui sont capables de bloquer le tube d'entraînement dans sa deuxième position angulaire, en permettant ses déplacements axiaux susdits.
This problem has been solved, according to the invention, by an enlargement and stabilization tool, as indicated at the beginning, which furthermore comprises
  • a drive tube which is mounted within said axial cavity so as to be able to effect axial displacements, and which has a longitudinal axis about which it is able to pivot,
  • as wedge means, at least one wedge element per knife element which is detachably supported at the periphery of the drive tube, said at least one wedge element and the drive tube being in a first angular position of the driving tube, capable of effecting a relative axial sliding movement between them, whereas, in a second angular position of the driving tube, said at least one corner element is driven by the drive tube in its aforementioned axial displacements, and
  • detachable stop means which are capable of locking the drive tube in its second angular position, allowing its aforementioned axial displacements.

Cet outil permet donc de remplacer aisément les éléments de coin en les détachant du tube d'entraînement sur lequel ils sont supportés. De ce fait il est possible sans difficulté de les remplacer par d'autres éléments de coin présentant une configuration différente. En face d'une formation géologique dure, on pourra prévoir des éléments de couteau qui réagissent de manière plus souple au cours de l'élargissement parce qu'ils reposent sur des éléments de coin à forte pente. En face d'une formation géologique friable, on pourra prévoir, dans le même outil, des éléments de couteau réagissant de manière plus dure, car les éléments de coin seront alors prévus avec une pente plus faible. Une telle transformation de l'outil demande donc uniquement le remplacement des éléments de coin et la substitution des éléments de couteau par d'autres adaptés à ces éléments de coin. On peut ainsi aussi prévoir dans les mêmes canaux de guidage radiaux, des éléments de couteau présentant des longueurs actives différentes, sans devoir changer d'outil.This tool therefore makes it easy to replace the corner elements by detaching them from the drive tube on which they are supported. Therefore it is possible without difficulty to replace them with other corner elements having a different configuration. In the face of a hard geological formation, it will be possible to provide knife elements which react more flexibly during enlargement because they rely on steep corner elements. In front of a friable geological formation, it will be possible to provide, in the same tool, knife elements reacting harder, because the corner elements will then be provided with a lower slope. Such a transformation of the tool thus requires only the replacement of the corner elements and the substitution of the knife elements by others adapted to these corner elements. It is thus also possible to provide in the same radial guide channels, knife elements having different active lengths, without having to change tools.

De plus, lors de l'apparition du phénomène d'usure des éléments de couteau, ceux-ci peuvent être rapidement remplacés, ainsi qu'il sera décrit de manière plus détaillée dans la suite.In addition, when the phenomenon of wear of the knife elements occurs, they can be rapidly replaced, as will be described in more detail below.

Suivant une forme de réalisation de l'invention, lesdits moyens d'arrêt comprennent

  • au moins un orifice dans le corps tubulaire,
  • au moins une gorge qui s'étend longitudinalement sur la périphérie du tube d'entraînement sur une longueur correspondant au coulissement recherché de celui-ci et qui, dans la deuxième position angulaire de ce dernier, est située en face d'un desdits au moins un orifice,
  • ainsi qu'un élément de blocage qui est passé au travers dudit au moins un orifice pour pénétrer dans ladite au moins une gorge, pour bloquer le tube d'entraînement dans sa deuxième position angulaire, sans empêcher ses déplacements axiaux. Pour permettre sur un seul outil, un réglage aisé de la course longitudinale autorisée pour le tube d'entraînement, on a prévu, suivant l'invention, que les moyens d'arrêt comprennent plusieurs orifices et un nombre correspondant de gorges qui présentent des longueurs mutuellement différentes. En fonction de la longueur de coulissement souhaitée du tube d'entraînement, l'élément de blocage est passé à travers l'orifice situé en face de la gorge appropriée, et l'outil comprend en outre des moyens de bouchage des orifices non utilisés. Par exemple, si la pente souhaitée des éléments de coin doit être plus raide, ou si le déplacement radial des éléments de couteau en saillie hors du corps de l'outil doit être faible, il suffit de limiter le déplacement longitudinal du tube d'entraînement en introduisant l'élément de blocage dans une gorge ayant une longueur réduite.
According to one embodiment of the invention, said stopping means comprise
  • at least one orifice in the tubular body,
  • at least one groove which extends longitudinally on the periphery of the drive tube to a length corresponding to the desired sliding thereof and which, in the second angular position of the latter, is located in front of one of the said at least an orifice,
  • and a locking member which has passed through said at least one orifice into said at least one groove, for locking the drive tube in its second angular position, without preventing axial displacement thereof. To allow on a single tool, an easy adjustment of the longitudinal travel allowed for the drive tube, according to the invention, it is provided that the stop means comprise a plurality of orifices and a corresponding number of grooves which have lengths. mutually different. Depending on the desired sliding length of the drive tube, the locking member is passed through the orifice opposite the appropriate groove, and the tool further comprises means for plugging the unused ports. For example, if the desired slope of the corner elements is to be steeper, or if the radial displacement of the protruding knife elements from the body of the tool must be small, it is sufficient to limit the longitudinal displacement of the drive tube. by introducing the locking element into a groove having a reduced length.

Suivant une forme perfectionnée de réalisation de l'invention, la surface interne inclinée de chaque élément de couteau et la surface externe inclinée de chaque élément de coin sur lequel est en appui l'élément de couteau sont pourvues de moyens de retenue mutuels en sens radial qui sont agencés de façon que l'élément de couteau en position haute dans son canal de guidage effectue une descente radiale vers une position basse par rétraction de la part des moyens de retenue dudit au moins un élément de coin pendant le déplacement axial de celui-ci. La poussée des éléments de couteau radialement vers l'extérieur et la rétraction de ceux-ci à l'intérieur du corps tubulaire résultent donc uniquement d'une coopération entre éléments de coin et un élément de couteau correspondant, emprisonné dans un canal qui sert uniquement au guidage radial. Il en résulte que quelle que soit la pente des surfaces coopérantes des éléments de coin et de l'élément de couteau, la longueur de ce dernier ou l'extension recherchée de celui-ci hors du corps de l'outil, le corps tubulaire reste le même et le tube d'entraînement aussi.According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the inclined inner surface of each knife element and the inclined outer surface of each wedge element on which the knife element bears is provided with mutual retaining means in the radial direction. which are arranged so that the knife element in the up position in its guide channel makes a radial descent to a low position by retraction from the retaining means of said at least one wedge element during the axial displacement thereof. this. The thrust of the knife members radially outwardly and the retraction thereof within the tubular body therefore result solely from a cooperation between wedge elements and a corresponding knife element, trapped in a channel which serves only radial guidance. As a result, regardless of the slope of the cooperating surfaces of the corner elements and the knife element, the length of the latter or the desired extension thereof outside the body of the tool, the tubular body remains the same and the drive tube too.

Suivant une forme de réalisation avantageuse de l'invention, le tube d'entraînement comporte un piston qui sépare, dans le corps tubulaire, un premier tronçon dans lequel un fluide hydraulique est sous une pression intérieure et un deuxième tronçon qui est en communication avec l'extérieur par lesdits au moins un canal de guidage radiaux où sont logés lesdits au moins un élément de coin et leur élément de couteau correspondant. Par une simple différence de pression appliquée entre deux tronçons du corps tubulaire, il est possible d'entraîner longitudinalement les éléments de coin et de mettre en service les éléments de couteau pour un élargissement du trou et/ou une stabilisation de l'outil dans ce trou.According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the drive tube comprises a piston which separates, in the tubular body, a first section in which a hydraulic fluid is under an internal pressure and a second section which is in communication with the external by said at least one radial guide channel which are accommodated said at least one corner element and their corresponding knife element. By a simple difference in pressure applied between two sections of the tubular body, it is possible to drive the corner elements longitudinally and to put the knife elements into service for enlargement of the hole and / or stabilization of the tool in this area. hole.

D'autres formes de réalisation de l'outil suivant l'invention sont indiquées dans les revendications annexées.Other embodiments of the tool according to the invention are indicated in the appended claims.

La présente invention concerne également un procédé pour la mise en oeuvre d'un outil d'élargissement et de stabilisation à mettre en service dans un trou de forage.The present invention also relates to a method for implementing an enlargement and stabilization tool to be put into service in a borehole.

Le procédé suivant l'invention comprend

  • une introduction axiale de chaque élément de couteau muni d'au moins un élément de coin dans la cavité axiale du corps tubulaire, en face d'un canal de guidage radial correspondant,
  • un engagement radial de chaque élément de couteau muni de son au moins un élément de coin dans son canal de guidage radial et son maintien dans cette position,
  • une introduction du tube d'entraînement dans la cavité axiale du corps tubulaire, dans une première position angulaire, et un coulissement relatif entre ce tube d'entraînement et ledit au moins un élément de coin radialement engagé, jusque dans une position appropriée,
  • un pivotement du tube d'entraînement dans cette position appropriée jusque dans une deuxième position angulaire dans laquelle il est capable d'entraîner ledit au moins un élément de coin dans ses déplacements axiaux, et
  • un blocage du tube d'entraînement dans sa deuxième position angulaire, tout en permettant ses déplacements axiaux.
The process according to the invention comprises
  • axial introduction of each knife element provided with at least one wedge element into the axial cavity of the tubular body, facing a corresponding radial guide channel,
  • a radial engagement of each knife element provided with its at least one wedge element in its radial guide channel and holding it in this position,
  • an introduction of the drive tube into the axial cavity of the tubular body, in a first angular position, and a relative sliding between this drive tube and said at least one radially engaged wedge member, into a suitable position,
  • a pivoting of the drive tube in this appropriate position into a second angular position in which it is capable of driving said at least one wedge element in its axial displacements, and
  • a locking of the drive tube in its second angular position, while allowing its axial movements.

Un tel procédé permet un montage et un démontage de l'outil particulièrement aisé et rapide par introduction axiale de tous les autres éléments dans la cavité du corps tubulaire. Une simple rotation du tube d'entraînement bloque les éléments de coin sur le tube d'entraînement en sens axial. Ensuite un simple blocage du tube d'entraînement dans sa nouvelle position angulaire permet immédiatement la mise en service de l'outil.Such a method allows assembly and disassembly of the tool particularly easy and fast axial introduction of all other elements in the cavity of the tubular body. A simple rotation of the drive tube blocks the wedge elements on the drive tube in the axial direction. Then a simple blocking of the drive tube in its new angular position immediately allows the tool to be put into service.

Par ailleurs, l'introduction des éléments de couteau axialement, c'est-à-dire par l'intérieur du corps tubulaire, supprime tout risque de voir ceux-ci se détacher de l'outil pendant le fonctionnement, comme c'est le cas pour des outils de la technique antérieure. Les éléments de couteau suivant l'invention sont en effet bloqués dans leur canal de guidage par exemple par des butées appropriées qui empêchent toute sortie radiale des éléments de couteau.Furthermore, the introduction of the knife elements axially, that is to say by the inside of the tubular body, eliminates any risk of them becoming detached from the tool during operation, as it is the case for tools of the prior art. The knife elements according to the invention are indeed locked in their guide channel for example by appropriate stops which prevent any radial output of the knife elements.

Suivant un mode de réalisation avantageux du procédé suivant l'invention, il comprend en outre, avant l'étape d'introduction axiale de chaque élément de couteau, un agencement sur au moins une surface interne inclinée de chaque élément de couteau d'au moins un élément de coin présentant une surface externe inclinée de la même manière, de façon que, pendant cette étape d'introduction axiale, ces éléments restent solidaires l'un de l'autre et, après l'étape de pivotement du tube d'entraînement, ces éléments sont désolidarisés de manière que l'élément de couteau puisse glisser sur la surface inclinée dudit au moins un élément de coin. La désolidarisation entre les éléments de coin et les éléments de couteau peut se faire par exemple par le cisaillement, à partir d'une pression hydraulique seuil, des goupilles qui retiennent les éléments de couteau sur leurs éléments de coin, c'est-à-dire alors que l'outil d'élargissement est déjà descendu dans le trou de forage.According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it further comprises, before the step of axial introduction of each knife element, an arrangement on at least one inclined inner surface of each knife element of at least a wedge element having an external surface inclined in the same way, so that during this axial introduction step, these elements remain integral with each other and, after the step of pivoting the drive tube these elements are disengaged so that the knife element can slide on the inclined surface of said at least one corner element. The separation between the corner elements and the knife elements can be done for example by shearing, from a threshold hydraulic pressure, the pins which retain the knife elements on their corner elements, that is, while the widening tool has already descended into the borehole.

D'autres modes de réalisation du procédé suivant l'invention sont indiqués dans les revendications annexées.Other embodiments of the method according to the invention are indicated in the appended claims.

D'autres détails et particularités de l'invention ressortiront de la description donnée ci-après à titre non limitatif et avec référence aux dessins annexés.Other details and particularities of the invention will emerge from the description given below without limitation and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Les figures 1 et 2 représentent chacune une vue en perspective partiellement brisée d'un outil d'élargissement et de stabilisation suivant l'invention, la figure 1 en position de retrait des éléments de couteau, et la figure 2 en position déployée de ceux-ci.The Figures 1 and 2 each represent a partially broken perspective view of an enlargement and stabilization tool according to the invention, the figure 1 in the retracted position of the knife elements, and the figure 2 in the deployed position thereof.

La figure 3 représente une vue en perspective partiellement brisée du tube d'entraînement muni d'éléments de coin et d'éléments de couteau.The figure 3 is a partially broken perspective view of the drive tube with wedge members and knife elements.

La figure 4 représente une vue en perspective du tube d'entraînement.The figure 4 represents a perspective view of the drive tube.

Les figures 5 et 6 représentent des étapes de montage de l'outil suivant l'invention.The Figures 5 and 6 represent steps of mounting the tool according to the invention.

Les figures 7 à 9 représentent une vue en coupe axiale de l'outil suivant l'invention pourvu de part et d'autre d'éléments de jonction pour la fixation de l'outil dans le train de tiges.The Figures 7 to 9 represent an axial sectional view of the tool according to the invention provided on both sides of connecting elements for fixing the tool in the drill string.

Les figures 10 et 11 sont des vues en section transversale suivant la ligne X-X de la figure 8 et respectivement suivant la ligne XI-XI de cette figure.The Figures 10 and 11 are cross-sectional views along line XX of the figure 8 and respectively along the line XI-XI of this figure.

Les figures 12 à 14 représentent chacune une vue en perspective partiellement brisée d'un dispositif d'activation de l'outil suivant l'invention dans trois positions différentes.The Figures 12 to 14 each represent a partially broken perspective view of an activation device of the tool according to the invention in three different positions.

Les figures 15 et 16 représentent chacune une vue en perspective partiellement brisée d'un dispositif de capture du tube d'entraînement, dans deux positions différentes.The Figures 15 and 16 each represent a partially broken perspective view of a capture device of the drive tube, in two different positions.

La figure 17 représente une vue en coupe axiale d'une variante de dispositif d'activation de l'outil suivant l'invention.The figure 17 represents an axial sectional view of an alternative device for activating the tool according to the invention.

La figure 18 représente une vue en coupe axiale identique à la figure 8, au travers d'une autre forme de réalisation d'outil suivant l'invention.The figure 18 represents an axial sectional view identical to the figure 8 , through another embodiment of tool according to the invention.

La figure 19 représente une vue en perspective d'une variante d'élément de coin.The figure 19 represents a perspective view of a corner element variant.

Ainsi qu'il est illustré sur les figures 1 et 2, l'outil suivant l'invention comprend un corps tubulaire 1 qui est monté entre deux sections d'un train de tiges non représenté. Ce corps tubulaire 1 présente une cavité axiale 2 qui est ouverte vers l'extérieur par trois canaux de guidage radiaux, dont seuls deux 3 et 4 sont visibles sur les figures. On pourrait bien sûr prévoir un autre nombre de canaux de guidage, selon les besoins.As illustrated on the Figures 1 and 2 , the tool according to the invention comprises a tubular body 1 which is mounted between two sections of a drill string not shown. This tubular body 1 has an axial cavity 2 which is open towards the outside by three radial guide channels, of which only two 3 and 4 are visible in the figures. Of course, another number of guide channels could be provided, as needed.

Dans chaque canal de guidage est agencé de manière radialement déplaçable un élément de couteau 5 et respectivement 6. Chaque élément de couteau comprend, dans l'exemple illustré, une surface extérieure munie de plaquettes de coupe qui présente une partie avant 7 inclinée vers l'avant (c'est-à-dire vers la droite sur les figures 1 et 2) par rapport à l'axe longitudinal 8 (voir figure 3), une partie centrale 9 sensiblement parallèle à l'axe 8 et une partie arrière 10 inclinée vers l'arrière par rapport à l'axe 8. La partie avant 7 est destinée à produire un élargissement du trou de forage au cours de sa descente, la partie centrale 9 à stabiliser l'outil par rapport au trou élargi et la partie arrière 10 à produire un élargissement du trou de forage lors d'une remontée du train de tiges.In each guide channel is arranged radially displaceable a knife element 5 and respectively 6. Each knife element comprises, in the example illustrated, an outer surface provided with cutting inserts which has a front portion 7 inclined towards the before (that is, to the right on the Figures 1 and 2 ) with respect to the longitudinal axis 8 (see figure 3 ), a central portion 9 substantially parallel to the axis 8 and a rear portion 10 inclined rearwardly with respect to the axis 8. The front portion 7 is intended to produce an enlargement of the borehole during its descent , the central portion 9 to stabilize the tool relative to the enlarged hole and the rear portion 10 to produce an enlargement of the borehole during a recovery of the drill string.

L'outil suivant l'invention comprend également un tube d'entraînement 11 qui est monté à l'intérieur de la cavité axiale 2 de manière à pouvoir y effectuer des déplacements axiaux en fonction d'une pression hydraulique. Ce tube est également capable de pivoter autour de l'axe longitudinal 8 précité.The tool according to the invention also comprises a drive tube 11 which is mounted inside the axial cavity 2 so as to be able to perform axial displacements according to a hydraulic pressure. This tube is also able to pivot about the longitudinal axis 8 above.

Ainsi qu'il ressort en particulier de la figure 4, le tube d'entraînement 11 présente lui aussi une cavité axiale 12 à travers laquelle peuvent circuler les boues de forage. Le tube d'entraînement 11 comporte un piston 13 qui sépare, dans le corps tubulaire, un premier tronçon 14 (voir figure 7) et un deuxième tronçon 15 (voir figure 8). Dans le premier tronçon 14 peut pénétrer un fluide hydrauliquement sous pression, par exemple à partir de la cavité axiale 12 du tube d'entraînement en passant par des moyens de filtration formés par les perçages 16. Le deuxième tronçon 15 du corps tubulaire 1 est en communication avec l'extérieur par les canaux de guidage 3 et 4 où sont logés les éléments de couteau 5 et 6.As is clear in particular from the figure 4 , the drive tube 11 also has an axial cavity 12 through which can flow the drilling muds. The driving tube 11 comprises a piston 13 which separates, in the tubular body, a first section 14 (see FIG. figure 7 ) and a second section 15 (see figure 8 ). In the first section 14 can penetrate a fluid hydraulically under pressure, for example from the axial cavity 12 of the drive tube passing through filtration means formed by the holes 16. The second section 15 of the tubular body 1 is in communication with the outside by the guide channels 3 and 4 where are housed the knife elements 5 and 6.

L'outil suivant l'invention comprend en outre, dans l'exemple illustré, deux éléments de coin 17 et 18 par élément de couteau, ces éléments de coin étant supportés par le tube d'entraînement 11. On peut comprendre que l'on pourrait prévoir un seul élément de coin par élément de couteau ou plus de deux, en fonction des besoins.The tool according to the invention further comprises, in the example illustrated, two wedge elements 17 and 18 per knife element, these wedge elements being supported by the drive tube 11. It can be understood that one could provide a single corner element per knife element or more than two, depending on the needs.

Chaque élément de couteau présente au moins une surface interne inclinée par rapport à l'axe longitudinal 8. Dans l'exemple de réalisation illustré il en présente deux 19 et 20. Chaque élément de coin présente une surface externe 21 inclinée de la même manière qui est en appui sur la surface interne 19 ou 20 de l'élément de couteau correspondant.Each knife element has at least one internal surface inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis 8. In the exemplary embodiment shown there are two 19 and 20. Each corner element has an outer surface 21 inclined in the same way that is resting on the inner surface 19 or 20 of the corresponding knife element.

Dans l'exemple illustré sur la figure 11, chaque élément de couteau 5 présente une section transversale en forme de U et donc chevauche l'élément de coin 17 ou 18 correspondant. Les surfaces 19 ou 20 et 21 de ces éléments, qui sont en appui l'une sur l'autre, présentent des moyens de retenue mutuels en sens radial qui, dans l'exemple illustré, se présentent sous la forme d'une rainure en queue-d'aronde et d'une cannelure 38, de forme correspondante.In the example shown on the figure 11 each knife element 5 has a U-shaped cross-section and thus overlaps the corresponding wedge element 17 or 18. The surfaces 19 or 20 and 21 of these elements, which are supported on one another, have mutual retaining means in the radial direction which, in the example illustrated, are in the form of a groove in dovetail and a groove 38, of corresponding shape.

Par ailleurs, pour le montage, les éléments de coin sont fixés sur les éléments de couteau par des broches de cisaillement 22 qui retiennent les éléments de coin par rapport aux éléments de couteau dans la position illustrée sur la figure 1. Pour ce faire, ces broches sont introduites dans une perforation 37 prévue à cet effet dans l'élément de couteau et une perforation correspondante de l'élément de coin (voir figure 10).Furthermore, for mounting, the corner elements are fixed on the knife elements by shear pins 22 which retain the corner elements with respect to the knife elements in the position illustrated on the figure 1 . To do this, these pins are introduced into a perforation 37 provided for this purpose in the knife element and a corresponding perforation of the corner element (see figure 10 ).

Si l'on se reporte à la figure 4, on peut voir que le tube d'entraînement 11 est pourvu à sa périphérie de rainures longitudinales 23 dans lesquelles les éléments de coin 17 et 18 peuvent effectuer un mouvement de coulissement axial relatif par rapport au tube d'entraînement 11, comme représenté sur la figure 3.If we go back to figure 4 it can be seen that the drive tube 11 is provided at its periphery with longitudinal grooves 23 in which the wedge members 17 and 18 can effect a relative axial sliding movement with respect to the drive tube 11, as shown in FIG. figure 3 .

Le tube d'entraînement 11 présente aussi à sa périphérie des rainures périphériques 24, 25 dans chacune desquelles peut glisser un élément de coin lorsque le tube d'entraînement est amené à pivoter autour de son axe 8 entre une première position angulaire illustrée sur les figures 3 et 6 et une deuxième position angulaire illustrée par exemple sur les figures 1 et 2.The driving tube 11 also has at its periphery peripheral grooves 24, 25 in each of which can slide a wedge member when the drive tube is pivoted about its axis 8 between a first angular position illustrated on the figures 3 and 6 and a second angular position illustrated for example on Figures 1 and 2 .

Dans cette deuxième position angulaire, les éléments de coin 17, 18 sont retenus radialement à l'intérieur des rainures périphériques 24, 25. En effet les rainures périphériques ont une section transversale en forme de queue-d'aronde et les bords des éléments de coin 17, 18 s'évasent de manière correspondante en 26 et 27 (voir figure 8).In this second angular position, the corner elements 17, 18 are retained radially inside the peripheral grooves 24, 25. Indeed, the peripheral grooves have a dovetail-shaped cross section and the edges of the corner 17, 18 flare correspondingly at 26 and 27 (see figure 8 ).

Dans la deuxième position angulaire du tube d'entraînement, illustrée sur les figures 1 et 2, les éléments de coin sont donc bloqués longitudinalement par rapport au tube d'entraînement 11 et ils accompagnent celui-ci dans ses déplacements axiaux.In the second angular position of the drive tube, illustrated on the Figures 1 and 2 , the wedge elements are thus locked longitudinally with respect to the drive tube 11 and they accompany it in its axial displacements.

L'outil suivant l'invention comporte en outre des moyens d'arrêt détachables qui sont capables de bloquer le tube d'entraînement 11 dans sa deuxième position angulaire, en permettant ses déplacements axiaux. Ces moyens d'arrêt comprennent au moins un orifice dans le corps tubulaire 1 et au moins une gorge qui s'étend longitudinalement sur la périphérie du tube d'entraînement 11. Dans l'exemple illustré, le tube d'entraînement 11 est pourvu de 3 orifices et de 3 gorges. Deux orifices 28 et 29 sont représentés en particulier sur les figures 1 et 2 et deux gorges 30 et 31 sont représentées en particulier sur la figure 4. Un autre nombre d'orifices et de gorges peut bien entendu être imaginé. Dans l'exemple illustré, ces gorges présentent une longueur différente, la gorge 31 étant plus petite que la gorge 30. Dans la deuxième position angulaire du tube d'entraînement 11, chaque gorge est située en face d'un orifice 29, 30 correspondant.The tool according to the invention further comprises detachable stop means which are capable of locking the drive tube 11 in its second angular position, allowing its axial displacements. These stop means comprise at least one orifice in the tubular body 1 and at least one groove which extends longitudinally on the periphery of the drive tube 11. In the example shown, the drive tube 11 is provided with 3 orifices and 3 grooves. Two orifices 28 and 29 are shown in particular on the Figures 1 and 2 and two grooves 30 and 31 are shown in particular on the figure 4 . Another number of orifices and grooves can of course be imagined. In the illustrated example, these grooves have a different length, the groove 31 being smaller than the groove 30. In the second angular position of the drive tube 11, each groove is located opposite a corresponding orifice 29, 30 .

Les moyens d'arrêt précités comprennent en outre un élément de blocage 32 qui est passé au travers de l'orifice 28 situé en face de la gorge 30 dont la longueur correspond au coulissement recherché du tube d'entraînement, et au travers de cette gorge, ce qui va empêcher le tube d'entraînement d'effectuer un mouvement de pivotement sans entraver son coulissement axial. Les autres orifices sont munis de bouchons 33.The aforementioned stop means further comprise a blocking element 32 which has passed through the orifice 28 situated in front of the groove 30 whose length corresponds to the desired sliding of the drive tube, and through this groove. , which will prevent the drive tube from performing a pivoting movement without hindering its axial sliding. The other holes are provided with plugs 33.

Pendant le coulissement axial du tube d'entraînement 11, celui-ci est amené de la position représentée sur la figure 1 à la position représentée sur la figure 2. Il entraîne avec lui les éléments de coin qui induisent alors un mouvement radial de chaque élément de couteau 5, 6 dans son canal de guidage 3, 4. En effet, les éléments de couteau sont bloqués contre tout déplacement axial par des parois avant 34 et arrière 35 de leur canal de guidage, et ils effectuent donc un mouvement d'ascension ou de descente dans celui-ci entre la position basse (retrait) illustrée sur la figure 1 et la position haute (expansion) illustrée sur la figure 2.During the axial sliding of the drive tube 11, the latter is brought from the position shown in FIG. figure 1 at the position shown on the figure 2 . It carries with it the corner elements which then induce a radial movement of each knife element 5, 6 in its guide channel 3, 4. Indeed, the knife elements are blocked against axial displacement by front walls 34 and rearward 35 of their guide channel, and they thus perform a movement of ascent or descent into it between the low position (withdrawal) illustrated on the figure 1 and the high position (expansion) illustrated on the figure 2 .

Avantageusement le piston 13 présente un passage sous la forme d'au moins un conduit de petit diamètre 36 (voir figure 8) qui permet une communication entre le tronçon sous pression 14 (voir figure 7) du corps tubulaire et le tronçon 15 (voir figure 8) qui est en communication avec l'extérieur. L'étranglement réalisé par ce conduit 36 a pour effet une injection sous haute pression de jets de fluide hydraulique dans le tronçon 15. Ceci permet d'empêcher une pénétration dans l'outil de la boue de forage qui circule à l'extérieur du train de tiges et de nettoyer les éléments de coin, les éléments de couteau et les canaux de guidage radiaux.Advantageously, the piston 13 has a passage in the form of at least one small diameter duct 36 (see FIG. figure 8 ) which allows communication between the pressure section 14 (see figure 7 ) of the tubular body and the section 15 (see figure 8 ) who is in communication with the outside. The constriction achieved by this conduit 36 has the effect of injecting high pressure hydraulic fluid jets in the section 15. This makes it possible to prevent penetration into the tool of the drilling mud which circulates outside the drill string and to clean the elements of the wedge, knife elements and radial guide channels.

Le procédé pour la mise en oeuvre de l'outil suivant l'invention va à présent être décrit plus en détail ci-dessous.The method for implementing the tool according to the invention will now be described in more detail below.

Ainsi qu'il ressort de la figure 5, chaque élément de couteau 5 est muni, dans l'exemple illustré, de deux éléments de coin 17 et 18. Pour cela, les cannelures en queue-d'aronde 38 des éléments de coin sont glissées à l'intérieur des rainures en queue-d'aronde correspondantes de l'élément de couteau, jusque dans la position illustrée sur la figure 5. Puis, chaque élément de coin est fixé à son élément de couteau par une goupille de cisaillement 22 qui traverse chaque élément de coin et au moins un orifice 37 prévu dans l'élément de couteau (voir figure 10). De cette manière, les éléments de coin et l'élément de couteau restent solidaires pendant les opérations de montage.As is apparent from the figure 5 each knife element 5 is provided, in the illustrated example, with two wedge members 17 and 18. For this, the dovetail grooves 38 of the wedge members are slid into the grooves at the bottom. corresponding dovetail of the knife element, to the position illustrated in FIG. figure 5 . Then, each corner member is attached to its knife member by a shear pin 22 which passes through each corner member and at least one hole 37 provided in the knife member (see FIG. figure 10 ). In this way, the corner elements and the knife element remain integral during the assembly operations.

L'élément de couteau 5 muni de ses deux éléments de coin est alors introduit axialement à l'intérieur de la cavité 2 du corps tubulaire 1 dans le sens de la flèche F1 de la figure 5, où l'élément de couteau est représenté dans deux positions successives d'introduction. Lorsque l'élément de couteau 5 se présente en face du canal de guidage radial 3 qui lui correspond, il est tiré radialement vers l'extérieur dans le sens de la flèche F2 et cela manuellement ou à l'aide d'une machine, et il est maintenu dans cette position engagée.The knife element 5 provided with its two corner elements is then introduced axially inside the cavity 2 of the tubular body 1 in the direction of the arrow F1 of the figure 5 where the knife element is shown in two successive insertion positions. When the knife element 5 is opposite the corresponding radial guide channel 3, it is pulled radially outwards in the direction of the arrow F2, either manually or with the aid of a machine, and he is kept in this engaged position.

L'étape suivante est illustrée sur la figure 6, où le tube d'entraînement 11 est introduit dans le sens de la flèche F3 dans la cavité axiale 2 du corps tubulaire 1 alors qu'il se trouve dans la position angulaire dans laquelle les éléments de coin peuvent coulisser dans les rainures longitudinales 23 du tube d'entraînement. Les figures 3 et 6 illustrent cette position permettant un coulissement axial relatif entre les éléments de coin et le tube d'entraînement.The next step is illustrated on the figure 6 , where the drive tube 11 is inserted in the direction of the arrow F3 in the axial cavity 2 of the tubular body 1 while it is in the angular position in which the corner elements can slide in the longitudinal grooves 23 of the drive tube. The figures 3 and 6 illustrate this position allowing relative axial sliding between the corner elements and the drive tube.

Lorsque les éléments de coin parviennent en face des rainures périphériques 24 et 25, on procède alors à un pivotement du tube d'entraînement 11 autour de son axe 8, selon la double flèche F4 de la figure 6, pour parvenir dans la deuxième position angulaire illustrée sur les figures 1 et 2. Les éléments de coin sont, dans cette position angulaire, entraînés par le tube d'entraînement lorsque celui-ci coulisse axialement dans le corps tubulaire 1.When the corner elements reach opposite peripheral grooves 24 and 25, the driving tube 11 is then pivoted about its axis 8 along the double arrow F4 of the figure 6 , to arrive in the second angular position illustrated on the Figures 1 and 2 . The corner elements are, in this angular position, driven by the drive tube when it slides axially in the tubular body 1.

On peut alors bloquer le tube d'entraînement 11 dans sa deuxième position angulaire par l'élément de blocage 32 que l'on fait passer à travers un orifice approprié, par exemple 28, et la gorge par exemple 30 dont la longueur correspond au coulissement choisi pour l'application de l'outil.The drive tube 11 can then be locked in its second angular position by the locking element 32 which is passed through a suitable orifice, for example 28, and the groove for example 30 whose length corresponds to the sliding chosen for the application of the tool.

En effet, si la pente choisie des surfaces des éléments de coin sur lesquelles les éléments de couteau glissent est plus forte, le coulissement du tube d'entraînement peut être plus court, et inversement.Indeed, if the selected slope of the surfaces of the wedge elements on which the knife elements slide is stronger, the sliding of the drive tube may be shorter, and vice versa.

Comme on peut le constater le montage et bien sûr le démontage également de l'outil sont très simples et rapides. Les éléments de couteau peuvent aisément être remplacés par des nouveaux et d'autres modèles de couteau peuvent être introduits dans l'outil, sans devoir remplacer l'outil lui-même.As can be seen the assembly and of course the disassembly of the tool are very simple and fast. The knife elements can easily be replaced by new ones and other knife models can be introduced into the tool without having to replace the tool itself.

L'outil suivant l'invention comporte également un dispositif d'activation qui est capable de maintenir axialement le tube d'entraînement 11 dans sa position initiale représentée sur la figure 1. C'est dans cette position de retrait des éléments de couteau que l'outil est descendu dans le trou de forage.The tool according to the invention also comprises an activation device which is capable of axially holding the driving tube 11 in its initial position shown on the drawing. figure 1 . It is in this position of withdrawal of the knife elements that the tool is lowered into the borehole.

Dans l'exemple illustré sur les figures 1 et 2, ce dispositif d'activation comprend une goupille de cisaillement 39 qui traverse un orifice 40 prévu dans le corps tubulaire en pénétrant dans un trou borgne prévu sur un tube de prolongation 41 relié de manière fixe au tube d'entraînement 11. Lorsque la pression hydraulique appliquée sur le piston 13 est inférieure à un seuil déterminé, la goupille empêche tout déplacement axial dans le corps tubulaire. Lorsque ce seuil est dépassé, la goupille 39 est cisaillée, ainsi qu'il ressort de la figure 2, et le tube d'entraînement peut coulisser dans le corps tubulaire 1.In the example shown on the Figures 1 and 2 this activating device comprises a shear pin 39 which passes through an orifice 40 provided in the tubular body penetrating into a blind hole provided on an extension tube 41 fixedly connected to the drive tube 11. When the hydraulic pressure applied to the piston 13 is less than a determined threshold, the pin prevents axial displacement in the tubular body. When this threshold is exceeded, the pin 39 is sheared, as is apparent from the figure 2 , and the drive tube is slidable in the tubular body 1.

Comme on peut le voir en particulier sur les figures 8 et 9, l'outil suivant l'invention est aussi muni, dans l'exemple illustré, d'un ressort de rappel 42 qui prend appui d'une part sur le tube de prolongation 41 solidaire du tube d'entraînement 11 et d'autre part sur un élément de jonction 43, fixé sur le corps tubulaire 1 et permettent d'insérer celui-ci dans le train de tiges. Lorsque, sous l'action de la pression, le tube d'entraînement 11 est déplacé, le ressort de rappel est comprimé, comme représenté sur la figure 2. Lorsque la pression diminue, le tube d'entraînement 11 est rappelé vers sa position initiale illustrée sur la figure 1.As can be seen in particular on figures 8 and 9 , the tool according to the invention is also provided, in the illustrated example, with a return spring 42 which is supported on the one hand on the extension tube 41 secured to the drive tube 11 and on the other hand on a connecting element 43, fixed on the tubular body 1 and allow to insert it into the drill string. When, under the action of pressure, the driving tube 11 is displaced, the return spring is compressed, as shown in FIG. figure 2 . When the pressure decreases, the driving tube 11 is returned to its initial position illustrated on the figure 1 .

Suivant un autre exemple de réalisation illustré sur les figures 12 à 14, le dispositif d'activation comprend, à l'extrémité du tube de prolongement 41, une douille 44 qui enveloppe cette extrémité. Cette douille est pourvue de plusieurs trous latéraux 45. La douille 44 est prévue de manière à pouvoir coulisser à l'intérieur d'un manchon 46 qui est incorporé de manière fixe dans l'élément de jonction 43. Une goupille de cisaillement 47 retient en place la douille 44 par-dessus l'extrémité du tube de prolongement 41, dans la position initiale du tube d'entraînement et la douille 44 empêche tout déplacement axial du tube de prolongement 41 et donc du tube d'entraînement 11. Les boues de forage passent à travers le tube d'entraînement 11, le tube de prolongement 41 et le manchon 46 et rejoignent ensuite le train de tiges.According to another exemplary embodiment illustrated on the Figures 12 to 14 , the activation device comprises, at the end of the extension tube 41, a sleeve 44 which envelops this end. This bushing is provided with several lateral holes 45. The bushing 44 is slidably disposed inside a sleeve 46 which is fixedly incorporated in the connecting element 43. A shear pin 47 holds place the sleeve 44 over the end of the extension tube 41, in the initial position of the drive tube and the sleeve 44 prevents axial displacement of the extension tube 41 and therefore the drive tube 11. The sludge drilling passes through the drive tube 11, the extension tube 41 and the sleeve 46 and then join the drill string.

On peut alors lancer à partir de la surface une bille d'activation 48 qui vient se loger contre un rétrécissement terminal 49 du tube de prolongement 41. L'application de cette bille comme représenté sur la figure 13 a pour effet, d'une part, un choc mécanique sur la goupille de cisaillement 47, et, d'autre part, une obturation du passage axial des boues, et donc une augmentation énorme de la pression exercée sur le piston 13 du tube d'entraînement 11. Il en résulte immédiatement un cisaillement de la goupille 47, comme représenté sur la figure 13, et un coulissement vers le bas du tube d'entraînement. Par la pression créée à l'intérieur de l'espace situé en amont de la douille 44, celle-ci est projetée vers le bas jusque dans la position illustrée sur la figure 13 où elle est immobilisée par une butée 50. Le coulissement du tube d'entraînement 11 et donc du tube de prolongation 41, qui est autorisé par la gorge 30 choisie, est arrêté avant que le tube de prolongation 41 n'atteigne la douille 44 dans sa position immobilisée. Par conséquent, la circulation des boues est alors rétablie par l'intermédiaire des trous latéraux 45. Dans cette position, illustrée sur la figure 13, le tube d'entraînement 11 est libéré et peut développer ses mouvements de coulissement axiaux. Lorsque la pression hydraulique diminue, le ressort de rappel 42 ramène le tube d'entraînement vers sa position initiale, comme représenté par exemple sur la figure 14.It is then possible to launch from the surface an activating ball 48 which is lodged against a terminal narrowing 49 of the extension tube 41. The application of this ball as shown on the figure 13 has the effect, on the one hand, a mechanical shock on the shear pin 47, and on the other hand, a closure of the axial passage of the sludge, and therefore a huge increase in the pressure exerted on the piston 13 of the tube 11. This immediately results in shearing of the pin 47, as shown in FIG. figure 13 and sliding down the drive tube. By the pressure created inside the space located upstream of the sleeve 44, the latter is projected downwards to the position illustrated on the figure 13 where it is immobilized by a stop 50. The sliding of the drive tube 11 and therefore of the extension tube 41, which is authorized by the groove 30 selected, is stopped before the extension tube 41 reaches the sleeve 44 in his immobilized position. As a result, the sludge circulation is then restored via the side holes 45. In this position, illustrated in FIG. figure 13 , the drive tube 11 is released and can develop its axial sliding movements. When the hydraulic pressure decreases, the return spring 42 returns the drive tube to its initial position, as represented for example on the figure 14 .

Suivant encore une autre forme de réalisation de l'invention on pourrait imaginer un élément de verrou, usuel en soi, qui maintient axialement le tube d'entraînement 11 dans le corps tubulaire 1 en position initiale.According to yet another embodiment of the invention one could imagine a lock element, usual in itself, which axially maintains the drive tube 11 in the tubular body 1 in the initial position.

Une commande électrique connue en soi est par exemple située en surface et, comme illustré sur la figure 17, connectée au verrou 70 par l'intermédiaire d'un dispositif électronique 71, qui peut être commandé par pulsations de fluide. Le dispositif électronique peut alors à son tour commander un déplacement du verrou par un activateur de verrou 72, et cela dans une position d'ouverture dans laquelle il libère le tube d'entraînement.An electric control known per se is for example located on the surface and, as illustrated on the figure 17 connected to the latch 70 via an electronic device 71, which can be controlled by pulsations of fluid. The electronic device can then in turn control a movement of the latch by a latch activator 72, and this in an open position in which it releases the drive tube.

L'outil suivant l'invention peut aussi avantageusement être pourvu d'un dispositif de capture du tube d'entraînement. Dans l'exemple de réalisation illustré sur les figures 15 et 16, le tube d'entraînement 11 est pourvu d'une allonge tubulaire 51 fixée sur lui. Cette allonge 51 est entourée d'un manchon 52 capable de coulisser par-dessus ladite allonge 51 et à l'intérieur de deux douilles successives 53 et 54 reliées entre elles de manière fixe. Ces douilles 53 et 54 sont elles-mêmes encastrées de manière stationnaire à l'intérieur d'un élément de jonction 57 relié de manière fixe au corps tubulaire 1 pour permettre son insertion dans un train de tiges.The tool according to the invention can also advantageously be provided with a capture device of the drive tube. In the example illustrated on the Figures 15 and 16 , the drive tube 11 is provided with a tubular extension 51 fixed on it. This elongate 51 is surrounded by a sleeve 52 capable of sliding over said elongate 51 and inside two successive bushes 53 and 54 interconnected in a fixed manner. These bushings 53 and 54 are themselves stationarily embedded within a junction member 57 fixedly connected to the tubular body 1 to allow its insertion into a string of rods.

Un premier collier de serrage élastique 55 est logé dans une rainure interne 58 du manchon 52 et peut donc coulisser avec lui sur l'allonge 51. Un second collier de serrage élastique 59 est logé dans une rainure interne 60 formée entre les deux douilles 53 et 54, de manière à pouvoir coulisser sur le manchon 52.A first elastic clamping collar 55 is housed in an internal groove 58 of the sleeve 52 and can therefore slide with it on the elongate member 51. A second elastic clamping collar 59 is housed in an internal groove 60 formed between the two bushes 53 and 54, so as to slide on the sleeve 52.

Dans la position initiale du tube d'entraînement 11 ainsi que pendant la mise en service de l'outil le manchon 52 est maintenu axialement à l'intérieur de la douille fixe 53 par une goupille de cisaillement 61. Les boues passent à l'intérieur du manchon 52, puis de l'allonge 51 et enfin du tube d'entraînement 11.In the initial position of the driving tube 11 and during the putting into service of the tool the sleeve 52 is held axially inside the fixed bushing 53 by a shear pin 61. The sludge passes inside. the sleeve 52, then the elongate 51 and finally the drive tube 11.

Lorsque le fonctionnement de l'outil doit être arrêté, par exemple pour être remonté à la surface, une seconde bille 62 de diamètre supérieur à celui du manchon 52 est envoyée dans le train de tiges. Elle vient s'appliquer à l'entrée du manchon 52 en bouchant le passage. Par le choc mécanique de la bille et l'augmentation immédiate et forte de la pression, la goupille 61 est cisaillée et le manchon 52 peut effectuer un coulissement vers l'aval.When the operation of the tool must be stopped, for example to be raised to the surface, a second ball 62 of diameter greater than that of the sleeve 52 is sent into the drill string. It comes to apply to the inlet of the sleeve 52 by plugging the passage. By the mechanical shock of the ball and the immediate and strong increase in pressure, the pin 61 is sheared and the sleeve 52 can slide downstream.

Lors de ce coulissement, une rainure périphérique 64 du manchon 52 vient se placer en face du second collier de serrage élastique 59 et ce dernier vient s'y loger, en solidarisant ainsi le manchon 52 et les douilles fixes 53 et 54, et donc l'élément de jonction 57 du corps tubulaire 1. Ensuite, lorsqu'on diminue la pression, le premier collier de serrage élastique 55 vient se loger dans une rainure périphérique 63 prévue entre l'allonge 51 et le tube d'entraînement 11, qui est remonté dans sa position initiale, ce qui solidarise ceux-ci avec le manchon 52. Dans cette position, le tube d'entraînement est capturé par le corps tubulaire 1 et il ne peut plus bouger. Comme l'extrémité amont du manchon 52 est pourvue de trous latéraux 66, les boues peuvent, dans cette position de capture, continuer à circuler en passant latéralement autour de la bille 62 dans un espace 67 ménagé entre la douille 53 et le manchon 52, puis dans les trous latéraux 66 et enfin dans le manchon 52.During this sliding, a peripheral groove 64 of the sleeve 52 is placed in front of the second elastic clamping collar 59 and the latter is housed therein, thus securing the sleeve 52 and the fixed bushings 53 and 54, and thus the joining element 57 of the tubular body 1. Then, when the pressure is reduced, the first elastic clamping collar 55 is housed in a peripheral groove 63 provided between the elongate 51 and the drive tube 11, which is raised to its initial position, which secures them with the sleeve 52. In this position, the drive tube is captured by the tubular body 1 and he can not move. As the upstream end of the sleeve 52 is provided with lateral holes 66, the sludge can, in this capture position, continue to circulate by passing laterally around the ball 62 in a space 67 formed between the sleeve 53 and the sleeve 52, then in the lateral holes 66 and finally in the sleeve 52.

Il doit être entendu que la présente invention n'est en aucune façon limitée aux formes de réalisation décrites ci-dessus et que bien des modifications peuvent y être apportées sans sortir du cadre des revendications annexées.It should be understood that the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described above and that many modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

On peut aussi envisager que le piston d'entraînement soit entraîné dans ses déplacements axiaux par des moyens totalement ou partiellement mécaniques situés par exemple au-dessus de l'outil.It is also conceivable that the driving piston is driven in its axial displacements by totally or partially mechanical means located for example above the tool.

On peut enfin prévoir que l'outil comprenne un verrou qui, dans une position de fermeture, maintient axialement le dispositif de capture dans une position non activée et un organe de commande électrique, connecté au verrou et capable de commander un déplacement du verrou dans une position d'ouverture dans laquelle le dispositif de capture est déplacé dans sa position de capture.Finally, it can be provided that the tool comprises a latch which, in a closed position, axially holds the capture device in an unactivated position and an electrical control member, connected to the latch and capable of controlling a movement of the latch in a latch. open position in which the capture device is moved to its capture position.

On peut aussi envisager, comme représenté sur les figures 18 et 19 que, pour chaque élément de couteau 5, il y ait plusieurs éléments de coin, par exemple deux éléments de coin 80 et 81 qui sont reliés l'un à l'autre de manière rigide par exemple par une entretoise 82. Ces éléments de coin 80 et 81 sont bloqués, dans la deuxième position angulaire du tube d'entraînement 11, dans une seule et même rainure périphérique 83 de ce tube qui présente une section transversale en forme de queue-d'aronde. Comme les éléments de coin individuels 17 et 18 de la forme de réalisation de la figure 1, les éléments de coins 80 et 81 rigidement reliés sont aussi capables de coulisser, dans la première position angulaire du tube d'entraînement 11, dans les rainures longitudinales de celui-ci, qui présentent également une section en queue-d'aronde.One can also consider, as represented on figures 18 and 19 that for each knife element 5, there are several corner elements, for example two corner elements 80 and 81 which are rigidly connected to each other for example by a spacer 82. These corner elements 80 and 81 are locked in the second angular position of the drive tube 11 in one and the same peripheral groove 83 of this tube which has a dovetail-shaped cross section. As the individual corner elements 17 and 18 of the embodiment of the figure 1 , the corner elements 80 and 81 rigidly connected are also able to slide, in the first angular position of the drive tube 11, in the longitudinal grooves thereof, which also have a dovetail section.

Cette forme de réalisation offre l'avantage d'une meilleure résistance au basculement des éléments de coin dans les rainures en queue-d'aronde et donc d'éviter tout coinçage intempestif des éléments de coin.This embodiment offers the advantage of better resistance to tilting of the corner elements in the dovetail grooves and thus to avoid any inadvertent jamming of the corner elements.

Claims (23)

  1. Drilling hole underreaming and stabilising tool, comprising
    a tubular body (1), to be mounted between a first section of a drilling string and a second section thereof, this tubular body having an axial cavity (2) which is open towards the outside through at least one radial guidance channel (3),
    a cutter element (5, 6) arranged so as to be movable radially in each above-mentioned radial guidance channel (3, 4), and
    wedge means which, through an axial movement inside the tubular body, lead to radial motion of each cutter element in its guidance channel,
    characterised in that it also comprises
    a drive pipe (11) which is mounted inside said axial cavity (2) so as to be able to perform axial movements therein, and which has a longitudinal axis (8) about which it is capable of pivoting,
    as wedge means, at least one wedge element (17, 18) per cutter element (5, 6) which is supported in a detachable manner at the periphery of the drive pipe (11), said at least one wedge element and the drive pipe being, in a first angular position of the drive pipe, capable of performing between them a relative axial sliding motion, whilst, in a second angular position of the drive pipe, said at least one wedge element is driven by the drive pipe in its above-mentioned axial movements, and
    detachable stopping means (28-32) which are capable of immobilising the drive pipe (11) in its second angular position, while allowing its above-mentioned axial movements.
  2. Tool according to Claim 1, characterised in that the drive pipe (11) has at its periphery
    longitudinal slots (23) in which said at least one wedge element (17, 18) can perform said relative axial sliding motion in said first angular position of the drive pipe (11),
    and at least one peripheral slot (24, 25) in which said at least one wedge element can slip while permitting the drive pipe to go from its first angular position to its second angular position, in which said at least one wedge element is held radially inside this at least one peripheral slot, and is prevented from performing relative axial sliding with respect to the drive pipe.
  3. Tool according to one or other of Claims 1 and 2, characterised in that said stopping means comprise
    at least one aperture (28, 29) in the tubular body (1),
    at least one groove (30, 31) which extends longitudinally on the periphery of the drive pipe (11) over a length corresponding to a required sliding thereof and which, in the second angular position thereof, is situated facing one of said at least one aperture,
    and an immobilising element (32) which is passed through said at least one aperture in order to enter said at least one groove, in order to immobilise the drive pipe in its second angular position, without preventing its axial movements.
  4. Tool according to Claim 3, characterised in that the stopping means comprise a number of apertures (28, 29) and a corresponding number of grooves (30, 31) which have mutually different lengths, in that, according to the required sliding length of the drive pipe, the immobilising element (32) is passed through the aperture (28, 29) situated facing the appropriate groove (30, 31), and in that it also comprises means of closing off (33) the unused apertures.
  5. Tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that each cutter element (5, 6) has at least one internal surface (19, 20) inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis (8) of the drive pipe, in that each wedge element (17, 18) has an external surface (21), which is inclined in the same way with respect to said longitudinal axis and on which one of said at least one inclined surface of a cutter element rests, in that each cutter element is immobilised against any axial movement by front and rear walls (34, 35) of its guidance channel (3, 4) and in that, when said at least one wedge element is driven axially by the drive pipe, the corresponding cutter element performs an ascending or descending motion in its radial guidance channel, by slipping over the inclined surface of said at least one wedge element, the cutter element protruding out of the tubular body in a high position.
  6. Tool according to Claim 5, characterised in that said at least one inclined internal surface (19, 20) of each cutter element and said inclined external surface (21) of each wedge element on which the cutter element rests are provided with mutual holding means (38) in the radial direction which are arranged so that the cutter element in the high position in its guidance channel performs a radial descent to a low position by retraction on the part of the holding means of said at least one wedge element during the axial movement thereof.
  7. Tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the drive pipe (11) comprises a piston (13) which separates, in the tubular body, a first section (14) in which is located a hydraulic fluid under an internal pressure and a second section (15) which is in communication with the outside through said at least one radial guidance channel (3, 4) where said at least one wedge element and their corresponding cutter element are housed.
  8. Tool according to Claim 7, characterised in that it also comprises, at each cutter element, at least a pin (22) which connects it to at least one wedge element, preventing any movement of one with respect to the other, when the internal hydraulic pressure is below a given threshold, and which is sheared off when this hydraulic pressure is above this threshold.
  9. Tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, characterised in that each cutter element is supported by at least two wedge elements (17, 18).
  10. Tool according to claim 9, characterised in that the wedge elements supporting the same cutter element are rigidly connected to each other.
  11. Tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterised in that each cutter element comprises an external surface equipped with cutting tips which has a front part (7) inclined towards the front with respect to said longitudinal axis (8) and intended to produce an underreaming of the drilling hole, a central part (9) substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and intended to stabilise the tool with respect to the underreamed hole, and a rear part (10) inclined towards the rear with respect to the longitudinal axis and intended to produce an underreaming of the drilling hole during raising of the drilling string.
  12. Tool according to any one of Claims 7 to 11, characterised in that it comprises communication between the drive pipe (11) through which a hydraulic fluid under pressure passes and said first section (14), and at least one narrow passage (36) through said piston (13) allowing injection into said second section (15) of jets of hydraulic fluid preventing entry into said second section of a drilling fluid situated outside the tubular body (1).
  13. Tool according to Claim 12, characterised in that said communication between the drive pipe (11) and said first section (14) comprises fluid filtering means (16).
  14. Tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 13, characterised in that it comprises
    an activation device which axially keeps the drive pipe inside the tubular body (1) in an initial position, in which said at least one wedge element (17,18) and each cutter element are situated in a low position of the cutter element in its radial guidance channel (3,4), and which is able to release the drive pipe (11) at an appropriate time, while allowing said axial movements according to a hydraulic fluid pressure, and
    at least one return spring (42) which opposes this axial movement of the drive pipe and brings it back to its initial position when the hydraulic pressure decreases.
  15. Tool according to Claim 14, characterised in that the activation device comprises at least one shear pin (39,47) which, when the hydraulic pressure is below a given threshold, axially keeps the drive pipe inside the tubular body in said initial position and which axially keeps the drive pipe inside the tubular body in said initial position, and which, when the hydraulic pressure is above this threshold, is sheared off, thus allowing an axial movement of the drive pipe in the tubular body, and simultaneously a radial ascent of each cutter element in its guidance channel.
  16. Tool according to Claim 14, characterised in that the activation device further comprises
    a latch which, in a closure position, axially keeps the drive pipe inside the tubular body in said initial position, and
    an electronic control member, connected to the latch and capable of controlling a movement of the latch into an opening position where it releases the drive pipe.
  17. Tool according to any one of Claims 14 to 16, characterised in that it also comprises, inside the tubular body (1), a capture device which can be activated in a capture position in which the drive pipe (11) is captured by this device when, under the action of the return spring (42), it regains its initial position.
  18. Method for implementing a tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 17, characterised in that it comprises
    axial introduction of each cutter element equipped with at least one wedge element into the axial cavity of the tubular body, facing a corresponding radial guidance channel,
    radial fitting of each cutter element equipped with its at least one wedge element into its radial guidance channel and its keeping in this position,
    introduction of the drive pipe into the axial cavity of the tubular body, in a first angular position, and relative sliding between this drive pipe and said at least one radially fitted wedge element, as far as an appropriate position,
    pivoting of the drive pipe in said appropriate position into a second angular position in which it is capable of driving said at least one wedge element in its axial movements, and
    immobilisation of the drive pipe in its second angular position, whilst allowing its axial movements.
  19. Method according to Claim 18, characterised in that it also comprises, before the step of axial introduction of each cutter element, arrangement on at least one inclined internal surface of each cutter element of at least one wedge element having an external surface inclined in the same way, so that, during this axial introduction step, these elements remain fixed to one another and in that, after the step of pivoting of the drive pipe, these elements are separated so that the cutter element can slip over the inclined surface of said at least one wedge element.
  20. Method according to one or other of Claims 18 and 19, characterised in that it also comprises, after descent of the tool according to the invention into a drilling hole,
    an increase in pressure of a hydraulic fluid inside a section of the tubular body which results in an axial sliding of the drive pipe with respect to an initial position where each cutter element is in a low position in its guidance channel, with driving of said at least one wedge element in this sliding motion, and
    slipping of each cutter element over its at least one driven wedge element, with a radial ascent in its radial guidance channel so as to protrude outside the tubular body.
  21. Method according to Claim 20, characterised in that it comprises, from a first section of the tubular body in which the hydraulic fluid under an internal pressure is situated, partial injection of this fluid into a second section, which is in communication with the outside through said at least one radial guidance channel, where said at least one wedge element and their corresponding cutter element are housed, in order to prevent entry into said second section of a drilling fluid situated outside the tubular body.
  22. Method according to either one of Claims 20 and 21, characterised in that it comprises, during the increase in pressure of the hydraulic fluid,
    first of all a temporary keeping of the drive pipe in its initial position by at least one shear pin, and
    when the internal pressure has exceeded a given threshold, shearing of said at least one shear pin.
  23. Method according to any one of Claims 20 to 22, characterised in that it also comprises
    subsequent reduction of the pressure of the hydraulic fluid,
    return of the drive pipe to its initial position, with radial descent of each cutter element in its radial guidance channel, and
    capture of the drive pipe in its initial position.
EP05742758A 2004-04-21 2005-04-21 Enlarging and stabilising tool for a borehole and method for the use thereof Ceased EP1747344B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
BEPCT/BE2004/000057 2004-04-21
PCT/EP2005/051765 WO2005103435A1 (en) 2004-04-21 2005-04-21 Enlarging and stabilising tool for a borehole and method for the use thereof

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CA2563758A1 (en) 2005-11-03
NO20065362L (en) 2007-01-11
NO334422B1 (en) 2014-03-03
US20050241856A1 (en) 2005-11-03
WO2005103435A1 (en) 2005-11-03
CA2563758C (en) 2012-11-27
US7658241B2 (en) 2010-02-09
EP1747344A1 (en) 2007-01-31

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