Flow Reversing Apparatus and Methods of Use

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for selectively and safely reversing flow in coiled tubing used for wellbore cleanouts are disclosed. One apparatus includes a section of coiled tubing having a main flow channel, at least two flow-preventing valves in the section of coiled tubing, each adapted to close the main flow channel upon attempted flow reversal; and at least one actuator adapted to deter closing of the flow-preventing valves. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

1 - 35 . (canceled) 
   
   
       36 . A method of actuating a component deployed in a well bore, comprising:
 inserting a tool into a well bore on a conveyance, the tool comprising at least one hydraulic system;   initiating flow of a fluid into the well bore;   charging the hydraulic system of the tool with the fluid flow, the hydraulic system storing hydraulic pressure therein; and   releasing the stored hydraulic pressure to actuate at least a component of the tool.   
   
   
       37 . The method of  claim 36  wherein the initiating comprises initiating flow of fluid from the well surface through the conveyance. 
   
   
       38 . The method of  claim 36  wherein initiating comprises initiating flow of fluid through an annulus between the conveyance and the well bore. 
   
   
       39 . The method of  claim 36  wherein inserting comprises inserting the tool on coiled tubing. 
   
   
       40 . The method of  claim 36  wherein charging comprises charging the hydraulic system to a predetermined pressure. 
   
   
       41 . The method of  claim 41  wherein the predetermined pressure is referenced to pressure in an annulus between the conveyance and the well bore. 
   
   
       42 . The method of  claim 36  wherein releasing comprises releasing hydraulic pressure to actuate at least one check valve. 
   
   
       43 . The method of  claim 36  wherein releasing comprises releasing after receiving a communication from a system at the well surface. 
   
   
       44 . The method of  claim 36  wherein releasing comprises releasing after receiving a communication from the tool. 
   
   
       45 . The method of  claim 36  wherein charging comprises flowing the fluid past a dart valve. 
   
   
       46 . The method of  claim 36  wherein charging comprises flowing the fluid past an orifice. 
   
   
       47 . The method of  claim 36  wherein charging comprises moving a pressure lock piston to a seat to store the hydraulic pressure. 
   
   
       48 . The method of  claim 36  wherein releasing comprises actuating a solenoid to release the pressure in the hydraulic system. 
   
   
       49 . The method of  claim 36  wherein releasing comprises actuating a motor to release the pressure in the hydraulic system. 
   
   
       50 . A method of actuating a component deployed in a well, comprising:
 inserting a tool into a well bore on coiled tubing, the tool comprising at least one hydraulic system;   initiating flow of a fluid into the well;   charging the hydraulic system of the tool with the fluid flow, the hydraulic system storing hydraulic pressure therein; and   releasing the stored hydraulic pressure to actuate at least a component of the tool.   
   
   
       51 . The method of  claim 51  further comprising detecting a one of hydrocarbon and chemicals in the fluid flow. 
   
   
       52 . The method of  claim 51  wherein the initiating comprises initiating flow of fluid from the well surface through the coiled tubing. 
   
   
       53 . The method of  claim 51  wherein initiating comprises initiating flow of fluid through an annulus between the coiled tubing and the well bore. 
   
   
       54 . The method of  claim 51  wherein releasing comprises releasing hydraulic pressure to actuate at least one check valve. 
   
   
       55 . The method of  claim 51  wherein releasing comprises releasing after receiving a communication from a one of the tool and a system at the well surface.