Isolation washpipe for earth well completions and method for use in gravel packing a well

摘要

A zonal isolation washpipe system for isolating a production zone which intersects a wellbore from communication with the surface comprises a seal assembly (212) adapted for sealing engagement within the bore of a well packer (225) disposed about the external circumference of one end of a tubular washpipe (180), a releasable connector system on the other end of the washpipe which provides means for retrieval of the washpipe from the wellbore is placed in sealing engagement by a releasable telescoping expansion joint (90) which is resistant to undesired extension. To place the isolated zone on production, a tubing perforator is lowered into the bore of the washpipe and perforates the washpipe at a location adjacent previously formed perforations in the casing. Alternatively sleeve valves (80) are included in the system to open the washpipe to the flow of well fluids. A method for gravel packing a well using the system is also described.