Thermal release mechanism for downhole tools

摘要

A release mechanism for use in setting a downhole tool comprises two connectors releasably connected to one other. One of the connectors includes a material having a coefficient of thermal expansion that is different from a material included in the second connector. The difference in the coefficients of thermal expansion causes one of the connectors to expand greater than the other connector when heat is applied to one or both of the connectors. As a result of the greater expansion of one of the connectors, the connectors release from each other. Upon release, an actuator within the downhole tool is permitted to move and cause actuation or setting of the downhole tool.