CONTROL LINE HYDROSTATIC MINIMALLY SENSITIVE CONTROL SYSTEM

摘要

A control system for a downhole tool, such as a subsurface safety valve, features an operating piston that is insensitive to tubing pressure in the valve. The hydrostatic forces from the single control line from the surface are significantly reduced with a branch line to a piston bottom that is slightly smaller than the piston top. A variable volume between piston seals is connected to a low pressure compressible fluid reservoir to permit piston movement. The piston can be modular to facilitate assembly or bore offsets in the valve body. Failsafe closure upon seal failures is contemplated.