METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HANGING TUBULARS IN WELLS

摘要

A well tubular (14) is hung within a casing (10) through placement of tubula r on overlapping relationship with the casing. A spacer (16) may be located therebetween. The tubular (14) is expanded which in tum expands the spacer (16) when used. The tubular is expanded beyond the yield point such that it or an intervening spacer engages the inside of the casing (10) and stresses the casing within its elastic limits. The assembly then contracts to form a tight structural support between the tubulars and a high pressure seal against flow therebetween. A spacer (16) having channels (20, 22) about either end with ductile sealing material (24) therei n is of an expanded metal material through cuts in the sheet. A hydraulic ram (32) is employed with an expandable collet (54) to draw the collet through the overlapping area of the liner and the casing. The collet extends within a shoulder (68) at the end of its stroke such that it will be substantially released from the upper end of the liner. A method for placing lateral liner includes expanding the liner to beyond its yield point within the hole through the casing. The stub of the liner positioned within the casing may then be drilled out such that completed lateral and main bore s are achieved.