Apparatus for placing and removing well flow control devices

摘要

In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a side pocket mandrel having a side pocket laterally offset from the open bore has an opening at the upper end of the pocket adapted to receive a gas lift valve. The axis of the opening is inclined in a downward and inward direction toward the axis of the open bore. A kickover tool for replacing and removing valves includes an orienting section having angularly spaced dogs that are cooperable with a sleeve in the mandrel to cause orientation of the tool and to trigger longitudinal movement of a control rod. Rod movement actuates guides on a pivot arm that cooperates with rails or the like in the mandrel to cause the valve to be inserted through the opening to a position extending upwardly into the annulus with a packing sub thereon engaging the opening.