Lateral junction assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lateral junction assembly (1) for providing a lateral junction in a wellbore by being inserted into a casing (60) having an opening (61) and defining a longitudinal axis (52), the lateral junction assembly (1) having a longitudinal direction (50) which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (52) and comprising a pipe module (10) comprising a pipe section (12) for being inserted through the opening (61) in the casing and a flange (11), wherein the lateral junction assembly further comprises a fixation element (25) adapted for being connected with the flange (11) to fixate the pipe module (10) in a predetermined location with the pipe section extending through the opening (61) in the casing (60).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to a lateral junction assembly for providing a lateral junction in a wellbore by being inserted into a casing having an opening and defining a longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the invention relates to a lateral junction system for providing a lateral junction in a wellbore. Moreover, the invention relates to a wireline tool for transporting, positioning and assembling a lateral junction assembly in a casing. Finally, the present invention relates to a method of installing a lateral junction assembly in a wellbore.BACKGROUND ART[0002]A lateral wellbore is a branch of a primary wellbore and is often referred to as a lateral or side track. If a well has a plurality of laterals, it is referred to as a multi-lateral.[0003]Designing wells with laterals is a way of increasing the yield of an oil or gas field and may contribute to reducing the costs associated with drilling operations. Laterals may be created before the well is comple...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an improved assembly for connecting two pipes in a wellbore casing that is easy to implement and seals effectively. This is achieved by a modular system of standard modules that can be assembled without the need for precise welding or custom operations. The lateral junction assembly includes a fixation element and a flange with indentations to improve bonding properties, and the distance between two laterals can be controlled by the distance between the pipe sections extending from the flange. The modular system can be retrofitted to old wells or used in the completion of new wells and does not require precision welding to provide a liquid-tight lateral junction. The welding does not affect the quality of the seals.

Problems solved by technology

It is very difficult to perform a welding operation downhole, and the sealing between the lateral junction and the casing often fails.

A disadvantage in this respect is the use of cement or other curable liquid in the design of a lateral junction between a primary well and a lateral well.

Furthermore, to deform the device subsequently induces the risk of leaks.

Laterals are created downhole, and the precision of such operation may therefore be difficult to control, constituting a limiting feature.

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