US010502048B2

(12) Lee
United States Patent (10 ) Patent No.: US 10,502,048 B2
et al. (45 ) Date of Patent: Dec. 10 , 2019
(54 ) CASING COLLAR LOCATOR (56 ) References Cited
(71) Applicant: G & H Diversified Manufacturing LP, U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
Houston , TX (US ) 2,177,100 A * 10/1939 Frame F16L 15/001
(72 ) Inventors: Timmothy Alain Lee , Spring , TX 285/334
(US ); Joe Noel Wells , Lindale , TX 2,946,926 A * 7/1960 Hawthorne E21B 43/1185
(US) 324/221
3,105,548 A * 10/1963 Ownby E21B 23/02
166/123
(73 ) Assignee : G & H Diversified Manufacturing LP , 3,176,770 A * 4/1965 Ehler E21B 43/112
Houston , TX (US ) 166 /55.1
3,403,328 A * 9/1968 Fossati GOIV 1/52
( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 324/338
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 3,923,324 A * 12/1975 Cruickshank E21B 17/042
U.S.C. 154(b ) by 302 days. 4/1987 Sharp
175 /325.2
4,660,910 A * E21B 17/028
(21 ) Appl. No.: 14 /829,204 439/194
5,160,925 A * 11/1992 Dailey E21B 47/011
(22 ) Filed : Aug. 18 , 2015 175/40
5,358,418 A * 10/1994 Carmichael E21B 17/028
166 /65.1
(65) Prior Publication Data
(Continued )
US 2017/0051603 A1 Feb. 23 , 2017
Primary Examiner Steven L Yeninas
(51) Int. Ci. (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Conley Rose , P.C.
E21B 47/09 ( 2012.01)
GOIV 3/26 (2006.01)
GOIV 3/28 (2006.01) ( 57) ABSTRACT
(52 ) U.S. Cl. A casing collar locator including a housing having a first
CPC E21B 4770905 ( 2013.01 ) ; GOIV 3/26 end , a second end , and a passage extending between the first
( 2013.01) ; GOIV 3/28 (2013.01) end and the second end , a first cylindricalmember having a
(58 ) Field of Classification Search passage extending therethrough and coupled to the first end
CPC .... E21B 17/003 ; E21B 17/021; E21B 17/023; of the housing, and a second cylindrical member having a
E21B 17/026 ; E21B 17/028 ; E21B 17/08 ; passage extending therethrough and coupled to the second
E21B 17/16 ; E21B 47/01; E21B 47/011 ; end of the housing, and a coil assembly disposed in the
E21B 47/0905; E21B 47/091; E21B passage of the housing and configured to produce an elec
47/0915 ; E21B 47/09 ; GOIV 3/18 ; GOLV trical signal in response to a change in a magnetic field ,
3/26 ; GOIV 3/28 ; GO1V 3/0818; GOLV wherein the coil assembly comprises an annular magnet
11/002
USPC 175 /4.51, 45; 324/221, 333–345 ; having a diameter greater than an axial width of the annular
166 /250.01, 255.1 , 255.2 , 65.1, 66 , 66.5 ; magnet.
250/257; 340/854.2 , 854.9 , 855.1, 855.2
See application file for complete search history. 20 Claims, 8 Drawing Sheets

420
134 170 514 402 140
130 530 502 154
1201
1221
110 1105
200 / 116s 132 280 252 242 500
260
540
530 412
150
156 1400
140s
148
134

102126 24 104
munu
fou CODE
1488 26
TUNUT
105

24
178
112 Kuphur 1245 Anna , TE
118
128 1221 144
172 124 114 520 520 142 200 / 174 152
122 / 122s 310 146 134
134 116 176 514 150s 150t
 US 10,502,048 B2
Page 2

( 56 ) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
6,084,403 A * 7/2000 Sinclair E21B 47/0905
166 /255.1
6,196,325 B1 * 3/2001 Connell E21B 17/023
166 /242.6
6,429,653 B1 * 8/2002 Kruspe E21B 47/011
324/300
2002/0064011 A1 * 5/2002 Loechner G05B 19/0428
361/92
2005/0016769 A1 * 1/2005 Wallace HOIR 13/523
175/40
2006/0073722 A1 * 4/2006 Allan E21B 17/028
439/246
2009/0250213 A1 * 10/2009 Kalb GOIR 33/0322
166 / 255.1
2010/0147590 A1 * 6/2010 Morley E21B 17/1078
175/50
2015/0211307 A1 * 7/2015 Minosyan E21B 17/003
166/66
* cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Dec. 10 , 2019 Sheet 1 of 8 US 10,502,048 B2

26

140 104
OLIO
36
134
134
4

20
12
los
170
34

14

1
.
FIG .
FIG
2
32

28 12
105
10
100
30
28

26

134
134
100 OOO
8

110
24
10 22 102
3
U.S. Patent Dec. 10 , 2019 Sheet 2 of 8 US 10,502,048 B2

26
104 144
134 134
148 152
140
140
140s 148
Juan 146

156 YA200/174 150t

178
150 150s
154 142
420 412
402 530 520
MAR I WAN
502 310
540
514 514
260 FIG
.
3

500
530 520
ForHT
252242 PUM NT
114
170
280 176
124
130
172
116
1 0132
s1165
200
124s
110
134 122s
/ 134
122
120
1221 122112 0
102
12624p
mut 105 24
w
112
118
128
U.S. Patent Dec. 10 , 2019 Sheet 3 of 8 US 10,502,048 B2

100 134 110s

110
220
116
126

more 210
224 .
226
226s
2160
218
214
120
232 238t
128 216
228
236
212 2385
4h
280
237 230 234 239 124
122 122s 238
118 122p 124s
222 1221 210s

134
FIG . 4
U.S. Patent Dec. 10 , 2019 Sheet 4 of 8 US 10,502,048 B2

100

170
180 174 140
142
530
150 220 148s 220t
210s 216 230 212
402
420
239 234 150s 216/237210 3210 - 146
232
236
+228
1
216
214 218 2380 152
238s 224 226
218s
150i 150t
5140s

412 154 ?
156 1400

FIG . 5
U.S. Patent Dec. 10 , 2019 Sheet 5 of 8 US 10,502,048 B2

200

224 224
-212

7 214 7

NNN
NNNN

239
218
210s -220
222

FIG . 6

200 224 222

210s
220
218 2387
239 214 212
238 w 2.2.

238s
oboro
234 236
226 237
232
216
226s ax
2161 230

FIG . 7
U.S. Patent Dec. 10 , 2019 Sheet 6 of 8 US 10,502,048 B2

100
170
132 134 176 114 252 240 2421
110 -530
292 322 256 384 520
348V 344 346 350 250s
320 288 258
316 105
312
230
260 /
239 310
-248
284 290
244
310 ( 3107 256 318 340
254 322 292 314 AAN 246

250 342 380 312 264

242
382 282 286

FIG . 8

280
310 320 340
380

HAIDA
10

?" 388
312
384
314 342

FIG . 9
U.S. Patent Dec. 10 , 2019 Sheet 7 of 8 US 10,502,048 B2

280

310 320 340 354 354a 354b 382 386

312 318 342 ) 344 380
388

316 Zor
-384
320 352 352b 346 350
352a
348
FIG . 10

260

348
S
520 N
352a 354a
540
352b 354b

N
520
S 350

514

FIG . 11
U.S. Patent Dec. 10 , 2019 Sheet 8 of 8 US 10,502,048 B2

400 4021 402 412

530
154
-5300 410s 140
142
520 446t 410 -406
404 3100 444
446 448
424 -210
234
310 -200 230
408
430 440
428 442 422 414
420 - 426
239

170 180
FIG . 12
500
530t 510
510 514 170 530t 530
530 518 516

260
2421
5100 -402
520w 510g 5100 402t
246 512 520d
242 520w
522 -404
520d 310
520 508
504 506 522
PDV in the 520

518 540 516 502

514

FIG . 13
 US 10,502,048 B2
1 2
CASING COLLAR LOCATOR electrical connector. In an embodiment, the first cylindrical
member comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced
CROSS -REFERENCE TO RELATED inserts extending radially from an outer surface of the first
APPLICATIONS cylindrical member, and the second cylindrical member
5 comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced inserts
Not applicable . extending radially from an outer surface of the second
cylindrical member. In an embodiment, the inserts of the
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY first cylindrical member and the inserts of the second
SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT cylindrical member comprise tungsten carbide . In some
10 embodiments , the coil assembly comprises an annular mag
Not applicable . net having a diameter greater than an axial width of the
annular magnet. In some embodiments , the annular magnet
BACKGROUND comprises Neodymium . In an embodiment, the coil assem
bly comprises two wires wound in parallel about a coil form .
After a wellbore has been drilled through a subterranean 15 In an embodiment, the casing collar locator further com
formation , the wellbore may be cased by inserting lengths of prises a diode assembly electrically connected to the coil
pipe (" casing sections” ) connected end -to - end into the well assembly , wherein the diode assembly comprises a first lead
bore. Threaded exterior connectors known as casing collars and a second lead , a first plurality of series -connected diodes
may be used to connect adjacent ends of the casing sections connected with a positive polarity between the first and
at casing joints , providing a casing string including casing 20 second leads, a second plurality of series-connected diodes
sections and connecting casing collars that extends from the connected with a negative polarity between the first and
surface towards the bottom of the wellbore. The casing second leads and in parallel with the first plurality of
string may then be cemented into place secure the casing series - connected diodes .
string within the wellbore . An embodiment of a casing collar locator comprises a
Following the casing of the wellbore, the casing string 25 housing having a first end , a second end, and a passage
may be perforated using a perforating gun to provide for extending between the first end and the second end , a first
fluid communication between the wellbore and the forma cylindrical member having a passage extending there
tion at desired locations, necessitating the ability to accu through and coupled to the first end of the housing , and a
rately position the perforating gun at the desired location second cylindrical member having a passage extending
within the wellbore. Therefore, a tool known as a casing 30 therethrough and coupled to the second end of the housing,
collar locator (CCL ) may be run into the wellbore along with and a coil assembly disposed in the passage of the housing
the perforating gun on a wireline to confirm or correlate and configured to produce an electrical signal in response to
service depth using known reference points on the casing a change in a magnetic fiel wherein the first cylindrical
string . Particularly , as the CCL passes through a casing member comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced
collar of the casing string , the magnetic lines of flux from the 35 inserts extending radially from an outer surface of the first
magnets are distorted , inducing a current in the coiled cylindrical member, and wherein the second cylindrical
conductor known as a collar that is transmitted to the surface member comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced
and recorded as a collar “kick ” . The collar kick may be inserts extending radially from an outer surface of the
recorded in conjunction with a gamma ray or neutron second cylindricalmember. In an embodiment, the inserts of
porosity log to correlate the position of the casing collar ( i.e. , 40 the first cylindrical member and the inserts of the second
“ cased hole log ” ) with the spontaneous potential ( SP ) or cylindrical member comprise tungsten carbide. In an
gamma ray signal of an open hole log. Following the embodiment, the casing collar locator further comprises a
correlation of the cased hole log with the open hole log, first pressure bulkhead disposed in the passage of the first
service depth may be determined by counting the casing cylindrical member and comprising an annular seal to
collars of the casing string using the CCL as the CCL is 45 restrict fluid communication through the passage of the first
displaced through the casing string. cylindrical member, and second pressure bulkhead dis
posed in the passage of the second cylindrical member and
SUMMARY comprising an annular seal to restrict fluid communication
through the passage of the second cylindrical member,
An embodiment of a casing collar locator comprises a 50 wherein the first pressure bulkhead and the second pressure
housing having a first end , a second end , and a passage bulkhead each comprise an electrical connector. In some
extending between the first end and the second end , a first embodiments, the coil assembly comprises an annular mag
cylindrical member having a passage extending there net having a diameter greater than an axial width of the
through and coupled to the first end of the housing, and a annular magnet. In an embodiment, the coil assembly com
second cylindrical member having a passage extending 55 prises two wires wound in parallel about a coil form . In an
therethrough and coupled to the second end of the housing, embodiment, the coil assembly comprises a coil form having
a coil assembly disposed in the passage of the housing and a coil wrapped around the coil form , and a plurality of
configured to produce an electrical signal in response to a circumferentially spaced grounding members coupled to the
change in a magnetic field , a first pressure bulkhead dis coil form , wherein the grounding members are biased into
posed in the passage of the first cylindrical member and 60 engagement with the housing .
comprising an annular seal to restrict fluid communication An embodiment of a casing collar locator comprises a
through the passage of the first cylindrical member, and a housing having a first end , a second end, and a passage
second pressure bulkhead disposed in the passage of the extending between the first end and the second end, a first
second cylindricalmember and comprising an annular seal cylindrical member having a passage extending there
to restrict fluid communication through the passage of the 65 through and coupled to the first end of the housing, and a
second cylindrical member, wherein the first pressure bulk second cylindrical member having a passage extending
head and the second pressure bulkhead each comprise an therethrough and coupled to the second end of the housing ,
 US 10,502,048 B2
3 4
and a coil assembly disposed in the passage of the housing DETAILED DESCRIPTION
and configured to produce an electrical signal in response to
a change in a magnetic field , wherein the coil assembly The following discussion is directed to various exemplary
comprises an annularmagnethaving a diameter greater than embodiments . However, one skilled in the art will under
an axial width of the annularmagnet . In an embodiment, the 5 stand that the examples disclosed herein have broad appli
annular magnet comprises Neodymium . In an embodiment, cation, and that the discussion of any embodiment is meant
the casing collar locator further comprises a first pressure only to be exemplary of that embodiment, and not intended
bulkhead disposed in the passage of the first cylindrical to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the
member and comprising an annular seal to restrict fluid 10 claims, is limited to that embodiment.
communication through the passage of the first cylindrical Certain terms are used throughout the following descrip
member, and a second pressure bulkhead disposed in the tion and claims to refer to particular features or components .
passage of the second cylindricalmember and comprising an As one skilled in the art will appreciate , different persons
annular seal to restrict fluid communication through the may refer to the same feature or component by different
passage of the second cylindrical member , wherein the first 15 names . This document does not intend to distinguish
pressure bulkhead and the second pressure bulkhead each between components or features that differ in name but not
comprise an electrical connector. In some embodiments , the function . The drawing figures are not necessarily to scale .
first cylindricalmember comprises a plurality of circumfer Certain features and components herein may be shown
entially spaced inserts extending radially from an outer exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and
surface of the first cylindrical member, and wherein the 20 some details of conventional elements may not be shown in
second cylindrical member comprises a plurality of circum interest of clarity and conciseness.
ferentially spaced inserts extending radially from an outer In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms
surface of the second cylindrical member . In son embodi " including " and " comprising " are used in an open - ended
ments, the inserts of the first cylindrical member and the fashion , and thus should be interpreted to mean “ including,
inserts of the second cylindrical member comprise tungsten 25 but not limited to ....” Also ,the term " couple ” or “ couples”
carbide. In an embodiment, the coil assembly comprises two is intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection .
wires wound in parallel about a coil form . In an embodi Thus, if a first device couples to a second device , that
ment, the first cylindrical member comprises a threaded connection may be through a direct connection , or through
connector having Acme threads for coupling the casing an indirect connection via other devices, components , and
collar locator to a tool. 30
connections. In addition , as used herein , the terms “ axial”
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS and “ axially" generally mean along or parallel to a central
axis (e.g., central axis of a body or a port), while the terms
For a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of “ radial” and “ radially ” generally mean perpendicular to the
the disclosure , reference will now be made to the accom- 35 central axis. For instance, an axial distance refers to a
panying drawings in which : distance measured along or parallel to the central axis, and
FIG . 1 is a schematic , partial cross -sectional view of a a radial distance means a distance measured perpendicular to
system for completing a subterranean well including an the central axis . Any reference to up or down in the
embodiment ofa casing collar locator in accordance with the description and the claims is made for purposes of clarity ,
principles disclosed herein ; 40 with “ up ” , “ upper” , “ upwardly" , " uphole" , or " upstream ”
FIG . 2 is a side view of the casing collar locator of FIG . meaning toward the surface of the borehole and with
1; " down ” , “ lower” , “ downwardly” , “ downhole ” , or “ down
FIG . 3 is a side cross - sectional view along lines 3-3 of stream ” meaning toward the terminal end of the borehole,
FIG . 2 of the casing collar locator of FIG . 1; regardless of the borehole orientation . Further, the term
FIG . 4 is a zoomed - in view of a first end of the casing 45 " fluid ,” as used herein , is intended to encompass both fluids
collar locator shown in FIG . 3 ; and gasses.
FIG . 5 is a zoomed -in view of a second end of the casing Referring now to FIG . 1, a system 10 for completing a
collar locator shown in FIG . 3 ; wellbore 4 extending into a subterranean formation 6 is
FIG . 6 is a side view of an embodiment of an embodiment shown. In the embodiment of FIG . 1 , wellbore 4 is a cased
of a pressure bulkhead of the casing collar locator of FIG . 1; 50 wellbore including a casing string 10 secured to an inner
FIG . 7 is a side cross -sectional view along lines 7-7 of the surface 8 of the wellbore 4 using cement (not shown ).
pressure bulkhead of FIG . 6 ; Casing string 10 generally includes a plurality of tubular
FIG . 8 is a zoomed - in view of an embodiment of a diode segments 12 coupled together via a casing collar 14. As
assembly of the casing collar locator of FIG . 1 in accordance shown schematically in FIG . 1 , the radial thickness of casing
with principles disclosed herein ; 55 string 10 is increased at casing collar 14 by the overlap
FIG . 9 is a side view of an embodiment of the diode between casing collar 14 and the terminal ends of tubular
assembly of the casing collar locator of FIG . 1 ; segments 12.
FIG . 10 is a side cross-sectional view along lines 10-10 of In this embodiment, system 10 includes a tool string 20
the diode assembly of FIG . 8 ; disposed within wellbore 4 and suspended from a wireline
FIG . 11 is a schematic view of the diode assembly of FIG . 60 22 that extends to the surface of wellbore 4. Wireline 22
8; comprises an armored cable and includes at least one
FIG . 12 is a zoomed -in view of an embodiment of an electrical conductor for transmitting power and electrical
electrical contact assembly of the casing collar locator of signals between tool string 20 and the surface . System 10
FIG . 1 in accordance with principles disclosed herein ; and may further include suitable surface equipment for drilling ,
FIG . 13 is a zoomed -in view of an embodiment of a coil 65 completing , and /or operating system 10 and may include, in
assembly of the casing collar locator of FIG . 1 in accordance some embodiments , derricks, structures, pumps, electrical/
with principles disclosed herein . mechanical well control components , etc. Tool string 20 is
 US 10,502,048 B2
5 6
generally configured to perforate casing string 10 to provide of sizes such as, for example , 1.68 in ., 2.125 in ., 2.75 in ., 3.5
for fluid communication between formation 6 and wellbore in ., 3.625 in ., or 4 in ., wherein the above listed sizes
4 at predetermined locations. correspond to the overall outer diameter of the tool.
In the embodiment shown in FIG . 1 , tool string 20 Although CCL 100 is shown in FIG . 1 as incorporated in
generally includes a cable head 24 , a casing collar locator 5 tool string 20 , CCL 100 may be used in other tool strings
( CCL ) 100, a direct connect sub 26 , a plurality ofperforating comprising components differing from the components
guns 28 , a switch sub 30 , a plug -shoot firing head 32 , a comprising tool string 20 .
setting tool 34 , and a plug 36. Cable head 24 is the Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, CCL 100 has a central or
uppermost component of tool string 20 and includes an longitudinal axis 105 , a first or upper end 102 , and a second
electrical connector for providing electrical signal and 10 or lower end 104. In this embodiment, CCL 100 generally
power communication between the wireline 22 and the other includes a first or upper sub assembly 110 , a second or lower
components (CCL 100, perforating guns 28 , etc.) of tool sub assembly 140, and a housing 170 coupled between upper
string 20. CCL 100 , as will be described further herein , is sub assembly 110 and lower sub assembly 140. Upper sub
coupled to a lower end of the cable head 24 and is generally assembly 110 is disposed coaxially with longitudinal axis
configured to transmit an electrical signal to the surface via 15 105 and has a first or upper end 112 , and a second or lower
wireline 22 when CCL 100 passes through casing collar 14 , end 114. Upper sub assembly 110 may comprise 4340 Alloy
where the transmitted signalmay be recorded at the surface Steel or other materials known in the art suitable for service
as a collar kick , as discussed above, to determine the in a wellbore , and the outer surfaces of upper sub assembly
position of tool string 20 within wellbore 4 by correlating the 110 may have a finish applied thereon for providing corro
recorded collar kick with an open hole log . The direct 20 sion resistance to maximize the service life of upper sub
connect sub 26 is coupled to a lower end of CCL 100 and is assembly 110. Upper sub assembly 110 generally includes a
generally configured to provide a connection between the body 116 extending from lower end 114 , and a neck 118
CCL 100 and the portion of tool string 20 including the extending from the body 116 to the upper end 112 of upper
perforating guns 28 and associated tools, such as the setting sub assembly 110. Upper sub assembly 110 includes a
tool 34 and plug 36 . 25 passage or throughbore 120 extending between upper end
Perforating guns 28 of tool string 20 are coupled to direct 112 and lower end 114. Body 116 of upper sub assembly 110
connect sub 26 and are generally configured to perforate also includes a first or upper passage or counterbore 122
casing string 10 and provide for fluid communication extending from an upper end of body 116 and a second or
between formation 6 and wellbore 4. Particularly, perforat lower passage or counterbore 124 extending into body 116
ing guns 28 include a plurality of shaped charges thatmay 30 from the lower end 114 of upper sub assembly 110. Upper
be detonated by a signal conveyed by the wireline 22 to counterbore 122 forms an annular shoulder 122s at a lower
produce an explosive jet directed against casing string 10 . end thereof and lower counterbore 124 forms an annular
Perforating guns 28 may be any suitable perforation gun shoulder 124 an upper end thereof. Upper counterbore 122
known in the art while still complying with the principles also includes a threaded connector 122t disposed on an inner
disclosed herein . For example , in some embodiments , per- 35 surface 122i thereof and located axially at the upper end of
forating guns 28 may comprise a hollow steel carrier (HSC ) body 116 .
type perforating gun , a scalloped perforating gun , or a Neck 118 of upper sub assembly 110 includes an external
retrievable tubing gun (RTG ) type perforating gun . In addi threaded connector 126 disposed on an outer cylindrical
tion , gun 28 may comprise a wide variety of sizes such as , surface thereof and an internal threaded connector 128
for example , 23/4 " , 31/8 " , or 33/8" , wherein the above listed 40 disposed on an inner surface of throughbore 120. In this
size designations correspond to an outer diameter of perfo embodiment, threaded connector 126 comprises threads
rating guns 28 . (e.g., Acmethreads), similar to the thread - type used in other
Switch sub 30 of tool string 20 is coupled between the pair downhole tools. Internal threaded connector 128 is generally
of perforating guns 28 and includes an electrical conductor configured to threadably couple with a lower end of cable
and switch generally configured to allow for the passage of 45 head 24 that is received within throughbore 120 , as will be
an electrical signal to the lowermost perforating gun 28 of discussed further herein . In this embodiment, threaded con
tool string 20. Tool string 20 further includes plug-shoot nector 128 comprises threads (e.g., UN Unified National
firing head 32 coupled to a lower end of the lowermost threads ), similar to the thread - type used in other downhole
perforating gun 28. Plug - shoot firing head 32 couples the tools. External threaded connector 126 is generally config
perforating guns 28 of the tool string 20 to the setting tool 50 ured to threadably couple with a weight bar or sinker bar
34 and plug 36 , and is generally configured to pass a signal (not shown ) disposed about externally over cable head 24 .
from the wireline 22 to the setting tool 34 of tool string 20 . Weight bars may be used in tool strings, such as tool string
Plug - shoot firing head 32 may also include mechanical 20 shown in FIG . 1 , to add weight to the tool string to
and /or electrical components to fire the setting tool 34 . overcome buoyancy forces from fluid disposed within a
In the embodiment shown in FIG . 1 , tool string 20 further 55 wellbore .
includes setting tool 34 and plug 36 , where setting tool 34 In this embodiment, body 116 of upper sub assembly 110
is coupled to a lower end of plug -shoot firing head 32 and includes a downward facing annular shoulder 116s axially
is generally configured to set or install plug 36 within casing spaced from lower end 114 and an external threaded con
string 10 to isolate desired segments of the wellbore 4. Once nector 130 disposed at lower end 114 for threadably cou
plug 36 has been set by setting tool 34 , an outer surface of 60 pling with a corresponding threaded connector of the hous
plug 36 seals against an inner surface of casing string 10 to ing 170 of CCL 100. Body 116 also includes a pair of
restrict fluid communication through wellbore 4 across plug annular seals 132 disposed in corresponding grooves that
36. Setting tool 34 of tool string 20 may be any suitable extend into the outer surface of body 116. Annular seals 132
setting tool known in the art while still complying with the are disposed axially between shoulder 116s and external
principles disclosed herein . For example, in some embodi- 65 threaded connector 130 and are generally configured to
ments , tool 34 may comprise a # 10 or # 20 Baker style setting restrict fluid communication through the interface between
tool. In addition , setting tool 34 may comprise a wide variety the outer surface of body 116 and an inner surface ofhousing
 US 10,502,048 B2
7 8
170 of CCL 100. Annular seals 132 may comprise Nitrile , seals 156 may comprise Nitrile , Viton® , or other sealing
Viton® , or other sealing materials known in the art suitable materials known in the art suitable for wellbore conditions.
for wellbore conditions . Annular seals 156 are disposed axially between shoulder
Body 116 of upper sub assembly 110 further includes a 140s and external threaded connector 154 , and are generally
plurality of circumferentially spaced inserts 134 extending 5 configured to restrict fluid communication through the inter
radially from the outer surface 110s of body 116 and face between the outer surface of lower sub assembly 140
disposed axially adjacent the upper end of body 116. Each and the inner surface of housing 170 of CCL 100.
insert 134 includes a radially outer hemispherical end and a Lower sub assembly 140 further includes a plurality of
radially inner end brazed with a silver based alloy in a circumferentially spaced inserts 134 extending radially from
corresponding bore extending radially into the outer surface 10 the outer surface 1400 of lower sub assembly 140 and
110s of body 116 to fixably couple each insert 134 to body disposed axially adjacent lower end 144 to reduce wear on
116. However, in other embodiments inserts 134 may be CCL 100 , as described above . Similar to the configuration of
affixed to body 116 using other techniques known in the art, upper sub assembly 110, each insert 134 includes a radially
or may be removably coupled to body 116. Inserts 134 are outer hemispherical end and a radially inner end brazed with
generally configured to reduce wear on the CCL 100 during 15 a silver based alloy in a corresponding bore extending
operation within wellbore 4. Specifically , as CCL 100 is radially into the outer surface 1400 of lower sub assembly
displaced through wellbore 4 the outer surface of CCL 100 140 to fixably couple each insert 134 to lower sub assembly
may contact and wear against an inner surface of casing 140. However, in other embodiments inserts 134 may be
string 10. Inserts 134 are formed from a harder and more affixed to lower sub assembly 140 using other techniques
wear resistantmaterial than the material forming upper sub 20 known in the art, or may be removably coupled to lower sub
assembly 110 , and thus, contact between the inner surface of assembly 140.
casing string 10 and inserts 134 results in less wear to upper Housing 170 of CCL 100 is disposed coaxially with
head sub 116 and housing 170 of CCL 100 , thereby extend longitudinal axis 105 and has a first or upper end 172 , and
ing the service life of CCL 100. In this embodiment, inserts a second or lower end 174. Housing 170 is generally
134 are formed from tungsten carbide; however, in other 25 cylindrical in shape and is configured to house and protect
embodiments inserts 134 may comprise other wear resistant the electrical and magnetic components of CCL 100. Hous
materials known in the art . ing 170 may comprise a nonmagnetic , nickel based alloy, or
Lower sub assembly 140 of CCL 100 is disposed coaxi other materials known in the art suitable for service in a
ally with longitudinal axis 105 and has a first or upper end wellbore . Housing 170 includes a passage or throughbore
142 , and a second or lower beveled end 144. Lower sub 30 176 extending between upper end 172 and lower end 174 .
assembly 140 may comprise 4340 Alloy Steel, or other Housing 170 also includes a first or upper threaded connec
materials known in the art suitable for service in a wellbore , tor 178 disposed on the inner surface of housing 170
and the outer surfaces of lower sub assembly 140 may have proximal upper end 172 , and a second or lower threaded
a finish applied thereon for providing corrosion resistance to connector 180 disposed on the inner surface of housing 170
maximize the service life of lower sub assembly 140. Lower 35 proximal lower end 174. Upper threaded connector 178 is
sub assembly 140 includes a passage or throughbore 146 configured to threadably couple with internal threaded con
extending between upper end 142 and lower end 144.Lower nector 130 of upper sub assembly 110 with annular seals 132
sub assembly 140 also includes a first or lower passage or of upper sub assembly 110 sealingly engaging the inner
counterbore 148 extending from lower end 144 and forming surface of housing 170 at upper end 172. Lower threaded
an annular shoulder 148s at a terminal end thereof. Lower 40 connector 180 is configured to threadably couple with
sub assembly 140 further includes a second or upper passage internal threaded connector 154 of lower sub assembly 140
or counterbore 150 extending from the terminal end of lower with annular seals 156 of lower sub assembly 140 sealingly
counterbore 148 ; upper counterbore 150 includes a down engaging the inner surface ofhousing 170 at lower end 174 .
wards facing annular shoulder 150s disposed therein and an Referring to FIGS. 3-7 , the lower counterbore 124 of
inner surface 150i. Upper counterbore 150 also includes a 45 upper sub assembly 110 and the upper counterbore 150 of
threaded connector 150t disposed on an inner surface thereof lower sub assembly 140 each receive a pressure bulkhead
at the lower end of upper counterbore 150 . 200 disposed therein . Pressure bulkheads 200 are each
In this embodiment, lower sub assembly 140 includes an configured to pass an electrical signal from a tool coupled to
internal threaded connector 152 disposed on an inner surface CCL 100 to the internal electrical components of CCL 100,
of counterbore 148. In this embodiment, internal threaded 50 as will be described further herein . Pressure bulkheads 200
connector 152 comprises threads (e.g. , Acme threads), simi are also each configured to seal the internal electrical com
lar to the thread -type used in other downhole tools. Internal ponents of CCL 100 from the wellbore, particularly in the
threaded connector 152 is generally configured to threadably event of a failure of the seals of the tools coupled with CCL
couple with an upper end of direct connect sub 24 , which is 100. In this embodiment, pressure bulkhead 200 generally
received within lower counterbore 148 , as will be discussed 55 includes an outer insulating housing 210 and an electrical
further herein . In this embodiment, lower sub assembly 140 contact 230 disposed within insulating housing 210. Insu
also includes a set fastener extending radially into lower sub lating housing 210 is generally configured to couple pressure
assembly 140 to restrict relative rotation between lower sub bulkhead 200 to CCL 100 and insulate electrical contact 230
assembly 140 and an adjacent tool coupled with lower sub from either the upper sub assembly 110 or the lower sub
assembly 140. Lower sub assembly 140 also includes an 60 assembly 140. In this embodiment, insulating housing 230 is
upward facing annular shoulder 140s axially spaced from formed from 30 % glass filled Polyether ether ketone
upper end 142 and an external threaded connector 154 (PEEK ); however, in other embodiments insulating housing
disposed at upper end 142 for threadably coupling with a 210 may comprise other suitable electrically insulating
corresponding threaded connector of housing 170 of CCL materials .
100. Lower sub assembly 140 also includes a pair of annular 65 Insulating housing 210 of pressure bulkhead 200 is dis
seals 156 disposed in corresponding grooves that extend into posed coaxially with longitudinal axis 105 and has a first end
the outer surface 1400 of lower sub assembly 140. Annular 212 , a second end 214 , and a throughbore 216 extending
 US 10,502,048 B2
9 10
therebetween . Insulating housing 210 includes an axially upper counterbore 122 of upper sub assembly 110. Particu
extending neck 218 at second end 214 forming an annular larly , annular shoulder 210s of insulating housing 210 is
shoulder 210s. Insulating housing 210 also includes a radial disposed adjacent annular shoulder 122s and threaded con
flange 220 disposed at first end 212 that includes a threaded nector 222 of insulating housing 210 threadably couples
connector 222 disposed on an outer surface thereof for 5 with threaded connector 122t to secure pressure bulkhead
coupling insulating housing 210 to the CCL 100. Insulating 200 within upper sub assembly 110. Annular seals 224 seal
housing 210 further includes a pair of annular seals 224 against inner surface 122i of counterbore 122. Further, when
disposed in grooves that extend radially into an outer surface CCL 100 is coupled to cable head 24 of tool string 20 , an
of insulating housing 210. Seals 224 are located axially electrical pin contact 24p of cable head 24 is inserted into
between flange 220 and neck 218 of insulating housing 210. 10 bore 236 of electrical contact 230 to form an electrical
In this embodiment, seals 224 are elastomeric o -ring seals connection between cable head 24 and CCL 100 .
configured to restrict fluid communication between the As shown particularly in FIGS. 3 and 5 , when CCL 100
insulating housing 210 and either the upper sub assembly is assembled another pressure bulkhead 200 is disposed
110 or the lower sub assembly 140. within upper counterbore 150 of lower sub assembly 140 .
Insulating housing 210 of pressure bulkhead 200 includes 15 Particularly, annular shoulder 210s of insulating housing
a counterbore 226 extending axially into throughbore 206 210 is disposed adjacent annular shoulder 150s and threaded
from first end 212 , forming an annular shoulder 226s at a connector 222 of insulating housing 210 threadably couples
terminal end of counterbore 226. Counterbore 226 of insu with threaded connector 150t to secure pressure bulkhead
lating housing 210 is configured to receive electrical contact 200 within lower sub assembly 140. Annular seals 224 seal
230. Insulating housing 210 further includes a square hole 20 against the inner surface 150i of counterbore 150. Further,
228 extending into insulating housing 210 from first end 212 when CCL 100 is coupled to direct connect sub 26 of tool
for receiving a tool (e.g., a half inch square drive ) for string 20 , an electrical pin contact 26p of direct connect sub
installing or removing the pre ure bulkhead 200 from the 26 is inserted into bore 236 of electrical contact 230 to form
CCL 100. Further, throughbore 216 of insulating housing an electrical connection between the direct connect sub 26
210 includes a threaded connector 216t on a portion of the 25 and CCL 100 .
inner surface of throughbore 216 located axially between Referring to FIGS. 3-8 , CCL 100 includes internal elec
neck 218 and the annular shoulder 226s of counterbore 226 . trical and magnetic components configured to produce an
Threaded connector 216t of throughbore 216 is configured electric signal in response to being displaced by a casing
to receive and threadably connect with a corresponding collar 14 of casing string 10, as described above . Particu
threaded connector of electrical contact 230 . 30 larly, CCL 100 includes an upper head sub assembly 240 , a
Electrical contact or connector 230 is disposed within lower head sub assembly 400, and a coil assembly 500 , each
insulating housing 210 and is generally configured provide disposed coaxially with longitudinal axis 105 within hous
an electrical connection between wireline 22 and the elec ing 170 of CCL 100. Upper head sub assembly 240 is
trical components disposed within CCL 100 , as will be generally configured to electrically couple the pressure
discussed further herein . In this embodiment, electrical 35 bulkhead 200 disposed within upper sub assembly 110 with
contact 230 comprises Brass C360 ; however, in other the coil assembly 500 , and to physically support coil assem
embodiments electrical contact 230 may comprise other bly 500. Upperhead sub assembly 240 generally includes an
suitable conducting materials. In this embodiment, electrical upper head sub 242 and a diode assembly 280 disposed
contact 230 has a first end 232 , a second end 234, and a bore therein . Upper head sub 242 has a first or upper end 244, a
236 extending axially into electrical contact 230 from first 40 second or lower end 246 , and a throughbore 248 extending
end 232. Electrical contact 230 includes a neck 238 extend therebetween . A threaded connector 242t is disposed on an
ing from second end 234 and forming an annular shoulder outer surface of upper head sub 242 at lower end 246.Upper
238s at an end thereof. Neck 238 includes a threaded coupler head sub 242 includes a neck 250 extending from upper end
238t disposed on an outer surface thereof for threadably 244 and forming an annular shoulder 250s at an end thereof.
coupling with threaded connector 216t of the throughbore 45 An annular shock absorber 252 is disposed about neck 250
216 of insulating housing 210 . and is axially compressed between annular shoulder 250s of
Electrical contact 230 of pressure bulkhead 200 includes neck 250 and the lower end 114 of upper sub assembly 110 .
a pair of annular seals 237 disposed in grooves that extend Shock absorber 252 is generally configured to absorb shock
radially into an outer surface of electrical contact 230. Seals and other vibrations acting on CCL 100 from the operation
230 are located axially between first end 232 and the annular 50 of perforating guns 28 or other sources of vibration within
shoulder 238s. In this embodiment, seals 237 are elastomeric wellbore 4. In this embodiment, shock absorber 252 is
O -ring seals configured to restrict fluid communication formed from silicone rubber and includes a plurality of flutes
between the insulating housing 210 and electrical contact disposed on an outer surface thereof; however, in other
230. Electrical contact 230 also includes a contact spring embodiments shock absorber 252 may comprise other mate
239 threadably coupled to the threaded connector 238t of 55 vibrations
neck 238. When electrical contact 230 is assembled in
rials known. in the art suitable for absorbing shocks and /or
insulating housing 210 , the contact spring 239 extends Upper head sub 242 of upper head sub assembly 240
axially outwards from the portion of throughbore 216 dis further includes a counterbore 254 extending into upper
posed within neck 218. In this arrangement, contact spring head sub 242 from upper end 244. Counterbore 254 is
239 may form an electrical connection between electrical 60 configured to house diode assembly 280 , and a pair of
contact 230 of pressure bulkhead 200 and the internal circumferentially spaced slots 256 extends through neck 250
electronics of CCL 100 , as will be discussed further herein . to provide access to diode assembly 280. Upper head sub
In this embodiment, contact spring 239 is configured to 242 also includes a slot 258 radially offset from throughbore
provide a biasing force sufficient to maintain an electrical 248 that extends axially between counterbore 254 and the
connection in wellbore service conditions. 65 lower end 246. Slot 258 is configured to provide for the
As shown particularly in FIGS. 3 and 4 , when CCL 100 passage of a coil cable 260 between the diode assembly 280
is assembled a pressure bulkhead 200 is disposed within and the coil assembly 500. In this embodiment, coil cable
 US 10,502,048 B2
11 12
260 is sheathed within an acrylic fiberglass insulation sleeve connection between the upper end cap 310 and the quad
to prevent coil cable 260 from shorting against the metallic diode bridge package 340. In an embodiment, the upper lead
components of CCL 100. Upper head sub 242 further 348 may be soldered into position within lower bore 318 to
includes a radially offset fastener 264 that extends into secure the upper lead 348 to the upper end cap 310 .
counterbore 254 to restrict relative rotation between upper 5 In this embodiment, the upper end cap 310 also includes
head sub 242 and diode assembly 280 . a plurality of circumferentially spaced , internally threaded
Referring to FIGS. 8-11, diode assembly 280 , disposed apertures 320 that extend radially into an outer surface of
within counterbore 254 of upper head sub 242, is generally upper end cap 310. Apertures 320 are each configured to
configured to protect electronic components from an exces receive a fastener 322 threadably disposed therein . As
sive discharge of current from the coil assembly 500 , and to 10 shown particularly in FIG . 8 , fasteners 322 extend radially
prevent current generated by the coil assembly 500 from outwards from upper end cap 310 such that they are disposed
passing to the perforating guns 28 and other components of within the radially extending slots 292 of insulating housing
toolstring 20 disposed below CCL 100. Diode assembly 280 282 to restrict movement between upper end cap 310 and
generally includes an insulating housing 282, an upper end insulating housing 282 and thereby couple the components
cap 310 , a quad diode bridge package 340, and a lower end 15 of diode assembly 280 together. Further , one or more
cap 380 , where quad diode bridge package 340 is disposed fasteners 322 are also coupled to a terminal end of coil cable
between the upper end cap 310 and lower end cap 380 , and 260 to provide an electrical connection between coil assem
each of these components is disposed in insulating housing bly 500 and the upper end cap 310. The terminal end of coil
282 . cable 260 may include a grounding terminal for coupling
Insulating housing 282 is generally configured to electri- 20 with one of the fasteners 322 to thereby effect an electrical
cally insulate the upper end cap 310 , lower end cap 380 , and connection between the fastener 322 and the coil cable 260 .
quad diode bridge package 340 from the surrounding upper Referring to FIGS. 3 and 8-11, in this embodiment, quad
head sub 242. In this embodiment, insulating housing 282 is diode bridge package 340 includes a generally cylindrical
formed from PEEK ; however, in other embodiments insu insulating housing 342 having a sealed bore 344 disposed
lating housing 282 may comprise other suitable electrically 25 therein that includes a quad diode bridge 346. The sealed
insulating materials. In this embodiment, insulating housing bore 344 is filled with flowable silicone to protect the quad
282 is generally cylindrical and is disposed within counter diode bridge 346 disposed therein . In this embodiment, quad
bore 254 of upper head sub 242 and has a first or upper end diode bridge 346 includes a first or upper lead 348 , a second
284 disposed at upper end 244 of upper head sub 242 and a or lower lead 350. As shown particularly in FIGS. 10 and 11 ,
second or lower end 286 disposed at the lower end of 30 quad diode bridge 346 also includes first and second
counterbore 254. Insulating housing 282 includes a first or branches 352 and 354 connected in parallel between upper
upper bore 288 extending into insulating housing 282 from and lower leads 348 and 350. First branch 352 of quad diode
upper end 284 and a second or lower bore 290 extending bridge 346 includes a plurality (e.g., two ) of series- con
from the lower end 286 of insulating housing 282 , where the nected diodes 352a and 354b connected between the leads
lower end of upper bore 288 intersects with the upper end of 35 348 and 350 with a positive polarity as shown. The anode ( + )
lower bore 290. In this embodiment, upper bore 288 is of diode 354a is connected to the upper lead 348 and its
greater in diameter than lower bore 290. Upper bore 288 of cathode is connected to the anode of diode 352b . The
insulating housing 282 houses the upper end cap 310 , quad cathode ( - ) of diode 352b is connected to lower lead 350 .
diode bridge package 340 , and the lower end cap 380 , while The series -connected plurality of diodes 354a and 354b are
the lower bore 290 is configured to receive a terminal end of 40 connected with an opposite polarity to that of diodes 352a
a contact rod 310 that extends into counterbore 254 of upper and 352b . Series-connected diodes 352a and 352b are con
head sub 242. The lower end 286 of insulating housing 282 figured to pass an electrical signal from the upper lead 348
engages the set fastener 264 of upper head sub 242 to restrict to the lower lead 350 when the voltage on the upper lead 348
relative rotation between upper head sub 242 and insulating is positive and greater than a threshold (e.g. , 1.7V ) with
housing 282. Insulating housing 282 also includes circum- 45 respect to the lower lead 350. Similarly, series-connected
ferentially spaced and radially extending slots 292 that diodes 352a and 352b are configured to pass an electrical
provide access to upper end cap 310 . signal from the lower lead 350 to the upper lead 348 when
Upper end cap 310 is generally configured to provide an the voltage on the lower lead 350 is positive and greater than
electrical connection between the coil assembly 500 and the a threshold ( e.g., 1.7V ) with respect to the upper lead 348 .
quad diode bridge package 340 , and between the pressure 50 In this arrangement, an electrical signal with either polarity
bulkhead 200 and the quad diode bridge package 340. In this may be passed through CCL 100 to fire the perforating guns
embodiment, upper end cap 310 has a first or upper end 312, 28 or other tools of tool string 20 disposed below the CCL
and a second or lower end 314 that forms an annular, 100 .
downward facing shoulder . Upper end cap 310 generally Lower end cap 380 is generally configured to provide an
includes first or upper bore 316 extending into the upper end 55 electrical connection between the quad diode bridge 346 and
cap 310 from first end 312, and a second or lower bore 318 contact rod 310. In this embodiment, lower end cap 380 has
extending into upper end cap 310 from lower end 314 ,where a first or upper end 382 that forms a flanged , upward facing
the lower end of upper bore 316 intersects ormeets the upper annular shoulder, and a second or lower end 384. Lower end
end of lower bore 318. In this embodiment, upper bore 316 cap 380 generally includes a throughbore 386 extending
is greater in diameter than lower bore 318. The upper bore 60 between upper end 382 and lower end 384 that receives the
316 of upper end cap 310 is configured to receive the contact lower lead 350 of the quad diode bridge 346 to provide an
spring 239 of pressure bulkhead 200 , which extends into and electrical connection between quad diode bridge 346 and the
engages the lower end of upper bore 316 to provide an lower end cap 380. In an embodiment, the lower lead 350
electrical connection between the electrical contact 230 of may be soldered into position within throughbore 386 to
pressure bulkhead 200 and the upper end cap 310. The lower 65 secure the lower lead 350 to the lower end cap 380 .
bore 318 is configured to receive a first or upper lead 348 of Lower end cap 380 also includes an electrical contact
the quad diode bridge package 340 to provide an electrical spring 388 that is disposed about and engages an outer
 US 10,502,048 B2
13 14
surface of lower end cap 380. Contact spring 388 extends contact spring 239 of pressure bulkhead 200 and the contact
axially from the lower end 384 and engages a nut 312 that rod 310. In this embodiment, electrical contact is generally
is coupled to a terminal end of contact rod 310 , thereby cylindrical and has a first or upper end 442 and a second or
forming an electrical connection between lower end cap 380 lower end 444. Electrical contact 440 includes a first or
and contact rod 310. In this embodiment, contact spring 388 5 upper bore 446 extending into electrical contact 440 from
is configured to provide a biasing force against nut 312 upper end 442 , and a second or lower bore 448 extending
sufficient to maintain an electrical connection therewith in into electrical contact 440 from lower end 444. Upper bore
wellbore service conditions. In this arrangement, quad diode 446 includes a threaded connector 446t disposed on an inner
bridge package 340 is disposed or sandwiched between surface thereof and configured to threadably couple with a
upper end cap 310 and lower end cap 380. Particularly, an 10 threaded connector 310t disposed on an outer surface ofthe
upper end of cylindrical insulating housing 342 engages the terminal end of contact rod 310 , thereby providing an
shouldered lower end 314 of upper end cap 310 and a lower electrical connection between contact rod 310 and the elec
end of cylindrical insulating housing 342 engages the shoul trical contact 440. Lower bore 448 of electrical contact 440
dered upper end 382 of lower end cap 380 . is configured to receive contact spring 239 of pressure
Referring to FIGS. 3 and 12 , lower head sub assembly 400 15 bulkhead 200 , which engages a terminal end of lower bore
is generally configured to electrically couple the pressure 448 disposed within electrical contact 440 , thereby estab
bulkhead 200 disposed within lower sub assembly 140 with lishing an electrical connection between contact spring 239
contact rod 310 , and to physically support coil assembly 500 and electrical contact 440. In this embodiment, contact
within housing 170. Lower head sub assembly 400 generally spring 239 is configured to provide a biasing force against
includes a lower head sub 402 and an electrical contact 20 electrical contact 440 sufficient to maintain an electrical
assembly 420 disposed therein . Lower head sub 402 has a connection therewith in wellbore service conditions . In this
first or upper end 404 , a second or lower end 406 , and a arrangement, an electrical signal may be passed from the
throughbore 408 extending therebetween . A threaded con electrical pin contact 24p of cable head 24 to the electrical
nector 402t is disposed on an outer surface of lower head sub pin contact 26p of direct connect sub 26 via contact rod 310 .
402 at upper end 404.Lower head sub 402 includes a neck_25 Referring to FIGS . 3, 11 , and 13, coil assembly 500 is
410 extending from lower end 406 and forming an annular generally configured to provide a magnetic field having lines
shoulder 410s at an end thereof. of flux arching around a coiled conductor such that distor
An annular shock absorber 412 is disposed about neck tions in the provided magnetic field are translated into a
410 and is axially compressed between annular shoulder current passing through the coiled conductor, such as when
410s of neck 410 and the upper end 142 of lower sub 30 the CCL 100 passes by a casing collar 14 of casing string 10 ,
assembly 140. Shock absorber 412 is generally configured to as described above . In this embodiment, coil assembly 500
absorb shock and other vibrations acting on CCL 100 from generally includes a coil form 502 , a pair of annularmagnets
the operation of perforating guns 28 or other sources of 520 , a pair of magnet sleeves 530 , and a coil 540. Coil form
vibration within wellbore 4. In this embodiment, shock 502 is configured to physically support the coil 540 and
absorber 412 is configured similarly to shock absorber 252 35 annular magnets 520, and couple with the upper head sub
described above . Lower head sub 402 of lower head sub 242 and lower head sub 402. Coil form 502 may comprise
assembly 400 also includes a counterbore 414 extending into SAE 12L14 carbon steel and may have insulating paper
lower head sub 402 from lower end 406. Counterbore 254 is disposed therein to insulate coil 540 from coil form 502. In
configured to house electrical contact assembly 420 . this embodiment, coil form 502 has a first or upper end 504,
Electrical contact or connector assembly 420 is generally 40 a second or lower end 506 , and a throughbore 508 extending
configured to provide an electrical connection between axially between upper end 504 and lower end 506. Coil form
contact rod 310 and the electrical contact 230 of the pressure 502 includes a pair of radially extending annular flanges
bulkhead 200 disposed in the lower sub assembly 140. In 510 , with one annular flange 510 disposed at upper end 504
this embodiment, electrical contact assembly 420 generally and one annular flange 510 disposed at lower end 506. The
includes an insulating housing 422 and an electrical contact 45 outer surface of each annular flange 510 includes a threaded
440 disposed therein . Insulating housing 422 is generally connector 510t disposed thereon. In an embodiment,
configured to insulate contact rod 310 as it extends through threaded connector 510t includes Acme threads similar to
throughbore 408 of lower head sub 402. In this embodiment, the thread type used in other downhole tools. In this arrange
insulating housing 422 is formed from PEEK ; however , in ment, coil 540 is disposed axially between annular flanges
other embodiments insulating housing 422 may comprise 50 510 and radially about the outer surface of coil form 502.
other suitable electrically insulating materials . In this The throughbore 508 of coil form 502 includes an insu
embodiment, insulating housing 422 is generally cylindrical lating sleeve 512 disposed therein to prevent the outer
and has a first or upper end 424 and a second or lower end surface of contact rod 310 from contacting the inner surface
426. Insulating housing 422 includes a first or upper bore of throughbore 508 and thereby shorting out the electrical
428 extending into insulating housing 422 from upper end 55 connection provided by contact rod 310. Coil form 502 also
424, and second or lower bore 430 extending into insu includes four circumferentially spaced grounding members
lating housing 422 from lower end 426 , where lower bore 514 that extend axially between annular flanges 510. In this
430 is greater in diameter than upper bore 428. Insulating embodiment, grounding members 514 comprise leaf springs
housing 422 extends from the lower 406 of lower head sub biased radially outwards into engagement with an inner
402 to the terminal end of counterbore 414.Upper bore 428 60 surface of housing 170 to establish an electrical connection
of insulating housing 422 is configured to support and guide between coil form 502 and housing 170 to ground the coil
the terminal end of contact rod 310 to prevent contact rod 540 to the housing 170 of CCL 100. Particularly , the annular
310 from contacting the inner surface of throughbore 408 of flange 510 at lower end 506 includes four circumferentially
lower head sub 402. Lower bore 430 is configured to receive spaced fasteners 516 for coupling with a lower terminal end
electrical contact 440 disposed therein . 65 of a corresponding grounding member 514 , and annular
Electrical contact 440 of electrical contact assembly 420 flange 510 at upper end 504 includes four circumferentially
is configured to provide an electrical connection between the spaced , axially extending slots 518 for receiving an upper
 US 10,502,048 B2
15 16
terminal end of a corresponding grounding member 514 , 280 via coil cable 260, which passes through the upper
thereby securing each grounding member 514 to coil form annular flange 510 of coil form 502 via a cable groove 510g
502 . extending therethrough .
In this embodiment, each annular magnet 520 includes a While preferred embodiments have been shown and
central throughbore 522 to allow for the passage of contact 5 described , modifications thereof can be made by one skilled
rod 310 therethrough . In this embodiment, each magnet 520 in the art without departing from the scope or teachings
has a diameter 520d that is greater than a width 520w of the herein . The embodiments described herein are exemplary
annular magnet 520. The relative thinness of the width 520w only and are not limiting. Many variations and modifications
of each annular magnet 520 reduces the overall length of of the systems, apparatus, and processes described herein are
CCL 100, allowing CCL 100 to navigate tight bends in 10 possible. For and areexample
within, the
the scope
relativeof the disclosureofpresented
deviated wellbores. Also , in this embodiment, magnets 520 herein dimensions
parts, thematerials from which the various parts are made,
various
each comprise a Neodymium NEH rated material; however, and other parameters can be varied . Accordingly, the scope
in other embodiments magnets 520 may comprise other of protection
suitable magnetic materials , such as samarium cobalt, 15 herein , but is isonly not limited to the embodiments described
alnico , and the like. A first or upper annular magnet 520 is scope of which shalllimited include
by the claims that follow , the
all equivalents of the subject
disposed between upper head sub 242 and coil form 502 matter of the claims. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the
such that an upper surface of upper annular magnet 520 steps in a method claim may be performed in any order. The
engages the lower end 246 of upper head sub 242 and a recitation of identifiers such as (a ), (b ), (c ) or (1 ), (2 ), (3 )
lower surface of upper annular magnet 520 engages the 20 before steps in a method claim are not intended to and do not
upper end 504 of coil form 502. A second or lower annular specify a particular order to the steps, but rather are used to
magnet 520 is disposed between coil form 502 and lower simplify subsequent reference to such steps .
head sub 402 such that an upper surface of lower annular
magnet 520 engages the lower end 506 of coil form 502 and What is claimed is :
a lower surface of lower annular magnet 520 engages the 25 1. A casing collar locator, comprising:
upper end 404 of lower head sub 402. Therefore, the coil 540 a housing having a first end , a second end , and a passage
is disposed axially between the upper annular magnet 520 extending between the first end and the second end;
and the lower annular magnet 520, illustrated schematically a first cylindrical member having a passage extending
in FIG . 11. Particularly, as illustrated schematically in FIG . 30 therethrough and coupled to the first end of the housing ,
11 , the North Pole of each annular magnet 520 is disposed and a second cylindrical member having a passage
proximal coil 540 , with the South Pole of each annular extending therethrough and coupled to the second end
magnet 520 disposed distal coil 540. In this arrangement, of the housing ;
magnetic flux lines may pass between the upper annular a coil assembly disposed in the passage of the housing and
magnet 520 and the lower annular magnet 520 while arching 35 configured to produce an electrical signal in response to
around coil 540 .
a change in a magnetic field ;
Magnet sleeves 530 of coil assembly 500 are generally a first pressure bulkhead disposed in the passage of the
first cylindrical member and comprising an annular seal
configured to threadably couple the upper head sub 242 and to restrict fluid communication through the passage of
the lower head sub 402 to the coil form 502. In this the first cylindrical member, and
embodiment, each magnet sleeve 530 includes a threaded 40 a second pressure bulkhead disposed in the passage of the
connector 530t disposed on an inner surface thereof. In an second cylindrical member and comprising an annular
embodiment, threaded connector 530t includes Acme seal to restrict fluid communication through the passage
threads, similar to the thread type used in other downhole of the second cylindrical member;
tools. A first or uppermagnet sleeve 530 threadably couples wherein the first pressure bulkhead and the second pres
to the threaded connector 242t of upper head sub 242 and the 45 sure bulkhead each comprise an electrical connector
threaded connector 510t of the upper annular flange 510 of disposed in an insulating housing having an outer
coil form 502 via threaded connector 530t to couple upper surface configured to releasably couple with an inner
head sub 242 to coil form 502. A second or lower magnet surface of one of the first and second cylindrical
sleeve 530 threadably couples to the threaded connector members, and a contact spring coupled to the electrical
402t of lower head sub 402 and the threaded connector 510t 50 connector that provides a biasing force against the
of the upper annular flange 510 of coil form 502 via threaded electrical connector .
connector 530t to couple upper head sub 242 to coil form 2. The casing collar locator of claim 1, wherein :
502. the first cylindrical member comprises a plurality of
In this embodiment, coil 540 of coil assembly 500 gen circumferentially spaced inserts extending radially
erally includes two separate wires wound in parallel about 55 from an outer surface of the first cylindrical member;
the portion of coil form 502 disposed between annular and
flanges 510. Each wire of coil 540 may be coated with the second cylindrical member comprises a plurality of
varnish to insulate the wires of coil 540 from coil form 502 . circumferentially spaced inserts extending radially
Coil 540 may be wound thousands of times about coil form from an outer surface of the second cylindricalmember.
502 to provide a suitable electric signal in response to being 60 3. The casing collar locator of claim 2 ,wherein the inserts
passed by a casing collar 14 of casing string 10. In this of the first cylindricalmember and the inserts of the second
embodiment, coil 500 comprises two parallel wires such that cylindrical member comprise tungsten carbide.
if one wire were to wear out or cease functioning during 4. The casing collar locator of claim 1, wherein the coil
operation of CCL 100 the second , parallel wire may continue assembly comprises an annular magnet having a diameter
in operation such that CCL 100 may remain in operation and 65 greater than an axial width of the annular magnet.
continue to perform its functions in the operation of tool 5. The casing collar locator of claim 4 , wherein the
string 20. Coil 540 electrically connects to diode assembly annular magnet comprises Neodymium .
 US 10,502,048 B2
17 18
6. The casing collar locator of claim 1, wherein the coil 13. The casing collar locator of claim 9 , wherein the coil
assembly comprises two wires wound in parallel about a coil assembly comprises :
form . a coil form having a coil wrapped around the coil form ;
7. The casing collar locator of claim 1, further comprising and
a diode assembly electrically connected to the coil assembly , 5 a plurality of circumferentially spaced grounding mem
wherein the diode assembly comprises: bers coupled to the coil form , wherein the grounding
a first lead and a second lead ; members are biased into engagement with the housing .
a first plurality of series -connected diodes connected with 14. A casing collar locator, comprising :
a positive polarity between the first and second leads; 10 a housing having a first end , a second end , and a passage
and extending between the first end and the second end ;
a second plurality of series-connected diodes connected a first cylindrical member having a passage extending
with a negative polarity between the first and second therethrough and coupled to the first end of the housing ,
leads and in parallel with the first plurality of series and a second cylindrical member having a passage
connected diodes . 15 extending therethrough and coupled to the second end
8. The casing collar locator of claim 1, wherein the of the housing;
annular seal of the first pressure bulkhead comprises a first a first pressure bulkhead disposed in the passage of the
annular seal positioned radially between an outer surface of first cylindrical member and comprising an annular seal
the electrical connector and an inner surface of the insulating to restrict fluid communication through the passage of
housing of the first pressure bulkhead , and wherein the first 20 the first cylindrical member ;
pressure bulkhead comprises a second annular seal posi a second pressure bulkhead disposed in the passage of the
tioned radially between the inner surface of the first cylin second cylindrical member and comprising an annular
dricalmember and the outer surface of the insulating hous seal to restrict fluid communication through the passage
ing of the first pressure bulkhead . of the second cylindrical member , and
9. A casing collar locator, comprising: 25 a coil assembly disposed in the passage of the housing and
a housing having a first end , a second end , and a passage configured to produce an electrical signal in response to
extending between the first end and the second end ; a change in a magnetic field , wherein the coil assembly
a first cylindrical member having a passage extending comprises an annularmagnet having a diameter greater
therethrough and coupled to the first end of the housing , than an axial width of the annular magnet, and wherein
and a second cylindrical member having a passage 30 themagnet comprises a north pole and a south pole, the
extending therethrough and coupled to the second end north pole being positioned between a coil of the coil
of the housing; assembly and the south pole ;
a coil assembly disposed in the passage of the housing and wherein the first pressure bulkhead and the second pres
configured to produce an electrical signal in response to sure bulkhead each comprise an electrical connector
a change in a magnetic field ; 35 disposed in an insulating housing having an outer
a first pressure bulkhead disposed in the passage of the surface configured to releasably couple with an inner
first cylindricalmember and comprising an annular seal surface of one of the first and second cylindrical
to restrict fluid communication through the passage of members , and a contact spring coupled to the electrical
the first cylindrical member; and connector that provides a biasing force against the
a second pressure bulkhead disposed in the passage of the 40 electrical connector.
second cylindrical member and comprising an annular 15. The casing collar locator of claim 14 , wherein the
seal to restrict fluid communication through the passage annular magnet comprises Neodymium .
of the second cylindrical member ; 16. The casing collar locator of claim 14 , wherein :
wherein the first cylindricalmember comprises a plurality the first cylindrical member comprises a plurality of
of circumferentially spaced inserts extending radially 45 circumferentially spaced inserts extending radially
from an outer surface of the first cylindrical member; from an outer surface of the first cylindrical member ;
wherein the second cylindrical member comprises a plu and
rality of circumferentially spaced inserts extending wherein the second cylindrical member comprises a plu
radially from an outer surface of the second cylindrical rality of circumferentially spaced inserts extending
member; 50 radially from an outer surface of the second cylindrical
wherein the first pressure bulkhead and the second pres member.
sure bulkhead each comprise an electrical connector 17. The casing collar locator of claim 16 , wherein the
and a contact spring coupled to the electrical connector inserts of the first cylindricalmember and the inserts of the
that provides a biasing force against the electrical second cylindrical member comprise tungsten carbide.
connector, and wherein a contact rod extends centrally 55 18. The casing collar locator of claim 14 , wherein the coil
through the coil assembly and is electrically connected assembly comprises two wires wound in parallel about a coil
to the contact springs of the first and second pressure form .
bulkheads . 19. The casing collar locator of claim 14 , wherein the first
10. The casing collar locator of claim 9 , wherein the cylindricalmember comprises a threaded connector having
inserts of the first cylindricalmember and the inserts of the 60 Acme threads for coupling the casing collar locator to a tool.
second cylindrical member comprise tungsten carbide . 20. The casing collar locator of claim 14 , wherein the
11. The casing collar locator of claim 9, wherein the coil annular seal of the first pressure bulkhead comprises a first
assembly comprises an annular magnet having a diameter annular seal positioned radially between an outer surface of
greater than an axial width of the annular magnet. the electrical connector and an inner surface of the insulating
12. The casing collar locator of claim 9, wherein the coil 65 housing of the first pressure bulkhead , and wherein the first
assembly comprises two wires wound in parallel about a coil pressure bulkhead comprises a second annular seal posi
form . tioned radially between the inner surface of the first cylin
 US 10,502,048 B2
19 20
dricalmember and the outer surface of the insulating hous
ing of the first pressure bulkhead .