Patent ID: 6109354
Filing Date: 2000-08-29
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
For use within a subterranean well having an annulus and a tubular conduit longitudinally disposed therein, each of the annulus and tubular conduit having a fluid contained therein, a circulating valve comprising:a generally tubular outer housing having an upper attachment portion capable of sealingly engaging the tubular conduit, a first axially extending internal bore, a second axially extending bore, the second axially extending bore being radially reduced relative to the first axially extending bore, and a first radially extending opening formed through the housing and intersecting the first axially extending bore;a generally tubular mandrel axially received in the housing and having first and second outer side surfaces, the first outer side surface being radially enlarged relative to the second outer side surface and being in sealing and sliding engagement with the first axially extending bore, the second outer side surface being in sealing and sliding engagement with the second axially extending bore, a second radially extending opening formed through the mandrel and intersecting the second outer side surface, and the mandrel further having a first position relative to the outer housing in which the second opening is in fluid communication with the first opening and a second position in which the second opening is disposed within the second axially extending bore and isolated from fluid communication with the first opening; anda member radially inwardly disposed relative to a third opening formed radially through the housing, the member being capable of permitting substantially unrestricted flow of the annulus fluid radially inwardly through the third opening, and the member being capable of restricting flow of the tubing fluid radially outwardly through the third opening.