Patent ID: 7219746
Filing Date: 2007-05-22
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A casing junction apparatus for joining a lateral branch casing to a string of main casing in a well, the apparatus having a collapsed position for running-in and an expanded position while installed, the apparatus comprising: a main passage having an upper end and a lower end adapted to be secured into and run into a main well while the apparatus is in the collapsed position, and a lateral passage joining the main passage between the upper and lower ends and extending laterally therefrom; and wherein the apparatus is formed of malleable material; wherein said main passage comprises: a generally conical upper enlarged section which is adapted to be connected to said upper end and diverges in a downward direction, a generally conical lower enlarged section which joins the upper enlarged section or a cylindrical downward extension of it and extends downward, the conical lower enlarged section converging in a downward direction for connection to said lower end; and said lateral passage comprises a branch lateral section which joins at least one of the enlarged sections and extends downward at an angle relative to the main casing for connection to lateral branch casing below the apparatus.