Patent ID: 9010414
Filing Date: 2015-04-21
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for protecting from debris a component of a running tool disposed within a subterranean tool being run for deployment at a subterranean location, comprising: a running tool mandrel disposed adjacent the component of a subterranean tool for tandem movement therewith and to define an annular gap therebetween defining an annular space that needs to be protected from subterranean debris during said tandem movement; a seal assembly spanning said annular gap for contact with the component when running in; said annular space, which is always closed to flow toward the subterranean location surrounding said mandrel by said seal assembly when said seal assembly is functional, and is selectively communicated through at least one mandrel wall opening that is selectively opened by defeat of a pressure sensitive barrier in said opening, said pressure sensitive barrier automatically responding to a predetermined differential pressure between pressure at said annular space and the subterranean location surrounding said mandrel; said pressure sensitive barrier maintaining said wall opening closed as said mandrel and the component of a subterranean tool are delivered to the subterranean location and said predetermined differential pressure is not reached.