Patent ID: 8776888
Filing Date: 2014-07-15
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
1. A valve for inclusion in a tubular, comprising: a substantially cylindrical outer valve housing having a central axis and a plurality of radially extending side ports; and an inner sliding sleeve disposed within the outer valve housing, wherein the inner sliding sleeve is rotationally locked relative to the outer valve housing and is configured to move axially relative to the outer valve housing; the sliding sleeve further comprising a first sealing means, a second sealing means axially spaced from the first sealing means, and a third sealing means axially spaced from the second sealing means, wherein the second sealing means is axially positioned between the first sealing means and the third sealing means, and wherein each sealing means is disposed about the entire circumference of the sliding sleeve and contacts an inner sealing surface of the valve housing; wherein the sliding sleeve is configured to move axially between: a first, closed position with the side ports axially disposed between the second sealing means and the third sealing means; an intermediate, closed position with the side ports axially disposed between the first sealing means and the second sealing means; and a second, open position with the entire sliding sleeve and each sealing means axially disposed on the same side of the side ports; wherein the intermediate, closed position is axially disposed between the first, closed position and the second, open position; wherein the first sealing means, the second sealing means, and the third sealing means are each mounted on the sliding sleeve and are configured to move axially with the sliding sleeve.