Patent ID: 6079497
Filing Date: 2000-06-27
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
An equalizing subsurface safety valve for controlling fluid flow in a well conduit, comprising:a body member having a longitudinal bore extending therethrough;a valve actuator disposed for axial movement within the longitudinal bore;a piston disposed within the body member and moveable in response to application of hydraulic fluid to move the valve actuator within the longitudinal bore;a valve member mounted within the body member to control fluid flow through the longitudinal bore, the valve member having an upper surface, a lower surface, and a bore therethrough;means for biasing the valve actuator away from the valve member;an equalizing plug disposed for reciprocal movement within the bore of the valve member;a retention member secured to the lower surface of the valve member and biasing the equalizing plug within the bore to a normally closed position; and,a cantilevered beam having a first end and a second end, the first end being secured to the upper surface of the valve member, the second end being disposed within the downward path of the valve actuator, and a portion of the beam being positioned directly above the equalizing plug, whereby downward movement of the valve actuator is transferred through the beam to the equalizing plug to shift the plug to open a passageway through the valve member and permit fluid pressure above and below the valve member to equalize before the valve member is opened to allow fluid flow through the longitudinal bore.