Patent ID: 6732806
Filing Date: 2004-05-11
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A method of expanding a tubular in a wellbore, comprising:running an apparatus into the wellbore, the apparatus including: the tubular for expansion; a slip for fixing the tubular in a wellbore; an expander tool on a work string; an attachment means between the work string and the tubular; means for setting the slip including sealing members disposed around the work string and temporarily fixed thereto, to seal an annular area formed between the string and tubular; setting the slip in the wellbore; disengaging the attachment means; lifting the work string and expansion tool with respect to the tubular, whereby the sealing members are removed from the tubular; actuating the expander tool; and expanding at least a portion of the tubular through axial motion of the expansion tool and work string.