Patent ID: 6220353
Filing Date: 2001-04-24
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A tool assembly for use in a tool string for gravel packing an annular area of a wellbore surrounding at least a portion of the tool string in the wellbore, the tool assembly comprising:a packer;a housing attached to the packer, the housing defining a bore therethrough and further defining at least one orifice providing communication between an exterior of the housing and the bore;a service tool selectively attachable to a tubing string and adapted for selective positioning within the housing;a selectively shiftable ball valve mounted within the service tool, the ball valve selectively, remotely shiftable between an open position and a closed position;the service tool defining at least two alternate flow paths; andthe ball valve adapted and positioned to selectively open and close at least one of the at least two alternate flow paths.