Patent ID: 6805056
Filing Date: 2004-10-19
Classification: E02B,E21B

Abstract:
A method of severing a tubular member in a marine environment, the tubular member being hollow and having a leg wall with an inside surface, said method comprising the steps of:a) lowering a frame within the tubular member at a selected location, the frame having multiple curved charges, each being movable between retracted and expanded positions, wherein the charges are retained in a retracted position with a pin in step â€œaâ€  lowering; b) moving the charges to the expanded position by removing the pin so that the charges each engage the tubular member; c) severing the wall of the leg by detonating the explosive charges; and d) wherein in step â€œbâ€  the charges are spring biased to move to the expanded position responsive to removal of the pin.