Patent ID: 6634429
Filing Date: 2003-10-21
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A remotely operable valve assembly for use in a subterranean well to selectively control flow in a first flow passageway formed in the annulus between an inner and an outer telescoped tubular members and a separate central flow passageway formed by the inner tubular member, the central passageway being of a size to allow well tools to enterand pass through the central passageway, the valve assembly comprising: an annular valve and mating seat mounted in the annulus to control flow through the annulus; the valve is mounted to be axially movable with respect to the seat between a closed position adjacent the seat where flow through the annulus is blocked and an open position axially displaced from the seat where flow through the annulus is not blocked; a first valve actuator operably connected to move the valve between the open and closed positions in response to engagement by a well tool located in the central passageway, and a second valve actuator operably connected to the valve to axially move the valve from the closed position to the open position in response to a series of pressure variations in the annulus.