Patent ID: 12209468

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the drawings and descriptions that follow, like parts are typically marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals, respectively. The drawn figures are not necessarily, but may be, to scale. Certain features of the disclosure may be shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and some details of certain elements may not be shown in the interest of clarity and conciseness.

The present disclosure may be implemented in embodiments of different forms. Specific embodiments are described in detail and are shown in the drawings, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the disclosure, and is not intended to limit the disclosure to that illustrated and described herein. It is to be fully recognized that the different teachings of the embodiments discussed herein may be employed separately or in any suitable combination to produce desired results. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects or embodiments of the disclosure, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof. Additionally, the term, “or,” as used herein, refers to a non-exclusive or, unless otherwise indicated.

Unless otherwise specified, use of the terms “connect,” “engage,” “couple,” “attach,” or any other like term describing an interaction between elements is not meant to limit the interaction to direct interaction between the elements and may also include indirect interaction between the elements described.

Unless otherwise specified, use of the terms “up,” “upper,” “upward,” “uphole,” “upstream,” or other like terms shall be construed as generally away from the bottom, terminal end of a well; likewise, use of the terms “down,” “lower,” “downward,” “downhole,” “downstream,” or other like terms shall be construed as generally toward the bottom, terminal end of a well, regardless of the wellbore orientation. Use of any one or more of the foregoing terms shall not be construed as denoting positions along a perfectly vertical or horizontal axis. Unless otherwise specified, use of the term “subterranean formation” shall be construed as encompassing both areas below exposed earth and areas below earth covered by water, such as ocean or fresh water.

The global trend sees wells increasing in length, especially lateral length (e.g., upwards of about 12,200 meters measured depths). Accordingly, some operators are drilling wells they know cannot be accessed by conventional light intervention methods. Current light intervention methods are limited to the maximum reach capability of coiled tubing string, based on the maximum length of tubing that can be combined on a single spool. The spool capacity is often capped by the maximum transport load of a trailer, the maximum lift capacity of a crane, rigging space limitations, and/or simply the size of the available reels. To address these problems, the industry is attempting to move toward coupling two (e.g., or more) different coiled tubing reels together to extend the workable reach of a coiled tubing string. Unfortunately, achieving such in a workable solution has been difficult.

Therefore, aspects of the present disclosure include the better, safer, faster connecting, faster deploying, faster retrieving and faster disconnecting of such coiled tubing strings. In at least one embodiment, this is achieved employing a dual tubing guide system, in which the upper tubing guide can be moved relative to the lower tubing guide (e.g., to a secondary position), such that a rigid coiled tubing connector (e.g., or other rigid features coupled to the coiled tubing string) associated with the coiled tubing string can be deployed without bending and/or destroying. For example, in at least one embodiment, the upper tubing guide is rotated out of the way (e.g., to its secondary position) such that the coiled tubing string and rigid coiled tubing connector can be pulled past the upper tubing guide without coming into contact therewith. Once the rigid coiled tubing connector has passed the upper tubing guide, and optionally prior to the rigid coiled tubing connector coming into contact with the lower tubing guide, the upper tubing guide may be returned to its primary position, thereby rotating the rigid coiled tubing connector back in line with the injector. In this embodiment, the rigid coiled tubing connector would effectively bypass the upper tubing guide, and thus never have to bend around the upper tubing guide to be fed to the injector.

FIG.1illustrates a coiled tubing surface equipment spread100for running coiled tubing string, the coiled tubing surface equipment spread100designed, manufactured and operated according to the disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the coiled tubing surface equipment spread100includes a truck110, a wellhead stack150, and a crane truck180. In the illustrated embodiment, the truck110(e.g., coiled tubing truck) carries behind its cab a power pack including a hook-up to the truck motor or power take off, hydraulic pumps and an air compressor. The coiled tubing injecting operation can be run from the control cab115located at the rear of truck110. Control cab115may comprise the operational center. Reel120comprises the spool that carries the coiled tubing string to/at the job site. Reel120is often limited in its outside spool diameter so that, with a full load of coiled tubing string wound thereon, the reel can be trucked over the highways or waterway and to a job site.

FIG.1additionally illustrates a coiled tubing string125passed over a coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus130, and inserted into a wellbore140using a coiled tubing injector135. In the illustrated embodiment, the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus130includes a frame131, as well as a lower tubing guide132(e.g., a lower gooseneck in one embodiment) coupled to the frame131. In this illustrated embodiment ofFIG.1, the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus130further includes an upper tubing guide133(e.g., upper gooseneck in one embodiment) coupled to the frame131. In accordance with one aspect of the disclosure, the upper tubing guide133is configured to move between a primary position (e.g., shown inFIG.1) and a secondary position (e.g., not shown inFIG.1) relative to the lower tubing guide132. In at least one embodiment, the secondary position is configured to allow a rigid connector of the coiled tubing string125to at least partially bypass the upper tubing guide133.

Coiled tubing injector135often involves two hydraulic motors and two counter-rotating chains by means of which the coiled tubing injector135grips the coiled tubing string125and spools or unspools the coiled tubing string125to and from the reel120. Coiled tubing stripper145provides a pressure barrier between coiled tubing string125and the wellbore140. The wellhead stack150is illustrated as having a typical well Christmas tree155and blowout preventer160. The crane truck180provides lifting means for working at the well site.

Turning toFIGS.2A and2B, illustrated are various different operational states of a coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus200designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus200, in the illustrate embodiment, includes a frame210. In the illustrated embodiment ofFIGS.2A and2B, the frame210is separated into a lower frame portion210aand an upper frame portion210b.

The coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus200, in one or more embodiments, further includes a lower tubing guide220(e.g., lower gooseneck in one embodiment) coupled to the frame210(e.g., to the lower frame portion210a) as well as an upper tubing guide230(e.g., upper gooseneck in one embodiment) coupled to the frame210(e.g., the upper frame portion210b). In accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure, the upper tubing guide230is configured to move between a primary position (e.g., as shown inFIG.2A) and a secondary position (e.g., as shown inFIG.2B) relative to the lower tubing guide220. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the secondary position is configured to allow a rigid connector (e.g., not shown) of a coiled tubing string to at least partially bypass the upper tubing guide230.

The upper tubing guide230, in one or more embodiments, is described as moving relative to the lower tubing guide220. For example, it is envisioned that the upper tubing guide220may axially and/or rotationally move relative to the lower tubing guide220. Nevertheless, in the embodiment ofFIGS.2A and2B, the upper tubing guide230is configured to rotate between the primary position and the secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide220. For example, when the frame210includes the lower frame portion210aand the upper frame portion210b, the upper frame portion210bmay be rotationally coupled to the lower frame portion210aabout a rotation point215. As the lower tubing guide220is coupled to the lower frame portion210aand the upper tubing guide230is coupled to the upper frame portion210b(e.g., at least in this embodiment), the rotation point215allows the upper tubing guide230to rotate between the primary position and the secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide220.

In one or more embodiments, such as that shown inFIGS.2A and2B, a telescoping cylinder240is positioned between the lower frame portion210aand the upper frame portion210b. In accordance with this one embodiment, the telescoping cylinder240is configured to move the upper tubing guide230between the primary position and the secondary position. The telescoping cylinder240, in at least one embodiment, is a hydraulic telescoping cylinder. In at least one other embodiment, the telescoping cylinder240is an electric telescoping cylinder.

The frame210, and more particularly the lower frame portion210aand the upper frame portion210b, may be appropriately designed, sized and shaped, such that the rigid coiled tubing connector may reside between the lower tubing guide220and the upper tubing guide230when the upper tubing guide230is in the secondary position. Accordingly, in at least one embodiment, the lower frame portion210ahas a height (hLF) and the upper frame portion210bhas a height (hUF), the height (hUF) being great enough to allow ample space for the rigid connector to reside between the lower tubing guide220and the upper tubing guide230when the upper tubing guide230is in the secondary position.

Similarly, the lower tubing guide220and the upper tubing guide230may also be appropriately designed, sized and shaped, such that the rigid coiled tubing connector may reside between the lower tubing guide220and the upper tubing guide230when the upper tubing guide230is in the secondary position. Accordingly, in at least one embodiment, the lower tubing guide220has a height (hL) and the upper tubing guide230has a height (hU), and further wherein a totality of the upper tubing guide230is located below the height (hL) of the lower tubing guide220when the upper tubing guide230is in its secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide220.

In yet one other embodiment, the lower tubing guide220has a first radius of curvature (RLG) and the upper tubing guide230has a second different radius of curvature (RUG), and the first radius of curvature (RLG) and the second different radius of curvature (RUG) may be chosen to make sure that the totality of the upper tubing guide230is located below the height (hL) of the lower tubing guide220when the upper tubing guide230is in its secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide220. Accordingly, in at least one embodiment, the first radius of curvature (RLG) is less than the second different radius of curvature (RUG). In at least one embodiment, as shown, each of the upper tubing guide230and the lower tubing guide220further includes a plurality of rollers250for guiding coiled tubing string.

The coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus200, in one or more embodiments, may further include a coiled tubing pipe support frame260, for example including additional coiled tubing guiding rollers265. The coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus200, in one or more embodiments, may further include an optional coiled tubing straightener270, for example including one or more translatable rolling features275. Moreover, depending on whether THE coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus200is operated as a hydraulic workover unit or a coiled tubing injector system, the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus200may additionally include a collection of travelling/stationary slips280, or grippers and rollers285, respectively.

FIGS.3A through3Fillustrate a method for deploying/retrieving coiled tubing in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure within a well system300. With initial reference toFIG.3A, the well system300initially includes a first coiled tubing reel310. In at least one embodiment, as shown, the first coiled tubing reel310includes a first coiled tubing string320placed thereon. In at least one embodiment, as shown, the first coiled tubing string320is wound around the first coiled tubing reel310. The first coiled tubing string320may comprise many different coiled tubing string types and sizes and remain within the purview of the disclosure.

The well system300, in the illustrated embodiment ofFIG.3A, additionally includes a coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus330designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus330ofFIG.3Ais similar in many respects to the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus200ofFIGS.2A and2B. Accordingly, like reference numbers have been used to indicate similar, if not identical, features.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.3A, the upper tubing guide230is located in its primary position. Furthermore, an uphole end of a winch cable340is coupled to the downhole end of the first coiled tubing string320, and a downhole end of the winch cable340is coupled to a winch350. In the illustrated embodiment, the winch cable340is pulled over the upper tubing guide230, between the upper tubing guide230and the coiled tubing pipe support frame260, through the optional coiled tubing straightener270and into the collection of travelling/stationary slips280using the winch350. As shown in the embodiment ofFIG.3A, a rigid coil tubing connector360couples the first coiled tubing string320and the winch cable340.

Turning now toFIG.3B, the winch350has been engaged, the winch350pulling the winch cable340tight over the upper tubing guide230and down through the collection of travelling/stationary slips280.

Turning now toFIG.3C, the upper tubing guide230has been moved (e.g., rotated) from the primary position to the secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide220. As shown, the secondary position allows the rigid coil tubing connector360of the first coiled tubing string320to at least partially (e.g., if not fully) bypass rolling over the upper tubing guide230. In the illustrated embodiment, the rigid coil tubing connector360and the first coiled tubing string320have yet to be pulled by the winch350. In yet other embodiments, however, the rigid coil tubing connector360and the first coiled tubing string320may have been pulled a short distance (e.g., a distance less than a distance between the rigid coil tubing connector360and the upper tubing guide230) prior to moving the upper tubing guide230from the primary position to the secondary position.

Turning now toFIG.3D, the winch350has again been engaged, the winch350pulling the winch cable340and the associated rigid coil tubing connector360and first coiled tubing string320. In the illustrated embodiment, given the location of the upper tubing guide230in the secondary position, the rigid coil tubing connector360is allowed to pass the upper tubing guide230(e.g., in one embodiment without any contact therewith) and enter the frame210(e.g., upper frame portion210b). At this stage, the rigid coil tubing connector360has either yet to engage with the lower tubing guide220, or has just initially engaged with the lower tubing guide220.

Turning now toFIG.3E, the upper tubing guide230has been returned from the secondary position to the primary position, for example while holding tension on the winch cable340using the winch350. This allows the first coiled tubing reel310to rotate with back tension, thereby pulling additional length of the first coiled tubing string320from the first coiled tubing reel310. In one or more embodiments, the upper tubing guide230is now secured in the primary position, for example by locking the upper frame portion210band the lower frame portion210ato one another.

Turning now toFIG.3F, the winch350has continued to pull the winch cable340and the rigid coil tubing connector360through the collection of travelling/stationary slips280. Furthermore, the optional coiled tubing straightener270may be used to straighten the first coiled tubing string320, as needed. The winch350continues to pull the winch cable340through the optional coiled tubing straightener270until the rigid coil tubing connector360passes the bottom of the collection of travelling/stationary slips280. At this stage, the travelling/stationary slips280may engage the first coiled tubing string320, and the winch cable340may be disconnected from the rigid coil tubing connector360. The process for inserting the first coiled tubing string320within the wellbore may now continue in a conventional matter.

While the embodiment ofFIGS.3A through3Fillustrates the process for inserting the first coiled tubing string320within the wellbore, those skilled in the art understand that the process could be reversed when pulling the first coiled tubing string320from the wellbore, and ultimately disconnecting the first coiled tubing string320from the winch cable340.

FIGS.4A through4Gillustrate a method for deploying/retrieving coiled tubing in accordance with one or more alternative embodiments of the disclosure within a well system400. The well system400, in the illustrated embodiment ofFIGS.4A through4G, additionally includes a coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus430designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The method, the well system400and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus430ofFIGS.4A through4Gis similar in many respects to the method, well system300, and coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus330ofFIGS.3A through3F. Accordingly, like reference numbers have been used to indicate similar, if not identical, features. The method, the well system400and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus430ofFIGS.4A through4Gdiffers, for the most part, from the method, the well system300and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus330ofFIGS.3A through3F, in that the method, the well system400and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus430ofFIGS.4A through4Gemploys a flexible stabbing snake405designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure to help deploy the first coiled tubing string320.

Turning toFIG.4G, illustrated are various different views of one example of a flexible stabbing snake405designed, manufactured, and used according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible stabbing snake405includes a conveyance410having a plurality of spaced apart ferrules/buttons420coupled thereto. The ferrules/buttons420are spaced to substantially mimic coiled tubing string, for example as the coiled tubing string passes through the travelling/stationary slips280. In at least one embodiment, the flexible stabbing snake405may have 10 or more spaced apart ferrules/buttons420. In at least one other embodiment, the flexible stabbing snake405may have 20 or more spaced apart ferrules/buttons420, and in yet another embodiment 30 or more. In one example, similar spacing is located between each of the ferrules/buttons420. Accordingly, the flexible stabbing snake405having the conveyance410and ferrules/buttons420is able to provide a coupling between the first coiled tubing string320and the winch cable340, but still be able to easily bend (e.g., around the lower tubing guide220and the upper tubing guide230) as needed.

The conveyance410, in one or more examples, is braided wire. In yet another embodiment, the conveyance410is wire rope, among other possible conveyances. The conveyance410may vary in length (L) based upon the design of the coiled tubing surface equipment spread and downhole assembly. Nevertheless, in at least one or more examples, the conveyance410is at least 6 meters (e.g., about 20 feet) long. In one or more different examples, the conveyance410ranges from 9 meters to 18 meters (e.g., about 30 feet to about 60 feet) long, and in yet another example the conveyance410ranges from 13.7 meters to 16.8 meters (e.g., about 45 feet to about 55 feet) long. Additional lengths (L) could be accommodated if warranted. The ferrules/buttons420may be bonded to the conveyance610using metallic smelter, brazing and/or one or more different swaging/crimping processes, among other processes.

In at least one embodiment, the conveyance410has a downhole section435, a middle section440and an uphole section450. In this embodiment, the downhole section435has a length (LDS), the middle section440has a length (LMS), and the uphole section450has a length (LUS). In accordance with at least one embodiment, the length of the downhole section (LDS) is at least two times a length of the middle section (LMS) and a length of the uphole section (LUS). In accordance with at least one other embodiment, the length of the downhole section (LDS) is at least four times a length of the middle section (LMS) and a length of the uphole section (LUS).

As shown inFIG.4G, the ferrules/buttons420in the downhole section435may have a downhole section outside diameter (ODDS), the ferrules/buttons420in the middle section440may have middle section outside diameter (ODMS), and the ferrules/buttons420in the uphole section450may have an uphole section outside diameter (ODUS). In at least one embodiment, one or all of the downhole section outside diameter (ODDS), middle section outside diameter (ODMS), and uphole section outside diameter (ODUS) are different from one or all of the others of the downhole section outside diameter (ODDS), middle section outside diameter (ODMS), and uphole section outside diameter (ODUS). For example, in one embodiment the middle section outside diameter (ODMS) is greater than the downhole section outside diameter (ODDS), and the uphole section outside diameter (ODUS) is greater than the middle section outside diameter (ODMS). In yet another embodiment, the middle section outside diameter (ODMS) is less than the downhole section outside diameter (ODDS), and the uphole section outside diameter (ODUS) is less than the middle section outside diameter (ODMS). Accordingly, the flexible stabbing snake405may provide a smooth transition between a smaller diameter of the winch cable340and the larger diameter of the first coiled tubing string320, if that were the case. Nevertheless, other embodiments exist wherein the downhole section outside diameter (ODDS), middle section outside diameter (ODMS), and uphole section outside diameter (ODUS) are the same. The change in the downhole section outside diameter (ODDS), middle section outside diameter (ODMS), and uphole section outside diameter (ODUS) may be gradual, step-wise, or sudden. In one example, such as that shown inFIG.4G, the flexible stabbing snake405includes multiple step-wise changes in the outside diameter.

As shown inFIG.4G, the ferrules/buttons420in the downhole section435may have a downhole section inside diameter (IDDS), the ferrules/buttons420in the middle section440may have middle section inside diameter (IDMS), and the ferrules/buttons420in the uphole section450may have an uphole section inside diameter (IDUS). In at least one embodiment, one or all of the downhole section inside diameter (IDDS), middle section inside diameter (IDMS), and uphole section inside diameter (IDUS) are the same as one another. In at least one other embodiment, one or all of the downhole section inside diameter (IDDS), middle section inside diameter (IDMS), and uphole section inside diameter (IDUS) are different from one another.

As shown inFIG.4G, the ferrules/buttons420in the downhole section435may have a downhole section width (WDS), the ferrules/buttons420in the middle section440may have a middle section width (WMS), and the ferrules/buttons420in the uphole section450may have an uphole section width (WUS). In at least one embodiment, the downhole section width (WDS), the middle section width (WMS), and the uphole section width (WUS) are the same as one another. In yet another embodiment, one or more of the downhole section width (WDS), the middle section width (WMS), and the uphole section width (WUS) are different from each other.

The flexible stabbing snake405, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, is pull tested up to 20,000 LBF @ 1.25 safety factor (25,000 LBF). The flexible stabbing snake405, in accordance with one or more other examples of the disclosure, is pull tested up to 40,000 LBF @ 1.25 safety factor (50,000 LBF), and in yet another example pull tested up to 60,000 LBF @ 1.25 safety factor (75,000 LBF). Furthermore, a downhole swivel460located at the downhole end of the conveyance410and an uphole swivel470located at the uphole end of the conveyance410, in at least one or more examples, is pressure tested up to 2,000 PSI @ 1.25 safety factor (2,500 PSI) after 1.5″ 2.90 #C.S. hydril thread and vent port process. In another example, the downhole swivel460located at the downhole end of the conveyance410and the uphole swivel470located at the uphole end of the conveyance410, in at least one or more examples, is pressure tested up to 5,000 PSI @ 1.25 safety factor (6,250 PSI) after 1.5″ 2.90 #C.S. hydril thread and vent port process, and in yet another example pressure tested up to 10,000 PSI @ 1.25 safety factor (12,500 PSI) after 1.5″ 2.90 #C.S. hydril thread and vent port process. Thus, as shown, the flexible stabbing snake405, including the conveyance410and the one or more spaced apart ferrules/buttons420has a fluid passageway extending entirely there through that acts as a fluid conduit, for example having the pressure test values set forth above.

Those skilled in the art, given the detail above with regards toFIGS.3A through3F, and the detail above with regards to the flexible stabbing snake405, would understand the method disclosed inFIGS.4A through4F. Accordingly, no further detail is warranted.

FIGS.5A through5Hillustrate a method for deploying/retrieving coiled tubing in accordance with one or more alternative embodiments of the disclosure within a well system500. The well system500, in the illustrated embodiment ofFIGS.5A through5H, additionally includes a coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus530designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The method, the well system500and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus530ofFIGS.5A through5His similar in many respects to the method, well system300, and coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus330ofFIGS.3A through3F. Accordingly, like reference numbers have been used to indicate similar, if not identical, features. The method, the well system500and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus530ofFIGS.5A through5Hdiffers, for the most part, from the method, the well system300and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus330ofFIGS.3A through3F, in that the method, the well system500and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus530ofFIGS.5A through5His being used to couple the first coiled tubing string320of the first coiled tubing reel310, which has already been deployed downhole, with a second coiled tubing string520of a second coiled tubing reel510.

Turning toFIG.5A, the first coiled tubing string320is already positioned over the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus530and within the wellbore. The first coiled tubing string320has been run-in-hole until a last remaining portion of the first coiled tubing string320is loose at the first coiled tubing reel310. Thereafter, the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320may be held with a manipulating device550, such that the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320may be disconnected from the first coiled tubing reel310. With the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320disconnected from the first coiled tubing reel310, the manipulating device550is free to move the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320as necessary.

Turning toFIG.5B, a rigid coil tubing connector360may be connected to the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320, for example using the manipulating device550and other related tools.

Turning toFIG.5C, the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320may be coupled with a downhole end of the second coiled tubing string520that is wound around the second coiled tubing reel510, for example using the rigid coil tubing connector360. In the illustrated embodiment, a coiled tubing alignment apparatus560may be used to couple the first and second coiled tubing strings320,520. While the details of the coiled tubing alignment apparatus560will be discussed in greater detail below, in at least one embodiment a first coiled tubing alignment guide570may be coupled to the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320and a second coiled tubing alignment guide580may be coupled to the downhole end of the second coiled tubing string520, and then the coiled tubing alignment apparatus560may be used to align the first coiled tubing alignment guide570with the second coiled tubing alignment guide580, and ultimately the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320and the downhole end of the second coiled tubing string520. As the uphole end of the first coiled tubing string320and the downhole end of the second coiled tubing string520are brought together via the manipulating device550and the associated coiled tubing alignment apparatus560, the first and second coiled tubing strings320,520temporarily couple together.

Turning toFIG.5D, the first coiled tubing alignment guide570and the second coiled tubing alignment guide580may be removed from their respective coiled tubing strings (e.g., first coiled tubing string320and second coiled tubing string520), and then the connection between the first coiled tubing string320and the second coiled tubing string520may be finalized. Thereafter, the rigid coil tubing connector360may be pressure tested and pull tested. At this stage, the first and second coiled tubing strings320,520now mimic a single continuous coiled tubing string.

Turning now toFIGS.5E through5H, the process would continue with the second coiled tubing string520and the rigid coil tubing connector360in a similar manner as that disclosed above with regard toFIGS.3C through3F.

FIGS.6A through6Fillustrate a method for deploying/retrieving coiled tubing in accordance with one or more alternative embodiments of the disclosure within a well system600. The well system600, in the illustrated embodiment ofFIGS.6A through6F, additionally includes a coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus630designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The method, the well system600and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus630ofFIGS.6A through6Fis similar in many respects to the method, well system300, and coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus330ofFIGS.3A through3F. Accordingly, like reference numbers have been used to indicate similar, if not identical, features. The method, the well system600and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus630ofFIGS.6A through6Fdiffers, for the most part, from the method, the well system300and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus330ofFIGS.3A through3F, in that the method, the well system600and the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus630ofFIGS.6A through6Cemploys a coiled tubing alignment apparatus640designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

The coiled tubing alignment apparatus640, in one or more embodiments, includes a first alignment housing650, the first alignment housing650having a first angled portion652and a first straight portion654. The coiled tubing alignment apparatus640, in one or more embodiments, further includes a second alignment housing660, the second alignment housing660having a second angled portion662and second straight portion664. In one or more embodiments, the first alignment housing650and the second alignment housing660are configured to move between a first state having the first and second alignment housings650,660separated from one another (e.g., as shown inFIGS.6A,6B,6E and6F) and a second state having the first and second alignment housings650,660coupled to one another (e.g., as shown inFIGS.6C and6D). In at least one embodiment, when the first and second alignment housings650,660are in the second state, they are coupled to one another to form an alignment cone670and an alignment cylinder675.

In at least one other embodiment, the coiled tubing alignment apparatus640includes a third alignment housing (e.g., fourth alignment housing, fifth alignment housing, etc.), the third alignment housing having a third angled portion and a third straight portion. In this embodiment, the second state has the first, second and third alignment housings coupled to one another to form the alignment cone670and the alignment cylinder675.

In at least one embodiment, the coiled tubing alignment apparatus640further includes a deployment mechanism680for moving the first alignment housing650and the second alignment housing660between the first state and the second state. For example, in at least one embodiment, the deployment mechanism680axially moves the first alignment housing650and the second alignment housing660between a radially outward state (e.g., first state) and a radially inward state (e.g., second state). In at least one embodiment, the deployment mechanism680is a hydraulic deployment mechanism. In yet another embodiment, the deployment mechanism680is an electric deployment mechanism. In even yet another embodiment, the deployment mechanism680is a mechanical deployment mechanism.

As shown in the embodiment ofFIGS.6A through6F, a coiled tubing alignment guide690may be attached to an end of the coiled tubing string320, for example to align the coiled tubing string320within the alignment cone670and the alignment cylinder675when the first and second alignment housings650,660are in the second state. As further shown in the embodiment ofFIGS.6A through6F, a bottom hole assembly alignment guide695may be attached to an end of the bottom hole assembly625, for example to align the bottom hole assembly625within the alignment cone670and the alignment cylinder675when the first and second alignment housings650,660are in the second state.

Turning toFIG.6A, the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus630is illustrated with a downhole end of the coiled tubing string320positioned below the travelling/stationary slips280and spaced a short distance apart from the bottom hole assembly625. Furthermore, at this stage, the first and second alignment housings650,660are in the first state (e.g., radially outward state).

Turning toFIG.6B, the coiled tubing alignment guide690and the bottom hole assembly alignment guide695may be coupled to ends of the coiled tubing string320and the bottom hole assembly625. Again, at this stage the first and second alignment housings650,660are in the first state (e.g., radially outward state).

Turning toFIG.6C, the first and second alignment housings650,660are moved to the second state (e.g., radially inward state) via the deployment mechanism680.

Turning toFIG.6D, the travelling/stationary slips280are activated to bring the coiled tubing string320toward the bottom hole assembly625. In this embodiment, the coiled tubing alignment guide690first engages with the alignment cone670, and then the alignment cylinder675, to align the coiled tubing string320with the bottom hole assembly625. As the coiled tubing string320engages the bottom hole assembly625, they may temporarily couple together (e.g., snap together).

Turning toFIG.6E, the first and second alignment housings650,660are moved back to the first state (e.g., radially outward state) via the deployment mechanism680.

Turning toFIG.6F, the coiled tubing alignment guide690is removed from the coiled tubing string320, and then the connection between the coiled tubing string320and the bottom hole assembly625may be finalized. Thereafter, the coiled tubing string320and the bottom hole assembly625may be pressure tested and pull tested. At this stage, the coiled tubing string320and the bottom hole assembly625are ready for continued use.

Turning now toFIGS.7A and7B, illustrated are various different views of a coiled tubing reel700designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure, and as might be used with a well system, such as the well systems100,300,400,500,600described above. The coiled tubing reel700, in the illustrated embodiment, includes a drum710having a first end720and a second end725. In one or more embodiments, first and second flanges730,740are coupled to the drum710. In at least one embodiment, the first and second flanges730,740are configured to radially support a coiled tubing string wound upon the drum710.

In accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure, the coiled tubing reel700includes a coiled tubing exit opening750extending through a sidewall thickness (t) of the first flange730. In one or more embodiments, the coiled tubing exit opening750extends through the sidewall thickness (t) of the first flange730proximate a junction wherein the first flange730couples to the drum710. In accordance with one or more embodiments, the coiled tubing exit opening750is configured to allow a radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to exit the first flange730at a reduced angle, to avoid or minimize bending of the coiled tubing string along a certain length at the coiled tubing string end. This is in contrast to traditional coiled tubing reel designs, wherein the coiled tubing exit opening extends directly through the drum itself, for example between the first and second flanges, which requires substantial additional bending of the coiled tubing string end portions for the string installation/connection inside the drum710and results in significant additional bending of the coiled tubing string along its end length and a large residual/permanent string bend curvature at the string end.

In accordance with one or more embodiments, the coiled tubing exit opening750extends through the sidewall thickness (t) to allow the coiled tubing string to exit the reel at an angle (0) that is not parallel with nor perpendicular to an axis of rotation705of the coiled tubing reel700. For example, in one or more embodiments, the angle (0) ranges from 30 degrees to 89 degrees relative to the axis of rotation705of the coiled tubing reel700, from 45 degrees to 89 degrees relative to the axis of rotation705of the coiled tubing reel700, or from 60 degrees to 89 degrees relative to the axis of rotation705of the coiled tubing reel700.

In the illustrated embodiment ofFIGS.7A and7B, the first and second flanges730,740are coupled to the drum proximate the first end720and the second end725, the first flange730forming an exposed drum portion760. The term “proximate” as used herein relating to the exposed drum portion760, means that the exposed drum portion760has a width (Wd) of less than 50 percent a total width (Wt) of the drum710. In yet another embodiment, however, the exposed drum portion760has a width (Wd) of less than 25 percent a total width (Wt) of the drum710, if not less than 10 percent a total width (Wt) of the drum710.

Turning now toFIGS.8A and8B, illustrated are various different views of a coiled tubing reel800designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more alternative embodiments of the disclosure, and as might be used with a well system, such as the well systems100,300,400,500,600described above. The coiled tubing reel800ofFIGS.8A and8Bis similar in many respects to the coiled tubing reel700ofFIGS.7A and7B. Accordingly, like reference numbers have been used to indicate similar, if not identical, features. The coiled tubing reel800differs from the coil tubing reel700, for the most part, in that the coiled tubing reel800includes a coiled tubing clamping apparatus810coupled to the exposed drum portion760. In at least one embodiment, the coiled tubing clamping apparatus810is coupled to the exposed drum portion760proximate the coiled tubing exit opening750, and is configured to fix the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to the coiled tubing reel710.

In at least one embodiment, the coiled tubing reel800further includes a rigid coiled tubing connector820having a first end830and a second end835. In one or more embodiments, the first end830of the rigid coiled tubing connector820is aligned with the coiled tubing clamping apparatus810, and the second end835of the rigid coiled tubing connector820extends through the exposed drum portion760and into an interior of the drum710. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the rigid coiled tubing connector820is a1502coiled tubing connector.

The coiled tubing clamping apparatus810, in one or more embodiments, also acts as a guide for the coiled tubing string end to engage with other features. For example, the coiled tubing clamping apparatus810may guide the coiled tubing string end into engagement with the rigid coiled tubing connector820. Moreover, the addition of the rigid coiled tubing connector820provides many benefits. For example, using the rigid coiled tubing connector820means that there is no need to further bend the coiled tubing string into the drum710. Additionally, the rigid coiled tubing connector820allows for a much straighter coiled tubing string end section and easier coiled tubing string installation. Additionally, it provides much better access for easier positioning of the coiled tubing string end and connection to the1502connector, as well as disconnection from the1502connector. Moreover, using the rigid coiled tubing connector820means that there is little need to work inside of the drum710.

Turning now toFIGS.9A and9B, illustrated are various different views of a coiled tubing reel900designed, manufactured and/or operated according to one or more alternative embodiments of the disclosure, and as might be used with a well system, such as the well systems100,300,400,500,600described above. The coiled tubing reel900ofFIGS.9A and98Bis similar in many respects to the coiled tubing reel800ofFIGS.8A and8B. Accordingly, like reference numbers have been used to indicate similar, if not identical, features. The coiled tubing reel900differs from the coil tubing reel800, for the most part, in that the coiled tubing reel900includes a coiled tubing string910wound upon the drum710. Additionally, the uphole end of the coiled tubing string910extends through a coiled tubing exit opening950, and thereafter couples with the rigid coiled tubing connector820. Additionally, the coiled tubing clamping apparatus810fixes the uphole end of the coiled tubing string910relative to the drum710.

Further to the embodiment ofFIGS.9A and9B, the coiled tubing exit opening950is not an angled smaller coiled tubing exit opening (e.g., angled circular coiled tubing opening), but in turn is a larger (e.g., non-angled) coiled tubing exit opening, as shown. For example, in accordance with one or more other embodiments, a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing exit opening950is at least three times a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing string910, for example to allow the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string910to exit the first flange730at a reduced angle (β). In yet another embodiment, a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing exit opening950is at least six times a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing string910, for example to allow the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string910to exit the first flange730at the reduced angle (β). In even yet another embodiment, a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing exit opening950is at least fifteen times a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing string910, for example to allow the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string910to exit the first flange730at the reduced angle (β).

Given the larger coiled tubing exit opening950, the coiled tubing string910may exit the first flange730at the reduced angle (β). In one or more embodiments, the reduced angle (β) is at least 45 degrees, if not at least 50 degrees, if not at least 55 degrees, if not at least 60 degrees, if not at least 65 degrees, if not at least 70, degrees if not at least 75 degrees, if not at least 80 degrees, if not at least 85 degrees, if not at least 88 degrees, all of which are relative to the axis of rotation705.

Aspects disclosed herein include:

A. A coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus, the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus including: 1) a frame; 2) a lower tubing guide coupled to the frame; and 3) an upper tubing guide coupled to the frame, the upper tubing guide configured to move between a primary position and a secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide, the secondary position configured to allow a rigid connector of a coiled tubing string to at least partially bypass the upper tubing guide.

B. A method for deploying/retrieving coiled tubing, the method including: 1) providing a coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus, the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus including: a) a frame; b) a lower tubing guide coupled to the frame; and c) an upper tubing guide coupled to the frame, the upper tubing guide configured to move between a primary position and a secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide, the secondary position configured to allow a rigid connector of a coiled tubing string to at least partially bypass the upper tubing guide; 2) coupling a rigid connector of a coiled tubing string to another string at a first location outside of the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus; 3) moving the upper tubing guide from the primary position to the secondary position; 4) pulling the rigid connector into the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus and past the upper tubing guide located in the secondary position; and 5) moving the upper tubing guide from the secondary position to the primary position with the rigid connector in the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus and past the upper tubing guide.

C. A well system, the well system including: 1) a wellbore extending through one or more subterranean formations; and 2) a coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus positioned over the wellbore, the coiled tubing deployment/retrieval apparatus including: a) a frame; b) a lower tubing guide coupled to the frame; and c) an upper tubing guide coupled to the frame, the upper tubing guide configured to move between a primary position and a secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide, the secondary position configured to allow a rigid connector of a coiled tubing string to at least partially bypass the upper tubing guide.

D. A coiled tubing alignment apparatus, the coiled tubing alignment apparatus including: 1) a first alignment housing, the first alignment housing having a first angled portion and a first straight portion; and 2) a second alignment housing, the second alignment housing having a second angled portion and second straight portion, wherein the first alignment housing and the second alignment housing are configured to move between a first state having the first and second alignment housings separated from one another and a second state having the first and second alignment housings coupled to one another to form an alignment cone and an alignment cylinder.

E. A method for deploying/retrieving coiled tubing, the method including: 1) providing a coiled tubing alignment apparatus, the coiled tubing alignment apparatus including: a) a first alignment housing, the first alignment housing having a first angled portion and a first straight portion; and b) a second alignment housing, the second alignment housing having a second angled portion and second straight portion, wherein the first alignment housing and the second alignment housing are configured to move between a first state having the first and second alignment housings separated from one another and a second state having the first and second alignment housings coupled to one another to form an alignment cone and an alignment cylinder; 2) feeding coiled tubing string through the alignment cone and the alignment cylinder of the coiled tubing alignment apparatus that is formed when the first and second alignment housings are positioned in the second state; 3) coupling the coiled tubing string with other tubing while the first and second alignment housings are positioned in the second state; and 4) moving the first and second alignment housings from the second state to the first state after coupling the coiled tubing string with the other tubing.

F. A coiled tubing reel, the coiled tubing reel including: 1) a drum having a first end and a second end; 2) first and second flanges coupled to the drum, the first and second flanges configured to radially support a coiled tubing string wound upon the drum; and 3) a coiled tubing exit opening extending through a sidewall thickness (t) of the first flange proximate a junction wherein the first flange couples to the drum, the coiled tubing exit opening configured to allow a radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to exit the first flange at a reduced angle.

G. A method for connecting an end of coiled tubing string to a coiled tubing reel, the method including: 1) positioning the coiled tubing string end through an exit opening extending through a sidewall thickness (t) of the first reel flange proximate a junction wherein the first flange couples to the drum, the coiled tubing exit opening configured to allow a radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to exit the first flange at a reduced angle; and 2) clamping the end of the coiled tubing string to the exterior side of the reel drum.

H. A method, the method including: 1) providing a coiled tubing reel, the coiled tubing reel including: a) a drum having a first end and a second end; b) first and second flanges coupled to the drum, the first and second flanges configured to axially and radially support a coiled tubing string wound upon the drum; and c) a coiled tubing exit opening extending through a sidewall thickness (t) of the first flange proximate a junction wherein the first flange couples to the drum; 2) feeding a radially interior end of a coiled tubing string through the coiled tubing exit opening at a reduced angle (β); and 3) rotating the coiled tubing reel with the radial interior end of the coiled tubing string fed through the coiled tubing exit opening about its axis of rotation to wind the coiling tubing string about the coiled tubing reel.

I. A method for connecting an end of coiled tubing string to a coiled tubing reel, the method including: 1) positioning a radially interior end of a coiled tubing string through a coiled tubing exit opening extending through a sidewall thickness (t) of a first flange proximate a junction wherein the first flange couples to a drum, the coiled tubing exit opening configured to allow the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to exit the first flange at a reduced angle (β) relative to an axis of rotation of the drum; and 2) clamping the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string that is extending out the first flange to an exterior side of the drum.

Aspects A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H and I may have one or more of the following additional elements in combination: Element 1: wherein the upper tubing guide is configured to rotate between the primary position and the secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide. Element 2: wherein the frame includes a lower frame portion and an upper frame portion rotationally coupled to the lower frame portion about a rotation point, the lower tubing guide coupled to the lower frame portion and the upper tubing guide coupled to the upper frame portion, the rotation point allowing the upper tubing guide to rotate between the primary position and the secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide. Element 3: further including a telescoping cylinder positioned between the lower frame portion and the upper frame portion, the telescoping cylinder configured to move the upper tubing guide between the primary position and the secondary position. Element 4: wherein telescoping cylinder is a hydraulic cylinder or electric cylinder. Element 5: wherein the upper frame portion has a height (hUF), and further wherein the height (hUF) is great enough to allow ample space for the rigid connector to reside between the lower tubing guide and the upper tubing guide when the upper tubing guide is in the secondary position. Element 6: wherein the lower tubing guide has a height (hL), and further wherein a totality of the upper tubing guide is located below the height (hL) of the lower tubing guide when the upper tubing guide is in its secondary position relative to the lower tubing guide. Element 7: wherein the lower tubing guide has a first radius of curvature (RLG) and the upper tubing guide has a second different radius of curvature (RUG). Element 8: wherein the first radius of curvature (RLG) is less than the second different radius of curvature (RUG). Element 9: wherein each of the upper tubing guide and the lower tubing guide include a plurality of rollers for guiding coiled tubing string. Element 10: wherein the moving includes rotating the upper tubing guide from the primary position to the secondary position. Element 11: wherein the lower tubing guide has a first radius of curvature (RLG) and the upper tubing guide has a second different radius of curvature (RUG), and further wherein the first radius of curvature (RLG) is less than the second different radius of curvature (RUG). Element 12: wherein the coiled tubing string is a first coiled tubing string and the another string is a second coiled tubing string. Element 13: further including a third alignment housing, the third alignment housing having a third angled portion and a third straight portion. Element 14: wherein the second state has the first, second and third alignment housings coupled to one another to form the alignment cone and the alignment cylinder. Element 15: further including a deployment mechanism for moving the first alignment housing and the second alignment housing between the first state and the second state. Element 16: wherein the deployment mechanism axially moves the first alignment housing and the second alignment housing between a radially outward state and a radially inward state. Element 17: wherein the deployment mechanism is a hydraulic deployment mechanism. Element 18: wherein the deployment mechanism is an electric deployment mechanism. Element 19: wherein the deployment mechanism is a mechanical deployment mechanism. Element 20: further including a coiled tubing alignment guide, the coiled tubing alignment guide configured to attach to an end of coiled tubing to align the coiled tubing string within the alignment cone and the alignment cylinder. Element 21: further including a bottom hole assembly alignment guide, the bottom hole assembly alignment guide configured to attach to an end of a bottom hole assembly to align the bottom hole assembly within the alignment cylinder. Element 22: further including attaching a coiled tubing alignment guide to an end of the coiled tubing string while the first and second alignment housings are in the first state and prior to feeding the coiled tubing string through the alignment cone and the alignment cylinder. Element 23: wherein the other tubing is a bottom hole assembly, and further including attaching a bottom hole assembly alignment guide to an end of the bottom hole assembly while the first and second alignment housings are in the first state and prior to feeding the coiled tubing string through the alignment cone and the alignment cylinder. Element 24: wherein feeding the coiled tubing string through the alignment cone and the alignment cylinder has the coiled tubing alignment guide first ride upon the alignment cone and then ride upon the alignment cylinder to align the coiled tubing string with the bottom hole assembly prior to coupling the coiled tubing string with the bottom hole assembly. Element 25: wherein the coupling is initially coupling and further including securing the coiled tubing string to the bottom hole assembly using a mechanical fastener after moving the first and second alignment housings from the second state to the first state. Element 26: wherein the other tubing is a second coiled tubing string, and further including attaching a second coiled tubing alignment guide to an end of the second coiled tubing string while the first and second alignment housings are in the first state and prior to feeding the coiled tubing string through the alignment cone and the alignment cylinder. Element 27: wherein feeding the coiled tubing string through the alignment cone and the alignment cylinder has the coiled tubing alignment guide first ride upon the alignment cone and then ride upon the alignment cylinder to align the coiled tubing string with the second coiled tubing string prior to coupling the coiled tubing string with the second coiled tubing string. Element 28: wherein the coupling is initially coupling and further including securing the coiled tubing string to the second coiled tubing string using a mechanical fastener after moving the first and second alignment housings from the second state to the first state. Element 29: further including a deployment mechanism for moving the first alignment housing and the second alignment housing between the first state and the second state. Element 30: wherein the deployment mechanism axially moves the first alignment housing and the second alignment housing between a radially outward state and a radially inward state. Element 31: wherein the coiled tubing exit opening extends through the sidewall thickness (t) at an angle (θ) that is not parallel with nor perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the coiled tubing reel. Element 32: wherein the angle (θ) ranges from 30 degrees to 89 degrees relative to the axis of rotation of the coiled tubing reel. Element 33: wherein the angle (θ) ranges from 45 degrees to 89 degrees relative to the axis of rotation of the coiled tubing reel. Element 34: wherein the angle (θ) ranges from 60 degrees to 89 degrees relative to the axis of rotation of the coiled tubing reel. Element 35: wherein a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing exit opening is at least three times a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing string to allow the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to exit the first flange at the reduced angle. Element 36: wherein a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing exit opening is at least six times a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing string to allow the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to exit the first flange at the reduced angle. Element 37: wherein the first and second flanges are coupled to the drum proximate the first end and the second end, the first flange forming an exposed drum portion. Element 38: further including a coiled tubing clamping apparatus coupled to the exposed drum portion proximate the coiled tubing exit opening, the coiled tubing clamping apparatus configured to fix the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to the coiled tubing reel. Element 39: further including a rigid coiled tubing connector having a first end and a second end, the first end of the rigid coiled tubing connector aligned with the coiled tubing clamping apparatus and the second end of the rigid coiled tubing connector extending through the exposed drum portion and into an interior of the drum. Element 40: further including connecting the coiled tubing string end to a coiled tubing connector. Element 41: wherein the first and second flanges are coupled to the drum proximate the first end and the second end, the first flange forming an exposed drum portion. Element 42: further including a coiled tubing clamping apparatus coupled to the exposed drum portion proximate the coiled tubing exit opening, the coiled tubing clamping apparatus configured to fix the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to the coiled tubing reel. Element 43: further including clamping the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string fed through the coiled tubing exit opening to the coiled tubing clamping apparatus. Element 44: further including a rigid coiled tubing connector having a first end and a second end, the first end of the rigid coiled tubing connector aligned with the coiled tubing clamping apparatus and the second end of the rigid coiled tubing connector extending through the exposed drum portion and into an interior of the drum. Element 45: further including coupling the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to the first end of the rigid coiled tubing connector. Element 46: wherein the coupling the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string to the first end of the rigid coiled tubing connector occurs prior to clamping the radially interior end of the coiled tubing string fed through the coiled tubing exit opening to the coiled tubing clamping apparatus. Element 47: wherein the coiled tubing exit opening extends through the sidewall thickness (t) at an angle (θ) that ranges from 30 degrees to 89 degrees relative to the axis of rotation. Element 48: wherein a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing exit opening is at least three times a cross-sectional surface area of the coiled tubing string to allow the radially interior end of the coiled tubing to exit the first flange at the reduced angle. Element 49: further including connecting the coiled tubing string end to a coiled tubing connector located on the exterior side of the drum.

Those skilled in the art to which this application relates will appreciate that other and further additions, deletions, substitutions and modifications may be made to the described examples.