Patent ID: 8381627

Claim:
A method of severing a tubular member comprising the steps of: placing a tool within the interior of the tubular member at the point where it is desired to sever the member, said tool including a reversible actuator connected to a framework formed of four arc-shape shape charge chambers which when extended move from a collapsed semi-vertical position to an extended horizontal position forming a near continuous circle of shape charges in a common plane along the inside diameter of the tubular member, in the collapsed position, said tool and framework also including a pair of conical cages of larger overall diameter pointing upward and downward above and below the shape charge chamber, to allow the tool to pass through constrictions within said tubular member and when extended, said framework is positioned transversely to the axis of said member and said shape charge chambers are positioned adjacent the interior walls of said member; extending said framework after said tool has been placed within said member by actuating the framework with sufficient force applied in equal directions so that the tool is centered within said tubular member and said shape charge chambers are positioned adjacent the interior walls of said member at said point in a common plane where it is desired to sever said member; verifying the tool is in correct position before firing by use of proximity switches on the pneumatic actuator; and detonating said explosive charges thereby completely severing said member.