This paper treats how it has been solved the issue that occurs when it is necessary to connect offset down-hole completion tools or tools needing precise alignment (for examples with dual string wells or with control lines for interval control valves in ‘smart wells’). With standard tubing premium connection that is impossible; on the market there are some tools that allow this regulation as Travel Joints and Adjustable Unions but their installation is cumbersome and time consuming.
Their advantages and disadvantages are analyzed and compared to those ones of the SWIVEL JOINT. The SWIVEL JOINT is a tubing junction made by three components: the upper body (male) stabbed inside the lower body (female) to join the subassemblies that are equipped with them, and a bushing connected with a thread to the lower body that energizes the Dual Metal to Metal Seal of the tool itself.
In comparison with market tools, the SWIVEL JOINT follows a totally different approach, it loses the telescopic action but it can be considered as tubing connection and it has been tested consequently accordingly to ISO 13679 CAL IV. Its double MTM seal between upper and lower body can stand up to 10000psi working pressure for standard application, but it can rise over 18000psi for special combinations of grades, wall thicknesses and sizes available (from 2.3/8" to 9.5/8").
In addition the paper shows:
the reliability of the SJ connection within the evolution of its case history,
the technology improvement introduced during the years to accommodate client specific needs,
the new developed capability to transmit high torque through the tool.
All this made available to speed up site installations, especially in Offshore situations, granting safety during installation and well integrity. The relevant cost saving evaluation is illustrated with comparative installation data.
