Method and apparatus for mechanically perforating a well casing or other tubular structure for testing, stimulation or other remedial operations

摘要

An apparatus and method for perforating, testing, squeezing and/or stimulating an oil or gas well, or other tubular structure. The apparatus preferably is suspended from an elongate conduit, such as a drill string or tubing. The apparatus is secured in position by a retractable back-up plate, and then a piercing member perforates the casing. A first valve controls the flow of fluid from a high-pressure accumulator to drive the various pistons in the apparatus. A second valve directs fluid from the elongate conduit either to exit through the perforation or to exit the housing and return up the conduit. Axial movement of the elongate conduit controls both valves in the apparatus. Upon completion of the operation, the piercing member is advanced to plug the perforation, the back-up plate is retracted, and the apparatus is removed.