Side entry flow spool and use thereof

Abstract

The invention provides a side entry flow spool for use in production of oil and gas from a well. The side entry flow spool provides for a shift in the direction of flow of the hydrocarbons, from horizontal to vertical.

1 . A side entry flow spool comprising a forging with flanges located at the top and bottom; an inlet located on the side; an outlet located at the top; and an internal cavity that is fluidly connected to the inlet and outlet wherein there is no opening at the bottom. 
     
     
         2 . The side entry flow spool of  claim 1  further comprising a machined internal profile for connection with a latch mechanism located inside the forging that is suitable for connection with a subsea test tree or oilfield tubular string. 
     
     
         3 . The side entry flow spool of  claim 1  further comprising one or more additional inlets located on the side of the forging. 
     
     
         4 . The side entry flow spool of  claim 3  wherein the one or more additional inlets are suitable for one or more of the following: injecting treatment fluids, connecting with another side entry flow spool, monitoring pressure or flushing the system. 
     
     
         5 . The side entry flow spool of  claim 1  wherein the inlet is a tubular that is integral to the side entry flow spool. 
     
     
         6 . The side entry flow spool of  claim 1  wherein the flanges are API standard flanges that can be connected with standard oil and gas industry equipment. 
     
     
         7 . The side entry flow spool of  claim 1  wherein the bottom of the side entry flow spool is suitable for connection to a wellhead connector. 
     
     
         8 . The side entry flow spool of  claim 1  wherein the top of the side entry flow spool is suitable for connection to a blowout preventer or directly to a production string. 
     
     
         9 . The side entry flow spool of  claim 1  wherein the top of the side entry flow spool is suitable for connection to a wellhead connector so that other standard oil and gas production equipment can be connected to the wellhead connector on top of the side entry flow spool.