Tom Saunders

Title: Innovations of Tom Saunders in Sand Management Technology

Introduction

Tom Saunders is an accomplished inventor based in Sugar Land, TX (US), known for his significant contributions to sand management technology in the oil and gas industry. With a total of four patents to his name, Saunders has developed innovative methods that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of wellbore operations.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents is a method and system of sand management, which facilitates sand control in a wellbore. This technique involves deploying a lower completion and an upper completion downhole into the wellbore. The lower completion assembly utilizes a plurality of packers to isolate well zones, and it features gravel pack ports that can be independently opened to enable gravel packing of each individual zone via a tool run downhole. Additionally, the assembly includes production ports in each zone, which can be opened using a shifting tool to allow production from the well zones.

Another notable patent is the completion assembly technique, which includes running a lower completion assembly into a well in a single trip. This assembly consists of a screen, a first valve, and a second valve. The gravel packing operation is performed using this assembly, which involves running a service assembly into the lower completion assembly to operate the first valve. After the operation, the service assembly is removed, and an upper completion assembly is installed in the well. This installation enables remote control of the second valve of the lower completion assembly, allowing for the regulation of fluid production from the well.

Career Highlights

Tom Saunders has had a distinguished career, working with prominent companies in the industry, including Schlumberger Technology Corporation and Services Pétroliers Schlumberger. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in wellbore technology and sand management.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Saunders has collaborated with notable professionals, including Bryan Stamm and Graham Watson. These collaborations have further enriched his work and innovations in the field.

Conclusion

Tom Saunders is a notable inventor whose work in sand management technology has made a significant impact on the oil and gas industry. His innovative patents and career achievements reflect his dedication to advancing wellbore operations.