Casing Perforating Gun

Author:  Ridley, R. M.
Source:  US Patent 2,041,209
Doc ID:  1936001
Year of Publication:  1936
Abstract:  
This invention relates to well production apparatus, and particularly pertains to a casing perforating gun. In the drilling of wells, and particularly in placing oil wells in a condition for production it is common practice to perforate the oil well casing in the productive area. This is usually done by lowering some form of mechanical perforating device into the well casing and to the zone in which the perforating operation is performed, after which the tool is manipulated from above ground to punch or cut perforations. Due to the fact that such devices must of necessity be remotely controlled there is difficulty in the successful operation of the same. In order to efficiently effect production of a well it is desirable to open up the formation surrounding the area of the casing being perforated. This is not possible when mechanical casing perforators are used for they only penetrate the casing. It is the principal object of the present invention to provide casing perforating means which may be easily controlled from above ground and which in the nature of their operation will continue the perforating action throughout the casing and into the surrounding earth formation. The present invention contemplates the provision of a casing perforator embodying a gun structure whereby a projectile may be fired through the wall of the casing and into the surrounding formation for a considerable distance.