Importance

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Abstract

An acoustic isolator for use with tubular assemblies such as drillpipe or production tubing comprising an acoustic wave transmitter, the acoustic isolator comprising, in series, an odd integer .lamda./4 multiple tuning bar of first acoustic impedance adjacent the acoustic wave transmitter, an odd integer .lamda./4 multiple reflector tube of second acoustic impedance, and a snubber of third acoustic impedance, wherein there is an acoustic impedance mismatch between the odd integer .lamda./4 multiple tuning bar and the odd integer .lamda./4 multiple reflector tube and an acoustic impedance mismatch between the odd integer .lamda./4 multiple reflector tube and snubber, such that a 'down' wave propagated toward the isolator is reflected back substantially in phase with an 'up' wave propagated from the acoustic wave source away from the isolator. Furthermore, the acoustic isolator is similarly effective in reflecting 'up' propagating waves originating from below the isolator, hence further protecting the acoustic wave source from possible deleterious interference.

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First Claim