Importance

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Abstract

A column of elastic material such as steel is lowered into an oil well by means of a derrick to a position such that the end portion thereof is within a liner to be removed. An acoustic coupling surface such as a plurality of annular piston-like members made of a resilient material such as a suitable rubber or plastic are fitted onto a portion of the column which extends into the interior of the lining, these annular members being spaced from each other along the column. An annulus of liquid is maintained in the spaces formed between successive annular members. High level sonic energy is applied to the column from the surface and transmitted along the column to the liner and liquid through the acoustic coupling means. Such energy is also fed to the liquid annuli and then to the liquid environment between the liner and the surrounding formation. The application of sonic energy both to the liner along with the liquid environment of the liner operates to effectively loosen the liner and its environment. The sonic energy may be applied simultaneously both to the liquid environment and directly to the liner, or such application of sonic energy can be done separately.

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First Claim