Patent attributes
Embodiments of the present invention include methods and apparatus for circulating fluid through casing and filling the casing with fluid using a combination fill-up and circulating tool while maintaining the fill-up/circulating tool in substantially the same position relative to the casing. In one embodiment, the fill-up/circulating tool includes a mandrel insertable into casing and having a sealing element therearound, the sealing element capable of sealingly engaging with an outer diameter of the mandrel to permit circulating fluid through the casing. The fill-up/circulating tool is also capable of allowing air flow around the outer diameter of the mandrel for the operation of filling the casing with fluid without the need to move the mandrel within the casing.
