Methods and apparatus for in situ generation of power for devices deployed in a tubular

Abstract

A device, system, and methods of power generation in situ in a hydrocarbon well are disclosed. A power generator for deployment in a hydrocarbon well tubular may comprise a housing adapted for deployment within a hydrocarbon well tubular; a mechanical to electrical power converter disposed at least partially within the housing, the mechanical to electrical power converter adapted to create an electric current when physically stressed; and a current converter operatively coupled to the mechanical to electrical power converter. Devices may be deployed downhole and operatively coupled to the power generator for their electrical power. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope of meaning of the claims.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The inventions are related to generation of electrical power within a tubular. More specifically, the inventions are related to generation of electrical power within a hydrocarbon well tubular for use with electrically power devices also deployed in the hydrocarbon well. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] For decades, operators have opened and closed valves across producing zones and used electrical cables for communications and power delivery for gauges deployed in the well. The idea was generally to allow a primary zone to produce to the end of its life and then to open a second zone for access to additional reserves. Traditionally, these valves were opened and closed mechanically through wireline. Such interventions, in shallow waters or onshore, are relatively inexpensive operations and usually involve only minimal loss of production time. [0003] As the industry moved farther offshore, the cost of support vessels for such operations and the complexi...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

As the industry moved farther offshore, the cost of support vessels for such operations and the complexity of re-entering subsea wells soon combined to make the cost of intervention sufficiently high as to scuttle the economics of any but the most significant secondary reserves.

The hydraulic systems deployment complexities have likely contributed to several failures offshore during the past few years, leading many service companies to the conclusion that, while hydraulics have their place, all-electric systems are the future of intelligent completions.

Typically, electrical cables have been used to provide power and communications for gauges and flow control devices in the wellbore, raising the completions costs significantly.

Cables are also one of the major sources of failures that impact the production of hydrocarbons.

These failures created the risk of not being able to control the flow valve and to lose the ability to acquire data from downhole affecting the operator's ability to optimize production.

In addition, the high costs and risks of wellhead design with cable entrance capability as well as downhole hardware deployment with cable feedthrough connectors make the deployment of intelligent completions and gauges uneconomical.

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