Visualized simulation experiment system and method for debris transport process

Abstract

The present application provides a kind of debris transport process visualization simulation experiment system and method, it is related to experimental equipment technical field, including visual full bore module, fluid circulation module, sanding module and data acquisition module, visual full bore module includes simulation wellbore, simulation drill pipe and rotary drive module, fluid circulation module includes first circulation pipeline and second circulation pipeline, when first circulation pipeline is in the state of communication, first circulation pipeline is used to inject fluid to the well bottom of simulation wellbore and backflow through annulus, wellhead of simulation wellbore;When second circulation pipeline is in the state of communication, second circulation pipeline is used to inject fluid to the liquid inlet of simulation drill pipe and backflow through well bottom of simulation wellbore, annulus, wellhead of simulation wellbore;Data acquisition module includes a plurality of pressure sensors for collecting pressure data in annulus and image acquisition device for shooting flow field in annulus.The present application realizes full bore simulation, can more realistically reproduce the debris transport process in drilling process, avoids the problem that working condition is not covered completely and boundary is distorted due to structural simplification, provides reliable, unified experimental basis for comparative study and mechanism analysis of debris transport law.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of experimental equipment technology, and in particular to a visualization simulation experimental system and method for rock cuttings transport process. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of oil and gas resource development, rotary drilling, as the mainstream drilling technology, faces the core challenge of effectively transporting and promptly removing cuttings from the annulus. Wellbore cleanliness directly affects drilling safety, mechanical drilling rate, and wellbore quality. However, in actual drilling conditions, the wellbore is in a blind spot, making it difficult to directly observe the movement of cuttings during rotary drilling. Key parameters characterizing cuttings carrying efficiency and critical cleanliness states, such as pressure loss gradient, torque fluctuation, and effective wetted perimeter area, are also difficult to extract accurately and in real time. This makes it difficult for on-site operators to promptly assess cuttings movement and bed formation and implement targeted adjustments, easily leading to complex downhole situations such as stuck pipe, pump stalling, and insufficient wellbore cleaning, significantly increasing operational risks and construction costs. In existing technologies, experimental simulation devices often use simplified structures such as single straight pipes to simulate local horizontal well sections, only capable of reproducing local flow field characteristics. They cannot realistically reproduce the cuttings movement process during drilling or achieve visualized observation and synchronous acquisition of characteristic parameters, resulting in limitations in cuttings movement law research and on-site construction guidance. Therefore, how to simulate the actual working conditions of the entire well section and achieve simultaneous acquisition of visual observation and characteristic parameters has become an urgent technical problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a visual simulation experimental system and method for cuttings transport process, which is used to simulate the real working conditions of the entire well section and realize the synchronous acquisition of visual observation and characteristic parameters.

[0004] The above-mentioned objectives of this invention can be achieved by the following technical solutions: This invention provides a visual simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport processes, comprising: A full-well section visualization module includes a simulated wellbore, a simulated drill pipe inserted into the simulated wellbore, and a rotary drive module for driving the simulated drill pipe. The annulus between the simulated wellbore and the simulated drill pipe is used to form a cuttings bed. A fluid circulation module includes a first circulation pipeline and a second circulation pipeline. The first circulation pipeline connects the wellhead and the bottom of the simulated wellbore, respectively, and the second circulation pipeline connects the fluid inlet of the simulated drill pipe and the bottom of the simulated wellbore, respectively. When the first circulation pipeline is in a connected state, it is used to inject fluid into the bottom of the simulated wellbore and return it through the annulus and the wellhead of the simulated wellbore. When the second circulation pipeline is in a connected state, it is used to inject fluid into the fluid inlet of the simulated drill pipe and return it through the bottom of the simulated wellbore, the annulus, and the wellhead of the simulated wellbore. A sand-adding module, comprising a sand-adding pipeline connected to the simulated wellbore; The data acquisition module includes multiple pressure sensors mounted on the simulated wellbore for collecting pressure data in the annulus, and an image acquisition device mounted outside the simulated wellbore for capturing the flow field in the annulus.

[0005] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, along the flow direction of the first circulation pipeline, the fluid circulation module further includes a solid-liquid separator, a recovery container, a stirring container, and a fluid pump sequentially disposed on the first circulation pipeline.

[0006] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fluid circulation module further includes a first control valve, a second control valve, a third control valve, and a fourth control valve disposed on the first circulation pipeline, wherein the recovery container, the first control valve, the second control valve, the stirring container, the third control valve, the fluid pump, and the fourth control valve are arranged in sequence.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fluid circulation module further includes a fluid drainer connected to the outlet of the recovery container.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, one end of the second circulation pipeline is connected to the fluid inlet of the simulated drill pipe, and the other end of the second circulation pipeline is connected to the first circulation pipeline located between the fluid pump and the fourth control valve. A fifth control valve is provided on the second circulation pipeline.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sand adding module further includes a sand storage container, a sand feeder connecting the outlet of the sand storage container to the sand adding pipeline, and a slurry pump disposed on the sand adding pipeline, wherein the sand storage container is connected to the solid phase outlet of the solid-liquid separator.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the visualization full-well section module further includes an adjustable wellbore placement platform and a wellbore lifting mechanism for driving the wellbore placement platform to switch between any position between a horizontal position and a vertical position, and the visualization full-well section module is disposed on the wellbore placement platform.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the simulated wellbore includes a plurality of wellbore sections, and adjacent wellbore sections are detachably connected.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the visualization simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport further includes a control module, which is electrically connected to the visualization whole-well section module, the fluid circulation module, the sand addition module, and the data acquisition module. The control module is used to realize parameter adjustment.

[0013] This invention also provides a method for visualizing and simulating the rock cuttings transport process, implemented using the aforementioned system for visualizing and simulating the rock cuttings transport process. The method includes the following steps: Prepare the visualization simulation experimental system for the rock cuttings transport process, and preset the experimental conditions of the visualization simulation experimental system for the rock cuttings transport process; The circulation path of the visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport is controlled to allow drilling fluid to circulate and vent air between the simulated drill pipe, the bottom of the simulated wellbore, the annulus, and the wellhead of the simulated wellbore until the pressure data in the annulus enters a stable range, and the circulation discharge rate is adjusted according to preset working conditions. Start the rotary drive module and adjust the rotation speed to the target drilling speed to drive the simulated drill pipe to rotate. Then, inject rock cuttings through the sand injection module to equivalently characterize the rock cuttings generation rate and rock-carrying flow field at the target drilling speed. The target running time is set until the rock cuttings bed, flow field state, and pressure data in the annulus enter a stable range, at which point the data acquisition phase begins and is recorded; the data includes at least differential pressure data from the pressure sensor, flow rate data, rotational speed, and image data from the image acquisition device; Increase the circulation flow rate to perform sand flushing and bed cleaning operations, so that the drilling fluid flows back to the solid-liquid separator for solid-liquid separation. The separated liquid phase continues to participate in circulation or is discharged, while the separated solid phase enters the sand storage container for storage. The experimental conditions of the visualization simulation system for rock cuttings transport were re-preset and repeated to obtain datasets under different experimental conditions.

[0014] The technical solution of the present invention has the following significant beneficial effects: The cuttings transport process visualization simulation experimental system described in this invention can realize full-well section simulation and achieve simultaneous acquisition of visualization observation and characteristic parameters through a visualization full-well section module. Compared with the local well section simulation in the prior art, it can more realistically reproduce the cuttings transport process during drilling, and avoid problems such as incomplete working condition coverage and boundary distortion caused by structural simplification. It provides a reliable and unified experimental basis for comparative research and mechanism analysis of cuttings transport laws.

[0015] This invention enables two circulation modes through a fluid circulation module. A first circulation pipeline establishes a primary circulation path through the bottom of the well, annulus, and wellhead. A second circulation pipeline establishes a secondary circulation path simulating the drill pipe, bottom of the well, annulus, and wellhead. The second circulation path more closely approximates real drilling circulation conditions, while the first circulation path reduces circulation within the simulated drill pipe, helping to increase the circulation flow rate and thus improve sand flushing and bed cleaning efficiency. Furthermore, by incorporating a sand-adding module, rock cuttings can be controllably injected into the simulated wellbore, thereby effectively characterizing the rock cuttings generation rate and rock-carrying flow field during drilling. Moreover, the rock cuttings can be discharged with the circulation and undergo solid-liquid separation, allowing for their reuse.

[0016] Furthermore, this invention presents a visualized setup of the simulated wellbore and drill pipe, allowing for the full-process recording of cuttings transport and bed morphology within the annulus via an image acquisition device. Simultaneously, multiple pressure sensors deployed on the simulated wellbore can acquire pressure data within the annulus, such as pressure loss. Moreover, by further acquiring data such as torque and wetted perimeter on the simulated drill pipe, repeatable experimental data can be provided to support subsequent analysis of cuttings removal patterns and parameter optimization. This enables better controllable reproduction and comparative research of the cuttings-carrying process throughout the entire rotary drilling section. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and proportions of the components in the drawings are merely illustrative to aid in understanding the invention and do not specifically limit the shapes and proportions of the components. Those skilled in the art, guided by the teachings of this invention, can select various possible shapes and proportions to implement the invention according to specific circumstances.

[0019] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a structure of the visual simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport process described in this invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a structure in which the simulated wellbore is in an inclined state, as described in this invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a simulated wellbore in a vertical state according to the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a visualization simulation experimental method for the rock cuttings transport process described in this invention.

[0020] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows: 100. Visualized full well section module; 110. Simulated wellbore; 120. Simulated drill pipe; 130. Rotary drive module; 140. Wellbore placement platform; 150. Wellbore lifting mechanism; 200. Fluid circulation module; 210. First circulation pipeline; 211. Solid-liquid separator; 212. Recovery container; 213. Stirring container; 214. Fluid pump; 215. First control valve; 216. Second control valve; 217. Third control valve; 218. Fourth control valve; 219. Fluid venting device; 220. Second circulation pipeline; 221. Fifth control valve; 300. Sand adding module; 310. Sand adding pipeline; 320. Sand storage container; 330. Sand adder; 340. Mortar pump; 400. Data acquisition module; 410. Pressure sensor; 420. Image acquisition device; 500. Control module. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] Implementation Method 1

[0023] Please refer to the following: Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport process. This system includes at least a visualization full-well section module 100, a fluid circulation module 200, a sand-addition module 300, and a data acquisition module 400. The visualization full-well section module 100 includes a simulated wellbore 110, a simulated drill pipe 120 inserted into the simulated wellbore 110, and a rotary drive module 130 for driving the simulated drill pipe 120. The annulus between the simulated wellbore 110 and the simulated drill pipe 120 is used to form a cuttings bed. The fluid circulation module 200 includes a first circulation pipeline 210 and a second circulation pipeline 220. The first circulation pipeline 210 connects the wellhead and the bottom of the simulated wellbore 110, respectively, and the second circulation pipeline 220 connects the simulated drill pipe. The inlet of the simulated drill pipe 120 is connected to the bottom of the simulated wellbore 110; when the first circulation pipeline 210 is in a connected state, the first circulation pipeline 210 is used to inject fluid into the bottom of the simulated wellbore 110 and return through the annulus and the wellhead of the simulated wellbore 110; when the second circulation pipeline 220 is in a connected state, the second circulation pipeline 220 is used to inject fluid into the inlet of the simulated drill pipe 120 and return through the bottom of the simulated wellbore 110, the annulus and the wellhead of the simulated wellbore 110; the sand adding module 300 includes a sand adding pipeline 310, which is connected to the simulated wellbore 110; the data acquisition module 400 includes multiple pressure sensors 410 installed on the simulated wellbore 110 for collecting pressure data in the annulus, and an image acquisition device 420 installed outside the simulated wellbore 110 for capturing the flow field in the annulus.

[0024] Overall, this visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport can simulate the entire well section and achieve simultaneous visualization observation and acquisition of characteristic parameters through the visualization full-section module 100. Compared with the local well section simulation and simultaneous visualization observation and acquisition of characteristic parameters in the existing technology, it can more realistically reproduce the cuttings transport process during drilling, and avoid problems such as incomplete coverage of working conditions and boundary distortion caused by structural simplification. It provides a reliable and unified experimental basis for comparative research and mechanism analysis of cuttings transport laws.

[0025] Furthermore, this invention enables two circulation modes through the fluid circulation module 200. The first circulation path, from the bottom of the well to the annulus and wellhead, is achieved through the first circulation pipe 210. The second circulation path, from the simulated drill pipe 120 to the bottom of the well, the annulus, and the wellhead, is achieved through the second circulation pipe 220. The second circulation path makes the flow field closer to real drilling circulation conditions, while the first circulation path reduces circulation in the simulated drill pipe 120, helping to increase the circulation flow rate and thus improve the efficiency of sand flushing and bed cleaning. Moreover, by setting the sand-adding module 300, rock cuttings can be controllably injected into the simulated wellbore 110, thereby effectively characterizing the rock cuttings generation rate and the rock-carrying flow field during drilling. Furthermore, the rock cuttings can be discharged with the circulation and undergo solid-liquid separation, allowing for reuse.

[0026] Furthermore, this invention presents the simulated wellbore 110 and simulated drill pipe 120 in a visual configuration, allowing for the full-process recording of cuttings transport and bed morphology within the annulus via an image acquisition device 420. Simultaneously, multiple pressure sensors 410 arranged on the simulated wellbore 110 can synchronously acquire pressure data within the annulus, such as pressure loss. Moreover, by further acquiring data such as torque and wetted perimeter on the simulated drill pipe 120, repeatable experimental data can be provided to support subsequent analysis of cuttings removal patterns and parameter optimization, thereby enabling better controllable reproduction and comparative research of the cuttings carrying process throughout the rotary drilling process.

[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention, the rotary drive module 130 includes a drill rod drive motor and a transmission structure disposed between the drill rod drive motor and the simulated drill rod 120. Specifically, the speed range of the drill rod drive motor is 0-220 r / min. Designers can adjust the specific structure of the transmission structure according to usage needs, and no specific limitations are made here. For example, the transmission structure can be configured as a gear transmission structure or a pulley transmission structure.

[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, the image acquisition device 420 includes a high-speed camera, which is capable of visually recording the flow state within the simulated wellbore 110. The high-speed image acquisition frame rate can reach 500 frames per second, and the data acquisition frequency can be 100 Hz.

[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention, along the flow direction of the first circulation pipeline 210, the fluid circulation module 200 further includes a solid-liquid separator 211, a recovery container 212, a stirring container 213, and a fluid pump 214, which are sequentially arranged on the first circulation pipeline 210.

[0030] Through the coordination of the first circulation pipeline 210 and various devices, a cyclic process of reflux, separation, homogenization, and injection is realized, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the experimental system and improving the adjustment flexibility of the experimental simulation.

[0031] Specifically, the solid-liquid separator 211 can efficiently separate rock fragments carried in the circulating return fluid, avoiding wear on the downstream recovery container 212, stirring container 213, and fluid pump 214.

[0032] The separated drilling fluid can be stored in the recovery container 212, and the drilling fluid can be stirred by the stirring container 213 to ensure the homogeneity of the drilling fluid.

[0033] The drilling fluid circulation is powered by the fluid pump 214, and the flow rate is adjustable, enabling the adjustment of experimental conditions. The output capacity of the fluid pump 214 is 0-50 L / s. Furthermore, an electromagnetic flow meter with a range of 0-50 L / s can be installed in the first circulation pipeline 210.

[0034] In embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the fluid circulation module 200 further includes a first control valve 215, a second control valve 216, a third control valve 217, and a fourth control valve 218 disposed on the first circulation pipeline 210. The recovery container 212, the first control valve 215, the second control valve 216, the stirring container 213, the third control valve 217, the fluid pump 214, and the fourth control valve 218 are arranged in sequence.

[0035] By setting the first to fourth control valves 218, segmented control is achieved on the first circulation pipeline 210, significantly improving the controllability and flexibility of the experimental process. Specifically, the first control valve 215 and the second control valve 216 work together to control the flow rate and residence time entering the stirring container 213; the third control valve 217 is used to adjust the inlet pressure of the fluid pump 214 to prevent cavitation and match different discharge requirements; the fourth control valve 218 acts as an outlet throttle valve, which can cooperate with the fluid pump 214 to adjust the injection pressure.

[0036] In embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the fluid circulation module 200 further includes a fluid drainer 219, which is connected to the outlet of the recovery container 212.

[0037] The drilling fluid in the recovery container 212 can be discharged through the fluid drainer 219, which allows for the rapid replacement of drilling fluids with different compositions, significantly shortening the fluid replacement preparation time, or preventing drilling fluid residue in the recovery container 212, thus ensuring the service life of the recovery container 212.

[0038] In embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1In the embodiment shown, one end of the second circulation pipeline 220 is connected to the fluid inlet of the simulated drill pipe 120, and the other end of the second circulation pipeline 220 is connected to the first circulation pipeline 210 located between the fluid pump 214 and the fourth control valve 218. A fifth control valve 221 is provided on the second circulation pipeline 220.

[0039] By connecting the second circulation pipeline 220 to the first circulation pipeline 210, when the fourth control valve 218 is closed and the fifth control valve 221 is opened, the fluid pump 214 can transport the drilling fluid in the stirring container 213 to the second circulation pipeline 220. When the fifth control valve 221 is closed and the fourth control valve 218 is opened, the fluid pump 214 can transport the drilling fluid in the stirring container 213 to the first circulation pipeline 210. The dual circulation loop can be driven by a single fluid pump 214, which improves the utilization rate of the fluid pump 214 and reduces equipment redundancy.

[0040] The first circulation path, from the bottom of the well to the annulus and the wellhead, is achieved through the first circulation pipe 210, reducing the circulation in the simulated drill pipe 120 and helping to increase the circulation flow rate, thereby improving the efficiency of sand flushing and bed cleaning. The second circulation path, from the simulated drill pipe 120 to the bottom of the well, the annulus and the wellhead, is achieved through the second circulation pipe 220, which makes the flow field closer to the actual drilling circulation conditions.

[0041] Furthermore, the fluids in the first circulation pipe 210 and the second circulation pipe 220 can both flow back to the solid-liquid separator 211. Solid-liquid separation in a dual circulation loop is achieved using a single solid-liquid separator 211, thereby improving the utilization rate of the solid-liquid separator 211.

[0042] In embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the sand adding module 300 also includes a sand storage container 320, a sand feeder 330 connecting the outlet of the sand storage container 320 to the sand adding pipeline 310, and a slurry pump 340 installed on the sand adding pipeline 310. The sand storage container 320 is connected to the solid phase outlet of the solid-liquid separator 211.

[0043] By connecting the sand storage container 320 to the solid phase outlet of the solid-liquid separator 211, the rock cuttings separated by the solid-liquid separator 211 can be stored in the sand storage container 320. The sand feeder 330 can homogenize the rock cuttings, thereby providing the slurry pump 340 with a rock cuttings input flow that has good flowability and controllable particle size. Furthermore, the sand feeder 330 can control the sand feeding rate to simulate the rock cuttings intensity under different working conditions.

[0044] The sand addition module 300 establishes an integrated linkage control mechanism for circulation, sand separation, sand storage, and sand addition, forming a stable closed loop for sand supply, separation, and recirculation, which can support the continuous and stable operation of the system.

[0045] In embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 The embodiment shown includes an adjustable wellbore placement platform 140 and a wellbore lifting mechanism 150 for driving the wellbore placement platform 140 to switch between any position between a horizontal and a vertical position. The visualization module 100 for the entire well section is mounted on the wellbore placement platform 140.

[0046] The wellbore placement platform 140 stably fixes the visualized full-well section module 100, and the wellbore lifting mechanism 150 adjusts the angle of the simulated wellbore 110, enabling flexible simulation of wellbore in different directions. This allows for comparative studies of cuttings transport patterns under various working conditions, including horizontal wells, highly deviated wells, and vertical wells, thus improving the system's applicability. The wellbore placement platform 140 has an adjustment range of 0°-90°.

[0047] Designers can adjust the specific structure of the well shaft lifting mechanism 150 according to usage needs, and no specific limitations are imposed here. For example, in a specific embodiment, the well shaft lifting mechanism 150 includes a vertically arranged lifting rail and a lifting platform that is vertically arranged on the lifting rail. One end of the lifting platform is hinged to the well shaft placement platform 140, and the other end of the well shaft placement platform 140 is a movable end and is provided with a sliding structure, so that the well shaft placement platform 140 can be flexibly adjusted between a horizontal position and a vertical position.

[0048] In an embodiment of the present invention, the simulated wellbore 110 includes multiple wellbore sections, which are detachably connected. Specifically, adjacent wellbore sections are detachably connected via flange structures. Furthermore, an interface sealing structure is provided at the end of the simulated wellbore 110, and multiple pressure measuring points are arranged axially on the simulated wellbore 110. Pressure sensors 410 are installed at the pressure measuring points to acquire pressure data at key locations.

[0049] By splicing multiple well sections to form a simulated wellbore 110, the scalability and maintainability of the simulated wellbore 110 are significantly improved, and it is also convenient for transportation and assembly.

[0050] Designers can flexibly combine well sections of different lengths, inner diameters, and wall roughness according to experimental requirements to achieve a realistic reproduction of well characteristics, without making specific restrictions here.

[0051] In one specific embodiment, the wellbore section is made of a high-permeability material and has a length of 2m. Furthermore, the total length of multiple wellbore sections spliced ​​together via flange structures is approximately 6m.

[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention, the visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport process further includes a control module 500, which is electrically connected to the visualization whole well section module 100, the fluid circulation module 200, the sand addition module 300, and the data acquisition module 400. The control module 500 is used to realize parameter control.

[0053] By setting the control module 500, the combination setting and rapid switching of parameters such as rotation speed, displacement, eccentricity, well inclination angle, fluid rheology and mechanical drilling speed (ROP) of the visual simulation experimental system for cuttings transport process can be realized, thus realizing the system simulation of rotary drilling cuttings carrying conditions.

[0054] Furthermore, by setting up the control module 500, it is also possible to realize pressure / torque acquisition, speed regulation, sand conveying auger control of sand feeder 330, valve switching, discharge regulation, two-phase pump and fluid stirring control, thus playing a role in intelligent integrated control.

[0055] The control module 500 can control the data acquisition module 400 to realize the visual observation and recording of the cuttings transport process, and synchronously collect, process and quantitatively output characteristic parameters such as pressure loss, torque, wetted perimeter, sand bed thickness / location, and cuttings concentration, thus providing an equipment foundation for the controllable reproduction and comparative study of the cuttings carrying process throughout the rotary drilling well section.

[0056] Designers can adjust the specific model of the control module 500 according to their needs; no specific restrictions are imposed here. For example, the control module 500 can be configured as a control element such as a computer or a PLC controller.

[0057] This visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport can organize the process and structure according to the real drilling fluid circulation chain, realize the stable operation of solid-liquid two-phase dual circulation of drilling fluid and cuttings particles, quantitative sand addition and automatic recovery, reproduce the flow path and boundary conditions of drill pipe, bottom hole, annulus and wellhead, and provide unified interface conditions for subsequent data acquisition and analysis. It also takes into account the convenience, safety and cleanliness of operation, and can achieve low pollution or pollution-free operation.

[0058] Furthermore, this visualization simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport enables the visualization and recording of the rock-carrying process, and simultaneously acquires response signals such as pressure loss and torque. It also performs feature extraction and correlation analysis based on bed morphology (wet perimeter, bed thickness / bed surface position), which facilitates engineering benchmarking and evaluation.

[0059] Implementation Method 2

[0060] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method for visualizing and simulating the rock cuttings transport process. This method is implemented using the rock cuttings transport process visualization and simulation system described in Embodiment 1. The method includes the following steps: Step S1: Prepare a visual simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport process and preset the experimental conditions of the system. Step S2: Control the circulation path of the visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport process, so that the drilling fluid circulates and vents between the simulated drill pipe 120, the bottom of the simulated wellbore 110, the annulus, and the wellhead of the simulated wellbore 110 until the pressure data in the annulus enters a stable range, and adjust the circulation discharge rate according to the preset working conditions. Step S3: Start the rotary drive module 130 and adjust the rotation speed to the target drilling speed to drive the simulated drill pipe 120 to rotate, and inject rock cuttings through the sand injection module 300 to equivalently characterize the rock cuttings generation rate and rock-carrying flow field at the target drilling speed. Step S4: Run the target time until the rock cuttings bed, flow field state and pressure data in the annulus enter the stable range, then enter the data acquisition stage and record; the data includes at least the differential pressure data, flow rate data, rotation speed and image data of the pressure sensor 410 and the image acquisition device 420. Step S5: Increase the circulation flow rate to perform sand flushing and bed cleaning operation, so that the drilling fluid flows back to the solid-liquid separator 211 for solid-liquid separation. The separated liquid phase continues to participate in circulation or is discharged, and the separated solid phase enters the sand storage container 320 for storage. Step S6: Reset the experimental conditions of the visualization simulation experiment system for rock cuttings transport process and repeat the experiment to obtain datasets under different experimental conditions.

[0061] Specifically, such as Figure 4 As shown, in step S1, drilling fluid that meets the target rheological parameters is configured and rheological calibration is completed; drilling fluid is added to mixing container 213 and the agitator is started to homogenize it; according to the test requirements, the inner diameter of the visualization simulation wellbore 110, the parameters of the simulation drill pipe 120 and the end connection sealing status are set, and the installation and fixation of the simulation wellbore 110 on the wellbore placement platform 140 is completed, and the well inclination and eccentricity are confirmed; the pressure measuring points of each pressure sensor 410, the position of the image acquisition device 420 and the connectivity status of each pipeline are confirmed, and the connection of the solid-liquid separator 211, recovery container 212, sand storage tank, sand feeder 330, fluid pump 214 and slurry pump 340 is checked to see if the connection is reliable.

[0062] Set the inner diameter of the simulated wellbore 110 to 138mm and the outer diameter of the simulated drill pipe 120 to 76mm to form a visual annulus. Set and lock the well inclination angle to 90° and lock the simulated drill pipe 120 in a concentric state. Check the circulation connection status and sealing performance.

[0063] In step S2, the circulation path is switched through the first control valve 215 to the fifth control valve 221, which acts as the second circulation pipeline 220 to simulate the second circulation path of drill pipe 120, bottom hole, annulus, and wellhead, and to circulate and vent air until the pressure fluctuations indicated by the pressure measuring points of each pressure sensor 410 tend to stabilize; the circulation discharge rate is adjusted according to the preset working conditions to maintain flow stability. Specifically, the circulation discharge rate is 30L / min.

[0064] In step S3, the rotary drive module 130 is started and its rotation speed is adjusted to the target value, so that the simulated drill pipe 120 inside the simulated wellbore 110 is in a rotating state. The sand feeder 330 and the slurry pump 340 are started and rock cuttings are quantitatively supplied to the first circulation pipeline 210 through the sand feed pipeline 310. The rock cuttings are mixed with the circulating fluid and then fed into the bottom of the simulated wellbore 110 to equivalently characterize the cuttings production rate and rock-carrying flow process corresponding to the mechanical drilling rate. Specifically, the rotation speed of the rotary drive module 130 is 100 rpm, and the rock cuttings are fed at a set mass flow rate of 0.3 kg / min.

[0065] In step S4, after the morphology, flow state and pressure signal of the cuttings bed in the simulated wellbore 110 enter the stable range, the data acquisition stage begins: the differential pressure signal and operating conditions such as flow rate and rotation speed at the pressure measuring points are recorded; image / video data of cuttings transport and bed evolution in the simulated wellbore 110 are acquired simultaneously for subsequent feature extraction and comparative analysis.

[0066] In step S5, while maintaining the second circulation path connection, the flow rate of fluid pump 214 is increased to flush and clean the bed. The sand-laden fluid flows back from the wellhead of the simulated wellbore 110 into the solid-liquid separator 211 for solid-liquid separation. The separated liquid phase enters the recovery container 212 and can be returned to the stirring container 213 to continue circulating, or discharged through the fluid drain 219. The separated solid rock fragments enter the sand storage container 320 for storage, thereby realizing a closed-loop operation of circulation, separation, recovery, and recirculation / re-sand addition. Specifically, the flushing and cleaning flow rate is 50 L / min.

[0067] In step S6, the displacement of fluid pump 214, rotation speed of rotary drive module 130, structural parameters of simulated wellbore 110 or drilling fluid rheology, sand supply rate of sand feeder 330 and sand pump 340 are changed according to the test plan, and the circulation path can be switched through each control valve; steps S2 to S5 are repeated to obtain visualization records and feature parameter datasets under different working conditions.

[0068] After the test is completed, stop the fluid pump 214, slurry pump 340 and rotary drive module 130, close all control valves, and clean and maintain the simulated wellbore 110, solid-liquid separator 211, first circulation pipeline 210 and second circulation pipeline 220 and all equipment.

[0069] This visualization simulation experimental method for cuttings transport can visualize and simulate the actual working conditions of the entire well section and collect data by applying a cuttings transport visualization simulation experimental system. It significantly improves the repeatability, controllability and accuracy of cuttings transport mechanism research, and provides a unified experimental method and data support for rock clearing efficiency evaluation, mechanism / numerical model verification and calibration and drilling parameter optimization.

[0070] In comparison, the visualization simulation experimental method for cuttings transport, combined with the aforementioned visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport, can achieve efficient simulation of cuttings transport during drilling, and its daily experimental group count is about twice that of the existing non-closed-loop experimental system.

[0071] All articles and references disclosed herein, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference for various purposes. The term “substantially constitutes…” used to describe a combination should include the identified element, component, part, or step, as well as other elements, components, parts, or steps that do not substantially affect the essential novelty of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, components, parts, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments substantially constituted by such elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of the term “may” herein is intended to indicate that any described attribute “may” include is optional. Multiple elements, components, parts, or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, component, part, or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, component, part, or step can be divided into multiple separate elements, components, parts, or steps. The disclosure of “a” or “an” used to describe an element, component, part, or step does not imply exclusion of other elements, components, parts, or steps.

[0072] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of the present invention, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of the present invention and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made according to the spirit and essence of the present invention should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A visualization simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport processes, characterized in that, include: A full-well section visualization module includes a simulated wellbore, a simulated drill pipe inserted into the simulated wellbore, and a rotary drive module for driving the simulated drill pipe. The annulus between the simulated wellbore and the simulated drill pipe is used to form a cuttings bed. A fluid circulation module includes a first circulation pipeline and a second circulation pipeline. One end of the first circulation pipeline is connected to the bottom of the simulated wellbore, and the other end is connected to the wellhead return end of the simulated wellbore. Along the flow direction of the first circulation pipeline, the fluid circulation module also includes a solid-liquid separator, a recovery container, a first control valve, a second control valve, a stirring container, a third control valve, a fluid pump, and a fourth control valve, which are sequentially arranged on the first circulation pipeline. One end of the second circulation pipeline is connected to the fluid inlet of the simulated drill pipe, and the other end is connected to the first circulation pipeline located between the fluid pump and the fourth control valve. A fifth control valve is provided on the second circulation pipeline. The first circulation pipeline and the second circulation pipeline are not simultaneously connected. When the first circulation pipeline is connected, it is used to inject fluid into the bottom of the simulated wellbore and return it through the annulus and the wellhead of the simulated wellbore. When the second circulation pipeline is in the connected state, the second circulation pipeline is used to inject fluid into the inlet of the simulated drill pipe and return it through the bottom of the simulated well, the annulus, and the wellhead of the simulated well; A sand-adding module, the sand-adding module including a sand-adding pipeline connected to the simulated wellbore; The data acquisition module includes multiple pressure sensors mounted on the simulated wellbore for collecting pressure data in the annulus, and an image acquisition device mounted outside the simulated wellbore for capturing the flow field in the annulus.

2. The visual simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport process as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The fluid circulation module also includes a fluid drainer connected to the outlet of the recovery container.

3. The visual simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport process as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sand adding module also includes a sand storage container, a sand feeder connecting the outlet of the sand storage container to the sand adding pipeline, and a slurry pump installed on the sand adding pipeline. The sand storage container is connected to the solid phase outlet of the solid-liquid separator.

4. The visual simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport process as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The visualization full-well section module also includes an adjustable wellbore placement platform and a wellbore lifting mechanism for driving the wellbore placement platform to switch between any position between a horizontal and a vertical position. The visualization full-well section module is mounted on the wellbore placement platform.

5. The visual simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport process as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The simulated wellbore includes multiple wellbore sections, which are detachably connected to each other.

6. The visual simulation experimental system for rock cuttings transport process as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport also includes a control module, which is electrically connected to the visualization whole-well section module, the fluid circulation module, the sand addition module, and the data acquisition module. The control module is used to achieve parameter adjustment.

7. A visual simulation experimental method for rock cuttings transport processes, characterized in that, The method for visualizing and simulating rock cuttings transport is implemented using the rock cuttings transport process visualization simulation experimental system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, and includes the following steps: Prepare the visualization simulation experimental system for the rock cuttings transport process, and preset the experimental conditions of the visualization simulation experimental system for the rock cuttings transport process; The circulation path of the visualization simulation experimental system for cuttings transport is controlled to allow drilling fluid to circulate and vent air between the simulated drill pipe, the bottom of the simulated wellbore, the annulus, and the wellhead of the simulated wellbore until the pressure data in the annulus enters a stable range, and the circulation discharge rate is adjusted according to preset working conditions. Start the rotary drive module and adjust the rotation speed to the target drilling speed to drive the simulated drill pipe to rotate. Then, inject rock cuttings through the sand injection module to equivalently characterize the rock cuttings generation rate and rock-carrying flow field at the target drilling speed. The target running time is set until the rock cuttings bed, flow field state, and pressure data in the annulus enter a stable range, at which point the data acquisition phase begins and is recorded; the data includes at least differential pressure data from the pressure sensor, flow rate data, rotational speed, and image data from the image acquisition device; Increase the circulation flow rate to perform sand flushing and bed cleaning operations, so that the drilling fluid flows back to the solid-liquid separator for solid-liquid separation. The separated liquid phase continues to participate in circulation or is discharged, while the separated solid phase enters the sand storage container for storage. The experimental conditions of the visualization simulation system for rock cuttings transport were re-preset and repeated to obtain datasets under different experimental conditions.

Images