Rate limiting device to enhance the performance ratio and longevity of a wellbore inflow control device

The integration of a flow rate limiting device in downhole flow control tools addresses the issues of premature turbine wear and excessive fluid production by restricting fluid flow to a safe level, ensuring efficient and prolonged tool operation with reduced maintenance costs.

US20250101836A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-03-27HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
US18/474911
Authority / Receiving Office
US · United States
Patent Type
Applications(United States)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-09-26
Publication Date
2025-03-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional downhole flow control tools face issues with premature turbine wear and excessive fluid production due to excessive turbine RPM and fluid flow, which are not effectively managed by fixed nozzles, leading to reduced tool longevity and increased maintenance costs.

Method used

Incorporating a flow rate limiting device in the flow path of the generators to restrict fluid flow to a predetermined minimum, ensuring turbines operate within a safe RPM range, thereby generating just enough electrical power for tool operation while preventing excessive wear and fluid production.

Benefits of technology

The flow rate limiting device effectively maintains turbine RPM within a safe range, enhancing tool longevity, reducing maintenance costs, and minimizing undesired fluid production, while ensuring the generators produce the minimum required electrical power for tool functionality.

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Abstract

An apparatus to be positioned in a wellbore formed in a subsurface formation. The apparatus comprises one or more generators disposed in a flow path within a flow control tool and configured to output electrical power to components of the flow control tool in response to flow of a fluid in the flow path, wherein the fluid enters the flow path from the wellbore. The apparatus comprises a flow rate limiting device disposed in the flow path and configured to control a flow rate of the fluid as the fluid flows to the one or more generators.
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