Fluid testing system and methods of operating and cleaning the fluid testing system

Abstract

A fluid testing system includes a controller configured to control a first valve to be in a respective open configuration to provide a first fluid flow from a first source to a fluid container to enable performance of a fluid test on a sample of the first fluid flow from the first source within the fluid container. Further, during the performance of the fluid test on the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source, the controller is configured to control the first valve and a second valve to open in an alternating manner to enable additional performance of an additional fluid test on respective samples of the first fluid flow from the first source and the second fluid flow from the second source via one or more sensors positioned external to the fluid container along a conduit that is fluidly coupled to the fluid container.

Description

FLUID TESTING SYSTEM AND METHODS OF OPERATING AND CLEANING THE FLUID TESTING SYSTEMCROSS REFERENCE PARAGRAPH

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 665,951 , entitled "FLUID TESTING SYSTEM AND METHODS OF OPERATING AND CLEANING THE FLUID TESTING SYSTEM," filed June 28, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure, which are described and / or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0003] Natural resources, such as oil and gas, are used as fuel to power vehicles, heat homes, and generate electricity, in addition to various other uses. Once a desired resource is discovered below a surface of the earth, drilling systems are often employed to carry out drilling operations to access the desired resource. During the drilling operations, drilling fluid is pumped through a drill string into a wellbore to facilitate drilling a well. The drilling fluid then flows through an annular space defined between the drill string and the wellbore to return to surface equipment. It is presently recognized that it is desirable to monitor properties of the drilling fluid.SUMMARY

[0004] A summary of certain embodiments disclosed herein is set forth below. It should be understood that these aspects are presented merely to provide thereader with a brief summary of these certain embodiments and that these aspects are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Indeed, this disclosure may encompass a variety of aspects that may not be set forth below.

[0005] In certain embodiments, a fluid testing system includes a fluid container, a first valve configured to adjust from a respective closed configuration to a respective open configuration to enable a first fluid flow from a first source, and a second valve configured to adjust from a respective closed configuration to a respective open configuration to enable a second fluid flow from a second source. The fluid testing system also includes a controller configured to control the first valve to be in the respective open configuration to provide the first fluid flow from the first source to the fluid container to enable performance of a fluid test on a sample of the first fluid flow from the first source within the fluid container. The controller is also configured to control, during the performance of the fluid test on the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source, the second valve to be in the respective open configuration and the first valve to be in the respective open configuration in an alternating manner to enable additional performance of an additional fluid test on respective samples of the first fluid flow from the first source and the second fluid flow from the second source via one or more sensors positioned external to the fluid container along a conduit that is fluidly coupled to the fluid container.

[0006] In certain embodiments, a method of operating a fluid testing system includes controlling, via a controller, a first valve to provide a first fluid flow from a first source to a fluid container to enable performance of a fluid test on a sample of the first fluid flow from the first source within the fluid container. The method also includes controlling, via the controller and during the performance of the fluid test on the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source, a second valve and the first valve to open in an alternating manner to enable additional performance of an additional fluid test on respective samples of the first fluid flow from the first source and a second fluid flow from a second source via one or more sensors positioned external to the fluid container along a conduit that is fluidly coupled to the fluid container.

[0007] In certain embodiments, a method of operating a fluid testing system includes flowing a first fluid from a first source, through a portion of a sensor loop, and into a fluid container. The method also includes operating a rheology sensor to perform a first test to obtain rheological properties of a sample of the first fluid in the fluid container. The method also includes during the first test, flowing the first fluid from the first source and a second fluid from a second source in an alternating manner through the sensor loop. The method further includes operating one or more density sensors to perform a second test to obtain density measurements of respective samples of the first fluid and the second fluid in the sensor loop.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Various features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying figures in which like characters represent like parts throughout the figures, wherein:

[0009] FIG. 1 is a front view of a fluid testing system, wherein an inset is a front perspective view of a portion of an enclosure that may be utilized in the fluid testing system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective rear view of a portion of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective side view of a portion of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a graphical user interface that may be presented on a display to facilitate operator inputs to the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 during a cleaning stage or protocol in which a cleaning fluid inlet receives a cleaning fluid, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which components are operated to clean a sensor pathway, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which the sensor pathway receives additional cleaning fluid, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which components are operated to clean a fluid container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which the cleaning fluid is discharged from the fluid container of FIG. 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which the cleaning fluid is discharged from a fluid pathways, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0020] FIG. 12 is a perspective rear view of a filter within a portion of the fluid testing system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 13 is a perspective rear view and a cross-sectional side view of the filter of FIG. 12, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0022] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the filter of FIG. 12, including a detailed view of a wire filter structure of the filter, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0023] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. These described embodiments are only exemplary of the presentdisclosure. Additionally, in an effort to provide a concise description of these exemplary embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers’ specific goals, such as compliance with system -related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0024] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and “based on” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[0025] During drilling operations, drilling fluid is pumped through a drill string into a wellbore to facilitate drilling a well. The drilling fluid then flows through an annular space defined between the drill string and the wellbore to return to surface equipment located at a surface. Further, during the drilling operations, a fluid testing system may monitor certain properties of the drilling fluid. For example, during the drilling operations, the fluid testing system may be operated to periodically monitor rheological properties of the drilling fluid.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the fluid testing system may be located onsite (e.g., on a skid placed at the surface above the wellbore). In certain embodiments, the fluid testing system may be subject to ATEX, UKEX, and / or lECex standards. For example, the fluid testing system may be subject to ATEX, UKEX, and / or lECex standards due to presence of flammable fluid (e.g., the drilling fluid and / or cleaning fluid) and / or due to being located in an area with a potential presence of explosive gases. Accordingly, a fluid container and certain non-rated components, such as a viscometer, of the fluid testing system may be positioned within anenclosure that is purged and pressurized. Further, the fluid container is made to be infallible (e.g., continuous, one-piece construction and weldments; devoid of fittings) in portions that contain sample fluid (e.g., sample of the drilling fluid; fluid that may be capable of releasing flammable gases / vapors). In this way, the fluid testing system enables the sample fluid to circulate through the fluid container in a manner certified by ATEX, UKEX, and / or lECex (e.g., in compliance with ATEX, LIKEX, and / or lECex standards).

[0027] ATEX refers to “Atmospheres Explosibles” and is a set of European Union regulations related to products used in explosive environments. UKEX refers to “The Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations” and is a set of regulations that apply to products sold in Great Britain. lECex refers to “International Electrotechnical Commission for Explosive Atmospheres” and is a set of regulations accepted in several countries and related to products used in explosive environments. It should be appreciated that the fluid testing system may be subject to any of a variety of regulations set forth by one or more countries, agencies, or so forth, and features of the fluid testing system may enable the fluid testing system to satisfy or meet any of a variety of regulations set forth by one or more countries, agencies, or so forth.

[0028] Additionally, the fluid testing system enables the sample fluid to be periodically introduced into the fluid container, characterized via analysis with the viscometer while in the fluid container, and then removed from the fluid container Further, the fluid testing system enables the sample fluid to circulate through the fluid container in a manner that provides a fresh test fluid aliquot for each analysis (e.g., for each rheological characterization).

[0029] The fluid testing system described herein may be an automated system that is configured to circulate and test the sample fluid, as well as circulate the cleaning fluid, via automated processes (e.g., move between at least some steps without human intervention). Additionally, the fluid testing system may performother types of tests on the sample fluid, such as weight, density, water-oil content, pH, emulsion electrical stability, fluid conductivity, particle size, and so forth.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of a fluid testing system 10. As shown, the fluid testing system 10 includes an enclosure 12 and a fluid container 14. In certain embodiments, the enclosure 12 forms a fully enclosed and sealed interior cavity 15 that houses the fluid container 14 and related fluid testing equipment. In an inset provided in FIG. 1 , one wall of the enclosure 12 is removed to show placement of the fluid container 14 and the related fluid testing equipment within the enclosure 12. In certain embodiments, the enclosure 12 may be purged and pressurized via a flow of compressed air into the enclosure 12 to block ingress of other gases into the enclosure 12, which may enable introduction of sample fluid (e.g., drilling fluid) and / or other fluid (e.g., cleaning fluid) that may be flammable (e.g., capable of releasing flammable gases) into the fluid container 14 within the enclosure 12. For example, the sample fluid and / or the other fluid within the fluid container 14 may release gases into a space within the fluid container 14 (e.g. , the space above the sample fluid and / or the other fluid). The pressure within the enclosure 12 may block ingress of the gases into the enclosure 12, and instead may force the gases to pass through a reference port 26 (e.g., atmospheric reference port) to an outside of the enclosure 12. Accordingly, the pressure within the enclosure 12 may block ingress of the gases into the enclosure 12, which may block (e.g., prevent) arcing, sparking, and fire conditions within the enclosure 12 and enable use of various types of equipment within the enclosure 12 (e.g., fluid testing equipment, electrically powered equipment).

[0031] As shown in FIG. 1 , the fluid container 14 is coupled to a rheology sensor 16 (e.g., viscometer) and a temperature control system 18. The fluid container 14 is also supported on a frame 20 that is coupled (e.g., via one or more fasteners, such as threaded fasteners) to the enclosure 12. As described in more detail herein, an inlet line 22 may provide fluid (e.g., sample fluid, such as drilling fluid; cleaning fluid) to the fluid container 14, and an outlet line 24 may enable extraction of the fluid from the fluid container 14. In certain embodiments, the fluid testing system 10 may include a skid 25 (e.g., frame, housing) that supports the enclosure 12(e.g., via fasteners, such as bolts). The skid 25 may support additional components, such as an electronics housing 28 that includes a display 35 (e.g., display screen). To facilitate discussion, the fluid testing system 10 and its components (e.g., the fluid container 14) may be described with reference to a vertical axis or direction 30, a first lateral axis or direction 32, a second lateral axis or direction 34, and / or a circumferential axis or direction 36.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a perspective rear view of an embodiment of a portion of the fluid testing system 10, and FIG. 3 is a perspective side view of an embodiment of a portion of the fluid testing system 10. As shown, the fluid testing system 10 may include a first source inlet 40 and a second source inlet 42. The first source inlet 40 may receive a first flow of a first fluid from a first source, and the second source inlet 42 may receive a second flow of a second fluid from a second source. In certain embodiments, the first fluid may include an active drilling fluid (e.g., prior to sending to a wellbore; from the first source, such as an active fluid source (e.g., tank or pit)), and the second fluid may include a returned drilling fluid (e.g., after being returned from the wellbore; from the second source, such as a return fluid source (e.g., tank or pit)). For example, the fluid testing system 10 may periodically obtain (e.g., take, pull, direct) a portion of the first fluid from the active fluid source for testing (e.g., in the fluid container 14), while drilling components may direct another portion of the first fluid from the active fluid source to drill the wellbore. Further, the fluid testing system 10 may periodically obtain a portion of the second fluid from the return fluid source for testing (e.g., in the fluid container 14), while the drilling components may return the second fluid from the wellbore to fill the return fluid source.

[0033] As shown, the fluid testing system 10 is configured to route the first fluid and the second fluid (e.g., in an alternating manner) through a first pump 44 (e.g., source pump) to a filter 46 (e.g. , crossflow filter) that separates a filtrate from solids. The solids may exit the fluid testing system 10 via a first source outlet 50 and a second source outlet 52 (e.g., to return to the first source and the second source, respectively). In certain embodiments, the fluid testing system 10 may include theskid 25 that supports at least some components, such as the first pump 44 and the filter 46, as well as the enclosure 12 and / or the electronics housing 28 of FIG. 1 .

[0034] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the fluid testing system 10. As shown, the fluid testing system 10 includes the fluid container 14, the first source inlet 40, the second source inlet 42, the first pump 44, the filter 46, the first source outlet 50, and the second source outlet 52. Components shown within source region 58 (e.g., outlined or marked by a box to facilitate discussion) may operate (e.g., continuously) to circulate the first fluid and the second fluid (e.g., in an alternating manner). In particular, a first fluid inlet valve 60, a second fluid inlet valve 62, a source supply valve 64, a first fluid outlet valve 70, and a second fluid outlet valve 72 may operate in a coordinated manner to circulate the first fluid and the second fluid (e.g., in an alternating manner). For example, with the source supply valve 64 in a respective closed configuration, no fluid may pass from the source region 58 to a testing and cleaning region 78 (e.g., outlined or marked by a box to facilitate discussion). Further, with the source supply valve 64, the second fluid inlet valve 62, and the second fluid outlet valve 72 in respective closed configurations, as well as with the first fluid inlet valve 60 and the first fluid outlet valve 70 in respective open configurations, the first fluid may circulate through the first pump 44, the filter 46, and the first source. Similarly, with the source supply valve 64, the first fluid inlet valve 60, and the first fluid outlet valve 70 in respective closed configurations, as well as with the second fluid inlet valve 62 and the second fluid outlet valve 72 in respective open configurations, the second fluid may circulate through the first pump 44, the filter 46, and the second source. It should be appreciated that the source supply valve 64 may be in the respective closed configuration at certain times, such as during cleaning operations within the testing and cleaning region 78.

[0035] In order to perform fluid tests on the first fluid and / or the second fluid, the source supply valve 64 may be adjusted to a respective open configuration. If the first fluid inlet valve 60 is in the respective open configuration (e.g., the first fluid outlet valve 70 is also in the respective open configuration to permit solids to flow from the filter 46 to return to the first source) and the second fluid inlet valve62 is in the respective closed configuration (e.g., the second fluid outlet valve 72 is also in the respective closed configuration to block the solids from flowing from the filter to the second source), then the first fluid is pumped by the first pump 44 and through the filter 46. Then, the first fluid (e.g., a portion of the first fluid; a filtrate of the first fluid) flows from the filter 46, across the source supply valve 64, and to a second pump 84 (e.g., a fluid test pump). During the fluid tests, a cleaning fluid inlet valve 86 is in a respective closed configuration.

[0036] Depending on a type of the fluid tests to be performed, various other valves within the testing and cleaning region 78 may be in respective open configurations or closed configurations. For example, to provide the first fluid to the fluid container 14 to perform the fluid tests (e.g., rheology tests) within the fluid container 14, a fluid outlet valve 88 is in a respective closed configuration and a fluid test valve 90 is in a respective open configuration to enable the first fluid to flow across the fluid test valve 90 to one or more sensors 92 (e.g., density sensor; pressure sensor) that is positioned along a conduit (e.g., pipe; portion of a fluid pathway or fluid passage formed by multiple conduits) outside of the fluid container 14. One or more parameters (e.g., density; pressure) of the first fluid may be measured (e.g., monitored; detected), and the one or more parameters may be associated with results of the fluid tests performed within the fluid container 14 (e.g., data is stored together in a database; the one or more parameters are flagged or labeled as being for the first fluid that is provided to the fluid container 14). Further, a sensor loop valve 94 is in a respective closed configuration and a fluid chamber valve 96 is in a respective open configuration to enable the first fluid to flow into the fluid container 14.

[0037] As shown, the fluid container 14 may include a suction outlet 100, which may facilitate leveling the first fluid within the fluid container 14 (e.g., automatic leveling; to a desired level for the fluid tests). Further, the suction outlet 100 is fluidly coupled to a third pump 102 (e.g., a suction pump) that provides suction to remove any fluid that reaches the suction outlet 100, for example. It should be appreciated that a suction valve 104 and a first fluid testing outlet valve 106 are in respective open configurations to enable any portion of the first fluid removed (e.g. ,suctioned) from the fluid container 14 to exit the fluid testing system 10, such as to return to the first source. Further, a second fluid testing outlet valve 108 and a cleaning fluid outlet valve 110 are in respective closed configurations to block the first fluid from reaching an undesirable or unmatched destination, such as to block the first fluid from reaching the second source or a cleaning fluid source, for example.

[0038] Once the first fluid reaches the desired level in the fluid container 14, the rheology sensor 16 and / or the temperature control system 18 may be operated to perform the fluid tests (e.g., rheology tests) on a sample of the first fluid. In certain cases, the fluid tests on the sample of the first fluid may be carried out over a duration of time (e.g., extended duration of time, such as 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or more). Upon completion of the fluid tests on the sample of the first fluid, the fluid chamber valve 96 may adjust to a respective open configuration to enable the fluid container 14 to drain the sample of the first fluid. In certain embodiments, with the fluid chamber valve 96, the fluid test valve 90, and the source supply valve 64 in respective open configurations, the second pump 84 may be operated in reverse to pump the sample of the first fluid to return to the source region 58. The sample of the first fluid is a relatively small volume, and thus, its return to the source region 58 (e.g., to the filter 46, where the sample of the first fluid may then return to the first source and / or be incorporated into the filtrate for further testing) does not have a significant effect on the fluid tests performed by the fluid testing system 10.

[0039] Notably, while the fluid tests are performed on the sample of the first fluid, the various valves may operate in a coordinated manner to perform one or more additional fluid tests outside of the fluid container 14. For example, the various valves may operate in a coordinated manner to perform the one or more additional fluid tests on the first fluid, the second fluid, or both. In particular, the one or more sensors 92 may measure the one or more parameters of the first fluid, the second fluid, or both. For example, with the fluid chamber valve 96, the cleaning fluid inlet valve 86, and the cleaning fluid outlet valve 110 in respective closed configurations, the other valves described herein may operate in thecoordinated manner to circulate the first fluid through the one or more sensors 92 one or more times (e.g., from the first fluid inlet valve 60, provide the filtrate to the one or more sensors 92, output the filtrate through the first fluid testing outlet valve 106, and output the solids through the first fluid outlet valve 70) and then to circulate the second fluid through the one or more sensor 92 one or more times (e.g., from the second fluid inlet valve 62, provide the filtrate to the one or more sensors 92, output the filtrate through the second fluid testing outlet valve 108, and output the solids through the second fluid outlet valve 72). Further, the other valves described herein may operate in the coordinated manner to circulate the first fluid and the second fluid in this alternating manner for an entirety of the duration of time that the fluid tests are run in the fluid container 14, or some portion thereof (e.g., at least 50, 60, 70, 80, or 90 percent). In certain embodiments, a pinch valve 114 is provided to selectively adjust a pressure of the first fluid when the one or more parameters are monitored by the one or more sensors 92.

[0040] In certain embodiments, the schematic diagram of FIG. 4 may be provided on a graphical user interface (GUI) 116 of a display (e.g., the display 35 of FIG. 1 ; another display remote from the skid 25 of FIG. 1 , such as another display that is part of a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet, and / or a mobile phone) for visualization by an operator (e.g., human operator; user). Further, as shown, certain data may be provided via the GUI 116 , such as respective values of the one or more parameters measured by the one or more sensors 92 (e.g., via number values), a status (e.g., active or inactive; via text) of the rheology sensor 16, a status (e.g., active or inactive; via text) of the pumps 44, 84, 102, a status (e.g., open or closed; via a line symbol, which may adjust to be in-line with a respective conduit to indicate a respective open configuration or transverse to the respective conduit to indicate a respective closed configuration) of the valves 60, 62, 64, 70, 72, 86, 88, 90, 94, 96, 104, 106, 108, 110, and so forth. Further, multiple different colors (e.g., red, yellow, green) may be utilized to provide quick reference information, such as to identify whether a particular pump 44, 84, 102 is active (e.g., green), idle (e.g., yellow), or operating improperly (e.g., red).

[0041] Advantageously, the GUI 116 may not only provide the data and / or a clear visual map of the fluid testing system 10, but may also enable the operator to provide operator inputs (e.g., user inputs) via the GUI 116. For example, the operator may provide the operator inputs to select an “auto” mode in which the fluid testing system 10 operates automatically (e.g., based on programmed sequences) or a “manual” mode in which the operator may provide the operator inputs to perform certain tasks (e.g., open or close certain valves). Further, the operator may provide the operator inputs to select certain virtual buttons (e.g., icons) to view details of the data (e.g., graphs that show trends over time; tables that show data over time).

[0042] FIG. 5 is an embodiment of a graphical user interface (GUI) 120 that may be presented on the display (e.g., the display 35 of FIG. 1 ; another display remote from the skid 25 of FIG. 1 ) to facilitate the operator inputs to the fluid testing system 10 of FIG. 1. For example, as shown, the GU1 120 may enable the operator inputs with respect to measuring the one or more parameters (e.g., the density), performing fluid tests on a particular source (e.g., the first source, the second source, or both), designating an origin for a particular source (e.g., active, return), setting a description of a particular source (e.g., A, B), inputting a length of an input pathway from a particular source (e.g., which may indicate whether any additional pumps, such as a booster pump, should be utilized to provide the fluid from the particular source to the fluid testing system 10 of FIG. 1 ), designating a type of fluid (e.g., water-based mud, oil / synthetic-based mud), designating an outlet for the cleaning fluid, and / or setting a testing schedule (e.g., protocol). For example, setting the testing schedule may include selecting a first entry (e.g., slot) and designating a first test with first test parameters, selecting a second entry (e.g., slot) and designating a cleaning cycle, selecting a third entry (e.g., slot) and designating a second test with second test parameters, and so forth. Indeed, the GUI 120 may enable the operator to input and set any variety of combinations of tests and cleaning cycles. After setting the testing schedule, the fluid testing system 10 may then automatically carry out the steps (e.g., the entries or slots) inthe testing schedule (e.g., progress through the steps without human intervention or additional operator inputs; via control signals from an electronic controller).

[0043] FIGS. 6-11 include schematic diagrams of an embodiment of the fluid testing system 10 of FIG. 1 during various cleaning stages or protocols. In particular, FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the fluid testing system 10 during a cleaning stage or protocol in which a cleaning fluid inlet 130 receives a cleaning fluid from a cleaning fluid source.

[0044] The cleaning fluid may include water, diesel, or any suitable cleaning fluid. When the cleaning fluid inlet valve 86 is in a respective closed configuration, no cleaning fluid may flow from the cleaning fluid source into the fluid testing system 10. Further, when the cleaning fluid inlet valve 86 is in a respective open configuration, the cleaning fluid may flow from the cleaning fluid source into the fluid testing system 10. The cleaning fluid may also discharge (e.g., exit) from the fluid testing system 10 via any of a variety of discharge paths, such as via the cleaning fluid outlet valve 110 (e.g., to a dedicated collection tank), via the first fluid testing outlet valve 106 (e.g., to reach the first fluid source), and / or via the second fluid testing outlet valve 108 (e.g., to reach the second fluid source) (e.g., the cleaning fluid outlet valve 110, the first fluid testing outlet valve 106, and the second fluid testing outlet valve 108 may be referred to herein as discharge valves to facilitate discussion). In certain embodiments, the operator may provide the operator inputs to select (e.g., designate) a particular discharge path for the cleaning fluid, and the fluid testing system 10 may then operate to cause the cleaning fluid to discharge via the particular discharge path.

[0045] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the fluid testing system 10 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which components are operated to clean a sensor pathway (e.g., sensor loop; density loop; portion of the fluid pathway that includes the one or more sensors 92). In certain embodiments, the components include the various valves and pumps, and the components may be operated according to the operator inputs and / or according to the testing schedule to clean the sensor pathway. For example, with the cleaning fluid inletvalve 86, the fluid test valve 90, the sensor loop valve 94, and one of the discharge valves 106, 108, 110 (e.g., in this example, the second fluid testing outlet valve 108) in the respective open configurations, and with the source supply valve 64 in the respective closed configuration, the second pump 101 may be operated to pump the cleaning fluid through a portion of the fluid pathway of the fluid testing system 10, as shown by arrows 140. Accordingly, the first fluid and / or the second fluid within the portion of the fluid pathway of the fluid testing system 10 is discharged (e.g., removed) with the cleaning fluid.

[0046] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the fluid testing system 10 of during another cleaning stage or protocol in which the sensor pathway receives additional cleaning fluid (e.g., the fluid testing system 10 may circulate the additional cleaning fluid through the sensor pathway). In particular, with the additional cleaning fluid in the sensor pathway, the fluid outlet valve 88 is adjusted to the respective open configuration, the cleaning fluid inlet valve 86 is adjusted to the respective closed configuration, and the one of the discharge valves 106, 108, 110 is adjusted to the respective closed configuration. Then, the second pump 101 may be operated to pump the cleaning fluid through the portion of the fluid pathway of the fluid testing system 10, as shown by arrows 142. Accordingly, the additional cleaning fluid flushes the portion of the fluid pathway (e.g., to clean any residual amounts of the first fluid and / or the second fluid). The fluid testing system 10 may discharge the additional cleaning fluid, then add further cleaning fluid to further flush the portion of the fluid pathway, and this may be repeated any number of times (e.g., 1 , 2, 3, 4, or more times).

[0047] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the fluid testing system 10 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which components are operated to clean the fluid container 14 and additional portions of the fluid pathway of the fluid testing system 10 (e.g., portions of the fluid pathway proximate to the fluid container 14). In certain embodiments, the components include the various valves and pumps, and the components may be operated according to the operator inputs and / or according to the testing schedule to clean the fluid container 14 and the additional portions of the fluid pathway of the fluid testing system 10Forexample, with the cleaning fluid inlet valve 86, the fluid test valve 90, the fluid chamber valve 96, the suction valve 104, and one of the discharge valves 106, 108, 110 (e.g., in this example, the second fluid testing outlet valve 108) in the respective open configurations, and with the source supply valve 64 in the respective closed configuration, the third pump 102 is operated and then the second pump 101 is operated (e.g., turned on after the third pump 102) to pump the cleaning fluid through the fluid container 14, as shown by arrows 144. As shown, as the fluid container 14 receives the cleaning fluid, at least some of the cleaning fluid passes through the suction outlet 100 and the third pump 102. It should be appreciated that, within the fluid container 14, the cleaning fluid may be isolated within the fluid container 14, circulated within the fluid container 14 (e.g., via a rotor of the rheology sensor of FIG. 1 ), and also heated within the fluid container 14 (e.g., to a target temperature).

[0048] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the fluid testing system 10 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which the cleaning fluid is discharged from the fluid container 14. In certain embodiments, after a period of time (e.g. , defined via the operator inputs and / or according to the testing schedule), the cleaning fluid is discharged (e.g., pumped) from the fluid container 14 back toward the second pump 84 by adjusting the fluid outlet valve 88, the fluid test valve 90, and the fluid chamber valve 96 to the respective open configurations, and running the second pump 84 in reverse. The cleaning fluid may then be directed through one of the discharge valves 106, 108, 110 (e.g., in this example, the second fluid testing outlet valve 108) in the respective open configuration, as shown by the arrows 146. In certain embodiments, the fluid testing system 10 may clean the sensor loop again.

[0049] The fluid testing system 10 may compare an initial density (e.g., known, as measured at the cleaning fluid source, or as measured by the one or more sensors 92) of the cleaning fluid to a subsequent density (e.g., known or as measured by the one or more sensors 92) of circulated fluid during a cleaning cycle to determine whether to perform further cleaning or whether to complete the cleaning cycle. In certain embodiments, if the subsequent density does not match(e.g., is not within a threshold of) the initial density, then the fluid testing system 10 performs further cleaning. However, in certain embodiments, if the subsequent density matches (e.g., is within the threshold of) the initial density, then the fluid testing system 10 ends the cleaning cycle.

[0050] It should be appreciated that one or more sensors 150 may be utilized at one or more locations of the fluid testing system 10 to monitor a cleaning status (e.g., to detect a presence or absence of residue; a level of residue). For example, at least one sensor 150 may be positioned in the fluid container 14 so that the at least one sensor 150 is wetted (e.g., contacted) by the fluid in the fluid container 14. After the fluid is drained from the fluid chamber, a signal generated by the at least one sensor 150 may indicate the cleaning status, such as the presence or absence of residue on the at least one sensor 150. For example, if the signal indicates a return to baseline (e.g., baseline sensor readings indicative of baseline residue levels, such as no residue and / or acceptable levels of residue; established at any suitable time, such as at manufacturing, installation, and / or at a beginning of a prior testing cycles), the fluid testing system 10 may determine the absence of residue at the at least one sensor 150, and thus that the fluid container 14 is sufficiently clean and that the cleaning is complete. However, if the signal is different (e.g., higher) than the baseline, the fluid testing system 10 may determine the presence of residue at the at least one sensor 150, and thus that the fluid container 14 is not sufficiently clean and that another cleaning cycle should be carried out. If the signal does not indicate the return to baseline after multiple cleaning cycles (e.g., a threshold number of cleaning cycles, such as 2, 3, 4, or 5), the fluid testing system 10 may proceed to testing operations and / or may provide a notification (e.g., via the display 35 of FIG. 1 ; another display remote from the skid 25 of FIG. 1 ).

[0051] For example, the notification may indicate that the fluid testing system 10 will proceed to the testing operations, insufficient cleaning (e.g., the signal indicates the level of residue is above baseline), and / or recommend maintenance operations (e.g., inspection, additional cleaning, and / or replacement of the fluid container 14; inspection, additional cleaning, and / or replacement of the at leastone sensor 150). The fluid testing system 10 may proceed to the testing operations so as to continue the testing schedule without delay, as significant delay in the testing schedule may result in delays in drilling operations (e.g., current drilling operations; ongoing drilling operations; occurring during and simultaneously with the testing schedule), and further, it may be known to be likely that the level of residue is acceptable to proceed with the testing operations after the threshold number of cleaning cycles, such as because it is known that any continued indications of residue are likely due to failure of the at least one sensor 150, for example.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the fluid testing system 10 may determine and select a type of cleaning fluid based on characteristics of the first fluid and / or the second fluid, as well as the order in which the fluid tests are carried out. For example, if the first fluid is a non-aqueous fluid and the second fluid is a waterbased fluid, to clean between a first fluid test on the first fluid and a second fluid test on the second fluid, the fluid testing system 10 may first flush with a base oil, then a mutual solvent, and then water or the second fluid. However, to clean between a second fluid test on the second fluid and a first fluid test on the first fluid, the fluid testing system 10 may first flush with water, then with a base oil, and then the non-aqueous fluid. Thus, the fluid testing system 10 may receive and analyze the operator inputs, such as provided to the GUI 120 of FIG. 5, to determine the characteristics of the first fluid and / or the second fluid, as well as the order in which the fluid tests are carried out. Additionally or alternatively, the fluid testing system 10 may receiving and analyze results of the fluid tests (e.g., density, rheology) to determine the characteristics of the first fluid and / or the second fluid.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the fluid testing system 10 may operate components, such as the various valves and pumps, to automatically select and use the type of cleaning fluid based on the characteristics of the first fluid and / or the second fluid, as well as the order in which the fluid tests are carried out. For example, the fluid testing system 10 may control the various valves and pumps to access and provide particular cleaning fluids at particular times (e.g., sequence), as set forth above. In this way, the fluid testing system 10 may advantageouslydetermine and implement an automated cleaning protocol that is appropriate and specific to the testing schedule, such as the testing schedule input via the GU1 120 of FIG. 5.

[0054] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the fluid testing system 10 during another cleaning stage or protocol in which the cleaning fluid is discharged from a fluid pathways. In particular, the fluid testing system 10 may proceed to displace (e.g., discharge, remove) the cleaning fluid from the fluid pathways. For example, the first fluid or the second fluid may be delivered through the fluid pathways, as shown by arrows 148, to cause the cleaning fluid to be discharged from the fluid pathways. Accordingly, the fluid testing system 10 is ready to proceed to test the first fluid, the second fluid, or both, as described herein (e.g., with reference to FIGS. 1 -5).

[0055] FIGS. 12-14 are various views of an embodiment of the filter 46 that may be utilized in the fluid testing system 10. In particular, FIG. 12 is a perspective rear view of an embodiment of the filter 46 within a portion of the fluid testing system 10. As shown in FIG. 12 and with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the filter 46 may be part of the fluid testing system 10, and fluid (e.g., the first fluid or the second fluid; provided in an alternating manner, at separate times) flows into the filter 46 at a fluid inlet 160 in a direction indicated by an arrow 162. The filter 46 separates a filtrate (e.g., filtrate portion of the fluid), wherein the filtrate exits the filter 46 at a filtrate outlet 164 (e.g., side outlet) and a remainder of the fluid (e.g., whole fluid; with solids; without the filtrate) exits the filter 46 at a fluid outlet 166. As shown, the filtrate may then flow from the filtrate outlet 164 to the testing and cleaning region 78 shown in FIG. 4 in order to carry out fluid tests on the fluid (or, more specifically, on the filtrate portion of the fluid). Also, as shown, the filter 46 may be mounted in a vertical position (e.g., vertical orientation; a central axis parallel to the vertical axis 30; relative to a gravity vector) to block (e.g., prevent) settling and to facilitate filtration (e.g., via upward flow of the fluid entering the filter 46 at the fluid inlet 160).

[0056] FIG. 13 includes a perspective rear view and a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the filter 46. As shown in FIG. 13, the filter 46 is a cross-flowfilter that includes a housing 168 that defines a fluid passage 170 (e.g., whole fluid passage), a filter element 172 positioned in the fluid passage 170, and an annular space 174 (e.g., filtrate passage). In addition to the fluid inlet 160, the filtrate outlet 164, and the fluid outlet 166, the filter 46 may also include a filtrate drain 176. The filtrate drain 176 may be fluidly coupled to the annular space 174 and enable draining the filtrate from the annular space 174 at certain times, such as during maintenance operations on the filter 46.

[0057] A respective flow rate of the fluid entering the filter 46 at the fluid inlet 160 and continuing through the fluid passage 170 may be greater than a respective flow rate of the filtrate within the annular space 174 and exiting the filter 46 at the filtrate outlet 164. For example, the respective flow rate of the fluid may be approximately 10 to 40, 20-30, or 25 gallons per minute, while the respective flow rate of the filtrate may be approximately 0.1 to 1 , 0.2 to 0.8, or 0.3 gallons per minute. Such disparity aids in cleaning the filter 46 (e.g., scouring of the filter element 172).

[0058] In certain embodiments, to further aid in cleaning the filter 46, the fluid testing system 10 of FIG. 1 may stop flow of the filtrate in the annular space 174 (e.g., via adjusting the source supply valve 64 to the respective closed configuration) at certain times (e.g., during a cleaning process of the testing and cleaning region 78 of FIG. 4; periodically for short periods of time to scour the filter element 172). This increases scouring of the filter element 172 by the fluid in the fluid passage 170, as without the flow of the filtrate, no additional solids can be deposited at gaps in the filter element 172, as shown and described in more detail with respect to FIG. 14.

[0059] In certain embodiments, to facilitate separation of the filtrate, the filter 46 may include a rod 178 that extends through the housing 168 (e.g., along a center axis of the housing 168) within the filter element 172 (e.g., along a flow path of the filter element 172). The rod 178 reduces a cross-sectional flow area, facilitating scouring of the filter element 172. The rod 178 shown in FIG. 13 is merely exemplary, and it should be appreciated that a rod outer diameter and a filterelement inner diameter would need to be sized to provide an annular gap to block (e.g., prevent) potential plugging (e.g., less than about 5, 6, or 7 times a size of a largest particle in the fluid (e.g., entering the filter 46 at the fluid inlet 160)).

[0060] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the filter 46, including a detailed view of a wire filter structure 180 of the filter 46. As shown in FIG. 14, the filter 46 includes the housing 168, the filter element 172 within the fluid passage 170 through which the fluid (e.g., the whole fluid) flows as shown by the arrow 162, and the annular space 174. As shown in an inset of FIG. 14, the filter element 172 may include the wire filter structure 180 that provides a permeable wall 190 (e.g., annular wall) between the fluid passage 170 and the annular space 174. In particular, the wire filter structure 180 defines gaps 182 that enable the filtrate to flow from the fluid passage 170 into the annular space 174, as shown by arrows 184.

[0061] Advantageously, the wire filter structure 180 includes features that facilitate scouring (e.g., removing; washing) solids (e.g., filtercake) that may be deposited across the gaps 182 and / or on surfaces within the fluid passage 170, which blocks (e.g., prevents) build-up and / or plugging within the filter 46. For example, a portion of the wire filter structure 180 may form the permeable wall 190 such that a radially inner surface of the permeable wall 190 is essentially smooth and a radial distance 192 between the permeable wall 190 and the annular space 174 is small to block (e.g., prevent) solids from building and / or accumulating across the radial distance 192. Further, each gap 182 is widest proximate to the annular space 174 and tapers to be narrowest distal from the annular space 174 (e.g., to form an inverted funnel shape from the whole fluid side to the filtrate side), which may also block (e.g., prevent) solids from reaching, building, and / or accumulating across the radial distance 192. Further, this configuration may also result in any bridging solids (e.g. , across the narrowest end of each gap 182; along the permeable wall 190) being within the fluid passage 170 and exposed to the flow of the fluid through the fluid passage 170, which enables the fluid to scour the bridging solids due to shear stress imparted by the flow of the fluid through the fluid passage 170. Additionally, each gap 182 is also orientated transverse (e.g.,perpendicular) to the flow of the fluid through the fluid passage 170, which also facilitates scouring the bridging solids. The wire filter structure 180 disclosed herein may be particularly suitable for filtering certain types of fluids, such as drilling fluids (e.g., due to composition, typical particles sizes, fluid properties, and so forth). Further, the wire filter structure 180 disclosed herein may be particularly suitable for filtering certain types of fluids, such as drilling fluids, for purposes of carrying out certain types of fluids tests (e.g., rheology tests; with the fluid testing system 10 of FIG. 1 , as disclosed herein).

[0062] As shown in FIG. 1 , the fluid testing system 10 may include an electronic controller 200 with a processor(s) 202 and a memory device(s) 204. In certain embodiments, at least some hardware components of the electronic controller 200 may be supported in the electronics housing 28 of FIG. 1 , which may be supported by the skid 25 of FIG. 1 . The electronic controller 200 may operate to carry out the fluid tests, the cleaning protocols, selections, determinations, baseline / threshold comparisons, processing, analysis, and any other techniques disclosed herein. For example, the electronic controller 200 may receive signals (e.g., data; from sensors and / or inputs (e.g., the operator inputs)), and the electronic controller 200 may also provide control signals (e.g., to pumps, valves, sensors, the display 35, and / or another display) to control operation of components (e.g., the pumps, valves, sensors, the display 35, and / or another display).

[0063] The processor(s) 202 may be processing circuitry that includes one or more processors configured to execute software, such as software for processing the signals and / or the inputs, and / or generating the control signals to control operation of the components of the fluid testing system 10. The memory device(s) 204 may include one or more memory devices (e.g., a volatile memory, such as random access memory [RAM], and / or a nonvolatile memory, such as read-only memory [ROM]) that may store a variety of information (e.g., sensor data; test and / or cleaning protocols) and may be used for various purposes. For example, the memory device(s) 204 may store processor-executable instructions (e.g., firmware or software) for the processor(s) 202 to execute, such as instructions for processing the signals and / or the inputs, and / or generating the control signals tocontrol operation of the components of the fluid testing system 10. The electronic controller 200 may also include other components, such as a communication device to transmit signals (e.g., data, information, control signals) via wireless and / or wired protocols. Further, the electronic controller 200 may also include or be coupled to an output device (e.g., the display 35, another display, and / or speaker) to provide information for visualization by the operator (e.g., via the GUIs 116, 120), provide audible alarms, and so forth. The electronic controller 200 may be local (e.g., on-board) a structure of the fluid testing system 10. In certain embodiments, the electronic controller 200 may be a distributed controller with portions in various locations (e.g., local, remote, cloud).

[0064] While the disclosure may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the following appended claims. Any features shown in FIGS. 1-14 or described with reference to FIGS. 1-14 may be combined in any suitable manner.

[0065] The techniques presented and claimed herein are referenced and applied to material objects and concrete examples of a practical nature that demonstrably improve the present technical field and, as such, are not abstract, intangible or purely theoretical. Further, if any claims appended to the end of this specification contain one or more elements designated as “means for (perform)ing (a function)...” or “step for (perform)ing (a function)...”, it is intended that such elements are to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claims containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements are not to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. CLAIMS1 . A fluid testing system, comprising: a fluid container; a first valve configured to adjust from a respective closed configuration to a respective open configuration to enable a first fluid flow from a first source; a second valve configured to adjust from a respective closed configuration to a respective open configuration to enable a second fluid flow from a second source; and a controller configured to: control the first valve to be in the respective open configuration to provide the first fluid flow from the first source to the fluid container to enable performance of a fluid test on a sample of the first fluid flow from the first source within the fluid container; and control, during the performance of the fluid test on the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source, the second valve to be in the respective open configuration and the first valve to be in the respective open configuration in an alternating manner to enable additional performance of an additional fluid test on respective samples of the first fluid flow from the first source and the second fluid flow from the second source via one or more sensors positioned external to the fluid container along a conduit that is fluidly coupled to the fluid container.

2. The fluid testing system of claim 1 , comprising at least one cleaning fluid inlet that is configured to provide a cleaning fluid along the conduit, into the fluid container, or both.

3. The fluid testing system of claim 2, comprising at least one cleaning fluid outlet that is configured to discharge the cleaning fluid to a collection tank.

4. The fluid testing system of claim 2, wherein the one or more sensors comprise one or more density sensors, and the one or more density sensors are configured to measure a density of the cleaning fluid along the conduit during a first cleaning cycle, wherein the controller is configured to: compare the density to an initial density of the cleaning fluid; and instruct an additional cleaning cycle in response to the density varying from the initial density by more than a threshold.

5. The fluid testing system of claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to determine and select a type of the cleaning fluid based on one or more respective characteristics of the first fluid flow, one or more respective characteristics of the second fluid flow, or both.

6. The fluid testing system of claim 1 , comprising a filter positioned along a fluid pathway between the fluid container and the first valve and also between the fluid container and the second valve.

7. The fluid testing system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid test on the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source comprises a rheology test.

8. The fluid testing system of claim 7, wherein the one or more sensors comprise one or more density sensors configured to measure density of the respective samples of the first fluid flow from the first source and the second fluid flow from the second source as the additional fluid test.

9. The fluid testing system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to instruct display of a graphical user interface that enables an operator to input a testing schedule that specifies the performance of the fluid test on the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source within the fluid container.

10. The fluid testing system of claim 9, wherein the graphical user interface enables the operator to input the testing schedule that specifies at least one cleaning cycle, at least one additional fluid test within the fluid container, or both.11 . The fluid testing system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid container comprises a suction outlet configured to automatically level the sample of the first fluid flow within the fluid container.

12. A method of operating a fluid testing system, the method comprising: controlling, via a controller, a first valve to provide a first fluid flow from a first source to a fluid container to enable performance of a fluid test on a sample of the first fluid flow from the first source within the fluid container; and controlling, via the controller and during the performance of the fluid test on the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source, a second valve and the first valve to open in an alternating manner to enable additional performance of an additional fluid test on respective samples of the first fluid flow from the first source and a second fluid flow from a second source via one or more sensors positioned external to the fluid container along a conduit that is fluidly coupled to the fluid container.

13. The method of claim 12, comprising controlling, via the controller, a cleaning fluid inlet valve to provide a cleaning fluid from a cleaning fluid source along the conduit, into the fluid container, or both.

14. The method of claim 13, comprising controlling, via the controller, an outlet valve to discharge the cleaning fluid to a cleaning fluid collection tank or to the first source.

15. The method of claim 13, comprising: determining, via the controller, a type of the cleaning fluid based on one or more respective characteristics of the first fluid flow, one or more respective characteristics of the second fluid flow, or both; and controlling, via the controller, the cleaning fluid inlet valve to select and provide the type of the cleaning fluid.

16. The method of claim 12, comprising instructing, via the controller, a pump to direct the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow through a filter positioned along a fluid pathway that is positioned between the fluid container and the first valve and also between the fluid container and the second valve.

17. The method of claim 12, comprising: controlling, via the controller, a rheology sensor to detect rheological properties of the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source as the fluid test; and controlling, via the controller, one or more density sensors to detect density of the respective samples of the first fluid flow from the first source and the second fluid flow from the second source as the additional fluid test.

18. The method of claim 12, comprising instructing, via the controller, display of a graphical user interface that enables an operator to input a testing schedule that specifies the performance of the fluid test on the sample of the first fluid flow from the first source within the fluid container.

19. A method of operating a fluid testing system, the method comprising: flowing a first fluid from a first source, through a portion of a sensor loop, and into a fluid container; operating a rheology sensor to perform a first test to obtain rheological properties of a sample of the first fluid in the fluid container; andduring the first test, flowing the first fluid from the first source and a second fluid from a second source in an alternating manner through the sensor loop; and operating one or more density sensors to perform a second test to obtain density measurements of respective samples of the first fluid and the second fluid in the sensor loop.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the first fluid comprises active drilling fluid, the second fluid comprises return drilling fluid, and the method comprises: operating the rheology sensor to perform the first test and operating the one or more density sensors to perform the second test during drilling operations.

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