Electronics-free flow sensor downhole in a wellbore

An electronics-free flow sensor using a vibrating wire and resonant circuit addresses the reliability and longevity issues of downhole sensors by measuring fluid flow and composition accurately over extended periods, overcoming environmental challenges.

WO2026072078A1 Publication Date: 2026-04-02HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/US2024/055454
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-09-25
Filing Date
2024-11-12
Publication Date
2026-04-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing downhole flow sensors in wellbores face challenges due to extreme environments, including high temperatures, which can damage or degrade electronic components, leading to reliability issues and limited lifespan, making it difficult to maintain accurate fluid flow and composition measurements over extended wellbore lifetimes.

Method used

An electronics-free flow sensor using a vibrating wire and a resonant circuit to measure fluid flow and composition, where the vibrating wire generates an electrical signal via vortex shedding, and the resonant circuit responds to fluid composition changes, transmitting signals through a tubing encapsulated conductor line to a receiver for analysis.

Benefits of technology

The solution provides reliable, long-term measurement of fluid flow rate and composition without electronic components, unaffected by high downhole temperatures, enabling continuous monitoring and improved reservoir management.

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Abstract

Techniques described herein involve an electronics-free downhole flow sensor. For example, a system can include a receiver positioned at a surface of a wellbore. A flow sensor can be positioned downhole in the wellbore. The flow sensor can include a wire positioned within a flow path of downhole fluid in the wellbore. The wire can oscillate based on flow of the downhole fluid. The flow sensor can also include a variable reluctance sensor that can detect an electrical signal that is generated by oscillation of the wire. The variable reluctance sensor can transmit the electrical signal to the receiver. The receiver may determine a resonant frequency based on the electrical signal and may determine a fluid velocity of the downhole fluid based on the resonant frequency.
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