On-Site Adjustable AICD Plugs for Wellbore Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous inflow control devices (AICDs) in hydrocarbon production wells often require adjustments due to changing production needs or different well site conditions, but existing devices are not easily adjustable on-site, limiting their adaptability and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves allowing well operators to make on-site adjustments to AICD assemblies by installing plugs in various locations, such as the inlet or outlet of the devices, to alter flow characteristics, which can be accessed by removing a sleeve or through the interior of the base pipe, enabling strategic fluid flow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If AICD systems are manufactured to particular specifications for normal operation, then they provide optimized flow control for initial production needs, but they cannot adapt to changing production needs or different well site conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The AICD system is divided into modular components including multiple autonomous inflow control devices, each with adjustable flow characteristics. The system can be segmented into functional units that can be independently adjusted or replaced based on changing production requirements, enabling adaptability without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The AICD system incorporates dynamically adjustable components such as flow control valves and restrictors that can be modified during well lifecycle. The system transitions from a static manufactured configuration to a dynamic, adjustable system that responds to changing production conditions through field modifications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If AICD systems are designed with fixed flow characteristics, then they provide reliable automated flow control, but they lack the ability to make on-site adjustments when production needs change
Solution Approach 1:
The AICD system is pre-configured with adjustable components and access mechanisms during manufacturing, preparing it for future on-site modifications. Flow control elements are installed in positions that allow later adjustment without requiring system disassembly or well intervention, enabling both initial reliability and future adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple AICDs are combined into a system with fixed specifications, then they achieve balanced production from various subterranean zones, but they cannot be reconfigured when new well information is discovered
Solution Approach 1:
The AICD system employs universal components and standardized interfaces that allow the same manufactured system to serve multiple well configurations and production scenarios. The modular design enables a single system architecture to be adapted across different well sites and production conditions without requiring custom manufacturing for each application.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are wellbore flow control devices that allow on-site field adjustments to flow characteristics. One autonomous inflow control device (AICD) assembly includes a base pipe defining one or more flow ports and an interior, at least one AICD arranged on the base pipe and having at least one fluid inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with one of the one or more flow ports, and a plug configured to be arranged in at least one of the at least one fluid inlet and the outlet of the at least one AICD by a well operator on-site.