Adjustable Downhole Pressure Control Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downhole chemical injection systems face limitations in adjusting the preload of chemical injection valves, requiring costly and time-consuming processes to modify the spring preload, which restricts fluid pressure adjustments and often result in valve discard.
Innovation Solution
A pressure control valve system with a valve body, valve assembly, and piston assembly that allows for adjustable fluid pressure control through a control fluid, enabling operators to modify treating fluid pressure without withdrawing the valve from the wellbore, using a setting tube and cushioning spring to bias the valve member and control fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a preload is applied to the spring prior to introducing the CIV downhole, then the valve can be unseated by liquid pressure, but the preload cannot be adjusted without withdrawing the CIV from the wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The spring preload mechanism is made dynamic and adjustable through a key-operated adjustment mechanism. The adjustment key can be inserted through the valve stem to compress or expand the spring, allowing real-time modification of the preload force without removing the valve from service. This transforms a static, fixed-preload system into a dynamic, adjustable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve incorporates a self-service adjustment capability where the operator can directly adjust the spring preload through the valve stem using an adjustment key. This eliminates the need for external intervention or valve removal, allowing the valve to service its own adjustment needs while remaining installed in the wellbore.
2Reliability
If the preload is increased to raise the pressure floor for liquid introduction, then better pressure control is achieved, but the valve must be withdrawn and modified which is costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The spring preload is made dynamically adjustable through a key-operated mechanism accessible via the valve stem. This allows operators to precisely tune the preload force to match specific pressure requirements, improving pressure control reliability without requiring valve removal or complex manufacturing modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring preload parameter can be changed in the field by rotating the adjustment key, which compresses or expands the spring to achieve the desired preload force. This parameter adjustment capability allows precise control of the pressure floor without altering the valve's physical structure or requiring manufacturing intervention.
3Reliability
If the CIV is discarded when preload issues occur, then system reliability is maintained, but resource waste increases due to the costly disposal process
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of discarding the valve when preload issues occur, the design enables recovery and continued use through field adjustment. The adjustment key mechanism allows operators to correct preload problems in-situ, extending the valve's operational life and preventing premature disposal of functional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve provides self-service capability for preload adjustment, allowing operators to diagnose and correct preload issues without removing the valve or requiring specialized service intervention. This extends valve life and reduces waste by enabling operators to maintain valve performance independently.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides flexibility in adjusting fluid pressure without the need for costly and time-consuming valve removal, extending the operational life of the valve assembly and allowing for precise control of fluid flow in downhole operations.
Implementation Method 1
A piston assembly including a piston and a control fluid inlet is arranged in the valve body. The piston is operable to bias the valve member toward a closed configuration upon exposure to a control fluid.
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure control valve for downhole treatment operations includes a valve body including an inlet, an outlet, and a valve seat. A valve assembly is arranged in the valve body. The valve assembly includes a valve member selectively positionable on the valve seat to control fluid flow through the valve body. A piston assembly including a piston and a control fluid inlet is arranged in the valve body. The piston is operatively connected to the valve assembly. The piston is operable to bias the valve member toward a closed configuration upon exposure to a control fluid.