Adjustable Inflow Control Screen for Dynamic Well Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control screens in subterranean wells lack the ability to adjustably control the inflow of formation fluids over time and independently manage fluid inflow from multiple production intervals as fluid characteristics change, leading to inefficiencies in fluid production.
Innovation Solution
A flow control screen system with an inflow control device featuring multiple fluid passageways and plugs made from different materials or with protective coatings, where plugs can be selectively removed using specific stimuli to adjust flow resistance, allowing for dynamic control of fluid inflow based on changing fluid compositions and pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flow restrictors are adjusted to control production rate, then fluid flow control is improved, but the device cannot adapt to changing formation pressure and fluid composition over time
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device incorporates multiple flow restrictors with different flow characteristics that can be selectively activated or deactivated. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to changing formation pressure and fluid composition over time, transitioning from a static single-restrictor design to a dynamic multi-restrictor system that responds to well conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of flow control by selecting different flow restrictors based on changing well conditions. Each flow restrictor has distinct flow characteristics, and the system transitions between them by altering which restrictor is active, thereby adapting to varying formation pressure and fluid composition without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single flow control device is used, then device complexity is reduced, but independent control of multiple production intervals is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control system is segmented into multiple independent flow control devices, with each device responsible for a specific production interval. This segmentation enables independent control of each interval, allowing tailored flow management for different zones based on their specific fluid characteristics and production requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each flow control device is equipped with flow restrictors having specific local characteristics suited for its designated production interval. This local quality approach ensures that each zone receives optimized flow control tailored to its unique conditions, rather than applying a uniform control strategy across all intervals.
3Ease of operation
If flow restrictors are fixed prior to installation, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but post-installation adjustment capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flow restrictors with different flow characteristics are pre-installed in the flow control device during manufacturing. This preliminary action allows the system to be manufactured with built-in adaptability, where the selection of which restrictor to activate is deferred to field conditions, combining manufacturing simplicity with operational flexibility.
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
Enables adjustable and independent control of fluid inflow, optimizing production rates and extending the productive life of wells by adapting to changes in formation pressure and fluid composition over time.
Implementation Method 1
A first plug is disposed within the first fluid passageway and is operable to restrict fluid flow therethrough. The first plug is operably removable from the first fluid passageway responsive to a first stimulus. A second plug is disposed within the second fluid passageway and is operable to restrict fluid flow therethrough. The second plug is operably removable from the second fluid passageway responsive to a second stimulus
Data Source
AI summary
A well system has a fluid flow path for the inflow of production fluid. An inflow control device is disposed within the fluid flow path. The inflow control device has at least first and second fluid passageways. A first plug is disposed within the first fluid passageway and is operable to restrict fluid flow therethrough. The first plug is operably removable from the first fluid passageway responsive to a first stimulus. A second plug is disposed within the second fluid passageway and is operable to restrict fluid flow therethrough. The second plug is operably removable from the second fluid passageway responsive to a second stimulus, wherein the first stimulus is different from the second stimulus.