Anti-Extrusion Ring for Formation Sampling Packer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current formation evaluation methods face challenges in collecting uncontaminated formation fluids while preventing extrusion and deformation of packers and filtering out particles from wellbore fluids during drilling operations.
Innovation Solution
A formation sampling tool with a probe shoe, packer, and inlet system that includes an anti-extrusion ring and filter, where the packer seals against the wellbore wall, the anti-extrusion ring prevents packer extrusion, and the filter ensures clean fluid collection by blocking sand and particles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a packer is used to seal against the wellbore wall for fluid collection, then fluid sealing capability is improved, but the packer is prone to extrusion and deformation under differential pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-extrusion ring is positioned to protrude into the inlet before pressure differential occurs, creating a preliminary mechanical barrier that prevents packer material from being forced into the inlet channel during high-pressure drawdown conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-extrusion ring acts as an intermediary element between the packer and the inlet, absorbing the extrusion force and preventing direct contact between the packer material and the inlet channel, thus protecting both components
2Productivity
If drilling fluid containing sand and particles is collected during drilling operations, then fluid collection capability is improved, but particles contaminate the formation fluid sample
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is positioned specifically within the inlet channel where fluid enters the tool, creating a localized filtration zone that selectively removes particles from the flowing fluid while maintaining overall fluid collection efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The filter utilizes porous material structure with controlled pore sizes that allow formation fluid molecules to pass through while blocking larger sand particles and contaminants, achieving separation based on size differential
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
The system effectively collects uncontaminated formation fluids, prevents packer deformation, and supports weak formations by filtering out particles, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of fluid sampling during drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
the packer seals against the wellbore wall
Implementation Method 2
the anti-extrusion ring prevents packer deformation
Implementation Method 3
the filter ensures clean fluid collection by blocking sand and particles
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a formation sampling tool having a body, a probe shoe extendibly mounted to the body, a packer coupled to the probe shoe, and an inlet fixedly coupled to the probe shoe and the packer. The packer surrounds the inlet and the inlet includes an anti-extrusion ring extending beyond an outer surface of the packer. The system also includes a filter disposed within the inlet.