Automated Inflow Negative Test Using Flow Measuring Sub
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual process of performing an inflow negative test in wellbore operations is labor-intensive, prone to human errors, and poses risks to operators due to exposure to hazardous gases, as it requires the drill string to be open to the atmosphere.
Innovation Solution
A flow measuring sub is integrated into the drill string, comprising a hollow threaded pipe with connection flanges and a measuring device connected to a computer device, which measures and analyzes fluid flow data in real-time, determining the success or failure of the inflow negative test without requiring the drill string to be open to the atmosphere.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual monitoring is used to measure fluid volume and fill time, then the inflow negative test can be performed, but the process is labor-intensive and prone to human errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical monitoring system with an automated electronic measurement system. A flow meter is installed in the drill string to automatically measure fluid flow rate, and a computer system automatically records and analyzes the data, eliminating manual timing and volume measurement operations. This substitution resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of operation while dramatically improving reliability through automated data collection and analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed to automatically perform all monitoring functions without requiring operator intervention. The flow meter continuously measures fluid flow, the computer automatically records data at specified time intervals, and the system autonomously generates analysis results. This self-service capability eliminates human error while requiring minimal operational input, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
2Ease of operation
If the drill string is open to atmosphere for manual measurement, then fluid volume can be measured, but operators are exposed to hazardous gases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the open-atmosphere manual measurement method with a closed-system electronic flow measurement system. A flow meter installed within the closed drill string continuously measures fluid flow rate, and a computer system automatically records and analyzes the data. This substitution resolves the contradiction by enabling accurate fluid volume measurement while keeping the drill string closed, thereby eliminating operator exposure to hazardous gases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electronic sensors and computer systems as intermediaries between the fluid and the measurement process. Instead of directly observing and measuring fluid volume through open ports, the system uses flow meters to detect fluid flow characteristics and transmits this data to a computer for analysis. This intermediary approach enables accurate measurement while maintaining a closed system, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and operator safety.
3Reliability
If automated flow measurement system is implemented, then operator safety is enhanced and human error is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single automated measurement system. The flow meter simultaneously measures fluid flow rate, the computer automatically records data at specified time intervals, performs calculations to determine fluid volume and test results, and generates analysis outputs. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by achieving high measurement accuracy and reliability while consolidating complexity into an integrated system rather than multiple separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
A method to perform an inflow negative test of a wellbore is disclosed. The method includes disposing a flow measuring sub in a drill string to mechanically connect a drill pipe joint and a drill pipe, and sustaining a fluid flow downstream along an annulus and upstream along the drill pipe. The fluid flow reverses direction through an open port in a wall of the drill pipe or an open end of the drill pipe, and returns to a mud tank from the drill pipe through the flow measuring sub and the drill pipe joint. Flow measurement data of fluid movement through the flow measuring sub is generated using a measuring device of the flow measuring sub and sent to a computer device of the flow measuring sub. Accordingly, a success/failure result of the inflow negative test is determined using the computer device based at least on the flow measurement data.