Backscattering Spectrometry for Solids-Laden Fluid Sag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solids-laden fluids used in subterranean formation operations experience reduced solids carrying capacity due to sag, leading to ineffective distribution of additives, potential wellbore instability, and increased risk of well abandonment.
Innovation Solution
A backscattering spectrometry apparatus that simulates downhole conditions to determine the concentration of solids in solids-laden fluids, allowing for real-time monitoring and optimization of fluid formulations to prevent sag, by applying shear, pressure, and temperature variables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solids additives are included in solids-laden fluids to influence effectiveness, then the fluid's functional performance is improved, but the solids settle due to sag, causing ineffective distribution and wellbore instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by simulating downhole conditions (pressure, temperature, shear) before actual field deployment. This allows the fluid formulation to be optimized in advance to prevent sag, ensuring solids remain uniformly distributed when the fluid is pumped into the wellbore, thereby maintaining wellbore stability from the outset
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by systematically varying pressure, temperature, and shear rate parameters during simulation to identify optimal fluid formulation conditions. By adjusting these parameters, the fluid's rheological properties are optimized to counteract gravitational settling, preventing solids segregation and maintaining composition stability
2Reliability
If conventional measurement methods are used to monitor solids concentration, then the measurement process is simple, but real-time monitoring capability is insufficient to prevent sag
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using backscattering spectrometry to continuously monitor solids concentration in real-time. This provides immediate feedback on solids distribution, allowing operators to detect early signs of sag and adjust fluid parameters or formulation accordingly, thereby preventing wellbore instability before it occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical measurement methods with optical backscattering spectrometry. This substitution enables non-intrusive, real-time monitoring of solids concentration without mechanical contact, providing continuous data for sag prevention while avoiding the complexity of mechanical sampling and analysis systems
3Productivity
If solids-laden fluids are used to transport drill cuttings and proppant, then the operational effectiveness is improved, but sag causes solids to settle, leading to ineffective distribution and potential well abandonment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by simulating downhole conditions before field deployment to optimize the fluid formulation. This ensures the fluid has adequate solids carrying capacity and anti-sag properties before being used to transport drill cuttings and proppant, maintaining productivity while preventing solids settlement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by optimizing rheological parameters through simulated downhole conditions. By adjusting viscosity, yield stress, and other flow parameters, the fluid maintains high solids carrying capacity during transport while preventing gravitational settling, ensuring both productivity and reliability
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 effective distribution of additives, maintains wellbore stability, and prevents costly remedial measures by reformulating solids-laden fluids to maintain optimal solids carrying capacity, thereby enhancing the productivity and reliability of subterranean operations.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation, a sample chamber that transmits the electromagnetic radiation to optically interact with the solids-laden fluid sample and generate a backscattering signal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation, a sample chamber comprising a fluid sample inlet for introducing a solids-laden fluid sample therein, and a detector that receives a backscattering signal and generates an output signal corresponding to a concentration of solids in the solids-laden fluid sample. The electromagnetic radiation transmits through the sample chamber and optically interacts with the solids-laden fluid sample to generate a backscattering signal. The sample chamber may include one or more of a shear bob for applying a shear rate to the solids-laden fluid sample, the shear bob suspended in the sample chamber and rotatable about an axis, a sealable fluid pressurizing inlet for pressurizing the sample chamber and a pressure gauge for measuring the pressure in the sample chamber when pressurized, and/or a temperature source for heating the solids-laden fluid sample.