Behind-Casing Fluid Sampler Using Shape Charge Perforations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for subsurface fluid sampling, particularly in Class VI injection wells and post-hydraulic fracturing operations, face challenges such as contamination risk, disruption of production, and the need for new perforations, which hinder effective monitoring of cement seals and fluid migration.
Innovation Solution
A behind-casing fluid sampling device with a U-tube configuration, featuring a shape charge mechanism triggered by electrical or hydraulic signals, allows for non-invasive fluid sampling from outside the casing cement sheath, enabling repeated sampling without halting production or requiring additional well installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fluid sampling methods are used in subsurface wells, then fluid samples can be obtained, but production must be halted and new perforations must be created for each sample
Solution Approach 1:
The device pre-establishes a sampling infrastructure by installing the U-tube system and triggering mechanism during well construction. The shape charge perforations are created in advance, and the system is positioned behind the casing cement sheath before production begins. This preliminary setup eliminates the need to halt production for sampling operations, as the sampling pathway is already established and ready for use.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces an intermediary sampling system that operates independently from the production flow. The U-tube configuration with check valves creates a separate fluid conveyance pathway that can extract samples without interfering with the main production stream. The triggering mechanism acts as an intermediary control system that activates sampling only when needed, maintaining production continuity.
2Reliability
If new perforations are created for each sample, then fluid sampling is enabled, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The shape charge perforations are created in advance during the installation phase, establishing permanent sampling pathways through the casing and cement sheath. This preliminary perforation eliminates the need to create new openings for each sampling operation, significantly reducing process complexity and time requirements for subsequent sampling events.
Solution Approach 2:
The device creates a universal sampling system that can be used repeatedly for multiple sampling events. The permanently installed U-tube configuration with pre-created perforations serves as a multi-functional platform that can extract samples at different locations along the wellbore without requiring additional perforation operations, simplifying the overall sampling process.
3Productivity
If sampling is performed from above the region of interest, then production is maintained, but contamination detection capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from traditional above-casing sampling to behind-casing sampling by positioning the U-tube system outside the cement sheath. This spatial repositioning in another dimension (behind the casing rather than above it) enables direct access to formation fluids at the target depth, maintaining production continuity while significantly improving contamination detection accuracy through proximity to the region of interest.
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 long-term, minimally contaminated fluid sampling from deep reservoirs, allowing for accurate detection of contaminants and reducing operational disruptions, with demonstrated capabilities in maintaining functionality for over five years without impacting deeper borehole operations.
Implementation Method 1
a means to operate a shape charge device wherein either an electrical or hydraulic signal triggers the shape charge and facilitates connection of the U-tube inlet through perforation tunnels outside of the casing cement sheath into the surrounding formation
Implementation Method 2
the fourth conduit is in fluid communication through a one-way valve, wherein fluid can only convey in a direction from the fourth conduit towards the second outer conduit
Implementation Method 3
two tubes attached on the outside of well casing terminating at a U-tube fluid sampling inlet filter and check valve
Implementation Method 4
an aperture which is a check valve, optionally comprising a filter with a plurality of pores, such as, including but not limited to, sintered metal or porous plastic filter
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a device comprising: (a) a proximal end of the device comprises an inner first conduit within the lumen of an outer second conduit, (b) a distal end of the device comprises the outer second conduit in fluid communication with a third conduit and a fourth conduit through a Y-shaped, T-shaped or U-shaped junction, (c) the third conduit terminates in a triggering mechanism, and (d) the fourth conduit is in fluid communication through a one-way valve, wherein fluid can only convey in a direction from the fourth conduit towards the second outer conduit, with an aperture.