Blank Pipe Milling and Plugging for Selective Inflow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passive inflow control devices (ICDs) in horizontal wells struggle to balance fluid inflow efficiently, leading to uneven production rates and inefficiencies due to reservoir heterogeneity, with high water production interfering with oil recovery.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a milling sub-system and plug sub-system is used to create or close openings in a blank pipe based on formation analysis, utilizing a computer system to align the apparatus with high-oil or high-water producing areas, and actuate milling or plugging operations to optimize fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If passive inflow control devices (ICDs) are used to balance fluid inflow, then production balance along the wellbore is improved, but the system cannot effectively respond to reservoir heterogeneity and water interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms passive ICDs into an active system by incorporating a motor-driven milling apparatus that can dynamically adjust opening sizes in real-time. The system includes a control system that receives reservoir data and automatically actuates the milling device to modify flow paths, enabling dynamic adaptation to changing reservoir conditions and heterogeneity rather than relying on static pre-configured ICDs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the blank pipe by creating controllable openings of varying sizes. The milling apparatus can adjust opening diameter, number, and position based on reservoir characteristics. This parameter adjustment capability allows the system to optimize fluid inflow by modifying the physical structure of the pipe rather than relying on fixed ICD configurations.
2Productivity
If openings are created in the blank pipe to increase oil inflow, then oil recovery is improved, but water inflow may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating selectively positioned openings at specific locations along the blank pipe where oil inflow is most beneficial. The system analyzes reservoir heterogeneity data to determine optimal opening positions, ensuring that openings are placed in zones with high oil content while avoiding areas with high water content. This localized approach maximizes oil recovery while minimizing water inflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses partial action by creating only the necessary number and size of openings to achieve optimal oil inflow. Rather than opening the entire pipe circumference, the system creates targeted openings in specific segments based on reservoir characteristics. This partial opening approach allows controlled fluid inflow that balances oil recovery with water avoidance.
3Productivity
If the milling apparatus is actuated to create openings, then fluid flow control is improved, but the blank pipe structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing structural reinforcement on the blank pipe before milling operations. The system includes a reinforcement mechanism that strengthens the pipe wall at anticipated opening locations prior to creating the openings. This preliminary reinforcement ensures that the pipe maintains sufficient structural integrity even after openings are created, preventing collapse or failure during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses beforehand cushioning by implementing protective measures before the milling process. The reinforcement mechanism acts as a cushioning element that pre-strengthens the pipe structure against the stresses of opening creation and subsequent fluid flow. This protective action prevents structural failure during the milling operation and maintains pipe integrity during normal operation.
4Productivity
If multiple openings are created in the blank pipe, then oil inflow is increased, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single milling apparatus that can create multiple openings of varying sizes at different locations along the blank pipe. Rather than requiring separate devices for each opening, the system uses one multi-functional milling mechanism controlled by a computer system. This universal apparatus can handle various opening configurations (number, size, position) through programmable control, reducing overall system complexity despite the ability to create multiple openings.
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 enhances oil recovery by increasing the inflow of oil and reducing water inflow, maintaining pipe integrity, and operating riglessly, thus improving well life and production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The bit is configured to form an opening in the blank pipe
Implementation Method 2
the at least one brace configured to extend radially from the second side of the wall to press the bit to the inner surface of the blank pipe
Implementation Method 3
The carrier is configured to press the clad to an inner surface of the blank pipe and apply an expanding force to the clad to engage the clad with the blank pipe
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to an inflow control system having an apparatus configured to form or plug openings in a blank pipe. The apparatus includes a housing and a milling sub-system. The housing has a cylindrical wall with an outer surface. The milling sub-system is mounted to a first side of the wall and is configured to mill an opening in the blank pipe. The milling sub-system includes a bit configured to form an opening in the blank pipe and at least one brace attached to a second side of the wall opposite the first side of the wall. The at least one brace is configured to extend radially from the second side of the wall to press the bit to the inner surface of the blank pipe.