Bore Plug Leak Detection Using Pressure and Density Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plugging operations in wells face challenges with leak detection and addressing leaks in plugs, which can compromise the integrity of the well, particularly in offshore environments where removing and replacing casings and cement is resource-intensive and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing pressure data, temperature, and gravitational head induced density variation analysis to determine the state of a plug and bore, employing a processor to compute these parameters and assess the plug's condition, enabling precise leak detection and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional leak detection methods are used in plugged wells, then the process is simple, but the detection accuracy is low and leaks cannot be reliably identified
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the monitoring task by dividing the borehole into uphole and downhole regions separated by the plug, and by separating measurement functions (pressure sensing) from computation functions (density variation calculation and leak state determination). This allows complex leak detection to be achieved through coordinated simple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces direct mechanical inspection or complex multi-sensor physical measurement systems with a computational approach that uses pressure data combined with physical property models (density variations due to temperature and gravitational head) to infer leak conditions. This substitutes complex mechanical/physical measurement with computational analysis.
2Reliability
If extensive casing and cement removal is performed to address plug leaks, then complete repair is achieved, but resource consumption and time costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary leak detection and assessment through pressure monitoring and density variation analysis before any repair operations are initiated. By identifying and characterizing leaks early through accurate measurement, the system enables targeted, minimal interventions rather than extensive removal and replacement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes continuous feedback through pressure sensing and computation that monitors plug condition over time, providing real-time information about leak development. This feedback mechanism allows for early detection and timely, targeted repairs rather than delayed extensive remediation.
3Measurement precision
If pressure data is collected without considering density variations, then measurement is simple, but leak detection accuracy is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces density variation computation as an intermediary step that translates raw pressure measurements into meaningful leak detection information. By computing density variations due to temperature and gravitational head, the system acts as a mediator between simple pressure sensing and accurate leak state determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the interpretation parameters of pressure data by incorporating temperature and gravitational head effects on liquid density. Instead of treating pressure readings in isolation, the system transforms them by applying physical property variations, enabling accurate leak detection from simple pressure measurements.
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
Enhances the accuracy and efficiency of leak detection in well plugs, reducing the need for extensive casing and cement removal by providing real-time monitoring and maintenance, thus maintaining well integrity and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
receiving pressure data with respect to time acquired via a pressure sensor disposed in an uphole region of a bore of a well
Implementation Method 2
using at least physical properties of liquid in the uphole region and thermal information, computing a temperature and gravitational head induced density variation of the liquid in the uphole region
Data Source
AI summary
A method can include receiving pressure data with respect to time acquired via a pressure sensor disposed in an uphole region of a bore of a well, where a plug is disposed in the bore to define the uphole region to one side of the plug and a corresponding downhole region to the other side of the plug; using at least physical properties of liquid in the uphole region and thermal information, computing a temperature and gravitational head induced density variation of the liquid in the uphole region; and, based at least in part on at least a portion of the pressure data and the temperature and gravitational head induced density variation of the liquid, determining a state of the plug and the bore from a plurality of states.