Built-Up Evaluation Shut-In Tool for Surface-Controlled Pressure Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shut-in tools for hydrocarbon recovery operations face issues such as tool instability, incomplete valve closure leading to leaks, rapid depressurization, and lack of real-time quality control, resulting in incorrect measurements and increased operational costs.
Innovation Solution
A built-up evaluation shut-in tool controlled from the surface using coiled tubing, equipped with a digital hydraulic setting tool and expandable plug, allows for precise valve control and real-time data monitoring, minimizing tool movement and ensuring accurate pressure and temperature measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a slickline installed valve is used for shut-in testing, then the valve can be lowered into the wellbore, but the tool may be improperly set within the casing/tubing causing motion and instability
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into multiple functional segments including a setting tool section, a plug section, and a shut-in tool section. The setting tool can be actuated from the surface to deploy the plug and set the tool within the casing, providing stable positioning without requiring the entire tool assembly to be permanently installed in the wellbore.
2Speed
If the valve closes rapidly in less than two seconds, then shut-in testing is achieved, but the wellbore pressure builds rapidly which may be problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The valve closure process is made dynamic and controllable through surface actuation. The setting tool can be actuated from the surface to control the timing and rate of valve closure, allowing operators to adjust the closure speed to manage pressure build-up rates according to well-specific requirements rather than using a fixed rapid closure mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the valve closure timing is programmed at the surface based on past experience, then the tool can be operated, but there is no quality control possible from the surface leading to incorrect measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on pressure, temperature, and valve position to surface operators. This feedback mechanism allows for quality control from the surface by monitoring measurement accuracy and verifying proper tool operation, enabling operators to detect and correct issues during the testing process rather than relying solely on pre-programmed timing based on past experience.
4Productivity
If the tool is recovered with a winch and readings are evaluated, then the operation is complete, but rapid depressurization may damage the valve seals and cause gas nucleation
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is designed with preliminary protective features including controlled depressurization mechanisms and seal protection systems that are activated before tool recovery. The setting tool can be actuated from the surface to ensure proper seal positioning and the tool includes features to control the depressurization rate during recovery, preventing rapid pressure changes that could damage seals or cause gas nucleation.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments presented provide for a built-up, evaluation, shut-in tool that enables real time and pseudo real time control from the surface. In embodiments, an up-link telemetry indicates well data below a configuration valve to the surface. The wellbore data may be used to indicate when true pressure stabilization is achieved during operations.