Bypass Lubricator Orifice Layout for Artificial Lift Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lubricator designs face challenges in maintaining the position of artificial lift devices while minimizing valve complexity and adhering to API specifications, leading to interference and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A bypass lubricator assembly with reduced valving and an orifice system that creates a pressure differential between exit bores to maintain the artificial lift device in position, allowing well shut-off with a single valve and compliance with API specifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple valves are used to control flow from upper and lower exits, then flow control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single valve located in the bypass flow path. This single valve controls flow through both the upper and lower exits by regulating the bypass flow, eliminating the need for separate valves at each exit while maintaining full flow control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve in the bypass lubricator serves multiple functions: it controls flow to the upper exit, controls flow to the lower exit, and maintains plunger positioning. By making the valve multi-functional, the system reduces the total number of valves required while preserving operational flexibility.
2Manufacturing precision
If valves are adjusted to maintain plunger position, then positioning accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass lubricator design allows the plunger to self-position through the natural pressure differential created by the orifice and bypass flow path. The system uses the fluid dynamics of the bypass flow to automatically maintain plunger position without requiring manual valve adjustments, making the system self-regulating.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses hydraulic principles through the bypass flow path and orifice to create pressure differentials that automatically position and hold the plunger. The controlled bypass flow generates the necessary pressure forces to maintain plunger position, replacing manual mechanical adjustment with automatic hydraulic control.
3Reliability
If both valves are closed to shut in the well, then well shut-off capability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the shut-in function into a single valve operation. Closing the single bypass valve simultaneously shuts off flow to both upper and lower exits, providing reliable well shut-off capability while simplifying the operator's task from closing two valves to closing one.
4Reliability
If plunger is positioned to prevent flow interference, then flow reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger automatically positions itself in the correct location through the pressure differential created by the bypass flow system. The orifice and bypass flow path generate the necessary pressure forces to hold the plunger in a position that prevents flow interference, eliminating the need for external positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses hydraulic pressure forces generated by the bypass flow to automatically position and hold the plunger in the correct location. The pressure differential across the orifice creates a holding force that maintains plunger position, ensuring flow reliability without mechanical positioning devices.
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 solution effectively maintains the artificial lift device in a non-interfering position, simplifies valve operations, and adheres to industry standards, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The upper exit bore and the lower exit bore may be sized relative to one another to create a pressure differential between the upper and lower exit bores to assist in maintaining an artificial lift device in the lubricator's bore
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are embodiments of an improved bypass lubricator. The lubricator may include a body having a bore, where the bore may include at least an upper exit bore and a lower exit bore. The lubricator may also include an exit flow path that also has a bore, wherein the bore of the exit flow path is in fluid communication with the upper exit bore, the lower exit bore, and an exit valve. The upper exit bore and the lower exit bore may be sized relative to one another to create a pressure differential between the upper and lower exit bores to assist in maintaining an artificial lift device in the lubricator's body. Shutting the exit valve shuts in the well.