Downhole Casing Patch With Shear Pin Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for bridging and sealing compromised downhole casings in hydrocarbon production are time-consuming, difficult to install, and have short service lives, with existing bridging pipes often unable to be retrieved from the well.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a bridging pipe with seals at both ends, an installation assembly for engaging and disengaging the seals within the well, and a selective compression system using shear pins and retrieval rings to facilitate easy installation and removal, allowing for efficient sealing and repair of ruptured casings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional bridging pipes are used to seal ruptured casing, then the casing can be sealed and continue production, but the installation process is time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bridging pipe system is divided into modular components including the bridging pipe body, separate seal assemblies, and an installation assembly that can be deployed independently. This segmentation allows for easier handling and installation of each component while maintaining the overall sealing function.
Solution Approach 2:
An installation assembly acts as an intermediary tool that facilitates the deployment of the bridging pipe and seal system. This intermediate device simplifies the installation process by providing a structured method to position and set the seals without requiring complex manual operations.
2Reliability
If conventional bridging pipes are used to seal ruptured casing, then the casing can be sealed, but the service life is short and retrieval is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The bridging pipe system incorporates dynamic elements including retrievable seal assemblies and movable components that can be adjusted or removed as needed. This dynamic design allows the system to adapt to changing well conditions and enables retrieval or replacement of components to extend service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to allow recovery and retrieval of the bridging pipe and seal assemblies after use. Components can be extracted from the wellbore and potentially reused or properly disposed of, extending the overall service life of the sealing system and reducing waste.
3Reliability
If conventional bridging pipes are used to seal ruptured casing, then the casing can be sealed, but the installation process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The seal assemblies and installation tools are prepared and configured before deployment into the wellbore. This preliminary preparation ensures that once the components are in position, the actual sealing operation can be completed quickly without requiring complex in-situ assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation assembly is designed to deploy and set the seals through self-actuating mechanisms that reduce the need for continuous external manipulation. The system can automatically position and activate the sealing elements, reducing the time required for installation compared to manually operated systems.
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 enables rapid and effective sealing of compromised casings, extending their service life and allowing for retrieval of the bridging pipe, thus improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime in hydrocarbon production.
Implementation Method 1
The shear pins securing the first seal retaining ring, the top first seal cones and the first seal engagement sleeve may be sheared in order from top to bottom as the bridging pipe moves therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for bridging a section of ruptured casing within an oil well comprising a length of bridging pipe extending between first and second ends sized to be located within the casing so as to span the section of ruptured casing, a first seal located around the bridging pipe proximate to the first end thereof, a second seal located around the bridging pipe proximate to the second end thereof, an installation assembly extending through the bridging pipe operably engaged with the first and second ends of the bridging pipe, wherein the installation assembly is operable to extend each of the first and second seals into engagement with the oil well and wherein the installation assembly is further operable to selectably disengage from the bridging pipe.