Cemented Multi-Zone Completion Sensor Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Monitoring hydrocarbon flow in cemented multi-zone completions is challenging due to cement obstruction and non-customizable sensor spacing, leading to inaccurate measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus where a sensor is coupled to a string of tubing with an isolated communication path that is initially blocked by a removable seal, allowing accurate measurement of production fluid parameters after the cement is perforated by a fracking fluid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cement is used for zonal isolation in the annular area, then zonal isolation is achieved, but sensors on the exterior surface of the tubing cannot directly communicate with the fluid flowing into and out of the perforated cement locations
Solution Approach 1:
The production tubing is segmented into multiple zones with separate openings for different measurement locations. Each opening can be independently accessed through the tubing wall, allowing sensors to measure fluid parameters in specific zones without compromising the overall zonal isolation provided by the cement in the annular area.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention places sensors inside the production tubing rather than on the exterior surface. This nested arrangement allows sensors to be positioned in direct contact with the production fluid while the cement in the annular area maintains zonal isolation between different geological zones. The sensors are effectively 'nested' within the tubing structure, bypassing the cement barrier.
2Ease of manufacture
If sensor spacing is fixed in the sensing system, then manufacturing is simplified, but the sensor locations do not align with the variable zonal isolation areas for each drilling operation
Solution Approach 1:
The production tubing incorporates openings at variable locations that can be customized for each drilling operation. These openings are positioned to align with specific zonal isolation areas, allowing the sensor placement to be dynamically adjusted to match the geological requirements of each well while maintaining a standardized sensing system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The tubing is designed with specific openings at specific locations tailored to each drilling operation's requirements. Each opening's position, size, and orientation are optimized for the local geological conditions and zonal isolation areas, allowing precise measurement at critical locations while the overall tubing structure remains standardized.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus for determining a parameter of a production fluid in a wellbore by providing an initially blocked isolated communication path between a sensor and an aperture formed in a sleeve. The isolated communication path is subsequently unblocked to allow measurements of the parameter of the production fluid.