Automated Well Cementing Control for Priming and Wash Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cementing systems in well operations rely heavily on human intervention for priming and washing procedures, which can lead to inefficiencies and potential equipment damage due to air particles and cement residue issues.
Innovation Solution
An automated cementing system managed by a computer processor that determines and executes sequences for priming and washing procedures based on sensor data, using cementing management commands to trigger and monitor equipment operations, ensuring procedures are completed within predetermined parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated control is implemented for priming and washing procedures, then operational efficiency and reliability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cementing system performs self-diagnosis and self-cleaning through automated sensor monitoring and washing procedures. The system independently detects air particles, determines when priming is complete, and executes washing sequences without human intervention, allowing the equipment to maintain itself
Solution Approach 2:
Sensor data continuously monitors equipment status during priming and washing operations. The automated controller receives feedback from sensors detecting air particles, fluid flow, and equipment state, using this information to dynamically adjust and complete procedures based on actual conditions rather than fixed timers
2Device complexity
If manual monitoring is used for priming procedures, then system complexity is reduced, but air particles may cause cavitation and equipment damage
Solution Approach 1:
Manual visual inspection and mechanical monitoring are replaced with automated sensor systems that electronically detect air particles and fluid conditions. The sensor-based detection system continuously monitors for harmful air particles and automatically triggers priming procedures when detected
Solution Approach 2:
Sensor devices act as intermediaries between the physical priming process and the control system. These sensors detect air particles and equipment state, translating physical conditions into signals that trigger automated responses, serving as a bridge that enables intelligent control without direct human involvement
3Productivity
If automated sequences are implemented for washing procedures, then productivity is improved, but measurement and monitoring requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses visual indicators such as color changes or light signals to indicate washing procedure status and completion. Sensors detect changes in fluid clarity, flow characteristics, or other visual parameters that signal when washing is complete, providing clear measurable endpoints for automated sequences
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include obtaining, by a computer processor, a request to initiate a cementing procedure. The method may further include determining, by the computer processor, an automated sequence for the cementing procedure. The method may further include transmitting, by the computer processor and based on the automated sequence, a cementing management command that triggers the cementing procedure for cementing equipment in a cementing system. The method may further include obtaining, by the computer processor, sensor data regarding the cementing equipment. The method may further include determining, by the computer processor and in response to the sensor data, whether to perform a next procedure in the automated sequence.