Choke Control for Wellbore Slug Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inducing slugs in wellbores during clean-up operations is challenging due to the complex nature of multiphase fluid distributions and phase slippages, which existing technologies struggle to efficiently manage.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize sensors and processors to measure and control choke sizes based on predefined templates and real-time flow conditions, aiming to induce and maintain slug flow in wellbores for effective clean-up.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If choke sizes are adjusted to induce slug flow in wellbores, then clean-up efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases due to multiphase fluid dynamics
Solution Approach 1:
The choke size is dynamically adjusted during the clean-up operation based on real-time flow regime detection. The system transitions from static choke settings to dynamic control, where the choke aperture is modified in response to detected flow conditions (slug flow, churn flow, annular flow) to optimize clean-up efficiency while managing control complexity through automated feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback control system is implemented where flow regime detection (via sensors monitoring pressure, temperature, and flow characteristics) provides real-time information to the control system. This feedback loop enables automatic choke size adjustment to maintain optimal slug flow conditions, resolving the contradiction by automating the complex control task rather than requiring manual intervention.
2Productivity
If real-time flow monitoring is implemented to maintain slug flow, then clean-up effectiveness is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is designed to serve multiple functions: detecting flow regime, providing data for control decisions, and potentially predicting transition points. By making the monitoring system multi-functional, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate specialized systems for each function, while still achieving improved clean-up effectiveness through maintained slug flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the wellbore's own flow characteristics (pressure drops, temperature gradients, flow rates) as the monitoring mechanism, rather than requiring external complex instrumentation. The multiphase flow itself provides the signals needed for detection, allowing the system to self-monitor and self-regulate, thereby improving effectiveness without proportionally increasing complexity or cost.
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 approach enables efficient induction and maintenance of slug flow, facilitating the removal of unwanted materials from wellbores, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of well clean-up operations.
Implementation Method 1
one or more chokes of the wellbore configured to restrict flow through the wellbore
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of the present disclosure provide for a process that includes receiving, at one or more processors, an indication to send a slug through a wellbore. The process also includes selecting, by the one or more processors, one or more choke templates indicating choke sizes of a choke for the wellbore. Moreover, the process includes controlling, using the one or more processors, the choke to the choke sizes based on the one or more templates as part of a wellbore clean-up process.