Circulation Unit for Wireline Cleanout Tool Unloading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for cleaning production tubing in petroleum wells are inefficient, particularly for wireline operations, due to long turnaround times associated with unloading and preparing the wellbore cleanout tool for subsequent runs.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that reduces the time required for unloading a wireline-based wellbore cleanout tool by allowing surface unloading and between-run maintenance without removing the tool from the lubricator, utilizing a circulation unit that seals against the tool string and enables efficient debris removal and tool preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the wellbore cleanout tool is removed from the lubricator for unloading and maintenance, then the tool can be emptied and prepared for the next run, but the turnaround time between runs increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the unloading and maintenance operations with the lubricator by providing a circulation unit that integrates directly into the lubricator structure. The circulation unit includes a circulation chamber that receives the cleanout tool and provides sealing means to isolate the tool from the wellbore while enabling unloading and maintenance operations to be performed without removing the tool from the lubricator, thus eliminating the time loss associated with tool removal and reinstallation.
Solution Approach 2:
The circulation unit acts as an intermediary between the lubricator and the cleanout tool, providing a controlled environment for unloading and maintenance. The circulation chamber and sealing means create an intermediate space that allows the tool to be emptied and serviced while remaining connected to the lubricator system, facilitating rapid transitions between runs without full removal.
2Loss of time
If the cleanout tool remains in the lubricator during unloading, then turnaround time is reduced, but sealing and pressure control become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation unit is segmented into distinct functional components: a circulation chamber for receiving the tool, sealing means for isolating pressure zones, and a circulation system for fluid management. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, managing the complexity through modular design rather than a monolithic system.
Solution Approach 2:
The circulation unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides sealing to maintain pressure control, enables unloading of the cleanout tool, facilitates maintenance operations, and allows the tool to remain positioned in the lubricator. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment for each operation, managing overall system complexity.
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
This approach significantly reduces the overall time needed for wireline-based cleanout operations, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs by allowing for more frequent and rapid tool runs.
Implementation Method 1
The circulation unit is provided with sealing means to seal against an outer surface of the tool string
Implementation Method 2
the debris is transported out of the wellbore cleanout tool, through the device and the outlet and to a suitable external receptacle
Data Source
AI summary
A circulation unit for connecting to a lubricator suitable for housing a wireline operated tool string for collecting debris within a petroleum well. The circulation unit comprises a house with an upper lubricator connection and at least one lower internal seal member adapted to seal against an outer surface of the tool string. The circulation unit has an outlet above the seal member, the outlet being connected to a reservoir. The circulation unit has a lower lubricator connection. The house, upper lubricator connection and lower lubricator connection form a through passage for the tool string. The upper lubrication connection and lower lubrication connection are adapted for connection to a pressurized lubricator. The tool string includes a wellbore cleanout tool with filling means. The wellbore cleanout tool comprises an outlet for unloading collected debris in a lubricator assembly comprising the lubricator and the circulation unit.