Cone and Plate Fluidic Oscillator Insert for Subterranean Wells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluidic oscillator designs for subterranean wells lack efficient configurations that enhance fluid flow oscillations, which are crucial for applications like steam flooding, pressure fluctuation, and fracture initiation in formations.
Innovation Solution
The development of a fluidic oscillator insert with a conical housing engagement surface and at least one fluidic oscillator formed on a substantially planar surface, utilizing a feedback fluid path system to alternate fluid flow between two fluid paths, creating oscillations through the Coanda effect and pressure differentials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional fluidic oscillator designs are used, then the basic oscillation function is provided, but the fluid flow oscillation efficiency and consistency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic oscillator is divided into distinct functional segments: a feedback fluid path system with separate feedback inlet and outlet, and a main fluid path system. This segmentation allows independent optimization of feedback control and main flow, improving both oscillation efficiency and consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback fluid path is introduced that connects the feedback inlet to the feedback outlet, creating a closed-loop feedback system. This feedback mechanism stabilizes the oscillation by continuously adjusting the fluid flow based on pressure differentials, ensuring consistent oscillation performance across varying operating conditions.
2Productivity
If complex fluidic oscillator configurations are implemented to improve oscillation performance, then fluid flow oscillation efficiency increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic oscillator design uses universal geometric parameters and standardized component configurations that can be applied across different well tool applications. The feedback fluid path system serves multiple functions: stabilizing oscillation, controlling frequency, and maintaining consistency, thereby achieving high oscillation efficiency without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fluidic oscillators are used for various well applications, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines specific geometric parameters for the fluidic oscillator components that can be adjusted to optimize performance for different applications (steam flooding, pressure fluctuation, fracture initiation). By providing parameter ranges and optimization guidelines, the design achieves versatility across applications while maintaining manufacturability through standardized precision requirements.
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 configuration enhances fluid flow oscillations, improving sweep efficiency, fracture initiation, and well cleaning by ensuring consistent and efficient fluid discharge through the fluidic oscillator, even in varying pressure conditions.
Implementation Method 1
creating oscillations through the Coanda effect and pressure differentials
Implementation Method 2
creating oscillations through the Coanda effect and pressure differentials
Data Source
AI summary
A method of manufacturing a fluidic oscillator insert for use in a subterranean well can include forming the insert with a conical housing engagement surface thereon, and forming at least one fluidic oscillator on a substantially planar surface of the insert. A well tool can include a housing assembly, at least one insert received in the housing assembly, the insert having a fluidic oscillator formed on a first surface thereof, the insert being at least partially secured in the housing assembly by engagement of conical second and third surfaces formed on the insert and housing assembly, and a cover which closes off the first surface on the insert. An insert for use in a well tool can include a conical housing engagement surface, and at least one fluidic oscillator formed on a substantially planar surface. The fluidic oscillator produces oscillations in response to fluid flow through the fluidic oscillator.