CT Scanning Shaped Charge Explosive Pellets Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inconsistency in density of pressed explosive powder used in shaped charges leads to underperformance in perforating operations, as conventional methods do not effectively analyze or ensure uniform density within the charges.
Innovation Solution
The use of computed tomography (CT) scanning to non-destructively analyze the density variations in explosive powder pellets, allowing for the modification of fabrication techniques to achieve higher and more uniform density, thereby improving the performance of shaped charges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional methods are used to manufacture shaped charges, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but density uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing CT scanning analysis on explosive powder pellets during the manufacturing process, before the shaped charges are deployed. This allows density variations to be detected and fabrication techniques to be modified in advance, ensuring uniform density is achieved during manufacturing rather than discovering defects after production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical density measurement methods with computed tomography (CT) scanning technology. CT scanning uses electromagnetic radiation (X-rays) to non-destructively analyze density variations within the explosive powder pellets, providing three-dimensional density mapping without physical contact or destruction of the sample, thereby achieving high precision density uniformity assessment.
2Measurement precision
If CT scanning is used to analyze explosive powder pellets, then density measurement precision is improved, but analysis time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by focusing the CT scanning analysis specifically on critical regions of the explosive powder pellets where density variations most impact performance. Rather than analyzing every point in the entire pellet with maximum resolution, the method targets key areas to achieve sufficient measurement precision while reducing overall analysis time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting CT scanning parameters such as rotation speed, scanning range, and resolution levels to optimize the balance between measurement precision and analysis time. The system can modify scanning parameters based on the specific requirements of each pellet and the criticality of the analysis, achieving high precision when needed while maintaining faster analysis for routine inspections.
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 method enhances the performance of shaped charges by ensuring uniform density, leading to more effective perforations and fluid communication between the wellbore and formation.
Implementation Method 1
scanning the at least one calibration disk and the pellet using a CT scanner to obtain one or more CT images
Implementation Method 2
computed tomography (CT) scanning to non-destructively analyze the density variations
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include positioning at least one calibration disk in a computed tomography (CT) scanner and positioning a pellet in the CT scanner. The at least one calibration disk and the pellet may both be made of a same powder exhibiting a known density. The method may further include scanning the at least one calibration disk and the pellet using the CT scanner to obtain one or more CT images of the pellet and the at least one calibration disk, and comparing a density of the pellet with the known density of the at least one calibration disk based on the one or more CT images.