Dart-Actuated Well Valves for Reliable Reservoir Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrocarbon recovery operations face challenges in optimizing fluid flow into and out of reservoirs, particularly in fractured reservoirs, due to issues with electrical communication reliability and difficulty in controlling fluid flow at different well locations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using an actuation dart deployed down a tubing string to operate valve assemblies, shifting them between closed and open configurations via fluid pressure, allowing controlled fluid communication with the reservoir.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrically-actuatable tools are used for optimization, then control capability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to unexpected loss of electrical communication with the surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrically-actuatable tools with a mechanically-actuated dart system. The dart is propelled down the tubing string by fluid pressure and mechanically actuates the valve assemblies through direct physical contact, eliminating the need for electrical communication and associated reliability issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The dart acts as a mechanical intermediary that transmits the actuation force from the fluid pressure source to the valve assemblies. This intermediary mechanism allows control without requiring direct electrical connection between the surface and downhole tools.
2Manufacturing precision
If fluid flow is restricted through elongated fluid passages, then flow control precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to restricted fluid flowrate
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assemblies are designed to transition between different flow states (closed, partially open, fully open) allowing dynamic adjustment of flow control. The elongated fluid passages provide precise control when the valve is open, while the ability to close completely provides flow restriction when needed, optimizing both precision and productivity based on operational 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
Enables flexible and efficient fluid injection and production operations by ensuring reliable fluid flow management, even in fractured reservoirs, enhancing hydrocarbon recovery efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
injecting at least one fluid down the tubing string to carry the actuation dart along the tubing string via fluid flow
Data Source
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AI summary
An actuation dart for deployment down a tubing string installed within a wellbore and provided with one or more valve assemblies is provided. The actuation dart includes a dart body adapted to be carried down the tubing string to the valve assembly via fluid flow. The dart body has a shifting head provided at a first end of the dart body, the shifting head being configured to engage and shift the valve assembly in the open configuration to enable fluid injection in a reservoir surrounding the wellbore. A method for hydrocarbon recovery from a wellbore using the actuation dart is also provided, along with a wellbore system adapted to receive the actuation dart.