Deformable Wellbore Hanger Radial Expansion Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing casing hangers for wellbores have limitations in deformation range, making them unsuitable for varying casing dimensions, leading to potential failure in supporting structures and requiring costly retrieval operations.
Innovation Solution
A deformable hanger assembly with a radially expandable section and a contact element, actuated by a controlled-force setting tool, allowing for increased expansion to adapt to varying casing sizes and provide stable support within the wellbore.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a deformable hanger with limited deformation range is used, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing cost is lowered, but the adaptability to varying casing dimensions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger body is divided into multiple deformable sections, each capable of independent radial expansion. This segmentation allows the hanger to adapt to varying casing dimensions through cumulative deformation of multiple sections, achieving greater overall adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger incorporates a setting tool that applies controlled radial force to transform the hanger from a static configuration to a dynamic expanding state. This allows the hanger to adapt its shape and size to match the casing inner diameter, providing the necessary adaptability while keeping the base device design relatively simple
2Adaptability or versatility
If a unitary deformable hanger is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the range of effective operation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger body is divided into multiple deformable sections, each capable of independent radial expansion. This segmentation allows the hanger to adapt to varying casing dimensions through cumulative deformation of multiple sections, achieving greater overall adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger incorporates a setting tool that applies controlled radial force to transform the hanger from a static configuration to a dynamic expanding state. This allows the hanger to adapt its shape and size to match the casing inner diameter, providing the necessary adaptability while keeping the base device design relatively simple
3Reliability
If a hanger with limited deformation is used, then the device construction is simplified, but the reliability of supporting structures is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger body is divided into multiple deformable sections, each capable of independent radial expansion. This segmentation allows the hanger to adapt to varying casing dimensions through cumulative deformation of multiple sections, achieving greater overall adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger incorporates a setting tool that applies controlled radial force to transform the hanger from a static configuration to a dynamic expanding state. This allows the hanger to adapt its shape and size to match the casing inner diameter, providing the necessary adaptability while keeping the base device design relatively simple
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 enhanced hanger assembly offers improved adaptability and stability, ensuring effective support of tool strings and repair assemblies in wellbores with varying casing dimensions, reducing the risk of failure and retrieval costs.
Implementation Method 1
the deformable section will allow the hangar to be placed in a wellbore with the deformable section in a first, relatively retracted position; and to then be actuated to extend the deformable section extend radially outwardly
Implementation Method 2
a contact element carried by the deformable section, and which will be urged radially outwardly during the setting process
Data Source
AI summary
A hanger assembly and method for its use is included, along with various examples of alternative constructions for the hanger assembly. Also included are examples of new tool strings having capabilities facilitated as a result of use of the hanger assemblies. The hanger includes a deformable section that facilitates engaging contact with a surrounding structure. In preferred examples this engagement is achieved by use of a first deformable section of the hanger that extends radially outwardly from the remainder of the hangar body when the hanger is set; and a contact member that is further urged radially outwardly relative to that deformable section when the hanger is set.