Degradable Slip Assemblies for Wellbore Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wellbore isolation devices require complex and costly retrieval processes after completion of downhole operations, involving milling or drilling to remove the devices, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The use of degradable metal materials for wellbore isolation devices with slip assemblies, including slip inserts that degrade over time, allowing for easier removal and maintaining a large flow area to prevent pressure restrictions during production operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wellbore isolation devices are used, then reliable wellbore isolation is achieved, but complex and costly retrieval operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the slip assembly from traditional non-degradable materials to degradable materials that break down over time under downhole conditions. This parameter change allows the device to transition from a permanent isolation tool to a temporary one that automatically decomposes, eliminating the need for complex retrieval operations while maintaining reliable isolation during the required period
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a disposable slip assembly made of degradable materials that serves its isolation function for a specific duration and then naturally breaks down. This approach replaces expensive, complex retrieval operations with a simple, cost-effective decomposable structure that eliminates the need for milling or drilling out the device after use
2Ease of operation
If traditional retrieval operations are performed, then wellbore isolation devices are removed, but time-consuming milling or drilling processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temporal parameter of the slip assembly by using degradable materials with controlled degradation rates. This allows the device to be easily removed through natural decomposition over time, eliminating the need for time-consuming milling or drilling operations and significantly reducing the time required for device removal
3Ease of operation
If degradable materials are used for slip assemblies, then easier removal is achieved, but material strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully selects and engineers degradable materials with specific degradation rates and strength characteristics. By controlling the degradation parameter, the slip assembly maintains sufficient strength during the isolation period while ensuring easier removal through controlled decomposition, balancing both strength requirements and ease of removal
4Force
If slip inserts are added to degradable slip assemblies, then gripping capability is improved, but degradation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite construction by embedding slip inserts within the degradable slip assembly matrix. This composite approach combines the degradation capability of the base material with the enhanced gripping force of the inserts, improving gripping capability while managing the overall structural complexity through integrated design
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 efficient removal of wellbore isolation devices without the need for complex retrieval processes, allowing for uninterrupted hydrocarbon production while ensuring minimal pressure restrictions and maintaining effective zonal isolation.
Implementation Method 1
degradable metal materials for wellbore isolation devices with slip assemblies, including slip inserts that degrade over time
Data Source
AI summary
Downhole tools including a wellbore isolation device that provides a plurality of components including a mandrel, and a slip assembly comprising a plurality of slip elements including a slip wedge and a slip, wherein an element of the slip assembly is composed of a degradable metal material, and wherein the slip comprises a slip insert embedded therein, the slip insert having a compressive strength of greater than about 120,000 psi.