Dissolvable Anode Isolation Device for Controlled Wellbore Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional methods for removing retrievable isolation devices from wellbores are time-consuming and costly, and can result in premature dissolution due to galvanic corrosion, which is difficult to control in wellbore operations.

Innovation Solution

A wellbore isolation device comprising a first metal or metal alloy that partially dissolves when in electrical contact with a second metal or metal alloy and an electrolyte, with an electrolytic compound that forms free ions to facilitate controlled dissolution, allowing for efficient removal without the need for retrieval tools or milling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional retrieval tools or milling methods are used to remove isolation devices, then the isolation device can be removed from the wellbore, but the process is time-consuming and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremoval efficiencyVSAvoidremoval time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical removal methods (retrieval tools, milling) with a chemical dissolution system. The isolation device contains a dissolvable anode and electrolytic compound that react with wellbore fluids to dissolve the device chemically, eliminating the need for mechanical intervention and significantly reducing removal time and operational complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The isolation device is designed to self-dissolve through an internal electrochemical system. The dissolvable anode and electrolytic compound are contained within the device structure, allowing it to autonomously dissolve when exposed to wellbore fluids without requiring external removal equipment or additional operational steps

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If galvanic corrosion is used to dissolve the isolation device, then removal can be achieved, but premature dissolution is difficult to control

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremoval efficiencyVSAvoiddissolution control

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The electrolytic compound is pre-contained within the isolation device structure, sealed until the device is deployed in the wellbore. This preliminary containment prevents premature dissolution during installation and operation, while ensuring the dissolution reaction is available when needed for removal

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent controls the dissolution rate by managing the concentration and release of electrolytic compounds. By adjusting the amount, type, and release mechanism of the electrolytic compound, the dissolution speed can be precisely controlled to match operational requirements, preventing both premature and delayed dissolution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If a dissolvable anode and electrolytic compound are used, then controlled dissolution is achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedissolution controlVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the dissolvable anode, electrolytic compound, and isolation device structure into a single unified system. The electrolytic compound is incorporated within the device housing or matrix, and the anode is structurally integrated, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 controlled and efficient removal of isolation devices by regulating the dissolution rate based on the difference in anodic indices and proximity of the metals, reducing operational time and costs while preventing premature dissolution.

Implementation Method 1

Methods of removing an isolation device using galvanic corrosion are provided

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGalvanic corrosion:

Implementation Method 2

an electrolytic compound that dissolves in a fluid located within the wellbore to form free ions that are electrically conductive

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrolysis: Electrolysis

Data Source

PatentUS9863201B2Isolation device containing a dissolvable anode and electrolytic compound

Publication Date: 2018.01.09 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC

AI summary

A wellbore isolation device comprising: a first material, wherein the first material: (A) is a metal or a metal alloy; and (B) partially dissolves when an electrically conductive path exists between the first material and a second material and at least a portion of the first and second materials are in contact with an electrolyte; and an electrolytic compound, wherein the electrolytic compound dissolves in a fluid located within the wellbore to form free ions that are electrically conductive. A method of removing the wellbore isolation device comprises: placing the wellbore isolation device into the wellbore; and allowing at least a portion of the first material to dissolve.