Dissolvable Composite Slips for Downhole Tool Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole tools require costly and time-consuming retrieval methods, such as milling or drilling, due to the inability to easily remove slips that securely anchor the tools within tubular members.
Innovation Solution
A composite slip is developed using a dissolvable substrate material combined with non-dissolvable metallic teeth, where the dissolvable material dissolves upon exposure to a specific agent, allowing for easy removal of the tool without damaging the teeth, which are made from materials like polymeric or metallic alloys and surface-hardened metals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If slips are made from non-dissolvable materials to securely anchor downhole tools, then the tool stability and reliability are improved, but the retrieval complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The slip is divided into two functional segments: a dissolvable substrate portion that provides temporary support and a non-dissolvable metallic teeth portion that provides permanent gripping capability. This segmentation allows the slip to serve dual purposes - securing the tool during operation and enabling easy removal after use.
Solution Approach 2:
The slip material undergoes a parameter change from a solid non-dissolvable state during operation to a dissolving state after use. The dissolvable substrate portion changes its physical-chemical properties when exposed to dissolving agents, transforming from a structural support element to a removable component, thereby facilitating tool retrieval.
2Strength
If slips are made from hard non-dissolvable materials to provide gripping capability, then the gripping strength is improved, but the ease of removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the slip have different material properties: the substrate portion is made from dissolvable material for ease of removal, while the teeth portion is made from hard non-dissolvable material for gripping strength. This local differentiation of material qualities allows each component to optimize its function.
Solution Approach 2:
The slip is constructed as a composite structure combining dissolvable substrate material with non-dissolvable metallic teeth. This composite material approach integrates the advantages of both material types - the dissolvable substrate provides ease of removal while the metallic teeth provide gripping strength.
3Ease of operation
If traditional retrieval methods like milling or drilling are used, then the tool can be removed, but the cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dissolvable substrate portion is designed as a disposable element that is intentionally made to dissolve after serving its purpose. This eliminates the need for expensive and time-consuming retrieval operations, as the substrate can be safely dissolved and removed without requiring complex mechanical retrieval systems.
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 composite slip effectively secures the downhole tool during operation and facilitates easy removal by dissolving, reducing the need for complex retrieval processes and minimizing costly remedial measures.
Implementation Method 1
a substrate portion comprising a dissolvable material, wherein the dissolvable material dissolves upon exposure to a dissolving agent
Implementation Method 2
The slips are moved radially outwardly against a surrounding tubular member to resist axial or torsional forces
Data Source
AI summary
A dissolvable composite slip can include at least in part a dissolvable material. A dissolvable composite slip can include at least in part a non-dissolvable metallic material. The dissolvable material should be strong enough to support the non-dissolvable metallic material which serves as teeth to set into the casing during the function of the downhole tool. The dissolvable material can include but is not limited to a polymeric material or a metallic material. At least a part of the slip is able to be set as well as be dissolved.