Dissolvable-Core Wiper Plug for Faster Casing Pressure Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for conducting casing integrity pressure tests and completing wellbores are time-consuming and require additional tools for closing and reopening fluid flow through the lower end of the casing string.
Innovation Solution
A plug assembly comprising a mandrel with a wiper, rupture disk, and dissolvable member that temporarily closes fluid flow, allowing for efficient pressure testing and completion of wellbores by dissolving at the appropriate time to reopen fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If current methods are used to conduct casing integrity pressure tests and close/reopen fluid flow, then the casing can be tested and completed, but the process is time-consuming and requires additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple functions (closing fluid flow, pressure testing, and reopening fluid flow) into a single integrated plug assembly. The dissolvable member and rupture disk work together as a unified system to eliminate the need for separate tools and operations, thereby improving productivity and reducing operational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug assembly uses a dissolvable member that temporarily closes fluid flow and then dissolves after serving its purpose. This disposable approach eliminates the need for complex retrieval operations and additional tools, significantly reducing operational time and improving efficiency compared to reusable systems.
2Device complexity
If a dissolvable member is used to temporarily close fluid flow, then additional tools are reduced and operational time is minimized, but the dissolvable member requires protective coating to control dissolution timing
Solution Approach 1:
The dissolvable member is pre-coated with a protective layer during manufacturing that prevents premature dissolution. This preliminary protective action allows the component to be manufactured with integrated functionality, reducing the need for additional tools while the coating is applied as a standard manufacturing step rather than a complex post-processing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dissolvable member incorporates a composite structure with a protective coating layer over the dissolvable material. This composite design enables controlled dissolution timing and can be implemented through standard coating manufacturing processes, balancing the reduction in tool complexity with manageable manufacturing complexity.
3Reliability
If rupture disk is used to temporarily close fluid flow, then fluid flow can be controlled, but additional tools and increased device complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The rupture disk is integrated into the plug assembly and works in conjunction with the dissolvable member as a unified system. This merging of components provides reliable fluid flow control through a single structured design rather than requiring separate control mechanisms, thereby maintaining reliability while managing device complexity.
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
Facilitates rapid and efficient casing integrity pressure testing and wellbore completion by using a dissolvable member to control fluid flow, reducing the need for additional tools and minimizing operational time.
Implementation Method 1
a dissolvable member coupled to the mandrel and configured to temporarily close fluid flow through the inner bore of the mandrel
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to wellbore plugs, and specifically to pump down wiper plug assemblies used for conducting casing integrity pressure tests and completing wellbores. A plug assembly comprises one or more of a mandrel, a wiper, a dissolvable member, a rupture disk, and a movable sleeve. The dissolvable member and the rupture disk are configured to temporarily close fluid flow through an inner bore of the mandrel. The entire or only a portion of the outer surface of the dissolvable member comprises a protective coating.