Downhole Equipment Removal via Chemical Dissolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing downhole equipment from wells, particularly in the oil and gas industry, face challenges such as physical obstruction, corrosion, and the need for advanced equipment, making it difficult to retrieve or dissolve equipment efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the introduction of an equipment dissolution mixture comprising chemicals and additives to chemically dissolve downhole equipment, which includes steps for removing coatings and aerating the mixture to enhance mechanical and chemical dissolution, specifically tailored for metals and non-metallic materials, with sulfuric acid or hydrofluoric acid used to create a flow barrier and increase corrosion rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If downhole equipment is removed by simple retrieval, then the process is simple and cost-effective, but this method is not applicable when equipment cannot be physically removed due to obstructions, cement collapse, or corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical retrieval system with a chemical dissolution system. Instead of physically extracting equipment through the wellbore, the invention uses chemical solutions to dissolve the equipment in place, transforming a mechanical operation into a chemical process that can be applied regardless of physical obstructions or well conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the state of the equipment from solid to dissolved by altering chemical parameters. By introducing specific chemical solutions that react with the equipment material, the system transforms the physical-chemical state of the target object, enabling removal through dissolution rather than mechanical extraction
2Adaptability or versatility
If a downhole milling tool is used to mill equipment into small particles, then equipment can be removed when retrieval is not possible, but this requires introduction of more advanced downhole equipment and cannot function if the well is partially obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical milling system with a simpler chemical dissolution system. Instead of using rotating mill bits and mechanical force to grind equipment, the invention uses chemical reactions to dissolve the equipment, eliminating the need for complex mechanical downhole tools while achieving the same end result of equipment removal
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a disposable chemical solution approach where the dissolving agent is introduced, performs its function, and is then discarded or circulated out. This eliminates the need for expensive, complex, reusable mechanical milling equipment that would require maintenance and retrieval, replacing it with a simpler consumable chemical system
3Adaptability or versatility
If chemical dissolution is used to remove downhole equipment, then equipment can be dissolved without retrieval, but the process may take considerable time and require precise control of dissolution rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls the dissolution rate by adjusting chemical parameters such as solution concentration, temperature, and flow rate. By modifying these parameters, the system can accelerate or decelerate the dissolution process to match operational requirements, balancing the need for complete dissolution with time constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic circulation of the chemical solution through the wellbore, introducing fresh solution in cycles to maintain optimal dissolution conditions. This periodic action prevents depletion of the dissolving agent and removes dissolved material efficiently, accelerating the overall process while maintaining control
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 method allows for the reliable and efficient removal of at least 50% of downhole equipment within a reasonable timeframe, minimizing leakage and operational costs by creating a flow barrier and increasing corrosion rates, suitable for various well types and materials.
Implementation Method 1
Dissolution of parts or equipment made of Al or Al-alloys in the well is achieved by subjecting the metal part of the corroding action of a hydrochloric acid solution
Implementation Method 2
introducing around the downhole equipment an equipment dissolution mixture comprising one or more chemicals and/or materials suitable for the substantial dissolution of the downhole equipment
Implementation Method 3
aerating the mixture to enhance mechanical and chemical dissolution
Implementation Method 4
with sulfuric acid or hydrofluoric acid used to create a flow barrier and increase corrosion rates
Data Source
AI summary
A method for removing downhole equipment installed in a well includes introducing an equipment dissolution mixture around the downhole equipment. The dissolution mixture includes one or more chemicals and/or materials suitable for the substantial dissolution of the downhole equipment.