Downhole Isolation Valve Actuated by Explosive Charge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole operations require multiple trips into and out of the wellbore for perforation and plug setting, increasing complexity and time, especially in non-vertical wells, necessitating a system to perform multiple steps in a single trip and actuate downhole tools during perforation.
Innovation Solution
A downhole isolation valve actuated by an energetic device, comprising a valve member, fluid chamber, and valve retainer, which moves in response to fluid pressure changes to obstruct or open the casing bore, allowing for simultaneous perforation and isolation of zones during a single trip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple trips into and out of the wellbore are made for perforation and plug setting, then each operation can be performed with dedicated equipment, but the complexity and time of the overall operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple downhole operations (perforation and isolation valve setting) into a single trip by integrating the isolation valve actuation mechanism with the perforating gun. The valve is actuated by an explosive charge that is set off during the same trip that perforates the formation, eliminating the need for separate trips to set isolation valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The downhole assembly serves multiple functions: it performs formation perforation through the explosive charge, sets the isolation valve through the same explosive actuation, and provides zonal isolation. This multi-functional approach allows all operations to be completed in one trip, reducing time and complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple trips into and out of the wellbore are made for perforation and plug setting, then each step can be performed sequentially, but the overall effort and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the perforating gun and isolation valve into a single integrated downhole assembly. The valve actuation mechanism is incorporated within the gun structure, and both functions are triggered by the same explosive charge, simplifying the overall operational procedure despite the increased device integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation valve is pre-positioned in the downhole assembly along with the perforating charge. Before the trip into the wellbore, the valve is held in the open position by a retaining structure that is designed to fail or move when the explosive charge is detonated, ensuring the valve is ready to close immediately after perforation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized conveyance equipment is used in horizontal wellbores, then the wellbore geometry is accommodated, but the complexity and time of operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The downhole assembly is designed to be conveyed into the wellbore using standard equipment and can operate in various wellbore geometries including horizontal sections. The integrated design of the perforating gun and isolation valve eliminates the need for specialized conveyance equipment, as the assembly can be deployed through conventional means and will function regardless of wellbore orientation.
4Productivity
If a downhole valve is actuated by an explosive charge, then the valve can be set during perforation in a single trip, but the actuation mechanism must be reliable under explosive conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is pre-positioned in the open state with a retaining structure that holds it in place during conveyance and deployment. The explosive charge is positioned to directly actuate the valve release mechanism, ensuring that the valve closes reliably immediately after the explosive detonation, without requiring complex actuation systems that could fail under explosive conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The explosive charge, which creates the perforation, is also used to actuate the isolation valve. The same explosive energy that perforates the formation is converted into the mechanical energy needed to release and close the valve, eliminating the need for separate actuation systems and improving reliability by using a proven, simple mechanism.
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 the performance of multiple downhole operations in a single trip, reducing complexity and time by allowing for sequential treatment and production without the need for repeated equipment trips, enhancing efficiency in wellbore management.
Implementation Method 1
actuating downhole tools in response to perforating a downhole tubular... actuating a downhole valve using a chemically energetic charge
Implementation Method 2
at least one fluid chamber having a first pressure configuration isolated from a fluid pressure there around and a second pressure configuration wherein the fluid pressure is communicated through a boundary of the chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for actuating a downhole tool in a wellbore. The method and apparatus including an actuator that operates the tool in response to the functioning of an energetic charge. The energetic charge may be set off as a part of a perforating operation.