Downhole Formation Testing Pump Modules With Crossover Flow Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional formation testing tools utilize multiple modules and valves, increasing the overall size and complexity of the tool, which complicates fluid sampling and analysis during a single trip in the wellbore.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a downhole acquisition tool with a first and second inlet, a turnaround module, and a flow control assembly that allows fluid to be routed between two pump modules, reducing the number of independent modules and valves by using a crossover portion to enable fluid discharge between flowlines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modules and valves are used in conventional formation testing tools, then fluid sampling and analysis capability is improved, but tool size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pump module is designed to perform multiple functions: it can pump formation fluid from multiple flowlines (sample line, guard line, concomitant line) and can switch between different operational modes (sampling, flushing, circulating) through integrated valve assemblies. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated modules for each function, thereby reducing overall tool complexity while maintaining comprehensive fluid sampling and analysis capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple valve assemblies (isolation valves, comingle valves, bypass valves) are integrated into a single pump module unit rather than being distributed across separate modules. The flow control system combines multiple flow control functions within the pump module, creating a consolidated architecture that reduces the number of independent components and simplifies the overall tool structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modules and valves are used in conventional formation testing tools, then fluid sampling and analysis capability is improved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump module serves as a universal platform that can handle multiple flowlines and perform various fluid management tasks. By designing the pump module with integrated valve assemblies that can control flow from different sources and direct fluid to different destinations, the system achieves multiple functions with a single component unit, thereby reducing the total quantity of components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges isolation valves, comingle valves, and bypass valves into the pump module assembly. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components from what would traditionally be multiple independent modules to a single integrated unit, directly addressing the issue of component quantity while preserving full fluid sampling and analysis functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are used for flow control, then fluid routing flexibility is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve assemblies are combined within the pump module with centralized control mechanisms. The isolation valves, comingle valves, and bypass valves are integrated such that they can be controlled in coordination with each other, reducing the operational complexity of managing multiple separate valve systems. The integrated design allows for streamlined control sequences and simplified operational procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assemblies within the pump module are designed with multi-functional capabilities, where the same valve mechanisms can perform different routing functions depending on their position and configuration. This universality in valve design reduces the need for specialized valves for each routing scenario, thereby simplifying operational complexity while maintaining fluid routing flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes positioning a downhole acquisition tool in a wellbore in a geological formation. The method includes operating a pump module to gather information for a fluid outside of the downhole acquisition tool that enters the downhole acquisition tool from a first flowline, a second flowline, or both while the downhole acquisition tool is within the wellbore. Operating the pump module includes controlling a valve assembly to a first valve configuration that enables the fluid to flow into the downhole tool via the first flowline fluidly coupled to a first pump module. Operating the pump module includes controlling a valve assembly to a second valve configuration that enables the fluid to flow into the downhole tool via the second flowline fluidly coupled to a second pump module, and selectively using a turnaround module or a crossover portion disposed between the first flowline and the second flowline to permit discharging the fluid from one flowline to the other flowline by actuating a valve associated with the turnaround module when the first pump module or the second pump module is not in use.