Downhole Fluid Sampling Port Cleaning for Debris Plugging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional downhole fluid sampling apparatuses are often hindered by debris accumulation, such as solids, which plug filters and conveyances, leading to compromised sampling operations and increased economic costs.
Innovation Solution
A fluid sampling apparatus with an integrated cleaning system that uses a cleaning fluid, pumped through conveyances and ports, to remove debris without removing the apparatus from the wellbore, utilizing pumps, reservoirs, and controlled fluid pathways to dissolve, react with, or dislodge debris.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional downhole sampling apparatus is used, then sampling operations can be performed, but debris accumulation plugging filters and conveyances compromises the sampling operation
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling apparatus includes an integrated cleaning system with pumps, reservoirs, and cleaning fluid conveyance pathways that enable the device to clean itself autonomously while deployed in the wellbore, eliminating the need for external intervention to remove debris from filters and conveyances
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system enables continuous operation by continuously or periodically removing debris from filters and conveyances during sampling operations, preventing plugging and maintaining uninterrupted fluid sampling capability throughout the deployment period
2Ease of operation
If traditional cleaning techniques are used, then some debris can be removed, but they cannot clear buildup in high solids content conditions and result in compromised operations
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system utilizes hydraulic principles by circulating cleaning fluid through the conveyances and filters using pumps, leveraging fluid pressure and flow to effectively remove debris buildup even in high solids content conditions where traditional mechanical techniques fail
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical and chemical parameters of the cleaning environment by introducing cleaning fluid with specific properties (flow rate, pressure, temperature, chemical composition) that optimize debris removal effectiveness under varying downhole conditions
3Ease of repair
If sampling apparatus is retrieved for cleaning, then debris can be removed, but operational downtime increases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus performs its own cleaning function while remaining deployed in the wellbore, eliminating the need for retrieval to cleaning facilities and thereby eliminating operational downtime associated with apparatus retrieval and subsequent redeployment
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system performs preliminary or periodic maintenance actions by removing debris before it causes plugging or operational failure, preventing the need for apparatus retrieval and maintaining continuous operational readiness
4Productivity
If conventional sampling apparatus without integrated cleaning is used, then device complexity is lower, but productivity decreases due to operational interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system merges multiple functions (sampling, fluid circulation, debris removal, filtering) into a single integrated apparatus, combining the sampling mechanism with pumps, reservoirs, and cleaning fluid pathways to enable continuous operation without requiring separate cleaning equipment or procedures
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 continuous debris removal within the wellbore, preventing recontamination and reducing operational downtime and costs by allowing prolonged sampling operations without apparatus retrieval.
Implementation Method 1
to dissolve, react with, or dislodge debris
Implementation Method 2
to dissolve, react with, or dislodge debris
Implementation Method 3
to dissolve, react with, or dislodge debris
Data Source
AI summary
Processes and apparatus for the removal of debris from conveyances and/or ports within a downhole fluid sampling apparatus. In some embodiments, the process can include providing a fluid sampling apparatus that includes a body that defines a volume. The process can also include starting at least one pump located within the volume. The process can also include conveying a quantity of a cleaning fluid stored within the volume by the pump through a fluid conveyance within the body and through a port of the body to an exterior of the body. The conveying of the quantity of the cleaning fluid can removes at least a portion of debris from at least one of the fluid conveyance and the port.