Downhole Sampling Apparatus with Relief Valve Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for evaluating subsurface formations during drilling operations face challenges in effectively collecting and storing fluid samples, particularly in maintaining the integrity and quality of the samples as they are drawn from the formation and transported to the surface.
Innovation Solution
The development of a sampling while drilling (SWD) system that includes a fluid communication module with a probe and sample module, featuring a fluid flow system with primary and secondary flowlines, sample chambers, and valves to manage fluid diversion and pressure, ensuring that samples are collected and stored without contamination or separation of constituents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fluid samples are drawn from the formation and transported to the surface using conventional techniques, then the sampling process can be completed, but the integrity and quality of the samples deteriorate due to contamination and separation of constituents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary fluid system consisting of a first fluid pathway and a second fluid pathway that isolates the sample from direct contact with the wellbore environment. The first fluid pathway transports formation fluid to a sample chamber, while the second fluid pathway introduces a second fluid to prevent contamination and maintain sample integrity during storage and transport to the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an inert environment within the sample chamber by introducing a second fluid that acts as a protective atmosphere. This second fluid prevents chemical reactions, contamination, and separation of sample constituents, effectively creating an inert environment that preserves sample quality throughout the transport process.
2Productivity
If pressure is reduced to draw fluid into the downhole tool, then fluid sampling is enabled, but pressure control becomes difficult and sample quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fluid transport system into distinct pathways: a first fluid pathway for sample collection and a second fluid pathway for pressure control and sample protection. This segmentation allows independent control of sampling operations and pressure management, enabling efficient fluid extraction while maintaining precise pressure control to preserve sample quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The second fluid acts as an intermediary that mediates between the high-pressure formation environment and the sample chamber. It allows pressure reduction for fluid extraction while subsequently pressurizing the sample to prevent decomposition and maintain quality during transport, effectively decoupling the conflicting pressure requirements.
3Reliability
If sample chambers are provided in the downhole tool, then samples can be stored, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components: the sample chamber serves both as a collection vessel and a storage container, while the first and second fluid pathways are integrated into a unified valve-controlled system. This merging reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate collection and storage systems with independent control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample chamber is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both the collection point for formation fluid and the storage vessel for transported samples. The valve system controls multiple functions (fluid intake, sample isolation, pressure regulation) through a single integrated mechanism, reducing the number of separate components needed.
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
This system enables reliable and efficient collection and storage of formation fluid samples, maintaining their integrity by controlling pressure and preventing separation of gases and asphaltenes, thereby enhancing the accuracy of subsurface formation evaluation.
Implementation Method 1
a relief valve provided in the dump flowline, wherein an opening of the relief valve is controlled by a preset relief pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A sampling apparatus, comprising a primary flowline, a secondary flowline, a dump flowline not provided downstream of the secondary flowline, and a relief valve provided in the dump flowline, may be disposed in a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. A method of use of the sampling apparatus may comprise flowing fluid from the subterranean formation and into the primary flowline; diverting fluid from the primary flowline to a sample chamber through the secondary flowline; diverting fluid from the primary flowline to the wellbore through the dump flowline; and controlling the pressure in the sample chamber using the relief valve. The sampling apparatus may be used to terminate storage of a fluid sample in a sample chamber while continuing to pump fluid from the formation.