Downhole Sealing Element Triggered by Pump Tool Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downhole apparatuses face challenges in achieving a reliable seal without creating a hydraulic communication path between the interior and exterior of the casing, as traditional methods require holes that can lead to leakage and compromise the seal.
Innovation Solution
An impervious body with a sealing element and energy source, where a trigger is activated by a signal from a pump tool to set the sealing element without hydraulic communication, using a hydraulic fluid reservoir and compartment to transfer energy and set the seal remotely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If holes are provided in the casing to pump tubing pressure into a sealing chamber, then the sealing element can be set, but a potential leakage path is created between the interior and exterior of the casing
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is divided into separate compartments: a first sealed compartment containing the sealing element and a second sealed compartment containing the energy source. These compartments are separated by a partition, eliminating the need for holes in the casing while allowing independent sealing and activation functions.
Solution Approach 2:
A trigger mechanism acts as an intermediary between the energy source and the sealing element. The trigger receives energy from the energy source and transfers it to the sealing element to effect sealing, eliminating the need for direct hydraulic communication through holes in the casing.
2Strength
If the casing wall is thick, then structural integrity is maintained, but metal to metal seals cannot be effectively used
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is positioned within a sealed compartment and activated to engage with the casing interior surface. This approach allows effective sealing without requiring thin casing walls, as the sealing mechanism operates within the confined space created by the sealed compartment.
3Reliability
If elastomeric and/or thermoplastic seals are used on the outside of the casing, then sealing is achieved, but if these seals become compromised, consequential leaks may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger mechanism includes a cushioning element that absorbs excess energy or motion during the sealing activation process. This cushioning prevents over-compression or damage to the sealing element, ensuring reliable sealing without compromising the seal due to excessive force.
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 solution provides a reliable annular barrier to prevent fluid migration and gas flow, ensuring a mechanical seal even if the cement is contaminated, without the need for holes in the casing, thus maintaining isolation and preventing leaks.
Implementation Method 1
The trigger is activated, at least in part, by receiving a signal from a pump tool passing through an interior of the impervious body
Implementation Method 2
Shifting of the sleeve causes movement of hydraulic fluid out of the hydraulic fluid reservoir and into the compartment, allowing the sealing element to set
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an impervious body, a sealing element; an energy source, and a trigger. The impervious body is configured to prevent passage of fluid therethrough. The sealing element is disposed about the impervious body. The energy source is operationally connected to the sealing element. The trigger is configured to transfer energy from the energy source to the sealing element. The trigger is activated, at least in part, by receiving a signal from a pump tool passing through an interior of the impervious body.