Automated Drilling Fluid Density Profiling Under High Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing the static sag property of drilling fluids are manual, limited in density measurement, and unable to simulate high pressure and high temperature conditions effectively, restricting the types of subterranean formations that can be simulated.
Innovation Solution
An automated system comprising a test cell with pumps and a density transducer that introduces a sample drilling fluid, applies predetermined pressure, and measures density from top to bottom, allowing for complete density profiling and simulation of various subterranean conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual testing methods are used with syringes to draw samples, then the testing process is simple to operate, but the density measurement is limited to particular areas and does not provide complete density profiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sampling operations with an automated density transducer system that electronically measures density at multiple positions along the test column, eliminating the need for manual syringe sampling and providing continuous density profiles throughout the drilling fluid column
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual representation of the drilling fluid density distribution by using a density transducer to take multiple measurements at different heights in the test column, generating a complete density profile that copies the physical density distribution without requiring physical sample extraction at each point
2Measurement precision
If a cup at the bottom of the test container is used to collect settled solids, then the solids can be weighed to obtain density, but density measurements at particular locations within the drilling fluid are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the test column into multiple measurement zones by taking density readings at different heights along the column using a density transducer, allowing density to be measured at particular locations rather than only at the bottom, thereby providing spatial density resolution without complex additional structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a density transducer as an intermediary measurement device that can non-invasively measure density at various positions in the drilling fluid column, eliminating the need for complex sampling apparatus or bottom collection cups while providing detailed spatial density information
3Stress or pressure
If structural components of existing test apparatuses are used, then the apparatus can be constructed with standard components, but the pressures that can be applied to the drilling fluids are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the pressure parameter capability of the test apparatus by using a high-pressure pump capable of delivering up to 20,000 psi, allowing the simulation of deeper subterranean formation conditions that were previously inaccessible with standard testing equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal testing apparatus that can simulate multiple types of subterranean formation conditions by combining high-pressure capability with adjustable temperature control and variable drilling fluid formulations, allowing a single device to replace multiple specialized test setups
4Reliability
If automated testing with high pressure and temperature simulation is implemented, then comprehensive density profiles and robust testing are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple testing functions (high-pressure application, temperature control, density measurement at multiple positions) into a single integrated test column system, reducing the need for separate apparatus for each function while maintaining comprehensive testing capability
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 robust and automated testing of sag properties under high pressure and high temperature conditions, providing comprehensive density profiles and expanding the range of simulated subterranean formations that can be tested.
Implementation Method 1
the density transducer is operable to measure a density of the sample drilling fluid relative to a displaced fluid volume of the sample drilling fluid
Implementation Method 2
a second pump in fluid communication with the test cell and operable to automatically impart a pre-determined pressure on the sample drilling fluid within the test cell
Implementation Method 3
a first pump in fluid communication with the test cell and operable to automatically introduce a sample drilling fluid into the test cell
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A method and apparatus for automatically testing high pressure and high temperature sedimentation of slurries is described. The method includes pumping a sample drilling fluid into a test cell. The sample drilling fluid may be subjected to a pre-determined pressure and a pre-determined temperature for a pre-determined period of time. The test cell may also be oriented at non-vertical angle. The sample drilling fluid may be pumped out of the test cell and the density of the sample drilling fluid automatically measured relative to a displaced fluid volume of the sample drilling fluid.