Dual-Pump Fracturing Tool Flow Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole pump systems in reservoir well production and testing face limitations in controlling fluid flow rates and pressures, which can lead to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in fluid extraction and injection processes, particularly in achieving a wide range of flow rates and pressures necessary for various subsurface formation operations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of advanced pump systems comprising multiple pumps, such as tandem, dual-motor, and three-stage configurations, along with control mechanisms like valves and clutches, allows for a broader range of fluid flow rates and pressures, enabling precise control and optimization of fluid flow in downhole tools for drilling, testing, and fracturing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single pump system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the range of fluid flow rates and pressures that can be achieved is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is divided into multiple pumps (first pump and second pump) with different operational characteristics. Each pump is optimized for specific flow rate and pressure ranges, allowing the system to achieve a broader overall range by combining their capabilities rather than relying on a single pump to cover all conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different pump configurations and operational modes based on the required flow rate and pressure conditions. The pumps can be operated individually or in combination, and their operational parameters are adjusted in real-time to optimize performance for the current operating conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pumps are used to achieve broader flow rates and pressures, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pumps are combined in a coordinated manner within a single downhole tool assembly. The pumps share common components such as the motor, control system, and fluid pathways, which reduces the overall complexity compared to having separate independent pump systems while still achieving the benefit of multiple pump capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump system is designed with multi-functionality where the same hardware components serve multiple purposes. The motor can drive different pump configurations, the control system manages various operational modes, and the fluid pathways accommodate different flow patterns, reducing the need for dedicated components for each function.
3Manufacturing precision
If advanced pump systems with multiple pumps are implemented, then the precision of fluid flow control is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor flow rate, pressure, and motor performance. This feedback is used by the control system to automatically adjust pump operations, making the system self-regulating and reducing the manual intervention required while maintaining high precision control across varying conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to automatically manage its own operation, including selecting which pump to operate, adjusting flow rates, and optimizing pressure conditions without requiring constant manual input. The control system handles the complexity of coordinating multiple pumps, allowing the system to serve itself and reducing the operational burden on the user.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods comprising conveying a downhole tool within a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation, wherein the downhole tool comprises a first pump and a second pump, and wherein at least one operational capability of the first and second pumps is substantially different. A fracture is initiated in the subterranean formation by pumping fluid into the formation using the first pump. The fracture is propagated in the subterranean formation by pumping fluid into the formation using the second pump.