ESP Debris Removal Assembly with Independent Packer Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ESP systems face limitations in supporting the weight of filtration equipment and captured debris, leading to inefficient debris removal and potential damage to equipment due to uncaptured debris entering moving components.
Innovation Solution
A modular, independently supported debris removal assembly is coupled with an ESP, using a retrievable packer for support, allowing for adaptable module configuration and debris retention, with the ESP providing motive force for fluid draw and enabling subsequent removal of captured debris without overloading the ESP.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional VACS tool with jet bushing is used, then debris removal is achieved, but device complexity increases and ESP weight limits are exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the jet bushing component from the VACS tool design, extracting the problematic element that caused complexity and weight issues. The debris removal function is maintained through an alternative mechanism that does not require the jet bushing, thereby simplifying the overall device structure while preserving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The debris removal system is divided into separate functional components: the ESP provides suction force, while the VACS tool housing and screen assembly handle debris capture independently. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized separately, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective debris removal.
2Reliability
If larger debris retention capacity is required, then debris removal effectiveness improves, but weight supported by ESP exceeds limits
Solution Approach 1:
The packer serves as an intermediary support structure between the heavy debris retention assembly and the ESP. The packer is set against the borehole wall to provide anchorage, allowing the ESP to avoid directly supporting the full weight of the debris-filled assembly. This mediator enables larger retention capacity without exceeding ESP weight limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The support function is shifted from the vertical ESP axis to the radial packer-borehole wall interface. By utilizing the radial dimension and borehole wall contact, the system transfers weight support away from the ESP, enabling increased debris retention capacity in the vertical dimension without proportionally increasing ESP load.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular design is implemented for adaptable debris capacity, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The VACS tool is designed with modular segments that can be configured in different numbers and arrangements to match anticipated debris loads. Each module contains essential components (screen, housing sections) that can be assembled in series, providing adaptability while using standardized repeating units to minimize overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design uses universal connection interfaces and standardized components that serve multiple functions: structural support, debris containment, and flow guidance. These multi-functional elements reduce the number of specialized parts needed, allowing adaptability through configuration rather than through increasing component variety.
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 effectively manages debris removal by allowing for customizable module configuration and subsequent removal of captured debris, extending equipment life and preventing damage from uncaptured debris, while optimizing production efficiency by eliminating the need for the jet bushing of traditional VACS tools.
Implementation Method 1
The ESP suction draws in well fluids through the debris retention device
Implementation Method 2
This tool typically uses an eductor powered by pumped flow from a surface location to draw debris laden fluid into an intake pipe whereupon the debris is deflected into a surrounding annular debris retention space
Data Source
AI summary
An electric submersible pump (ESP) is coupled with a spaced apart debris removal assembly that is independently supported from a retrievable packer. The debris removal assembly is modular and retains the captured debris for subsequent removal from the well with the retrievable packer. The ESP suction draws in well fluids through the debris retention device. The ESP can be pulled to allow removal of the retrievable packer with the debris removal assembly.