Expandable Liner System With Dual Slip Subsystems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liner configurations in boreholes face reliability issues due to pressure concerns and inadequate burst and collapse ratings, which affect the hanger and potential collapse or burst events.
Innovation Solution
An expandable liner system with a first and second slip subsystem, a seal between them, and an expandable lock ring, which allows for higher slip and burst/collapse ratings by maintaining full thickness below the hanger and using a seal to protect against pressure events, and a lock ring that restricts longitudinal movement to ensure full engagement of wickers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional liner configurations are used, then installation is simpler, but reliability and burst/collapse ratings are compromised due to pressure issues
Solution Approach 1:
The slip subsystem is divided into multiple expandable slip assemblies distributed along the liner length. Each assembly can independently engage the hanger, providing redundant load paths and improved reliability without requiring a single complex locking mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable slip assemblies are nested within the liner structure, allowing them to be compact during installation and expand to engage the hanger after positioning. This nested configuration maintains reliability while minimizing the space required during the installation phase
2Strength
If conventional liner configurations are used, then structure is simpler, but burst and collapse ratings are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The liner system transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one through the expandable slip assemblies. These assemblies can expand radially to engage the hanger, providing enhanced burst and collapse resistance only when needed, while maintaining a compact profile during installation
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical properties of the slip subsystem change through expansion. The slip assemblies transition from a compressed state during installation to an expanded state that provides high burst and collapse ratings, effectively changing the structural parameters to match operational requirements
3Reliability
If pressure events occur, then reliability is compromised, but adding protection increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is pre-positioned within the liner structure before installation. This preliminary placement ensures that the seal is already in position to protect the slip subsystem from pressure events, eliminating the need for additional complex protective mechanisms during operation
Data Source
AI summary
A hanger system including an expandable liner, an expandable first slip subsystem disposed about the liner, an expandable second slip subsystem disposed about the liner, a seal disposed about the liner and between the first slip subsystem and the second slip subsystem, and an expandable lock ring disposed about the liner and against one of the first slip subsystem or the second slip subsystem. A method for lining a borehole including running a liner system into a borehole, landing the liner system in a liner hanger, expanding the first slip subsystem simultaneously with a portion of the liner, expanding the second slip subsystem simultaneously with another portion of the liner, and sealing the liner to the liner hanger between the first slip subsystem and the second slip subsystem with the seal. A borehole system including a borehole in a subsurface formation, a casing in the borehole, and a liner system.