Expandable Annular Seal Tool with Protector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for creating annular seals against radially outwardly disposed tubular structures in the resource recovery and fluid sequestration industries lack efficiency and require improvements in their design and materials for effective sealing.
Innovation Solution
An expandable annular seal tool featuring a cone with an actuation surface, a seal member, and an annular seal element that expands to create a metal-to-metal seal with a tubular structure, utilizing a protector that breaks or stretches to protect the seal member during deployment and a slip for anchoring, allowing for effective sealing in boreholes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional annular seal tool is used, then the tool structure is simple, but the sealing reliability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sealing mechanisms (cone, seal member, and annular seal element) into a single integrated tool structure. The seal member and annular seal element work together on the same actuation surface, creating a multi-layer sealing system that improves reliability while maintaining a relatively compact tool design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs different materials for various sealing components - the cone provides structural support, the seal member creates metal-to-metal sealing, and the annular seal element provides additional sealing. This composite approach uses material properties strategically to achieve reliable sealing under downhole conditions.
2Reliability
If the annular seal element is forced to climb the cone to expand, then the sealing contact is achieved, but the tool requires complex protection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The protector is pre-installed over the seal member before deployment. As the annular seal element climbs the cone and expands, the protector automatically yields or breaks at a predetermined point, having already served its protective function during the expansion process. This eliminates the need for complex active protection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The protector is designed as a sacrificial component that is consumed during the sealing process. It yields or breaks to allow the seal to engage, and is replaced if needed. This simple disposable approach is more economical and reliable than complex reusable protection mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the seal member is exposed during deployment, then the sealing function is accessible, but the seal member is vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The protector serves as an intermediary between the seal member and the harsh downhole environment. It allows the seal member to perform its sealing function while shielding it from damage during deployment and operation. The protector transfers mechanical loads away from the delicate seal member.
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable annular seal tool including a cone having an actuation surface, a seal member disposed in the actuation surface, and an annular seal element disposed on the actuation surface. An embodiment of a borehole system including a borehole in a subsurface formation, and a tool disposed in the borehole.