External Magnetic Column Layout for Annular Scale Inhibition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for mitigating saline scaling in offshore oil well production columns are inefficient in annular regions between the open well and the production column, despite optimizations in magnetic field configurations and intensity.

Innovation Solution

A device with a new magnetic arrangement using neodymium magnets and a ferromagnetic inner tube to concentrate the magnetic field externally, optimizing the magnetic field configuration to treat the annular region between the well and production column.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If conventional magnetic arrangements are used in production columns, then magnetic field intensity is improved, but magnetic field distribution in annular regions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemagnetic field intensityVSAvoidmagnetic field distribution in annular regions

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from conventional internal magnetic field generation to external magnetic field generation by positioning magnets on the outer surface of the production column. This dimensional change allows the magnetic field to act directly on the annular region between the well and column, resolving the distribution problem while maintaining intensity through optimized magnet placement and orientation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different magnet configurations to different regions of the production column based on local scaling problems. By positioning magnets externally and orienting them radially outward, the magnetic field is concentrated where needed in the annular region, creating local quality improvement without compromising overall system performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If magnetic field intensity is increased to treat annular regions, then scaling mitigation is improved, but device complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescaling mitigation efficiencyVSAvoidmagnetic arrangement complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the production column into multiple sections, each equipped with its own external magnet arrangement. This segmentation allows independent optimization of magnetic field intensity in each section to address local scaling conditions, improving overall reliability while keeping each individual magnet module relatively simple and manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs asymmetric magnet orientations and positions tailored to the specific geometry of the annular region. By positioning magnets radially outward and orienting them to maximize field penetration into the annular space, the design achieves effective scaling mitigation without requiring symmetric complexity throughout the entire column.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

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

The device achieves up to 52% inhibition of CaCO3 scaling and other carbonates in the annular region, providing a more uniform and intense magnetic field for effective scaling mitigation.

Implementation Method 1

A device with a new magnetic arrangement using neodymium magnets and a ferromagnetic inner tube to concentrate the magnetic field externally

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFerromagnetism: Ferromagnetism

Implementation Method 2

the application of a magnetic field in the vicinity of a pipe/duct can affect the formation of the scale crystals type (such as vaterite, calcite, aragonite or other amorphous calcium carbonates), due to the interaction between the magnetic force and the charges of the crystal-forming ions present in the fluid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field interaction with charged particles: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

the device of this Utility Model meets the various specific criteria based on the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model, which is the theoretical model that studies the interactions between conductive fluids (and also gases) (ionic and/or saline fluids) and magnetic fields

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetohydrodynamic effect: Magnetohydrodynamic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20260031262A1Device for generation of external magnetic field in production columns

Publication Date: 2026.01.29 PETROLEO BRASILEIRO SA PETROBRAS

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a device for generating an external magnetic field in production columns, comprising at least one magnetic arrangement including at least eight magnets arranged to form a cylinder; wherein the at least eight magnets have a trapezoidal shape and a cylindrical internal and external section; wherein at least four magnets of the at least eight magnets have a convergent magnetic field direction in relation to the center of the cylinder formed by the magnetic arrangement; and at least four magnets of the at least eight magnets have a divergent magnetic field direction in relation to the center of the cylinder formed by the magnetic arrangement; wherein each magnetic arrangement is rotated by 22.5° in relation to a previous magnetic arrangement and a subsequent magnetic arrangement along a production column; and at least one magnetically permeable inner tube arranged within the at least one magnetic arrangement.