Flow Conveyed Degradable Devices for Subterranean Well Zone Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for controlling fluid flow in subterranean wells lack efficiency in selectively blocking or diverting fluid flow into specific formation zones, leading to inefficiencies in well operations such as re-completion and stimulation.
Innovation Solution
The use of flow-conveyed devices made from degradable or non-degradable materials, featuring a central body with fibrous strands that can be conveyed through the well using pumped fluid to block or plug openings, allowing for temporary or permanent sealing of fluid paths, and can be made from materials like nylon, poly-lactic acid, or magnesium alloys that degrade in response to chemical, thermal, or radiation exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional flow control methods are used in subterranean wells, then fluid flow can be controlled to some extent, but the efficiency of selectively blocking or diverting fluid flow into specific formation zones is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The wellbore is divided into multiple discrete treatment zones along its length. Individual flow control devices are deployed to specific zones using a deployable device system, allowing each zone to be treated independently with appropriate flow control measures, thereby achieving both high efficiency and selectivity in fluid flow management
Solution Approach 2:
A deployable device acts as an intermediary carrier that transports flow control devices to target formation zones. This intermediary system enables precise placement of flow control devices at specific locations, improving the selectivity and efficiency of fluid flow control without requiring direct intervention in each zone
2Adaptability or versatility
If flow control devices are deployed to block openings in formation zones, then fluid flow can be diverted to desired zones, but the complexity of the deployment system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deployable device is designed as a universal platform capable of deploying multiple different types of flow control devices to different formation zones. This multi-functional device can accommodate various flow control mechanisms (plugs, packers, valves) and deployment methods, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
Flow control devices are nested within or attached to the deployable device structure, which itself is nested within the wellbore. This hierarchical nesting allows compact storage and transport of multiple flow control devices, simplifying the deployment system while enabling selective placement at different depths
3Duration of action of moving object
If degradable materials are used for flow control devices, then temporary sealing can be achieved, but the reliability of long-term flow control may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static permanent plugs to dynamic degradable devices that change properties over time. The degradable materials are engineered to maintain structural integrity and flow control function for specific durations (days to months), then progressively degrade when no longer needed, providing adaptable temporary sealing without compromising reliability within the intended service life
Solution Approach 2:
Degradable materials are selected and formulated to exhibit specific degradation timelines and rates based on downhole conditions (temperature, pressure, chemical environment). By controlling material composition and degradation parameters, the system achieves reliable temporary sealing for predetermined periods while ensuring predictable end-of-life behavior
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
Enables precise control over fluid flow by effectively blocking or diverting fluid into desired zones, enhancing well operations like re-completion and stimulation, with the ability to temporarily or permanently seal perforations and fractures, and can be degraded or removed as needed.
Implementation Method 1
The device can be made from materials like nylon, poly-lactic acid, or magnesium alloys that degrade in response to chemical, thermal, or radiation exposure
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling flow in a subterranean well can include a device introduced into the well being conveyed by flow in the well, the device comprising a material selected from poly-vinyl alcohol, poly-vinyl acetate and/or poly-methacrylic acid. The material may degrade in the well. A system for use with a well can include a flow conveyed device conveyed through a tubular string by flow in the tubular string, and the flow conveyed device including a material selected from poly-vinyl alcohol, poly-vinyl acetate and/or poly-methacrylic acid. A flow conveyed device for use in a subterranean well can include a body and a degradable material extending outwardly from the body, the degradable material being formed as a film, tube or filament.