Fracking Valve Indexing Assembly Selective Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for hydraulic fracturing in hydrocarbon production require frequent retrieval or milling of blocking bodies from the production bore, which is inefficient and disrupts subsequent production processes.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a radially expandable ring and indexing assembly that selectively isolates and controls fluid flow by using a blocking body to obstruct apertures, allowing a predetermined number of blocking bodies to pass before preventing further displacement, enabling pressure to open the valve for fracturing and later allowing retrieval of the blocking body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a blocking body is dropped to open a fracing valve, then the valve can be opened for hydraulic fracturing, but the blocking body must be frequently retrieved or milled from the production bore
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking body is segmented into multiple spherical objects that pass through sequentially. The indexing assembly allows a predetermined number of spherical objects to pass before retaining the next one, enabling controlled segmentation of the opening process without requiring retrieval of each individual blocking body
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the blocking bodies and the valve opening process. It controls the passage of spherical objects and triggers the valve opening after a predetermined number pass through, eliminating the need for frequent retrieval operations
2Adaptability or versatility
If a blocking body is used to build pressure for valve opening, then the valve can be opened selectively, but the blocking body obstructs subsequent production flow
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is opened in advance before production begins. The indexing assembly allows a predetermined number of spherical objects to pass through to build pressure and open the valve, so that by the time production starts, the valve is already open and the blocking body no longer obstructs flow
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static blocking state to a dynamic opening state. The indexing assembly enables the blocking body to move from obstructing the aperture to passing through it, transforming the system from closed to open configuration based on predetermined conditions
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 allows for efficient and controlled hydraulic fracturing by enabling selective isolation and pressure management, reducing the need for frequent retrieval or milling of blocking bodies and optimizing production string operations.
Implementation Method 1
The expandable ring selectably retains the spherical body thereon when biased inwardly by the retaining portion of the backing body so as to be operable to pressurize the central passage thereabove such that the pressure displaces the annular piston so as to uncover the apertures
Implementation Method 2
the pressure displaces the annular piston so as to uncover the apertures
Implementation Method 3
The indexing assembly comprises a plurality of outer casing teeth inclined towards a bottom end of the outer casing extending radially outwardly from the lower sleeve into the void and a plurality of lower sleeve teeth inclined towards a bottom end of the outer casing extending radially inwardly from the outer casing into the void
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for selectably isolating a subterranean formation from a production string comprises a radially expandable ring located between upper and lower sleeves and retained at a position to intrude into a central passage extending therethrough. The expandable ring is permitted to radially expand into a recess upon displacement of the lower sleeve to permit a body retained thereon to move therepast. The apparatus includes a pair of inner and outer indexing rings which cooperate to permit the inner and outer indexing rings to move towards a bottom end thereof only to a fixed endwall whereafter further movement of the inner and outer indexing rings and lower sleeve is prevented.