Multistage Fracturing Plugging Assembly for Bidirectional Valve Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multistage fracturing technologies face challenges such as time-consuming operations, the need for precise ball drop processes, high manufacturing costs, and limitations in opening frac valves in a desired sequence, along with issues like plug defects, perf erosion, and the inability to provide bidirectional flow, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A downhole system with frac valves having identical or comparable inside profiles, allowing for flexible sequencing and bidirectional flow, utilizing a plugging device with an index sleeve that can engage and open multiple valves without requiring intervention tools or unique plugs, and enabling rapid opening and closing of frac valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multistage fracturing with multiple frac valves is used, then multiple zones can be stimulated, but the operation becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
A single frac valve assembly is designed to perform multiple functions by sequentially opening different ports to stimulate multiple formation zones. The valve can be opened once and then cycle through opening port 20, then port 22, then port 24 in sequence, eliminating the need for multiple separate valves and reducing operational time while maintaining the ability to stimulate multiple zones.
2Ease of operation
If precise ball drop processes are required to open frac valves in sequence, then valve opening sequence can be controlled, but the process becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The frac valve assembly is designed to automatically cycle through opening different ports in sequence without requiring external intervention tools or complex ball drop processes. Once the valve is opened, it self-actuates to open port 20, then port 22, then port 24 in order, eliminating the need for precise manual control and reducing process complexity and potential for error.
3Device complexity
If traditional unidirectional flow through plugging devices is used, then simple structure is maintained, but ability to clear obstructions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The plugging device incorporates a removable stopper that can be in different positions to dynamically change flow direction. The stopper can block the bore to allow flow only in one direction, or be removed to allow bidirectional flow, enabling the device to clear obstructions in both directions while maintaining structural simplicity when unidirectional flow is sufficient.
Data Source
AI summary
A plugging device for multistage fracturing wherein a stopper assembly is installed in the plugging device in manner that allows pressure integrity from above the plugging device, and the stopper assembly is further configured to allow a bore of the plugging device to open with an at least minimal pressure from therebelow in order to remove a stopper from the stopper assembly in order to open a flow path through the plugging device in either direction.