Galvanic Wellbore Device Disintegration via Electrical Current
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing or dissolving devices in oil wells after their intended function are inefficient, as they often require drilling or rely on corrosion, which can be slow and uncontrolled.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a galvanic process where a device in the wellbore, acting as a cathode, is disintegrated by applying electrical current from a tool with an anode, allowing controlled disintegration and deposition of materials using a conductive fluid like brine, allowing for precise removal or deposition of metallic components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If drilling or milling tools are used to remove devices from the wellbore, then the device can be removed, but the process is inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical removal methods (drilling or milling tools) with an electrical galvanic dissolution process. The device to be removed is made from a material that can be selectively dissolved through galvanic corrosion when electrical current is applied, eliminating the need for mechanical cutting or drilling operations and significantly reducing removal time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the removal mechanism from mechanical force to electrochemical process by controlling electrical current parameters. By adjusting the galvanic cell voltage and current flow, the dissolution rate of the device material can be precisely controlled, enabling efficient and time-controlled removal without mechanical intervention.
2Productivity
If corrosion is used to dissolve devices, then the device can be removed, but the process is slow and uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs controlled periodic application of electrical current to the galvanic cell, enabling the dissolution process to proceed at an accelerated and controllable rate. The electrical current can be applied in controlled intervals or continuously, allowing precise control over the dissolution timing and rate, transforming the slow passive corrosion into an active controllable process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electrical current as an intermediary to accelerate and control the galvanic corrosion process. By applying external electrical current to the galvanic cell, the dissolution rate is significantly increased compared to passive corrosion, and the process can be controlled through current regulation, enabling both speed and precision in device removal.
3Manufacturing precision
If galvanic process is used to remove or deposit material, then controlled disintegration or deposition is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a galvanic cell system that serves multiple functions: it can be used to remove existing devices from the wellbore, deposit new materials onto device surfaces, and control the timing and rate of these processes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized tools, thereby managing system complexity while enhancing operational versatility and precision.
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 controlled and efficient removal or deposition of wellbore devices, improving operational efficiency and flexibility in wellbore operations by allowing for precise control over the disintegration or deposition process.
Implementation Method 1
A method and apparatus utilizing a galvanic process where a device in the wellbore, acting as a cathode, is disintegrated by applying electrical current from a tool with an anode
Implementation Method 2
allowing controlled disintegration and deposition of materials using a conductive fluid like brine
Implementation Method 3
allowing controlled disintegration and deposition of materials using a conductive fluid like brine
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a method of performing a wellbore operation is disclosed that in one embodiment may include: deploying a device in the wellbore containing a conductive fluid, wherein the device is configured to disintegrate upon application of electrical current thereto; and applying current to the device in the wellbore using a tool to controllably disintegrate the device. In another aspect, an apparatus for use downhole is provided that in one embodiment may include a device placed at a selected location in a wellbore, wherein the device is made from a material that disintegrates when electric current is induced in to device and a tool placed proximate to the device configured to induce electric current into the device to cause the device to disintegrate.