Flow control for geothermal well
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current geothermal energy production systems face challenges in optimizing energy extraction efficiency due to limitations in well construction technology, leading to higher costs and reduced economic viability for geothermal projects, particularly in drilling and well completion systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of temperature-based flow control systems that dynamically adjust the flow of thermal transport fluids into and out of geothermal reservoirs using thermostatic control valves and distributed temperature sensing, optimizing energy extraction by directing more fluid to hotter regions and minimizing flow to cooler areas, thereby enhancing energy recovery and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional well construction technology is used, then drilling and well completion costs are high, but energy extraction efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic flow control systems that continuously adjust valve positions based on real-time temperature feedback from distributed sensors. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize energy extraction efficiency by directing fluid flow to the hottest regions, while the automated control reduces operational costs compared to static conventional systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates distributed temperature sensing along the wellbore that provides continuous feedback to control algorithms. This feedback mechanism enables real-time optimization of flow distribution, maximizing energy recovery while reducing the need for expensive trial-and-error conventional well construction approaches
2Productivity
If uniform flow distribution is used across all injection and return locations, then system operation is simple, but energy extraction efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control system operates autonomously using distributed temperature sensors and automated control algorithms that adjust flow distribution without manual intervention. The system self-optimizes by continuously monitoring temperature profiles and dynamically reallocating fluid flow to maximize energy extraction, eliminating the need for complex manual flow control operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes flow distribution parameters based on real-time temperature measurements. By adjusting flow rates and distribution patterns according to measured temperature profiles, the system optimizes energy extraction efficiency while the automated parameter adjustment simplifies operation compared to manual uniform flow control
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 approach improves the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of geothermal energy production by maximizing energy extraction from geothermal reservoirs, allowing for broader economic viability of geothermal projects and increased energy availability.
Implementation Method 1
An expansion chamber (130) is coupled to the sleeve (126). The expansion chamber (130) expands or contract in response to a temperature change to urge the sleeve (126) to open or close the valve port (124)
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for harvesting geothermal energy use temperature-based flow control to optimize the extraction of thermal energy from a geothermal reservoir. In one example, a thermal transport fluid is flowed into a wellbore traversing a thermal reservoir of a formation. Flow of the thermal transport fluid into and out of the thermal reservoir is dynamically controlled at each of a plurality of injection and/or return locations in response to a downhole parameter such as temperature. For example, flow may be controlled so that the flow into the thermal reservoir is greater at the injection locations where the temperature is hotter and that the flow out of the thermal reservoir is greater at the return locations where the temperature is hotter. The thermal transport fluid produced from the return locations is then conveyed to surface to extra the thermal energy.