HDR Packer Assembly with Equalizing Vent for Single-Trip Gravel Packing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gravel pack and fracture pack systems require multiple trips down the well with a work string, leading to inefficiencies, increased rig time, and potential formation damage due to the need for separate tools and the risk of tool loss or damage during hydraulic fracturing operations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a displaceable check valve and HDR packer attachment assembly with an equalizing vent, allowing for autonomous bypass valve operation and the integration of a production screen assembly that remains in the well after pumping, eliminating the need for a separate work string and enabling high-rate, high-density gravel packing without attachment to a work string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple trips with work string are used for packing operations, then tool placement and retrieval is possible, but rig time increases and formation damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the work string and production string into a single integrated system. The work string includes a bypass valve assembly that allows it to function both as a delivery mechanism for packing materials and as the final production string, eliminating the need to remove and replace separate strings.
Solution Approach 2:
The work string is designed with multi-functionality to serve dual purposes: delivering packing materials during the packing operation and serving as the production string afterward. The bypass valve assembly enables this universal function by allowing the work string to perform both operational roles without requiring replacement.
2Reliability
If bypass valves are released prematurely, then fluid flow control is compromised, but if held too long, then packing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass valve assembly incorporates a ball drop mechanism that provides feedback-based control. A ball is dropped to trigger the bypass valve closure at the appropriate moment during the packing operation, ensuring that the valve is released neither too early nor too late, thereby maintaining both fluid flow control and packing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The bypass valve assembly is designed to automatically respond to operational conditions through the ball drop mechanism, eliminating the need for external intervention to timing the valve release. The system self-regulates the valve operation based on the packing process progression.
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 reduces rig time and costs by allowing a single trip for both packing and production operations, ensuring accurate placement of filter media and preventing premature release of bypass valves, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and longevity of gravel or fracture packs.
Implementation Method 1
a displaceable check valve assembly (19) which automatically opens or closes in response to a pressure differential
Implementation Method 2
HDR packer attachment assembly with an equalizing vent, allowing for autonomous bypass valve operation and the integration of a production screen assembly that remains in the well after pumping
Data Source
AI summary
An in-tubing or casing fracture packing assembly including a running tool, HDR sub assembly, a displaceable flow diversion valve by which a filter media slurry is pumped down the annulus of the assembly until a gravel pack is achieved. The HDR running tool allows the bottom hole assembly to be deployed without fear of premature release due to loads or manipulation during deployment, but allows for easy detachment once pumping is completed. An equalizing vent in the HDR sub assembly maintains equal pressure internally and externally. The flow diversion valve is autonomously tripped when the media has been properly placed, providing a positive indication at the surface. A portion of the assembly is removed and the packing assembly remains within the well bore after pumping is completed. An isolation seal is then placed on the sealing mandrel of the assembly and isolated to the tubing or casing wall.