Hybrid-Power Formation Testing Tool for Quiet Pressure Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing formation pressure testing during drilling operations is hindered by noise interference from mud pumps, which can cause measurement inaccuracies and risk the drillstring getting stuck, while relying solely on battery power is insufficient for high drawdown rates.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid power system combining a fluid flow generator and battery power sources for the formation testing tool, allowing switching between power sources during the test to maintain high power drawdowns and reduce noise interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mud pumps are engaged to provide continuous fluid flow during formation pressure testing, then power generation for the testing tool is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to noise interference
Solution Approach 1:
The formation pressure test is divided into distinct phases: an initial testing phase conducted with mud pumps engaged to ensure adequate power for drawdown operations, and a measurement phase conducted with mud pumps disengaged to eliminate noise interference and ensure accurate formation pressure measurements. This temporal segmentation allows the system to optimize for different objectives at different times.
Solution Approach 2:
The mud pump operation is dynamically adjusted based on the testing requirements. The system transitions from a static pump-on state during initial testing to a dynamic pump-off state during measurement phases, allowing flexible adaptation to different operational needs and optimizing both power availability and measurement quality.
2Measurement precision
If mud pumps are disengaged to reduce noise and improve measurement quality, then measurement precision is improved, but the drillstring may become stuck in the hole
Solution Approach 1:
The testing operation is segmented into phases where mud pump engagement is maintained during initial testing to prevent drillstring sticking, and disengaged only during specific measurement phases when the formation pressure test requires quiet conditions. This ensures continuous mud circulation to prevent sticking while allowing accurate measurements when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary testing operations with mud pumps engaged to establish baseline data and ensure proper seal formation before transitioning to measurement phases with pumps disengaged. This preliminary action ensures the drillstring remains free of sticking risks while preparing for accurate measurements.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If battery power alone is used for formation pressure testing, then noise from mud pumps is eliminated, but power capability is insufficient for high drawdown rates
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges two power sources: a battery-powered formation testing tool and a mud pump-driven generator. The generator provides high power capability for drawdown operations when needed, while the battery provides supplemental power. This combined power system eliminates the limitations of either source alone, enabling high drawdown rates without continuous mud pump noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The mud pump acts as an intermediary power transmission mechanism, converting mechanical energy from mud pump operation into electrical energy through the generator. This intermediary system enables power generation during mud pump operation without requiring direct electrical connections, allowing flexible power supply for the formation testing tool.
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 enables accurate formation pressure measurements with minimal pumps-off time, reducing the risk of drillstring sticking and improving data quality.
Implementation Method 1
power from a generator may be necessary to provide sufficient power for the high drawdown rates
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for performing a formation pressure test include inserting a bottom hole assembly (“BHA”) into a wellbore. The BHA includes a drill bit and a formation testing tool with a battery and a fluid powered generator. An initial formation pressure test is performed while powering the formation testing tool with the fluid powered generator during the entire initial test. At least a portion of a formation pressure test is performed powering the formation testing tool with the battery during while the fluid powered generator is unavailable due to insufficient fluid circulation in the wellbore. The method also includes determining, using a processor, at least one characteristic of the formation based on results of the initial formation pressure test and the formation pressure test.