Hydraulic Actuator Device for Sequential Well Accessory Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods face limitations in remotely actuating multiple completion accessories in a well from a single hydraulic control line, as there is a constraint on the number of control lines that can be installed.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic actuator device with fluid diversion units and a pressure release mechanism allows multiple completion accessories to be actuated from a single control line, using a ball seat and conduit to divert fluid flow sequentially to each accessory, with a burst disc and check valve to manage pressure and flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control lines are installed to actuate multiple completion accessories, then the ability to remotely actuate accessories is improved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single control line is segmented into multiple functional zones using fluid diversion units. Each unit contains a ball seat and conduit that can be independently activated by dropping balls into the through-bore, allowing sequential actuation of multiple accessories along the control line without requiring separate control lines for each accessory.
Solution Approach 2:
Fluid diversion units act as intermediary components between the single control line and multiple completion accessories. These units include ball seats, conduits with pressure release members, and check valves that mediate the hydraulic flow, enabling one control line to control multiple accessories through controlled fluid diversion and pressure management.
2Device complexity
If a single control line is used to actuate multiple accessories, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of sequential actuation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses preliminary action through the use of ball seats positioned at specific locations along the control line. Before actuating a particular accessory, a ball is dropped to seal the through-bore at the appropriate location, preparing the system for controlled pressure buildup and subsequent sequential actuation of the next accessory in the predetermined sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through check valves and pressure release members that respond to pressure conditions. The check valves prevent backflow and ensure unidirectional flow, while pressure release members respond to pressure buildup to trigger the next stage of actuation, providing automatic feedback control that ensures reliable sequential operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pressure is increased to actuate a further accessory, then the actuation capability is improved, but the risk of unintended accessory activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality through differently configured fluid diversion units positioned at specific locations along the control line. Each unit has specific pressure release member characteristics and ball seat positions that are optimized for actuating its associated accessory at a particular pressure threshold, allowing localized control and preventing unintended activation of accessories that require higher or different pressure conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses preliminary action by positioning ball seats and pressure release members at specific locations with predetermined pressure thresholds. Before actuating a particular accessory, the system builds pressure to a specific level that is sufficient to trigger that accessory's actuation mechanism but not high enough to trigger subsequent accessories, ensuring selective and unintended-free activation.
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 the actuation of multiple completion accessories from a single control line, allowing for sequential operation and reactivation of accessories, improving efficiency in well operations by reducing the need for multiple control lines.
Implementation Method 1
raising pressure in the conduit sufficient to actuate the pressure release member
Implementation Method 2
the pressure release member is a burst disc. More preferable the burst disc is calibrated to rupture at a controlled pressure from surface
Implementation Method 3
The check valve prevents fluids returning up the conduit back into the through bore
Implementation Method 4
fluid pressure can build up behind the ball within the through bore to expel the ball
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic actuator device to activate multiple completion accessories in an oil, gas or other subterranean well from a single hydraulic control line running from the surface, through the wellhead, and down through the well. The hydraulic actuator device is mounted in the control line and selectively diverts flow between a through bore and a conduit in a spur. An embodiment of using the device to activate a chemical injection valve and after installing a lift system with activation of a hydrostatic drain valve to provide the head of fluid, using the device to activate a hydraulic drain valve.