Scale Inhibitor-Impregnated Calcite for Circulation Loss Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to effectively prevent scale formation during the drilling phase of oil wells, leading to circulation losses and increased maintenance costs, which are exacerbated by the challenges of deep-sea drilling in offshore fields.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising viscous mattresses and calcite impregnated with scale inhibitors is introduced, which is applied during the drilling phase to inhibit scale formation by releasing the inhibitor into the reservoir, preventing deposition in the production string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If viscous mattresses and calcite are used to control circulation loss during drilling, then circulation loss is reduced, but scale formation occurs in the production string during the productive life of the well
Solution Approach 1:
The scale inhibitor is impregnated into the calcite particles before they are used to control circulation loss. This preliminary action ensures that when the calcite is deployed to plug formation pathways, the inhibitor is already in position to prevent scale formation that would otherwise occur during subsequent production operations
Solution Approach 2:
The calcite serves as an intermediary carrier that delivers the scale inhibitor to the formation. The calcite particles are pumped into the formation to control circulation loss, and as they settle, they release the impregnated inhibitor which then migrates to prevent scale formation in the production string
2Reliability
If multiple viscous mattresses are pumped to control circulation loss, then circulation loss is controlled, but the complexity of operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges two separate operations into one: the circulation loss control operation and the scale inhibition operation. By impregnating the scale inhibitor onto the calcite particles used for plugging, the treatment achieves both circulation loss control and long-term scale prevention in a single pumping operation, eliminating the need for separate inhibitor squeeze operations
3Reliability
If scale formation is not prevented during drilling, then circulation loss control is achieved, but production losses occur due to scale deposition in the production string
Solution Approach 1:
The scale inhibitor is pre-loaded onto the calcite particles before they are deployed during drilling operations. This preliminary action ensures that when production begins, the inhibitor is already in the formation and will prevent scale formation that would otherwise reduce production flow over time
Solution Approach 2:
The calcite particles serve a dual function: they control circulation loss by plugging formation pathways and simultaneously provide scale inhibition service by releasing the impregnated inhibitor into the formation. This self-service approach ensures long-term productivity protection without requiring additional intervention operations
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 reduces production losses, maintenance costs, and the need for interventions by ensuring long-term inhibition of scale formation, thereby enhancing well productivity and reducing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
calcite impregnated with scale inhibitors
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention describes a composition that comprises viscous mattresses and calcite impregnated with scale inhibitors. In a second embodiment, the present invention relates to the process of preparing said composition. In another embodiment, a process for combating the circulation loss including the application, within the reservoir, of said composition during the drilling a well, is disclosed.