Insert Gas Lift Assembly for Retrofitting Injection Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas lift systems face challenges in reconfiguring annulus access locations without pulling the production string, particularly when new gas lift injection points are needed deeper or below existing isolation packers, as they rely on side pocket mandrels that are no longer optimal for changing operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
An insert device that straddles existing production string ports, such as through open sliding sleeves, to allow annulus pressure injection at precise locations, using a multi-component mandrel with external seals and a latch assembly to secure injection tubing, enabling fluid injection below isolation packers without reconfiguring the production string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If side pocket mandrels are used for gas lift valve installation, then gas lift injection can occur at predetermined locations, but the system cannot be reconfigured to new locations without pulling the production string
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the injection system into modular components: an insert assembly that can be independently installed at different locations along the production string. This allows the injection functionality to be relocated without affecting the entire production string, enabling flexible reconfiguration of gas lift injection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert assembly acts as an intermediary device between the production string and the gas lift injection system. It provides a interface that allows gas injection at predetermined depths without requiring modification of the production string itself, thus enabling location changes while maintaining system integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If production string is pulled to reconfigure annulus access locations, then new injection points can be established, but production downtime and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insert assembly is pre-configured with seals, latching mechanisms, and injection tubing before deployment. This preliminary preparation allows the device to be quickly installed at new locations without requiring time-consuming field modifications or production string retrieval, minimizing production downtime during reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert assembly is self-contained with integrated sealing and latching features that automatically secure itself upon installation. The device performs its own installation and sealing functions without requiring external assistance or disruption to the production string, enabling rapid deployment at new injection points.
3Ease of operation
If insert device is installed to straddle production string port, then injection access is available at desired location, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insert assembly merges multiple functions into a single integrated device: it provides sealing against the production string port, mechanical latching for secure installation, injection tubing support, and fluid flow control. This consolidation achieves ease of operation through a unified device while managing complexity through functional integration rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert assembly is designed as a universal device that can be installed at multiple locations along the production string and performs multiple functions: sealing, latching, supporting injection tubing, and enabling gas injection. This multi-functionality provides ease of operation across different application scenarios while the standardized design manages overall device complexity.
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 flexible and precise injection of fluids at desired locations within existing gas lift systems, optimizing production by allowing injection points to be repositioned without removing the production string, thereby enhancing well production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The insert device can straddle an existing production string port into the annulus such as through an open sliding sleeve so that annulus access into the production string is available
Implementation Method 2
An injection string can be associated with the insert to allow placement of the injection fluid at the desired location even if that location is below an isolation packer
Implementation Method 3
annulus pressure can be introduced at a predetermined depth through an existing or produced tubing opening to inject fluid, defined as a liquid, a gas or combinations thereof, at the desired location
Data Source
AI summary
An insert device can straddle an existing production string port into the annulus such as through an open sliding sleeve so that annulus access into the production string is available. An injection string is associated with the insert to allow placement of the injection fluid at the desired location even if that location is below an isolation packer. The port can be part of an existing ported sub such as a sliding sleeve. Alternatively, the port can be created at a desired location and the insert supported with an anchor so that spaced seals straddle the port that is created to allow injection access from the annulus into the production tubing. The produced fluids pass around the injection tubing and through the insert body to get to the surface. The insert can be removed if needed.