Integrated Plugging Assembly for Compact Wellbore Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wellbore plug setting tools are limited by the length of wireline systems, which restricts the inclusion of additional tools due to space and lifting constraints, necessitating the optimization of individual tool lengths to enhance wellbore perforation and production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact plugging assembly comprising a plug directly attached to a setting tool, eliminating the need for an adapter kit, with a mandrel and combustion chamber to apply axial forces for sealing and anchoring, allowing for reduced tool string length and increased efficiency in wellbore separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional wireline systems with adapter kits are used, then plug setting functionality is achieved, but tool string length increases reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the plug and setting tool into a single integrated assembly, eliminating the need for separate adapter kits. The setting tool is directly coupled to the plug body, combining multiple components (plug, adapter kit, setting tool) into one unified structure. This integration reduces the overall tool string length while maintaining all necessary functions for wellbore separation and perforation operations.
2Productivity
If tool string length is reduced, then more tools can be included, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated plugging assembly is designed to perform multiple functions within a single compact structure. The setting tool not only sets the plug but also integrates the mandrel and combustion chamber for actuation. The plug body incorporates both the isolation function and the connection to the setting tool mechanism. This multi-functionality allows the reduced-length assembly to still support multiple perforating guns while managing structural complexity through functional integration.
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
The compact design reduces the overall length of the tool string, enabling the inclusion of additional tools, such as more perforating guns, and enhances hydraulic separation of wellbore zones, thereby improving hydrocarbon production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a combustion chamber located within the elongate housing for receiving an energetic charge
Implementation Method 2
an annular expansion chamber located within the housing in an annulus formed between an outer surface of the mandrel and an inner surface of the housing wherein the annular expansion chamber is in fluid communication with the combustion chamber to receive combustion gases from the combustion chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A plugging assembly includes a plug and a setting tool attached directly to the plug, wherein the plug includes an elongate core with an uphole end and a downhole end opposite the uphole end, and a sealing element disposed fully around the core to seal against the casing. The plug additionally includes an anchoring system for anchoring the plug to the casing in a fixed position, a compression fitting disposed around the core at or near the uphole end of the core, and a nose at the downhole end of the core. The setting tool includes an elongate housing extending between an uphole end and a downhole end opposite the uphole end, an open passageway extending from the uphole end to the downhole end of the housing, and the downhole end of the housing is aligned to directly engage the compression fitting of the plug.