Jet Pump Device with Radially Offset Components for Slickline Passage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional jet pumps lack the capability to accommodate and operate with dynamic Memory Production Logging Tools (MPLTs) effectively, which are necessary for accurate well performance assessment and logging, especially at well perforations, due to the inability to pass a slickline through the jet pump device.
Innovation Solution
A downhole assembly is designed with a jet pump device that has radially offset internal components to allow a slickline to pass through, enabling the operation of MPLTs, and a hydraulically-actuated ball and plunger locking mechanism to secure the jet pump device in place, allowing for the reciprocation of the MPLT within the wellbore for measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional jet pumps are used, then oil production is achieved, but the capability to accommodate and operate with Memory Production Logging Tools is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The jet pump device is divided into separate functional components including a pump body, a central passage, and radially offset internal components. This segmentation allows the slickline to pass through the central passage while the pump components remain positioned radially, enabling both pumping and logging tool actuation functions without compromising structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The slickline is nested within the central passage of the jet pump device, allowing it to pass through the length of the device. The MPLT is subsequently actuated by the slickline while positioned within the wellbore. This nested arrangement enables the logging tool to operate within the pumping system without interfering with pump operation.
2Ease of operation
If internal components are centered on the jet pump axis, then pumping efficiency is maintained, but the slickline cannot pass through the device
Solution Approach 1:
The internal components of the jet pump are deliberately positioned asymmetrically, with the mixing tube and other critical components offset radially from the central axis. This asymmetric arrangement creates a clear central passage through which the slickline can pass, while the radial positioning of components ensures they remain in the optimal position for efficient fluid mixing and pumping.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the jet pump device is made movable for logging operations, then MPLT actuation is enabled, but the pump position stability during fluid production is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The jet pump device incorporates a dynamic positioning system with a hydraulically actuated ball and plunger locking mechanism. This mechanism allows the pump to be securely locked in position during normal operation, then dynamically released to enable MPLT reciprocation for logging, and subsequently re-locked to maintain position stability during fluid production. The system transitions between fixed and movable states as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
A hydraulically actuated ball and plunger locking mechanism is used to secure the jet pump device inside the bottom hole assembly. Hydraulic pressure actuates the plunger to engage or disengage the locking ball, providing reliable position control. This hydraulic locking system ensures the pump remains stable during production while allowing controlled movement for logging 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
Enables accurate well performance logging and oil production by allowing the MPLT to be actuated and positioned at various depths within the wellbore while the jet pump operates, providing comprehensive well performance data and maintaining the jet pump's position during fluid production.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulically-actuated ball and plunger locking mechanism configured to secure the jet pump device inside the bottom hole assembly
Implementation Method 2
pumping a power fluid downhole and operating the jet pump device to pump fluid to the surface
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole assembly in a wellbore includes a production logging tool disposed in the wellbore and a jet pump device set in a bottom hole assembly uphole from the production logging tool. The jet pump has a central axis, and includes one or more internal components that are radially offset to allow a slickline to pass through the jet pump device. The slickline is configured to actuate the production logging tool. While the jet pump device is operating to produce fluids, the production logging tool is further reciprocated within the wellbore on the slickline to obtain measurements at various locations.