LCM Test Apparatus with Variable Disk Openings for Severe Loss Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LCM performance evaluation methods, such as pore plugging tests, are insufficient for severe loss zones due to the use of disks with openings that are too small to simulate the larger fractures and vugular formations encountered in these zones, leading to ineffective evaluation of LCMs designed for extreme drilling conditions.
Innovation Solution
A test apparatus comprising a drilling fluid reservoir, an LCM reservoir, a spacer fluid reservoir, and an LCM test cell with disk members of varying opening sizes up to 40 mm, fluidically connected to evaluate the sealing efficiency of LCMs under pressures up to 2000 psi, simulating severe loss zones and assessing their ability to prevent fluid flow through these openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If disks with small openings are used in pore plugging tests, then the test apparatus can evaluate LCM for minor loss zones, but it cannot effectively evaluate LCM for severe loss zones with large fractures and vugs
Solution Approach 1:
The test cell incorporates multiple disk members with different opening sizes (small, medium, and large openings) to represent different loss zone conditions. This segmentation allows the apparatus to evaluate LCM performance across various severity levels by selecting appropriate disk configurations, directly resolving the contradiction between evaluating minor and severe loss zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The test apparatus is designed as a universal evaluation system that can assess LCM performance for all types of loss zones (minor, moderate, and severe) by changing disk configurations. The same apparatus serves multiple evaluation purposes through interchangeable disk members with varying opening sizes, achieving both specificity for different loss zone types and overall versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the test apparatus uses disk members with larger opening sizes up to 40 mm, then it can simulate severe loss zones, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test cell is divided into multiple independent disk member components that can be individually selected and installed. Each disk member represents a specific loss zone severity level, allowing the system to achieve high adaptability for simulating severe loss zones while keeping individual components simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus employs dynamic reconfiguration capability where disk members can be changed based on the specific evaluation requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to transition between different loss zone simulations without requiring multiple complete test cells, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Reliability
If nitrogen pressure up to 2000 psi is applied to simulate extreme drilling conditions, then the test can evaluate LCM under severe conditions, but the pressure requirements increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus uses a pneumatic pressure system with nitrogen gas to simulate downhole drilling conditions. The pressure system is designed to deliver up to 2000 psi to the test cell, enabling reliable evaluation of LCM performance under extreme conditions. The pneumatic design provides precise pressure control while managing system complexity through standard hydraulic/pneumatic components.
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 effective evaluation of LCMs for severe loss zones, determining their suitability in preventing or minimizing lost circulation, and allowing for the testing of various LCM types, including particulate, flake, and fibrous materials, under extreme conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The LCM test material is pressurized to flow through a disk member including multiple openings
Implementation Method 2
The LCM reduces the permeability or fluid flow capability totally or partially of the portion of the subterranean zone
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for evaluating loss circulation material (LCM) in loss circulation zones is described. The apparatus includes a drilling fluid reservoir that can carry a wellbore drilling fluid. The apparatus includes a LCM reservoir that can carry a LCM. The apparatus includes a spacer fluid reservoir that can carry a spacer fluid. The apparatus includes a LCM test cell that includes a disk member that includes multiple openings. The disk member represents a loss circulation zone in a subterranean zone in which a wellbore is drilled using the wellbore drilling fluid. The LCM test cell is fluidically connected to the drilling fluid reservoir, the LCM reservoir and the spacer fluid reservoir. The LCM test cell is configured to fluidically receive a quantity of LCM from the LCM reservoir and to evaluate an ability of the LCM to decrease loss circulation through the loss circulation zone.