Liner Hanger Locking Tool to Prevent Presetting and Flow Restriction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liner hanger systems face issues with reduced production capacity due to components of the setting tool and bore receptacle remaining in the wellbore, causing axial overlap and restricting fluid flow, and the inability to prevent premature activation or 'presetting' of the liner hanger at undesired depths.
Innovation Solution
A locking tool is introduced that prevents premature activation of the setting tool and allows for retrieval of both the locking tool and setting tool from the wellbore after installation, maximizing the flow area by minimizing components left in the wellbore and ensuring the liner hanger is set at the desired depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If components of the setting tool and bore receptacle remain in the wellbore after installation, then the liner hanger can be set and secured, but the production capacity is reduced due to axial overlap restricting fluid flow
Solution Approach 1:
The locking tool is designed to be extracted from the wellbore after performing its locking function. The tool includes a locking mechanism that secures the liner hanger at the desired depth, then can be disconnected and retrieved through the conveyance string, removing the obstruction to fluid flow while maintaining the reliability of the setting operation
Solution Approach 2:
The setting tool and locking tool are designed as temporary installation devices that are discarded (left in the wellbore) or recovered (retrieved) based on their function completion. The locking tool specifically is designed to be recovered after locking the liner hanger, eliminating the axial overlap problem and maximizing production capacity
2Ease of operation
If the liner hanger is allowed to shift freely during deployment, then installation is simpler, but premature activation or presetting at undesired depths can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The locking tool includes a locking mechanism that prevents the liner hanger from shifting prematurely during deployment. The locking elements engage with the conveyance string or wellbore structure to restrict axial movement of the liner hanger before the desired installation depth is reached, preventing presetting while maintaining operational simplicity through automatic locking engagement
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 configuration maximizes the production capacity of the wellbore by maintaining a larger fluid passage diameter and reduces the risk of seal failure by removing unnecessary components, thus enhancing the operational efficiency and reliability of the liner hanger system.
Implementation Method 1
a setting piston positioned radially between the setting sleeve and the mandrel whereby a hydraulic pressure differential across the locking tool imparts an axial force to the setting piston that is communicated through the setting sleeve to the liner hanger
Data Source
AI summary
A liner hanger system deployable in a wellbore penetrating an earthen subterranean formation, the liner hanger system comprising a liner hanger installable in the wellbore and comprising one or more slips each having a radially inner run-in position and a radially outer set position configured to couple the liner hanger to a downhole tubular member located in the wellbore, and a sealing element comprising a radially contracted configuration and a radially expanded configuration configured to seal against an inner surface of the downhole tubular member, a setting tool and a bore receptacle each configured to connect to the liner hanger wherein the setting tool and the bore receptacle are collectively configured to shift the one or more slips from their run-in positions to their set positions, and the sealing element from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration in response to receiving one or more activation signals, and a locking tool configured to connect to the setting tool and the bore receptacle whereby the setting tool and the bore receptacle are each positioned axially between the locking tool and the liner hanger with the setting tool at least partially received within the bore receptacle.