Live Well Corrosion Testing Tool String Sub
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing corrosion and cracking of downhole alloys in oil wells are limited by simulated conditions that do not accurately represent the harsh, dynamic environments found in actual wells, making it difficult to assess the survivability of materials and coatings.
Innovation Solution
A tool string sub with a longitudinally extending tubular housing and moveable support parts that apply varying stresses to degradation parts, such as C-rings, allowing for exposure to real downhole conditions and evaluation of corrosion and cracking in live well environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If simulated conditions are used for testing corrosion and cracking, then testing can be performed in controlled environments, but the test results do not accurately represent actual well conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary testing device (the tool string sub with degradation parts) that can be deployed in real downhole environments to bridge the gap between controlled simulation and actual field conditions. This intermediary allows direct exposure to real well conditions while maintaining testability and data collection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The degradation parts (such as C-rings) are designed to autonomously experience and record corrosion and cracking effects in real downhole conditions without requiring external intervention. The parts self-test by being exposed to actual well environments, eliminating the need for complex external testing infrastructure.
2Ease of manufacture
If constant stress is applied to degradation parts, then the testing setup is simpler, but it does not simulate the varying stress conditions of actual well operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic stress application system where support parts can move between multiple positions to apply varying stress levels to the degradation parts. This dynamic capability allows the system to simulate the fluctuating stress conditions encountered in actual well operations, including installation stress, operational stress, and retrieval stress.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the stress parameter by moving support parts to different positions, thereby applying different magnitudes of stress to the degradation parts. This parameter variation enables realistic simulation of well conditions without requiring complex manufacturing, as it uses simple positional changes rather than complex stress control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If multiple support positions are used to apply varying stresses, then real well conditions are better simulated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the support structure into multiple discrete support parts, each capable of occupying specific positions. This segmentation allows independent control and positioning of each support element, simplifying the overall design while enabling complex stress patterns. Each support part can be independently positioned to create the desired stress state.
Solution Approach 2:
The degradation parts (such as C-rings) are designed as disposable test specimens that are intentionally stressed to failure or significant degradation. By using inexpensive, replaceable degradation parts rather than expensive, complex reusable testing apparatus, the patent achieves reliable material assessment data without requiring highly sophisticated and complex testing equipment.
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 collection of valuable data on material degradation in real-world conditions, improving the selection of materials and coatings for well completions and tooling by simulating the stresses and environments encountered in oil wells.
Implementation Method 1
A degradation part is connected adjacent to the stepped portion of the housing and is supported by the housing and at least one moveable support part protruding inward and beyond the inner surface of the housing. The support part has a first position where the degradation part is at one stress and a second position where the degradation part is at a second stress greater than the first stress.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments may take the form of a tool string sub. The tool string sub may include a longitudinally extending tubular housing having an outside surface and an inside surface. A stepped circumferential portion of the inside surface of the housing bisects the interior surface of the housing. A degradation part is connected adjacent to the stepped portion of the housing and is supported by the housing and at least one moveable support part protruding inward and beyond the inner surface of the housing. The support part has a first position where the degradation part is at first stress and a second position where the degradation part is at a second stress greater than the first stress. At least one end of the tool string sub is adapted to connect with a tool string.