Lock Mandrel Velocity String Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and retrieval of velocity strings in production tubing can be problematic, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to difficulties in setting and unsetting the strings, which affects fluid recovery in aging wells.
Innovation Solution
A velocity string system comprising a lock mandrel with a seal bore assembly and an extended tapered entry guide, allowing for secure engagement and retrieval of the velocity string through a locking mechanism and seal bore interaction, facilitating easier installation and retrieval by ensuring proper weight distribution and engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a velocity string is installed in production tubing to enhance fluid recovery, then fluid velocity and recovery efficiency are improved, but installation and retrieval operations become problematic and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The velocity string is nested inside the lock mandrel during installation. The lock mandrel serves as a carrier that guides and positions the velocity string, allowing it to be deployed through the production tubing without requiring complex external handling equipment. This nesting approach simplifies the installation process and reduces operational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mandrel acts as an intermediary tool between the installation equipment and the velocity string. It provides a mechanical interface that enables controlled deployment, positioning, and retrieval of the velocity string, making the entire operation more efficient and less prone to complications.
2Speed
If a velocity string is installed to support production in aging wells, then fluid transport velocity is improved, but setting and unsetting operations become difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the lock mandrel for deployment and retrieval, the seal bore assembly for positioning and sealing, and the velocity string for fluid transport. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, making the overall operation easier to execute.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal bore assembly is pre-configured with sealing elements and positioning features before the velocity string is deployed. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the velocity string is set, it automatically engages with the pre-positioned sealing and locking mechanisms, simplifying the setting operation and reducing the risk of operational difficulties.
3Productivity
If a velocity string is deployed to enhance recovery in end-of-life wells, then production support is improved, but operational problems and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mandrel is designed as a multi-functional tool that serves multiple purposes: guiding the velocity string during installation, providing mechanical support during deployment, enabling positioning through the seal bore assembly, and facilitating retrieval operations. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate tools and procedures needed, thereby reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A velocity string system includes a lock mandrel. A seal bore assembly attached to the lock mandrel runnable in a production string; and a velocity string sealable in the seal mandrel and separately runnable in the production string. A method for installing a velocity string system in a production string.