Liner Hanger and Packer Setting via Magnetic Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subterranean tool actuation methods require wall openings in tubulars, leading to potential leaks and increased complexity, especially when multiple tools need to be set at different times, which complicates operations and reduces reliability.
Innovation Solution
A running tool with a mandrel and magnet is used to release potential energy by moving past valves, allowing sequential actuation of multiple tools, such as a liner hanger and packer, without wall openings, utilizing hydrostatic pressure or gas generation for piston movement, enabling multiple tool settings in a single trip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical actuation techniques using applied or hydrostatic pressure are used to actuate a piston to drive slips up cones and compress sealing elements, then the tool can be actuated effectively, but wall openings in the tubular are required which create potential leak paths and reduce reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the need for wall openings in the tubular by extracting the actuation mechanism from the traditional hydraulic system that required such openings. Instead, the system uses a self-contained potential energy source (compressed gas or spring) within the actuator housing to drive the piston and operate the tool, eliminating leak paths while maintaining actuation effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary substance (annular fluid) that is selectively admitted into the actuator tool housing to trigger the pressure generation. This fluid acts as a mediator that initiates the reaction creating hydrogen gas, which then drives the piston without requiring wall openings in the tubular, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity
2Ease of operation
If multiple deliveries of wiper plugs with magnets are used to actuate multiple tools, then each tool can be actuated sequentially, but the process becomes complicated and uncertain as darts may not reach their destination
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the running tool universal by equipping it with a magnet that can actuate multiple different tools (liner hanger and packer) at different locations and times. This single multi-functional tool replaces the need for multiple specialized delivery systems, simplifying operations while ensuring reliable actuation of each tool in sequence
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet on the running tool is positioned and prepared in advance to actuate the liner hanger first, then subsequently actuate the packer after cementing. This preliminary positioning and sequential activation ensures that each tool is actuated at the appropriate time without requiring multiple deliveries, improving both ease of operation and reliability
3Device complexity
If compressed gas with stored potential energy is used to actuate tools, then the design is simplified, but multiple darts are still required which creates uncertainty in reaching the destination
Solution Approach 1:
The running tool with its integrated magnet serves as a universal actuator that can trigger multiple tools (liner hanger and packer) in sequence during a single trip. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for multiple separate dart deliveries, simplifying the device while simultaneously improving productivity by completing multiple tool settings in one operation
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 approach enhances reliability and simplifies operations by allowing multiple tools to be set without leaks, reducing complexity and cost, while ensuring efficient deployment of tools like liner hangers and packers in a single trip without the need for multiple deliveries or interventions.
Implementation Method 1
A liner hanger and packer are set at different times in a single trip without intervention. The running tool has a ball seat that accepts a ball for pressuring up which results in movement of a mandrel with a magnet mounted to it past a valve triggered by the magnetic field.
Implementation Method 2
These devices used annular fluid that was selectively admitted into the actuator tool housing and as a result of such fluid entry a reaction ensued that created pressure in the actuator housing to operate the tool.
Data Source
AI summary
A liner hanger and packer are set at different times in a single trip without intervention. The running tool has a ball seat that accepts a ball for pressuring up which results in movement of a mandrel with a magnet mounted to it past a valve triggered by the magnetic field. Potential energy is released to set the liner hanger. Further mandrel movement then releases the running tool once the liner is supported by the hanger. After a cement job that starts with confirmation of release of the running tool, the same magnet is moved past another valve adjacent the liner top packer. Another valve is triggered open to release potential energy and move parts that set the packer. The running tool is removed from the liner and brought to the surface.