Non-invasive Fluid Density Testing via Magnetic Piston Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
In formation fluid testing, there is a delay in obtaining analysis results due to the need for samples to be sent to a lab after collection, which is costly and undesirable, especially in reservoirs with uncertainty about formation water salinity and long oil-water transition zones.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a surface testing system that allows for quick, non-invasive, automated determination of fluid sample density and compressibility within sealed sample chambers at in-situ pressure, using cylindrical containers with pistons and magnetic field sensors to calculate sample volume and compressibility without opening the chambers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluid samples are sent to a lab for analysis, then detailed fluid property data can be obtained, but there is a long delay of weeks between sampling and receiving results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential measurement functions from the laboratory environment and places them in a portable downhole tool. The tool contains sensors and processing capabilities that can perform density, compressibility, and viscosity measurements directly at the wellsite, eliminating the need to transport samples to a lab and return results weeks later.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a portable downhole tool as an intermediary between sample collection and laboratory analysis. This tool can either analyze samples on-site or transport them downhole for measurement, serving as a bridge that provides immediate or near-immediate results without requiring full laboratory processing.
2Measurement precision
If samples are transported to a laboratory for analysis, then comprehensive fluid characterization is achieved, but high costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the critical measurement capabilities from expensive laboratory environments and places them in a cost-effective portable downhole tool. This eliminates or reduces the need for sample transport, laboratory handling, and professional analysis services, significantly reducing costs while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable or single-use sample chambers and sensors that can be deployed downhole, used for measurement, and then discarded or retrieved. This eliminates the need for expensive, reusable laboratory equipment and reduces the costs associated with sample transport, storage, and professional analysis.
3Productivity
If downhole sensors are used to analyze fluid while pumping, then mobile fluid phase can be determined, but complex equipment and procedures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (density, compressibility, viscosity) and sample handling capabilities into a single integrated portable downhole tool. This consolidation reduces the complexity that would arise from using separate downhole sensors and surface equipment, while maintaining the ability to rapidly determine fluid phase and properties.
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 rapid, cost-effective analysis of fluid samples at the rig site, reducing delays and improving operational efficiency by providing immediate data on fluid properties, allowing for timely decision-making in drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
a piston that is movable within the cylindrical container
Implementation Method 2
The position of the piston is determined by a magnetic field sensor that sweeps across an outside surface of the cylindrical container
Data Source
AI summary
In situ density and compressibility of a fluid sample are determined for a fluid sample collected downhole. The density and compressibility of the fluid sampled is determined by measuring a distance to a piston contained within the sample chamber using an external magnetic field sensor that senses a magnetic field emanating from a magnet provided on the piston internal to the sample chamber. The testing is performed quickly and at the surface in a noninvasive fashion (e.g., without opening the sample chamber).