Magnetic Tool Joint Detection in Oil Well Pipe Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hydrocarbon wells, determining the location of tool or production string connections is challenging due to the interference of enlarged tool joints with pipe rams, leading to potential damage during sealing or extraction operations.
Innovation Solution
A tubular apparatus with radially extending sensor and magnetic stacks, utilizing hall effect sensors and rare earth magnets, is deployed within the well structure to measure the diameter of objects and detect tool joints, preventing pipe rams from engaging with them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded connectors with enlarged diameters are used to strengthen pipe connections, then connection strength is improved, but interference with pipe ram operation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the presence and position of tool joints before pipe rams reach them. The detection system provides advance warning, allowing operators to pause or adjust the pipe ram closing sequence before the enlarged tool joint interferes with the sealing operation, thus preventing stripping while maintaining the strength benefits of enlarged connectors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through a detection system that monitors the position of objects within the wellbore. The system provides real-time information about tool joint locations, enabling dynamic adjustment of pipe ram operation to avoid interference with enlarged connector diameters while maintaining secure sealing
2Reliability
If tool joints with enlarged diameters are used to provide stronger connection sections, then connection reliability is improved, but risk of stripping increases during pipe ram closing
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system performs preliminary identification of tool joint positions before pipe rams are closed. This advance detection allows operators to take preventive action by adjusting the closing sequence or pausing operation when a tool joint is detected, thereby eliminating the stripping hazard while preserving the reliable connection provided by enlarged tool joints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by using the detection system to identify tool joints and generate warnings before the harmful stripping event can occur. This preemptive measure counteracts the potential damage by enabling operators to modify their actions in advance, protecting both the pipe and pipe rams from damage
3Measurement precision
If magnetic sensors and magnets are added to detect tool joints, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical detection methods with magnetic field-based sensing. The magnetic sensors and magnets provide accurate tool joint detection through non-contact magnetic field measurements, eliminating the need for complex mechanical probes or visual inspection systems while achieving high detection precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, distribution) caused by the presence of ferromagnetic tool joints. By measuring these parameter changes with magnetic sensors, the system achieves accurate detection with relatively simple sensor elements, balancing detection precision with device simplicity
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
The apparatus accurately detects tool joints, allowing for safe advancement of the production string and preventing damage by signaling when to avoid engaging with the joints, thus ensuring reliable operation and maintaining well integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor stack may comprise a sensor output a signal representing the diameter of the metallic object located within the central bore. The sensor may comprise a hall effects sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for measuring a pipe within a well structure comprises a tubular body extending between first and second ends and having an inner surface defining a passage therethrough and an outer surface formed of a non-magnetic alloy metal. The apparatus further comprises a pair of flanges each connected to one of the first or second ends of the tubular body having a passage therethrough corresponding to the passage of the tubular body, each of the pair of flanges being connectable inline with the well structure. The apparatus further comprises at least one sensor stack being locatable around an outside of the tubular body comprising a sensor adapted to measure magnetic field strength and at least one magnetic stack being locatable around the outside of the tubular body comprising at least one magnet.