Disposable Mesh Filter Bag for Drilling Fluid Contamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filtering technologies for oilfield fluids are not cost-efficient in removing contaminants and debris from drilling fluids, which can cause failures in electrical components of bottomhole assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A filter comprising a section of conduit with a ring and a pliable non-metal bag having perforations, where the bag deforms without plastic deformation, is positioned along the conduit to separate particles from the fluid flow, using a ring fixed to the conduit's inner surface and a bag formed of materials like polymers or composite materials that are non-reactive and cost-effective.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional filtering technologies are used, then particles can be removed from drilling fluids, but the cost-efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The filter employs a disposable bag structure that can be easily replaced rather than cleaned and reused. The bag is connected to a rigid structure via a closure mechanism, allowing the entire assembly to be quickly swapped out when contaminated, significantly reducing maintenance time and labor costs while maintaining effective particle removal
Solution Approach 2:
The filter utilizes a flexible bag made of mesh material that conforms to the flow path within the conduit. This flexible structure provides effective filtration while being lightweight and inexpensive to manufacture, replacing costly traditional filter systems
2Reliability
If a rigid filter structure is used, then filtration effectiveness is maintained, but adaptability to various flow conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The filter design incorporates a flexible bag that can dynamically adjust its shape and position in response to varying fluid flow conditions. The bag expands and contracts with flow rate changes, maintaining optimal filtration effectiveness across different operating conditions without requiring a complex adjustable mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible mesh bag adapts to different flow rates and pressures by changing its configuration, allowing the filter to maintain effectiveness across a range of flow conditions while keeping the overall structure simple and cost-effective
3Strength
If a metal filter structure is used, then structural strength is ensured, but corrosion resistance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The filter combines a rigid structural component (providing strength and shape) with a flexible mesh bag material (providing corrosion resistance and filtration). This composite approach allows the structure to be strong while the filtration element remains corrosion-resistant and chemically inert
Solution Approach 2:
By using a disposable bag structure, the design eliminates the need for corrosion-resistant metal filtration elements. The bag can be made from inexpensive, corrosion-proof materials like mesh or woven fabric, replacing costly metal filters that require corrosion protection
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 filter effectively removes debris and contaminants from drilling fluids, preventing damage to bottomhole assembly components while being cost-efficient and adaptable to various fluid types and flow conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the bag is pliable such that the bag deforms without undergoing plastic deformation
Implementation Method 2
a bag connected to the ring and positioned inside the bore, the bag being formed of a non-metal material and having perforations through which the fluid flows
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A high-strength meshed bag with a ring fits into a seat between downhole or surface connections in a conduit or into a dedicated filter sub assembly. The filter filters a flowing fluid inside the conduit. The bag may be formed of aramid fibers with a molded ring. The bag may have varying mesh properties along its surface. There may be several mesh layers in the bag. The conduit may include surface pipes, hoses, surface fluid handling equipment, a drill string, or production string. The bag may be designed to let drop balls through when desired while catching much smaller particles otherwise.