Modular Steam Injection Tool for SAGD Wellbore Throttling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) nodes are custom-made, time-consuming to prepare, have limited re-use potential, and cannot be adjusted on-site for changes in steam release requirements, leading to inefficient steam distribution and reduced hydrocarbon production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A modular fluid injection tool with individually pluggable nozzles and a sliding side door that allows for on-site throttling and customization of steam output, enabling precise control of steam release along the wellbore, allowing for even distribution and adjustment of steam flow without the need for custom-made components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If custom-made SAGD nodes are manufactured to order, then steam release specifications can be precisely met, but preparation time increases significantly and re-use potential is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The SAGD node is divided into modular components including a body, multiple nozzles, and individual nozzle caps that can be independently removed or adjusted. This segmentation allows standard nodes to be customized for different steam release requirements by simply adding or removing nozzle caps, eliminating the need to manufacture entirely custom nodes for each specification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes in steam release characteristics by varying the number, size, and configuration of active nozzles through selective removal of nozzle caps. This allows a single standard node design to adapt to different steam release specifications by changing operational parameters rather than manufacturing different hardware designs.
2Manufacturing precision
If custom-made SAGD nodes are manufactured for each wellbore, then specific steam release requirements are met, but flexibility for on-site adjustments is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The node design transforms a static, fixed-specification component into a dynamic, adjustable system. Nozzle caps can be removed or reconfigured at any time during operation, allowing the steam release characteristics to be dynamically adjusted in response to changing wellbore conditions or production requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
A single standard SAGD node design serves multiple functions and specifications through the optional addition or removal of nozzle caps. This universal design allows the same basic node to be adapted to various steam release requirements, eliminating the need for multiple custom-designed node types.
3Productivity
If standard SAGD nodes are used without customization, then preparation time is reduced, but steam distribution efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the nozzle system into removable caps, the design allows standard nodes to be quickly customized for optimal steam distribution without requiring time-consuming custom manufacturing. The segmented structure enables rapid configuration changes that maintain both preparation efficiency and distribution effectiveness.
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 tool enables efficient and customizable steam distribution, reducing production costs, decreasing lead times, and improving hydrocarbon production efficiency by allowing for real-time adjustments to steam release, thereby optimizing the SAGD process.
Implementation Method 1
high-pressure, high-temperature steam can be injected into an upper wellbore
Implementation Method 2
steam can be injected into an upper wellbore to heat the surrounding formation
Implementation Method 3
high-pressure, high-temperature steam can be injected into an upper wellbore to heat the surrounding formation
Data Source
AI summary
Fluid injection tools for use in a wellbore can be configured on-site prior to run-in and can be opened or closed on demand when positioned in the well. A fluid injection tool can be used to provide steam to a wellbore annulus during a steam assisted gravity drainage procedure. Nozzles in the tool through which the steam escapes can be individually plugged to enable fine-tuning of steam output to match a desired steam output for that particular tool's location within the wellbore. A sliding side door can be actuated, such as by a shifting tool inserted within the inner diameter of the fluid injection tool, to enable or disable steam output from the fluid injection tool.