Compact MPD Manifold With Dual Flow Paths for Accurate Back Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional managed pressure drilling (MPD) systems are costly and not economically viable for unconventional wells, lacking efficient and cost-effective solutions for accurate pressure control without modifying the rig.
Innovation Solution
A compact MPD manifold system attached to a rotating control device (RCD) with multiple pressure transducers for data validation and a fail-safe isolation valve, enabling precise pressure control and automated set point management without rig modifications, incorporating a Coriolis meter for flow measurement and remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a full conventional MPD system is used, then accurate pressure control is achieved, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential pressure control functionality from the full conventional MPD system by integrating only the necessary components (choke, pressure transducers, control system) directly into the RCD, eliminating the need for separate rigid MPD equipment and reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining pressure control accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the MPD control system components with the existing RCD structure, combining the choke, pressure transducers, and control system into a single integrated unit that utilizes the RCD's existing infrastructure, thereby reducing the need for additional equipment and lowering system cost
2Device complexity
If a compact MPD system is used, then system cost and weight are reduced, but pressure control accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing multiple pressure transducers at specific critical locations within the compact system - including upstream of the choke, downstream of the choke, and in the annulus - ensuring accurate pressure measurement and control despite the reduced system size, while the control system uses this localized data to maintain precise pressure management
3Adaptability or versatility
If rig modifications are made to incorporate MPD system, then pressure control capability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the compact MPD system to be universally applicable to conventional drilling rigs without requiring rig modifications. The system attaches to the existing RCD and utilizes existing rig infrastructure (flowlines, power supply), making it compatible with standard drilling operations while adding pressure control capability
4Productivity
If automated control system is implemented, then operational efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated pressure control that operates autonomously using a PLC-based control system that continuously monitors pressure transducer signals, compares actual pressure to target pressure, and automatically adjusts the choke position to maintain pressure control, eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention and improving operational efficiency
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
Provides accurate and cost-effective pressure control for unconventional wells, ensuring safety and reducing system weight and cost, with real-time health monitoring and automated control, allowing for efficient operation without the need for PID loop tuning.
Implementation Method 1
The three transducers measure the upstream choke pressure
Implementation Method 2
The metering system includes a Coriolis meter or other flowmeter with remote transmitter
Data Source
AI summary
A managed Pressure Drilling manifold provides accurate back pressure control of a well head when drilling. The MPD system provides two paths for the drilling fluid to flow from the RCD to the flowline. The drilling fluid flows along an MPD path sending the drilling fluids through at least one sensor, preferably three sensors, a flow control device, and a flowmeter. The MPD system also provides a bypass path that isolates the flow control device and flowmeter while direct the drilling fluid from the RCD to the bypass to avoid the flow control device and flowmeter. The MPD system provides three valves that direct the drilling fluid in the bypass path or the MPD path.