Multi-Section Magnetic Separator for Oil Well Fluid
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing metallic matter from oil well drilling fluids are inefficient, leading to increased drilling time and costs due to the need for frequent handling and cleaning of magnets used in existing magnetic separation systems.
Innovation Solution
A system with multiple sections equipped with magnetic fields, allowing for controlled fluid flow through each section, enabling accumulation and periodic cleaning of metallic materials, with an option for pressurized operation to efficiently remove metal from circulating fluid streams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single magnetic field is used to remove metal from drilling fluid, then the magnetic separation function is provided, but the system requires frequent handling and cleaning which increases downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent sections (first section with first magnetic field, second section with second magnetic field) that can operate independently. While one section is processing fluid, another can be cleaned or maintained, eliminating downtime and maintaining continuous productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-section design enables continuous operation where fluid processing in one section continues uninterrupted while another section undergoes cleaning or maintenance. This eliminates idle time and ensures the magnetic separation function operates continuously without interruption.
2Reliability
If magnets are placed in oil well circulating fluid stream for metal removal, then metallic material is separated from the fluid, but the system becomes complex requiring multiple valves and flow control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the magnetic separation function into discrete modular sections, each with its own magnetic field and flow path. This segmentation allows independent operation and simplifies the control logic for each section while maintaining reliable metal separation through multiple magnetic fields.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic switching between sections using valves, where one section processes fluid while another is cleaned or maintained. This periodic alternation between active and maintenance modes reduces overall system complexity by using simple on/off valve control rather than complex continuous control mechanisms.
3Productivity
If multiple magnetic fields are used in parallel sections, then continuous operation is achieved, but the device complexity and initial cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses segmented sections with individual magnetic fields that can be independently activated. This allows continuous processing capability while managing complexity through modular design, where each section is a self-contained unit with standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
By having multiple sections that can operate in sequence or parallel, the system achieves continuous fluid processing without requiring all components to be active simultaneously. This reduces the effective complexity at any given moment while maintaining continuous productivity.
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
This approach reduces the time and cost associated with drilling by allowing for efficient and periodic removal of metallic materials from the fluid stream, minimizing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a method of removing metallic material from an oil well circulating fluid stream using a magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for removing metallic material from a circulating well fluid stream provides a treatment vessel that is divided into first and second sections. Each of the sections includes a magnetic field that can be in the form of one or more magnets. In one embodiment, multiple magnets are provided in each of the sections. Manifolds attach to an influent and to an effluent of the treatment vessel. Each manifold enables selective transfer of fluid to either of the selected sections. Similarly, discharge of circulating fluid can be from either of the sections via a discharge manifold. The treatment vessel enables continuous treatment by valving fluid flow so that only one section need be used at a time in order that the other section could be serviced for removing collected metallic material from the magnetic field or from the magnets.