Multiple Ramp Compression Packer for Annular Gas Migration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole systems fail to effectively prevent gas migration through the casing annulus during well production, as existing seals are not sufficient to isolate the annular space at elevated pressures.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a base pipe with a piston and packer elements that compress radially to form seals within the annulus, utilizing a wellbore device to apply axial force and create hydraulic seals by trapping fluid between the packer elements, thereby preventing fluid migration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional seals are used in the casing annulus, then the structure is simple, but the seal effectiveness at elevated pressures is insufficient to prevent gas migration
Solution Approach 1:
The packer is divided into multiple packer elements (first packer element and second packer element) that can be compressed independently against separate biasing shoulders. This segmentation allows each element to provide localized sealing action, improving overall seal effectiveness while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes hydraulic pressure generated by compressing the packer elements to create a hydraulic seal. The cavity formed between the packer elements traps fluid, and the hydraulic pressure from this trapped fluid enhances the sealing capability, allowing the seal to effectively prevent gas migration at elevated pressures
2Reliability
If a single packer element is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to form multiple seals and trap fluid for hydraulic sealing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The packer is segmented into multiple packer elements positioned at different locations, each capable of being compressed against separate biasing shoulders. This creates multiple sealing interfaces and enables fluid trapping between the elements, forming a hydraulic seal that significantly improves reliability while the modular structure keeps the complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The packer elements are nested within the packer assembly, with each element positioned to be compressed by the piston against respective biasing shoulders. The cavity formed by the nested elements allows fluid trapping, creating a hydraulic seal that enhances sealing capability without requiring a completely separate complex system
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 system effectively isolates the annular space by generating high-pressure hydraulic seals that prevent gas migration, ensuring reliable wellbore integrity even at elevated pressures.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second seals define a cavity therebetween that traps fluid therein and provides a hydraulic seal
Implementation Method 2
the first and second packer elements are compressed against the piston and mandrel biasing shoulders, respectively
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for remotely setting a downhole device. The system includes a base pipe having inner and outer radial surfaces and defining one or more pressure ports extending between the inner and outer radial surfaces. An internal sleeve is arranged against the inner radial surface and slidable between a closed position, where the internal sleeve covers the one or more pressure ports, and an open position, where the one or more pressure ports are exposed to an interior of the base pipe. A trigger housing is disposed about the base pipe and defines an atmospheric chamber in fluid communication with the one or more pressure ports. A piston port cover is disposed within the atmospheric chamber and moveable between blocking and exposed positions. A wellbore device is used to engage and move the internal sleeve into the open position by applying predetermined axial force to the internal sleeve.