NMR Core Sample Holder with Overburden Pressure Simulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Laboratory NMR measurements on core samples fail to replicate the elevated temperature and pressure conditions experienced in-situ, leading to a gap between laboratory and in-situ data, which hampers the optimization of hydrocarbon recovery processes.
Innovation Solution
A core sample holder assembly with a pressure chamber, flexible sleeve, and overburden fluid injection system that maintains elevated pressure and temperature, combined with a radio-frequency antenna for NMR measurements, allowing for accurate simulation of reservoir conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional core sample holder assemblies are used for NMR measurements, then the measurements can be performed in the laboratory, but the elevated temperature and pressure conditions of reservoirs cannot be replicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical state parameters (temperature and pressure) of the measurement environment to match reservoir conditions. The core holder assembly incorporates heating elements and pressure control systems that enable the sample to be maintained at elevated temperatures (e.g., 50-150°C) and pressures (e.g., 1-10 MPa) during NMR measurements, thereby making laboratory measurements representative of in-situ reservoir conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary fluid (such as CO2 or nitrogen) that is introduced into the core holder assembly to transmit pressure uniformly to the core sample. This intermediary medium enables the replication of reservoir pressure conditions while allowing NMR measurements to be performed on the saturated core sample, bridging the gap between laboratory and field conditions
2Stress or pressure
If conventional core sample holder assemblies are used for NMR measurements, then the measurements can be performed in the laboratory, but the elevated pressure conditions of reservoirs cannot be replicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical state parameters (temperature and pressure) of the measurement environment to match reservoir conditions. The core holder assembly incorporates heating elements and pressure control systems that enable the sample to be maintained at elevated temperatures (e.g., 50-150°C) and pressures (e.g., 1-10 MPa) during NMR measurements, thereby making laboratory measurements representative of in-situ reservoir conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary fluid (such as CO2 or nitrogen) that is introduced into the core holder assembly to transmit pressure uniformly to the core sample. This intermediary medium enables the replication of reservoir pressure conditions while allowing NMR measurements to be performed on the saturated core sample, bridging the gap between laboratory and field conditions
3Reliability
If the core sample is maintained at elevated temperature and pressure, then representative reservoir conditions are replicated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the core holder assembly into distinct functional modules: a pressure-tight core holder body, separate heating elements, independent pressure control systems with regulators, and integrated NMR measurement components. This modular segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently while working together to replicate reservoir conditions, managing overall system complexity through functional decomposition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing the core holder assembly to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as both a pressure containment vessel and a heating chamber, while also providing fluid injection capability and NMR measurement support. The assembly can maintain elevated temperature and pressure conditions while enabling saturation of the core sample with various fluids and performing NMR measurements, thereby reducing the need for separate specialized equipment
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
Enables representative NMR measurements of core samples at elevated temperatures and pressures, providing valuable data for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery processes, particularly for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods.
Implementation Method 1
A pressure regulator is configured to maintain the overburden fluid in the annular space at an elevated pressure
Implementation Method 2
A radio-frequency antenna, within the pressure chamber and wrapped around the sample holder sleeve, is configured to receive an electromagnetic-signal from the core sample
Data Source
AI summary
A core sample holder assembly for performing a laboratory magnetic resonance measurement of a core sample taken from a hydrocarbon containing formation is provided. The assembly comprises a pressure chamber provided by a hull and one or more flanges are sealingly coupled with the hull. A flexible core sample holder sleeve is arranged within the pressure chamber and is sealingly coupled with at least one of the flanges. An overburden fluid injection port is in fluid communication with an annular space between the hull and the flexible sleeve and is configured to inject overburden fluid into an annular space between the hull and the flexible sleeve. A pressure regulator is configured to maintain the overburden fluid in the annular space at an elevated pressure. A radio-frequency antenna, within the pressure chamber and wrapped around the sample holder sleeve, is configured to receive an electromagnetic-signal from the core sample. In use, the core sample is arranged substantially within the sleeve.