Packer Setting Mechanism With Lock Ring Ratchet for Thermal Cycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Packer performance is compromised by thermal cycling and pressure differentials, leading to reduced contact pressure and internal pressure, which can cause the packer element to become unseated, affecting the sealing efficiency in well operations.
Innovation Solution
A packer setting mechanism that autonomously applies additional setting force by using a lock ring ratchet mechanism, which is activated when fluid pressure decreases, ensuring the packer element maintains contact pressure with the wellbore even under thermal fluctuations and pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If fluid pressure is increased to actuate the packer setting mechanism, then the packer element is set to engage the casing, but thermal cycling subsequently reduces contact pressure between the packer element and the wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The setting mechanism applies preliminary setting force to the packer element during installation, and the ratchet mechanism locks this force in place before thermal cycling occurs. This preliminary action ensures that even when thermal cycling reduces contact pressure, the packer maintains sufficient engagement force.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by preventing the packer element from unseating due to subsequent thermal cycling. The ratchet teeth engage to maintain minimum contact pressure, cushioning against the adverse effects of thermal expansion and contraction that would otherwise reduce engagement force.
2Power
If a pressure differential is applied across the packer element to actuate it, then the packer sets, but releasing or reversing the pressure differential causes the element to take a compression set and reduce internal pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The setting mechanism applies preliminary setting force during the pressure differential actuation, and the ratchet mechanism locks this force in place. This ensures that when the pressure differential is released or reversed, the packer element maintains its compressed state and internal pressure through the locked-in setting force.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism provides mechanical feedback by maintaining constant contact pressure on the packer element regardless of pressure differential changes. The engaged ratchet teeth continuously apply setting force to compensate for pressure reversals and prevent compression set relaxation.
3Reliability
If the packer element is compressed to engage the wellbore, then sealing is achieved, but thermal cycling causes the element to take a compression set and reduce contact pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The setting mechanism applies preliminary setting force to compress the packer element to its optimal sealing state before thermal cycling begins. The ratchet mechanism locks this compression in place, ensuring that subsequent thermal cycling does not cause the element to relax and lose sealing contact pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism provides beforehand cushioning against thermal cycling effects by maintaining constant setting force on the packer element. This prevents thermal expansion and contraction from reducing contact pressure and compromising the seal between the packer element and wellbore.
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
Enhances the performance of the packer element by maintaining contact pressure and internal pressure, preventing unseating due to thermal cycling and pressure reversals, thereby improving the sealing efficiency and reliability in well operations.
Implementation Method 1
a spring disposed at the end of the piston
Implementation Method 2
lock ring ratchet mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanism for setting a packer comprises a piston disposed within a port of a packer mandrel, wherein the port comprises a seat operable to receive the piston. The mechanism further comprises a first chamber disposed at a first end of the piston, wherein the first chamber is sealed and comprises atmospheric pressure. The mechanism further comprises a spring disposed at a second end of the piston. The mechanism further comprises a second chamber disposed at the second end of the piston, wherein the second chamber comprises atmospheric pressure.