Perforation Tool Bulkhead With Integrated Conductor and Pressure Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hardware for perforating wells is in need of simplification and cost reduction, particularly in the process of hydraulic fracturing where perforating casings are used to enhance hydrocarbon recovery.
Innovation Solution
A bulkhead member for a perforation tool comprising a hollow body with a central transverse plate and an electrical conductor, designed to separate explosive charges from sensitive electronics while providing structural support and electrical connectivity, reducing weight and pressure within the bulkhead member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hardware for perforating wells is used, then structural support and electrical connectivity are provided, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bulkhead member combines structural support, pressure containment, and electrical connectivity functions into a single integrated component. The hollow body provides structural integrity and pressure containment, while the electrical conductor embedded within provides electrical connectivity, eliminating the need for separate structural and electrical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The bulkhead member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural support element, a pressure barrier, and an electrical conductor. The hollow body member provides mechanical strength and pressure containment, while the integrated electrical conductor ensures electrical connectivity, making the component universally applicable for both structural and electrical requirements.
2Reliability
If traditional hardware for perforating wells is used, then structural support is provided, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow body member design utilizes a thin-walled structure that provides adequate structural support and pressure containment while minimizing material usage and weight. The hollow configuration maintains structural integrity through geometric strength while reducing overall mass compared to solid equivalents.
3Reliability
If traditional hardware for perforating wells is used, then electrical connectivity is provided, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical conductor is integrated directly into the bulkhead member structure, combining electrical connectivity with the structural component. This eliminates the need for separate electrical assemblies and reduces overall device complexity while ensuring reliable electrical connection between components.
Data Source
AI summary
A perforation tool, and a bulkhead member for a perforation tool, are disclosed. The perforation tool has a loading tube, an initiator module, and a bulkhead member connected between the loading tube and the initiator module. The bulkhead member has a hollow body member with a central transverse plate having a central bore through the transverse plate along a longitudinal axis of the body member and an electrical conductor disposed in the central bore, the electrical conductor having a pin connection at a first end thereof and a box connection at a second end thereof.