Phased Array Ultrasonic Imaging for Multiphase Flow Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional production logging tools are inadequate for measuring and understanding downhole fluid flow in horizontal and deviated wells with complex, multiphase flow patterns, as they assume uniform flow and single fluid types, leading to inaccurate measurements in wells with stratified layers of oil, water, and gas.
Innovation Solution
A phased array ultrasonic imaging system using Doppler mode to measure fluid velocities and identify phase boundaries, comprising a ring-shaped transducer array for radial flow measurement and a downhole-facing transducer array for axial flow measurement, capable of generating 3D images of wellbore geometry, fluid flow, and phase boundaries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single centrally positioned propeller (spinner) is used for flow measurement, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision deteriorates in horizontal or deviated wells with multiphase flow patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single-point measurement approach into multiple measurement points by using an array of ultrasonic transducers positioned around the wellbore circumference. This segmentation allows simultaneous measurement of fluid velocity at multiple locations, capturing the non-uniform velocity profile in multiphase flow while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular transducer elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point (0D) or single-line (1D) measurement to two-dimensional cross-sectional velocity mapping by arranging transducers in an array around the wellbore circumference. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive measurement of velocity distributions across the wellbore cross-section, significantly improving measurement precision in horizontal and deviated wells.
2Device complexity
If conventional production logging tools are used, then the device complexity remains low, but the measurement precision and reliability worsen in wells with stratified layers of oil, water, and gas
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic transducer array serves multiple functions: measuring fluid velocity through Doppler effect, identifying fluid phases through acoustic impedance variations, and mapping wellbore geometry. This multi-functionality improves reliability in multiphase flow measurement without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same transducer array performs multiple measurement tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in acoustic parameters (velocity, frequency, impedance) of ultrasonic waves as they interact with different fluid phases and flow conditions. By measuring Doppler frequency shifts and acoustic impedance variations, the system reliably distinguishes between oil, water, and gas phases and accurately measures velocity even in complex stratified flow patterns.
3Device complexity
If single-point velocity measurements are taken, then the device complexity is low, but the loss of information about velocity distribution and phase segregation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wellbore cross-section into multiple measurement zones using an array of transducers positioned at different angular locations. Each transducer measures velocity at its specific location, and the combined data set provides comprehensive information about velocity distribution, phase segregation, and holdup across the entire cross-section, minimizing information loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses ultrasonic waves as an intermediary to indirectly measure velocity and phase information without physically contacting or disturbing the flowing fluids. The Doppler-shifted ultrasonic waves carry information about fluid velocity and phase characteristics, enabling non-intrusive measurement of velocity distributions and phase segregation patterns.
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
Provides accurate and detailed measurements of fluid flow rates and phase distributions in complex multiphase flow environments, enhancing well performance assessment and optimization by overcoming limitations of single-point measurements and stratified flow patterns.
Implementation Method 1
phased array ultrasonic imaging system operable in Doppler mode for measuring fluid velocities in the wellbore
Implementation Method 2
phased array ultrasonic imaging system operable in Doppler mode for measuring fluid velocities in the wellbore
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for imaging, measuring and identifying multiphase fluid flow in wellbores using phased array Doppler ultrasound. The device includes a radially-configured or ring-shaped ultrasound transducer that when deployed in a well in Doppler mode can measure the velocity of radially flowing fluids in the wellbore and generate a 3D image of radial flow in the wellbore, including flowback into the wellbore after fracturing operations, or flow leaving the wellbore during water injection operations. The ring-shaped ultrasound transducer can also simultaneously operate in a B-mode to generate a B-mode image of the wellbore liner upon which the Doppler image can be overlaid. The device may also include a forward facing ultrasound transducer either instead of or in place of the ring-shaped transducer for obtaining information and images on axial flow in the wellbore in Doppler mode, and the location of phase boundaries and phase locations in B-mode.