Pressure-Actuated Flow Control Device for Wellbore Coning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control devices in subterranean wells struggle to efficiently manage fluid flow, particularly in reducing water and gas production, and require physical intervention for bypassing restrictions, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A flow control device with a tubular member, housing, piston, and valve system that allows for selective fluid communication through pressure control, enabling the closure of one flow path and opening of another without physical intervention, using a piston and valve mechanism to manage fluid flow and restrict or bypass flow restrictions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ICDs are used to restrict fluid flow through the wellbore, then water and gas coning is reduced and production is balanced along the interval, but flow restrictions are created that reduce overall production rates after water or gas production begins
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device employs a dynamic valve mechanism that can transition between restricted and unrestricted flow states. The valve is movable between a first position providing flow restriction and a second position providing reduced or eliminated restriction, allowing the system to adapt its flow characteristics based on production conditions and operational requirements
2Reliability
If ICDs are installed to delay water or gas production onset, then production balance is improved, but physical intervention is required to bypass restrictions or abandon the well
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device incorporates a self-actuating valve mechanism that responds to pressure differentials or other operational parameters to automatically transition between flow restriction states. This eliminates the need for physical intervention or external actuation systems, allowing the device to self-regulate and self-bypass based on well conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical actuation systems (requiring physical intervention tools) with a simpler pressure-responsive or automated valve mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical intervention tools and complex setting mechanisms, simplifying both installation and operational bypass procedures
3Reliability
If flow restrictions are maintained to control conformance, then water and gas production is reduced, but additional physical intervention is needed to isolate the well or maximize production
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device integrates multiple functions into a single unified mechanism: flow restriction, flow bypass, and well isolation capabilities are all incorporated into the same valve system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate tools or devices for each operation, reducing overall system complexity and intervention requirements
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 quick and efficient bypassing of flow restrictions and sealing of wells from the surrounding formation, allowing for controlled fluid flow management without the need for physical intervention, thereby optimizing hydrocarbon production and reducing water and gas coning.
Implementation Method 1
moveable between a first piston position and a second piston position in response to a pressure differential
Implementation Method 2
moveable between a first valve position and a second valve position that is displaced from the first valve position, where the valve provides for selective fluid communication
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control device for control of fluid flow through a tubular member comprises a control chamber having a piston disposed therein, where the piston is moveable from an open piston position to a closed piston position by the application of a first fluid pressure, and a valve chamber having a valve therein, where the valve is moveable from a closed valve position to an open valve position by the application of a second fluid pressure. A seal preventing fluid flow through the control chamber into the tubular member is formed in the closed piston position, and a flow path through the valve chamber and into the tubular member is formed in the open valve position.