Pressurized Fluid Transfer With Automated Pressure Relief Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for transferring fluid samples from bottom hole collection devices to surface analysis equipment expose operators to harmful gases and high pressures, and can be complicated by environmental factors, posing safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A transfer system with a sample tank, analysis tank, and a controller that uses an incompressible fluid pump to autonomously control pressure and flow, including a relief valve to manage pressures and a transfer valve to route fluids, minimizing operator intervention and ensuring safe transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct operator intervention is used to connect tanks and control valves during fluid transfer, then the transfer process can be performed with simple equipment, but operators are exposed to harmful gases and high pressures creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
An automated transfer system acts as an intermediary between the sample tank and analysis tank, eliminating direct operator contact with high-pressure fluids. The system includes automated valve control, pressure regulation mechanisms, and fluid transfer piping that operates without operator intervention, thereby maintaining safety while managing complexity through integrated automation
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer system is designed to perform self-service operations including automatic valve actuation, pressure equalization, and fluid transfer control. The system monitors and regulates its own operation through pressure sensors and automated control logic, eliminating the need for operator intervention while maintaining safe operation
2Productivity
If manual transfer processes are used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but the transfer process becomes slower and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
Manual mechanical operations are replaced with an automated control system that uses electronic sensors, motorized valves, and pressure control mechanisms. The automated system rapidly opens/closes valves and regulates pressure to achieve fast fluid transfer, replacing slow manual operations with electronically controlled mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operating parameters such as pressure differential, valve opening time, and flow rate to optimize transfer speed. Pressure sensors monitor the transfer process and automatically adjust parameters to maintain optimal transfer conditions, achieving high productivity through parameter optimization
3Adaptability or versatility
If operator intervention is required during transfer, then system complexity is minimized, but environmental factors at wellbore locations complicate the transfer process
Solution Approach 1:
The automated transfer system creates a controlled environment that isolates the fluid transfer process from external environmental factors. The system operates within enclosed piping and pressure-regulated chambers that protect against environmental conditions, maintaining consistent operation regardless of external weather or location conditions
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
The system enables safe, efficient, and controlled transfer of fluid samples with reduced operator exposure to hazardous conditions, maintaining sample integrity and expediting the process.
Implementation Method 1
initiating operation of an incompressible fluid pump in fluid communication with the sample tank to increase pressure within the sample tank
Implementation Method 2
overcoming a predetermined pressure threshold of a relief valve in fluid communication with the analysis tank
Data Source
AI summary
A method of remotely transferring a fluid sample between a sample tank and an analysis tank includes mating the sample tank and the analysis tank to one or more sample transfer lines, the sample transfer lines in fluid communication with a transfer valve, initiating operation of an incompressible fluid pump in fluid communication with the sample tank to increase pressure within the sample tank and routing the fluid sample through the transfer valve and into the analysis tank at a constant rate. The method further includes pressurizing the analysis tank via the fluid sample routed through the transfer valve, overcoming a predetermined pressure threshold of a relief valve in fluid communication with the analysis tank, and outputting an incompressible fluid through an incompressible outlet line in fluid communication with the relief valve.