Pull-Through Centralizer With Limit Collars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional spring centralizers with stop collars are not suitable for all wellbore applications and require high starting forces for insertion, which can cause damage and are difficult to install in close tolerance wellbores.
Innovation Solution
A centralizer system comprising a first body portion, a second body portion, and a plurality of bow springs connecting them, with limit collars coupled to the wellbore tubular to pull the centralizer in the direction of travel, reducing the starting force and allowing for quick installation on existing tubing without dedicated manufacturing facilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional spring centralizers with stop collars are used, then the centralizer can maintain position relative to the wellbore tubular, but the starting force required for insertion is high and damage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional stop collar mechanism by using limit collars that engage with the body portions to pull the centralizer in the direction of travel rather than pushing against it. This reversal of the force application method reduces the starting force required for insertion while maintaining centralizer position control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs bow springs that are free to move within the limits of the limit collars, allowing the centralizer to dynamically adjust its position as the tubular is conveyed into and out of the wellbore. This dynamic capability reduces insertion resistance compared to fixed stop collar systems.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional spring centralizers with stop collars are used, then the centralizer can maintain position, but the installation process is complex and requires dedicated manufacturing facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralizer into separate components: body portions and limit collars that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The limit collars are coupled to the wellbore tubular separately, allowing for simplified manufacturing without dedicated facilities and enabling installation at the well site.
Solution Approach 2:
The limit collar design provides multiple functions: it limits longitudinal movement of the body portions, engages to pull the centralizer in the direction of travel, and couples the centralizer to the wellbore tubular. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components and manufacturing facilities.
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 pull-through coupling design reduces the starting force required for centralizer insertion, enables use in close tolerance wellbores, and allows for rapid installation at the well site, improving operational efficiency and reducing potential damage during insertion.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of bow springs connecting the first body portion to the second body portion
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the plurality of limit collars is configured to engage the first body portion or the second body portion and pull the centralizer in the direction of travel within the wellbore
Data Source
AI summary
A centralizer system comprising a centralizer disposed about a wellbore tubular, wherein the centralizer comprises, a first body portion, a second body portion, and a plurality of bow springs connecting the first body portion to the second body portion, and a plurality of limit collars coupled to the wellbore tubular between the first body portion and the second body portion, where at least one of the plurality of limit collars is configured to engage the first body portion or the second body portion and pull the centralizer in the direction of travel within the wellbore.