Pumped Riser By-Pass Switching for CML and SBP Drilling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pumped riser systems lack versatility in switching between closed and open modes, struggle with accurate volume and leakage measurement, and are not easily convertible between Controlled Mud Level (CML) and Surface Back Pressure (SBP) operations, leading to inefficiencies and safety risks during hydrocarbon drilling.
Innovation Solution
A by-pass arrangement around the riser sealing element allows seamless switching between closed and open modes, enabling accurate volume measurement and leakage control, and facilitates conversion between CML and SBP systems using a single hardware setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a by-pass arrangement is added around the sealing element, then the system can switch between closed and open modes and measurement accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The by-pass arrangement enables the same hardware system to perform both closed mode (with sealing element) and open mode (without sealing element) operations. The by-pass line with isolation valves creates an alternative flow path that allows the system to function in multiple operational modes without requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode.
2Measurement precision
If the riser level is reduced below the slip-joint, then volume measurement accuracy improves and the system becomes more reliable, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical volume measurement methods with pressure sensor-based measurements. By maintaining a liquid level below the slip-joint, the system uses accurate pressure sensors to determine volume changes, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement devices and reducing measurement uncertainties associated with rig motion and slip-joint length changes.
3Reliability
If pressure control below the sealing element is implemented, then wellbore pressure regulation improves, but wear on the sealing element increases reducing its lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the liquid level in the riser to optimize the balance between pressure control capability and sealing element protection. By controlling the liquid level below the slip-joint and using the by-pass arrangement, the system can regulate wellbore pressure while minimizing the differential pressure across the sealing element, thereby reducing wear and extending its operational life.
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 flexible operation, prolongs sealing element lifespan, improves measurement accuracy, and reduces wear, while allowing safe and efficient handling of influxes and pressure regulation in diverse drilling conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the pump is able to regulate the wellbore pressure by (rapidly) changing the pressure at the riser outlet by changing the pressure at the inlet of the return pump
Implementation Method 2
The return pump of such a system also adjusts the pressure at this outlet of the riser which is given by the level of liquid, such as mud, in the riser
Data Source
AI summary
A riser system in the form of a pumped riser, i.e. a riser having an outlet from the riser at a depth below the surface of a body of water, where the outlet is coupled to a return pump to return fluid from the riser to the surface, and various operational methods to facilitate greater versatility when performing hydrocarbon drilling related operations. A sealing element to seal an annulus of the riser, and a by-pass around the sealing element. Various methods make it possible to switch between open mode and closed mode, and vice versa, monitoring leakage across the sealing element, as well as performing other operations exploiting the advantages of the two different modes.