Reclosable Multi-Zone Isolation Tool Pressure-Actuated Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
In subterranean wells with multiple hydrocarbon-bearing zones of differing formation pressures, hydrocarbons from high-pressure zones often migrate to lower-pressure zones during production, leading to decreased ultimate recovery and economic inefficiencies, as simultaneous production from both zones results in fluid loss.
Innovation Solution
A reclosable multi-zone isolation tool with an outer and inner tubular forming an annular flow path, a sleeve with seals axially movable between closed and open positions, and a mandrel that shifts the sleeve in response to pressure changes, allowing for independent production of zones without fluid loss, using a collet assembly to prevent unwanted shifts and a lock assembly to control movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If simultaneous production from multiple zones is performed, then productivity is improved, but fluid loss from high-pressure to lower-pressure zones occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The wellbore is segmented into multiple isolated zones using the isolation tool with seals that divide the annular space between outer and inner tubulars. This allows each zone to be produced independently through separate flow paths, preventing fluid migration between zones while maintaining simultaneous production from all zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation tool acts as an intermediary device between different pressure zones, using seals and tubular structures to mediate fluid flow. The tool creates controlled interfaces between zones, allowing selective communication or isolation based on operational requirements, thereby preventing uncontrolled fluid loss.
2Loss of substance
If delayed production from lower-pressure zone is implemented, then fluid loss is prevented, but loss of time occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation tool incorporates movable seals and adjustable flow paths that can dynamically change from isolated to connected states. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different production stages, enabling simultaneous production from multiple zones without requiring delayed production schedules, thereby eliminating time loss while preventing fluid loss.
3Loss of substance
If isolation of separate zones is implemented, then fluid loss is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation tool uses a nested structure where an inner tubular is positioned within an outer tubular, and seals are nested within the annular space between them. This compact nested design achieves effective zone isolation without requiring excessively complex or space-consuming equipment, balancing isolation capability with manageable device complexity.
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 simultaneous production from multiple zones without fluid loss from high-pressure to lower-pressure zones, allowing for maximum recovery and eliminating the need for delayed production from lower-pressure zones, thereby optimizing well performance.
Implementation Method 1
A sleeve having at least one seal disposed on an inner surface thereof is positioned in the annular flow path to control fluid flow therethrough
Implementation Method 2
The mandrel is operable to shift the sleeve between the open position and the closed position responsive to changes in pressure within the central flow path
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
An apparatus for isolating a first zone from a second zone in a subterranean wellbore. The apparatus includes an outer tubular and an inner tubular disposed within the outer tubular forming an annular flow path therebetween that is in fluid communication with the first zone. The inner tubular defines a central flow path that is in fluid communication with the second zone. A sleeve having at least one seal is positioned in the annular flow path and is axially movable relative to the inner and outer tubulars between a closed position wherein the seal engages the inner tubular and an open position wherein the seal engages the outer tubular. A mandrel is slidably disposed within the inner tubular and is coupled to the sleeve. The mandrel is operable to shift the sleeve between the open position and the closed position responsive to changes in pressure within the central flow path.