Removable Nozzle for Downhole Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the resource recovery industry, existing valve tools require disassembly and redesigning to change the size of openings between tubing and annulus, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a release member to secure and remove nozzles within a valve tool's housing, allowing for the interchange of nozzles without disassembly, by applying a load greater than the release threshold to free the nozzle and securing a new one, enabling changes in flow characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional valve tool design is used, then the valve tool can be manufactured with fixed specifications, but changing the size of openings requires disassembly and manufacturing new components which is costly and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The valve tool is divided into modular components, specifically the nozzle is separated as an independent replaceable element from the housing. This segmentation allows the nozzle to be removed and replaced without disassembling the entire valve tool, enabling specification changes while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve tool design transitions from a static, fixed-specification configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The release member mechanism enables the nozzle to be dynamically removed and replaced, allowing the valve specifications to be changed after manufacturing without requiring new component production.
2Ease of operation
If the valve tool is designed with fixed openings, then manufacturing is straightforward, but operational flexibility to change flow characteristics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the nozzle as a separate replaceable component with its own release mechanism, the valve tool gains operational flexibility. The segmented design allows operators to change nozzles based on flow requirements without redesigning the entire valve structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables parameter changes (flow characteristics) by allowing substitution of nozzles with different specifications. Different nozzles can be installed to change the opening size and flow properties, providing operational flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple overall valve structure.
3Reliability
If nozzles are securely fixed in the housing, then the valve tool is reliable, but changing nozzles requires disassembly of the valve tool
Solution Approach 1:
The release member mechanism extracts the securing function from the permanent valve structure. This allows nozzles to be reliably secured during operation while enabling efficient removal when needed, without requiring disassembly of the entire valve tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism transitions from a permanent, fixed connection to a dynamic connection that can be engaged or disengaged as needed. The release member provides reliable securing during normal operation but allows efficient nozzle replacement when the release threshold is exceeded.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of manufacturing a valve of a tool for use downhole includes changing a flow characteristic of the valve. A load is applied to a first nozzle secured in a housing of the valve via a first release member, wherein a magnitude of the load is greater than a release threshold of the first release member, to release the first release member. The first nozzle is removed from the housing, and a second nozzle is secured in the housing via a second release member.