Retrievable Packer Deformable Sleeve Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional packers, both deformable non-swellable and swellable, face challenges in retrieval due to high friction forces and potential disintegration, making the process costly and time-consuming, especially when multiple packers need to be removed from a wellbore.
Innovation Solution
A retrievable packer device comprising a deformable sleeve supported by end rings, allowing radial deformation and collapse, which reduces the pulling force required for retrieval by creating a chamber between the base pipe and the deformable sleeve, and utilizing swellable and deformable components to facilitate easy disengagement and fluid venting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a swellable sealing element is used to exert pack-off force, then the packer can seal effectively, but the friction forces between the swollen sealing element and wellbore inner surface become considerable, requiring high pull forces for retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The packer is divided into multiple packer units, each with its own deformable and swellable sleeves. This segmentation allows each unit to be retrieved independently or as a group, reducing the overall pull force required compared to retrieving a single large packer. The modular design enables staged retrieval operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The packer employs both deformable and swellable sealing elements that can dynamically adjust their properties. The deformable sleeve provides initial sealing through radial deformation, while the swellable sleeve enhances sealing through fluid-induced swelling. This dynamic adaptation optimizes sealing effectiveness while managing friction forces during retrieval.
2Productivity
If high pull forces are applied to retrieve a conventional swellable packer, then retrieval may be achieved, but disintegration of the sealing element occurs and debris is generated in the wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The packer design incorporates a controlled deformation mechanism through the deformable sleeve that cushions the retrieval process. As pull force is applied, the deformable sleeve gradually collapses radially inward in a controlled manner, preventing sudden disintegration of the sealing elements and minimizing debris generation in the wellbore.
Solution Approach 2:
The packer utilizes parameter changes in the sealing elements during retrieval. The deformable sleeve changes its radial dimension through controlled deformation, while the swellable sleeve can be de-swollen by removing fluid exposure. These parameter changes reduce the friction interface and allow retrieval at lower forces, preventing disintegration and debris generation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple packers are mounted on the same base pipe, then operational versatility is improved, but the time and cost to retrieve them increases due to considerable friction forces
Solution Approach 1:
Each packer unit is designed as a separate, self-contained module with its own deformable and swellable sleeves. This segmentation allows multiple packers to be mounted on the same base pipe for versatile operations, while enabling efficient retrieval by addressing each unit independently. The modular design reduces the cumulative friction problem that would occur with a single large packer system.
Solution Approach 2:
The rapid retrieval mechanism allows for quick collapse of the deformable sleeves when pull force is applied, enabling fast retrieval of multiple packers. The controlled deformation and fluid venting mechanisms work in unison to reduce friction forces rapidly, allowing the retrieval operation to proceed quickly through the friction barrier without time-consuming incremental processes.
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 solution significantly reduces the pulling force needed to withdraw the packer assembly from the wellbore, minimizing the risk of disintegration and debris generation, thus making the retrieval process more efficient and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
a swellable sealing sleeve (16) bonded to an outer surface of the deformable sleeve (14)... on exposure of the sealing element to one or more fluids present in the wellbore
Implementation Method 2
a deformable non-swellable sealing element which, in use, exerts a radially outward pack-off force on the inner surface of the wellbore in response to axial compression of the sealing element
Implementation Method 3
The chamber may extend axially between the first and second end rings. The provision of such a chamber may permit the deformable sleeve to deform radially inwardly according to the lateral force exerted by the swellable sleeve
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A retrievable packer device for use in a wellbore comprises first and second end rings configured to be mounted on a base member and a deformable sleeve extending from the first end ring to the second end ring and configured to extend around the base member. A swellable sleeve is mounted on the deformable sleeve.