Reverse Cementing Apparatus with Float Valve for Single-Well Completion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cementing methods in subterranean oil and gas operations face challenges in determining the cement slurry level within the wellbore annulus and require additional trips to retrieve tooling, with debris collection issues and inefficiencies in the cementing process.
Innovation Solution
A cementing apparatus with a fixed and moving member, where the moving member is movable between a circulating and cemented position, allowing cement slurry to flow uphole and indicating when the annulus is full, eliminating the need for additional trips and reducing debris collection by using a float device as a check valve to prevent further cement flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional cementing methods are used, then cement slurry can be pumped into the annulus, but additional trips are required to retrieve tooling and determine cement slurry level
Solution Approach 1:
The cementing apparatus is pre-configured with a float device and pressure indicator before the cementing operation begins. The float device is positioned to automatically indicate when the annulus is full of cement slurry, eliminating the need for subsequent trips to check cement level or retrieve tooling. This preliminary setup enables single-trip complete operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The float device and pressure indicator system enables the cementing apparatus to self-monitor and self-indicate when the annulus is full of cement slurry. The system automatically provides feedback on cement placement status without requiring external intervention or additional trips, making the process self-sufficient.
2Productivity
If traditional cementing methods are used, then cement slurry can be pumped down the casing, but debris and sediment collect within the casing requiring cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is pre-configured with a float device that automatically prevents excessive cement slurry from entering the annulus. By stopping cement flow at the optimal moment, the float device prevents debris and sediment from collecting in the casing, eliminating the need for subsequent cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The float device provides real-time feedback on cement slurry level in the annulus. When the annulus becomes full, the float device automatically signals this condition, allowing the operator to stop cement pumping immediately. This feedback mechanism prevents over-pumping and associated debris generation.
3Measurement precision
If traditional cementing methods are used, then cement slurry level can be determined, but the process requires multiple trips and additional tooling retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The float device and pressure indicator system enables the cementing apparatus to self-determine cement slurry level without requiring external measurement tools or multiple trips. The system automatically provides accurate level information through the float mechanism, simplifying the overall operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The float device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the cement slurry and the operator. It translates the physical state of cement level into a clear visual or pressure signal, making level determination simple and eliminating the need for complex multi-trip measurement procedures.
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
Ensures accurate cement placement without additional trips, reduces debris collection, and simplifies the cementing process by using pressure indicators to confirm cement slurry engagement, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the need for tool retrieval.
Implementation Method 1
using a float device as a check valve to prevent further cement flow
Data Source
AI summary
Provided, in one aspect, is a cementing apparatus. The cementing apparatus, in one embodiment comprising a housing; a fixed member coupled with the housing, the fixed member having at least one fixed member fluid opening therein; and a moving member positioned downhole of the fixed member and movable between a circulating position and a cemented position, the moving member having at least one moving member fluid opening therein, the at least one moving member fluid opening linearly offset from the at least one fixed member fluid opening.