Reverse Circulation Debris Removal Tool for Simultaneous Seal Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for installing upper completion equipment in oilfield wells require multiple trips into the wellbore to remove debris accumulated above the lower completion assembly, which complicates the process and increases operational time.
Innovation Solution
A reverse circulation debris removal tool is used in conjunction with an isolation seal assembly that can be run-in and set simultaneously, featuring a snorkel extending beyond the isolation seal assembly to allow continuous cleaning and removal of debris while securing the isolation seal assembly to the lower completion assembly, thereby facilitating a single trip for both debris removal and upper completion assembly installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple trips are made into the wellbore to remove debris before installing upper completion equipment, then debris removal is achieved, but operational time and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the debris removal operation and isolation seal assembly installation into a single integrated operation. The isolation seal assembly is run in on the debris removal tool, allowing both debris extraction and seal installation to occur during one trip into the wellbore, thereby eliminating the need for multiple separate trips while ensuring effective debris removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation seal assembly is positioned and prepared on the debris removal tool before entering the wellbore. This preliminary positioning allows the seal to be already in place or nearly in place when the tool reaches the installation location, enabling the seal setting to occur immediately after or during the debris removal process, thus saving time.
2Reliability
If multiple trips are made into the wellbore to remove debris, then debris accumulation is addressed, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate processes (debris removal and seal installation) into a single integrated process. By running the isolation seal assembly on the debris removal tool, the patent eliminates the need for separate operations, thereby reducing overall process complexity while maintaining effective debris removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The debris removal tool is given multi-functionality by serving both as a debris extraction device and as a carrier for the isolation seal assembly. This universal tool performs multiple functions in one operation, simplifying the overall completion process by eliminating the need for separate specialized tools for each function.
3Reliability
If the isolation seal assembly is run in separately after debris removal, then proper installation is ensured, but additional trips are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the isolation seal assembly installation with the debris removal operation by running the seal assembly on the debris removal tool. This merging ensures proper seal installation while simultaneously removing debris, thereby improving completion process efficiency by eliminating additional trips.
Solution Approach 2:
The useful action of debris removal continues throughout the entire operation, including during the seal installation phase. The debris removal tool remains active and operational while carrying and installing the isolation seal assembly, ensuring continuous productive work rather than idle trips.
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
This approach allows for efficient removal of debris and simultaneous installation of the isolation seal assembly, reducing the number of trips required and enhancing the efficiency of the completion process by maintaining operation of the debris removal tool even with the isolation seal assembly attached.
Implementation Method 1
tubing with fluid jets that vent into the wellbore annulus to create a reverse circulation flow that results in a low pressure suction to pull debris into the inner annulus of the tubing
Implementation Method 2
create a reverse circulation flow that results in a low pressure suction to pull debris into the inner annulus of the tubing
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for deployment of an isolation seal assembly wherein an isolation seal assembly is releasably attached to a reverse circulation debris removal tool. The system includes a debris removal tool having a head with an elongated snorkel extending from the head; and an isolation seal assembly attached to the head with a shear device so that the snorkel protrudes past the end of the isolation seal assembly. The isolation seal assembly further includes a tubular with a latch adjacent a first end, an external seal below the latch, and openings formed along tubular between latch and the seal. The debris removal tool is used to engage the isolation seal assembly with a lower completion assembly. The openings in the isolation seal assembly permit the debris removal tool to continue to function after the isolation seal assembly is engaged with the lower completion assembly.