Reverse Circulation Cementing Liner Hanger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cementing methods for liner strings in subterranean wells face inefficiencies in reverse circulation, particularly in securing and cementing expandable liner hangers, which can lead to incomplete sealing and reduced wellbore stability.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for reverse circulation cementing that utilizes a hydraulically actuated tool string to radially expand an expandable liner hanger, set an annular isolation device, and alter the cementing flow path to ensure effective cement placement around the liner string, allowing for efficient cementing and secure liner placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional circulation methods are used for cementing around the liner string, then the cementing process can be performed with standard equipment, but incomplete sealing and reduced wellbore stability occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional cementing circulation direction by implementing reverse circulation through the liner hanger. Instead of pumping cement down the annulus and returning it up the liner interior, the system pumps cement down the liner interior and returns it up the annulus through the liner hanger. This inversion allows the liner hanger to act as a flow diverter and cement return path, ensuring complete sealing and improving wellbore stability while using standard cementing equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The liner hanger is given multiple functions: it not only hangs the liner string from the casing but also serves as a flow diverter and cement return path during reverse circulation cementing. By integrating these functions into a single component, the system achieves complete sealing and improved wellbore stability without adding separate complex devices
2Strength
If expandable liner hangers are used to secure the liner, then secure engagement with the casing is achieved, but the cementing flow path must be altered for effective cement placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the cementing flow path to work with the expandable liner hanger configuration. Instead of trying to force conventional flow through the expanded hanger, the system reverses circulation so that cement flows down the liner interior and returns up the annulus through the hanger, making the expansion state an advantage rather than an obstacle
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically alters the flow path during the cementing process by utilizing the expandable liner hanger's structure. The flow direction and paths are changed to accommodate the expanded hanger configuration, with cement being directed through specific paths that ensure effective placement around the liner string while maintaining secure engagement
3Ease of operation
If the tool string remains in the wellbore during cementing, then precise control of the reverse circulation process is maintained, but retrieval of the tool string becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by designing the tool string to be released and left in the wellbore after setting, rather than being retrieved. The release mechanism allows the tool string to be abandoned in a controlled manner, making retrieval unnecessary and simplifying the overall process while maintaining precise control during the cementing operation
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 method enables reliable and efficient cementing of liner strings, enhancing wellbore stability by ensuring complete sealing and secure engagement of the liner hanger with the casing, while allowing for easy retrieval of the tool string.
Implementation Method 1
Expandable liner hangers can be expanded by use of hydraulic pressure to drive an expanding cone, wedge, or 'pig,' through the liner hanger
Implementation Method 2
The circulation path is altered to enable reverse circulation of a cementing slurry
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for reverse circulation cementing of a liner in a wellbore extending through a subterranean formation is presented. A running tool with expansion cone, annular isolation device, and reverse circulation assembly is run-in with a liner. The annular isolation device is set against the casing. A valve, such as a dropped-ball valve, opens reverse circulation ports for the cementing operation. The liner annulus is cemented using reverse circulation. An expandable liner hanger, if present, is expanded into engagement with the casing. The running tool is released and pulled from the hole.