Shape Memory Flow Tube for Reversible Safety Valve Lock-Open
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety valves in the resource recovery and fluid sequestration industries are either permanently locked open, reducing tool passage diameter, or require permanent dimpling of flow tubes to maintain an open position, necessitating valve replacement.
Innovation Solution
A safety valve with a flow tube made of shape memory material that can be temporarily locked open by displacing the flow tube into interfering relationship with the flapper, dimpling the flow tube, and applying a change signature to remove the dimple, restoring the valve's original function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the flow tube is dimpled to lock open the safety valve, then the valve remains open for tool passage, but the valve function is permanently lost requiring replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The flow tube is made of shape memory material that changes its properties in response to temperature changes. By heating the flow tube above its transition temperature, it transforms from a constrained state (preventing flapper closure) to an unconstrained state (allowing normal valve operation), enabling reversible lock-open functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static permanent lock-open mechanism to a dynamic reversible system. The flow tube can be dynamically switched between locked-open and normal states through temperature control, allowing the valve to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements
2Ease of operation
If a lock open sleeve is used to temporarily lock open the safety valve, then tools can pass through, but the inside diameter is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory material's transition temperature controls the flow tube's dimensional state. Above the transition temperature, the flow tube expands to its original diameter, eliminating the ID reduction problem while maintaining the temporary lock-open capability during the locked state
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the flow tube is permanently dimpled, then the safety valve remains locked open, but the valve must be replaced to restore function
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory material allows the flow tube to be temporarily deformed into a dimpled configuration that prevents flapper closure. By applying heat above the transition temperature, the material returns to its original shape, automatically restoring valve functionality without permanent modification or replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The system recovers the flow tube's original configuration through thermal activation. The temporary dimple is discarded (removed by heating) when valve functionality is needed, allowing repeated cycles of lock-open and recovery without permanent damage or replacement
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
Enables temporary locking open of safety valves without permanent modification, allowing for maximum tool passage diameter while preserving the valve's functionality for future use.
Implementation Method 1
a flow tube including a shape memory material disposed in the housing and movable to a position where the flapper is closable and a position where the flapper is open
Data Source
AI summary
A method for temporarily locking open a safety valve, including displacing a flow tube comprising a shape memory material into interfering relationship with a flapper of the safety valve, thereby opening the flapper, disposing a dimpling tool in the flow tube, dimpling the flow tube, and applying a change signature to the shape memory material to remove the dimple, and return function to the flow tube. A safety valve with temporary lock open construction including a housing, a flapper articulated to the housing, and a flow tube including a shape memory material disposed in the housing and movable to a position where the flapper is closable and a position where the flapper is open. A wellbore system, including a borehole in a subsurface formation, a string in the borehole, and a safety valve disposed within or as a part of the string.