Multi-Array Sliding Valve Actuation for Simultaneous Zone Fracturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fracturing technologies for hydrocarbon-bearing formations require sequential operation on multiple zones, which is inefficient and limits the simultaneous fracturing of multiple zones due to the need for sequential actuation of sliding sleeves by different-sized balls, and the initial port configuration restricts fluid flow after fracturing, necessitating a change to larger ports for optimal production.
Innovation Solution
A downhole assembly with sliding sleeves that can be actuated by a single ball to multiple open positions, allowing simultaneous fracturing of multiple zones and featuring a shifting tool to change the port configuration for increased fluid flow, where the insert moves between closed, first open, and second open conditions to optimize fluid communication and flow area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sliding sleeves are actuated by different-sized balls sequentially, then each zone can be isolated and treated individually, but the operation becomes sequential and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A single ball is designed to actuate multiple sliding sleeves at different zones simultaneously. The ball travels through the tubular string and engages with multiple releasable seats positioned at different locations, enabling one component to control multiple zones rather than requiring separate balls for each zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball is segmented into different sections with varying diameters, allowing it to engage with multiple releasable seats of different sizes at different zones. Each section of the ball is designed to match a specific seat size, enabling sequential engagement of multiple sleeves as the ball travels through the assembly.
2Reliability
If initial ports are used for fracturing, then the fracturing operation can be performed, but fluid flow is restricted after fracturing
Solution Approach 1:
The port configuration is made dynamic through the insert mechanism. The insert can be positioned to block initial ports during fracturing, then later moved to uncover alternative ports with larger flow capacity. This allows the system to transition from a low-flow configuration during treatment to a high-flow configuration during production.
Solution Approach 2:
Alternative ports are pre-configured in the sliding sleeve but remain blocked during the fracturing operation. The system is prepared in advance with multiple port options, and the selection between port configurations is made by moving the insert to the appropriate position based on operational needs.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3BB
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A system of sliding valves (16) wherein the inserts of multiple sliding valves may be shifted to an open position using a single shifting ball (66). Each individual sliding valve (16) has a movable insert (62) that, depending upon the position of the insert within the sliding valve, may either block, permit fluid to radially flow between the interior and exterior of the sliding valve at a first rate, or permit fluid to radially flow between the interior and exterior of the sliding valve at some different second rate.