Splicing Non-Spoolable Tools Mid-String on Coiled Tubing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for splicing coiled tubing strings often require non-spoolable tools to be attached only at the end, limiting their placement along the tubing string, especially in deep wellbores where additional tools are needed for effective intervention.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using flexible connectors that can be spooled onto a reel, allowing for the attachment of tools at any point along the coiled tubing string by disconnecting and reconnecting a removable tubing section, enabling the integration of tools like water hammer pulse tools or tractors mid-string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If non-spoolable tools are attached to the end of the coiled tubing string, then the tool can be connected after the tubing passes through the injector, but the tool placement is limited and cannot be positioned at intermediate points along the tubing string
Solution Approach 1:
The coiled tubing string is divided into multiple sections with removable tubing sections that can be disconnected and reconnected. This segmentation allows tools to be spliced at intermediate points along the tubing string rather than only at the end, providing flexible tool placement while maintaining the integrity of the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
Upper and lower connectors serve as intermediary components that facilitate the connection between the coiled tubing string and tools. These connectors enable the splicing of non-spoolable tools at any point along the tubing string by providing standardized connection interfaces that work with the removable tubing section mechanism
2Length of moving object
If multiple spools of coiled tubing are used to service deep wellbores, then the lifting limitations of cranes are overcome, but additional splicing points are needed along the tubing string
Solution Approach 1:
The coiled tubing string is constructed from multiple spools connected by removable tubing sections and connectors. This segmentation allows the tubing to be assembled in sections that can be lifted by available crane capacity, while still achieving the total length needed for deep wellbores. The same segmentation enables tool splicing at the connection points between sections
Solution Approach 2:
The upper and lower connectors serve multiple functions: they connect coiled tubing sections from multiple spools together to achieve the required string length, and they also provide splicing points for integrating tools. This multi-functionality addresses both the length requirement and the tool integration capability simultaneously
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for splicing a non-spoolable tool anywhere along a coiled tubing string. A removable tubing section may be connected along a coiled tubing string by two spoolable connectors. The coiled tubing string may be unspooled from a reel until the removable tubing section and connectors are positioned within a work window. The removable tubing section may be disconnected from the tubing string through the work window and a tool may be connected to the coiled tubing string via the two connectors. The tool may then be positioned within a wellbore by insertion of the coiled tubing string. The tool may aid in th e insertion of the coil ed tubing string into the wellbore. A portion of the wellhead may be disconnected and raised to expose the connectors to permit the removal of the removable tubing section and the connection of a non-spoolable tool.