Stackable Wireline Deployable Metal Patch System for Extended Well Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireline deployable patch systems for oil/gas wells are limited by a maximum patch length of approximately 40 ft due to lifting and lubricator length constraints, which is insufficient for isolating zones longer than 40 ft.
Innovation Solution
The system includes extension patch sections with anchoring/sealing elements that can be expanded to secure the patch to the well casing, allowing for the construction of metal patches of any desirable length by connecting multiple tubular sections, each with reduced diameter portions that are expanded to create sealed connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a wireline deployable patch system is used, then the patch can be deployed in the well, but the maximum patch length is limited to approximately 40 ft due to lifting and lubricator length limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patch system is divided into multiple individual patch sections (e.g., bottom patch section, intermediate patch sections, top patch section), each deployable independently on the wireline. These sections can be connected end-to-end to achieve cumulative lengths exceeding the 40 ft limitation of single-section systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Individual patch sections are designed to be nested within each other during deployment. Each section can be deployed through the previous section, allowing multiple sections to be stacked and connected in sequence to form an extended patch assembly of any desired length.
2Length of moving object
If multiple patch sections are connected to achieve longer lengths, then the patch length can be increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses standardized, modular patch sections that can be independently deployed and connected. This segmentation allows operators to deploy sections in a systematic sequence, reducing operational complexity compared to deploying a single complex long-section.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple identical or similar patch sections are combined through standardized connection interfaces (such as reduced diameter portions that fit within previous sections). This merging process is simplified by the modular design, making the deployment of extended patches more manageable than handling a single large component.
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 the deployment and installation of metal patches of any length, overcoming the length limitations of traditional systems and providing effective zonal isolation in oil/gas wells.
Implementation Method 1
The anchoring/sealing elements having internal diameters less than an internal diameter of the tubular may be expanded by a setting tool to secure the patch to an inner surface of the well
Implementation Method 2
The setting tool expands the reduced diameter portions to the diameter approximately equal to the inside diameter of the extension tubulars creating sealed connections between the extension tubulars
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for patching damaged areas in a well includes a top and a bottom patching section which include an anchor/sealing member for securing the apparatus within the well. One or more extension patch sections are connected between the top and bottom patch sections. The top and bottom patch elements are placed above and below the damaged area to isolate the damaged area from the exterior flow portion of the well.