Time-Delay Valve Assembly for Single-Trip Well Completion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current well completion systems, such as gravel pack and frac pack assemblies, require multiple trips into the well, increasing risks, time, and costs due to the need for multiple service tools and complex operations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional well completion apparatus incorporating a self-closing time delay valve that can perform downhole operations like gravel pack or sand control without service tools, using a reaction material that interacts with a reactant fluid to open, close, or restrict flow paths, allowing for single-trip operations and reducing rig time and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple service tools and complex operations are used to complete well completion systems, then the completion operations can be performed, but the number of trips into the well increases, increasing risks, time, and costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple service tools and functions into a single integrated completion tool assembly. The setting tool, time delay valve, and completion operations are merged into one unit that can be deployed in a single trip, eliminating the need for multiple separate tool trips and reducing rig time while maintaining operational reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The completion tool assembly is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing multiple operations including setting the time delay valve, controlling fluid flow, and completing well completion tasks. This universal design allows a single tool to perform what previously required multiple specialized tools and trips
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple service tools are used for well completion operations, then the operations can be performed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The completion tool assembly is segmented into functional modules including the setting tool portion, time delay valve portion, and various flow control components. This modular segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while being part of an integrated system, reducing overall complexity compared to multiple separate tools
3Productivity
If multiple trips into the well are required for completion operations, then the operations can be completed, but operational risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The time delay valve is pre-set with a predetermined operational timeline before deployment. The valve automatically executes its function sequence based on pre-programmed timing, eliminating the need for multiple intervention trips and reducing operational risks associated with repeated well entries
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 efficient and cost-effective single-trip completion operations by eliminating the need for multiple tool trips and surface or downhole interventions, ensuring reliable well completion with reduced operational risks and enhanced efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A reactive material is disposed in the body adjacent the chamber that reacts with the reactant fluid in response to contact with the reactant fluid from the valve chamber
Implementation Method 2
A piston is disposed in the body. The piston is movable from an open state to a closed state in response to the reactive material interacting with the reactant fluid to close a flow path into the valve chamber after a predetermined time
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-functional well completion apparatus and method of operation thereof that offers the ability, in a single trip and with limited running tool manipulation, to perform downhole completion operations, such as gravel pack operations or sand control frac or other fluid stimulation operations is described. The well completion tool has multiple functions or operational positions by using a self-closing time delay valve without the need of service tools, thereby saving rig time, reducing operating costs and operational risks associated with tripping service tools into and out of a wellbore.