Hydraulically Actuated Tool Pressure Isolator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulically actuated tools in wellbore operations risk premature actuation due to pressure spikes during pressure testing, which can lead to unintended activation of the tool's mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A pressure isolator mechanism is employed that can be configured between active and inactive conditions, preventing the tool from being actuated by test pressures and allowing hydraulic actuation only when signaled to do so, thereby isolating the tool from tubing fluid pressure during testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pressure testing is conducted in the tubing string, then pressure can be raised to test levels, but the tool mechanism may be prematurely actuated due to the test pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two isolated pressure zones: the tubing string pressure system and the tool mechanism actuation system. The pressure isolator creates a physical barrier that segments the fluid pathways, allowing pressure testing of the tubing string without transmitting that pressure to the tool mechanism, thereby preventing premature actuation while maintaining test integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure isolator acts as an intermediary component between the tubing string and the tool mechanism. It selectively blocks pressure transmission during testing while allowing controlled pressure communication when needed for actuation, serving as a mediator that protects the tool mechanism from harmful test pressures
2Reliability
If the pressure isolator is active to prevent premature actuation, then tool integrity is maintained, but hydraulic actuation cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure isolator is designed with dynamic switching capability, transitioning between an active state that blocks pressure and an inactive state that permits pressure transmission. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt its pressure isolation function based on operational requirements, enabling both protection during testing and actuation when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the pressure transmission parameter by controlling the state of the pressure isolator. When the isolator is active, pressure transmission is blocked; when inactive, pressure transmission is permitted. This parameter control allows seamless transition between protection mode and actuation mode
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
This solution ensures that pressure tests can be conducted without inadvertently actuating the tool, allowing for safe pressure elevation above actuation levels and maintaining tool integrity until intended activation.
Implementation Method 1
preventing the test pressure from hydraulically actuating the downhole tool during the pressure test by operation of a pressure isolator for the downhole tool
Implementation Method 2
a port closure responsive to fluid pressure
Implementation Method 3
a pressure responsive portion configured (i) to sense a pressured up condition in the inner bore and (ii) to cause the releasable locking member to move into an inactive, unlocked position in response to the pressured up condition
Data Source
AI summary
A wellbore tool that can withstand pressure tests without becoming hydraulically actuated. The wellbore tool includes a tubular housing including an inner bore; a tool mechanism responsive to fluid pressure; and a pressure isolator for the tool mechanism moveable between an active and an inactive position.