Vectored Annular Cleaning System Valve Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing wellbore clean out operations face challenges during the run-out phase due to increased weight of the holding chamber exposed to wellbore pressure, requiring more robust equipment for lifting the tool string, especially when the chamber is long, such as 4,000 feet.
Innovation Solution
A vectored annular cleaning system (VACS) with a snubber valve and fluid loss valve system that maintains a fluid column during run-in, allows debris collection without exposing the chamber to pressure during run-out by shifting the snubber valve to a closed position, reducing the weight and equipment requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the holding chamber is exposed to wellbore pressure during run-out, then debris can be contained in the chamber, but the weight of the tool string increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic valve system that changes state between run-in and run-out phases. The snubber valve is open during run-in to contain debris, then closes during run-out to isolate the holding chamber from hydrostatic pressure, dynamically adjusting the system's weight characteristics based on operational phase
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system is designed to close before the run-out operation begins, preliminarily isolating the holding chamber from pressure exposure. This preliminary action prevents weight increase during the retrieval operation while maintaining debris containment from the previous run-in phase
2Quantity of substance
If the holding chamber is made longer to increase debris capacity, then more debris can be collected, but the weight and equipment requirements for lifting increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic valve isolation allows the holding chamber to be longer for increased debris capacity without proportionally increasing lifting requirements. During run-out, the closed valve isolates the extended chamber length from hydrostatic pressure, so the effective weight during retrieval is reduced despite the longer physical dimension
3Reliability
If robust equipment is used to handle the increased weight during run-out, then the tool string can be lifted safely, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system extracts or removes the hydrostatic pressure load from the holding chamber during run-out by closing the snubber valve. This separation of the chamber from pressure exposure eliminates the need for robust equipment designed to handle excessive weights, returning equipment requirements to normal levels
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
The VACS effectively removes debris from the wellbore while minimizing the weight and equipment needs during retrieval by isolating the debris collection chamber from hydrostatic pressure, facilitating safer and more efficient operations.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more spring members radially outwardly bias the plurality of drag blocks
Implementation Method 2
creating an axially directed uphole force on the snubber valve, opening the snubber valve with the axially directed uphole force
Implementation Method 3
isolating the debris collection chamber from hydrostatic pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A vectored annular cleaning system (VACS) includes a tool body having a first end, a second end, an outer surface and an inner surface defining an internal bore. A valve system is arranged in the internal bore. The valve system includes a valve and an actuator member including a central passage. The actuator member extends from the valve toward the second end. A valve actuator is shiftably connected to the tool body and mechanically connected to the actuator member. The valve actuator includes a plurality of drag blocks and one or more spring members. The one or more spring members radially outwardly bias the plurality of drag blocks.