Variable Multiphase Ejector for Wellhead Production Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiphase ejectors in the oil industry face inefficiencies and limited flexibility, making them unsuitable for adapting to changing operating conditions in oil and gas fields, particularly due to variations in reservoir parameters over time, such as natural depletion and changes in gas/oil ratio, which requires frequent part replacements and is impractical for underwater applications.
Innovation Solution
A variable asset multiphase ejector with a specific one-dimensional multiphase code for designing internal geometry, featuring a restricting pin and mixing member that can be remotely adjusted to optimize performance under varying conditions, allowing for adaptable operation without the need for part replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a static configuration ejector is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the efficiency decreases when operating conditions diverge from project conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the ejector configuration adjustable through movable components. Specifically, the mixing chamber length and nozzle geometry can be modified remotely using actuating mechanisms, allowing the ejector to adapt its internal geometry to varying operating conditions while maintaining structural integrity and reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ejector structure is changed to adapt to varying conditions, then the flexibility and efficiency improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ejector into distinct functional modules including the mixing chamber, nozzle, and actuating mechanisms. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each component to optimize performance for different operating conditions without redesigning the entire ejector system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual mechanical adjustment systems with remotely actuated mechanisms that can modify the ejector configuration without requiring physical access or complex mechanical linkages, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability
3Productivity
If parts are replaced to optimize performance, then the efficiency improves, but the maintenance time and operational downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability allowing the ejector to be reconfigured in-situ without dismantling or replacing parts. The movable mixing chamber and adjustable nozzle can be remotely repositioned to optimize performance, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming part replacements
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding and replacing worn or suboptimal parts, the patent enables recovery and reuse of the same components through remote adjustment and reconfiguration, thereby eliminating maintenance downtime and extending component service life
4Ease of manufacture
If a static ejector is used for underwater applications, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to reservoir changes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the underwater ejector dynamically adjustable through remotely operated actuating mechanisms that can modify the mixing chamber length and nozzle geometry in response to reservoir changes, maintaining structural simplicity while enabling adaptability to varying operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal ejector design that can perform multiple functions by adjusting its configuration. The same basic structure can be optimized for different gas/oil ratios, pressure conditions, and flow rates, making it suitable for various underwater applications without requiring multiple specialized ejectors
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 multiphase ejector achieves enhanced efficiency and flexibility, enabling adaptation to changing well conditions, simplifying maintenance, reducing costs, and facilitating remote configuration changes, thus improving operational efficiency and versatility across onshore, offshore, and subsea applications.
Implementation Method 1
a high-pressure flow, called 'drive', is mixed, transferring energy, with a low-pressure flow called 'suction'
Implementation Method 2
multiphase ejectors or similar jet pumps in which a high-pressure flow, called 'drive'
Implementation Method 3
a high-pressure flow, called 'drive', is mixed, transferring energy, with a low-pressure flow called 'suction'
Data Source
AI summary
A multiphase ejector including a housing space with a first inlet opening, connectable to a first fluid source, a second inlet opening, connectable to a second fluid source, and an outlet opening. A bush inside the housing space includes a channel having a first opening connected to the first inlet opening and a second opening connected to the second inlet opening and the outlet opening. A member inside the space mixes the fluids and demlimits a channel with a first opening connected to the second opening of the channel and to the second inlet opening, and a second opening connected to the outlet opening. A restriction associated with the bush adjusts the flow-rate of the first fluid in the second opening of the channel. The restriction can be moved between a position of an area having a maximum amplitude, and a position of the second opening being blocked.