Washpipe Isolation Valve for Well Service Tool Strings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current washpipe systems in subterranean well operations lack efficient mechanisms to isolate flow, leading to challenges in controlling fluid direction and pressure during operations like gravel packing and fracturing.
Innovation Solution
A valve system is integrated between opposite ends of a washpipe, operated by displacing a service tool string relative to a completion string, allowing selective control of flow through the washpipe, with the valve being irreversibly closed once engaged, enabling precise management of fluid flow during various well operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a washpipe system is used without an integrated valve mechanism, then the structure remains simple, but flow control capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the valve mechanism directly into the washpipe structure, merging two previously separate components (washpipe and valve) into a single integrated assembly. This allows flow control functionality to be added without requiring separate valve installations, thereby improving adaptability while managing device complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The washpipe is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a structural conduit for fluid flow and as a valve actuation mechanism. By making the washpipe itself capable of controlling flow through its movement relative to the completion string, the system achieves multi-functionality that improves versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Reliability
If extensive string displacement is used to control flow, then flow isolation can be achieved, but operational efficiency decreases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The washpipe system is designed to control flow using its own movement relative to the completion string, without requiring external valve actuation systems or additional string operations. The washpipe's position changes directly control the valve state, allowing the system to serve its own flow control needs and improving operational efficiency while maintaining reliable flow isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is pre-configured within the washpipe structure during assembly, so that flow control capability is already in place before operations begin. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for complex during-operation valve installations or extensive string manipulations, thereby improving productivity while ensuring reliable flow isolation is available from the start.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a reversible valve mechanism is used, then operational flexibility is maintained, but system complexity and potential failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a complex reversible valve mechanism that requires multiple moving parts and control systems, the patent inverts the approach by using the washpipe's natural positional changes to control a simpler valve mechanism. The valve responds to the washpipe's movement direction, converting a potentially complex reversible control system into a more reliable system that uses the existing washpipe motion to drive valve operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method can include closing a valve interconnected between sections of a washpipe of a service tool string by displacing the service tool string relative to a completion string, thereby preventing flow through the washpipe. A well system can include a service tool string reciprocably received in a completion string, the service tool string including a washpipe received in a well screen, and a valve which selectively permits and prevents flow through the washpipe. The completion string can include a structure which operates the valve in response to displacement of the service tool string relative to the completion string. Another method can include closing a valve by partially withdrawing a service tool string from a completion string, thereby preventing flow through a washpipe of the service tool string.