Retrievable Well Control Plug for ESP Fluid Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well control systems face challenges with frequent pump replacements and fluid spillage due to limited lifespan of submersible pumps and issues with valve and choke functionality, leading to unreliable and time-consuming operations.
Innovation Solution
A well control apparatus comprising a tubular seal stem and lock body with latching fingers and flow tracks, allowing controlled fluid circulation and secure positioning of an ESP, with features like shearable latching fingers and optimized flow paths to prevent fluid loss and facilitate easy retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If valves or ball chokes are installed beneath the pump to prevent fluid spillage, then fluid loss is reduced, but the system suffers from damage upon being pulled and run back into the hole, low confidence in positioning, and inability to function due to buildup in the well
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the traditional valves or ball chokes from the wellbore environment entirely. Instead, it uses a retrievable plug that can be deployed and retrieved without being pulled and run back into the hole, eliminating the damage and positioning problems associated with conventional well control devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a retrievable plug as an intermediary device that temporarily seals the wellbore during pump removal. This plug can be deployed from the surface and retrieved without entering the wellbore, serving as a mediator between the need for well control and the limitations of conventional devices.
2Productivity
If submersible pumps are used to increase production rate, then productivity is improved, but the pumps have limited lifespan requiring frequent repair and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables preliminary well control preparation by deploying a retrievable plug before pump removal. This allows the well to be sealed in advance, eliminating the need for rapid pump replacement and enabling more deliberate, less time-constrained maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for self-contained well control operations where the retrievable plug can be deployed and retrieved without requiring complex well intervention equipment or procedures, simplifying the maintenance process for submersible pumps.
3Device complexity
If conventional well control methods are used without means to close off the well, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but fluid spills into the surrounding environment
Solution Approach 1:
The retrievable plug serves as a simple intermediary device that provides well control functionality without requiring complex valve systems or ball chokes. It can be deployed from the surface and retrieved without entering the wellbore, maintaining operational simplicity while preventing fluid spillage.
Data Source
AI summary
A downhole well control tool allows for the control of in-situ fluid flow from a production well. The flow control tool is engaged to an electrical submersible pump (“ESP”) and allows for the in-situ fluid to flow through the tool when the ESP is both active and inactive. The tool also allows for the flow of drilling mud and other drilling fluids when necessary. In addition, the well control tool may also be used to seal off the flow of fluids, and may be used in the retrieval of the ESP.