Economical Well Screen Construction Using Disposable Filter Media
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for constructing well screens are inefficient and costly, requiring expensive materials and complex processes, which hinders the effective filtration of fluids in subterranean wells.
Innovation Solution
The use of unconventional and inexpensive filtering media such as sandstone, square weave wire mesh, foam, fiber coils, and nonmetal mesh materials, along with innovative installation methods like positioning loose filter media between a base pipe and a shroud, to create a cost-efficient and effective well screen system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional well screen construction methods are used, then filtration effectiveness is maintained, but construction cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using disposable filter paper or mesh screens that are inserted into the well bore and allow fluid filtration during the completion process. These inexpensive, single-use filtering media replace complex conventional well screen constructions, achieving effective filtration without requiring permanent, expensive screen installations. The filter media is discarded after serving its purpose, eliminating the need for complex screen construction and installation equipment.
2Ease of manufacture
If inexpensive filtering media are used, then construction cost decreases, but filtration reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by combining inexpensive filtering media (such as filter paper or mesh) with the well completion system. This composite approach allows the use of low-cost materials that would individually provide insufficient filtration, but when integrated into the overall completion system with proper positioning and support structures, achieve reliable filtration performance. The composite system leverages the strengths of different materials to overcome the limitations of inexpensive media alone.
3Reliability
If complex well screen construction processes are used, then filtration performance is improved, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by dividing the well completion process into separate functional components: a dedicated filtration stage using inserted filter media, and a subsequent production stage. This segmentation allows the filtration function to be performed by a simple, quickly installed filter element rather than requiring a complex, time-consuming well screen construction process. The filter media can be inserted rapidly using simple tools, while the wellbore remains open for production, thereby improving installation efficiency without compromising filtration performance.
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 approach allows for the economical construction of well screens that efficiently filter fluids, reducing costs and improving the filtration process while maintaining the integrity of the well system.
Implementation Method 1
a loose filter media proximate the base pipe... sandstone which filters fluid that flows between an interior and an exterior of the base pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A well screen for use in a subterranean well can include a loose filter media, a sandstone, a square weave mesh material, a foam, and/or a nonmetal mesh material. A method of installing a well screen in a subterranean well can include dispersing a material in a filter media of the well screen, after the well screen has been installed in the well, thereby permitting a fluid to flow through the filter media. A method of constructing a well screen can include positioning a loose filter media in an annular space between a base pipe and a shroud, so that the filter media filters fluid which flows through a wall of the base pipe.