Compact Well Test Module with Diverter Valves for Real-Time Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional well testing systems for oil and gas production are cumbersome, requiring large installations and manned intervention, which limits access to real-time data and delays responses to well anomalies and reservoir optimization.
Innovation Solution
A compact well test module with a production manifold, diverter valves, flow meters, and a control hub that allows for remote operation and three-phase measurement of well output without phase separation, enabling real-time data collection and minimizing the need for personnel presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional well test separator installations are used, then phase separation and measurement can be performed, but the installation requires large footprint and complex routing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the well test manifold and production manifold into a single integrated module, eliminating the need for separate separator installations. The diverter valve allows the same physical infrastructure to serve both testing and production functions, reducing the overall installation footprint while maintaining measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The wellhead assembly is designed with multi-functionality, where the same manifold and piping infrastructure can handle both production flow and test flow by using the diverter valve to switch between modes. This eliminates the need for dedicated test separator installations and reduces the overall equipment footprint.
2Reliability
If traditional well testing systems are used, then production well testing can be performed, but operators must make and break connections in the field with personnel presence required
Solution Approach 1:
The system is pre-configured with permanent connections between the wellhead, diverter valve, and manifolds during installation. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for operators to make and break field connections during testing operations, reducing the need for personnel presence and improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated manifold system is designed to be self-contained and self-service capable, with all necessary connections and instrumentation permanently installed. The system can perform well testing operations autonomously without requiring external intervention for connection management, improving both reliability and operational ease.
3Loss of information
If traditional well testing installations are used, then production data can be collected, but real-time data access is limited resulting in delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through instrumentation that continuously monitors well production parameters. The electronic control system provides immediate feedback on flow rates, pressures, and temperatures, enabling rapid detection and response to well anomalies without the delays associated with traditional periodic testing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated manifold system enables continuous monitoring and testing operations without interruption to production. The diverter valve can quickly switch between production and test modes, maintaining continuous data collection and eliminating downtime associated with traditional testing methods that require system shutdowns or reconfigurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A well test module is disclosed including a production manifold, a well test manifold, and a plurality of diverter valves, each having an input port coupled to a well inlet, a first output port coupled to the production manifold by a production loop, and a second output port coupled to the well test manifold. The well test module also includes a first flow meter having an input port coupled to a first end of the well test manifold and an output port coupled to the production manifold by a first well test flow line and a second flow meter having an input port coupled to a second end of the well test manifold and an output port coupled to the production manifold by a second well test flow line.