Wellbore Completion Alignment via Magnetic Permeability Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The accuracy of wellbore completion alignment is compromised by uncertainties in wellbore environment influences, such as compression, tension, and temperature, which affect casing joint lengths, leading to difficulties in precise placement of tools and equipment, especially in subsea wells where mechanical locating elements and multiple runs are required, increasing time, cost, and risk.
Innovation Solution
A method using casing segments with different magnetic permeabilities to detect the alignment of inductive elements, allowing for continuous inward movement of the wellbore completion string without reversing actions, by monitoring changes in magnetic permeability to accurately space out the remaining distance and land the tubing hanger in the wellhead housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If mechanical locating elements and mating elements are used to achieve precise alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity and operational time increase due to required dummy runs and multiple operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical locating elements and mating elements with a magnetic field-based detection system. An inductive element on the completion string detects changes in magnetic permeability of casing segments to determine depth position, eliminating the need for mechanical engagement components and dummy runs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic permeability differences as an intermediary mechanism. Casing segments with different magnetic permeabilities serve as detectable markers that enable precise depth determination without direct mechanical contact between locating and mating elements.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple dummy runs are performed to achieve accurate placement, then alignment precision is improved, but productivity and operational efficiency deteriorate due to increased time and costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by installing casing segments with different magnetic permeabilities during the initial casing installation. This pre-prepared magnetic signature system enables direct one-way running of the completion string without requiring subsequent dummy runs for depth determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through continuous monitoring of magnetic permeability changes as the completion string is run into the well. The inductive element detects the magnetic signature of casing segments in real-time, providing depth position information that allows immediate adjustment of the completion string length without retracting and re-running.
3Reliability
If mechanical locating elements are installed in the casing, then alignment reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locating function from mechanical elements and transfers it to magnetic field interactions. The inductive element on the completion string detects magnetic permeability changes of casing segments, removing the need for mechanical locating elements to be installed in the casing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from mechanical engagement to magnetic permeability measurement. By monitoring changes in magnetic permeability as the completion string passes different casing segments, the system achieves reliable depth determination without mechanical locating components.
4Measurement precision
If wireline tools are used to determine depth, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and operational time increase due to additional equipment and personnel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the completion string itself multi-functional by equipping it with an inductive element that performs both the completion function and the depth measurement function. The same string that will remain in the well for production also serves as the measurement device, eliminating the need for separate wireline tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the completion string to determine its own depth position through the inductive element detecting magnetic permeability changes. The system uses its own structure (the completion string with inductive element) to perform the measurement that would otherwise require external wireline equipment.
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 enables precise alignment of wellbore completion components, reducing operational time and costs, and minimizing risks associated with subsea operations by ensuring accurate wireless connectivity and placement without the need for mechanical locating elements or multiple runs.
Implementation Method 1
determining a depth position of the wellbore completion string by use of an inductive element to detect changes in magnetic permeability
Data Source
AI summary
Wireless downhole sensor technology is being deployed in oil and gas wells. System components are inductively coupled, which enables remote placement of apparatus on the outside of wellbore conduit without the need for any wired connection. These systems make use of a pair of conductive elements that need to be aligned in the well. Embodiments of the present invention provide techniques to correctly space out the wellbore completion string so that the downhole conductive elements will be properly aligned and within proximity to establish wireless connectivity, as the wellbore completion string is set and the tubing hanger is landed inside the wellhead housing of the well.