Wellbore Cutter with Force Applicator for Compression Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing stuck tubular elements from hydrocarbon producing wells often fail due to compressive forces that hinder cutting operations, causing the cutting tool to become pinched or the severed sections to rejoin.
Innovation Solution
A cutting tool with a force applicator that reduces compressive forces in the tubular section, allowing a cutter to make a continuous and non-interrupted cut by applying a tension force that counteracts the compressive forces, thereby preventing pinching and rejoining of the sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a cutter is used to sever a tubular element under compression, then the cutting operation can be performed, but the compressive forces cause the cutter to become pinched or the severed sections to rejoin
Solution Approach 1:
The force applicator applies a preliminary force to counteract compressive forces before and during the cutting operation, preventing the cutter from becoming pinched and preventing severed sections from rejoining. This preliminary counter-action ensures reliable cut completion by eliminating the harmful compressive effect that would otherwise cause cutting failure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If compressive forces are present during cutting, then the tubular element remains in its original state, but the cutter cannot make a continuous cut due to pinching
Solution Approach 1:
The force applicator changes the mechanical parameter (compressive force) of the tubular element by applying an opposing force that reduces or eliminates compression during the cutting operation. This parameter change enables continuous cutter operation while maintaining the tubular element's structural integrity in the desired state.
3Ease of operation
If a force applicator is used to reduce compressive forces, then continuous cutting is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force applicator and cutter are merged into a single integrated cutting system, allowing the force application mechanism and cutting elements to work together as one unified device. This merging enables continuous cutting operations without requiring separate, complex systems for force application and cutting.
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
Enables efficient severing of tubular elements by minimizing compressive forces, allowing for effective separation and retrieval of stuck sections without interference, even in unsupported wellbore conditions.
Implementation Method 1
applying a tension force that counteracts the compressive forces
Implementation Method 2
compressive forces that hinder cutting operations
Data Source
AI summary
A method for performing an operation in the wellbore may include at least partially separating a wellbore tubular while reducing a compression in a section of the wellbore tubular using a force applicator in the wellbore. An apparatus for performing the downhole operation may include a cutter configured to at least partially sever a wellbore tubular; and a force applicator configured to reduce a compression in a section of a wellbore tubular proximate to the cutter.