Wellbore Tubular Flotation Device Debris Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing buoyancy devices used to assist in running tubulars into subsurface wells often leave debris, such as frangible materials, which can interfere with subsequent operations in long lateral wellbore completions, due to the materials used in burst disks.
Innovation Solution
A wellbore tubular flotation device with a housing, locking mechanism, and release mechanism that engages and disengages using hydraulic pressure and a release tool, minimizing debris by using a burst disk made of materials that minimize residue after rupture, and incorporating wiper seals to prevent fluid ingress and egress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a frangible burst disk is used to seal the tubular segment, then the device can effectively seal and provide buoyancy, but debris is left in the wellbore that interferes with subsequent operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful frangible burst disk from the system and replaces it with a non-frangible alternative (such as a elastomeric or fabric membrane) that can be cleanly removed or dissolved, thereby eliminating debris generation while maintaining the sealing function during buoyancy operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a disposable non-frangible seal (such as a sacrificial elastomeric membrane or water-soluble polymer seal) that performs its sealing function temporarily during running operations and then is cleanly removed or dissolves without leaving debris, replacing the permanent frangible disk approach
2Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is used to secure the flotation device in the tubular segment, then the device remains stable during running, but the release mechanism adds complexity to the system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-releasing locking mechanism that automatically releases the flotation device from the tubular segment after buoyancy operations are complete, using internal pressure differentials or mechanical triggers that eliminate the need for complex external release tools or systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical release mechanisms with simpler hydraulic or pneumatic release systems that use fluid pressure to automatically trigger the release of locking elements, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining reliable release functionality
3Reliability
If wiper seals are added to prevent fluid ingress and egress, then the sealing performance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the wiper seal function with the existing burst disk assembly or housing structure, integrating sealing elements into components that already exist in the device rather than adding separate dedicated sealing systems, thereby improving sealing without proportionally increasing complexity
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
The device effectively reduces debris in the wellbore by using a burst disk that minimizes residue and provides buoyancy to facilitate the running of tubulars, allowing for efficient completion of wellbore operations without interference from left-over materials.
Implementation Method 1
Buoyancy devices have as a purpose lifting the tubular string in a lateral wellbore section from the bottom of the wellbore to reduce such friction
Implementation Method 2
A burst disk is engaged with the housing and shaped to close the tubular segment to fluid flow. A release mechanism is configured to reverse the urging of the locking mechanism when a release tool is moved through the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A wellbore tubular flotation device comprises a housing having a locking element disposed thereon. The housing is shaped to move through an interior of a wellbore tubular segment. The locking element is shaped to engage the interior of the wellbore tubular segment. The locking element comprises a locking mechanism configured to urge the locking element into contact with the interior of the wellbore tubular. A burst disk is engaged with the housing and is shaped to close the tubular segment to fluid flow. A release mechanism is configured to reverse the urging of the locking mechanism when a release tool is moved through the housing.