Wellbore Isolation Device with Galvanic Corrosion Matrix

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional methods for removing retrievable wellbore isolation devices are time-consuming and costly, and there is a need for isolation devices that can withstand bottomhole temperatures and pressures while providing effective zonal isolation without premature dissolution.

Innovation Solution

A wellbore isolation device comprising a matrix with a phase transition temperature matching the bottomhole temperature, combined with galvanically-coupled reinforcement areas to enhance strength and control galvanic corrosion, allowing for controlled phase transition and dissolution for easy retrieval.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional removal methods are used for retrievable wellbore isolation devices, then the devices can be removed after use, but the removal process is time-consuming and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremoval efficiencyVSAvoidremoval time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The isolation device utilizes phase transition of the matrix material at specific temperature conditions to enable automatic dissolution and removal. By changing the temperature parameter to match the phase transition point, the device transitions from a solid state providing isolation to a dissolved state allowing removal, thereby eliminating time-consuming mechanical retrieval operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical removal systems with a chemical dissolution mechanism. Instead of using mechanical tools to retrieve the isolation device, the system uses controlled chemical phase transition and galvanic corrosion to automatically dissolve the device, substituting mechanical operations with chemical processes that occur in-situ

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If the isolation device withstands bottomhole temperatures and pressures, then effective zonal isolation is achieved, but premature dissolution may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvezonal isolation effectivenessVSAvoidservice life

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The isolation device employs different materials with distinct properties in different regions: the matrix material is designed to be responsive to temperature/pressure conditions for controlled dissolution, while the reinforcement areas provide localized strength and structural integrity. This local differentiation allows the device to maintain reliability during service and then dissolve when conditions trigger the phase transition

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The device uses a composite structure combining matrix material with reinforcement areas of different compositions. The matrix provides the phase transition capability for controlled dissolution, while the reinforcement materials provide mechanical strength to withstand bottomhole conditions. The composite nature enables both reliability during operation and controlled removal after service

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Strength

If reinforcement areas are added to enhance strength, then the device can withstand pressure differentials, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepressure differential resistanceVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reinforcement areas are pre-positioned and pre-configured within the isolation device structure before deployment. The galvanic coupling between different materials is established in advance, creating a built-in mechanism that provides both structural strength and controlled dissolution capability without requiring complex assembly or additional components during operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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 solution enables efficient and controlled removal of the isolation device, maintaining zonal isolation and withstanding pressure differentials, while allowing for selective phase transitions and galvanic corrosion to facilitate retrieval without premature failure.

Implementation Method 1

a matrix (35) comprising at least a first substance, wherein the matrix has a phase transition temperature

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhase transition: Phase Change

Implementation Method 2

at least one reinforcement area (36), wherein the reinforcement area comprises a second substance, wherein the second substance undergoes galvanic corrosion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGalvanic corrosion: Crevice Corrosion

Data Source

PatentEP3049614B1Isolation devices containing a transforming matrix and a galvanically-coupled reinforcement area

Publication Date: 2020.09.30 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC

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AI summary

A method of using a wellbore isolation device comprises: introducing the wellbore isolation device into the wellbore, wherein the isolation device comprises: (A) a matrix, wherein the matrix has a phase transition temperature less than or equal to the bottomhole temperature of the wellbore; and (B) at least one reinforcement area, wherein the reinforcement area: (i) comprises at least a first material, wherein the first material undergoes galvanic corrosion; and (ii) has a greater tensile strength and/or shear strength than the matrix.