Wellbore Isolation Device Removal via Phase Transition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional methods for removing wellbore isolation devices are often time-consuming and costly, and can result in premature dissolution or difficulty in retrieval, especially when using acidic fluids.

Innovation Solution

Increasing the wellbore temperature to the phase transition temperature of the isolation device, causing the substance to undergo a phase transition, which reduces its strength and allows for easy removal without the need for retrieval tools or milling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional removal methods (acidic fluids, retrieval tools, milling) are used, then the isolation device can be removed, but the process is time-consuming and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremoval efficiencyVSAvoidremoval time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the temperature parameter of the wellbore environment to trigger a phase transition in the isolation device material. By heating the wellbore to a specific temperature threshold, the material undergoes a controlled phase change that compromises its structural integrity, enabling rapid removal without traditional time-consuming methods like milling or retrieval operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent exploits phase transition phenomena in the isolation device material. The material is designed to undergo a phase transition at a specific temperature, transforming from a stable structural state to a compromised state that facilitates easy removal. This phase transition mechanism converts thermal energy into structural change, dramatically accelerating the removal process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #36Phase transitions

2Productivity

If traditional removal methods are used, then the isolation device can be removed, but it increases operational costs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremoval efficiencyVSAvoidoperational cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The isolation device is designed to be self-removing through its intrinsic material properties. The material contains embedded phase transition characteristics that automatically activate when exposed to the predetermined temperature, eliminating the need for external retrieval tools, milling equipment, or chemical treatments. This self-service mechanism significantly reduces operational costs by removing dependency on expensive removal equipment and services

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a disposable isolation device design where the material is intentionally made vulnerable to phase transition at a known temperature threshold. Rather than designing for permanent retention or difficult removal, the system accepts the isolation device as a temporary component that can be easily discarded through controlled phase transition, reducing the need for expensive retrieval operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of operation

If acidic fluids are used for removal, then the isolation device can be dissolved, but it causes premature dissolution or difficulty in retrieval

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremoval easeVSAvoiddissolution control

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces chemical dissolution mechanisms (acidic fluids) with a thermal-mechanical phase transition mechanism. Instead of using chemicals that can cause uncontrolled premature dissolution, the system uses controlled heating to trigger a predictable phase transition at a specific temperature threshold. This substitution provides more reliable and controllable removal timing while avoiding the unpredictable side effects of chemical reactions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 method efficiently and cost-effectively removes wellbore isolation devices by decreasing their structural integrity, enabling easy extraction with minimal effort and expense.

Implementation Method 1

the substance undergoes a phase transition at the phase transition temperature

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhase transition: Phase Change

Data Source

PatentEP2999849B1Method for removing a wellbore isolation device containing a substance that undergoes a phase transition

Publication Date: 2020.10.14 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC

Figure 1

AI summary

A wellbore isolation device comprises: a substance, wherein the substance: (A) is a plastic; and (B) undergoes a phase transition at a phase transition temperature, wherein the temperature surrounding the wellbore isolation device is increased or allowed to increase to a temperature that is greater than or equal to the phase transition temperature. A method of removing a wellbore isolation device comprises: causing or allowing the temperature surrounding the wellbore isolation device to increase; and allowing at least a portion of the substance to undergo the phase transformation. A method of inhibiting or preventing fluid flow in a wellbore comprises: decreasing the temperature of at least a portion of the wellbore; positioning the wellbore isolation device in the at least a portion of the wellbore; and causing or allowing the temperature surrounding the wellbore isolation device to increase.