Wellbore Valve Assembly Actuated by Differential Pressure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current wellbore fluid flow control systems require frequent intervention and are complex, as they cannot efficiently manage differential pressures across subterranean formations, leading to inefficient fluid production and separation.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly is positioned in the wellbore with a flow tube and actuator sub-assembly that automatically opens in response to a differential pressure threshold, allowing fluid flow from the annulus into the valve assembly, utilizing a pressure cartridge, burst disc, retention shear ring, and retraction power spring to actuate the flow tube without surface intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a valve assembly with automatic actuation is implemented, then wellbore intervention is reduced and operational efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components including pressure cartridge, burst disc, retention shear ring, and retraction power spring
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly automatically actuates in response to differential pressure changes without requiring surface intervention. The burst disc ruptures at a predetermined pressure threshold, automatically triggering the flow tube to move and open the flow path, enabling the system to self-regulate based on subsurface pressure conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator sub-assembly is divided into distinct functional components: the pressure cartridge containing the burst disc for pressure sensing, the retention shear ring for holding the retraction power spring, and the flow tube for controlling fluid flow. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as an integrated system
2Productivity
If automatic flow control is implemented, then fluid control efficiency is improved, but the system can no longer manually adjust flow paths, reducing operational flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The flow tube is designed to be movable between a first position that closes the flow path and a second position that opens the flow path. This dynamic positioning is achieved through the interaction of the burst disc, retention shear ring, and retraction power spring, allowing the valve to automatically adapt to changing pressure conditions without manual intervention
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple flow paths are provided, then fluid co-mingling capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional flow paths and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The flow tube serves multiple functions: it controls the primary flow path through the tubular, enables fluid co-mingling between the annulus and wellbore, and provides flow path exclusivity when closed. The same component achieves different flow control objectives depending on its position, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms for each function
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 solution reduces the need for wellbore intervention, improves fluid control and separation efficiency, enables on-demand flow path exclusivity, and allows for multiple fluid co-mingling points, enhancing operational efficiency and gas-liquid separation by automatically adjusting to changing pressures.
Implementation Method 1
The valve assembly actuates a flow tube from a closed position preventing fluid flow from the annulus into the valve assembly to an open position allowing fluid flow from the annulus into the valve assembly responsive to a differential pressure within the valve assembly increasing to greater than or equal to a differential pressure threshold
Implementation Method 2
The retraction power spring is coupled to the retention shear ring and the shoulder of the body of the flow tube. The retraction power spring is held in an energized position by the retention shear ring
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly and a method for controlling a wellbore fluid flow. The valve assembly includes a tubular having an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface defines a void. Multiple flow paths paths extend from the inner surface to the outer surface. A flow tube is slideably coupled to the outer surface and movable between a first position preventing a flow of fluid through the flow paths and a second position allowing the flow of fluid through the flow paths. An actuator sub-assembly is operably coupled to the flow tube. The actuator sub-assembly is configured to actuate the flow tube from the first position to the second position responsive to a differential pressure greater than or equal to a threshold differential pressure. The actuator sub-assembly includes a pressure cartridge, a burst disc, a retention shear ring, a retraction power spring, and a pressure chamber.