Wireline Tool Mixing Subsurface Samples for Real-Time Asphaltene Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying asphaltene onset pressure and bubble point in subterranean formations rely heavily on laboratory analysis, which requires representative samples maintained at reservoir conditions and does not provide real-time results, leading to challenges in controlling phase changes and asphaltene precipitation during production.
Innovation Solution
A method involving obtaining samples from multiple wellbore locations, mixing them to create a homogeneous mixture, and measuring parameters such as pressure and temperature to identify asphaltene onset pressure and bubble point in real-time using a wireline tool equipped with sensors and a pressure control unit, allowing for control of production strategies to prevent asphaltene precipitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laboratory analysis is used to identify asphaltene onset pressure and bubble point, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical system of sample transport to laboratory with an optical/electronic measurement system. Downhole sensors (spectrometers, viscometers, density meters) directly measure fluid properties in situ, substituting the need for physical sample transport and laboratory equipment with electronic measurement devices that provide real-time data at the wellbore location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement system between the formation fluid and the final analysis result. Flowlines equipped with sensors act as intermediaries that continuously monitor fluid properties (viscosity, density, spectral characteristics) as the fluid flows, providing real-time data without requiring the fluid to reach a laboratory setting.
2Measurement precision
If samples are maintained at reservoir conditions during transport, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the complex environment of reservoir condition maintenance. Instead of requiring sophisticated temperature and pressure control systems during transport, the invention takes the measurement capability directly to the formation fluid at the wellbore, eliminating the need for complex environmental control systems while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system serves itself by being located in the flowline where formation fluid naturally flows under its own pressure and temperature conditions. The system utilizes the existing flow conditions rather than requiring active control, allowing measurements to be taken in the natural environment of the fluid without additional complexity.
3Productivity
If real-time measurement is implemented downhole, then productivity is improved and loss of time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functional measurement devices that can perform multiple types of measurements (spectral analysis, viscosity measurement, density measurement) within a single integrated system. This universality reduces the overall number of separate devices needed while providing comprehensive real-time evaluation capabilities, thereby managing complexity through consolidation rather than proliferation of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is installed and positioned in the flowline before production issues (such as asphaltene precipitation or phase changes) occur. This preliminary positioning allows continuous monitoring and early detection of problems, enabling real-time decision-making and intervention before production is impacted, thus improving productivity through proactive measurement.
4Measurement precision
If multiple samples from different wellbore locations are mixed, then homogeneity is improved and measurement precision is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sample streams from different wellbore locations into a single combined flow within the flowline. By combining the samples in situ and measuring the mixed fluid, the system achieves a more representative evaluation of the overall formation fluid composition without requiring separate analysis of each sample, thereby improving measurement precision through natural mixing.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed to measure the fluid after it has naturally mixed and homogenized in the flowline. The system targets the homogeneous mixed state that occurs during flow, ensuring that measurements reflect the averaged composition of fluids from multiple locations. This approach achieves homogeneity through flow dynamics rather than mechanical mixing devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus to evaluate subterranean formations are described. An example method of evaluating a subterranean formation includes, obtaining a first sample from a first wellbore location. Additionally, the example method includes obtaining a second sample from a second wellbore location different than the first wellbore location. Further, the example method includes mixing the first sample with the second sample in a flowline to obtain a substantially homogenous mixture. Further still, the example method includes measuring a parameter of the mixture to evaluate the subterranean formation.