Y-Tool Bypass for ESP Well Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well completion systems with electric submersible pumps (ESP) do not allow access to sections of the well below the ESP string without removing the entire system, limiting the ability to perform maintenance or interventions in deeper portions of the well.
Innovation Solution
A Y-tool system comprising a telescoping joint, lock ring, and crossover components that enable a through-tubing tool to bypass the ESP string, allowing access to deeper well sections by providing a hydraulic connection and preventing upward movement of the by-pass hanger, thus allowing for selective access without removing the ESP.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a through-tubing tool is run through production tubing to access deeper well sections, then access to deeper portions is enabled, but the tool cannot pass through the ESP string blocking the path
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional segments: the ESP string remains in place for pumping, while a separate by-pass hanger and telescoping joint assembly creates an independent access path. This segmentation allows the through-tubing tool to access deeper sections without needing to pass through or remove the ESP string.
Solution Approach 2:
The by-pass hanger acts as an intermediary component that creates a separate hydraulic pathway around the ESP string. The telescoping joint assembly serves as a mediator structure that allows the through-tubing tool to bypass the blocked path and reach deeper well sections without removing the ESP.
2Ease of operation
If the ESP string is removed to access deeper well sections, then access is enabled, but the ESP must be completely removed which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the ESP function from the access function. The ESP string remains installed and operational for continuous hydrocarbon production, while the by-pass hanger and telescoping joint create a separate access pathway. This allows maintenance or intervention in deeper sections without shutting down or removing the ESP, maintaining productivity throughout the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The ESP string continues to operate continuously while the by-pass system is utilized for accessing deeper well sections. The separation of functions allows the ESP to maintain uninterrupted hydrocarbon production while the through-tubing tool performs maintenance or intervention operations through the alternative pathway.
3Ease of operation
If a by-pass hanger is used to create an alternative path, then access to deeper sections is enabled, but the by-pass hanger may move upward under compressive force
Solution Approach 1:
The lock ring serves as an intermediary component between the by-pass hanger and the telescoping joint assembly. It mediates the mechanical interaction by providing a positive stopping point that prevents upward movement of the by-pass hanger while allowing the necessary telescoping motion for tool access.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock ring is positioned to preemptively counteract the upward movement force before it can displace the by-pass hanger. By placing the lock ring at the appropriate location in advance, the system prevents the stability problem from occurring rather than correcting it after upward movement begins.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes production tubing, a telescoping joint, a pump sub, a lock ring, and a crossover. The production tubing provides a hydraulic connection from a surface location to a well. The telescoping joint has a housing and a by-pass hanger having a head. An opening of the housing is larger than the by-pass hanger and smaller than the head and the head is moveably located within the housing. The lock ring is disposed around the by-pass hanger directly beneath the opening of the housing. The lock ring absorbs a compressive force and prevents the by-pass hanger from moving in an upwards direction. The crossover component is hydraulically connected to the production tubing and provides the hydraulic connection to the telescoping joint and the pump sub. The pump sub is located parallel to the telescoping joint, and the pump sub is connected to an electric submersible pump string.