CA2174174A1 - Downhole mixer - Google Patents
Downhole mixerInfo
- Publication number
- CA2174174A1 CA2174174A1 CA002174174A CA2174174A CA2174174A1 CA 2174174 A1 CA2174174 A1 CA 2174174A1 CA 002174174 A CA002174174 A CA 002174174A CA 2174174 A CA2174174 A CA 2174174A CA 2174174 A1 CA2174174 A1 CA 2174174A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- piston
- compartment
- tube
- compartments
- downhole
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B27/00—Containers for collecting or depositing substances in boreholes or wells, e.g. bailers, baskets or buckets for collecting mud or sand; Drill bits with means for collecting substances, e.g. valve drill bits
- E21B27/02—Dump bailers, i.e. containers for depositing substances, e.g. cement or acids
Abstract
The invention discloses an apparatus for storing one or more constituents in a downhole tool. The constituents are segregated from each other until such timeas the tool is actuated. At that time, the constituents are forced from their storage position and mixed as they are pushed from their storage position. The resultantmix is then directed to the location where the mixture will finally be placed for eventual solidification. The apparatus and method are useful for inflation of bridge plugs or external casing packers, as well as other downhole applications. Signifi-cant time is provided for the surface operator prior to initiation of the constituent elements by segregating the ingredients until shortly before they are mixed and directed to their final destination. Should a problem arise prior to mixing, theunmixed ingredients can be withdrawn from the wellbore.
Description
~ ~4 114 Title: DOWNHOLE MIXER
Inventors: J. ROBERT BAILEY, RUSTOM K. MODY, AND
RlCHARD G. VAN BUSKIRK
Field of the ~nvention The field of this invention relates to mi~ing te~chniques and an apparatus for combining materials downhole.
5 R~r~otlnrl Of the Invention In the past, various materials have been used in cementin~ downhole.
~e.n~--.t;..g has involved not only the filling of or around c~cinge downhole, but also infl~t~ble plugs or e~ernql casing par~ers which are infl~ted with a cementmaterial and are desi~ed to be in place permanently. If the various materials m~king up the cement slurry are premixed at the sll~c~ and then spotted where ne~e~ downhole, sufficient time to pro~ll~ spot the mixture may not be availablebefore the slurry begins to solidify. This presents problems for the operator if any problems are encountered during run-in with the cnnetituent colnponents already premixed. If the slurry hardens before the job can be done, then time and money will be lost. For e~ .ple, the inflqting and setting medium for an inflqt~ble bridge plug, if premixed at the sl~ce, has a typical working time of 2-8 hours before it begins to harden to the point of un~ n-pability. Many other downhole applic~tion~
using materials which are initially pumpable and by design later solidify in loc~qtione desired by the operator, also create this time concern.
The~ee time concerns of spotting the hardening materiql in the position ne~eSsq~ ~ prior to its re~ching a condition where it is difficult to move or pump are alleviated by the al)p~alus and method of the present invention. The apparatus _nd method allow for storage and separation of constituent components while positi~m-ing the apparatus adjacent the area where such m~terql~ are to be used. The apparatus and method then provide for mi~ing of the con~liluent components 21 ~4 1 7 4 downhole. The mi~ing is not initiated until the constituent ingredients are properl~
located downhole and all systems are found to be in good working order. The app~ralus and method contc.,lplate the mixing of the ingredients and the dilC~ lg of such ingredients to the particular location where the combination can solidify as desired.
Sllmm~y of the Tnve~tion The invention discloses an apparatus for storing one or more consliluents in a downhole tool. The con~lilucnts are segregated from each other until such tirne as the tool is achlate~. At that time, the con.ctituentc are forced from their storage position and mixed as they are pushed through an isostatic mi~ing tube to the infl~t~le tool. The resultant mix is then directed to the location where the mixture will finally be placed for eventual solidification. The apparatus and method areuseful for inflation of bridge plugs or ç~ern~l casing packers, as well as otherdownhole applications. Significant process control is given to the surface operator prior to initiation of reaction of the co~liluent elements by holding sep~te theingredients until shOnly before they are mixed and directed to their final desd-nation. Should a problem arise prior to ~nixinE, the unmixed ingredients can be withdrawn from the wellbore without complication.
Rrief nes~ tio~ of the nrawir~c Figures la-b are se~;tional elevational views of the appalalus.
Figure 2 is a section view along lines 2-2 of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a section view along lines 3-3 of Figure 1.
Figures 4a-c are sectional elevational views of an alternative embodiment suitable for wireline applications for downhole mi~in~
Figure 5 is a section along lines 5-5 of Figure 4.
21 ~ 4 1 74 net~iled nescr~tion of the Plefelled F.mbolliment The apparatus A is shown in Figure 1. A top sub 10 has an inlet pipe 12 connected thereto. Top sub 10 is co ~nected to body 14 at thread 16. Seal 18 seals the co~ r~l;on between top sub 10 and body 14. Body 14 is connecte~l to bottom sub 20 at thread 22. Seal 24 seals the threaded connectinn ~djac~-nt to thread 22.
Bottom sub 20 has an outlet 26 which is con~erted to an outlet tube 28. A known in-line mixer 30 is integral to and within tube 28. The mixed chemicals, s~h~m~t-ically replese-~ed as 32, exit the outlet tube 28 and are directed to that portion in the well where they will be allowed to set up, such as a bridge plug, an e~err~lcasing packer, or another downhole application.
The apparatus A, as shown in Figure 1, is co ~ red for mi~ing of two elements but can be configured for mi~in~ any number of elements without depart-ing from the spirit of the invention. The first element is preferably placed at the surface into ~nm~l~r chamber 34, while the second is simil~rly placed in tube 36.
A piston 38 is sealed against body 14 by seal 40 and against tube 36 by seal 42.Piston 38 is e~senti~lly in pres~ule balance despite the depth of the a~aralus A in the wellbore. Tube 36 is ci~ ;bed by annular chamber 34 in the plefelled embodiment, but other configurations of m~ten~l storage involving disclete com-partments may be used without dep~ling from the spirit of the invention.
Support plate 44 is con~ecte~ to piston 38 by a series of studs 46. In the gap between support plate 44 and piston 38 are splitter blade or blades 48. In the preferred embodiment, the blades are inclined with lesp~1 to the a~is of tube 36.
Above piston 38 tube 36 is fra~..e--ted into scg..~e~ 50. As shown in Figure 2, in the l~r~f~,led embodi~eAt there are three segments 50 at 120 spacing. Each segment 50 iS let~;"ed by a letai~el 52 after it e~en~1s through end plate 54 (see Figure 1), and plate 54 is 1~ ta-hed bet veen top sub 10 and body 14. AccorJingly, the tube segments 50 are under tension between end plate 54 and piston 38. The 2~ 7 4 1 74 lower end of tube 36 extends through bottom plate 56 and is ret-q-ine~ by retainers 58. Bottom plate 56 can have temporary seals 60 to retain the con~titue-nt within tube 36 or qnmllqr chamber 34 until such time as they are ready to be mixed.
Seals 60 can be lU~)tUle discs of a known type which can be prescored to break S cleanly on increasing dirr~ reutial pr~ule. Below bottom plate 56 is a mi~ringchamber 62, followed by a mixing plate 64. Mixing plate 64 can be a plate with randomly located holes through which the mq~eriql can flow. After the milring plate is another mi~ing zone 66, ultimq~ly le~ ~ing to the outlet 26.
The coulpollents of the apparatus A now having been described, its operation 10 will be reviewed. The ~Jalalus A is fully v~se!nbled in the position shown inFigure 1 by the initial addition of the compound or compounds to be mixed down-hole. In a typical application, the qnnl)lqr space 34 may conhin a cementitious material while the tube 36 may conhin an e~pqn-1in~ agent~ such that upon mi~ring of the components from qnnlllqr space 34 and tube 36, the mixture will initiate 15 e~pqncion of the mixed medium. This can be particularly useful when using themixture to inflate and perm-q-n~ntly set a packer or bridge plug. The ~pqnrling capability of the ingredients stored in tube 36 assists in mqintqining the bridge plug or packer in the inflqted con~lition as the m-q-tPriql of the mixture sets up. The apparatus and method can be used to mix any mq~eriql~, and the specific selection 20 of materials is independe-nt of the described invention.
Typically, the a~alus A is used in conjullclion witn a downhole pres~ur~
souroe, such as a motor and a fluid pump (not shown), whose output is co--nl~t~
to inlet pipe 12. Ultimately, ~les iule builds on piston 38. The studs 46 keep the support plate 44 at a fixed ~ tqn~e from the piston 38. As previously stated, the 25 support plate 44 also suppolb the blade or blades 48. As the pr~iUle arises above piston 38, it will begin to move. Mov~_u,el,t of piston 38 will result in a longitudinal cut or cuts in tube 36 as piston 38 progresses. These longitu~1inql cuts ~174174 &cilitate the dowllw~d movement of plate 44 whose initial movement begins on segments 50. Accordingly, in order to avoid getting plate 44 into a bind, adv~n~e---~e-nt of the piston 38 slices through tube 36, which may itself be prescored to assist in the cutting operation of the blades 48. To the extent there are S temporary seals 60 employed adjacent the bottom plate 56, dowu~rd movement of the piston 44 builds up ~es~ule in ~nn~ r space 34 and tube 36. In response to the ~,.es~e build-up, the tenll)or~ seals 60 are broken and the m~tPri~l thatis stored in annular space 34 and tube 36 is pushed outwardly through bottom plate 56 and mi~ing plate 64. Mixing plate 64 can be a plate with a plurality of 10 opening~, all of which promote mi~ing of the ~r ctitllents as they are pllehed out from annular space 34 and tube 36. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that a multiplicity of tubes can be deployed in the body 14 without departing from the spirit of the invention. The operation with a multiplicity of tubes would be similar to that shown in the apparatus A of Figure 1, except that a greater number of 15 elements could be mixed. The mi~ing plate 64 then further encourages mi~ing in the mix zone 66 before the mixture enters outlet 26. Thereafter, an in-line static mixer 30 can be employed of a type well-known in the art to further ensure thorough mixing prior to conducting the mixture of chemicals 32 to the bridge plug, or external casing packer, or other zone in the wellbore for deposition and 20 hardçnin~
Those skilled in the art will appl~iate that the stroke of piston 38 displaces at a fixed volu~ ic ratio as bct~n the tube 36 and the ~nn~ r space 34. While two unique areas for two discrete c~ml~ne--ts have been described in Figure 1, the apparatus A can be used to store a single co~ vPnt and then be further used to 25 pump that con~lilue~t out of the body 14 by displacing piston 38 to introduce a single co~liluent into a bridge plug, packer, or other downhole use.
4 ~ 7 4 In one particular application of the apparatus A, the annular space 34 can contain a c~ e~t while the tube 36 contains a hardenin~/e~r~n~lin~ additive and/or a liquid gas g~nelator. The cementitious material in annular space 34 does not normally set up until several hours have elapsed. However, when mixed with the S material in tube 36, the cure time is reduced to only a few hours. However, since the mising occurs downhole adjacent the point of use, a few hours is more than enough to adequately pump the n~ Iulc to the place of its final ~estin~tion. On the other hand, if difficulties develop prior to the initiation of the mi~ing of thecomponents, all the com~entc can be withdrawn from the wellbore until such 10 operational difficulties are repaired. Once the repairs are made, the same con-stituents (or newly prepared co~liluents) can be rerun into the wellbore and used as inten~e~ by employing the downhole mi~ing appalalus. Accordingly, the appa-ratus A adds flexibility in performing workover operations, such as in~lling infl~talQle packers for permanent zonal isolation, or using such chemicals downhole 15 as part of a remedial and stimulation program, or for m~intenance or other tasks downhole. The app~alus A can be used with one or more pumps con~e~te$~ to one or more inlets 12. Each con~liluent can be sepalately defined in a tube or an annular space and nctu~te~ by a pump or pumps (not shown). Electronic sensors can be employed with the a~a~alus A to communicate the position of piston 38 20 and transmit information to the surface in a m~nner well known in the art.
Figures 4 and 5 illustrate an ~ltern~tive embodiment of the appalalus and method of the p~esent invention particularly suited for wireline applications. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that typical wireline applications involve a lubricator of a fL~ed length, usually appro~im3tely 40 feet, through which the tools 25 must be lowered. The appalalus of the presel,t invention, as illustrated in Figures 4a~, ac~ol.. odates a way of inse,lih~g through a lubdcator a tool that may actually have to exceed the overall length of the lubricator.
21~41~
As shown in Figure 4a, the wireline 80 supports a downhole pump 82, the output of which is controlled through a control module 84. The control module includes one or more solenoid valves 86 which can direct the output of pump 82 selectively into flow channels 88 or 90, as shown in Figure 5. In the assembly shown in Figures 4a-c, a plurality of ingredient modules are illustrated. A series of modules 92-98 are illustrated to house the more plentiful ingredient.
Accordingly, more of those modules exist than for the second ingredient repres~-ntçd by module 100. In Figures 4a-c, module 100 is connected to flow ch~nnel 90 while modules 92-98 are all aligned to flow ch~nnel 88. The pump 82, in combination with the solenoid valves 86 and control module 84, which includeslogic circuits, microprocessors and timers, can direct flow into flow channel 88 or 90 on a time basis. By directing the output of pump 82 into flow c-h~nnel 88, the volumetric displacement of pump 82 is applied to pistons 102, 104, 106, and 108,c~n~ing all these pistons for the initial component to move in t~nde-m Below each piston 102-108 is a storage location to house the initial ingredient. The storage locations are indicated as 110-116. Each of these storage locations 110-116 has,resyectively, an outlet 118-124 which is initially sealed from the outlet path 126 which extends through all the components. In a similar m~nner, module 100 contains the other ingredient to be mixed and has in it a piston 128 over a storage co~llp~lnlent 130, which ultimately opens into the mixing path 127 upon movementof the piston 128. The pump 82 can selectively drive piston 128 through flow ch~nnel 90 for a particular predetermined time and then ~ltçrn~te to driving theother pistons 102-108 through flow channel 88 for a dirrclellt time. Since the pump used is preferably of a fixed volumetric delivery per unit time, ac~;u~ate mixin~ can be accomplished by judicious control of the solenoid(s) 86 so that what is delivered to mixer 132 is the plecise mix desired, wheleul)o.l the mixture exits the mixer 132 and goes directly into the downhole tool 134.
21 74~ /4 Optionally, deployment bars such as 136 and 138 can be used to facilitate the introduction of the apparatus illustrated in Figure 4 through a lubricator which may be shorter than the combined length of the a~)p~alL~S. The deplo)~ ,nt bars 211ow isolation of the well when wellhead rams seal around the bars to facilit~te S their introduction through a lubricator which does not exceed the overall length of the apparatus in a m~nner that is commonly known in the art. The development bars 136 and 138 merely carry through them the pqcs?g~ from the solenoid(s) 86 to provide flow continuity internally between the assembled modules. Those skilled in the art will a~leciate that dirrcrcnt numbers of modules can be deployed 10 without departing from the spirit of the invention. One, two, or more ingredients can be mixed as desired with the proper sequçnrin~ and control of the solenoid(s).
The apparatus is ideally suited for wireline applications, which allows the m~tçri~lc to be mixed to be positioned adjacent the downhole tool 134 in a rapid m~nner.
The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention are illustrative and 15 explanatory thereof, and various changes in the size, shape and m~tçri~l~, as well as in the details of the illustrated construction, may be made without d~ning from the spirit of the invention.
~ - - \349 ~
Inventors: J. ROBERT BAILEY, RUSTOM K. MODY, AND
RlCHARD G. VAN BUSKIRK
Field of the ~nvention The field of this invention relates to mi~ing te~chniques and an apparatus for combining materials downhole.
5 R~r~otlnrl Of the Invention In the past, various materials have been used in cementin~ downhole.
~e.n~--.t;..g has involved not only the filling of or around c~cinge downhole, but also infl~t~ble plugs or e~ernql casing par~ers which are infl~ted with a cementmaterial and are desi~ed to be in place permanently. If the various materials m~king up the cement slurry are premixed at the sll~c~ and then spotted where ne~e~ downhole, sufficient time to pro~ll~ spot the mixture may not be availablebefore the slurry begins to solidify. This presents problems for the operator if any problems are encountered during run-in with the cnnetituent colnponents already premixed. If the slurry hardens before the job can be done, then time and money will be lost. For e~ .ple, the inflqting and setting medium for an inflqt~ble bridge plug, if premixed at the sl~ce, has a typical working time of 2-8 hours before it begins to harden to the point of un~ n-pability. Many other downhole applic~tion~
using materials which are initially pumpable and by design later solidify in loc~qtione desired by the operator, also create this time concern.
The~ee time concerns of spotting the hardening materiql in the position ne~eSsq~ ~ prior to its re~ching a condition where it is difficult to move or pump are alleviated by the al)p~alus and method of the present invention. The apparatus _nd method allow for storage and separation of constituent components while positi~m-ing the apparatus adjacent the area where such m~terql~ are to be used. The apparatus and method then provide for mi~ing of the con~liluent components 21 ~4 1 7 4 downhole. The mi~ing is not initiated until the constituent ingredients are properl~
located downhole and all systems are found to be in good working order. The app~ralus and method contc.,lplate the mixing of the ingredients and the dilC~ lg of such ingredients to the particular location where the combination can solidify as desired.
Sllmm~y of the Tnve~tion The invention discloses an apparatus for storing one or more consliluents in a downhole tool. The con~lilucnts are segregated from each other until such tirne as the tool is achlate~. At that time, the con.ctituentc are forced from their storage position and mixed as they are pushed through an isostatic mi~ing tube to the infl~t~le tool. The resultant mix is then directed to the location where the mixture will finally be placed for eventual solidification. The apparatus and method areuseful for inflation of bridge plugs or ç~ern~l casing packers, as well as otherdownhole applications. Significant process control is given to the surface operator prior to initiation of reaction of the co~liluent elements by holding sep~te theingredients until shOnly before they are mixed and directed to their final desd-nation. Should a problem arise prior to ~nixinE, the unmixed ingredients can be withdrawn from the wellbore without complication.
Rrief nes~ tio~ of the nrawir~c Figures la-b are se~;tional elevational views of the appalalus.
Figure 2 is a section view along lines 2-2 of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a section view along lines 3-3 of Figure 1.
Figures 4a-c are sectional elevational views of an alternative embodiment suitable for wireline applications for downhole mi~in~
Figure 5 is a section along lines 5-5 of Figure 4.
21 ~ 4 1 74 net~iled nescr~tion of the Plefelled F.mbolliment The apparatus A is shown in Figure 1. A top sub 10 has an inlet pipe 12 connected thereto. Top sub 10 is co ~nected to body 14 at thread 16. Seal 18 seals the co~ r~l;on between top sub 10 and body 14. Body 14 is connecte~l to bottom sub 20 at thread 22. Seal 24 seals the threaded connectinn ~djac~-nt to thread 22.
Bottom sub 20 has an outlet 26 which is con~erted to an outlet tube 28. A known in-line mixer 30 is integral to and within tube 28. The mixed chemicals, s~h~m~t-ically replese-~ed as 32, exit the outlet tube 28 and are directed to that portion in the well where they will be allowed to set up, such as a bridge plug, an e~err~lcasing packer, or another downhole application.
The apparatus A, as shown in Figure 1, is co ~ red for mi~ing of two elements but can be configured for mi~in~ any number of elements without depart-ing from the spirit of the invention. The first element is preferably placed at the surface into ~nm~l~r chamber 34, while the second is simil~rly placed in tube 36.
A piston 38 is sealed against body 14 by seal 40 and against tube 36 by seal 42.Piston 38 is e~senti~lly in pres~ule balance despite the depth of the a~aralus A in the wellbore. Tube 36 is ci~ ;bed by annular chamber 34 in the plefelled embodiment, but other configurations of m~ten~l storage involving disclete com-partments may be used without dep~ling from the spirit of the invention.
Support plate 44 is con~ecte~ to piston 38 by a series of studs 46. In the gap between support plate 44 and piston 38 are splitter blade or blades 48. In the preferred embodiment, the blades are inclined with lesp~1 to the a~is of tube 36.
Above piston 38 tube 36 is fra~..e--ted into scg..~e~ 50. As shown in Figure 2, in the l~r~f~,led embodi~eAt there are three segments 50 at 120 spacing. Each segment 50 iS let~;"ed by a letai~el 52 after it e~en~1s through end plate 54 (see Figure 1), and plate 54 is 1~ ta-hed bet veen top sub 10 and body 14. AccorJingly, the tube segments 50 are under tension between end plate 54 and piston 38. The 2~ 7 4 1 74 lower end of tube 36 extends through bottom plate 56 and is ret-q-ine~ by retainers 58. Bottom plate 56 can have temporary seals 60 to retain the con~titue-nt within tube 36 or qnmllqr chamber 34 until such time as they are ready to be mixed.
Seals 60 can be lU~)tUle discs of a known type which can be prescored to break S cleanly on increasing dirr~ reutial pr~ule. Below bottom plate 56 is a mi~ringchamber 62, followed by a mixing plate 64. Mixing plate 64 can be a plate with randomly located holes through which the mq~eriql can flow. After the milring plate is another mi~ing zone 66, ultimq~ly le~ ~ing to the outlet 26.
The coulpollents of the apparatus A now having been described, its operation 10 will be reviewed. The ~Jalalus A is fully v~se!nbled in the position shown inFigure 1 by the initial addition of the compound or compounds to be mixed down-hole. In a typical application, the qnnl)lqr space 34 may conhin a cementitious material while the tube 36 may conhin an e~pqn-1in~ agent~ such that upon mi~ring of the components from qnnlllqr space 34 and tube 36, the mixture will initiate 15 e~pqncion of the mixed medium. This can be particularly useful when using themixture to inflate and perm-q-n~ntly set a packer or bridge plug. The ~pqnrling capability of the ingredients stored in tube 36 assists in mqintqining the bridge plug or packer in the inflqted con~lition as the m-q-tPriql of the mixture sets up. The apparatus and method can be used to mix any mq~eriql~, and the specific selection 20 of materials is independe-nt of the described invention.
Typically, the a~alus A is used in conjullclion witn a downhole pres~ur~
souroe, such as a motor and a fluid pump (not shown), whose output is co--nl~t~
to inlet pipe 12. Ultimately, ~les iule builds on piston 38. The studs 46 keep the support plate 44 at a fixed ~ tqn~e from the piston 38. As previously stated, the 25 support plate 44 also suppolb the blade or blades 48. As the pr~iUle arises above piston 38, it will begin to move. Mov~_u,el,t of piston 38 will result in a longitudinal cut or cuts in tube 36 as piston 38 progresses. These longitu~1inql cuts ~174174 &cilitate the dowllw~d movement of plate 44 whose initial movement begins on segments 50. Accordingly, in order to avoid getting plate 44 into a bind, adv~n~e---~e-nt of the piston 38 slices through tube 36, which may itself be prescored to assist in the cutting operation of the blades 48. To the extent there are S temporary seals 60 employed adjacent the bottom plate 56, dowu~rd movement of the piston 44 builds up ~es~ule in ~nn~ r space 34 and tube 36. In response to the ~,.es~e build-up, the tenll)or~ seals 60 are broken and the m~tPri~l thatis stored in annular space 34 and tube 36 is pushed outwardly through bottom plate 56 and mi~ing plate 64. Mixing plate 64 can be a plate with a plurality of 10 opening~, all of which promote mi~ing of the ~r ctitllents as they are pllehed out from annular space 34 and tube 36. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that a multiplicity of tubes can be deployed in the body 14 without departing from the spirit of the invention. The operation with a multiplicity of tubes would be similar to that shown in the apparatus A of Figure 1, except that a greater number of 15 elements could be mixed. The mi~ing plate 64 then further encourages mi~ing in the mix zone 66 before the mixture enters outlet 26. Thereafter, an in-line static mixer 30 can be employed of a type well-known in the art to further ensure thorough mixing prior to conducting the mixture of chemicals 32 to the bridge plug, or external casing packer, or other zone in the wellbore for deposition and 20 hardçnin~
Those skilled in the art will appl~iate that the stroke of piston 38 displaces at a fixed volu~ ic ratio as bct~n the tube 36 and the ~nn~ r space 34. While two unique areas for two discrete c~ml~ne--ts have been described in Figure 1, the apparatus A can be used to store a single co~ vPnt and then be further used to 25 pump that con~lilue~t out of the body 14 by displacing piston 38 to introduce a single co~liluent into a bridge plug, packer, or other downhole use.
4 ~ 7 4 In one particular application of the apparatus A, the annular space 34 can contain a c~ e~t while the tube 36 contains a hardenin~/e~r~n~lin~ additive and/or a liquid gas g~nelator. The cementitious material in annular space 34 does not normally set up until several hours have elapsed. However, when mixed with the S material in tube 36, the cure time is reduced to only a few hours. However, since the mising occurs downhole adjacent the point of use, a few hours is more than enough to adequately pump the n~ Iulc to the place of its final ~estin~tion. On the other hand, if difficulties develop prior to the initiation of the mi~ing of thecomponents, all the com~entc can be withdrawn from the wellbore until such 10 operational difficulties are repaired. Once the repairs are made, the same con-stituents (or newly prepared co~liluents) can be rerun into the wellbore and used as inten~e~ by employing the downhole mi~ing appalalus. Accordingly, the appa-ratus A adds flexibility in performing workover operations, such as in~lling infl~talQle packers for permanent zonal isolation, or using such chemicals downhole 15 as part of a remedial and stimulation program, or for m~intenance or other tasks downhole. The app~alus A can be used with one or more pumps con~e~te$~ to one or more inlets 12. Each con~liluent can be sepalately defined in a tube or an annular space and nctu~te~ by a pump or pumps (not shown). Electronic sensors can be employed with the a~a~alus A to communicate the position of piston 38 20 and transmit information to the surface in a m~nner well known in the art.
Figures 4 and 5 illustrate an ~ltern~tive embodiment of the appalalus and method of the p~esent invention particularly suited for wireline applications. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that typical wireline applications involve a lubricator of a fL~ed length, usually appro~im3tely 40 feet, through which the tools 25 must be lowered. The appalalus of the presel,t invention, as illustrated in Figures 4a~, ac~ol.. odates a way of inse,lih~g through a lubdcator a tool that may actually have to exceed the overall length of the lubricator.
21~41~
As shown in Figure 4a, the wireline 80 supports a downhole pump 82, the output of which is controlled through a control module 84. The control module includes one or more solenoid valves 86 which can direct the output of pump 82 selectively into flow channels 88 or 90, as shown in Figure 5. In the assembly shown in Figures 4a-c, a plurality of ingredient modules are illustrated. A series of modules 92-98 are illustrated to house the more plentiful ingredient.
Accordingly, more of those modules exist than for the second ingredient repres~-ntçd by module 100. In Figures 4a-c, module 100 is connected to flow ch~nnel 90 while modules 92-98 are all aligned to flow ch~nnel 88. The pump 82, in combination with the solenoid valves 86 and control module 84, which includeslogic circuits, microprocessors and timers, can direct flow into flow channel 88 or 90 on a time basis. By directing the output of pump 82 into flow c-h~nnel 88, the volumetric displacement of pump 82 is applied to pistons 102, 104, 106, and 108,c~n~ing all these pistons for the initial component to move in t~nde-m Below each piston 102-108 is a storage location to house the initial ingredient. The storage locations are indicated as 110-116. Each of these storage locations 110-116 has,resyectively, an outlet 118-124 which is initially sealed from the outlet path 126 which extends through all the components. In a similar m~nner, module 100 contains the other ingredient to be mixed and has in it a piston 128 over a storage co~llp~lnlent 130, which ultimately opens into the mixing path 127 upon movementof the piston 128. The pump 82 can selectively drive piston 128 through flow ch~nnel 90 for a particular predetermined time and then ~ltçrn~te to driving theother pistons 102-108 through flow channel 88 for a dirrclellt time. Since the pump used is preferably of a fixed volumetric delivery per unit time, ac~;u~ate mixin~ can be accomplished by judicious control of the solenoid(s) 86 so that what is delivered to mixer 132 is the plecise mix desired, wheleul)o.l the mixture exits the mixer 132 and goes directly into the downhole tool 134.
21 74~ /4 Optionally, deployment bars such as 136 and 138 can be used to facilitate the introduction of the apparatus illustrated in Figure 4 through a lubricator which may be shorter than the combined length of the a~)p~alL~S. The deplo)~ ,nt bars 211ow isolation of the well when wellhead rams seal around the bars to facilit~te S their introduction through a lubricator which does not exceed the overall length of the apparatus in a m~nner that is commonly known in the art. The development bars 136 and 138 merely carry through them the pqcs?g~ from the solenoid(s) 86 to provide flow continuity internally between the assembled modules. Those skilled in the art will a~leciate that dirrcrcnt numbers of modules can be deployed 10 without departing from the spirit of the invention. One, two, or more ingredients can be mixed as desired with the proper sequçnrin~ and control of the solenoid(s).
The apparatus is ideally suited for wireline applications, which allows the m~tçri~lc to be mixed to be positioned adjacent the downhole tool 134 in a rapid m~nner.
The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention are illustrative and 15 explanatory thereof, and various changes in the size, shape and m~tçri~l~, as well as in the details of the illustrated construction, may be made without d~ning from the spirit of the invention.
~ - - \349 ~
Claims (24)
1. A method of mixing at least a first and second material downhole, comprising the steps of:
loading said first material in a first compartment in a tool body;
loading said second material in a second compartment in a tool body initially isolated from said first compartment;
lowering the tool into a wellbore; and initiating mixing of said first and second materials downhole.
loading said first material in a first compartment in a tool body;
loading said second material in a second compartment in a tool body initially isolated from said first compartment;
lowering the tool into a wellbore; and initiating mixing of said first and second materials downhole.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of:
applying pressure to said first and second compartments; and displacing said first and second chemicals from said first and second compartments in a predetermined volume relation to each other.
applying pressure to said first and second compartments; and displacing said first and second chemicals from said first and second compartments in a predetermined volume relation to each other.
3. The method of claim 2, further comprising the step of:
nesting one of said first and second compartments within the other.
nesting one of said first and second compartments within the other.
4. The method of claim 2, further comprising the step of:
using a common piston to apply pressure to said first and second compart-ments.
using a common piston to apply pressure to said first and second compart-ments.
5. The method of claim 4, further comprising the step of:
nesting one of said first and second compartments within the other.
nesting one of said first and second compartments within the other.
6. The method of claim 5, further comprising the step of:
providing at least one tube as said first compartment with an annulus around said tube as said second compartment.
providing at least one tube as said first compartment with an annulus around said tube as said second compartment.
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising the steps of:
extending said tube longitudinally through said piston; and continuing said tube in longitudinal segments beyond said piston.
extending said tube longitudinally through said piston; and continuing said tube in longitudinal segments beyond said piston.
8. The method of claim 7, further comprising the steps of:
providing at least one cutter on said piston; and longitudinally cutting said tube with said cutter to facilitate piston advancement.
providing at least one cutter on said piston; and longitudinally cutting said tube with said cutter to facilitate piston advancement.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of:
maintaining said tube in tension while said piston is advancing.
maintaining said tube in tension while said piston is advancing.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of:
creating flow communication within the body of the tool between said tube and said annulus as a result of piston movement.
creating flow communication within the body of the tool between said tube and said annulus as a result of piston movement.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising the step of:
providing a mixing plate in said tool body to allow said chemicals to mix as a result of passing therethrough.
providing a mixing plate in said tool body to allow said chemicals to mix as a result of passing therethrough.
12. The method of claim 11, further comprising the step of:
providing an in-line mixer at the outlet of said tool body.
providing an in-line mixer at the outlet of said tool body.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of:
moving said piston with fluid pressure.
moving said piston with fluid pressure.
14. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of:
supporting said cutter on a support plate connected to and spaced apart from said piston.
supporting said cutter on a support plate connected to and spaced apart from said piston.
15. A injection apparatus for delivering at least one material to a desired position downhole, comprising:
a body defining at least one compartment therein;
a piston in said body movably mounted therein to reduce the volume of said compartment and drive out of said compartment a material initially stored therein; and means for selectively actuating said piston when said body is posi-tioned downhole.
a body defining at least one compartment therein;
a piston in said body movably mounted therein to reduce the volume of said compartment and drive out of said compartment a material initially stored therein; and means for selectively actuating said piston when said body is posi-tioned downhole.
16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising:
at least two compartments selectively isolated from each other;
whereupon actuation of said piston, material is delivered from each compartment in a predetermined volume ratio.
at least two compartments selectively isolated from each other;
whereupon actuation of said piston, material is delivered from each compartment in a predetermined volume ratio.
17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein:
said piston reduces the stored volume of said compartments in tandem.
said piston reduces the stored volume of said compartments in tandem.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein:
said compartments are nested one within the other, with said first compartment comprising a tube and said second compartment comprising the surrounding annulus; and said tube extends through said piston and is retained in tension in said body.
said compartments are nested one within the other, with said first compartment comprising a tube and said second compartment comprising the surrounding annulus; and said tube extends through said piston and is retained in tension in said body.
19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein:
said tube extends in longitudinal segments beyond said piston;
said piston further comprising at least one cutter; and said cutter cutting said tube longitudinally in response to piston progress.
said tube extends in longitudinal segments beyond said piston;
said piston further comprising at least one cutter; and said cutter cutting said tube longitudinally in response to piston progress.
20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein:
said body further comprises a mixing plate therein to facilitate mixing;
said compartments initially isolated from each other by a breakable member on each compartment which breaks as a result of piston movement reducing the volume of said compartments; and said mixing plate further promoting mixing in said body as the material from each compartment passes therethrough.
said body further comprises a mixing plate therein to facilitate mixing;
said compartments initially isolated from each other by a breakable member on each compartment which breaks as a result of piston movement reducing the volume of said compartments; and said mixing plate further promoting mixing in said body as the material from each compartment passes therethrough.
21. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of:
mounting the tool on a wireline; and using a downhole pump to initiate said mixing.
mounting the tool on a wireline; and using a downhole pump to initiate said mixing.
22. The method of claim 21, further comprising the steps of:
using sequencing valves to direct output of said pump;
using a constant volume delivery pump; and controlling by volume the mixture between said first and second materials by time control of said sequence valves.
using sequencing valves to direct output of said pump;
using a constant volume delivery pump; and controlling by volume the mixture between said first and second materials by time control of said sequence valves.
23. The method of claim 21, further comprising the steps of:
using a static mixer to mix the first and second materials after they are displaced from said first and second compartments; and directing the mixed materials from the static mixer into a downhole tool.
using a static mixer to mix the first and second materials after they are displaced from said first and second compartments; and directing the mixed materials from the static mixer into a downhole tool.
24. The method of claim 23, further comprising the steps of:
using a gas-generating material as one of the materials to be mixed;
adding the mixed materials from said static mixer to a packer; and using the gas-generating material to hold packer inflation as the mixed materials in the packer harden.
using a gas-generating material as one of the materials to be mixed;
adding the mixed materials from said static mixer to a packer; and using the gas-generating material to hold packer inflation as the mixed materials in the packer harden.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/424,158 | 1995-04-17 | ||
| US08/424,158 US5582251A (en) | 1995-04-17 | 1995-04-17 | Downhole mixer |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2174174A1 true CA2174174A1 (en) | 1996-10-18 |
Family
ID=23681687
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002174174A Abandoned CA2174174A1 (en) | 1995-04-17 | 1996-04-15 | Downhole mixer |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5582251A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU709878B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2174174A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2300015B (en) |
| NO (1) | NO311540B1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (26)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NO308424B1 (en) * | 1998-12-10 | 2000-09-11 | Reslink As | Device for tools for setting a radially expandable gasket |
| US6341654B1 (en) * | 1999-04-15 | 2002-01-29 | Weatherford/Lamb, Inc. | Inflatable packer setting tool assembly |
| CA2331473A1 (en) * | 2000-01-20 | 2001-07-20 | Robert Bradley Cook | Fluid injection apparatus and method with controlled volume displacement for use in subterranean wells |
| US7281576B2 (en) * | 2004-03-12 | 2007-10-16 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Apparatus and methods for sealing voids in a subterranean formation |
| ATE370310T1 (en) * | 2004-10-12 | 2007-09-15 | Schlumberger Technology Bv | INJECTION DEVICE FOR BOREHOLE INJECTION OF AN ACTIVATED FLUID |
| ATE389096T1 (en) * | 2004-11-02 | 2008-03-15 | Schlumberger Technology Bv | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR BOREHOLE TREATMENT |
| US7798222B2 (en) * | 2006-11-01 | 2010-09-21 | Conocophillips Company | Expandable fluid cement sand control |
| DK178742B1 (en) | 2008-03-06 | 2016-12-19 | Maersk Olie & Gas | Method and apparatus for injecting one or more treatment fluids down into a borehole |
| DK178243B1 (en) | 2008-03-06 | 2015-09-28 | Mærsk Olie Og Gas As | Fremgangsmåde til forsegling af en ringformet åbning i et borehul |
| DK178489B1 (en) * | 2008-03-13 | 2016-04-18 | Maersk Olie & Gas | Tools and methods for sealing openings or leaks in a wellbore |
| NO334525B1 (en) * | 2011-02-28 | 2014-03-31 | Archer Norge As | Method and apparatus for locally supplying treatment fluid to a well portion |
| WO2012145488A2 (en) | 2011-04-20 | 2012-10-26 | Smith International, Inc. | System and method for deploying a downhole casing patch |
| US9010428B2 (en) | 2011-09-06 | 2015-04-21 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Swelling acceleration using inductively heated and embedded particles in a subterranean tool |
| US8893792B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2014-11-25 | Baker Hughes Incorporated | Enhancing swelling rate for subterranean packers and screens |
| RU2014121047A (en) * | 2011-11-30 | 2016-01-27 | Аймдекс Лимитед | Cement grout delivery |
| US9194199B2 (en) * | 2012-12-10 | 2015-11-24 | John Pantano | Methods and systems of down-hole reagent processing and deployment |
| US9702680B2 (en) | 2013-07-18 | 2017-07-11 | Dynaenergetics Gmbh & Co. Kg | Perforation gun components and system |
| AP2016009593A0 (en) | 2014-05-19 | 2016-11-30 | Reflex Tech Int Pty Ltd | Grout delivery |
| US9810049B2 (en) | 2014-06-25 | 2017-11-07 | Chevron U.S.A. Inc. | Systems and methods for inline chemical injection for dump flood water injectors |
| GB2544011B (en) * | 2014-10-03 | 2019-06-12 | Qinterra Tech As | Wireline operated dump bailer and method for unloading of material in a well |
| EP3051057A1 (en) * | 2015-01-30 | 2016-08-03 | Services Pétroliers Schlumberger | A cementing apparatus and system for cementing a wellbore |
| GB2562389B (en) * | 2016-03-08 | 2022-03-02 | Halliburton Energy Services Inc | Rapid setting in situ cement plugs |
| US10273563B2 (en) * | 2017-05-10 | 2019-04-30 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | Mixer for producing and solidifying an alloy in a subterranean reservoir |
| US11149509B2 (en) | 2019-12-17 | 2021-10-19 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Trojan drill pipe |
| CN111577359B (en) * | 2020-04-07 | 2022-05-24 | 山西海洁机电科技有限公司 | Energy storage anchor rod and anchoring and grouting method |
| US11655687B2 (en) | 2020-10-23 | 2023-05-23 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Modular additive cementing |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3153449A (en) * | 1960-03-30 | 1964-10-20 | Schlumberger Well Surv Corp | Method and apparatus for completing a well |
| US3347315A (en) * | 1965-04-29 | 1967-10-17 | Schlumberger Technology Corp | Methods for well completion |
| US3348621A (en) * | 1965-04-29 | 1967-10-24 | Schlumberger Technology Corp | Apparatus for well completion |
| US3709296A (en) * | 1971-01-11 | 1973-01-09 | Triangle Service Inc | Well bore zone plugging method and apparatus |
| US3692106A (en) * | 1971-04-12 | 1972-09-19 | Edward R Basham | Apparatus for ejecting fluid in a borehole |
| US4064941A (en) * | 1976-08-02 | 1977-12-27 | Smith Donald M | Apparatus and method for mixing separated fluids downhole |
| DE3152743C2 (en) * | 1981-02-23 | 1985-04-11 | Proizvodstvennoe geologičeskoe ob"edinenie central'nych rajonov "Centrgeologija", Moskva | Equipment for the transport and processing of sealing and cementation materials in a given borehole interval |
| SU1048109A1 (en) * | 1981-03-25 | 1983-10-15 | Ленинградский Ордена Ленина,Ордена Октябрьской Революции И Ордена Трудового Красного Знамени Горный Институт Им.Г.В.Плеханова | Arrangement for isolating hazard zones in wells |
| US4415269A (en) * | 1981-04-28 | 1983-11-15 | Fraser Ward M | Device for providing a reinforced foam lining for well bore holes |
| US4739829A (en) * | 1986-12-11 | 1988-04-26 | Brunner Travis J | Wireline operated oil well dump bailer |
-
1995
- 1995-04-17 US US08/424,158 patent/US5582251A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1996
- 1996-04-15 CA CA002174174A patent/CA2174174A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1996-04-16 NO NO19961505A patent/NO311540B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1996-04-16 AU AU50659/96A patent/AU709878B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1996-04-17 GB GB9607924A patent/GB2300015B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US5582251A (en) | 1996-12-10 |
| AU5065996A (en) | 1996-10-31 |
| NO961505D0 (en) | 1996-04-16 |
| GB2300015B (en) | 1998-10-14 |
| NO311540B1 (en) | 2001-12-03 |
| NO961505L (en) | 1996-10-18 |
| GB9607924D0 (en) | 1996-06-19 |
| GB2300015A (en) | 1996-10-23 |
| AU709878B2 (en) | 1999-09-09 |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |