Abstract:
Maximum penetration of coiled tubing in extended reach horizontal wellbores is significantly increased by using a continuously tapered portion of coiled tubing. In particular, the tubing wall thickness is continuously tapered such that the well thickness gradually decreases toward the far end of the coiled tubing. The exterior dimension remains constant while the internal diameter gradually increases. The non-linear thickness profile of the tubing is optimized for extended reach in horizontal wellbores. In some cases, the thickness profile is optimized for providing a uniform axial strain on the tubing in the horizontal section of the well.
Abstract:
A method of estimating extended reach for a downhole line traversing a deviated section of a well. The method may include storing line and well architectural and physical data and then performing a static analysis of substantially axial-exclusive estimated friction between the line and well wall during conveyance (which may be thought of as the contact force due to interference therebetween). A one dimensional dynamic analysis may then be performed. Thus, based on these factors, speed of the conveyance, vibration parameters of an incorporated vibration tool, etc., an efficient simulation of the conveyance may be run.
Abstract:
Embodiments may include methods that include emplacing a degradable material into a wellbore, wherein the degradable material includes a thermoplastic elastomer; contacting the degradable material with an aqueous fluid downhole; and allowing the degradable material to at least partially degrade. In another aspect, methods may include emplacing into a wellbore a tool containing a sealing element thereon, wherein the sealing element contains a degradable material; engaging the sealing element with a downhole surface to establish a seal; contacting the sealing element with an aqueous fluid; and allowing the sealing element to at least partially degrade, thereby disrupting the established seal.
Abstract:
An acoustic logging tool is provided with a first acoustic source that generates an acoustic signal primarily directed into the formation, the acoustic signal including a noise signal carried axially along the tool, a second acoustic source adapted to generate a noise canceling signal along the tool that actively and significantly cancels the noise signal, and a plurality of acoustic sensors axially spaced from each other along the tool and spaced from the first acoustic source and the second acoustic source. The acoustic sensors receive and record indications of pressure signals resulting from the acoustic signal and the noise canceling signal. The pressure signal indications may be processed in order to generate information regarding the formation.
Abstract:
A system for selectively actuating sliding valves includes a segmented sleeve exhibiting a rocking (or pivoting) function. The rocking allows the bottom end of the sleeve to open wider when the front of a dart is pressed against it, provided the length of the dart is shorter than a “target length” determined by the sleeve geometry. When the dart is at least as long as the “target length” of the sleeve, the back of the dart prevents the sleeve from rocking as the front of the dart is pressed against the bottom seat. The dart remains pressed against the sleeve, effectively isolating the wellbore section above the dart from the one below it. Multiple zones can thus be independently isolated by using a set of sleeves with similar diameters, but different “target lengths.”
Abstract:
A technique facilitates removal of noise from sonic logging signals. The technique may comprise various approaches used alone or in combination to reduce or eliminate noise associated with tool arrival. The technique may comprise an active cancellation approach which optimizes the cancellation effect while having minimal impact on the desired acoustic signals. The techniques also may utilize an asynchronous noise cancellation approach with a calibration transmitter designed to minimize impact on the desired acoustic signals.
Abstract:
An apparatus that is usable with a well includes an inner ring, an outer ring and a tool assembly. The inner ring includes a seat to receive an untethered object; the outer ring is concentric with the inner ring; and the tool assembly, downhole in the well, engages the outer ring with the inner ring to press the outer ring into a wall of a tubing string to secure the outer ring to the tubing string.
Abstract:
Systems and methods for evaluating cement in the annulus of a wellbore are provided. In one embodiment, the cement may be evaluated using a casing arrival measurement sensor that measures casing arrival signals resulting from firing a signal from a cement bond logging acoustic source. Signals other than casing arrival signals may be attenuated using grooves between the transmitter and receiver in the drill collar.
Abstract:
A system for selectively actuating sliding valves includes a segmented sleeve exhibiting a rocking (or pivoting) function. The rocking allows the bottom end of the sleeve to open wider when the front of a dart is pressed against it, provided the length of the dart is shorter than a “target length” determined by the sleeve geometry. When the dart is at least as long as the “target length” of the sleeve, the back of the dart prevents the sleeve from rocking as the front of the dart is pressed against the bottom seat. The dart remains pressed against the sleeve, effectively isolating the wellbore section above the dart from the one below it. Multiple zones can thus be independently isolated by using a set of sleeves with similar diameters, but different “target lengths.”
Abstract:
A technique employs the use of oscillations downhole to facilitate a desired functionality of a downhole tool. According to this technique, a tool is initially conveyed downhole and operated to perform a function that relates to a downhole application. The operational efficiency of the tool is improved by creating oscillating forces which vibrate the tool to achieve a desired result, e.g. freeing the tool from a stuck position.