US20200063538A1 - Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing with flow control member having impedance feature - Google Patents
Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing with flow control member having impedance feature Download PDFInfo
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- US20200063538A1 US20200063538A1 US16/466,191 US201716466191A US2020063538A1 US 20200063538 A1 US20200063538 A1 US 20200063538A1 US 201716466191 A US201716466191 A US 201716466191A US 2020063538 A1 US2020063538 A1 US 2020063538A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- flow control
- control member
- housing
- port
- relative
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- Abandoned
Links
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Images
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
- E21B34/00—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
- E21B34/06—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells
- E21B34/063—Valve or closure with destructible element, e.g. frangible disc
-
- 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
- E21B43/00—Methods or apparatus for obtaining oil, gas, water, soluble or meltable materials or a slurry of minerals from wells
- E21B43/12—Methods or apparatus for controlling the flow of the obtained fluid to or in wells
-
- 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
- E21B43/00—Methods or apparatus for obtaining oil, gas, water, soluble or meltable materials or a slurry of minerals from wells
- E21B43/25—Methods for stimulating production
- E21B43/26—Methods for stimulating production by forming crevices or fractures
-
- 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
- E21B2200/00—Special features related to earth drilling for obtaining oil, gas or water
- E21B2200/06—Sleeve valves
-
- 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
- E21B33/00—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells
- E21B33/10—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells in the borehole
- E21B33/12—Packers; Plugs
- E21B33/124—Units with longitudinally-spaced plugs for isolating the intermediate space
-
- 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
- E21B34/00—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
- E21B34/06—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells
- E21B34/10—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells operated by control fluid supplied from outside the borehole
- E21B34/108—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells operated by control fluid supplied from outside the borehole with time delay systems, e.g. hydraulic impedance mechanisms
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to obtaining confirmation of a wellbore operation.
- an apparatus for deployment in a wellbore to control flow of fluids between the wellbore and a subterranean reservoir comprising: a housing; a port extending through the housing; a passage disposed within the housing; and a flow control member, releasably retained relative to the housing and disposed relative to the port such that the port is disposed in a closed condition, and including a frangible portion; wherein the flow control member, the housing, and the port are co-operatively configured such that, in response to application of a sufficient force for urging displacement of the flow control member in a first direction:
- an apparatus for deployment in a wellbore to control flow of fluids between the wellbore and a subterranean reservoir comprising: a housing including an interference fit-effecting portion; a port extending through the housing; a passage disposed within the housing; and a moveable flow control member, releasably retained relative to the housing such that the port is disposed in a closed condition, and including a frangible portion; wherein the flow control member, the interference fit-effecting portion, and the port are co-operatively configured such that, in response to application of a sufficient force for urging displacement of the flow control member in a first direction:
- a method of producing hydrocarbon-comprising material from a subterranean formation via a wellbore extending into the subterranean formation comprising:
- FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a system for effecting fluid communication between the surface and a subterranean formation via a wellbore;
- FIG. 2 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of a flow control apparatus for use in the system illustrated in FIG. 1 , illustrating the ports in the closed condition;
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of Detail “A” in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of Detail “B” in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 5 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated in FIG. 2 , with the flow control member having been displaced such that the flow control member is within a housing passage portion that is impeding displacement of the flow control member in the downhole direction, but is spaced apart from the hard stop;
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of Detail “R” in FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of Detail “T” in FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 8 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated in FIG. 2 , with the flow control member having been further displaced downhole, relative to its position in FIG. 5 , such that the flow control member has become engaged to the hard stop and such that the port has become fully opened;
- FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of Detail “E” in FIG. 8 ;
- FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of Detail “F” in FIG. 8 ;
- FIG. 11 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated in FIG. 2 , with the modified flow control member having been displaced uphole from its position in FIG. 8 , such that the ports have become covered by the flow control member;
- FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of Detail “G” in FIG. 11 ;
- FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of Detail “H” in FIG. 11 ;
- FIG. 14 is top perspective view of an embodiment of a flow control member having a screened flow communicator.
- a wellbore material transfer system 104 for conducting material from the surface 10 to a subterranean formation 100 via a wellbore 102 , from the subterranean formation 100 to the surface 10 via the wellbore 102 , or between the surface 10 and the subterranean formation 100 via the wellbore 102 .
- the subterranean formation 100 is a hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir.
- the conducting (such as, for example, by flowing) material to the subterranean formation 100 via the wellbore 102 is for effecting selective stimulation of a hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir.
- the stimulation is effected by supplying treatment material to the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir.
- the treatment material is a liquid including water.
- the liquid includes water and chemical additives.
- the treatment material is a slurry including water, proppant, and chemical additives.
- Exemplary chemical additives include acids, sodium chloride, polyacrylamide, ethylene glycol, borate salts, sodium and potassium carbonates, glutaraldehyde, guar gum and other water soluble gels, citric acid, and isopropanol.
- the treatment material is supplied to effect hydraulic fracturing of the reservoir.
- the treatment material includes water, and is supplied to effect waterflooding of the reservoir.
- the conducting (such as, for example, by flowing) material from the subterranean formation 100 to the surface 10 via the wellbore 102 is for effecting production of hydrocarbon material from the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir.
- the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir, whose hydrocarbon material is being produced by the conducting via the wellbore 102 has been, prior to the producing, stimulated by the supplying of treatment material to the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir.
- the conducting to the subterranean formation 100 from the surface 10 via the wellbore 102 , or from the subterranean formation 100 to the surface 10 via the wellbore 102 is effected via one or more flow communication stations 115 that are disposed at the interface between the subterranean formation 100 and the wellbore 102 .
- the flow communication stations 115 are integrated within a wellbore string 116 that is deployed within the wellbore 102 . Integration may be effected, for example, by way of threading or welding.
- the wellbore string 116 includes one or more of pipe, casing, and liner, and may also include various forms of tubular segments, such as the flow control apparatuses 115 A described herein.
- the wellbore string 116 defines a wellbore string passage 119 for effecting conduction of fluids between the surface 10 and the subterranean formation 100 .
- the flow communication station 115 is integratable within the wellbore string 116 by a threaded connection.
- Successive flow communication stations 115 may be spaced from each other along the wellbore string 116 such that each flow communication stations 115 is positioned adjacent a zone or interval of the subterranean formation 100 for effecting flow communication between the wellbore 102 and the zone (or interval).
- the flow communication station 115 includes a flow control apparatus 115 A.
- the flow control apparatus 115 A includes one or more ports 118 through which the conducting of the material is effected.
- the ports 118 are disposed within a sub that has been integrated within the wellbore string 116 , and are pre-existing, in that the ports 118 exist before the sub, along with the wellbore string 116 , has been installed downhole within the wellbore string 116 .
- the flow control apparatus 115 A includes a flow control member 114 for controlling the conducting of material by the flow control apparatus 115 A via the one or more ports 118 .
- the flow control member 114 is displaceable, relative to the one or more ports 118 , for effecting opening of the one or more ports 118 .
- the flow control member 114 is also displaceable, relative to the one or more ports 118 , for effecting closing of the one or more ports 118 .
- the flow control member 114 is displaceable from a closed position (see FIGS. 2 to 4 or FIGS. 11 to 13 ) to an open position (see FIGS. 8 to 10 ).
- the open position of the flow control member 114 corresponds to an open condition of the one or more ports 118 .
- the closed position of the flow control member 114 corresponds to a closed condition of the one or more ports 118 .
- the one or more ports 118 are covered by the flow control member 114 , and the displacement of the flow control member 114 to the open position (see FIGS. 8 to 10 ) effects at least a partial uncovering of the one or more ports 118 such that the one or more ports 118 become disposed in the open condition.
- the flow control member 114 in the closed position, is disposed, relative to the one or more ports 118 , such that a sealed interface is disposed between the wellbore string 116 and the subterranean formation 100 , and the disposition of the sealed interface is such that the conduction of material between the wellbore string 116 and the subterranean formation 100 , via the flow communication station 115 is prevented, or substantially prevented, and displacement of the flow control member 114 to the open position effects flow communication, via the one or more ports 118 , between the wellbore string 116 and the subterranean formation 100 , such that the conducting of material between the wellbore string 116 and the subterranean formation 100 , via the flow communication station, is enabled.
- the sealed interface is established by sealing engagement between the flow control member 114 and the wellbore string 116 .
- the flow control member 114 includes a screened flow communicator 1141 .
- a filter medium 20 is co-operatively disposed relative to an aperture extending through the flow control member 114 for allowing flow of fluid through the screened flow communicator 1141 but interfering with (for example, preventing or substantially preventing) passage of oversize solid particulate matter through the screened flow communicator 1141 .
- the filter medium is in the form of a screen, such as a wire screen, extending across the aperture.
- the filter medium is in the form of a porous material that is integrated within the aperture.
- such a flow control member 114 is displaceable relative to the one or more ports 118 between open, closed, and screened positions. In the open and closed positions, the resulting state of the one or more ports 118 is as described above. With respect to the screened position, the screened flow communicator 1141 is aligned with the one or more ports 118 .
- the flow control apparatus 115 A includes a housing 120 .
- the housing 120 includes one or more sealing surfaces configured for sealing engagement with a flow control member 114 , wherein the sealing engagement defines the sealed interface described above.
- sealing surfaces 122 , 124 are defined on an internal surface of the housing 120 for sealing engagement with the flow control member 114 .
- each one of the sealing surfaces 122 , 124 is defined by a respective sealing member.
- each one of the sealing members independently, includes an o-ring.
- the o-ring is housed within a recess formed within the housing 120 .
- the sealing member includes a molded sealing member (i.e. a sealing member that is fitted within, and/or bonded to, a groove formed within the sub that receives the sealing member).
- the one or more ports 118 extend through the housing 120 , and are disposed between the sealing surfaces 122 , 124 .
- the housing 120 includes a housing passage 125 which forms a portion of the wellbore string passage 119 for effecting material transfer between the surface 10 and the subterranean formation 100 .
- material transfer between the housing passage 125 and the subterranean formation 100 is effected via the one or more ports 118 .
- the housing 120 includes an inlet 120 A and an outlet 120 B.
- the inlet 120 A fluidly communicates with the outlet 120 B via the housing passage 125 .
- the displaceability of the flow control member 114 is along an axis that is parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the central longitudinal axis 125 X of the housing passage 125 .
- the flow control member 114 co-operates with the sealing members 122 , 124 to effect opening and closing of the one or more ports 118 .
- the flow control member 114 is sealingly engaged to both of the sealing members 122 , 124 , thereby preventing, or substantially preventing, treatment material, being supplied through the wellbore string passage 119 (including the housing passage 125 ) from being injected into the subterranean formation 100 via the one or more ports 118 .
- the one or more ports 118 are disposed in the open condition (see FIGS.
- the flow control member 114 is spaced apart or retracted from at least one of the sealing members thereby providing a passage for treatment material, being supplied through the wellbore string passage 119 , to be injected into the subterranean formation 100 via the one or more ports 118 .
- the flow control member 114 includes a sleeve.
- the sleeve is slideably disposed within the housing passage 125 and is moveable along the central longitudinal axis 125 X of the housing passage 125
- Each one of the opening force and the closing force may be, independently, applied to the flow control member 114 mechanically, hydraulically, or a combination thereof.
- the applied force is a mechanical force, and such force is applied by a shifting tool of a workstring.
- the shifting tool is integrated within a bottom hole assembly that includes other functionalities.
- Suitable workstrings include tubing string, wireline, cable, or other suitable suspension or carriage systems.
- Suitable tubing strings include jointed pipe, concentric tubing, or coiled tubing.
- the workstring includes a passage, extending from the surface, and disposed in, or disposable to assume, fluid communication with the fluid conducting structure of the tool.
- the workstring is coupled to the shifting tool such that forces applied to the workstring are transmitted to the shifting tool to actuate movement of the flow control member 114 .
- the applied force is hydraulic, and is applied by communicating pressurized fluid via the wellbore to urge the displacement of the flow control member 114 .
- the flow control member 114 is releasably secured relative to the housing 120 and disposed, relative to the one or more port 118 , such that the one or more ports 118 are disposed in the closed position.
- the flow control member 114 is thereby restricted from displacement relative to the one or more ports 118 .
- the relasable securing of the flow control member 114 relative to the housing 120 is effected by one or more frangible interlocking members 134 (such as, for example, one or more shear pins).
- the one or more frangible interlocking members 134 are provided to secure the flow control member 114 to the wellbore string 116 (including while the wellbore string is being installed downhole) so that the passage 119 is maintained fluidically isolated from the formation 100 until it is desired to treat the formation 100 with treatment material.
- the releasable retention of the flow control member 114 , relative to the housing 120 is effected by press-fit engagement of the flow control member with the housing 120 .
- sufficient force must first be applied for effecting the release of the flow control member 114 from the retention relative to the housing 120 (such as, for example, a force that effects shearing of the frangible interlocking members 134 ).
- the force that effects the release of the flow control member 114 from the retention relative to the housing 120 is applied via a workstring.
- the force that effects the release of the flow control member 114 from the retention relative to the housing 120 is applied to the flow control member 14 mechanically, hydraulically, or a combination thereof.
- the force that effects the fracturing is applied in a first direction.
- the release of the flow control member 114 from the retention relative to the housing 120 is effected by application of a sufficient force.
- Upon the release of the flow control member 114 from the retention relative to the housing 120 continued application of the force, in the first direction, effects displacement of the flow control member 114 relative to the one or more ports 118 .
- the flow control member 114 could continue to accelerate, and attain a sufficiently high speed, such that, upon rapid deceleration of the flow control member 114 caused by an obstruction to its displacement in the first direction (such as by a hard stop), associated components become vulnerable to damage. This risk is exacerbated as the distance which the flow control member 114 needs to be shifted (such as, for example, to open a relatively long port), in order to effect complete uncovering of a port, is increased.
- the housing 120 , the flow control member 114 , and the one or more ports 118 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to application of a sufficient force for urging displacement of the flow control member 114 in a first direction:
- the displacement of the flow control member 114 is impeded by an interaction between the flow control member 114 and the housing 120 .
- the interaction between the flow control member 114 and the housing 120 , which is impeding the displacement of the flow control member 114 , relative to the one or more ports 118 includes a frictional engagement.
- the housing 120 includes an interior surface passage-defining portion 120 C that is tapered inwardly relative to the central longitudinal axis 125 X of the housing passage 125 such that the cross-sectional area of the passage 125 becomes progressively smaller, and co-operates with the flow control member 114 (such as, for example, a flow control member 114 that is in the form of a cylindrical sleeve), while the flow control member 114 is being displaced, relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the first direction, for effecting the impeding of the displacement of the flow control member 114 in the first direction.
- the displacement of the flow control member 114 , relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the first direction, is with effect that the one or more ports 118 become disposed in an open condition.
- the flow control member 114 , the housing 120 , and the one or more ports 118 are co-operatively configured such that the displacement of the flow control member 114 , relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the first direction is with effect that an opening of the one or more ports 118 is effected such that at least about 75% of the cross-sectional area of the one or more ports 118 is unobstructed by the flow control member 114 .
- the flow control member 114 , the housing 120 , and the one or more ports 118 are co-operatively configured such that the displacement of the flow control member 114 , relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the first direction is with effect that opening of the one or more ports 118 is effected such that less than about 25% of the cross-sectional area of the one or more ports 118 is occluded by the flow control member 114 .
- the housing 120 further includes a hard stop 130 for limiting displacement of the flow control member 114 while the flow control member 114 is being displaced through the interference fit-effecting portion 120 A.
- the distance between the hard stop 130 and the one or more ports 118 is sufficient to permit travel of the flow control member 114 , upon its release from its retention relative to the housing 120 , with effect that the flow control member 114 becomes disposed, relative to the one or more ports 118 , such that the entirety, or substantially the entirety, of the flow control member 114 is clear of the one or more ports 118 .
- the distance between the hard stop 130 and the one or more ports 118 is sufficient to permit travel of the flow control member 114 , upon its release from retention by the housing 120 , with effect that the flow control member 114 becomes disposed, relative to the one or more ports 118 , such that there is an absence, or substantial absence, of occlusion of at least a portion of the one or more ports 118 by the flow control member.
- the distance between the hard stop 130 and the one or more ports 118 is sufficient to permit travel of the flow control member 114 , upon its release from retention by the housing 120 , with effect that the flow control member 114 becomes disposed, relative to the one or more ports 118 , such that the entirety, or substantially the entirety, of the one or more ports 118 is unobstructed, or substantially unobstructed, by the flow control member 114 .
- the distance between the hard stop 130 and the one or more ports 118 is sufficient to permit travel of the flow control member 114 , upon its release from retention by the housing 120 , with effect that the flow control member 114 becomes disposed, relative to the one or more ports 118 , such that flow communication through the one or more ports 118 , between the passage 125 and an environment external to the housing 125 , is unobstructed, or substantially unobstructed, by the flow control member 114 .
- a dimension of the one or more ports 118 measured along an axis that is parallel to the central longitudinal axis 125 X of the housing passage 125 , is at least one (1) foot, such as at least three (3) feet, such as at least five (5) feet, or such as, for example, at least eight (8) feet.
- a dimension of the one or more ports 118 measured along an axis that is parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the housing passage 25 , is ten (10) feet.
- the flow control member 114 and the housing 120 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to the displacement of the flow control member 114 , relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the first direction, the flow control member 114 and the housing 120 become co-operatively disposed in an interference-fit relationship.
- the housing 120 includes an interference fit-effecting portion 120 A configured for receiving the flow control member 114 with effect that the interference fit relationship between the flow control member 114 and the interference fit-effecting portion 120 A is effected.
- the housing passage portion 125 AA of the interference fit-effecting portion 120 A has a cross-sectional area that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the housing passage portion 125 BB at the one or more ports 118 .
- the housing 120 includes a transition portion, defined by the tapered interior surface passage-defining portion 120 C, disposed between the one or more ports 118 and the interference fit-effecting portion 120 A.
- the flow control member 114 is deformable for effecting the interference fit relationship.
- the flow control member 114 and the interference fit-effecting portion 120 A are co-operatively configured such that the flow control member 114 is deformed while being displaced through the interference fit-effecting portion 120 A (see FIGS. 5 to 10 ).
- the flow control member 114 includes a frangible portion 114 A that is configured to fracture with effect that the frangible portion 114 A is separable from the flow control member 114 to produce a modified flow control member 114 M.
- the fracturing is effected by fracturing of interlocking members 114 B (e.g. shear pins) that is effecting integration of the frangible portion 114 A within the flow control member 114 (i.e. the frangible portion 114 overlaps with, and is coupled to another portion with the interlocking members 114 B, to form the flow control member 114 ).
- the flow control member 114 includes a breakaway segment that is defined by machining a groove or score into the surface of the flow control member 114 (e.g. where the flow control member 114 is in the form of a cylindrical sleeve, about a circumference of the flow control member 114 ).
- the flow control member 114 and the housing 120 are co-operatively configured such that, while the flow control member 114 is disposed in the interference fit relationship with the housing 120 , in response to application of a sufficient force for urging displacement of the flow control member 114 , relative to the housing 120 , in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction, the flow control member 114 is fractured with effect that the frangible portion 114 A becomes separated from the flow control member 114 such that a modified flow control member 114 M is obtained.
- the material of construction of the interference fit-effecting portion 120 A is stiffer relative to the material of construction of the frangible portion 114 A, thereby facilitating the fracturing of the flow control member 114 , as above-described.
- the modified flow control member 114 M is displaceable, relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the second direction, for effecting closing of the one or more ports 118 , such that the one or more ports 118 become disposed in the closed condition.
- the modified flow control member 114 M is displaceable relative to the one or more ports 118 for effecting opening and closing of the one or more ports 118 (see FIGS. 11 to 13 ).
- the displacement of the flow control member 114 M in the second direction is effectible mechanically, such as, for example, by a shifting tool.
- the housing 120 includes a hard stop 132 for limiting displacement of the modified flow control member 114 M while the modified flow control member 114 M is being displaced in the second direction.
- the modified flow control member 114 M, the one or more ports 118 , and the hard stop 132 are co-operatively configured such that, while the modified flow control member 114 M is engaged to the hard stop 132 , the one or more ports 118 are disposed in the closed condition.
- the hard stop 132 functions to determine the closed position of the modified flow control member 114 M.
- the displacement of the flow control member 114 in the first direction is along the same axis, or substantially the same axis, as that of the displacement of the modified flow control member 114 M in the second direction.
- such axis is parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the central longitudinal axis 125 X of the housing passage 125 .
- the separated frangible portion 114 becomes retained by the interference fit-effecting portion 120 A, thereby limiting displacement of the modified flow control member 114 M in the first direction (e.g. the downhole direction).
- the flow control member 114 , the housing 120 , and the one or more ports 118 are further co-operatively configured such that, while the modified flow control member 114 M is disposed relative to the one or more ports 118 such that the one or more ports 118 are disposed in a closed condition, in response to application of sufficient force for urging the displacement of the modified flow control member 114 in the first direction, the modified flow control member 114 M is displaced, relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the first direction, with effect that the one or more ports 118 become disposed in the open condition, and there is an absence of impedance, or substantial absence of impedance, by the housing 120 to the displacement of the modified flow control member 114 M in the first direction.
- the modified flow control member 114 M becomes disposed in contact engagement with the retained frangible portion 114 A, thereby limiting displacement of the modified flow control member 114 M in the first direction.
- the first direction is the downhole direction and the second direction is the uphole direction.
- the first direction is the uphole direction and the second direction is the uphole direction.
- the fracture of the frangible portion 114 A results in a shorter flow control member 114
- the impeding of displacement of the modified flow control member 114 M is no longer necessary after the initial displacement following the release from retention relative to the housing 120 . This is because similar concerns about component damage are not present while displacing the modified flow control member 114 after the initial displacement following the releasing of the flow control member 114 from retention relative to the housing 120 , as it is less difficult to maintain a lower applied force to effect subsequent displacements of the modified flow control member 114 M following the initial displacement.
- the modified flow control 114 M includes another frangible portion disposed at an end of the modified flow control member 114 M that is opposite to the end of the modified flow control member 114 M from which the frangible portion 114 has become separated (as described above).
- additional frangible portion could be co-operatively configured with the housing to become retained by the housing on the other side of the one or more ports 118 , after the displacement of the flow control member 114 M, relative to the one or ports 118 , has been effected in the second direction.
- the modified flow control member 114 M has been further shortened to a second modified flow control member, enabling a new flow control member position (determined by the retained frangible portion 114 B) upon the next displacement, relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the first direction, thereby, for example, enabling opening of a second set of one or more ports.
- a method of producing hydrocarbon-comprising material from a subterranean formation 100 via a wellbore 102 extending into the subterranean formation 100 will now be described, with reference to an embodiment of the apparatus 115 A.
- pressurized fluid is used to apply an opening force, in the downhole direction, to the flow control member 114 , such that: (i) the flow control member 114 is released from the retention relative to the housing 120 , and (ii) the flow control member 114 is displaced, relative to the one or more ports 118 of the housing 120 , in the downhole direction.
- opening of the one or more ports 118 is effected, and the one or more ports 118 becomes disposed in an open condition.
- the flow control member 114 is interacting with the housing 120 (such as, for example, by frictional engagement with the housing 120 ) with effect that the displacement of the flow control member in the downhole direction, is impeded.
- the displacement of the flow control member 114 , relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the downhole direction, is with effect that the flow control member 114 and the housing 120 become co-operatively disposed in an interference-fit relationship
- treatment material is injected from the surface 10 , through the wellbore 102 , via the port, into the subterranean formation 100 .
- a closing force is applied to the flow control member 114 , in the uphole direction.
- the closing force is effected mechanically, such as with a shifting tool.
- the flow control member 114 is fractured with effect that a frangible portion 114 A becomes separated from the flow control member 114 and retained relative to the housing 120 , and a modified flow control member 114 M (obtained after the separation of the frangible portion 114 A from the flow control member 114 ) is displaced, relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the uphole direction, and effects re-closing of the one or more ports 118 .
- a second opening force is applied to the modified flow control member 114 M in the downhole direction, with effect that the modified flow control member 114 M is displaced, relative to the one or more ports 118 , in the downhole direction, with effect that the one or more ports 118 becomes disposed in the open condition for facilitating production.
- This second displacement in the downhole direction resulting in the opening of the one or more ports 118 for facilitating production, is unimpeded, or substantially unimpeded, by interaction between the flow control member and the housing. This is because the retained frangible portion 114 A functions as a stop for blocking displacement of the modified flow control member 114 through the portion of the housing which would impede its displacement.
- hydrocarbon material is produced from the subterranean formation 100 and to the surface 10 , via the one or more ports 118 and the wellbore 102 .
- both of the opening and closing forces are applied via the Shift Frac CloseTM tool available from NCS Multistage Inc.
Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates to obtaining confirmation of a wellbore operation.
- The reliability of hydraulic fracturing suffers due to mechanical limitations of existing technologies. Components are susceptible to failure due to mechanical stress which may be difficult to anticipate or to design for.
- In one aspect, there is provided an apparatus for deployment in a wellbore to control flow of fluids between the wellbore and a subterranean reservoir, comprising: a housing; a port extending through the housing; a passage disposed within the housing; and a flow control member, releasably retained relative to the housing and disposed relative to the port such that the port is disposed in a closed condition, and including a frangible portion; wherein the flow control member, the housing, and the port are co-operatively configured such that, in response to application of a sufficient force for urging displacement of the flow control member in a first direction:
- the flow control member becomes released from the retention relative to the housing; and
- after the release of the flow control member from the retention relative to the housing, the flow control member is displaced, relative to the port, in the first direction; and
- while the flow control member is being displaced, relative to the port, in the first direction, the displacement of the flow control member is impeded by an interaction between the flow control member and the housing.
- In another aspect, there is provided an apparatus for deployment in a wellbore to control flow of fluids between the wellbore and a subterranean reservoir, comprising: a housing including an interference fit-effecting portion; a port extending through the housing; a passage disposed within the housing; and a moveable flow control member, releasably retained relative to the housing such that the port is disposed in a closed condition, and including a frangible portion; wherein the flow control member, the interference fit-effecting portion, and the port are co-operatively configured such that, in response to application of a sufficient force for urging displacement of the flow control member in a first direction:
- the flow control member becomes released from the retention relative to the housing; and
- after the release of the flow control member from the retention relative to the housing, the flow control member is displaced, relative to the port, in the first direction; and
- the displacement of the flow control member, relative to the port, in the first direction includes displacement through the interference fit-effecting portion with effect that the flow control member becomes disposed in an interference fit relationship with the interference fit-effecting portion; and
- while the flow control member is disposed in the interference fit relationship with the interference fit-effecting portion, in response to sufficient urging of displacement of the flow control member, relative to the port, in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction, the flow control member is fractured with effect that the frangible portion becomes separated from the flow control member such that a modified flow control member is obtained.
- In another aspect, there is provided a method of producing hydrocarbon-comprising material from a subterranean formation via a wellbore extending into the subterranean formation, comprising:
- applying an opening force, in one of an uphole direction or a downhole direction, to a flow control member, that is being releasably retained relative to a housing, such that: (i) the flow control member is released from the retention relative to the housing, and (ii) the flow control member is displaced, relative to a port of the housing, in the one of an uphole direction and a downhole direction such that opening of the port is effected, with effect that the port becomes disposed in an opened condition, wherein, while the displacement of the flow control member is being effected in the one of an uphole direction and a downhole direction, the flow control member is interacting with the housing with effect that the displacement of the flow control member in the one of an uphole direction and a downhole direction, is impeded; and
- while the port is disposed in the open condition, injecting treatment material from the wellbore, via the port, into the subterranean formation.
- The preferred embodiments will now be described with the following accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a system for effecting fluid communication between the surface and a subterranean formation via a wellbore; -
FIG. 2 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of a flow control apparatus for use in the system illustrated inFIG. 1 , illustrating the ports in the closed condition; -
FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of Detail “A” inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of Detail “B” inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 5 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated inFIG. 2 , with the flow control member having been displaced such that the flow control member is within a housing passage portion that is impeding displacement of the flow control member in the downhole direction, but is spaced apart from the hard stop; -
FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of Detail “R” inFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of Detail “T” inFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 8 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated inFIG. 2 , with the flow control member having been further displaced downhole, relative to its position inFIG. 5 , such that the flow control member has become engaged to the hard stop and such that the port has become fully opened; -
FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of Detail “E” inFIG. 8 ; -
FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of Detail “F” inFIG. 8 ; -
FIG. 11 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated inFIG. 2 , with the modified flow control member having been displaced uphole from its position inFIG. 8 , such that the ports have become covered by the flow control member; -
FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of Detail “G” inFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of Detail “H” inFIG. 11 ; and -
FIG. 14 is top perspective view of an embodiment of a flow control member having a screened flow communicator. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , there is provided a wellborematerial transfer system 104 for conducting material from thesurface 10 to asubterranean formation 100 via awellbore 102, from thesubterranean formation 100 to thesurface 10 via thewellbore 102, or between thesurface 10 and thesubterranean formation 100 via thewellbore 102. In some embodiments, for example, thesubterranean formation 100 is a hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir. - In some embodiments, for example, the conducting (such as, for example, by flowing) material to the
subterranean formation 100 via thewellbore 102 is for effecting selective stimulation of a hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir. The stimulation is effected by supplying treatment material to the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir. In some embodiments, for example, the treatment material is a liquid including water. In some embodiments, for example, the liquid includes water and chemical additives. In other embodiments, for example, the treatment material is a slurry including water, proppant, and chemical additives. Exemplary chemical additives include acids, sodium chloride, polyacrylamide, ethylene glycol, borate salts, sodium and potassium carbonates, glutaraldehyde, guar gum and other water soluble gels, citric acid, and isopropanol. In some embodiments, for example, the treatment material is supplied to effect hydraulic fracturing of the reservoir. In some embodiments, for example, the treatment material includes water, and is supplied to effect waterflooding of the reservoir. - In some embodiments, for example, the conducting (such as, for example, by flowing) material from the
subterranean formation 100 to thesurface 10 via thewellbore 102 is for effecting production of hydrocarbon material from the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir. In some of these embodiments, for example, the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir, whose hydrocarbon material is being produced by the conducting via thewellbore 102, has been, prior to the producing, stimulated by the supplying of treatment material to the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir. - In some embodiments, for example, the conducting to the
subterranean formation 100 from thesurface 10 via thewellbore 102, or from thesubterranean formation 100 to thesurface 10 via thewellbore 102, is effected via one or moreflow communication stations 115 that are disposed at the interface between thesubterranean formation 100 and thewellbore 102. In some embodiments, for example, theflow communication stations 115 are integrated within awellbore string 116 that is deployed within thewellbore 102. Integration may be effected, for example, by way of threading or welding. - The
wellbore string 116 includes one or more of pipe, casing, and liner, and may also include various forms of tubular segments, such as theflow control apparatuses 115A described herein. Thewellbore string 116 defines awellbore string passage 119 for effecting conduction of fluids between thesurface 10 and thesubterranean formation 100. In some embodiments, for example, theflow communication station 115 is integratable within thewellbore string 116 by a threaded connection. - Successive
flow communication stations 115 may be spaced from each other along thewellbore string 116 such that eachflow communication stations 115 is positioned adjacent a zone or interval of thesubterranean formation 100 for effecting flow communication between thewellbore 102 and the zone (or interval). - For effecting the flow communication, the
flow communication station 115 includes aflow control apparatus 115A. Referring toFIGS. 2 to 13 , theflow control apparatus 115A includes one ormore ports 118 through which the conducting of the material is effected. Theports 118 are disposed within a sub that has been integrated within thewellbore string 116, and are pre-existing, in that theports 118 exist before the sub, along with thewellbore string 116, has been installed downhole within thewellbore string 116. - The
flow control apparatus 115A includes aflow control member 114 for controlling the conducting of material by theflow control apparatus 115A via the one ormore ports 118. Theflow control member 114 is displaceable, relative to the one ormore ports 118, for effecting opening of the one ormore ports 118. In some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114 is also displaceable, relative to the one ormore ports 118, for effecting closing of the one ormore ports 118. In this respect, theflow control member 114 is displaceable from a closed position (seeFIGS. 2 to 4 orFIGS. 11 to 13 ) to an open position (seeFIGS. 8 to 10 ). The open position of theflow control member 114 corresponds to an open condition of the one ormore ports 118. The closed position of theflow control member 114 corresponds to a closed condition of the one ormore ports 118. - In some embodiments, for example, in the closed position (see
FIGS. 2 to 4 orFIGS. 11 to 13 ), the one ormore ports 118 are covered by theflow control member 114, and the displacement of theflow control member 114 to the open position (seeFIGS. 8 to 10 ) effects at least a partial uncovering of the one ormore ports 118 such that the one ormore ports 118 become disposed in the open condition. In some embodiments, for example, in the closed position, theflow control member 114 is disposed, relative to the one ormore ports 118, such that a sealed interface is disposed between thewellbore string 116 and thesubterranean formation 100, and the disposition of the sealed interface is such that the conduction of material between thewellbore string 116 and thesubterranean formation 100, via theflow communication station 115 is prevented, or substantially prevented, and displacement of theflow control member 114 to the open position effects flow communication, via the one ormore ports 118, between thewellbore string 116 and thesubterranean formation 100, such that the conducting of material between thewellbore string 116 and thesubterranean formation 100, via the flow communication station, is enabled. In some embodiments, for example, the sealed interface is established by sealing engagement between theflow control member 114 and thewellbore string 116. - Referring to
FIG. 14 , in some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114 includes a screenedflow communicator 1141. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, a filter medium 20 is co-operatively disposed relative to an aperture extending through theflow control member 114 for allowing flow of fluid through the screenedflow communicator 1141 but interfering with (for example, preventing or substantially preventing) passage of oversize solid particulate matter through the screenedflow communicator 1141. In some embodiments, for example, the filter medium is in the form of a screen, such as a wire screen, extending across the aperture. In some embodiments, for example, the filter medium is in the form of a porous material that is integrated within the aperture. In this respect, such aflow control member 114 is displaceable relative to the one ormore ports 118 between open, closed, and screened positions. In the open and closed positions, the resulting state of the one ormore ports 118 is as described above. With respect to the screened position, the screenedflow communicator 1141 is aligned with the one ormore ports 118. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 115A includes ahousing 120. Thehousing 120 includes one or more sealing surfaces configured for sealing engagement with aflow control member 114, wherein the sealing engagement defines the sealed interface described above. In this respect, sealingsurfaces housing 120 for sealing engagement with theflow control member 114. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the sealing surfaces 122, 124 is defined by a respective sealing member. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the sealing members, independently, includes an o-ring. In some embodiments, for example, the o-ring is housed within a recess formed within thehousing 120. In some embodiments, for example, the sealing member includes a molded sealing member (i.e. a sealing member that is fitted within, and/or bonded to, a groove formed within the sub that receives the sealing member). In some embodiments, for example, the one ormore ports 118 extend through thehousing 120, and are disposed between the sealingsurfaces - The
housing 120 includes ahousing passage 125 which forms a portion of thewellbore string passage 119 for effecting material transfer between thesurface 10 and thesubterranean formation 100. In this respect, material transfer between thehousing passage 125 and thesubterranean formation 100 is effected via the one ormore ports 118. Thehousing 120 includes aninlet 120A and anoutlet 120B. Theinlet 120A fluidly communicates with theoutlet 120B via thehousing passage 125. In some embodiments, for example, the displaceability of theflow control member 114 is along an axis that is parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the centrallongitudinal axis 125X of thehousing passage 125. - The
flow control member 114 co-operates with the sealingmembers more ports 118. In some embodiments, for example, when the one ormore ports 118 are disposed in the closed condition (seeFIGS. 2 to 4 orFIGS. 11 to 13 ), theflow control member 114 is sealingly engaged to both of the sealingmembers subterranean formation 100 via the one ormore ports 118. When the one ormore ports 118 are disposed in the open condition (seeFIGS. 8 to 10 ), theflow control member 114 is spaced apart or retracted from at least one of the sealing members thereby providing a passage for treatment material, being supplied through thewellbore string passage 119, to be injected into thesubterranean formation 100 via the one ormore ports 118. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control member 114 includes a sleeve. In some embodiments, for example, the sleeve is slideably disposed within thehousing passage 125 and is moveable along the centrallongitudinal axis 125X of thehousing passage 125 - Each one of the opening force and the closing force may be, independently, applied to the
flow control member 114 mechanically, hydraulically, or a combination thereof. - In some embodiments, for example, the applied force is a mechanical force, and such force is applied by a shifting tool of a workstring. In some embodiments, for example, the shifting tool is integrated within a bottom hole assembly that includes other functionalities. Suitable workstrings include tubing string, wireline, cable, or other suitable suspension or carriage systems. Suitable tubing strings include jointed pipe, concentric tubing, or coiled tubing. The workstring includes a passage, extending from the surface, and disposed in, or disposable to assume, fluid communication with the fluid conducting structure of the tool. The workstring is coupled to the shifting tool such that forces applied to the workstring are transmitted to the shifting tool to actuate movement of the
flow control member 114. - In some embodiments, for example, the applied force is hydraulic, and is applied by communicating pressurized fluid via the wellbore to urge the displacement of the
flow control member 114. - In some embodiments, for example, while the
flow control apparatus 115A is being deployed downhole with thewellbore string 116, theflow control member 114 is releasably secured relative to thehousing 120 and disposed, relative to the one ormore port 118, such that the one ormore ports 118 are disposed in the closed position. By virtue of the releasable securing of theflow control member 114 relative to thehousing 120, theflow control member 114 is thereby restricted from displacement relative to the one ormore ports 118. - In some embodiments, for example, the relasable securing of the
flow control member 114 relative to thehousing 120 is effected by one or more frangible interlocking members 134 (such as, for example, one or more shear pins). The one or more frangible interlockingmembers 134 are provided to secure theflow control member 114 to the wellbore string 116 (including while the wellbore string is being installed downhole) so that thepassage 119 is maintained fluidically isolated from theformation 100 until it is desired to treat theformation 100 with treatment material. - Alternatively, in some embodiments, for example, the releasable retention of the
flow control member 114, relative to thehousing 120, is effected by press-fit engagement of the flow control member with thehousing 120. - To effect the initial displacement of the
flow control member 114 from the closed position to the open position, sufficient force must first be applied for effecting the release of theflow control member 114 from the retention relative to the housing 120 (such as, for example, a force that effects shearing of the frangible interlocking members 134). In some operational implementations, the force that effects the release of theflow control member 114 from the retention relative to thehousing 120, is applied via a workstring. In some operational implementations, the force that effects the release of theflow control member 114 from the retention relative to thehousing 120 is applied to the flow control member 14 mechanically, hydraulically, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, for example, the force that effects the fracturing is applied in a first direction. - The release of the
flow control member 114 from the retention relative to the housing 120 (such that the flow control member becomes displaceable relative to the one or more ports 118) is effected by application of a sufficient force. Upon the release of theflow control member 114 from the retention relative to thehousing 120, continued application of the force, in the first direction, effects displacement of theflow control member 114 relative to the one ormore ports 118. If the displacement force were permitted to continue to effect the displacement of theflow control member 114, without any interference, theflow control member 114 could continue to accelerate, and attain a sufficiently high speed, such that, upon rapid deceleration of theflow control member 114 caused by an obstruction to its displacement in the first direction (such as by a hard stop), associated components become vulnerable to damage. This risk is exacerbated as the distance which theflow control member 114 needs to be shifted (such as, for example, to open a relatively long port), in order to effect complete uncovering of a port, is increased. - To at least mitigate the possibility of such damage, the displacement of the
flow control member 114, relative to the one ormore ports 118, that is effected after its release from the retention relative to the housing 120 (such as, for example, after fracturing of the one or more frangible interlocking members 134), is impeded. - In this respect, the
housing 120, theflow control member 114, and the one ormore ports 118 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to application of a sufficient force for urging displacement of theflow control member 114 in a first direction: - the
flow control member 114 becomes released from the retention relative to thehousing 120; - after the release of the
flow control member 114 from the retention relative to thehousing 120, theflow control member 114 is displaced, relative to the one ormore port 118, in the first direction; and - during the displacement of the
flow control member 114, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the first direction, theflow control member 114 interacts with thehousing 120 such that the displacement of theflow control member 114 is impeded. - In this respect, the displacement of the
flow control member 114 is impeded by an interaction between theflow control member 114 and thehousing 120. - In some embodiments, for example, the interaction between the
flow control member 114 and thehousing 120, which is impeding the displacement of theflow control member 114, relative to the one ormore ports 118, includes a frictional engagement. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, thehousing 120 includes an interior surface passage-defining portion 120C that is tapered inwardly relative to the centrallongitudinal axis 125X of thehousing passage 125 such that the cross-sectional area of thepassage 125 becomes progressively smaller, and co-operates with the flow control member 114 (such as, for example, aflow control member 114 that is in the form of a cylindrical sleeve), while theflow control member 114 is being displaced, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the first direction, for effecting the impeding of the displacement of theflow control member 114 in the first direction. - In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the
flow control member 114, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the first direction, is with effect that the one ormore ports 118 become disposed in an open condition. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control member 114, thehousing 120, and the one ormore ports 118 are co-operatively configured such that the displacement of theflow control member 114, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the first direction is with effect that an opening of the one ormore ports 118 is effected such that at least about 75% of the cross-sectional area of the one ormore ports 118 is unobstructed by theflow control member 114. In some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114, thehousing 120, and the one ormore ports 118 are co-operatively configured such that the displacement of theflow control member 114, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the first direction is with effect that opening of the one ormore ports 118 is effected such that less than about 25% of the cross-sectional area of the one ormore ports 118 is occluded by theflow control member 114. - In some embodiments, for example, the
housing 120 further includes ahard stop 130 for limiting displacement of theflow control member 114 while theflow control member 114 is being displaced through the interference fit-effectingportion 120A. - Comparing
FIGS. 2 to 4 withFIGS. 8 to 10 , in some embodiments, for example, the distance between thehard stop 130 and the one ormore ports 118 is sufficient to permit travel of theflow control member 114, upon its release from its retention relative to thehousing 120, with effect that theflow control member 114 becomes disposed, relative to the one ormore ports 118, such that the entirety, or substantially the entirety, of theflow control member 114 is clear of the one ormore ports 118. In some embodiments, for example, the distance between thehard stop 130 and the one ormore ports 118 is sufficient to permit travel of theflow control member 114, upon its release from retention by thehousing 120, with effect that theflow control member 114 becomes disposed, relative to the one ormore ports 118, such that there is an absence, or substantial absence, of occlusion of at least a portion of the one ormore ports 118 by the flow control member. In some embodiments, for example, the distance between thehard stop 130 and the one ormore ports 118 is sufficient to permit travel of theflow control member 114, upon its release from retention by thehousing 120, with effect that theflow control member 114 becomes disposed, relative to the one ormore ports 118, such that the entirety, or substantially the entirety, of the one ormore ports 118 is unobstructed, or substantially unobstructed, by theflow control member 114. In some embodiments, for example, the distance between thehard stop 130 and the one ormore ports 118 is sufficient to permit travel of theflow control member 114, upon its release from retention by thehousing 120, with effect that theflow control member 114 becomes disposed, relative to the one ormore ports 118, such that flow communication through the one ormore ports 118, between thepassage 125 and an environment external to thehousing 125, is unobstructed, or substantially unobstructed, by theflow control member 114. - In some embodiments, for example, a dimension of the one or
more ports 118, measured along an axis that is parallel to the centrallongitudinal axis 125X of thehousing passage 125, is at least one (1) foot, such as at least three (3) feet, such as at least five (5) feet, or such as, for example, at least eight (8) feet. In some embodiments, for example, a dimension of the one ormore ports 118, measured along an axis that is parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the housing passage 25, is ten (10) feet. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control member 114 and thehousing 120 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to the displacement of theflow control member 114, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the first direction, theflow control member 114 and thehousing 120 become co-operatively disposed in an interference-fit relationship. - In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the
housing 120 includes an interference fit-effectingportion 120A configured for receiving theflow control member 114 with effect that the interference fit relationship between theflow control member 114 and the interference fit-effectingportion 120A is effected. In some embodiments, for example, the housing passage portion 125AA of the interference fit-effectingportion 120A has a cross-sectional area that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the housing passage portion 125BB at the one ormore ports 118. In some embodiments, for example, thehousing 120 includes a transition portion, defined by the tapered interior surface passage-defining portion 120C, disposed between the one ormore ports 118 and the interference fit-effectingportion 120A. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control member 114 is deformable for effecting the interference fit relationship. Theflow control member 114 and the interference fit-effectingportion 120A are co-operatively configured such that theflow control member 114 is deformed while being displaced through the interference fit-effectingportion 120A (seeFIGS. 5 to 10 ). - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control member 114 includes afrangible portion 114A that is configured to fracture with effect that thefrangible portion 114A is separable from theflow control member 114 to produce a modifiedflow control member 114M. In some embodiments, for example, the fracturing is effected by fracturing of interlockingmembers 114B (e.g. shear pins) that is effecting integration of thefrangible portion 114A within the flow control member 114 (i.e. thefrangible portion 114 overlaps with, and is coupled to another portion with the interlockingmembers 114B, to form the flow control member 114). In some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114 includes a breakaway segment that is defined by machining a groove or score into the surface of the flow control member 114 (e.g. where theflow control member 114 is in the form of a cylindrical sleeve, about a circumference of the flow control member 114). - In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the
flow control member 114 and thehousing 120 are co-operatively configured such that, while theflow control member 114 is disposed in the interference fit relationship with thehousing 120, in response to application of a sufficient force for urging displacement of theflow control member 114, relative to thehousing 120, in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction, theflow control member 114 is fractured with effect that thefrangible portion 114A becomes separated from theflow control member 114 such that a modifiedflow control member 114M is obtained. - In this respect, in some embodiments for example, the material of construction of the interference fit-effecting
portion 120A is stiffer relative to the material of construction of thefrangible portion 114A, thereby facilitating the fracturing of theflow control member 114, as above-described. - In some embodiments, for example, the modified
flow control member 114M is displaceable, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the second direction, for effecting closing of the one ormore ports 118, such that the one ormore ports 118 become disposed in the closed condition. In some embodiments, for example, the modifiedflow control member 114M is displaceable relative to the one ormore ports 118 for effecting opening and closing of the one or more ports 118 (seeFIGS. 11 to 13 ). In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of theflow control member 114M in the second direction is effectible mechanically, such as, for example, by a shifting tool. - In some embodiments, for example, the
housing 120 includes ahard stop 132 for limiting displacement of the modifiedflow control member 114M while the modifiedflow control member 114M is being displaced in the second direction. The modifiedflow control member 114M, the one ormore ports 118, and thehard stop 132 are co-operatively configured such that, while the modifiedflow control member 114M is engaged to thehard stop 132, the one ormore ports 118 are disposed in the closed condition. In this respect, thehard stop 132 functions to determine the closed position of the modifiedflow control member 114M. - In some embodiments, the displacement of the
flow control member 114 in the first direction is along the same axis, or substantially the same axis, as that of the displacement of the modifiedflow control member 114M in the second direction. In some embodiments, for example, such axis is parallel to, or substantially parallel to, the centrallongitudinal axis 125X of thehousing passage 125. - Referring to
FIGS. 11 to 13 , in some embodiments, for example, the separatedfrangible portion 114 becomes retained by the interference fit-effectingportion 120A, thereby limiting displacement of the modifiedflow control member 114M in the first direction (e.g. the downhole direction). In this respect, theflow control member 114, thehousing 120, and the one ormore ports 118 are further co-operatively configured such that, while the modifiedflow control member 114M is disposed relative to the one ormore ports 118 such that the one ormore ports 118 are disposed in a closed condition, in response to application of sufficient force for urging the displacement of the modifiedflow control member 114 in the first direction, the modifiedflow control member 114M is displaced, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the first direction, with effect that the one ormore ports 118 become disposed in the open condition, and there is an absence of impedance, or substantial absence of impedance, by thehousing 120 to the displacement of the modifiedflow control member 114M in the first direction. In some embodiments, for example, the modifiedflow control member 114M becomes disposed in contact engagement with the retainedfrangible portion 114A, thereby limiting displacement of the modifiedflow control member 114M in the first direction. - In some embodiments, for example, the first direction is the downhole direction and the second direction is the uphole direction.
- In some embodiments, for example, the first direction is the uphole direction and the second direction is the uphole direction.
- In those embodiments where the initial displacement is in the first direction, in some of these embodiments, for example, the fracture of the
frangible portion 114A results in a shorterflow control member 114 - In some embodiments, for example, the impeding of displacement of the modified
flow control member 114M is no longer necessary after the initial displacement following the release from retention relative to thehousing 120. This is because similar concerns about component damage are not present while displacing the modifiedflow control member 114 after the initial displacement following the releasing of theflow control member 114 from retention relative to thehousing 120, as it is less difficult to maintain a lower applied force to effect subsequent displacements of the modifiedflow control member 114M following the initial displacement. - In some embodiments, for example, the modified
flow control 114M includes another frangible portion disposed at an end of the modifiedflow control member 114M that is opposite to the end of the modifiedflow control member 114M from which thefrangible portion 114 has become separated (as described above). Such additional frangible portion could be co-operatively configured with the housing to become retained by the housing on the other side of the one ormore ports 118, after the displacement of theflow control member 114M, relative to the one orports 118, has been effected in the second direction. As a result, the modifiedflow control member 114M has been further shortened to a second modified flow control member, enabling a new flow control member position (determined by the retainedfrangible portion 114B) upon the next displacement, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the first direction, thereby, for example, enabling opening of a second set of one or more ports. - A method of producing hydrocarbon-comprising material from a
subterranean formation 100 via awellbore 102 extending into thesubterranean formation 100, will now be described, with reference to an embodiment of theapparatus 115A. - While the flow control member is releasably retained relative to the housing 120 (see
FIGS. 2 to 4 ), pressurized fluid is used to apply an opening force, in the downhole direction, to theflow control member 114, such that: (i) theflow control member 114 is released from the retention relative to thehousing 120, and (ii) theflow control member 114 is displaced, relative to the one ormore ports 118 of thehousing 120, in the downhole direction. Referring toFIGS. 8 to 10 , as a result, opening of the one ormore ports 118 is effected, and the one ormore ports 118 becomes disposed in an open condition. During the displacement of the flow control member, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the downhole direction by the opening force, theflow control member 114 is interacting with the housing 120 (such as, for example, by frictional engagement with the housing 120) with effect that the displacement of the flow control member in the downhole direction, is impeded. The displacement of theflow control member 114, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the downhole direction, is with effect that theflow control member 114 and thehousing 120 become co-operatively disposed in an interference-fit relationship - After the one or
more ports 118 have been opened, treatment material is injected from thesurface 10, through thewellbore 102, via the port, into thesubterranean formation 100. - Referring to
FIGS. 11 to 13 , after the injecting of treatment material, a closing force is applied to theflow control member 114, in the uphole direction. The closing force is effected mechanically, such as with a shifting tool. In response to the application of the closing force in the uphole direction, theflow control member 114 is fractured with effect that afrangible portion 114A becomes separated from theflow control member 114 and retained relative to thehousing 120, and a modifiedflow control member 114M (obtained after the separation of thefrangible portion 114A from the flow control member 114) is displaced, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the uphole direction, and effects re-closing of the one ormore ports 118. - After the re-closing of the one or
more ports 118, a second opening force is applied to the modifiedflow control member 114M in the downhole direction, with effect that the modifiedflow control member 114M is displaced, relative to the one ormore ports 118, in the downhole direction, with effect that the one ormore ports 118 becomes disposed in the open condition for facilitating production. This second displacement in the downhole direction, resulting in the opening of the one ormore ports 118 for facilitating production, is unimpeded, or substantially unimpeded, by interaction between the flow control member and the housing. This is because the retainedfrangible portion 114A functions as a stop for blocking displacement of the modifiedflow control member 114 through the portion of the housing which would impede its displacement. - After this second opening of the one or
more ports 118, hydrocarbon material is produced from thesubterranean formation 100 and to thesurface 10, via the one ormore ports 118 and thewellbore 102. - In some embodiments, for example, both of the opening and closing forces are applied via the Shift Frac Close™ tool available from NCS Multistage Inc.
- In the above description, for purposes of explanation, numerous details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required in order to practice the present disclosure. Although certain dimensions and materials are described for implementing the disclosed example embodiments, other suitable dimensions and/or materials may be used within the scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and variations, including all suitable current and future changes in technology, are believed to be within the sphere and scope of the present disclosure. All references mentioned are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
Claims (21)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/466,191 US20200063538A1 (en) | 2016-12-02 | 2017-12-02 | Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing with flow control member having impedance feature |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201662429502P | 2016-12-02 | 2016-12-02 | |
PCT/CA2017/051453 WO2018098592A1 (en) | 2016-12-02 | 2017-12-01 | Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing with flow control member having impedance feature |
US16/466,191 US20200063538A1 (en) | 2016-12-02 | 2017-12-02 | Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing with flow control member having impedance feature |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20200063538A1 true US20200063538A1 (en) | 2020-02-27 |
Family
ID=62241145
Family Applications (1)
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US16/466,191 Abandoned US20200063538A1 (en) | 2016-12-02 | 2017-12-02 | Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing with flow control member having impedance feature |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20200063538A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3548698A4 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2018098592A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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EP3935261A4 (en) * | 2019-03-08 | 2022-08-10 | NCS Multistage Inc. | Downhole flow controller |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4278131A (en) * | 1979-11-13 | 1981-07-14 | William Jani | Port apparatus for well piping |
US5479989A (en) * | 1994-07-12 | 1996-01-02 | Halliburton Company | Sleeve valve flow control device with locator shifter |
US9187994B2 (en) * | 2010-09-22 | 2015-11-17 | Packers Plus Energy Services Inc. | Wellbore frac tool with inflow control |
US9010442B2 (en) * | 2011-08-29 | 2015-04-21 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Method of completing a multi-zone fracture stimulation treatment of a wellbore |
AU2012308069A1 (en) * | 2011-09-12 | 2014-03-27 | Packers Plus Energy Services Inc. | Wellbore frac tool with inflow control |
AU2012343259A1 (en) * | 2011-11-21 | 2014-06-12 | Packers Plus Energy Services Inc. | Inflow control solutions for wellbores |
-
2017
- 2017-12-01 WO PCT/CA2017/051453 patent/WO2018098592A1/en unknown
- 2017-12-01 EP EP17875262.2A patent/EP3548698A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2017-12-02 US US16/466,191 patent/US20200063538A1/en not_active Abandoned
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EP3548698A1 (en) | 2019-10-09 |
EP3548698A4 (en) | 2020-07-22 |
WO2018098592A1 (en) | 2018-06-07 |
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Owner name: NCS MULTISTAGE INC., CANADA Free format text: RELEASE OF LIEN - PATENT AND TRADEMARK;ASSIGNOR:WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION;REEL/FRAME:061002/0587 Effective date: 20220503 Owner name: NCS MULTISTAGE, LLC, TEXAS Free format text: RELEASE OF LIEN - PATENT AND TRADEMARK;ASSIGNOR:WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION;REEL/FRAME:061002/0587 Effective date: 20220503 |