EP0524042B1 - Apparatus actuated by the hydrostatic pressure of a drilling fluid - Google Patents

Apparatus actuated by the hydrostatic pressure of a drilling fluid Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0524042B1
EP0524042B1 EP92401786A EP92401786A EP0524042B1 EP 0524042 B1 EP0524042 B1 EP 0524042B1 EP 92401786 A EP92401786 A EP 92401786A EP 92401786 A EP92401786 A EP 92401786A EP 0524042 B1 EP0524042 B1 EP 0524042B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
displacement means
drilling fluid
displacement
space
distribution
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.)
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EP92401786A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0524042A1 (en
Inventor
André Cendre
Jean-Baptiste Fay
Benoit Amaudric Du Chaffaut
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IFP Energies Nouvelles IFPEN
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IFP Energies Nouvelles IFPEN
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    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B7/00—Special methods or apparatus for drilling
    • E21B7/04—Directional drilling
    • E21B7/06—Deflecting the direction of boreholes
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B23/00—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells
    • E21B23/04—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells operated by fluid means, e.g. actuated by explosion
    • E21B23/042—Apparatus for displacing, setting, locking, releasing or removing tools, packers or the like in boreholes or wells operated by fluid means, e.g. actuated by explosion using a single piston or multiple mechanically interconnected pistons

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for actuating equipment associated with a drilling string lowered into a well, and in which a drilling fluid circulates, the primary function of which is to provide all the conventional functions of a drilling.
  • the actuation device of the invention directly uses the hydraulic pressure energy of the circulating drilling fluid to actuate the equipment.
  • Patent EP-251543-A is known, for example, where the actuation of a stabilizer with viable geometry is obtained by weight on the tool.
  • the actuation system requires the action of an axial force up to a critical value without positive locking in a determined position. The user sometimes has the risk of error in his knowledge of the position of the equipment.
  • the weight on the tool is a parameter linked to the drilling tool and has a direct influence on drilling performance, so users do not wish to be restricted in the use of this force for anything other than drilling progress.
  • the device of the present invention does not at any time interfere with the drilling parameters, whether hydraulic or mechanical.
  • Patent application EP-376811 discloses an actuating device comprising a needle-needle system using the hydrodynamic action of the circulation of the drilling fluid. This document describes the use of an increase in flow to create a pressure difference between upstream and downstream of the device large enough to obtain actuation. It is clear that in this document the pressure drops downstream of the device come in reduction of the activation effort.
  • the present invention therefore relates to an equipment actuation device associated with a drilling string lowered into a well, and in which a drilling fluid circulates, said circulation creating a positive differential pressure DP between the interior space and the space outside of said lining.
  • Said device as defined in claim 1 comprises distribution means comprising at least two orifices, one of the orifices being connected by a conduit to displacement means, the other orifice being connected by a conduit to said interior space.
  • Said distribution means being adapted to control the communication of said drilling fluid under pressure between the interior space of the lining and an inlet chamber of said displacement means.
  • These also include another exhaust orifice connected by a conduit to said outside space.
  • Said displacement means are adapted to be activated by transforming the hydraulic energy resulting from the differential pressure DP of said drilling fluid between said intake chamber and the exhaust orifice, into mechanical activation energy.
  • the transformation is carried out directly without the cooperation of any other fluid than said drilling fluid, and said distribution means comprise a position in which the duct connecting said distribution means to said intake chamber of said displacement means is closed, so as to trapping the pressurized fluid in said conduit in order to lock said displacement means in their activation position.
  • Said distribution means of the device according to the invention may include two inlet orifices and two outlet orifices communicating two by two. Said distribution means can be adapted to reverse communications.
  • the inlet ports are then connected by conduits, one to the interior space, the other to the exterior space and the outlet ports are then connected by conduits, one to the inlet chamber said displacement means, the other to the exhaust orifice, the distribution means also being adapted to close the two outlet orifices.
  • the distribution means may comprise a valve with two orifices and two positions and said displacement means comprise return means.
  • said valve In a first position, said valve can open the communication of said drilling fluid between the interior space of the lining and said displacement means, said displacement means being activated when said mechanical activation energy is greater than the energy developed by said recall means. In a second position, said valve can close the communication conduit of said drilling fluid between the interior space and said displacement means.
  • the displacement means can be of the longitudinal jack type, the two chambers of which, in particular separated by a sealed piston, are filled with said drilling fluid. Said piston being notably subjected to said differential pressure DP.
  • the distribution means can be remotely controlled from the surface.
  • the displacement means may comprise several longitudinal cylinders arranged in series and a translation shaft cooperating with a stabilizer with variable geometry.
  • the displacement means of the present invention may comprise a needle-needle system causing a restriction of the passage of the drilling fluid in said interior space when said means are at the end of activation.
  • the present invention also relates to the application of the device and of the preceding method to directional drilling.
  • the main idea of the invention is to directly use the hydraulic energy available in a pipe in which a pressurized fluid circulates.
  • the actuation device of the invention can be compared to a hydrostatic circuit in diversion between the interior space and the exterior space of the lining.
  • Part of the hydraulic energy is directed to displacement means.
  • Distribution means control the admission or not of this energy towards the displacement means which play the role of a receiver.
  • the hydraulic fluid used is directly the drilling fluid present in the internal channel of the lining.
  • the distribution means, the displacement means and the equipment are adapted to operate with all types of drilling fluids.
  • One of the advantages of the invention is the use of the differential pressure prevailing at the level of the device between the internal pressure and the external pressure to obtain the necessary actuation energy. It should be noted that it is the pressure drops downstream of the device that create the useful pressure in the interior space. Consequently, in this invention, it is not generally necessary to close off the circulation channel in order to be able to activate. In contrast to the document EP-376811 cited above where the active pressure is the differential pressure inside the channel between the upstream and downstream of the device, and the more there are pressure drops downstream, the less pressure there is. active.
  • the TC command is related to the surface by hydraulic transmission of information sequences as taught in document EP-A-377378. We will not depart from the scope of this invention by using other types of transmission, in particular by electric cable, optical fibers, pressure waves or electromagnetic waves.
  • the TC unit sends signals to the motorization M.
  • the motorization power P is supplied by a set of electric accumulators. If the transmission mode is by cable, energy will be able to pass through this cable. It will also be possible to integrate into the lining a power generator operating in particular from the circulation of the drilling fluid.
  • M operates the distribution means D. These control the hydraulic energy available between PI and PA and distribute or not distribute said energy to the displacement means R or receiver.
  • R is in particular of the cylinder type, single acting with return spring or double acting.
  • One chamber of the jack directly receives the drilling fluid at the pressure PI and the other chamber contains the same fluid but at the pressure PA.
  • the displacement of the piston and the pushing force corresponding to the action of the pressures provide the energy for activating the mechanical action FA. This activates the equipment E.
  • the receiver R is of another type than a longitudinal cylinder, in particular rotary cylinder, rotary motor or turbine.
  • the mechanical action FA may in particular be in the form of the rotation of a couple of forces.
  • the dotted link RD is the return signal supplied by position sensors of the displacement means. This signal which can pass to the surface makes it possible to verify the execution of the command at the level of the receiver.
  • the dotted link RE is a signal indicating the actuation of the equipment E.
  • This signal is in particular an increase in pressure in the interior space of the lining, but it will not go beyond the scope of this invention if the signal is of another nature and transits by other means of transmission.
  • Figure 2 illustrates the principle of the relative arrangement of the various bodies constituting the invention.
  • a piece of equipment 3 is associated with a pipe 1 like a drilling string, in which a drilling fluid circulates represented by the arrows 2.
  • TC control means 4, distribution means 6 and displacement means 10, such as a jack are integrated into the drill string.
  • the control means 4 are connected by conductors 5 to the distribution means 6.
  • the distribution means 6 comprise a valve 7 which controls the circulation of the drilling fluid through a conduit opening at 8 into the interior space 17 of the pipe 1, and at 9 in a chamber 11 of the displacement means 10.
  • a piston sealed 14 separates the chamber 12 from the chamber 11.
  • the chamber 12 is in communication with the outside space 18 to the pipe 1 by the conduit opening at 13.
  • the mechanical connection between the displacement means 10 and the equipment 3 to be actuated comprises a shaft 15 and return means 19.
  • the arrow 16 represents an actuating force.
  • FIG. 3A represents a hydrostatic circuit integrated into said device.
  • the distribution means comprise a distributor 25 with four channels and two positions.
  • This type of distributor well known in the industry, can have multiple technical embodiments, in particular with a slide valve, rotary valve or piloted valves.
  • the control signals from TC 4 are represented by lines 28 and 29.
  • An inlet conduit 21 is connected to the external space PA.
  • the conduit 20 is connected to the interior space PI.
  • An outlet conduit 23 is connected to the intake port of the receiver 30. Its exhaust port is connected by a conduit 24 to the other outlet of the distributor 25.
  • the mechanical connection or shaft 15 cooperates with the equipment at operate 3.
  • PI is in communication with the exhaust via the conduit 24 and the inlet 9 then is connected by 23 and 21 to PA.
  • this circuit makes it possible to control the advance or the recoil of said cylinder.
  • FIG. 3B represents an improvement of the previous circuit in that the distributor 26 is four-way and three-position.
  • the third additional position being that where the conduits 20, 21, 23 and 24 are closed. In this position the displacement of the jack is blocked in one direction as in the other.
  • the jack cannot move.
  • FIG. 3C represents a simplified hydrostatic circuit where the jack 30 is single acting with a return spring 19 or equivalent, a two-way distributor and two positions, the jack exhaust being connected to PA by the channel 22 directly without distributor control.
  • PI In one position of the distributor, PI is in communication with the intake of the jack, in the other position the distributor closes the conduit 23 and allows immobilization of the displacement means or jack according to the same principle as in FIG. 3B.
  • the carrier fluid to be a drilling fluid.
  • the dimensions of the pipes will be modified, the technology of the seals and the choice of materials used, taking into account the nature of the fluid, especially with respect to corrosion.
  • circuits are also suitable for operating with receivers other than longitudinal cylinders.
  • the actuation principle of the device of the invention allows controlled movements and therefore multiple actuations of the equipment.
  • this advantage can be illustrated in a non-limiting manner by considering in what follows a jack to play the role of the receiver.
  • the device makes it possible to control the volume of fluid admitted into the chamber 11, and by knowing the displacement of the jack, in particular by sensors, it is then possible to obtain a specific adjustment of the actuation of the equipment following the displacement of the jack.
  • the device may be fitted with a positive lock on the positioning of the equipment. This locking, not shown, can be controlled by the same control means TC.
  • FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D represent four stages of the most important elements of drilling equipment actuated by the device of the invention.
  • This equipment is a viable diameter stabilizer whose viable geometry is obtained by activating the actuation device of the present invention.
  • the equipment consists of a cylindrical body 40 comprising at each end a conventional thread 41 (only the lower connection is shown). These threads allow this equipment to be integrated into a drill string in the usual manner for the profession.
  • FIG. 4A illustrates the upper stage of said equipment where the remote control means are located.
  • These means include a mechanical assembly 42, batteries 43 or electric accumulators and an electronic cartridge 44. This cartridge translates the orders transmitted by pressure signals from the surface. All of these means located inside the body 40 must be centered and fixed by mechanical means which allow free circulation of the drilling fluid in an internal channel 45. This is illustrated in sections 5 and 6 of the figures. 5 and 6.
  • FIG. 4B represents the device for actuating the equipment.
  • An electric motor 46 controlled by the electronic cartridge 44 and supplied by the accumulators 43, regulates the position of the valve 47.
  • the movement of the valve 49 relative to its seat 50 opens or closes this valve 47.
  • the channel 51 is placed in communication by the orifice 48 with the interior space of the lining, that is to say the channel 45 where the drilling fluid circulates.
  • the pressurized drilling fluid is then led through the channel 51 to the volume of the chamber 52.
  • a piston 53 comprising seals 54 sealingly separates the chamber 52 from the chamber 55. These chambers result from the cooperation of the piston 53 and a cylinder 53a. Seals 67 complete the sealing of the chamber 55 around the rod 66 of the piston 53.
  • the volume of the chamber 55 is in communication with the outside space by means of the orifice 62 and the channel 69 which opens out through the orifice 63.
  • a valve 90 blocks any leakage of fluid from the chamber 52 towards the outside through the orifice 63, but allows injection, in particular for cleaning, by the orifice 63 towards the chamber 52, the channel 51, the valve 47 and the orifice 48. This operation can only be done when the device is on the surface.
  • the rod 66 is mechanically connected to another piston 58 with a stroke identical to the first.
  • the chamber 57 is in communication with the chamber 52 by a pipe 56 pierced in the rod 66.
  • the volume of the chamber 60 is also in communication with the outside via the orifice 61 and the channel 70 which joins the channel 69. seals 68 are placed around the rod 59 of the second piston 58.
  • the body 71 of the double cylinders in which the liners 53a and 58a of the pistons 53 and 58 have been machined, has an external shape adapted to be placed in the internal diameter of the body 40 and to leave a section 45 of passage sufficient for the fluid .
  • Figure 7 illustrates the fluid passage section at the body 71 of the double cylinder.
  • the rod 59 is connected to the actuation shaft by an assembly 64.
  • the piston 53 includes an extension rod 77.
  • This rod has a magnet 78 on its end.
  • Three flexible blade switches 79 have been placed in the receptacle 80 of the extension rod 77.
  • Figure 4C describes the equipment actuated by the double cylinder.
  • the shaft 72 is crossed by a channel 65 allowing the circulation of the drilling fluid.
  • the shaft 72 has on its outer surface dishes 73 inclined with respect to its longitudinal axis and thus forming ramps. Stabilizer blades 74 rest on these inclined ramps 73. Springs 76 remind the blades 74 in a centripetal manner. Seals 75 complete the sealing of the shaft 72 which cooperates with the internal wall of the body 40.
  • FIG. 8 shows a section 8 of the stabilizer with viable geometry where three blades 74 are arranged at angles of 120 ° on the circumference of the body 40. It will not go beyond the scope of this invention with other arrangements or a different number of blades.
  • Figure 4D shows the bottom of the equipment.
  • the shaft 72 has another seal 81.
  • a return spring 82 is supported on one side on a support 85 secured to the body 40 and on the other on the end of the shaft 72.
  • the inner channel 65 of the shaft 72 is of reduced section at its lower end 83 in order to cooperate with the needle 84 integral axially with the body 40.
  • a key 86 prevents rotation of the shaft 72 on its longitudinal axis relative to the body 40.
  • the intermediate switch allows an intermediate position of the stabilizer blades. Indeed, if the order sent from the surface corresponds to the activation of the stabilizer at an intermediate diameter, during the displacement of the means and jointly of the rod 77, the magnet by activating the intermediate switch immobilizes the assembly by closing the valve 47 when the jacks are halfway. The stabilizer blades will be partially extended and the stabilizer will be set to an intermediate diameter. The locking or servo-control means described above can provide this intermediate position.

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
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Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif d'actionnement d'équipement associé à une garniture de forage descendue dans un puits, et dans laquelle circule un fluide de forage dont la fonction première est d'assurer toutes les fonctions conventionnelles d'un forage. Le dispositif d'actionnement de l'invention utilise directement l'énergie hydraulique de pression du fluide de forage en circulation pour actionner l'équipement.The present invention relates to a device for actuating equipment associated with a drilling string lowered into a well, and in which a drilling fluid circulates, the primary function of which is to provide all the conventional functions of a drilling. The actuation device of the invention directly uses the hydraulic pressure energy of the circulating drilling fluid to actuate the equipment.

Dans le domaine du forage pétrolier, il est souvent nécessaire d'actionner des équipements ou outils incorporés dans une garniture de forage descendue dans un puits foré. Cela peut être notamment le cas pour effectuer des forages à trajectoire contrôlée, des opérations exploratoires de mesure ou de test, ou diverses opérations d'équipement de puits de production.In the field of oil drilling, it is often necessary to actuate equipment or tools incorporated in a drill string lowered into a drilled well. This may in particular be the case for carrying out controlled trajectory drilling, exploratory measurement or test operations, or various operations of equipment for production wells.

Dans l'art antérieur, on connaît plusieurs méthodes d'actionnement d'équipement de fond de puits. Cela peut être le pompage d'outils dans la canalisation qui, une fois parvenus au droit de l'équipement, l'active. Au lieu de pomper, on peut laisser tomber une bille ou équivalent dans la garniture. Ces méthodes traditionnelles présentent notamment le grand inconvénient d'obturer totalement ou au mieux temporairement le canal intérieur de la garniture, donc de nécessiter un arrêt plus ou moins prolongé du pompage. Or en forage, il est toujours très dangereux de ne plus maintenir la circulation du fluide de forage. En effet lorsque la circulation ascendante du fluide dans l'annulaire puits-garniture est trop faible, voire nulle, il y a de grands risques de déstabilisation des parois. De plus les débris n'étant plus remontés vers la surface, ils ont tendance à sédimenter et risquent de coincer la garniture.In the prior art, several methods of actuating downhole equipment are known. This can be the pumping of tools in the pipeline which, once they have reached the right of the equipment, activates it. Instead of pumping, you can drop a ball or the like into the packing. These traditional methods present in particular the great disadvantage of completely or at best temporarily closing the inner channel of the lining, therefore of requiring a more or less prolonged stopping of pumping. However, in drilling, it is always very dangerous to no longer maintain the circulation of the drilling fluid. Indeed, when the upward circulation of the fluid in the annular well-packing is too low, or even zero, there is a great risk of destabilization of the walls. In addition, the debris no longer being brought up to the surface, they tend to sediment and risk trapping the lining.

Pour toutes ces raisons, l'évolution technique s'est orientée vers l'utilisation d'autre types d'activation. On peut utiliser l'action du poids sur l'outil, de la vitesse de rotation ou une combinaison des deux. Mais dans ce cas les réalisations sont très complexes et peu fiables pour contrôler la gestion de commande de ces paramètres de forage.For all these reasons, technical development has been oriented towards the use of other types of activation. We can use the action of the weight on the tool, the speed of rotation or a combination of both. But in this case, the realizations are very complex and unreliable to control the management of orders for these drilling parameters.

On connaît par exemple le brevet EP-251543-A où l'actionnement d'un stabilisateur à géométrie viable s'obtient par poids sur l'outil. Mais le système d'actionnement nécessite l'action d'une force axiale jusqu'à une valeur critique sans verrouillage positif dans une position déterminée. L'utilisateur a parfois des risques d'erreur sur sa connaissance de la position de l'équipement. D'autre part le poids sur l'outil est un paramètre lié à l'outil de forage et a une influence directe sur les performances de forage, aussi les utilisateurs ne souhaitent pas être restreint dans l'utilisation de cette force pour autre chose que l'avancement du forage.Patent EP-251543-A is known, for example, where the actuation of a stabilizer with viable geometry is obtained by weight on the tool. However, the actuation system requires the action of an axial force up to a critical value without positive locking in a determined position. The user sometimes has the risk of error in his knowledge of the position of the equipment. On the other hand, the weight on the tool is a parameter linked to the drilling tool and has a direct influence on drilling performance, so users do not wish to be restricted in the use of this force for anything other than drilling progress.

Le dispositif de la présente invention n'interfère en aucun moment avec les paramètres de forage qu'ils soient hydrauliques ou mécaniques.The device of the present invention does not at any time interfere with the drilling parameters, whether hydraulic or mechanical.

On connaît par la demande de brevet EP-376811, un dispositif d'actionnement comportant un système duse-aiguille utilisant l'action hydrodynamique de la circulation du fluide de forage. Ce document décrit l'utilisation d'une augmentation du débit pour créer une différence de pression entre l'amont et l'aval du dispositif suffisamment importante pour obtenir l'actionnement. Il est clair que dans ce document les pertes de charge en aval du dispositif viennent en minoration de l'effort d'activation.Patent application EP-376811 discloses an actuating device comprising a needle-needle system using the hydrodynamic action of the circulation of the drilling fluid. This document describes the use of an increase in flow to create a pressure difference between upstream and downstream of the device large enough to obtain actuation. It is clear that in this document the pressure drops downstream of the device come in reduction of the activation effort.

On connaît par le document US-A-3788136, qui représente l'état de la technique correspondant au préambule de la revendication 1, un appareillage qui comporte des moyens de distribution du fluide de forage pour générer des pulsations du couple dans la garniture de forage.Document US-A-3788136, which represents the state of the art corresponding to the preamble of claim 1, discloses an apparatus which comprises means for distributing the drilling fluid to generate pulsations of the torque in the drilling rig .

Au contraire, dans la présente invention, toutes les pertes de charge dans la garniture en aval du dispositif sont actives pour l'actionnement. Cela représente un avantage certain puisque ces pertes de charge ont toujours des valeurs conséquentes compte tenu de la présence indispensable d'outils à restriction de passage notamment un outil de forage. Le niveau d'énergie d'activation nécessaire peut alors être plus facilement obtenu tout en restant dans les conditions normales d'opérations, ce qui pratiquement supprime toutes les interférences avec l'environnement du forage.On the contrary, in the present invention, all the pressure drops in the packing downstream of the device are active for actuation. This represents a definite advantage since these pressure drops always have substantial values taking into account the essential presence of tools with restriction of passage, in particular a drilling tool. The level of activation energy required can then be more easily obtained while remaining under normal operating conditions, which practically eliminates all interference with the drilling environment.

Dans l'art antérieur, qui peut être illustré par la demande EP-376811 précédemment cité, les mécanismes internes notamment d'activation, d'indexation et de verrouillage imposent une lubrification spécifique des organes. Ils doivent donc être étanches par rapport à la présence d'un fluide sous pression tel que le fluide de forage. Toutes ces contraintes sont supprimées par la présente invention qui utilise directement le fluide de forage sans autre fluide tampon ou intermédiaire.In the prior art, which can be illustrated by the aforementioned application EP-376811, the internal mechanisms, in particular of activation, indexing and locking, impose specific lubrication of the organs. They must therefore be sealed against the presence of a pressurized fluid such as drilling fluid. All these constraints are eliminated by the present invention which directly uses the drilling fluid without any other buffer or intermediate fluid.

La présente invention concerne donc un dispositif d'actionnement d'équipement associé à une garniture de forage descendue dans un puits, et dans laquelle circule un fluide de forage, ladite circulation créant une pression différentielle DP positive entre l'espace intérieur et l'espace extérieur de ladite garniture. Ledit dispositif tel que défini par la revendication 1 comporte des moyens de distribution comportant au moins deux orifices, l'un des orifices étant reliés par un conduit à des moyens de déplacement, l'autre orifice étant relié par un conduit audit espace intérieur. Lesdits moyens de distribution étant adaptés à contrôler la communication dudit fluide de forage sous pression entre l'espace intérieur de la garniture et une chambre d'admission desdits moyens de déplacement. Ceux-ci comportent également un autre orifice d'échappement relié par un conduit audit espace extérieur.The present invention therefore relates to an equipment actuation device associated with a drilling string lowered into a well, and in which a drilling fluid circulates, said circulation creating a positive differential pressure DP between the interior space and the space outside of said lining. Said device as defined in claim 1 comprises distribution means comprising at least two orifices, one of the orifices being connected by a conduit to displacement means, the other orifice being connected by a conduit to said interior space. Said distribution means being adapted to control the communication of said drilling fluid under pressure between the interior space of the lining and an inlet chamber of said displacement means. These also include another exhaust orifice connected by a conduit to said outside space.

Lesdits moyens de déplacement sont adaptés à être activés en transformant l'énergie hydraulique résultant de la pression différentielle DP dudit fluide de forage entre ladite chambre d'admission et l'orifice d'échappement, en énergie mécanique d'activation. La transformation est effectuée directement sans coopération d'autre fluide que ledit fluide de forage, et lesdits moyens de distribution comportent une position dans laquelle le conduit reliant lesdits moyens de distribution à ladite chambre d'admission desdits moyens de déplacement est fermé, de façon à piéger le fluide sous pression dans ledit conduit afin de verrouiller lesdits moyens de déplacement dans leur position d'activation.Said displacement means are adapted to be activated by transforming the hydraulic energy resulting from the differential pressure DP of said drilling fluid between said intake chamber and the exhaust orifice, into mechanical activation energy. The transformation is carried out directly without the cooperation of any other fluid than said drilling fluid, and said distribution means comprise a position in which the duct connecting said distribution means to said intake chamber of said displacement means is closed, so as to trapping the pressurized fluid in said conduit in order to lock said displacement means in their activation position.

Lesdits moyens de distribution du dispositif selon l'invention peuvent comporter deux orifices d'entrée et deux orifices de sortie communiquant deux à deux. Lesdits moyens de distribution peuvent être adaptés à inverser les communications. Les orifices d'entrée sont alors reliés par des conduits, l'un à l'espace intérieur, l'autre à l'espace extérieur et les orifices de sortie sont alors reliés par des conduits, l'un à la chambre d'admission desdits moyens de déplacement, l'autre à l'orifice d'échappement, les moyens de distribution étant également adaptés à obturer les deux orifices de sortie.Said distribution means of the device according to the invention may include two inlet orifices and two outlet orifices communicating two by two. Said distribution means can be adapted to reverse communications. The inlet ports are then connected by conduits, one to the interior space, the other to the exterior space and the outlet ports are then connected by conduits, one to the inlet chamber said displacement means, the other to the exhaust orifice, the distribution means also being adapted to close the two outlet orifices.

Les moyens de distribution peuvent comporter une vanne à deux orifices et deux positions et lesdits moyens de déplacement comporter des moyens de rappel. Dans une première position, ladite vanne peut ouvrir la communication dudit fluide de forage entre l'espace intérieur de la garniture et lesdits moyens de déplacement, lesdits moyens de déplacement étant activés lorsque ladite énergie mécanique d'activation est supérieure à l'énergie développée par lesdits moyens de rappel. Dans une deuxième position, ladite vanne peut obturer le conduit de communication dudit fluide de forage entre l'espace intérieur et lesdits moyens de déplacement.The distribution means may comprise a valve with two orifices and two positions and said displacement means comprise return means. In a first position, said valve can open the communication of said drilling fluid between the interior space of the lining and said displacement means, said displacement means being activated when said mechanical activation energy is greater than the energy developed by said recall means. In a second position, said valve can close the communication conduit of said drilling fluid between the interior space and said displacement means.

Les moyens de déplacement peuvent être du type vérin longitudinal dont les deux chambres séparées notamment par un piston étanche sont remplies par ledit fluide de forage. Ledit piston étant notamment soumis à ladite pression différentielle DP.The displacement means can be of the longitudinal jack type, the two chambers of which, in particular separated by a sealed piston, are filled with said drilling fluid. Said piston being notably subjected to said differential pressure DP.

Les moyens de distribution peuvent être télécommandés à partir de la surface.The distribution means can be remotely controlled from the surface.

Les moyens de déplacement peuvent comporter plusieurs vérins longitudinaux disposés en série et un arbre de translation coopérant avec un stabilisateur à géométrie variable.The displacement means may comprise several longitudinal cylinders arranged in series and a translation shaft cooperating with a stabilizer with variable geometry.

Les moyens de déplacement de la présente invention peuvent comporter un système duse-aiguille provoquant une restriction du passage du fluide de forage dans ledit espace intérieur lorsque lesdits moyens sont en fin d'activation.The displacement means of the present invention may comprise a needle-needle system causing a restriction of the passage of the drilling fluid in said interior space when said means are at the end of activation.

L'invention fournit également une méthode telle que définie par la revendication 10 comportant les étapes suivantes:

  • on règle notamment par pompage en surface la valeur de la pression différentielle DP à une valeur déterminée,
  • on commande lesdits moyens de distribution pour admettre la circulation dudit fluide de forage sous pression entre l'espace intérieur et lesdits moyens de déplacement,
  • on actionne l'équipement par l'activation desdits moyens de déplacement lorsque ladite énergie mécanique est supérieure à l'énergie développée par les moyens de rappels desdits moyens de déplacement,
  • on commande lesdits moyens de distribution pour obturer la communication entre l'espace intérieur et lesdits moyens de déplacement et verrouiller en position lesdits moyens de déplacement,
  • on commande lesdits moyens de distribution pour ouvrir la communication entre l'espace intérieur et lesdits moyens de déplacement et on diminue la pression différentielle DP, notamment en réglant le pompage, jusqu'à ce que l'énergie développée par lesdits moyens de rappel soit supérieure à ladite énergie mécanique.
The invention also provides a method as defined by claim 10 comprising the following steps:
  • the value of the differential pressure DP is notably adjusted by surface pumping to a determined value,
  • said distribution means are controlled to admit the circulation of said drilling fluid under pressure between the interior space and said displacement means,
  • the equipment is actuated by the activation of said displacement means when said mechanical energy is greater than the energy developed by the return means of said displacement means,
  • said distribution means are controlled to close the communication between the interior space and said displacement means and to lock in position said displacement means,
  • said distribution means are controlled to open the communication between the interior space and said displacement means and the differential pressure DP is reduced, in particular by regulating the pumping, until the energy developed by said return means is greater to said mechanical energy.

La présente invention concerne également l'application du dispositif et de la méthode précédente aux forages directionnels.The present invention also relates to the application of the device and of the preceding method to directional drilling.

L'idée maîtresse de l'invention est d'utiliser directement l'énergie hydraulique disponible dans une canalisation dans laquelle circule un fluide sous pression. En effet, le dispositif d'actionnement de l'invention peut être comparé à un circuit hydrostatique en dérivation entre l'espace intérieur et l'espace extérieur de la garniture. Une partie de l'énergie hydraulique est dirigée vers des moyens de déplacement. Des moyens de distribution contrôlent l'admission ou non de cette énergie vers les moyens de déplacement qui jouent le rôle d'un récepteur. Pour simplifier le dessin des divers éléments, limiter la maintenance tout en augmentant la fiabilité du dispositif, le fluide hydraulique utilisé est directement le fluide de forage présent dans la canal interne de la garniture. Dans cette invention, les moyens de distribution, les moyens de déplacement et l'équipement sont adaptés à fonctionner avec tous les types de fluides de forage.The main idea of the invention is to directly use the hydraulic energy available in a pipe in which a pressurized fluid circulates. In fact, the actuation device of the invention can be compared to a hydrostatic circuit in diversion between the interior space and the exterior space of the lining. Part of the hydraulic energy is directed to displacement means. Distribution means control the admission or not of this energy towards the displacement means which play the role of a receiver. To simplify the design of the various elements, limit maintenance while increasing the reliability of the device, the hydraulic fluid used is directly the drilling fluid present in the internal channel of the lining. In this invention, the distribution means, the displacement means and the equipment are adapted to operate with all types of drilling fluids.

Un des avantages de l'invention est l'utilisation de la pression différentielle régnant au niveau du dispositif entre la pression intérieure et la pression extérieure pour obtenir l'énergie d'actionnement nécessaire. Il faut remarquer que ce sont les pertes de charge en aval du dispositif qui créent la pression utile dans l'espace intérieur. En conséquence, dans cette invention, il n'est pas nécessaire en général d'obturer le canal de circulation pour pouvoir activer. Au contraire du document EP-376811 cité plus haut où la pression active est la pression différentielle intérieure au canal entre l'amont et l'aval du dispositif, et plus il y a des pertes de charge en aval, moins il y a de pression active.One of the advantages of the invention is the use of the differential pressure prevailing at the level of the device between the internal pressure and the external pressure to obtain the necessary actuation energy. It should be noted that it is the pressure drops downstream of the device that create the useful pressure in the interior space. Consequently, in this invention, it is not generally necessary to close off the circulation channel in order to be able to activate. In contrast to the document EP-376811 cited above where the active pressure is the differential pressure inside the channel between the upstream and downstream of the device, and the more there are pressure drops downstream, the less pressure there is. active.

La présente invention sera mieux comprise et ses avantages apparaîtront plus nettement à la description qui suit d'exemples particuliers, non limitatifs, illustrés par les figures suivantes :

  • la figure 1 représente un schéma fonctionnel du dispositif,
  • la figure 2 représente un schéma de principe du dispositif,
  • les figures 3A, 3B et 3C représentent des schémas hydrostatiques représentant trois types de circuits permettant la réalisation du dispositif,
  • les figures 4A, 4B, 4C et 4D représentent une réalisation préférentielle du dispositif de la présente invention.
  • les figures 5, 6, 7 et 8 sont des coupes droites à différents niveaux de la réalisation préférentielle.
The present invention will be better understood and its advantages will appear more clearly on description which follows of particular, nonlimiting examples, illustrated by the following figures:
  • FIG. 1 represents a functional diagram of the device,
  • FIG. 2 represents a block diagram of the device,
  • FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C represent hydrostatic diagrams representing three types of circuits enabling the device to be produced,
  • Figures 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D show a preferred embodiment of the device of the present invention.
  • Figures 5, 6, 7 and 8 are cross sections at different levels of the preferred embodiment.

La figure 1 représente un schéma fonctionnel dudit dispositif où :

  • PI et PA représentent respectivement les pressions dans l'espace intérieur et dans l'espace extérieur de la garniture de forage,
  • TC sont des moyens de commande ou télécommande,
  • D sont des moyens de distribution manoeuvrés par une motorisation M,
  • P est la puissance nécessaire à la motorisation,
  • R sont des moyens de déplacement ou récepteur,
  • FA est une action mécanique,
  • E est l'équipement à actionner,
  • les lignes pointillées RD et RE représentent respectivement les recopies d'état des moyens de déplacement et de l'équipement.
FIG. 1 represents a functional diagram of said device where:
  • PI and PA represent respectively the pressures in the interior space and in the exterior space of the drill string,
  • TC are control or remote control means,
  • D are distribution means operated by a motorization M,
  • P is the power required for the motorization,
  • R are means of displacement or receiver,
  • FA is a mechanical action,
  • E is the equipment to be operated,
  • the dotted lines RD and RE respectively represent the state copies of the means of movement and of the equipment.

Ce diagramme permet de représenter les différentes connexions fonctionnelles qui relient les organes constituant l'invention. La commande TC est en relation avec la surface par transmission hydraulique de séquences d'information comme cela est enseigné dans le document EP-A-377378. On ne sortira pas du cadre de cette invention en utilisant d'autres types de transmission notamment par câble électrique, fibres optiques, ondes de pression ou ondes électromagnétique. L'organe TC envoie des signaux vers la motorisation M. La puissance de motorisation P est fournie par un ensemble d'accumulateurs électriques. Si le mode de transmission est par câble, l'énergie pourra transiter par le moyen de ce câble. On pourra également intégrer à la garniture un générateur de puissance fonctionnant notamment à partir de la circulation du fluide de forage.This diagram makes it possible to represent the different functional connections which connect the organs constituting the invention. The TC command is related to the surface by hydraulic transmission of information sequences as taught in document EP-A-377378. We will not depart from the scope of this invention by using other types of transmission, in particular by electric cable, optical fibers, pressure waves or electromagnetic waves. The TC unit sends signals to the motorization M. The motorization power P is supplied by a set of electric accumulators. If the transmission mode is by cable, energy will be able to pass through this cable. It will also be possible to integrate into the lining a power generator operating in particular from the circulation of the drilling fluid.

M opère les moyens de distribution D. Ceux-ci contrôlent l'énergie hydraulique disponible entre PI et PA et distribuent ou non ladite énergie vers les moyens de déplacement R ou récepteur. R est notamment du type vérin, simple effet avec ressort de rappel ou double effet. Une chambre du vérin reçoit directement le fluide de forage à la pression PI et l'autre chambre contient le même fluide mais à la pression PA. Le déplacement du piston et la force de poussée correspondant à l'action des pressions fournissent l'énergie d'activation de l'action mécanique FA. Celle-ci actionne l'équipement E.M operates the distribution means D. These control the hydraulic energy available between PI and PA and distribute or not distribute said energy to the displacement means R or receiver. R is in particular of the cylinder type, single acting with return spring or double acting. One chamber of the jack directly receives the drilling fluid at the pressure PI and the other chamber contains the same fluid but at the pressure PA. The displacement of the piston and the pushing force corresponding to the action of the pressures provide the energy for activating the mechanical action FA. This activates the equipment E.

On ne sortira pas du cadre de cette invention si le récepteur R est d'un autre type qu'un vérin longitudinal, notamment vérin rotatif, moteur rotatif ou turbine. Dans ces cas l'action mécanique FA pourra être notamment sous la forme de la rotation d'un couple de forces.It will not depart from the scope of this invention if the receiver R is of another type than a longitudinal cylinder, in particular rotary cylinder, rotary motor or turbine. In these cases the mechanical action FA may in particular be in the form of the rotation of a couple of forces.

La liaison pointillée RD est le signal de retour fournit par des capteurs de position des moyens de déplacement. Ce signal qui peut transiter vers la surface permet de vérifier la réalisation de la commande au niveau du récepteur.The dotted link RD is the return signal supplied by position sensors of the displacement means. This signal which can pass to the surface makes it possible to verify the execution of the command at the level of the receiver.

La liaison pointillée RE est un signal d'indication de l'actionnement de l'équipement E. Ce signal est notamment une augmentation de pression dans l'espace intérieur de la garniture, mais on ne sortira pas du cadre de cette invention si le signal est d'une autre nature et transite par d'autres moyens de transmission.The dotted link RE is a signal indicating the actuation of the equipment E. This signal is in particular an increase in pressure in the interior space of the lining, but it will not go beyond the scope of this invention if the signal is of another nature and transits by other means of transmission.

La figure 2 illustre le principe de la disposition relative des différents organes constituant l'invention.Figure 2 illustrates the principle of the relative arrangement of the various bodies constituting the invention.

Un équipement 3 est associé à une canalisation 1 comme une garniture de forage, dans laquelle circule un fluide de forage représenté par les flèches 2. Des moyens de commande TC 4, des moyens de distribution 6 et des moyens de déplacement 10, tel un vérin, sont intégrés à la garniture de forage. Les moyens de commande 4 sont reliés par des conducteurs 5 aux moyens de distribution 6.A piece of equipment 3 is associated with a pipe 1 like a drilling string, in which a drilling fluid circulates represented by the arrows 2. TC control means 4, distribution means 6 and displacement means 10, such as a jack , are integrated into the drill string. The control means 4 are connected by conductors 5 to the distribution means 6.

Les moyens de distribution 6 comportent une vanne 7 qui contrôle la circulation du fluide de forage à travers un conduit débouchant en 8 dans l'espace intérieur 17 de la canalisation 1, et en 9 dans une chambre 11 des moyens de déplacement 10. Un piston étanche 14 sépare la chambre 12 de la chambre 11. La chambre 12 est en communication avec l'espace extérieur 18 à la canalisation 1 par le conduit débouchant en 13.The distribution means 6 comprise a valve 7 which controls the circulation of the drilling fluid through a conduit opening at 8 into the interior space 17 of the pipe 1, and at 9 in a chamber 11 of the displacement means 10. A piston sealed 14 separates the chamber 12 from the chamber 11. The chamber 12 is in communication with the outside space 18 to the pipe 1 by the conduit opening at 13.

La liaison mécanique entre les moyens de déplacement 10 et l'équipement 3 à actionner comporte un arbre 15 et des moyens de rappel 19. La flèche 16 représente une force d'actionnement.The mechanical connection between the displacement means 10 and the equipment 3 to be actuated comprises a shaft 15 and return means 19. The arrow 16 represents an actuating force.

On ne sortira pas du cadre de cette invention si la communication par le conduit qui débouche en 13 est également contrôlée par les moyens de distribution comme cela est représenté sur les schémas de circuits figure 3A et figure 3B.It will not depart from the scope of this invention if the communication via the conduit which opens out at 13 is also controlled by the distribution means as shown in the circuit diagrams in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B.

La figure 3A représente un circuit hydrostatique intégré audit dispositif. Les moyens de distribution comportent un distributeur 25 à quatre voies et deux positions. Ce type de distributeur, bien connu de l'industrie, peut avoir de multiple réalisations techniques, notamment à tiroir, rotatif ou à clapets pilotés. Les signaux de commandes provenant de TC 4 sont représentés par les lignes 28 et 29.FIG. 3A represents a hydrostatic circuit integrated into said device. The distribution means comprise a distributor 25 with four channels and two positions. This type of distributor, well known in the industry, can have multiple technical embodiments, in particular with a slide valve, rotary valve or piloted valves. The control signals from TC 4 are represented by lines 28 and 29.

Un conduit d'entrée 21 est raccordé à l'espace extérieur PA. Le conduit 20 est raccordé à l'espace intérieur PI.An inlet conduit 21 is connected to the external space PA. The conduit 20 is connected to the interior space PI.

Un conduit de sortie 23 est raccordé à l'orifice d'admission du récepteur 30. Son orifice d'échappement est raccordé par un conduit 24 à l'autre sortie du distributeur 25. La liaison mécanique ou arbre 15 coopère avec l'équipement à actionner 3.An outlet conduit 23 is connected to the intake port of the receiver 30. Its exhaust port is connected by a conduit 24 to the other outlet of the distributor 25. The mechanical connection or shaft 15 cooperates with the equipment at operate 3.

Ce circuit schématise une fonction d'inversion. Dans une position du distributeur, le fluide de forage sous pression en provenance de PI est canalisé vers 9, l'échappement est alors canalisé vers PA par les conduits 24 et 21.This circuit diagrams a reversal function. In a position of the distributor, the pressurized drilling fluid coming from PI is channeled towards 9, the exhaust is then channeled towards PA by the conduits 24 and 21.

Dans la deuxième position, PI est en communication avec l'échappement par le conduit 24 et l'admission 9 alors est reliée par 23 et 21 à PA.In the second position, PI is in communication with the exhaust via the conduit 24 and the inlet 9 then is connected by 23 and 21 to PA.

Dans le cas de la représentation de la figure 3A où le récepteur est un vérin double effet, ce circuit permet de contrôler l'avancement ou le recul dudit vérin.In the case of the representation of FIG. 3A where the receiver is a double-acting cylinder, this circuit makes it possible to control the advance or the recoil of said cylinder.

La figure 3B représente une amélioration du circuit précédent en ce que le distributeur 26 est à quatre voies et trois positions. La troisième position supplémentaire étant celle où les conduits 20, 21, 23 et 24 sont obturés. Dans cette position le déplacement du vérin est bloqué dans un sens comme dans l'autre. En effet, compte tenu du fait que le fluide de forage contenu dans les chambres 11 et 12 et dans les conduites 23 et 24, est pratiquement incompressible et que les fuites sont sensiblement nulles, le vérin ne peut se mouvoir.FIG. 3B represents an improvement of the previous circuit in that the distributor 26 is four-way and three-position. The third additional position being that where the conduits 20, 21, 23 and 24 are closed. In this position the displacement of the jack is blocked in one direction as in the other. In fact, taking into account the fact that the drilling fluid contained in the chambers 11 and 12 and in the conduits 23 and 24 is practically incompressible and that the leaks are substantially zero, the jack cannot move.

La figure 3C représente un circuit hydrostatique simplifié où le vérin 30 est à simple effet avec un ressort de rappel 19 ou équivalent, un distributeur 27 à deux voies et deux positions, l'échappement du vérin étant relié à PA par le canal 22 directement sans contrôle par le distributeur.FIG. 3C represents a simplified hydrostatic circuit where the jack 30 is single acting with a return spring 19 or equivalent, a two-way distributor and two positions, the jack exhaust being connected to PA by the channel 22 directly without distributor control.

Dans une position du distributeur, PI est en communication avec l'admission du vérin, dans l'autre position le distributeur obture le conduit 23 et permet une immobilisation du moyen de déplacement ou vérin suivant le même principe qu'en figure 3B.In one position of the distributor, PI is in communication with the intake of the jack, in the other position the distributor closes the conduit 23 and allows immobilization of the displacement means or jack according to the same principle as in FIG. 3B.

Il faut bien noter que ces trois types de circuits sont adaptés à ce que le fluide vecteur soit un fluide de forage. Pour cela, on modifiera notamment les dimensionnements des conduites, la technologie des étanchéités et le choix des matériaux utilisés compte tenu de la nature du fluide, notamment vis-à-vis de la corrosion.It should be noted that these three types of circuits are suitable for the carrier fluid to be a drilling fluid. To this end, the dimensions of the pipes will be modified, the technology of the seals and the choice of materials used, taking into account the nature of the fluid, especially with respect to corrosion.

Ces circuits sont également adaptés à fonctionner avec d'autres récepteurs que des vérins longitudinaux.These circuits are also suitable for operating with receivers other than longitudinal cylinders.

Le principe d'actionnement du dispositif de l'invention permet des déplacements contrôlés et donc des actionnements multiples de l'équipement. En effet, on peut illustrer d'une manière nullement limitative cet avantage en considérant dans ce qui suit un vérin pour jouer le rôle du récepteur. Le dispositif permet de contrôler le volume de fluide admis dans la chambre 11, et de par la connaissance du déplacement du vérin, notamment par des capteurs, il est alors possible d'obtenir un réglage spécifique de l'actionnement de l'équipement consécutif au déplacement du vérin.The actuation principle of the device of the invention allows controlled movements and therefore multiple actuations of the equipment. In fact, this advantage can be illustrated in a non-limiting manner by considering in what follows a jack to play the role of the receiver. The device makes it possible to control the volume of fluid admitted into the chamber 11, and by knowing the displacement of the jack, in particular by sensors, it is then possible to obtain a specific adjustment of the actuation of the equipment following the displacement of the jack.

On pourra également, sans sortir du cadre de cette invention, asservir le déplacement du vérin et donc de l'équipement grâce à des capteurs de position et de l'électronique d'asservissement contenue dans le système de commande.It is also possible, without departing from the scope of this invention, to control the movement of the jack and therefore of the equipment by means of position sensors and electronic control contained in the control system.

Bien entendu, il sera toujours possible de fonctionner d'une manière plus simplifiée entre les deux positions extrêmes du vérin longitudinal.Of course, it will still be possible to operate in a more simplified manner between the two extreme positions of the longitudinal cylinder.

Le dispositif pourra être équipé d'un verrouillage positif sur le positionnement de l'équipement. Ce verrouillage, non représenté, peut être commandé par les mêmes moyens de commande TC.The device may be fitted with a positive lock on the positioning of the equipment. This locking, not shown, can be controlled by the same control means TC.

Les figures 4A, 4B, 4C et 4D représentent quatre étages des éléments les plus importants d'un équipement de forage actionné par le dispositif de l'invention. Cet équipement est un stabilisateur à diamètre viable dont la géométrie viable est obtenue par l'activation du dispositif d'actionnement de la présente invention.FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D represent four stages of the most important elements of drilling equipment actuated by the device of the invention. This equipment is a viable diameter stabilizer whose viable geometry is obtained by activating the actuation device of the present invention.

L'équipement se compose d'un corps cylindrique 40 comportant à chaque extrémité un filetage conventionnel 41 (seule la connexion inférieure est représentée). Ces filetages permettent d'intégré cet équipement dans une garniture de forage de la manière habituelle à la profession.The equipment consists of a cylindrical body 40 comprising at each end a conventional thread 41 (only the lower connection is shown). These threads allow this equipment to be integrated into a drill string in the usual manner for the profession.

La figure 4A illustre l'étage supérieur dudit équipement où se situent les moyens de télécommandes. Ces moyens comportent un ensemble mécanique 42, des piles 43 ou accumulateurs électriques et une cartouche électronique 44. Cette cartouche traduit les ordres transmis par signaux de pression à partir de la surface. L'ensemble de ces moyens situés à l'intérieur du corps 40, doivent être centrés et fixés par des moyens mécaniques qui laissent libre la circulation du fluide de forage dans un canal intérieur 45. Cela est illustré sur les coupes 5 et 6 des figures 5 et 6.FIG. 4A illustrates the upper stage of said equipment where the remote control means are located. These means include a mechanical assembly 42, batteries 43 or electric accumulators and an electronic cartridge 44. This cartridge translates the orders transmitted by pressure signals from the surface. All of these means located inside the body 40 must be centered and fixed by mechanical means which allow free circulation of the drilling fluid in an internal channel 45. This is illustrated in sections 5 and 6 of the figures. 5 and 6.

La figure 4B représente le dispositif d'actionnement de l'équipement. Une motorisation électrique 46, commandée par la cartouche électronique 44 et alimentée par les accumulateurs 43, règle la position de la vanne 47. Le déplacement de la soupape 49 relative à son siège 50 ouvre ou ferme cette vanne 47. Lorsque la soupape est levée de son siège, le canal 51 est mis en communication par l'orifice 48 avec l'espace intérieur de la garniture, c'est-à-dire le canal 45 où circule le fluide de forage. Le fluide de forage sous pression est conduit alors par le canal 51 jusqu'au volume de la chambre 52. Un piston 53 comportant des joints 54 sépare de manière étanche la chambre 52 de la chambre 55. Ces chambres résultent de la coopération du piston 53 et d'un cylindre 53a. Des joints 67 complètent l'étanchéité de la chambre 55 autour de la tige 66 du piston 53. Le volume de la chambre 55 est en communication avec l'espace extérieur par le moyen de l'orifice 62 et du canal 69 qui débouche par l'orifice 63. Un clapet 90 bloque toute fuite de fluide de la chambre 52 vers l'extérieur par l'orifice 63, mais permet une injection, notamment pour un nettoyage, par l'orifice 63 vers la chambre 52, le canal 51, la vanne 47 et l'orifice 48. Cette opération ne peut se faire que lorsque le dispositif est en surface.FIG. 4B represents the device for actuating the equipment. An electric motor 46, controlled by the electronic cartridge 44 and supplied by the accumulators 43, regulates the position of the valve 47. The movement of the valve 49 relative to its seat 50 opens or closes this valve 47. When the valve is lifted from its seat, the channel 51 is placed in communication by the orifice 48 with the interior space of the lining, that is to say the channel 45 where the drilling fluid circulates. The pressurized drilling fluid is then led through the channel 51 to the volume of the chamber 52. A piston 53 comprising seals 54 sealingly separates the chamber 52 from the chamber 55. These chambers result from the cooperation of the piston 53 and a cylinder 53a. Seals 67 complete the sealing of the chamber 55 around the rod 66 of the piston 53. The volume of the chamber 55 is in communication with the outside space by means of the orifice 62 and the channel 69 which opens out through the orifice 63. A valve 90 blocks any leakage of fluid from the chamber 52 towards the outside through the orifice 63, but allows injection, in particular for cleaning, by the orifice 63 towards the chamber 52, the channel 51, the valve 47 and the orifice 48. This operation can only be done when the device is on the surface.

La tige 66 est mécaniquement relié à un autre piston 58 de course identique au premier. La chambre 57 est en communication avec la chambre 52 par une canalisation 56 percée dans la tige 66. Le volume de la chambre 60 est également en communication avec l'extérieur par l'orifice 61 et le canal 70 qui rejoint le canal 69. Des joints d'étanchéités 68 sont placés autour de la tige 59 du deuxième piston 58.The rod 66 is mechanically connected to another piston 58 with a stroke identical to the first. The chamber 57 is in communication with the chamber 52 by a pipe 56 pierced in the rod 66. The volume of the chamber 60 is also in communication with the outside via the orifice 61 and the channel 70 which joins the channel 69. seals 68 are placed around the rod 59 of the second piston 58.

On ne sortira pas du cadre de cette invention si plus de deux pistons sont assemblés en série suivant la disposition précédente. De même si les moyens de déplacement se réduisent à un seul piston dans le cas où la force d'actionnement développée ainsi est suffisante.It will not depart from the scope of this invention if more than two pistons are assembled in series according to the preceding arrangement. Likewise if the displacement means are reduced to a single piston in the case where the actuating force thus developed is sufficient.

Le corps 71 des doubles vérins, dans lequel les chemises 53a et 58a des pistons 53 et 58 ont été usinées, a une forme extérieure adaptée à être placée dans le diamètre intérieur du corps 40 et à laisser une section 45 de passage suffisante pour le fluide. La figure 7 illustre la section de passage de fluide au niveau du corps 71 du double vérin.The body 71 of the double cylinders, in which the liners 53a and 58a of the pistons 53 and 58 have been machined, has an external shape adapted to be placed in the internal diameter of the body 40 and to leave a section 45 of passage sufficient for the fluid . Figure 7 illustrates the fluid passage section at the body 71 of the double cylinder.

La tige 59 est relié à l'arbre d'actionnement par un assemblage 64.The rod 59 is connected to the actuation shaft by an assembly 64.

Le piston 53 comporte une tige prolongatrice 77. Cette tige possède un aimant 78 sur son extrémité. Trois interrupteurs à lame souple 79 ont été placés dans le réceptacle 80 de la tige prolongatrice 77.The piston 53 includes an extension rod 77. This rod has a magnet 78 on its end. Three flexible blade switches 79 have been placed in the receptacle 80 of the extension rod 77.

La figure 4C décrit l'équipement actionné par le double vérin. L'arbre 72 est traversé par un canal 65 permettant la circulation du fluide de forage.Figure 4C describes the equipment actuated by the double cylinder. The shaft 72 is crossed by a channel 65 allowing the circulation of the drilling fluid.

L'arbre 72 possède sur sa surface extérieure des plats 73 inclinés par rapport à son axe longitudinal et formant ainsi des rampes. Des lames 74 de stabilisateur s'appuient sur ces rampes inclinées 73. Des ressorts 76 rappellent les lames 74 d'une façon centripète. Des joints 75 complètent l'étanchéité de l'arbre 72 qui coopère avec la paroi interne du corps 40.The shaft 72 has on its outer surface dishes 73 inclined with respect to its longitudinal axis and thus forming ramps. Stabilizer blades 74 rest on these inclined ramps 73. Springs 76 remind the blades 74 in a centripetal manner. Seals 75 complete the sealing of the shaft 72 which cooperates with the internal wall of the body 40.

La figure 8 montre une coupe 8 du stabilisateur à géométrie viable où trois lames 74 sont disposées suivant des angles de 120° sur la circonférence du corps 40. On ne sortira pas du cadre de cette invention avec d'autres dispositions ou un nombre différent de lames.FIG. 8 shows a section 8 of the stabilizer with viable geometry where three blades 74 are arranged at angles of 120 ° on the circumference of the body 40. It will not go beyond the scope of this invention with other arrangements or a different number of blades.

La figure 4D montre la partie inférieure de l'équipement. L'arbre 72 comporte un autre joint d'étanchéité 81. Un ressort de rappel 82 est appuyé d'un coté sur un support 85 solidaire du corps 40 et de l'autre sur l'extrémité de l'arbre 72.Figure 4D shows the bottom of the equipment. The shaft 72 has another seal 81. A return spring 82 is supported on one side on a support 85 secured to the body 40 and on the other on the end of the shaft 72.

Le canal intérieur 65 de l'arbre 72 est de section réduite à son extrémité inférieure 83 afin de coopérer avec l'aiguille 84 solidaire axialement au corps 40.The inner channel 65 of the shaft 72 is of reduced section at its lower end 83 in order to cooperate with the needle 84 integral axially with the body 40.

Une clavette 86 empêche la rotation de l'arbre 72 sur son axe longitudinal relativement au corps 40.A key 86 prevents rotation of the shaft 72 on its longitudinal axis relative to the body 40.

Pour décrire clairement le mode de fonctionnement de cet équipement actionné par le dispositif de la présente invention, il faut considérer les étapes successives suivantes:

  • on a envoyé l'ordre d'ouvrir la vanne 47 ce qui a pour conséquence d'équilibrer les pressions entre l'intérieur de la garniture et les chambres 52 et 57,
  • on arrête ou on a déjà arrêté la circulation du fluide de forage dans le canal 45, la pression différentielle entre l'intérieur et l'extérieur de la garniture est sensiblement nulle,
  • la force du ressort de rappel 82 est alors prépondérante puisqu'il n'y a pas d'effort sur les pistons 53 et 58 du fait de l'absence de pression différentielle,
  • l'arbre est en position haute et les lames 74 sont rétractées dans le corps 40,
  • si l'on remet en route alors la circulation du fluide forage, la pression intérieure au niveau du dispositif va augmenter relativement à la pression extérieure. La pression agissant sur les pistons 53 et 58 est sensiblement fonction des pertes de charge crées sur le trajet du fluide de forage entre l'intérieur 45 et plus précisément au niveau de l'orifice 48 et la pression extérieure plus précisément au niveau de l'orifice 63,
  • lorsque la pression dans les chambres 52 et 57 des vérins développe un force supérieure aux forces de rappel, les vérins coulissent en poussant vers le bas l'arbre 72,
  • dans le même temps, les lames du stabilisateur sont poussées radialement vers l'extérieur,
  • la tige 77 suit le déplacement des vérins et l'aimant 78 vient en fin de course se positionner en face d'un interrupteur à lame souple 79, celui-ci est activé et joue le rôle d'un contacteur de fin de course. Le signal fourni par le contacteur est utilisé pour refermer la vanne 47. Suivant les modes de télécommande, ce signal peut transiter jusqu'à la surface et informer d'une manière positive de la fin de l'actionnement, mais d'une manière plus simplifiée ce signal est uniquement bouclé en interne sur la cartouche électronique 44. L'information d'actionnement est alors fournie par l'augmentation de pression que l'on peut mesurer en surface. Cette augmentation résultant de la coopération de la duse 83 avec l'aiguille 84 en fin de déplacement de l'arbre 72,
  • la vanne 47 étant refermée, on a piégé dans les volumes des chambres 52 et 57 et dans le canal 51, un volume de fluide de forage sous pression. La vanne 47 isolant ce volume de l'espace extérieur, le régime de pression dans l'espace intérieur peut être modifié par des conditions de pompage différentes sans que les moyens d'actionnement, donc l'équipement, changent d'état. La vanne est ainsi utilisée comme moyen d'immobilisation de l'équipement en position sortie des lames. On peut équiper le dispositif d'un verrouillage mécanique commandé par la cartouche électronique 44 de la télécommande. Ce verrouillage peut être réalisé sous plusieurs formes connues de l'art antérieur, notamment par des chiens escamotables électromagnétiquement. Sans sortir du cadre de cette invention, on peut asservir la position du moyen de déplacement grâce aux interrupteurs à lames souple 79. En effet, s'il y a fuite à la vanne 47, la tige prolongatrice 77 se déplace par rapport à l'interrupteur. Le signal obtenu peut alors commander l'ouverture de la vanne 47 pour compenser la fuite et maintenir le moyen de déplacement en position.
  • pour revenir à un état identique à l'origine, état que l'on peut qualifier de repos, il suffit d'envoyer l'ordre d'ouverture de la vanne 47 tout en réglant, si nécessaire, les conditions de pompage pour avoir une différence de pression DP, soit nulle, soit suffisamment faible pour que le ressort 82 repousse l'arbre 72, les doubles vérins et la tige 77. Lorsque l'aimant 78 active l'interrupteur 79 de fin de course de position haute, la vanne est automatiquement refermée pour isoler les moyens d'actionnement des conditions de pression intérieure.
To clearly describe the operating mode of this equipment actuated by the device of the present invention, the following successive steps must be considered:
  • the order to open the valve 47 has been sent, which has the effect of balancing the pressures between the interior of the lining and the chambers 52 and 57,
  • the circulation of the drilling fluid in the channel 45 is stopped or has already been stopped, the differential pressure between the inside and the outside of the lining is substantially zero,
  • the force of the return spring 82 is then preponderant since there is no force on the pistons 53 and 58 due to the absence of differential pressure,
  • the shaft is in the high position and the blades 74 are retracted in the body 40,
  • if the circulation of the drilling fluid is restarted, the internal pressure at the level of the device will increase relatively to the external pressure. The pressure acting on the pistons 53 and 58 is substantially a function of the pressure drops created on the path of the drilling fluid between the interior 45 and more precisely at the orifice 48 and the external pressure more precisely at the orifice 63,
  • when the pressure in the chambers 52 and 57 of the jacks develops a force greater than the restoring forces, the jacks slide while pushing down the shaft 72,
  • at the same time, the stabilizer blades are pushed radially outwards,
  • the rod 77 follows the movement of the jacks and the magnet 78 comes at the end of the race to be positioned opposite a flexible blade switch 79, the latter is activated and plays the role of a limit switch. The signal provided by the contactor is used to close the valve 47. According to the remote control modes, this signal can pass to the surface and inform in a positive way of the end of the actuation, but in a more simplified this signal is only looped internally on the electronic cartridge 44. The actuation information is then provided by the pressure increase that can be measure at the surface. This increase resulting from the cooperation of the nozzle 83 with the needle 84 at the end of movement of the shaft 72,
  • the valve 47 being closed, one trapped in the volumes of the chambers 52 and 57 and in the channel 51, a volume of drilling fluid under pressure. The valve 47 isolating this volume from the outside space, the pressure regime in the inside space can be modified by different pumping conditions without the actuating means, therefore the equipment, changing state. The valve is thus used as a means of immobilizing the equipment in the blade out position. The device can be fitted with a mechanical locking device controlled by the electronic cartridge 44 of the remote control. This locking can be achieved in several forms known from the prior art, in particular by electromagnetically retractable dogs. Without departing from the scope of this invention, the position of the displacement means can be controlled by the flexible reed switches 79. In fact, if there is a leak at the valve 47, the extension rod 77 moves relative to the light switch. The signal obtained can then command the opening of the valve 47 to compensate for the leak and maintain the displacement means in position.
  • to return to a state identical to the origin, a state which can be qualified as rest, it suffices to send the order to open the valve 47 while adjusting, if necessary, the pumping conditions to have a pressure difference DP, either zero or sufficiently low for the spring 82 to push the shaft 72, the double cylinders and the rod 77. When the magnet 78 activates the limit switch 79 for the high position, the valve is automatically closed to isolate the actuating means from the internal pressure conditions.

Il est avantageux, dans cette réalisation particulière, de placer au moins un troisième interrupteur 79 à lame entre les deux extrêmes de fin de course. L'interrupteur intermédiaire autorise une position intermédiaire des lames du stabilisateur. En effet si l'ordre envoyé de la surface correspond à l'activation du stabilisateur à un diamètre intermédiaire, lors du déplacement des moyens et conjointement de la tige 77, l'aimant en activant l'interrupteur intermédiaire immobilise l'ensemble en refermant la vanne 47 lorsque les vérins sont à mi-course. Les lames du stabilisateur seront partiellement sorties et le stabilisateur sera réglé à un diamètre intermédiaire. Les moyens de verrouillage ou d'asservissement décrits plus haut peuvent prévoir cette position intermédiaire.It is advantageous, in this particular embodiment, to place at least one third switch 79 with a blade between the two extremes of end of travel. The intermediate switch allows an intermediate position of the stabilizer blades. Indeed, if the order sent from the surface corresponds to the activation of the stabilizer at an intermediate diameter, during the displacement of the means and jointly of the rod 77, the magnet by activating the intermediate switch immobilizes the assembly by closing the valve 47 when the jacks are halfway. The stabilizer blades will be partially extended and the stabilizer will be set to an intermediate diameter. The locking or servo-control means described above can provide this intermediate position.

Il apparaît que ce dispositif permet autant de réglages d'actionnement que d'ordres différents qu'il est possible d'envoyer de la surface et de traduire au niveau du dispositif. Mais chaque réglage doit avoir un capteur de position spécifique.It appears that this device allows as many actuation settings as there are different orders that it is possible to send from the surface and translate at the device level. But each setting must have a specific position sensor.

Claims (11)

  1. Device for activating equipment associated with a drill string (1) lowered down a well and in which a drilling fluid is circulating, the said circulation creating a positive differential pressure DP between the space inside (17) and the space outside (18) the drill string, in which:
    - the said device has distribution means (6) having at least two orifices (8, 9), one of these orifices being linked by a passage to displacement means (10), the other orifice being linked via a passage to the said outside space (17),
    - the said distribution means are designed to control communication for the said pressurised drilling fluid between the space inside the drill string and an admission chamber (11) of the said displacement means,
    - the said displacement means have an exhaust orifice (13) linked by a passage to the said outside space (18),
    - the said displacement means (10) are designed to be activated by converting the hydraulic energy resulting from the differential pressure DP of the said drilling fluid between the admission chamber (11) and the exhaust orifice (13) into mechanical activation energy, the conversion being effected directly without the co-operation of any fluid other than the said drilling fluid,
    characterised in that the said distribution means (6) has a position in which the passage linking the said distribution means to the said admission chamber (11) of the said displacement means is closed so as to trap the pressurised fluid in the said passage in order to lock the said displacement means in their activation position.
  2. Device as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that:
    - the said distribution means have two inlet orifices (20, 21) and two outlet orifices (23, 24) communicating in pairs, the said distribution means being designed to reverse the communication links,
    - the said inlet orifices are linked by passages, one to the inside space and the other to the outside space,
    - the said outlet orifices are linked by passages, one to the admission chamber of the displacement means and the other to the exhaust orifice, and
    - the said distribution means are designed to close off the said two outlet orifices.
  3. Device as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that:
    - the said distribution means (6) have a two-port valve (7) with two positions,
    - the said displacement means (10) have return means (19),
    - in a first position, the said valve opens up communication for the said drilling fluid between the space inside (17) the drill string and the said displacement means, the said displacement means being activated when the said mechanical activation energy is greater than the energy that has been built up by the said return means,
    - in a second position, the said valve closes off the passage providing communication for the said drilling fluid between the inside space and the said displacement means.
  4. Device as claimed in one of the previous claims, characterised in that the said displacement means (10) are of the longitudinal jack type, the two chambers of which, separated by a fluid-tight piston in particular, are filled by the said drilling fluid, the said piston being subjected to the said differential pressure DP in particular.
  5. Device as claimed in one of the previous claims, characterised in that the said distribution means are remotely controlled from the surface.
  6. Device as claimed in one of the previous claims, characterised in that it has at least three sensors (79) for detecting the position of the said displacement means, two of which index the end positions and the third an intermediate displacement.
  7. Device as claimed in one of the previous claims, characterised in that the said displacement means (10) have several longitudinal jacks arranged in series.
  8. Device as claimed in one of the previous claims, characterised in that the said displacement means have a shaft (72) translating in co-operation with a variable geometry stabiliser.
  9. Device as claimed in one of the previous claims, characterised in that the said displacement means have a choke-needle system (83, 84) causing a restriction in the passage of the drilling fluid in the said inside space when the said means are at the end of the activation stage.
  10. Method of using the device as claimed in claim 3, characterised by the following steps:
    - the value of the differential pressure DP is set to a given value by means of the pumping conditions controlled from the surface in particular,
    - a command is issued to the said distribution means to admit the circulation of the said pressurised drilling fluid between the inside space and the said displacement means,
    - the equipment is operated by activating the said displacement means when the said mechanical energy is greater than the energy built up by the return means of the said displacement means,
    - a command is issued to the said distribution means to close off communication between the inside space and the said displacement means and lock the said displacement means in position,
    - a command is issued to the said distribution means to open up communication between the inside space and the said displacement means and the differential pressure DP is reduced, in particular by adjusting the pumping conditions, until the energy built up by the said return means is greater than the said mechanical energy.
  11. Application of the device or the method as claimed in one of claims 1 to 10 to directional drilling.
EP92401786A 1991-07-16 1992-06-24 Apparatus actuated by the hydrostatic pressure of a drilling fluid Expired - Lifetime EP0524042B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9109066 1991-07-16
FR9109066A FR2679293B1 (en) 1991-07-16 1991-07-16 OPERATION DEVICE ASSOCIATED WITH A DRILLING LINING AND COMPRISING A HYDROSTATIC CIRCUIT IN DRILLING FLUID, OPERATION METHOD AND THEIR APPLICATION.
US07/914,550 US5310012A (en) 1991-07-16 1992-07-16 Actuating device associated with a drill string and comprising a hydrostatic drilling fluid circuit, actuation method and application thereof

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0524042A1 EP0524042A1 (en) 1993-01-20
EP0524042B1 true EP0524042B1 (en) 1996-09-11

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EP92401786A Expired - Lifetime EP0524042B1 (en) 1991-07-16 1992-06-24 Apparatus actuated by the hydrostatic pressure of a drilling fluid

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US (1) US5310012A (en)
EP (1) EP0524042B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2074036A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2679293B1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2074036A1 (en) 1993-01-17
FR2679293B1 (en) 1999-01-22
FR2679293A1 (en) 1993-01-22
EP0524042A1 (en) 1993-01-20
US5310012A (en) 1994-05-10

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