US20180128081A1 - Hydraulic fracturing systems and processes utilizing port obstruction devices for seating on ports of a wellbore string - Google Patents
Hydraulic fracturing systems and processes utilizing port obstruction devices for seating on ports of a wellbore string Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20180128081A1 US20180128081A1 US15/634,590 US201715634590A US2018128081A1 US 20180128081 A1 US20180128081 A1 US 20180128081A1 US 201715634590 A US201715634590 A US 201715634590A US 2018128081 A1 US2018128081 A1 US 2018128081A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- flow control
- port
- ports
- housing
- control apparatus
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 8
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 title claims description 8
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 154
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 71
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 claims description 45
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 34
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims description 27
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 22
- 230000010354 integration Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 86
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 17
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 17
- 239000004215 Carbon black (E152) Substances 0.000 description 11
- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 description 11
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 description 11
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 5
- LYCAIKOWRPUZTN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethylene glycol Chemical compound OCCO LYCAIKOWRPUZTN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 description 3
- KRKNYBCHXYNGOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N citric acid Chemical compound OC(=O)CC(O)(C(O)=O)CC(O)=O KRKNYBCHXYNGOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 238000004880 explosion Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000005355 Hall effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- KFZMGEQAYNKOFK-UHFFFAOYSA-N Isopropanol Chemical compound CC(C)O KFZMGEQAYNKOFK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- FAPWRFPIFSIZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-M Sodium chloride Chemical compound [Na+].[Cl-] FAPWRFPIFSIZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 2
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000012634 fragment Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- BWHMMNNQKKPAPP-UHFFFAOYSA-L potassium carbonate Substances [K+].[K+].[O-]C([O-])=O BWHMMNNQKKPAPP-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 2
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010008 shearing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000638 stimulation Effects 0.000 description 2
- SXRSQZLOMIGNAQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Glutaraldehyde Chemical compound O=CCCCC=O SXRSQZLOMIGNAQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920002907 Guar gum Polymers 0.000 description 1
- DGAQECJNVWCQMB-PUAWFVPOSA-M Ilexoside XXIX Chemical compound C[C@@H]1CC[C@@]2(CC[C@@]3(C(=CC[C@H]4[C@]3(CC[C@@H]5[C@@]4(CC[C@@H](C5(C)C)OS(=O)(=O)[O-])C)C)[C@@H]2[C@]1(C)O)C)C(=O)O[C@H]6[C@@H]([C@H]([C@@H]([C@H](O6)CO)O)O)O.[Na+] DGAQECJNVWCQMB-PUAWFVPOSA-M 0.000 description 1
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 150000001642 boronic acid derivatives Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000499 gel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000665 guar gum Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229960002154 guar gum Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 235000010417 guar gum Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000005297 material degradation process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920002401 polyacrylamide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 235000011181 potassium carbonates Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- -1 proppant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002002 slurry Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052708 sodium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- CDBYLPFSWZWCQE-UHFFFAOYSA-L sodium carbonate Substances [Na+].[Na+].[O-]C([O-])=O CDBYLPFSWZWCQE-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
- 235000011182 sodium carbonates Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000011780 sodium chloride Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
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
- E21B34/10—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells operated by control fluid supplied from outside the borehole
-
- 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
- E21B47/00—Survey of boreholes or wells
- E21B47/06—Measuring temperature or pressure
-
- E21B2034/007—
-
- 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
- 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
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to bodies, deployable by flowing fluids, for closing ports that are provided for effecting fluid communication between a wellbore and a subterranean formation.
- Deployable bodies are used for effecting zonal isolation within a wellbore to enable multi-stage fraccing. Such bodies are intended to provide zonal isolation to enable targeted treatment of the subterranean formation.
- a flow control apparatus comprising: a housing; a housing passage disposed within the housing; a plurality of ports extending through the housing; a flow control member, displaceable, relative to the ports, for effecting opening of the ports; wherein: the housing includes an external surface; a recessed channel defined within the external surface; and each one of the ports, independently, extends into the channel such that fluid conducted from the housing passage and through the ports is discharged from the ports into the channel.
- a kit for implementation within a wellbore for control fluid communication between a wellbore and a subterranean formation comprising: a flow control apparatus, wherein the flow control apparatus includes: a housing; a housing passage disposed within the housing; a plurality of ports extending through the housing; a plurality of seats, wherein each one of the seats is respective to a one of the ports; a flow control member, displaceable, relative to the ports, for effecting opening of the ports; wherein: the housing includes an external surface; a recessed channel defined within the external surface; and each one of the ports, independently, extends into the channel such that fluid conducted from the housing passage and through the ports is discharged from the ports into the channel; and a plurality of port obstruction devices for seating on the seats.
- a process for treating a subterranean formation comprising: opening at least one port of a wellbore string disposed within a wellbore by displacing a flow control member; conducting treatment material from the wellbore to the subterranean formation via the at least one port; and after the conducting of treatment material, seating a port obstruction device on each one of the at least one port, such that each one of the at least one port, independently, becomes closed.
- a flow control apparatus comprising: a housing; a housing passage disposed within the housing; a seat; a port extending through the housing; and a retainer configured for retaining a port obstruction device to the flow control apparatus.
- 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 sectional side elevation view of a flow control apparatus for use in the system illustrated in FIG. 1 , illustrating the ports in the closed condition;
- FIG. 3 is a detailed view of detail “D” in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a section of an external surface of the flow control apparatus, illustrating the recessed channel of the flow control apparatus;
- FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a section of a wellbore string of the system illustrated in FIG. 1 , incorporating the flow control apparatus of FIG. 2 , and disposed within a wellbore, and illustrating port obstruction devices having been seated within some of the ports after the completion of a treatment operation (and after having the flow control member displaced to the open position);
- FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration depicting the fluid flowpath through a port where the subterranean formation in the immediate vicinity of the port is resistant to receiving flow of fluid being conducted via the port;
- FIG. 7 is a detailed side elevation view of a portion of an embodiment of a flow control apparatus that is integratable within a wellbore string of the system illustrated in FIG. 1 , with a retainer for retaining a port obstruction device within a port obstruction device receiving space for seating on a seat, with the port obstruction device being seated on the seat;
- FIG. 8 is a detailed side elevation view of a portion of another embodiment of a flow control apparatus, that is integratable within a wellbore string of the system illustrated in FIG. 1 , with a retainer for retaining a port obstruction device within a port obstruction device receiving space for seating on a seat, with the port obstruction device being seated on the seat;
- FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an embodiment of a flow control apparatus that is integratable within a wellbore string of the system illustrated in FIG. 1 , showing the port disposed in the closed condition, and with both of the flow control member and the actuatable valve disposed in the closed positions;
- FIG. 10 is a detailed view of Detail “A” in FIG. 9 ;
- FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated in FIG. 10 , showing the port disposed in the closed condition, and with the actuatable valve member disposed in the open position, and with the flow control member disposed in the closed position;
- FIG. 12 is a detailed view of Detail “B” in FIG. 11 ;
- FIG. 13 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated in FIG. 9 , showing the port disposed in the open condition, and with both of the flow control member and the actuatable valve disposed in the open positions;
- FIG. 14 is a detailed view of Detail “C” in FIG. 13 ;
- FIG. 15 is a detailed view of Detail “D” in FIG. 13 ;
- FIG. 16 is sectional view of a fragment of another embodiment of a flow control apparatus that is integratable within the wellbore string of the system illustrated in FIG. 1 , having an exploding bolt, illustrated prior to fracturing of the bolt;
- FIG. 17 is sectional view of a fragment of the embodiment of the flow control apparatus shown in FIG. 16 , illustrated after fracturing of the bolt.
- a wellbore material transfer system 104 for conducting material to a subterranean formation 100 via a wellbore 102 , from a subterranean formation 100 via a wellbore 102 , or both to and from a subterranean formation 100 via a wellbore 102 .
- the subterranean formation 100 is a hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir.
- the conducting (such as, for example, by flowing) material to a subterranean formation 100 via a 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 a subterranean formation 100 via a 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 wellbore 102 , or from the subterranean formation 100 to the wellbore 102 is effected via one or more flow communication stations that are disposed at the interface between the subterranean formation 100 and the wellbore 102 .
- the flow communication stations 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 .
- the flow communication station 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 fluid communication station 115 includes a flow control apparatus 117 .
- the flow control apparatus 117 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 117 includes a flow control member 114 for controlling the conducting of material by the flow control apparatus 117 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 such that the flow control member 114 is positionable between open and closed positions.
- 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 flow control member 114 is displaceble mechanically, such as, for example, with a shifting tool. In some embodiments, for example, the flow control member 114 is displaceable hydraulically, such as, for example, by communicating pressurized fluid via the wellbore to urge the displacement of the flow control member 14 . In some embodiments, for example, the flow control member 114 is integrated within a flow control apparatus which includes a trigger for effecting displacement of the flow control member 114 hydraulically in response to receiving of a signal transmitted from the surface 10 .
- 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 effects at least a partial uncovering of the one or more ports 118 such that the 118 becomes 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 fluid 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 sleeve. The sleeve is slideably disposed within the wellbore string passage 119 .
- Each one of the ports 118 is disposed for being at least partially occluded by a port obstruction device 130 .
- Suitable port obstruction devices 130 include, for example, ball sealers.
- the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir is stimulated by the supplying of treatment material to the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir via the ports 118 , and after sufficient treatment material has been supplied to the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir via the ports 118 , port obstruction devices 130 are deployed downhole for seating within the ports 118 .
- a seat 1180 for seating of a port obstruction device 130 , is disposed relative to the port 118 such that seating of the port obstruction device 130 effects at least partial occlusion of the port 118 .
- the seat 1180 is disposed peripherally about the port 118 .
- the port 118 is disposed within the seat 1180 .
- the seating of the port obstruction device 130 on the seat 1180 effects sealing engagement of the port obstruction device 130 to the seat 1180 , such that a sealing interface is established, and such that the port 118 is sealed or substantially sealed.
- a process including: after the conducting of fluid through an opened port 118 during a treatment operation, seating of the port obstruction device 130 against the seat 1180 such that the closing of the opening 102 is effected.
- the seating of the port obstruction device 130 on the seat 1180 is effected by landing of the port obstruction device 130 on the seat 1180 by conducting the port obstruction device 130 downhole with fluid that is supplied to and is flowing within the wellbore 102 .
- the port 118 is closed, and opening of the port 118 is effected by displacing the flow control member 114 from the closed position to the open position.
- the pressure of the fluid that is supplied and flowed, for conducting the port obstruction device is less than the pressure of the fluid being conducted through the opened port 118 during a treatment operation. In some embodiments, this reduced pressure mitigates the risk of having the port obstruction device 130 overshoot and flow past the seat 1180 , due to its own inertia.
- the flow control member 114 is displaceable from a closed position to an open position for effecting opening of the port 118 , but is not designed to return to the closed position.
- Examples of a the flow control member 114 is not designed to return to the closed position include at least some kinds of “toe valves” or “toe sleeves”.
- attempts to close the flow control member 114 are unsuccessful.
- a treatment operation involving the conducting of fluid via the port 118 (such as, for example, the supplying of treatment fluid into the subterranean formation 100 , such as, for example, during a hydraulic fracturing operation) has been effected, it may be desirable to close the port 118 , at least temporarily (such as, for example, to enable supplying of treatment fluid into the subterranean formation via another fluid communication station, such another fluid communication station that is disposed uphole), with the intention of later re-opening the port 118 (such as, for example, in order to receive production of reservoir fluids, from the subterranean formation 100 , within the wellbore 102 ).
- a process includes displacing a flow control member 114 for effecting opening of a port 118 within a wellbore 102 , conducting fluid via the opened port 118 , and, after the conducting, seating a port obstruction device 130 on the seat 1080 such that the port 118 becomes closed.
- the seating of a port obstruction device 130 is such that fluid communication between the surface and the subterranean formation, via the port 118 , becomes sealed or substantially sealed.
- an opening of the port 118 is effected.
- the opening is effected by an unseating of the port obstruction device 130 , such as, for example, by effecting a pressure reduction within the wellbore.
- the pressure reduction additionally effects flowback of the port obstruction device 130 .
- the opening is effected after the port obstruction device 130 has been seated on the seat 1080 for a sufficient time in contact with wellbore fluids within the wellbore 102 such that a change in condition of the port obstruction device 130 is effected (in response to the contacting with the wellbore fluids) such that a fluid passage is established within the port obstruction device 130 such that fluid communication is effected between the surface and the subterranean formation via the port 118 .
- at least a portion of the port obstruction device 130 is dissolvable in wellbore fluids within the wellbore 102 and, in this respect, the change in condition includes dissolution of at least a portion of the port obstruction device 130 such that the fluid passage becomes established.
- the fluid communication station includes a flow control apparatus 117
- the flow control apparatus 117 includes a housing 122 , a housing passage 124 disposed within the housing 122 , the flow control member 114 , a plurality of ports 118 , and a plurality of seats 1180 , wherein each one of the seat 1180 is associated with a respective one of the ports 118 .
- the housing 122 includes an external surface 122 A, and a recessed channel 126 is defined within the external surface 122 A (see FIG. 4 ).
- Each one of the ports 118 extends into the channel 126 such that fluid conducted from the wellbore 102 to the subterranean formation via the ports 118 is discharged from the ports 118 into the channel 126 .
- the minimum depth of the channel 126 is at least 0.1 inches.
- the minimum cross-sectional area of the channel is at least 0.01 square inches.
- the channel 126 receives flow of fluid conducted, via one or more ports 118 , which would otherwise be at least impeded (and, in some embodiments, blocked) in cases where the portion of the formation in the immediate vicinity of the one or more ports 118 is resistant to receiving flow of fluid being conducted via the one or more ports 118 (for example, such formation portion is resistant to fracturing effected by fluid being communicated through the one or more ports). If such flow of fluid is at least impeded (and, in some embodiments, blocked), the seating of the port obstruction device 130 may not occur.
- the channel 126 By providing the channel 126 , there is a greater likelihood that fluid will flow through a port 118 where the portion of the formation in the immediate vicinity of the port 118 is resistant to receiving flow of fluid being conducted via the port 118 . This is because the channel 126 provides greater opportunity for fluid being communicated to the port 118 to be conducted to another portion of the formation which is less resistant to receiving flow of fluid from the wellbore 102 . This phenomenon is illustrated in FIG. 6 , where port obstruction devices 130 have been seated within ports 118 A, 118 B, and 118 D, but the port 118 C has yet to be closed with a corresponding port obstruction device, and the portion 130 X of the formation 130 in the immediate vicinity of the port 118 C is resistant to receiving fluid flow.
- a flow path is establishable through the port 118 C, by enabling fluid communication with the portion 130 A, of the formation 130 , which is able to receive fluid flow, thereby enabling the seating of a port obstruction device within the port 118 C.
- the flow control apparatus 117 includes one or more ports 118 , and while each one of the one or more ports 118 are closed, independently, by a corresponding port obstruction device 130 (seated on a respective seat 1180 ), fluid pressure within the wellbore 102 is maintained above a minimum predetermined pressure such that a port obstruction devices 130 remains seated on a respective seat 1180 of each one of the one or more ports 118 .
- a flow control member 114 of another fluid communication station (such as, for example, another fluid communication station that is disposed uphole of the flow communication station whose one or more ports 118 are each, independently, closed by a corresponding port obstruction device 130 that is seated on a respective seat 1180 of each one of the one or more ports 118 ) is displaced, relative to its corresponding one or more ports 118 , from the closed position to the open position such that its corresponding one or more ports 118 becomes opened and conducts fluid from the wellbore 102 to the subterranean formation 100 .
- the fluid pressure continues being maintained above the minimum predetermined pressure as the one or more ports 118 of the another fluid communication station is being opened.
- the fluid pressure is maintained above a minimum predetermined pressure within the wellbore 102 .
- seating of the port obstruction device 130 on a respective seat 1180 of each one of the one or more ports 118 of the first fluid communication station is effected, and after the effecting of the seating of the port obstruction device 130 on a respective seat 1180 of each one of the one or more ports 118 of a first fluid communication station, the flow control member 114 of a second fluid communication station is displaced to an open position such that the one or more ports 118 of the second fluid communication station becomes opened and fluid is supplied to the subterranean formation via the one or more ports 118 of the second fluid communication station.
- At least one port obstruction device 130 for each one of the one or more ports 118 of the second fluid communication station, is deployed downhole such that a port obstruction device 130 becomes seated on a respective seat 1080 of each one of the one or more ports of the second fluid communication station such that the one or more ports 118 of the second fluid communication station becomes closed.
- the seating of a port obstruction device 130 on a respective seat 1080 of each one of the one or more ports 118 of the second fluid communication station is such that fluid communication between the surface and the subterranean formation, via the one or more ports 118 of the second fluid communication station, becomes sealed or substantially sealed.
- the second fluid communication station is disposed uphole relative to the first fluid communication station.
- the flow control apparatus 117 includes a retainer 132 configured for retaining a port obstruction device 130 to the flow control apparatus 117 .
- the retainer 132 is configured for retaining a port obstruction device 130 for seating on a respective seat 1080 of each one of the ports 118 .
- the retainer 132 is sufficiently pliable such that a port obstruction device 130 , in response to application of a sufficient fluid pressure differential, is conductible past the retainer 132 and into a port obstruction device receiving space 134 . While within the port obstruction device receiving space 134 , the port obstructions device 130 is disposed for seating on a seat 1180 of a port 118 for effecting closure of the port 118 .
- the retainer 132 is in the form of a c-ring that is coupled to the body 136 of the apparatus 117 .
- the retainer 132 is in the form of a canted coil spring that is coupled to the body 136 of the apparatus 117 .
- the port obstruction device 130 upon disposition of the port obstructions device 130 within the port obstruction device receiving space 134 , the port obstruction device 130 becomes seated on a seat 1180 of a port 118 such that closure of the port 118 is effected.
- the port obstruction device 130 upon disposition of the port obstructions device 130 within the port obstruction device receiving space 134 , the port obstruction device 130 is disposed for seating on a seat 1180 of a port 118 in response to application of a sufficient fluid pressure differential such that, upon the seating of the port obstruction device 130 on the seat 1180 , closure of the port 118 is effected.
- the port obstruction device 130 and the flow control apparatus 117 are co-operatively configured such that, after the port obstruction device 130 has been disposed in contact with subterranean fluids (from within the wellbore, or external to the wellbore, or both) for a sufficient period of time, while being disposed within the port obstruction device receiving space 134 , such that material degradation (such as, for example, by at least one of dissolution, chemical reaction, or disintegration) of the port obstruction device 130 is effected, an opening of the port 118 is effected.
- the port obstruction device 130 includes polystyrene which thereby renders the port obstruction device degradable in the presence of wellbore fluids.
- the port obstruction device 130 upon disposition of the port obstructions device 130 within the port obstruction device receiving space 134 , the port obstruction device 130 becomes disposed for seating on a seat 1180 of a port 118 in response to application of a sufficient fluid pressure differential such that, upon the seating of the port obstruction device 130 on the seat 1180 , closure of the port 118 is effected, the port obstruction device 130 and the flow control apparatus 117 are co-operatively configured such that, after the port obstruction device 130 has become seated on a seat 1180 of a port 118 , and a pressure differential is applied while the port obstructions device 130 is seated on the seat 1180 of the port 118 such that the port obstruction device 130 is displaced from the seat 1180 (and thereby becomes unseated relative to the seat 1180 ), opening of the port 118 is effected.
- the flow control member 114 is integrated within a flow control apparatus 310 and includes a fluid responsive surface 120 for receiving communication of a pressurized fluid for urging the displacement of the flow control member 114 between the closed and open positions, and the flow control apparatus 310 further includes a sensor 326 , a housing 312 , and a trigger 313 .
- the housing 312 includes a housing passage 316 , and the housing 312 is integratable within the wellbore string 200 , such as by a threaded connection.
- the trigger 313 is responsive to the sensing of a trigger-actuating (“TI”) signal by the sensor, with effect that fluid communication is established between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface 120 in response to the sensing of a trigger-actuating (“TI”) signal by the sensor 326 .
- TI trigger-actuating
- the flow control apparatus 310 is integrated within the wellbore string 200 as part of a fluid communication station 115 such that the housing passage 316 is disposed in fluid communication with the surface via the wellbore 100 , and while a TI signal is being transmitted (such as, for example, via the wellbore), in response to the sensing of the TI signal by the sensor 326 , fluid communication between the surface and the fluid responsive surface 120 , via the wellbore 100 , is established by the trigger 313 .
- the TI signal is transmitted through the wellbore 100 . In some of these embodiments, for example, the TI signal is transmitted via fluid disposed within the wellbore 100 .
- the senor 326 is a pressure sensor, and the actuating signal is one or more pressure pulses.
- An exemplary pressure sensor is a Kellar Pressure Transducer Model 6LHP/81188TM.
- suitable sensors may be employed, depending on the nature of the signal being used for the actuating signal.
- Other suitable sensors include a Hall effect sensor, a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) sensor, or a sensor that can detect a change in chemistry (such as, for example, pH), or radiation levels, or ultrasonic waves.
- RFID radio frequency identification
- the TI signal is one or more pressure pulses.
- the TI signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a magnitude.
- the pressure pulse is further characterized by at least a duration.
- the TI signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a duration.
- the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude and a duration. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example, each one of pressure pulses is characterized by time intervals between the pulses.
- the senor 326 is disposed in communication within the wellbore 100 , and the TI signal is being transmitted within the wellbore 100 , such that the sensor 326 is disposed for sensing the TI signal being transmitted within the wellbore 100 .
- the sensor 326 is disposed within the wellbore 100 .
- the sensor 326 is mounted to the housing 112 within a hole that is ported to the wellbore 200 , and is held in by a backing plate that is configured to resist the force generated by pressure acting on the sensor 326 .
- the senor 326 is configured to receive a signal generated by a seismic source.
- the seismic source includes a seismic vibrator unit.
- the seismic vibration unit is disposed at the surface 10 .
- the flow control apparatus 310 further includes a sealing interface 315
- the trigger 313 includes an actuator 322 for defeating the sealing interface 315
- the actuator 322 is responsive to sensing of the TI signal by the sensor 326 . for defeating the sealing interface 315 such that the establishment of fluid communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface 120 is effected.
- the flow control apparatus 310 further includes a valve 324
- the sealing interface 315 is defined by a sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 324 and the housing 312 .
- the sealing interface 315 is defined by sealing members 315 A (such as, for example, o-rings) carried by the valve 324 .
- the change in condition of the sealing interface 315 is effected by a change in condition of the valve 324 .
- the actuator 322 is configured to effect a change in condition of the valve 324 (in response to the sensing of the TI signal by the sensor 326 ) such that there is a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 324 and the housing 312 , such that the sealing interface 315 is defeated, and such that fluid communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface 120 is established.
- the valve 324 is displaceable, and the change in condition of the valve 324 , which the actuator 322 is configured to effect in response to the sensing of a TI signal by the sensor 326 , includes displacement of the valve 324 .
- the actuator 322 is configured to effect displacement of the valve 324 such that the sealing interface 315 is defeated and such that fluid communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface 120 is established.
- the flow control apparatus 310 further includes a passageway 326 .
- the valve 324 and the passageway 326 are co-operatively disposed such that fluid communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface 120 is established in response to the displacement of the valve 324 , which is effected in response to the sensing of the TI signal by the sensor 326 .
- the establishing of the fluid communication between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface 120 is controlled by the positioning of the valve 324 within the passageway 326 .
- the valve 324 is configured for displacement relative to the passageway 326 .
- the valve 324 includes a piston. The displacement of the valve 324 is from a closed position (see FIGS.
- valve 324 when disposed in the closed position, the valve 324 is occluding the passageway 326 . In some embodiments, for example, when the valve 324 is disposed in the closed position, sealing, or substantial sealing, of fluid communication, between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface 120 is effected. When the valve 324 is disposed in the open position, fluid communication is effected between the housing passage 316 and the fluid responsive surface 120 .
- the passageway 326 extends through the flow control member 114 , and the valve 324 is disposed in a space within the flow control member 114 , such that the displacement of the valve 324 is also relative to the flow control member 114 .
- the actuator 322 includes an electro-mechanical trigger, such as a squib.
- the squib is configured to, in response to the signal received by the sensor 326 , effect generation of an explosion.
- the squib is mounted within the body such that the generated explosion effects the displacement of the valve 324 .
- Another suitable actuator 322 is a fuse-able link or a piston pusher.
- the flow control apparatus 310 further includes first and second chambers 334 , 336 .
- the first chamber 334 is disposed in fluid communication with the fluid responsive surface 120 for receiving pressurized fluid from the housing passage 316
- the second chamber 336 is configured for containing a fluid and disposed relative to the flow control member 114 such that fluid contained within the second chamber 336 opposes the displacement of the flow control apparatus 310 that is being urged by pressurized fluid within the first chamber 334 , and the displacement of the flow control member 114 is effected when the force imparted to the flow control member 114 by the pressurized fluid within the first chamber 334 exceeds the force imparted to the flow control member by the fluid within the second chamber 336 .
- the displacement of the flow control member 114 is effected when the pressure imparted to the flow control member 114 by the pressurized fluid within the first chamber 334 exceeds the pressure imparted to the flow control member 114 by the fluid within the second chamber 336 .
- both of the first and second chambers 334 , 336 are defined by respective spaces interposed between the housing 312 and the flow control member 114 , and a chamber sealing member 338 is also included for effecting a sealing interface between the chambers 334 , 336 , while the flow control member 114 is being displaced to effect the opening of the port 318 .
- the valve 324 may, initially, be detachably secured to the housing 312 , in the closed position.
- the detachable securing is effected by a shear pin configured for becoming sheared, in response to application of sufficient shearing force, such that the valve 324 becomes movable from the closed position to the open position.
- the shearing force is effected by the actuator 312 .
- the valve 324 may be biased to the closed position, such as by, for example, a resilient member such as a spring.
- the actuator 322 used for effecting opening of the valve 324 must exert sufficient force to at least overcome the biasing force being applied to the valve 324 that is maintaining the valve 324 in the closed position.
- the valve 324 may be pressure balanced such that the valve 324 is disposed in the closed position.
- the flow control apparatus 310 further includes a controller.
- the controller is configured to receive a sensor-transmitted signal from the sensor 326 upon the sensing of the TI signal and, in response to the received sensor-transmitted signal, supply a transmitted signal to the trigger 313 .
- the controller and the sensor 326 are powered by a battery that is disposed on-board within the flow control apparatus 310 . Passages for wiring for electrically interconnecting the battery, the sensor, the controller and the trigger are also provided within the apparatus 310 .
- the flow control member 114 is integrated within a flow control apparatus 410 that includes a sensor 426 , and the flow control member 114 is displaceable from the closed position to the open position in response to urging by a pressurized fluid that is communicated to the flow control member after the defeating of a sealing interface 415 , the defeating of the sealing interface 415 being actuated by communication of a pressurized fluid while the sealing interface 415 is disposed in a defeatable condition, the sealing interface 415 having become disposed in the defeatable condition in response to the sensing of a sealing interface actuation (“SIA”) signal by the sensor 426 .
- SIA sealing interface actuation
- the SIA signal is transmitted through the wellbore 100 .
- the SIA signal is transmitted via fluid disposed within the wellbore 100 .
- the senor 426 is a pressure sensor
- the actuaSIAng signal is one or more pressure pulses.
- An exemplary pressure sensor is a Kellar Pressure Transducer Model 6LHP/81188TM.
- suitable sensors may be employed, depending on the nature of the signal being used for the actuang signal.
- Other suitable sensors include a Hall effect sensor, a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) sensor, or a sensor that can detect a change in chemistry (such as, for example, pH), or radiation levels, or ultrasonic waves.
- RFID radio frequency identification
- the SIA signal is one or more pressure pulses.
- the SIA signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a magnitude.
- the pressure pulse is further characterized by at least a duration.
- the SIA signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a duration.
- the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude and a duration. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example, each one of pressure pulses is characterized by time intervals between the pulses.
- the senor 426 is disposed in communication within the wellbore 100 , and the SIA signal is being transmitted within the wellbore 100 , such that the sensor 426 is disposed for sensing the SIA signal being transmitted within the wellbore 100 .
- the sensor 426 is disposed within the wellbore 100 .
- the sensor 426 is mounted to the housing 412 within a hole that is ported to the wellbore 200 , and is held in by a backing plate that is configured to resist the force generated by pressure acting on the sensor 426 .
- the senor 426 is configured to receive a signal generated by a seismic source.
- the seismic source includes a seismic vibrator unit.
- the seismic vibration unit is disposed at the surface 10 .
- the flow control member 114 includes a fluid responsive surface 120 for receiving communication of a pressurized fluid for urging displacement of the flow control member 114 .
- the flow control apparatus 410 includes a housing 412 that is integratable within the wellbore string 200 as part of a fluid communication station 115 , such as by a threaded connection, and a housing passage 416 is defined within the housing 412 .
- the flow control apparatus 410 also includes a sealing interface 415 and an actuator 422 .
- the actuator 422 is responsive to sensing of the SIA signal by the sensor 426 , for changing a condition of the sealing interface 415 such that the sealing interface 415 becomes disposed in a defeatable condition such that, in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, the sealing interface 415 is defeated and such that fluid communication is established between the housing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420 .
- the flow control apparatus further includes a valve 424
- the sealing interface 415 is defined by sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 .
- the change in condition of the sealing interface 415 is effected by a change in condition of the valve 424 .
- the actuator 422 is configured to effect a change in condition of the valve 424 (in response to the sensing of the signal by the sensor 426 ) such that the sealing interface 415 becomes disposed in the defeatable condition.
- the sealing interface 415 (defined by the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 ) is disposed in the defeatable condition (the defeatible condition having been effected in response to the change in condition of the valve 424 , as above-described), in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, there is a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 .
- there is a loss of sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 such that the sealing interface 415 is defeated, and such that fluid communication is established between the housing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420 .
- the valve 424 includes a valve sealing surface 424 A configured for effecting the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 .
- the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 is effected by the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve sealing surface 424 A and a housing sealing surface 412 A.
- the change in condition of the valve 424 is such that the valve sealing surface 424 A becomes displaceable relative to the housing sealing surface 412 A for effecting a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve sealing surface 424 A and the housing sealing surface 412 A, such that the sealing interface 415 is defeated and such that fluid communication is established between the housing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420 .
- the loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 that is effected in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid while the valve 424 is disposed such that the valve sealing surface 424 A is displaceable relative to the housing sealing surface 412 A, includes the loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve sealing surface 424 A and the housing sealing surface 412 A.
- the flow control apparatus 410 further includes a passageway 427 , and the passageway extends between the housing passage 412 and the fluid responsive surface 420 .
- the valve 424 and the passageway 427 are co-operatively disposed such that the fluid communication between the housing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420 is established in response to the displacement of the valve 424 relative to the passageway 427 , effected in response to the sensing of the SIA by the sensor 426 .
- Sealing, or substantial sealing, of the passageway 427 is effected by the sealing or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 (and, in some embodiments, for example, the valve sealing surface 424 A and the housing sealing surface 412 A).
- sealing, or substantially sealing, of fluid communication between the housing passage 412 and the fluid responsive surface 420 is effected by the sealing or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 (and, in some embodiments, for example, the valve sealing surface 424 A and the housing sealing surface 412 A).
- the actuator 422 includes a squib, and the change in condition of the sealing interface 415 (and also, in some embodiments, for example, the valve 424 ) is effected by an explosion generated by the squib in response to sensing of the signal by the sensor 426 .
- the squib is suitably mounted within the housing 412 to apply the necessary force to the valve 424 .
- Another suitable valve actuator 42 is a fuse-able link or a piston pusher.
- the change in condition of the valve 424 includes a fracturing of the valve 424 .
- the fracture is identified by reference numeral 452 .
- a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 is effected, such that there is an absence of sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between the valve 424 and the housing 412 , and such that the sealing interface 415 is defeated and such that fluid communication is established between the housing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420 .
- the valve 424 includes a coupler 424 B that effects coupling of the valve 424 to the housing 412 while the change in condition is effected.
- the coupler 424 B is threaded to the housing 412 .
- the valve 424 and the actuator 422 are defined by an exploding bolt 350 , such that the exploding bolt 350 is threaded to the housing 412 .
- the squib is integrated into the bolt 350 .
- the flow control apparatus 410 further includes first and second chambers (only the first chamber 434 is shown).
- the first chamber 434 is disposed in fluid communication with the fluid responsive surface 420 for receiving pressurized fluid from the housing passage 412
- the second chamber is configured for containing a fluid and disposed relative to the flow control member 114 such that fluid contained within the second chamber opposes the displacement of the flow control apparatus 410 that is being urged by pressurized fluid within the first chamber 434 , and the displacement of the flow control member 114 is effected when the force imparted to the flow control member 114 by the pressurized fluid within the first chamber 434 exceeds the force imparted to the flow control member by the fluid within the second chamber.
- the displacement of the flow control member 114 is effected when the pressure imparted to the flow control member 114 by the pressurized fluid within the first chamber 434 exceeds the pressure imparted to the flow control member by the fluid within the second chamber.
- the fluid within the second chamber is disposed at atmospheric pressure.
- both of the first and second chambers are defined by respective spaces interposed between the housing 412 and the flow control member 114 , and a chamber sealing member 438 is also included for effecting a sealing interface between the first and second chambers while the flow control member 114 is being displaced to effect the opening of the port 418 .
- the flow control apparatus 410 further includes a controller.
- the controller is configured to receive a sensor-transmitted signal from the sensor 426 upon the sensing of the SIA signal and, in response to the received sensor-transmitted signal, supply a transmitted signal to the actuator 422 .
- the controller and the sensor 426 are powered by a battery that is disposed on-board within the flow control apparatus 410 . Passages for wiring for electrically interconnecting the battery, the sensor 426 , the controller and the actuator 422 are also provided within the apparatus 410 .
Abstract
There is provided a flow control apparatus comprising, a housing; a housing passage disposed within the housing; a plurality of ports extending through the housing, a flow control member, displaceable, relative to the ports, for effecting opening of the ports wherein the housing includes an external surface, a recessed channel defined within the external surface; and each one of the ports, independently, extends into the channel such that fluid conducted from the housing passage and through the ports is discharged from the ports into the channel.
Description
- The present disclosure relates to bodies, deployable by flowing fluids, for closing ports that are provided for effecting fluid communication between a wellbore and a subterranean formation.
- Deployable bodies, are used for effecting zonal isolation within a wellbore to enable multi-stage fraccing. Such bodies are intended to provide zonal isolation to enable targeted treatment of the subterranean formation.
- In one aspect, there is provided a flow control apparatus comprising: a housing; a housing passage disposed within the housing; a plurality of ports extending through the housing; a flow control member, displaceable, relative to the ports, for effecting opening of the ports; wherein: the housing includes an external surface; a recessed channel defined within the external surface; and each one of the ports, independently, extends into the channel such that fluid conducted from the housing passage and through the ports is discharged from the ports into the channel.
- In another aspect, there is provided a kit for implementation within a wellbore for control fluid communication between a wellbore and a subterranean formation, comprising: a flow control apparatus, wherein the flow control apparatus includes: a housing; a housing passage disposed within the housing; a plurality of ports extending through the housing; a plurality of seats, wherein each one of the seats is respective to a one of the ports; a flow control member, displaceable, relative to the ports, for effecting opening of the ports; wherein: the housing includes an external surface; a recessed channel defined within the external surface; and each one of the ports, independently, extends into the channel such that fluid conducted from the housing passage and through the ports is discharged from the ports into the channel; and a plurality of port obstruction devices for seating on the seats.
- In another aspect, there is provided a process for treating a subterranean formation comprising: opening at least one port of a wellbore string disposed within a wellbore by displacing a flow control member; conducting treatment material from the wellbore to the subterranean formation via the at least one port; and after the conducting of treatment material, seating a port obstruction device on each one of the at least one port, such that each one of the at least one port, independently, becomes closed.
- In another aspect, there is provided a flow control apparatus comprising: a housing; a housing passage disposed within the housing; a seat; a port extending through the housing; and a retainer configured for retaining a port obstruction device to the flow control apparatus.
- 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 sectional side elevation view of a flow control apparatus for use in the system illustrated inFIG. 1 , illustrating the ports in the closed condition; -
FIG. 3 is a detailed view of detail “D” inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a section of an external surface of the flow control apparatus, illustrating the recessed channel of the flow control apparatus; -
FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a section of a wellbore string of the system illustrated inFIG. 1 , incorporating the flow control apparatus ofFIG. 2 , and disposed within a wellbore, and illustrating port obstruction devices having been seated within some of the ports after the completion of a treatment operation (and after having the flow control member displaced to the open position); -
FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration depicting the fluid flowpath through a port where the subterranean formation in the immediate vicinity of the port is resistant to receiving flow of fluid being conducted via the port; -
FIG. 7 is a detailed side elevation view of a portion of an embodiment of a flow control apparatus that is integratable within a wellbore string of the system illustrated inFIG. 1 , with a retainer for retaining a port obstruction device within a port obstruction device receiving space for seating on a seat, with the port obstruction device being seated on the seat; -
FIG. 8 is a detailed side elevation view of a portion of another embodiment of a flow control apparatus, that is integratable within a wellbore string of the system illustrated inFIG. 1 , with a retainer for retaining a port obstruction device within a port obstruction device receiving space for seating on a seat, with the port obstruction device being seated on the seat; -
FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an embodiment of a flow control apparatus that is integratable within a wellbore string of the system illustrated inFIG. 1 , showing the port disposed in the closed condition, and with both of the flow control member and the actuatable valve disposed in the closed positions; -
FIG. 10 is a detailed view of Detail “A” inFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated inFIG. 10 , showing the port disposed in the closed condition, and with the actuatable valve member disposed in the open position, and with the flow control member disposed in the closed position; -
FIG. 12 is a detailed view of Detail “B” inFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 13 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the flow control apparatus illustrated inFIG. 9 , showing the port disposed in the open condition, and with both of the flow control member and the actuatable valve disposed in the open positions; -
FIG. 14 is a detailed view of Detail “C” inFIG. 13 ; -
FIG. 15 is a detailed view of Detail “D” inFIG. 13 ; -
FIG. 16 is sectional view of a fragment of another embodiment of a flow control apparatus that is integratable within the wellbore string of the system illustrated inFIG. 1 , having an exploding bolt, illustrated prior to fracturing of the bolt; and -
FIG. 17 is sectional view of a fragment of the embodiment of the flow control apparatus shown inFIG. 16 , illustrated after fracturing of the bolt. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , there is provided a wellbore material transfer system 104 for conducting material to asubterranean formation 100 via awellbore 102, from asubterranean formation 100 via awellbore 102, or both to and from asubterranean formation 100 via awellbore 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 a
subterranean formation 100 via awellbore 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 a
subterranean formation 100 via awellbore 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 thewellbore 102, or from thesubterranean formation 100 to thewellbore 102, is effected via one or more flow communication stations that are disposed at the interface between thesubterranean formation 100 and thewellbore 102. In some embodiments, for example, the flow communication stations 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 the flow control apparatuses 115A described herein. Thewellbore string 116 defines a wellbore string passage 119. In some embodiments, for example, the flow communication station 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
fluid communication station 115 includes aflow control apparatus 117. Referring toFIGS. 2 to 6 , theflow control apparatus 117 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 117 includes aflow control member 114 for controlling the conducting of material by theflow control apparatus 117 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 such that theflow control member 114 is positionable between open and closed positions. 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, the
flow control member 114 is displaceble mechanically, such as, for example, with a shifting tool. In some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114 is displaceable hydraulically, such as, for example, by communicating pressurized fluid via the wellbore to urge the displacement of the flow control member 14. In some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114 is integrated within a flow control apparatus which includes a trigger for effecting displacement of theflow control member 114 hydraulically in response to receiving of a signal transmitted from thesurface 10. - In some embodiments, for example, in the closed position, the one or
more ports 118 are covered by theflow control member 114, and the displacement of theflow control member 114 to the open position effects at least a partial uncovering of the one ormore ports 118 such that the 118 becomes 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 thefluid 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. In some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114 includes a sleeve. The sleeve is slideably disposed within the wellbore string passage 119. - Each one of the
ports 118, independently, is disposed for being at least partially occluded by aport obstruction device 130. Suitableport obstruction devices 130 include, for example, ball sealers. In some embodiments, for example, the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir is stimulated by the supplying of treatment material to the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir via theports 118, and after sufficient treatment material has been supplied to the hydrocarbon material-containing reservoir via theports 118,port obstruction devices 130 are deployed downhole for seating within theports 118. - In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the
ports 118, independently, aseat 1180, for seating of aport obstruction device 130, is disposed relative to theport 118 such that seating of theport obstruction device 130 effects at least partial occlusion of theport 118. In some embodiments, for example, theseat 1180 is disposed peripherally about theport 118. In some embodiments, for example, theport 118 is disposed within theseat 1180. In some embodiments, for example, the seating of theport obstruction device 130 on theseat 1180 effects sealing engagement of theport obstruction device 130 to theseat 1180, such that a sealing interface is established, and such that theport 118 is sealed or substantially sealed. - In this respect, there is provided a process including: after the conducting of fluid through an opened
port 118 during a treatment operation, seating of theport obstruction device 130 against theseat 1180 such that the closing of theopening 102 is effected. In some embodiments, for example, the seating of theport obstruction device 130 on theseat 1180 is effected by landing of theport obstruction device 130 on theseat 1180 by conducting theport obstruction device 130 downhole with fluid that is supplied to and is flowing within thewellbore 102. In some embodiments, for example, prior to the conducting of fluid through the openedport 118, theport 118 is closed, and opening of theport 118 is effected by displacing theflow control member 114 from the closed position to the open position. In some embodiments, for example, prior to the seating of theport obstruction device 130 on theseat 1180 by conducting theport obstruction device 130 downhole with fluid that is supplied to and is flowing within thewellbore 102, the pressure of the fluid that is supplied and flowed, for conducting the port obstruction device, is less than the pressure of the fluid being conducted through the openedport 118 during a treatment operation. In some embodiments, this reduced pressure mitigates the risk of having theport obstruction device 130 overshoot and flow past theseat 1180, due to its own inertia. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control member 114 is displaceable from a closed position to an open position for effecting opening of theport 118, but is not designed to return to the closed position. Examples of a theflow control member 114 is not designed to return to the closed position include at least some kinds of “toe valves” or “toe sleeves”. In other embodiments, upon theflow control member 114 becoming disposed in the open position, attempts to close theflow control member 114 are unsuccessful. - After a treatment operation, involving the conducting of fluid via the port 118 (such as, for example, the supplying of treatment fluid into the
subterranean formation 100, such as, for example, during a hydraulic fracturing operation) has been effected, it may be desirable to close theport 118, at least temporarily (such as, for example, to enable supplying of treatment fluid into the subterranean formation via another fluid communication station, such another fluid communication station that is disposed uphole), with the intention of later re-opening the port 118 (such as, for example, in order to receive production of reservoir fluids, from thesubterranean formation 100, within the wellbore 102). - In this respect, a process is provided and includes displacing a
flow control member 114 for effecting opening of aport 118 within awellbore 102, conducting fluid via the openedport 118, and, after the conducting, seating aport obstruction device 130 on the seat 1080 such that theport 118 becomes closed. In some embodiments, for example, the seating of aport obstruction device 130 is such that fluid communication between the surface and the subterranean formation, via theport 118, becomes sealed or substantially sealed. - After the
port obstruction device 130 has been seated on theseat 1180 for a sufficient period of time (such as, for example, for a period of time sufficient to enable supplying of treatment fluid to the subterranean formation via other fluid communication stations), an opening of theport 118 is effected. - In some embodiments, for example, the opening is effected by an unseating of the
port obstruction device 130, such as, for example, by effecting a pressure reduction within the wellbore. In some embodiments, for example, the pressure reduction, additionally effects flowback of theport obstruction device 130. - In some embodiments, for example, the opening is effected after the
port obstruction device 130 has been seated on the seat 1080 for a sufficient time in contact with wellbore fluids within thewellbore 102 such that a change in condition of theport obstruction device 130 is effected (in response to the contacting with the wellbore fluids) such that a fluid passage is established within theport obstruction device 130 such that fluid communication is effected between the surface and the subterranean formation via theport 118. In some of these embodiments, for example, at least a portion of theport obstruction device 130 is dissolvable in wellbore fluids within thewellbore 102 and, in this respect, the change in condition includes dissolution of at least a portion of theport obstruction device 130 such that the fluid passage becomes established. - Referring to
FIGS. 2 to 6 , in some embodiments, for example, the fluid communication station includes aflow control apparatus 117, and theflow control apparatus 117 includes ahousing 122, ahousing passage 124 disposed within thehousing 122, theflow control member 114, a plurality ofports 118, and a plurality ofseats 1180, wherein each one of theseat 1180 is associated with a respective one of theports 118. Thehousing 122 includes an external surface 122A, and a recessedchannel 126 is defined within the external surface 122A (seeFIG. 4 ). Each one of theports 118, independently, extends into thechannel 126 such that fluid conducted from thewellbore 102 to the subterranean formation via theports 118 is discharged from theports 118 into thechannel 126. In some embodiments, for example, the minimum depth of thechannel 126 is at least 0.1 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the minimum cross-sectional area of the channel is at least 0.01 square inches. - In some embodiments, for example, the
channel 126 receives flow of fluid conducted, via one ormore ports 118, which would otherwise be at least impeded (and, in some embodiments, blocked) in cases where the portion of the formation in the immediate vicinity of the one ormore ports 118 is resistant to receiving flow of fluid being conducted via the one or more ports 118 (for example, such formation portion is resistant to fracturing effected by fluid being communicated through the one or more ports). If such flow of fluid is at least impeded (and, in some embodiments, blocked), the seating of theport obstruction device 130 may not occur. By providing thechannel 126, there is a greater likelihood that fluid will flow through aport 118 where the portion of the formation in the immediate vicinity of theport 118 is resistant to receiving flow of fluid being conducted via theport 118. This is because thechannel 126 provides greater opportunity for fluid being communicated to theport 118 to be conducted to another portion of the formation which is less resistant to receiving flow of fluid from thewellbore 102. This phenomenon is illustrated inFIG. 6 , whereport obstruction devices 130 have been seated withinports port 118C has yet to be closed with a corresponding port obstruction device, and theportion 130X of theformation 130 in the immediate vicinity of theport 118C is resistant to receiving fluid flow. Because thechannel 126 has been provided, a flow path is establishable through theport 118C, by enabling fluid communication with theportion 130A, of theformation 130, which is able to receive fluid flow, thereby enabling the seating of a port obstruction device within theport 118C. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 117 includes one ormore ports 118, and while each one of the one ormore ports 118 are closed, independently, by a corresponding port obstruction device 130 (seated on a respective seat 1180), fluid pressure within thewellbore 102 is maintained above a minimum predetermined pressure such that aport obstruction devices 130 remains seated on arespective seat 1180 of each one of the one ormore ports 118. In some of these embodiments, for example, while seating of aport obstruction devices 130 on arespective seat 1180 of each one of the one ormore ports 118 is being maintained by fluid pressure within thewellbore 102, aflow control member 114 of another fluid communication station (such as, for example, another fluid communication station that is disposed uphole of the flow communication station whose one ormore ports 118 are each, independently, closed by a correspondingport obstruction device 130 that is seated on arespective seat 1180 of each one of the one or more ports 118) is displaced, relative to its corresponding one ormore ports 118, from the closed position to the open position such that its corresponding one ormore ports 118 becomes opened and conducts fluid from thewellbore 102 to thesubterranean formation 100. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid pressure continues being maintained above the minimum predetermined pressure as the one ormore ports 118 of the another fluid communication station is being opened. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, after having supplied fluid to the subterranean formation via the one ormore ports 118 of a first communication station, and while the fluid pressure is maintained above a minimum predetermined pressure within thewellbore 102, seating of theport obstruction device 130 on arespective seat 1180 of each one of the one ormore ports 118 of the first fluid communication station is effected, and after the effecting of the seating of theport obstruction device 130 on arespective seat 1180 of each one of the one ormore ports 118 of a first fluid communication station, theflow control member 114 of a second fluid communication station is displaced to an open position such that the one ormore ports 118 of the second fluid communication station becomes opened and fluid is supplied to the subterranean formation via the one ormore ports 118 of the second fluid communication station. In some embodiments, for example, after the supplying of fluid into the subterranean formation via the one ormore ports 118 of the second fluid communication station, at least oneport obstruction device 130, for each one of the one ormore ports 118 of the second fluid communication station, is deployed downhole such that aport obstruction device 130 becomes seated on a respective seat 1080 of each one of the one or more ports of the second fluid communication station such that the one ormore ports 118 of the second fluid communication station becomes closed. In some embodiments, for example, the seating of aport obstruction device 130 on a respective seat 1080 of each one of the one ormore ports 118 of the second fluid communication station is such that fluid communication between the surface and the subterranean formation, via the one ormore ports 118 of the second fluid communication station, becomes sealed or substantially sealed. In some embodiments, for example, the second fluid communication station is disposed uphole relative to the first fluid communication station. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 117 includes aretainer 132 configured for retaining aport obstruction device 130 to theflow control apparatus 117. In those embodiments where theflow control apparatus 117 includes more than oneport 118, in some of these embodiments, for example, theretainer 132 is configured for retaining aport obstruction device 130 for seating on a respective seat 1080 of each one of theports 118. - In some embodiments, for example, the
retainer 132 is sufficiently pliable such that aport obstruction device 130, in response to application of a sufficient fluid pressure differential, is conductible past theretainer 132 and into a port obstructiondevice receiving space 134. While within the port obstructiondevice receiving space 134, theport obstructions device 130 is disposed for seating on aseat 1180 of aport 118 for effecting closure of theport 118. In some embodiments, for example, theretainer 132 is in the form of a c-ring that is coupled to thebody 136 of theapparatus 117. In some embodiments, for example, theretainer 132 is in the form of a canted coil spring that is coupled to thebody 136 of theapparatus 117. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , in some embodiments, for example, upon disposition of theport obstructions device 130 within the port obstructiondevice receiving space 134, theport obstruction device 130 becomes seated on aseat 1180 of aport 118 such that closure of theport 118 is effected. Referring toFIG. 8 , in some embodiments, for example, upon disposition of theport obstructions device 130 within the port obstructiondevice receiving space 134, theport obstruction device 130 is disposed for seating on aseat 1180 of aport 118 in response to application of a sufficient fluid pressure differential such that, upon the seating of theport obstruction device 130 on theseat 1180, closure of theport 118 is effected. - In those embodiments where, upon disposition of the
port obstructions device 130 within the port obstructiondevice receiving space 134, theport obstruction device 130 becomes seated on aseat 1180 of aport 118 such that closure of theport 118 is effected, theport obstruction device 130 and theflow control apparatus 117 are co-operatively configured such that, after theport obstruction device 130 has been disposed in contact with subterranean fluids (from within the wellbore, or external to the wellbore, or both) for a sufficient period of time, while being disposed within the port obstructiondevice receiving space 134, such that material degradation (such as, for example, by at least one of dissolution, chemical reaction, or disintegration) of theport obstruction device 130 is effected, an opening of theport 118 is effected. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, theport obstruction device 130 includes polystyrene which thereby renders the port obstruction device degradable in the presence of wellbore fluids. - In those embodiments where, upon disposition of the
port obstructions device 130 within the port obstructiondevice receiving space 134, theport obstruction device 130 becomes disposed for seating on aseat 1180 of aport 118 in response to application of a sufficient fluid pressure differential such that, upon the seating of theport obstruction device 130 on theseat 1180, closure of theport 118 is effected, theport obstruction device 130 and theflow control apparatus 117 are co-operatively configured such that, after theport obstruction device 130 has become seated on aseat 1180 of aport 118, and a pressure differential is applied while theport obstructions device 130 is seated on theseat 1180 of theport 118 such that theport obstruction device 130 is displaced from the seat 1180 (and thereby becomes unseated relative to the seat 1180), opening of theport 118 is effected. - Referring to
FIGS. 9 to 15 , in some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114 is integrated within aflow control apparatus 310 and includes a fluidresponsive surface 120 for receiving communication of a pressurized fluid for urging the displacement of theflow control member 114 between the closed and open positions, and theflow control apparatus 310 further includes asensor 326, ahousing 312, and atrigger 313. Thehousing 312 includes ahousing passage 316, and thehousing 312 is integratable within the wellbore string 200, such as by a threaded connection. Thetrigger 313 is responsive to the sensing of a trigger-actuating (“TI”) signal by the sensor, with effect that fluid communication is established between thehousing passage 316 and the fluidresponsive surface 120 in response to the sensing of a trigger-actuating (“TI”) signal by thesensor 326. In this respect, while theflow control apparatus 310 is integrated within the wellbore string 200 as part of afluid communication station 115 such that thehousing passage 316 is disposed in fluid communication with the surface via thewellbore 100, and while a TI signal is being transmitted (such as, for example, via the wellbore), in response to the sensing of the TI signal by thesensor 326, fluid communication between the surface and the fluidresponsive surface 120, via thewellbore 100, is established by thetrigger 313. - In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is transmitted through the
wellbore 100. In some of these embodiments, for example, the TI signal is transmitted via fluid disposed within thewellbore 100. - In some embodiments, for example, the
sensor 326 is a pressure sensor, and the actuating signal is one or more pressure pulses. An exemplary pressure sensor is a Kellar Pressure Transducer Model 6LHP/81188TM. - Other suitable sensors may be employed, depending on the nature of the signal being used for the actuating signal. Other suitable sensors include a Hall effect sensor, a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) sensor, or a sensor that can detect a change in chemistry (such as, for example, pH), or radiation levels, or ultrasonic waves.
- In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is one or more pressure pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the pressure pulse is further characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a duration.
- In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude and a duration. In some embodiments, for example, the TI signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example, each one of pressure pulses is characterized by time intervals between the pulses.
- In some embodiments, for example, the
sensor 326 is disposed in communication within thewellbore 100, and the TI signal is being transmitted within thewellbore 100, such that thesensor 326 is disposed for sensing the TI signal being transmitted within thewellbore 100. In some embodiments, for example, thesensor 326 is disposed within thewellbore 100. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, thesensor 326 is mounted to the housing 112 within a hole that is ported to the wellbore 200, and is held in by a backing plate that is configured to resist the force generated by pressure acting on thesensor 326. - In some embodiments, for example, the
sensor 326 is configured to receive a signal generated by a seismic source. In some embodiments, for example, the seismic source includes a seismic vibrator unit. In some of these embodiments, for example, the seismic vibration unit is disposed at thesurface 10. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 310 further includes a sealinginterface 315, and thetrigger 313 includes anactuator 322 for defeating the sealinginterface 315. In this respect, theactuator 322 is responsive to sensing of the TI signal by thesensor 326. for defeating the sealinginterface 315 such that the establishment of fluid communication between thehousing passage 316 and the fluidresponsive surface 120 is effected. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 310 further includes avalve 324, and the sealinginterface 315 is defined by a sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 324 and thehousing 312. In some embodiments, for example, the sealinginterface 315 is defined by sealingmembers 315A (such as, for example, o-rings) carried by thevalve 324. In this respect, the change in condition of the sealinginterface 315 is effected by a change in condition of thevalve 324. Also in this respect, theactuator 322 is configured to effect a change in condition of the valve 324 (in response to the sensing of the TI signal by the sensor 326) such that there is a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 324 and thehousing 312, such that the sealinginterface 315 is defeated, and such that fluid communication between thehousing passage 316 and the fluidresponsive surface 120 is established. - In some embodiments, for example, the
valve 324 is displaceable, and the change in condition of thevalve 324, which theactuator 322 is configured to effect in response to the sensing of a TI signal by thesensor 326, includes displacement of thevalve 324. In this respect, theactuator 322 is configured to effect displacement of thevalve 324 such that the sealinginterface 315 is defeated and such that fluid communication between thehousing passage 316 and the fluidresponsive surface 120 is established. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 310 further includes apassageway 326. Thevalve 324 and thepassageway 326 are co-operatively disposed such that fluid communication between thehousing passage 316 and the fluidresponsive surface 120 is established in response to the displacement of thevalve 324, which is effected in response to the sensing of the TI signal by thesensor 326. In this respect, the establishing of the fluid communication between thehousing passage 316 and the fluidresponsive surface 120 is controlled by the positioning of thevalve 324 within thepassageway 326. In this respect, thevalve 324 is configured for displacement relative to thepassageway 326. In some embodiments, for example, thevalve 324 includes a piston. The displacement of thevalve 324 is from a closed position (seeFIGS. 7 and 8 ) to an open position (seeFIGS. 9 and 10 ). In some embodiments, for example, when disposed in the closed position, thevalve 324 is occluding thepassageway 326. In some embodiments, for example, when thevalve 324 is disposed in the closed position, sealing, or substantial sealing, of fluid communication, between thehousing passage 316 and the fluidresponsive surface 120 is effected. When thevalve 324 is disposed in the open position, fluid communication is effected between thehousing passage 316 and the fluidresponsive surface 120. - In some embodiments, for example, the
passageway 326 extends through theflow control member 114, and thevalve 324 is disposed in a space within theflow control member 114, such that the displacement of thevalve 324 is also relative to theflow control member 114. - In some embodiments, for example, the
actuator 322 includes an electro-mechanical trigger, such as a squib. The squib is configured to, in response to the signal received by thesensor 326, effect generation of an explosion. In some embodiments, for example, the squib is mounted within the body such that the generated explosion effects the displacement of thevalve 324. Anothersuitable actuator 322 is a fuse-able link or a piston pusher. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 310 further includes first andsecond chambers first chamber 334 is disposed in fluid communication with the fluidresponsive surface 120 for receiving pressurized fluid from thehousing passage 316, and thesecond chamber 336 is configured for containing a fluid and disposed relative to theflow control member 114 such that fluid contained within thesecond chamber 336 opposes the displacement of theflow control apparatus 310 that is being urged by pressurized fluid within thefirst chamber 334, and the displacement of theflow control member 114 is effected when the force imparted to theflow control member 114 by the pressurized fluid within thefirst chamber 334 exceeds the force imparted to the flow control member by the fluid within thesecond chamber 336. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of theflow control member 114 is effected when the pressure imparted to theflow control member 114 by the pressurized fluid within thefirst chamber 334 exceeds the pressure imparted to theflow control member 114 by the fluid within thesecond chamber 336. - In some embodiments, for example, both of the first and
second chambers housing 312 and theflow control member 114, and a chamber sealing member 338 is also included for effecting a sealing interface between thechambers flow control member 114 is being displaced to effect the opening of theport 318. - In some embodiments, for example, to mitigate versus inadvertent opening, the
valve 324 may, initially, be detachably secured to thehousing 312, in the closed position. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the detachable securing is effected by a shear pin configured for becoming sheared, in response to application of sufficient shearing force, such that thevalve 324 becomes movable from the closed position to the open position. In some embodiments, for example, the shearing force is effected by theactuator 312. - In some embodiments, for example, to prevent the inadvertent opening of the
valve 324, thevalve 324 may be biased to the closed position, such as by, for example, a resilient member such as a spring. In this respect, theactuator 322 used for effecting opening of thevalve 324 must exert sufficient force to at least overcome the biasing force being applied to thevalve 324 that is maintaining thevalve 324 in the closed position. - In some embodiments, for example, to prevent the inadvertent opening of the
valve 324, thevalve 324 may be pressure balanced such that thevalve 324 is disposed in the closed position. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 310 further includes a controller. The controller is configured to receive a sensor-transmitted signal from thesensor 326 upon the sensing of the TI signal and, in response to the received sensor-transmitted signal, supply a transmitted signal to thetrigger 313. In some embodiments, for example, the controller and thesensor 326 are powered by a battery that is disposed on-board within theflow control apparatus 310. Passages for wiring for electrically interconnecting the battery, the sensor, the controller and the trigger are also provided within theapparatus 310. - Referring to
FIGS. 14 and 15 , in some embodiments, for example, theflow control member 114 is integrated within aflow control apparatus 410 that includes asensor 426, and theflow control member 114 is displaceable from the closed position to the open position in response to urging by a pressurized fluid that is communicated to the flow control member after the defeating of a sealinginterface 415, the defeating of the sealinginterface 415 being actuated by communication of a pressurized fluid while the sealinginterface 415 is disposed in a defeatable condition, the sealinginterface 415 having become disposed in the defeatable condition in response to the sensing of a sealing interface actuation (“SIA”) signal by thesensor 426. - In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is transmitted through the
wellbore 100. In some of these embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is transmitted via fluid disposed within thewellbore 100. - In some embodiments, for example, the
sensor 426 is a pressure sensor, and the actuaSIAng signal is one or more pressure pulses. An exemplary pressure sensor is a Kellar Pressure Transducer Model 6LHP/81188TM. - Other suitable sensors may be employed, depending on the nature of the signal being used for the actuang signal. Other suitable sensors include a Hall effect sensor, a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) sensor, or a sensor that can detect a change in chemistry (such as, for example, pH), or radiation levels, or ultrasonic waves.
- In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is one or more pressure pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the pressure pulse is further characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a pressure pulse characterized by at least a duration.
- In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a magnitude and a duration. In some embodiments, for example, the SIA signal is defined by a plurality of pressure pulses, each one of the pressure pulses characterized by at least a duration. In some embodiments, for example, each one of pressure pulses is characterized by time intervals between the pulses.
- In some embodiments, for example, the
sensor 426 is disposed in communication within thewellbore 100, and the SIA signal is being transmitted within thewellbore 100, such that thesensor 426 is disposed for sensing the SIA signal being transmitted within thewellbore 100. In some embodiments, for example, thesensor 426 is disposed within thewellbore 100. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, thesensor 426 is mounted to thehousing 412 within a hole that is ported to the wellbore 200, and is held in by a backing plate that is configured to resist the force generated by pressure acting on thesensor 426. - In some embodiments, for example, the
sensor 426 is configured to receive a signal generated by a seismic source. In some embodiments, for example, the seismic source includes a seismic vibrator unit. In some of these embodiments, for example, the seismic vibration unit is disposed at thesurface 10. - In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the
flow control member 114 includes a fluidresponsive surface 120 for receiving communication of a pressurized fluid for urging displacement of theflow control member 114. As well, theflow control apparatus 410 includes ahousing 412 that is integratable within the wellbore string 200 as part of afluid communication station 115, such as by a threaded connection, and ahousing passage 416 is defined within thehousing 412. Theflow control apparatus 410 also includes a sealinginterface 415 and anactuator 422. Theactuator 422 is responsive to sensing of the SIA signal by thesensor 426, for changing a condition of the sealinginterface 415 such that the sealinginterface 415 becomes disposed in a defeatable condition such that, in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, the sealinginterface 415 is defeated and such that fluid communication is established between thehousing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420. - In some embodiments, for example, the flow control apparatus further includes a
valve 424, and the sealinginterface 415 is defined by sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and thehousing 412. In this respect, the change in condition of the sealinginterface 415 is effected by a change in condition of thevalve 424. Also in this respect, theactuator 422 is configured to effect a change in condition of the valve 424 (in response to the sensing of the signal by the sensor 426) such that the sealinginterface 415 becomes disposed in the defeatable condition. In this respect, while the sealing interface 415 (defined by the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and the housing 412) is disposed in the defeatable condition (the defeatible condition having been effected in response to the change in condition of thevalve 424, as above-described), in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, there is a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and thehousing 412. As a result, there is a loss of sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and thehousing 412, such that the sealinginterface 415 is defeated, and such that fluid communication is established between thehousing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420. - In some embodiments, for example, the
valve 424 includes avalve sealing surface 424A configured for effecting the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and thehousing 412. In this respect, the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and thehousing 412 is effected by the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve sealing surface 424A and ahousing sealing surface 412A. Also in this respect, the change in condition of thevalve 424 is such that thevalve sealing surface 424A becomes displaceable relative to thehousing sealing surface 412A for effecting a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve sealing surface 424A and thehousing sealing surface 412A, such that the sealinginterface 415 is defeated and such that fluid communication is established between thehousing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420. Also in this respect, the loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and thehousing 412, that is effected in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid while thevalve 424 is disposed such that thevalve sealing surface 424A is displaceable relative to thehousing sealing surface 412A, includes the loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve sealing surface 424A and thehousing sealing surface 412A. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 410 further includes apassageway 427, and the passageway extends between thehousing passage 412 and the fluid responsive surface 420. Thevalve 424 and thepassageway 427 are co-operatively disposed such that the fluid communication between thehousing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420 is established in response to the displacement of thevalve 424 relative to thepassageway 427, effected in response to the sensing of the SIA by thesensor 426. Sealing, or substantial sealing, of thepassageway 427 is effected by the sealing or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and the housing 412 (and, in some embodiments, for example, thevalve sealing surface 424A and thehousing sealing surface 412A). Also in this respect, sealing, or substantially sealing, of fluid communication between thehousing passage 412 and the fluid responsive surface 420 is effected by the sealing or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and the housing 412 (and, in some embodiments, for example, thevalve sealing surface 424A and thehousing sealing surface 412A). - In some embodiments, for example, the
actuator 422 includes a squib, and the change in condition of the sealing interface 415 (and also, in some embodiments, for example, the valve 424) is effected by an explosion generated by the squib in response to sensing of the signal by thesensor 426. In some embodiments, for example, the squib is suitably mounted within thehousing 412 to apply the necessary force to thevalve 424. Another suitable valve actuator 42 is a fuse-able link or a piston pusher. - In some embodiments, for example, the change in condition of the
valve 424 includes a fracturing of thevalve 424. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 15 , the fracture is identified byreference numeral 452. In some embodiments, for example, while thevalve 424 is disposed in a fractured condition, in response to receiving communication of a pressurized fluid, a loss of the sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and thehousing 412 is effected, such that there is an absence of sealing, or substantially sealing, engagement between thevalve 424 and thehousing 412, and such that the sealinginterface 415 is defeated and such that fluid communication is established between thehousing passage 416 and the fluid responsive surface 420. - In those embodiments where the change in condition of the
valve 424 includes a fracturing of thevalve 424, in some of these embodiments, for example, thevalve 424 includes acoupler 424B that effects coupling of thevalve 424 to thehousing 412 while the change in condition is effected. In some embodiments, for example, thecoupler 424B is threaded to thehousing 412. In those embodiments where thevalve 424 includes acoupler 424B, in some of these embodiments, for example, thevalve 424 and theactuator 422 are defined by an exploding bolt 350, such that the exploding bolt 350 is threaded to thehousing 412. In some embodiments, for example, the squib is integrated into the bolt 350. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 410 further includes first and second chambers (only thefirst chamber 434 is shown). Thefirst chamber 434 is disposed in fluid communication with the fluid responsive surface 420 for receiving pressurized fluid from thehousing passage 412, and the second chamber is configured for containing a fluid and disposed relative to theflow control member 114 such that fluid contained within the second chamber opposes the displacement of theflow control apparatus 410 that is being urged by pressurized fluid within thefirst chamber 434, and the displacement of theflow control member 114 is effected when the force imparted to theflow control member 114 by the pressurized fluid within thefirst chamber 434 exceeds the force imparted to the flow control member by the fluid within the second chamber. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of theflow control member 114 is effected when the pressure imparted to theflow control member 114 by the pressurized fluid within thefirst chamber 434 exceeds the pressure imparted to the flow control member by the fluid within the second chamber. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid within the second chamber is disposed at atmospheric pressure. - In some embodiments, for example, both of the first and second chambers are defined by respective spaces interposed between the
housing 412 and theflow control member 114, and a chamber sealing member 438 is also included for effecting a sealing interface between the first and second chambers while theflow control member 114 is being displaced to effect the opening of the port 418. - In some embodiments, for example, the
flow control apparatus 410 further includes a controller. The controller is configured to receive a sensor-transmitted signal from thesensor 426 upon the sensing of the SIA signal and, in response to the received sensor-transmitted signal, supply a transmitted signal to theactuator 422. In some embodiments, for example, the controller and thesensor 426 are powered by a battery that is disposed on-board within theflow control apparatus 410. Passages for wiring for electrically interconnecting the battery, thesensor 426, the controller and theactuator 422 are also provided within theapparatus 410. - 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 (19)
1.-18. (canceled)
19. A flow control apparatus comprising:
a housing;
a housing passage disposed within the housing;
a plurality of ports extending through the housing;
a flow control member, displaceable, relative to the ports, for effecting opening of the ports;
wherein:
the housing includes an external surface;
a recessed channel defined within the external surface; and
each one of the ports, independently, extends into the channel such that fluid conducted from the housing passage and through the ports is discharged from the ports into the channel.
20. The flow control apparatus as claimed in claim 19 ;
wherein the minimum depth of the channel is at least 0.1 inches.
21. The flow control apparatus as claimed in claim 19 ;
wherein the minimum cross-sectional area of the channel is at least 0.01 square inches.
22. The flow control apparatus as claimed in claim 19 , further comprising:
a sensor configured to receive a transmitted signal for effecting displacement of the flow control member.
23. The flow control apparatus as claimed in claim 22 ;
wherein the sensor is disposed within the housing passage and the transmitted signal is a signal transmitted through the housing passage.
24. The flow control apparatus as claimed in claim 19 , configured for integration within a wellbore string.
25. A kit for implementation within a wellbore for control fluid communication between a wellbore and a subterranean formation, comprising:
a flow control apparatus, wherein the flow control apparatus includes:
a housing;
a housing passage disposed within the housing;
a plurality of ports extending through the housing;
a plurality of seats, wherein each one of the seats is respective to a one of the ports;
a flow control member, displaceable, relative to the ports, for effecting opening of the ports;
wherein:
the housing includes an external surface;
a recessed channel defined within the external surface; and
each one of the ports, independently, extends into the channel such that fluid conducted from the housing passage and through the ports is discharged from the ports into the channel;
and
a plurality of port obstruction devices for seating on the seats.
26. The kit as claimed in claim 25 ;
wherein the minimum depth of the channel of the housing of the flow control apparatus is at least 0.1 inches.
27. The kit as claimed in claim 25 ;
wherein the minimum cross-sectional area of the channel of the housing of the flow control apparatus is at least 0.01 square inches.
28. The kit as claimed in claim 25 ;
wherein the flow control apparatus further includes:
a sensor configured to receive a transmitted signal for effecting displacement of the flow control member.
29. The kit as claimed in claim 28 ;
wherein the sensor of the flow control apparatus is disposed within the housing passage and the transmitted signal is a signal transmitted through the housing passage.
30. A process for treating a subterranean formation comprising:
opening at least one port of a wellbore string disposed within a wellbore by displacing a flow control member;
conducting treatment material from the wellbore to the subterranean formation via the at least one port; and
after the conducting of treatment material, seating a port obstruction device on each one of the at least one port, such that each one of the at least one port, independently, becomes closed.
31. The process as claimed in claim 30 ;
wherein the displacing of the flow control member is effected by transmitting a signal through the wellbore.
32. The process as claimed in claim 30 ;
wherein:
the wellbore string includes a fluid control apparatus including the at least one port;
the at least one port is a plurality of ports;
the fluid control apparatus includes an external surface having a recessed channel defined therein for fluidly communicating with the subterranean formation;
each one of the ports, independently, extends into the channel such that fluid conducted from the housing passage and through the ports is discharged from the ports into the channel; and
the recessed channel is disposed in fluid communication with the subterranean formation such that the conducting of treatment material from the wellbore to the subterranean formation is via the recessed channel.
33. The process as claimed in claim 30 ;
wherein:
the seating of a port obstruction device on each one of the at least one port includes conducting the port obstruction devices with a delivery fluid that is flowing within the wellbore; and
the pressure of the delivery fluid is less than the pressure of the treatment material that has been conducted through the opened port.
34. A flow control apparatus comprising:
a housing;
a housing passage disposed within the housing;
a seat;
a port extending through the housing; and
a retainer configured for retaining a port obstruction device to the flow control apparatus.
35. The flow control apparatus as claimed in claim 34 ;
wherein the retainer is configured for retaining a port obstruction device for seating on a seat such that closure of the port is effected.
36. The flow control apparatus as claimed in claim 34 ;
wherein the retainer is sufficiently pliable such that a port obstruction device, in response to application of a sufficient fluid pressure differential, is conductible past the retainer and into a port obstruction device receiving space such that the port obstructions device becomes disposed for seating on the seat for effecting closure of the port.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/634,590 US20180128081A1 (en) | 2016-07-06 | 2017-06-27 | Hydraulic fracturing systems and processes utilizing port obstruction devices for seating on ports of a wellbore string |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201662358672P | 2016-07-06 | 2016-07-06 | |
US15/634,590 US20180128081A1 (en) | 2016-07-06 | 2017-06-27 | Hydraulic fracturing systems and processes utilizing port obstruction devices for seating on ports of a wellbore string |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20180128081A1 true US20180128081A1 (en) | 2018-05-10 |
Family
ID=60864188
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/634,590 Abandoned US20180128081A1 (en) | 2016-07-06 | 2017-06-27 | Hydraulic fracturing systems and processes utilizing port obstruction devices for seating on ports of a wellbore string |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20180128081A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2971975A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11306560B2 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2022-04-19 | Ncs Multistage Inc. | Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing |
US11473401B2 (en) * | 2020-02-05 | 2022-10-18 | University Of Electronic Science And Technology Of China | Method for controlling toe-end sliding sleeve of horizontal well based on efficient decoding communication |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6684952B2 (en) * | 1998-11-19 | 2004-02-03 | Schlumberger Technology Corp. | Inductively coupled method and apparatus of communicating with wellbore equipment |
US8403052B2 (en) * | 2011-03-11 | 2013-03-26 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Flow control screen assembly having remotely disabled reverse flow control capability |
-
2017
- 2017-06-27 US US15/634,590 patent/US20180128081A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2017-06-27 CA CA2971975A patent/CA2971975A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6684952B2 (en) * | 1998-11-19 | 2004-02-03 | Schlumberger Technology Corp. | Inductively coupled method and apparatus of communicating with wellbore equipment |
US8403052B2 (en) * | 2011-03-11 | 2013-03-26 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Flow control screen assembly having remotely disabled reverse flow control capability |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11306560B2 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2022-04-19 | Ncs Multistage Inc. | Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing |
US11473401B2 (en) * | 2020-02-05 | 2022-10-18 | University Of Electronic Science And Technology Of China | Method for controlling toe-end sliding sleeve of horizontal well based on efficient decoding communication |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2971975A1 (en) | 2018-01-06 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US10808509B2 (en) | Electrically actuated downhole flow control apparatus | |
US9441446B2 (en) | Electronic rupture discs for interventionaless barrier plug | |
US9441437B2 (en) | Electronic rupture discs for interventionless barrier plug | |
CA2868880C (en) | Activation-indicating wellbore stimulation assemblies and methods of using the same | |
US11078745B2 (en) | Apparatuses and methods for enabling multistage hydraulic fracturing | |
US20170183950A1 (en) | Apparatuses and methods for enabling multistage hydraulic fracturing | |
US20200190954A1 (en) | Downhole flow control apparatus | |
AU2011302110B2 (en) | Downhole delivery of chemicals with a micro-tubing system | |
US20130020065A1 (en) | Downhole Smart Control System | |
CA2923662C (en) | Electrically actuated downhole flow control apparatus | |
US20130024030A1 (en) | Method of Using a Downhole Smart Control System | |
US20180128081A1 (en) | Hydraulic fracturing systems and processes utilizing port obstruction devices for seating on ports of a wellbore string | |
BR112015008913B1 (en) | SEMI AUTONOMOUS INSERTION VALVE | |
US11306560B2 (en) | Apparatus, systems and methods for isolation during multistage hydraulic fracturing | |
US20180128080A1 (en) | Signal-responsive frac ball and hydraulic fracturing system | |
US11131164B2 (en) | Apparatus, systems and methods for actuation of downhole tools | |
US20210215015A1 (en) | Downhole flow communication apparatuses |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: NCS MULTISTAGE INC., CANADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:STROMQUIST, MARTY;RAVENSBERGEN, JOHN;LAUN, LYLE;REEL/FRAME:044355/0162 Effective date: 20160908 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |