Study on the Equivalent Density Tool and Depressurisation Mechanism of Suction-Type Depressurisation Cycle

Abstract

In order to further regulate equivalent circulating density (ECD), a novel downhole apparatus for reducing circulating pressure in high-temperature and high-pressure wells, the suction-type ECD reduction tool, was devised. The utilisation of this tool enables the bottomhole pressure of the equivalent circulating density to be attained in close proximity to its hydrostatic pressure, thereby facilitating the attainment of deeper drilling depths. The tool is composed primarily of a screw motor, scroll blades, annular seals, universal joints, and drilling columns. The tool operates by utilising the suction effect and hydraulic energy extracted from the circulating fluid by the screw motor, which is then converted into mechanical energy to create suction and enhance the flow energy of the drilling fluid within the annulus at the bottom of the well, thereby reducing the equivalent circulating density. Furthermore, based on ANSYS-FLUENT analysis simulations, the alteration of pressure drop characteristics in response to varying drilling fluid densities, displacements, and tool sizes was modelled. The simulation results demonstrate that the pressure drop effect is 1.0 MPa when the drilling fluid density is 1.2 g/cm3, 1.7 MPa when the drilling fluid density is 1.5 g/cm3, and 1.9 MPa when the drilling fluid density is 1.8 g/cm3. A pressure drop of approximately 2.3 MPa was observed when the drilling fluid density was 2.0 g/cm3. The maximum pressure drop is achievable with a flow rate ranging from 1500 to 2500 L/min. A maximum pressure drop of 2.3 MPa is observed when the flow rate is within the range of 1500 to 2500 L/min. Two distinct viscosity values (0.02 and 0.06 kg/(m·s)) were employed to assess the impact of viscosity on pressure drop characteristics in a suction-type ECD tool. The results demonstrated that the pressure drop remained largely unaltered, indicating that viscosity had minimal influence on this parameter. The flow rate emerged as the primary factor affecting pressure drop, with viscosity exerting a relatively minor effect.