Oracle Corporation
METHOD FOR FLUID FLOW OPTIMIZATION IN A WELLBORE

Abstract:

The present disclosure provides a method and system for fluid flow optimization within a wellbore, such as gas-lift operations and control of slug flows within the wellbore, by utilizing a plurality of electronically controlled valves coupled to a tubing string. Selective actuation of the valves may include incremental opening or closing of an individual valve as desired between a fully open, fully closed, or partial opening of a particular valve. Pressure measurements inside and outside of the tubing string may be measured in real-time near the valve to help maintain the desired pressure distribution within the wellbore and to measure and control a pressure differential at a selected valve. Actuation of the valves may be electronically controlled at a remote location by electronic command signals or may be performed automatically by the downhole valves with or without input by a remote system.