Controlled pressure drilling manifold, module and method
阅读说明：本技术 受控压力钻井歧管、模块和方法 (Controlled pressure drilling manifold, module and method ) 是由 B.希基 于 2018-03-30 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种受控压力钻井(MPD)歧管适于在油气钻井操作期间从井筒接收钻井泥浆。该MPD歧管包括一个或多个钻井节流器。(A controlled pressure drilling (MPD) manifold is adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore during oil and gas drilling operations. The MPD manifold includes one or more drilling chokes.)
1. A controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising:
a first module comprising one or more drilling chokes;
a second module comprising a flow meter; and
a third module comprising first and second flow blocks operably coupled in parallel between the first and second modules;
wherein the one or more drilling chokes are adapted to control a backpressure of drilling mud within the borehole; and is
Wherein the flow meter is adapted to measure a flow rate of the drilling mud received from the wellbore.
2. The MPD manifold of claim 1, wherein the third module further comprises:
a first valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the first module;
a second valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the second module;
a third valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the first module; and
a fourth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the second module.
3. The MPD manifold of claim 2, wherein the third module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks.
4. The MPD manifold of claim 3, wherein said third module is actuatable between:
a first configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve, and fluid is prevented or at least reduced from flowing from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve; and
a second configuration in which fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve is prevented or at least reduced, and fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve is allowed.
5. The MPD manifold of claim 4, wherein in said first configuration, said first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves are actuated such that:
the second, third and fourth valves are open and the first and fifth valves are closed, or
The first, second and fourth valves are open and the third and fifth valves are closed; and is
Wherein, in the second configuration, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves are actuated such that:
the third and fifth valves are open and the first, second and fourth valves are closed, or
The first and fifth valves are open and the second, third and fourth valves are closed.
6. The MPD manifold of claim 3, wherein said first and second flow blocks each define an interior region, and first, second, third, and fourth fluid channels each extending into said interior region;
wherein the first, second, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the respective first, second, and fourth fluid passages of the first flow block; and is
Wherein the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the respective first, second, and third fluid passages of the second flow block.
7. The MPD manifold of claim 6, wherein the third module further comprises one or both of:
a first flow fitting operably coupled to the interior region of the first flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the third fluid passage of the first flow block, the first flow fitting adapted to receive the drilling mud from the wellbore; and
a second flow fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the second flow block and in fluid communication therewith through a fourth fluid passage of the second flow block, the second flow fitting adapted to discharge the drilling mud from the third module.
8. The MPD manifold of claim 1, wherein the first and second flow blocks each define an interior region, and first, second, third, and fourth fluid channels each extending into the interior region; and wherein the MPD manifold has:
a first configuration in which fluid is permitted to flow between the first and second modules through the first and second channels of the first flow block; and
a second configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow between the first and second modules through the first and second channels of the second flow block.
9. The MPD manifold of claim 8, wherein the first and second fluid channels of the first flow block are substantially coaxial and the first and second fluid channels of the second flow block are substantially coaxial such that the second module comprising the flow meter extends in a substantially horizontal direction.
10. The MPD manifold of claim 8, wherein the first and second fluid channels of the first flow block define a substantially vertical axis and the first and second fluid channels of the second flow block define a substantially vertical axis such that the second module comprising the flow meter extends in a substantially vertical direction.
11. The MPD manifold of claim 8, wherein said first and second flow blocks each comprise first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides, said third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides extending between said first and second sides, said first, third, and fourth fluid channels extend through said first, third, and fourth sides, respectively, and said second fluid channel extends through said second side or said fifth side.
12. The MPD manifold of claim 8, wherein the second module further comprises third and fourth flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the third flow block, the second spool valve being operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the third and fourth flow blocks, and the flow meter being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the fourth flow block.
13. A controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising:
a first module comprising one or more drilling chokes;
a second module comprising a flow meter; and
a third module operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second modules, the third module configured to support the second module in either of:
a substantially horizontal direction; or
A substantially vertical direction;
wherein the one or more drilling chokes are adapted to control a backpressure of drilling mud within the borehole; and is
Wherein the flow meter is adapted to measure a flow rate of the drilling mud received from the wellbore.
14. The MPD manifold of claim 13, wherein the first and second modules are mounted together on a skid or trailer such that when so mounted, the first and second modules together are towable between operating sites.
15. The MPD manifold of claim 13, wherein the third module comprises first and second flow blocks operably coupled in parallel between the first and second modules, the first and second flow blocks each defining an interior region and first, second, third, fourth, and fifth fluid channels extending into the interior region.
16. The MPD manifold of claim 15, wherein when the third module supports the second module in a substantially horizontal direction:
the first module is operably coupled to the interior region of the first flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the first fluid passage of the first flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the interior region of the first flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the second fluid passage of the first flow block; and is
The first module is operably coupled to the interior region of the second flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the first fluid passage of the second flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the interior region of the second flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the second fluid passage of the second flow block.
17. The MPD manifold of claim 16, wherein when the third module supports the second module in a substantially vertical orientation:
the first module is operably coupled to the interior region of the first flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the first fluid passage of the first flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the interior region of the first flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the fifth fluid passage of the first flow block; and is
The first module is operably coupled to the interior region of the second flow block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluid passage of the second flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the interior region of the second flow block and in fluid communication therewith via the fifth fluid passage of the second flow block.
18. The MPD manifold of claim 15, wherein the first and second flow blocks each comprise first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, and the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth fluid channels extend through the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sides.
19. The MPD manifold of claim 15, wherein the third module further comprises first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves, the first and second valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the respective first and second modules, the third and fourth valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the respective first and second modules, and the fifth valve being operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks.
20. The MPD manifold of claim 13, wherein the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve being operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block.
21. A controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising:
a first flow block into which the drilling mud is adapted to flow from the wellbore;
a second flow block into which the drilling mud is adapted to flow from the first flow block;
a first valve operably coupled to the first and second flow blocks; and
a choke module comprising a first drilling choke, the choke module actuatable between:
a backpressure control arrangement, wherein:
the first drilling choke in fluid communication with the first fluid block to control a backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore;
the second flow block is in fluid communication with the first flow block through the first drilling choke; and is
The second flow block is not in fluid communication with the first flow block through the first valve;
and
a throttle bypass configuration, wherein:
the first drilling choke is not in fluid communication with the first fluid block;
the second flow block is not in fluid communication with the first flow block through the first drilling choke; and is
The second flow block is in fluid communication with the first flow block through the first valve.
22. The MPD manifold of claim 21, further comprising:
a valve module operably coupled to the throttle module, the valve module including a second valve; and
a flow meter module operably coupled to the valve module, the flow meter module comprising a flow meter;
wherein the valve module is actuatable between:
a flow metering configuration, wherein:
the second flow block is in fluid communication with the first flow block through the flow meter; and is
The second flow block is not in fluid communication with the first flow block through the second valve;
and
a flow meter bypass configuration, wherein:
the second flow block is not in fluid communication with the first flow block through the flow meter; and is
The second flow block is in fluid communication with the first flow block through the second valve.
23. The MPD manifold of claim 22, wherein the throttle module further comprises a second drilling choke; and wherein the second flow block is adapted to be in fluid communication with the first flow block through one or both of the first and second drilling chokes.
24. The MPD manifold of claim 22, wherein the valve module comprises the first flow block or the second flow block.
25. The MPD manifold of claim 22, wherein the throttle module comprises the first flow block and the valve module comprises the second flow block.
26. The MPD manifold of claim 22, wherein the throttle module comprises the second flow block and the valve module comprises the first flow block.
27. The MPD manifold of claim 22, wherein the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter.
28. The MPD manifold of claim 21, wherein the throttling module comprises the first valve.
29. The MPD manifold of claim 21, wherein the throttle module comprises the first stream block or the second stream block.
30. The MPD manifold of claim 21, wherein the throttle module comprises the first valve, the first flow block, and the second flow block.
Technical Field
The present disclosure relates generally to oil and gas exploration and production operations, and more particularly, to a controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold for use during oil and gas drilling operations.
Background
The MPD system may include a drilling choke and a flow meter that are separate and distinct from each other. The drilling choke is in fluid communication with a wellbore traversing a subterranean formation. As a result, the drilling system may be used to control backpressure in the wellbore as part of an adaptive drilling process that allows for better control of the annular pressure distribution throughout the wellbore. During this process, the flow meter measures the flow rate of the drilling mud received from the wellbore. In some cases, the configuration of the drilling choke and/or flow meter may reduce the efficiency of the drilling operation, thereby presenting problems to operators who deal with challenges such as continuous operation, harsh downhole environments, and multiple extended laterals. Further, the configuration of the drilling choke and/or flow meter may adversely affect the transportability and overall footprint of the drilling choke and/or flow meter at the well site. Finally, the separate and distinct nature of the drilling choke and the flow meter can make it difficult to inspect, repair, or repair the drilling choke and/or the flow meter, and/or coordinate the inspection, repair, or replacement of the drilling choke and/or the flow meter. Accordingly, there is a need for a method, apparatus, or system that addresses one or more of the foregoing problems and/or one or more other problems.
Drawings
Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a drilling system including an MPD manifold as well as other components, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the MPD manifold of fig. 1 in a first configuration, the MPD manifold including a throttle module, a flow meter module, and a valve module, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the MPD manifold of fig. 1 in a second configuration, including a throttle module, a flow meter module, and a valve module, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4(a) is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the MPD manifold of any of fig. 1 to 3, where the flow meter module extends in a substantially horizontal direction, the throttle module of the MPD manifold includes a first convection block, and the valve module of the MPD manifold includes a second convection block, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4(b) is a left side elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 4(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4(c) is a rear elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 4(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4(d) is a right side elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 4(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4(e) is a front elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 4(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4(f) is a top plan view of the MPD manifold of fig. 4(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 5(a) is a perspective view of one of the flow blocks from the first pair of fig. 4(a) -4 (f), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 5(b) is a cross-sectional view of the flow block of fig. 5(a) taken along line 5(b) -5(b) of fig. 5(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 6(a) is a perspective view of one of the flow blocks from the second pair of fig. 4(a) -4 (f), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 6(b) is a cross-sectional view of the flow block of fig. 6(a) taken along line 6(b) -6(b) of fig. 6(a) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 7(a) is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the MPD manifold of any of fig. 1 to 3, where the flow meter module extends in a substantially vertical direction, the throttle module of the MPD manifold includes a first convection block, and the valve module of the MPD manifold includes a second convection block, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 7(b) is a left side elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 7(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 7(c) is a right side elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 7(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 7(d) is a top plan view of the MPD manifold of fig. 7(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a wellbore in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of another method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a wellbore in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 10(a) is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the MPD manifold of any of fig. 1 to 3, where the flow meter module extends in a substantially horizontal direction, the throttle module of the MPD manifold including a first convection block, and the valve module of the MPD manifold including a second convection block, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 10(b) is a left side elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 10(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 10(c) is a rear elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 10(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 10(d) is a right side elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 10(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 10(e) is a front elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 10(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 10(f) is a top plan view of the MPD manifold of fig. 10(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 11(a) is a perspective view of one of the flow blocks of the first pair of fig. 10(a) -10 (f), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 11(b) is a cross-sectional view of the flow block of fig. 11(a) taken along line 11(b) -11(b) of fig. 11(a) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 12(a) is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the MPD manifold of any of fig. 1 to 3, where the flow meter module extends in a substantially vertical direction, the throttle module of the MPD manifold includes a first convection block, and the valve module of the MPD manifold includes a second convection block, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 12(b) is a left side elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 12(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 12(c) is a right side elevation view of the MPD manifold of fig. 12(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 12(d) is a top plan view of the MPD manifold of fig. 12(a), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a wellbore in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of another method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a wellbore in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram of a control unit adapted to be coupled to one or more components (or subcomponents) of the drilling system of fig. 1 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a computing device for implementing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a drilling system is generally indicated by
In operation, the
Drilling mud flows into the RCD16 through the wellhead 12 and BOP14 as indicated by
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 2 and with continued reference to fig. 1, the
During operation of the
In some embodiments (one of which will be described in further detail below with reference to fig. 3), the temperature sensor 44 and the
In an embodiment of the
The stop valve 66a is operatively coupled to the
In some embodiments, each
The
In some embodiments, one or more of the drilling chokes 70a and/or 70b are manual chokes, thus drilling personnel are able to manually control the backpressure within the
In some embodiments, flow block 64b is in fluid communication with
In some embodiments, flow block 64b is in fluid communication with
In some embodiments, the flow blocks 64a and 64b are substantially identical to each other, and therefore, in conjunction with fig. 5(a) through (b), only the
In addition, the
In an embodiment of
In some embodiments, the operable coupling of the
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 4(a) -4 (f), with continued reference to fig. 2 and 3, an embodiment of the
The
In some embodiments, the flow blocks 86a and 86b are substantially identical to each other, and therefore, in conjunction with fig. 6(a) through 6(b), only the
In addition, the
In an embodiment of
In an embodiment of the
When the
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 4(a) through (f), the
In those embodiments in which the
In some embodiments, the measurement fitting 108 is operatively coupled to the flow block 64b and is in fluid communication with its interior region via a fluid passage similar to the fluid passage 84a of the
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 7(a) -7 (d), with continued reference to fig. 4(a) -4 (f),
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 3 and with continued reference to fig. 1, the
In some embodiments, to determine the weight of the drilling mud: comparing the temperature of the drilling mud measured by the temperature sensor 44 with the temperature of the drilling mud measured by the
In some embodiments, to determine the amount of gas entrained in the drilling mud: comparing the temperature of the drilling mud measured by temperature sensor 44 with the temperature of the drilling mud measured by
In some embodiments, the temperature and density of the drilling mud measured before the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 70a and/or 70b is compared to the temperature and density of the drilling mud after the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 70a and/or 70 b. Further, in some embodiments, the temperature and pressure of the drilling mud measured before the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 70a and/or 70b is compared to the temperature and pressure of the drilling mud measured after the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 70a and/or 70 b. Further, in some embodiments, the density and pressure of the drilling mud measured before the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 70a and/or 70b is compared to the density and pressure of the drilling mud measured after the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 70a and/or 70 b. Finally, in some embodiments, the temperature, density, and pressure of the drilling mud measured before the drilling mud passes through the
In some embodiments, during operation of the
In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within the
At step 126, drilling mud is received from the
In some embodiments, at step 128, one or more of the drilling chokes 70a and 70b controls the backpressure of the drilling mud within the
In some embodiments, drilling chokes 70a and 70b are bypassed at step 131. In one embodiment of step 131, the drilling chokes 70a and 70b of the
In some embodiments, the
In the embodiment of
In some embodiments, the
The method 124 includes discharging 138 the drilling mud. In an embodiment of
In one embodiment of
In various embodiments, the steps of method 124 may be performed in different orders and/or different combinations of steps. For example, one embodiment of method 124 includes: step 126, wherein drilling mud is received from the wellbore 29 through the flow fitting 104a, the flow fitting 104a operably coupled to the flow block 86a and in fluid communication with the interior region 92 of the flow block 86a through the fluid passage 94c of the flow block 86 a; during and/or after step 126, step 134, wherein drilling mud flows from flow block 86a to flow block 86b through valve 88b, spool valve 100a, flow block 98a, spool valve 100b, flow block 98b, flow meter 96, and valve 88d (valves 88a and 88e are closed); during and/or after step 134, step 128 is where drilling mud flows from flow block 86b to flow block 64b through valve 88c, and from flow block 64b to flow block 64a through one or more of the following combinations of elements: block valve 66b, drilling choke 70a, and block valve 66 a; and block valve 66d, drilling choke 70b, and block valve 66c (block valve 66e closed); and during and/or after step 128, for step 138, wherein the drilling mud is discharged through the flow fitting 104b, the flow fitting 104b is operatively coupled to the flow block 64a and in fluid communication with the interior region 82 of the flow block 64a through the fluid passage 84c of the flow block 64 a.
As another example, an embodiment of the method 124 includes: step 126, wherein drilling mud is received from the
As yet another example, an embodiment of the method 124 includes: step 126, wherein drilling mud is received from the
As yet another example, an embodiment of the method 124 includes: step 126, wherein drilling mud is received from the
As yet another example, an embodiment of the method 124 includes: step 126, wherein drilling mud is received from the wellbore 29 through the flow fitting 106a, the flow fitting 106a being operatively coupled to the flow block 64b in substantially the same manner as the flow fitting 104b is operatively coupled to the flow block 64 a; during and/or after step 126, at step 128, drilling mud flows from flow block 64b to flow block 64a through one or more of the following combinations of elements: block valve 66b, drilling choke 70a, and block valve 66 a; and block valve 66d, drilling choke 70b, and block valve 66c (block valve 66e closed); during and/or after step 128, step 134, wherein drilling mud flows from flow block 64a to flow block 86a through valve 88a, and from flow block 64a to flow block 88d through valve 88b, spool valve 100a, flow block 98a, spool valve 100b, flow block 98b, flow meter 96, and valve 88d (valves 88c and 88e are closed); and during and/or after step 134, step 138, wherein drilling mud is discharged through the flow fitting 106b, the flow fitting 106b is operatively coupled to the flow block 86b in substantially the same manner as the flow fitting 104a is operatively coupled to the flow block 86 a.
As yet another example, an embodiment of the method 124 includes: step 126, wherein drilling mud is received from the
As yet another example, an embodiment of the method 124 includes: step 126, wherein drilling mud is received from the
Finally, as yet another example, an embodiment of the method 124 includes: step 126, wherein drilling mud is received from the
In some embodiments, the configuration of the
In some embodiments, the integrated nature of the
In this regard,
In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within the
In the embodiment of
In some embodiments of the
In some embodiments of the
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 10(a) through 10(f), the
The
The blocking valve 162e is operably coupled to the flow block 160a adjacent the blocking
The blocking valve 162i is operably coupled to the flow block 160a adjacent to the blocking valve 162 e. The bleed valve 163e is operatively coupled to the block valve 162i opposite the flow block 160 a. The blocking valve 162j is operatively coupled to the bleed valve 163e opposite the blocking valve 162 i. The flow block 164c is operatively coupled to the block valve 162j opposite the bleed valve 163e by, for example, a spool valve 168 c. In combination, the bleed valve 163e and the block valves 162i and 162j may provide a type of "double block-bleed" isolation of the flow block 164c from the flow block 160 a. For example, in some embodiments, to provide a type of "double block-bleed" isolation of the flow block 164c from the flow block 160a, the block valves 162i and 162j are closed, and the bleed valve 163e is opened to allow any necessary bleeding or depressurization of the fluid flow path between the block valves 162i and 162j, ensuring that the flow block 164c has been fluidly isolated from the flow block 160 a. In some embodiments, in combination, the bleed valve 163e and the block valves 162i and 162j provide a type of "double block-bleed" isolation of the flow block 164c from the flow block 160a, and thus, in some embodiments, this combination is particularly suitable for offshore applications. The blocking valve 162k is operably coupled to the
In some embodiments, each of the
The
In some embodiments, one or more of the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166c are manual chokes, thus enabling drilling personnel to manually control the backpressure within the
In some embodiments,
In some embodiments,
In some embodiments,
In some embodiments, the flow blocks 160a and 160b are substantially identical to each other, and therefore, in conjunction with fig. 11(a) through 11(b), only the flow block 160a will be described in detail below; however, the following description applies to both
In addition, flow block 160a defines an interior region 178 and
In one embodiment of the
In some embodiments, the operable coupling of the
When the
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 10(a) -10 (f), the
In those embodiments in which the
In some embodiments, the measurement fitting 186 is operably coupled to the
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 12(a) -12 (d), with continued reference to fig. 10(a) -10 (f),
In some embodiments, to determine the weight of the drilling mud: comparing the temperature of the drilling mud measured by the temperature sensor 44 with the temperature of the drilling mud measured by the
In some embodiments, to determine the amount of gas entrained in the drilling mud: comparing the temperature of the drilling mud measured by temperature sensor 44 with the temperature of the drilling mud measured by
In some embodiments, the temperature and density of the drilling mud measured before the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166c is compared to the temperature and density of the drilling mud after the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166 c. Further, in some embodiments, the temperature and pressure of the drilling mud measured before the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166c is compared to the temperature and pressure of the drilling mud measured after the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166 c. Further, in some embodiments, the density and pressure of the drilling mud measured before the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166c is compared to the density and pressure of the drilling mud measured after the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166 c. Finally, in some embodiments, the temperature, density, and pressure of the drilling mud measured before the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166c are compared to the temperature, density, and pressure of the drilling mud measured after the drilling mud passes through the drilling chokes 166a, 166b, and/or 166 c.
In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within the
At
In some embodiments, at
In some embodiments, at
The
In one embodiment of
In various embodiments, the steps of
As another example, an embodiment of the method 188 includes: step 190, wherein drilling mud is received from the wellbore 29 through the flow fitting 182a, the flow fitting 182a operably coupled to the flow block 86a and in fluid communication with the interior region 92 of the flow block 86a through the fluid passage 94c of the flow block 86 a; during and/or after step 190, step 198, where drilling mud flows from flow block 86a to flow block 86b through valve 88e (valves 88a, 88b, and 88d are closed); during and/or after step 198, drilling mud flows from flow block 86b to flow block 160b through valve 88c and from flow block 160b to flow block 160a through one or more of the following combinations of elements, step 192: block valve 162c, bleed valve 163b, block valve 162d, drilling choke 166a, block valve 162b, bleed valve 163a, and block valve 162 a; block valve 162g, bleed valve 163d, block valve 162h, drilling choke 166b, block valve 162f, bleed valve 163c, and block valve 162 e; and block valve 162k, bleed valve 163f, block valve 162l, drilling choke 166c, block valve 162j, bleed valve 163e, and block valve 162i (block valve 162m closed); and during and/or after step 192, for step 200, wherein drilling mud is discharged through the flow fitting 182b, the flow fitting 182b is operably coupled to the flow block 160a and in fluid communication with the interior region 178 of the flow block 160a through the fluid passage 180c of the flow block 160 a.
As yet another example, an embodiment of the
As yet another example, an embodiment of the
As yet another example, an embodiment of the method 188 includes: step 190, wherein drilling mud is received from the wellbore 29 through the flow fitting 184a, the flow fitting 184a being operatively coupled to the flow block 160b in substantially the same manner as the flow fitting 182b is operatively coupled to the flow block 160 a; during and/or after step 190, step 192 is where drilling mud flows from flow block 160b to flow block 160a through one or more of the following combinations of elements: block valve 162c, bleed valve 163b, block valve 162d, drilling choke 166a, block valve 162b, bleed valve 163a, and block valve 162 a; block valve 162g, bleed valve 163d, block valve 162h, drilling choke 166b, block valve 162f, bleed valve 163c, and block valve 162 e; and block valve 162k, bleed valve 163f, block valve 162l, drilling choke 166c, block valve 162j, bleed valve 163e, and block valve 162i (block valve 162m closed); during and/or after step 192, step 196, where drilling mud flows from flow block 160a to flow block 86a through valve 88a and from flow block 86a to flow block 86b through valve 88b, spool valve 100a, flow block 98a, spool valve 100b, flow block 98b, flow meter 96 and valve 88d (valves 88c and 88e are closed); and during and/or after step 196, step 200, wherein drilling mud is discharged through the flow fitting 184b, the flow fitting 184b is operatively coupled to the flow block 86b in substantially the same manner as the flow fitting 182a is operatively coupled to the flow block 86 a.
As yet another example, an embodiment of the method 188 includes: step 190, wherein drilling mud is received from the wellbore 29 through the flow fitting 184a, the flow fitting 184a being operatively coupled to the flow block 160b in substantially the same manner as the flow fitting 182b is operatively coupled to the flow block 160 a; during and/or after step 190, step 192 is where drilling mud flows from flow block 160b to flow block 160a through one or more of the following combinations of elements: block valve 162c, bleed valve 163b, block valve 162d, drilling choke 166a, block valve 162b, bleed valve 163a, and block valve 162 a; block valve 162g, bleed valve 163d, block valve 162h, drilling choke 166b, block valve 162f, bleed valve 163c, and block valve 162 e; and block valve 162k, bleed valve 163f, block valve 162l, drilling choke 166c, block valve 162j, bleed valve 163e, and block valve 162i (block valve 162m closed); during and/or after step 192, step 198, where drilling mud flows from flow block 160a to flow block 86a through valve 88a and from flow block 86a to flow block 86b through valve 88e (valves 88b, 88c, and 88d closed); and during and/or after step 198, step 200, wherein drilling mud is discharged through flow fitting 184b, flow fitting 184b is operatively coupled to flow block 86b in substantially the same manner that flow fitting 182a is operatively coupled to flow block 86 a.
As yet another example, an embodiment of the
Finally, as yet another example, an embodiment of
In some embodiments, the configuration of the
In some embodiments, the integrated nature of the
Further,
In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within the
In the embodiment of
In some embodiments of the
In some embodiments of the
In some embodiments, during operation of the
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 15, the control unit is schematically illustrated and generally referred to by the reference numeral 220-the
In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 2 and 3, the
In some embodiments, a plurality of instructions or computer programs are stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium, which are accessible and executable by one or more processors. In some embodiments, one or more processors execute a plurality of instructions (or computer programs) to operate in whole or in part the above-described embodiments. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are part of
In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 16, a
In some embodiments, one or more components of the above-described embodiments include at
In some embodiments, a computer system typically includes at least hardware capable of executing machine-readable instructions, as well as software (typically machine-readable instructions) for performing actions that produce a desired result. In some embodiments, the computer system may include a mix of hardware and software, as well as computer subsystems.
In some embodiments, the hardware typically includes at least processor-supported platforms, such as clients (also referred to as personal computers or servers) and handheld processing devices (e.g., smart phones, tablets, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), or Personal Computing Devices (PCDs)). In some embodiments, the hardware may include any physical device capable of storing machine-readable instructions, such as a memory or other data storage device. In some embodiments, other forms of hardware include hardware subsystems, including transmission devices, such as, for example, modems, modem cards, ports, and port cards.
In some embodiments, the software includes any machine code stored in any storage medium, such as RAM or ROM, as well as machine code stored on other devices, such as, for example, floppy disks, flash memory, or CD ROMs. In some embodiments, the software may include source code or object code. In some embodiments, software includes any set of instructions capable of being executed on a computing device, such as, for example, on a client or server.
In some embodiments, a combination of software and hardware may also be used to provide enhanced functionality and performance for certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the software functionality may be fabricated directly into a silicon chip. Thus, it should be understood that combinations of hardware and software are also included in the definition of computer system, and thus are contemplated by the present disclosure as possible equivalent structures and equivalent methods.
In some embodiments, the computer-readable medium includes, for example, passive data storage devices such as Random Access Memory (RAM) and semi-permanent data storage devices such as compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM). One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in the RAM of a computer to convert a standard computer into a new specific computer. In some embodiments, the data structure is a defined organization of data that may implement embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the data structure may provide an organization of data or an organization of executable code.
In some embodiments, any network and/or one or more portions thereof may be designed to operate on any particular architecture. In one embodiment, one or more portions of any network may execute on a single computer, local area network, client-server network, wide area network, internet, handheld and other portable and wireless devices and networks.
In some embodiments, the database may be any standard or proprietary database software. In some embodiments, a database may have fields, records, data, and other database elements that may be associated by database-specific software. In some embodiments, the data may be mapped. In some embodiments, mapping is the process of associating one data entry with another data entry. In one embodiment, the data contained in the character file location may be mapped to a field in the second table. In some embodiments, the physical location of the database is not limited, and the database may be distributed. In one embodiment, the database may exist remotely from the server and run on a separate platform. In one embodiment, the database may be accessible via the internet. In some embodiments, more than one database may be implemented.
In some embodiments, a plurality of instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium may be executable by one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to perform or implement, in whole or in part, the above-described operations of each of the above-described embodiments of
In a first aspect, the present disclosure introduces a controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising: a first module comprising one or more drilling chokes; a second module comprising a flow meter; and a third module comprising first and second flow blocks operably coupled in parallel between the first and second modules; wherein the one or more drilling chokes are adapted to control a backpressure of drilling mud within the borehole; and wherein the flow meter is adapted to measure a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises: a first valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the first module; a second valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the second module; a third valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the first module; and a fourth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the second module. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks. In one embodiment, the third module is actuatable between: a first configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve, and fluid is prevented or at least reduced from flowing from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve; and a second configuration in which fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve is prevented or at least reduced, and fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve is allowed. In one embodiment, in the first configuration, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth valves are actuated such that: the second, third and fourth valves are open and the first and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second and fourth valves are open and the third and fifth valves are closed; and wherein, in the second configuration, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth valves are actuated such that: the third and fifth valves are open and the first, second and fourth valves are closed, or the first and fifth valves are open and the second, third and fourth valves are closed. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block are substantially coaxial and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block are substantially coaxial such that the second module comprising the flow meter extends in a substantially horizontal direction. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block define a substantially vertical axis and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block define a substantially vertical axis such that the second module including the flow meter extends in a substantially vertical direction. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each include first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, the first, third, and fourth fluid channels extending through the first, third, and fourth sides, respectively, and the second fluid channel extending through the second or fifth side. In one embodiment, the second module further includes third and fourth flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve being operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the third flow block, the second spool valve being operatively coupled between and in fluid communication with the third and fourth flow blocks, and the flow meter being operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the fourth flow block.
In a second aspect, the present disclosure also introduces a controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising: a first module comprising one or more drilling chokes; a second module comprising a flow meter; and a third module operatively coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second modules, the third module configured to support the second module in either of: a substantially horizontal direction; or a substantially vertical direction; wherein the one or more drilling chokes are adapted to control a backpressure of drilling mud within the borehole; and wherein the flow meter is adapted to measure a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore. In one embodiment, the first and second modules are mounted together on a skid or trailer such that when so mounted, the first and second modules may be towed together between operating sites. In one embodiment, the third module includes first and second flow blocks operatively coupled in parallel between the first and second modules, the first and second flow blocks each defining an interior region and first, second, third, fourth, and fifth fluid passages extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, when the third module supports the second module in a substantially horizontal orientation: a first module operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the first fluid passage of the first flow block, a second module operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the second fluid passage of the first flow block; and the first module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the first fluid passage of the second flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the second fluid passage of the second flow block. In one embodiment, when the third module supports the second module in a substantially vertical orientation: the first module is operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the first fluid passage of the first flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the fifth fluid passage of the first flow block; and the first module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the first fluid passage of the second flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the fifth fluid passage of the second flow block. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each include first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, and the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth fluid passages extend through the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sides. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves, the first and second valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the respective first and second modules, the third and fourth valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the respective first and second modules, the fifth valve being operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block.
In a third aspect, the present disclosure also introduces a controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising: a first flow block into which drilling mud is adapted to flow from the wellbore; a second flow block into which drilling mud is adapted to flow from the first flow block; a first valve operably coupled to the first and second flow blocks; and a choke module comprising a first drilling choke, the choke module actuatable between: a backpressure control arrangement, wherein: a first drilling choke in fluid communication with the first fluid block to control a backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore; the second flow block is in fluid communication with the first flow block through a first drilling choke; and the second flow block is not in fluid communication with the first flow block through the first valve; and a throttle bypass configuration, wherein: the first drilling choke is not in fluid communication with the first fluid block; the second flow block is not in fluid communication with the first flow block through the first drilling choke; and the second flow block is in fluid communication with the first flow block through the first valve. In one embodiment, the MPD manifold further comprises a valve module operably coupled to the throttle module, the valve module comprising a second valve; and a flow meter module operatively coupled to the valve module, the flow meter module including a flow meter; wherein the valve module is actuatable between: a flow metering configuration, wherein: the second flow block is in fluid communication with the first flow block through a flow meter; and the second flow block is not in fluid communication with the first flow block through the second valve; and a flow meter bypass configuration, wherein: the second flow block is not in fluid communication with the first flow block through the flow meter; and the second flow block is in fluid communication with the first flow block through the second valve. In one embodiment, the choke module further comprises a second drilling choke; and wherein the second flow block is adapted to be in fluid communication with the first flow block through one or both of the first drilling choke and the second drilling choke. In one embodiment, the valve module includes a first flow block or a second flow block. In one embodiment, the throttle module includes a first flow block and the valve module includes a second flow block. In one embodiment, the throttle module includes a second flow block and the valve module includes a first flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter. In one embodiment, the throttle module includes a first valve. In one embodiment, the throttle module includes either the first stream block or the second stream block. In one embodiment, the throttle module includes a first valve, a first flow block, and a second flow block.
In a fourth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a choke module adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the choke module comprising first and second fluid slugs; and first and second drilling chokes operably coupled in parallel between the first and second fluid slugs; wherein each of the first and second drilling chokes is adapted to control a back pressure of drilling mud in the wellbore. In one embodiment, the choke module further includes first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first and second valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first fluid slug, the third and fourth valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second fluid slug, the first drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and third valves, and the second drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second and fourth valves. In one embodiment, the throttling module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second fluid slugs. In one embodiment, the throttle module is actuatable between: a first configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first fluidic block to the second fluidic block through one or both of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke and a third valve, and a second valve, a second drilling choke and a fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first fluidic block to the second fluidic block through the fifth valve; and a second configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first fluidic block to the second fluidic block through the fifth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first fluidic block to the second fluidic block by each of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke and a third valve, and a second valve, a second drilling choke and a fourth valve. In one embodiment, when the throttle module is in the first configuration, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves are actuated such that: or the first and third valves are open, the second, fourth and fifth valves are closed, the second and fourth valves are open, the first, third and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second, third and fourth valves are open, the fifth valve is closed; and, when the throttle module is in the second configuration, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves are actuated such that the first, second, third, and fourth valves are closed and the fifth valve is open. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each define an interior region and first, second, third, and fourth fluidic channels extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first fluidic block via respective first, second and third fluid passages of the first fluidic block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second fluid block through their respective first, second, and fourth fluid passages of the second fluid block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each include first and second ends, and first, second, third, and fourth sides extending between the first and second ends, the first and second fluidic channels extending through the first side, respectively, and the third and fourth fluidic channels extending through the second and third sides, respectively.
In a fifth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a well bore, the method comprising receiving drilling mud from the well bore; or: controlling backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore using first and/or second drilling chokes, the first and second drilling chokes being part of a first module, the first module further comprising first and second fluid slugs, the first and second drilling chokes being operably coupled in parallel between the first and second fluid slugs or bypassing the first and second drilling chokes of the first module; and discharging the drilling mud. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first and second valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first fluid slug, the third and fourth valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second fluid slug, the first drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and third valves, and the second drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second and fourth valves. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second fluid blocks. In one embodiment, controlling the backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore using the first and/or second drilling chokes comprises allowing fluid to flow from the first bulk fluid to the second bulk fluid through one or both of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke and a third valve, and a second valve, a second drilling choke and a fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first fluidic block to the second fluidic block through the fifth valve; bypassing the first and second drilling chokes of the first module comprises allowing fluid to flow from the first fluid slug to the second fluid slug through a fifth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first fluidic block to the second fluidic block through each of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke and a third valve, and a second valve, a second drilling choke and a fourth valve. In one embodiment, controlling the backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore using the first and/or second drilling chokes comprises actuating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the first and third valves are open, the second, fourth and fifth valves are closed, the second and fourth valves are open, the first, third and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second, third and fourth valves are open, the fifth valve is closed; bypassing the first and second drilling chokes of the first module includes actuating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that the first, second, third, and fourth valves are closed and the fifth valve is open. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each define an interior region and first, second, third, and fourth fluidic channels extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first fluidic block via respective first, second and third fluid passages of the first fluidic block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second fluid slug through the respective first, second, and fourth fluid passages of the second fluid slug. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each include first and second ends, and first, second, third, and fourth sides extending between the first and second ends, the first and second fluidic channels extending through the first side, respectively, and the third and fourth fluidic channels extending through the second and third sides, respectively.
In a sixth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising a first module comprising one or more drilling chokes; a second module comprising a flow meter; and a third module operatively coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second modules, the third module configured to support the second module in a substantially horizontal direction or a substantially vertical direction; wherein, when the MPD manifold receives drilling mud from the wellbore: the one or more drilling chokes are adapted to control a back pressure of drilling mud in the wellbore, and the flow meter is adapted to measure a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore. In one embodiment, the first and second modules are mounted together on a skid or trailer such that when so mounted, the first and second modules may be towed together between operating sites. In one embodiment, the third module includes first and second flow blocks operatively coupled in parallel between the first and second modules, the first and second flow blocks each defining an interior region and first, second, third, fourth, and fifth fluid passages extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, when the third module supports the second module in a substantially horizontal orientation: a first module operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the first fluid passage of the first flow block, a second module operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the second fluid passage of the first flow block; and the first module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the first fluid passage of the second flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the second fluid passage of the second flow block. In one embodiment, when the third module supports the second module in a substantially vertical orientation: the first module is operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the first fluid passage of the first flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the fifth fluid passage of the first flow block; and the first module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the first fluid passage of the second flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the fifth fluid passage of the second flow block. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each include first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, and the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth fluid passages extend through the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sides. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves, the first and second valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the respective first and second modules, the third and fourth valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the respective first and second modules, the fifth valve being operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks. In one embodiment, the third module is actuatable between: a first configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve, and fluid is prevented or at least reduced from flowing from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve; and a second configuration in which fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve is prevented or at least reduced, and fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve is allowed. In one embodiment, in the first configuration, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth valves are actuated such that: the second, third and fourth valves are open and the first and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second and fourth valves are open and the third and fifth valves are closed; and, in a second configuration, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves are actuated such that: the third and fifth valves are open and the first, second and fourth valves are closed, or the first and fifth valves are open and the second, third and fourth valves are closed. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the fourth flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter.
In a seventh aspect, the present disclosure introduces a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a well bore, the method comprising receiving drilling mud from the well bore; or: controlling backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore using one or more drilling chokes that are part of the first module or that bypass the one or more drilling chokes of the first module; or: measuring a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore using a flow meter, the flow meter being part of the second module or bypassing the flow meter of the second module; transferring drilling mud between the first module and the second module using a third module, the third module configured to support the second module in a substantially horizontal direction or a substantially vertical direction; and discharging the drilling mud. In one embodiment, the first and second modules are mounted together on a skid or trailer such that when so mounted, the first and second modules may be towed together between operating sites. In one embodiment, the third module includes first and second flow blocks operatively coupled in parallel between the first and second modules, the first and second flow blocks each defining an interior region and first, second, third, fourth, and fifth fluid passages extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, when the third module supports the second module in a substantially horizontal orientation: a first module operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the first fluid passage of the first flow block, a second module operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the second fluid passage of the first flow block; and the first module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the first fluid passage of the second flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the second fluid passage of the second flow block. In one embodiment, when the third module supports the second module in a substantially vertical orientation: the first module is operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the first fluid passage of the first flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the first flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the fifth fluid passage of the first flow block; and the first module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the first fluid passage of the second flow block, and the second module is operably coupled to the second flow block and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the fifth fluid passage of the second flow block. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each include first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, and the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth fluid passages extend through the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth sides. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves, the first and second valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the respective first and second modules, the third and fourth valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the respective first and second modules, the fifth valve being operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks. In one embodiment, transferring drilling mud between the first and second modules using the third module comprises: allowing fluid to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter, and the fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve; the flow meter bypassing the second module comprises: preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter, and the fourth valve; and allowing fluid to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve. In one embodiment, transferring drilling mud between the first and second modules using the third module includes actuating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the second, third and fourth valves are open and the first and fifth valves are closed; or the first, second and fourth valves are open and the third and fifth valves are closed; bypassing the flow meter of the second module includes actuating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the third and fifth valves are open and the first, second and fourth valves are closed; or the first and fifth valves are open and the second, third and fourth valves are closed. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the fourth flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter.
In an eighth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a choke module adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the choke module comprising a first fluid slug defining an interior region and first and second fluid passages extending into the interior region, the first fluid slug including first and second ends and first, second, third, and fourth sides extending between the first and second ends, the first and second fluid passages extending through the first side. In one embodiment, the choke module further comprises first and second drilling chokes operatively coupled to the first fluid slug and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first fluid slug through respective first and second fluid passages of the first fluid slug; wherein each of the first and second drilling chokes is adapted to control a back pressure of drilling mud in the wellbore. In one embodiment, the choke module further comprises a first valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first fluid slug and the first drilling choke; and a second valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first fluid slug and the second drilling choke. In one embodiment, the throttling module further comprises a second fluid block defining an interior region and first and second fluid passages extending into the interior region, the second fluid block including first and second ends and first, second, third, and fourth sides extending between the first and second ends, the first and second fluid passages extending through the first side; wherein the first and second drilling chokes are operably coupled to the second fluid slug and are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second fluid slug through respective first and second fluid passages of the second fluid slug. In one embodiment, the throttling module further comprises a valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the respective interior regions of the first and second fluid slugs. In one embodiment, the choke module further comprises a first valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second fluid block and the first drilling choke; and a second valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second fluid slug and the second drilling choke. In one embodiment, the first fluid block further defines a third fluid passage extending through the second side thereof and adapted to receive drilling mud from the wellbore. In one embodiment, the first fluid bank further defines a fourth fluid passage extending through the first end thereof and adapted to convey drilling mud through a measurement fitting coupled to the first end.
In a ninth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a well, the method comprising receiving drilling mud from the well; measuring a first physical property of the drilling mud using a first sensor before the drilling mud flows through the one or more drilling chokes; flowing drilling mud through one or more drilling chokes; measuring a first physical property of the drilling mud using a second sensor after the drilling mud has flowed through the one or more drilling chokes; comparing respective measurements of the first physical property obtained by the first and second sensors; determining an amount of gas entrained in the drilling mud based at least on a comparison of the respective measurements of the first physical property by the first and second sensors; and adjusting one or more drilling chokes to control drilling mud backpressure within the wellbore based at least on the determination of the amount of gas entrained in the drilling mud; wherein the one or more drilling chokes are adjusted to increase drilling mud backpressure within the wellbore when the amount of gas entrained in the drilling mud is above a critical threshold. In one embodiment, the first physical characteristic is density and the first and second sensors are densitometers. In one embodiment, the first physical characteristic is temperature and the first and second sensors are temperature sensors. In one embodiment, the first physical characteristic is pressure and the first and second sensors are pressure sensors. In one embodiment, the method further comprises measuring a second physical property of the drilling mud using a third sensor before the drilling mud flows through the one or more drilling chokes; measuring a second physical property of the drilling mud using a fourth sensor after the drilling mud has flowed through the one or more drilling chokes; and comparing respective measurements of the second physical characteristic obtained by the third and fourth sensors; wherein determining the amount of gas entrained in the drilling mud is further based on a comparison of the respective measurements of the second physical characteristic by the third and fourth sensors. In one embodiment, the first physical characteristic is density, and the first and second sensors are densitometers; the second physical characteristic is temperature and the third and fourth sensors are temperature sensors. In one embodiment, the first physical characteristic is density, and the first and second sensors are densitometers; the second physical characteristic is pressure and the third and fourth sensors are pressure sensors. In one embodiment, the first physical characteristic is temperature, and the first and second sensors are temperature sensors; the second physical characteristic is pressure and the third and fourth sensors are pressure sensors. In one embodiment, the method further comprises: measuring a third physical property of the drilling mud using a fifth sensor before the drilling mud flows through the one or more drilling chokes; measuring a third physical property of the drilling mud using a sixth sensor after the drilling mud has flowed through the one or more drilling chokes; and comparing respective measurements of the third physical characteristic obtained by the fifth and sixth sensors; wherein determining the amount of gas entrained in the drilling mud is further based on a comparison of the respective measurements of the third physical characteristic by the fifth and sixth sensors. In one embodiment, the first physical characteristic is density, and the first and second sensors are densitometers; the second physical characteristic is temperature, and the third and fourth sensors are temperature sensors; the third physical characteristic is pressure and the fifth and sixth sensors are pressure sensors.
In a tenth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising: a first module comprising one or more drilling chokes; and a second module comprising a flow meter, the second module being operatively coupled to the first module, either in a horizontal orientation or in a vertical orientation; wherein the first and second modules are mounted together on a skid or trailer such that when so mounted, the first and second modules can be towed together between operating sites; and wherein, when the MPD manifold receives drilling mud from the wellbore: one or more drilling chokes adapted to control backpressure of drilling mud in the wellbore; and the flow meter is adapted to measure a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises first and second fluid slugs, and the one or more drilling chokes of the first module comprise first and second drilling chokes operably coupled in parallel between the first and second fluid slugs. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first and second valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first fluid slug, the third and fourth valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second fluid slug, the first drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and third valves, and the second drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second and fourth valves. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second fluid blocks. In one embodiment, the first module is actuatable between: a first configuration in which: allowing fluid to flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block by one or both of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke, and a third valve; and a second valve, a second drilling choke, and a fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block through the fifth valve; and a second configuration, wherein: allowing fluid to flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block through a fifth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the second bulk fluid to the first bulk fluid by each of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke, and a third valve; and a second valve, a second drilling choke, and a fourth valve. In one embodiment, in the first configuration, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth valves are actuated such that: the first and third valves are open, the second, fourth and fifth valves are closed, the second and fourth valves are open, the first, third and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second, third and fourth valves are open, the fifth valve is closed; and, in the second configuration, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves are actuated such that the first, second, third, and fourth valves are closed and the fifth valve is open. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each define an interior region and first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth fluidic channels extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first fluidic block via respective fifth, sixth and fourth fluid passages of the first fluidic block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second fluid block through respective fifth, sixth, and third fluid passages of the second fluid block. In one embodiment, the MPD manifold further comprises a third module operably coupled to and in fluid communication with: an interior region of the first fluidic block through which the second fluid passageway passes; an interior region of the second fluid slug through the second fluid passageway thereof; and a flow meter of the second module. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises one or both of: a first flow fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the second fluid slug and in fluid communication therewith through the fourth fluid passage of the second fluid slug, the first flow fitting adapted to receive drilling mud from the wellbore; and a second flow fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the first fluid bank and in fluid communication therewith through the third fluid passage of the first fluid bank, the second flow fitting adapted to discharge drilling mud from the first module. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to the interior region of the first fluidic block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluidic channel of the first fluidic block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the second fluidic block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluidic channel of the second fluidic block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each include first and second ends, and first, second, third, and fourth sides extending between the first and second ends, the first and second fluidic channels extending through the first and second ends, respectively, the third and fourth fluidic channels extending through the first and second sides, respectively, and the fifth and sixth fluidic channels extending through the third side, respectively. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter. In one embodiment, the MPD manifold further comprises a third module comprising the first and second flow blocks and first, second, third and fourth valves, the first valve being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the first module, the second valve being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the second module, the third valve being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the second module, the second flow block and the first module, and the fourth valve being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the second module. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks; and wherein the third module is actuatable between: a first configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve, and fluid is prevented or at least reduced from flowing from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve; and a second configuration in which fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve is prevented or at least reduced, and fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve is allowed. In one embodiment, in the first configuration, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth valves are actuated such that: the second, third and fourth valves are open and the first and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second and fourth valves are open and the third and fifth valves are closed; and, in a second configuration, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves are actuated such that: the third and fifth valves are open and the first, second and fourth valves are closed, or the first and fifth valves are open and the second, third and fourth valves are closed. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each define an interior region and first, second, third, and fourth fluid passageways each extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through respective first, second and fourth fluid passages of the first flow block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the respective first, second, and third fluid passages of the second flow block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block are substantially coaxial and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block are substantially coaxial such that the second module comprising the flow meter extends in a substantially horizontal direction. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block define a substantially vertical axis and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block define a substantially vertical axis such that the second module including the flow meter extends in a substantially vertical direction. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each comprise first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, the first, third and fourth fluid channels extending through the respective first, third and fourth sides, the second fluid channel extending through the second or fifth side. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises one or both of: a first flow fitting operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through the third fluid passage of the first flow block, the first flow fitting adapted to receive drilling mud from the wellbore; or a second flow fitting operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the fourth fluid passage of the second flow block, the second flow fitting adapted to discharge drilling mud from the third module.
In an eleventh aspect, the present disclosure introduces a controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising a first module comprising: first and second fluid slugs, and first and second drilling chokes operably coupled in parallel between the first and second fluid slugs; and a second module comprising a flow meter; wherein, when the MPD manifold receives drilling mud from the wellbore: one or more drilling chokes adapted to control backpressure of drilling mud in the wellbore; and the flow meter is adapted to measure a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first and second valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first fluid slug, the third and fourth valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second fluid slug, the first drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and third valves, and the second drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second and fourth valves. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second fluid blocks. In one embodiment, the first module is actuatable between: a first configuration in which: allowing fluid to flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block by one or both of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke, and a third valve; and a second valve, a second drilling choke, and a fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block through the fifth valve; and a second configuration, wherein: allowing fluid to flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block through a fifth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the second bulk fluid to the first bulk fluid by each of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke, and a third valve; and a second valve, a second drilling choke, and a fourth valve. In one embodiment, in the first configuration, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth valves are actuated such that: the first and third valves are open, the second, fourth and fifth valves are closed, the second and fourth valves are open, the first, third and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second, third and fourth valves are open, the fifth valve is closed; and, in a second configuration, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves are actuated such that: the first, second, third and fourth valves are closed and the fifth valve is open. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each define an interior region and first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth fluidic channels extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first fluidic block via respective fifth, sixth and fourth fluid passages of the first fluidic block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second fluid block through respective fifth, sixth, and third fluid passages of the second fluid block. In one embodiment, the MPD manifold further includes a third module operably coupled to and in fluid communication with: an interior region of the first fluidic block passing through the second fluidic passage of the first fluidic block; an interior region of the second fluidic block through the second fluidic passage of the second fluidic block; and a flow meter of the second module. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises one or both of: a first flow fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the second fluid slug and in fluid communication therewith through the fourth fluid passage of the second fluid slug, the first flow fitting adapted to receive drilling mud from the wellbore; and a second flow fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the first fluid bank and in fluid communication therewith through the third fluid passage of the first fluid bank, the second flow fitting adapted to discharge drilling mud from the first module. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to the interior region of the first fluidic block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluidic channel of the first fluidic block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the second fluidic block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluidic channel of the second fluidic block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each include first and second ends, and first, second, third, and fourth sides extending between the first and second ends, the first and second fluidic channels extending through the first and second ends, respectively, the third and fourth fluidic channels extending through the first and second sides, respectively, and the fifth and sixth fluidic channels extending through the third side, respectively. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter.
In a twelfth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a controlled pressure drilling ("MPD") manifold adapted to receive drilling mud from a wellbore, the MPD manifold comprising a first module comprising one or more drilling chokes; a second module comprising a flow meter; and a third module comprising first and second flow blocks operably coupled in parallel between the first and second modules; wherein, when the MPD manifold receives drilling mud from the wellbore: one or more drilling chokes adapted to control backpressure of drilling mud in the wellbore; and the flow meter is adapted to measure a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first and second valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the respective first and second modules, the third and fourth valves being operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the respective first and second modules. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks; and wherein the third module is actuatable between: a first configuration in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve, and fluid is prevented or at least reduced from flowing from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve; and a second configuration in which fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter and the fourth valve is prevented or at least reduced, and fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve is allowed. In one embodiment, in the first configuration, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth valves are actuated such that: the second, third and fourth valves are open and the first and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second and fourth valves are open and the third and fifth valves are closed; and wherein, in the second configuration, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth valves are actuated such that: the third and fifth valves are open and the first, second and fourth valves are closed, or the first and fifth valves are open and the second, third and fourth valves are closed. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each define an interior region, and first, second, third, and fourth fluid channels each extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through respective first, second and fourth fluid passages of the first flow block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the respective first, second, and third fluid passages of the second flow block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block are substantially coaxial and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block are substantially coaxial such that the second module comprising the flow meter extends in a substantially horizontal direction. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block define a substantially vertical axis and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block define a substantially vertical axis such that the second module including the flow meter extends in a substantially vertical direction. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each include first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, the first, third, and fourth fluid channels extending through the first, third, and fourth sides, respectively, and the second fluid channel extending through the second or fifth side. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises one or both of: a first flow fitting operably coupled to the interior region of the first flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the third fluid passage of the first flow block, the first flow fitting adapted to receive drilling mud from the wellbore; and a second flow fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the second flow block and in fluid communication therewith through the fourth fluid passage of the second flow block, the second flow fitting adapted to discharge drilling mud from the third module. In one embodiment, the second module further includes third and fourth flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve being operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the third flow block, the second spool valve being operatively coupled between and in fluid communication with the third and fourth flow blocks, and the flow meter being operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the fourth flow block. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the third flow block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the fourth flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter.
In a thirteenth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a well bore, the method comprising receiving drilling mud from the well bore; or: controlling backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore using one or more drilling chokes that are part of the first module or that bypass the one or more drilling chokes of the first module; or: measuring a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore using a flow meter, the flow meter being part of the second module or bypassing the flow meter of the second module; discharging the drilling mud; wherein the second module is operably coupled to the first module in a substantially horizontal direction or a substantially vertical direction; and wherein the first and second modules are mounted together on a skid or trailer such that when so mounted, the first and second modules can be towed together between operating sites. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises first and second fluid slugs, and the one or more drilling chokes of the first module comprise first and second drilling chokes operably coupled in parallel between the first and second fluid slugs. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first and second valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first fluid slug, the third and fourth valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second fluid slug, the first drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and third valves, and the second drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second and fourth valves. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second fluid blocks. In one embodiment, controlling backpressure of drilling mud within a wellbore using one or more drilling chokes comprises: allowing fluid to flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block by one or both of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke, and a third valve; and a second valve, a second drilling choke, and a fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block through the fifth valve; the one or more drilling chokes bypassing the first module comprise: allowing fluid to flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block through a fifth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the second bulk fluid to the first bulk fluid by each of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke, and a third valve; and a second valve, a second drilling choke, and a fourth valve. In one embodiment, controlling the backpressure of drilling mud within the borehole using the one or more drilling chokes comprises actuating first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the first and third valves are open, the second, fourth and fifth valves are closed, the second and fourth valves are open, the first, third and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second, third and fourth valves are open, the fifth valve is closed; bypassing one or more drilling chokes of the first module includes actuating first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the first, second, third and fourth valves are closed and the fifth valve is open. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each define an interior region and first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth fluidic channels extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first fluidic block via respective fifth, sixth and fourth fluid passages of the first fluidic block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second fluid block through respective fifth, sixth, and third fluid passages of the second fluid block. In one embodiment, the method further comprises delivering drilling mud to the second module using a third module, the third module operably coupled to and in fluid communication with: an interior region of the first fluidic block passing through the second fluidic passage of the first fluidic block; an interior region of the second fluidic block passing through the second fluidic passage of the second fluidic block; and a flow meter of the second module. In one embodiment, receiving drilling mud from the wellbore includes receiving drilling mud from the wellbore through a first flow fitting, the first flow fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with either: an interior region of the second fluidic block passing through the fourth fluidic channel of the second fluidic block; or a third module; and discharging the drilling mud comprises discharging the drilling mud through a second flow fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with either: a third module; or the interior region of the first fluidic block, through the third fluidic passage of the first fluidic block. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to the interior region of the first fluidic block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluidic channel of the first fluidic block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the second fluidic block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluidic channel of the second fluidic block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each include first and second ends, and first, second, third, and fourth sides extending between the first and second ends, the first and second fluidic channels extending through the first and second ends, respectively, the third and fourth fluidic channels extending through the first and second sides, respectively, and the fifth and sixth fluidic channels extending through the third side, respectively. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter. In one embodiment, the method further includes delivering drilling fluid to the second module using a third module, the third module including first and second flow blocks and first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the first module, the second valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the second module, the third valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the first module, and the fourth valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the second module. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks. In one embodiment, transferring drilling fluid to the second module using the third module comprises: allowing fluid to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter, and the fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve; and wherein the flow meter bypassing the second module comprises: preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter, and the fourth valve; and allowing fluid to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve. In one embodiment, transferring drilling fluid to the second module using the third module includes actuating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the second, third and fourth valves are open and the first and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second and fourth valves are open and the third and fifth valves are closed; bypassing the flow meter of the second module includes actuating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the third and fifth valves are open and the first, second and fourth valves are closed, or the first and fifth valves are open and the second, third and fourth valves are closed. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each define an interior region, and first, second, third, and fourth fluid channels each extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through respective first, second and fourth fluid passages of the first flow block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the respective first, second, and third fluid passages of the second flow block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block are substantially coaxial and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block are substantially coaxial such that the second module comprising the flow meter extends in a substantially horizontal direction. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block define a substantially vertical axis and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block define a substantially vertical axis such that the second module including the flow meter extends in a substantially vertical direction. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each comprise first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, the first, third and fourth fluid channels extending through the respective first, third and fourth sides, the second fluid channel extending through the second or fifth side. In one embodiment, receiving drilling mud from the wellbore includes receiving drilling mud from the wellbore through a first flow fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with: a first module; or an interior region of the first flow block, through the third fluid passageway of the first flow block; and discharging the drilling mud comprises discharging the drilling mud through a second flow fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with: an interior region of the second flow block, a fourth fluid passage through the second flow block, or the first module.
In a fourteenth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure in a well bore, the method comprising receiving drilling mud from the well bore; or: controlling backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore using one or more drilling chokes that are part of the first module or that bypass the one or more drilling chokes of the first module; or: measuring a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore using a flow meter, the flow meter being part of the second module or bypassing the flow meter of the second module; discharging the drilling mud; wherein the first module further comprises first and second fluid slugs, the one or more drilling chokes of the first module comprising first and second drilling chokes operably coupled in parallel between the first and second fluid slugs. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first and second valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first fluid slug, the third and fourth valves operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second fluid slug, the first drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and third valves, and the second drilling choke operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the second and fourth valves. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second fluid blocks. In one embodiment, controlling the backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore using one or more drilling chokes comprises allowing fluid to flow from the second bulk fluid to the first bulk fluid through one or both of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke, and a third valve; and a second valve, a second drilling choke, and a fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the second fluidic block to the first fluidic block through the fifth valve; bypassing the one or more drilling chokes of the first module comprises allowing fluid to flow from the second bulk fluid to the first bulk fluid through a fifth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the second bulk fluid to the first bulk fluid by each of the following combinations of elements: a first valve, a first drilling choke, and a third valve; and a second valve, a second drilling choke, and a fourth valve. In one embodiment, controlling the backpressure of drilling mud within the borehole using the one or more drilling chokes comprises actuating first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the first and third valves are open, the second, fourth and fifth valves are closed, the second and fourth valves are open, the first, third and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second, third and fourth valves are open, the fifth valve is closed; and bypassing one or more drilling chokes of the first module comprises actuating first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the first, second, third and fourth valves are closed and the fifth valve is open. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each define an interior region and first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth fluidic channels extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first fluidic block via respective fifth, sixth and fourth fluid passages of the first fluidic block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second fluid block through respective fifth, sixth, and third fluid passages of the second fluid block. In one embodiment, the method further comprises delivering drilling mud to the second module using a third module, the third module operably coupled to and in fluid communication with: an interior region of the first fluidic block passing through the second fluidic passage of the first fluidic block; an interior region of the second fluidic block passing through the second fluidic passage of the second fluidic block; and a flow meter of the second module. In one embodiment, receiving drilling mud from the wellbore includes receiving drilling mud from the wellbore through a first flow fitting, the first flow fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with either: an interior region of the second fluidic block, a fourth fluidic channel through the second fluidic block, or a third module; and discharging the drilling mud comprises discharging the drilling mud through a second flow fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with either: a third module, or interior region of the first fluidic block, passes through the third fluidic passage of the first fluidic block. In one embodiment, the first module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to the interior region of the first fluidic block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluidic channel of the first fluidic block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to the interior region of the second fluidic block and in fluid communication therewith via the first fluidic channel of the second fluidic block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluidic blocks each include first and second ends, and first, second, third, and fourth sides extending between the first and second ends, the first and second fluidic channels extending through the first and second ends, respectively, the third and fourth fluidic channels extending through the first and second sides, respectively, and the fifth and sixth fluidic channels extending through the third side, respectively. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter.
In a fifteenth aspect, the present disclosure introduces a method of controlling drilling mud backpressure within a well bore, the method comprising receiving drilling mud from the well bore; or: controlling backpressure of drilling mud within the wellbore using one or more drilling chokes that are part of the first module or that bypass the one or more drilling chokes of the first module; or: measuring a flow rate of drilling mud received from the wellbore using a flow meter, the flow meter being part of the second module or bypassing the flow meter of the second module; transferring drilling fluid to the second module using a third module, the third module comprising first and second flow blocks operably coupled in parallel between the first and second modules; and discharging the drilling mud. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises first, second, third, and fourth valves, the first valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the first module, the second valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block and the second module, the third valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the first module, and the fourth valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block and the second module. In one embodiment, the third module further comprises a fifth valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks. In one embodiment, transferring drilling fluid to the second module using the third module comprises: allowing fluid to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter, and the fourth valve; and preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve; the flow meter bypassing the second module comprises: preventing or at least reducing fluid flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the second valve, the flow meter, and the fourth valve; and allowing fluid to flow from the first flow block to the second flow block through the fifth valve. In one embodiment, transferring drilling fluid to the second module using the third module includes actuating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the second, third and fourth valves are open and the first and fifth valves are closed, or the first, second and fourth valves are open and the third and fifth valves are closed; bypassing the flow meter of the second module includes actuating the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valves such that: the third and fifth valves are open and the first, second and fourth valves are closed, or the first and fifth valves are open and the second, third and fourth valves are closed. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each define an interior region, and first, second, third, and fourth fluid channels each extending into the interior region. In one embodiment, the first, second and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the first flow block through respective first, second and fourth fluid passages of the first flow block; and the third, fourth, and fifth valves are in fluid communication with the interior region of the second flow block through the respective first, second, and third fluid passages of the second flow block. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block are substantially coaxial and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block are substantially coaxial such that the second module comprising the flow meter extends in a substantially horizontal direction. In one embodiment, the first and second fluid passages of the first flow block define a substantially vertical axis and the first and second fluid passages of the second flow block define a substantially vertical axis such that the second module including the flow meter extends in a substantially vertical direction. In one embodiment, the first and second flow blocks each comprise first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth sides, the third, fourth, fifth and sixth sides extending between the first and second sides, the first, third and fourth fluid channels extending through the respective first, third and fourth sides, the second fluid channel extending through the second or fifth side. In one embodiment, receiving drilling mud from the wellbore comprises receiving drilling mud from the wellbore through a first fluid fitting, the first fluid fitting being operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with any one of: a first block, or an interior region of the first flow block, passing through the third fluid passageway of the first flow block; and discharging the drilling mud comprises discharging the drilling mud through a second flow fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with any one of: an interior region of the second flow block, a fourth fluid passage through the second flow block, or the first module. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises first and second flow blocks and first and second spool valves, the first spool valve operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block, the second spool valve operably coupled between and in fluid communication with the first and second flow blocks, and the flow meter operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the second module further comprises one or both of: a first measurement fitting operably coupled to and in fluid communication with the first flow block; and a second measurement fitting operatively coupled to and in fluid communication with the second flow block. In one embodiment, the flow meter is a coriolis flow meter.
It will be appreciated that variations may be made in the foregoing without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments, the elements and teachings of the various embodiments may be combined in whole or in part in some or all embodiments. In addition, one or more elements and teachings of various embodiments may be at least partially omitted and/or at least partially combined with one or more other elements and teachings of various embodiments.
In some embodiments, while various steps, processes, and procedures are described as exhibiting different actions, one or more steps, one or more procedures, and/or one or more procedures may be performed concurrently and/or sequentially in a different order. In some embodiments, steps, processes, and/or procedures may be combined into one or more steps, processes, and/or procedures.
In some embodiments, one or more of the operational steps in each embodiment may be omitted. Further, in some instances, some features of the present disclosure can be employed without a corresponding use of the other features. Furthermore, one or more of the above-described embodiments and/or variations may be combined, in whole or in part, with any one or more of the other above-described embodiments and/or variations.
In the foregoing description of certain embodiments, specific terminology is used for the sake of clarity. However, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes other technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "left" and "right," "front" and "back," "up" and "down," and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and should not be construed as limiting terms.
In this specification, the word "comprising" is to be understood in its "open" sense, i.e. in its "inclusive" sense, and is therefore not limited to its "closed" sense, i.e. in its "consisting of … … only" sense. The corresponding meaning is due to the corresponding word "comprising" in which they appear.
Although some embodiments have been described in detail above, the described embodiments are merely illustrative and not restrictive, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many other modifications, changes, and/or substitutions are possible in the embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this disclosure. Accordingly, all such modifications, changes, and/or substitutions are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims. In the claims, any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Further, applicants' explicit intent is not to invoke any limitations on any claims herein in 35u.s.c. § 112, paragraph 6, unless the claims explicitly use the word "means" and related functionality.
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