US 8,261,839 B2 · Variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well

Abstract

A variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows in a well, the chamber having an inlet and an outlet. The fluid composition enters via the inlet in a direction which changes based on a ratio of desired to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. A well system can include a variable flow resistance system through which a fluid composition flows between a tubular string and a formation, the flow resistance system including a flow chamber through which the fluid composition flows, with only one chamber inlet. The fluid composition flows more directly from the inlet to an outlet as a ratio of desired to undesired fluid in the fluid composition increases. Another flow resistance system can include at least one structure which influences portions of the fluid composition which flow circuitously between the inlet and the outlet to maintain such circuitous flow.

Claims50

Dependent claims

A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well, the system comprising:

a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having an inlet and an outlet, and wherein the fluid composition enters the chamber via the inlet in a direction which changes based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition;
and
at least one structure which influences a portion of the fluid composition which flows circuitously between the inlet and the outlet to maintain such circuitous flow, wherein the structure has at least one opening which permits the fluid composition to flow directly from the inlet to the outlet.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well

Life of this patent

Variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims50