US 8,967,267 B2 · Fluid discrimination for use with a subterranean well

Abstract

A fluid discrimination system can include a fluid discriminator which selects through which of multiple outlet flow paths a fluid composition flows, the selection being based on a direction of flow of the fluid composition through the discriminator, and the direction being dependent on a fluid type in the fluid composition. Another fluid discriminator can include a structure which displaces in response to a fluid composition flow, whereby an outlet flow path of the fluid composition changes in response to a change in a ratio of fluids in the fluid composition. A method of discriminating between fluids can include providing a fluid discriminator which selects through which of multiple outlet flow paths a fluid composition flows in the well, the selection being based on a direction of flow of the fluid composition through the discriminator, and the direction being dependent on a ratio of the fluids in the fluid composition.

Claims6

Dependent claims

A fluid discrimination system for use with a subterranean well, the system comprising:

a fluid discriminator through which a fluid composition flows in the subterranean well, the fluid discriminator including first and second chambers;
and
the fluid discriminator selects through which of multiple outlet flow paths the fluid composition flows,
wherein the fluid discriminator selects a first outlet flow passage of the second chamber in response to a direction of flow being more radial through the first chamber, and
wherein the fluid discriminator selects a second outlet flow passage of the second chamber in response to the direction of flow being more rotational at an inlet of the second chamber due to rotational flow at the outlet of the first chamber.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Fluid discrimination for use with a subterranean well

Life of this patent

Fluid discrimination for use with a subterranean well

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims6