PowerBall
Description
PowerBall is an intelligent, one-shot reservoir isolation barrier designed to be run open, then subsequently closed during lower completion deployment and finally to be permanently reopened by remote command for production or injection to commence. It can be used as an effective fluid loss barrier or deep-set barrier in either cased or open-hole wells.
As a consequence of where they are deployed, reservoir isolation systems are exposed to large amounts of debris, often leading to operational failure. As this is the ""normal operating environment,"" the need for these devices to be able to tolerate debris is vital for them to function successfully. PowerBall is designed specifically to cope with well debris above the closed ball. Independent primary and secondary opening mechanisms, inverted design layout and a mill-friendly ball are all major design features that allow PowerBall to remain operational and operate when required.
Design Layout
PowerBall consists of three main assemblies: the Valve Assembly which contains the metal-to-metal ball mechanism, the Control Module which houses the sensors and electronics, and the Secondary Override Module. The units communicate with each other via external lines.
The opening mechanism of the valve assembly has been repositioned below the sealing ball, effectively moving it from an area where debris is known to settle to the cleaner "dead" area below. A conventional sleeve-type mechanism above the ball is used to close it as the washpipe is retrieved for the final time.
The control module is positioned some distance further up the well so any debris collecting on the closed ball cannot interfere with it. The distance between the units is determined simply by the length of tubing placed between them and should allow for the amount of debris that is anticipated to collect on the closed ball
PowerBall is now in the definitive stages of a stringent three-tiered testing procedure. The project has been sponsored and mentored by the ITF to ensure customer expectations and industry standards and requirements are met.
