Desiccating module to reduce moisture in downhole tools

A desiccating module configured to be installed in a downhole tool is provided. The desiccating module includes a housing having a containment portion, and desiccant located in the containment portion of the housing capable of retaining moisture therein. The housing is configured to be retained in a downhole tool containing moisture sensitive electronics. The housing is configured to permit passage of moisture from outside the housing to the containment portion and to retain the desiccant within the containment portion. The desiccant have a retention capacity sufficient to hold a predetermined threshold amount of moisture.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to downhole tools with electronic components. In at least one example, the present disclosure relates to reducing moisture in downhole tools with electronic components to improve reliability of the electronic components.

BACKGROUND

Wellbores are drilled into the earth for a variety of purposes including accessing hydrocarbon bearing formations. A variety of downhole tools may be used within a wellbore in connection with accessing and extracting such hydrocarbons. The downhole tools may include electronic components which are sensitive to moisture. Moisture in the downhole tools may decrease reliability of the electronic components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein is a desiccating module to be disposed in a downhole tool to reduce moisture in the downhole tool. The combination of high temperature and high humidity has negative effects on the reliability of electronic components. Conventionally, bake out is used to control the moisture, where the electronic component is subject to high temperatures to evaporate the moisture. Bake out refers to the process of using high heat to remove moisture, for example evaporation, from the components within the downhole tool prior to closing and sealing the downhole tool. Accordingly, the moisture within the downhole tool is minimized. Bake out can be utilized in conjunction with, or separately, from creating a vacuum and/or filling the downhole tool with an inert gas to remove any moisture in the downhole tool. However, bake out of electronic components can take several hours and requires an oven capable of heating up the entire electronics assembly. Accordingly, bake out can be timely and requires expensive and bulky equipment.

A desiccating module can be inexpensive and easy to replace in the downhole tools without using special tools or equipment. A desiccating module includes a housing operable to contain molecular sieve desiccants. In at least one example, the desiccants can be molecular sieve desiccants. Molecular sieve desiccants provide advantageous benefits based on technical performance characteristics and ability to adsorb moisture, for example water vapor, and contain it at temperatures, for example as high as 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Molecular sieve desiccants can include synthetic porous crystalline aluminosilicates (artificial clays) which have been engineered to have a very strong affinity for specifically sized molecules. The definitive feature of the molecular sieve structure, as compared to other desiccant media, is the uniformity of the pore size openings. The pore size can be, for example, between about 3 angstroms and about 10 angstroms. For example, desiccants can have a pore size of about 4 angstroms (4 A), while 3 angstroms (3 A), 5 angstroms (5 A) and 10 angstroms (13 X) are also available. This distinctive feature allows for the selection of a molecular sieve product which can adsorb water vapor yet exclude most other molecules such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which may or may not be present in the package. Additionally, the composition of molecular sieve desiccants allows for the desiccant to be reused and withstand the environment in a wellbore.

The desiccating module can be installed in downhole tools before sealing the downhole tool and replaced each time the downhole tool is opened for service. The desiccants and/or the housing may vary in shape, size, and composition in order to capture different chemicals/fluids and/or fit in receiving portions in downhole tools that have differing sizes and shapes. For example, the housing can be created by sintering and/or three-dimensional printing to customize the size, shape, and moisture passage patterns needed to fit in the receiving portion of the downhole tool.

The desiccating module can be employed in an exemplary wellbore system10shown, for example, inFIG. 1A. A system10for anchoring a downhole tool100in a wellbore14includes a drilling rig12extending over and around the wellbore14. The wellbore14is within an earth formation22and has a casing20lining the wellbore14, the casing20is held into place by cement16. A downhole tool100can be disposed within the wellbore14and moved up and/or down the wellbore14via a conduit18to a desired location. The downhole tool100can include, for example, downhole sensors, chokes, and/or valves. In some examples, the downhole tool100can include a drillbit to drill and/or mill the wellbore14in the formation22. In at least one example, the downhole tool100can carry out logging and/or other operations.

The conduit18can be, for example, tubing-conveyed, wireline, slickline, work string, joint tubing, jointed pipe, pipeline, coiled tubing, and/or any other suitable means for conveying downhole tools100into a wellbore14. In some examples, the conduit18can include electrical and/or fiber optic cabling for carrying out communications. The conduit18can be sufficiently strong and flexible to tether the downhole tool100through the wellbore14, while also permitting communication through the conduit18to one or more of the processors, which can include local and/or remote processors. Moreover, power can be supplied via the conduit18to meet power requirements of the downhole tool100. For slickline or coiled tubing configurations, power can be supplied downhole with a battery or via a downhole generator.

FIG. 1Billustrates a schematic view of a Logging-While-Drilling (LWD) wellbore operating environment101in accordance with some examples of the present disclosure. Logging-While-Drilling typically incorporates sensors that acquire formation data. The drilling arrangement ofFIG. 1Balso exemplifies what is referred to as Measurement While Drilling (commonly abbreviated as MWD) which utilizes sensors to acquire data from which the wellbore's path and position in three-dimensional space can be determined.

As depicted inFIG. 1B, a drilling platform102can be equipped with a derrick104that supports a hoist106for raising and lowering a conduit108. The conduit108can be, for example, tubing-conveyed, wireline, slickline, work string, joint tubing, jointed pipe, pipeline, coiled tubing, and/or any other suitable means for conveying downhole tools100into a wellbore116. The hoist106suspends a top drive110suitable for rotating and lowering the conduit108through a well head112. A downhole tool100, such as a bottom-hole assembly, can be connected to the lower end of the conduit108. The bottom-hole assembly100can include a drill bit114. As the drill bit114rotates, the drill bit114creates a wellbore116that passes through various subterranean formations118. A pump120circulates drilling fluid through a supply pipe122to top drive110, down through the interior of drill string108and orifices in drill bit114, back to the surface via the annulus around conduit108, and into a retention pit124. The drilling fluid transports cuttings from the wellbore116into the retention pit124and aids in maintaining the integrity of the wellbore116. Various materials can be used for drilling fluid, including oil-based fluids and water-based fluids.

Logging tools126can be integrated into the bottom-hole assembly100near the drill bit114. As the drill bit114extends the wellbore116through the formations118, logging tools126collect measurements relating to various formation properties as well as the orientation of the tool and various other drilling conditions. The bottom-hole assembly100may also include a telemetry sub128to transfer measurement data to a surface receiver132and to receive commands from the surface. In some examples, the telemetry sub128communicates with a surface receiver132using mud pulse telemetry. In some examples, the telemetry sub128does not communicate with the surface, but rather stores logging data for later retrieval at the surface when the logging assembly is recovered.

Each of the logging tools126may include one or more tool components spaced apart from each other and communicatively coupled by one or more wires and/or other media. The logging tools126may also include one or more computing devices communicatively coupled with one or more of the tool components by one or more wires and/or other media. The one or more computing devices may be configured to control or monitor a performance of the tool, process logging data, and/or carry out one or more aspects of the methods and processes of the present disclosure.

In at least one example, one or more of the logging tools126may communicate with a surface receiver132by a wire, such as wired drillpipe. In other cases, the one or more of the logging tools126may communicate with a surface receiver132by wireless signal transmission. In at least some cases, one or more of the logging tools126may receive electrical power from a wire that extends to the surface, including wires extending through a wired drillpipe.

Collar134is a frequent component of a drill string108and generally resembles a very thick-walled cylindrical pipe, typically with threaded ends and a hollow core for the conveyance of drilling fluid. Multiple collars134can be included in the drill string108and are constructed and intended to be heavy to apply weight on the drill bit114to assist the drilling process. Because of the thickness of the collar's wall, pocket-type cutouts or other type recesses can be provided into the collar's wall without negatively impacting the integrity (strength, rigidity and the like) of the collar as a component of the drill string108.

It should be noted that whileFIGS. 1A and 1Bgenerally depict land-based operations, those skilled in the art would readily recognize that the principles described herein are equally applicable to operations that employ floating or sea-based platforms and rigs, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Also, even thoughFIGS. 1A and 1Bdepict vertical wellbores, the present disclosure is equally well-suited for use in wellbores having other orientations, including horizontal wellbores, slanted wellbores, multilateral wellbores or the like. Further, the wellbore system10can have a casing already implemented while, in other examples, the system10can also be used in open hole applications.

FIGS. 2A and 2Bare diagrams of an exemplary segment of a downhole tool100, for example, the downhole tool100ofFIG. 1Aor the downhole tool100ofFIG. 1B.FIG. 2Aillustrates the assembled downhole tool100, andFIG. 2Billustrates the downhole tool100with a desiccating module300exploded out and omitting an enclosure202. In some examples, the downhole tool100can be any other object lowered into a wellbore, for example a sensor to be disposed within a wellbore. The portion of the downhole tool100may be or include one of the logging tools126ofFIG. 1B, a sensor collar, an electronics collar, or any other portion of a downhole tool100.

The downhole tool100as shown inFIGS. 2A and 2Bincludes a first portion210with a shorter diameter than a second portion215of the downhole tool100. In some examples, the first portion210and the second portion215of the downhole tool100have substantially the same diameters.

The first portion210of the downhole tool100includes one or more pockets220configured to receive one or more electronic components208, for example moisture sensitive electronics. The electronic component208can be configured to perform processing of data and communicate with the downhole tool100. In operation, the electronic component208can communicate with one or more components and may also be configured to communicate with remote devices/systems. WhileFIGS. 2A and 2Billustrate one electronic component208, the downhole tool100can include two, three, or more electronic components208to control the function and/or communication for the downhole tool100. In some examples, other components such as valves, pumps, motors, and/or sensors can be included in the downhole tool100. In some examples, the other components can be communicatively coupled with the electronic component208.

An enclosure202, as shown transparently inFIG. 2A, may surround the first portion210of the downhole tool205and any installed assemblies housing tool components. In at least one example, the enclosure202can be a pressure sleeve and/or an outer tube. The enclosure202may further secure the component modules (e.g., electronic component208) in place within the pocket of the first portion210of the downhole tool100as well as provide additional protection to the component modules. In some examples, the enclosure202may be configured such that the enclosure202provides additional strength and stability to the downhole tool100.

When the enclosure202is closed and/or sealed, the enclosure202of the downhole tool100forms an annulus204, and the annulus204and any components of the first portion210within the annulus204are not exposed to the outside environment. When closed, the enclosure202can form a seal to prevent fluid communication with the environment outside of the enclosure202. In some examples, the enclosure202can form a seal using o-rings, gaskets, and/or any other suitable sealing components. The enclosure202can be open and closed as needed, for example to repair, replace, and/or exchange any components within the enclosure202.

The enclosure202of the downhole tool100can be made, for example, out of material including steel, metal alloy, and/or any other suitable material to withstand a predetermined threshold temperature, for example the environment of a wellbore14, such as example pressure, temperature, and/or external forces. For example, the temperature within a wellbore14can be as high as about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Accordingly, the predetermined threshold temperature can be up to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Before the enclosure202is closed and sealed, moisture from the atmosphere can enter the annulus204. In some examples, moisture can be from fluids external and/or internal of the downhole tool100. For examples, moisture can include water vapor from the atmosphere and/or hydrocarbons from the wellbore14. Accordingly, when the enclosure202is closed and/or sealed, the moisture is trapped within the downhole tool100, and components in the downhole tool100, such as the electronic component208, can be exposed to the moisture present within the downhole tool100. The moisture can have a negative effect on the reliability and/or functionality of the electronic component208. In some examples, high temperature, for example the temperatures within the wellbore such as 350 degrees Fahrenheit, combined with high humidity from the moisture can negatively impact the electronic component208. When the enclosure202is sealed, the first portion210and the annulus204are not substantially exposed to any additional moisture or fluids than those entrapped in the annulus204.

Within the enclosure202, the annulus204includes a receiving portion206which can receive a desiccating module300(as discussed below inFIGS. 3A-4D) to adsorb the moisture within the enclosure202. For example, the desiccating module300can adsorb the moisture such that the amount of moisture within the downhole tool100is below a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold is determined such that the moisture does not negatively affect the functionality and/or reliability of the electronic component208and/or any other component within the downhole tool100. For example, the predetermined threshold may be about 25% relative humidity. In some examples, the predetermined threshold may be about 10% relative humidity. In some examples, the predetermined threshold may be about 5% relative humidity. In some examples, the predetermined threshold may be about 2% relative humidity. In some examples, the desired relative humidity may be between 0% and about 25%. In some examples, the desired relative humidity may be between about 2% and about 25%.

The receiving portion206can be any portion of the annulus204which does not have any components of the downhole tool100. The receiving portion206can receive the desiccating module300such that the desiccating module300does not interfere with and/or damage the components of the downhole tool100. The receiving portion206is in fluid communication with the rest of the annulus204, such that moisture in the annulus204can flow to the receiving portion206. For example, as illustrated inFIGS. 2A and 2B, the receiving portion206is adjacent to and/or is a portion of the pocket220. In other examples, the receiving portion206can be located in any other position within the first portion210of the downhole tool100and enclosed within the enclosure202so long as the receiving portion206is in fluid communication with the electronic components208. In at least one example, the receiving portion206can be at least partially separated from the rest of the annulus204by one or more walls. In some examples, the receiving portion206can be an open space within the annulus204. WhileFIGS. 2A and 2Billustrate the receiving portion206being at an end of the downhole tool100, the receiving portion206can be any space in the enclosure202that can receive the desiccating module300.

As illustrated inFIG. 2B, the desiccating module300can be coupled with the first portion210by fasteners150to restrict movement of the desiccating module300within the downhole tool100. In some examples, the desiccating module300can be removably received within the downhole tool100. By being removably received and/or coupled with the downhole tool100, the desiccating module300can be easily removed and replaced without the need to replace the entire downhole tool100and/or the first portion210of the downhole tool100. Accordingly, a new desiccating module300can be inserted after removal of the used desiccating module300. Additionally, the used desiccating module300can have the captured moisture removed, and is ready to be reinserted into the same or another downhole tool100. As illustrated inFIG. 2B, the fasteners150can include screws. In some examples, the fasteners150can include bolts, nails, adhesives, or any other suitable fastener150to restrict the movement of the desiccating module300.

In some examples, the desiccating module300can be received in the receiving portion206by friction fit. For example, as illustrated inFIGS. 2A, 2B, 4C, and 4D, the desiccating module300can include a seat404configured for friction-fit, mating engagement within a complementarily configured receiving portion206of the downhole tool100. The seat404can be shaped, sized, and be made of such material so that the seat404may at least partially deform to squeeze into at least a part of the receiving portion206. In some examples, when past the part of the receiving portion206, the seat404may expand such that the seat404is friction-fit and matingly engaged within the receiving portion206of the downhole tool100. In some examples, the seat404may not expand, and the pressure of the seat404against the receiving portion206creates the friction-fit. With the housing202of the desiccating module300being removably received by the downhole tool100using friction-fit, the desiccating module300can easily be removed and/or securely placed without the need of any extra tools, special tools, and/or expertise.

As illustrated inFIGS. 2A and 2B, the receiving portion206is provided on the surface of the first portion210of the downhole tool100. In some examples, the receiving portion206can be within a compartment of the first portion210. As illustrated inFIGS. 2A and 2B, the first portion210of the downhole tool100includes two receiving portions206, and a desiccating module300received in one of the receiving portions206. In other examples, one, two, three, or more receiving portions206can be included in the first portion210, and any corresponding number of desiccating modules300can be included. The number of desiccating modules300disposed within the first portion210can be determined by the amount of moisture that may be present within the annulus204after the enclosure202is closed and sealed.

FIGS. 3A-3Cillustrate an example of a desiccating module300operable to reduce moisture in downhole tools100.FIG. 3Aillustrates a cross-sectional view of the desiccating module300which includes a housing302having a containment portion304. One or more desiccants350are disposed in the containment portion304of the housing302to adsorb moisture and at least reduce the amount of moisture in the downhole tool100.FIG. 3Billustrates an example of a desiccant350.FIG. 3Cillustrates a perspective view of the desiccating module300, for example as shown inFIG. 3A.

The housing302is operable to be contained within a downhole tool100, for example as illustrated inFIGS. 2A-2B. The housing302can be removably received within the downhole tool100. Accordingly, the desiccating module300can be installed in the first portion210of the downhole tool100before sealing the enclosure202and replaced each time the downhole tool100is opened for servicing.

In some examples, the housing302may fit within the receiving portion206, and be contained by the other components in the downhole tool100and the enclosure202of the downhole tool100. In some examples, the housing302may have couplers and/or fasteners which correspond to couples and/or fasteners in the downhole tool100to affix the housing302in the receiving portion206. In some examples, the housing302may be affixed in the receiving portion206by friction fit. In some examples, the housing302may be moveable within the receiving portion206, for example such that the housing302may rotate, shift, and/or tilt within the receiving portion206.

As illustrated inFIGS. 3A and 3C, the housing302may be substantially cylindrical in shape. In other examples, the housing302may be a rectangular prism, ovoid, pyramid, irregular and/or any other suitable shape to fit within the receiving portion206of the downhole tool100. A cap306can be included to fit over the opening of the housing302to contain the desiccants350in the containment portion304. The cap306closes and seals the housing302of the desiccating module300. Accordingly, undesired fluid cannot access the containment portion304of the housing302, and subsequently the desiccants350. Additionally, any fragments of the desiccants350are not undesirably released from the housing302. As illustrated inFIGS. 3A and 3C, the cap306can be set in place and removable by friction fit. In some examples, the cap306may be hinged, threaded, and/or adhered to the housing302. In some examples, the housing302may not include a cap306, and the desiccants350may be sealed within the housing302. Accordingly, the housing302may not inadvertently open and release the desiccants350while being subjected to the vibrations and/or forces within a wellbore.

FIG. 3Billustrates an example of a desiccant350which is disposed in the containment portion304of the housing302. The desiccants350are operable to adsorb the moisture in the annulus204of the downhole tool100such that the moisture in the downhole tool100is below a predetermined threshold or within a predetermined range. The desiccants350are made of a material352and have pores354to adsorb the moisture. Accordingly, the moisture is adhered to the material352and held and/or trapped in the pores354. As illustrated inFIG. 3B, the desiccant350is substantially circular with substantially circular pores354. In other examples, the desiccant350and/or the desiccant pores354can have any other suitable shape.

The number and/or type of desiccant350to be disposed in the containment portion304may be determined by calculating the amount and/or type of estimated moisture present in the annulus204of the downhole tool100when the enclosure202is closed and/or sealed. For example, the moisture may include water vapor, hydrocarbons, and/or any other fluid. The type of desiccant350, for example the diameter, pore size, and/or composition, may vary based on the different chemical or fluid in the moisture to be captured. In some examples, the desiccants350may include artificial clay. The desiccants350can have a retention capacity sufficient to hold a predetermined threshold amount of moisture at a predetermined threshold temperature. For example, the temperatures within the wellbore14can be about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Accordingly, the desiccants350may hold the moisture up to the predetermined threshold temperature of up to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In some examples, the desiccants350may have pores354with pore sizes of about 3 angstroms to about 10 angstroms to adsorb the moisture. In other examples, the desiccants350may have pores354with pore sizes of about 4 angstroms. By reducing and/or removing the moisture in the downhole tool100by adsorption due to the desiccants350, there is no need to bake out the electronic component208. Additionally, the reduction and/or removal of the moisture increases the reliability and life of the downhole tool100.

The housing302of the desiccating module300can be made of a material such that the moisture in the downhole tool100traverses the housing302from external the housing302to the containment portion304. The housing302can include passages, such as pores, through one or more of the walls of the containment portion304. The passages can be configured to permit passage of moisture from outside the housing302to inside the housing304. Additionally, the housing302encloses the desiccants350as well as any fragments of the desiccants350that may be broken off, for example by vibration. The housing302can be made of a porous material to permit the traversal of the moisture in the downhole tool100to the containment portion304and retain the desiccants350and/or any fragments of the desiccants350within the containment portion304. For example, the housing302can have a density as low as 45% and/or a pore size between about 10 microns and about 100 microns in range. For example, the housing302can include stainless steel. In other examples, the housing302can include aluminum and/or titanium. In at least one example, the housing302and/or the cover400is non-magnetic so as not to interfere with the electronic component208, for example a sensor measuring magnetic fields. For example, the housing302can include stainless steel 316 as the material can have pores of the desired size as well as have non-magnetic properties. The material of the housing302is operable to contain the desiccants350as well as withstand high temperature (for example up to at least 350 degrees Fahrenheit in the wellbore) and vibration while providing communication between the desiccants350and the air volume in the downhole tool100.

In some examples, the housing302may be created by sintering or three-dimensional (3D) printing to form the desired shape. For example, the available receiving portions206in different downhole tools100may have different shapes and/or sizes. Accordingly, by forming the housing302with 3D printing, the shape of the housing302can be customized to fit within each receiving portion206.

In at least one example, the desiccating module300can be reusable. For example, the desiccating module300can be reheated above activation temperature, such as about 200 degrees Celsius. When the desiccating module300is reheated above activation temperature, the moisture can be released, and then the desiccating module300can be installed into a downhole tool100to be used once again.

FIG. 3Dillustrates a desiccating module300, such as the desiccating module300described above forFIGS. 3A-3C. As illustrated inFIG. 3D, the desiccating module300can include a retaining component380. The retaining component380can be operable to at least restrict movement of the desiccants350within the housing302. By restricting movement of the desiccants350in the housing302, fragmentation of the desiccants350may be reduced. By being disposed down a wellbore, the downhole tool100and the desiccating module300would be subject to extreme conditions, such as vibration and/or impact forces. If movement of the desiccants350is not restricted, the desiccants350may break, and in some examples may be pulverized. Accordingly, if the desiccants350do not collide and impact with other desiccants350and/or the housing302, the desiccants350may not break and could be reused. In some examples, the retaining component380can be porous and/or have passages such that the desiccants350are in communication with the fluid and/or moisture.

In some examples, the retaining component380, for example as illustrated inFIG. 3D, the retaining component380can include a material which encapsulates at least a portion of the desiccants350. For example, the retaining component380can include fluid, gel, sponge, foam, and/or any other suitable material which can encapsulate at least a portion of the desiccants350and permit fluid and/or moisture to reach the desiccants350. In at least one example, the desiccants350can be encapsulated within the retaining component380prior to disposing the desiccants350in the housing302. In other examples, the desiccants350can be disposed in the housing302, and then the retaining component380is thereafter disposed within the housing302. In some examples, the retaining component380can be injected into the housing302. For example, the retaining component380can include open cell foam.

WhileFIG. 3Dillustrates the desiccants350at least partially encapsulated within the retaining component380, in some examples, the retaining component380can be positioned around, above, and/or below the desiccants350within the housing302. For example, the desiccants350can be disposed in the housing302, and the retaining component380can be inserted into the housing to fill up any large voids to reduce movement of the desiccants350prior to closing and sealing the housing302. In some examples, the retaining component380can be a cushioned material disposed at least partially along the inside of the housing302to cushion any impact of the desiccants350against the housing302.

FIGS. 4A-4Dillustrate another design of a desiccating module300. The desiccating module300, as illustrated inFIGS. 4A-4D, includes a desiccant capsule450(shown inFIGS. 4C and 4D) and a cover400. The desiccant capsule450includes the desiccants350. The cover400retains the desiccant capsule450such that movement of the desiccant capsule450is restricted. Additionally, the cover400can protect the desiccant capsule450such that the desiccant capsule450may not be damaged and release the desiccants350. The cover400, as illustrated inFIGS. 4A-4D, has an arced shape. The shape of the cover400can be any other suitable shape such as rectangular, oval, triangular, and/or irregular, so long as the cover400can be received in the downhole tool100.

The cover400forms vents410through which fluid and moisture can pass through. The size of the vents410are large enough to permit the desired fluid to pass through the cover400to the desiccant capsule450. In some examples, the size of the vents410can be small enough such that the desiccants350, or fractions of broken desiccants350, cannot pass through. The cover400also forms fastener apertures414through which fasteners150(for example as illustrated inFIG. 2C) can pass to secure the cover400in the downhole tool100.

As shown inFIG. 4C, the cover400includes a capsule portion402which is sized and shaped to receive the desiccant capsule450. The desiccant capsule450includes a housing452which can have similar properties and features as housing302of the desiccating module300as discussed above forFIGS. 3A-3D.

As illustrated inFIG. 4C, the housing452of the desiccant capsule450may enclose all but one side of the desiccant capsule450. Accordingly, the desiccant capsule450is closed and sealed by abutment against a receiving plate482, the downhole tool100, and/or securing components480.

In some examples, the housing452of the desiccant capsule450can fully enclose the desiccants350, such as the housing302discussed above forFIGS. 3A-3D. Additionally, in at least one example, the desiccant capsule450can include a retaining component480, for example as discussed above forFIG. 3D.

As illustrated inFIG. 4D, the desiccating module300can additionally include a receiving plate482. The receiving plate482can form a receiving portion484shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the desiccant capsule450. The receiving portion484can restrict the movement of the desiccant capsule450. The desiccant capsule450can be removably received in the receiving portion484. In some examples, the receiving portion484can include a recessed portion sized and shaped to correspond with the desiccating module300. In some examples, the receiving portion484can form an aperture such that the desiccating module300abuts against the downhole tool100.

Securing components480can be included to secure the position of the desiccant capsule450. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 4D, two securing components480can be provided, one on either side of the desiccant capsule450. The securing components480can restrict movement of the desiccant capsule450. In some examples, the securing components480create a seal between the desiccant capsule450and the cover400and the receiving plate482such that fluid does not cross the seal of the securing components480.FIGS. 4C and 4Dillustrate a securing component480between the desiccant capsule450and the cover400and another securing component480between the desiccant capsule450and the receiving plate482. In some examples, only one of the securing components480may be included. In some examples, securing components480are not included.

The receiving plate482can be coupled to the cover400by couplers488. As illustrated inFIG. 4D, the couplers488can include screws, but in some examples, the couplers488can include nails, nuts and bolts, adhesives, and/or any other suitable coupler to couple the cover400with the receiving plate482. The couplers488can pass through the coupler apertures486in the receiving plate482and through the coupler apertures412in the cover400.

Referring toFIG. 5, a flowchart is presented in accordance with an example embodiment. The method500is provided by way of example, as there are a variety of ways to carry out the method. The method500described below can be carried out using the configurations illustrated inFIGS. 1-4D, for example, and various elements of these figures are referenced in explaining example method500. Each block shown inFIG. 5represents one or more processes, methods or subroutines, carried out in the example method500. Furthermore, the illustrated order of blocks is illustrative only and the order of the blocks can change according to the present disclosure. Additional blocks may be added or fewer blocks may be utilized, without departing from this disclosure. The example method500can begin at block502.

At block502, a desiccating module is disposed in a downhole tool. The downhole tool contains an electronic component which is exposed to moisture present within the downhole tool. The desiccating module can include a housing having a containment portion. The housing can be operable to be contained within a receiving portion of the downhole tool, where the receiving portion can be any available space not interfering or taken up by any components of the downhole tool. One or more desiccants are disposed in the containment portion of the housing. The desiccants can have pore sizes of about 3 angstroms to about 10 angstroms to adsorb the moisture. As discussed above, the desiccants can be molecular sieve desiccants. The material and pore sizes of the desiccants can be adjusted to adsorb different moisture compositions and/or different volumes of moisture. After the desiccating module is disposed in the downhole tool, the portion of the downhole tool with the desiccating module and electronic component is sealed with an enclosure.

At block504, moisture in the downhole tool is adsorbed by the one or more desiccants such that the moisture in the downhole tool is below a predetermined threshold. By being below the predetermined threshold, the moisture does not substantially hinder the functionality and reliability of the electronic component in the downhole tool. Accordingly, the life span of the downhole tool can be increased. The desiccants can hold the moisture up to a predetermined threshold temperature, for example temperatures within a wellbore. For example, the temperature within a wellbore can be as high as about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Accordingly, the predetermined threshold temperature can be up to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The desiccant holds the moisture at those temperatures such that the adsorbed moisture is not released back into the downhole tool.

The desiccating module can be removably received in the downhole tool. For example, the desiccating module can be removed from the downhole tool, and another desiccating module can be disposed in the downhole tool to adsorb additional moisture. In some examples, the same desiccating module can be reused. For example, the desiccating module can be reheated above activation temperature, such as about 200 degrees Celsius. When the desiccating module is reheated above activation temperature, the moisture can be released, and then the desiccating module can be installed into a downhole tool to be used once again.

The term “coupled” is defined as connected, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components, and is not necessarily limited to physical connections. The connection can be such that the objects are permanently connected or releasably connected. The term “outside” refers to a region that is beyond the outermost confines of a physical object. The term “inside” indicate that at least a portion of a region is partially contained within a boundary formed by the object. The term “substantially” is defined to be essentially conforming to the particular dimension, shape or other word that substantially modifies, such that the component need not be exact. For example, substantially cylindrical means that the object resembles a cylinder, but can have one or more deviations from a true cylinder. The term “adjacent” and other variants thereof are utilized to mean located close to, closer to and/or nearby, depending upon context.

Although a variety of information was used to explain aspects within the scope of the appended claims, no limitation of the claims should be implied based on particular features or arrangements, as one of ordinary skill would be able to derive a wide variety of implementations. Further and although some subject matter may have been described in language specific to structural features and/or method steps, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to these described features or acts. Such functionality can be distributed differently or performed in components other than those identified herein. The described features and steps are disclosed as possible components of systems and methods within the scope of the appended claims.

Numerous examples are provided herein to enhance understanding of the present disclosure. A specific set of statements are provided as follows.

Statement 1: A desiccating module configured to be installed in a downhole tool is disclosed, the desiccating module comprising: a housing having a containment portion, the housing being configured to be retained in a downhole tool containing moisture sensitive electronics, the housing configured to permit passage of moisture from outside the housing to the containment portion and to retain the desiccant within the containment portion; and desiccant located in the containment portion of the housing capable of retaining moisture therein, the desiccant having a retention capacity sufficient to hold a predetermined threshold amount of moisture.

Statement 2: A desiccating module according to Statement 1, wherein the housing of the desiccating module further comprises a seat configured for friction-fit, mating engagement within a complementarily configured receiving portion of the downhole tool.

Statement 3: A desiccating module according to Statements 1 or 2, wherein the housing is non-magnetic.

Statement 4: A desiccating module according to any of preceding Statements 1-3, wherein the housing includes at least one of the following: stainless steel, titanium, and aluminum.

Statement 5: A desiccating module according to any of preceding Statements 1-4, wherein the desiccant includes molecular sieve.

Statement 6: A desiccating module according to any of preceding Statements 1-5, wherein the desiccant holds the predetermined threshold amount of moisture at a predetermined threshold temperature, the predetermined threshold temperature being up to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Statement 7: A desiccating module according to any of preceding Statements 1-6, further comprising: a cover operable to prevent impact force against the housing, the cover forming one or more vents through which the moisture can pass through.

Statement 8: A desiccating module according to any of preceding Statements 1-7, further comprising a retaining component disposed within the containment portion, the retaining component operable to at least reduce movement of the desiccant within the containment portion.

Statement 9: A system is disclosed comprising: a downhole tool operable to be disposed within a wellbore, the downhole tool including an enclosure operable to enclose a portion of the downhole tool, the enclosure forming an annulus around the portion, the portion of the downhole tool containing moisture sensitive electronics, the moisture sensitive electronics being exposed to moisture present within the annulus; and a desiccating module contained within the enclosure, the desiccating module including: a housing having a containment portion, the housing being configured to be retained in the downhole tool containing moisture sensitive electronics, the housing configured to permit passage of moisture from outside the housing to the containment portion and to retain the desiccant within the containment portion; and desiccant located in the containment portion of the housing capable of retaining moisture therein, the desiccant having a retention capacity sufficient to hold a predetermined threshold amount of moisture.

Statement 10: A system is disclosed according to Statement 9, wherein the housing of the desiccating module further comprises a seat configured for friction-fit, mating engagement within a complementarily configured receiving portion of the downhole tool.

Statement 11: A system is disclosed according to Statements 9 or 10, wherein the housing is non-magnetic.

Statement 12: A system is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 9-11, wherein the housing includes at least one of the following: stainless steel, titanium, and aluminum.

Statement 13: A system is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 9-12, wherein the desiccant includes molecular sieve.

Statement 14: A system is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 9-13, wherein the desiccant holds the predetermined threshold amount of moisture at a predetermined threshold temperature, the predetermined threshold temperature being up to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Statement 15: A system is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 9-14, further comprising: a cover operable to prevent impact force against the housing, the cover forming one or more vents through which the moisture can pass through.

Statement 16: A system is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 9-15, further comprising a retaining component disposed within the containment portion, the retaining component operable to at least reduce movement of the desiccant within the containment portion.

Statement 17: A method is disclosed comprising: disposing a desiccating module in a portion of a downhole tool, the portion of the downhole tool containing an electronic component which is exposed to moisture present within the portion of the downhole tool, the desiccating module including: a housing having a containment portion, the housing being configured to be retained in the downhole tool containing moisture sensitive electronics, the housing configured to permit passage of moisture from outside the housing to the containment portion and to retain the desiccant within the containment portion; and desiccant located in the containment portion of the housing capable of retaining moisture therein, the desiccant having a retention capacity sufficient to hold a predetermined threshold amount of moisture; and sealing the portion of the downhole tool with an enclosure.

Statement 18: A method is disclosed according to Statement 17, further comprising: removing the desiccating module from the downhole tool; and disposing another desiccating module in the downhole tool to adsorb additional moisture.

Statement 19: A method is disclosed according to Statements 17 or 18, wherein the desiccant holds the predetermined threshold amount of moisture at a predetermined threshold temperature, the predetermined threshold temperature being up to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Statement 20: A method is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 17-19, wherein the housing includes at least one of the following: stainless steel, titanium, and aluminum.

The embodiments shown and described above are only examples. Even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present technology have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of the present disclosure, the disclosure is illustrative only, and changes may be made in the detail, especially in matters of shape, size and arrangement of the parts within the principles of the present disclosure to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms used in the attached claims. It will therefore be appreciated that the embodiments described above may be modified within the scope of the appended claims.