Material Science and Engineering

Biography

Biography: Wuwen Yi

Abstract

Shaped charges have been used for oil and gas perforating for many years. Researchers have put tremendous effort into improving shaped charge performance including penetration depth and hole size. One of the critical components of the shaped charge is the liner. The liner fabrication process has great impact on the liner’s dimensional symmetry, density, and mass distribution, which all affect shaped charge performance. The authors have developed a systematic approach for deep penetration (DP) shaped charge liner development. This presentation discusses the materials used in DP shaped charge liners, and the spin forming technique used to fabricate them. Furthermore, methods for characterizing the design of the liner, measurement of the fabricated liners, and their performance in a shaped charge are presented. Computer modeling provides the predictions of shaped charge performance and directions for liner design improvement. The liner dimensions are first measured using a coordinate measurement machine (CMM). Then, the liner density is measured from liner apex to skirt, and the density profile is generated. A liner mass profile is created based on the liner density profile and the liner geometry. Flash X-ray is used to capture the tip speed and the straightness of the high-speed jet created by detonating the shaped charge. Time-arrival study using the flash X-ray gives the tunnel speed of the jet. Finally, shaped charge performance is validated by test shots using quality control (QC) targets and API targets according to API RP 19B Section 1.