Adjustable Coupler for Manifold Vibration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost of hydraulic fracturing systems in oilfields are exacerbated by the large number of equipment components and the challenges of uneven ground conditions, leading to equipment settlement and vibration issues that can cause leaks and breaks.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable modular skid system with vibration-adjusting features that supports oil field fluid components, allowing for remote assembly and minimal disassembly, and can be coupled together with piping and connections to form various configurations, including the use of pilings for support, to reduce vibrations and settlement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional hydraulic fracturing systems are used with multiple equipment components, then fluid delivery capability is achieved, but equipment complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple equipment components (manifold, support frame, vibration adjustment mechanisms) into an integrated modular system. The manifold is directly coupled to the support frame with vibration adjustment mechanisms built into the coupling, eliminating the need for separate vibration isolation components and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining fluid delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame serves multiple functions: structural support, vibration isolation, and positioning. The vibration adjustment mechanisms are integrated into the coupling between the manifold and support frame, allowing the same component to perform both fluid distribution and vibration control functions, thereby reducing the number of separate components needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If equipment is installed on uneven ground, then site adaptability is improved, but equipment settlement and vibration issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration adjustment mechanisms allow the coupling between the manifold and support frame to dynamically adapt to varying ground conditions. The mechanisms can adjust their stiffness characteristics in response to vibrations and settlement, maintaining reliable connections even on uneven ground where static rigid connections would fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the stiffness parameter of the coupling between the manifold and support frame through adjustable vibration isolation mechanisms. By modifying the stiffness parameter, the system can accommodate uneven ground conditions while maintaining equipment stability and preventing settlement-related failures.
3Strength
If rigid coupling is used between manifold and support, then structural strength is improved, but vibration transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces vibration adjustment mechanisms as intermediary elements between the manifold and support frame. These mechanisms act as mediators that transmit necessary structural loads while filtering out harmful vibrations, thus maintaining structural strength without transmitting excessive vibrations to the equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration adjustment mechanisms change the dynamic parameters of the coupling system, specifically the stiffness and damping characteristics. This allows the coupling to maintain sufficient structural strength for load-bearing while reducing the transmission of vibration frequencies that could cause equipment damage or failure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The modular skid system reduces excessive vibrations and minimizes settlement, enhancing the stability and efficiency of fluid transportation systems in oilfield applications by adjusting the natural frequency of the system and allowing for flexible configuration to fit different well site locations.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustable coupler that couples the fluid fitting, the first portion of the first manifold, or a combination thereof to the frame, the adjustable coupler being adjustable for an amount of compression, tension, or both on the fluid fitting, the first portion of the first manifold, or a combination thereof coupled to the frame to change a natural frequency of at least a portion of the system
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides an adjustable modular skid system with a plurality of skid modules to support oil field fluid components, such as manifolds, mixing blocks, collection blocks, fracturing pumps, piping and connections, and other devices used to transport water, sand slurries, gas, oil, or other fluids in oil field applications. The skid system has vibration adjusting features. The skid modules can be coupled together through piping and relevant connections at the well site. If appropriate, the skid modules can be supported on pilings or other foundational supports. The system can be assembled remotely, started and tested, partially disassembled into the skid modules, and then installed at the well site with minimal additional effort by generally providing lines and connections between the modules. Excessive vibrations in the system can be reduced by adjusting an overall stiffness of the system to change a natural frequency of the system.