Adjustable Flow Restrictor Segments for Subsea Drilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drilling and production systems face challenges in effectively controlling and restricting fluid flow, particularly in offshore operations, where managing pressure and reducing wear on components are crucial, often requiring bulky and heavy flow control devices like choke valves.
Innovation Solution
A flow restrictor system with adjustable segments that can move between retracted and extended positions to control fluid flow through annular spaces, reducing the need for large surface manifolds and enabling managed pressure drilling by selectively blocking or allowing fluid flow through the annular space between the drill string and the riser.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If choke valves are used to control fluid flow, then fluid flow control capability is improved, but device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control function is segmented between the surface manifold and the subsea tree. The surface manifold provides overall flow control capability, while the subsea tree contains flow restrictors that provide additional flow control functionality. This segmentation allows the surface manifold to be smaller and lighter while maintaining overall flow control capability through the distributed flow restrictors in the subsea tree.
2Ease of operation
If flow control devices are installed in subsea trees, then fluid flow control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow restrictors are integrated into the subsea tree structure itself, nesting the flow control function within the existing tree architecture. The flow restrictors are positioned within the subsea tree components, eliminating the need for separate external flow control devices and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining flow control capability.
3Ease of operation
If adjustable segments are used to restrict fluid flow, then fluid flow management is improved, but component wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable segments act as intermediaries between the fluid flow and the main valve components. By positioning the segments upstream of the valve, they reduce the flow rate and pressure before the fluid reaches the valve, thereby reducing wear on the valve components and extending their service life while maintaining effective flow management capability.
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 flow restrictor system effectively manages fluid flow, reduces wear on components, and minimizes the size and weight of surface manifolds by allowing for adjustable control of fluid flow rates, enhancing operational efficiency and safety in drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
The flow restrictor system may include one or more adjustable segments that move between a retracted position in which the one or more adjustable segments do not block fluid flow through the annular space and an extended position in which the one or more adjustable segments block fluid flow within the annular space
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a flow restrictor assembly configured to be coupled to an annular structure having a central bore. The flow restrictor assembly includes one or more adjustable segments configured to move relative to the annular structure between a retracted position in which the one or more adjustable segments do not extend into the central bore and an extended position in which the one or more adjustable segments extend into the central bore to reduce a cross-sectional flow area of the central bore by between approximately 5 to 95 percent to restrict fluid flow through the central bore.