Axial Release Running Tool for Casing Hanger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional casing hanger running tools require relative rotation to release and extract the tool from the casing hanger, which can be inefficient and time-consuming, especially when the annulus seal needs to be set and the casing hanger is suspended within the wellhead.
Innovation Solution
A running tool with securement means that can be moved between secured and unsecured positions, activation means to facilitate this movement, and release prevention means to ensure the tool remains secured until the casing hanger is properly positioned, allowing for axial pressure to release the securement means and enable tool extraction without rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional running tools use rotation to release and extract the tool from the casing hanger, then the tool can be removed from the well, but the process becomes inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using rotation to release the tool (conventional method), the invention inverts the release mechanism to use axial movement. The securement means is designed to be released by axial displacement rather than rotational movement, fundamentally changing the release paradigm from rotary to linear motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement means incorporates movable elements that can dynamically transition between secured and unsecured states. The activation means provides dynamic control over the securement means, enabling rapid state changes without the time-consuming rotational operations of conventional tools.
2Ease of operation
If the securement means is designed to be easily released, then tool extraction is simplified, but the tool may accidentally release before the casing hanger is properly positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The activation means acts as an intermediary between the operator and the securement means. It provides controlled mediation of the release process, ensuring that the securement means only transitions to the unsecured state when properly activated, preventing accidental release while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The release prevention means incorporates self-service features where the system automatically prevents premature release through inherent mechanical constraints. The securement means design includes built-in protection mechanisms that self-activate to prevent accidental release without requiring additional operator intervention or complex control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a running tool 10 for a casing hanger 12 in which the casing hanger 12 is arranged to be clamped within a well bore. In the clamped position, the suspension weight of the casing hanger 12 (and suspended) casing string is supported by the wellhead and the running tool 10 is then releasable from the casing hanger 12. The release of the running tool 10 from the casing hanger 12 is performed by applying an axial pressure down the running tool 10 which then enables the securement means 30 of the running tool 10 to be moved into an unsecured position. In the secured position, the casing hanger 12 is suspendable from the running tool 10 and the running tool 10 supports the suspension weight of the casing hanger 12 (and the casing string located there below). The running tool 10 comprises activation means 40 in order to enable the securement means 30 to move from the secured position to the unsecured position. The running tool 10 includes release prevention means 50 in order to prevent the movement of the securement means 30 from the secured position to the unsecured position whilst the suspension weight of the casing hanger 12 is suspended from the running tool 10.