Back Pressure Valve Single-Trip Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of back pressure valves in mineral extraction systems is complex and costly due to high pressures in the well bore, requiring multiple tools and procedures, which increases time and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A back pressure valve system that can be installed in a single trip with a single tool using axial loading, featuring a cylindrical body with a venting port and plunger for pressure equalization and a locking mechanism that couples the valve to the bore without rotational motion, simplifying the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple tools and sequential procedures are used to install the back pressure valve, then the valve can be securely installed in high pressure conditions, but the installation time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple installation functions (seating, locking, pressure equalization) into a single integrated back pressure valve assembly that can be installed in one operation. The valve body includes integrated features such as the seal element, locking mechanism with lock segments, and pressure equalization bore, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools and procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The back pressure valve is designed with pre-configured pressure equalization features and locking mechanisms that are ready to function immediately upon installation. The pressure equalization bore and seal elements are pre-positioned to automatically equalize pressure and secure the valve during the single installation trip, without requiring preliminary pressure management steps.
2Reliability
If multiple tools are used for installation, then the valve can be properly set and locked, but the complexity and cost of the installation process increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the locking mechanism, seal elements, and pressure equalization features into a single back pressure valve assembly. The lock segments, seal element, and pressure equalization bore work together as one unit, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools and reducing installation process complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The back pressure valve is designed to self-seal and self-lock during installation. The biasing force on the seal element causes automatic sealing when the valve is seated, and the lock segments automatically engage with the locking grooves in the hanger bore, eliminating the need for complex external locking procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the back pressure valve is installed separately from the hanger, then the hanger can be landed first, but additional installation steps and tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The back pressure valve is designed to be installed as an integrated unit with the hanger assembly. The valve body fits within the hanger bore and is secured through the locking mechanism, allowing the entire assembly to be lowered and installed in a single operation without separate installation steps.
4Productivity
If axial loading is used for installation, then the valve can be installed in a single trip, but the locking mechanism must withstand high axial forces
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple lock segments that distribute the axial loading force across several engagement points with the locking grooves in the hanger bore. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to withstand high axial forces while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed with materials and structural features that provide high strength-to-weight ratio and force distribution capabilities. The lock segments are configured to engage with reinforced locking grooves, creating a composite structural system that can withstand the high axial forces generated during single-trip installation.
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
This solution reduces the complexity and cost of installing back pressure valves by enabling a single-tool, single-trip installation, improving safety and efficiency while maintaining effective pressure regulation.
Implementation Method 1
A plunger is disposed in the venting port to open and close the venting port
Implementation Method 2
A spring is disposed about the stem and biases the plunger to a closed position
Implementation Method 3
A locking mechanism couples the back pressure valve to the bore without rotational motion
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a back pressure valve configured to mount in a mineral extraction system. The back pressure valve comprises a cylindrical body comprising a venting port coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body and a plunger disposed in the venting port, wherein the plunger comprises a stem that extends from the venting port into an adjacent cavity of the cylindrical body. A method of operating a valve, includes biasing a plunger to an open position, biasing a valve locking mechanism to a locked position in relation to a bore of a mineral extraction system, and biasing a plunger to a closed position.