Blowout Preventer Activator for Sequential Ram Timing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blowout preventer activation systems in wellsite operations lack efficient and sequential control over ram activation, particularly in subsea environments, where reliable and timely sealing of wellbores during potential blowouts is critical.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic activation system comprising a piston-cylinder mechanism with a timing rod and trigger valve, allowing for sequential and timed activation of rams, controlled by a sequencing valve and adjustable timing adjuster, enabling precise engagement and sealing of tubulars.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional blowout preventer activation system is used, then the rams can be activated to seal the wellbore, but the activation sequence and timing cannot be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-pressurizes accumulators before activation is needed, so that when activation occurs, hydraulic fluid is immediately available. The timing rod is pre-positioned within the cylinder, and the sequencing valve is pre-configured with multiple outlets corresponding to different ram groups. This preliminary preparation enables precise sequential activation without adding complex real-time control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The blowout preventer rams are divided into multiple groups that can be activated sequentially. The sequencing valve is segmented with multiple outlets, each connected to different ram groups. The timing rod is segmented into sections that can be positioned at different depths to control the sequence. This segmentation allows precise control over which rams activate in what order, resolving the timing precision issue.
2Productivity
If rams are activated simultaneously, then sealing action is achieved quickly, but pressure dynamics cannot be managed effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The system activates different groups of rams in periodic sequences rather than simultaneously. The sequencing valve directs hydraulic fluid through different outlets in sequence, activating first group, then second group, then third group of rams. This periodic activation maintains high productivity by ensuring rapid overall sealing while improving reliability by managing pressure dynamics in controlled stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The timing rod acts as an intermediary mechanism between the initial activation signal and the final ram activation. When hydraulic fluid enters the cylinder, it moves the timing rod, which sequentially triggers the sequencing valve to activate different ram groups. This intermediary enables controlled sequential activation, balancing speed and pressure control reliability.
3Device complexity
If the activation system is simplified, then device complexity is reduced, but control over sequential ram activation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The timing rod automatically sequences the activation of different ram groups based on its own movement through the cylinder. As hydraulic fluid enters the cylinder, the timing rod moves sequentially, automatically triggering the sequencing valve to activate different outlets in order. This self-service mechanism provides sequential control capability without requiring complex external control systems, maintaining simplicity while enabling precise operation.
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
Enables reliable and sequential activation of blowout preventer rams, ensuring effective sealing of wellbores and managing pressure dynamics during subsea operations, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A blowout preventer activation system for wellsite equipment is provided. The activation system includes an activator fluidly coupled by a fluid circuit to the blowout preventer for activation thereof. The activator includes a cylinder with a piston fluidly coupled by the circuit to the blowout preventer, and slidably positionable therein in response to pressure changes
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to an activator (236a, b) for a blowout preventer (111) of a wellsite (100). The blowout preventer includes rams (115a, b) sealingly positionable about a tubular (106) of a wellbore (112) at the wellsite and driven by a circuit. The activator includes a cylinder (246a, b), a trigger valve (238a, b) operatively connectable between the cylinder and the circuit, a piston (248a, b), and a timing adjuster (250a, b). The trigger valve includes a trigger (474a, b) to selectively pilot the circuit. The piston has a piston stroke extending between a retracted position and an extended position. The timing adjuster is engagable by the piston and adjustably positionable about the cylinder to define the retracted position of the piston stroke whereby a length of the piston stroke is adjustably defined.