BOP Handler Linkage Mechanism for Vertical Erection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly and positioning of high-pressure blowout preventer (BOP) assemblies above wellheads in oilfield operations are cumbersome and risky, requiring multiple connections and crane operations, which are time-consuming and pose safety hazards due to elevated workstations and complex manipulation of heavy equipment.
Innovation Solution
A handler system that can transport, erect, and position a BOP assembly vertically and laterally, allowing for connection to a coiled tubing injector and wellhead without the need for cranes, featuring a linkage mechanism with pivoting and extendable arms for precise alignment and support, enabling safe workspace creation under the BOP stack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a crane is used to suspend and position the BOP assembly, then the assembly can be positioned above the wellhead, but the operation becomes time-consuming and safety risks increase due to elevated workstations and complex manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a handler as an intermediary device between the BOP assembly and the wellhead. The handler includes a cradle that receives the BOP assembly, a linkage mechanism with pivoting and extendable arms that provides controlled movement and positioning, and a base that supports the entire assembly. This intermediary handler system eliminates the need for crane operations and elevated workstations, thereby improving safety while reducing assembly time through streamlined operations
2Strength
If multiple API ring bolted connections are made to assemble the BOP assembly, then the assembly can withstand high well pressures above 10,000 PSI, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The BOP assembly is segmented into distinct components (BOP, risers, stripper) that can be separately transported and then assembled using the handler system. The handler itself is segmented into modular components including the cradle, linkage mechanism with multiple articulated arms, and base structure. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly operations while maintaining the required API ring bolted connections for high-pressure service capability
3Ease of manufacture
If the BOP assembly is assembled vertically at the well site, then the components can be properly connected, but workers must operate at elevated workstations which increases safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional assembly approach by having the BOP assembly lowered vertically into the cradle of the handler system, rather than being assembled at elevated positions. The linkage mechanism then facilitates the vertical erection and positioning of the assembly in a controlled manner at ground level. This inversion of the assembly sequence allows workers to operate safely at ground level while still achieving proper vertical assembly configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A handler holds a blowout preventer (BOP) assembly (partially or fully assembled) for transport and then erects it from a transport position to a vertical position for deployment. In the transport position the BOP assembly generally rests in a horizontal position. During deployment of the BOP assembly by the handler, the handler is capable of moving the BOP assembly to a vertical position, elevating it, and moving it outward, away from the base of the handler and toward a wellhead, so that the BOP assembly may be connected to a coiled tubing injector, work may be performed underneath the BOP assembly before connection to a well head, and the BOP assembly may be placed on top of a well head for connection to the well head.