Multi-gage BOP Test Joint Assembly for Single-Well Testing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional blowout preventer (BOP) testing methods require multiple trips to test different diameter pipes against variable bore rams, shear rams, and annulars, which is time-consuming and expensive, and often involves the risk of a wireline retrievable dart becoming lodged in the well.
Innovation Solution
A multi-gage blowout preventer test joint assembly that allows testing of different size pipes against variable bore rams and annular subsea blowout preventers in one trip without using a wireline retrievable dart, featuring a tubular inner mandrel, a bottom sub, a tubular outer mandrel, and a rotation lug insert for telescopic and sealable engagement, enabling testing of multiple diameter pipes, shearable rams, and annular BOPs in a single operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple trips are used to test different diameter pipes against variable bore rams, then testing completeness is improved, but time consumption and expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The test joint assembly is segmented into multiple components including an inner mandrel with first set of bore diameters, an outer mandrel with second set of bore diameters, and a bottom sub. These segments can be independently configured and combined to test multiple pipe diameters in a single operation, eliminating the need for multiple trips while maintaining testing completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner mandrel is telescopically received within the outer mandrel, creating a nested structure. This nesting allows both sets of bore diameters to be present simultaneously in the assembly, enabling testing of multiple pipe sizes in one trip without increasing overall footprint excessively.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireline retrievable dart is used in testing, then testing capability is improved, but risk of dart lodgment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireline retrievable dart has been completely removed from the testing system. Instead, the patent uses a fixed multi-diameter mandrel assembly that directly provides the testing interface, eliminating the dart component that could become lodged in the well.
3Measurement precision
If multiple trips are used for testing, then testing accuracy is maintained, but expense increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test joint assembly is designed as a universal device that can test multiple pipe diameters simultaneously through its inner and outer mandrels with different bore diameter sets. This multi-functionality maintains testing accuracy for all diameters while reducing the number of trips required, thereby lowering expense.
4Productivity
If single trip testing is implemented, then time efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic nesting of the inner mandrel within the outer mandrel allows the device to maintain a compact form factor while incorporating multiple bore diameter sets. This nesting strategy enables single-trip testing without proportionally increasing the overall device complexity or footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex testing requirements are divided into manageable segments through the modular mandrel design with distinct first and second sets of bore diameters. Each segment can be independently configured, making the overall complex function achievable through systematic segmentation rather than a monolithic complex device.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a test joint assembly for testing subsea BOP stack valves and annulars in one trip. The test joint assembly has an outer mandrel and a telescopically extendable inner mandrel. The inner mandrel seals against a bottom sub member using a bullnose sealing member.