Multi-Component C-Ring Coupling for Wellhead Weld-Free Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coupling techniques in wellhead assemblies for oil and natural gas extraction often require welding or machining, making them difficult to remove and inspect, and lack efficient methods for attaching components like diverters and risers without permanent fastening.
Innovation Solution
The multi-component C-ring coupling system allows for removably attaching a lower ring to the connector via axial or threaded fasteners, applying axial and radial forces to an internal C-ring that bites into the pipe, enabling secure attachment without welding and facilitating easier inspection and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding or machining techniques are used to attach components, then secure attachment is achieved, but removal and inspection become difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into separate components: a connector, a C-ring, and a lower ring that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows the components to be securely attached during operation yet easily separated for removal and inspection, resolving the contradiction between attachment security and ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static welded/joined state to a dynamic mechanically adjustable state. The lower ring can be axially translated to engage or disengage from the C-ring, allowing the attachment to be secure during operation but easily removable when needed, thus resolving the contradiction between strong attachment and ease of repair.
2Reliability
If welding techniques are used to attach components, then permanent secure connection is achieved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system uses separate modular components (connector, C-ring, lower ring) that can be quickly assembled without welding operations. This segmentation enables rapid installation while maintaining reliable mechanical connections through the C-ring engagement mechanism, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and installation speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The C-ring acts as an intermediary element between the connector and lower ring, providing a reliable mechanical connection through its teeth engagement with the lower ring's external angled surface. This intermediary mechanism achieves secure connection without time-consuming welding, thus resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and installation productivity.
3Reliability
If traditional coupling methods are used, then component attachment is achieved, but visual verification of engagement requires disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The C-ring is nested within the connector assembly, with its teeth engaging the lower ring's external angled surface. This nested configuration allows the engagement status to be visually verified through the connector structure without disassembly, maintaining engagement security while reducing inspection complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes visual indicators (such as color-coded elements or visible engagement features) that change or become apparent when the C-ring is properly engaged, allowing operators to verify engagement security at a glance without disassembling the coupling, thus resolving the contradiction between engagement reliability and inspection complexity.
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 provides a secure, weld-free attachment method for wellhead components, simplifies inspection and removal processes, and ensures reliable operation by applying consistent radial forces to ensure a tight seal, enhancing safety and reducing maintenance complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The lower ring and connector include internal angled surfaces such that when the lower ring is engaged the lower ring and connector exert axial and radial forces on the internal C-ring. The resulting radial force pushes teeth of the C-ring radially inward to cause the teeth to bite a pipe.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-component C-ring coupling is provided that includes a connector, an internal C-ring, and a lower ring. In one embodiment, the multi-component C-ring coupling may include a diverter connector to weldlessly couple a diverter to a pipe, such as a conductor. In other embodiment, the coupling may include a casing housinghead connector to couple to a casing housinghead. The lower ring may be engaged with the connector via axial fasteners. The lower ring and connector may include angled internal surfaces to exert radial forces on the C-ring and cause engagement of the teeth of the C-ring with the outer wall of a pipe.