Casing Racking Module with Paddle Assemblies for Thread Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional casing string installation in oil and gas drilling is inefficient due to manual positioning and alignment of casing stands, which can damage threads and requires extensive handling of thread protectors, necessitating a solution for accurate and protective positioning of casing sections.
Innovation Solution
A casing racking module with a set-back platform and paddle assemblies that utilize rotary springs and stops to accurately position and protect the threads of casing sections, featuring extendable gates and alternating paddle orientations for efficient alignment and thread protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual positioning and alignment of casing stands is used, then flexibility and simplicity are maintained, but positioning accuracy is insufficient and thread damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a set-back platform as an intermediary structure between the casing stand and the drilling floor. This platform provides a controlled interface with guide surfaces that automatically align the casing stand during placement, eliminating the need for complex manual alignment procedures while ensuring accurate positioning and protecting threaded connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The casing stand is designed with self-aligning features including guide surfaces and positioning elements that automatically engage with the set-back platform. This self-service mechanism allows the casing stand to position itself accurately without requiring complex external alignment equipment or extensive manual intervention.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If thread protectors are extensively handled to protect casing threads, then thread protection is improved, but handling time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The set-back platform is pre-equipped with protective surfaces and positioning features that are ready before the casing stand arrives. Thread protection is built into the platform structure itself through hardened surfaces and precise positioning elements, eliminating the need for separate thread protector applications and reducing handling time.
Solution Approach 2:
The set-back platform serves as a protective intermediary between the casing stand's threaded connections and the drilling floor. Its specially designed surfaces and positioning mechanisms provide inherent thread protection without requiring additional thread protector components, thus reducing handling complexity and time.
3Productivity
If casing stands are positioned faster to improve efficiency, then productivity increases, but positioning accuracy and thread protection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The casing stand incorporates self-aligning features that automatically engage with the set-back platform during rapid placement. Guide surfaces and positioning elements work together to ensure accurate alignment occurs automatically as the stand is set down, maintaining positioning precision even during high-speed operations without requiring slow, careful manual adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The set-back platform provides a cushioned, controlled interface that absorbs the impact of rapid casing stand placement. Its design includes energy-absorbing features and progressive engagement surfaces that maintain positioning accuracy even when the stand is dropped or placed quickly, preventing thread damage while preserving productivity.
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
The solution enables faster and more accurate positioning of casing stands, reducing thread damage and handling time, thereby enhancing the efficiency of casing string installation while protecting threaded connections.
Implementation Method 1
A rotary exit spring between the arm and bumper resists rotation of the arm towards the bumper and urges the arm away from the bumper and against an arm stop.
Implementation Method 2
A rotary return spring between the casing frame and bumper resist rotation of the bumper away from alignment with the casing frame and against a bumper stop.
Data Source
AI summary
A casing racking module is located on a set-back platform at a forward edge of a drilling rig. The casing racking module has a casing frame forming rows for casing. Paddle assemblies are mounted on the casing frame. The paddle assemblies have a shaft, an arm pivotally located on the shaft, and a bumper pivotally located on the shaft. A rotary exit spring is located between the arm and the bumper. An arm stop limits rotation of the arm relative to the bumper. A rotary return spring is located between the bumper and the casing frame. A bumper stop aligns the bumper with the casing frame. An extendable gate opens from the end of each row.