Closed-Loop Solenoid Valve Hydraulic Supply for Subsea BOP
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Subsea hydraulic control systems face contamination issues due to the use of a single hydraulic fluid throughout the system, which affects solenoid valves and leads to reduced operational efficiency and shorter valve life.
Innovation Solution
A closed-loop solenoid valve pressure supply system where solenoid valves have a dedicated high-quality hydraulic fluid supply separate from the main system, allowing for filtration and containment of fluid, reducing contamination and extending valve life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single hydraulic fluid is used throughout the subsea system, then the system structure is simple and easy to maintain, but the hydraulic fluid becomes contaminated over time which reduces solenoid valve life and operational reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic fluid supply system is divided into two separate segments: a main hydraulic fluid supply for general system operations and a dedicated closed-loop hydraulic fluid supply specifically for solenoid valves. This segmentation isolates the solenoid valves from contamination affecting the main system, extending valve life while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid valve region is provided with a dedicated high-quality hydraulic fluid supply that maintains superior fluid conditions specifically where precision components operate. This local quality enhancement ensures optimal performance and longevity of solenoid valves without compromising the broader system.
2Reliability
If hydraulic fluid is continuously circulated throughout the system, then all components can be operated, but contamination spreads to all components including solenoid valves
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic fluid circulation is segmented into a main circulation system for general operations and a separate closed-loop circulation system for solenoid valves. This prevents contamination spread to solenoid valves while maintaining operational flexibility through the main system.
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid valve hydraulic supply is extracted as a separate closed-loop system from the main hydraulic fluid circulation. This extraction isolates the solenoid valves from contamination pathways while preserving the main system's operational capabilities.
3Reliability
If standard hydraulic fluid is used in the main system, then the system is cost-effective, but the fluid degrades and contaminates components over time
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic fluid system is segmented into a main system using standard cost-effective fluid and a dedicated solenoid valve system using high-quality stable fluid. This segmentation allows superior fluid quality where needed without proportionally increasing total fluid volume and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
High-quality stable hydraulic fluid is provided locally to the solenoid valve region where precision and reliability are critical, while the main system uses standard fluid. This localized quality enhancement optimizes performance without excessive resource consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for controlling hydraulically actuatable components of a blowout preventer stack assembly and a system for same. The apparatus comprises a blowout preventer stack including hydraulically actuatable components and a lower marine riser package coupled to the blowout preventer stack and including additional hydraulic components. The lower marine riser package includes a solenoid valve configured to control at least some of the components. The solenoid valve receives hydraulic fluid from a dedicated accumulator or accumulator bank configured to supply hydraulic fluid exclusively for use with the solenoid valve. A closed-loop hydraulic circuit is formed between the accumulator or accumulator bank and the solenoid valve.