Closed-Loop Control Valve Actuation for Zero Gas Emissions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dynamic control valves in oil and gas extraction emit buy-back gas into the atmosphere, leading to air pollution, and existing zero-emission actuators require costly and time-consuming modifications to existing control valves.
Innovation Solution
A closed feedback system using a linear actuator connected to the bonnet of the control valve through a supply line, which regulates fluid flow without emitting gas into the atmosphere, utilizing a programmable logic controller and power supply to minimize modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional pneumatic control valve system is used with buy-back gas, then the control valve can be operated, but gas is emitted into the atmosphere causing air pollution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent captures the buy-back gas that would normally be vented to atmosphere and redirects it through a closed-loop system back to the control valve bonnet. This converts the harmful emission into a useful resource for actuating the valve, eliminating pollution while maintaining operational function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a closed-loop gas transport system with a supply line and vent line as intermediaries between the control valve outlet and inlet. This intermediary system captures and redirects the buy-back gas, preventing direct atmospheric emission while enabling continuous valve operation.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If zero-emission actuators are installed on control valves, then gas emissions are eliminated, but the control valves require substantial modification and additional adaptors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a closed-loop gas recirculation system that works with existing control valve architectures without requiring specialized actuators. The supply line and vent line configuration provides a universal solution that can be adapted to various control valve types without substantial modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the control valve's own buy-back gas output to fuel its own operation through the closed-loop recirculation. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external zero-emission actuators or additional gas supply systems, reducing complexity while achieving zero emission.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If zero-emission actuators are installed on control valves, then gas emissions are eliminated, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the zero-emission solution into simple, separable components: a supply line connection, a vent line connection, and a closed-loop transport mechanism. This segmentation allows for modular installation that can be implemented incrementally without requiring complete system shutdown or complex coordinated installation procedures.
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 system achieves zero-emission control with minimal configuration of existing control valves, reducing installation time and cost while enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
compress or decompress the volume within to deliver a desired pressurized gas flow to a control valve
Implementation Method 2
The piston is actuated to create a desired output pressure. The desired output pressure is delivered from the fluid power cylinder to the control valve through the supply line
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an apparatus that satisfies the need for a closed system to actuate the control valve for zero-emissions control—not bleeding natural gas into the atmosphere. In one aspect, the apparatus includes a linear actuator, a power supply, a fluid power cylinder, and a supply line. In another aspect, the apparatus further includes a programmable logic controller. The power supply provides a power source for the linear actuator and programmable logic controller. The programmable logic controller delivers an output signal to the linear actuator. The linear actuator includes a piston that compresses or decompresses the volume within the fluid power cylinder. The piston is actuated to create a desired output pressure. The supply line delivers the desired output pressure from the fluid power cylinder to the control valve. The desired output pressure regulates pressurized fluid flow within the control valve.