Compensating Bails for Pipe Handler String Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compensators in wellbore construction and completion operations are inadequate in supporting entire strings of threaded joints and preventing unwanted movement, particularly in derricks, leading to safety issues and inefficiencies during drilling and casing operations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a pipe handler system with compensating bails and an elevator, featuring load cylinders and linear actuators that allow for secure hoisting and assembly of threaded tubulars, enabling robust support and neutral positioning of joints during connection and extension processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single joint compensator is used to support one joint, then the compensator can be simple in design, but it cannot support an entire string of joints and requires disconnection and reconnection operations
Solution Approach 1:
The compensator is designed to perform multiple functions: it can support individual joints during connection operations and simultaneously support entire strings of joints during hoisting operations. The system includes both a compensator for single joint support and a bail system with load cylinders for string support, eliminating the need for disconnection and reconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The bail system is divided into multiple segments (first bail segment, second bail segment) connected by load cylinders, allowing each segment to independently support different portions of the string while maintaining overall structural integrity and flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If cable(s) are interposed between the compensator and the elevator, then the compensator can be positioned between the travelling block and elevator, but the top of the stand can whip around in the derrick due to freedom of movement
Solution Approach 1:
The bail system uses flexible yet rigid components (bail segments connected by load cylinders) that provide controlled movement while maintaining structural stability. The load cylinders allow for controlled longitudinal displacement while preventing uncontrolled whipping motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static cable connection to a dynamic bail system with load cylinders that can actively adjust and control the movement of the stand, providing both flexibility for operation and stability for safety.
3Device complexity
If a single joint compensator is used, then the design can be simple, but it cannot be used with a top drive due to accidental overpull risks
Solution Approach 1:
The compensator system is designed to work with both traditional drilling rigs and top drive systems. The bail system with load cylinders provides enhanced support capacity and safety features that prevent accidental overpull damage while maintaining compatibility with various drilling configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The bail system with load cylinders acts as a protective element that can absorb and distribute accidental overpull forces before they reach the compensator or other critical components, providing a safety buffer against unexpected loads.
4Device complexity
If traditional compensators are used, then the design can be simple, but they do not inhibit or prevent undesirable movement of joints within a derrick
Solution Approach 1:
The bail system uses rigid yet flexible components that physically constrain the movement of joints within the derrick, preventing unwanted lateral displacement while allowing controlled longitudinal movement during connection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The bail system is designed with asymmetric support characteristics that provide strong lateral constraint while allowing controlled longitudinal movement, creating a stable configuration that prevents unwanted movement during hoisting and connection operations.
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 stable and efficient support for entire strings of threaded tubulars, preventing unwanted movement and ensuring safe and efficient assembly and deployment, even in top drive operations, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of wellbore construction and completion processes.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator disposed in the respective load cylinder and operable to retract the respective second bail segment from a hoisting position to a ready position
Implementation Method 2
The compensating bails are capable of supporting string weight in the hoisting position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3~5
AI summary
A pipe handler for assembling and deploying a string of threaded tubulars into a wellbore includes a pair of compensating bails and an elevator pivotally connected to the compensating bails. Each compensating bail includes: a first bail segment; a second bail segment; and a compensator connecting the respective first and second bail segments. Each compensator includes a load cylinder connected to the respective first bail segment and a linear actuator disposed in the respective load cylinder and operable to retract the respective second bail segment from a hoisting position to a ready position. Each second bail segment is engaged with the respective load cylinder in the hoisting position. The compensating bails are capable of supporting string weight in the hoisting position.