Composite Annular Seal Assembly for Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pressure control devices for subterranean wells face challenges in effectively sealing the annulus between the drill string and the riser string, particularly during rotation, which can lead to fluid leakage and damage to the seal components.
Innovation Solution
A pressure control device incorporating a releasable assembly with annular seals and bearings, secured by a latch, and an annular seal assembly comprising a resilient seal element bonded to a rigid support element, which prevents radial displacement and fluid flow through the annular gap between the housing and the releasable assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If annular seals are used to seal the annulus between drill string and riser string, then pressure control is improved, but the seals are damaged during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The annular seal assembly is divided into separate functional components: a stationary seal element固定在housing中, and a rotating seal element attached to the drill string. This segmentation allows each seal element to be optimized for its specific function - the stationary seal provides sealing while the rotating seal accommodates rotational movement, preventing damage during operation
Solution Approach 2:
A bearing assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the stationary and rotating seal elements. This bearing facilitates smooth rotational movement while maintaining the sealing interface, reducing friction and preventing seal damage during rotation of the drill string
2Ease of operation
If releasable assembly with bearings is used to allow rotation, then operational flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing assembly is integrated directly into the housing structure, merging the support function with the existing housing. The latch mechanism is incorporated into the housing assembly, combining the retention function with the structural component. This merging approach provides rotational capability while minimizing additional complexity by utilizing existing structural elements
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 ensures secure sealing and prevents damage to the seal components during operation, maintaining effective pressure control and fluid containment within the well system.
Implementation Method 1
an annular seal assembly comprising a resilient seal element bonded to a rigid support element, which prevents radial displacement and fluid flow through the annular gap between the housing and the releasable assembly
Data Source
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AI summary
A pressure control device can include a housing assembly, a releasable assembly releasably secured relative to the housing assembly, the releasable assembly being configured to seal against a tubular string extending through the pressure control device, and an annular seal assembly that prevents flow through an annular gap formed radially between the housing assembly and the releasable assembly, the annular seal assembly comprising a resilient seal element bonded to a rigid support element. A method of securing a releasable assembly in a housing assembly of a pressure control device can include attaching an annular seal assembly to the releasable assembly, the annular seal assembly comprising a rigid support element bonded to a resilient seal element, and receiving the releasable assembly at least partially in the housing assembly, thereby sealingly engaging the resilient seal element with a seal bore in the housing assembly.