Compressor Casing Flow Regulator Layout for Faster Subsea Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing subsea oil/gas extraction systems face challenges in efficiently modifying the flow regulation device due to its deep-seated location within the compressor casing, requiring extensive disassembly and resulting in prolonged shutdowns for maintenance, which leads to temporary suspension of operations and loss of production.
Innovation Solution
A turbomachinery system with a particle separation device and a flow regulation device integrated within the casing, where the flow regulation device communicates with the particle separation device without direct contact, allowing for easier access and replacement, reducing maintenance time by eliminating the need for complete compressor disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the flow regulation device is placed deep inside the compressor casing, then the system structure is compact, but the maintenance time increases significantly and operational downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulation device is segmented from the compressor assembly and placed in a separate accessible location. The device is divided into modular components that can be independently accessed and maintained without disassembling the entire compressor, thereby reducing maintenance time while maintaining system compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary connection system is introduced between the compressor and the flow regulation device, allowing the device to be positioned in an accessible location while maintaining functional integration with the compressor. This intermediary mechanism enables quick access for maintenance without requiring compressor disassembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the flow regulation device is integrated with multiple connections to the compressor casing and dust removing device, then the system integration is improved, but the ease of repair deteriorates due to multiple disconnection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulation device is segmented into a standalone modular unit with standardized connection interfaces. This segmentation allows the device to maintain integrated functionality while enabling quick detachment and replacement without requiring disconnection of multiple internal components, significantly improving ease of repair.
3Ease of operation
If the compressor must be disconnected from the seabed and brought to surface facility for flow regulation device modification, then complete system access is achieved, but productivity decreases due to temporary suspension of operations
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulation device is extracted from the compressor assembly and repositioned in an externally accessible location. This extraction allows maintenance personnel to access and replace the device without disconnecting the compressor from the seabed or bringing it to the surface, thereby maintaining operational continuity and productivity while still enabling complete system access when needed.
4Device complexity
If the flow regulation device is placed in a location difficult to access from outside the compressor, then the system structure is simplified, but the ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediary access mechanism is introduced that allows the flow regulation device to be positioned in a structurally integrated location while maintaining external accessibility. This intermediary system enables maintenance personnel to reach the device from outside the compressor without compromising the overall structural simplicity.
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 configuration enables faster replacement of the flow regulation device, reducing maintenance time from 12 to 48 hours, minimizing operational downtime and maintaining production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a particle separation device configured to separate particles from the cooling fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A method for assembling turbomachinery having combined particle separation device and flow regulating device is provided. The turbomachinery includes a casing; a compressor attached to an inside of the casing, the compressor having a shaft supported by bearings; and a cooling system mounted inside the casing and configured to cool the bearings of the compressor with a cooling fluid. The cooling system includes a particle separation device configured to separate particles from the cooling fluid, and a flow regulation device that fluidly communicates with the particle separation device without contacting the particle separation device. The flow regulation device is disposed adjacent to the particle separation device within a wall of the casing.