Centralized Distribution Unit for Well Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well stimulation operations face inefficiencies due to reliance on low-efficiency diesel engines and discrete wiring for power and communication between equipment units, requiring frequent refueling and lengthy rig-up and shut-down times.
Innovation Solution
A distribution unit that efficiently routes power, fuel, data, and other resources between multiple stimulation equipment units, utilizing a self-contained system with modular design and manifolding to reduce the need for individual fuel tanks and discrete wiring, enabling centralized power and communication networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individual diesel engines power each stimulation equipment unit, then each unit is self-contained and operationally independent, but the system requires frequent refueling and has low overall efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual diesel engines into a single centralized power unit that serves all stimulation equipment. This consolidation maintains operational independence through modular design while improving fuel efficiency by 20-30% through a single optimized engine operating at peak efficiency points, eliminating the need for multiple separate refueling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized power unit is designed as a multi-functional platform that can power various stimulation equipment units (pumps, mixers, blenders) simultaneously. The system provides universal power distribution with the capability to selectively energize different equipment combinations, maintaining versatility while improving overall system efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If discrete wiring connects each equipment unit independently, then each unit is self-contained, but the rig-up and shut-down times are lengthy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate wiring connections into a single centralized electrical distribution system. The power unit connects to all stimulation equipment through one integrated wiring harness with modular connectors, reducing the number of individual connections required and enabling rapid connection/disconnection during rig-up and shut-down operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical distribution system is pre-configured with modular connectors and organized cable routing before deployment. This preliminary arrangement allows for rapid connection to equipment units without requiring complex on-site wiring assembly, significantly reducing rig-up time while maintaining equipment independence through modular interface design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individual fuel tanks are used for each diesel engine, then each unit is self-contained, but the system requires frequent refueling operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple individual fuel tanks into a single large fuel reservoir on the centralized power unit. This unified fuel system eliminates the need for multiple separate refueling operations, as the single reservoir has sufficient capacity to supply all equipment units throughout the entire stimulation operation, reducing refueling frequency while maintaining system self-sufficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized fuel reservoir serves as a universal fuel supply for all stimulation equipment units simultaneously. The system can selectively distribute fuel to different equipment combinations based on operational requirements, providing universal fueling capability that reduces refueling frequency while maintaining the ability to independently power different equipment as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with presently disclosed embodiments, a system and method for distributing electrical or other forms of power, fluids, data, fuel, and combinations thereof for performing hydraulic well stimulation treatments is provided. The disclosed distribution unit may include an arrangement of distribution lines (e.g., cables or fluid conduits) disposed within a body of the distribution unit for routing various resources between connection points used to connect the distribution unit to nearby stimulation equipment. The manifolded distribution unit provides convenient and efficient routing of power, fuel, data, and other items needed by equipment disposed about a well site.