Doping Device Nozzle for Pipe Thread Coating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic systems for subterranean operations face challenges in accurately applying dope to tubular threads and shoulders, leading to issues such as inadequate protection, difficulty in connection, and waste due to either insufficient or excessive dope application.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a doping device that applies a fluid layer to tubular threads and shoulders with precise control over thickness and area coverage, using a nozzle operated at adjustable pressures to form a uniform layer, and a method involving a pipe handler to rotate the tubular relative to the nozzles for efficient dope application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If too little dope is applied to the tubular threads and shoulder, then the connection may not protect the threads as desired, but if too much dope is applied, then it takes longer to tighten the connection and dope is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the dope application parameters including fluid pressure (2-200 bar), nozzle-to-threads distance, rotation speed, and fluid flow rate to achieve optimal dope layer thickness that prevents both under-application and over-application
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback control where the actual dope application is monitored and adjusted in real-time. The controller receives feedback on application quality and modifies parameters to maintain the correct dope layer thickness, ensuring reliable thread protection without excess waste
2Productivity
If too much dope is applied to the tubular threads and shoulder, then it takes longer to tighten the connection because excess dope must be squeezed out, but if the correct amount is applied, then connection time is optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes connection speed by precisely controlling dope application parameters to apply the correct amount from the start. The fluid pressure (2-200 bar), nozzle positioning, and rotation speed are adjusted to achieve complete thread coverage with the exact required dope quantity, eliminating the need for squeezing out excess dope and maximizing productivity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a doping device is designed to accommodate various tubular sizes, then versatility is improved, but maintaining consistent dope layer thickness across different sizes becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The doping device achieves universality by incorporating adjustable components including variable fluid pressure control (2-200 bar), adjustable nozzle-to-threads distance, and controllable rotation speed. These universal adjustment capabilities allow the same device to accommodate different tubular sizes while maintaining consistent dope layer thickness through parameter optimization for each specific application
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 ensures a consistent and controlled application of dope, preventing connection issues and minimizing waste by maintaining an average thickness of less than 3 mm across at least 25% of the circumference and 10 mm axial length, accommodating various tubular sizes without nozzle adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a nozzle operated at an elevated pressure which forces the fluid through the nozzle and sprays the fluid on the threads and shoulders of the end of the tubular
Implementation Method 2
as the tubular is rotated relative to the doping device
Data Source
AI summary
A system for conducting a subterranean operation with nozzle of a doping device rotationally fixed to a rig with the nozzle being directed radially toward a portion of a tubular when the portion of the tubular is positioned proximate the doping device, with the doping device, via the nozzle, configured to apply a dope to the portion of the tubular, where the nozzle deposits a layer of the dope on the portion of the tubular while the tubular is being rotated.