Hydraulic Rotation Brake Lock for Drill String Pipe Breakout
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Horizontal directional drills face challenges in efficiently making up and breaking out pipe segments from a drill string, particularly in stopping the rotation of the spindle assembly to disconnect and reconnect pipe segments without causing wear or damage.
Innovation Solution
A rotation brake system comprising a motor-driven pinion, spindle, and a brake assembly with a movable brake lock that can be actuated between engaged and disengaged positions to stop the rotation of the spindle assembly, utilizing a hydraulic actuator and compression spring to interact with the pinion and lock interface, allowing for controlled rotation and disconnection of pipe segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the spindle assembly rotates continuously to advance the drill string, then drilling productivity is improved, but the ability to stop and disconnect pipe segments becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A brake assembly is introduced as an intermediary device between the motor and the drill string. The brake assembly includes a brake drum connected to the motor output shaft and brake shoes that can be applied to the brake drum to stop rotation. This intermediary allows the motor to remain connected to the drill string while providing a controlled means to stop rotation when pipe segments need to be disconnected or reconnected.
2Ease of operation
If conventional braking methods are used to stop the spindle assembly, then rotation can be stopped, but wear and damage to components occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The brake assembly is actuated by a hydraulic cylinder that pushes the brake shoes against the brake drum. This hydraulic actuation provides controlled, gradual application of braking force rather than sudden mechanical engagement, reducing shock loads and wear on components. The hydraulic system allows for smooth start and stop of the drill string rotation, extending component life while maintaining operational capability.
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 rotation brake system effectively stops and starts the spindle assembly's rotation, reducing wear on components and enabling efficient addition and removal of pipe segments, enhancing the operational reliability and longevity of the drill string during repetitive drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a hydraulic actuator and compression spring to interact with the pinion and lock interface
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a hydraulic actuator and compression spring to interact with the pinion and lock interface
Implementation Method 3
the brake lock interacts with the pinion and stops its rotation
Data Source
AI summary
A rotation brake for stopping rotation of a spindle assembly on a horizontal directional drill. The rotation brake comprises a brake lock that is actuated by a cylinder and spring to interact with a non-rotating brake cap and a rotating pinion, thereby stopping rotation of the pinion. The brake lock is removed from the pinion by applying pressurized fluid to a cylinder such that a cylinder rod moves the brake lock out of a cavity between the brake cap and the pinion. Upon removing fluid pressure from the cylinder, a compressed spring moves the brake lock back to into the cavity, preventing rotation.