Quick-Coupling Drill Pipe Connector With Low-Torque Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing drill pipe connection process is time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring significant rotation and torque to engage joints, which can cause pipe whirl and stress on equipment, and is inefficient for automating the process of tripping drill pipe in and out of a well.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect pipe system with a box end and pin end configuration that minimizes rotation and torque requirements, featuring an annular end surface, receiving portion, engagement portion, and collar to secure pipe segments with a union type locking coupling, allowing for faster and more efficient connection and disconnection of drill pipe segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded and tapered drill pipe connections are used, then sufficient torsional and tensile integrity is achieved, but the connection process is time-consuming and requires significant rotation and torque
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional segments: a box end with internal receiving portion and engagement portion, a pin end with tapered insertion portion and collar, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling quick connection while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered portion of the pin end is pre-configured to automatically guide and align with the receiving portion when inserted. The collar is pre-positioned to engage the engagement portion, so that connection is achieved through simple insertion and minimal rotation rather than time-consuming threading operations.
2Reliability
If traditional drill pipe connections requiring multiple turns and torque are used, then proper engagement and sealing are ensured, but pipe whirl occurs and equipment experiences stress and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The tapered portion of the pin end and the receiving portion utilize curved/tapered surfaces rather than sharp edges or flat surfaces. This curved geometry guides the connection components together smoothly during insertion, reducing impact forces and preventing pipe whirl while ensuring proper alignment and engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar acts as an intermediary component between the pin end and box end. It sleeves over the engagement portion and provides a controlled interface for locking, distributing forces evenly and preventing direct stress concentration that would cause equipment wear and pipe whirl.
3Reliability
If traditional drill pipe connection processes are used, then sufficient engagement is achieved, but automation of the tripping process is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tapered portion of the pin end and receiving portion are designed to self-align and self-guide during insertion. The collar automatically engages the engagement portion and can be locked with minimal intervention, enabling automated systems to perform connections without complex control mechanisms or manual oversight.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional complex threading and torqueing mechanical system is replaced with a simpler insertion-and-lock mechanism. This substitution reduces the mechanical complexity that would otherwise require sophisticated automated control, making the process amenable to automation while maintaining reliable engagement.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connect pipe connection for drill pipe may include a box end having an annular end surface that gives way internally to a receiving portion and externally to an engagement portion. The connection may also include a pin end configured for rotationally and longitudinally engaging the box end. The pin end may include a tapered portion configured for longitudinal insertion into the receiving portion and resisting relative rotation between the box end and the pin end. The pin end may also include a collar configured for sleeving over the engagement portion of the box end and resisting relative longitudinal motion between the box end and the pin end.