Drill String Test Coupling With Isolation Wall
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drill string testing methods are inefficient, leading to increased operational downtime and safety hazards due to the inability to quickly identify and isolate component failures within the drill string, as they either test the entire string at once or individually, which prolongs the testing process and complicates fault localization.
Innovation Solution
A drill string testing system with a test coupling that has an isolation wall fluidically separating the upstream and downstream portions, allowing for concurrent and independent pressurization of each section, thereby enabling faster and safer testing while maintaining the structural integrity of the drill string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the entire drill string is tested at once, then the testing process is simplified, but the testing time is prolonged and fault localization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The drill string is divided into multiple testable sections using a test coupling with an isolation wall that creates separate first and second chambers. The first chamber connects to an upstream portion and the second chamber connects to a downstream portion, allowing independent testing of each section while maintaining overall system integrity.
2Measurement precision
If drill string portions are tested individually, then fault localization is improved, but the testing process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple testing functions are merged into a single test coupling device. The isolation wall creates separate chambers that can test upstream and downstream portions simultaneously or sequentially, combining the benefits of segmented testing with the efficiency of a unified testing apparatus.
3Reliability
If the drill string is pressurized for testing, then component failures can be identified, but operational downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test coupling allows the drive unit to remain continuously attached to the drill string during testing operations. The isolation wall enables pressurization and testing without requiring disassembly or removal of critical components, maintaining operational continuity and reducing downtime.
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 solution reduces overall testing time, enhances safety by allowing continuous attachment of the drive unit during testing, and improves fault localization efficiency, enabling quicker identification and resolution of component failures.
Implementation Method 1
The test coupling has an isolation wall that fluidically separates the upstream portion from the downstream portion
Implementation Method 2
Each drill string portion is connected to a pressure source that selectively pressurizes and tests the portions of the drill string
Data Source
AI summary
A drill string can be tested with a system that involves at least a test coupling positioned between and physically connecting an upstream portion of a drill string and a downstream portion of the drill string. The test coupling may have an isolation wall that fluidically separates the upstream portion from the downstream portion. Each drill string portion can be connected to a pressure source that selectively pressurizes and tests the portions of the drill string.