Dual Flow Restrictor Valves for Adjustable Pressure Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid pipeline systems face challenges with pressure control, as they either require expensive hydraulic actuators or non-adjustable pressure-relief valves that need frequent replacement, and often expose sealing faces to abrasive fluid flow, reducing their effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A flow restrictor system comprising a first non-adjustable and a second adjustable flow restrictor, with pistons that open in response to high-pressure conditions, and a pressure sensor for electronic control, allowing for inline positioning and adjustable pressure relief.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard control valves with actuators are used for pressure control, then pressure adjustment capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides pressure control into two independent flow restrictors: a first flow restrictor for high-pressure relief and a second flow restrictor for adjustable pressure control. Each restrictor handles a specific pressure range, eliminating the need for a single complex valve with actuators while maintaining comprehensive pressure adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow restrictors use simple, maintenance-free designs without moving parts or sealing faces that wear from abrasive fluid flow. The restrictors are positioned inline and require no replacement, contrasting with expensive standard valves that need frequent maintenance and actuator replacement.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If pop-off valves are used for pressure relief, then pressure relief function is improved, but adjustability and reusability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The second flow restrictor incorporates adjustable orifices that can be dynamically changed to modify the pressure relief set-point. This allows the system to adapt to different pressure relief requirements without replacing the entire valve, unlike fixed pop-off valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The combined system of two flow restrictors serves multiple functions: the first provides high-pressure relief, while the second provides adjustable pressure control and lower-pressure relief. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple separate valves.
3Ease of operation
If sealing faces are exposed to abrasive fluid flow, then valve operation is simplified, but reliability and durability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes sealing faces and moving parts from the fluid flow path entirely. The flow restrictors use fixed orifices and bypass passages that do not require sealing against abrasive fluid, eliminating wear and maintaining reliability while simplifying the overall valve structure.
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
Provides effective pressure adjustment and relief in fluid conduits, maintaining sealing faces out of abrasive fluid flow, and offering redundant sensors and controls for fail-resistant operation, enhancing integration with wellbore activities.
Implementation Method 1
each port comprises an adjustable plunger configured to move within the port to adjustably restrict fluid flow through the longitudinal perforation
Implementation Method 2
The piston of either or both of the first and second flow restrictor may open responsive of a high-pressure condition. Moreover, the piston of either or both of the first and second flow restrictor may open responsive of an electronic signal indicating a high-pressure condition in the fluid conduit, wherein the electronic signal is received from the pressure sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure control system configured to respond to high-pressure conditions in a fluid conduit is disclosed. The system generally includes first and second flow restrictors positionable inline on a fluid conduit and configured to block fluid flow in the conduit and respond to a high-pressure event to allow fluid flow therethrough. The first flow restrictor is position upstream from the second flow restrictor and may open to allow fluid flow in response to the high-pressure event. The second flow restrictor provides adjustable flow of fluid therethrough or may open a bypass line in response to the high-pressure event to allow unrestricted fluid flow therethrough.