Annular Elastomeric Packer Segmentation for BOP Extrusion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The sealing integrity of annular blowout preventers (BOPs) is compromised due to the extrusion of elastomeric material when actuated, reducing the sealing pressure and effectiveness, especially in varying pressure and temperature environments.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a unique annular elastomeric packer with alternating long and short inserts, where the elastomeric body is coupled to these inserts, and the inserts feature specific flange and rib configurations that increase arcuate overlap as the BOP is actuated, preventing elastomeric material flow and maintaining sealing pressure by capturing it radially between the inserts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an annular elastomeric packer is actuated to close the BOP, then sealing capability is improved, but elastomeric material extrusion occurs reducing sealing integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The packer is segmented into multiple circumferentially spaced inserts (first inserts and second inserts) with different lengths. This segmentation prevents the elastomeric material from extruding continuously around the circumference, as the alternating pattern of long and short inserts creates discrete containment zones that restrict material flow while maintaining sealing capability.
2Reliability
If the BOP is actuated to restrict fluid flow, then blowout prevention is improved, but elastomeric material flows between inserts reducing sealing pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The packer employs asymmetric insert lengths where first inserts are longer than second inserts. This asymmetric configuration creates varying degrees of material containment at different circumferential positions. The longer inserts provide greater restraint against elastomeric material flow, while the shorter inserts allow for controlled compression, collectively preventing material loss and maintaining sealing pressure during BOP actuation.
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 configuration enhances the sealing pressure and prevents elastomeric material extrusion, allowing the BOP to function effectively across a wider range of environments and pressures, improving its sealing integrity and operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the elastomeric packer seals against itself and/or against an outer surface of a drill string extending through the BOP stack and into the wellbore
Data Source
AI summary
An annular elastomeric packer for a blowout preventer includes a first insert including an upper flange extending between a radially inner end and a radially outer end, a lower flange extending between a radially inner end and a radially outer end, and a rib extending between the upper flange and the lower flange, wherein the rib includes a length extending between an upper end and a lower end of the rib, a second insert including an upper flange extending between a radially inner end and a radially outer end, a lower flange extending between a radially inner end and a radially outer end, and a rib extending between the upper flange and lower flange, wherein the rib includes a length extending between an upper end and a lower end of the rib, an elastomeric body coupled to the first insert and the second insert, and including an inner sealing surface.