Electric BOP Ram Actuation for Precise Speed and Torque Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional blow-out preventers (BOPs) are difficult to control in terms of speed and torque due to their hydraulic actuation, making precise operation challenging.

Innovation Solution

The use of electric motors with variable-frequency drives (VFDs) to actuate BOP rams, coupled with sensors to capture position, speed, and torque data, and a controller to manage the electric motor's frequency and voltage for precise control in different operational modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If hydraulic actuation is used for BOP, then the system can achieve sufficient force for sealing and cutting, but the speed and torque control becomes difficult and imprecise

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed and torque controlVSAvoidcontrol precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the hydraulic actuation system with an electric motor system. The electric motor with VFD provides precise electronic control of speed and torque through variable frequency and voltage adjustment, eliminating the inherent control difficulties of hydraulic systems while maintaining the force required for BOP operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes variable-frequency drive technology to dynamically change electrical parameters (frequency and voltage) supplied to the electric motor. This allows continuous adjustment of motor speed and torque output, enabling precise control during different phases of BOP operation (approach, sealing, cutting) without the limitations of fixed hydraulic pressure systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If electric motor with VFD is used to actuate BOP, then precise speed and torque control is achieved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electric motor with VFD serves multiple functions: it provides both speed control and torque control through a single integrated system. The VFD handles both variable speed operation during ram approach and high torque delivery during cutting, eliminating the need for separate hydraulic pumps, valves, and pressure control systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the added electrical control components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables precise control of BOP ram movement and torque, allowing for efficient sealing and cutting of pipes with improved speed and torque management compared to conventional hydraulic systems.

Implementation Method 1

an electric motor with a variable-frequency drive (VFD)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVariable-frequency drive:

Data Source

PatentUS20250376907A1Electrically-actuated blow-out preventer

Publication Date: 2025.12.11 SCHLUMBERGER TECH CORP

AI summary

A method includes actuating a blow-out preventer (BOP) by moving a ram using an electric motor. The method also includes capturing sensor data with one or more sensors as the BOP is electrically-actuated. The method also includes determining one or more parameters with a controller based upon the sensor data. The method also includes controlling the electric motor based upon the one or more parameters.