Elevator Link Compensator for Casing Load Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for running casing into a wellbore with a casing running tool face challenges in fine control and safety due to the high weight of the casing string, which can lead to degradation of components when the entire string weight is applied to the elevator links and elevators, exceeding their load rating.
Innovation Solution
A compensator link assembly with upper and lower links that fit telescopically, coupled with a compensator cylinder and a hydraulic control system, allowing for adjustment of fluid pressure to manage the position and load of the links, providing flexibility and fine control during the make-up of casing connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the draw works hoists the CRT with links and elevator, then the casing joint can be lifted into position, but the links and elevator may be exposed to excessive weight exceeding their load rating
Solution Approach 1:
A compensator assembly is introduced as an intermediary device between the draw works and the elevator links. This compensator includes a compensator cylinder that can be pressurized to extend and take up the slack in the elevator links, thereby preventing the links from bearing excessive load when the casing string weight exceeds the elevator's rating. The compensator acts as a buffer that absorbs the excess weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the compensator cylinder by controlling fluid pressure within it. When pressurized, the compensator cylinder extends to compensate for the weight of the casing string, effectively adjusting the load distribution parameter to keep the elevator links within their safe operating load range.
2Manufacturing precision
If the draw works provides fine control during make-up of connection, then thread degradation can be avoided, but controlling such powerful draw works becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The compensator assembly serves as a mediator that absorbs the excess power and weight from the draw works, making it easier to control during the make-up operation. By taking up the slack and buffering the weight, it reduces the direct control burden on the draw works operator, enabling finer control during the critical connection making process.
Solution Approach 2:
The compensator system introduces dynamic adjustment capability through the pressurizable compensator cylinder. The system can dynamically adapt to changing load conditions during the make-up operation, providing smooth and controlled movement that facilitates precise connection making while reducing operational difficulty.
3Productivity
If miscommunication occurs between driller and CRT operator, then the CRT components may be exposed to complete casing string weight, but the system lacks protection mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The compensator assembly provides beforehand cushioning by being pre-configured to compensate for excessive weight. When the compensator cylinder is pressurized, it extends and takes up the slack in the elevator links before excessive load can be applied to the links and elevator. This protective mechanism is in place before any miscommunication or overload condition occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The compensator acts as a protective intermediary that prevents the harmful transmission of excessive weight to the elevator links and other CRT components. Even in cases of miscommunication or operational errors, the compensator buffer protects the system from uncontrolled loading conditions.
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
The compensator link assembly enables safe operation by preventing excessive loading on the elevator links and elevators, allowing for precise control during the hoisting and lowering of casing joints, thereby protecting the components from degradation and ensuring accurate connection making.
Implementation Method 1
a compensator cylinder configured to couple to the upper link and the lower link, and configured to adjust a position of the lower link with respect to the upper link
Implementation Method 2
The lower link is configured to fit telescopically within the upper link
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to systems and methods for running casing into a wellbore with a casing running tool (CRT), such as a casing drive system (CDS), that is equipped with single joint elevator links and elevators. For example, in certain embodiments, a system includes a joint elevator configured to engage a joint of a tubular element. The system also includes an elevator link comprising an upper link and a lower link. The lower link is configured to couple to the joint elevator. In addition, the lower link is configured to fit telescopically within the upper link. The system further includes a compensator cylinder configured to couple to the upper link and the lower link, and configured to adjust a position of the lower link with respect to the upper link.