Energizing Ring Varied Cross-Section for Downhole Seal Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole sealing systems in oil and gas production require high setting loads due to frictional forces between the energizing ring and the seal, which can be limiting when using equipment with restricted bore pressure, such as blowout preventers, and result in increased costs for high-pressure rated components.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an energizing ring with a varied cross-section featuring alternating peaks and valleys reduces the contact area and frictional load by forming localized points of interference, allowing for reduced setting loads without compromising the sealing capability, and incorporating geometric features like bumps, tapers, and sinusoidal patterns to minimize the radial clamping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a conventional energizing ring with uniform cross-section is used, then the seal can be activated, but the setting load is high due to frictional forces between the energizing ring and the seal
Solution Approach 1:
The energizing ring incorporates a varied cross-section with alternating peaks and valleys along its axial length, creating localized regions of different diameters. This local variation in geometry reduces the contact area between the energizing ring and the seal at specific locations (valleys) while maintaining engagement at other locations (peaks), thereby reducing overall frictional forces and setting load while preserving sealing capability through localized contact points
2Ease of manufacture
If high setting loads are used to overcome frictional forces, then the seal can be set, but the cost increases due to requirement for high-pressure rated components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the energizing ring by introducing a varied cross-section with specific peak and valley configurations. This parameter change reduces the frictional force parameter during seal setting, thereby reducing the setting load required. This allows the use of lower-pressure rated components that are more cost-effective while still achieving reliable seal setting
3Force
If the contact area between the energizing ring and seal is reduced, then the frictional load decreases, but the sealing reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The energizing ring is segmented axially into multiple regions with alternating peaks and valleys, creating discrete contact points rather than continuous contact. This segmentation reduces the overall contact area and frictional load while maintaining sealing reliability through the distributed array of peak contact points that collectively provide sufficient contact pressure across the seal interface
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 approach decreases the energy required to set the seal, enabling the use of lower-pressure rated tools and components, reducing operational costs and expanding the scenarios in which seals can be effectively set, while maintaining the necessary contact pressure for a reliable seal.
Implementation Method 1
The energizing ring extends into an opening of the seal to drive the first leg and the second leg radially outward relative to an axis of the energizing ring
Implementation Method 2
respective geometric features of the plurality of geometric features form areas of high and low concentrations of pressure that alternate axially along a length of the energizing ring when installed within the opening
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include an energizing ring for setting a downhole seal includes a body having a varied cross-section along at least a portion of an axial length. The energizing ring also includes a plurality of peaks forming at least a portion of the varied cross-section having a first diameter. The energizing ring also includes a plurality of valleys forming at least a portion of the varied cross-section having a second diameter, the first diameter being larger than the second diameter, and respective valleys of the plurality of valleys being arranged proximate respective peaks of the plurality of peaks.