Equalization Valve for Well Pressure Control Device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for installing and retrieving pressure control device components from subterranean well systems are inefficient, lacking a convenient and effective means for pressure equalization during these operations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an equalization valve system that allows for selective fluid communication between the annulus and the interior of the tubular string, utilizing a mandrel with a biasing device and flow restriction to control fluid flow and create pressure differentials, enabling the valve to switch between open and closed configurations based on fluid flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional methods are used to install and retrieve pressure control device components, then the device structure remains simple, but the installation and retrieval efficiency is low and pressure equalization cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: an equalization valve assembly for pressure equalization, a running tool for installation and retrieval operations, and a pressure control device with bearings and seals. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The equalization valve acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the annulus and the interior of the tubular string, enabling controlled fluid communication to equalize pressure during installation and retrieval operations without requiring complex manual pressure control procedures.
2Reliability
If pressure equalization is not maintained during component installation and retrieval, then the device structure remains simple, but pressure differentials cause isolation of annulus sections and operational complications
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization valve is designed to automatically respond to pressure differentials between the annulus and the tubular string interior. When pressure equalization is needed, the valve opens to allow fluid flow; when pressures are balanced, the valve closes. This self-regulating mechanism maintains pressure equalization without requiring complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The equalization valve utilizes fluid pressure differentials (hydraulic principles) to control the opening and closing of the valve. The biasing device and flow restriction work together to create controlled pressure differentials that automatically equalize pressure between the annulus and the tubular string interior during installation and retrieval operations.
3Ease of operation
If fluid communication is not provided between annulus and tubular string interior, then the device structure remains simple, but pressure differentials cannot be controlled and component installation/retrieval becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization valve transitions between static (closed) and dynamic (open) states based on operational requirements and pressure differentials. The valve can open to provide fluid communication when pressure equalization is needed during installation or retrieval, and close when pressures are balanced, providing dynamic control of fluid communication without complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow restriction component modifies the flow characteristics by creating a controlled restriction in the fluid passage. This parameter change (flow restriction) allows the system to control the rate and amount of fluid communication between the annulus and tubular string interior, enabling smooth pressure equalization during component installation and retrieval operations.
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
Facilitates efficient installation and retrieval of pressure control device components by maintaining pressure equalization, allowing for fluid communication to prevent isolation of annulus sections and enabling pressure testing, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing device may be provided which acts on the mandrel to return the mandrel to the closed position
Implementation Method 2
A flow restriction may be provided in the passage through the equalization valve housing assembly
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method can include positioning a tubular string in a riser string including an outer housing of a pressure control device and an annular seal operable to prevent flow through an annulus between the tubular and riser strings, the tubular string including an equalization valve and a running tool operable to convey a releasable assembly of the pressure control device through the riser string, and opening the equalization valve, thereby permitting fluid communication between the annulus and a flow passage extending longitudinally through the tubular string. A system can include a riser string including an annular blowout preventer with an annular seal, a tubular string including a running tool and an equalization valve releasably attachable to a releasable assembly including an annular seal, and the equalization valve selectively preventing and permitting fluid communication between a flow passage of the tubular string and an annulus between the annular seals.