Flexible Manifold Assembly for Fluid End Alignment and Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manifold assemblies for high-pressure fluid ends in hydraulic fracturing operations face challenges with difficult alignment and misalignment issues, leading to increased stress and reduced operating life due to the rigidity of traditional metal conduits.
Innovation Solution
A flexible manifold assembly with a frame and adjustable conduits that can be easily aligned and attached to the fluid end, using quick connection mechanisms such as clamps and camlock fittings to minimize misalignment and vibration, allowing for modular and replaceable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid metal conduits are used to connect manifolds to fluid ends, then structural strength and stability are improved, but alignment difficulty and misalignment stress increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid metal conduits with flexible hoses that have sufficient strength to handle high-pressure hydraulic fracturing fluids while providing the flexibility needed for easy alignment during installation. The flexible hoses can accommodate minor misalignments without creating excessive stress on connected components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of conduit rigidity by selecting flexible hose materials with appropriate pressure ratings. This allows the system to maintain structural integrity under high pressure while gaining the operational flexibility needed for straightforward alignment and installation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid metal conduits are used, then connection stability is improved, but misalignment leads to increased stress and reduced operating life
Solution Approach 1:
Flexible hoses provide connection stability through secure mounting while accommodating alignment variations, preventing the excessive stress that would otherwise develop in rigid systems. This reduces wear and extends the operating life of both the hoses and connected components.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible nature of the hoses provides a cushioning effect that absorbs misalignment stresses before they can propagate to connected components. This preemptive stress absorption protects the system and extends component life.
3Productivity
If traditional manifold assemblies are used, then fluid delivery capability is achieved, but alignment difficulty increases installation time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible hoses enable quick connection to the fluid end without requiring precise alignment, significantly reducing installation time. The hoses can be easily routed and connected while maintaining the high-pressure fluid delivery capability needed for hydraulic fracturing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible hose system provides dynamic adaptability during installation, allowing the connection to be made with varying degrees of alignment. This dynamic flexibility eliminates the time-consuming alignment adjustments required by rigid conduit systems.
4Strength
If rigid conduits are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but vibration and misalignment increase maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible hoses maintain sufficient structural integrity for high-pressure service while reducing vibration and misalignment-related wear. This decreases maintenance requirements and makes repairs simpler, as the flexible connections are less prone to failure from stress and vibration.
Data Source
AI summary
A manifold assembly configured for use with a fluid end used in oil and gas operations. The manifold assembly comprises upper and lower manifolds supported on side posts such that the manifolds and posts define a central opening. In operation, the fluid end is positioned within the central opening such that the manifold assembly surrounds the fluid end. The manifold assembly is not attached to the fluid end other than flexible conduits interconnecting the fluid and the manifolds. The manifold assembly is modular and when assembled, may be moved together as a single unit.