Flexible Adapter for Submersible Pumping Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Submersible pumping systems face challenges in navigating non-vertical wellbores due to their rigidity, which limits their deployment in offset, deviated, horizontal, or other non-vertical wells, as existing systems lack the flexibility to efficiently manage angular movements and torque transfer in such configurations.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a flexible adapter with an articulating joint, featuring a flexible metal casing and shaft coupling, allows for angular movement between components within the pumping system, enabling the system to navigate non-vertical wellbores by transferring torque and facilitating fluid flow while accommodating angular offsets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid pumping system is used, then structural strength and stability are improved, but the system cannot navigate non-vertical wellbores
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping system is divided into multiple modular components (pump assemblies, adapters, articulating joints) that can be independently connected and configured. This segmentation allows the system to maintain structural integrity while adapting to wellbore geometry through articulated connections between segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates articulating joints with universal joints and flexible casings that enable dynamic angular movement between rigid components. This allows the system to navigate deviated and horizontal wellbores while maintaining the strength benefits of rigid construction through controlled flexibility at connection points.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible connection is introduced to enable angular movement, then adaptability to non-vertical wellbores is improved, but torque transfer capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Universal joints and flexible casings serve as intermediary elements between rigid shafts, enabling angular movement while maintaining efficient torque transfer. These intermediaries accommodate misalignment and wellbore curvature without significant power loss.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible metal casing surrounds the articulating joint components, providing structural support and sealing while allowing angular movement. This flexible enclosure maintains system integrity during articulation.
3Ease of manufacture
If rigid components are used throughout the system, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but deployment in deviated and horizontal wells becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses standardized modular components that can be manufactured using conventional processes, maintaining ease of production. The articulating joints are designed as discrete assemblies that integrate standard manufacturing techniques with the required flexibility functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter is used to connect a first component within a downhole pumping system to a second component within the downhole pumping system. The adapter includes an upstream section adjacent the first component and a downstream section adjacent the second component. The adapter further includes an articulating joint that permits the angular movement of the first component with respect to the second component. The articulating joint includes a flexible metal casing extending between the upstream section and the downstream section.