Fluid-End Valve Seal Geometry to Reduce Wear and Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional valves used in fluid ends for high-pressure hydraulic fracturing operations suffer from wear, erosion, and failure due to seal separation, leading to fluid leaks and reduced operational efficiency, necessitating frequent replacements that disrupt production.
Innovation Solution
The design of valves with a tapered sealing surface and recessed surface featuring specific geometric segments and a urethane seal configuration that minimizes wear, reduces erosion, and prevents seal separation, ensuring proper sealing and extending valve life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional valve seals are used in high-pressure hydraulic fracturing operations, then the valve can perform its sealing function, but the seal experiences wear, erosion, and separation leading to frequent failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the seal and recess configuration, specifically using a tapered seal profile with specific angle ranges (15-45 degrees) and a recess geometry with multiple radius segments (R1, R2, R3, R4) and straight-line segments (L1, L2, L3, L4) to optimize stress distribution and reduce wear
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curved surfaces throughout the seal design, including a tapered seal profile with curved transitions, multiple radius segments in the recess geometry, and a contoured seal face that contacts the valve seat, all designed to distribute stress and prevent stress concentration that leads to wear and separation
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the seal is made more robust to prevent wear and erosion, then durability improves, but the complexity of the valve structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the recess geometry into distinct geometric features including multiple radius segments (R1, R2, R3, R4) and straight-line segments (L1, L2, L3, L4), allowing each segment to serve a specific function in stress distribution and seal retention while maintaining manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different geometric characteristics to different regions of the seal and recess: the tapered profile with specific angles in the sealing region, radius segments in high-stress areas, and straight-line segments in transition zones, optimizing local performance without requiring complete redesign of the entire valve structure
Data Source
AI summary
A valve configured to seal against a valve seat. The valve and valve seat are configured to be installed within a fluid end. A recess is formed within the valve for receiving a seal. A shape of the recess and a shape of the valve are designed to reduce wear to the seal during operation.