Flexible Fracturing Conduit Connectors for Erosion-Resistant Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fracturing fluid delivery systems face challenges in efficiently and reliably connecting flexible fracturing fluid conduits to wellhead assemblies, particularly due to erosion from abrasive particulates and difficulties in accommodating varying spacings and alignments, which can lead to leaks and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of flexible fracturing fluid conduits with quick connectors, such as piston-actuated, locking segment, and jaw-actuated connectors, that securely attach to wellhead assemblies, allowing for easy installation and operation, and include inner liners to mitigate erosion from abrasive fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flexible fracturing fluid conduits are used to accommodate varying spacings and alignments, then adaptability is improved, but connection reliability deteriorates due to erosion from abrasive particulates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an inner liner as an intermediary protective layer between the abrasive fracturing fluid and the flexible conduit material. This liner acts as a mediator that prevents direct contact between the erosive fluid and the conduit, thereby maintaining connection reliability while preserving the adaptability benefits of flexible conduits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining the flexible conduit material with an inner liner material that is specifically resistant to abrasion from particulate-laden fluids. This composite structure leverages the advantages of both materials: the flexibility and adaptability of the outer conduit and the erosion resistance of the inner liner.
2Ease of operation
If quick connectors are used to facilitate easy installation, then ease of operation is improved, but connection security worsens due to potential leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connector incorporates self-sealing mechanisms and self-latching features that automatically ensure proper sealing and secure connection upon engagement. The connector performs its own sealing function through integrated seals and O-rings that engage automatically, eliminating the need for additional manual sealing steps while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick connector includes pre-positioned seals and sealing elements that are already in place before connection is made. These seals are designed to engage automatically upon connector engagement, providing immediate protection against leaks and ensuring connection security from the moment of connection without requiring additional post-connection sealing actions.
3Reliability
If locking members are added to secure conduit connections, then connection security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the locking function directly into the quick connector body by combining the sealing and locking mechanisms into a single unified structure. The locking members are incorporated as integral components of the connector rather than separate attachments, and the sealing and locking actions occur simultaneously during a single connection motion, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining connection security.
Data Source
AI summary
Fracturing fluid delivery systems having flexible fracturing fluid delivery conduits secured with quick connectors are provided. In one example, a fracturing system includes a wellhead assembly and a fracturing fluid conduit coupled to the wellhead assembly to route fracturing fluid to the wellhead assembly. The fracturing fluid conduit includes a flexible body defining a bore for conveying the fracturing fluid to the wellhead assembly. The fracturing fluid conduit is coupled to the wellhead assembly via an actuated connector including one or more locking members that move from an unlocked position to a locked position to secure the fracturing fluid conduit to the wellhead assembly. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.