Quick-Connection Fracturing Manifold for Rapid Well Rerouting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The time-consuming and hazardous process of disconnecting and reconnecting hydraulic fracturing fluid conduits between wells in hydrocarbon industries increases operational costs and reduces efficiency, as each well must be individually connected and reconnected to a hydraulic fracturing fluid source.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic fracturing system utilizing a quick connection manifold with bridge connections and plug systems allows for rapid rerouting of hydraulic fracturing fluid between wells, employing a centralized manifold and modular design to minimize assembly and disassembly time, and using adapters and clamp connections to facilitate efficient fluid transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual well connections are used, then each well can be connected to the hydraulic fracturing fluid source, but the time required to transition between wells increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the well connection system into modular segments, where each well has its own isolated connection assembly that can be independently configured and connected to the manifold. This segmentation allows for rapid switching between wells without requiring complete reconfiguration of the entire fluid delivery system.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection assemblies are pre-configured with all necessary components (valves, seals, connectors) before being brought to the well site. This preliminary preparation eliminates on-site assembly time and allows for quick connection to the manifold when needed.
2Ease of operation
If individual well connections are used, then each well can be serviced, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold and connection assemblies are designed as universal components that can service multiple wells with the same infrastructure. A single hydraulic fracturing fluid source can efficiently service multiple wells through the manifold system, eliminating the need for separate dedicated systems for each well and reducing overall operational costs.
3Ease of operation
If conventional connection methods are used, then wells can be connected, but safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection assemblies incorporate self-sealing mechanisms and automatic valve operation that reduce the need for manual intervention during connection and disconnection operations. The system performs many connection functions automatically, minimizing worker exposure to high-pressure fluids and reducing safety hazards.
4Loss of time
If rapid rerouting is implemented, then transition time decreases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system is divided into standardized modular connection assemblies, each representing a discrete functional unit. This segmentation allows complex routing capabilities to be achieved through simple repetition of standardized modules rather than requiring a single complex custom-designed system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses standardized connection parameters and interface specifications across all connection assemblies. This standardization allows for rapid rerouting through simple reconfiguration of standardized components rather than requiring complex custom adaptations, reducing the effective complexity of rapid switching operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems and methods for connecting a hydraulic fracturing fluid source to various wells at a given well site. In general, use of disclosed systems and methods provide for repositioning (refocusing) the hydraulic fracturing operation amongst multiple wells may be achieved. In one example, a system to reroute fracturing fluid from a source to various wells at a well site may be provided. The use of adapters and quick clamp connections allow hydraulic fracturing fluid to be rerouted between various wells in a manner to decrease the cost and reduce hazards associated with changing hydraulic fracturing locations. Modular components of the system (and an overall modular design of the system itself) may allow a centralized manifold to be relocated to various locations at one or more well sites.