Helical Pile Support Platform for Pumping Unit Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional support platforms for oil field pumping units, typically mounted on large reinforced concrete pads, face issues with settling, shifting, or tilting due to static and dynamic loads, leading to misalignment and costly downtime for realignment.
Innovation Solution
A support platform utilizing both vertical and diagonal helical piles to manage static and dynamic loads, with adjustable features to maintain alignment, including an elevation-adjustable cap and pre-tensioned diagonal piles to counteract horizontal forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a large reinforced concrete pad is used to support the pumping unit, then the static load is well-supported, but the platform settles, shifts, or tilts over time due to dynamic loads and soil conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into multiple independent helical piles (both vertical and diagonal) rather than using a monolithic concrete pad. This segmentation allows each pile to independently respond to loads while collectively providing stable support, preventing the settling and shifting problems of concrete pads.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite construction combining helical piles (metal) with a support platform structure. This composite approach provides both the strength needed for static loads and the flexibility to accommodate dynamic loads without causing settlement or misalignment, overcoming the limitations of purely concrete-based systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If the pumping unit is mounted on a concrete pad, then initial alignment is achieved during installation, but realignment is required over time due to settling and shifting
Solution Approach 1:
The helical pile support system provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the platform to adjust to changing soil conditions and loads in real-time. This dynamic response maintains alignment reliability over time, eliminating the need for periodic realignment operations required by concrete pads.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in pile configuration and platform positioning to accommodate varying load conditions and soil settlements. This flexibility maintains proper alignment by adjusting support parameters rather than requiring complete realignment operations.
3Manufacturing precision
If realignment operations are performed to correct misalignment, then alignment is restored, but well production is cut off during the process
Solution Approach 1:
The helical pile system is designed with built-in adjustment capabilities that allow for preliminary correction of alignment issues before they become critical. This prevents the need for disruptive realignment operations during well production, maintaining continuous productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support platform incorporates self-adjusting mechanisms through the helical pile configuration, allowing the system to automatically compensate for minor alignment deviations without requiring external intervention or production shutdowns. This self-service capability maintains continuous well operation.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional concrete pads are used, then the structure is simple and easy to fabricate, but transportation and installation require substantial effort and delay
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into modular helical piles that can be independently manufactured and transported. This segmentation eliminates the need to transport large concrete pad sections, reducing installation complexity and time while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized pile components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical concrete pad system with a helical pile system that utilizes soil mechanics directly. This substitution eliminates the need for concrete fabrication, curing, and transportation operations, dramatically reducing installation time and effort while maintaining structural integrity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively minimizes shifting and tilting of the pumping unit, allowing for real-time adjustment to maintain alignment, reducing downtime and operational costs by distributing loads more efficiently and providing a stable foundation.
Implementation Method 1
helical piles to carry the horizontal components of dynamic loads
Implementation Method 2
vertical helical piles to support the static load
Implementation Method 3
pre-tensioned diagonal piles to counteract horizontal forces
Implementation Method 4
diagonal helical piles to carry dynamic, horizontal loads
Data Source
AI summary
A support platform for an oil field pumping unit includes a frame supporting the oil field pumping unit, vertical helical piles, and diagonal helical piles. The vertical helical piles are driven into the ground beneath the frame to support the frame and oil field pumping unit. Each diagonal helical pile has an upper end secured to the frame and a lower portion extending diagonally downward from the frame with a helical blade threaded into the ground to restrain horizontal forces exerted by the oil field pumping unit.