Horizontal Torque Provider for Wellhead Seal Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional torque-applying tools for wellheads are bulky, obstructive, and require vertical access, making it difficult to apply torque to downhole hangers and seals, which can lead to improper sealing due to uneven force application on inner and outer seals.
Innovation Solution
A torque-provider assembly that uses hydraulically-powered pistons to apply torque horizontally, allowing for full-bore access and independent adjustment of inner and outer seals, enabling precise torque application perpendicular to the casing string and seal assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional torque-applying tools are used to apply torque to downhole hangers, then torque can be applied, but the tools are bulky and obstruct the borehole, precluding full-bore access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical torque application (from above the seal assembly) to horizontal torque application (from the side through the borehole). The torque provider is positioned in the borehole and applies torque horizontally to the hanger, eliminating the need for bulky tools to be positioned from above and allowing full-bore access during operation.
2Ease of operation
If traditional torque-applying tools are used to apply torque to seals, then torque can be applied, but the tools require vertical access and are difficult to position over the hanger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies torque horizontally through the borehole rather than vertically from above. The torque provider can be positioned and operated from the side, simplifying tool positioning and eliminating the complexity of positioning bulky tools over the hanger from above while maintaining access to both the hanger and seal assembly.
3Productivity
If simultaneous actuation is used to set both inner and outer seals, then both seals can be set at once, but the inner and outer seals require different amounts of force and simultaneous actuation constrains the ability to properly form a seal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the seal actuation process into separate, independent stages. The torque provider can first apply torque to set the inner seal, then independently apply torque to set the outer seal. This segmentation allows different amounts of force to be applied to each seal as needed, ensuring proper seal formation while maintaining efficiency through sequential rather than simultaneous actuation.
4Reliability
If robust seal assemblies with inner and outer seals are used to seal the annulus, then sealing capability is improved, but the seals are subject to forces that might cause the hanger to unseat and compromise the seal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies torque to the seal assembly in a controlled preliminary manner to set the seals before the hanger is subjected to full operational forces. By independently controlling the torque application to each seal, the system ensures proper seal formation and locking before the hanger experiences the full range of forces during wellhead operations, preventing unseating and maintaining seal 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
Enables efficient and precise torque application to wellhead components, reducing the need for vertical access and minimizing seal misalignment, thus enhancing seal integrity and operational efficiency in wellhead operations.
Implementation Method 1
hydraulically-powered pistons to apply torque horizontally
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for providing torque to an object in a wellhead. The assembly includes a body attachable to the wellhead and including a bore with a centerline. The body further includes a first set of pistons within cylinders oriented at angles offset from and perpendicular to the centerline of the bore. The pistons are moveable within the cylinders between a retracted position and an extended position where the pistons are extended into the body bore. The movement of the pistons between the retracted and extended positions imparts a linear force capable of rotating the object in the wellhead in a first direction.