Hydraulic Wellhead Connector Axial Radial Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for wellhead assemblies require manual operation, multiple tools, and multiple trips between surface vessels and subsea equipment, making them time-consuming, expensive, and safety-risky for attaching or removing equipment.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic connector with a ring and fast-lock segment that engages recesses on the wellhead hub, utilizing hydraulic pressure for axial and radial movements to secure and release the connector, reducing the need for manual operation and simplifying the connection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation and multiple tools are used for connectors, then connection security is ensured, but operational time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with a hydraulic system. A hydraulic actuator applies radial force to expand the connector body, causing locking elements to engage with the pipe simultaneously, eliminating the need for manual tool operations and reducing connection time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs hydraulic pressure to automate the connector operation. Hydraulic fluid is introduced to expand the connector body radially, which automatically activates the locking mechanism to secure the connection, thereby simplifying operation and reducing time loss.
2Reliability
If multiple trips between surface vessel and subsea equipment are required, then proper connection can be achieved, but operational cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to be self-securing through hydraulic expansion. Once positioned on the pipe, the hydraulic actuator automatically expands the body and engages locking elements without requiring additional manual intervention or multiple trips, improving both reliability and productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing connectors are used, then connection function is provided, but safety risks increase due to manual operation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated hydraulic actuation. The hydraulic system expands the connector body and engages locking elements without requiring personnel to be near subsea equipment, thereby maintaining adaptability while eliminating safety risks associated with manual operation.
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 hydraulic connector simplifies the connection and disconnection process, reducing operational complexity and safety risks by enabling remote operation, thus enhancing efficiency and safety in subsea operations.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing hydraulic pressure for axial and radial movements to secure and release the connector
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic connector for a wellhead hub is provided that includes a piston and a bottom portion configured to move in an axial direction via hydraulic pressure applied to one or more hydraulic ports in the connector. The movement of the piston and the bottom portion moves a ring and a segment of the connector in a radial direction to engage recesses in the wellhead hub. The connector may be unlocked by applying hydraulic pressure to a hydraulic port of the connector. A system and method of operating the connector are also provided.