Inline Fracturing Valve Actuator and Seal Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fracturing systems face challenges in efficiently controlling the flow of fracturing fluids during subterranean resource extraction, particularly in creating and maintaining fractures in rock formations to enhance oil and gas production.
Innovation Solution
The development of frac valves with inline actuators and seals positioned within flow bores, which can move between open and closed positions to control fluid flow, utilizing flow-by conduits to facilitate fluid passage when open, and sealing to block flow when closed, allowing for precise management of fracturing fluid pressure and flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional valves are used to control fracturing fluid flow, then flow control is achieved, but the valve components are positioned outside the flow bore requiring additional space and increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator and seal are nested within the flow bore of the valve body, with the actuator positioned inside the bore and the seal carried by the actuator. This nested arrangement eliminates the need for external valve components, reducing device complexity while maintaining effective flow control capability through the integrated inline structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If the valve seal is positioned within the flow bore, then flow control precision is improved, but the actuator requires space within the flow bore potentially reducing flow capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The flow bore is segmented into multiple flow paths: a central flow path through the actuator and additional flow capacity through annular spaces around the actuator. This segmentation allows the seal to be positioned within the flow bore for precise control while maintaining overall flow capacity through the distributed flow paths.
3Ease of operation
If the actuator moves the seal between open and closed positions within the flow bore, then flow control is achieved, but the actuator mechanism adds complexity to the valve assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed to be self-contained within the flow bore, carrying its own seal and requiring no external actuation mechanisms or additional valve bodies. The actuator moves the seal along the flow bore using an integrated piston and rod mechanism that operates autonomously within the available space, reducing overall system complexity.
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
This solution enables effective control of fracturing fluid flow, enhancing fracture creation and maintenance in rock formations, thereby improving the extraction of oil and gas resources by ensuring consistent and controlled pressure applications.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator and seal that are positioned within a flow bore of the valve such that the actuator can move the seal between open and closed positions to control flow through the valve
Implementation Method 2
flow-by conduits in the actuator facilitate flow of fluid past the actuator within the flow bore when the valve is open
Implementation Method 3
A frac valve may be provided as an inline frac valve having an actuator and seal that are positioned within a flow bore of the valve such that the actuator can move the seal between open and closed positions to control flow through the valve
Data Source
AI summary
Fracturing systems with frac valves for controlling flow of fracturing fluid are provided. In one embodiment, a fracturing apparatus includes a frac valve having a housing with a bore to convey fracturing fluid, a seal disposed within the bore, and an actuator coupled to control movement of the seal. The actuator can be disposed within the bore so as to move the seal between a closed position in which the seal blocks fracturing fluid flow through the bore and an open position that allows fracturing fluid flow through the bore. Additional systems, devices, and methods for fracturing are also disclosed.