Integrated Isolation Tool and Flow Spool for MPD Riser
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore drilling rigs face challenges in accommodating larger-diameter riser segments required for managed pressure drilling (MPD) techniques, as existing rigs cannot be easily retrofitted, and the assembly of isolation tools and flow spools as separate components is time-consuming and material-intensive.
Innovation Solution
The integration of isolation tools and flow spools into a single, permanently coupled component that can fit through a rotary table, reducing the overall diameter and eliminating the need for additional connection pieces, such as flanges, by welding them together before shipping to the well site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If isolation tool and flow spool are manufactured as separate components and coupled together, then each component can be optimized independently, but the assembly requires extra material (flanges, connection pieces), increases overall diameter, and consumes additional time and effort for coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the isolation tool and flow spool into a single integrated component. The isolation tool body directly incorporates the flow spool functions, eliminating the need for separate flanges and connection pieces. This merging reduces assembly complexity while maintaining the ability to optimize all functions within a unified design framework.
2Adaptability or versatility
If larger-diameter riser segments are used for MPD techniques, then fluid control capabilities are improved, but the overall diameter increases forcing auxiliary lines to be routed around components, making retrofitting existing rigs uneconomical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions (isolation, flow control, spooling) into a single axial arrangement within the riser segment. By stacking functions along the longitudinal axis rather than arranging them radially, the design achieves enhanced MPD capabilities without increasing the riser's external diameter, enabling retrofitting of existing drilling rigs.
3Productivity
If isolation tool and flow spool are permanently coupled before shipping, then assembly time and material usage are reduced, but manufacturing and shipping logistics become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation tool and flow spool are permanently coupled (via welding or other permanent joining methods) during manufacturing before shipping to the well site. This preliminary action eliminates the need for on-site assembly operations, significantly reducing installation time and eliminating the need for additional connection materials, while the integrated design simplifies rather than complicates manufacturing logistics.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure includes riser-component assemblies and methods of assembling the same that are suitable for managed pressure drilling (MPD) systems. For example, this disclosure includes integrated flow spool and isolation tool riser components that can be permanently coupled together and that can be configured to pass through a rotary table or other rig equipment.