Mechanical Latching Assembly for Offshore RCD Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In offshore well systems, positioning and coupling a bearing assembly to a rotating control device (RCD) is challenging due to its subsea location, making it difficult for operators to easily, safely, and cost-effectively connect or disconnect the assembly without external power or communication.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically operated latching assembly is used, which can be positioned and coupled to the RCD using a running tool, allowing for remote coupling and decoupling without hydraulic power or control lines, featuring components like pins, slots, nuts, bolts, and sealing devices to manage pressure differences and create a seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the RCD is positioned below sea level in a riser for offshore operations, then the well system can operate offshore, but the RCD becomes difficult to access for operators
Solution Approach 1:
A running tool is introduced as an intermediary device that can be lowered through the riser to the RCD location and operated remotely. The running tool includes a latching assembly that can mechanically couple to the RCD, allowing operators to perform coupling and decoupling operations from the surface without direct access to the subsea RCD.
2Reliability
If traditional coupling methods are used for the bearing assembly, then connection can be made, but external power and control lines are required increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hydraulic or electric coupling systems with a purely mechanical latching assembly. The latching assembly uses mechanical features such as lugs, slots, and spring-loaded locking mechanisms that can be actuated by the running tool without requiring external power sources, control lines, or complex infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching assembly is designed to be self-actuating through mechanical means. The spring-loaded latches automatically engage when the running tool is positioned correctly, and can be released by simple mechanical action from the running tool, eliminating the need for external power or control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the bearing assembly is positioned remotely in the riser, then offshore operation is enabled, but coupling and decoupling operations become difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The running tool serves as a mediator that can be deployed through the existing riser infrastructure to reach the RCD. This eliminates the need for expensive subsea intervention equipment or specialized offshore vessels, as the running tool can be operated from the drill rig or floating platform already in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The running tool is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform multiple operations including transporting the latching assembly, coupling to the RCD, actuating the latching mechanism, and retrieving the assembly. This universal tool reduces the need for multiple specialized equipment systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A latching assembly for use in a well system is provided. The latching assembly can include an outer mandrel and a running tool coupling assembly coupled to a first longitudinal end of the outer mandrel. The running tool coupling assembly can be operable to couple to a running tool that includes a drill string component. The latching assembly can be controllable using the running tool. The latching assembly can also include a bearing coupling assembly coupled to a second longitudinal end of the outer mandrel that is opposite longitudinally with respect to the first longitudinal end. The bearing coupling assembly can be operable to couple to a bearing assembly. The latching assembly can further include a rotating control device (RCD) coupling assembly coupled to the side of the outer mandrel. The RCD coupling assembly can be operable to couple to an RCD positioned in the well system.