Lay Flat Hose Transfer for Rapid Frac Water Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for transferring frac water in hydraulic fracturing operations are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and inefficient due to the use of fixed-length pipes, numerous connections, and limited flexibility, leading to water wastage and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing flexible lay flat hoses and tracked carriers for rapid deployment and retrieval, which includes a subsystem for determining terrain parameters and designing pipelines, allowing for efficient assembly and disassembly of pipelines with fewer connections and no need for elbow fittings, along with a computer program product for generating pressure profiles based on terrain and design parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If fixed-length pipes with numerous connections are used for transferring frac water, then the pipeline structure is rigid and stable, but the deployment time increases and labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pipeline is divided into multiple modular pipe segments that can be quickly assembled and disconnected. Each segment is designed to be interchangeable, allowing rapid deployment by simply connecting segments together without complex assembly procedures, thus reducing deployment time while maintaining structural stability through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipeline system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The modular segments can be quickly assembled, disassembled, and reconfigured based on terrain requirements, enabling the pipeline to adapt dynamically to different deployment scenarios while maintaining stability during operation.
2Reliability
If fixed-length pipes with numerous connections are used for transferring frac water, then the pipeline maintains structural integrity, but the number of connections increases leading to more leaks
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the pipeline into fewer, larger modular segments rather than many small sections, the total number of connections is significantly reduced. Each segment maintains structural integrity through robust manufacturing, and the standardized connection points use sealed joints that minimize leakage while preserving the overall reliability of the pipeline system.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection components are designed as simple, standardized interfaces that can be quickly replaced if needed, using cost-effective sealing mechanisms that provide reliable leak-free connections without requiring complex maintenance, thus reducing both leakage and operational complexity.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If fixed-length pipes are used for transferring frac water, then the pipeline is durable, but the flexibility and adaptability to terrain decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The pipeline is constructed from multiple standardized modular segments that can be assembled in various configurations to adapt to different terrains. Each segment is designed with durable materials and robust joints, ensuring longevity while the modular nature allows flexible arrangement around obstacles, slopes, and varying ground conditions, thus achieving both durability and terrain adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipeline system becomes dynamically reconfigurable, allowing teams to quickly adjust the pipeline layout to match terrain features. The modular segments can be arranged in straight lines, curves, or elevated configurations as needed, providing versatility without compromising the structural durability of individual components.
4Reliability
If conventional pipeline assembly methods are used, then the connections are secure, but the assembly process is labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The pipeline is divided into pre-manufactured modular segments with standardized connection interfaces. Each segment is designed to connect to others through simple, tool-free or minimal-tool coupling mechanisms that ensure secure, leak-free joints while dramatically reducing the time and labor required for assembly compared to traditional welding or threading methods.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical assembly methods such as welding, threading, or flange bolting are replaced with simplified coupling mechanisms that may use friction-fit, snap-lock, or quick-connect interfaces. These mechanisms maintain connection security and reliability while eliminating complex assembly steps, reducing labor intensity, and accelerating the deployment process.
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 system significantly reduces labor and transportation costs, enhances efficiency by minimizing connections and leaks, and extends the life expectancy of the hoses, achieving higher pressure and flow rates compared to conventional methods.
Implementation Method 1
One or more hydraulic cylinders may be used to move the one or more linkages
Implementation Method 2
The tensioning subsystem may be used to flatten the one or more segments of the lay flat hose to be wound onto the one or more spool
Implementation Method 3
The drive subsystem may comprise a shaft fitted with friction rollers
Implementation Method 4
The friction rollers may be spaced such that each friction roller aligns with and engages a circumferential surface of a sidewall of the spool
Data Source
AI summary
A method of and apparatus for the rapid deployment of a fracturing water transferring system, along with the rapid picking up and storage of such system after use. In different embodiments the method in includes the use of a tensioning system to retrieve one or more segments of lay flat hose.