Load Transfer Profile for Wellhead Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wellhead connection systems in the oil and gas industry rely on axial force couples and preloaded conditions, which limit static and dynamic load capacities and require larger tubular diameters, increasing costs and potentially compromising structural and fatigue performance.
Innovation Solution
A load transfer profile utilizing a horizontal force couple that actively locks cylindrical bodies together without the need for weight-set or preloaded conditions, allowing for increased load capacity without enlarging tubular diameters, by transferring loads radially and optimizing structural and fatigue performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If axial force couple with preloaded condition is used to connect cylindrical bodies, then connection stability is improved, but static and dynamic load capacities are limited and tubular diameters must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional axial force couple approach by implementing a lateral force couple mechanism. Instead of applying preload axially between concentric cylindrical bodies, the invention uses lateral forces applied at offset radial positions to create a moment that locks the inner tubular to the outer tubular. This inversion allows achieving both stability and higher load capacity without increasing tubular diameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional axial loading approach to a two-dimensional lateral force application. By applying forces in the radial direction at different axial positions (creating a force couple), the system achieves rotational locking and moment resistance that prevents the limitations of axial preload, thereby improving load capacity without requiring larger diameters.
2Strength
If inner and outer diameters are increased to increase load capacities, then dynamic and static load capacities are improved, but cost increases and commercial applicability is precluded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the loading parameters from axial preload to lateral force couple application. By modifying the direction and application points of the forces (applying lateral forces at offset radial positions rather than axial compression), the system achieves enhanced load capacity through moment resistance and rotational locking, eliminating the need to increase tubular diameters and thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
3Reliability
If axial force couple is used to connect tubulars, then connection is achieved, but pre-yielding of components occurs and load capacities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional axial force couple approach by implementing a lateral force couple mechanism. Instead of applying preload axially between concentric cylindrical bodies, the invention uses lateral forces applied at offset radial positions to create a moment that locks the inner tubular to the outer tubular. This inversion allows achieving both stability and higher load capacity without increasing tubular diameters.
Data Source
AI summary
A load transfer profile for connection of two bodies without preloading uses a horizontal force couple instead of a vertical force couple for maximum efficiency. The load transfer profile includes a series of tapers and/or diameters that create a radial force couple separated by an axial distance. In particular, the load transfer profile includes at least a first horizontal contact and a second horizontal contact, where each contact is a landing shoulder followed by a stop shoulder or a radial protrusion. The first and second horizontal contacts are offset by the axial distance to accommodate a force-determined bending moment such that system structural fatigue capacity is optimized. A lock mechanism assists with resisting axial loads without creating preload stresses and with locking the bodies together.