Magnetic Thread Protector for Fast Tubular End Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thread protectors for the pin ends of casing or tubing are time-consuming to attach and remove, leading to significant downtime in oil and gas well production.
Innovation Solution
A thread protector with an external sleeve and a securing apparatus, including a magnet, that frictionally engages with the tubular member to quickly secure and release, minimizing the number of threads required for engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional thread protectors are used to protect pin end threads, then thread protection is achieved, but attachment and removal time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical threading systems with a magnetic securing apparatus. Magnets embedded in the securing apparatus attract to the ferromagnetic tubular member, creating a friction-based hold that eliminates the need for threaded engagement. This substitution of mechanical threading with magnetic attraction directly reduces attachment/removal time while maintaining secure protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the engagement mechanism from threaded mechanical connection to magnetic friction-based connection. By altering the fundamental parameter of engagement from rotational threading to magnetic attraction with frictional holding, the system achieves rapid attachment and removal while maintaining reliable thread protection.
2Reliability
If thread protectors require extensive threading engagement, then secure attachment is achieved, but the number of threads required increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical threading systems with a simplified magnetic securing apparatus. Instead of requiring multiple threads to engage for secure attachment, the system uses magnets embedded in the securing apparatus that attract to the ferromagnetic tubular member, creating a friction-based hold that achieves secure attachment with minimal engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the threading function from the attachment mechanism. Rather than requiring the thread protector to thread onto the tubular member, the design separates the protection function (external sleeve) from the attachment function (magnetic securing apparatus), allowing the securing mechanism to be simplified while maintaining reliability.
3Productivity
If rapid attachment and removal is achieved with minimal threading, then productivity increases, but attachment security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical threading with a magnetic securing system that enables rapid attachment and removal while maintaining security. The magnets embedded in the securing apparatus create strong attractive forces that hold the thread protector securely during use, yet allow for quick release when needed, thus improving productivity without compromising reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the attachment mechanism from threaded engagement to magnetic friction-based engagement. This parameter change enables rapid attachment and removal (improving productivity) while the frictional force generated by magnetic attraction maintains secure holding during the protection phase, balancing speed and reliability.
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
Facilitates rapid attachment and removal of thread protectors, reducing downtime and enhancing production efficiency in oil and gas operations.
Implementation Method 1
the securing apparatus including a magnet that increases the force of the frictional engagement of the securing apparatus with the inner side of the tubular member
Implementation Method 2
a securing apparatus extending from the flange to frictionally engage an inner side of the tubular member to maintain the thread protector's engagement with the tubular member
Data Source
AI summary
A thread protector that has an external sleeve to protect threads disposed on a tubular member. The thread protector includes a flange disposed on a first end of the external sleeve to be engageable with an end of the tubular member. The thread protector also includes a securing apparatus extending from the flange to frictionally engage an inner side of the tubular member to maintain the thread protector's engagement with the tubular member, the securing apparatus including a magnet that increases the force of the frictional engagement of the securing apparatus with the inner side of the tubular member. The securing apparatus can also extend from the flange to frictionally engage an inner side of the tubular member to maintain the thread protector's engagement with the tubular member, the securing apparatus rotatable relative to the external sleeve. A method of protecting pin threads of pin ends of tubular members by installing a thread protector on an end of a tubular member.