Magnetic Thread Protector for Faster Tubular End Handling
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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 time loss in oil or 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 facilitate quick attachment and removal, and can include a debris sleeve to protect the threads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional thread protectors are used to protect the pin end threads, then thread protection is achieved, but the time required for attachment and removal increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, or snap-fits) with a magnetic securing apparatus. The magnet assembly (202) generates magnetic attraction forces that hold the thread protector (10) against the tubular member (16) without requiring mechanical fasteners, enabling rapid attachment and removal while maintaining secure protection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes magnetic field strength as a controllable parameter to achieve secure holding forces for thread protection. By adjusting magnetic properties (such as magnet material, size, and arrangement), the system achieves reliable thread coverage without mechanical fastening, significantly reducing attachment and removal time
2Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is used to ensure the thread protector stays in place, then reliability of protection is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical securing mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system. The magnetic securing apparatus (200) uses magnetic attraction between the magnet assembly (202) and the tubular member (16) to maintain reliable protection without requiring complex mechanical fasteners, clips, or locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic securing apparatus utilizes the inherent magnetic properties of the materials to automatically secure the thread protector in place. The magnetic attraction forces self-adjust to maintain optimal holding strength, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple securing components
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 thread protector allows for rapid installation and removal, reducing downtime and protecting the threads from damage, thereby enhancing production efficiency.
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.