Mandrel Casing Hanger Torque Transfer via Rotary Drive Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current running tool systems for mandrel casing hangers do not adequately provide for both rotation and reciprocation of the casing string, leading to issues with torque transfer and suspension during well completion, particularly in horizontal wells where rotation is necessary to prevent sticking and ensure proper cement distribution.
Innovation Solution
A casing string torque transfer and suspension system utilizing a pair of rotary drive rings secured around the running tool, with sloping teeth that engage and disengage from fluid bypass flutes of the mandrel casing hanger to transfer torque and allow rotation in a right-handed direction while retracting with low-torque left-handed rotation, using cushioning members to facilitate disengagement without unthreading other connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional running tool systems are used for mandrel casing hangers, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot provide adequate rotation and reciprocation of the casing string
Solution Approach 1:
The running tool is divided into functional segments: a drive ring with drive teeth that engages with the mandrel casing hanger, and a separate rotation mechanism. This segmentation allows the tool to provide rotation capability while maintaining structural simplicity, as each component performs a specific function without requiring a completely redesigned system.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive ring is designed to perform multiple functions: it transfers torque for rotation, provides reciprocation capability, and maintains engagement with the mandrel casing hanger. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve enhanced adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity, as a single component handles multiple operational requirements.
2Productivity
If the running tool is rotated right-handed to rotate the casing string, then torque is transferred to rotate the casing, but excessive torque may unthread the running tool from the mandrel casing hanger
Solution Approach 1:
The drive teeth on the drive ring are designed with specific geometric characteristics that concentrate torque transfer at localized contact points. This local quality allows efficient torque transfer for casing rotation while the distributed threaded connection maintains overall stability, preventing unthreading even during high-torque operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement between the drive teeth and mandrel casing hanger is designed to be dynamic, allowing the connection to accommodate torque fluctuations during rotation. The threaded connection maintains its integrity through this dynamic engagement, enabling productive casing rotation without compromising connection reliability.
3Ease of operation
If the running tool is rotated left-handed to disengage from the mandrel casing hanger, then the running tool can be separated, but the rotation may prematurely detach the tool or unthread casing sections
Solution Approach 1:
The drive teeth are designed with asymmetric geometry where the engagement side has a larger contact area and higher friction coefficient than the disengagement side. This asymmetry allows easy left-handed rotation for tool disengagement while preventing unintended rotation during normal operations, thereby maintaining casing string integrity during the disengagement process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex systems with slots and retractable dogs are used to permit rotation, then rotation capability is achieved, but the assembly complexity and number of small parts increases unmanageably
Solution Approach 1:
The drive ring integrates multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components: torque transfer, rotation enablement, and engagement with the mandrel casing hanger. By merging these functions into a single integrated component, the system achieves rotation capability while dramatically reducing assembly complexity and eliminating the need for multiple small parts such as slots and retractable dogs.
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
Enables efficient rotation and reciprocation of the casing string during installation and cementing, ensuring a higher-quality cement bond and preventing sticking, while minimizing the complexity of assembly and accommodating various casing sizes with a simplified system.
Implementation Method 1
the cushioning members compress and the series of sloping teeth disengage from the fluid bypass flutes
Data Source
AI summary
A casing string torque transfer and suspension system and method for mandrel casing hangers. A running tool for a mandrel casing hanger suspending a casing string includes a pair of rotary drive rings secured around the running tool, a torque transfer ring of the pair of drive rings including a series of sloping teeth that removably couple to the mandrel casing hanger, the drive rings transferring torque to the casing string to rotate the casing string in a right-handed direction during one of running of the casing string, cementing of the casing string or a combination thereof, and the pair of rotary drive rings transferring axial loads to the casing string when the running tool is threaded to the mandrel casing hanger. Rotation of the rotary drive rings in a left-handed direction retracts the rotary drive rings as the running tool separates from the mandrel casing hanger.