Low-Pressure Manifold Coupling for Flexible Fracturing Fluid Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic fracturing systems face limitations in efficiently combining and controlling the volume of different fluids within manifold passages, particularly in the low-pressure section, which affects the composition and properties of the fracturing fluid.
Innovation Solution
A flexible fluid coupler is introduced to connect and control the flow of multiple passages, allowing selective mixing and proportioning of clean and slurry fluids, enhancing the flexibility and workability of the fracturing fluid composition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple separate passages are used to carry different fluids in the low-pressure section, then each passage can be dedicated to a specific fluid type, but the volume of each fluid is limited to the maximum volume of its dedicated passage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent connects previously separate low-pressure passages through a fluid coupler, merging them into a unified system where fluids can be mixed. This allows the combined volume of multiple passages to be utilized, exceeding the volume limitation of individual dedicated passages while enabling flexible fluid composition control.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid coupler incorporates valves that can be dynamically adjusted to control the proportion of different fluids mixing in the passages. This dynamic control enables operators to vary fluid composition and volume ratios according to operational requirements, enhancing adaptability while utilizing the combined volume capacity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated passages are used for different fluids, then fluid separation is maintained, but the ability to selectively mix and control fluid proportions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid coupler acts as an intermediary device between separate fluid passages. It provides a controlled interface where fluids from different passages can be mixed in adjustable proportions through valve control, enabling flexible fluid composition without requiring a complete redesign of the passage system.
3Productivity
If the low-pressure section has fixed passage volumes, then the system structure is simple, but the ability to adjust fracturing fluid properties is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable valves in the fluid coupler that enable dynamic control of fluid proportions. Operators can easily adjust the mixing ratios of different fluids by manipulating these valves, allowing flexible optimization of fracturing fluid properties for different operational requirements without complex procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for performing a hydraulic fracturing operation includes providing a manifold assembly. The manifold assembly has a low-pressure section with a first passage that receives a clean fluid and a second passage that receives a slurry. Each passage includes outlets to provide the clean fluid and the slurry to pumps. An outlet end of the first passage is coupled to an outlet end of the second passage via a flexible fluid coupler. A first valve is between outlets of the first passage, and a second valve is between outlets of the second passage. The manifold assembly has a high-pressure section with a third passage that receives the clean fluid and the slurry from the pumps. Further, the method includes controlling, based on an open or closed position of the first and second valves, whether each outlet, of the first and second passages, is provided with clean fluid or slurry.