Mobile Fuel Trailer With Sensor-Controlled Hot Refueling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic fracturing equipment shut-downs due to refueling are costly and reduce efficiency, and hot-refueling is difficult to sustain reliably.
Innovation Solution
A mobile distribution station with a mobile trailer equipped with multiple pumps, manifolds, hoses, valves, and fluid level sensors, allowing continuous fueling of equipment through automated control of fuel flow and metering, including an auxiliary system for delivering diesel exhaust fluid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hot-refueling is used to replenish fuel during fracking operations, then equipment can continue running without shut-downs, but the system becomes difficult to reliably sustain for the duration of the operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent fuel storage tanks (different fuel types) with separate pumps and distribution lines. Each fuel type (diesel, gasoline, propane, natural gas) has its own storage and delivery system, allowing reliable multi-fuel support for continuous operation without compromising system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile distribution station is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple fuel types simultaneously. The system can deliver different fuels to different equipment as needed, providing universal fuel support that enhances both continuous operation capability and reliability throughout the fracking operation duration
2Quantity of substance
If equipment is shut-down for refueling, then fuel can be replenished, but operational efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-stores multiple types of fuel in the mobile distribution station before fracking operations begin. By having fuel supplies ready in advance and the capability to deliver them immediately, the system eliminates the need for equipment shut-downs to refuel, maintaining operational efficiency while ensuring continuous fuel replenishment
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution station enables continuous fuel delivery to running equipment through its mobile platform and multiple delivery points. Fuel can be transferred from the mobile station to equipment without interrupting equipment operation, maintaining the continuity of useful action (fracking operations) while replenishing fuel supplies
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 continuous operation of hydraulic fracturing equipment by reliably maintaining fuel levels and pressure, reducing shut-downs and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A pump is provided in communication with the fuel source
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of fluid level sensors are provided associated with different ones of the hoses
Implementation Method 3
The controller is configured to individually open and close the valves responsive to the fluid level sensors
Implementation Method 4
A meter is provided between the pump and the reel that is in communication with the controller
Data Source
AI summary
A distribution station includes a mobile trailer and first and second pumps on the trailer. At least one manifold on the mobile trailer is fluidly connected with the first pump. A plurality of first reels on the mobile trailer are fluidly connected with the at least one manifold. A plurality of first hoses are connected with different ones of the first reels. A plurality of first valves on the mobile trailer are situated between the manifold and respective different ones of the first reels. A plurality of fluid level sensors are associated with different ones of the first hoses. A second reel is not fluidly connected with the manifold, and is fluidly connected with the second pump. A second hose is connected with the second reel that has a manual pump handle, and a controller is configured to individually open and close the valves responsive to the fluid level sensors.