Modular Gland Sealing for Worn Fluid End Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid end assemblies in oil and gas operations face issues with corrosive and abrasive fluids causing seal erosion, leading to fluid leaks and potential failure, as existing seals cannot effectively engage with eroded sealing surfaces, necessitating premature replacement of the housing.
Innovation Solution
The system includes multiple closure elements with recessed spaces for annular seals, allowing the seals to be relocated along the conduits as sealing surfaces erode, ensuring continued effective sealing by moving the seal to engage with new, non-eroded surfaces, thereby extending the life of the fluid end housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single seal is used in the fluid end assembly, then the initial sealing is effective, but the seal erodes prematurely due to corrosive and abrasive fluids
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element is divided into multiple sections, each containing a separate recessed space for receiving a seal. This segmentation allows multiple seals to be positioned at different locations along the conduit, enabling progressive relocation as seals erode. The first section contains a first recessed space with a first seal, while the second section contains a second recessed space with a second seal, creating a modular sealing system that extends operational life.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure element is pre-configured with multiple recessed spaces at different positions before installation. These predetermined locations allow seals to be positioned in advance at optimal sealing points. When the first seal erodes, the system is already prepared with a second seal in a second recessed space that can be activated, eliminating downtime and maintaining continuous sealing effectiveness.
2Device complexity
If the seal position is fixed in the conduit, then the structure is simple, but the housing must be replaced when sealing surfaces erode
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element is segmented into multiple sections with distinct recessed spaces positioned at different locations along the conduit path. Each section can independently house a seal, allowing the system to progress through multiple sealing positions. This segmentation enables the housing to be reused for extended periods by relocating seals within the closure element rather than replacing the entire housing when sealing surfaces erode.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying solely on axial positioning along the conduit, the invention introduces a radial or circumferential dimension by creating multiple recessed spaces at different angular positions or depths within the closure element. This multi-dimensional seal arrangement allows seals to be relocated not only along the length of the conduit but also across different surfaces, providing additional sealing options without extending the housing length.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple seals are installed in separate closure elements, then seal relocation is possible, but the assembly and disassembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple recessed spaces for different seals are integrated into a single closure element rather than requiring separate closure elements for each seal. This merging allows all seals to be installed and relocated within one unified component, reducing the number of assembly and disassembly operations. The closure element acts as a consolidated unit that can be installed once and then have seals relocated internally, minimizing maintenance time while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure element is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple seals in different recessed spaces, serving multiple sealing functions simultaneously. This multi-functional design allows the same closure element to be used throughout the service life of the housing, replacing multiple single-function closure elements and reducing the overall time required for assembly and maintenance operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A closure element for a fluid end assembly that has two or more recessed grooves formed in its outer surface. The grooves are axially offset. A seal is placed in one and only one of the grooves. As wear occurs, the seal is relocated to one of the other grooves. Instead of a series of axially offset grooves in a single closure element, a kit may be formed from two or more otherwise identical closure elements, each with a single recessed groove at a different axial position. Another closure element has a series of ledge-like surfaces defining spaces within which a seal may be received. One outer surface surrounds one or more of the other surfaces. A seal is placed in one and only one of the spaces. As wear occurs, the seal is relocated to one of the other spaces.