Modular Line Manifold for Concurrent Fracture Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid distribution systems for wellbores are inflexible and inefficient, requiring multiple manifolds to accommodate varying numbers of wellbores, leading to high operational costs due to unused inventory and time-consuming connections/disconnections.
Innovation Solution
A modular, adjustable fluid distribution system comprising interlocking modules with fluid inlets, outlets, and valves, allowing for selective fluid communication and easy reconfiguration to accommodate any number of wellbores, enabling concurrent operations and efficient fluid treatment cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional manifolds are designed for a particular number of wellbores, then fluid distribution can be controlled for that specific configuration, but the system cannot accommodate changing well site conditions or different numbers of wellbores
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system is divided into multiple interchangeable modules (first module, second module, etc.), each capable of being coupled to a specific number of wellbores. These modules can be selectively assembled to match the actual number of wellbores at any given well site, providing adaptability without requiring a completely different system design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each manifold module is designed with universal coupling capabilities and standardized fluid distribution components that can serve multiple functions. The same module design can accommodate different numbers of wellbores through selective assembly, and the modules can be reused across different well sites and configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple manifolds are maintained in inventory to accommodate varying wellbore numbers, then any configuration can be supported, but significant costs are incurred due to unused inventory
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of maintaining complete manifold systems for each possible configuration, the invention segments the manifold into modular units. A single set of modular modules can be selectively assembled to create manifolds for different wellbore numbers, eliminating the need to inventory multiple complete manifold systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular manifold system allows smaller modules to be nested or combined within larger configurations. The same basic modules used for a 2-wellbore configuration can be combined with additional modules to create a 4-wellbore or 6-wellbore system, maximizing inventory utilization.
3Productivity
If pumping equipment is disconnected and reconnected between treatment cycles, then fluid treatment can be performed on different wellbores, but considerable time and manpower are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold modules permanently integrate the fluid distribution network and control valves into a single assembled unit. Once the modular manifold is assembled at the well site, pumping equipment remains connected to the manifold while multiple down-hole operations can occur concurrently on different wellbores, eliminating repeated connection/disconnection cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular manifold is pre-assembled with all necessary valves, fluid distribution pathways, and coupling mechanisms before arrival at the well site. This preliminary assembly means that when the manifold reaches the well site, it requires minimal setup time and allows immediate commencement of concurrent operations on multiple wellbores.
4Ease of manufacture
If a fixed manifold configuration is used, then system design and construction can be simplified for a particular application, but the system becomes less effective for subsequent operations with different wellbore numbers
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is manufactured as standardized modular units with consistent connection interfaces and internal configurations. Each module can be independently manufactured using the same design specifications, simplifying the manufacturing process while enabling flexible assembly for different wellbore configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains manufacturing simplicity by keeping the fundamental design parameters of each module constant, while the overall system configuration parameters (number of modules, arrangement) can be changed to match different wellbore requirements. This separation of fixed module design and variable system configuration enables both ease of manufacture and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular, adjustable system for distributing fluids to one or more wellbores includes a plurality of modules that can be arranged at a well site to create an appropriate manifold to enable selective fluid communication between a fluid pumping system and the one or more wellbores. The modules each include a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a valve coupled therebetween to selectively permit or restrict fluid flow between the respective fluid inlets and fluid outlets. The modules are configured to be readily maneuvered, coupled and locked to one another at a well site.