Modular Tubular Compensator with Stabilizer for Derrick Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tubular compensators in wellbore construction are not designed to support an entire string of joints and allow for undesirable movement, particularly at the top end, during lifting operations in a derrick, leading to instability and inefficiencies in drilling and casing operations.
Innovation Solution
A modular tubular compensator assembly comprising a housing, a lift member, a support member, and an actuator, which allows for relative movement between the housing and the support member, enabling the compensator to support a single tubular or a string of tubulars and maintain stability during lifting and connection processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cable-connected compensator system is used to lift tubulars, then the system allows freedom of movement for connection operations, but the top end of the stand whips around uncontrollably in the derrick
Solution Approach 1:
A stabilizer member is introduced as an intermediary component between the compensator housing and the tubular stand. This stabilizer member couples to the tubulars and provides lateral support, acting as a mediator that allows vertical movement and connection operations while preventing unwanted lateral whipping motion in the derrick
Solution Approach 2:
The compensator system is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow controlled movement. The compensator housing can move vertically relative to the support member to accommodate thread engagement, while the stabilizer member dynamically adjusts to provide support during lifting and stabilize during connection operations
2Ease of operation
If a single joint compensator is used to support one joint, then connection operations are facilitated, but the compensator must be disconnected and moved out of the way after use
Solution Approach 1:
The compensator assembly is designed as a universal system that can support either a single joint or an entire string of tubulars. The stabilizer member and compensator housing work together to provide both single-joint connection facilitation and multi-joint string support without requiring disconnection or repositioning, eliminating time loss
3Ease of manufacture
If cable connections are used to connect the compensator to the travelling block and elevator, then the system is flexible and easy to assemble, but undesirable movement and instability occur during lifting
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer member serves as an intermediary that couples to the tubulars and provides lateral support, mediating between the flexible cable-connected compensator system and the tubulars to prevent unwanted movement while maintaining the ease of cable-based assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: the compensator housing for vertical movement and connection, the stabilizer member for lateral support, and the cable connections for flexibility. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while working together as an integrated system
Data Source
AI summary
A tubular handling assembly includes an elevator and a tubular compensator assembly. The tubular compensator assembly includes a housing; a lift member coupled to the housing; a support member; and an actuator for moving the housing and the lift member relative to the support member and the elevator.