Multi-Barrier Seal System Shear Mechanism for Auxiliary Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mineral extraction systems face challenges in containing corrosive, high-pressure, and high-temperature fluids within auxiliary lines to prevent leakage into the environment, as existing seal systems are inadequate in providing reliable and cost-effective solutions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-barrier seal system comprising a first seal assembly and a second shear seal assembly, where the shear seal includes a shearing ram with a shearing edge that seals the auxiliary line by shearing through it, providing redundant protection and modularity through removable inserts for improved shearing performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing seal systems are used in auxiliary lines, then the system structure remains simple, but fluid containment reliability is insufficient under corrosive, high-pressure, and high-temperature conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The seal system is divided into multiple independent seal assemblies (first seal assembly, second seal assembly, third seal assembly) that can function independently. Each seal assembly contains separate sealing elements that create independent barriers, allowing the system to maintain fluid containment reliability while managing complexity through modular segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements redundant seal assemblies that serve as pre-positioned backup barriers. If one seal assembly fails under corrosive, high-pressure, or high-temperature conditions, the remaining seal assemblies provide immediate protective cushioning to prevent fluid leakage, ensuring continuous reliability without requiring system redesign.
2Reliability
If multiple seal assemblies are implemented, then fluid containment reliability improves, but manufacturing and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each seal assembly is designed as a separate, manufacturable module with standardized components including seal housings, sealing elements, and mounting interfaces. This segmentation allows each unit to be manufactured independently using conventional processes, then assembled into the complete multi-barrier system, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal assemblies are designed to accommodate varying operational parameters (pressure, temperature, corrosion conditions) through selectable sealing materials and configurations. This parameter-based design allows standardization across different service conditions, simplifying manufacturing planning and inventory management while ensuring reliable performance across diverse operational environments.
3Reliability
If a shear seal mechanism is added, then emergency sealing capability is provided, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shear seal mechanism is integrated with the existing seal assemblies rather than being added as a completely separate system. The shearing ram and cutting elements are combined with the seal housing structures, allowing emergency sealing functionality to be achieved while sharing common structural support and control systems, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shear seal mechanism acts as an intermediary between the normal operating seal assemblies and the auxiliary line. The shearing ram provides a mechanical intervention capability that activates only during emergencies, mediating between the sealed fluid path and the external environment when required, without interfering with normal seal operation or requiring continuous complex control systems.
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
The multi-barrier seal system effectively contains fluids within the mineral extraction system, reducing production costs and ensuring environmental safety by providing a redundant sealing mechanism that can activate in emergencies or during normal operations.
Implementation Method 1
the shear seal may include a shearing ram with a shearing edge. As the shearing edge shears an auxiliary line, the ram seals an auxiliary line passage
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-barrier seal system, including, a first seal assembly configured to provide a first sealing barrier between an auxiliary line and a mineral extraction system, and a second seal assembly configured to provide a second sealing barrier between the auxiliary line and the mineral extraction system, wherein the second seal assembly is configured to shear through the auxiliary line.