Multi-metal seal system for tubing hanger gap sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drilling and production systems face complexity and time-consuming processes in sealing the gap between the spool and the hanger in wellheads, which hampers efficient fluid management and operation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-metal seal system with axially spaced annular seals, utilizing first, second, and third annular metal seal portions that expand to form seals between tubulars, combined with a positive lock system to maintain the seal in place, facilitated by a hydraulic locking/sealing tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing sealing systems are used to seal the gap between spool and hanger, then sealing function is achieved, but the process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is divided into multiple independent metal seal portions (first, second, and third annular metal seal portions) that can be installed and activated separately. Each seal portion can be independently positioned and secured, allowing for modular installation that reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliable sealing through multiple discrete sealing points.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal seal portions are pre-positioned on either the spool or hanger before assembly, and the sealing action is preliminarily prepared through pre-assembly of seal components. This preliminary positioning and preparation reduces the complexity of the final sealing operation and enables faster, more reliable seal installation.
2Reliability
If existing sealing systems are used to seal the gap between spool and hanger, then sealing function is achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the sealing system into multiple independent metal seal portions, each can be quickly installed and activated without requiring complex sequential operations. The modular nature allows parallel installation approaches and eliminates time-consuming adjustments, reducing total sealing operation time while maintaining reliable sealing through the multi-component design.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal seal portions are designed to self-position and self-seal when brought into contact under operational forces. The angled interfaces and expansion mechanisms enable the seals to automatically engage and form reliable seals without requiring complex external actuation or prolonged adjustment periods, significantly reducing sealing operation time.
3Reliability
If metal seal portions with angled interfaces are used, then reliable seal is formed, but expansion force requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The angled interfaces are designed with specific local geometries that concentrate expansion forces only at the critical sealing contact points rather than distributing force uniformly. This localized force application achieves reliable sealing at the interface while minimizing the total expansion force required, as force is applied precisely where needed for sealing rather than throughout the entire seal structure.
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-metal seal system effectively seals the gap between the tubing hanger and the casing spool, ensuring reliable fluid control and reducing operational complexity, thereby enhancing the efficiency of hydrocarbon extraction systems.
Implementation Method 1
These metal seal portions form first and second annular angled interfaces that expand the metal seal portions radially outward when the multi-metal seal system is energized
Implementation Method 2
The tool may include an inner annular piston cylinder and an outer annular piston cylinder that operate independently to axially actuate the lock ring system and the multi-metal seal system
Data Source
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AI summary
A system including a first tubular (22), a second tubular (26) configured to rest within a bore of the first tubular (22), a multi-metal seal system (34) configured to seal a space between the first tubular (22) and the second tubular (26), wherein the multi-metal seal system includes, a first metal seal portion (56) with a first angled surface (62) and a second angled surface (64), a second metal seal portion (58) with a third angled surface (66), and a third metal seal portion (60) with a fourth angled surface (68), wherein the first angled surface (62) selectively engages the third angled surface (66) at a first angled interface and the second angled surface selectively engages the fourth angled surface at a second angled interface.