Multi-Sectional Blending Tub for Simultaneous Fluid Mixing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional blending apparatuses have limited capacity and flexibility, unable to simultaneously blend different fluid mixtures and are prone to air entrainment, which restricts their effectiveness in hydraulic and simultaneous well fracturing operations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-sectional blending tub system that can function as a single or partitioned blending unit, capable of blending different fluid mixtures simultaneously, reducing equipment redundancy, and minimizing air entrainment through improved mixing performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional single blending tubs are used, then equipment size and cost are reduced, but operational capacity and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The blending tub is divided into multiple independent blending sections separated by partitions. Each section can independently blend different fluid mixtures simultaneously, enabling the system to serve multiple wells or operations at once while contained within a single tub structure, thus increasing productivity without proportionally increasing equipment footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-sectional blending tub is designed to perform multiple blending functions within a single apparatus. Each section can be configured for different fluid combinations and proportions, allowing the same equipment to handle diverse fracturing operations, chemical injections, and slurry preparations, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and capacity.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional blending tubs are used, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but air entrapment occurs reducing mixing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The partitioned sections create separate blending environments that isolate air pockets and prevent them from propagating throughout the entire system. Each section can be independently primed and maintained, ensuring complete fluid filling without air entrapment, thereby improving mixing performance and fracture conductivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate blending tubs are used, then capacity and flexibility are increased, but equipment redundancy and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple blending functions that would traditionally require separate tubs are merged into a single multi-sectional blending tub. The shared structure, common support framework, and integrated discharge system eliminate redundant equipment while maintaining the capacity to blend multiple different fluid mixtures simultaneously, reducing both equipment costs and footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The single blending tub is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple blending operations through its partitioned sections. Each section can be independently configured for different applications, allowing the equipment to adapt to various well requirements and fracturing scenarios without needing additional specialized equipment.
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 system increases operational capacity and flexibility, reduces equipment costs and size, and enhances mixing performance by eliminating air, thereby improving the fracture conductivity of the fluid mixtures produced.
Implementation Method 1
an impeller operable to rotate about a vertical axis and mix the slurry composition within the blending tub
Implementation Method 2
The blending tub may further include an inclined lower surface that facilitates movement of the particulate matter towards the discharge outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A blending apparatus utilized in hydraulic and simultaneous well servicing operations. The apparatus comprises a tub with multiple blending sections that can function as a single or multi-section blending unit and a plurality of mixing paddles mounted on a shaft and disposed within the tub. The mixing paddles have a helical shape screw inside a cylindrical body that enhances mixing and helps reduce air from the tub system.