One-Trip Hanger Running Tool for Single-Well Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hanger running tools in mineral extraction systems require multiple trips to install and remove hangers from wellhead assemblies, increasing time and costs associated with drilling and production operations.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically actuated hanger running tool and hanger configuration that allows for secure locking, preloading, and single-trip installation and removal by applying rotational and circumferential forces to actuate a lock ring, enabling the hanger to be secured to a wellhead component and then removed without disengaging the lock ring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional hanger running tools are used, then the hanger can be installed and removed, but multiple trips are required which increases time and operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The tool divides the hanger running operation into distinct functional segments: a running tool portion for installation and a retrieval tool portion for removal. These segments are integrated into a single composite tool that can perform both operations in one trip, eliminating the need for multiple trips while maintaining specialized functionality for each operation phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger running tool is designed as a universal tool that performs multiple functions: it can both install the hanger by engaging with the lock ring mechanism and subsequently retrieve the hanger by disengaging the lock ring. This multi-functionality allows a single tool to complete both installation and removal operations during one trip into the wellbore.
2Productivity
If multiple trips are made to install and remove hangers, then the operations can be completed, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the running tool and retrieval tool into a single integrated hanger running tool. This combination consolidates multiple operations that previously required separate tools and multiple trips into one unified operation, thereby reducing operational costs associated with repeated tool deployments, rig time, and personnel operations.
3Ease of operation
If the lock ring is disengaged during removal, then the hanger can be freed, but the tool must be removed and reinstalled for retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is configured in advance with both running and retrieval functionalities integrated. The retrieval tool portion is prepared and positioned within the running tool before entering the wellbore. This preliminary configuration allows the tool to immediately perform retrieval operations after installation, without requiring removal or reconfiguration, as all necessary components are already in place.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a hanger running tool that has a tool body configured to couple to a hanger via a first set of threads, a first sleeve coupled to configured to couple to the tool body via a second set of threads, where the first set of threads and the second set of threads are oriented in opposite directions, such that the first sleeve rotates in a first circumferential direction when the tool body rotates in a second circumferential direction, opposite the first circumferential direction, and a second sleeve coupled to the first sleeve, wherein the second sleeve is configured to engage a push ring of the hanger to drive a lock ring of the hanger into a recess of a casing spool.