Rotating Pipe Doping Bucket for Automated Thread Cleaning and Lubrication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual application of pipe dope to threaded connections in drilling rigs is time-consuming, dangerous, and inefficient, especially in automated environments where rig personnel cannot perform this task safely and effectively.
Innovation Solution
An automated pipe doping apparatus with a rotating bucket assembly that includes a cleaning unit, drying unit, and lubricating unit, equipped with high-pressure cleaning nozzles, air knives, and retractable lubricant applicators, which can be controlled by sensors and actuators to apply pipe dope consistently and predictably to pin and box ends of tubular members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual pipe doping is performed by rig personnel using brushes dipped into containers, then the operation can be performed with simple equipment, but the process is time-consuming and dangerous for personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical brushing operation with an automated mechanical system. A rotating bucket assembly with multiple applicators mechanically applies pipe dope to pin ends without human intervention, eliminating safety risks while maintaining efficient operation through automated mechanical action.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated pipe doping system operates autonomously without requiring rig personnel to manually handle the doping process. The rotating bucket assembly self-regulates the application of pipe dope through controlled rotation and applicator positioning, making the system self-sufficient and removing personnel from dangerous tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual pipe doping is performed on the rig floor, then the equipment required is simple, but the operation is dangerous and cannot be performed in automated rig environments
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating bucket assembly serves multiple functions: it holds multiple applicators, rotates to position them, controls dope application, and can be integrated with existing rig automation systems. This multi-functionality allows the apparatus to adapt to automated rig environments while managing complexity through consolidated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe doping apparatus is segmented into modular components: a rotating bucket assembly, multiple retractable applicators, and a control system. This segmentation allows the system to be integrated into automated rig environments as a discrete unit while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated pipe doping apparatus with rotating bucket assembly is used, then the application of pipe dope is consistent and safe, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating bucket assembly incorporates sensors that detect the presence and position of pin ends, providing feedback to the control system. This feedback mechanism ensures consistent pipe dope application by automatically adjusting applicator positioning and rotation speed, achieving manufacturing precision while managing device complexity through intelligent control.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses dynamic elements including a rotating bucket assembly that can adjust its rotation speed and position, and retractable applicators that dynamically extend and retract based on detected pin end positions. This dynamics enables consistent pipe dope application while the controlled nature of the movement prevents excessive complexity.
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 apparatus significantly reduces the need for manual labor on the rig floor, ensuring consistent and safe application of pipe dope, enhancing drill string integrity by automating the cleaning, drying, and lubrication process, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a cleaning unit, the cleaning unit including at least one high pressure cleaning fluid nozzle inside the bucket
Implementation Method 2
a drying unit, including at least one gas outlet inside the bucket
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe doping apparatus comprises a bucket assembly including a base and a bucket supported on the base and having an inside volume, a lubricating unit having at least one lubricant applicator inside the bucket; and a source of torque configured to rotate the bucket and/or the lubricating unit relative to a tubular. The apparatus may include a cleaning unit and/or a drying unit and the source of torque may be a fluid jet in either. At least one lubricant applicator may be retractable and may be actuated between a retracted position and an extended position by centripetal force. The apparatus may further include a positioning assembly supporting the base and the rotary bucket assembly and a controller connected to and controlling each of:—the positioning assembly, the cleaning unit, the drying unit, and the lubricating unit.