Piston-Style Drilling Mud Screen System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drilling mud screen systems are inefficient and hazardous due to the need for frequent replacement and installation, especially with double-shoulder high-strength connections, leading to accidents and excessive mud consumption.
Innovation Solution
A piston-style drilling mud screen system with a drilling mud screen puller/installer tool that allows for easy installation and removal of the mud screen without disassembling the drill string, using a body with offset inlets and outlets and a filter constructed from AISI 4145 or equivalent stainless steel with a hardened coating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If drilling mud screen is installed on the drill floor with single-shoulder API connections, then the mud screen can be installed, but it requires frequent replacement every time a stand pipe is added, leading to safety hazards and excessive mud consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The mud screen is nested within the drill string assembly, specifically positioned within the drill pipe or connection housing. This allows the mud screen to travel with the drill string and be replaced only when the entire drill string is changed, eliminating frequent stoppages for mud screen replacement while maintaining continuous drilling operation capability.
2Reliability
If drilling mud screen is installed on the drill floor, then the mud screen can be positioned for filtration, but it creates safety hazards for the crew below and requires dangerous practices
Solution Approach 1:
The mud screen is extracted from the drill floor location and repositioned within the drill string assembly. This removes the hazard of mud screen installation and replacement activities occurring above the crew, eliminating the safety risks associated with working over the rig floor while the drill string is being handled.
Solution Approach 2:
The drill string assembly serves as an intermediary carrier for the mud screen, transporting it from the surface to the drilling location. This intermediary system allows the mud screen to be installed in a safe manner within the protected environment of the drill string, rather than requiring direct handling above the crew.
3Strength
If double-shoulder high-strength connections are used, then connection strength is improved, but the space for mud screen installation is eliminated and connection tolerances are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The drill string connection is segmented into functional zones: the double-shoulder high-strength connection provides structural integrity and load-bearing capability, while a separate housing or cavity within the connection assembly provides the installation space for the mud screen. This segmentation allows both the high-strength connection and mud screen functionality to coexist without compromising either.
Solution Approach 2:
The drill string connection assembly is designed with multi-functionality: it simultaneously provides high-strength mechanical connection through the double-shoulder design and houses the mud screen for filtration. This universal design eliminates the need to choose between connection strength and mud screen compatibility, as both functions are integrated into a single assembly.
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 reduces accidents and mud consumption by enabling safe and efficient installation and replacement of drilling mud screens without disrupting the drill string, improving operational safety and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a filter constructed from AISI 4145 or equivalent stainless steel with a hardened coating
Data Source
AI summary
A drilling mud screen comprising a first body having a first end and a second end and a first centerline, a filter having a first end, a second end, and openings, wherein the second end of the filter is fluidly connected to the first end of the first body via a first connection and/or an optional first end retaining ring, a first end cap fluidly connected at the first end of the filter via a second connection, wherein the filter has an optional retaining ring disposed between the first connection and the second connection a drilling mud inlet at the openings of the filter, and a drilling mud outlet at the second end of the first body is disclosed. Methods of installing and using the drilling mud screen system are also disclosed.