Disposable Polyurethane Thread Protector for Tubular Ends
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thread protectors for tubular members in oil and gas well drilling operations are prone to damage due to exposure to elements and forces from hydraulic pipe moving apparatus, requiring metallic components that are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A thread protector made from durable, non-corrosive, and weather-resistant materials like polyurethane, featuring a flexible inner member and a harder outer member with lugs that actuate between locked and unlocked configurations via friction fit, eliminating the need for metallic components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metallic components (stainless steel springs, clamps, pins) are used in conventional thread protectors, then the protectors can be secured onto and removed from threaded ends, but the metallic components are damaged during use due to exposure to elements and forces from hydraulic pipe moving apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces durable metallic components with a disposable plastic thread protector that is cost-effective and eliminates the need for expensive stainless steel springs, clamps, and pins. The plastic protector is designed to be replaced rather than repaired, solving the reliability issue through economic rather than mechanical durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to plastic, which fundamentally alters the protector's interaction with environmental factors and operational forces. The plastic material is immune to corrosion from environmental exposure and can withstand operational forces without the damage issues that plague metallic components.
2Ease of operation
If conventional clamp-on or lock-pin mechanisms are used, then thread protectors can be secured onto threaded ends, but the design becomes complex and requires multiple metallic components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate metallic components (springs, clamps, pins) into a single integrated plastic structure. The thread protector is designed as one unified piece that combines the functions of all previous components, dramatically simplifying the design while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic thread protector is designed to be self-installing and self-securing without requiring additional metallic fastening components. The protector's own structural features enable it to grip and secure itself onto the threaded end, eliminating the need for separate clamps, springs, or pins.
3Reliability
If metallic components are used in thread protectors, then secure mounting is achieved, but the cost increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive metallic components with inexpensive plastic material that can be manufactured at low cost. The plastic thread protector is designed as a disposable component that is more cost-effective to produce and replace than expensive metallic alternatives, directly addressing the cost and efficiency issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to plastic, which fundamentally alters the manufacturing economics. Plastic can be molded into complex shapes more efficiently and at lower cost than metal fabrication processes, dramatically improving ease of manufacture and cost-effectiveness while maintaining secure mounting capability.
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 solution provides a cost-effective, simple, and robust thread protector that is resistant to environmental damage and operational forces, ensuring secure mounting and easy installation/removal without damaging the protector or the tubular member.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible inner member and the harder outer member are made from polyurethane or other suitable materials. When the thread protector is in the locked configuration, at least a portion of the inside diameter of the interior is reduced so as to become smaller... the inside diameter of the interior is reduced so as to securely mount the thread protector to the threaded end.
Data Source
AI summary
A thread protector for use with a threaded end of a tubular member comprises a first end having an opening with an inside diameter, a second end, and an interior having an inside diameter that is substantially the same as the inside diameter of the opening. The interior is adapted to accept and surround the threaded end. The thread protector may be actuated between a locked and an unlocked configuration. When the thread protector is in the locked configuration, a portion of the inside diameter is reduced, as compared to when the thread protector is in the unlocked configuration, so as to securely mount the thread protector to the threaded end.