Remote Closed-Mouth Power Tong for Well Servicing Rig Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Well Servicing Rigs require a four-man crew to operate power tongs for running and removing tubing strings, making the process strenuous and unsafe for personnel.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for remotely operating a closed-mouth power tong, which includes a remote-control panel and a mounting adapter flange for centralized operation on the wellhead, allowing for the tong to be positioned and controlled vertically, with features like high and low gear shifting and a lockable isolation valve for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a four-man crew operates the power tong manually on the rig floor, then the tong can be controlled directly, but the operation becomes strenuous and unsafe for personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation system with an automated hydraulic power tong system controlled by a remote control panel. The hydraulic system provides automated tong operation with features like automatic backup engagement and controlled rotation, eliminating the need for manual rig floor operation while maintaining full control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a remote control panel as an intermediary device that allows the operator to control the power tong from a safe distance. The remote panel transmits control signals through hydraulic lines to operate the tong, backup, and other functions without requiring personnel to be on the dangerous rig floor near the tubing.
2Productivity
If personnel operate the power tong from the rig floor, then direct control is possible, but the crew size must be large (four men)
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control panel serves multiple functions: controlling tong rotation, engaging/disengaging the backup, operating slips, and monitoring system status. This multi-functional control device consolidates what would otherwise require multiple operators into a single centralized control interface, reducing crew size while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control functions (tong operation, backup engagement, slip control) into a single integrated remote control panel. The hydraulic system merges these functions into one coordinated mechanism, allowing one operator to perform tasks that previously required a four-man crew.
3Productivity
If the power tong is positioned centrally on the well, then operational efficiency improves, but the mounting and positioning system becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic positioning system where the power tong can be moved along the well centerline as needed. The mounting base with adjustable positioning mechanisms allows the tong to be repositioned vertically and horizontally to optimize its position for different operational requirements, maintaining central alignment while providing operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate modular components: a mounting base that attaches to the wellhead, adjustable positioning mechanisms, and the power tong assembly itself. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and positioned, simplifying the overall mounting process while achieving precise central positioning for optimal operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for mounting a Closed-Mouth Power Tong on a Well Servicing Rig in order is disclosed. The power tong can be operated remotely when making up or breaking out connections on oilfield tubing. The system utilizes an assembly that can lift and lower the tong to the appropriate height as required to engage the threads on the tubing. The assembly is connected to the blowout preventer or wellhead with a quick connect system that is adjustable for various angles so that the tong can be utilized in various positions to run tubing into, or out from, the well center unhindered.