Removable Valve Actuator Assembly for High-Torque DSSV Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual operation of drill string safety valves (DSSVs) in the oil and gas industry poses hazards due to high torque requirements and potential mechanical failures, especially under high pressure conditions, risking injury from ejected projectiles and fluid leaks.
Innovation Solution
A powered actuating assembly is mounted on the tubular valve body, comprising an actuator unit, a mounting plate, and securing links, which applies torque to the valve stem hydraulically, reducing manual effort and enhancing safety by resisting movement and securing the assembly to the valve body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation with a wrench is used to open or close the valve, then the valve can be operated, but considerable torque is required and safety hazards arise from potential mechanical failures and high-pressure fluid ejection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical wrench operation with a powered actuating assembly that uses an electric motor to provide the necessary torque. The motor-driven mechanism engages with the valve stem socket, eliminating the need for manual wrench application and reducing safety hazards associated with high-pressure operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The powered actuating assembly serves as an intermediary device between the operator and the valve stem. Instead of directly applying torque through a wrench, the operator controls the actuator which then applies torque through the mounting plate and securing links, providing a safer interface that reduces exposure to high-pressure hazards.
2Reliability
If manual wrench engagement is used, then valve control can be achieved, but the procedure becomes hazardous under high pressure conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical system is replaced with a powered actuating system that maintains reliable valve control while eliminating the hazards of manual wrench engagement under high pressure. The electric motor provides consistent torque application without requiring the operator to be in proximity to high-pressure fluid paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The powered actuating assembly is designed to autonomously perform the torque application function. Once positioned on the valve body and engaged with the stem socket, the actuator self-regulates the torque application through motor control, reducing the need for manual intervention and exposure to hazardous conditions.
3Ease of operation
If a powered actuating assembly is mounted on the valve body, then safety and ease of operation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The powered actuating assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: the electric motor unit, the mounting plate with securing links, and the engagement mechanism with the valve stem socket. This segmentation allows for modular design, easier installation, and simplified maintenance, offsetting the added complexity through organized modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate is designed with universal features that can accommodate different valve body sizes and configurations. The securing links and engagement mechanism are configured to work with various stem socket sizes, making the actuating assembly a multi-functional device that can operate on different valve types, thereby justifying the added complexity through enhanced versatility.
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 enables safer and easier operation of DSSVs by reducing manual torque application and minimizing hazards associated with high-pressure operations, ensuring reliable valve control without the need for manual wrench engagement.
Implementation Method 1
A powered actuating assembly is mounted on the tubular valve body, comprising an actuator unit, a mounting plate, and securing links, which applies torque to the valve stem hydraulically
Data Source
AI summary
A powered actuating assembly configured for mounting on a tubular valve body. The actuating assembly includes: (a) an actuator unit configured to impart torque to the valve stem; (b) an actuator mounting plate with a first surface supporting the actuator unit and a second surface configured to engage and resist movement relative to the valve body; and (c) securing links configured to extend around a valve body surface opposite the mounting plate and secure the mounting plate to the valve body.