Rigid Chain Actuator for Subsea Plug Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for retrieving and installing crown plugs in subsea wellbore operations face challenges due to large diameter plugs being too big to pass through well intervention systems, leading to increased costs and risks of wellbore fluid escape, and require extensive equipment and time, especially in deep water scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A rigid chain actuator system that includes a tool body with a bore, a chain housed within, and a chain extension/retraction mechanism to translate force onto wellbore tools, allowing for the retrieval and installation of large bore plugs through a smaller intervention system, reducing equipment needs and minimizing fluid escape risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a larger bore well intervention system is used to accommodate large diameter crown plugs, then the plugs can be retrieved and installed, but the equipment cost, vessel size requirements, and operational time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the intervention process into two stages: first using a small bore system to retrieve the large diameter plug to a intermediate location, then using a larger bore system only when needed for actual plug installation. This segmentation allows the majority of operations to use smaller, less expensive equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary storage location or transfer mechanism where the large diameter plug can be temporarily held or transferred between different intervention systems. This intermediary allows coordination between small bore retrieval operations and larger bore installation operations without requiring simultaneous large bore capability.
2Ease of operation
If open water procedures are used to remove large diameter plugs, then retrieval is possible, but the risk of wellbore fluid escape into the subsea environment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by retrieving the plug to an intermediate location and preparing the wellbore environment before actual removal. This includes positioning barrier devices and preparing containment systems in advance, so that when the plug is finally removed, the risk of fluid escape is minimized.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by deploying barrier devices and containment systems before plug removal operations begin. These protective measures are positioned and tested in advance to cushion against potential fluid escape scenarios, reducing environmental risk.
3Ease of operation
If wireline running tools are lowered and anchored to the XT or WCP wall for each plug operation, then plug access is achieved, but incremental damage accumulates and slack time increases operational cost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by retrieving plugs to an intermediate location using the small bore system. This preliminary retrieval reduces the frequency of needing to lower and raise wireline tools for each individual plug operation, thereby reducing cumulative damage to the XT or WCP and minimizing slack time.
Data Source
AI summary
A rigid chain actuator (201) including a tool body (203) having a bore (204) with a chain (206) at least partially disposed in a housing (211) coupled to the tool body. Additionally, the rigid chain actuator includes a chain extension/retraction mechanism to extend the chain from the housing into the bore and recoil the chain from the bore into the housing. Furthermore, the chain may translate a force onto at least one wellbore tool through the bore.