Riser Segment Assembly Lowering Through Rotary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managed pressure drilling (MPD) techniques require larger riser components that are difficult to integrate into existing drilling rigs, as they exceed the diameter or transverse dimensions that can fit through the rotary of a drilling rig, necessitating cumbersome and inefficient installation methods.
Innovation Solution
A riser segment assembly that allows auxiliary lines to be attached below the rotary, enabling smaller components to be lowered through the rotary and coupled with other segments above, facilitating easier installation and alignment of larger components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If MPD riser segments with large diameter components are used, then the riser can accommodate MPD equipment, but the components cannot fit through the rotary of existing drilling rigs
Solution Approach 1:
The riser assembly is divided into separate segments: a main riser body that fits through the rotary, and auxiliary lines that are attached separately below the rotary. This segmentation allows the main component to pass through the rotary while auxiliary components are added afterward, resolving the contradiction between MPD equipment requirements and rotary size constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation process transitions from a single-dimensional approach (attempting to fit all components through the rotary) to a multi-dimensional approach where the main riser body is installed vertically through the rotary, and auxiliary lines are added in a different spatial sequence below the rotary. This dimensional change in installation methodology resolves the fitting problem.
2Adaptability or versatility
If auxiliary lines are routed around large MPD components, then MPD functionality is achieved, but the overall diameter of the riser segment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The riser system is segmented into the main riser body and separate auxiliary lines. The auxiliary lines are not integrated into the main body structure but are instead connected separately, allowing the main riser to maintain a compact diameter while auxiliary lines provide necessary MPD functionality externally.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection points or flanges serve as intermediaries between the main riser body and auxiliary lines. These intermediary components allow auxiliary lines to be attached without increasing the diameter of the main riser body, enabling MPD functionality while maintaining compact dimensions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If oversized riser components are loaded onto the rig below the deck, then the components can be positioned, but the installation process becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the riser into a main body and auxiliary lines, the main body can be quickly lowered through the rotary using standard procedures, while auxiliary lines are attached separately below the rotary. This segmentation reduces overall installation time compared to attempting to maneuver oversized integrated components into position.
Solution Approach 2:
The main riser body is prepared and lowered through the rotary in advance, establishing the primary structure. Auxiliary lines are then attached in a preliminary manner below the rotary, allowing parallel preparation and reducing total installation time compared to sequential assembly of integrated components.
Data Source
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AI summary
This disclosure includes auxiliary-line riser segment assemblies (e.g., with isolation units) that are suitable for managed pressure drilling (MPD) and that can be lowered (e.g., when connected to other riser segment assemblies) through a rotary of a drilling rig. Some embodiments are configured to have portions of the auxiliary lines connected (e.g., without welding) below the rotary.