Rotating Control Device Alignment for Running Tool Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Obtaining proper alignment between a running tool and a seal rotating system in a rotating control device is difficult and time-consuming, particularly in offshore drilling operations, which affects the efficiency and duration of drilling operations.
Innovation Solution
A methodology and system that utilize an alignment mechanism to automatically align a running tool with a seal rotating system through linear movement, causing relative rotation until a desired alignment position is achieved, allowing secure connection via threaded fasteners or other fastening mechanisms, and enabling the running tool to remain part of the drill string during drilling operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual alignment methods are used between running tool and seal rotating system, then alignment can be achieved, but deployment time is excessive (up to 24 hours)
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment mechanism enables the running tool to automatically align itself with the seal rotating system through self-aligning features such as tapered surfaces and complementary geometries. The system performs its own alignment function without requiring external intervention or complex manual positioning procedures, thereby dramatically reducing alignment time from 24 hours to a fraction of that time.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment mechanism is pre-configured with specific geometric features (tapered surfaces, keyed interfaces, or cam mechanisms) that automatically guide the running tool into the correct alignment position as it is being deployed. This preliminary preparation of alignment features ensures that alignment occurs inherently during the deployment process itself, eliminating the need for separate alignment operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex alignment procedures are used to ensure proper alignment, then alignment accuracy is achieved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-aligning features are designed to automatically guide the running tool into precise alignment through inherent geometric constraints. The tapered surfaces or keyed interfaces self-correct minor misalignments and automatically position components accurately without requiring complex external alignment procedures or specialized operator skills.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment mechanism employs asymmetric geometric features such as tapered surfaces with specific angles or non-circular keyed interfaces that provide directional guidance and automatic alignment. These asymmetric features ensure that components can only assemble in the correct orientation, guaranteeing alignment precision while simplifying the operation to a straightforward insertion process.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique facilitates drilling of a borehole by simplifying alignment between a running tool and a seal rotating system. According to an embodiment, the running tool is connected into a drill string. The drill string is then used to move the running tool linearly within the seal rotating system until engagement of an alignment mechanism occurs. With continued linear movement, the alignment mechanism automatically causes relative rotation between the running tool and the seal rotating system until a desired alignment position is achieved. The seal rotating system may then be secured to the running tool via threaded fasteners or other suitable fastening mechanism.