Rotating Pipe Doping Bucket for Automated Thread Lubrication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual application of pipe dope to threaded connections in drilling systems is time-consuming, dangerous, and inefficient, especially in automated rig environments where manual methods are impractical.
Innovation Solution
An automated pipe doping apparatus with a rotating bucket assembly that includes a cleaning unit, drying unit, and lubricating unit, equipped with high-pressure nozzles, air knives, and retractable lubricant applicators, which can be controlled by sensors and actuators to apply pipe dope consistently and safely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual pipe doping is performed using brushes and containers on the rig floor, then the operation can be completed with simple equipment, but the process is time-consuming and dangerous for rig personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical brushing system with an automated system that uses centrifugal force generated by a rotating bucket to apply pipe dope uniformly to the pin end. The rotating bucket mechanism eliminates the need for manual brushing operations, thereby improving safety by removing personnel from hazardous environments while maintaining efficient application rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating bucket assembly is designed to be self-contained, carrying its own supply of pipe dope and applying it automatically through centrifugal force during rotation. The system serves itself by using the rotational motion to both distribute the lubricant and control its application, eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention or complex external delivery systems.
2Productivity
If automated equipment is used for pipe doping, then the safety and efficiency are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating bucket assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it stores the pipe dope supply, provides the mechanism for uniform distribution through centrifugal force, and controls the application timing through its rotation cycle. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for storage, distribution, and application, thereby automating the process while limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the lubricant storage container and the application mechanism into a single integrated rotating bucket assembly. The bucket both holds the pipe dope and applies it through its rotation, merging what could be separate systems into one compact unit. This integration achieves automation efficiency while keeping the apparatus structure relatively simple.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual pipe doping is performed, then the equipment required is simple, but the manufacturing precision and consistency of lubrication application deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe dope is pre-loaded into the rotating bucket assembly before the application process begins. The bucket is prepared in advance with the appropriate amount of lubricant, and the rotation mechanism is set to provide consistent centrifugal force throughout the application cycle. This preliminary preparation ensures uniform distribution and consistent application quality without requiring complex real-time control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic rotation of the bucket to achieve uniform pipe dope application. The centrifugal force generated during rotation naturally distributes the lubricant evenly across the pin end surface, providing consistent manufacturing precision. The dynamic motion transforms the application process from a static, manual operation to a controlled, uniform distribution system without excessive complexity.
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 apparatus enables efficient, safe, and automated application of pipe dope to tubular connections, reducing the need for manual labor and improving the reliability of threaded connections by ensuring consistent lubrication and drying, thus enhancing drill string integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a cleaning unit, the cleaning unit including at least one high pressure cleaning fluid nozzle inside the bucket
Implementation Method 2
a drying unit, including at least one gas outlet inside the bucket
Implementation Method 3
a lubricating unit, the lubricating unit having at least one retractable lubricant applicator inside the bucket
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe doping apparatus comprises a bucket assembly including a base and a bucket supported on the base and having an inside volume, a lubricating unit having at least one lubricant applicator inside the bucket; and a source of torque configured to rotate the bucket and/or the lubricating unit relative to a tubular. The apparatus may include a cleaning unit and/or a drying unit and the source of torque may be a fluid jet in either. At least one lubricant applicator may be retractable and may be actuated between a retracted position and an extended position by centripetal force. The apparatus may further include a positioning assembly supporting the base and the rotary bucket assembly and a controller connected to and controlling each of: the positioning assembly, the cleaning unit, the drying unit, and the lubricating unit.