Rotating Split Tubing Hanger for Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tubing hangers in hydrocarbon wells are costly and time-consuming to remove for service operations, and split tubing hangers do not effectively prevent the tubing string from being raised out of the wellbore, limiting access for maintenance and service work.
Innovation Solution
A rotating split tubing hanger design featuring a mandrel, a housing sleeve with axial and rotary load-bearing capabilities, and a removable outer sleeve that supports the mandrel against downward movement, allowing for single-direction rotation and easy disconnection for maintenance, with integrated bearings and a ratchet mechanism for controlled rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional tubing hanger is used to suspend the tubing string, then the tubing string is securely supported and prevented from being raised out, but the tubing hanger must be removed for service operations which is costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing hanger is divided into two separable parts: a mandrel that remains in the wellbore and an outer sleeve that can be removed. This segmentation allows the outer sleeve to be detached for service operations while the mandrel stays in place, eliminating the need to remove the entire tubing hanger assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from a static, fixed tubing hanger to a dynamic system where the outer sleeve can be selectively removed and reattached. The mandrel remains stationary while the outer sleeve provides temporary support during service operations, enabling flexible access to the tubing string.
2Ease of operation
If a split tubing hanger with removable outer sleeve is used, then service operations can be performed by lowering the tubing string, but the tubing string can be accidentally raised out of the wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The mandrel acts as an intermediary component that provides a positive stop to prevent the tubing string from being raised out of the wellbore. While the outer sleeve is removed for service operations, the mandrel remains in place to maintain position control and prevent accidental displacement of the tubing string.
3Ease of repair
If the outer sleeve is made removable for service access, then maintenance can be performed, but the connection between outer sleeve and mandrel must be secure to prevent thread damage
Solution Approach 1:
Threaded connections are provided on both the outer sleeve and mandrel to enable secure, repeatable attachment and detachment. The threading allows the outer sleeve to be screwed onto the mandrel with proper engagement, preventing thread damage during removal and reinstallation operations while maintaining secure connection during service operations.
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
Enables efficient rotation and maintenance of the tubing string within the well without external power sources, allowing for safe access and service operations while preventing axial movement and thread damage, thus reducing operational costs and time.
Implementation Method 1
The bearing races may be housed within the housing sleeve and/or the mandrel
Implementation Method 2
a ratchet mechanism for controlled rotation
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a rotating split tubing hanger, including: a mandrel having a bore therein and a mandrel exterior surface, the mandrel attachable to a tubing string; a housing sleeve mountable on the exterior surface of the mandrel, the mandrel being rotatable relative to the housing sleeve, and the housing sleeve comprising a housing sleeve exterior surface; and an outer sleeve removably mountable on the housing sleeve exterior surface, the outer sleeve comprising an outer sleeve exterior support surface engageable with a tubing head.