Rotating Threaded Collar for Riser Auxiliary Line Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for oil and gas production riser auxiliary lines require frequent welding and offline transportation for repairs, leading to costly delays and logistical challenges due to the need for welded connections under high pressure.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a rotating threaded collar (RTC) system that allows for quick, non-welded coupling and decoupling of auxiliary line segments using a pin and box assembly with threaded connections, enabling on-site repairs without the need for welding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welded connections are used for auxiliary line segments, then connection strength and leak resistance are improved, but repair time and operational downtime increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary line is divided into multiple replaceable segments that can be independently removed and replaced. Each segment features standardized threaded connection interfaces (pin and box) that allow quick assembly and disassembly without welding, enabling rapid replacement of damaged sections while maintaining overall system integrity and leak resistance.
2Reliability
If welded connections are used for auxiliary line segments, then connection integrity under high pressure is improved, but logistical complexity and repair costs increase due to offline transportation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
Threaded connection interfaces (pins and boxes) are pre-installed on auxiliary line segments during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for on-site welding operations and complex logistical arrangements for offline transportation and repair, allowing segments to be quickly connected and disconnected at the wellsite using simple hand tools while maintaining high-pressure integrity.
3Productivity
If non-welded threaded connections are used for auxiliary line segments, then repair speed and operational continuity are improved, but connection robustness under high pressure may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The solution merges the advantages of threaded connections (quick assembly/disassembly) with the robustness requirements of high-pressure applications by combining pinned mechanical interlocking with threaded fastening. The pin provides immediate mechanical support and alignment, while the threaded box connection provides secure, leak-resistant fastening that can withstand high pressures, achieving both rapid repair capability and connection robustness.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for coupling a first pipe segment to a second pipe segment includes a pin coupled to the first pipe segment, the pin having a first outer diameter and a second outer diameter, the second outer diameter forming a recess along at least a portion of the pin. The system also includes a box coupled to the second pipe segment, the box having an opening, the opening receiving at least a portion of the pin, wherein at least a portion of a wall of the opening includes threads. The system further includes a rotating threaded collar arranged within the recess, at least a portion of the rotating threaded collar including mating threads configured to engage the threads of the box, wherein the rotating threaded collar is rotatable about the pin.