Rotational Power Slips Wedge Actuation for Drilling String Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In drilling operations, the rotation of drilling strings during connection or disconnection poses risks due to torsional stresses and deformation, leading to potential accidents and stuck-pipe incidents, as existing power slips are designed for vertical loads only and cannot rotate while engaged.
Innovation Solution
A rotational power slips system with a static base, rotating ring, and wedge actuators that allow for continuous rotation of the drilling string while engaging or disengaging slips, using contactless electrical power transfer systems like inductive, capacitive, or resonant power transfer to power the rotating components, enabling safe and automated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power slips are used to support the drilling string, then the vertical load is properly supported, but rotation of the drilling string is not possible when slips are engaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the slips into multiple independent wedge elements that can rotate individually within the rotary table opening. Each wedge is supported by bearing assemblies that allow rotational movement while maintaining gripping function, enabling the drilling string to rotate without disengaging the slips.
Solution Approach 2:
The slip system transitions from a static design to a dynamic one where the wedges and support assemblies can rotate. The bearing assemblies provide dynamic support that accommodates rotational motion while maintaining the vertical loading capability, allowing the system to adapt to both stationary and rotating operational states.
2Productivity
If the drilling string rotates while engaged on traditional slips, then continuous rotation is achieved, but the wedges are subjected to higher torsional stresses causing the drilling string to fall
Solution Approach 1:
The grip function is distributed across multiple wedge elements rather than relying on a single large wedge. This segmentation allows the torsional stresses to be distributed across multiple contact points, reducing the stress on each individual wedge and preventing failure during rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
Bearing assemblies are introduced as intermediary elements between the wedges and the rotary table. These bearings reduce friction and allow the wedges to rotate smoothly while maintaining their gripping position, preventing the drilling string from falling during continuous rotation.
3Ease of operation
If manual removal of slips is attempted during rotation, then the slips can be removed, but sudden release of torsional deformation causes rapid motion and potential injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses automated actuation mechanisms that can engage and disengage the slips without manual intervention. The actuated slip system can be controlled to release gradually or maintain engagement during rotation, eliminating the need for manual removal and the associated risks of sudden torsional release.
4Ease of manufacture
If periodic non-rotation of drilling strings is practiced, then connections can be made or broken, but stuck-pipe incidents occur costing millions of dollars
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational power slip system enables continuous rotation of the drilling string even during connection and disconnection operations. This eliminates the need for periodic stopping and resuming of rotation, maintaining continuous useful action and preventing stuck-pipe incidents while still allowing connections to be made or broken.
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 safe, continuous rotation of the drilling string during connection or disconnection, reducing the risk of accidents and stuck-pipe incidents by allowing slips to engage or disengage without manual intervention and accommodating torsional stresses, thus enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a contactless electrical power system includes an inductive power transfer system including: an inductance track disposed in the static base and extending circumferentially around the rotating ring; and an inductor coil disposed within the rotating ring
Implementation Method 2
the contactless electrical power system includes a capacitive power transfer system including: an outer capacitor plate disposed within the static base; and an inner capacitor plate disposed within the rotating ring
Implementation Method 3
The plurality of wedge actuators may be positioned about an inner circumference of the rotating ring and may move the plurality of slips wedges in a radial direction inwardly toward the drill string in response to application of a mechanical force
Data Source
AI summary
A rotational power slips system includes a static base comprising at least one circular opening; a rotating ring disposed within the static base and including a circular outer surface interfacing with the static base; at least one slips wedge disposed within the rotating ring and including a radially inner grip surface for gripping at least one component of a drilling string; and at least one wedge actuator disposed on the rotating ring and rotatably coupled to both the rotating ring and the slips wedge, thereby causing the slips wedge to move while the component of a drilling string is rotating.