Segmented Rotary Table for Heavy Pipe String Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary tables face challenges in efficiently supporting heavy pipe strings during drilling operations, particularly in continuous drilling where multiple machines are involved, as they need to be easily opened and closed to accommodate different operations while maintaining structural integrity and supporting heavy loads.
Innovation Solution
A rotary table design comprising two pivotally supported sections that form a ring shape when closed and open radially, featuring arc-shaped grooves and channels for roller bodies to facilitate smooth rotation and loading, allowing for radial displacement of pipes and even loading distribution, with resilient sliding shoes for support and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the rotary table is designed as a single integrated structure to support heavy loads, then the load-bearing capacity is improved, but the ease of operation for opening and closing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary table is divided into two separable rotary table sections that can be moved relative to each other. Each section can be independently positioned to create an opening from the centre to the periphery, enabling the pipe string to be radially displaced in or out of the rotary table while maintaining the ability to support heavy loads when closed
2Ease of operation
If the rotary table sections are made separable for easy opening and closing, then the ease of operation is improved, but the structural complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary table is segmented into two sections with corresponding grooves and rolling tracks that form continuous paths when assembled. The grooves are arc-shaped with curve centers coincident with the central axis, and rolling bodies (balls or rollers) circulate through these grooves to provide smooth relative movement between sections
Solution Approach 2:
Rolling bodies (balls or rollers) act as intermediaries between the two rotary table sections, enabling smooth relative movement through the grooves and transition channels. These rolling bodies circulate continuously, facilitating the opening and closing operations while distributing loads evenly
3Strength
If heavy loads are supported during opening and closing operations, then the load-bearing capacity is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing housing section is made rotatable relative to the base section, creating a dynamic bearing system. The rolling bodies circulate through grooves and transition channels, providing continuous support during movement. This dynamic design allows the rotary table to maintain load-bearing capacity while performing opening and closing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The rolling bodies serve as intermediaries that distribute and support heavy loads during the opening and closing operations. By circulating through the grooves and transition channels, these rolling bodies enable movement while maintaining load support, avoiding the need for complex additional support mechanisms
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 and flexible support of heavy pipe strings, allowing for easy opening and closing of the rotary table, ensuring stable operation and reduced structural complexity, while maintaining the ability to handle loads of several hundred tonnes.
Implementation Method 1
a bearing housing groove being formed in a base contact surface on the bearing housing section and a corresponding base groove being formed in an opposing bearing contact surface in the base section, said groove having a curve centre coinciding with the central axis of the rotary table, and the rolling diameter of the roller body exceeding the collective depth of said groove
Implementation Method 2
with resilient sliding shoes for support and flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
A rotary table device is provided with means arranged for suspension of a pipe string. The rotary table comprises a rotary ring arranged rotatably about the central axis of the rotary table. The rotary ring is formed by two or more ring sections, each connected to a system comprising a bearing housing section rotatable relative to a base section, a bearing housing groove being formed in a base contact surface on the bearing housing section and a corresponding base groove being formed in an opposing bearing housing surface in the base section. The grooves form a curve-shaped track for a roller body and the groove has a curvature center coinciding with the central axis of the rotary table. The rolling diameter of the roller body exceeds the collective depth of said grooves, and a channel connecting the end portions of the bearing housing groove is formed in the bearing housing section.