Segmented Seal Ring Structure to Prevent Extrusion Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seal apparatus in oilfield applications, such as downhole tools, face issues with extrusion gaps during expansion, leading to potential failure under working conditions due to spaces formed between segmented anti-extrusion rings.
Innovation Solution
A seal apparatus comprising a plurality of compound elements forming a ring structure that can move between expanded and collapsed conditions by sliding along contact surfaces, with each element having a substrate and a seal member, where the seal members are made from compliant materials like HNBR or fluoroelastomers, and the substrate is more rigid, allowing for seamless expansion and contraction without introducing significant stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If segmented anti-extrusion rings are used to support seal elements, then the seal element can be actuated during deployment, but spaces are formed between the segments at radially expanded condition creating extrusion gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-extrusion ring is divided into multiple segments that can move relative to each other during deployment. These segments allow the ring to expand and contract while maintaining continuous contact with the seal element, preventing extrusion gaps while enabling actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-extrusion ring transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one where segments can slide along contact surfaces. This dynamic behavior allows the ring to adapt its shape during deployment and operation, maintaining seal integrity while permitting actuation movements.
2Reliability
If a unitary annular elastomeric seal element is compressed to expand radially outwardly, then sealing is achieved against pressure differential, but extrusion gaps may result from spaces between segmented support rings
Solution Approach 1:
The seal element acts as an intermediary between the segmented anti-extrusion ring and the pressure differential. It distributes the sealing force uniformly around the circumference, bridging the gaps between segments and ensuring continuous sealing performance despite the segmented support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines elastomeric seal material with rigid or semi-rigid anti-extrusion ring segments. This composite structure leverages the flexibility and sealing capability of elastomers together with the structural support and shape retention of the segmented ring, achieving both reliability and functional complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If segments of anti-extrusion rings move to radially expanded condition during deployment, then the ring can accommodate seal element expansion, but extrusion gaps are created between segments
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-extrusion ring segments are designed with flexible characteristics that allow them to bend and conform during expansion. This flexibility enables the segments to maintain continuous contact with the seal element even when moving to radially expanded conditions, preventing extrusion gaps while accommodating expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The segments are pre-configured with contact surfaces and geometric features that guide their movement during expansion. This preliminary arrangement ensures that as the ring expands, the segments naturally maintain proper spacing and contact, preventing extrusion gaps before they can form.
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 solution prevents extrusion gaps and ensures reliable sealing in both expanded and collapsed conditions, maintaining structural integrity and preventing failures associated with previous designs.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one seal member is configured to conform, deform, or compress in use. The at least one seal member may be formed from a compliant, compressible or resilient material.
Implementation Method 2
the ring structure is operable to be moved between an expanded condition and a collapsed condition by movement of the plurality of elements; and wherein the plurality of elements is operable to be moved between the expanded and collapsed conditions by sliding with respect to one another along respective contact surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A seal apparatus and method of use is described. The seal apparatus comprises a seal assembly comprising a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure around a longitudinal axis. The ring structure is operable to be moved between an expanded condition and a collapsed condition by movement of the plurality of elements. The plurality of elements is operable to be moved between the expanded and collapsed conditions by sliding with respect to one another along respective contact surfaces. Each of the plurality of elements is a compound element comprising a substrate and at least one seal member disposed on a part of a surface of the element.