Self-Locking Centralizer with Curved Ramps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current centralizers in oilfield applications face challenges in securely locking onto tubulars without using stop rings, special torqueing tools, or small fasteners, and in preventing both axial and rotational movement, which is crucial for reducing drag and facilitating installation in horizontal well sections.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking centralizer design featuring an internal spring that induces hoop stress and a locking mechanism with ramps and apertures to resist axial and rotational movement, eliminating the need for external fasteners or tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional stop rings or C-rings are used to anchor the centralizer, then the centralizer can be secured to the tubular, but the installation process becomes complex requiring special torqueing tools and multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The centralizer body is designed with self-locking features including ramps and apertures that enable it to secure itself to the tubular without requiring external stop rings, C-rings, or special torqueing tools. The structure performs its own anchoring function through the interaction between the ramps and the tubular surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the separate stop rings, C-rings, and fasteners from the system, integrating their anchoring function directly into the centralizer body structure. This eliminates the need for multiple components and special installation tools while maintaining securing reliability.
2Reliability
If the centralizer is designed to prevent axial movement, then the equipment is secured in place, but the structure becomes more complex requiring additional locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The ramps are designed with curved surfaces that interact with the tubular to prevent axial movement. The curvature allows the centralizer to lock onto the tubular surface while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, avoiding the need for additional flat-based locking mechanisms.
3Reliability
If the centralizer is designed to prevent rotation, then the equipment is secured against rotational movement, but the structure becomes more complex requiring additional anti-rotation features
Solution Approach 1:
The curved ramp surfaces are designed to engage with the tubular in a way that naturally prevents rotation. The geometry of the ramps creates mechanical interlocking that resists rotational forces without requiring separate anti-rotation components.
4Reliability
If traditional anchoring methods like set screws or hammering wires are used, then the centralizer can be secured, but safety hazards and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The centralizer body performs its own anchoring function through its self-locking ramp structure, eliminating the need for dangerous operations like hammering wires or nails into the tubular. The design achieves secure anchoring through purely mechanical self-locking features.
Solution Approach 2:
The design converts the potential harm of requiring dangerous installation methods into a benefit by using the natural geometry of the ramps to create self-locking action. The structure that could potentially slide or rotate is instead designed to naturally lock onto the tubular surface.
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 centralizer effectively secures itself to the tubular, preventing axial movement and rotation, thereby reducing installation drag and load requirements, while ensuring safety and simplicity in installation processes.
Implementation Method 1
An expandable spring member is provided and located in the channel. The spring is expandable from an unexpanded position to an expanded position.
Implementation Method 2
An internal spring is provided to induce a hoop stress into the tubular on which the centralizer resides.
Implementation Method 3
A first ramp is formed on the interior surface, proximate to the first edge, and a second ramp is formed on the interior surface, proximate to the second edge.
Implementation Method 4
The spring is located in the channel... preventing axial movement of the centralizer... preventing rotation movement of the centralizer relative to the tubular.
Data Source
AI summary
A lock capable of self-locking onto a tubular and onto another centralizer. The lock collar being of the type used in production strings of tubulars in the oilfield. The lock collar relates to mechanisms such as stop rings for centralizers commonly used in downhole applications to prevent axial and rotational movement of centralizers mounted on the tubing or casing outer surface.