Single-Side Fracturing Manifold Layout for Compact Modular Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hydraulic fracturing manifolds are limited by their large footprint and lack of modularity, making them inefficient for setup and teardown, and they do not effectively utilize space for multiple junctions and fracturing head configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular hydraulic fracturing manifold system with angled inlet ports and a compact design that allows for increased modularity, reducing the overall footprint by positioning inlet ports on the same lateral side of the manifold, enabling easier configuration and higher flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional manifolds use cross junctions with inlet ports on opposite sides (180 degrees apart), then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the footprint is large and modularity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning both inlet ports on the same lateral side of the junction body rather than the conventional symmetric opposite sides arrangement. This asymmetric configuration allows multiple junctions to be stacked more efficiently, reducing the overall footprint while maintaining modularity and adaptability for different fracturing applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a conventional horizontal/opposite-side inlet port arrangement to a vertical/same-side arrangement where inlet ports are positioned at different heights on the same lateral side. This dimensional reorganization allows for compact stacking of multiple junctions, reducing the footprint while preserving modularity
2Productivity
If manifolds are designed with fixed number of junctions and fixed fracturing head location, then manufacturing is simplified, but setup and teardown times are increased due to lack of configurability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the manifold into modular junction units that can be independently configured and assembled. Each junction is a discrete module with standardized connections, allowing the system to be segmented and reconfigured for different applications, thereby reducing setup and teardown times while maintaining manageable complexity through standardization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic configurability by designing junctions with inlet ports that can accommodate multiple connection orientations and positions. This dynamic design allows the manifold to be reconfigured between jobs based on specific fracturing requirements, improving productivity without requiring complete system replacement
3Area of stationary object
If multiple fracturing pumps are positioned on opposite sides of the manifold, then fluid distribution is balanced, but the overall system footprint is enlarged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple inlet functions into a single lateral side of the junction body, consolidating what would traditionally require opposite-side positioning. This merging of inlet ports on one side reduces the lateral space required while maintaining balanced fluid distribution through the junction's internal geometry and outlet configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A fracturing manifold system includes a first manifold assembly in a side-by-side arrangement with a second manifold assembly. The first manifold assembly includes a plurality of first junctions, each having multiple inlet ports facing a first side of the fracturing manifold system. The second manifold assembly includes a plurality of second junction, each having multiple inlet ports facing a second side of the fracturing manifold assembly. Inlet ports on a single junction may be angled relative to each. The inlet ports may also be angled relative to a manifold flow path.