Split Retaining Ring for Wellhead Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wellhead assembly components face challenges during fracturing processes due to excessive fracturing fluid pressure and abrasiveness, which can exceed the pressure rating of certain components, necessitating a secure and reliable coupling system to isolate lower-rated components and prevent damage.
Innovation Solution
A split retaining ring assembly is used to couple wellhead components like frac mandrels and tubing spools, featuring an anti-rotation mechanism to prevent axial and rotational movement, ensuring secure locking without external lock screws, thereby reducing leak paths and enhancing safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling systems are used to secure wellhead components, then the components can be assembled together, but external lock screws are required which create additional leak paths and increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the external lock screws from the coupling system entirely. Instead of using separate locking fasteners, the split retaining ring integrates the locking function into its own structure, eliminating the need for additional lock screws that would create leak paths and increase complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function and retaining function are merged into a single integrated component - the split retaining ring. The ring combines the retention of the mandrel with the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate lock screws and reducing the number of potential leak paths.
2Reliability
If split retaining ring assembly is used to secure frac mandrels to tubing spools, then movement and damage from fracturing pressures are prevented, but the coupling system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining ring is divided into two separate halves that can be assembled around the mandrel and then secured together. This segmentation allows for easy installation and removal while providing secure locking when assembled, preventing movement during fracturing operations without requiring complex external fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The split retaining ring acts as an intermediary component between the frac mandrel and the tubing spool. It provides a secure mechanical connection that prevents relative movement and protects lower-rated components from fracturing pressures, serving as a reliable mediator that simplifies the overall coupling system.
3Stability of the object's composition
If external lock screws are used to secure wellhead components, then components can be locked in place, but leak paths increase and safety is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the external lock screws from the system entirely. The locking function is integrated into the split retaining ring itself, which eliminates the need for additional fasteners that would create leak paths and compromise safety in high-pressure fracturing environments.
Data Source
AI summary
A wellhead system, in an embodiment, includes a first wellhead component with an internal bore, and a second wellhead component with a lower end disposed within the first wellhead component internal bore and an upper end disposed outside of the first wellhead component internal bore. The upper end of the second wellhead component has a groove disposed on an outer surface thereof. The wellhead system also includes a retaining member with a plurality of sections, wherein a portion of the retaining member is at least partially disposed in the groove on the second wellhead component, the retaining member is coupled to the first wellhead component, and an anti-rotation mechanism engages both the retaining member and the second wellhead component.