Elastomeric Split Ring Nozzle Retention for Erosion Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional retention systems for nozzle inserts in earth-boring tools are prone to erosion from high-velocity drilling fluid and entrained formation particulates, leading to potential failure, especially in fixed-cutter bits where exposed retaining rings are exposed to severe splash-back, and the cost of forming complementary threads in tungsten carbide nozzles is expensive.

Innovation Solution

A resilient split ring system is used for lockable attachment of nozzle inserts to earth-boring tools, featuring a circumferential groove and annular recesses that allow for secure engagement and disengagement, protecting the retention mechanism from external environments and reducing erosion risks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional circular metal spring retention ring is used to secure the nozzle insert, then the nozzle insert can be retained in the aperture, but the retention ring is exposed to high velocity drilling fluid and entrained formation particulates causing erosion and potential failure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretention ring durabilityVSAvoiderosion from drilling fluid

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary retention mechanism where the retention ring is positioned within a recess in the bit body, using the recess structure as a mediator to shield the retention ring from direct exposure to drilling fluid and formation particulates, thereby reducing erosion while maintaining retention functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the retention ring from its conventional exposed position and relocates it within a recess in the bit body, removing it from the harmful environment of high velocity drilling fluid and entrained particulates, thus protecting it from erosion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If complementary threads are formed in the aperture and nozzle insert for retention, then secure attachment is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to the difficulty of machining tungsten carbide material

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenozzle insert attachment securityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the threaded mechanical retention system with a friction-fit retention system using elastomeric material. The elastomeric retention ring is compressed radially to engage with the nozzle insert outer diameter, eliminating the need for costly thread formation in tungsten carbide while maintaining secure attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the retention mechanism from rigid threaded engagement to flexible elastomeric compression. By using the elastic properties of the elastomeric material and compressing it radially, the system achieves secure retention without requiring difficult-to-machine threads in the hard tungsten carbide material

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 split ring system effectively secures nozzle inserts, preventing erosion and reducing the need for costly thread formation, while allowing for easy insertion and removal, enhancing the durability and cost-effectiveness of the retention mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

at least one elastomeric retention ring compressed radially within the aperture

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a first, substantially frustoconical surface sloping in the direction of the first longitudinal end and forming an acute angle with the longitudinal axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS7735582B2Insertable devices for retention systems, structures for attachment and methods of use

Publication Date: 2010.06.15 BAKER HUGHES CO

AI summary

Insertable devices include a body and at least one substantially circumferential groove in an outer side surface of the body. An aperture in a receiving device comprises at least one annular recess extending radially into a sidewall thereof. At least one resilient split ring fits partially into both the at least one substantially circumferential groove of the insertable device and the at least one annular recess in the aperture. Methods of inserting the insertable device into a receiving device and of removing the insertable device from a receiving device are also disclosed.