Stacked Float Valve Assembly for Drill String Backflow Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing float valve assemblies in drill strings are prone to damage due to pressurized fluid flow, and there is a need for improved designs that prevent unwanted fluid backflow while maintaining structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A float valve assembly comprising stacked first and second float valves with threaded connections, each equipped with a seal assembly and plunger or flapper valves, which allow fluid flow in one direction and prevent flow in the opposite direction, and are secured together to prevent relative movement and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If float valves are used to prevent fluid backflow in drill strings, then fluid flow control is improved, but the valves are prone to damage due to pressurized fluid flow
Solution Approach 1:
The float valve assembly is divided into multiple stacked float valves (first float valve and second float valve) connected together. Each float valve can independently perform the flow control function, distributing the stress and damage risk across multiple components rather than concentrating it in a single valve.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple float valves are combined in a stacked configuration within a single assembly, secured together to function as one integrated unit. This merging provides both the flow control benefits of multiple valves and the structural support of a unified assembly.
2Reliability
If multiple float valves are stacked together to improve reliability, then fluid flow control is enhanced, but the complexity of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The outer housing serves multiple functions: it contains and secures the stacked float valves, provides structural support for the entire assembly, and maintains the positional relationship between components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The float valves are pre-secured to each other and to the outer housing in a predetermined stacked configuration before installation. This preliminary assembly simplifies the installation process and reduces the complexity of field assembly operations.
3Strength
If float valves are secured together to prevent damage, then structural integrity is improved, but the ease of assembly and disassembly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The float valves are designed to be extractable from the outer housing while maintaining secure connections during operation. This allows for individual valve replacement or maintenance without requiring complete disassembly of the entire assembly, balancing structural integrity with maintenance accessibility.
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 assembly effectively prevents fluid backflow and maintains structural integrity by securing the valves together, ensuring reliable operation during drilling operations.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member positioned between the seal support member and the valve guide and configured to bias the valve member against the sealing surface
Implementation Method 2
a seal positioned against a lower surface of the upper valve head and configured to prevent fluid flow when the valve member is in the closed position
Implementation Method 3
a seal positioned against a lower surface of the upper valve head and configured to prevent fluid flow when the valve member is in the closed position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to float valve assemblies. The float valve assembly comprises a float sub, a first float valve having an outer housing, and a second float valve having an outer housing. The outer housings of the first and second float valves are coupled together and disposed within the float sub in a stacked configuration.