Stem Head Adapter Pistons for Floating Wellhead Load Cell Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wellhead systems on floating platforms require cumbersome and unsafe methods to replace load cells, involving tilting of the casing head to release one load cell at a time, which poses safety risks and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A stem head adapter assembly with a ring-shaped stem head adapter plate and a solid upper ring, allowing for simultaneous removal and replacement of multiple load cells without tilting, using piston assemblies to lift the upper ring and relieve load cell tension, ensuring safety and efficient maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the casing head is tipped to one side to release load cells, then load cells can be replaced, but safety risks increase and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the load cell replacement process by providing individual release mechanisms (pistons) for each load cell. This allows each load cell to be released independently through controlled axial movement, eliminating the need to tip the entire casing head and reducing safety risks while maintaining repair accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces pistons as intermediary components between the upper ring and load cells. These pistons act as mediators that can be selectively activated to release individual load cells without requiring the casing head to be tipped, thereby enabling safe and controlled load cell replacement.
2Ease of repair
If the casing head is tipped to release load cells one at a time, then replacement is possible, but operational time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the release mechanism into individual pistons for each load cell, the system enables parallel or sequential replacement without the time-consuming process of tipping the casing head repeatedly. Multiple load cells can be addressed efficiently through their respective pistons.
Solution Approach 2:
The pistons are pre-positioned and connected to the upper ring, ready to release load cells when needed. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for complex manual intervention and casing head manipulation, significantly reducing maintenance time.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid stem head adapter assembly is used to support casing head load, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the stem head adapter plate, upper ring, and multiple pistons. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall structural stability, and facilitates easier assembly and maintenance despite the increased complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper ring serves multiple functions: it supports the casing head, provides mounting for multiple pistons, and enables simultaneous or sequential load cell release. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, managing complexity while maintaining stability.
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
Enables safe and efficient simultaneous removal and replacement of load cells without forming pinch points, supporting significant casing head loads and maintaining operational stability during maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
at least one piston assembly selectively secured to the upper ring
Implementation Method 2
at least one piston assembly selectively secured to the upper ring
Data Source
AI summary
A casing head assembly for landing on a stem head of a floating structure can include a stem head adapter assembly that includes a ring shaped stem head adapter plate. A solid upper ring is spaced axially above the stem head adapter plate, defining an adapter gap between the upper ring and the stem head adapter plate. At least one load cell can have a first end that is supported by the stem head adapter plate and a second end that engages the upper ring. At least one piston assembly is selectively secured to the upper ring. The casing head assembly also includes a casing head landed on, and secured to, the upper ring of the stem head adapter assembly. The load cell is selectively constrained between the upper ring and the stem head adapter plate by a load on the casing head.