High Pressure Stripping Heads Elastomer Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stripping heads have limitations in pressure rating and longevity of the stripper element, which can lead to premature failure and the need for more frequent replacements, especially in high-pressure applications such as frac plug drilling.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a one-piece, formed, generally cylindrical elastomer body with a flexible sheet insert, such as metal or Kevlar, positioned within the elastomer body to enhance durability and pressure resistance. This configuration allows for improved sealing and reduced wear, extending the life of the stripper element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If traditional rubber stripper elements are used, then ease of manufacture and simplicity of design are maintained, but longevity and pressure resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining elastomer (rubber) with reinforcement fibers (such as aramid, steel, or other high-strength materials) to create a stripper element that integrates the flexibility and sealing capability of elastomer with the tensile strength and durability of reinforcement fibers. This composite structure extends the longevity of the stripper element while maintaining reasonable design complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by strategically positioning reinforcement fibers within specific regions of the elastomer body, particularly in areas subjected to high stress such as the lower truncated cone portion and around the central longitudinal through passage. This localized reinforcement enhances durability where needed without unnecessarily complicating the entire structure.
2Reliability
If stripper element rotates with kelly or drillpipe, then sealing function is maintained, but material longevity decreases due to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement fibers embedded in the elastomer create a composite structure that resists wear better than pure rubber. The fibers maintain structural integrity during rotation, reducing material degradation and extending the operational life of the stripper element while preserving its sealing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the stripper element by incorporating reinforcement materials that alter the tensile strength, elasticity, and wear resistance characteristics. This transforms the material properties to achieve both reliable sealing and extended longevity during rotational operation.
3Stress or pressure
If stripper head is designed for higher pressure rating, then pressure resistance improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The use of reinforcement fibers in the elastomer body provides internal structural support that enables the stripping head to withstand higher pressures without requiring complex external reinforcement structures. The composite material itself becomes the pressure-resistant component, simplifying the overall design while increasing pressure rating.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement fibers are concentrated in the lower truncated cone portion and around the central passage, providing localized pressure resistance exactly where the highest stresses occur during operation. This targeted approach achieves high pressure rating without adding complexity throughout the entire structure.
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 improved stripper elements and stripping heads demonstrate enhanced longevity, with some applications showing a 3 to 4 times longer lifespan compared to traditional rubber elements, while also providing increased pressure resistance up to 4,000 psi or higher.
Implementation Method 1
a one-piece, formed, flexible sheet insert (metal, fabric (Kevlar), or combination thereof) positioned within at least a portion of either the upper cylindrical portion, the lower truncated cone portion, or both of the generally cylindrical elastomer body
Implementation Method 2
a one-piece, formed, generally cylindrical elastomer body having a top, a bottom, a central longitudinal through passage defining an inside surface, and an outer surface
Data Source
AI summary
A stripper element for use with stripping heads includes a one-piece, formed, generally cylindrical elastomer body having a top, a bottom, a central longitudinal through passage defining an inside surface, and an outer surface. The elastomer body includes an upper cylindrical portion and a lower truncated cone portion, the upper cylindrical portion including a cylindrical lip configured to seal against an inside surface of a stripper head. A one-piece, formed, flexible sheet insert (metal, fabric, or combination thereof) is positioned within at least a portion of either the upper cylindrical portion, the lower truncated cone portion, or both of the one-piece, formed, generally cylindrical elastomer body, the one-piece, formed, flexible sheet insert including a plurality of slots or through holes therein. Methods of making the stripper elements.