Studded Fracturing Wing Valve Assembly for Shorter, Lighter Trees
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydraulic fracturing systems face challenges with the size, weight, and assembly complexity of fracturing trees, particularly in the design of wing valves, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The development of a hydraulic fracturing tree assembly featuring a studded hydraulic valve with a cuboid valve body and a gate valve mechanism, utilizing a stud-to-flange connection instead of a traditional flange-to-flange connection, which reduces the wing dimension by approximately 23% and includes a T-slot coupling for the operating stem and gate, enhancing movement and reducing wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional flange-to-flange connection is used for wing valves, then connection strength is sufficient, but wing dimension and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The stud-to-flange connection mechanism nests the stud within the flange structure, allowing the connection to be made in a more compact arrangement. The stud extends through the flange and is secured with a nut, creating a nested configuration that reduces the overall wing dimension while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection method transitions from a face-to-face flange arrangement (two-dimensional contact) to a stud extending through the flange with a nut (three-dimensional engagement). This dimensional change allows for a more compact wing structure while preserving structural integrity.
2Reliability
If traditional flange-to-flange connection is used for wing valves, then connection reliability is adequate, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct components: the stud as a separate element, the flange with integrated stud receptacle, and the securing nut. This segmentation allows for pre-assembly and standardization of parts, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Strength
If traditional wing valve design is used, then structural strength is sufficient, but weight and bending moment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gate structure utilizes nested components where the T-slot coupling integrates the operating stem within the gate body. This nested arrangement eliminates the need for separate, bulky coupling mechanisms, reducing overall weight while maintaining structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The T-slot coupling provides three-dimensional engagement between the operating stem and gate, allowing for more efficient load distribution and reduced material requirements compared to traditional two-dimensional flange connections, thereby reducing weight.
4Strength
If traditional wing valve design is used, then structural integrity is adequate, but bending moment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stud-to-flange connection with nut creates a three-dimensional fastening system that provides superior resistance to bending moments compared to traditional flange-to-flange connections. The stud extending through the flange and secured with a nut creates multiple engagement points that distribute and resist bending forces more effectively.
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic fracturing tree wing is formed with a studded hydraulic valve next to a manual valve. The stud-to-flange connection allows for a shorter, lighter wing. The studded hydraulic valve maybe a gate valve that includes a T-slot coupling between an operating stem and the gate. A bonnet seal ridge may be formed to withstand undue deformation during operation that wears or destroys seals. A method for forming a hydraulic fracturing tree assembly includes using a flanged manual valve with a studded hydraulic valve. Other valves and methods are presented.