Stuffing Box Leak Containment with Pump String Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containment devices for stuffing boxes on well heads are inefficient in preventing leaks, often requiring enclosure of the entire unit for maintenance, leading to accessibility issues and potential water accumulation, and are not strong enough to support the weight of the pump string, resulting in frequent removal and reinstallation.
Innovation Solution
A containment device with a seamless, one-piece base and structural member that allows the polish rod to pass through, positioned on top of the stuffing box to collect leaks while maintaining accessibility and supporting the pump string's weight, featuring a lid for easy installation and a drain plug for liquid removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire stuffing box is enclosed by containment devices, then leaks are contained, but maintenance access becomes difficult and water accumulation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The containment device is divided into separate components: a base portion that contacts the stuffing box and a collet portion that secures the polish rod. This segmentation allows the base to remain in place for continuous leak containment while the collet can be independently accessed for maintenance operations on the polish rod and packing.
Solution Approach 2:
The polisher rod is extracted through an opening in the base of the containment device, allowing maintenance personnel to access the stuffing box components from the outside without removing the entire containment device. This extraction approach maintains leak containment while enabling easy maintenance access.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple pieces are used to connect around the stuffing box, then installation is easier, but seams create potential leak paths
Solution Approach 1:
The base and collet portions are designed to work together as an integrated containment system. The collet fits within the base and together they form a continuous seal around the polish rod, eliminating gaps that would exist if separate containment pieces were used. This merging approach maintains installation ease while improving seal integrity.
3Loss of time
If the containment device is designed to support pump string weight, then frequent removal is avoided, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base of the containment device is designed with a flange that can serve dual functions: providing a seal surface against the stuffing box and supporting the weight of the pump string. This multi-functionality allows the containment device to remain in place indefinitely, avoiding frequent removal and reinstallation, without adding significant structural complexity.
4Reliability
If the stuffing box is fully enclosed, then leaks are contained, but rain water collects inside
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of fully enclosing the stuffing box, the containment device is designed with the opening facing downward through the base. This inverted approach allows the containment device to capture leaks from the stuffing box while naturally draining rain water away from the sealed area, eliminating water accumulation problems.
Data Source
AI summary
A containment device for containing leakage from a stuffing box is provided. The containment device can have a base defining an interior space, a structural member positioned substantially vertically with an interior passage sized to allow a polish rod to pass through and a lid. The containment device can be adapted for connection to the stuffing box so that a bottom of the structural member rests on the stuffing box when the containment device is installed on the stuffing box. The containment device can be installed by removing a dust cap from the stuffing box and attaching the containment device to a top of the stuffing box with the interior passage aligning with the stuffing box. The dust is installed on top of the lid and the lid placed on the base. The polish rod can then be run through the interior passage of the containment device.