Subsea Cap System Universal Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea wellhead protection systems are costly, complex, and require multiple custom designs due to varying structure sizes and shapes, posing risks of damage and hydrate formation, and are difficult to install and remove efficiently, especially in deep-sea environments.
Innovation Solution
A cap system for subsea equipment featuring a tree cap-debris cap assembly with a split lock ring and actuator plate assembly that can be installed and retrieved using a running tool, allowing for flexible installation and fluid injection without orientation requirements, and includes a debris cap for protection and fluid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cap system is designed to closely match the size and shape of the subsea structure to enable mating and latching, then protection reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cap system employs a universal design with a standardized connection interface that can accommodate various subsea structure sizes and shapes. The actuator plate assembly with split lock ring creates a generic latching mechanism that works across different applications, eliminating the need for custom-designed caps for each structure while maintaining reliable protection and secure mating.
2Reliability
If custom-designed coverings are used for different subsea structure applications, then protection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cap system uses a standardized actuator plate assembly and split lock ring mechanism that can be manufactured in large quantities as a single design. This universal component approach allows the same cap design to serve multiple subsea structure applications (trees, spool trees, wellheads, tubing head spools) without requiring expensive custom manufacturing for each case, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable protection.
3Reliability
If traditional cap installation methods are used in deep-sea environments, then protection reliability is ensured, but installation time and rig time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cap system replaces complex manual mechanical installation procedures with a simplified actuator plate assembly that can be installed using a running tool. The split lock ring mechanism allows for quick engagement and latching without requiring extensive manual manipulation or complex tooling, significantly reducing installation time and rig time while maintaining secure attachment and installation reliability in deep-sea environments.
4Reliability
If the cap assembly requires removal for fluid injection, then sealing integrity is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cap system incorporates an intermediary fluid injection port that penetrates the cap assembly structure. This allows fluid injection to occur through the cap without requiring its removal, thereby maintaining the sealing integrity and protective function of the cap while enabling efficient fluid management operations. The intermediary port serves as a mediator between the need for protection and the need for fluid access.
Data Source
AI summary
A cap system for subsea equipment that can be employed on various subsea equipment including but not limited to a vertical monobore tree, a horizontal tree, a wellhead and a tubing head spool. The cap system includes a cap assembly that has the flexibility of installation and retrieval for open water as well as a through a riser with a running tool. The cap assembly also does not require any orientation during installation. The cap system includes a debris cap assembly installable in engagement with the cap assembly. The debris cap assembly interfacing with the cap assembly provides the ability to inject and bleed fluids through a main bore and an annulus bore of the subsea tree independently and without removal of the debris cap assembly and cap assembly.