Retrievable Subsea Flow Control Insert with Choke and Check Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
In subsea mineral extraction and water injection systems, existing flow control devices require multiple trips to assemble and maintain, as they are typically installed piecemeal, leading to inefficiencies and increased operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A flow control insert combining a choke valve and a non-return valve, configured to restrict fluid flow and prevent backflow, is designed to be independently insertable and retrievable within a flow control housing using a dog-in-window locking mechanism, allowing for a single trip assembly and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If flow control devices are installed piecemeal in subsea environments, then each device can be individually maintained, but multiple trips are required increasing operational complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flow control devices (choke valve, non-return valve, and other flow control components) into a single integrated flow control insert assembly. This merging allows all devices to be retrieved and maintained together in one trip, eliminating the need for multiple separate trips while still enabling individual maintenance of each component within the assembled unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple flow control devices are assembled piecemeal, then each device can be independently configured, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control system is segmented into a modular insert assembly that can be pre-configured onshore and then installed as a single unit subsea. The insert contains all flow control devices (choke valve, non-return valve, etc.) integrated together in a standardized housing with a dog-in-window locking mechanism, allowing independent configuration during manufacturing while simplifying subsea installation to a single operation.
3Ease of operation
If flow control devices are accessed individually at the seabed, then precise control is possible, but the operational efficiency decreases due to repeated trips
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flow control devices are merged into a single retrievable insert assembly, allowing all devices to be accessed, adjusted, and maintained together in one operation. The integrated design maintains precise flow control capability through the choke valve and non-return valve while dramatically improving operational efficiency by eliminating repeated trips to the seabed.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed embodiments provide a flow control insert having both a choke valve configured to control flow and pressure through the system and a check valve disposed along a fluid flow path along which the fluid flows. In accordance with the present embodiments, the flow control insert couples together the choke valve and the check valve, and the flow control insert is independently insertable and retrievable relative to a flow control housing.