Subsea Pump System Dual-Pump Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Subsea pump systems face inefficiencies in utilizing limited hydraulic power to operate subsea apparatuses, requiring high-specification pumps capable of delivering high flow rates and pressures, which is challenging with existing single-pump systems.
Innovation Solution
A dual-pump system comprising a high flow pump and a high pressure pump, with a controller that automatically selects and switches between them based on fluid pressure and flow rate characteristics, optimizing operation within each pump's optimal range to efficiently manage fluid media flow and pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a single high-specification pump is used to deliver both high flow rates and high pressures, then the system can meet the performance requirements for subsea BOP operation, but the pump efficiency deteriorates because it cannot operate at its optimal range
Solution Approach 1:
The single pump function is segmented into two specialized pumps: a high flow pump for delivering large volumes at lower pressures and a high pressure pump for delivering smaller volumes at higher pressures. This segmentation allows each pump to operate within its optimal efficiency range while collectively meeting the full performance requirements for subsea BOP operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between the high flow pump and high pressure pump based on real-time pressure and flow rate requirements. The controller monitors system demands and activates the appropriate pump, enabling the system to adapt its power delivery characteristics to match actual operational needs while maintaining optimal pump efficiency.
2Power
If a single high-specification pump is used to meet both high flow and high pressure requirements, then the performance requirements are satisfied, but the device complexity increases due to requiring a higher specification pump
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using one complex high-specification pump capable of delivering both high flow and high pressure, the system segments the function into two simpler, specialized pumps. Each pump is designed for a specific operating range, reducing individual pump complexity while maintaining overall system capability through coordinated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-pump system provides multi-functionality by combining the capabilities of a high flow pump and a high pressure pump into a single integrated system. This allows the system to deliver both high flow rates and high pressures as needed, effectively making the pump system universal for various subsea BOP operational requirements.
3Use of energy by moving object
If limited hydraulic power from ROV is used to operate subsea apparatus, then the power consumption is reduced, but the ability to deliver required flow rates and pressures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes operating parameters by switching between two distinct pump configurations with different performance characteristics. The high flow pump operates at lower pressure with higher flow rate, while the high pressure pump operates at higher pressure with lower flow rate. This parameter change allows the system to deliver required hydraulic power using limited ROV power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its power delivery characteristics by selecting the appropriate pump based on real-time requirements. This dynamic operation allows the system to maximize the utilization of limited hydraulic power from the ROV while still meeting the flow rate and pressure requirements for subsea BOP operation.
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 dual-pump system efficiently delivers high flow rates and pressures, optimizing energy use and reducing the need for high-specification pumps, enabling effective operation of subsea BOPs and other hydraulic devices with smoother transitions and reduced power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
Typically the pumps are hydraulic pumps and are driven by a drive fluid. Passage of the drive fluid through the pump, e.g. through a drive fluid circuit from a drive fluid reservoir, through a drive side of each pump and back to the reservoir, typically drives the pumping of the fluid media through a media side of the pump.
Data Source
AI summary
A subsea pump system is adapted to close a hydraulic ram of a blowout preventer. The subsea pump system has at least a first pump and a second pump configured to pump drive fluid from a source to the hydraulic ram. The system has a controller configured to automatically select at least one of the first and second pumps for pumping the drive fluid wherein at least the first pump is selected at a lower fluid pressure range and at least the second pump is selected at a higher fluid pressure range. A method of operating a pump system and an intervention skid for a pump system are also described.