Threaded Block Connector With Variable Length Fracturing Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well fracturing systems face challenges with complex and time-consuming assembly, alignment issues, and significant wear and damage to fluid paths due to the use of conventional studded connections and block connectors, especially when handling proppants and chemical additives.
Innovation Solution
A block connector system with threaded block connectors and variable length connectors that include wear-resistant sleeves, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly, reduced wear, and improved fluid flow management, featuring telescoping variable connectors and interchangeable connection subs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional studded connections and block connectors are used, then fluid flow paths are established, but significant wear and damage occur to internal components due to proppants and chemical additives
Solution Approach 1:
The block connector is divided into a block body and separate connection subs that can be independently replaced. The connection sub acts as a sacrificial component that protects the main block body from wear, allowing the expensive block to be preserved while replacing cheaper connection subs.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection sub serves as an intermediary component between the block body and the external piping system. It absorbs the wear and damage from proppants and chemicals, protecting the main block connector from direct contact with harmful substances.
2Strength
If conventional studded connections with multiple nuts, studs, bolts and washers are used, then secure connections are achieved, but assembly and disassembly become extremely time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into a block body and detachable connection subs. This allows the complex multi-bolt connection to be replaced by a simpler quick-connect mechanism while maintaining structural integrity through the threaded interface between the sub and block body.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection sub can be quickly attached and detached from the block body, providing dynamic reconfigurability to the system. This enables rapid assembly and disassembly while the threaded connection maintains sufficient strength for secure operation.
3Device complexity
If fixed-length connectors are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but alignment issues occur between multiple wellheads and manifolds
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a telescoping mechanism that allows the length to be dynamically adjusted between a retracted position and an extended position. This enables the same simple connector structure to accommodate varying alignment requirements between wellheads and manifolds.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector length parameter can be changed by telescoping the internal tube relative to the external tube. This allows the connector to adapt to different distance requirements while maintaining the same basic structural design.
4Productivity
If rapid assembly is achieved with simplified connections, then installation time is reduced, but wear resistance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into a durable block body and replaceable connection subs. The quick-connect capability is provided by the sub, while the wear resistance is concentrated in the block body, allowing both rapid assembly and long-term durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection sub is designed as a sacrificial component that can be quickly replaced when worn. This allows the use of simpler, faster-connecting materials for the sub while the expensive, durable block body is preserved for long-term use.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect there is provided a block connector comprising a block member having at least one block port and at least one connection sub. The connection sub has a pipe connection end and a block connection end. The block connection end is threadably connectable to the bore port. In another embodiment of the invention there is provided a block connector comprising a block member having a plurality of block ports and at least one block bore. A plurality of wear sleeves are positionable within the at least one block bore, and said wear sleeves are secured within said at least one block bore.