Threadless Float Assembly Using Packer Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and time-consuming process of custom thread manufacturing for float equipment in downhole operations, which increases operational costs and time due to the need for specific threading for each well site and equipment configuration.
Innovation Solution
A threadless float assembly that uses a packer assembly with a lock ring, spacer, and shear pin to secure a valve in place without requiring custom threading, allowing for standardization and easy mating with casing segments, reducing the need for specialized personnel and equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If custom threads are manufactured on the float collar and guide or float shoe to couple to specific equipment at a well site, then the float equipment can be properly coupled to the specific equipment, but the manufacturing cost and time required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The float collar and float shoe are designed with universal coupling mechanisms that can interface with multiple types of equipment without requiring custom threading. The system uses standardized coupling interfaces that accommodate different well site equipment configurations, eliminating the need for custom thread manufacturing while maintaining coupling compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate, interchangeable components including the float collar, float shoe, and various coupling elements. This segmentation allows the main float body to remain standardized while only the coupling interface elements need to be changed for different equipment types, reducing manufacturing time for custom threads.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom threads are manufactured on the float collar and guide or float shoe to couple to specific equipment at a well site, then the float equipment can be properly coupled to the specific equipment, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The float equipment incorporates universal coupling interfaces that can mate with multiple types of equipment using the same standardized threading. This eliminates the need for expensive custom thread manufacturing for each well site while maintaining the ability to couple to specific equipment through the standardized interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling elements are designed as standardized, interchangeable components that can be quickly swapped between different operations. Rather than manufacturing expensive custom threads on the main float body, the system uses affordable, standardized coupling elements that can be replaced or reconfigured as needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If custom threads are manufactured for each operation, then the float equipment can be configured for specific well site requirements, but the overall operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing the float equipment to be quickly adapted to different well site requirements by changing coupling elements rather than manufacturing custom threads. This dynamic reconfiguration capability maintains configuration flexibility while significantly improving operational efficiency by eliminating lengthy manufacturing processes.
4Loss of time
If standardized components are used without custom threading, then manufacturing time and cost decrease, but the ability to couple to specific equipment may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized float collar and float shoe incorporate universal coupling interfaces designed to accommodate multiple equipment types. These standardized components maintain coupling compatibility with specific equipment through carefully designed interface geometries that can mate with various well site equipment while requiring no custom manufacturing.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~3A
AI summary
A packer assembly and valve assembly without special or custom threads are used to provide a threadless float assembly. A packer assembly with inserts disposed in slip wedges is set by applying compressive forces using a setting tool. A valve assembly may be positioned during setting of the packer assembly between a holder and a setting tool insert end or may be positioned abutting a spacer after setting of the packer assembly. A setting tool and a plunger along with a pump are used to apply compressive forces on the packer assembly to set the packer assembly without requiring that the packer assembly or the valve assembly have special threading as the inserts, holder and spacer maintain the components in a stationary position.