Threadless Water Knockout Bottle Welded Float Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Threaded solutions used in the oil and gas industry for stopping fluid flow tend to fail under high forces and pressures, necessitating a cost-effective and economical welded solution.
Innovation Solution
A thread-less automatic shut-off apparatus comprising an external tank with an inlet flange and an internal float valve, constructed using welding, where the internal structure features specific configurations and sizes of fluid entry and drain holes to utilize gravity and buoyancy for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded solutions are used to stop fluid flow, then the apparatus can be assembled using standard threaded components, but the threaded connections tend to fail under high forces and pressures in gas well operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tank and float valve into a single welded assembly, eliminating separate threaded connections between these components. The float valve is welded directly to the tank interior, creating a unified structure that cannot disassemble under pressure, thereby resolving the reliability issue of threaded connections in high-pressure gas well environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical threaded connection system with a welded joint system. Instead of using threads to connect components, the invention uses welding to create permanent, high-strength bonds that can withstand the high forces and pressures of gas well operations without failing
2Reliability
If a welded solution is used instead of threaded components, then connection reliability improves under high pressure, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the manufacturing process into two phases: first fabricate the tank and float valve as separate components using standard shop processes, then weld them together in a final assembly step. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using conventional, easy methods while achieving the reliability benefits of welding in the final assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The float valve is designed to be self-contained with its own float, valve seat, and sealing mechanism, requiring no additional threaded connections or external components for operation. This self-service design simplifies the welding process to a single joint while maintaining ease of manufacture through component standardization
3Ease of operation
If threaded components are used, then assembly and disassembly is easier for maintenance, but the threaded connections fail under operational pressures
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the tank and float valve into a welded assembly, the patent eliminates the need for threaded connections that could fail. The welded joint provides permanent, fail-safe connectivity that maintains operational reliability while the overall device remains simple enough for straightforward installation and maintenance
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 solution provides a reliable, cost-effective, and durable thread-less system that ensures only gas flows through, effectively stopping fluid flow when liquids are present, reducing the likelihood of failure and maintaining operational efficiency in high-pressure environments.
Implementation Method 1
an internal float valve with an exit flange
Implementation Method 2
an external tank with an inlet flange and a drain
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for stopping fluid flow when liquid is present in the fluid flow. The apparatus generally includes two parts, an internal structure with a float valve, and an external tank. The internal structure includes a plurality of fluid entry holes positioned, sized, and numbered relative to a drain hole. The design is generally thread less, and the preferred process used for making the apparatus includes welding and promotes the conservation of materials.