Trailer Support Stands With Vibration Damping for Fracturing Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic fracturing trailers face challenges in supporting their heavy weight and managing vibrations, which destabilizes the trailers and requires continuous tractor support, limiting the trailers' mobility and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising specifically designed supports with vibration-damping devices, such as springs and elastomers, is used to absorb and dampen vibrations, allowing the trailers to operate independently of tractors by providing additional weight support through multiple contact points and adjustable structures like gooseneck supports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional landing supports are used to support the trailer, then the trailer can be supported on the ground, but the supports are not strong enough to handle vibrations from mechanical equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure combines multiple materials with different properties - steel components for structural strength and rubber elements for vibration damping. This composite approach allows the landing support to simultaneously handle heavy loads and absorb vibrations from mechanical equipment on the trailer.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates vibration-damping rubber components into the landing support structure before the trailer is deployed. This beforehand cushioning prevents vibration transmission to the trailer frame and cargo, addressing the vibration problem before it can cause instability.
2Reliability
If tractors continuously support the trailers during operations, then the trailers remain stable, but the tractors cannot be removed from the wellsite
Solution Approach 1:
The enhanced landing support system enables the trailer to support itself independently on the ground without requiring continuous tractor presence. The self-service capability allows the trailer to maintain stability during operations while freeing tractors for other tasks at the wellsite.
Solution Approach 2:
The support function is segmented between the landing gear system and the tractor. The landing support handles static weight support and vibration damping, while the tractor focuses on transportation. This segmentation allows the tractor to depart after delivery, improving overall productivity.
3Productivity
If heavy mechanical equipment is mounted on the trailer, then the trailer can perform fracturing operations, but vibrations destabilize the trailer
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber-damped landing support acts as an intermediary between the ground and the trailer frame. It mediates the transmission of forces, allowing the trailer to carry heavy mechanical equipment while the damping material absorbs harmful vibrations before they can destabilize the trailer.
4Reliability
If the trailers are made immobile during operations, then they can be properly supported, but they lose mobility and require continuous tractor support
Solution Approach 1:
The landing support system is designed to be dynamic - extendable and adjustable - allowing the trailer to transition between mobile and stationary states. During transportation, the supports are retracted; during operations, they are extended to provide reliable ground support, enabling the trailer to be immobile only when needed.
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
This solution enables the trailers to operate safely and reliably without tractors, allowing for the removal of tractors from the site, reducing operational costs and increasing site mobility, and minimizing vibrations, thus enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The supports can be configured to absorb or dampen vibrations occurring due to mechanical equipment, when operating, which is carried on the trailer
Implementation Method 2
The devices may include springs, dampers, or a combination thereof
Implementation Method 3
specifically designed supports with vibration-damping devices, such as springs and elastomers, is used to absorb and dampen vibrations
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for supporting trailers carrying mechanical equipment, such as hydraulic fracturing oil and gas equipment are provided. One, two or at least three supports extend from the trailer toward ground and are configured to partially support the trailer when in contact with ground, in addition to any axle groups that exist on the trailer. At least one device configured to absorb, damp, or both absorb and damp vibrations from the mechanical equipment during operation is provided. Each device is operatively coupled to, for example integrated with, a corresponding one of the support structures.