Wedge-Shaped Seal with Radial Extensions for Gap Sub Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sealing methods in gap subs are prone to dislodging under fluid impingement pressure, leading to potential leakage and increased complexity with the use of additional metallic barriers.
Innovation Solution
A wedge-shaped seal is employed with radial extensions that engage with corresponding recesses or grooves, secured by an injected material to maintain sealing engagement between angled and non-angled surfaces, reducing the risk of seal dislodgement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cylindrical seal is used in slip-fit engagement with the surfaces being sealed, then the seal can be easily installed, but the seal becomes susceptible to shifting under fluid pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member is designed with an asymmetric cross-sectional shape that includes a flat surface and a curved surface. The flat surface engages with the flat surface of the first component while the curved surface engages with the curved surface of the second component. This asymmetric geometry prevents rotational shifting and ensures stable sealing under fluid pressure, while still allowing for relatively easy installation by aligning the flat surfaces.
2Reliability
If a metallic barrier is incorporated to prevent the cylindrical seal from shifting, then the seal stability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function and the anti-shifting function are merged into a single integrated seal member. The asymmetric cross-sectional geometry of the seal member simultaneously provides both sealing engagement with the two components and prevention of rotational shifting. This eliminates the need for separate metallic barrier components, reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining reliability.
3Stress or pressure
If the seal is subjected to high fluid impingement pressure, then the sealing capability is tested, but the seal may become worn or shifted over time
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric cross-sectional shape with flat and curved surfaces creates stable engagement geometry that resists high fluid impingement pressure. The flat surface provides a broad contact area that distributes pressure evenly, reducing localized wear, while the curved surface maintains consistent engagement with the second component, preventing shifting even under sustained high pressure conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for sealing a gap sub wherein injected material is used to secure a seal member in a gap. The seal member is positioned in the gap, and the material is then injected into the gap and against the seal member, seating the seal member and securing it in place once the material solidifies. The injected material is preferably electrically non-conductive.