Wedge Threadform Compound Relief for Accurate Tubular Make-Up
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tubular connectors in the oil and gas industry face challenges with hydraulic locking due to insufficient volume for thread compound, leading to inaccurate torque readings and premature connection failure, especially in deep and complex wells with increased torsional loads.
Innovation Solution
Designing a tubular connection threadform with thread compound relief spaces extending along the entire axial length, allowing for a substantial volume to accommodate thread compound and providing flexibility in uneven application, while maintaining high tensile and pressure strengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thread compound relief spaces are added to accommodate more thread compound, then hydraulic locking is prevented and torque reading accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threadform is segmented into distinct functional zones: load-bearing flanks that maintain structural integrity and thread compound relief spaces that accommodate excess compound. This segmentation allows the connection to simultaneously achieve accurate torque readings through proper flank contact while preventing hydraulic locking through dedicated relief volumes distributed along the threadform.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the threadform are given different geometric properties optimized for their specific functions. The load-bearing flanks maintain precise dimensional tolerances for accurate torque measurement, while the relief spaces between crests and roots provide variable volume accommodation for thread compound. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by ensuring each zone performs its intended function without compromising the other.
2Strength
If the threadform is designed with high tensile and pressure strength, then connection durability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threadform parameters are optimized to achieve high strength through precise control of flank angles, crest dimensions, and root geometry. The load-bearing flanks are designed with specific angular parameters that maximize tensile and pressure strength while the relief spaces are formed through controlled material removal or non-machining methods. This parameter optimization allows high strength performance while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized geometric definitions.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection includes a first tubular member having a first screw threadform defined by a first plurality of crests, roots, and flanks, where each flank separates each crest from each root. The connection also includes a second tubular member having a second screw threadform defined by a second plurality of crests, roots, and flanks, where each flank separates each crest from each root. The crests and roots are substantially axial to the tubular members and the flanks are substantially radial to the tubular members. The first tubular member and the second tubular member are configured to connect when the first threadform engages with the second threadform. Thread compound relief spaces are formed between the first plurality of crests and the second plurality of roots and between the second plurality of crests and the first plurality of roots when the first and second tubular members connect.