Well Threaded Connection Ratchet Design for Break-Out Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing threaded connections for hydrocarbon well exploration and production are susceptible to damage due to forces applied during rotational make-up and break-out, particularly affecting the anti-rotation device.
Innovation Solution
A threaded connection design featuring a releasable anti-rotation member with a ratchet part and spring part integrally formed from a single piece of material, allowing radial movement and tangential movement to distribute stresses, reducing the risk of damage from shear stresses and break-out torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the anti-rotation device is subjected to forces during rotational make-up and break-out, then the threaded connection can be assembled and disassembled, but the anti-rotation device becomes susceptible to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The first anti-rotation member is divided into two functional parts: a first ratchet part for engaging with the second ratchet part, and a spring part for providing radial movement capability. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while working together to reduce stress concentration and improve durability during operational forces
Solution Approach 2:
The spring part enables the first ratchet part to move radially relative to the longitudinal axis, creating a dynamic structure that can absorb and distribute stresses during make-up and break-out operations. This dynamic capability allows the anti-rotation device to adapt to varying loads rather than remaining rigid, reducing the risk of damage
2Ease of manufacture
If the first ratchet part and spring part are formed as separate components, then manufacturing and assembly are simpler, but the connection between parts becomes susceptible to shear stresses and material deformations
Solution Approach 1:
The first ratchet part and spring part are integrally formed as a single homogeneous anti-rotation member from a single piece of material. This merging eliminates the need for separate connection components (such as screws or welds) that would be susceptible to shear stresses and material deformations during break-out torque application, while still maintaining the functional distinction between the ratchet and spring portions
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 design provides a robust and sustainable anti-rotation device that is less susceptible to damage, maintaining structural integrity during operational torques and environmental exposure.
Implementation Method 1
a spring part which allows radial movement of the first ratchet part in radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis when first ratchet teeth slide along second ratchet teeth
Data Source
AI summary
Threaded connection for exploration and production of a hydrocarbon well, said threaded connection including a pin including an outer pin surface provided with an external thread, a box including an inner box surface provided with an internal thread for mating with the external thread during rotational make-up of the threaded connection, and an anti-rotation device to allow relative rotation between the pin and the box in a make-up rotation direction and prevent relative rotation between the pin and the box in an opposite break-out rotation direction, wherein the pin and the box extend along a longitudinal axis, the anti-rotation device includes a releasable mounted first anti-rotation member which is arranged in a first radial recess provided in one of the outer pin surface and the inner box surface, and a second anti-rotation member provided at the other of the outer pin surface and the inner box surface.