Wellhead Coupling Locking Assembly for Mandrel Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wellhead components, particularly those with lower pressure ratings, are vulnerable to fracturing pressures during oil and gas extraction processes, necessitating additional isolation measures like frac mandrels to prevent damage.
Innovation Solution
A novel coupling system using a locking assembly with a locking ring and retaining ring allows for secure and removable attachment of frac mandrels to tubing spools, ensuring components are protected from excessive pressures without external lock screws, reducing leak paths and enhancing safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frac mandrels are used to isolate lower-rated components from fracturing pressure, then component safety is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional isolation measures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the frac mandrel isolation function with a union coupling system that integrates locking mechanisms (locking ring, retaining ring) directly into the coupling assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate isolation devices and complex external locking mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining component safety during fracturing operations.
2Strength
If external lock screws are used to secure frac mandrels, then connection strength is improved, but the number of leak paths increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates external lock screws from the coupling system, replacing them with an internal locking mechanism consisting of a locking ring and retaining ring that secure the frac mandrel within the union coupling. This removal of external fasteners directly reduces the number of potential leak paths while maintaining secure connection strength through the integrated locking system.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional coupling systems are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult removal and replacement of frac mandrels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking system where the retaining ring can be moved between locked and unlocked positions using a simple operation mechanism. This allows the frac mandrel to be easily removed and replaced by simply actuating the retaining ring, transforming a static, difficult-to-operate coupling system into a dynamic one that facilitates quick mandrel changes while maintaining secure locked operation during use.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, the wellhead system includes first and second wellhead components or members. An exemplary first wellhead member includes an internal bore and a first groove, while an exemplary second wellhead member is at least partially disposed within the internal bore such that a second groove of the second wellhead member is aligned with the first groove. The wellhead system may include a locking ring positioned within at least one of the first or second grooves, and a retaining ring at least partially disposed within the internal bore between the first and second wellhead members. Further, in one embodiment, the retaining ring is configured to selectively engage the locking ring to facilitate securing of the second wellhead member to the first wellhead member. Other embodiments of wellhead systems, devices, and methods of coupling the same are also provided.