Wellhead Compression Relief Sleeve for Intermediate Casing Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for relieving compressive forces on intermediate casing in oil and gas operations are difficult, time-consuming, and can introduce leak paths, reducing the integrity of wellhead components.
Innovation Solution
A compression relief tool with a tool body, actuator, and movable sleeve that engages and retrieves lock and retaining rings to release compressive forces on intermediate casing, using hydraulic actuation to simplify and control the release process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lock mechanisms are used to relieve compression on intermediate casing, then the compression can be relieved, but the process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical lock mechanisms with a hydraulic actuation system. The hydraulic piston provides controlled linear motion to move the tool sleeve, enabling compression relief through fluid power rather than complex mechanical operations. This substitution simplifies the operation and reduces time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a hydraulic actuator with a piston and fluid chamber to drive the tool sleeve. Hydraulic fluid is introduced to move the piston, which in turn moves the tool sleeve to engage and disengage locking elements. This hydraulic system provides controlled, reliable compression relief while eliminating the need for difficult manual operations.
2Reliability
If conventional lock mechanisms are used to relieve compression, then the compression can be relieved, but leak paths are introduced and wellhead integrity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing conventional mechanical lock mechanisms with a hydraulic actuation system, the patent eliminates set screws and other mechanical components that create leak paths. The hydraulic system uses fluid pressure transmitted through sealed channels, maintaining wellhead integrity while achieving compression relief.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic fluid acts as an intermediary to transmit force from the actuator to the tool sleeve without requiring direct mechanical contact that would compromise wellhead integrity. This intermediary approach allows compression relief while maintaining sealed connections and preventing leak paths.
3Stability of the object's composition
If set screws are used to retain intermediate casing, then the casing can be secured, but the process is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces set screws with a hydraulic actuation system that uses fluid pressure to secure and release the intermediate casing. The hydraulic piston provides controlled motion to engage locking elements, making the operation easier and faster while maintaining secure retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic system provides self-contained actuation where the fluid pressure automatically drives the piston and tool sleeve to engage or disengage the casing retention mechanism. This eliminates the need for manual manipulation of set screws and related components.
4Reliability
If conventional mechanisms are used for compression relief, then the operation can be performed, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the device by replacing complex mechanical lock mechanisms with a straightforward hydraulic actuation system. The hydraulic piston and tool sleeve provide a simple, reliable means to achieve compression relief without the complexity of conventional mechanical systems.
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 tool simplifies the release of compressive forces on intermediate casing, eliminating the need for set screws and maintaining wellhead integrity by allowing controlled expansion of the casing.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator is coupled to the tool body and is configured to be coupled to the wellhead. The actuator is further configured to impart a preload force on an intermediate casing via the tool body.
Implementation Method 2
The tool sleeve is movable relative to the tool body. The tool sleeve is configured to engage a lock ring and/or a retaining ring coupled to the intermediate casing.
Data Source
AI summary
A compression relief tool includes a tool body, an actuator, and a tool sleeve. The tool body is configured to couple to a wellhead. The actuator is coupled to the tool body and is configured to be coupled to the wellhead. The actuator is further configured to impart a preload force on an intermediate casing via the tool body. The tool sleeve is movable relative to the tool body. The tool sleeve is configured to engage a retaining ring coupled to the intermediate casing. The tool sleeve is movable to retrieve the retaining ring from the intermediate casing. The actuator is configured to release the preload force on the intermediate casing after the tool sleeve retrieves the retaining ring.