US20140370995A1 - Flexible joint connection - Google Patents
Flexible joint connection Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140370995A1 US20140370995A1 US14/472,649 US201414472649A US2014370995A1 US 20140370995 A1 US20140370995 A1 US 20140370995A1 US 201414472649 A US201414472649 A US 201414472649A US 2014370995 A1 US2014370995 A1 US 2014370995A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- articulating
- pumping system
- articulating component
- socket
- upstream
- Prior art date
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- Abandoned
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Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
- F16D3/00—Yielding couplings, i.e. with means permitting movement between the connected parts during the drive
- F16D3/16—Universal joints in which flexibility is produced by means of pivots or sliding or rolling connecting parts
- F16D3/18—Universal joints in which flexibility is produced by means of pivots or sliding or rolling connecting parts the coupling parts (1) having slidably-interengaging teeth
- F16D3/185—Universal joints in which flexibility is produced by means of pivots or sliding or rolling connecting parts the coupling parts (1) having slidably-interengaging teeth radial teeth connecting concentric inner and outer coupling parts
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B17/00—Drilling rods or pipes; Flexible drill strings; Kellies; Drill collars; Sucker rods; Cables; Casings; Tubings
- E21B17/02—Couplings; joints
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B17/00—Drilling rods or pipes; Flexible drill strings; Kellies; Drill collars; Sucker rods; Cables; Casings; Tubings
- E21B17/02—Couplings; joints
- E21B17/04—Couplings; joints between rod or the like and bit or between rod and rod or the like
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B43/00—Methods or apparatus for obtaining oil, gas, water, soluble or meltable materials or a slurry of minerals from wells
- E21B43/12—Methods or apparatus for controlling the flow of the obtained fluid to or in wells
- E21B43/121—Lifting well fluids
- E21B43/128—Adaptation of pump systems with down-hole electric drives
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
- F04B47/00—Pumps or pumping installations specially adapted for raising fluids from great depths, e.g. well pumps
- F04B47/02—Pumps or pumping installations specially adapted for raising fluids from great depths, e.g. well pumps the driving mechanisms being situated at ground level
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04C—ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
- F04C13/00—Adaptations of machines or pumps for special use, e.g. for extremely high pressures
- F04C13/008—Pumps for submersible use, i.e. down-hole pumping
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04C—ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
- F04C15/00—Component parts, details or accessories of machines, pumps or pumping installations, not provided for in groups F04C2/00 - F04C14/00
- F04C15/0057—Driving elements, brakes, couplings, transmission specially adapted for machines or pumps
- F04C15/0061—Means for transmitting movement from the prime mover to driven parts of the pump, e.g. clutches, couplings, transmissions
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
- F16D3/00—Yielding couplings, i.e. with means permitting movement between the connected parts during the drive
- F16D3/16—Universal joints in which flexibility is produced by means of pivots or sliding or rolling connecting parts
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
- F16D3/00—Yielding couplings, i.e. with means permitting movement between the connected parts during the drive
- F16D3/84—Shrouds, e.g. casings, covers; Sealing means specially adapted therefor
- F16D3/843—Shrouds, e.g. casings, covers; Sealing means specially adapted therefor enclosed covers
- F16D3/845—Shrouds, e.g. casings, covers; Sealing means specially adapted therefor enclosed covers allowing relative movement of joint parts due to the flexing of the cover
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04C—ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
- F04C2/00—Rotary-piston machines or pumps
- F04C2/08—Rotary-piston machines or pumps of intermeshing-engagement type, i.e. with engagement of co-operating members similar to that of toothed gearing
- F04C2/10—Rotary-piston machines or pumps of intermeshing-engagement type, i.e. with engagement of co-operating members similar to that of toothed gearing of internal-axis type with the outer member having more teeth or tooth-equivalents, e.g. rollers, than the inner member
- F04C2/107—Rotary-piston machines or pumps of intermeshing-engagement type, i.e. with engagement of co-operating members similar to that of toothed gearing of internal-axis type with the outer member having more teeth or tooth-equivalents, e.g. rollers, than the inner member with helical teeth
- F04C2/1071—Rotary-piston machines or pumps of intermeshing-engagement type, i.e. with engagement of co-operating members similar to that of toothed gearing of internal-axis type with the outer member having more teeth or tooth-equivalents, e.g. rollers, than the inner member with helical teeth the inner and outer member having a different number of threads and one of the two being made of elastic materials, e.g. Moineau type
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to the field of electrical submersible pumping systems, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to adapters for connecting components within the pumping system.
- Submersible pumping systems are often deployed into wells to recover petroleum fluids from subterranean reservoirs.
- a submersible pumping system includes a number of components, including an electric motor coupled to one or more high performance pump assemblies.
- Production tubing is connected to the pump assemblies to deliver the petroleum fluids from the subterranean reservoir to a storage facility on the surface.
- the motor is typically an oil-filled, high capacity electric motor that can vary in length from a few feet to nearly one hundred feet, and may be rated up to hundreds of horsepower.
- Prior art motors often include a fixed stator assembly that surrounds a rotor assembly. The rotor assembly rotates within the stator assembly in response to the sequential application of electric current through different portions of the stator assembly.
- the motor transfers power to the pump assembly through a common shaft keyed to the rotor.
- intermediate gearboxes can be used to increase the torque provided by the motor to the pump assembly.
- turbomachines Many downhole turbomachines include one or more impeller and diffuser combinations, commonly referred to as “stages.” In many designs, each impeller rotates within adjacent stationary diffusers. During use, the rotating impeller imparts kinetic energy to the fluid. A portion of the kinetic energy is converted to pressure as the fluid passes through the downstream diffuser. The impellers are typically keyed to the shaft and rotate in unison.
- the present invention includes a pumping system configured for deployment in a non-vertical wellbore.
- the pumping system includes a plurality of articulating components. Each of the plurality of articulating components is connected to an adjacent other of the plurality of articulating components with an articulating joint.
- the articulating joint is a ball-and-socket mechanism.
- the preferred embodiments include an articulating component that has a body having a first end and a second end, a ball connected to the first end the body and a socket connected to the second end of the body.
- a locking collar is connected to the socket to secure the ball portion of an adjacent articulating component to the socket.
- the preferred embodiments include a first articulating component that has a body and a ball extending from the body.
- the pumping system further includes a second articulating component that has a body, a socket extending from the body that receives the ball of the first articulating component, and a locking collar that captures the ball of the first articulating component within the socket of the second articulating component.
- FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a downhole pumping system constructed in accordance with a presently preferred embodiment.
- FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first preferred embodiment of a flexible pump adapter of the pumping system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of a second preferred embodiment of a flexible pump adapter of the pumping system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of a third preferred embodiment of a flexible pump adapter of the pumping system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fourth preferred embodiment of a flexible pump adapter of the pumping system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the fourth preferred embodiment of FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a flexible motor adapter constructed in accordance with a first preferred embodiment.
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible motor adapter of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the flexible motor adapter of FIG. 7 with the outer shield and inner membrane removed for clarity.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a flex receiver constructed in accordance with a first preferred embodiment.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a flex receiver constructed in accordance with a second preferred embodiment.
- FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter of the pumping system of FIG. 1 in which the flexible pump adapter is integral with the upstream pump assembly.
- FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of an articulating component that includes an integral articulating joint constructed in accordance with a fifth preferred embodiment.
- FIG. 14 a is a partial cross-sectional view of two articulating components connected by the integral articulating joint of FIG. 13 .
- FIG. 14 b is a partial cross-sectional view of two articulating components connected by the integral articulating joint of FIG. 13 .
- FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of an articulating component that includes an articulating joint constructed in accordance with a sixth preferred embodiment.
- FIG. 16 a is a front view of the split-ring locking collar of the integral articulating joint of FIG. 15 in disassembled condition.
- FIG. 16 b is a front view of the split-ring locking collar of the integral articulating joint of FIG. 15 in assembled condition.
- FIG. 17 a is a partial cross-sectional view of two articulating components connected by the integral articulating joint of FIG. 15 .
- FIG. 17 b is a partial cross-sectional view of two articulating components connected by the integral articulating joint of FIG. 15 .
- FIG. 18 is a side view of an articulating component incorporating casters.
- FIG. 19 is a side view of a pair of articulating components of FIG. 18 .
- FIG. 20 is a side view of an articulating component incorporating bearing strips.
- FIG. 21 is a side view of an articulating component incorporating ball-point rollers.
- FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of a pumping system constructed in accordance with an alternate preferred embodiment that includes a series of interconnected articulating components.
- FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a downhole pumping system 100 attached to production tubing 102 .
- the downhole pumping system 100 and production tubing 102 are disposed in a wellbore 104 , which is drilled for the production of a fluid such as water or petroleum.
- the downhole pumping system 100 is shown in a non-vertical well. This type of well is often referred to as a “directional,” “deviated” or “horizontal” well.
- the downhole pumping system 100 is depicted in a horizontal well, it will be appreciated that the downhole pumping system 100 can also be used in non-horizontal wells.
- the term “petroleum” refers broadly to all mineral hydrocarbons, such as crude oil, gas and combinations of oil and gas.
- the production tubing 102 connects the pumping system 100 to a wellhead 106 located on the surface.
- the pumping system 100 is primarily designed to pump petroleum products, it will be understood that the present invention can also be used to move other fluids. It will also be understood that, although each of the components of the pumping system 100 are primarily disclosed in a submersible application, some or all of these components can also be used in surface pumping operations.
- the pumping system 100 preferably includes a combination of one or more pump assemblies 108 , one or more motor assemblies 110 and one or more seal sections 112 .
- the pumping system 100 includes a single motor assembly 110 , a single seal section 112 and two separated pump assemblies 108 a , 108 b .
- the two pump assemblies 108 a , 108 b are connected by a flexible pump adapter 114 .
- the pumping system 100 further includes a flexible motor adapter 116 that connects the motor assembly 110 to the seal section 112 .
- the terms “upstream” and “downstream” provide relative positional information for components within the pumping system 100 with reference to the flow of pumped fluids through the pumping system 100 .
- the pump assembly 108 a is the “upstream” pump assembly and the pump assembly 108 b is the “downstream” pump assembly.
- a single motor assembly 110 is depicted in FIG. 1 , it will be understood that the pumping system 100 may include multiple motor assemblies 110 that are concatenated or trained together. It will further be appreciated that the pumping system 100 may also include multiple seal sections 112 .
- the motor assembly 110 is an electrical motor that may receive its power from a surface-based supply.
- the motor assembly 110 converts the electrical energy into mechanical energy, which is transmitted to the pump assemblies 108 a , 108 b by one or more shafts.
- the pump assemblies 108 a , 108 b then transfer a portion of this mechanical energy to fluids within the wellbore, causing the wellbore fluids to move through the production tubing 102 to the surface.
- the pump assemblies 108 a , 108 b are turbomachines that use one or more impellers and diffusers to convert mechanical energy into pressure head.
- the pump assemblies 108 a , 108 b include a progressive cavity (PC) or positive displacement pump that moves wellbore fluids with one or more screws or pistons.
- the seal section 112 shields the motor assembly 110 from mechanical thrust produced by the pump assembly 108 .
- the seal section 112 is also preferably configured to prevent the introduction of contaminants from the wellbore 104 into the motor assembly 110 .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 is configured to connect two adjacent components within the pumping system 100 with a mechanism that permits a degree of angular offset between the components.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 transfers torque from an upstream component to a downstream component, and includes an internal path for transferring pumped fluids between the two components.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 is preferably utilized for connecting two components within the pumping system 100 that together provide a path for pumped fluids.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 provides a fluid flow path from the discharge of the upstream pump assembly 108 a to the intake of the downstream pump assembly 108 b .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 can be used to provide an articulating connection between any two components within the pumping system 100 , including, for example, seal section-to-seal section connections and seal section-to-intake adapter connections.
- the flexible motor adapter 116 is configured to connect two adjacent components within the pumping system 100 with a mechanism that permits a degree of angular offset between the components. In preferred embodiments, the flexible motor adapter 116 transfers torque from an upstream component to a downstream component, where the connection does not require an internal path for transferring pumped fluids. Accordingly, the flexible motor adapter 116 is designed for connecting two components within the pumping system 100 that do not cooperatively provide a path for pumped fluids. As depicted in FIG. 1 , the flexible motor adapter 116 connects the motor assembly 110 and the seal section 112 .
- the flexible motor adapter 116 can be used to provide an articulating connection between any two components within the pumping system 100 , including, for example, to provide an articulating joint for pump assemblies placed below the motor(s) in what is referred to as a “sumped” configuration.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 provides an articulating connection between two adjacent components with the pumping system 100 .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 includes an upstream section 118 for connecting to an upstream component and a downstream section 120 for connecting to a downstream component.
- the upstream section is connected to the upstream pump assembly 108 a and the downstream section 120 is connected to the downstream pump assembly 108 b .
- each component of the flexible pump adapter 114 is manufactured from a suitable metal or metal alloy, such as, for example, steel, stainless steel, or Inconel.
- upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 are depicted as separate elements that can be attached to upstream and downstream components within the pumping system 100 , it will be understood that the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 can also be formed as an integral part of the respective upstream or downstream component, as illustrated in FIG. 12 .
- the upstream section 118 could be part of the pump assembly 108 a
- the downstream section 120 could be part of the pump assembly 108 b .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 incorporates elements from the adjacent components within the pumping system 100 , including a common upstream shaft 136 extending from the pump assembly 108 a into the upstream section 118 .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 further includes a plurality of axial bolts 122 , an upstream retainer 124 , a downstream retainer 126 and a joint guard 128 .
- the axial bolts 122 extend through, and connect, the upstream section 118 and the downstream section 120 .
- Each of the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 include axial bolt bores 130 that receive a corresponding one of the plurality of axial bolts 122 .
- the diameter of the axial bolt bores 130 is larger than the outer diameter of the corresponding axial bolts 122 .
- the axial bolts 122 are therefore provided a small degree of lateral movement within the axial bolt bores 130 .
- Each axial bolt 122 includes a pair of axial bolt caps 132 that are preferably configured for threaded engagement with the opposing distal ends of each axial bolt 122 .
- the axial bolt caps 132 are larger than the axial bolt bores 130 .
- Each axial bolt 122 further includes a pair of axial bolt inner limiters 134 located at a predetermined distance from the ends of the axial bolt 122 .
- the axial bolt inner limiters 134 are presented as larger diameter shoulders on the axial bolts 122 , but it will be appreciated that the axial bolt inner limiters 134 can also be nuts, flanges or pins.
- portions of the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 separate, while opposite portions approximate.
- FIG. 2 the right-hand side of the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 have separated, while the left-hand side of the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 have been pushed together.
- the axial bolts 122 on the right-hand side are placed in tension as the axial bolt caps 132 press against the separating portions of the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 .
- the axial bolts 122 and axial bolt bores 130 positioned on the opposite side of the flexible pump adapter 114 allow the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 to be drawn together until the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 contact the axial bolt inner limiters 134 . Once the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 contact the axial bolt inner limiters 134 , the corresponding axial bolts 122 are placed into compression.
- the axial bolts 122 , axial bolt bores 130 , axial bolt caps 132 and axial bolt inner limiters 134 form an “articulating joint” that permits a degree of angular articulation between the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 , while limiting the rotational movement and axial dislocation between the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 is designed to transfer the weight of upstream components within the pumping system 100 to downstream components when the pumping system 100 is placed in a non-horizontal deployment.
- the axial bolt caps 132 and axial bolt inner limiters 134 provide a facilitated method for controlling the extent of articulation within the flexible pump adapter 114 . By adjusting or fixing the relative distances between the axial bolt caps 132 and axial bolt inner limiters 134 , the degree of articulation can be consistently controlled.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 further includes an adapter drivetrain that includes an upstream shaft 136 , a downstream shaft 138 and a shaft coupling 140 .
- the upstream shaft 136 is configured for connection to the upstream component within the pumping system 100 (e.g., the upstream pump assembly 108 a ) and the downstream shaft 138 is configured for connection to the downstream component within the pumping system 100 (e.g., the downstream pump assembly 108 b ).
- the upstream shaft 136 and the downstream shaft 138 are connected by the shaft coupling 140 .
- the shaft coupling 140 is a conventional u-joint mechanism that includes a cross member that connects to offset yokes on the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 .
- the shaft coupling 140 can be configured as a ball-and-socket arrangement that includes a rounded spline connection with a receiving splined socket.
- FIGS. 10 and 11 shown therein are alternative embodiments of the shaft coupling 140 .
- the shaft coupling 140 includes a flex receiver 200 that includes an upstream receptacle 202 , a downstream receiver 204 and a divider 206 .
- Each of the upstream and downstream receptacles 202 , 204 has a series of convex curved splines 208 that mate with straight splines 210 on the ends of the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 .
- the convex curved splines 208 may be provided as inserts within the flex receiver 200 .
- the placement of the straight splines 210 within the curved splines 208 allows the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 to rock while maintaining contact with the flex receiver 200 .
- the divider 206 limits the axial displacement of the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 .
- the flex receiver 200 includes straight splines 210 within the upstream receiver 202 and downstream receiver 204 .
- the ends of the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 are provided with convex curved splines 208 .
- the upstream and/or downstream shafts 136 , 138 are allowed to articulate within the flex receiver 200 .
- the convex curved splines 208 of the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 are presented on a separate head attachment that fits over a standard splined end of the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 .
- the use of a separate convex splined shaft adapter reduces manufacturing and material costs and permits the use of the flex receiver 200 with standard shafts.
- the divider 206 includes a single post rather than a larger partition between the upstream and downstream receivers 202 , 204 .
- the shaft coupling 140 is configured as a constant velocity (CV) joint or Birfield-type joint.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 further includes a coupling housing 142 , a coupling cap 144 and coupling bellows 146 .
- the coupling housing 142 is preferably secured to the upstream shaft 136 and the coupling cap 144 is secured to the downstream shaft 138 .
- the coupling housing 142 and coupling cap 144 cooperate to shield the shaft coupling 140 from debris and fluids moving through the flexible pump adapter 114 .
- the coupling bellows 146 isolate the shaft coupling 140 from fluid and debris present within the coupling housing 142 .
- the coupling bellows 146 are manufactured from a folded and flexible elastomer or polymer.
- a second bellows may be used to prevent migration of fluid and debris between the coupling cap 144 and the coupling housing 142 .
- the coupling bellows 146 are manufactured from a metal or a combination of metal and polymer.
- the joint guard 128 surrounds the shaft coupling 140 , the coupling housing 142 and the coupling cap 144 .
- the joint guard 128 is preferably configured as a substantially cylindrical tube, with a tapered downstream end.
- the upstream end of the joint guard 128 is held in position adjacent the upstream section 118 by the upstream retainer 124 .
- the upstream end of the joint guard 128 can be connected to the upstream section 118 with a welded or threaded connection, or presented as a unitary construction.
- the conical shape of the downstream side of the joint guard 128 allows the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 to articulate.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 includes a flexible outer housing 148 .
- the outer housing 148 is preferably constructed from a flexible, impermeable material that is sufficiently durable to withstand the internal pressures of the pumped fluid and the inhospitable external environment. Suitable materials include creased metal, woven metal mesh and elastomers. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the outer housing 148 includes a woven metal mesh exterior with a polymer liner.
- Suitable polymers include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), tetrafluoroethylene/propylene (TFE/P)(Aflas), fluorine terpolymer (FKM) (Viton), highly saturated nitrile (HSN) or hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), and metallized polymers.
- PTFE polytetrafluoroethylene
- PFA perfluoroalkoxy
- PEEK polyetheretherketone
- TFE/P tetrafluoroethylene/propylene
- FKM fluorine terpolymer
- HSN highly saturated nitrile
- HNBR hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber
- the outer housing 148 , joint guard 128 , coupling housing 142 and coupling cap 144 cooperate to protect the shaft coupling 140 while permitting the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 to articulate.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 also includes an internal fluid passage 150 for pumped fluids exchanged between the upstream and downstream components connected to the flexible pump adapter 114 .
- the upstream section 118 includes an upstream section throat 152 and the downstream section 120 includes a downstream section throat 154 .
- the upstream section throat 152 includes an annular space around the upstream shaft 136 .
- the downstream section throat 154 includes an annular space around the downstream shaft 138 .
- the fluid passage 150 is created by the annular spaces within the upstream and downstream section throats 152 , 154 and the annular space between the joint guard 128 and the coupling housing 142 and coupling cap 144 .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 is particularly well-suited for providing a point of articulation between two components within the pumping system 100 that are configured for providing a passage for the movement of pumped fluids. It will be noted, however, that in certain applications, it may be desirable to remove the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 , the shaft coupling 140 , the coupling housing 142 , the coupling cap 144 and the coupling bellows 146 .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 is not configured to transfer torque from an upstream shaft to a downstream shaft, but only provides a point of articulation between two components within the pumping system 100 that are configured for providing a passage for the movement of pumped fluids.
- FIG. 3 shown therein is a cross-sectional depiction of a second preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 .
- the second preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 includes the same components identified during the description of the first preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 2 .
- the second preferred embodiment does not include axial bolts 122 that extend through axial bolt bores 130 in the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the second preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 makes use of an articulating joint formed by a rigid joint chamber 156 that is pivotally connected to the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the joint chamber 156 is preferably cylindrical and includes a large central chamber 158 that tapers on both ends to flange ends 160 .
- the central chamber accommodates the lateral displacement of the shaft coupling 140 during the articulation of the flexible pump adapter 114 .
- the joint chamber 156 includes flared ends 162 at the open end of each flange end 160 .
- the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 both include a receiving recess 164 that is configured to receive the flared end 162 of the joint chamber 156 .
- Each of the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 further includes a locking collar 166 that captures the flared ends 162 of the joint chamber 156 within the respective upstream and downstream section 118 , 120 .
- the locking collars 166 are secured to flanges of upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 with collar bolts 168 .
- the locking collar 166 is configured as a split collar that includes two or more separate pieces that can be placed around the outside of the flange ends 160 of the joint chamber 156 .
- the locking collars 166 include a central opening 170 that extends the receiving recess 164 of the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 . Although the locking collars 166 are shown bolted to the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 , the locking collars 166 may alternatively be configured for a threaded engagement with the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the receiving recesses 164 and locking collars 166 are configured to permit the slight movement of the flared ends 162 relative to the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the flared ends 162 are somewhat loosely captured within the receiving recesses 164 , but prohibited from being removed from the receiving recesses 164 of the locking collar 166 .
- This permits the angular articulation of the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 around the joint chamber 156 .
- the receiving recesses 164 are machined with close tolerances to the width of the flared ends 162 such that the extent of articulation is limited as the flared ends 160 bind within the receiving recesses 164 .
- the close tolerances presented between the flared ends 162 and the receiving recess 164 creates a substantially impermeable seal between the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 and the joint chamber 156 .
- FIG. 4 shown therein is a cross-sectional depiction of a third preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 .
- the third preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 includes the same components identified during the description of the first preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 2 .
- the third preferred embodiment does not include axial bolts 122 that extend through axial bolt bores 130 in the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the third preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 makes use of an articulating joint formed by pivoting flanges connected to a rigid joint chamber that together provide a degree of articulation.
- the flexible pump adapter 114 includes an upstream pivot section 172 , a fixed coupling chamber 174 and a downstream pivot section 176 .
- Each of the upstream and downstream pivot sections 172 , 176 includes a rounded base 178 .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 further includes cap pieces 180 that hold the upstream pivot section 172 and downstream pivot section 176 in place within the fixed coupling chamber 174 .
- the cap pieces 180 are preferably bolted onto the coupling chamber 174 .
- the cap pieces 180 may be configured for a threaded engagement with the upstream and downstream pivot sections 172 , 176 .
- a bellows, boot or other articulating sealing mechanism around the outer surfaces of the cap pieces 180 and the respective upstream and downstream pivot sections 172 , 176 .
- the outer sealing mechanism further restricts the passage of fluids into, and out of, the fixed coupling chamber 174 .
- the fixed coupling chamber 174 and the cap pieces 180 each include an interior profile that forms a socket 182 that matingly receives the rounded base of each of the upstream and downstream pivot sections 172 , 176 .
- the interior profile of the coupling chamber 174 further includes an interior shoulder 184 that prevents the upstream and downstream pivot sections 172 , 176 from being pushed into the coupling chamber 174 .
- the coupling chamber 174 , cap pieces 180 and the rounded bases 178 of the upstream and downstream pivot sections 172 , 176 create a ball-and-socket articulating joint that permits angular articulation about the flexible pump adapter 114 , but resists separation or compression along the longitudinal axis of the flexible pump adapter 114 .
- the flexible pump adapter 114 includes a flexible metal casing 185 extending between the upstream section 118 and the downstream section 120 .
- the flexible metal casing 185 is preferably constructed by creating spiral or parallel grooves around the outer diameter of a metal cylinder.
- the resulting ribbed exterior 187 of the metal casing 185 permits a degree of bending when exposed to lateral stress, but will not crush under axial (longitudinal) stress.
- the metal casing 185 may optionally, or alternatively, include a ribbed internal surface (not shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 ).
- the metal casing 185 is depicted as a unitary part of the upstream section 118 and downstream section 120 , it will be appreciated that the metal casing 185 can be manufactured as a separate component that can be attached to the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the fourth preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 preferably includes the flex receiver 200 between the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 . It will be noted that fourth preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 can employ other shaft couplings 140 , and can also be used without shafts.
- FIGS. 7 and 8 shown therein are perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of the flexible motor adapter 116 .
- the flexible motor adapter 116 includes the same components identified during the description of the first preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter 114 shown in FIG. 2 .
- the flexible motor adapter 116 does not include the fluid passage 150 and is not configured to permit the passage of pumped fluids between components connected to the flexible motor adapter 116 .
- the flexible motor adapter 116 is configured to transfer torque with a flexible connection between two components of the pumping system 100 .
- the flexible motor adapter 116 includes passages to permit the passage of motor lubricants or other internal fluids between adjacent components within the pumping system 100 .
- the flexible motor adapter 116 may also include pass-through ports that permit the internal routing of electrical wiring between adjacent components within the pumping system 100 .
- the flexible motor adapter 116 preferably includes an exterior shield 186 and an interior barrier 188 .
- the exterior shield 188 rides between the axial bolt inner limiters 134 , which are configured as nuts in this embodiment. In this way, the exterior shield 186 is not rigidly affixed to the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the exterior shield 186 is preferably constructed from a suitable metal or metal alloy and protects the axial bolts 122 and interior barrier 188 from mechanical impact and abrasion.
- the interior barrier 188 extends between the upstream retainer 124 and the downstream retainer 126 .
- the interior barrier 188 is preferably constructed from a flexible, impermeable membrane that prohibits the passage of external fluids into the interior of the flexible motor adapter 116 .
- the interior barrier 188 is manufactured from a polymer, such as, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), tetrafluoroethylene/propylene (TFE/P)(Aflas), fluorine terpolymer (FKM) (Viton), highly saturated nitrile (HSN) or hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), and metallized polymers.
- PTFE polytetrafluoroethylene
- PFA perfluoroalkoxy
- PEEK polyetheretherketone
- TFE/P tetrafluoroethylene/propylene
- FKM fluorine terpolymer
- HSN highly saturated nitrile
- HNBR hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber
- the flexible motor adapter 116 includes an upstream cup 190 and a downstream cup 192 that are each attached, respectively, to the upstream and downstream sections 118 , 120 .
- the upstream cup 190 and downstream cup 192 are preferably sized such that the open end of one of the cups fits within the open end of the other cup. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8 , the downstream cup 192 partially extends inside the upstream cup 190 .
- the upstream and downstream cups 190 , 192 protect the flexible interior barrier 188 from contact with the rotating shaft coupling 140 and critical internal components.
- the flexible motor adapter 116 is well-suited for providing a point of articulation between two components within the pumping system 100 through which a shaft is used to transfer mechanical energy. It will be noted, however, that in certain applications, it may be desirable to remove the upstream and downstream shafts 136 , 138 , the shaft coupling 140 and the upstream and downstream cups 190 , 192 . In these alternate embodiments, the flexible motor adapter 116 is not configured to transfer torque from an upstream shaft to a downstream shaft, but only provides a point of articulation between two components within the pumping system 100 . For example, it may be desirable to use the flexible motor adapter 116 without the drivetrain to connect the motor assembly 110 to monitoring modules connected upstream of the motor assembly 110 .
- the flexible motor adapter 116 has been described with an articulating joint that uses axial bolts 122 and axial bolt bores 130 , it will be appreciated that the flexible motor adapter 116 can also employ the articulating joints depicted in the second and third embodiments of the flexible pump adapter 114 . Specifically, it is contemplated that the flexible motor adapter 116 can make use of the flared-end and recess articulating joint depicted in FIG. 3 and the ball-and-socket articulating joint depicted in FIG. 4 . It will also be noted that the presently preferred embodiments contemplate the use of multiple flexible pump adapters 114 and flexible motor adapters 116 .
- two flexible pump adapters 114 or two flexible motor adapters 116 can be connected to provide articulating joints that provide an increased range of motion.
- the articulating component 300 includes a body 302 , a ball 304 , a socket 306 and a locking collar 308 .
- the articulating component 300 can be configured to transmit pumped fluids and torque through internal shafts or linkages.
- the articulating component 300 is configured to provide an integral ball-and-socket connection between adjacent components within the pumping system 100 .
- the articulating component 300 may include any component within the pumping system 100 , including a pump, motor, seal section, sensor package, intake, gas separator, or production tubing.
- FIGS. 14 a and 14 b illustrate the connection between two adjacent articulating components 300 that include an upstream shaft 136 , a downstream shaft 138 and a shaft coupling 140 .
- the unitary locking collar 308 is configured for threaded engagement with the socket 306 .
- the socket 306 includes a bowl 310 that is configured to receive the ball 304 of the adjacent component 300 .
- the unitary locking collar 308 is designed to be placed over the ball 304 of an adjacent articulating component 300 . Screwing the locking collar 308 onto the threaded socket 306 approximates the ball 304 of the adjacent articulating component 300 to the socket 306 .
- the locking collar 308 includes one or more seal rings 312 that provide a redundant seal around the ball 304 .
- the ball-and-socket mechanism of the articulating components 300 provides a jointed connection between adjacent components within the pumping system 100 .
- the use of the ball-and-socket mechanism provides both angular and rotational articulation between the adjacent components 300 .
- FIG. 15 shown therein is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the articulating component 300 .
- the alternate embodiment depicted in FIG. 15 includes a split-ring locking collar 314 .
- the split-ring locking collar 314 is configured as separate halves that are joined together with fasteners 316 .
- the split-ring locking collar 314 is useful in applications where the unitary threaded locking collar 308 is unable to fit over the upstream articulating component 300 .
- FIGS. 17 a and 17 b which illustrate the angular movement between adjacent articulating components 300 . In the embodiment depicted in FIGS.
- the articulating components 300 are configured to pass fluids like the flexible pump adapter 114 and do not include torque-transferring shafts found in the flexible motor adapter 116 .
- Such components may include, for example, articulated production tubing and pump discharge heads.
- FIG. 18 shown therein is a side view of an articulating component 300 constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment.
- the articulating component 300 includes a series of rollers along the body 302 .
- the rollers are casters 316 preferably include a mount 318 to which each caster 316 is secured.
- the use of casters 316 allows the component 300 to roll along the wellbore 104 .
- the articulating component 300 includes eight casters 316 disposed about the body 302 . It will be appreciated, however, that fewer or greater numbers of casters 316 is encompassed within the scope of preferred embodiments.
- FIG. 19 illustrates two adjacent articulating components 300 that include casters 316 .
- the articulating component 300 includes a plurality of angularly offset bearing strip assemblies 320 .
- Each bearing strip assembly 320 includes a base block 322 fixed to the body 302 and a plurality of substantially spherical bearings 324 .
- the spherical bearings 324 are configured to rotate within the base block 322 to facilitate the movement and centralization of the component 300 within the wellbore 104 .
- the base block 322 is incorporated as a unitary part of the body 302 to provide for a lower profile component 300 .
- FIG. 21 provides a partial cross-sectional side view of a component 300 constructed in yet another preferred embodiment.
- the component 300 includes rollers that are embodied by ball-point roller assemblies 326 .
- Each ball-point roller assembly includes a pedestal 328 mounted to the body 302 and a roller ball 330 captured within the pedestal 328 .
- one or more of the ball-point roller assemblies 326 further includes a spring 332 within the pedestal 328 that provides the roller ball 330 with a degree of vertical articulation. It will be appreciated that in low-profile applications, it may be desirable to integrate the roller ball 330 and optional spring 332 into the body 302 of the component 300 .
- FIG. 22 is a side view of a pumping system 100 constructed in accordance with an alternate preferred embodiment that includes the use of multiple articulating components 300 disposed in the non-vertical portion of the wellbore 104 .
- the pumping system 100 includes a sensor package 300 a , a motor 300 b , a seal section 300 c , a pump assembly 300 d and a plurality of articulating conduits 300 e .
- Each of these articulating components 300 includes a ball-and-socket mechanism that provides a degree of angular articulation between adjacent components.
- each of the articulating components 300 also includes casters 316 , bearings 326 or roller balls 330 to facilitate the movement of the articulating components 300 along the wellbore 104 .
- the use of the articulating components 300 permits the deployment and operation of the pumping system 100 into undulated, horizontal portions of the wellbore 104 .
- the pumping system 100 includes a number of interconnected articulating components 300 that collectively provide flexible train that can be extended into non-vertical wellbores.
- certain of the articulating components 300 may not include the ball 304 and socket 306 .
- the sensor package 300 a may not include a socket 306 because it is not connected to any upstream components.
- the last link of the articulating conduit 300 e may not include a ball 304 because it includes a rigid connection to the production tubing 102 in the vertical portion of the wellbore 104 .
Abstract
A pumping system is configured for deployment in a non-vertical wellbore. The pumping system includes a plurality of articulating components. Each of the plurality of articulating components is connected to an adjacent other of the plurality of articulating components with an articulating joint. In preferred embodiments, the articulating joint is a ball-and-socket mechanism. The articulating components include a body having a first end and a second end, a ball connected to the first end the body and a socket connected to the second end of the body. A locking collar is connected to the socket to secure the ball portion of an adjacent articulating component to the socket.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/727,300, filed Dec. 26, 2012 entitled “Flexible Joint Connection,” the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.
- This invention relates generally to the field of electrical submersible pumping systems, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to adapters for connecting components within the pumping system.
- Submersible pumping systems are often deployed into wells to recover petroleum fluids from subterranean reservoirs. Typically, a submersible pumping system includes a number of components, including an electric motor coupled to one or more high performance pump assemblies. Production tubing is connected to the pump assemblies to deliver the petroleum fluids from the subterranean reservoir to a storage facility on the surface.
- The motor is typically an oil-filled, high capacity electric motor that can vary in length from a few feet to nearly one hundred feet, and may be rated up to hundreds of horsepower. Prior art motors often include a fixed stator assembly that surrounds a rotor assembly. The rotor assembly rotates within the stator assembly in response to the sequential application of electric current through different portions of the stator assembly. The motor transfers power to the pump assembly through a common shaft keyed to the rotor. For certain applications, intermediate gearboxes can be used to increase the torque provided by the motor to the pump assembly.
- Pump assemblies often employ axially and centrifugally oriented multi-stage turbomachines. Most downhole turbomachines include one or more impeller and diffuser combinations, commonly referred to as “stages.” In many designs, each impeller rotates within adjacent stationary diffusers. During use, the rotating impeller imparts kinetic energy to the fluid. A portion of the kinetic energy is converted to pressure as the fluid passes through the downstream diffuser. The impellers are typically keyed to the shaft and rotate in unison.
- Often, it is desirable to deploy the pumping system in an offset, deviated, directional, horizontal or other non-vertical well. In these applications, the length and rigidity of the pumping system must be considered as the system is deployed and retracted through curved or angled portions of the well. As the incidence of non-vertical wellbores increases, there is need for a pumping system that can navigate these non-vertical deployments. It is to this and other deficiencies in the prior art that the present invention is directed.
- In preferred embodiments, the present invention includes a pumping system configured for deployment in a non-vertical wellbore. In a first aspect, the pumping system includes a plurality of articulating components. Each of the plurality of articulating components is connected to an adjacent other of the plurality of articulating components with an articulating joint. In preferred embodiments, the articulating joint is a ball-and-socket mechanism.
- In another aspect, the preferred embodiments include an articulating component that has a body having a first end and a second end, a ball connected to the first end the body and a socket connected to the second end of the body. A locking collar is connected to the socket to secure the ball portion of an adjacent articulating component to the socket.
- In yet another aspect, the preferred embodiments include a first articulating component that has a body and a ball extending from the body. The pumping system further includes a second articulating component that has a body, a socket extending from the body that receives the ball of the first articulating component, and a locking collar that captures the ball of the first articulating component within the socket of the second articulating component.
-
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a downhole pumping system constructed in accordance with a presently preferred embodiment. -
FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first preferred embodiment of a flexible pump adapter of the pumping system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of a second preferred embodiment of a flexible pump adapter of the pumping system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of a third preferred embodiment of a flexible pump adapter of the pumping system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fourth preferred embodiment of a flexible pump adapter of the pumping system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the fourth preferred embodiment ofFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a flexible motor adapter constructed in accordance with a first preferred embodiment. -
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible motor adapter ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the flexible motor adapter ofFIG. 7 with the outer shield and inner membrane removed for clarity. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a flex receiver constructed in accordance with a first preferred embodiment. -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a flex receiver constructed in accordance with a second preferred embodiment. -
FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first preferred embodiment of the flexible pump adapter of the pumping system ofFIG. 1 in which the flexible pump adapter is integral with the upstream pump assembly. -
FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of an articulating component that includes an integral articulating joint constructed in accordance with a fifth preferred embodiment. -
FIG. 14 a is a partial cross-sectional view of two articulating components connected by the integral articulating joint ofFIG. 13 . -
FIG. 14 b is a partial cross-sectional view of two articulating components connected by the integral articulating joint ofFIG. 13 . -
FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of an articulating component that includes an articulating joint constructed in accordance with a sixth preferred embodiment. -
FIG. 16 a is a front view of the split-ring locking collar of the integral articulating joint ofFIG. 15 in disassembled condition. -
FIG. 16 b is a front view of the split-ring locking collar of the integral articulating joint ofFIG. 15 in assembled condition. -
FIG. 17 a is a partial cross-sectional view of two articulating components connected by the integral articulating joint ofFIG. 15 . -
FIG. 17 b is a partial cross-sectional view of two articulating components connected by the integral articulating joint ofFIG. 15 . -
FIG. 18 is a side view of an articulating component incorporating casters. -
FIG. 19 is a side view of a pair of articulating components ofFIG. 18 . -
FIG. 20 is a side view of an articulating component incorporating bearing strips. -
FIG. 21 is a side view of an articulating component incorporating ball-point rollers. -
FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of a pumping system constructed in accordance with an alternate preferred embodiment that includes a series of interconnected articulating components. - In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of adownhole pumping system 100 attached toproduction tubing 102. Thedownhole pumping system 100 andproduction tubing 102 are disposed in awellbore 104, which is drilled for the production of a fluid such as water or petroleum. Thedownhole pumping system 100 is shown in a non-vertical well. This type of well is often referred to as a “directional,” “deviated” or “horizontal” well. Although thedownhole pumping system 100 is depicted in a horizontal well, it will be appreciated that thedownhole pumping system 100 can also be used in non-horizontal wells. - As used herein, the term “petroleum” refers broadly to all mineral hydrocarbons, such as crude oil, gas and combinations of oil and gas. The
production tubing 102 connects thepumping system 100 to awellhead 106 located on the surface. Although thepumping system 100 is primarily designed to pump petroleum products, it will be understood that the present invention can also be used to move other fluids. It will also be understood that, although each of the components of thepumping system 100 are primarily disclosed in a submersible application, some or all of these components can also be used in surface pumping operations. - The
pumping system 100 preferably includes a combination of one or more pump assemblies 108, one ormore motor assemblies 110 and one ormore seal sections 112. In the preferred embodiment depicted inFIG. 1 , thepumping system 100 includes asingle motor assembly 110, asingle seal section 112 and two separatedpump assemblies pump assemblies flexible pump adapter 114. Thepumping system 100 further includes aflexible motor adapter 116 that connects themotor assembly 110 to theseal section 112. As used in this disclosure, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” provide relative positional information for components within thepumping system 100 with reference to the flow of pumped fluids through thepumping system 100. In this way, thepump assembly 108 a is the “upstream” pump assembly and thepump assembly 108 b is the “downstream” pump assembly. Although asingle motor assembly 110 is depicted inFIG. 1 , it will be understood that thepumping system 100 may includemultiple motor assemblies 110 that are concatenated or trained together. It will further be appreciated that thepumping system 100 may also includemultiple seal sections 112. - The
motor assembly 110 is an electrical motor that may receive its power from a surface-based supply. Themotor assembly 110 converts the electrical energy into mechanical energy, which is transmitted to thepump assemblies pump assemblies production tubing 102 to the surface. In a particularly preferred embodiment, thepump assemblies pump assemblies seal section 112 shields themotor assembly 110 from mechanical thrust produced by the pump assembly 108. Theseal section 112 is also preferably configured to prevent the introduction of contaminants from thewellbore 104 into themotor assembly 110. - The
flexible pump adapter 114 is configured to connect two adjacent components within thepumping system 100 with a mechanism that permits a degree of angular offset between the components. In preferred embodiments, theflexible pump adapter 114 transfers torque from an upstream component to a downstream component, and includes an internal path for transferring pumped fluids between the two components. Accordingly, theflexible pump adapter 114 is preferably utilized for connecting two components within thepumping system 100 that together provide a path for pumped fluids. As depicted inFIG. 1 , theflexible pump adapter 114 provides a fluid flow path from the discharge of theupstream pump assembly 108 a to the intake of thedownstream pump assembly 108 b. Notably, theflexible pump adapter 114 can be used to provide an articulating connection between any two components within thepumping system 100, including, for example, seal section-to-seal section connections and seal section-to-intake adapter connections. - The
flexible motor adapter 116 is configured to connect two adjacent components within thepumping system 100 with a mechanism that permits a degree of angular offset between the components. In preferred embodiments, theflexible motor adapter 116 transfers torque from an upstream component to a downstream component, where the connection does not require an internal path for transferring pumped fluids. Accordingly, theflexible motor adapter 116 is designed for connecting two components within thepumping system 100 that do not cooperatively provide a path for pumped fluids. As depicted inFIG. 1 , theflexible motor adapter 116 connects themotor assembly 110 and theseal section 112. Notably, theflexible motor adapter 116 can be used to provide an articulating connection between any two components within thepumping system 100, including, for example, to provide an articulating joint for pump assemblies placed below the motor(s) in what is referred to as a “sumped” configuration. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , shown therein is a cross-section view of a first preferred embodiment of theflexible pump adapter 114. Generally, theflexible pump adapter 114 provides an articulating connection between two adjacent components with thepumping system 100. Theflexible pump adapter 114 includes anupstream section 118 for connecting to an upstream component and adownstream section 120 for connecting to a downstream component. In the preferred embodiment depicted inFIG. 1 , the upstream section is connected to theupstream pump assembly 108 a and thedownstream section 120 is connected to thedownstream pump assembly 108 b. Unless otherwise noted, each component of theflexible pump adapter 114 is manufactured from a suitable metal or metal alloy, such as, for example, steel, stainless steel, or Inconel. Although theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120 are depicted as separate elements that can be attached to upstream and downstream components within thepumping system 100, it will be understood that theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120 can also be formed as an integral part of the respective upstream or downstream component, as illustrated inFIG. 12 . For example, theupstream section 118 could be part of thepump assembly 108 a, while thedownstream section 120 could be part of thepump assembly 108 b. For these embodiments, theflexible pump adapter 114 incorporates elements from the adjacent components within thepumping system 100, including a commonupstream shaft 136 extending from thepump assembly 108 a into theupstream section 118. - Turning back to
FIG. 2 , theflexible pump adapter 114 further includes a plurality ofaxial bolts 122, anupstream retainer 124, adownstream retainer 126 and ajoint guard 128. Theaxial bolts 122 extend through, and connect, theupstream section 118 and thedownstream section 120. Each of theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120 include axial bolt bores 130 that receive a corresponding one of the plurality ofaxial bolts 122. The diameter of the axial bolt bores 130 is larger than the outer diameter of the correspondingaxial bolts 122. Theaxial bolts 122 are therefore provided a small degree of lateral movement within the axial bolt bores 130. Eachaxial bolt 122 includes a pair of axial bolt caps 132 that are preferably configured for threaded engagement with the opposing distal ends of eachaxial bolt 122. The axial bolt caps 132 are larger than the axial bolt bores 130. Eachaxial bolt 122 further includes a pair of axial boltinner limiters 134 located at a predetermined distance from the ends of theaxial bolt 122. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 2 , the axial boltinner limiters 134 are presented as larger diameter shoulders on theaxial bolts 122, but it will be appreciated that the axial boltinner limiters 134 can also be nuts, flanges or pins. - During angular articulation, portions of the
upstream section 118 anddownstream section 120 separate, while opposite portions approximate. As depicted inFIG. 2 , the right-hand side of theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120 have separated, while the left-hand side of theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120 have been pushed together. Theaxial bolts 122 on the right-hand side are placed in tension as the axial bolt caps 132 press against the separating portions of theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120. In contrast, theaxial bolts 122 and axial bolt bores 130 positioned on the opposite side of theflexible pump adapter 114 allow theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120 to be drawn together until theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120 contact the axial boltinner limiters 134. Once the upstream anddownstream sections inner limiters 134, the correspondingaxial bolts 122 are placed into compression. In this way, theaxial bolts 122, axial bolt bores 130, axial bolt caps 132 and axial boltinner limiters 134 form an “articulating joint” that permits a degree of angular articulation between theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120, while limiting the rotational movement and axial dislocation between the upstream anddownstream sections flexible pump adapter 114 is designed to transfer the weight of upstream components within thepumping system 100 to downstream components when thepumping system 100 is placed in a non-horizontal deployment. The axial bolt caps 132 and axial boltinner limiters 134 provide a facilitated method for controlling the extent of articulation within theflexible pump adapter 114. By adjusting or fixing the relative distances between the axial bolt caps 132 and axial boltinner limiters 134, the degree of articulation can be consistently controlled. - Continuing with
FIG. 2 , theflexible pump adapter 114 further includes an adapter drivetrain that includes anupstream shaft 136, adownstream shaft 138 and ashaft coupling 140. Theupstream shaft 136 is configured for connection to the upstream component within the pumping system 100 (e.g., theupstream pump assembly 108 a) and thedownstream shaft 138 is configured for connection to the downstream component within the pumping system 100 (e.g., thedownstream pump assembly 108 b). Theupstream shaft 136 and thedownstream shaft 138 are connected by theshaft coupling 140. In a presently preferred embodiment, theshaft coupling 140 is a conventional u-joint mechanism that includes a cross member that connects to offset yokes on the upstream anddownstream shafts - Alternatively, the
shaft coupling 140 can be configured as a ball-and-socket arrangement that includes a rounded spline connection with a receiving splined socket. Turning toFIGS. 10 and 11 , shown therein are alternative embodiments of theshaft coupling 140. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 10 , theshaft coupling 140 includes aflex receiver 200 that includes anupstream receptacle 202, adownstream receiver 204 and adivider 206. Each of the upstream anddownstream receptacles curved splines 208 that mate withstraight splines 210 on the ends of the upstream anddownstream shafts curved splines 208 may be provided as inserts within theflex receiver 200. The placement of thestraight splines 210 within thecurved splines 208 allows the upstream anddownstream shafts flex receiver 200. Thedivider 206 limits the axial displacement of the upstream anddownstream shafts - In the alternative embodiment depicted in
FIG. 11 , theflex receiver 200 includesstraight splines 210 within theupstream receiver 202 anddownstream receiver 204. The ends of the upstream anddownstream shafts 136, 138 (only theupstream shaft 136 is depicted inFIG. 11 ) are provided with convexcurved splines 208. In this way, the upstream and/ordownstream shafts flex receiver 200. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the convexcurved splines 208 of the upstream anddownstream shafts downstream shafts flex receiver 200 with standard shafts. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 11 , thedivider 206 includes a single post rather than a larger partition between the upstream anddownstream receivers shaft coupling 140 is configured as a constant velocity (CV) joint or Birfield-type joint. - Returning to
FIG. 2 , theflexible pump adapter 114 further includes acoupling housing 142, acoupling cap 144 and coupling bellows 146. Thecoupling housing 142 is preferably secured to theupstream shaft 136 and thecoupling cap 144 is secured to thedownstream shaft 138. Thecoupling housing 142 andcoupling cap 144 cooperate to shield theshaft coupling 140 from debris and fluids moving through theflexible pump adapter 114. The coupling bellows 146 isolate theshaft coupling 140 from fluid and debris present within thecoupling housing 142. In a presently preferred embodiment, the coupling bellows 146 are manufactured from a folded and flexible elastomer or polymer. To further protect theshaft coupling 140, a second bellows (not shown) may be used to prevent migration of fluid and debris between thecoupling cap 144 and thecoupling housing 142. Alternatively, the coupling bellows 146 are manufactured from a metal or a combination of metal and polymer. - The
joint guard 128 surrounds theshaft coupling 140, thecoupling housing 142 and thecoupling cap 144. Thejoint guard 128 is preferably configured as a substantially cylindrical tube, with a tapered downstream end. The upstream end of thejoint guard 128 is held in position adjacent theupstream section 118 by theupstream retainer 124. Alternatively, the upstream end of thejoint guard 128 can be connected to theupstream section 118 with a welded or threaded connection, or presented as a unitary construction. The conical shape of the downstream side of thejoint guard 128 allows the upstream anddownstream sections - To isolate the interior of the
flexible pump adapter 114 from the surroundingwellbore 104, theflexible pump adapter 114 includes a flexibleouter housing 148. Theouter housing 148 is preferably constructed from a flexible, impermeable material that is sufficiently durable to withstand the internal pressures of the pumped fluid and the inhospitable external environment. Suitable materials include creased metal, woven metal mesh and elastomers. In a particularly preferred embodiment, theouter housing 148 includes a woven metal mesh exterior with a polymer liner. Suitable polymers include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), tetrafluoroethylene/propylene (TFE/P)(Aflas), fluorine terpolymer (FKM) (Viton), highly saturated nitrile (HSN) or hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), and metallized polymers. Theouter housing 148,joint guard 128, couplinghousing 142 andcoupling cap 144 cooperate to protect theshaft coupling 140 while permitting the upstream anddownstream sections - It will be noted that the
flexible pump adapter 114 also includes aninternal fluid passage 150 for pumped fluids exchanged between the upstream and downstream components connected to theflexible pump adapter 114. To this end, theupstream section 118 includes anupstream section throat 152 and thedownstream section 120 includes adownstream section throat 154. Theupstream section throat 152 includes an annular space around theupstream shaft 136. Thedownstream section throat 154 includes an annular space around thedownstream shaft 138. Thefluid passage 150 is created by the annular spaces within the upstream anddownstream section throats joint guard 128 and thecoupling housing 142 andcoupling cap 144. - Accordingly, although it is not required that the
flexible pump adapter 114 be connected between adjacent pump assemblies 108, theflexible pump adapter 114 is particularly well-suited for providing a point of articulation between two components within thepumping system 100 that are configured for providing a passage for the movement of pumped fluids. It will be noted, however, that in certain applications, it may be desirable to remove the upstream anddownstream shafts shaft coupling 140, thecoupling housing 142, thecoupling cap 144 and the coupling bellows 146. In these alternate embodiments, theflexible pump adapter 114 is not configured to transfer torque from an upstream shaft to a downstream shaft, but only provides a point of articulation between two components within thepumping system 100 that are configured for providing a passage for the movement of pumped fluids. For example, it may be desirable to use theflexible pump adapter 114 without the adapter drivetrain to connect the discharge side of thepump assembly 108 b to theproduction tubing 102. - Turning to
FIG. 3 , shown therein is a cross-sectional depiction of a second preferred embodiment of theflexible pump adapter 114. Unless otherwise indicated, the second preferred embodiment of theflexible pump adapter 114 includes the same components identified during the description of the first preferred embodiment shown inFIG. 2 . Unlike the first preferred embodiment, the second preferred embodiment does not includeaxial bolts 122 that extend through axial bolt bores 130 in the upstream anddownstream sections flexible pump adapter 114 makes use of an articulating joint formed by a rigidjoint chamber 156 that is pivotally connected to the upstream anddownstream sections - The
joint chamber 156 is preferably cylindrical and includes a largecentral chamber 158 that tapers on both ends to flange ends 160. The central chamber accommodates the lateral displacement of theshaft coupling 140 during the articulation of theflexible pump adapter 114. Thejoint chamber 156 includes flared ends 162 at the open end of eachflange end 160. - The upstream and
downstream sections recess 164 that is configured to receive the flaredend 162 of thejoint chamber 156. Each of the upstream anddownstream sections locking collar 166 that captures the flared ends 162 of thejoint chamber 156 within the respective upstream anddownstream section collars 166 are secured to flanges of upstream anddownstream sections collar bolts 168. In a particularly preferred embodiment, thelocking collar 166 is configured as a split collar that includes two or more separate pieces that can be placed around the outside of the flange ends 160 of thejoint chamber 156. The lockingcollars 166 include acentral opening 170 that extends the receivingrecess 164 of the upstream anddownstream sections collars 166 are shown bolted to the upstream anddownstream sections collars 166 may alternatively be configured for a threaded engagement with the upstream anddownstream sections - The receiving recesses 164 and locking
collars 166 are configured to permit the slight movement of the flared ends 162 relative to the upstream anddownstream sections recesses 164, but prohibited from being removed from the receivingrecesses 164 of thelocking collar 166. This permits the angular articulation of the upstream anddownstream sections joint chamber 156. In a particularly preferred variation of this embodiment, the receivingrecesses 164 are machined with close tolerances to the width of the flared ends 162 such that the extent of articulation is limited as the flared ends 160 bind within the receiving recesses 164. In addition to limiting the extent of articulation, the close tolerances presented between the flared ends 162 and the receivingrecess 164 creates a substantially impermeable seal between the upstream anddownstream sections joint chamber 156. - Turning to
FIG. 4 , shown therein is a cross-sectional depiction of a third preferred embodiment of theflexible pump adapter 114. Unless otherwise indicated, the third preferred embodiment of theflexible pump adapter 114 includes the same components identified during the description of the first preferred embodiment shown inFIG. 2 . Unlike the first preferred embodiment, the third preferred embodiment does not includeaxial bolts 122 that extend through axial bolt bores 130 in the upstream anddownstream sections flexible pump adapter 114 makes use of an articulating joint formed by pivoting flanges connected to a rigid joint chamber that together provide a degree of articulation. - In the third preferred embodiment, the
flexible pump adapter 114 includes anupstream pivot section 172, a fixedcoupling chamber 174 and adownstream pivot section 176. Each of the upstream anddownstream pivot sections rounded base 178. Theflexible pump adapter 114 further includescap pieces 180 that hold theupstream pivot section 172 anddownstream pivot section 176 in place within the fixedcoupling chamber 174. Thecap pieces 180 are preferably bolted onto thecoupling chamber 174. Alternatively, thecap pieces 180 may be configured for a threaded engagement with the upstream anddownstream pivot sections FIG. 4 , it may be desirable in certain applications to place a bellows, boot or other articulating sealing mechanism around the outer surfaces of thecap pieces 180 and the respective upstream anddownstream pivot sections coupling chamber 174. - The fixed
coupling chamber 174 and thecap pieces 180 each include an interior profile that forms asocket 182 that matingly receives the rounded base of each of the upstream anddownstream pivot sections coupling chamber 174 further includes aninterior shoulder 184 that prevents the upstream anddownstream pivot sections coupling chamber 174. In this way, thecoupling chamber 174,cap pieces 180 and therounded bases 178 of the upstream anddownstream pivot sections flexible pump adapter 114, but resists separation or compression along the longitudinal axis of theflexible pump adapter 114. - Turning to
FIGS. 5 and 6 , shown therein are perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a fourth preferred embodiment of theflexible pump adapter 114. In the fourth preferred embodiment, theflexible pump adapter 114 includes aflexible metal casing 185 extending between theupstream section 118 and thedownstream section 120. Theflexible metal casing 185 is preferably constructed by creating spiral or parallel grooves around the outer diameter of a metal cylinder. The resultingribbed exterior 187 of themetal casing 185 permits a degree of bending when exposed to lateral stress, but will not crush under axial (longitudinal) stress. In addition to theribbed exterior 187, themetal casing 185 may optionally, or alternatively, include a ribbed internal surface (not shown inFIGS. 5 and 6 ). Although themetal casing 185 is depicted as a unitary part of theupstream section 118 anddownstream section 120, it will be appreciated that themetal casing 185 can be manufactured as a separate component that can be attached to the upstream anddownstream sections FIG. 6 , the fourth preferred embodiment of theflexible pump adapter 114 preferably includes theflex receiver 200 between the upstream anddownstream shafts flexible pump adapter 114 can employother shaft couplings 140, and can also be used without shafts. - Turning now to
FIGS. 7 and 8 , shown therein are perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of theflexible motor adapter 116. Unless otherwise indicated, theflexible motor adapter 116 includes the same components identified during the description of the first preferred embodiment of theflexible pump adapter 114 shown inFIG. 2 . Unlike theflexible pump adapter 114, however, theflexible motor adapter 116 does not include thefluid passage 150 and is not configured to permit the passage of pumped fluids between components connected to theflexible motor adapter 116. Instead, theflexible motor adapter 116 is configured to transfer torque with a flexible connection between two components of thepumping system 100. It will be noted that theflexible motor adapter 116 includes passages to permit the passage of motor lubricants or other internal fluids between adjacent components within thepumping system 100. Theflexible motor adapter 116 may also include pass-through ports that permit the internal routing of electrical wiring between adjacent components within thepumping system 100. - The
flexible motor adapter 116 preferably includes anexterior shield 186 and aninterior barrier 188. In a particularly preferred embodiment, theexterior shield 188 rides between the axial boltinner limiters 134, which are configured as nuts in this embodiment. In this way, theexterior shield 186 is not rigidly affixed to the upstream anddownstream sections exterior shield 186 is preferably constructed from a suitable metal or metal alloy and protects theaxial bolts 122 andinterior barrier 188 from mechanical impact and abrasion. - The
interior barrier 188 extends between theupstream retainer 124 and thedownstream retainer 126. Theinterior barrier 188 is preferably constructed from a flexible, impermeable membrane that prohibits the passage of external fluids into the interior of theflexible motor adapter 116. In particularly preferred embodiment, theinterior barrier 188 is manufactured from a polymer, such as, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), tetrafluoroethylene/propylene (TFE/P)(Aflas), fluorine terpolymer (FKM) (Viton), highly saturated nitrile (HSN) or hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), and metallized polymers. - Referring now also to
FIG. 9 , shown therein is a perspective view of theflexible motor adapter 116 with theexterior shield 186 and theinterior barrier 188 removed for clarity. Theflexible motor adapter 116 includes anupstream cup 190 and adownstream cup 192 that are each attached, respectively, to the upstream anddownstream sections upstream cup 190 anddownstream cup 192 are preferably sized such that the open end of one of the cups fits within the open end of the other cup. In the embodiment depicted inFIGS. 7 and 8 , thedownstream cup 192 partially extends inside theupstream cup 190. The upstream anddownstream cups interior barrier 188 from contact with therotating shaft coupling 140 and critical internal components. - Accordingly, the
flexible motor adapter 116 is well-suited for providing a point of articulation between two components within thepumping system 100 through which a shaft is used to transfer mechanical energy. It will be noted, however, that in certain applications, it may be desirable to remove the upstream anddownstream shafts shaft coupling 140 and the upstream anddownstream cups flexible motor adapter 116 is not configured to transfer torque from an upstream shaft to a downstream shaft, but only provides a point of articulation between two components within thepumping system 100. For example, it may be desirable to use theflexible motor adapter 116 without the drivetrain to connect themotor assembly 110 to monitoring modules connected upstream of themotor assembly 110. Furthermore, although theflexible motor adapter 116 has been described with an articulating joint that usesaxial bolts 122 and axial bolt bores 130, it will be appreciated that theflexible motor adapter 116 can also employ the articulating joints depicted in the second and third embodiments of theflexible pump adapter 114. Specifically, it is contemplated that theflexible motor adapter 116 can make use of the flared-end and recess articulating joint depicted inFIG. 3 and the ball-and-socket articulating joint depicted inFIG. 4 . It will also be noted that the presently preferred embodiments contemplate the use of multipleflexible pump adapters 114 andflexible motor adapters 116. As non-limiting examples, twoflexible pump adapters 114 or twoflexible motor adapters 116 can be connected to provide articulating joints that provide an increased range of motion. In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to include a series of radial support bearings within theflexible motor adapter 116 orflexible pump adapter 114 to support the upstream anddownstream shafts - Turning to
FIG. 13 , shown therein is a partial cross-sectional view of an articulatingcomponent 300. The articulatingcomponent 300 includes abody 302, aball 304, asocket 306 and alocking collar 308. Like theflexible pump adapter 114 andflexible motor adapter 116, the articulatingcomponent 300 can be configured to transmit pumped fluids and torque through internal shafts or linkages. Generally, the articulatingcomponent 300 is configured to provide an integral ball-and-socket connection between adjacent components within thepumping system 100. For example, the articulatingcomponent 300 may include any component within thepumping system 100, including a pump, motor, seal section, sensor package, intake, gas separator, or production tubing. -
FIGS. 14 a and 14 b illustrate the connection between two adjacent articulatingcomponents 300 that include anupstream shaft 136, adownstream shaft 138 and ashaft coupling 140. Theunitary locking collar 308 is configured for threaded engagement with thesocket 306. Thesocket 306 includes abowl 310 that is configured to receive theball 304 of theadjacent component 300. Theunitary locking collar 308 is designed to be placed over theball 304 of an adjacent articulatingcomponent 300. Screwing thelocking collar 308 onto the threadedsocket 306 approximates theball 304 of the adjacent articulatingcomponent 300 to thesocket 306. In a particularly preferred embodiment, thelocking collar 308 includes one or more seal rings 312 that provide a redundant seal around theball 304. In this way, the ball-and-socket mechanism of the articulatingcomponents 300 provides a jointed connection between adjacent components within thepumping system 100. Notably, the use of the ball-and-socket mechanism provides both angular and rotational articulation between theadjacent components 300. - Turning to
FIG. 15 , shown therein is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the articulatingcomponent 300. The alternate embodiment depicted inFIG. 15 includes a split-ring locking collar 314. As best illustrated inFIGS. 16 a and 16 b, the split-ring locking collar 314 is configured as separate halves that are joined together withfasteners 316. The split-ring locking collar 314 is useful in applications where the unitary threadedlocking collar 308 is unable to fit over the upstream articulatingcomponent 300. The use of the split-ring locking collars 314 is depicted inFIGS. 17 a and 17 b, which illustrate the angular movement between adjacent articulatingcomponents 300. In the embodiment depicted inFIGS. 17 a and 17 b, the articulatingcomponents 300 are configured to pass fluids like theflexible pump adapter 114 and do not include torque-transferring shafts found in theflexible motor adapter 116. Such components may include, for example, articulated production tubing and pump discharge heads. - Turning to
FIG. 18 , shown therein is a side view of an articulatingcomponent 300 constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 18 , the articulatingcomponent 300 includes a series of rollers along thebody 302. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 18 , the rollers arecasters 316 preferably include amount 318 to which eachcaster 316 is secured. The use ofcasters 316 allows thecomponent 300 to roll along thewellbore 104. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 18 , the articulatingcomponent 300 includes eightcasters 316 disposed about thebody 302. It will be appreciated, however, that fewer or greater numbers ofcasters 316 is encompassed within the scope of preferred embodiments.FIG. 19 illustrates two adjacent articulatingcomponents 300 that includecasters 316. - Turning to
FIG. 20 , shown therein is a side view of the articulatingcomponent 300 with an alternate embodiment of the rollers. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 20 , the articulatingcomponent 300 includes a plurality of angularly offset bearingstrip assemblies 320. Each bearingstrip assembly 320 includes abase block 322 fixed to thebody 302 and a plurality of substantiallyspherical bearings 324. Thespherical bearings 324 are configured to rotate within thebase block 322 to facilitate the movement and centralization of thecomponent 300 within thewellbore 104. In a particularly preferred embodiment, there are four, six or eightbearing strip assemblies 320 disposed about the circumference of thebody 302. In an alternate preferred embodiment, thebase block 322 is incorporated as a unitary part of thebody 302 to provide for alower profile component 300. -
FIG. 21 provides a partial cross-sectional side view of acomponent 300 constructed in yet another preferred embodiment. As depicted inFIG. 21 , thecomponent 300 includes rollers that are embodied by ball-point roller assemblies 326. Each ball-point roller assembly includes apedestal 328 mounted to thebody 302 and aroller ball 330 captured within thepedestal 328. In a highly preferred embodiment, one or more of the ball-point roller assemblies 326 further includes aspring 332 within thepedestal 328 that provides theroller ball 330 with a degree of vertical articulation. It will be appreciated that in low-profile applications, it may be desirable to integrate theroller ball 330 andoptional spring 332 into thebody 302 of thecomponent 300. -
FIG. 22 is a side view of apumping system 100 constructed in accordance with an alternate preferred embodiment that includes the use of multiple articulatingcomponents 300 disposed in the non-vertical portion of thewellbore 104. As illustrated inFIG. 22 , thepumping system 100 includes asensor package 300 a, amotor 300 b, aseal section 300 c, apump assembly 300 d and a plurality of articulatingconduits 300 e. Each of these articulatingcomponents 300 includes a ball-and-socket mechanism that provides a degree of angular articulation between adjacent components. In a particularly preferred embodiment, each of the articulatingcomponents 300 also includescasters 316,bearings 326 orroller balls 330 to facilitate the movement of the articulatingcomponents 300 along thewellbore 104. The use of the articulatingcomponents 300 permits the deployment and operation of thepumping system 100 into undulated, horizontal portions of thewellbore 104. - Thus, in the embodiment depicted in
FIG. 22 , thepumping system 100 includes a number of interconnected articulatingcomponents 300 that collectively provide flexible train that can be extended into non-vertical wellbores. It will be appreciated that certain of the articulatingcomponents 300 may not include theball 304 andsocket 306. For example, at the distal end of thepumping system 100, thesensor package 300 a may not include asocket 306 because it is not connected to any upstream components. As an additional example, in certain applications it may be desirable to rigidly fix themotor 300 b to thepump 300 d to prevent counter-rotation of these devices in response to the application of torque from themotor 300 b. The last link of the articulatingconduit 300 e may not include aball 304 because it includes a rigid connection to theproduction tubing 102 in the vertical portion of thewellbore 104. - It is to be understood that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of various embodiments of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and functions of various embodiments of the invention, this disclosure is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of structure and arrangement of parts within the principles of the present invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the teachings of the present invention can be applied to other systems without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.
Claims (20)
1. An articulating component for use in a downhole pumping system, the articulating component comprising:
a body having a first end and a second end;
a ball connected to the first end the body;
a socket connected to the second end of the body; and
a locking collar connected to the socket.
2. The articulating component of claim 1 , wherein the locking collar is a unitary locking collar that is configured for threaded engagement with the socket.
3. The articulating component of claim 1 , wherein the locking collar is a split-ring locking collar that is configured for threaded engagement with the socket.
4. The articulating component of claim 3 , wherein the split-ring locking collar includes two halves and fasteners that releasably join the two halves.
5. The articulating component of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of rollers connected to the body.
6. The articulating component of claim 5 , wherein each of the plurality of rollers is selected from the group consisting of casters, bearings and roller balls.
7. The articulating component of claim 1 , wherein the articulating component is selected from the group consisting of pumps, motors, seal sections, intakes, sensor modules, pump discharges and fluid conduits.
8. The articulating component of claim 7 , wherein the articulating component further comprises:
an upstream shaft;
a downstream shaft; and
an articulating shaft coupler.
9. The articulating component of claim 8 , wherein the articulating component further comprises an internal fluid path.
10. The articulating component of claim 7 , wherein the articulating component further comprises an internal fluid path.
11. A pumping system for use in a downhole well, the pumping system comprising a plurality of articulating components, wherein each of the plurality of articulating components is connected to another of the plurality of articulating components with an articulating joint.
12. The pumping system of claim 11 , where each of the plurality of articulating components is connected to another of the plurality of articulating components with an articulating ball-and-socket joint.
13. The pumping system of claim 12 , wherein each of the plurality of interconnected articulating components is selected from the group consisting of pumps, motors, seal sections, intakes, sensor modules, pump discharges and fluid conduits.
14. The pumping system of claim 11 , wherein each of the plurality of articulating components comprises:
a body having a first end and a second end;
a ball connected to the first end the body;
a socket connected to the second end of the body; and
a locking collar connected to the socket.
15. The pumping system of claim 14 , wherein each of the plurality of articulating components further comprises a plurality of rollers connected to the body.
16. A pumping system comprising:
a first articulating component, wherein the first articulating component comprises:
a body; and
a ball extending from the body; and
a second articulating component, wherein the second articulating component comprises:
a body;
a socket extending from the body of the second articulating component, wherein the socket receives the ball of the first articulating component; and
a locking collar that captures the ball of the first articulating component within the socket of the second articulating component.
17. The pumping system of claim 16 , wherein the locking collar is a unitary locking collar that is configured for threaded engagement with the socket.
18. The pumping system of claim 16 , wherein the locking collar is a split-ring locking collar that is configured for threaded engagement with the socket.
19. The pumping system of claim 16 , wherein the first articulating component further comprises one or more rollers connected to the body of the first articulating component.
20. The pumping system of claim 16 , wherein the first articulating component includes a first shaft and the second articulating component includes a second shaft, and wherein the first and second shaft are connected by an articulating shaft coupler within the body of the first articulating component.
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CA2959491A CA2959491A1 (en) | 2014-08-29 | 2015-08-21 | Flexible joint connection |
PCT/US2015/046198 WO2016032868A1 (en) | 2014-08-29 | 2015-08-21 | Flexible joint connection |
US15/397,541 US10371214B2 (en) | 2012-12-26 | 2017-01-03 | Flexible joint connection |
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US20180031046A1 (en) * | 2015-02-17 | 2018-02-01 | Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. | Underwater coupling joint, and water flow power generator |
US9951810B2 (en) | 2016-01-20 | 2018-04-24 | Summit Esp, Llc | Electrical submersible motor radial support bearing |
US9976602B2 (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2018-05-22 | Summit Esp, Llc | Torque transmitting coupling for an electrical submersible pump equipment string |
US20190072090A1 (en) * | 2016-02-25 | 2019-03-07 | Advancing Pump Technology Crop. | Electric motor and rod-driven rotary gear pumps |
US10337261B2 (en) * | 2015-09-18 | 2019-07-02 | Ulterra Drilling Technologies, L.P. | Universal joint |
US10619678B2 (en) | 2015-05-22 | 2020-04-14 | Ulterra Drilling Technologies, L.P. | Universal joint |
CN113898298A (en) * | 2021-09-29 | 2022-01-07 | 深圳大学 | Drilling turning short section, drilling coring device and drilling coring method |
US20220195815A1 (en) * | 2019-04-01 | 2022-06-23 | Lord Corporation | Lateral isolator |
US20230035816A1 (en) * | 2021-07-30 | 2023-02-02 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Universal joint connection for the manual positioning of an angularly offset valve shaft drive |
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CN107165586B (en) * | 2017-06-19 | 2019-03-05 | 盐城市东荣石油机械有限公司 | The high-frequency percussion helicoid hydraulic motor of universal axle assembly and the application universal axle assembly |
KR102258397B1 (en) * | 2019-08-30 | 2021-06-02 | 코우테크 주식회사 | Compressor, multi stage compressor module and learning-intelligent control compressor system using it |
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US9951810B2 (en) | 2016-01-20 | 2018-04-24 | Summit Esp, Llc | Electrical submersible motor radial support bearing |
US9976602B2 (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2018-05-22 | Summit Esp, Llc | Torque transmitting coupling for an electrical submersible pump equipment string |
US20190072090A1 (en) * | 2016-02-25 | 2019-03-07 | Advancing Pump Technology Crop. | Electric motor and rod-driven rotary gear pumps |
US11208999B2 (en) * | 2016-02-25 | 2021-12-28 | Advancing Pump Technology Corp. | Electric motor and rod-driven rotary gear pumps |
US20220195815A1 (en) * | 2019-04-01 | 2022-06-23 | Lord Corporation | Lateral isolator |
US11761271B2 (en) * | 2019-04-01 | 2023-09-19 | Lord Corporation | Lateral isolator |
US20230035816A1 (en) * | 2021-07-30 | 2023-02-02 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Universal joint connection for the manual positioning of an angularly offset valve shaft drive |
CN113898298A (en) * | 2021-09-29 | 2022-01-07 | 深圳大学 | Drilling turning short section, drilling coring device and drilling coring method |
Also Published As
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US20170114836A1 (en) | 2017-04-27 |
US10371214B2 (en) | 2019-08-06 |
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