Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
Submitted To:
Ashwin Soni Metallurgical Engineering & Material Science 2005-2010 IIT Bombay, Powai
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We sincerely thank Mr. C.K. Pathak (Country Manager, India & Bangladesh, BOT) for providing us with this opportunity to learn and be part of this prestigious organization. We would give our special thanks to Mr. Cecil Antao (Ops/Mktg Account Manager, BOT) for guiding us throughout the eight week summer internship program and helping us in each and every aspect as our mentor regardless of the busy schedule he had which kept our morals high. We give special thanks to Mr. Abhishek Kaushic (Sales Manager, BOT), Mr. Sushil Keshkar (Ops/Mktg Account Manager, BOT), Mr. D.K. Shayamal (Ops/Mktg Account Manager, BOT) and Mr. Rudappan Silvaguru (Field Service Manager, BOT) for providing us support and a platform to interact with the BOT team. We extend our sincere thanks to the Field Engineers, Commercial Team, Logistics and Supply Chain Management Team, IT and Finance Department for providing us with the knowledge of the operations and sharing their vast experiences with us. This summer internship has been a valuable learning experience and has helped us gain a perspective of the MNC culture and the corporate environment. We respect the core values of the company Integrity, Teamwork, Performance and Learning and will try our best to incorporate them into our actions. We thank Baker Oil Tools for providing us all the information required and allowing us to use it in this report. All in all being a part of Baker Hughes has been memorable and overwhelming.
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CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the project entitled Tubing Retrievable Sub-Surface Safety Valves Submitted by Mr. Abhishek Bansal B.Tech., Gas Engineering (2005-09) from University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Dehradun & Mr. Ashwin Soni Dual Degree, Metallurgical Engineering & Material Science (2005-10) from IIT Bombay, Powai is an approved record of work carried out by them at Baker Oil Tools, Baker Hughes, India Project Office, Mumbai under proper guidance for a period of eight weeks (w.e.f. 1st June to 25th July, 2008).
____________ Cecil Antao (Ops/Mktg Account Manager) Baker Oil Tools, Baker Hughes Asia Pacific Ltd. Mumbai
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2. CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ........................................................................................................................................ 5 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. A Brief Review of the Summer Internship ......................................................................................... 7 CONTENTS ..................................................................................................................................................... 8 LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES .......................................................................................................... 12 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 13 BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED ..................................................................................................... 14 5.1 About Baker Hughes ........................................................................................................................ 14
1.1.1 Drilling & Evaluation .................................................................................................................... 14 1.1.2 Completion & Production ........................................................................................................... 16 1.1.3 Reservoir Technology and Consulting................................................................................... 17 5.2 6. Financial Highlights ......................................................................................................................... 19
BAKER OIL TOOLS.................................................................................................................................... 20 6.1 6.2 6.3 THE Completion Company ............................................................................................................ 20 THE Workover Company ............................................................................................................... 20 THE Fishing Company .................................................................................................................... 20
7.
Rating Envelope ........................................................................................................................................ 23 RBT Threads ............................................................................................................................................... 23 Unique Flapper Design ........................................................................................................................... 24 Chemical Injection Capabilities ........................................................................................................... 26
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Control Line Connection ........................................................................................................................ 27 7.3 1. 2. Basic Principle ................................................................................................................................... 29 Sub-Surface Controlled SSSVs: ............................................................................................... 29 Surface Controlled SSSVs: ........................................................................................................ 29
Contrast between SSCSVs and SCSSVs: .......................................................................................... 30 Versions of Safety Valves:...................................................................................................................... 30 7.4 8. Industry Standards for Subsurface Safety Valves ................................................................ 31
Tubing Retrievable Surface Controlled Sub Surface Safety Valve (TRSCSSV) .................. 34 8.1 8.2 8.3 Assembly Drawing and Component List ................................................................................. 34 Working of a TRSCSSV .................................................................................................................... 36 Models Available ............................................................................................................................... 37
CEMENTSAFE SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE ........................................................... 38 Onyx SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVES............................................................................. 39 REALM SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE ........................................................................ 41 TITAN SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE ............................................................................ 42 SelecT SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE ............................................................................................ 44 NEPTUNE SERIES NITROGEN-CHARGED SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE ....................... 45 TRITON SERIES BALANCE LINESUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE .......................................... 47 T-SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE ...................................................................................... 49 8.4 Models available in T-Series ......................................................................................................... 50
T (E) Series .................................................................................................................................................. 50 TM (E) Series .............................................................................................................................................. 50 TSM (E) Series and TUSM (E) Series ................................................................................................. 50 8.5 8.6 The Basic Hydrostatic Pressure Calculations ........................................................................ 51 Fail-Safe Setting Depth ................................................................................................................... 51 Page 9
Fail-Safe Setting Depth Calculations ................................................................................................. 52 Opening and Closing Pressure Calculations ................................................................................... 53 8.7 Design Principles and Philosophy .............................................................................................. 56
Flow Tube Design Features .................................................................................................................. 56 Debris Exclusion/Control Design Consideration:- ...................................................................... 57 Scale Deposition prevention: ............................................................................................................... 57 Flow Tube Closure Assist Tool ............................................................................................................ 57 How side loading and torsional forces on a rod piston are perceived and designed for......................................................................................................................................................................... 58 Dual opposite wound Power Spring.................................................................................................. 59 8.8 Technical Evaluation of the T Series SSV Equipment ....................................................... 59
Outer Housing thread seal design philosophy .............................................................................. 59 Permanent Lock Open Features.......................................................................................................... 60 Evaluation of dynamic seal assembly and metal-to-metal stop seals .................................. 60 Components of dynamic seal assemblies and metal-to-metal stop seals: .......................... 61 Baker Oil Tools' Detent System for the 'T'-Series Safety Valves ............................................ 63 Flapper and hinge pin design............................................................................................................... 64 Table 3- Features and Benefits of Wedge Shape Flapper ......................................................... 65 Table 4- Features and Benefits of Curved (Slim line) Flapper ................................................ 66 Self-Equalizing Mechanism ................................................................................................................... 68 Control Line Jam Nut Connection ....................................................................................................... 72 Debris and Sand exclusion barriers .................................................................................................. 73 8.9 T Series accessory tools ............................................................................................................... 74
Flapper Lock Open Tool ......................................................................................................................... 74 Wireline Insert Safety Valve ................................................................................................................. 75 Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 10
Separation Sleeve ..................................................................................................................................... 76 Control Pressure Communication Tool............................................................................................ 77 9. 10. CONCLUSION .............................................................................................................................................. 78 BIBLIOGRAPHY ...................................................................................................................................... 79
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4. INTRODUCTION
The safety systems are required for the protection of the personnel around the platform, the environment and to prevent any production losses. It is also required for shutting in a well, in case of emergency shut down due to catastrophe, production testing, inspection and other routine operations. The safety valves keep the well shut in when the control line pressure is released and open up when the pressure is again maintained (in surface controlled type safety valves). There are various versions of such subsurface safety valves available with Baker Oil Tools. They are either surface controlled or subsurface controlled. The surface controlled one is available in two types, one is tubing retrievable and other is wireline retrievable. The tubing retrievable subsurface safety valves are most widely used in the oil industry and are available in various models for various applications. They are available in various designs offering different features which have been discussed further.
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(1)Baker Hughes provides the worldwide oil and natural gas industry products and services for drilling, formation evaluation, completion and production. We create value for oil and gas producers by providing advanced, reliable technology to find, develop, produce and manage oil and gas reservoirs. We also provide reservoir engineering and other consulting services. Baker Hughes operates in over 90 countries serving independent, international and national oil companies. Baker Hughes is the only major oilfield service company structured around strong productline divisions that are focused on Best-in-Class products and services. Our divisions are organized in two segments -- Drilling & Evaluation and Completion & Production -- which share common opportunities in developing and delivering technology solutions during distinct phases of oil and gas development. The newly-formed Reservoir Technology and Consulting Group includes two consulting firms Gaffney, Cline & Associates and GeoMechanics International that provide technical and commercial consulting, with unique capabilities in reservoir engineering and geomechanics.
1.1.1 Drilling & Evaluation Our Drilling & Evaluation segment includes divisions that apply their products and services primarily during the drilling process to improve efficiency, reduce risk and acquire accurate information. The segment includes Baker Atlas, Baker Hughes Drilling Fluids, INTEQ and Hughes Christensen.
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Baker Atlas Baker Atlas offers a complete range of down-hole well logging services for every environment including advanced formation evaluation, production and reservoir engineering, petro-physical and geophysical data acquisition services. In addition, perforating and completion technologies, pipe recovery, and processing and analysis of open and cased hole data complete the service range. Baker Hughes Drilling Fluids Baker Hughes Drilling Fluids provides fluids systems and services that help optimize the drilling and completion processes maximize hydrocarbon production and manage drilling waste. Leading technologies include environmentally compliant water-based and synthetic-based mud systems and remediation fluids that can restore productivity from damaged wells. INTEQ INTEQ provides real-time services to help oil companies drill more efficiently, evaluate geologic formations, and place wells in productive zones within the reservoir. Important technologies include automated rotary steerable directional drilling systems, high performance drilling motors, and integrated logging-while-drilling assemblies. INTEQ also provides data communications, data management and expert centers to improve drilling operations and enhance formation evaluation. Hughes Christensen Hughes Christensen is the leader in Tricone and PDC drill bit, ream-while-drilling and casing drilling technology. Hughes Christensen application and design engineers work with customers to provide the best drill bit for the application to continuously improve drilling performance.
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1.1.2 Completion & Production Our Completion & Production segment includes divisions that apply their products and services primarily during the well completion, field production, transportation and refining processes. The segment includes Baker Oil Tools, Baker Petrolite, Centrilift, and the Production Optimization business unit. Baker Oil Tools Baker Oil Tools provides completion and intervention solutions that help manage cost and reduce risk while optimizing production. The division has a comprehensive line of completion systems, which maximize performance and safety from the reservoir to the surface. Wellbore intervention solutions address issues ranging from temporary well abandonment and fishing to casing exits, wellbore cleaning, and isolation, remediation and stimulation operations. Baker Petrolite Baker Petrolite provides chemical technology solutions for hydrocarbon production, transportation and processing, and also delivers pipeline integrity services. Baker Petrolite is a leader in oil/water separation technology and in solutions to control corrosion, deposition, bacteria and H2S in producing wells and production facilities. To serve refinery and petrochemical customers, Baker Petrolite provides chemicals and technical support to enhance plant processes, improve productivity, manage water treatment, and resolve environmental issues. Centrilift Centrilift provides artificial lift systems, including electric submersible pumps (ESP) and progressive cavity pump systems, as well as specific engineering, project management and well monitoring services. Centrilift has expanded the applications for ESP systems to harsh downhole environments that include high gas to oil ratio, heavy oil, high temperatures and abrasive laden fluids. New systems also address the needs of coalbed methane and subsea production.
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ProductionQuest Baker Hughes formed its ProductionQuest business unit to provide technology and services that help maximize recovery from both new and mature fields. The unit provides production optimization services centered on the well bore, including permanent monitoring, chemical automation, intelligent production systems, and consulting services. The unit also includes the Baker Hughes Integrated Operations group, which manages projects and combines technologies and services from Baker Hughes divisions and subcontractors to meet customer objectives for both well construction and production optimization. 1.1.3 Reservoir Technology and Consulting Baker Hughes recently formed the Reservoir Technology and Consulting Group to enhance the companys capabilities in reservoir engineering, geomechanics and energy consulting services. The group currently includes Gaffney, Cline & Associates and Geomechanics International, Inc., which continue to operate as stand-alone consulting firms. Gaffney Cline & Associates Gaffney Cline & Associates is an international advisory firm focused on providing integrated technical and managerial services to all sectors of the oil and gas industry. For more than 45 years GCA has provided strategic and detailed advice aimed at achieving practical and commercially viable results. In addition to reservoir engineering, GCA advises a wide group of clients in exploration, reservoir evaluation, field development, drilling and production, pipeline, refining and LNG projects throughout the world. GeoMechanics International GeoMechanics International is a leader in consulting, training and software in the field of geomechanics and its application to oil and gas reservoirs. GMI was founded in 1996 by a team of experts from Stanford University's Department of Geophysics, and each of its Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 17
consultants is a recognized leader in the field of geomechanics. GMI methods are focused on applying geomechanics modeling to the entire life of a reservoir and are based on 20 years of R&D and more than 12 years of practical application to oilfield problems. These methods have been proven to reduce exploration risk, save Non-Productive Time (NPT) and help increase production and recoverable reserves.
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Mil = Millions RTMA = Rolling Three Month Average TTM = Trailing Twelve Months MRQ = Most Recent Quarter Asterisk (*) indicates numbers are derived from Earnings Announcements Pricing and volume data as of Jul 11, 2008.
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fishing and milling capabilities to provide a range of solutions that are the most advanced and comprehensive available.
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7.2 Overveiw
Baker Oil Tools (BOT) is one of the leading suppliers of subsurface safety system equipment. Full line of subsurface safety valves are available for surface-controlled and subsurface-controlled tubing retrievable and wireline retrievable applications. Each valve includes Baker's proven technologies and innovations that have set many industry standards. Rating Envelope The combination of innovative computer programs and exhaustive laboratory testing has enabled Baker Oil Tools to develop an industry standard for predicting safety valve housing performance capabilities under all loading conditions. This conservative design approach ensures the thread's ability to withstand aggressive down-hole environments. The results of this evaluation are plotted in a graphical format which provides visual indication of the safe operating range for the safety valve. With this load envelope, operators can safely plan their completions with confidence that Baker Oil Tools' safety valves will protect their people and investments. RBT Threads Through extensive FEA analysis and technical research, Baker Oil Tools offers RBT premium thread connections. The efficiency of the RBT thread design allows Baker Oil Tools to offer the smallest OD's for a given tubing size across the safety valve portfolio. The RBT premium thread connections bring the superior protection and life extending advantages of metal-to-metal sealing technology to thousands of Baker safety valves. The connection's two-step design distributes thread load to impart greater strength than single-step designs. The metal-to-metal seal points at the box and pin noses provide enhanced pressure-containing capabilities. The combination of this two-step, ultra slimprofile thread and the use of high tensile strength materials allows for the slimmest outside diameters on the market.
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The RBT thread also includes an innovative center torque shoulder design. The torque shoulder provides superior resistance to back-off in down-hole service. In addition, damage is prevented to the metal-to-metal seals during high torque loads and precisely controls make-up loss. Unique Flapper Design Focusing on providing customer solutions along with using state of the art engineering practices, Baker Oil Tools has introduced several industry firsts relating to its unique flapper design. Baker Oil Tools was the first to offer a patented through the flapper selfequalizing feature which has proven to reduce operating costs for operators. The selfequalizing feature allows operators to open subsurface safety valves against differential pressure.
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This unique design is resilient to debris and erosion which provides ultimate long-term reliability. The equalizing system has been used successfully in HP/HT and Big Bore applications where equalizing high pressures and large volumes can prove challenging. Baker Oil Tools also provided the industry's first wireline damage resistant flapper design. This design was created after careful review of mean-time-to-failure statistics relating to all subsurface safety valve designs. This analysis revealed that a good portion of failures could be eliminated with a wireline damage resistant flapper. The new flapper design protects the seal surface from wireline damage if an operator accidentally closes the valve during wireline operations. The protection offered by the wireline damage resistant flapper extends the safety valve life for operators. Baker Oil Tools was the first company to design a 4-1/2 in. safety valve to be installed inside 7 in. casing and a 7 in. safety valve to be installed inside 9-5/8 in. casing. The key ingredient to this success was the unique curved flapper design. The curved flapper design was made possible by advanced machining processes, innovative engineering practices, and exceptional quality control. These ultra-slimline curved flappers allow operators to reduce their overall costs and maximize their return on investment by maintaining a large bore ID while reducing the casing sizes needed for the completion.
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For high flow rate natural gas applications, Baker Oil Tools recognized the need to design and manufacture one of the world's most rugged flapper designs. Every flapper design goes through an intricate engineering process to ensure the flapper can meet the demands of high gas velocities. Baker Oil Tools' flapper designs have been verified by gas slam tests to the highest rates available in the world. Chemical Injection Capabilities Scale, paraffin, or hydrate formation continues to pose significant risks to operators in obtaining desired returns on their investments. Formation of these solids can jeopardize safety valve function by impeding flow tube movement, thereby requiring intervention. With this in mind, it is the culture within Baker Oil Tools to look for ways to simplify completion designs that will increase system reliability and decrease operator cost while maximizing performance.
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Figure 4-Chemical injection feature simplifies the completion and maximizes the benefits from injection process
A result of this culture is the optional chemical injection feature available with the Titan Series Subsurface Safety Valve. This innovative design incorporates a field-proven doublepoppet system that permits chemical injection directly into the safety valve. Combining this feature with a Titan Valve will virtually eliminate the need for any chemical injection mandrel in the tubing string above the safety valve. This will save the customer money and simplify the completion by reducing the number of components and tubing connections. Injecting chemicals directly into the spring cavity also ensures that the customer will receive the maximum benefit of the injection process by allowing injection directly where it is needed. For valve designs that do not offer the integral chemical injection feature, Baker Oil Tools offers a chemical injection sub that can be mounted directly on top of the Tubing Retrievable Safety Valve (TRSV). Control Line Connection Baker Oil Tools offers control line in a variety of lengths and materials. The standard control line provided is welded and drawn and complies to ASTMA269 specifications. Seamless and encapsulated control line is available upon request. Encapsulation improves the crush and abrasion resistance of the control line and can be offered in a variety of materials to suit the customers' down-hole environment. Baker Oil Tools offers a variety of control line connections to match the application. The Baker metal-to-metal jam nut, which Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 27
is standard for valve working pressures of 10,000 psi (689 bar) and below, provides reliable control line connections at the safety valve. This jam nut features a front and rear ferrule design that reduces the potential leak path from control line to annulus. For working pressures greater than 10,000 psi (689 bar), Baker Oil Tools offers Autoclave connections. (5)
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(6)There are two types of SSSVs: 1. Sub-Surface Controlled SSSVs: These valves that were often called storm chokes are now termed SSCSV (SubSurface Controlled Subsurface Safety Valves). They are set and retrieved by wireline. They close the well following a modification in flow conditions where they are located: a) Either when the ambient flow rate increases (and so the pressure loss across the valve also increases) b) When there is a pressure drop opposite the valve. Baker Oil Tools Manufactures injection valves and velocity valves which fall under SSCSVs 2. Surface Controlled SSSVs: The SCSSVs (Surface Controlled Subsurface Safety Valve), of the fail safe type, are controlled from the surface by hydraulic pressure in the control line and are normally closed (i.e. closed when no pressure is applied in the control line). The control pressure acts n a jack which pushes a sleeve back thereby opening the valve. At the same time it compresses a powerful return spring. As long as the control pressure is kept at the set Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 29
operating value, the valve remains open. However, if it falls below a certain threshold then the valve will close automatically solely under the effect of the return spring. Contrast between SSCSVs and SCSSVs: The SCSSV does not depend directly on ambient flow conditions in the well, but rather on one or more parameters measured at the well head. This also allows the subsurface valve to be controlled via a number of safety systems connected to process facilities. The wells safety can therefore be achieved manually or automatically whether the trouble is directly related to the well or not: fire, explosion or impact, process problem, etc. Depending on the degree of safety required, the wellhead safety valve alone can be closed or, in conjunction with it, the subsurface safety valve can also be closed. Due to the design of the hydraulically controlled valve, the depth at which it can be installed in the well is limited by the capacity of its running string. The spring must be sufficiently compressed to overcome the opposing force due to the weight of the hydrostatic column of the hydraulic fluid in the control line that governs the valve and acts directly on the jack. Also due to its design, the valve could not be opened as long as the pressure difference between above and below the closing and sealing mechanism exceeds an average of 0.7 MPa (100 psi), so that the valve will not be damages when it opens. Some valves are equipped with an internal equalization device. Here, all that is required to reopen the valves is to increase the pressure in the control line with the well head closed. Otherwise it is also necessary to recompress the tubing above the valve (by means of a pump, a nearby well, etc.) The SCSSV closing and sealing mechanism is either a flapper valve or a ball valve. For a long time preference was given to ball valves, mainly because of the sealing quality, even though the sleeve weldment (pivot cage) is complex and fragile. Currently check valves seem to be preferred choice as they are much simpler, more rugged and robust (i.e. safer). Also, a lot of progress has been made regarding the reliability and tightness of flappers. Versions of Safety Valves: 1. Wireline Retrievable: Set in a special landing nipple and retrieved by wireline. Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 30
2. Tubing Retrievable: Screwed onto the tubing and pulled out with all or part of the equipment in the well.
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Class 4 - Weight Loss Corrosion Service is for use in oil or gas wells where corrosive agents could be expected to cause weight loss corrosion. Class 1 or Class 2 and be manufactured from materials which are resistant to stress corrosion cracking. A Subsurface safety valve which has qualified for Class 1 or Class 2 service will be considered qualified for Class 3 service without requalification testing, when it is manufactured from materials resistant to stress corrosion cracking. Traceability All components, weldments, subassemblies and assemblies of SSSV equipment shall be traceable except, Springs, Beans, Common hardware. Hardness Each pressure containing part shall be hardness tested in accordance with API. Equipment Marking SSSV equipment marking on the exterior surface with the manufacturers name or trademark, monogram, rated working pressure, class of service, model number, serial number, date of manufacture, and pressure classifications. This list is a general requirements, see specification of specific requirements. Supplied Documentation Each monogrammed SSSV, SV Locks and Nipples shall be delivered to the operator with a Manufacturers Shipping and Receiving Report and an Operating Manual. Dimensional Inspection All traceable components, except elastomeric seals, must be dimensionally inspected to assure proper function and compliance with design specifications and drawings. Welding No Welding is performed on a Broken Arrow SSSV.
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API RP 14B The API RP 14B specification covers considerations for system design, instructions for safe installation, repair, and guidelines for operating and testing to assure sage and efficient performance of the SSSV system. Also included are procedures for reporting failures. This recommended practice is directed toward wireline, tubing retrievable and pumpdown SSSV systems. Inspection and Testing Safety valve inspection begins on location where documentation should be checked to verify serial numbers, size in accordance with the design, and that the safety valve lock for a retrievable safety valve is compatible with the landing nipple in the well. Before running the SCSSV in the well, connections should be tightened or checked in accordance with operating manual. Ascertain that all visible sealing elements are not damaged or deformed, and that all other visible features do no exhibit marring distortion that may interfere with safety valve operation. On new and replaced SSSVs, the opening and closing hydraulics pressures should be verified according to the operating manual. Ascertain that the SSSV will operate fail-safe at the setting depth before installation. After installation of the SSSV in the well, the valve should be closed under minimum no-flow conditions by operations of the surface control. Verification of closure may be accomplished by wire-line, pressure build-up or flow test. If the well is capable of flow, the SSSV can be tested for leakage by opening the surface valves to check the flow. The SSSV is then reopened following the operation manual. The SSSV should be operated at least every six months. (4)
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Onyx SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVES DESCRIPTION The Onyx Series, is the industry's first 7 in. tubing Retrievable Safety Valve (TRSV) that can fit inside a 9-5/8 in. casing with cable bypass capabilities. In addition, Baker Oil Tools has designed the industry's first 4-1/2 in. TRSV to fit inside a 7 in. casing. The Onyx Series of tubing retrievable surface controlled subsurface safety valves are specifically designed for big bore applications. Onyx Series safety valves are based on the successful T-Series. The Onyx Series combines a patented, state-of-the-art closure mechanism and premium housing threads to produce the industry's first tubing retrievable safety valves that offer full-opening production in smaller casing sizes. As a result, operators get multiple benefits: the lower cost of smaller-OD casing, flexibility in designing their completions, and higher production rates typical of larger tubing sizes. FEATURES/BENEFITS Slimline OD - enables larger tubing to be installed without sacrificing the full opening for maximized production Reduces completion cost (CAPEX) - the valve permits operators to use smaller casing programs Broader application coverage - ability to run capillary lines for downhole instrumentation or chemical injection and/or cables for electric submersible pump operation as well as dual completion installations RBT Housing Seals - two step metal-to-metal sealing system provides strength and sealing under the harshest conditions Non elastomeric dynamic seal assembly - withstands extreme pressures and temperatures exceeding 28,000 psi and 450F Metal-to-metal seal technology - 100% metal-to-metal sealing and containment of well bore fluids when the valve is in the closed position Patented thru-the flapper equalizing system - most successful and widely used system available to the market
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Ultra strong curved flapper design - resistant to high impact loads in high flow rate applications
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REALM SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE DESCRIPTION The new REALM Series tubing retrievable surface controlled subsurface safety valves are specifically designed for high pressure / high temperature (HP/HT) applications. REALM Series safety valves build upon the success of the T-Series and use state-of-the-art technology to provide the industry's most reliable safety valve for these critical applications. The REALM Series reduces operating expenses by providing absolute pressure ratings. The control chamber, dynamic seal system and rod piston are capable of withstanding full differential pressures. This capability eliminates the requirement to stage tubing pressures during installation, thus reducing installation cost and risk of over pressuring the valve. Baker Oil Tools utilizes a unique design approach combining cutting edge design techniques with the industry's most rigorous test program to provide safety valves specifically designed for HP/HT applications. FEATURES/BENEFITS Absolute pressure ratings - no staging of tubing pressure Non elastomeric dynamic seal assembly - withstands extreme pressures and temperatures exceeding 28,000 psi and 450F Metal-to-metal seal technology - 100% metal-to-metal sealing and containment of well bore fluids when the valve is in the closed position Patented thru-the flapper equalizing system - most successful and widely used system available to the market Ultra strong curved flapper design - designed to withstand extreme differential pressures RBT Housing Seals - two step metal-to-metal sealing system provides strength and sealing under the harshest conditions HP/HT Leader - successful field experience minimizes operating risk
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TITAN SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE DESCRIPTION Baker Oil Tools' commitment to innovation has resulted in the Titan Series surface controlled subsurface safety valve. Innovative field-proven technology that reduces the number of typical safety valve failure modes has been a hallmark of Baker Oil Tools' safety valves through the years. Titan standard features include: wireline damage resistant flapper, non elastomeric seal technology, and metal-to-metal containment of wellbore fluids in the closed position. These standard features deliver unprecedented reliability, efficiency, and adaptability. One-quarter of all safety valve failures occur due to wireline damage during interventions into the wellbore. The Titan incorporates the damage resistant characteristics of the successful SelecT flapper design to virtually eliminate this failure mode. This design ensures all seal surfaces are protected from wireline contact even during accidental closure of the valve during wireline operations. The Titan can be tailored to your specific needs, with available options such as integral chemical injection capability, wireline damage resistant seal bores, and various control system stop seal versions. An optional thru-the-flapper self equalizing system is also available to minimize operational expenses while maximizing productivity. FEATURES/BENEFITS Field-proven technology - basic design features have been carried over from the highly successful T-Series and SelecT portfolios Patented thru-the-flapper self-equalizing - most successful and widely used system available to the market Non elastomeric dynamic seal assembly - withstands extreme pressures and temperatures exceeding 28,000 psi and 450F Wireline damage resistant flapper - design protects sealing integrity during wireline operations Patented lock open system - achieved via one wireline trip and allows flow through the locked open valve with no ID restriction
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No shifting sleeves required to communicate - impossible to inadvertently communicate the hydraulic chamber Metal-to-metal seal technology - 100% metal-to-metal sealing and containment of wellbore fluids when the valve is in the closed position Optional chemical injection capability - injection mandrel within the TRSV eliminates the need for a mandrel above the valve and allows injection of fluids directly into spring cavity for maximum effectiveness Optional damage resistant seal bores - ensures seal bore integrity when it is needed
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SelecT SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE DESCRIPTION The SelecT is a tubing retrievable surface controlled subsurface safety valve that is designed to address the unique challenges that shallow set safety valves (typically <1,000 ft ) must endure. An ultra strong power spring delivers high closing forces needed to provide reliable and consistent closings in the presence of paraffin and other produced solids. One-quarter of all safety valve failures occur due to wireline damage during interventions into the wellbore. The SelecT design team developed an advanced flapper design to virtually eliminate this failure mode. This design ensures all seal surfaces are protected from wireline contact even during accidental closure of the valve during wireline operations. Combining design enhancements with the successful features of the industry leading TSeries, the SelecT addresses applications for smaller tubing sizes ranging from 2-3/8 in. 3-1/2 in. FEATURES/BENEFITS Ultra strong power spring - ensures smooth and reliable closures Wireline damage resistant flapper - design protects sealing integrity during wireline operations Patented thru-the-flapper self-equalizing - most successful and widely used system available to the market Non elastomeric dynamic seal assembly - withstands extreme pressures and temperatures exceeding 28,000 psi and 450F Patented radial punch control fluid communication system eliminates accidental communication primarily associated with linear shifting sleeves Metal-to-metal seal technology - 100% metal-to-metal sealing and containment of wellbore fluids when the valve is in the closed position
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NEPTUNE SERIES NITROGEN-CHARGED SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE DESCRIPTION The Neptune Series nitrogen charged tubing retrievable surface controlled subsurface safety valve is designed for completions requiring low operating pressures due to control system limitations. The Neptune operating system contains many patented features that provide simple, reliable, and fail-safe operation in the most critical applications. The Neptune Series incorporates integral nitrogen charged systems within the valve, which oppose the hydrostatic pressure acting on top of the piston. The dynamic seal configuration used for the operating piston is a significant engineering achievement that utilizes the industry's first non elastomeric seal technology for nitrogen charged safety valves. Unlike other nitrogen charged designs, the Neptune Series' patented operating system is designed to be fail-safe closed in all applications even if the primary nitrogen chamber pressure is lost. The operating system is also far less susceptible to failing due to debris in the control line or hysteresis as all ball check seats, Belleville washers, and collets have been eliminated. The Neptune Series comes standard with two totally independent operating systems and an integral control line filter. These features deliver the redundancy and assurance required in remote subsea wells. When it comes to your critical applications, the Neptune's innovative design and simple operation make it the only logical choice to protect your investment. FEATURES/BENEFITS Two independent and operating systems - offers redundancy to maintain dependable valve operation Simple operation - uses the same moving parts of a conventional TRSV Patented fail-safe operating system - ensures fail-safe operation in all applications Innovative non elastomeric seal technology - an industry first for nitrogen-charged valves Operating system is free of ball check seats - virtually eliminates failure due to control line debris Low operating pressure at any setting depth - reduces operating system investment Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 45
Optional integral control line filter - provides clean and trouble free operation RBT Housing Seals - two step metal-to-metal sealing system provides strength and sealing under the harshest conditions.
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TRITON SERIES BALANCE LINESUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE DESCRIPTION The Triton Series balance line tubing retrievable surface controlled subsurface safety valve is designed for completions requiring low operating pressures due to control system limitations. The Triton combines the field-proven technology of the industry leading TSeries with a hydrostatically balanced rod piston to achieve simple, reliable and fail-safe operation. Baker Oil Tools used a revolutionary design approach focusing on the elimination of previous balance line failure modes. As a result, the Triton Series offers fail-safe operation in every application. The non elastomeric rod piston design is also configured to make the operating pressure insensitive to tubing pressure. These design features are essential in providing a low-operating-pressure safety valve for deepwater completions. Failure to close due to the buildup of wellbore debris and in-service friction is one of the most common failure modes of TRSV's. The Triton Series rod piston configuration is designed to reduce the potential of this failure mode. Pressure can be applied to the balance line to assist in closure if the valve is unable to close due to the buildup of debris and additional friction. Baker Oil Tools is committed to being the industry leader in offering versatile solutions for demanding applications. The Triton Series teams with the Neptune Series and Titan Heavy Sprung designs to deliver reliable solutions for almost every deepwater/subsea application. FEATURES/BENEFITS Low operating pressure at any setting depth - reduces operating system investment Simple operation - uses the same moving parts of a conventional TRSV Patented fail-safe operating piston - previous balance line failure modes eliminated and ensures fail-safe operation in all applications Non elastomeric dynamic seal assembly - withstands extreme pressures and temperatures exceeding 28,000 psi and 450F Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 47
Patented thru-the flapper equalizing system - most successful and widely used system available to the market RBT Housing Seals - two step metal-to-metal sealing system provides strength and sealing under the harshest conditions
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T-SERIES SUBSURFACE SAFETY VALVE DESCRIPTION Baker Oil Tools' T-Series tubing retrievable safety valves offer unmatched protection from low end standard service through HP/HT applications. With T-Series Safety Valves, one can count on premium performance and long-term reliability for the life of the well which is attributed to complete removal of elastomeric compounds and elimination of linear shifting sleeves. Incorporating non elastomeric dynamic seals and metal-to-metal housing connections eliminates the possibility of explosive decompression which is commonly associated with elastomeric compounds. Extensive studies by operators and independent research institutes have shown that accidental actuation of shifting sleeves and subsequent control fluid communication is one of the primary causes for safety valve failures. By removing all shifting sleeves from the T-Series valve, Baker Oil Tools has eliminated one of the most common failure modes found in safety valves. The T-Series versatile design is ideal for a variety of applications including deepwater completions. The T-Series Heavy Sprung Safety Valve features an extra strong power spring to overcome the additional hydrostatic pressure associated with deep setting depths. The reliability and simplicity of the T-Series have made it one of the most successful safety valves in the industry. The high spring closure force guarantees performance in the presence of paraffin or other produced solids. FEATURES/BENEFITS Subsurface safety valve leader - successful field experience minimizes operating risk Non elastomeric dynamic seal assembly - withstands extreme pressures and temperatures exceeding 28,000 psi and 450F RBT Housing Seals - two step metal-to-metal sealing system provides strength and sealing under the harshest conditions Patented radial punch control fluid communication system eliminates accidental communication primarily associated with linear shifting sleeves Patented thru-the flapper equalizing system - most successful and widely used system available to the market Deep-set capability - ultra strong power spring ensures smooth and reliable closures Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 49
TM (E) Series The Model TM (E)-5 Tubing Retrievable Safety Valves are non-equalizing and selfequalizing flapper-type subsurface tubing mounted safety valves rated for 5,000 psi working pressure. The TM series valves utilize a redundant full open and full closed static metal to metal seal on the dynamic actuator.
TSM (E) Series and TUSM (E) Series The TSM (E) and TUSM (E) series have all the features of the TM (E) series and apart from that they have a slim line outside diameter and ultra slim line outside diameter respectively. These valves have a curved slim line flapper installed instead of a wedge shaped flapper (present in T and TM series). Curved shape of flapper allows for smaller O.D. of flapper housing or larger I.D. of flow tube compared to wedge shape flapper valve.
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Reduced O.D. or increased I.D. allows user more liberty in safety valve applications. A larger diameter TRSV can be run inside casing that would normally require a down-sized tubing string. A smaller pressure drop can be anticipated for a wireline valve application.
For a particular SCSSV, the piston area and the spring force are constant, although the setting depth may increase by adding additional spring force, the pressure gradient of the control line fluid is the determining factor. If the annulus fluid is heavier than the control line fluid, and there is a possibility that the control line could break, the hydrostatic pressure applied at the working fail-safe setting depth, the theoretical depth should be modified by a safety factor of 1.2 to 1.5 to compensate for potential increase in mechanical and seal friction. Per API 14A, Fail-Safe Setting Depths are calculated with salt water in the control line plus and an additional 15% is factored in, thus the actual Fail-Safe Setting Depth of a valve is normally 28% greater with hydraulic oil in the control line. Increased setting depths can be important for several applications: In areas where it is desirable to place a safety valve below the level at which paraffin/scales occur In the arctic, where the safety valve should be installed below permafrost zone In platform, subsea, or arctic applications, where it is desires to ensure that no hydrates will form at the valve In areas where the threat of earthquakes could cause tubing to leak below a shallow set safety valve. Fail-Safe Setting Depth Calculations The fail-safe setting depth calculation is based on the condition that the control line parts at the surface controlled subsurface safety valve and annulus fluid is introduced into the control chamber. The fail-safe setting depth calculation is a force balance of the vertically downward acting forces and the vertically upward acting forces. Downward Acting Forces 1. Hydrostatic Head = (Setting Depth x Hydraulic Gradient) x (Maximum Piston Area) = (Sd)(g)(A) 2. Weight of Moving Parts = W
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3. Accumulated Friction = This factor includes all sources of friction such as spring friction, seal friction, flow tube friction, etc., and is to be determined from testing or good engineering judgment = Ff. Upward Acting Forces 1. Minimum Power Spring Force with Valve in Closed Position - Fs. 2. Forces = (Sd)(g)(A) + W + Ff - Fs = 0 Vertical Direction = 0 Therefore (Sd)(g)(A) + W + Ff = Fs and Sd = (Fs - W - Ff)/(g)(A)(SF) where: SF = Safety factor, generally 1.15 Minimum and maximum fail-safe depths are to be determined, considering the variation in spring valves as well as component tolerances. Opening and Closing Pressure Calculations The full opening pressure is to be calculated based upon the power spring(s) force in the full open position and the associated dynamic friction. The full open pressure calculation is based on the assumption that only the pump pressure from the surface is available to open the valve. That is, this calculation ignores the hydrostatic head in the control line. The full open pressure calculation is a force balance of the vertically downward acting forces and the vertically upward acting forces. Downward Acting Forces 1. Pump Pressure Force = (Full Open Press) x (Minimum Piston Area) = (Po)(A) 2. Weight of Moving Parts = W
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Upward Acting Forces 1. Minimum Power Spring Force with Valve in Open Position - Fo 2. Accumulated Friction = This factor includes all sources of friction such as spring friction, seal friction, flow tube friction, etc., and is to be determined from testing or good engineering judgment = Ff. Forces = (Po) (A) + W - Fo - Ft = 0 Vertical Direction = 0 Therefore: (Po)(A) = Fo + Ft - W = 0 And Po = (Fo + Ff- W)/ (A) Minimum and maximum opening pressures are to be determined, considering the variations in spring valves as well as component tolerances. The full closed pressure is to be calculated based upon the power spring(s) force in the fully closed position and the associated dynamic friction. The full closed pressure calculation is a force balance of the vertically downward acting forces and the vertically upward acting forces. Downward Acting Forces 1. Pump Pressure Force = (Full Open Press) x (Minimum Piston Area) = (Pc)(A) 2. Weight of Moving Parts = W 3. Accumulated Friction = This factor includes all sources of friction such as spring friction, seal friction, flow tube friction, etc., and is to be determined from testing or good engineering judgment = Ff Upward Acting Forces 1. Minimum Power Spring Force with Valve in Open Position = Fc Forces = (Pc)(A) + W + Ff - Fc = 0 Vertical Direction = 0 Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 54
Therefore (Pc) (A) = Fc - Ft - W = 0 and Pc = (Fc - Ff- W)/ (A) Minimum and maximum opening pressures are to be determined, considering the variations in spring valves as well as component tolerances. Table 2- Fail Safe Setting Depth Calculations for the T (E) - 5 (5.5) model (7)
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Flow Tube Design Features (4)The flow tube is the component which transfers the linear force of the piston to the closure mechanism. The design of this component must withstand the large forces imparted during slam closing the flapper mechanism and during opening the closure mechanism against differential pressure. Furthermore, the flow tube functions to restrict the migration of well debris into the spring cavity and therefore provides critical protection of the dynamic seals. Stress ConsiderationsThe Baker flow tube is designed to withstand the following stress conditions: 1. Column Buckling: It is caused by the force of the piston while opening the closure mechanism against differential pressure. The critical buckling load must be greater than actual buckling load (piston area of the dynamic system times the maximum rated control line pressure). 2. Bearing Failure: It occurs between the contact surface of the bottom of the flow tube and the upper face of the flapper while opening the closure mechanism against differential pressure. The bearing stress (contact stress) between the bottom face of the flow tube and the upper face of the non-self-equalizing flapper is kept below the minimum yield strength of flow tube and flapper, whichever is less. Furthermore, when considering the self equalizing flapper, the bearing stress kept below the minimum yield strength of the flow tube and the plunger whichever is less. This expectance criteria ensures that the flow tube will not swell or swedge and impede the free movement of the component. 3. Pressure Induced combined Stress: It is due to the possibility of pressure build up across the flow tube. It is calculated by the means of the combined stress, API burst and collapse calculations and a collapse stability calculation. Analyzing these features the ability of the flow tube to withstand differential pressure loads in very unlikely situation, where debris may impede the ability of debris exclusion gaps
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from venting pressure or in the event of very rapid pressurization or depressurization of the tubing, is ascertained. For Baker 5.5 TSM (E)-5: Burst and Collapse pressure (Combine stress analysis) = 5000 psi Burst Pressure (from API 5CT) = 4947 psi Collapse pressure (from API 5CT) = 2175 psi Collapse stability pressure across flow tube = 2542 psi Debris Exclusion/Control Design Consideration:Baker applies two philosophies when designing a safety valve for service in the presence of debris. The first is that the debris should be excluded from certain areas of the valve, specifically the spring cavity; the second is that certain areas of the safety valve will be in contact with debris and measures must be taken to prevent this debris from fouling the mechanism with which it comes in contact. Scale Deposition prevention: Scale build up can be prevented by the use of following coatings: Teflon-PTFE coating Xylan Here Xylan also referred as Poly-amid-imid type coating is best suited for acids, release, abrasion, and high load bearing resistance. But Xylan doesnt tolerates high pH, thus not recommended for water based drilling mud, water based hydraulic control line fluid etc. For high pH applications Teflon-PTFE should be considered. Work in this field is still going and researchers are striving hard to fabricate a thinner coating. Flow Tube Closure Assist Tool Because of the effectiveness of Bakers Debris exclusion considerations, failures to close and high opening pressure due to debris accumulation are minimized. In the event that excessive debris or scale is realized, Baker can provide a wireline run, jar-activated, closure assist tool. The three-trip tool sets in the lock profile provided in the safety valve nipple adapter and incorporates a set of retraceable slips to engage and shift the flow tube both
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upward and downward. Once the flow tube is freed, the closure assist tool is jarred-up to release from the flow tube and is retrieved to the surface. How side loading and torsional forces on a rod piston are perceived and designed forBakers philosophy in this regard is the same used throughout the design of T-Series safety valves: Wherever possible, either eliminate undesirable phenomenon. Make the mechanism affected by those phenomenons rugged enough to withstand them. Rather than incorporate additional mechanisms to protect weak points. Eccentric loading of the flow tube by the single piston located offset from the valves centerline, has two detrimental effects. It causes resultant side loads at the points at the either end of the flow tube where the flow tube is guided by the cylinder sub and the spring washer. This side loading can result in excessive friction and wear at these points. This is addressed in the TM and TSM safety valve by special surface treatments and coatings on these sliding surfaces. The second effect is a bending moment applied to the flow tube between the two guide points. Many valves have a two-piece flow tube which can flex at the connection between the two pieces, substantially exaggerating the friction and wear. The TM and TSM have a robust, one-piece flow tube which is stiff enough to be unaffected by the applied bending moment. Torsional Loading of the rod piston can result from the rotation of the flow tube caused by the compression of the helical power spring. Other manufacturers address this by: 1. Adding rotational lock mechanisms to prevent the rotation of the flow tube. 2. Bearing systems to absorb the rotation at the end of the power spring In earlier designs, Baker used this approach as well. However, these mechanisms add to the complexity of the valve and introduce additional, unnecessary failure modes.
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Dual opposite wound Power Spring Bakers latest generation of valves incorporate a simpler solution. The single power spring is replaced by two stacked, counter wound springs. In the stacked spring system is compressed the rotation occurs at the interface between the two springs rather than at the ends. Thus no rotational load is applied to the flow tube.
Internal pressure increases the sealing force at the pin nose seal
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The box and pin sealing lips at each end of the thread (box and pin noses) are designed with interference that provides a positive metal-to metal seal for containment of both internal and external pressure. The 'RBT' thread has a center locating shoulder that carries the torque of the made up connection. The torque capacity of the connection is defined by the bearing area of this shoulder. Experience has shown that this design provides excellent resistance to back off in down-hole service. This center locating shoulder also provides the proper metal-to-metal interference for the seals at the box and pin noses. The pressure holding ability of the 'RBT' is not a direct function of makeup torque. The pressure holding ability of the thread is defined by the interference at the box and pin noses. Permanent Lock Open Features Important: In 1992 (25%) twenty five percent of tubing retrievable safety valve failures in an independent study were caused directly by leakage between the hydraulic control line chamber and the tubing well bore through the wireline insert valve communication feature. One out of ever four failures was linked to a communication feature in the I.D. of the valve. No matter how strong the shear sleeves in the Safety valves were wireline operators and coil tubing units managed to find a way to prematurely shear any type of shear sleeve that has been placed in a Safety Valve I.D. Baker Oil Tools redesigned the permanent lock open feature for the 'T' series valves. The sleeves that were shearing prematurely were completely eliminated from the I.D. of the valve. There have been no recorded failures of the Baker puncture communication system causing a premature leak or failure. There are no shear sleeves in the I.D. of the 'T' series safety valves. Evaluation of dynamic seal assembly and metal-to-metal stop seals The use of rod piston type actuators reduces the number of possible leak paths, the friction is reduced from the old style concentric piston designs (much smaller circumference) and deeper setting depths are easier to achieve. The dynamic actuator seal assemblies are designed to last the Test that each design is required to complete the Baker Endurance Test and/or Cyclic Hot Test, involves more Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 60
than 1200 cycles. This duplicates opening and closing the valve once a month for the next 100 years. The valve and control fluid temperature are also cycled. The temperature is varied throughout the test from 100 F to the maximum rated temperature of the valve. The dynamic seals used in the 'T' series valves have been proven with the metal to metal stop seal design as well as the 'standard' non elastomeric assembly that does not utilize the metal to metal stop seals.
Components of dynamic seal assemblies and metal-to-metal stop seals: The Baker Oil Tools system uses the following main components. The dynamic seal assembly The full open metal to metal stop seal The full closed metal to metal stop seal The detent / dampener system Location of the Metal to Metal stop seals The Baker metal to metal seat is made from MP159 material. This highly corrosion resistant material provides the highest degree of sealing integrity. The location of the metal to metal stop seals when the valve is in the full closed position is an interesting discussion. Typically there are two choices. First-locating the seal in the control line fluid or second - locating the seal at a point below the seal bore and other seals. The arguments for each are given below: Locating the 'full closed stop seal' inside the control line chamber
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The advantage of the internal full closed stop seal is that the metal to metal seat is 'protected' by the hydraulic fluid - during the time that the valve is in the open position the seat is bathed in control fluid. The disadvantage of the internal closed stop seal is that the importance is placed on the making sure that the full closed metal to metal seat (static seal) is protected. It ignores the fact that the seal bore may be subject to increased corrosion, pitting and scale during the time that the valve is in the closed position. If this type of corrosion begins it will be very hard on the dynamic seal assembly. The corrosion generally forms a very rough surface and will destroy the dynamic seal over time.
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Baker Oil Tools' Detent System for the 'T'-Series Safety Valves The purpose of the detent spring system is to prevent the deformation of the two mating metal-to metal surfaces during slam closures of the valve. During slam closures the impact of the flow tube and piston being pushed into the metal to metal seat can render the metal to metal stop seal ineffective. The impact is softened and any damage to the two surfaces is eliminated by the use of the shock absorber (detent / dampener system). If the valves that you are comparing do not have a detent system it is likely that the metal-to-metal seals will be ineffective.
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Flapper and hinge pin design There are two types of flappers provided in the 'T' series valves. The first design is called the 'wedge shaped flapper' found in the standard 'T' or 'TM' series. The second design is referred to as the 'curved flapper' found in the 'TS' or 'TSM' series, the curved flapper is used in slim line designs. Both designs are capable of utilizing the 'thru the flapper equalizing system. The wedge shape flapper started in 1980 when Baker Oil Tools set out to build an indestructible flapper mechanism. The testing performed resulted in several patented and original concepts that are still in use today. The wedge shape of the flapper is one of the important features to consider. The wedge gains the advantage of leverage by moving the first point of contact with the flow tube away from the hinge. This 'three point contact' reduces the stress on the hinge pin during opening and during closures (the farther away from the hinge that the contact occurs the lower the forces trying to bend or shear the hinge). In addition, during the closure of a valve the 'three point contact' allows the impact from a slam closure to be hydraulically absorbed by the flow tube- not the seat.
Figure 13- Wedge Shaped Flapper (Three point contact shown above)
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The curved flapper also has the 'three point contact' advantage. The curved flapper allows the sides to contact the flow tube before the flapper engages the seat. . The valve seat is Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 65
thus protected from damage due to stress so it will seal as effectively the next time.
Both systems utilize the concept of placing the hinge pin in shear rather that to place it in bending. The hinge pin is manufactured of specially selected high-strength alloy. And because of the unique hinge design, the hinge pin bending common in other valves is completely eliminated. Table 4- Features and Benefits of Curved (Slim line) Flapper
Features Curved shape of flapper allows for smaller O.D. of flapper housing and/or larger I.D. of flow tube compared to wedge shape flapper valve. Unique geometry of flapper assures only axial loads are transmitted to the flow tube. Curved and angled seating surface is not intersected by flow tube during opening or closing. Tight tolerance held on hinge and pin components. Eliminates use of external alignment devices that add friction and complexity to the closure mechanism. This is the same, Benefits Reduced O.D. / increased I.D. allows user more latitude in safety valve applications. A larger diameter TRSV can be run inside casing that would normally require a down-sized tubing string. A smaller pressure drop can be anticipated for a wireline valve application. Flow tube is not bent or crimped by radial loads from the flapper during opening and closing. This eliminates damage which may cause wireline tool strings to hang-up in the valve. Eliminates wear on sealing surfaces which would eventually cause leakage.
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proven philosophy used for the Baker wedge shape flapper closure mechanism. Reduces inertial forces which come into play during slam Sculptured flapper geometry. Primary metal-to-metal flapper to seat seal is backed-up by a resilient seal on the flapper seat. opening/closing of valve. Efficient, compact design. Torsion spring returns flapper to full closed, sealing position without any assistance from well pressure. Torsion spring is wound around mid section of hinge pin, thus maximizing the quantity of wire available for the given flapper.
Both systems utilize the concept of placing the hinge pin in shear rather that to place it in bending. The hinge pin is manufactured of specially selected high-strength alloy. And because of the unique hinge design, the hinge pin bending common in other valves is completely eliminated.
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Gas slam test A gas slam test is designed to duplicate the condition when a well is flowing, the control line is bleed off and the safety valve closes with the flow against the flapper. Gas slam test are an excellent indication of the reliability of a subsurface safety valve. API test require only the very minimum requirements regarding slam test. Baker Oil Tools has designed flappers that are virtually indestructible and this allow the valves to be tested at flow rates and velocities listed below. These test represent real life conditions and need to be considered when evaluating Subsurface safety valves. All sizes of 'T' series valves have complete High Velocity Gas Slam Test 20 Slams, 15 of which are: 200 ft/sec (41 MMSCFD)for 2-3/8" Valves 200 ft/sec (58.5 MMSCFD)for 2-7/8" Valves 200 ft/sec (102.7 MMSCFD)for 3-1/2" Valves 150 ft/sec (146.0 MMSCFD)for 4-1/2" Valves 125 ft/sec (120.7 MMSCFD)for 5-1/2" Valves The Post slam leak rate following the slam test is the same leak rate that is required by the API 14A functional test for 'new' valves. Self-Equalizing Mechanism A Self-Equalizing Safety Valve contains an integral equalizing mechanism which allows shut-in pressure from below the safety valve to be vented to the tubing above the flapper. This will decrease the differential pressure across the flapper (equalize) and allow the valve to open. There is no need to fill the tubing above the flapper with fluid, hook-up a pump to pressure down the tubing above the flapper to equalize the pressure across the flapper. The self- equalizing system will equalize the valve and have the well back on production quicker, safer and more efficiently. The simplicity and advantages of being able to open a valve without having to mobilize pumps and fluids that are required to equalize a non self-equalizing valve have made a tremendous market for self equalizing valves. The economics generally provide that a self -equalizing system will pay for itself in a matter of a few months. In some applications the system pays for itself the first time that it is used. Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 68
Wide spread use of self equalizing valves is the industry standard. One of the main reasons for the success is the system described below. Evaluation of Self-Equalizing Designs There are basically two types of self equalizing systems. 1) Around the flapper 2) Thru the Flapper The major disadvantage of 'around the flapper' type self-equalizing mechanisms is that produced fluids containing debris, such as scale and sand, are introduced into the annulus created between the valve's flow tube and outer housing. There is a tendency for the debris to collect in the annulus of the valve and eventually block the movement of the flow tube as it tries to return to the closed position. Valves that use 'around the flapper' equalizing systems can fail in the "open" position due to the problems associated with the location of this debris! Erosion problems are also a concern and can lead to leakage. The Baker Oil Tools thru the flapper system is good for the working pressure of the valve that it is used on. We have several systems rated above 10,000 psi. Baker Oil Tools patented "THRU-THE FLAPPER, METAL-TO-METAL, SELF-EQUALIZING SYSTEM" type equalizing system was developed to eliminate problems. The result is the most popular, reliable equalizing system in the industry. OPERATION Simple opening procedure - Close the wing valve -then pressure up to the valve full opening pressure. The equalizing feature will allow the pressure to equalize and open the safety valve. The equalizing feature does not interfere with normal valve operations. After the Subsurface safety valve is open, open the wing valve and flow the well as required. The process is quick and simple. No staggering pressures or worries about damaging the valve. This allows the wells to be put on production much sooner after a system test on emergency shut-down, the increased production could pay for the feature the first time it is used. Tubing Retrievable Sub Surface Safety Valve Page 69
HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS The system consists of an equalizing plunger, an equalizing spring and an equalizing type flapper. As control line pressure is applied to the valve, the flow tube begins to move downward until it contacts and depresses the equalizing plunger. This unseats the metalto-metal seal and exposes the ports in the plunger. The plunger location on the flapper has been designed so that once equalization has occurred the plunger returns to its closed position. This feature protects both the plunger and its metal-to-metal seat.
DESIGN FEATURES ( Thru the flapper equalizing system) Sealing Mechanism The primary metal-to-metal seal is achieved by the tapered portion of the plunger (on the side with the ports) contacting the metal to metal seat in the flapper. Notice that the seat in the flapper has a straight edge where it contacts the shoulder of the plunger. This gives a higher contact force on the sealing diameter and prevents any debris from accumulating on the sealing surface. Plunger Location The plunger is located so that the flow tube will make contact during the initial opening and equalizing. Then it clears the flow tube completely during flow tube movement to the
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full open position. The plunger does not interfere with the flapper housing in the full open position. The positioning of the ports is very important. These ports clear the seating surface on the flapper during equalization. They are also positioned far enough below the bevel on the plunger itself so that erosion of the seat is virtually eliminated. The equalizing flow does not take the pressure drop across the poppet seat. The pressure drop is taken through the throat of the poppet. The seat is protected. The total area of the ports is greater than the poppet throat area. The system has passed over one hundred separate class 2 sandy service tests in the various valve designs and has been used for over a decade without erosion problems. The plunger is made from a erosion and corrosion resistant material. The small size of the plunger makes it possible to use the very best materials without influencing the overall cost of the system. Equalizing Springs The equalizing springs are designed from a high strength material, these springs will retain a desired preload even after prolonged use. The spring force itself is determined by spring length, plunger stroke and spring stress. Equalizing Times The thru the flapper equalizing system has a small flow area. This small flow area increases the amount of time required to equalize the valve. The advantage to the small flow area is that the operator can determine from the amount of flow if the well is producing through the full open valve or thru the equalizing mechanism. Several of the "Around the flapper systems' have failed because the operator flowed the well through the equalizing mechanism for extended periods of time and completely eroded and destroyed the valve. The small flow area allows the operator to have a positive indication that the valve is fully open 100% metal-to-metal seal. No elastomeric materials or soft seats are used which eliminates the risk of chemical degradation and explosive decompression. All sizes are Class 2 Sandy Service.
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A critical leak path in Sub surface controlled safety valves is where the control line connects to the safety valve. Baker Oil Tools Jam Nut Connection uses metal to metal seals and provides the most reliable seal available. The 1/8" NPT type connection has a helical leak path around the thread root that must be plugged with Teflon tape or some type of thread dope, therefore it is not used by Baker. The NPT connection is subject to leakage and this type of connector adds an additional leak path. The control line connection is one of the most critical connections because a leak at this connection cannot be remedied by putting in an insert valve.
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The T-series valves have a simple and effective method of preventing sand or debris from entering the area behind the flow tube or around the flapper seat. As shown in the above illustrations there is a close tolerance barrier at the top of the spring cavity and also one towards the bottom of the spring cavity. These are controlled tolerances that are designed to keep sand and debris out. These are not seals or wipers, but they do prevent any flow around the flow tube. A small amount of fluid must pass through these barriers due to the change in volume in the spring cavity caused by the piston / actuator moving up and down as the valve opens and closes. The T-series valves are all tested with sand slurries and are tested to the standards of the API 14A class 2 sandy service test.
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Wireline Insert Safety Valve The Baker wireline insert valves are hydraulically operated, surface controlled, subsurface, through tubing retrievable safety valves. The valves are normally closed type. When the applied control chamber pressure is removed, the valves automatically return to the closed position. In the event of a tubing retrievable safety valve malfunction, the wireline retrievable safety valve can be run into the Nipple Profile in the ID of the tubing retrievable safety valve after control line communication has been established and the malfunctioning valve has been locked open. The Baker wireline insert valves are available in non-equalizing or self-equalizing configuration. The particular insert safety valve required depends on the lock profile of the model T (E)-5 or TE10.
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Separation Sleeve The purpose of the Separation Sleeve is to blank-off the hydraulic chamber in a T-Series Safety Valve after control line communication has been established between the control line and the valve ID, to prevent contamination of the control line by well fluids. After control line communication has been established, well pressure can communicate to the surface through the control tubing until a Separation Sleeve or other appropriate wireline tool is run into the Nipple Profile in the T-Series Safety Valve. The Separation Sleeve should be used if control line communication has been established and production of the well is scheduled to continue without an operable safety valve in the well. The use of a Separation Sleeve is also recommended when pulling the string after control line communication has been established. The particular Separation Sleeve required depends on the Lock Profile of the Safety Valve. The Flapper Lock Open Tool opens the Tubing Safety Valve and maintains it in that position when the tubing is pulled, permitting retrieval of dry string. It is also run in the event of Tubing Ret. Safety Valve malfunction. When the Safety Valve has been permanently locked open, it will accept a Separation Sleeve or Wireline Insert Valve. A separate Flapper Lock Open is required for each of the various lock profiles available for the Tubing Retrievable Safety Valve.
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Control Pressure Communication Tool The Control Pressure Communication Tool is used to establish control line communication into tubing retrievable safety valves containing the control line communication feature by no-going into a Lock Profile. This enables the use of a control line actuated wireline insert safety valve. A separate Control Pressure Communication Tool is required for each of the various lock profiles available for the Tubing Retrievable Safety Valve.
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9. CONCLUSION
1. Stringent testing procedures are followed for the working of a TRSCSSV since it stays in the well till the well lasts and can be in operation at any point of time. 2. Advancement in Design can be done by improvement of piston features and a cylindrical piston again be looked upon as a possibility since it will eradicate the problems of torsional loading, column buckling, flexing, eccentric loading and other complexities in the design. 3. The TRSCSSV generally fails due to breaking up of the control line due to various reasons. Thus a design which has no control line is being looked for which has probably some other working mechanism, though no work has yet been done on it.
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10.
1. BakerHughesDirect. About Baker
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hughes. [Online] [Cited: July 20, 2008.]
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