Wellhead connector locking device
US4856594A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 26, 1988 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 26, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B33/038
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A wellhead connector for connecting a riser to a wellhead in a subsea well remains connected even though hydraulic pressure is removed. The wellhead connector has a housing which slides over the wellhead, and dogs are carried by the housing for radial movement into engagement with grooves formed on the exterior of the wellhead. An axially moveable cam ring moves downward to push the dogs radially inward to a locked position. A wedge ring is carried on the inner side of the cam ring. The wedge ring locates between the dogs and the cam ring. The wedge ring has sides that are conical and converge in a downward direction. The wedge ring locks the cam ring in a lower position. A release ring carried by a piston shaft will move the wedge ring upward relative to the cam ring when the piston shaft is moving to the released position, to release the cam ring.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.