Wellhead tree pressure limiting device
US8322443B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 2010 |
| Grant date | Dec 4, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 29, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B33/076
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A pressure relief device is used to relieve pressure in a void within a wellhead housing. In one embodiment, the pressure relief device includes a plunger having a stepped plug, wherein the plug can be fully open to allow flow from the void, restricted to allow a predetermined flow to relieve pressure, or closed to prevent flow from the void. In another embodiment, the pressure relief device includes a vacuum puller that creates negative pressure in a vessel. As fluid in the void expands, it is able to enter the space formerly occupied by the plunger. In yet another embodiment, a rupture disc is used to prevent fluid from flowing from the void, through a passage, to the wellbore. If pressure in the void exceeds a predetermined value, the rupture disc yields and allows the trapped fluid to flow to the wellbore.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.