Integrated Arctic Fracking Apparatus and Methods

Abstract

An apparatus includes a frame structure and one or more fracking fluid tanks carried by the frame structure. The one or more fracking fluid tanks arranged to contain a fracking fluid usable during a fracking procedure. One or more fracking pumps may be carried by the frame structure, the one or more fracking pumps being configured to pump the fracking fluid to a wellhead of a wellbore at high pressure. An integrated piping system connects with the one or more fracking pumps to carry fracking fluid that was contained in the one or more fracking fluid tanks toward the one or more fracking pumps. Mobility-enabling structure supports the frame structure, the one or more fracking fluid tanks, the one or more fracking pumps, and the integrated piping system, the mobility enabling-structure being configured to enable conveyance of the apparatus to a fracking site.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]This application claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 770,157, filed Feb. 27, 2013, titled, “Integrated Arctic Fracking Apparatus and Methods” the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference thereto.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The apparatus, systems, and methods described herein relate to an integrated fracking system that includes a frame structure that carries one or more fracking fluid tanks and one or more fracking pumps, and an integrated piping system connected to each fracking pump, and a mobility-enabling structure supporting the frame structure.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0003]Hydraulic fracturing to stimulate a subterranean formation includes injecting a fracturing fluid through a wellbore into the formation at a pressure and flow rate at least sufficient to overcome the pressure of the reservoir and extend fractures into the formation. A high pressure line directs the fracturing ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent is directed to an apparatus and method for integrating fracking pumps, fluid tanks, and piping systems on a mobile structure for use in a fracking procedure. The apparatus includes a frame structure carrying the fluid tanks and pumps, and an integrated piping system connected to the pumps and tanks. The method involves providing a mobile structure with a plurality of high-pressure fracking pumps, a fluid coupling system, and a fracking fluid tank. The mobile structure is then transported to a fracking site. The technical effects of the invention include higher efficiency, flexibility, and reduced costs for fracking operations.

Problems solved by technology

While separate trailers and skids may appear to simplify transportation, assembly of the equipment in harsh arctic weather conditions may present particular challenges.

Because of this, the interpiping connections present more opportunity for leaking, damage, and spills.

In addition, the harsh environment can make connecting the different equipment pieces difficult, which slows down operations and results in a less efficient set up.

Disconnection often results in additional spills.

Further exposure to harsh arctic elements may result in a higher chance of freeze up, further slowing processing.

In addition, because the fracking system is assembled on-site, a significant investment in time may be required.

This can increase the number of personnel needed to transport, set-up, and take down fracking systems.

In addition, because the assembly is done in the potentially harsh arctic conditions, there is an increased chance of crossed lines, mistakes, personnel accidents, and even spills.

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