Valves operated remotely via flexible cable linkage
The Flexi-Drive is a new device for the remote operation of valves in hard to reach or hazardous locations.
It is easy to operate, can be used in all weather conditions, and is even suited for underwater applications.
It consists of three elements: an operator station (comprising a geared handwheel and mounting facility), a valve station, and a patented cable linkage system. Because of the properties of the helically wound steel cable, turning the handwheel of the operator station simultaneously operates the valve station.
The cable system can transmit drive to a valve up to 60 m away and can accommodate up to 540° of bends between the two stations. This allows it to be passed around and through walls, bulkheads, floors, and any other obstacles to reach the valve.
The gearing system can be piggy-backed to enable more than one valve to be operated at a time from a single operator station.
Source: Smith Flow Control Ltd., 6 Waterside Business Park, Eastways Industrial Estate, Witham Essex CM8 3YQ, UK.
Globe valve suited for process use
New Laurence solenoid actuated globe valves are suited for process applications, with high temperature and pressure capabilities.
Valves are operated by an external lever connecting the lifting action of the linear actuator to the valve piston through a rotary shaft. The rotary shaft creates a mechanical advantage by enabling more force in operation and by allowing stronger return spring action, which helps ensure reliable, fail-safe return. They are available in 1/2 through 6 in. sizes and are offered with threaded, flanged, or weld end connections. The valves are FM approved for safety shutoff and have FM approved explosionproof actuators.
Source: Leslie Controls Inc., 12501 Telecom Drive, Tampa FL, 33637-0906.
Sand control system monitors pay zone conditions
The new PZM sand control system monitors bottomhole pressure and temperature over the productive life of the well. It also enables chemical injection across the production interval. The system can be applied in open and cased holes.
It is installed in the productive interval during gravel packing operations using the Model CS-300 gravel pack system. Once installation and gravel packing operations are complete, running tools are retrieved from the wellbore and the upper completion assembly is run, reconnecting to the PZM system and gravel pack assembly in a pressuretight seal.
An ultrahigh flow outer protection shroud is available for open hole applications to protect the system's control line conduit and sensors.
Source: Baker Hughes, 654 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E., Suite 400, Houston, TX 77060-5919.
New sucker rod pump
Here's a new sucker-rod-drawn, positive displacement pump for gas-locking conditions. The patented Variable Slippage Pump operates on the principle of pressure equalization just before the plunger reaches the top of the upstroke.
The new pump has a gradual taper in the upper barrel. The plunger enters this taper near the top of the upstroke, slippage increases past the plunger, and pressure is equalized above and below the plunger and traveling valve. When the plunger starts downward the traveling valve opens easily since high pressure in the compression chamber is already achieved.
The company says that field dynamometer tests have shown an increase in minimum polished rod load, a reduction of sucker rod harmonics, and a decrease in sucker rod compression loading above the pump. This new pump will eliminate gas locking, lower the sucker rod stress range, do away with fluid or gas pound, and reduce sucker rod and tubing wear above the pump, the company says.
Source: Harbison Fischer Mfg. Co., 901 N. Crowley Rd., Crowley, TX 76036-3798.
