Mechanical and Damage Analysis of the Elevator During the Process of Casing Insertion in Ultra-Deep Wells
摘要
In response to the potential occurrence of elevator fractures during the casing running process on site, a three-dimensional finite element mechanical model of the elevator during casing insertion was established. First, the forces acting on the elevator clamping the casing string were analyzed, and a method was proposed for designing and verifying the elevator arms. This method allows theoretical calculation of the critical bending failure limit of the elevator arms at a given thickness. Further analysis was conducted on potential casing deviation during the running process, showing that while deviation affects the stress distribution on the contact surfaces between the elevator and the casing coupling, the influence is limited to a small area and has minimal impact on overall safety. Finally, based on the elevator structure used in field operations, the study analyzed the elevator’s load-bearing surface under extreme working conditions. When subjected to a stress of 700 MPa (equivalent to casing weight of 1,391 tons), crack propagation occurs in the elevator. It was also concluded that maximum principal stress is the key factor influencing crack propagation in the elevator. A high tensile stress region exists at the loose-leaf of the elevator, which, despite its limited volume, may initiate crack growth. However, as the crack grows to a certain length, resistance to further propagation increases, making instantaneous complete fracture of the loose-leaf unlikely. In contrast, the rear of the elevator, if it has material or heat treatment defects, may be prone to sudden catastrophic failure. The research methods and findings presented in this paper provide a theoretical foundation for the design and verification of elevators used in ultra-deep well casing running operations.