Patents by Inventor Duc Thanh Tran
Duc Thanh Tran has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Thermal insulating sleeve liner for fluid flow device and fluid flow device incorporating such liner
Patent number: 11940084Abstract: A monolithic metal thermal insulating sleeve liner for fluid flow devices such as valves and piping used in severe industrial applications is additively manufactured (e.g., by 3D printing) to fit the bore of a protected fluid flow device. Tessellated support structures obliquely extending between inside surfaces of inner and outer shells provide increased resistance to thermal conduction while also providing increased strength against compression forces. Example support structures include an array of four obliquely oriented elongated members mutually intersecting mid-way between the inside surfaces of inner and outer cylindrical shells. If internal interstices are sealed they can be vacuumed or pressurized to enhance thermal insulating properties. A pressure equalizing aperture can be provided on or through the sleeve if needed in some applications.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2020Date of Patent: March 26, 2024Assignee: VELAN INC.Inventors: Luc David Vernhes, Fadila Khelfaoui, Alfredo Vincenzo Costantini, Duc Thanh Tran -
Publication number: 20230204116Abstract: A two-piece valve shell (body and bolted-on top bonnet) structure reduces possible leakage paths while also providing a top-side ball/stem installation/removal path (when the bonnet piece is not present) to facilitate initial valve assembly as well as subsequent inspection/removal of the ball/stem and other valve internals for conducting valve maintenance without requiring the valve body to be removed from its process connections. Internal wetted valve surfaces are coated with tantalum to provide a tantalum ball valve suitable for use as a sulfuric acid feed valve in severe high-temperature high-pressure industrial processes such as HPAL processes. Sealing cavities created by spaced-apart body-to-bonnet and/or stem-to-bonnet sealing structures can be inertly pressurized to hermetically isolate the sealing structures from ingress/leakage of corrosive process materials.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2021Publication date: June 29, 2023Inventors: Nicolas Hervé François LOURDEL, Michel Sylvain Mario PAQUIN, Fadila KHELFAOUI, Luc David VERNHES, Vinh Van NGUYEN, Duc Thanh TRAN
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Publication number: 20230074937Abstract: A two-piece valve shell (body and bolted-on top bonnet having external fins to dissipate heat) structure reduces possible leakage paths while also providing a top-side ball/stem installation/removal path (when the bonnet piece is not present) to facilitate initial valve assembly as well as subsequent inspection/removal of the ball/stem and other valve internals for conducting valve maintenance without requiring the valve body to be removed from its process connections. In some implementations, a second/bottom bonnet is also attached to the body such that it covers another opening to the ball cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2022Publication date: March 9, 2023Inventors: Nicolas Hervé François LOURDEL, Michel Sylvain Mario PAQUIN, Fadila KHELFAOUI, Luc David VERNHES, Vinh Van NGUYEN, Duc Thanh TRAN
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Patent number: 11530591Abstract: A plug valve including a valve body defining an internal cavity, a first passage, and a second passage, a plug defining a third passage and being rotatable within the internal cavity, and an insert extending within the internal cavity between the valve body and the plug. The insert defines an interior surface and an opening aligned with the first passage of the valve body. The insert may also define a sealing surface extending around the opening and standing in relief against the interior surface to sealingly engage the plug. In addition to, or instead of, the sealing surface, the insert may define a projection at least partially defining the interior surface. In addition, a boot may be connected to the valve body and interlocked with the projection to prevent, or at least reduce, rotation of the insert relative to the valve body when the plug rotates within the internal cavity.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2020Date of Patent: December 20, 2022Assignee: SPM Oil & Gas Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Witkowski, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh Tran
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Patent number: 11448032Abstract: A system for supplying fracturing fluid to a fracturing tree coupled to a wellhead comprising: a zipper module having a lower block with a first opening configured to receive the fracturing fluid, the lower block being independently rotatable at a swivel assembly around a vertical axis relative to the lower block; an upper block with a second opening configured to dispel the fracturing fluid, the upper block being independently rotatable at a swivel connection around the vertical axis; an internal flow path between the upper block and the lower block; and a fluid conduit between the zipper module and the fracturing tree comprising at least one pipe, wherein the at least one pipe defines a first straight flow path between the zipper module and the fracturing tree.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2021Date of Patent: September 20, 2022Assignee: SPM Oil & Gas PC LLCInventors: Duc Thanh Tran, Matthew Thomas Robinson Webster, Ray Dicksang Pang, Keith Murdoch
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Patent number: 11421504Abstract: An apparatus according to which a subterranean formation in which a wellbore extends is hydraulically fractured, the apparatus comprising first and second manifolds, the first manifold including first and second flow lines adapted to be in fluid communication with first and second pumps, respectively, the first pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the first flow line, and the second pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the second flow line, and the second manifold including a third flow line adapted to convey pressurized fluid from the first and second pumps to the wellbore to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends. The apparatus is adapted to be connected to another apparatus used to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends by moving one, or both, of the first and second flow lines relative to the third flow line.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2020Date of Patent: August 23, 2022Assignee: SPM Oil & Gas Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Witkowski, Nadiya Fuller, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh Tran, Peter Walter
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THERMAL INSULATING SLEEVE LINER FOR FLUID FLOW DEVICE AND FLUID FLOW DEVICE INCORPORATING SUCH LINER
Publication number: 20220252206Abstract: A thermal insulating sleeve liner for fluid flow devices such as valves and piping used in severe industrial applications is preferably additively manufactured (e.g., by 3D printing) to fit into the bore of a protected fluid flow device. Internal interstices and/or external ribs provide added thermal insulation. An integrally formed end-lip or a separate end-cap secures and/or locates the sleeve liner within the protected fluid flow device between different diameter distal and proximal portions of the bore. If internal interstices are sealed they can be vacuumed or pressurized to enhance thermal insulating properties. Fitted dimensions are sufficiently small to prevent ingress of thermally conductive particles circulating in use within the flow path of the protected flow device. A pressure equalizing aperture can be provided on or through the sleeve if needed in some applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2020Publication date: August 11, 2022Inventors: Luc David VERNHES, Fadila KHELFAOUI, Alfredo Vincenzo COSTANTINI, Duc Thanh TRAN -
Patent number: 11149514Abstract: An apparatus according to which a subterranean formation in which a wellbore extends is hydraulically fractured, the apparatus comprising first and second manifolds, the first manifold including first and second flow lines adapted to be in fluid communication with first and second pumps, respectively, the first pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the first flow line, and the second pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the second flow line, and the second manifold including a third flow line adapted to convey pressurized fluid from the first and second pumps to the wellbore to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends. The apparatus is adapted to be connected to another apparatus used to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends by moving one, or both, of the first and second flow lines relative to the third flow line.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2019Date of Patent: October 19, 2021Assignee: SPM Oil & Gas Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Witkowski, Nadiya Fuller, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh Tran, Peter Walter
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Publication number: 20210215014Abstract: A system for supplying fracturing fluid to a fracturing tree coupled to a wellhead comprising: a zipper module having a lower block with a first opening configured to receive the fracturing fluid, the lower block being independently rotatable at a swivel assembly around a vertical axis relative to the lower block; an upper block with a second opening configured to dispel the fracturing fluid, the upper block being independently rotatable at a swivel connection around the vertical axis; an internal flow path between the upper block and the lower block; and a fluid conduit between the zipper module and the fracturing tree comprising at least one pipe, wherein the at least one pipe defines a first straight flow path between the zipper module and the fracturing tree.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2021Publication date: July 15, 2021Applicant: Seaboard International LLCInventors: Duc Thanh Tran, Matthew Thomas Robinson Webster, Ray Dicksang Pang, Keith Murdoch
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Patent number: 10968717Abstract: A method and apparatus according to which a hydraulic fracturing fluid is communicated to a wellhead, the apparatus including a fracturing tree connected to the wellhead and into which the hydraulic fracturing fluid is adapted to flow, a fluid conduit connected to the fracturing tree and through which the hydraulic fracturing fluid is adapted to flow before flowing into the fracturing tree, the fluid conduit defining a straight fluid flow path, and a zipper module connected to the fluid conduit and out of which the hydraulic fracturing fluid is adapted to flow before flowing through the fluid conduit. The hydraulic fracturing fluid flows along the straight fluid flow path of the fluid conduit upon flowing out of the zipper module, and continues to so flow along the straight fluid flow path until the hydraulic fracturing fluid flows into the fracturing tree.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2017Date of Patent: April 6, 2021Assignee: Seaboard International, LLCInventors: Duc Thanh Tran, Matthew Thomas Robinson Webster, Ray Dicksang Pang, Keith Murdoch
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THERMAL INSULATING SLEEVE LINER FOR FLUID FLOW DEVICE AND FLUID FLOW DEVICE INCORPORATING SUCH LINER
Publication number: 20210018136Abstract: A monolithic metal thermal insulating sleeve liner for fluid flow devices such as valves and piping used in severe industrial applications is additively manufactured (e.g., by 3D printing) to fit the bore of a protected fluid flow device. Tessellated support structures obliquely extending between inside surfaces of inner and outer shells provide increased resistance to thermal conduction while also providing increased strength against compression forces. Example support structures include an array of four obliquely oriented elongated members mutually intersecting mid-way between the inside surfaces of inner and outer cylindrical shells. If internal interstices are sealed they can be vacuumed or pressurized to enhance thermal insulating properties. A pressure equalizing aperture can be provided on or through the sleeve if needed in some applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2020Publication date: January 21, 2021Inventors: Luc David VERNHES, Fadila KHELFAOUI, Alfredo Vincenzo COSTANTINI, Duc Thanh TRAN -
Publication number: 20210017830Abstract: An apparatus according to which a subterranean formation in which a wellbore extends is hydraulically fractured, the apparatus comprising first and second manifolds, the first manifold including first and second flow lines adapted to be in fluid communication with first and second pumps, respectively, the first pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the first flow line, and the second pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the second flow line, and the second manifold including a third flow line adapted to convey pressurized fluid from the first and second pumps to the wellbore to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends. The apparatus is adapted to be connected to another apparatus used to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends by moving one, or both, of the first and second flow lines relative to the third flow line.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2020Publication date: January 21, 2021Applicant: S.P.M. Flow Control, Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Witkowski, Nadiya Fuller, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh Tran, Peter Walter
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Publication number: 20200362666Abstract: An oil and gas configuration is disclosed that creates and uses a single straight-line fluid path between a zipper module and a fracturing (or Christmas) tree. The single straight-line fluid path is created through connecting a series of valves (e.g., manual or automatic gate or plug valves) that coaxially share inner fluid passageways for transporting hydraulic fracturing fluid between the zipper module and the fracturing tree. The hydraulic fracturing fluid flows along the single straight-line fluid path upon from the zipper module to the fracturing tree. The fracturing tree is equipped with a multi-way block that directs—through one or more internal angled walls—the hydraulic fracturing fluid downward and toward a wellhead.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2020Publication date: November 19, 2020Applicant: SEABOARD INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventor: Duc Thanh Tran
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Patent number: 10808488Abstract: An apparatus according to which a subterranean formation in which a wellbore extends is hydraulically fractured, the apparatus comprising first and second manifolds, the first manifold including first and second flow lines adapted to be in fluid communication with first and second pumps, respectively, the first pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the first flow line, and the second pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the second flow line, and the second manifold including a third flow line adapted to convey pressurized fluid from the first and second pumps to the wellbore to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends. The apparatus is adapted to be connected to another apparatus used to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends by moving one, or both, of the first and second flow lines relative to the third flow line.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2019Date of Patent: October 20, 2020Assignee: S.P.M. Flow Control, Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Witkowski, Nadiya Fuller, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh Tran, Peter Walter
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Publication number: 20200256149Abstract: A plug valve including a valve body defining an internal cavity, a first passage, and a second passage, a plug defining a third passage and being rotatable within the internal cavity, and an insert extending within the internal cavity between the valve body and the plug. The insert defines an interior surface and an opening aligned with the first passage of the valve body. The insert may also define a sealing surface extending around the opening and standing in relief against the interior surface to sealingly engage the plug. In addition to, or instead of, the sealing surface, the insert may define a projection at least partially defining the interior surface. In addition, a boot may be connected to the valve body and interlocked with the projection to prevent, or at least reduce, rotation of the insert relative to the valve body when the plug rotates within the internal cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2020Publication date: August 13, 2020Applicant: S.P.M. Flow Control, Inc.Inventors: Brian C. WITKOWSKI, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh TRAN
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Patent number: 10738569Abstract: An oil and gas configuration is disclosed that creates and uses a single straight-line fluid path between a zipper module and a fracturing (or Christmas) tree. The single straight-line fluid path is created through connecting a series of valves (e.g., manual or automatic gate or plug valves) that coaxially share inner fluid passageways for transporting hydraulic fracturing fluid between the zipper module and the fracturing tree. The hydraulic fracturing fluid flows along the single straight-line fluid path upon from the zipper module to the fracturing tree. The fracturing tree is equipped with a multi-way block that directs—through one or more internal angled walls—the hydraulic fracturing fluid downward and toward a wellhead.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2018Date of Patent: August 11, 2020Assignee: Seaboard International Inc.Inventor: Duc Thanh Tran
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Publication number: 20200115986Abstract: An apparatus according to which a subterranean formation in which a wellbore extends is hydraulically fractured, the apparatus comprising first and second manifolds, the first manifold including first and second flow lines adapted to be in fluid communication with first and second pumps, respectively, the first pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the first flow line, and the second pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the second flow line, and the second manifold including a third flow line adapted to convey pressurized fluid from the first and second pumps to the wellbore to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends. The apparatus is adapted to be connected to another apparatus used to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends by moving one, or both, of the first and second flow lines relative to the third flow line.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2019Publication date: April 16, 2020Applicant: S.P.M. FLOW CONTROL, INC.Inventors: Brian C. Witkowski, Nadiya Fuller, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh Tran, Peter Walter
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Patent number: 10526862Abstract: An apparatus according to which a subterranean formation in which a wellbore extends is hydraulically fractured, the apparatus comprising first and second manifolds, the first manifold including first and second flow lines adapted to be in fluid communication with first and second pumps, respectively, the first pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the first flow line, and the second pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the second flow line, and the second manifold including a third flow line adapted to convey pressurized fluid from the first and second pumps to the wellbore to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends. The apparatus is adapted to be connected to another apparatus used to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends by moving one, or both, of the first and second flow lines relative to the third flow line.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2017Date of Patent: January 7, 2020Assignee: S.P.M. Flow Control, Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Witkowski, Nadiya Fuller, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh Tran, Peter Walter
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Publication number: 20190234171Abstract: An apparatus according to which a subterranean formation in which a wellbore extends is hydraulically fractured, the apparatus comprising first and second manifolds, the first manifold including first and second flow lines adapted to be in fluid communication with first and second pumps, respectively, the first pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the first flow line, and the second pump being adapted to pressurize fluid received from the second flow line, and the second manifold including a third flow line adapted to convey pressurized fluid from the first and second pumps to the wellbore to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends. The apparatus is adapted to be connected to another apparatus used to hydraulically fracture the subterranean formation in which the wellbore extends by moving one, or both, of the first and second flow lines relative to the third flow line.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2019Publication date: August 1, 2019Inventors: Brian C. Witkowski, Nadiya Fuller, Nuder Said, Duc Thanh Tran, Peter Walter
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Publication number: 20190010781Abstract: An oil and gas configuration is disclosed that creates and uses a single straight-line fluid path between a zipper module and a fracturing (or Christmas) tree. The single straight-line fluid path is created through connecting a series of valves (e.g., manual or automatic gate or plug valves) that coaxially share inner fluid passageways for transporting hydraulic fracturing fluid between the zipper module and the fracturing tree. The hydraulic fracturing fluid flows along the single straight-line fluid path upon from the zipper module to the fracturing tree. The fracturing tree is equipped with a multi-way block that directs—through one or more internal angled walls—the hydraulic fracturing fluid downward and toward a wellhead.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2018Publication date: January 10, 2019Inventor: Duc Thanh Tran