Alignment Error Modelling, Analysis and Experiment of the Deep-Water Bolt Flange Automatic Connection Tool

Abstract

A deep-water bolt flange automatic connection tool plays a very important role in the process of offshore oil exploitation and transportation. In the connection process, the alignment error of bolts and nuts is the key factor to ensure the connection process is successful. Using the kinematics modeling method, this paper created the alignment error model of the deep-water bolt flange automatic connection tool and analyzed the influence of manufacturing accuracy on the alignment error of bolts and nuts through computer simulation software. Based on the error matching design method, the manufacturing accuracy of parts were optimized with a part-size-based priority sequence to ensure the bolt–nut alignment error was within the allowable limits. The land tests, the pool tests and the sea test were carried out. The test results showed that the bolt and nut can be connected in the subsea environment reliably.