Flow cross junctions for a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system and related methods

An embodiment of a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system includes a flow cross junction including an inlet flow bore. In addition, the manifold includes a coupling adapter including an external shoulder and a connection device. The connection device is to connect to an output of a pump of the hydraulic fracturing system, and the coupling adapter is removably inserted within the inlet flow bore such that the connection device is positioned outside of the inlet flow bore. Further, the manifold includes a retainer ring connected to the flow cross junction and compressed against the external shoulder.

BACKGROUND

During a hydraulic fracturing operation, a pressurized fracturing fluid is injected into a subterranean formation via a wellbore or multiple wellbores. The injected fracturing fluid is at a higher pressure than the fracture pressure of the subterranean formation such that the fluid creates fractures therein. The fractures increase a permeability of the subterranean formation so that formation fluids (such as oil, gas, water, etc.) may more easily escape the subterranean formation and flow to the surface via the wellbore(s). Proppant (such as sand or other solids) may be mixed with the fracturing fluid prior to injecting the fracturing fluid downhole. The proppant may flow into the fractures in the subterranean formation to hold the fractures open after the hydraulic fracturing operation has ended.

Various fluid conveyance devices and systems are positioned at the surface to route the fracturing fluids into and out of the wellbore(s) during the hydraulic fracturing operation. The fluid conveyance devices may include various combinations of pipes, hoses, conduits, manifolds, tanks, pumps, etc. At least some of these devices transport the fracturing fluid after it has been pressurized into the wellbore(s). Thus, the fluid conveyance devices (or some of the fluid conveyance devices) are configured to withstand relatively high differential pressures during operations. However, due to the severe conditions of a hydraulic fracturing operation, failures of these fluid conveyance devices are common.

BRIEF SUMMARY

As previously described, during a hydraulic fracturing operation, various fluid conveyance devices may be used to route and contain relatively high-pressure fracturing fluid during operations. For instance, one such fluid conveyance device includes a fluid manifold for receiving the pressurized fluid from one or more pumps. Such manifolds are sometimes referred to as “missiles.” The manifold may include one or more flow cross junctions having one or more fluid inlets for receiving the pressurized fluid output from the one or more pumps. Each inlet may include a fluid coupling that connects to an output of a corresponding pump via a suitable conduit. Conventionally, the fluid couplings are attached to the flow cross junctions of the manifold via large, flanged connections. In order to accommodate these flanged connections and maintain a sufficient wall thickness around the internal flow bores (or passages) of the flow cross junction (for withstanding the high pressures of the fracturing fluid), the body of the flow cross junction may be substantial in both dimension and weight. This, in turn, greatly increases the size and weight of the manifold (which may employ a number of flow cross junctions as previously described) such that the manifold occupies a relatively large percentage of the limited available space at the wellsite, and the use of larger (and therefore expensive) lifting and support equipment is necessitated for construction, deconstruction, and repair of the manifold and its components.

In addition, the fluid couplings represent a weak point in the manifold and routinely experience failure due to the high pressures of the fracturing fluid, the vibrations within the system (such as vibrations caused by operation of the pump(s)), and the erosive nature of the proppant entrained within the high-pressure fracturing fluid. However, removal and replacement of these fluid couplings can be cumbersome and time consuming especially when a conventional flanged connection is employed. Thus, a failure of a fluid coupling on the high-pressure manifold can lead to a significant delay in the hydraulic fracturing operation and an associated increase in the cost and time associated with the hydraulic fracturing operation.

Accordingly, some embodiments disclosed herein include flow cross junctions for a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system that include a streamlined shape and design so as to allow for a significant reduction in size and weight for the flow cross junctions and manifold overall. In addition, some embodiments disclosed herein include fluid coupling assemblies for a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system that facilitate quick replacement in the event of a failure so as to minimize stoppage time. In some embodiments, the embodiments disclosed herein include a fluid coupling assembly having a removable coupling adapter that is inserted directly within an inlet flow bore of the flow cross junction. Thus, by configuring the coupling adapter so that it may be easily removed and replaced, the downtime associated with the replacement of a failed fluid coupling on the manifold may be reduced. As a result, through use of the embodiments disclosed herein, a hydraulic fracturing operation may be conducted more safely and efficiently.

Some embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a method including (a) inserting a coupling adapter into an inlet flow bore of a flow cross junction of a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system. In addition, the method includes (b) positioning a connection device of the coupling adapter outside of the inlet flow bore as a result of (a). The connection device to connect to an output of a pump of the hydraulic fracturing system. Further, the method includes (c) compressing a retainer ring against an external shoulder of the coupling adapter.

Some embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system. In some embodiments, the manifold includes a flow cross junction including an inlet flow bore. In addition, the manifold includes a coupling adapter including an external shoulder and a connection device. The connection device is to connect to an output of a pump of the hydraulic fracturing system, and the coupling adapter is removably inserted within the inlet flow bore such that the connection device is positioned outside of the inlet flow bore. Further, the manifold includes a retainer ring connected to the flow cross junction and compressed against the external shoulder.

In some embodiments, the manifold includes a first elongate manifold section. In addition, the manifold includes a second elongate manifold section. Further, the manifold includes a flow cross junction positioned between the first elongate manifold section and the second elongate manifold section along a longitudinal axis. The flow cross junction includes a first end connected to the first elongate manifold section. In addition, the flow cross junction includes a second end connected to the second elongate manifold section. Further, the flow cross junction includes a throughbore extending axially between the first end and the second end. Still further, the flow cross junction includes an outer surface extending axially between the first end and the second end. The outer surface has an outer diameter that is greater than an axial length of the flow cross junction measured from the first end to the second end along the longitudinal axis. Also, the flow cross junction includes an inlet flow bore extending between the outer surface and the throughbore.

Some embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a flow cross junction for a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system. In some embodiments, the flow cross junction includes an upstream end configured to connect with a first elongate manifold section. In addition, the flow cross junction includes a downstream end spaced from the upstream end along a longitudinal axis to define an axial length of the flow cross junction measured axially from the upstream end to the downstream end. The downstream end is configured to connect to a second elongate manifold section. Further, the flow cross junction includes a throughbore extending axially between the upstream end to the downstream end. Still further, the flow cross junction includes an outer surface extending axially between the upstream end to the downstream end. The outer surface has an outer diameter that is greater than the axial length of the flow cross junction.

Embodiments described herein comprise a combination of features and characteristics intended to address various shortcomings associated with certain prior devices, systems, and methods. The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical characteristics of the disclosed embodiments in order that the detailed description that follows may be better understood. The various characteristics and features described above, as well as others, will be readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the following detailed description, and by referring to the accompanying drawings. It should be appreciated that this disclosure may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes as the disclosed embodiments. It should also be realized that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the principles disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As previously described, during a hydraulic fracturing operation, various fluid conveyance devices may be used to route and contain relatively high-pressure fracturing fluid during operations. For instance, one such fluid conveyance device includes a fluid manifold for receiving the pressurized fluid from one or more pumps. Such manifolds are sometimes referred to as “missiles.” The manifold may include one or more flow cross junctions that further include one or more fluid inlets (or “inlet flow bores”) for receiving the pressurized fluid output from the one or more pumps. Each fluid inlet may include a fluid coupling that connects to an output of a corresponding pump via a suitable conduit. Such fluid couplings represent a weak point in the manifold and routinely experience failure due to the high pressures of the fracturing fluid, the vibrations within the system (such as vibrations caused by operation of the pump(s)), and the erosive nature of the proppant entrained within the high-pressure fracturing fluid. However, removal and replacement of these fluid couplings can be cumbersome and time consuming. Thus, a failure of a fluid coupling on the high-pressure manifold can lead to a significant delay in the hydraulic fracturing operation and an associated increase in the cost and time associated with the hydraulic fracturing operation.

In addition, a conventional flow cross junction may be relatively large and bulky so as to accommodate the conventional flanged connections of the fluid couplings and to provide sufficient wall thicknesses for the internal flow bores to contain the high-pressure fracturing fluid during operations. However, these large, conventional flow cross junctions substantially increases the total weight of the high-pressure manifold thereby further increasing the costs of these components and the complexity (and inherent dangers) for moving these components about the wellsite.

Accordingly, embodiments disclosed herein include flow cross junctions for a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system that include a streamlined shape and design so as to allow for a significant reduction in size and weight for the flow cross junctions and manifold overall. In addition, some embodiments of the flow cross junctions disclosed herein include fluid couplings that facilitate quick replacement in the event of a failure so as to minimize stoppage time. In some embodiments, the embodiments disclosed herein include a fluid coupling assembly having a removable coupling adapter that is inserted directly within the flow cross junction of the manifold so as to omit the large, flanged connections associated with a conventional fluid coupling. As will be described in more detail below, the coupling adapter may be the component of the fluid coupling assembly having the highest likelihood of failure. Thus, by configuring the coupling adapter so that it may be easily removed and replaced, the downtime associated with the replacement of a failed fluid coupling on the manifold may be reduced. As a result, through use of the embodiments disclosed herein, a hydraulic fracturing operation may be conducted more safely and efficiently.

FIG.1shows a schematic diagram of a hydraulic fracturing system10including a manifold100having one or more flow cross junction130according to some embodiments. During operations, system10may inject a high-pressure fracturing fluid into a wellhead102that is connected to a wellbore (not shown) extending into a subterranean formation103to fracture the subterranean formation103as previously described. In some embodiments, the system may inject the high-pressure fracturing fluid into a plurality of wellheads so as to access the subterranean formation103via a plurality of wellbores.

It should be appreciated that the hydraulic fracturing system10shown inFIG.1depicts some components and assemblies that may be used during a hydraulic fracturing operation, and that in some embodiments additional or fewer components may be used within the system10. Thus, the particular combination and/or arrangement of components of the system10depicted inFIG.1is not limiting to other potential embodiments of system10.

System10generally includes a plurality of storage vessels12that are each configured to hold a volume of fracturing fluid therein. The fracturing fluid stored in the storage vessels12may include any liquid or semi-liquid (such as a gel) that is suitable for injection into and fracturing of the subterranean formation103as previously described. In some embodiments, the fracturing fluid includes an aqueous solution including substantially pure water or water mixed with one or more additives (such as gels or gelling agents, chemicals, etc.). The storage vessels12may include any suitable container for holding a volume of fluids (such as liquids) therein. For instance, in some embodiments, storage vessels may include rigid tanks, flexible tanks (such as bladders), open pits, mobile tanks (that may be pulled by a tractor trailer or other vehicle), or a combination thereof.

A blender14is positioned downstream of the storage vessels12that is configured to mix a proppant into the fracturing fluid. The proppant may include sand or other suitable solids. As previously described, the proppant is configured to flow into the fractures within the subterranean formation103so as to hold the fractures open after the hydraulic fracturing operation has ended. In some embodiments, additives (such as chemical additives) may be mixed into the fracturing fluid within the blender14either in addition or alternatively to the proppant. The blender14emits the fracturing fluid, now with proppant mixed therein, to a manifold assembly20that communicates the fracturing fluid to and from a plurality of pumping units40.

The manifold assembly20includes one or more low-pressure, inlet manifolds22and one or more high-pressure, outlet manifolds100. In the particular embodiment depicted inFIG.1, manifold assembly20includes two inlet manifolds22and a single outlet manifold100. However, in other embodiments, different numbers, arrangements, and combinations of inlet manifolds22and outlet manifolds100may be utilized, such as, for instance, a single outlet manifold100, a plurality of outlet manifolds100, a single inlet manifold22, or a plurality of inlet manifolds22. A plurality of inlet conduits24connect the inlet manifolds22to the plurality of pumping units40. In addition, a plurality of outlet conduits26connect the plurality of pumping units40to the outlet manifold100.

Each pumping unit40includes a pump44driven by a driver42(which may be referred to herein as a “prime mover”). Pump44may include any suitable fluid pumping device or assembly for pressurizing the fracturing fluid (with or without proppant and/or other additives entrained therein) to the pressures associated with a hydraulic fracturing operation. For instance, in some embodiments, the pump44may be configured to pressurize the fracturing fluid (again, with or without proppant and/or other additives entrained therein) to a pressure of about 9000 pounds per square inch (psi) or higher. Thus, pump44may be referred to herein as a “hydraulic fracturing pump”44. In some embodiments, pump44may include a positive displacement pump, centrifugal pump, or other suitable pump types. Driver42may include any suitable motor or engine that is configured to drive or actuate the corresponding pump44during operations. For instance, in some embodiments, driver42may include a diesel engine, a turbine (such as a gas turbine, steam turbine, etc.), an electric motor, or some combination thereof. During operations, within each pumping unit40, the driver42may actuate the pump44to draw fracturing fluid into the pump44via the corresponding inlet conduit24and to pressurize and output the fracturing fluid from the pump44via the corresponding outlet conduit26.

The outlet manifold100is described in more detail below. However, generally speaking the pressurized fracturing fluid is received by the outlet manifold100via the outlet conduits26. The outlet manifold100directs the pressurized fracturing fluid toward the wellhead102such that it may access the subterranean formation103as previously described. During the hydraulic fracturing operations, fracturing fluid may be emitted from the wellbore via the wellhead102and recycled back to the storage vessels12through one or more recycle conduits16. In some embodiments, the fracturing fluid output from the wellhead102may be routed through one or more filtering or separation assemblies or devices (not shown) to remove additives, proppant, and/or other fluids or solids (such as, rock chips, formation fluids, etc.) that may be entrained within the fracturing fluid, prior to recycling the fracturing fluid to the storage vessels12.

FIGS.2and3show the outlet manifold100of hydraulic fracturing system10ofFIG.1according to some embodiments. The outlet manifold100is an elongate member having a central or longitudinal axis105, a first or upstream end100a, and a second or downstream end100bopposite upstream end100a. As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to denote the general flow direction of fracturing fluid through the outlet manifold100during operations, according to some embodiments. This convention is used herein for clarity and convenience when describing the outlet manifold100and the components and assemblies thereof. An outlet106is positioned at the downstream end100bthat is fluidly connected to the wellhead102(FIG.1).

In addition, outlet manifold100includes a plurality of tubular manifold sections110and a plurality of flow cross junctions130interleaved between the plurality of manifold sections110along the longitudinal axis105. More particularly, each manifold section110extends axially between axially adjacent flow cross junctions130.

Manifold sections110are elongate tubular members that are coaxially aligned along the longitudinal axis105(so that the manifold sections110may be referred to herein as “elongate manifold sections”). As is best shown inFIG.3, each manifold section110includes a first or upstream end110a, a second or downstream end110bopposite upstream end110a, and a throughbore112extending axially between the ends110a,110b. Some of the ends110a,110bare connected to an axially adjacent flow cross junction130along outlet manifold100. For instance, at least one of the ends110a,110bof each manifold section110may be connected to a corresponding, axially adjacent flow cross junction130via flanges114; however, other connection mechanisms are contemplated (such as a threaded connection, clamped connection, welded connection, etc.).

As shown inFIGS.2-4, flow cross junctions130are axially spaced along longitudinal axis105and axially interleaved between the plurality of manifold sections110as previously described. During operations, the flow cross junctions130provide a plurality of inlets for pressurized fracturing fluid to enter the outlet manifold100. As best shown inFIG.4, each flow cross junction130includes a central axis139that is aligned with longitudinal axis105when flow cross junction130is connected within manifold100. In addition, flow cross junction130includes a first or upstream end130a, a second or downstream end130bopposite upstream end130a, and a radially outer surface130c(or more simply “outer surface”130c) extending axially between ends130a,130brelative to axis139. A first or main flow bore132extends axially between the ends130a,130brelative to axis139. The main flow bores132of flow cross junctions130are aligned and fluidly connected with the throughbores112of the axially adjacent manifold sections110along outlet manifold100such that the throughbores112and main flow bores132together define a manifold flow path104that extends through the outlet manifold100between the upstream end100aand the downstream end100b(and outlet106) along axis105of manifold100.

As shown inFIG.3, in some embodiments, the manifold flow path104may be blocked by a blind or cap108at the upstream end100aof outlet manifold100so that fracturing fluid may not flow out of outlet manifold100via the upstream end100a. In the embodiment shown inFIG.3, the upstream end100ais defined by an upstream end110aof one of the manifold sections110. In some embodiments, the upstream end100aof outlet manifold100may be defined by an upstream end130aof one of the flow cross junctions130(such as the most upstream of the flow cross junctions130). In some of these embodiments, the main flow bore132of the flow cross junction130defining or including the upstream end100aof outlet manifold100may not extend fully to upstream end100a(and the corresponding upstream end130a) and cap108may be omitted. In addition, the downstream end100bof outlet manifold100may define the outlet106of the manifold flow path104. Specifically, in some embodiments, the downstream end100bis defined by a downstream end110bof one of the manifold sections110. In some embodiments, the downstream end100bmay be defined by a downstream end130bof one of the flow cross junctions130(such as the most downstream of the flow cross junctions130).

In addition, as shown inFIG.4, each flow cross junction130includes a plurality of inlet flow bores134,136that extend from the radially outer surface130cto the main flow bore132. In particular, in some embodiments, a first inlet flow bore134and a second inlet flow bore136each extend radially from radially outer surface130cto main flow bore132relative to axis139and axis105. The inlet flow bores134,136of the flow cross junctions130provide inlet flow paths into the manifold flow path104for the fracturing fluid output from the plurality of pumping units40during operations (FIG.1).

In some embodiments, one or more of the flow cross junctions130may include a single inlet flow bore (such as inlet flow bore134or inlet flow bore136) or may include more than two inlet flow bores. For instance,FIGS.5and6illustrate embodiments of the flow cross junction130that include more than two inlet flow bores. Specifically,FIG.5shows an embodiment of flow cross junction130that includes three inlet flow bores131in place of the inlet flow bores134,136. In addition,FIG.6shows an embodiment of flow cross junction130that includes four inlet flow bores131in place of the inlet flow bores134,136.

FIGS.4and7-12illustrate one of the flow cross junctions130of the manifold100shown inFIGS.2and3in greater detail according to some embodiments. The upstream end130aand the downstream end130beach include a plurality of mounting bores133. The mounting bores133each extend axially into the flow cross junction130relative to axis139from the corresponding end130a,130b. The mounting bores133may also be circumferentially spaced (such as evenly circumferentially spaced) about axis139along each end130a,130b. The mounting bores133may be threaded (and thus may include internal threads) such that each mounting bore133may threadably receive a threaded stud115(FIG.4), or other connection member, for connecting ends130a,130bto elongate manifold sections110via flanges114(FIGS.2and3) as previously described.

In some embodiments, the first inlet flow bore134extends along a first axis135and the second inlet flow bore136extends along a second axis137. The first axis135and the second axis137(and thus also the first inlet flow bore134and the second inlet flow bore136, respectively) are radially opposite one another about the axis139(and thus also axis105), and each axis135,137extends radially with respect to axis139. Thus, the axes135,137are aligned along a common radially extending plane relative to axis139. In some embodiments, axes135,137may be axially offset from one another along axis139such the axes135,137lie in different radially extending planes relative to axis139. In addition, in some embodiments, one or both of the axes135,137may not extend radially relative to axis139. For instance, one or both of the axes135,137(and thus also the inlet flow bores134,136, respectively) may extend at an angle (such as at an acute angle) relative to the axis139. In addition, in some embodiments, one or both of the inlet flow bores134,136may be curved.

In some embodiments, the outer surface130cis a cylindrical surface that extends axially between the ends130a,130brelative to axis139. However, other shapes are contemplated for outer surface130cin other embodiments. For instance, in some embodiments, the outer surface130cmay include a polygonal cross-section (such as pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) along a plane passing radially through the central axis139so that the radially outer surface130cmay be a polygonal surface. The outer surface130cmay include one or more (such as one or a plurality of) flats or facets138formed therein. As will be described in more detail below, the facets138may form flat surface areas along the otherwise curved, cylindrical outer surface130cthat may be used to form or machine one or more inlet flow bores (such as, inlet flow bores134,136) and/or to provide engagement surfaces for lifting or supporting the flow cross junction130during operations. Because the outer surface130cmay be a cylindrical surface in some embodiments, the facets138may form or define radially inwardly extending recesses in the outer surface130c.

The flow cross junction130may include a total axial length L130that is measured axially (with respect to the axis139) from the upstream end130ato the downstream end130b. In addition, the outer surface130cmay have an outer diameter (such as a maximum outer diameter) D130that extends radially across the flow cross junction130with respect to the axis139. In some embodiments, the outer diameter D130may be greater than the axial length L130. For instance, in some embodiments, the ratio of the axial length L130to the outer diameter D130(L130/D130) may be less than 1.

In some embodiments, one or more parameters or dimensions of the flow cross junction130may be selected to minimize a total size and weight of the flow cross junction130while still maintaining a sufficient amount of material to contain the high pressures associated with a hydraulic fracturing operation (or other fluid delivery operation as described herein). For instance, in some embodiments, parameters such as the outer diameter D130and the number of mounting bores133may selected to comply with specifications set by trade associations such as, for instance, the American Petroleum Institute (API). In some embodiments, the outer diameter D130and number of mounting bores133(among other parameters) may be selected to comply with API 6A specification for wellhead and tree equipment (see, for instance, Tables E.5 of API specification 6A including specifications for flanges to withstand 15,000 psi pressure).

As best shown inFIG.4, in some embodiments, the flanges114of the elongate manifold members110may also be sized per the same specifications as the parameters of the flow cross junction130(e.g., such as API specification 6A as noted above). As a result, an outer diameter D114of the flanges114may be the same (or substantially the same) as the outer diameter D130of flow cross junction130. Accordingly, the cylindrical radially outer surface130cof the flow cross junction130may be flush (or co-planar) with a radially outer, cylindrical surface117of the flanges114.

As best shown inFIG.12, in some embodiments, the length L130of the flow cross junction130may be selected to provide a minimum wall thickness (in the axial direction with respect to axis139) about the inlet flow bores134,136and to accommodate the mounting bores133for the threaded studs115. For instance, in some embodiments, the mounting bores133may extend a minimum axial length L133into the flow cross junction130from the ends130a,130b. The minimum axial length L133may be selected to ensure sufficient threaded engagement between the studs115and mounting bores133to compress the flanges114of elongate manifold sections110into the ends130a,130bto thereby form fluid-tight connections therebetween (FIG.4). In some embodiments, the minimum axial length L133may be in a range from about 1.500 inches (in) to about 1.625 in. The minimum wall thickness about the inlet flow bores134,136may be determined based on a stress analysis of the flow cross junction130at the expected fluid pressures (such as at about 9,000 psi or higher as previously described). Thus, the total axial length L130of the flow cross junction130may be selected in some embodiments to provide the minimum axial length L133for the mounting bores133and the minimum wall thickness about the inlet flow bores134,136.

As shown inFIGS.4and7-13, a plurality of fluid coupling assemblies150are connected to each flow cross junction130. For instance, a fluid coupling assembly150is connected to each of the inlet flow bores134,136to provide a connection for a conduit connected to an output of pump of the hydraulic fracturing system10(FIG.1). Each fluid coupling assembly150includes a coupling adapter180that is removably inserted within and extended outward from a corresponding one of the inlet flow bores134,136. Further details of embodiments of the inlet flow bores134,136and coupling adapter180are provided below according to some embodiments.

FIG.14shows the first inlet flow bore134of flow cross junction130according to some embodiments. It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the second inlet flow bore136may be configured the same as the first inlet flow bore134shown inFIG.14such that the following description of embodiments of the first inlet flow bore134may be applied to describe embodiments of the second inlet flow bore136. Thus, the features of first inlet flow bore134described herein and shown in the drawings (such asFIG.14) may also be included within the second inlet flow bore136in some embodiments.

First inlet flow bore134has a first or outer opening161positioned at or along the outer surface130c(particularly along the corresponding one of the facets138) and a second or inner opening163positioned at the intersection between the first inlet flow bore134and the main flow bore132(FIG.4). An internal shoulder166is formed within the first inlet flow bore134. The internal shoulder166extends radially inward toward the central axis155and circumferentially about the central axis135within the first inlet flow bore134. The internal shoulder166separates the first inlet flow bore134into a first or outer portion134aextending axially from the outer opening161to the internal shoulder166and a second or inner portion134bextending axially from the internal shoulder166to the inner opening163.

The outer portion134aof first inlet flow bore134includes a cylindrical surface169extending axially from outer opening161along axis135and internal threads168positioned axially between the cylindrical surface169and the internal shoulder166. Internal threads168may include one or more grooves that extend radially into first inlet flow bore134and helically about the central axis135.

A radially extending circumferential ledge or seat165is formed on the internal shoulder166within the outer portion164a. A gasket174(or junk ring) may be positioned on the seat165that may sealingly engage both the internal shoulder166and the coupling adapter180(FIGS.4and13) to prevent or at least restrict the leakage of fracturing fluid out of flow cross junction130, between the coupling adapter180and the inlet flow bore134during operations.

Inner portion134bincludes a cylindrical surface170extending axially from internal shoulder166to the inner opening163. In some embodiments, the cylindrical surface170and inner opening163may have an inner diameter that is the same as a minimum inner diameter of the internal shoulder166. As a result, the cylindrical surface170may be flush and continuous with a radially inner surface of the internal shoulder166. In some embodiments, the inner portion134bmay have a surface (such as a cylindrical surface) that has an inner diameter that is greater than or less than a minimum inner diameter of the internal shoulder166. Thus, in some embodiments, the inner portion134bmay have one or more surfaces that have a variable (such as increasing or decreasing) inner diameter, such as a frustoconical surface (or chamfer), a curved surface, etc.

The facet138along outer surface130cthat is associated with the fluid coupling assembly150may be a planar surface that extends radially relative to central axis135and circumferentially about the outer opening161of first inlet flow bore134. A plurality of mounting bores159extend axially into the flow cross junction130from the facet138and may be arranged about the outer opening161. The mounting bores159may be threaded (at least partially) such that they may receive one or more threaded mounting members (such as, mounting members212described herein) during operations. In some embodiments, mounting bores159may be evenly circumferentially spaced about axis155along the corresponding facet138.

FIG.15shows the coupling adapter180of one of the fluid coupling assemblies150according to some embodiments. According to some embodiments, coupling adapter180may be an elongate tubular member that includes a central axis185, a first end180a, and a second end180bopposite the first end180a. As shown inFIG.13, the second end180bmay be inserted within the first inlet flow bore134(or the second inlet flow bore136) such that the first end180ais extended outward from the first inlet flow bore134when coupling adapter180is connected to the flow cross junction130. Thus, first end180amay be referred to herein as the outer end180aand the second end180bmay be referred to as the inner end180bof the coupling adapter180. As shown inFIG.15, coupling adapter180also includes a throughbore182and a radially outer surface180c, each extending generally axially between ends180a,180brelative to axis139.

Throughbore182extends axially through the coupling adapter180along central axis185from the outer end180ato the inner end180b. Thus, the throughbore182has a first or outer opening181positioned at the outer end180aand a second or inner opening183positioned at the inner end180b. An internal shoulder184is defined within the throughbore182. In some embodiments, the internal shoulder184may be positioned axially closer (and more proximate) to the outer end180aand outer opening181than the inner end180band inner opening183. The internal shoulder184extends radially inward toward the central axis185within throughbore182.

In addition, throughbore182may include a tapered or frustoconical surface186(or “chamfer”) that extends from outer end180aand outer opening181and a cylindrical surface187extending axially from frustoconical surface186to shoulder184. The frustoconical surface186tapers radially inward toward central axis185when moving axially from outer end180aand outer opening181toward cylindrical surface187. Thus, the inner diameter of throughbore182may decrease when moving axially from outer end180aand outer opening181toward cylindrical surface187.

A circumferential or annular groove189is positioned along cylindrical surface187. The annular groove189extends both radially into cylindrical surface187(and thus radially away from central axis185) and circumferentially about the central axis185. In some embodiments (such as the embodiment shown inFIG.15), the annular groove189is positioned on the cylindrical surface187at the intersection with internal shoulder184; however, in some embodiments the annular groove189may be axially spaced from the internal shoulder184along cylindrical surface187. The annular groove189may be configured to receive an annular sealing member (e.g., an O-ring, seal ring, etc.) therein (such as at least partially therein).

As illustrated byFIG.4, during operations, a coupling27connected to a corresponding one of the outlet conduits26shown inFIG.1may be inserted into the throughbore182from outer opening181. During this process, the frustoconical surface186may guide and center the coupling27within the throughbore182, and the coupling27may be compressed into the shoulder184. An annular seal member29positioned on shoulder184may sealingly engage with an outer surface of the coupling to prevent or at least restrict leakage of fracturing fluid out of the throughbore182. As will be described in more detail below, a connector193connected to the coupling27may engage with coupling adapter180to secure the coupling27to the coupling adapter180during operations.

As shown inFIGS.13,15, and16, an inner end face191is defined and positioned on the inner end180b. The inner end face191may be a planar surface that extends radially relative to central axis185and circumferentially about the inner opening183of throughbore182.

As shown inFIG.15, radially outer surface180cincludes a first connection device188and a second connection device190. The first connection device188and second connection device190may be any suitable connection feature (such as threads, clamps, etc.). In some embodiments (such as the embodiment shown inFIG.15), the first connection device188includes a first set of external threads188and the second connection device190includes a second set of external threads190.

The first set of external threads188may be more simply referred to herein as “first threads”188and the second set of external threads190may be more simply referred to herein as “second threads”190. The first threads188and the second threads190may be separate and axially spaced from one another along radially outer surface180c. In addition, the first threads188may be positioned axially closer (and more proximate) to outer end180athan inner end180b, and second threads190may be positioned more proximate to inner end180bthan outer end180a. For instance, in some embodiments, the first threads188are positioned at (and extend axially from) the outer end180aand the second threads190are positioned at (and extend axially from) the inner end180b. The first threads188and the second threads190may include one or more grooves that extend radially into radially outer surface180cand helically about the central axis185.

An annular groove or recess192is axially positioned between the first threads188and the second threads190. The recess192extends radially into the radially outer surface180ctoward central axis185and defines a radially extending annular external shoulder194that faces axially toward the outer end180a. The annular external shoulder194may be more simply referred to herein as an “external shoulder”194.

A first or outer cylindrical surface195extends axially between first threads188and annular recess192, and a second or inner cylindrical surface196extends axially between external shoulder194and second threads190. A plurality of engagement bores197extend radially into the outer cylindrical surface195. In some embodiments, the engagement bores197are evenly circumferentially spaced about central axis185along outer cylindrical surface195. As will be described in more detail below, engagement bores197may engage with a suitable tool (such as a spanner wrench) to facilitate threaded engagement or disengagement of the coupling adapter180from one of the inlet flow bores134,136(FIG.13) during operations.

As shown inFIG.15, one or more annular seal grooves or recesses198are positioned along the inner cylindrical surface196. The recesses198may be axially spaced from one another along inner cylindrical surface196and may each be configured to receive an annular seal member199(which may include an elastomer seal member such as an O-ring) therein. In some embodiments, each annular seal member199may be axially compressed between a pair of seal rings199awithin the corresponding recess198. As will be described in more detail below, when coupling adapter180is inserted within one of the inlet flow bores134,136(FIG.13), the annular seal members199positioned in recesses198may sealingly engage the inlet flow bore134,136to prevent or at least restrict the leakage of fracturing fluid from through-passage164and coupling adapter180during operations.

As illustrated byFIGS.4,5, and13, as previously noted, the coupling adapter180may represent the component of the fluid coupling assembly150having the highest likelihood of failure during a hydraulic fracturing operation. Thus, the coupling adapters180of fluid couplings150may be selectively installed or uninstalled from the inlet flow bores134,136during operations. As a result, in the event of a failure of a coupling adapter180(such as at the first threads188), the failed coupling adapter180may be readily and quickly removed and replaced without disturbing a flanged connection of the manifold100(or other more substantial coupling assembly or mechanism). Accordingly, by separately providing a coupling adapter180that is removably inserted within one of the inlet flow bores134,136of flow cross junction130, personnel may perform a much simpler and safer operation of disconnecting, removing, and replacing the coupling adapter180without disconnecting other more bulky connection mechanisms (or flanged connections).

When installing the coupling adapter180into the inlet flow bores134,136of flow cross junction130, the inner end180bof coupling adapter180is inserted through outer opening161such that second threads190are threadably engaged with the interior threads168within the inlet flow bores134,136. More particularly,FIGS.13and16illustrate the coupling adapter180installed within the first inlet flow bore134(it being understood that a coupling adapter180may be installed within the inlet flow bore136in the same manner). As may be appreciated fromFIGS.13and16, the inner end180bof coupling adapter180is inserted into outer portion134aof first inlet flow bore134until second treads190abut or engage with inner threads168. Thereafter, the coupling adapter180is rotated about axis185so that second threads190threadably engage with interior threads168to force coupling adapter180axially into inlet flow bore134from outer opening161along the central axes135,185. Threaded engagement of threads190,168continues until inner end face191on inner end180bis engaged with and urged into gasket174such that gasket174is axially compressed relative to axes135,185between the inner end face191(and inner end180b) and internal shoulder166, and such that coupling adapter180is axially compressed relative to axes135,185against internal shoulder166via gasket174along arrows171inFIG.13. As previously described, the compression of gasket174between inner end face191and shoulder166(specifically seat165) may create a fluid-tight seal that prevents or restricts fracturing fluid from leaking out of inlet flow bore134or throughbore182radially between coupling adapter180and outer portion134aof inlet flow bore134. During insertion of coupling adapter180within outer portion134aof inlet flow bore134, a suitable tool such as a spanner wrench may be engaged with the engagement bores197on coupling adapter180to impart torque to the coupling adapter180about the aligned axes135,185.

As shown inFIG.17, in some embodiments, the junk ring174may comprise a metallic gasket that is axially captured and compressed between the coupling adapter180(particularly inner end180b) and shoulder166. As shown inFIG.17, the junk ring174when configured as a metallic gasket or seal may include a central axis455, a first end450a, a second end450bopposite the first end450a, a throughbore454extending between ends450a,450b, and a radially outer surface450calso extending between ends450a,450b. The radially outer surface450cmay include a radially extending, annular projection452that is positioned axially between ends450a,450balong axis455. In addition, radially outer surface450cmay include a first frustoconical surface456extending from the first end450ato the projection452and a second frustoconical surface458extending from the projection to the second end450b. The first frustoconical surface456may diverge radially away from the axis455when moving axially from the first end450atoward the projection452, and the second frustoconical surface458may diverge radially away from the axis455when moving axially from the second end450bto the projection452. When the metallic junk ring174is installed within the inlet flow bore134(or the inlet flow bore136) and compressed between the shoulder166and inner end180bof coupling adapter180, the central axis455of junk ring450may be generally aligned with the axes135(or axis137),185.

When the metallic seal junk ring174is compressed between the coupling adapter180and the shoulder166, the first frustoconical surface456may be engaged with a corresponding and complimentary frustoconical surface (or chamfer)460formed within the throughbore182of coupling adapter180, and the second frustoconical surface458may be engaged with a corresponding and complimentary frustoconical surface (or chamfer)462formed on the shoulder166. Thus, as may be appreciated inFIG.17, as the coupling adapter180is threadably advanced into the inlet flow bore134(or the inlet flow bore136), the engagement between the frustoconical surfaces456,458,460,462may impart a radially inward pressure onto the junk ring174, and the projection452may be axially compressed between the coupling adapter180and shoulder166(or between seats formed thereon). The radially inward pressure imparted to the junk ring174via the engagement of frustoconical surface456,458,460,462may be directed normally through the engaged surfaces452,460and normally through the engaged surfaces454,462. Thus, the engagement between the frustoconical surfaces456,458,460,462and potentially the engagement between coupling adapter180, shoulder166and projection452may form a fluid-tight seal between the seal ring174that prevents (or at least restricts) the leakage of fracturing fluid out of the through-passage164and along the outer surface180cof coupling adapter180.

Thus, by threadably engaging the coupling adapter180within the first inlet flow bore134(or the second inlet flow bore136), the coupling adapter180is axially compressed into the inlet flow bore134and against the internal shoulder166along the aligned axes135,185(such as along arrows171inFIG.13). Without being limited to this or any other theory, compressing the coupling adapters180axially into the inlet flow bores134,136may counter a pressure of the fracturing fluid that may tend to push the coupling adapters180out of the inlet flow bores134,136during operations.

As may be appreciated fromFIG.4, the insertion of the coupling adapter180within the inlet flow bore134may position the outer end180a, the first threads188, the engagement bores197, the annular recess192, and external shoulder194of coupling adapter180outside of the inlet flow bore134at the outer openings161. Thus, the first threads188are accessible to allow connection to an output of one of the outlet conduits26as previously described. For instance, as previously described, a connector193(such as a threaded connector, a hammer union, a flanged connector, a clamp, a hub, a swivel, a weld component, etc.) of the coupling27may be threadably engaged with the first threads188to allow coupling adapter180to be connected to the coupling27(and thus to one of the outlet conduits26(FIG.1)).

In addition, as shown inFIG.13, when coupling adapter180is inserted and engaged within outer portion134aof inlet flow bore134(or the inlet flow bore136), the inner cylindrical surface196of coupling adapter180is engaged with cylindrical surface169within outer portion134a. As a result, the annular sealing members199positioned within recesses198of coupling adapter180may be sealingly engaged between the recesses198and cylindrical surface169to provide and additional seal to prevent or restrict fracturing fluid from leaking radially between the coupling adapter180and the outer portion134aof inlet flow bore134.

As shown inFIGS.13and18, after coupling adapter180is inserted and engaged within outer portion134aof inlet flow bore134(or inlet flow bore136) as described above, a retainer ring204may be engaged with external shoulder194on radially outer surface130cof flow cross junction130to prevent (or restrict) rotation of the coupling adapter180within inlet flow bore134about axes135,185. Specifically, as best shown inFIGS.18-20, the retainer ring204includes a first side204a, a second side204bopposite first side204a, and central opening206extending along a central axis205between the first side204aand the second side204b. In addition, retainer ring204includes an annular projection208that extends circumferentially about the central opening206about central axis205. Further, retainer ring204includes a plurality of mounting apertures209that extend axially between sides204a,204bthat are circumferentially spaced about axis205. In some embodiments, the mounting apertures209are uniformly circumferentially spaced about axis205. As best shown inFIG.20, each mounting aperture209includes a shoulder210(such as an annular shoulder).

As shown inFIGS.18and19, retainer ring204may be formed of a plurality of ring segments203that may be joined together. In some embodiments, the retainer ring204includes two ring segments203, each extending about 180° about the axis205when ring segments203are joined together to form the retainer ring204. However, other numbers and arrangements of ring segments203are contemplated. For instance, in some embodiments, retainer ring204is formed of more than two ring segments203. In addition, in some embodiments, the ring segments203(whether there are two or more than two) may have different arc lengths about axis205.

As shown inFIGS.13,18, and20, during operations, the ring segments203of retainer ring204are joined together about the coupling adapter180such that the projection208is inserted within the recess192on radially outer surface180cof coupling adapter180. A plurality of mounting members212(such as threaded screws) may be inserted through the mounting apertures209and threadably engaged within the mounting bores159formed on facet138of radially outer surface130cof flow cross junction130. The mounting members212may engage with the shoulders210formed in mounting apertures209so that projection208is compressed axially into the external shoulder194on coupling adapter180. When retainer ring204is connected to flow cross junction130so that projection208is compressed against external shoulder194of coupling adapter180, the central axis205of retainer ring204may be aligned with the central axis185of coupling adapter180and/or the central axis135of inlet flow bore134.

Without being limited to this or any other theory, engaging the retainer ring204with the external shoulder194of coupling adapter180may further secure the coupling adapter180within the inlet flow bore134or inlet flow bore136against the pressure of the fracturing fluid within the outlet manifold100during operations as previously described above. In addition, engaging the retainer ring204with the external shoulder194of coupling adapter180may also relieve pressure on the engaged threads168,190during operations. Further, preventing (or restricting) rotation of the coupling adapter180about the central axis185via the retainer ring204may prevent unthreading of the coupling adapter180from the outer portion134aof inlet flow bore134(or inlet flow bore136) (via second threads190and interior threads168) during operations (such as when installing or removing the connector193from the coupling adapter180via first threads188).

As illustrated byFIGS.13,16, and18, the removal of coupling adapter180from inlet flow bore134(or inlet flow bore136) may be accomplished by reversing the sequence described above for installing the coupling adapter180into inlet flow bore134. For instance, the retainer ring204may be removed from the base152via removal of mounting members212from mounting bores159. Thereafter, the coupling adapter180may be unthreaded from inlet flow bore134(or inlet flow bore136) by rotating coupling adapter180about central axis185within inlet flow bore134(such as via a spanner wrench or other suitable tool) to threadably disengage the threads190,168. Once second threads190on coupling adapter180are fully disengaged with internal threads168, the coupling adapter180may be removed from inlet flow bore134(and repaired or replaced as appropriate).

As may be appreciated fromFIGS.4-9, because the fluid coupling assemblies150(particularly the coupling adapters180) are directly, threadably engaged within the inlet flow bores134,136(FIG.4) of flow cross junction130, additional flanged connections between the fluid couplings140and the flow cross junction130are avoided. Such a flanged connection would require the formation of large (such as in diameter and depth) threaded mounting bores (such as mounting bores133on ends130a,130b) in the radially outer surface130cto receive threaded studs for the flanged connection, which would further necessitate an increase in the length L130relative to the outer diameter D130to ensure a sufficient wall thickness about the flow bores132,134,136. By contrast, embodiments of the flow cross junction130described herein avoid these additional flanged connections along radially outer surface130cand instead directly connect the coupling adapters180of fluid coupling assemblies150into inlet flow bores134,136. Moreover, the mounting apertures159formed on the facets138(or the facets138associated with the fluid coupling assemblies150) for receiving mounting members212may be smaller (both in diameter and in depth), fewer in number, and may occupy a smaller portion of the surface area of radially outer surface130cthan the mounting bores typically associated with a flanged connection for the fluid coupling assemblies150. As a result, the use of these smaller mounting bores159may avoid an increase of the length L130relative to the outer diameter D130of the flow cross junction130. Accordingly, by employing the directly connected (such as threaded) fluid coupling assemblies150, the length L130of the flow cross junction130may be substantially reduced relative to the outer diameter D130as previously described while still providing a sufficient wall thickness about each of the flow bores134,136,136for containing the high-pressure fracturing fluid during operations.

Moreover, this reduction in the length L130relative to the outer diameter D130when combined with the cylindrical (or polygonal) outer surface130cmay substantially reduce the size and weight of the flow cross junction130and the manifold100(FIGS.2and3) overall. This reduction in the size and weight of the manifold100may increase both the safety and efficiency of the hydraulic fracturing operation by reducing total footprint of the manifold100and avoiding or reducing the reliance on large lifting and support equipment for constriction, deconstruction, and repair of the manifold.

FIG.21shows a method300of installing a coupling adapter of a fluid coupling assembly within a flow cross junction of an outlet manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the method300may be performed to install embodiments of a coupling adapter180of the coupling assemblies150of the flow cross junction130previously described above and shown inFIGS.5-20. Thus, in describing the method300, continuing reference will be made toFIGS.5-20. However, it should be appreciated that method300may be performed using features, components, and/or systems that are different in some respect(s) from those shown inFIGS.5-20. Therefore, reference to the flow cross junction130, fluid coupling assemblies150, or other features shown inFIGS.5-20should not be interpreted as limiting other potential embodiments of method300.

Initially, method300includes inserting a coupling adapter into an inlet flow bore of a flow cross junction of a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system at block302. For instance, as previously described and as may be appreciated fromFIGS.13,15, and16, a coupling adapter180may be inserted and threaded into the first inlet flow bore134via engagement of the threads168,190such that the coupling adapter180is compressed into the first inlet flow bore134and particularly such that the inner end180bof the coupling adapter180is compressed against the internal shoulder166within first inlet flow bore134.

In addition, method300includes positioning a connection device of the coupling adapter outside of the inlet flow bore at block304, wherein the connection device is to connect to an output of a pump of the hydraulic fracturing system. For instance, as may be appreciated fromFIGS.13,15, and16, once inserted into the first inlet flow bore134, the connection device188of coupling adapter180is positioned outside the first inlet flow bore134along the radially outer surface130c(particularly at the facet138).

Further, method300includes compressing a retainer ring against an external shoulder of the coupling adapter at block306. For instance, as previously described and as may be appreciated fromFIGS.13and18, the retainer ring204may be engaged with and compressed against an external shoulder194of on radially outer surface180cof coupling adapter180to thereby prevent (or restrict) the rotation of the coupling adapter within the first inlet flow bore134.

The embodiments disclosed herein include flow cross junctions for a manifold of a hydraulic fracturing system that include a streamlined shape and design so as to allow for a significant reduction in size and weight for the flow cross junctions and manifold overall. In addition, some embodiments of the flow cross junctions disclosed herein include fluid couplings that facilitate quick replacement in the event of a failure so as to minimize stoppage time. As a result, through use of the embodiments disclosed herein, a hydraulic fracturing operation may be conducted more safely and efficiently.

In some embodiments, the flow cross junction130may include one or more fluid ports for pressure and/or fluid communication with the inlet flow bores134,136. For instance, during operations, the one or more fluid ports may be used to inject an injectable sealant or packing (such as, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), graphite, grease, polymer-based sealant, etc.) into the inlet flow bore134,136so as to form an additional seal between the coupling adapters180and inlet flow bores134,136during operations. For instance, the injectable sealant may be injected (via the one or more fluid flow ports) into the inlet flow bores134,136, axially between the annular seal members199(FIG.13) either to prevent leakage of fracturing fluid when one or both of the annular seal members199has failed, or as a prophylactic measure. In some embodiments, the one or more fluid ports may also be used to test a sealing performance of the annular seal members199. Specifically, a pressurized fluid may be injected via one or more of the one or more fluid ports, and a pressure of the fluid may be monitored. If the pressure of the injected fluid drops below a threshold, it may indicate that one or both of the annular seal members199has failed, thereby necessitating further corrective action (such as injecting the injectable sealant as previously described).

It should be appreciated that embodiments of the flow cross junctions may be utilized in other fluid services other than hydraulic fracturing operations. For instance, embodiments of the flow cross junctions disclosed herein may be utilized in fluid manifolds, lines, or other fluid conveyance systems and devices for transporting pressurized fluids both inside and outside of the oil and gas industry. Some particular examples include the use of embodiments of the flow cross junctions disclosed herein for flowing fluids for other oilfield operations (such as pump down, drilling mud delivery, production operations, etc.). In addition, it is also contemplated that embodiments of the flow cross junctions disclosed herein may be used in other fluid services, including those outside of the oil and gas industry.

The preceding discussion is directed to various exemplary embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the examples disclosed herein have broad application, and that the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be exemplary of that embodiment, and not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to that embodiment.

The drawing figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features and components herein may be shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and some details of conventional elements may not be shown in interest of clarity and conciseness.

In the discussion herein and in the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to . . . .” Also, the term “couple” or “couples” is intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection may be through a direct connection of the two devices, or through an indirect connection that is established via other devices, components, nodes, and connections. In addition, as used herein, the terms “axial” and “axially” generally mean along or parallel to a given axis (e.g., central axis of a body or a port), while the terms “radial” and “radially” generally mean perpendicular to the given axis. For instance, an axial distance refers to a distance measured along or parallel to the axis, and a radial distance means a distance measured perpendicular to the axis. Further, when used herein (including in the claims), the words “about,” “generally,” “substantially,” “approximately,” and the like, when used in reference to a stated value mean within a range of plus or minus 10% of the stated value.

This application claims priority to, and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/512,219, filed Jul. 6, 2023, titled “FLUID COUPLING ASSEMBLIES FOR A MANIFOLD OF A HYDRAULIC FRACTURING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS,” U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/512,193, filed Jul. 6, 2023, titled “FLOW CROSS JUNCTIONS FOR A MANIFOLD OF A HYDRAULIC FRACTURING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS,” U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/491,139, filed Mar. 20, 2023, titled “FLOW CROSS JUNCTIONS FOR A MANIFOLD OF A HYDRAULIC FRACTURING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/476,438, filed Dec. 21, 2022, titled “FLUID COUPLING ASSEMBLIES FOR A MANIFOLD OF A HYDRAULIC FRACTURING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. This application is also related to U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 18/545,946, filed Dec. 19, 2023, titled “FLUID COUPLING ASSEMBLIES FOR A MANIFOLD OF A HYDRAULIC FRACTURING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.