Well Control/Extreme Service Chokes

Setting industry standards with field-adaptable Well Control and Extreme Service Chokes designs

CORTEC Well Control/Extreme Service Chokes are engineered and manufactured to offer the oilfield operator increased service life and cost savings in high-pressure applications where substantial amounts of solids and abrasives are present. CORTEC manufactures a complete line of extreme service chokes that are designed to maximize performance within abrasive applications like well control, drilling, frac flowback, coil tubing, and snubbing. In addition to the rugged design of the choke internals, CORTEC recognizes the need for field-friendly maintenance and serviceability by offering optional gantry and tooling packages to round out a complete operating system.

Models

The CORTEC MODEL CX extreme service chokes are the most adaptable in the industry, manufactured to suit any drilling or well control service operation while meeting or exceeding industry requirements. Our team has the engineering expertise and experience to help you select the appropriate model for your operational needs. CORTEC’s industry-leading commitment to inventory stocking and customer service ensures you the highest efficiency in cost-of-ownership and the confidence in minimizing downtime.

CORTEC CX 2.0 Extreme Service Well Control Choke

CORTEC MODEL CX-2.0

2” Maximum Orifice
Up to 20,000 PSI

CORTEC CX 3.0 Extreme Service Well Control Choke

CORTEC MODEL CX-3.0

3” Maximum Orifice
Up to 15,000 PSI

CORTEC CX 4.0 Extreme Service Well Control Choke

CORTEC MODEL CX-4.0

4” Maximum Orifice
Up to 5,000 PSI

CORTEC CX 6.0 Extreme Service Well Control Choke

CORTEC MODEL CX-6.0

6” Maximum Orifice
Up to 5,000 PSI

The CX family can be configured in either hydraulic double-acting piston or worm gear (electric, hydraulic, or manual hand wheel) operators. The block body design allows for full versatility from studded, flanged, threaded, and hub connectors that can meet a full spectrum of industry and customer dictated dimensional requirements. Most models can be offered with optional trim orifice reduction kits, greatly expanding the optimal flow rate capacity range of an individual choke asset.

OVERVIEW

Industry Standards
  • API-6A, PSL-3, PR-2, TC-PU, MC-EE
  • NACE MR0175/TM0187 (Latest Edition)
  • Saudi Aramco approved for use in KSA
  • API-16C (Latest Edition) (available upon request)
  • ABS-CDS, DNV-OS-E101 (available upon request)
Operator Configuration
  • Hydraulic, Electric, or manual hand wheel control options available
End Connections
  • API-6A flanged standard
  • Available to suit most common industry connections, i.e. flanged, union, or hub
Installation
  • Optional Gantry for enhanced safety and reduced downtime during maintenance operations
  • Full suite of service tools available
Design Features
  • Tungsten Carbide Gate and Seat
  • Tungsten Carbide Wear Sleeves installed in outlet spool and erosion protective finish nose cone for extended wear protection and service life
  • Bolt-On Inlet and Outlet Spools (Can be manufactured to suit customer required dimensions and connection type)
  • Inconel 625 overlaid inlet/outlet RTJ seal grooves
  • Wear resistant nose cone for extended wear protection
  • Manual override capable in event of power loss (worm gear models only)
  • Potentiometer for remote position feedback monitoring
Well Control-Extreme Service Chokes CX Model Diagram_b
CORTEC CX-C2.0 Extreme Service Well Control Choke

CORTEC Model CX-C2.0 offers the most economical option of the CX family of chokes. While retaining many of the robust design features of the CX product line, the CX-C2.0 design utilizes a fabricated “H2” profile flanged-end body, allowing seamless integration for any customer that deploys this body design into their existing or future operations. CORTEC Well Control/Extreme Service Chokes (CX) are engineered and manufactured to offer the oilfield operator increased service life and cost savings in high-pressure applications where substantial amounts of solids and abrasives are present. CORTEC manufactures a complete line of extreme service chokes designed to maximize performance within abrasive applications like well control, drilling, frac flowback, coil tubing, and snubbing.

OVERVIEW

Industry Standards
  • API-6A PSL-3, PR-2, TC-PU, MC-EE Standard (consult factory for additional options)
  • NACE MR0175 (Latest Edition)
  • API-16C (Latest Edition) (available upon request)
  • ABS-CDS (available upon request)
  • DNV-OS-E101 (available upon request)
Actuator Configuration
  • Manual Hand-Wheel Operated
  • Hydraulic Piston
  • Electric
End Connections
  • API-6A Flange (consult factory for additional options)

Installation

Full Suite of Service Tools Available

Design Features
  • Pressure Rating: 2,000 - 15,000 PSI
  • 2.00” & 1.50” Orifice Trim Configurations
  • Reversible Tungsten Carbide Gate and Seat
  • Standard Body is Interchangeable with many OEM Legacy Designs (custom centerline dimensions available upon request)
  • Tungsten Carbide Wear Sleeve Installed in Outlet Spool for Extended Wear Protection
  • Inconel 625 Overlaid Inlet/Outlet RTJ Seal Grooves
  • Wear Resistant Nose Cone for Extended Wear Protection
  • Optional Linear Potentiometer for Remote Position Feedback Monitoring
CORTEC CX-C2.0 Extreme Service Well Control Choke Cutaway Diagram

The CORTEC CX-HB3.0 Choke System is designed to offer drilling operations an increased level of value and functionality within MPD, UBD and other drilling setpoint applications. The CX-HB3.0 control panel is dual choke capable unit and can be controlled via a com­pact remote panel that can be installed in close proximity to the driller. This system exceeds the level of response and precision of many existing options within the market today at a value point operators can afford.

CX-HB3.0 Choke
CX-HB3.0 Remote Control Panel
CX-HB3.0 Hydra-Balance Control System

OVERVIEW

CX-HB3.0 Choke Features
  • 3” Max Orifice
  • 4-1/16” 5,000 PSI API RTJ Connections
  • Gantry and Service Tool Options for Ease of Maintenance
  • Tungsten Carbide Trim Components – Dual Sided Seat for Extended Life and Outlet Wear Sleeve
  • Hydraulic Quick Connections for Panel Hoses
  • Custom Flange and Dimensional Sizes Available Upon Request
  • API 6A PSL3 TC-PU (-20 / +250F) MC-EE H2S Standard, NACE MR-0175 / ISO15156
Control Panel Specifications & Features

CX-HB3.0 Hydra-Balance Control Panel

CX-HB3.0 Hydra-Balance Control Panel

The CX-HB3.0 Control Panel is an optimized design layout to offer the end user the highest level of field friendly serviceability.

  • Main HPU/HMI Control System with Remote HMI Panel Integration
  • Compact Panel Foot Prints to Maximize Weight and Space Savings
  • Operating Pressure Range up to 2,500 PSI
  • Set Point Accuracy of +/- 25 or less PSI
  • Power Supply – 110 VAC
  • Air Supply – 80-150 PSI, Very Low Air Consumption
  • Controller Temp Range - 20F – 140F
  • Design - Class I, Division II, Group C,D
  • Siemens Tunable PLC Controller
  • Profinet Network Communications
  • WITS Interface Capable
  • Password Protected Operator Interface
  • On-Board Vortex Cooler System
  • Forklift and Crane Lifting Points
  • Battery and Air Back Up Systems
  • Manual Back Up Set Point Control Upon Loss of Electrical Power
Advanced Functionality Features
  • Rapid Mode Selection – Two Setpoints, Full Open, Full Close and Ramp Scheduling/Pressure Trapping
  • High Resolution Choke Position Monitoring
  • Mud Pump Stroke Counter, Totalizer and Rate

CORTEC is setting industry standards with field adaptable choke designs. CORTEC setpoint systems integrate field-proven choke designs with remote operation capabilities to add value and consistency to an end user’s operations. The CORTEC CX-EC 3.0 Setpoint System is electrically operated and has consistently been demonstrated to maintain desired pressure settings within MPD operations in pressures up to 3,000 PSI. The choke utilizes standard CORTEC CX body design and components with a ball screw operator, which can be driven by suitable actuation options. This system provides an efficient, cost-effective solution that maximizes setpoint performance with lower voltage requirements. This bonnet setup can be retrofitted and assembled onto many standard CORTEC CX models existing in the field. The setup offers the same field-friendly maintenance and robustness customers have come to appreciate within the CORTEC choke family.

CORTEC CX-EC3.0 Extreme Service Well Service Choke with Gantry
CORTEC CX-EC 3.0 Setpoint Choke and Panel Control System
CORTEC CX-EC 3.0 Setpoint Remote Panel

OVERVIEW

CX-EC 3.0 Choke Model Features
  • 2K through 5K (maximum 3,000 psi operating rating based on current motor options)
  • End Connections: API-6A Flange (consult factory for additional options)
  • Utilizes Reversible Tungsten Carbide Gate & Seat Trim
  • Electrically Actuated/Operated
  • Available in 3.00” Orifice Standard (1500 PSI Max Service) and 3.00” Orifice XP (3,000 PSI Max Service) Trim Configurations
  • Wear Resistant Nose Cone For Extended Wear Protection
  • Bolt-On Inlet and Outlet Spools Standard (can be manufactured to customer specified centerline dimensions helping field retrofit)
  • Tungsten Carbide Wear Sleeves Installed in Outlet Spool for Extended Wear Protection
  • Inconel 625 Inconel Overlay on Inlet/Outlet RTJ Grooves as a Standard (other areas available upon request)
  • Gantry System Available Upon Request for Enhanced Safety and Reduced Downtime During Field Maintenance
  • Service Tools Available to Reduce Field Service Time
Applicable Industry Standards
  • API-6A, PSL-3, PR-2, TC-PU, MC-EE Standard (consult factory for additional options)
  • NACE MR0175 (Latest Edition)
  • ABS-CDS (available upon request)
  • DNV-OS-E101 (available upon request)
Electric Actuator Details
  • Single Phase 115-230 VAC
  • Class 1, Zone 1, EX DB, EB IIC T4 GB
  • 4-20mA Control & Position Feedback Signal
  • Optional Profinet Communication
  • Variable Speed Motor Control – 2.5 – 65RPM
  • Fail-In-Place with Manual Handwheel Override
Electric Control Panel Details
  • Enclosure, NEMA 4X (304SS), Designed for Hazardous Locations, Class 1, Div 2
  • Dual Choke Controls, standard
  • 110VAC, Single-Phase Power Supply, Less than 10 Amps
  • 110VAC UPS Battery Backup Provides 15 ~ 30 Minutes on Battery
  • Siemens S7-1200 PLC Processor, Communicates to actuator with 4-20ma signals (with ProfiNET optional)
  • Two Intrinsically Safe GP50 Pressure Transducers, 1502 Connections, Measures Choke and Mud Pump Pressures
  • Mud Pump Sensors (whisker type) for Three Parallel Pumps
  • Capable of Auxiliary 4-20mA Flow and Density Measurement
  • Remote 15” HMI with UPS Backup (optional Toughbook PC), includes 300 ft ProfiNET Cable
  • Long-term Data Collection
  • WITS IN/OUT Communication, configurable
  • Optional Pressure Set Point Ramp Schedule
  • Optional Skid-mounted Toolbox to House Control System and Associated Equipment
CORTEC NX1 Hydraulic Extreme Service Choke

The CORTEC NX1 Choke is a field-proven hydraulic choke model designed to increase service life while providing a significant amount of cost savings and efficiencies during harsh drilling applications. We are thrilled to be able to offer our customers this unique compact choke and control solution that requires minimal maintenance in the field.

CORTEC uses only the highest quality materials to manufacture some of the most innovative yet easy to use choke designs known today. Each design is adaptable to meet changing well flow conditions over the life in the field.

OVERVIEW

Applicable Industry Standards
  • API-6A, PSL-3, PR-2, TC-PU, MC-EE Standard
  • NACE MR0175, Latest Edition
  • ABS-CDS (available upon request)
  • DNV-OS-E101 (available upon request)
Choke Model Features
  • Available in the following Operator Configurations
  • Double Acting Hydraulic Piston
  • Standard applications: up to 15K
  • NACE applications: up to 10K
  • End Connections: 1502 Hammer Union (additional options available upon request)
  • Utilizes plug and seat trim design to achieve desired flow characteristics
  • Tungsten Carbide plug and lined seat for wear prevention and sustainable life
  • Available in 1.00” orifice configuration
  • Ease of serviceability
  • Ability to replace components when needed in a quick and easy manner
  • Service tools available to reduce field service time
  • Wear resistant nose cone for extended wear protection
  • Local visual indicator or optional digital indication
  • Digital feedback= 4-20 mA
Hydraulic Configuration Details
  • Max Hydraulic Input: 1,500 PSI
  • Double Acting Piston: Swept Volume = 35 cu./in.
  • 30 GPM (0.57 Liters @ 1.14 LPM) capable of closing within 30 seconds
  • DNV-OS-E101 (available upon request)
Technical Details
  • Mechanical Stroke Length: 875” Full Stroke in either direction
Remote operation and increased service life

The NX1 choke offers a compact, 2-inch, 1502 choke layout and is an ideal option to control pressure and flow rates for drilling applications via remote operations. With a lightweight design, the NX1 is easily adapted into existing manifolds and offers a range of union or flanged end connections.

Field tested and proven to increase service life when compared with other OEM choke options, the NX1 is rated up to 15,000 PSI CWP and has a 1-inch maximum orifice. During testing, the NX1’s internal trim components performed twice as long as other OEM brands. Additional features include both digital and local visual trim position indication and a wide range of hydraulic choke control console options.

NX1 Choke Field Test Completed

CORTEC has successfully completed the field trial of the new remotely operated NX1 model hydraulic choke. The NX1 is an ideal option for applications requiring a compact 2” 1502 choke layout where remote operation is preferred. Designed to fit within the place of a standard 1502 Choke Tee, the NX1 is easily adapted into existing manifolds. The Choke is offered with a range of union or flanged end connections. This lightweight design offers a 1” maximum orifice and is rated up to 15,000 PSI CWP.

Field testing has confirmed substantial increased service life during harsh flowback operations when compared with other OEM choke options where CORTEC internal trim components have lasted more than 2X longer during the same testing period.  Additional features include both digital and local visual trim position indication and a wide range of hydraulic choke control console options.

This design requires minimal maintenance and can be easily serviced by the end user in the field.