Modular installation protection for pipeline monitoring sensors

Abstract

The application provides a pipeline monitoring sensor modular installation protection method. The pipeline monitoring sensor modular installation protection method comprises the following steps: determining the number of sensor fixing assemblies according to the parameters of a pipeline to be monitored; installing sensors in the interiors of the sensor fixing assemblies; sequentially connecting multiple sensor fixing assemblies together in a head-to-tail manner around the outer periphery of the pipeline to be monitored; and injecting a protective material into the sensor fixing assemblies. The application solves the problem of poor sensor monitoring effect caused by improper installation of a gathering pipeline monitoring sensor in the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of oil and gas pipeline equipment installation in the oil and gas industry, and more specifically, to a modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors. Background Technology

[0002] Pipeline transportation, with its advantages of large transport capacity, stable and continuous operation, low cost, small footprint, and convenient maintenance, is the main mode of transportation for natural gas, crude oil, and refined oil products in the modern energy industry. However, because the oil and gas multiphase media transported by oil and gas gathering and transportation pipelines are flammable and explosive, and often pass through densely populated areas, accidents can cause huge personal and economic losses and environmental pollution. Therefore, monitoring of gathering and transportation pipelines is necessary, especially for pipelines prone to corrosion and leaks, requiring real-time monitoring and precise location detection technologies.

[0003] In real-time pipeline monitoring technology, a crucial aspect is the real-time location and point monitoring of pipelines prone to corrosion and thinning. This requires real-time detection of corrosion status and remaining wall thickness at monitoring points around the pipeline circumference. Therefore, the accuracy, reliability, and durability of the sensor installation location on the pipeline surface determine the reliability of the pipeline monitoring data and the low false alarm rate. Due to the diversity of the pipeline surface and surrounding environment, the installation of sensors must consider the impact of external environmental factors such as soil, water, dust, and microorganisms on the installed sensors. At the same time, due to the requirements of the monitoring location, the sensors need to be arranged and installed in a certain orientation and spacing around the pipeline circumference to obtain corrosion monitoring data around the pipeline. Conventional methods simply fix the sensors, lacking effective organization and protection, which is not conducive to later maintenance.

[0004] Therefore, existing technologies suffer from poor sensor monitoring performance due to improper installation of sensors in gathering and transmission pipelines. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The main objective of this invention is to provide a modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors, so as to solve the problem of poor sensor monitoring effect caused by improper installation of monitoring sensors in gathering and transmission pipelines in the prior art.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors is provided, comprising: determining the number of sensor fixing assemblies based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored; installing sensors inside the sensor fixing assemblies; sequentially connecting multiple sensor fixing assemblies end to end around the outer periphery of the pipeline to be monitored; and injecting protective material into the sensor fixing assemblies.

[0007] Furthermore, when determining the number of sensor mounting components based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored, the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored include at least the diameter and material of the pipeline.

[0008] Furthermore, the process of sequentially connecting multiple sensor fixing components around the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored includes: Step S1: Connecting multiple sensor fixing components sequentially; Step S2: Wrapping the connected multiple sensor fixing components around the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored; Step S3: Adjusting the position of each sensor fixing component so that the contact surface of the sensor fixing component is in contact with the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored; Step S4: Connecting the two sensor fixing components located at both ends of the multiple sensor fixing components together so that the multiple sensor fixing components are connected in a ring shape.

[0009] Furthermore, in the process of connecting multiple sensor fixing components together sequentially around the outer periphery of the pipe to be monitored, a step S5 is also included after step S4. Step S5: Repeat steps S1 to S4 to form N sensor fixing components connected in a ring at different locations on the pipe to be monitored.

[0010] Furthermore, the protective material includes at least one of epoxy resin, acrylic resin, polyester resin, phenolic resin, and amino resin.

[0011] Furthermore, during the process of injecting protective material into the sensor fixing assembly, the protective material is injected into the sensor fixing assembly through the flow hole until the protective material overflows from the flow hole.

[0012] Furthermore, when installing sensors inside the sensor mounting assembly, at least two different types of sensors are installed in different sensor mounting assemblies.

[0013] Furthermore, the modular installation protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors also includes a step of processing sensor fixing components, which precedes the step of determining the number of sensor fixing components based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored; and / or the step of processing sensor fixing components is located between the step of determining the number of sensor fixing components based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored and the step of installing the sensor inside the sensor fixing components.

[0014] Furthermore, in the step of processing the sensor fixing assembly, one of the following materials is selected: nitrile rubber, ABS, resin, polypropylene, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, and titanium alloy to manufacture the sensor fixing assembly.

[0015] Furthermore, the sensor fixing assembly includes a sensor positioning unit and a sensor protection unit, and the sensor positioning unit has a mating surface for abutting against the circumferential sidewall of the pipe to be monitored, and the sensor protection unit is connected to the end of the sensor positioning unit away from the mating surface; the step of processing the sensor fixing assembly includes at least: processing the mating surface at the end of the sensor positioning unit away from the sensor protection unit; processing a first receiving cavity in the sensor positioning unit; and processing a second receiving cavity in the sensor protection unit.

[0016] Furthermore, the first receiving cavity of the sensor positioning unit of at least two sensor fixing assemblies has different dimensions; and / or the second receiving cavity of the sensor protection unit of at least two sensor fixing assemblies has different dimensions.

[0017] Applying the technical solution of this invention, the modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors in this application includes: determining the number of sensor fixing components based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored; installing sensors inside the sensor fixing components; sequentially connecting multiple sensor fixing components end-to-end around the outer periphery of the pipeline to be monitored; and injecting protective material into the sensor fixing components. By using the modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors in this application, sensors can be effectively installed at the monitoring location on the pipeline to be monitored, thereby ensuring the monitoring effect of the sensors. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a sensor positioning protection device according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0020] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the fixing components of the sensor positioning protection device in the diagram;

[0021] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the protective cap of the fixing component;

[0022] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing body of the fixing component in the image;

[0023] Figure 5 It shows Figure 2 A structural diagram of the fixing body of the fixing component from another angle;

[0024] Figure 6A flowchart of a modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors is shown in a specific embodiment of this application.

[0025] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0026] 10. Fixed body; 11. First receiving cavity; 12. Fitting surface; 121. Coupling agent storage tank; 122. Protective groove; 1221. Flow hole; 13. First opening; 14. First buckle; 141. First clip; 142. Second clip; 15. Second buckle; 151. Connecting protrusion; 20. Protective cap; 21. Second receiving cavity; 22. Connecting section; 23. Protective section; 24. Wire outlet. Detailed Implementation

[0027] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0028] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains.

[0029] In this invention, unless otherwise stated, directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "top," and "bottom" are generally used in relation to the direction shown in the accompanying drawings, or in relation to the vertical, perpendicular, or gravitational direction of the component itself; similarly, for ease of understanding and description, "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours of each component itself, but the above directional terms are not intended to limit this invention.

[0030] To address the problem of poor sensor monitoring performance caused by improper installation of sensors in existing pipeline monitoring technologies, this application provides a modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors.

[0031] The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors in this application includes: determining the number of sensor fixing components based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored; installing sensors inside the sensor fixing components; sequentially connecting multiple sensor fixing components end-to-end around the outer circumference of the pipeline to be monitored; and injecting protective material into the sensor fixing components. By using the modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors in this application, sensors can be effectively installed at the monitoring location on the pipeline to be monitored, thereby ensuring the monitoring effect of the sensors.

[0032] Specifically, when determining the number of sensor mounting components based on the parameters of the pipe to be monitored, the parameters of the pipe to be monitored include at least its diameter and material. To determine the number of sensor mounting components, the diameter of the pipe to be monitored can be measured first, and then the circumference of the pipe can be determined. The number of sensor mounting components can then be determined based on the circumference of the pipe. As for the material of the pipe to be monitored, different materials require different monitoring accuracies, thus requiring different numbers of sensors.

[0033] Specifically, the process of sequentially connecting multiple sensor fixing components around the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored includes: Step S1: Connecting multiple sensor fixing components sequentially; Step S2: Wrapping the connected multiple sensor fixing components around the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored; Step S3: Adjusting the position of each sensor fixing component so that the contact surface of the sensor fixing component is in contact with the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored; Step S4: Connecting the two sensor fixing components located at both ends of the multiple sensor fixing components together so that the multiple sensor fixing components are connected in a ring shape.

[0034] Specifically, the process of connecting multiple sensor fixing components together sequentially around the outer periphery of the pipe to be monitored also includes step S5 after step S4. Step S5: Repeat steps S1 to S4 to form N sensor fixing components in a ring at different locations on the pipe to be monitored.

[0035] Optionally, the protective material includes at least one of epoxy resin, acrylic resin, polyester resin, phenolic resin, and amino resin.

[0036] Specifically, during the process of injecting protective material into the sensor fixing assembly, the protective material is injected into the sensor fixing assembly through the flow hole until the protective material overflows from the flow hole.

[0037] Alternatively, when installing a sensor inside a sensor mounting assembly, at least two different types of sensors may be installed in different sensor mounting assemblies.

[0038] In one specific embodiment of this application, the modular installation protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors further includes a step of processing sensor fixing components, which precedes the step of determining the number of sensor fixing components based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored; and / or the step of processing sensor fixing components is located between the step of determining the number of sensor fixing components based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored and the step of installing sensors inside the sensor fixing components.

[0039] Optionally, in the step of processing the sensor fixing assembly, one of the following materials can be selected: nitrile rubber, ABS, resin, polypropylene, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, and titanium alloy to manufacture the sensor fixing assembly.

[0040] Specifically, the sensor fixing assembly includes a sensor positioning unit and a sensor protection unit, and the sensor positioning unit has a mating surface for abutting against the circumferential sidewall of the pipe to be monitored. The sensor protection unit is connected to the end of the sensor positioning unit away from the mating surface. The step of processing the sensor fixing assembly includes at least: processing the mating surface at the end of the sensor positioning unit away from the sensor protection unit; processing a first receiving cavity in the sensor positioning unit; and processing a second receiving cavity in the sensor protection unit.

[0041] Optionally, the first receiving cavity of the sensor positioning unit of at least two sensor fixing assemblies has different dimensions. Furthermore, the second receiving cavity of the sensor protection unit of at least two sensor fixing assemblies has different dimensions.

[0042] In the following embodiments, the fixing component is the sensor fixing component processed in this application, the fixing body is the sensor positioning unit, and the protective cap is the sensor protection unit.

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, multiple sequentially connected fixing components form a sensor fixing and protection device, and these components are wound around the pipe to be monitored, such as... Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the fixing assembly includes a fixing body 10 and a protective cap 20. The fixing body 10 has a first receiving cavity 11, a first end of the fixing body 10 has a fitting surface 12, and a second end of the fixing body 10 has a first opening 13 communicating with the first receiving cavity 11; the protective cap 20 is connected to the second end of the fixing body 10, and the protective cap 20 has a second receiving cavity 21, which communicates with the first receiving cavity 11 through the first opening 13. The first receiving cavity 11 and the second receiving cavity 21 are used to accommodate the sensor.

[0044] When using the aforementioned sensor positioning and protection device, because it has multiple fixing components, the number of fixing components can be adjusted according to the different diameters and wall thicknesses of the pipeline to be monitored. This ensures that the sensor positioning and protection device can fit snugly against pipelines of different diameters and wall thicknesses, thereby guaranteeing the monitoring effect and sensitivity of the sensor positioning and protection device. Simultaneously, since the fixing components include a fixing body 10 and a protective cap 20, when installing the sensor onto the fixing components, a portion of the sensor can first be installed into the first receiving cavity 11 of the fixing body 10, and then the protective cap 20 can be connected to the fixing body 10 so that the other portion of the sensor can be installed into the second receiving cavity 21, with the protective cap 20 providing protection for the sensor. Therefore, the sensor positioning and protection device of this application effectively solves the problem of poor performance of existing gathering and transmission pipeline monitoring sensors.

[0045] It should be noted that the sensor positioning protection device in this application can be made of polymer materials such as nitrile rubber, ABS, resin and polypropylene, or it can be made of corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy and titanium alloy to achieve the effect of long-term underground use.

[0046] Specifically, the mating surface 12 has a coupling agent storage tank 121 that communicates with the first receiving cavity 11. With this configuration, when the sensor positioning protection device is installed on the pipeline to be monitored, the coupling connection between the sensor and the outer surface of the pipeline to be monitored can be ensured by filling the coupling agent storage tank 121 with coupling agent, while preventing air from entering between the sensor and the outer surface of the pipeline to be monitored and interfering with the sensor's measurement results.

[0047] Specifically, the mating surface 12 also has a protective groove 122, which is arranged around the outer periphery of the coupling agent storage groove 121, and the coupling agent storage groove 121 and the protective groove 122 are concentrically arranged.

[0048] Optionally, the circumferential sidewall of the protective groove 122 near the coupling agent storage groove 121 has at least one flow hole 1221 extending axially along the protective groove 122, and the protective groove 122 communicates with the first receiving cavity 11 through the flow hole 1221.

[0049] Optionally, the bottom of the protective groove 122 has at least one flow hole 1221 extending axially along the protective groove 122, and the protective groove 122 communicates with the first receiving cavity 11 through the flow hole 1221.

[0050] In one specific embodiment of this application, there are multiple flow holes 1221. The circumferential sidewall of the protective groove 122 near the couplant storage tank 121 and the bottom of the protective groove 122 both have multiple flow holes 1221, and these multiple flow holes 1221 are spaced apart. Furthermore, the radial cross-section of the flow holes 1221 is semi-circular. In this embodiment, cured resin can be filled into the protective groove 122 through the flow holes 1221, thereby providing dustproof and waterproof protection for the sensor probe through the cured resin. It should also be noted that in this embodiment, all the flow holes 1221 on the circumferential sidewall of the protective groove 122 near the couplant storage tank 121 and the bottom of the protective groove 122 are spaced apart.

[0051] In another specific embodiment of this application, liquid resin can be filled into the flow hole 1221, and the liquid resin includes, but is not limited to, epoxy resin, acrylic resin, polyester resin, phenolic resin, amino resin, etc.

[0052] Specifically, the fixing body 10 has a first latch 14 and a second latch 15, which are respectively disposed on the outer walls of both sides of the fixing body 10. The first latch 14 of one of two adjacent fixing components is movably connected to the second latch 15 of the other fixing component, so that the two adjacent fixing components can rotate relative to each other. Preferably, the first latch 14 includes a first latch head 141 and a second latch head 142 that are spaced apart and opposite to each other. An area for accommodating the second latch 15 is formed between the first latch head 141 and the second latch head 142. The second latch 15 is provided with connecting protrusions 151 at both ends corresponding to the first latch head 141 and the second latch head 142. The first latch head 141 and the second latch head 142 are provided with connecting grooves corresponding to the connecting protrusions 151. At least a portion of the connecting protrusions 151 extends into the connecting grooves. The first latch head 141 and the second latch head 142 form a first connecting line, and the first receiving cavity 11 and the second receiving cavity 21 form a second connecting line. The first connecting line and the second connecting line are perpendicular to each other. In this application, during the process of installing the sensor positioning protection device onto the pipeline to be monitored, by setting the first buckle 14 and the second buckle 15, adjacent fixing components can rotate relative to each other, thereby ensuring that different fixing components can fit against the wall of the pipeline to be monitored.

[0053] Preferably, the contact surface 12 is an arc-shaped surface. This design can further and more effectively ensure that the fixing component is in contact with the wall of the pipe to be monitored, so that the fixing component is in a more accurate monitoring position.

[0054] Optionally, the protective cap 20 includes a connecting segment 22 and a protective segment 23 connected in sequence. The interiors of the connecting segment 22 and the protective segment 23 are interconnected to form a second receiving cavity 21. At least a portion of the connecting segment 22 extends into the first receiving cavity 11 and connects to the inner wall of the first receiving cavity 11. Furthermore, the outer wall of the connecting segment 22 extending into the first receiving cavity 11 has a threaded section, and the inner wall of the first receiving cavity 11 has an internal thread that mates with the threaded section. In this application, cured resin can be injected into the flow hole 1221 through the interior of the protective segment 23.

[0055] Optionally, the portion of the second receiving cavity 21 located in the protection section 23 is a shrinkage section and gradually shrinks in the direction close to the connecting section 22.

[0056] Optionally, the protective cap 20 has a wire outlet 24 communicating with the second receiving cavity 21 on the circumferential sidewall near the fixed body 10.

[0057] Optionally, at least two of the fixing components have different sizes of the first receiving cavity 11 of the fixing body 10. This arrangement ensures that different fixing components can accommodate different types or models of sensors.

[0058] Furthermore, it should be noted that there is a clearance gap between the inner wall of the second receiving cavity 21 and the sensor, so that the cured resin can enter the flow hole 1221 through the second receiving cavity 21.

[0059] In this application, a modular installation method is mainly adopted, in which multiple fixing components are connected circumferentially around the outer surface of the pipeline. Each fixing component can form an independent sensor monitoring unit, and each damaged component can be replaced independently without affecting others. Different numbers of fixing components can be selected according to the size of the monitored pipeline. At the same time, it can be easily and quickly assembled and used on site. The installation process does not require tools, and it can be connected by the first clip 14 and the second clip 15. It is more flexible and overcomes the problems of current pipeline monitoring sensor installation, which requires welding bolts and other tools, is complicated, has inaccurate positioning, and is difficult to replace and repair. It can effectively reduce costs and improve construction efficiency and success rate.

[0060] The sensor positioning and protection device used for monitoring gathering and transmission pipelines employs a fixed component in which the sensor channel within each unit module can be designed with different shapes and sizes according to the different sensors used. It can also install sensors of different models and specifications. Furthermore, it has an independently designed protective cap 20, which allows for independent adjustment of the installation position of each sensor. In addition, the design of the coupling agent storage tank below takes into account the needs of coupling agent or coating on the probe surface. Compared with the existing technology, which cannot achieve independent adjustment of each sensor and customized coupling requirements between the probe and the steel pipe surface, this device is applicable to the installation of most sensors, and is easy to adjust and replace, with strong versatility.

[0061] The sensor positioning and protection device for monitoring gathering and transportation pipelines features a resin curing inlet at the top of each fixed component. The internal space of the protective cap 20 accommodates the flow of the curing resin, and the fixed body 10 incorporates a flow hole 1221 and a protective groove 122. This allows for integrated top-to-bottom protection of each sensor within each positioning and protection unit, achieving complete encapsulation of each sensor. Compared to existing technologies, this device provides independent, overall waterproofing and dustproofing for the sensors. Furthermore, its modular design allows for customized protection for each unit based on different sensor requirements. The use of liquid curing resin ensures convenient filling and curing, successfully addressing the shortcomings and pain points of current technologies. The device boasts a simple structure, high reliability, strong protection, flexibility, and convenience, reducing sensor installation and usage failures on gathering and transportation pipeline surfaces and demonstrating broad application prospects.

[0062] Example 1

[0063] In this embodiment, for the probe positioning and protection device of a steel oil and gas gathering pipeline with an outer diameter of 114mm, an aluminum alloy material is used to process the fixing body 10 and the protective cap 20. The male and female threads connecting the fixing body 10 and the protective cap 20 adopt metric M50 threads. Eight fixing components composed of fixing bodies 10 and protective caps 20 are prepared. They are connected left and right by the second buckle 15 and the first buckle 14 at both ends of the fixing body 10, and are processed with hemispherical locking positions that can rotate relative to each other. The internal female thread of the fixing body 10 is prepared below the fixing body 10. The sensor channel is used to mount an ultrasonic sensor with a frequency of 5MHz, which is fabricated at the bottom of the fixed body 10. The curved surface is used to fit the outer surface of the pipe to obtain a more accurate position, and is fabricated at the bottom of the sensor channel. A 2mm deep couplant storage tank is used to add a certain amount of couplant during use to ensure coupling between the sensor and the tube surface, while preventing air from entering and interfering with the measurement results. A concentric ring is fabricated around the outside of the couplant storage tank. A 3mm deep protective groove 122 is prepared, with a ring of 6 grooves having a diameter of [missing information]. A flow hole 1221 connects the protective groove 122 and the space above it. A feature is machined on the top of the protective cap 20. The resin curing port has a 15mm wide sensor wire outlet 24 below it for the ultrasonic sensor wire to pass through. The inside of the protective cap 20 is hollow to house the sensor. The lower end of the protective cap 20 has a male thread M50 for connecting to the fixing body 10.

[0064] During on-site installation of the probe positioning and protection device for the gathering and transportation pipeline monitoring in this design, eight fixing components, each consisting of a fixing body 10 and a protective cap 20, are connected left and right via the second clip 15 and the first clip 14 at both ends of the fixing body 10. These components are then installed on the outer wall of a 114mm outer diameter steel oil and gas gathering and transportation pipeline, forming a complete circle. The position of the fixing body 10 is adjusted according to the required measurement location to ensure that each ultrasonic sensor points to one of eight directions on the gathering and transportation pipeline: 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 215°, 270°, and 315°. After adding coupling agent to the coupling agent storage tank, the sensor channel is then installed... Eight ultrasonic sensors are inserted, and then protective caps 20 are installed to adjust the position and height of the sensor probes. Each ultrasonic sensor probe is placed in the coupling agent storage tank and in contact with the surface of the steel pipe. After adjustment, protective phenolic resin is injected into the curing resin injection port, allowing the resin to flow down from the space between the protective cap 20 and the sensor, through the six flow holes 1221, into the protective tank 122, filling and curing it, thus protecting the entire sensor. After checking that the curing is complete and the installation is correct, the entire circumferential positioning, monitoring, and use of the pipeline can be achieved. At the same time, the aluminum alloy probe positioning and protection device itself also provides cathodic protection for the steel pipeline.

[0065] Example 2

[0066] In this embodiment, for the probe positioning and protection device of a non-metallic oil and gas gathering pipeline with an outer diameter of 89mm, a fixed body 10 and a protective cap 20 are fabricated using polypropylene material. The male and female threads connecting the fixed body 10 and the protective cap 20 adopt metric M32 threads. Six fixing components consisting of the fixed body 10 and the protective cap 20 are prepared. Aluminum alloy second clips 15 and first clips 14 are installed at both ends of the fixed body 10 and connected left and right to enhance the connection strength. A hemispherical locking mechanism is fabricated so that the center of rotation can rotate relative to each other. The internal female thread of the fixed body 10 is prepared below the fixed body 10. The sensor channel is used to mount a temperature sensor with a measurement range of -25 to 50°C, and is fabricated at the bottom of the fixed body 10. The curved surface is used to fit the outer surface of the pipe to obtain a more accurate position, and is fabricated at the bottom of the sensor channel. A 2mm deep couplant storage tank is used to add a certain amount of couplant during use to ensure coupling between the sensor and the tube surface, while preventing air from entering and interfering with the measurement results. A concentric ring is fabricated around the outside of the couplant storage tank. A 3mm deep protective groove 122 is prepared, with a ring of 4 grooves having a diameter of [missing information]. A flow hole 1221 connects the protective groove 122 and the space above it. A feature is machined on the top of the protective cap 20. The resin curing port has a 12mm wide sensor wire outlet 24 below it, which is used to pass through the ultrasonic sensor wire. The inside of the protective cap 20 is hollow to house the sensor. The lower end of the protective cap 20 is designed with a male thread M32 for connecting with the fixing body 10.

[0067] During on-site installation of the probe positioning and protection device for the gathering and transportation pipeline monitoring in this design, six fixing components consisting of a fixing body 10 and a protective cap 20 are connected left and right by the second clip 15 and the first clip 14 at both ends of the fixing body 10 and installed on the outer wall of the 89mm outer diameter non-metallic oil and gas gathering and transportation pipeline, forming a complete circle. The position of the fixing body 10 is adjusted according to the required measurement location to ensure that each temperature sensor points to one of the six directions of 0°, 60°, 120°, 180°, 240°, and 300° of the gathering and transportation pipeline. After adding coupling agent to the coupling agent storage tank, six temperature sensors are installed in the sensor channel, and then the protective cap is installed. The cap 20 is used to adjust the position and height of the sensor probe, so that each sensor probe part enters the coupling agent storage tank and contacts the surface of the pipe. After adjustment, protective acrylic resin is injected into the curing resin injection port, so that the resin flows down from the inside of the protective cap 20 and the space between the sensor, flows through the four flow holes 1221 into the protective tank 122 to fill and cure, thereby fixing and protecting the entire sensor. After checking that the curing is complete and the installation is not a problem, the entire circumferential positioning, monitoring and use of the pipeline can be realized. Because the protective unit is made of a material similar to that of non-metallic pipes and cured, the entire probe positioning and protection device has high stability and integrated effect.

[0068] Example 3

[0069] In this embodiment, for the probe positioning and protection device of a steel oil and gas gathering pipeline with an outer diameter of 339mm, a fixed body 10 and a protective cap 20 are machined from stainless steel. The male and female threads connecting the fixed body 10 and the protective cap 20 adopt metric M90 threads. 36 fixing components composed of the fixed body 10 and the protective cap 20 are prepared. They are connected left and right by the second buckle 15 and the first buckle 14 at both ends of the fixed body 10, and are machined with hemispherical locking positions that can rotate relative to each other. Below the internal female thread of the fixed body 10, respectively... A 30mm*60mm sensor channel is provided for mounting the ultrasonic sensor and the vibration sensor respectively, and is fabricated at the bottom of the fixed body 10. The curved surface is used to fit the outer surface of the pipe to obtain a more accurate position, and is fabricated at the bottom of the sensor channel. A 2mm deep couplant storage tank is used to add a certain amount of couplant during use to ensure coupling between the sensor and the tube surface, while preventing air from entering and interfering with the measurement results. A concentric ring is fabricated around the outside of the couplant storage tank. A 3mm deep protective groove 122 is prepared, with a ring of 12 grooves having a diameter of [missing information]. A flow hole 1221 connects the protective groove 122 and the space above it. A feature is machined on the top of the protective cap 20. The resin curing port has a 15mm wide sensor wire outlet 24 below it, which is used to pass through the ultrasonic sensor wire. The inside of the protective cap 20 is hollow to house the sensor. The lower end of the protective cap 20 is designed with a male thread M90 for connecting with the fixing body 10.

[0070] During on-site installation of the probe positioning and protection device for the gathering and transportation pipeline monitoring in this design, 36 fixing components, each consisting of a fixing body 10 and a protective cap 20, are connected left and right via the second clip 15 and the first clip 14 at both ends of the fixing body 10. These components are then installed on the outer wall of a 114mm outer diameter steel oil and gas gathering and transportation pipeline, forming a complete circle. The position of the fixing body 10 is adjusted according to the required measurement location to ensure that each ultrasonic sensor points to one of the 36 azimuths in 10° increments along the gathering and transportation pipeline, starting from 0°. After adding coupling agent to the coupling agent storage tank, the sensor is positioned at 8 azimuths: 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 215°, 270°, and 315°. Eight ultrasonic sensors are installed in the sensor channel, and vibration sensors are installed in the sensor channels at eight positions: 60°, 180°, and 300°. Then, a protective cap 20 is installed to adjust the position and height of the sensor probes, so that each sensor probe part enters the coupling agent storage tank and contacts the surface of the steel pipe. After adjustment, protective epoxy resin is injected into the curing resin injection port, allowing the resin to flow down from the space between the protective cap 20 and the sensor, through 12 flow holes 1221 into the protective tank 122, filling and curing it, thus protecting the entire sensor. After checking that the curing is complete and the installation is correct, the entire circumferential positioning, monitoring, and use of the pipeline can be achieved.

[0071] It should be noted that during the process of connecting multiple sensor fixing components sequentially around the outer circumference of the pipeline to be monitored, the position of the sensor fixing components should be adjusted according to the required measurement location to ensure that each sensor points to the point to be measured. After adding couplant to the couplant storage tank, the corresponding sensor is installed in the first receiving cavity. Then, the protective cap is installed to adjust the position and height of the sensor probe so that the part of each ultrasonic sensor probe enters the couplant storage tank and contacts the pipeline surface.

[0072] It should be noted that during the process of injecting protective material into the sensor fixing assembly, after the sensor fixing assembly is adjusted, protective resin is injected into the protective groove. The resin flows down from the space between the protective cap and the sensor, flows through the flow hole into the protective groove, fills it, and cures, thereby protecting the entire sensor.

[0073] As can be seen from the above description, the embodiments of the present invention achieve the following technical effects:

[0074] 1. It offers greater flexibility, overcoming the problems of current pipeline monitoring sensors requiring tools such as welding bolts for installation, complex processes, inaccurate positioning, and difficulty in replacement and maintenance. It can effectively reduce costs and improve construction efficiency and success rate.

[0075] 2. It is applicable to most sensor installations, and is easy to adjust and replace, making it highly versatile.

[0076] Obviously, the embodiments described above are merely some, not all, embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0077] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0078] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0079] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors, characterized in that, include: The number of sensor mounting components is determined based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored; Install the sensor inside the sensor mounting assembly; Multiple sensor fixing assemblies are connected together sequentially, end to end, around the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored. Inject protective material into the sensor fixing assembly; During the process of injecting protective material into the sensor fixing assembly, the protective material is injected into the sensor fixing assembly through the flow hole of the sensor fixing assembly until the protective material overflows from the flow hole. The sensor fixing assembly includes a sensor positioning unit and a sensor protection unit. The sensor positioning unit has a mating surface for abutting against the circumferential sidewall of the pipe to be monitored. The sensor protection unit is connected to the end of the sensor positioning unit away from the mating surface. The bonding surface has a coupling agent storage tank and a protective tank. The protective tank is arranged around the outer periphery of the coupling agent storage tank, and the coupling agent storage tank and the protective tank are arranged concentrically. The coupling connection between the sensor and the outer surface of the pipeline to be monitored is achieved by filling the coupling agent storage tank with coupling agent. The sensor fixing assembly includes a fixing body and a protective cap. The fixing body has a first receiving cavity, and the protective cap has a second receiving cavity. The second receiving cavity communicates with the first receiving cavity, and the first receiving cavity and the second receiving cavity are used to accommodate the sensor. The circumferential sidewall of the protective groove near the coupling agent storage groove and the bottom of the protective groove each have at least one flow hole extending along the axial direction of the protective groove, and the protective groove communicates with the first receiving cavity through the flow hole; The protective cap includes a connecting segment and a protective segment connected in sequence. The interiors of the connecting segment and the protective segment are interconnected to form a second receiving cavity, and at least a portion of the connecting segment extends into the first receiving cavity and is connected to the inner wall of the first receiving cavity. The inner wall of the second receiving cavity has a clearance gap with the sensor.

2. The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors according to claim 1, characterized in that, When determining the number of sensor mounting components based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored, the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored include at least the diameter and material of the pipeline to be monitored.

3. The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of sequentially connecting the multiple sensor fixing assemblies around the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored includes: Step S1: Connect the multiple sensor fixing components sequentially; Step S2: Wrap the multiple sensor fixing assemblies connected together around the outer periphery of the pipe to be monitored; Step S3: Adjust the position of each of the sensor fixing components so that the contact surface of the sensor fixing component is in contact with the outer periphery of the pipe to be monitored; Step S4: Connect two of the sensor fixing assemblies located at both ends of the plurality of sensor fixing assemblies together to form a ring.

4. The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors according to claim 3, characterized in that, The process of sequentially connecting the multiple sensor fixing assemblies around the outer circumference of the pipe to be monitored also includes a step S5 following step S4. Step S5: Repeat steps S1 to S4 to form N sensor fixing assemblies in a ring at different locations on the pipeline to be monitored.

5. The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protective material includes at least one of epoxy resin, acrylic resin, polyester resin, phenolic resin, and amino resin.

6. The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors according to claim 1, characterized in that, When installing the sensor inside the sensor mounting assembly, at least two different models of the sensor are installed in different sensor mounting assemblies.

7. The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors also includes the step of processing the sensor fixing components. The step of processing the sensor mounting assembly is performed before the step of determining the number of sensor mounting assemblies based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored; and / or The step of processing the sensor mounting assembly is located between the step of determining the number of sensor mounting assemblies based on the parameters of the pipeline to be monitored and the step of installing the sensor inside the sensor mounting assembly.

8. The modular installation and protection method for pipeline monitoring sensors according to claim 7, characterized in that, In the step of processing the sensor fixing assembly, one of the following materials is selected: nitrile rubber, ABS, resin, polypropylene, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, and titanium alloy to make the sensor fixing assembly.

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