Protective device for a natural gas pipeline

By combining thermoelectric material layers, phase change layers, and anode layers in the natural gas transmission pipeline, the problems of pipeline corrosion and temperature regulation are solved by utilizing thermoelectric power generation and phase change materials to manage heat, thus achieving energy self-sufficiency and improved safety.

CN117685452BActive Publication Date: 2026-04-14CHONGQING XIANGLONG NATURAL GAS CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-01-05
Publication Date
2026-04-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing natural gas pipelines have limitations in corrosion protection and temperature management, especially for subsea pipelines that require external power supply and cannot regulate temperature.

Method used

The design employs a combination of thermoelectric material layer, phase change layer and anode layer to generate electricity by utilizing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipeline. The temperature is intelligently regulated by the controller, and the phase change material manages the heat. The anode layer provides corrosion protection.

Benefits of technology

It achieves energy self-sufficiency, temperature optimization, and corrosion protection, improving transmission efficiency and safety, and enhancing the system's safety and environmental adaptability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The application relates to a protection device for a natural gas conveying pipeline, which is applied to the technical field of pipeline protection and comprises a pipeline, a thermoelectric material layer, a phase change layer, an anode layer and a controller. When natural gas is conveyed to the pipeline, the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipeline drives the thermoelectric groups in the thermoelectric material layer to work. The controller analyzes data through a microprocessor and judges whether heating or cooling operation needs to be performed on the pipeline or the phase change layer. The controller sends a control signal to the thermoelectric material layer according to the judgment result, adjusts the temperature of part of the thermoelectric groups, and at the same time maintains the temperature difference power generation of other thermoelectric groups. The phase change layer is composed of multiple phase change rings and contains microcapsule-filled phase change materials, is used for adjusting and managing heat, and helps to maintain the constant temperature inside the pipeline. The anode layer adopts metal titanium or conductive materials coated with platinum and iridium, is used as part of an impressed current cathodic protection system, prevents pipeline corrosion, and the controller adjusts the current generated by the anode layer to slow down or stop the corrosion process on the surface of the pipeline.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a protective device for natural gas transmission pipelines, and in particular to a protective device for natural gas transmission pipelines applied in the field of pipeline protection technology. Background Technology

[0002] Natural gas pipelines are an important component of modern energy infrastructure, characterized by their economic efficiency, environmental friendliness, and safety. However, pipeline protection is crucial for preventing leaks, maintaining energy security, protecting the environment, and fulfilling legal responsibilities. Therefore, we should attach great importance to and invest in pipeline construction and maintenance to ensure the safety, environmental protection, and economic benefits of the natural gas supply chain.

[0003] Chinese invention patent CN116288370 discloses a protection system and method for subsea pipelines. The protection system includes a sacrificial anode material, an anode bed, and an anti-corrosion layer. The sacrificial anode material, consisting of two arc-shaped grooves, is placed on the outside of the subsea pipeline, with the anode bed placed within each groove. The subsea pipeline is electrically connected to the negative terminal of a power source, and the anode bed is electrically connected to the positive terminal. An anti-corrosion layer is applied to the surface of the subsea pipeline. This system protects the subsea pipeline, extending its service life and offering good operability. It reduces the corrosion rate of the material through three aspects: using an external protective current to induce cathodic polarization in the subsea pipeline, sacrificial anode protection, and a coating, thereby effectively controlling the corrosion of the subsea pipeline.

[0004] The above design utilizes an external protective current to reduce the corrosion rate of the subsea pipeline through three aspects: generating cathodic polarization, sacrificial anode protection of the subsea pipeline, and coating. This achieves the goal of effectively controlling the corrosion of the subsea pipeline. However, it still has certain limitations, such as requiring an external power supply and being unable to regulate the pipeline temperature. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is how to achieve corrosion protection and temperature management of pipelines by using the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipeline.

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides a protective device for natural gas transmission pipelines, comprising a pipeline, a thermoelectric material layer fixedly connected to the outer end of the pipeline, a phase change layer fixedly connected to the outer end of the thermoelectric material layer, an anode layer fixedly connected to the outer end of the phase change layer, and a controller fixed between the phase change layer and the anode layer. The pipeline, the thermoelectric material layer, and the anode layer are all electrically connected to the controller via wires.

[0007] In the aforementioned protective device for natural gas transmission pipelines, the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipeline is used to generate electricity, achieving energy self-sufficiency. The temperature is intelligently regulated by a controller to optimize natural gas transmission efficiency. The phase change layer design makes heat management more effective, helping to maintain a constant temperature inside the pipeline. The corrosion protection of the anode layer extends the pipeline's lifespan and enhances transmission safety. In addition, the built-in safety protection mechanism and remote communication capability improve the system's safety and ease of operation, enhancing the efficiency, safety, and environmental adaptability of the natural gas transmission system.

[0008] As a further improvement of this application, the thermoelectric material layer is composed of multiple thermoelectric units, and the multiple thermoelectric units are composed of multiple semiconductor cooling chips.

[0009] As a further improvement of this application, multiple thermoelectric coolers are evenly distributed around the outer end of the pipe, and the multiple thermoelectric coolers are connected in series by wires. Multiple thermoelectric units are electrically connected to the same bus, and the bus is electrically connected to the controller.

[0010] As a further improvement of this application, the phase change layer is composed of multiple phase change rings, and the multiple phase change rings are composed of multiple phase change blocks.

[0011] As another improvement of this application, multiple phase change materials are uniformly distributed around the outer end of the thermoelectric material layer, and each of the multiple phase change materials contains multiple microcapsules, each of which is filled with phase change material and uniformly distributed between the inner and outer layers. The channels are made of conductive material, and the anode layer is a mesh structure, which is made of metallic titanium or a conductive material with a platinum or iridium coating on its surface.

[0012] As a further improvement to this application, the controller includes a microprocessor, an input / output interface, a drive module, a power management module, and a communication module. The microprocessor receives and processes electrical signals from the thermoelectric material layer through the input / output interface. The input / output interface is used to interact with the drive module, the thermoelectric material layer, and the anode layer. The power management module contains a small battery pack.

[0013] As a further improvement to this application, the controller has an overload protection mechanism to prevent abnormal current or voltage from damaging the controller, and is equipped with a safety alarm system to issue an alarm and take necessary safety measures when an abnormality is detected.

[0014] As another improvement to this application, it includes the following steps:

[0015] S1, Thermoelectric power generation;

[0016] S2, Temperature Control;

[0017] S3, Heat Management;

[0018] S4. Corrosion protection;

[0019] S5, Safety Protection;

[0020] S6, Energy Management;

[0021] S7, Communication Interaction.

[0022] In summary, this application has the following beneficial effects:

[0023] 1. Thermoelectric power generation, energy self-sufficiency: By utilizing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipe, the thermoelectric material layer generates electricity, reducing dependence on external power sources. Through thermoelectric power generation, the demand for traditional energy sources is reduced, and energy utilization efficiency is improved.

[0024] 2. Temperature regulation and optimization of pipeline temperature: The controller adjusts the pipeline temperature based on real-time data to ensure that natural gas is transported at the optimal temperature, thereby improving transportation efficiency. It can automatically adjust heating or cooling operations according to real-time temperature changes, thereby improving the system's adaptability and efficiency.

[0025] 3. Heat management and effective heat control: Through the solid-liquid conversion of phase change materials in the phase change layer, heat flow is effectively managed, a constant temperature is maintained in the pipeline, and the stability and safety of natural gas transportation are ensured.

[0026] 4. Corrosion protection: The impressed current cathodic protection system of the anode layer reduces pipeline corrosion, extends pipeline service life, reduces corrosion risk, and increases the overall safety of the natural gas transmission system.

[0027] 5. Safety protection: Overload protection mechanisms and safety alarm systems provide additional safety guarantees for the entire protection device. When abnormal conditions are detected, measures can be taken quickly to prevent potential safety accidents.

[0028] 6. Energy supply; The internal small battery pack provides additional power support to the system, enhancing its reliability.

[0029] 7. Communication and Interaction: Through input / output interfaces and communication modules, remote monitoring and management of the system can be realized, improving the convenience of maintenance and operation, and providing comprehensive protection for natural gas transmission pipelines, including temperature management, energy recovery, corrosion protection and safety assurance, thereby improving the efficiency, safety and environmental adaptability of the pipeline transmission system. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a top view of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view (AA) of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a BB cross-sectional view of this application;

[0035] Figure 6 This is an enlarged view of section C in this application;

[0036] Figure 7 This is an enlarged view of section D in this application;

[0037] Figure 8 For the explosion of this application Figure 1 ;

[0038] Figure 9 For the explosion of this application Figure 2 ;

[0039] Figure 10 For the explosion of this application Figure 3 ;

[0040] Figure 11 This is an enlarged view of section E in this application;

[0041] Figure 12 For the appearance structure of this application Figure 1 ;

[0042] Figure 13 This is an enlarged view of section F in this application;

[0043] Figure 14 This is a side view of the controller in this application;

[0044] Figure 15 This is an enlarged view of section G in this application;

[0045] Figure 16 This is a structural diagram of the controller in this application;

[0046] Figure 17 This is a front view of this application;

[0047] Figure 18 For the appearance structure of this application Figure 2 ;

[0048] Figure 19 For the control system interaction of this application Figure 1 ;

[0049] Figure 20 This is a structural diagram of the control system of this application;

[0050] Figure 21 This is the overall interaction diagram for this application.

[0051] Explanation of the labels in the diagram:

[0052] 1. Pipeline; 2. Thermoelectric material layer; 3. Phase change layer; 4. Anode layer; 5. Controller; 6. Thermoelectric unit; 7. Semiconductor refrigeration chip; 8. Phase change ring; 9. Phase change type; 10. Microcapsule; 11. Bus. Detailed Implementation

[0053] The four embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] First implementation method:

[0055] Figure 1-18 A protective device for a natural gas transmission pipeline is shown, comprising a pipeline 1, a thermoelectric material layer 2 fixedly connected to the outer end of the pipeline 1, a phase change layer 3 fixedly connected to the outer end of the thermoelectric material layer 2, an anode layer 4 fixedly connected to the outer end of the phase change layer 3, and a controller 5 fixed between the phase change layer 3 and the anode layer 4. The pipeline 1, the thermoelectric material layer 2, and the anode layer 4 are all electrically connected to the controller 5 via wires.

[0056] In the aforementioned protection device for natural gas transmission pipelines, the temperature difference between the inside and outside of pipeline 1 is used to generate electricity, achieving energy self-sufficiency. The temperature is intelligently regulated by controller 5 to optimize natural gas transmission efficiency. The design of phase change layer 3 makes heat management more effective, helping to maintain a constant temperature inside pipeline 1. The corrosion protection of anode layer 4 extends the life of pipeline 1 and enhances transmission safety. In addition, the built-in safety protection mechanism and remote communication capability improve the system's safety and ease of operation, enhancing the efficiency, safety, and environmental adaptability of the natural gas transmission system.

[0057] Pipeline 1, serving as the main channel for transporting natural gas, maintains the flow and distribution of natural gas. Made of conductive materials, Pipeline 1 can be used in conjunction with a cathodic protection system to reduce corrosion and extend service life. Thermoelectric material layer 2 utilizes the temperature difference between the inside and outside of pipeline 1 to generate electricity through the thermoelectric effect. This allows for heating or cooling operations as needed, providing energy to controller 5 and supporting temperature regulation of pipeline 1 to maintain natural gas transport at the optimal temperature, improving transport efficiency and safety. Phase change layer 3 is used for heat management. When heated or cooled, the phase change material absorbs or releases heat and can manage the heat flow inside and outside pipeline 1 by changing its thermal conductivity, helping to maintain a constant temperature within pipeline 1. Temperature control improves the efficiency and safety of natural gas transportation. The anode layer 4, as part of the impressed current cathodic protection system, is made of metallic titanium or conductive materials coated with platinum or iridium. It is used to prevent corrosion of pipeline 1, effectively reduce or prevent corrosion reactions on the surface of pipeline 1, extend the service life of pipeline 1, and ensure the safety of the transportation process. The controller 5 receives and processes the electrical signals of the thermoelectric material layer 2, controls the temperature regulation and corrosion protection system, realizes intelligent management, improves the automation level of the system, reduces maintenance costs and risks, and can achieve efficient energy utilization, effective temperature and corrosion control, and comprehensive safety protection, thereby ensuring the continuity, efficiency and safety of natural gas transportation.

[0058] Second implementation method:

[0059] Figure 1-19 As shown, the thermoelectric material layer 2 is composed of multiple thermoelectric units 6, and the multiple thermoelectric units 6 are composed of multiple semiconductor cooling chips 7.

[0060] Multiple thermoelectric coolers 7 are evenly distributed around the outer end of the pipe 1, and the multiple thermoelectric coolers 7 are connected in series by wires. Multiple thermoelectric units 6 are electrically connected to the same bus 11, and the bus 11 is electrically connected to the controller 5.

[0061] The phase change layer 3 is composed of multiple phase change rings 8, and the multiple phase change rings 8 are composed of multiple phase change blocks 9.

[0062] Multiple phase change materials 9 are uniformly distributed around the outer end of the thermoelectric material layer 2, and each of the multiple phase change materials 9 contains multiple microcapsules 10, each of the multiple microcapsules 10 is filled with phase change material, and is uniformly distributed between the inner and outer layers.

[0063] Pipe 1 is made of conductive material, and anode layer 4 is a mesh structure, which is made of metallic titanium or conductive material coated with platinum or iridium.

[0064] The thermoelectric material layer 2 consists of multiple thermoelectric units 6, each containing multiple thermoelectric coolers 7. These thermoelectric coolers 7 utilize the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipe 1 to generate an electromotive force, thus forming a current. This effectively converts the temperature difference into electrical energy, providing power to the controller 5 and supporting temperature regulation of the pipe 1. The thermoelectric coolers 7 are uniformly distributed around the outer end of the pipe 1, connected in series by wires, and electrically connected to the bus 11. The electromotive force generated under the action of the temperature difference provides an efficient energy recovery method, converting the thermal energy of the pipe 1 into electrical energy, reducing energy waste. Furthermore, when needed, electrical energy can be used to heat or cool the pipe 1 and the phase change layer 3. The phase change layer 3 consists of multiple phase change rings 8, each containing multiple phase change elements 9. Each phase change element 9 contains microcapsules 10 filled with phase change materials. These materials can change from a solid to a liquid state, or vice versa, depending on the temperature. 3. By absorbing or releasing heat through solid-liquid phase change, and with the phase change material having different thermal conductivity in different states, heat flow within pipeline 1 can be effectively managed, helping to maintain a stable temperature of natural gas within pipeline 1 and improve transportation efficiency. Pipeline 1 is made of conductive material and serves as a natural gas transportation channel. The choice of conductive material allows pipeline 1 to be used in conjunction with a cathodic protection system, enhancing its tolerance to environmental factors and reducing the risk of corrosion. The anode layer 4 has a mesh structure and is made of metallic titanium or conductive material coated with platinum or iridium. As part of the impressed current cathodic protection system, it prevents corrosion of pipeline 1, effectively preventing corrosion, extending the service life of pipeline 1, and ensuring the safety of natural gas transportation. It can not only effectively utilize thermoelectric power generation, regulate temperature, and manage heat, but also achieve automated management through intelligent controller 5, improving the efficiency, safety, and reliability of natural gas transportation.

[0065] The third implementation method:

[0066] Figure 1-20 As shown, the controller 5 includes a microprocessor, an input / output interface, a drive module, a power management module, and a communication module. The microprocessor receives and processes electrical signals from the thermoelectric material layer 2 through the input / output interface.

[0067] The input / output interface is used to interact with the drive module, thermoelectric material layer 2 and anode layer 4, and the power management module contains a small battery pack.

[0068] The controller 5 has an overload protection mechanism to prevent abnormal current or voltage from damaging the controller 5, and is equipped with a safety alarm system to issue an alarm and take necessary safety measures when an abnormal situation is detected.

[0069] The microprocessor is the core of the controller 5, responsible for receiving and processing electrical signals from the thermoelectric material layer 2. These signals include current data generated by the temperature difference and temperature information of the pipe 1. The input / output interface serves as a bridge for communication between the controller 5 and the outside world, used for data interaction with the drive module, thermoelectric material layer 2, and anode layer 4. Through these interfaces, the controller 5 can send commands to adjust the temperature, manage the current, etc. The drive module receives commands from the controller 5 and executes corresponding actions, such as activating or adjusting the functions of the thermoelectric group 6 and anode layer 4, ensuring rapid and accurate system response and improving overall efficiency and reliability. The power management module contains a small battery pack, responsible for managing and distributing power, ensuring a stable power supply for the controller 5 and other components, enhancing the system's self-sufficiency even in the event of an external power outage. It can maintain operation, increase the reliability and independence of the system, and the communication module is responsible for remote communication between the controller 5 and external systems or monitoring centers, so that the system status and operation data can be remotely monitored and adjusted, making system management more intelligent and convenient. It supports remote fault diagnosis and real-time data analysis, improves maintenance efficiency, and the overload protection mechanism prevents abnormal current or voltage from damaging the controller 5, ensuring the stable operation of the system. The safety alarm system can issue an alarm when abnormal conditions are detected and take necessary safety measures, such as cutting off the power supply or stopping related operations, to ensure the safety of the system and its operators. The controller 5 effectively integrates the functions of the thermoelectric material layer 2 and the anode layer 4, while ensuring the stable and safe operation of the system and providing remote monitoring and control capabilities, improving the efficiency, safety and reliability of the natural gas transmission pipeline.

[0070] Fourth implementation method:

[0071] Figure 1-21 The following steps are shown:

[0072] S1. Thermoelectric power generation: When natural gas is transported into the pipeline 1, due to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipeline 1, multiple thermoelectric units 6 in the thermoelectric material layer 2 start to work. Each thermoelectric unit 6 is composed of multiple semiconductor cooling chips 7. These semiconductor cooling chips 7 are evenly distributed around the outer end of the pipeline 1 and connected in series by wires. A bus 11 is electrically connected to multiple thermoelectric units 6. The bus 11 is electrically connected to the controller 5. Due to the temperature difference between the two ends of the semiconductor cooling chips 7, an electromotive force is generated, thereby forming a current. The current is transmitted to the bus 11 through the wires, and then the bus 11 transmits the current to the controller 5 to provide it with a power source.

[0073] S2. Temperature regulation: After receiving the current transmitted by the bus 11, the controller 5 processes the relevant data through the microprocessor to determine whether it is necessary to heat or cool the pipe 1 or the phase change layer 3. Based on the determination result, the controller 5 sends the corresponding control signal to the thermoelectric material layer 2 to control part of the thermoelectric group 6 in the thermoelectric material layer 2 to heat or cool down, while the other part of the thermoelectric group 6 continues to maintain temperature difference power generation. When it is necessary to use the semiconductor cooling chip 7 to heat or cool down, the direction of the current through the semiconductor cooling chip 7 can be changed.

[0074] The controller 5 receives current data from each thermoelectric unit 6 in real time via bus 11, including the magnitude of the electromotive force generated by the semiconductor cooling chip 7 and the current value. The microprocessor within the controller 5 analyzes the collected data to determine the current temperature and temperature change trend of the pipe 1 and the phase change layer 3. Based on the data analysis results, the microprocessor determines whether the natural gas in the pipe 1 is within the optimal temperature range. If a temperature deviation from the ideal state is detected, the microprocessor calculates the required temperature adjustment and determines whether to heat or cool. Based on the microprocessor's decision, the controller 5 sends detailed control signals to the thermoelectric material layer 2. These signals specify... Which thermoelectric units 6 need heating or cooling operations, while ensuring that other thermoelectric units 6 continue to generate electricity through thermoelectric difference as normal, are determined. When heating or cooling is performed, the controller 5 achieves the required temperature regulation by changing the direction and intensity of the current passing through the semiconductor cooling chip 7. If cooling is required, the controller 5 will increase the current flowing through the cooling chip, and conversely, it will decrease the current or change the direction of the current to heat. The controller 5 continuously monitors the temperature change after execution and ensures that the pipeline 1 and the phase change layer 3 reach the target temperature through feedback loop. If necessary, the controller 5 will fine-tune the current parameters to more accurately control the temperature, ensuring the stable delivery of natural gas in the pipeline 1 and optimizing the protection effect.

[0075] S3. Thermal management: The phase change layer 3 consists of multiple phase change rings 8, each containing multiple phase change bodies 9. Each phase change body 9 contains multiple microcapsules 10, which are filled with phase change material. When the controller 5 issues a heating or cooling command, the thermoelectric material layer 2 will perform corresponding operations on the phase change layer 3. During the heating or cooling process, the phase change material will undergo solid-liquid or liquid-solid phase change. This process is accompanied by the absorption or release of heat. At the same time, the thermal conductivity of the phase change material will change accordingly after the phase change. The change in thermal conductivity can accelerate or slow down the heat transfer rate inside and outside the phase change layer 3. In this way, the phase change layer 3 plays a role in regulating and managing heat, helping to maintain a constant temperature inside the pipe 1.

[0076] The design of the microcapsule 10 ensures that the phase change material can react rapidly to temperature changes while maintaining the stability of the overall structure. When the controller 5 detects that the temperature of the pipe 1 needs to be adjusted, it instructs the thermoelectric material layer 2 to heat or cool the phase change layer 3. The heating operation causes the phase change material inside the microcapsule 10 to change from a solid to a liquid state, absorbing heat in the process; the cooling operation causes the phase change material to return from a liquid to a solid state, releasing heat in the process. This change in state causes the phase change material to exhibit different thermal conductivity properties at different temperatures. The change in thermal conductivity of the phase change material during the phase change can effectively regulate the heat flow inside and outside the pipe 1. When cooling is required, the phase change material releases heat through liquid-solid conversion, accelerating heat conduction from the inside of pipe 1 to the outside; when heating is required, it absorbs heat through solid-liquid conversion, slowing down heat loss. Controller 5 adjusts the speed and intensity of heat transfer based on real-time temperature data and preset parameters to ensure that the natural gas in pipe 1 is kept at the optimal transportation temperature. Controller 5 continuously monitors the state of phase change layer 3 and the temperature inside pipe 1 to ensure that phase change layer 3 undergoes phase change as needed, achieving the best heat management effect. The dynamic feedback mechanism enables the system to flexibly adjust under different environmental and operating conditions, maintaining an efficient and stable operating state.

[0077] S4. Corrosion protection: Pipeline 1 itself is made of conductive material, while the anode layer 4 is made of metallic titanium or conductive material coated with platinum or iridium. As part of an impressed current cathodic protection system, the anode layer 4 plays a role in preventing corrosion of pipeline 1. When current flows from the anode layer 4 to pipeline 1, pipeline 1 acts as a cathode, and its oxidation reaction rate will decrease, thereby reducing the occurrence of corrosion.

[0078] The anode layer 4 is made of titanium or a conductive material coated with platinum or iridium. These materials not only have excellent conductivity but also high corrosion resistance and chemical stability. Titanium, platinum, and iridium maintain their physical and chemical properties under various environments, ensuring the long-term effectiveness of the anode layer 4. As a key component of the impressed current cathodic protection system, the anode layer 4's main function is to provide corrosion protection for pipe 1. When the cathodic protection system is activated, the controller 5 adjusts the current generated by the anode layer 4, making pipe 1 act as the cathode. By establishing a potential difference, the corrosion process on the surface of pipe 1 is slowed down or prevented. The anode layer 4 transmits a small current to pipe 1, changing the surface of pipe 1... In an electrochemical environment, the current transfer creates a potential difference, making the surface of pipe 1 no longer a preferred site for corrosion reaction, thus effectively slowing down or preventing the occurrence of corrosion reaction. Controller 5 continuously monitors the potential of pipe 1 and adjusts the amount of current generated by anode layer 4 as needed to maintain the best anti-corrosion effect. Controller 5 continuously monitors the working status of pipe 1 and anode layer 4 through data and algorithms of thermoelectric material layer 2. Based on real-time monitoring data, controller 5 can adjust the current intensity and distribution of anode layer 4 to ensure that all parts of pipe 1 are uniformly protected against corrosion. Dynamic adjustment ensures that the corrosion protection of pipe 1 is always in the best state under different environmental conditions and during natural gas transportation.

[0079] S5. Safety Protection: Controller 5 has a built-in overload protection mechanism to prevent abnormal current or voltage from damaging the controller 5 itself. At the same time, controller 5 is also equipped with a safety alarm system. When an abnormal situation is detected, an alarm will be triggered and necessary safety measures will be taken, including cutting off the power supply and stopping related operations, to ensure the safe operation of the entire system.

[0080] S6. Energy supply: The controller 5 integrates a power management module with a small battery pack inside. This module can provide additional power support for the entire protection device. When the thermoelectric material layer 2 generates electricity through temperature difference, some of the electrical energy will be stored in the small battery pack.

[0081] S7. Communication interaction: The input / output interface is used for data interaction between the controller 5 and the drive module, thermoelectric material layer 2 and anode layer 4. The communication module is responsible for remote communication with other devices or systems to facilitate monitoring and management of the entire protection device's operating status.

[0082] In light of current practical needs, the above-described embodiments adopted in this application are not limited to these. Any changes made within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art without departing from the concept of this application still fall within the protection scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A protective device for a natural gas transmission pipeline, characterized in that: The system includes a pipe (1), a thermoelectric material layer (2) fixedly connected to the outer end of the pipe (1), a phase change layer (3) fixedly connected to the outer end of the thermoelectric material layer (2), an anode layer (4) fixedly connected to the outer end of the phase change layer (3), and a controller (5) fixed between the phase change layer (3) and the anode layer (4). The pipe (1), the thermoelectric material layer (2), and the anode layer (4) are all electrically connected to the controller (5) through wires. The thermoelectric material layer (2) is composed of multiple thermoelectric units (6), and the multiple thermoelectric units (6) are composed of multiple semiconductor cooling chips (7); Multiple semiconductor cooling chips (7) are evenly distributed around the outer end of the pipe (1), and the multiple semiconductor cooling chips (7) are connected in series by wires. Multiple thermoelectric units (6) are electrically connected to the same bus (11), and the bus (11) is electrically connected to the controller (5). The phase change layer (3) is composed of multiple phase change rings (8), and the multiple phase change rings (8) are composed of multiple phase change blocks (9); Multiple phase change materials (9) are uniformly distributed around the outer end of the thermoelectric material layer (2), and each of the multiple phase change materials (9) contains multiple microcapsules (10), each of the multiple microcapsules (10) is filled with phase change material; Includes the following steps, S1. Thermoelectric power generation: When natural gas is transported into the pipeline (1), due to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipeline (1), multiple thermoelectric groups (6) in the thermoelectric material layer (2) start to work. Due to the temperature difference, the two ends of the semiconductor cooling chip (7) will generate an electromotive force, thereby forming a current. The current is transmitted to the bus (11) through the wire, and then the bus (11) transmits the current to the controller (5). S2. Temperature regulation: After receiving the current generated by the thermoelectric material layer (2) transmitted by the bus (11), the controller (5) determines whether it is necessary to heat or cool the pipe (1) or the phase change layer (3). According to the determination result, the controller (5) sends the corresponding control signal to the thermoelectric material layer (2) to control part of the thermoelectric group (6) in the thermoelectric material layer (2) to heat or cool down, while the other part of the thermoelectric group (6) continues to maintain the temperature difference to generate electricity. S3, Heat management: When the controller (5) issues a heating or cooling command to the thermoelectric material layer (2), the phase change material will respond to the temperature change of the thermoelectric material layer (2) and undergo solid-liquid phase change or liquid-solid phase change to help maintain a constant temperature inside the pipe (1). S4. Corrosion protection: The controller (5) controls the current generated by the thermoelectric material layer (2) to flow from the anode layer (4) to the pipe (1). The pipe (1) acts as the cathode and slows down or prevents the corrosion process on the surface of the pipe (1) by establishing a potential difference. S5. Safety protection: The controller (5) has a built-in overload protection mechanism and safety alarm system to provide additional safety protection for the device. S6, Energy Management: The controller (5) has a built-in power management module to provide additional power support for the device; S7. Communication and interaction: The controller (5) has built-in input / output interfaces and communication modules to realize data interaction and remote communication of the device.

2. The protective device for a natural gas transmission pipeline according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pipe (1) is made of conductive material, and the anode layer (4) is a mesh structure, which is made of metallic titanium or a conductive material coated with platinum or iridium.

3. A protective device for a natural gas transmission pipeline according to claim 1, characterized in that: The controller (5) includes a microprocessor, an input / output interface, a drive module, a power management module and a communication module. The microprocessor receives and processes electrical signals from the thermoelectric material layer (2) through the input / output interface.

4. A protective device for a natural gas transmission pipeline according to claim 3, characterized in that: The input / output interface is used to interact with the drive module, the thermoelectric material layer (2) and the anode layer (4), and the power management module is equipped with a small battery pack.

5. A protective device for a natural gas transmission pipeline according to claim 1, characterized in that: The controller (5) has an overload protection mechanism to prevent abnormal current or voltage from damaging the controller (5), and is equipped with a safety alarm system to issue an alarm and take safety measures when an abnormal situation is detected.

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