Online replacement device and method for LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) sampler

Abstract

GThe invention relates to an LNG sampler on-line replacement device and method, and the device comprises a housing which is arranged on a short pipe; the guide assembly is arranged on the shell; the supporting assembly is movably arranged on the guide assembly; the two overturning assemblies are rotationally arranged on the supporting assembly and are in sliding connection with the guiding assembly; the rotating assembly is arranged on the guide assembly and used for driving the supporting assembly to rotate; the lifting assembly is arranged on the shell and the guide assembly and used for driving the supporting assembly to move in the vertical direction; the two clamping assemblies are connected with the two overturning assemblies in a one-to-one correspondence mode and used for being connected with the LNG sampler in a clamped mode; the pressing unit is arranged on the shell and used for abutting against the LNG sampler; the sealing assembly is arranged on the shell and used for being connected with the short pipe in a sealed mode. According to the device, the LNG sampler replacement efficiency is improved, the safety risk in the replacement process is reduced, and reliable technical support is provided for online safety operation and maintenance work of the LNG sampler.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an online replacement device and method for LNG samplers, belonging to the field of online operation and maintenance technology. Background Technology

[0002] With the increasing national emphasis on green development and low-carbon transformation, natural gas, including LNG, as a clean energy source, is facing a period of rapid development. Natural gas production growth continues to outpace oil production. The latest data shows that in 2024, China's total natural gas production increased by 6.2% year-on-year, reaching 246.4 billion cubic meters. Meanwhile, crude oil production was 210 million tons, an increase of only 1.8% over the previous year. There are two main reasons for this "gas surpassing oil" phenomenon: First, compared with coal and oil, natural gas has advantages such as wide applicability, safety, convenience, high calorific value, and cleanliness, making it an important path for my country to promote an energy production and consumption revolution and build a clean, low-carbon, safe, and efficient modern energy system. Second, the goal of achieving carbon peaking is accelerating the efficient utilization of clean energy sources, represented by natural gas (including LNG).

[0003] Furthermore, to fully reflect the economic value of natural gas (including LNG) due to its high calorific value and to protect the legitimate rights and interests of oil and gas pipeline network operators and users, the "Supervision Measures for Fair and Open Access to Oil and Gas Pipeline Network Facilities" (hereinafter referred to as the "Measures") were formulated in 2019. The Measures explicitly require that natural gas should be settled based on its calorific value, and those facilities that do not yet have the capability for calorific value measurement should implement calorific value (energy) measurement within 24 months from the date of implementation of the Measures. As a result, the demand for LNG sampling, gasification, and energy analysis metering devices is increasing.

[0004] Because LNG is a cryogenic liquid mixture (typically operating at temperatures below -150°C) and is extremely prone to vaporization, liquid LNG is susceptible to rapid fractionation and vaporization of its components under the influence of minute temperature and pressure changes. Therefore, obtaining a true flowing LNG sample that can represent the proportion of the liquid mixture in the pipeline before LNG vaporization is very difficult.

[0005] The LNG sampling system, as a key testing device, plays a crucial role in real-time collection of LNG samples and analysis of core indicators such as composition, density, and calorific value. This directly impacts LNG product quality assessment, transaction settlement, and equipment safety. Obtaining representative LNG samples requires continuous sampling for over ten hours; any deviation can result in significant economic losses. This process demands stable operation of the LNG sampler under extreme working conditions. However, the sampler may develop structural abnormalities due to prolonged exposure to extreme low-temperature and pressurized conditions, affecting sampling performance. Regular maintenance or replacement is necessary to ensure testing accuracy.

[0006] The industry's conventional method for replacing LNG samplers still relies on a complete process of system shutdown, isolation, purging, flushing, replacement, precooling, repressurization, and restart. Because the medium inside LNG pipelines and equipment is at extremely low temperatures, the pipeline must be depressurized and emptied before shutdown, and residual LNG and natural gas must be replaced with inert gases such as nitrogen to prevent air from entering and forming an explosive mixture. After replacement, repressurization, cooling, and verification of system tightness are required, a process that can take several days or even more than a week. Therefore, it is difficult to find a suitable unloading window for LNG sampler replacement, and delays in sampler replacement can lead to inaccurate measurements and even inaccurate trade data, resulting in significant economic losses. Furthermore, the existing LNG sampler replacement method involves the pipeline temperature recovering from extremely low temperatures to normal temperature and then back to extremely low temperatures; extreme temperature changes can cause pipeline displacement, leaks at flange connections, and other safety issues. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides an online LNG sampler replacement device and method, aiming to improve the replacement efficiency of LNG samplers and reduce the safety risks during the replacement process, thus providing a solution for LN... G The online security operation and maintenance of the sampler is provided with reliable technical support.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: An online replacement device for an LNG sampler includes: The casing is mounted on the short tube; A guide assembly is disposed on the housing; Support components are actively mounted on the guide components; Two sets of flipping components are rotatably mounted on the support component and slidably connected to the guide component; A rotating component, disposed on the guide component, is used to drive the support component to rotate; A lifting assembly, disposed on the housing and the guide assembly, is used to drive the support assembly to move vertically; Two clamping components are provided, each connected to one of the two sets of flipping components, for clamping the LNG sampler. A clamping unit is disposed on the housing and is used to abut against the LNG sampler; A sealing assembly, disposed on the housing, is used for a sealing connection with the short tube.

[0009] Preferably, the LNG sampler online replacement device includes a fixed shell, a movable shell slidably disposed on the fixed shell, and a cover plate rotatably disposed on the fixed shell and sealed to the movable shell; the fixed shell is provided with a locking assembly connected to the movable shell; and the movable shell is provided with a buckle connected to the cover plate.

[0010] Preferably, in the LNG sampler online replacement device, the guiding assembly includes a first guide ring disposed on the fixed shell, a connecting ring disposed on the first guide ring, and a second guide ring disposed on the connecting ring; a guiding groove is provided between the first guide ring and the second guide ring, and both the first guide ring and the second guide ring have an opening with a guiding groove at the opening.

[0011] The LNG sampler online replacement device, preferably, includes a support assembly comprising a rotating plate movably mounted on the guide ring, two support rods mounted on the rotating plate, and a connecting rod mounted on each of the support rods.

[0012] Preferably, the online replacement device for the LNG sampler includes a clamping block rotatably mounted on the connecting rod, a guide rod slidably mounted on the clamping block with one end embedded in the guide groove, a push plate mounted on the guide rod, and an elastic member mounted on the guide rod with both ends abutting against the clamping block and the push plate respectively. The other end of the guide rod is embedded in the clamping assembly.

[0013] Preferably, the LNG sampler online replacement device includes a lifting assembly comprising a lifting plate slidably disposed on the first guide ring and rotatably connected to the rotating plate, a lead screw rotatably disposed on the fixed shell and the first guide ring, a bevel gear transmission assembly disposed on the lead screw, and a handwheel disposed on the bevel gear transmission assembly and located outside the fixed shell, wherein the seal between the handwheel and the fixed shell is a dynamic seal.

[0014] Preferably, the rotating assembly of the LNG sampler online replacement device includes a gear disposed on the rotating part of the support rod and the lifting plate, a rack meshing with the gear and slidably connected to the lifting plate, a guide rail disposed on the guide ring and slidably connected to the rack, an elastic element disposed on the guide rail for pushing the rack downward, two limiting posts disposed on the lifting plate, and a limiting rod disposed on the gear and engaged with the limiting posts.

[0015] Preferably, the online replacement device for the LNG sampler includes a clamping block one disposed on one side of the LNG sampler, a clamping block two disposed on the other side of the LNG sampler, a guide pin disposed on the clamping block one and embeddedly connected to the clamping block two, and two guide blocks disposed on the clamping block one and the clamping block two respectively and embeddedly connected to the T-slot; the guide block is engaged with the guide rod, and the guide block is provided with a connecting groove for engaging the guide rod.

[0016] The LNG sampler online replacement device, preferably, includes a sealing assembly comprising a sealing plate one disposed on the fixed shell and the movable shell and sealed to the short pipe, a conical sealing gasket disposed on the short pipe, and a sealing plate two disposed on the fixed shell and the movable shell and abutting against the conical sealing gasket.

[0017] Preferably, the online replacement device for the LNG sampler includes a clamping unit comprising a support platform mounted on the sealing plate, a pressure rod rotatably mounted on the support platform and capable of contacting the LNG sampler, a lifting ring slidably mounted within the fixed housing for pushing the pressure rod to rotate, and a lifting assembly mounted on the fixed housing for driving the lifting ring to move.

[0018] A second aspect of the present invention provides an operating method for the above-mentioned online replacement device for LNG samplers, comprising the following steps: The housing is fitted onto the short pipe and sealed to the short pipe. The clamping assembly is then clamped onto the old LNG sampler. The lifting assembly drives the support assembly to move downward, causing the support assembly to move the flipping assembly downward, so that the flipping assembly can be clamped onto the clamping assembly, thereby connecting the flipping assembly to the old LNG sampler. Then, another clamping assembly is clamped onto the new LNG sampler, and the clamping assembly is installed onto another flipping assembly, so that the new LNG sampler is connected to the flipping assembly located above, completing the preparatory work for assembly. The clamping unit is pressed onto the flange of the old LNG sampler, so that the flange of the LNG sampler can press onto the flange of the short pipe. Then the bolts on the flange are removed, the cover plate is closed, and the cover plate is fixed by the buckle so that the cover plate, the fixed shell and the movable shell form a sealed space. At the same time, inert protective gas is injected into the fixed shell through the gas pipe on the cover plate, and the density and pressure of the inert gas are greater than the density and pressure of the natural gas in the short pipe. The clamping unit is driven to detach from the old LNG sampler, thus removing the old LNG sampler. The lifting assembly drives the support assembly to move upward, which in turn drives the flipping assembly and the clamping assembly to move upward. This causes the clamping assembly to move the old LNG sampler upward, while the new LNG sampler above is engaged in the guide assembly, causing the new LNG sampler to rotate to a horizontal position. The old LNG sampler below is then removed from the short pipe. After the old LNG sampler is completely removed from the short pipe, the rotating plate moves into the guide ring. The rotating assembly drives the rotating plate to rotate half a turn, thereby swapping the positions of the new and old LNG samplers. The new LNG sampler is positioned below, while the old LNG sampler... The sampler is located at the top. The lifting assembly drives the support assembly to move downwards, thereby moving the flipping assembly, the clamping assembly, and the old LNG sampler downwards. After the flipping assembly separates from the guide assembly, it rotates, causing the new LNG sampler to rotate to a vertical position and be directly above the short pipe. Continuing to move the support assembly downwards allows the new LNG sampler to be inserted into the short pipe, thus installing the new LNG sampler. The clamping unit then secures the new LNG sampler. A natural gas detector checks for natural gas leaks. If no leak occurs, the inert gas inside the fixed housing is vented, the cover is opened, and bolts are screwed into the flanges of the new LNG sampler and the short pipe, thus completing the replacement of the old LNG sampler. Finally, the housing can be removed.

[0019] The present invention has the following advantages due to the adoption of the above technical solutions: 1. In this invention, an inert protective gas is injected into the gas pipe box fixing shell on the cover plate. The density and pressure of the inert gas are greater than the density and pressure of the natural gas in the short pipe, which prevents natural gas from entering the fixing shell and thus avoids natural gas leakage. By deploying a natural gas detector, the natural gas value is detected in real time when the LNG sampler is replaced.

[0020] 2. The driving clamping unit of this invention separates from the old LNG sampler, allowing the LNG sampler to be removed. The lifting assembly drives the support assembly to move upwards, which in turn moves the flipping assembly and clamping assembly upwards. This causes the clamping assembly to move the LNG sampler upwards, while the new LNG sampler above is inserted into the guide assembly and guided by it, causing the LNG sampler to rotate to a horizontal position. The old LNG sampler below can then be removed from the short pipe. After the LNG sampler is completely removed from the short pipe, the rotating plate moves into the guide ring. The rotating assembly drives the rotating plate to rotate half a revolution, thereby swapping the positions of the new and old LNG samplers, so that the new LNG sampler is positioned below. The old LNG sampler is located on top. The lifting assembly drives the support assembly to move downwards, which in turn moves the flipping assembly, clamping assembly, and LNG sampler downwards. After the flipping assembly separates from the guide assembly, it rotates, causing the LNG sampler to rotate to a vertical position and be directly above the short pipe. Continuing to move the support assembly downwards allows the LNG sampler to be inserted into the short pipe, thus installing the new LNG sampler. The new LNG sampler is then fixed by the clamping unit. A natural gas detector checks for natural gas leaks. If no leak is found, the inert gas inside the housing is vented, the cover is opened, and bolts are screwed into the flanges of the LNG sampler and the short pipe, thus completing the replacement of the LNG sampler. Finally, the housing can be removed.

[0021] 3. This invention is the first to utilize a mechanical structure to achieve online replacement of LNG samplers within a limited space, improving the replacement efficiency of LNG samplers and reducing the safety risks during the replacement process, thus providing a new approach for LN... G The online security operation and maintenance of the sampler is provided with reliable technical support. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the online replacement device for the LNG sampler provided by the present invention; Figure 2 An unfolded view of the LNG sampler online replacement device provided by the present invention with the cover plate opened; Figure 3 An unfolded view of the LNG sampler online replacement device provided by the present invention, with the cover plate and movable shell opened; Figure 4 This is a partial schematic diagram of the online replacement device for LNG samplers provided by the present invention; Figure 5 This is a partial side view of the LNG sampler online replacement device provided by the present invention; Figure 6 for Figure 5 Exploded view; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the guiding component provided by the present invention; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the clamping assembly provided by the present invention; Figure 9 for Figure 8 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle; Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the rotating assembly provided by the present invention; The attached figures are labeled as follows: 1-Shell, 101-Fixed shell, 102-Movable shell, 103-Cover plate; 2-Guide assembly, 201-Guide ring one, 202-Connecting ring, 203-Guide ring two, 204-Guide groove, 205-Guide groove; 3-Support assembly, 301-Rotating plate, 302-Support rod, 303-Connecting rod; 4-Flipping assembly, 401-Clamping block, 402-Guide rod, 403-Elastic element one, 404-Push plate, 405-T-slot; 5-Rotating assembly, 501-Gear, 502-Rack, 503-Guide rail, 504-Elastic element two, 505-Limiting post, 506-Limiting rod; 6-Lifting assembly, 601-Lifting plate, 602-Screw, 603-Bevel gear transmission assembly, 604-Handwheel; 7-Clamping assembly, 701-Clamping block one, 702-Clamping block two, 703-Guide pin, 704-Guide block, 705-Connecting groove; 8-LNG sampler; 9-Clamping unit, 901-Support platform, 902-Pressure rod, 903-Lifting ring, 904-Lifting assembly; 10-Sealing assembly, 1001-Sealing plate one, 1002-Sealing plate two, 1003-Conical sealing gasket; 11-Locking assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0023] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention are described clearly and completely below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this invention shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and similar terms used in this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as "comprising" or "including" mean that the element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Terms such as "connected" or "linked" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect.

[0025] For ease of description, spatial relative terms may be used in the text to describe the relationship of one element or feature relative to another element or feature as shown in the figure. These relative terms include, for example, "inside," "outside," "middle," "outer," "below," "above," etc. Such spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those depicted in the figure.

[0026] Currently, the industry's conventional method for replacing LNG samplers still relies on a complete process of system shutdown, isolation, purging, flushing, replacement, pre-cooling, repressurization, and restart. Because the medium inside LNG pipelines and equipment is at extremely low temperatures, the pipeline must be depressurized and emptied before shutdown, and residual LNG and natural gas must be replaced with inert gases such as nitrogen to prevent air from entering and forming an explosive mixture. After replacement, repressurization, cooling, and verification of system tightness are required, a process that can take several days or even more than a week. Therefore, it is difficult to find a suitable unloading window for LNG sampler replacement, and delays in sampler replacement may lead to inaccurate measurements and even inaccurate trade data, resulting in serious economic losses. Furthermore, the existing LNG sampler replacement method involves the pipeline temperature recovering from extremely low temperatures to normal temperature and then back to extremely low temperatures; extreme temperature changes may cause pipeline displacement, leaks at flange connections, and other safety issues.

[0027] To address the key shortcomings of existing LNG samplers and replacement methods—namely, the long replacement time and the inability to find a suitable window for operation, leading to inaccurate trade handover data—this invention provides an online LNG sampler replacement device that utilizes a mechanical structure to achieve online replacement of insert-type equipment within a limited space, allowing for LNG sampler replacement without system shutdown.

[0028] Example 1 like Figure 1 , 2As shown in Figures 3, 8, and 10, the LNG sampler online replacement device of the present invention is used to replace the LNG sampler 8 on the short pipe, and includes: a housing 1, a guide assembly 2, a support assembly 3, a flipping assembly 4, a rotating assembly 5, a lifting assembly 6, a clamping assembly 7, a pressing unit 9, and a sealing assembly 10.

[0029] Specifically, the housing 1 is mounted on the short pipe, the guide assembly 2 is mounted on the housing 1, and the support assembly 3 is movably mounted on the guide assembly 2; two sets of flipping assemblies 4 are mounted on the support assembly 3 and slidably connected to the guide assembly 2; the rotating assembly 5 is mounted on the guide assembly 2 to drive the support assembly 3 to rotate; the lifting assembly 6 is mounted on the housing 1 and the guide assembly 2 to drive the support assembly 3 to move vertically; two clamping assemblies 7 are mounted and snapped into the LNG sampler 8 and mounted on the flipping assembly 4; the pressing unit 9 is mounted on the housing 1 and abuts against the LNG sampler 8; and the sealing assembly 10 is mounted on the housing 1 and sealed to the short pipe.

[0030] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown, the housing 1 includes a fixed housing 101, a movable housing 102 slidably disposed on the fixed housing 101, and a cover plate 103 rotatably disposed on the fixed housing 101 and sealedly connected to the movable housing 102; the fixed housing 101 is provided with a locking assembly 11 connected to the movable housing 102; the movable housing 102 is provided with a buckle connected to the cover plate 103.

[0031] like Figure 3 As shown, the sealing assembly 10 includes a sealing plate 1001 disposed on the fixed shell 101 and the movable shell 102 and sealed to the short pipe, a conical sealing gasket 1003 disposed on the short pipe, and a sealing plate 1002 disposed on the fixed shell 101 and the movable shell 102 and abutting against the conical sealing gasket 1003.

[0032] like Figure 4 As shown, the clamping unit 9 includes a support platform 901 mounted on a sealing plate 1001, a pressure rod 902 rotatably mounted on the support platform 901 and capable of abutting against the LNG sampler 8, a lifting ring 903 slidably mounted within the fixed housing 101 for pushing the pressure rod 902 to flip, and a lifting assembly 904 mounted on the fixed housing 101 for driving the lifting ring 903 to move. When the lifting assembly 904 pushes the lifting ring 903 upward, the lifting ring 903 pushes the pressure rod 902 to flip, thereby causing the pressure rod 902 to press against the flange of the LNG sampler 8. When the lifting ring 903 moves downward, the pressure rod 902 is driven to move away from the flange of the LNG sampler 8 by a torsion spring at the connection between the pressure rod 902 and the support platform 901. The pressure rod 902 has a hook-shaped structure.

[0033] In this embodiment, when in use, such as Figure 2 , 3 As shown, the sealing connection between the fixed shell 101 and the movable shell 102 is released by locking assembly 11, and then the buckle on the movable shell 102 is opened, so that the cover plate 103 can be rotated to open the cover plate 103 and separate the fixed shell 101 and the movable shell 102. The fixed shell 101 and the movable shell 102 are then fitted onto the short pipe, and the conical sealing gasket 1003 is snapped into the short pipe. The movable shell 102 is closed, and the fixed shell 101 and the movable shell 102 are tightened by locking assembly 11 to prevent leakage. The sealing plate 2 1002 is pressed on the conical sealing gasket 1003 and cooperates with the sealing plate 1 1001 to achieve a sealing connection between the shell 1 and the short pipe, and to ensure the connection stability of the shell 1. Sealing gaskets are provided at the connection between the shell 1 and the short pipe, and sealing gaskets are provided at the connection between the fixed shell 101, the movable shell 102 and the cover plate 103.

[0034] The clamping component 7 is clamped onto the old LNG sampler 8, and the lifting component 6 drives the support component 3 to move downward, so that the support component 3 drives the flipping component 4 to move downward, so that the flipping component 4 can be clamped onto the clamping component 7, thereby enabling the flipping component 4 to connect with the old LNG sampler 8. Then, another clamping component 7 is clamped onto the new LNG sampler 8, and the clamping component 7 is installed onto another flipping component 4, so that the new LNG sampler 8 can connect with the flipping component 4 located above, completing the preparatory work for assembly.

[0035] Press the clamping unit 9 onto the flange of the old LNG sampler 8 so that the flange of the LNG sampler 8 can press onto the flange of the short pipe to ensure sealing. Then remove the bolts on the flange, close the cover plate 103, and fix the cover plate 103 with the buckle so that the cover plate 103 forms a sealed space with the fixed shell 101 and the movable shell 102.

[0036] Inert protective gas is injected into the fixed shell 101 through the gas pipe on the cover plate 103. The density and pressure of the inert gas are greater than the density and pressure of the natural gas in the short pipe, which prevents natural gas from entering the fixed shell 101 and thus avoids natural gas leakage. By deploying a natural gas detector, the natural gas value is monitored in real time when the LNG sampler 8 is replaced.

[0037] At this point, the drive clamping unit 9 separates from the old LNG sampler 8, allowing the LNG sampler 8 to be removed. The lifting assembly 6 drives the support assembly 3 upwards, which in turn moves the flipping assembly 4 and the clamping assembly 7 upwards. This causes the clamping assembly 7 to move the LNG sampler 8 upwards, while the new LNG sampler 8 above is inserted into the guide assembly 2 and guided by it, causing the LNG sampler 8 to rotate to a horizontal position. The old LNG sampler 8 below can then be removed from the short pipe. After the LNG sampler 8 is completely removed from the short pipe, the rotating plate 301 moves into the guide ring 201. The rotating assembly 5 drives the rotating plate 301 to rotate half a turn, thus swapping the positions of the new and old LNG samplers 8, so that the new LNG sampler 8 is positioned... Below, the old LNG sampler 8 is located above. The lifting assembly 6 drives the support assembly 3 to move downward, thereby causing the flipping assembly 4, clamping assembly 7, and LNG sampler 8 to move downward. After the flipping assembly 4 separates from the guide assembly 2, it rotates, causing the LNG sampler 8 to rotate to a vertical position and be directly above the short pipe. Continuing to move the support assembly 3 downward, the LNG sampler 8 can be inserted into the short pipe, realizing the installation of the new LNG sampler 8. Then, the clamping unit 9 fixes the new LNG sampler 8. A natural gas detector is used to check for natural gas leakage. If no leakage occurs, the inert gas in the fixing shell 101 is vented, the cover plate 103 is opened, and bolts are screwed into the flanges of the LNG sampler 8 and the short pipe, thus completing the replacement of the LNG sampler 8. Finally, the shell 1 can be removed.

[0038] Example 2 like Figure 4 , 9 As shown in Figure 10, the online replacement device for the LNG sampler proposed in this invention, compared with Embodiment 1, includes a guide ring 201 disposed on the fixed shell 101, a connecting ring 202 disposed on the guide ring 201, and a guide ring 203 disposed on the connecting ring 202; a guide groove 204 is provided between the guide ring 201 and the guide ring 203, and both the guide ring 201 and the guide ring 203 have openings and guide grooves 205 are provided at the openings.

[0039] like Figure 10 As shown, the support assembly 3 includes a rotating plate 301 movably mounted on the guide ring 201, a support rod 302 mounted on the rotating plate 301, and two connecting rods 303, both mounted on the support rod 302.

[0040] like Figure 9As shown, the flipping assembly 4 includes a clamping block 401 rotatably mounted on the connecting rod 303, a guide rod 402 slidably mounted on the clamping block 401 with one end embedded in the guide groove 204, a push plate 404 mounted on the guide rod 402, and an elastic member 403 mounted on the guide rod 402 with both ends abutting against the clamping block 401 and the push plate 404 respectively; the other end of the guide rod 402 is embedded in the clamping assembly 7.

[0041] In this embodiment, the rotating plate 301 supports the support rod 302, the support rod 302 supports the connecting rod 303, and the connecting rod 303 supports the clamping block 401, so that the clamping block 401 can rotate on the connecting rod 303. The clamping assembly 7 is clamped onto the LNG sampler 8 and installed on the clamping block 401, and locked by the guide rod 402, so that the LNG sampler 8 can be connected to the flipping assembly 4. A new LNG sampler 8 is installed on one flipping assembly 4, while the old LNG sampler 8 is connected to the other flipping assembly 4.

[0042] The lifting assembly 6 drives the rotating plate 301 to move upward, causing the rotating plate 301 to move the support rod 302 and the connecting rod 303 upward. The connecting rod 303 drives the two flipping assemblies 4 to move. When the rotating plate 301 is completely inside the guide ring 201, the rotating assembly 5 drives the rotating plate 301 to flip, causing the rotating plate 301 to rotate the support rod 302 and the connecting rod 303. The connecting rod 303 drives the LNG sampler 8 to flip through the flipping assembly 4 and the clamping assembly 7. At this time, the guide rod 402 is guided by the guide groove 205, causing the guide rod 402 to lift upward. When the guide rod 402 lifts upward, it drives the clamping block 401 to rotate. The clamping block 401 drives the clamping assembly 7 and the LNG sampler 8 to rotate. The sampler 8 rotates, bringing the new LNG sampler 8 and the old LNG sampler 8 into a parallel state, until the old LNG sampler 8 is rotated to the top and the new LNG sampler 8 is rotated to the bottom. When the new LNG sampler 8 is rotated to the bottom, the guide rod 402 separates from the guide groove 204. A torsion spring is provided at the rotational connection between the connecting rod 303 and the clamping block 401 to drive the clamping block 401 to rotate and reset. A limit seat is provided on the connecting rod 303, which is engaged with the guide rod 402. The limit seat is used to limit the rotation angle of the clamping block 401, so that the LNG sampler 8 can only rotate to the vertical state, thereby making it easy to insert the LNG sampler 8 into the short pipe. When the positions of the old and new LNG samplers 8 are swapped, the rotating plate 301 is driven to move downward by the lifting assembly 6, so that the new LNG sampler 8 can be pressed on the short pipe, and then the sealing connection is made by the clamping unit 9, thereby completing the replacement of the old and new LNG samplers 8.

[0043] Example 3 like Figure 1-10As shown, the LNG sampler online replacement device proposed in this invention, compared with Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, the lifting assembly 6 in this embodiment includes a lifting plate 601 slidably disposed on the guide ring 201 and rotatably connected to the rotating plate 301, a lead screw 602 rotatably disposed on the fixed shell 101 and the guide ring 201, a bevel gear transmission group 603 disposed on the lead screw 602, and a handwheel 604 disposed on the bevel gear transmission group 603 and located outside the fixed shell 101; a dynamic seal is provided at the sealing point between the handwheel 604 and the fixed shell 101.

[0044] The rotating assembly 5 includes a gear 501 mounted on the rotating part of the support rod 302 and the lifting plate 601, a rack 502 meshing with the gear 501 and slidably connected to the lifting plate 601, a guide rail 503 mounted on the guide ring 201 and slidably connected to the rack 502, an elastic element 504 mounted on the guide rail 503 for pushing the rack 502 downward, two limiting posts 505 mounted on the lifting plate 601, and a limiting rod 506 mounted on the gear 501 and engaged with the limiting posts 505.

[0045] In this embodiment, by rotating the handwheel 604, the handwheel 604 drives the lead screw 602 to rotate through the bevel gear transmission group 603. The lead screw 602 drives the lifting plate 601 to move. The lifting plate 601 drives the rotating plate 301 to move in the vertical direction. The guide assembly 2 guides the rotating plate 301 and the lifting plate 601, so that the lifting plate 601 can only move in the vertical direction. After the rotating plate 301 is completely moved into the guide ring 201, it can rotate. When the old LNG sampler 8 is removed, the lifting plate 601 moves upward, driving the rotating plate 301 to move upward. The rotating plate 301 drives the flipping assembly 4 to move. The flipping assembly 4 drives the clamping assembly 7 to move. The clamping assembly 7 drives the LNG sampler 8 to move, thereby removing the old LNG sampler 8 from the short pipe. When the rotating plate 301 moves upward until it is completely moved into the guide ring 201; As the lifting plate 601 moves upward, it drives the gear 501 and rack 502 to move upward as well. At this time, the rotating plate 301 is blocked by the guide ring 201, preventing it from rotating. Consequently, the gear 501 also cannot rotate. The rack 502 meshes with the gear 501, and since the gear 501 cannot rotate, the rack 502 cannot move relative to the gear 501 either. This forces the gear 501 to slide upward on the guide rail 503. The upward movement of the guide rail 503 compresses the elastic element 504, placing it in a compressed state. When the rotating plate 301 is fully inside the guide ring 201, the guide ring 201 no longer limits the rotation plate 301, allowing the rotating plate 301 to move freely. 01 can rotate, and the compressed elastic element 504 releases its elastic potential energy, pushing the rack 502 to move downward. The rack 502 drives the gear 501 to rotate, the gear 501 drives the rotating plate 301 to rotate, and the rotating plate 301 drives the support rod 302 and the connecting rod 303 to rotate. This causes the flipping assembly 4 to drive the clamping assembly 7 to rotate, so that the clamping assembly 7 can drive the LNG sampler 8 to rotate. By limiting the angle of rotation of the rotating plate 301 through the cooperation of the limiting column 505 and the limiting rod 506, the rotating plate 301 can only rotate half a turn. This allows the old LNG sampler 8 to be rotated to the top, and the new LNG sampler 8 to be rotated to the bottom, so that the new LNG sampler 8 can be installed on the short pipe.

[0046] Example 4 like Figure 1-10 As shown, the present invention proposes an online replacement device for an LNG sampler. Compared with Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2, or Embodiment 3, this embodiment has a T-slot 405 provided on the clamping block 401; the clamping assembly 7 includes a clamping block 1 701 provided on one side of the LNG sampler 8, a clamping block 2 702 provided on the other side of the LNG sampler 8, a guide pin 703 provided on the clamping block 1 701 and embedded in the clamping block 2 702, and two guide blocks 704 provided on the clamping block 1 701 and the clamping block 2 702 respectively and embedded in the T-slot 405; the guide block 704 is engaged with the guide rod 402, and the guide block 704 is provided with a connecting groove 705 for engaging the guide rod 402.

[0047] In this embodiment, when connecting the LNG sampler 8, clamping block 1 701 and clamping block 2 702 are separated, allowing them to move to both sides of the LNG sampler 8. The main body structure of the LNG sampler 8 is a three-way structure. Therefore, clamping block 1 701 and clamping block 2 702 can hold the LNG sampler 8 in place. The guide pin 703 is inserted into clamping block 2 702, allowing clamping block 1 701 and clamping block 2 702 to move synchronously. When clamping block 1 701 is inserted into clamping block 401, guide block 704 is inserted into T-slot 405, so that the inclined surface at the lower end of guide block 704 first contacts the guide. When the guide rod 402 contacts, the clamping block 702 can be pushed open, allowing the guide block 704 to be inserted into the T-slot 405. After the guide block 704 is fully inserted into the T-slot 405, the connecting slot 705 aligns with the guide rod 402. The elastic element 403 pushes the push plate 404 to move, and the push plate 404 drives the guide rod 402 to move, so that the guide rod 402 is inserted into the connecting slot 705, limiting the guide block 704. This fixes the clamping block 701 and the clamping block 702, thus fixing the LNG sampler 8 onto the flipping assembly 4. When disassembling the LNG sampler 8, pull the guide rod 402 to move it out of the connecting groove 705, releasing the limit. Then, clamping block 1 701 and clamping block 2 702 can be removed, and the LNG sampler 8 can be removed. The operation is convenient, and the connection between the clamping assembly 7 and the LNG sampler 8 can be completed offline, thereby avoiding interference between the device and the assembly of the clamping assembly 7 and the LNG sampler 8, which facilitates installation.

[0048] In this invention, an inert protective gas is injected into the gas pipe box fixing shell on the cover plate. The density and pressure of the inert gas are greater than the density and pressure of the natural gas in the short pipe, preventing natural gas from entering the fixing shell and thus avoiding natural gas leakage. A natural gas detector is deployed to monitor the natural gas level in real time when the LNG sampler is replaced. This improves the efficiency of LNG sampler replacement and reduces the safety risks during the replacement process, providing a safer environment for LN (LNG) systems. G The online security operation and maintenance of the sampler is provided with reliable technical support.

[0049] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An online replacement device for an LNG sampler, characterized in that, include: The housing (1) is mounted on the short tube; A guide assembly (2) is disposed on the housing (1); Support component (3) is movably mounted on the guide component (2); Two sets of flipping components (4) are rotatably mounted on the support component (3) and slidably connected to the guide component (2); A rotating component (5) is disposed on the guide component (2) for driving the support component (3) to rotate; A lifting assembly (6) is provided on the housing (1) and the guide assembly (2) for driving the support assembly (3) to move in the vertical direction; Two clamping components (7) are connected to the two sets of flipping components (4) respectively, and are used to clamp the LNG sampler (8). A clamping unit (9) is disposed on the housing (1) for contacting the LNG sampler (8); A sealing assembly (10) is disposed on the housing (1) for sealing connection with the short pipe.

2. The online replacement device for LNG samplers according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (1) includes a fixed housing (101), a movable housing (102) slidably disposed on the fixed housing (101), and a cover plate (103) rotatably disposed on the fixed housing (101) and sealedly connected to the movable housing (102); the fixed housing (101) is provided with a locking assembly (11) connected to the movable housing (102); the movable housing (102) is provided with a buckle connected to the cover plate (103).

3. The LNG sampler online replacement device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The guide assembly (2) includes a guide ring one (201) disposed on the fixed shell (101), a connecting ring (202) disposed on the guide ring one (201), and a guide ring two (203) disposed on the connecting ring (202); a guide groove (204) is provided between the guide ring one (201) and the guide ring two (203), and both the guide ring one (201) and the guide ring two (203) have openings and guide grooves (205) are provided at the openings.

4. The LNG sampler online replacement device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The support assembly (3) includes a rotating plate (301) movably mounted on the guide ring (201), two support rods (302) mounted on the rotating plate (301), and a connecting rod (303) mounted on each of the support rods (302).

5. The LNG sampler online replacement device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The flipping assembly (4) includes a clamping block (401) rotatably mounted on the connecting rod (303), a guide rod (402) slidably mounted on the clamping block (401) and one end embedded in the guide groove (204), a push plate (404) mounted on the guide rod (402), and an elastic member (403) mounted on the guide rod (402) and one end abutting against the clamping block (401) and the push plate (404) respectively. The other end of the guide rod (402) is embedded in the clamping assembly (7).

6. The LNG sampler online replacement device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The lifting assembly (6) includes a lifting plate (601) slidably disposed on the guide ring (201) and rotatably connected to the rotating plate (301), a lead screw (602) rotatably disposed on the fixed shell (101) and the guide ring (201), a bevel gear transmission assembly (603) disposed on the lead screw (602), and a handwheel (604) disposed on the bevel gear transmission assembly (603) and located outside the fixed shell (101). The sealing point between the handwheel (604) and the fixed shell (101) is a dynamic seal.

7. The LNG sampler online replacement device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The rotating assembly (5) includes a gear (501) disposed on the rotating part of the support rod (302) and the lifting plate (601), a rack (502) meshing with the gear (501) and slidingly connected to the lifting plate (601), a guide rail (503) disposed on the guide ring (201) and slidingly connected to the rack (502), an elastic element (504) disposed on the guide rail (503) for pushing the rack (502) to move downward, two limiting posts (505) disposed on the lifting plate (601), and a limiting rod (506) disposed on the gear (501) and engaging with the limiting posts (505).

8. The LNG sampler online replacement device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The clamping assembly (7) includes a clamping block one (701) disposed on one side of the LNG sampler (8), a clamping block two (702) disposed on the other side of the LNG sampler (8), a guide pin (703) disposed on the clamping block one (701) and embedded in the clamping block two (702), and two guide blocks (704) disposed on the clamping block one (701) and the clamping block two (702) respectively and embedded in the T-slot (405); the guide block (704) is engaged with the guide rod (402), and the guide block (704) is provided with a connecting groove (705) for engaging the guide rod (402).

9. The online replacement device for the LNG sampler according to claim 8, characterized in that, The sealing assembly (10) includes a sealing plate one (1001) disposed on the fixed shell (101) and the movable shell (102) and sealed to the short pipe, a conical sealing gasket (1003) disposed on the short pipe, and a sealing plate two (1002) disposed on the fixed shell (101) and the movable shell (102) and abutting against the conical sealing gasket (1003).

10. The LNG sampler online replacement device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The clamping unit (9) includes a support platform (901) disposed on the sealing plate (1001), a pressure rod (902) rotatably disposed on the support platform (901) and capable of abutting against the LNG sampler (8), a lifting ring (903) slidably disposed in the fixed shell (101) for pushing the pressure rod (902) to flip, and a lifting assembly (904) disposed on the fixed shell (101) for driving the lifting ring (903) to move.

11. The operation method of the online replacement device for LNG samplers according to any one of claims 4-10, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The housing (1) is fitted onto the short pipe and sealed to the short pipe. The clamping assembly (7) is clamped onto the old LNG sampler (8). The lifting assembly (6) drives the support assembly (3) to move downward, so that the support assembly (3) drives the flipping assembly (4) to move downward, so that the flipping assembly (4) can be clamped onto the clamping assembly (7), thereby connecting the flipping assembly (4) to the old LNG sampler (8). Then, another clamping assembly (7) is clamped onto the new LNG sampler (8), and the clamping assembly (7) is installed onto another flipping assembly (4), so that the new LNG sampler (8) is connected to the flipping assembly (4) located above, thus completing the preparatory work for assembly. Press the clamping unit (9) onto the flange of the old LNG sampler (8) so that the flange of the LNG sampler (8) can press onto the flange of the short pipe. Then remove the bolts on the flange, close the cover plate (103), and fix the cover plate (103) with the buckle so that the cover plate (103) forms a sealed space with the fixed shell (101) and the movable shell (102). At the same time, inert protective gas is injected into the fixed shell (101) through the gas pipe on the cover plate (103), and the density and pressure of the inert gas are greater than the density and pressure of the natural gas in the short pipe. The clamping unit (9) is driven to detach from the old LNG sampler (8), thus removing the old LNG sampler (8). The lifting assembly (6) drives the support assembly (3) to move upward, thereby causing the support assembly (3) to drive the flipping assembly (4) and the clamping assembly (7) to move upward, thereby causing the clamping assembly (7) to drive the old LNG sampler (8) upward, while the new LNG sampler (8) above is inserted into the guide assembly (2), thus allowing the new sampler to move upward. The LNG sampler (8) is rotated to a horizontal position, and the old LNG sampler (8) below is removed from the short pipe. After the old LNG sampler (8) is completely removed from the short pipe, the rotating plate (301) is moved into the guide ring (201). The rotating assembly (5) drives the rotating plate (301) to rotate half a turn, thereby swapping the positions of the new LNG sampler (8) and the old LNG sampler (8), so that the new LNG sampler (8) is below, and the old one is below. The LNG sampler (8) is located at the top. The lifting assembly (6) drives the support assembly (3) to move downward, thereby causing the flipping assembly (4), the clamping assembly (7), and the old LNG sampler (8) to move downward. After the flipping assembly (4) separates from the guide assembly (2), it rotates, causing the new LNG sampler (8) to rotate to a vertical position and be located directly above the short pipe. If the support assembly (3) continues to move downward, the new LNG sampler (8) can be inserted. Insert it into the short pipe to install the new LNG sampler (8), then fix the new LNG sampler (8) with the clamping unit (9), and check for natural gas leakage with a natural gas detector. If no leakage occurs, vent the inert gas in the fixed shell (101), open the cover plate (103), and screw the bolts into the flanges of the new LNG sampler (8) and the short pipe to complete the replacement of the old LNG sampler (8). Finally, remove the shell (1).

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