Multi-parameter test device, system and method for flexible sealing material of gas storage cavern
By designing a multi-parameter testing device and system for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns, the problem that existing devices cannot simulate real working conditions was solved, and multi-parameter testing of sealing materials under pressure and temperature changes was realized, providing accurate performance verification and improvement basis.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-03
AI Technical Summary
Existing sealing material testing equipment cannot effectively simulate the real operating environment of underground gas storage caverns, especially the permeability, tensile properties and durability of sealing materials under pressure and temperature changes, resulting in inaccurate test results.
A multi-parameter test device and system for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns was designed. Different materials were filled into pre-set grooves on the test plate to simulate the deformation and permeation performance of the sealing material under different pressures and temperatures. Pressurization was applied using an annular pressure plate and a pressure plate structure, and the temperature was precisely controlled using an oil bath constant temperature heating control device.
It enables comprehensive testing of sealing materials under complex working conditions, accurately simulates the operating environment of underground gas storage facilities, provides reliability verification of the permeability, tensile properties and durability of sealing materials, and supports the improvement and optimization of sealing materials.
Smart Images
Figure CN121783801A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of underground gas storage cavern simulation testing technology, and in particular to a multi-parameter testing device, system and method for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns. Background Technology
[0002] Compressed air energy storage (CASS) technology, as a novel large-scale energy storage technology, primarily uses high-pressure air as a medium to store and release energy. Underground gas storage caverns are a key component of CASS projects, and a core issue during their construction is the sealing performance of the underground gas storage facility. Currently, commonly used sealing materials include steel plates, polymer materials (rubber, fiberglass), and new composite materials (special concrete). Considering the design principles and performance requirements of sealing materials, flexible sealing methods such as polymer materials are the most promising due to their advantages of low cost and wide geological adaptability. However, current research on flexible sealing materials mostly uses the permeability coefficient of the sealing material itself as an evaluation index. During the complex cyclical operation of CASS caverns, involving both gas filling and power generation, the sealing material must withstand cyclically changing pressure and temperature loads. This results in strong deformation effects and fatigue damage to the sealing layer structure, which is adapted to the concrete lining structure. Therefore, it is necessary to test the permeability, tensile properties, strength properties, and durability properties of the sealing layer material under the operational conditions of underground gas storage facilities. However, there is currently a lack of a convenient and effective testing device, system, and method that can simulate and reproduce the real operating environment to study the tensile properties, permeability, strength (deformation), and durability of the above materials under changes in temperature and pressure. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the technical problem that existing sealing material testing devices cannot simulate real working conditions to achieve multi-parameter comprehensive testing, and to provide a multi-parameter testing device, system and method for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns.
[0004] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a multi-parameter testing device for a flexible sealing material for a gas storage cavity, comprising a test bench, the test bench including a test plate, a groove formed on the upper surface of the test plate, a simulated crack penetrating the test plate formed at the bottom of the groove, a filling material detachably installed in the groove, a test sealing material being able to be applied to the upper surface of the filling material or in the groove, and the pressure above the test plate being able to be increased to be greater than the pressure below the test plate.
[0005] This invention simulates the tensile properties of a sealing material in conjunction with surrounding rock under applied / released loads by filling deformable materials into pre-set grooves on a test plate to adapt to different pressures. These deformations include radial deformation and circumferential tensile deformation. The filling material can be rubber pads with different elastic moduli to simulate the deformation of the surrounding rock under internal pressure in actual working conditions. Alternatively, at least two materials with different stiffnesses can be filled into the grooves to simulate the strength performance of the sealing material in conjunction with surrounding rock under applied / released loads, forming a faulted structure. For example, rubber and concrete pads can be used to simulate the deformation of the surrounding rock under applied / released loads. The test can simulate the permeability and deformation of the sealing material in simulated cracks by applying the test sealing material directly to the groove without filling material. The shape and size of the simulated cracks can also be selected. For example, the sealing material can be directly applied to the crack structure panel with different preset crack widths (straight, T-shaped, and cross-shaped) to simulate the permeability of the sealing material under different crack width structures in the surrounding rock. This allows for the testing of the permeability, tensile properties, strength properties, and durability properties of the sealing layer material under the operating conditions of underground gas storage facilities.
[0006] Preferably, the test bench further includes an annular pressure plate and an annular bearing plate. The annular pressure plate is disposed on the upper part of the test plate, and the test plate and the annular pressure plate are detachably connected by a snap fastener. The annular bearing plate is disposed on the lower part of the test plate, and the simulated crack communicates with the inner cavity of the annular bearing plate.
[0007] Here, the inner diameter of the annular pressure plate is not less than the opening size of the groove on the test plate. The annular pressure plate can fix the four edges of the test sealing material to the test plate. Through the snap-fit connection, the annular pressure plate can apply a pre-tightening force to the test sealing material, thereby pressing the test sealing material tightly onto the test plate. An annular sealing ring can be set on the outer side of the groove on the test plate to enhance the sealing performance between the annular pressure plate and the test plate. The annular bearing plate is located below the test plate. The simulated crack of the test plate is connected to the inner cavity of the annular bearing plate. After the test plate is pressurized from above, the pressure can penetrate through the test sealing material and the filling material, and enter the inner cavity of the annular bearing plate along the simulated crack. The annular bearing plate and the test plate can also be sealed with an annular sealing ring to prevent the pressure entering the inner cavity of the annular bearing plate from leaking out between the annular bearing plate and the test plate as much as possible, so that the detected penetration pressure is as accurate as possible.
[0008] Preferably, the test bench is set in a test container, the top plate of the test container has a pressure port, the bottom plate of the test container has a pressure outlet, and the pressure outlet communicates with the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate.
[0009] The test container provides a sealed pressurized space for the test bench. The test bench sits at the bottom of the test container and can be pressurized inside the test container through the pressurization port on the top plate. The joint between the annular pressure plate and the test plate can be sealed by an annular sealing ring, which can separate the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate from the space outside the test bench and inside the test container. After pressurizing the test container, the space outside the test bench can form a high-pressure space, and the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate can form a low-pressure space. The osmotic pressure that seeps downward through the test sealing material and filling material can enter the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate through the simulated cracks and finally be discharged through the pressure outlet on the bottom plate of the test container. The osmotic pressure can be detected by a pressure sensor installed outside the pressure outlet.
[0010] Preferably, a cover plate is detachably installed on the upper part of the test plate, and a pressurization space is formed between the arc-shaped part of the cover plate and the test plate, the pressurization space being located above the groove.
[0011] Here, the test plate can also be used directly as the bottom plate of the sealed container. An arc-shaped cover plate can be installed on top of the test plate. The arc-shaped part of the cover plate and the test plate form a pressure space. Pressurizing the pressure space and acting on the test sealing material laid on the groove can also realize the performance test of the sealing material.
[0012] Preferably, the cover plate has a pressure port that communicates with the pressure space; a viewing lens is installed on the cover plate; and the inner surface of the arc-shaped portion is coated with a heat-insulating coating.
[0013] The test can be conducted by pressurizing the pressure space above the test plate through the pressure port on the cover plate. At the same time, the process of penetration and deformation of the test sealing material on the test plate can be observed through the viewing lens installed on the cover plate. The pressurization process may be accompanied by the temperature rise in the pressure space. The heat insulation coating applied to the inner surface of the arc-shaped part of the cover plate can reduce heat loss and keep the temperature in the pressure space constant during the test, so that the temperature detection can be as accurate as possible.
[0014] Preferably, a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor are installed on the top plate of the test container, or a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor are installed on the cover plate.
[0015] When the test bench is placed in the test container, the pressure sensor and temperature sensor are installed on the top plate of the test container; when a cover plate is installed on the test bench, the pressure sensor and temperature sensor are installed on the cover plate; the pressure sensor and temperature sensor can extend through the top plate or cover plate of the test container into the pressurized space above the test bench to detect the pressure and temperature parameters in the pressurized space.
[0016] Preferably, the filling material includes permeable and / or non-permeable materials.
[0017] Here, the permeable material may include microporous rubber pads, fine sand layers, or gravel layers, etc., while the non-permeable material may be rigid concrete, steel pads, or fiberglass. The filling material in the groove may be only permeable material or may use both permeable and non-permeable materials. For example, one half of the groove may be filled with permeable material and the other half with non-permeable material. The permeable material is mainly used to ensure that the amount of gas permeation from the flexible sealing material under internal pressure is transferred to the buffer tank below and collected and recorded by the gas flow monitoring recorder, thereby obtaining the permeability performance of the flexible sealing material. The non-permeable material is mainly used to create misalignment in the test by causing different compression deformations in the filling material, so as to realize the tensile performance of the flexible sealing material.
[0018] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a multi-parameter testing system for flexible sealing materials of gas storage caverns, including a pressurization unit, a heating unit, a control unit, and a multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials of gas storage caverns as described above; the pressurization unit is connected to the space above the test plate, and the control unit is connected to the pressurization unit and the heating unit.
[0019] Preferably, the pressurization unit includes an air source, an air compressor, a booster pump, and an air inlet pipe. The air source and the air compressor are both connected to the booster pump, and the air inlet pipe is connected to the test device. The heating unit includes a water bath.
[0020] The water bath can use liquid heating media such as water and oil. By controlling the temperature of the liquid substance as an intermediate temperature transfer, the preset temperature inside the test can be precisely controlled, ensuring the accuracy of the performance test of the flexible sealing material under temperature control. The real results are used to improve the sealing material to form a positive feedback, and finally, a flexible sealing material suitable for compressed air energy storage can be obtained through the test.
[0021] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a test method for a flexible sealing material for a gas storage cavity, employing either the multi-parameter test apparatus for the flexible sealing material for a gas storage cavity as described above, or the multi-parameter test system for the flexible sealing material for a gas storage cavity as described above; the test method includes: S1: A filling material is placed in the groove, and a test sealing material is applied on top of the filling material; or, if no filling material is placed in the groove, the test sealing material is applied directly in the groove so that the test sealing material covers the simulated crack. S2: Apply pressure to the top of the test plate to a preset pressure, and heat the test bench and the test sealing material to a preset temperature; S3: Maintain stable pressure above the test plate and monitor pressure changes below the test plate; observe the morphological changes of the test sealing material in the filling material or the simulated crack.
[0022] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: 1. This invention provides a multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns. This invention simulates the tensile properties of the sealing material in conjunction with the surrounding rock under applied / released loads by filling pre-set grooves on a test plate with deformable materials to adapt to different pressures, thus mimicking the radial and circumferential tensile deformation of the sealing material in synergy with the surrounding rock. Alternatively, at least two materials of different stiffnesses can be filled into the grooves to simulate the strength performance of the sealing material under uneven deformation of the surrounding rock under applied / released loads, forming a faulted structure. Furthermore, without filling materials, the test sealing material can be directly laid in the grooves and covered onto simulated cracks, enabling testing of the sealing material's permeability deformation within the simulated cracks. The shape and size of the simulated cracks can also be selected; for example, the sealing material can be directly laid on a crack structure panel with pre-set widths of straight, T-shaped, and cross-shaped cracks to simulate the permeability performance of the sealing material under different crack width structures in the surrounding rock. This achieves testing of the permeability, tensile properties, strength properties, and durability properties of the sealing layer material under the operational conditions of underground gas storage facilities.
[0023] 2. Existing simulation tests on the performance parameters of flexible sealing materials in high-pressure gas storage chambers can only verify the permeability of the flexible sealing materials. The test results are limited and cannot fully simulate the stress environment of the flexible sealing materials under high pressure in the gas storage chamber. Furthermore, the existing simulation test devices for the performance parameters of flexible sealing materials in high-pressure gas storage chambers only fix the flexible sealing materials and the ring plate with bolts. They do not consider the leakage of pressurized gas from the bolt gaps and the bonding surface between the flexible seal and the ring plate during the pressurization process, which affects the test results and leads to the failure of the permeability test of the flexible sealing materials. This invention can simulate the formation of a high-pressure gas storage chamber to conduct simulation tests on the radial deformation, fracture tension misalignment, and different crack widths and temperature control of flexible sealing materials under cyclic pressurization / depressurization operation conditions. It can monitor various performance parameters of flexible sealing materials applied to high-pressure gas storage chambers to verify the reliability of the flexible materials. The test finally tests the permeability, tensile properties, strength properties, and durability properties of the flexible sealing materials under different pressure, temperature, and complex operating conditions. The real results are used to improve the sealing materials to form positive feedback, and can ultimately be used to develop and manufacture flexible sealing materials suitable for compressed air energy storage.
[0024] 3. Existing simulation test devices for the performance parameters of flexible sealing materials in high-pressure chambers mostly use resistance heating for temperature control. However, due to the inherent nature of this heating method and principle, the resistance heating device continues to provide heat after reaching the preset temperature, causing the temperature to exceed the preset temperature. This temperature lag is difficult to control and is detrimental to experimental research. In contrast, this invention uses an oil bath constant temperature heating control box. Through a self-developed heating control device, the preset internal temperature can be precisely controlled by controlling the temperature of the liquid substance as an intermediate temperature transfer medium, ensuring the accuracy of performance testing of flexible sealing materials under temperature regulation. Attached Figure Description
[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the first structure of the test device of the present invention.
[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a second structure of the test apparatus of the present invention.
[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the first type of test plate and filling material.
[0028] Figure 4 This is a second schematic diagram of the test plate and filling material.
[0029] Figure 5 This is the first top view of the test panel.
[0030] Figure 6 This is a second top view of the test plate.
[0031] Figure 7 This is a third top view of the test panel.
[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the first structure of the test system of the present invention.
[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a second structure of the test system of the present invention.
[0034] Marked in the image: 1. Test bench; 11. Test plate; 111. Groove; 112. Simulated crack; 12. Filling material; 121. Permeable material; 122. Non-permeable material; 13. Annular pressure plate; 14. Annular pressure plate; 15. Buckle; 16. Annular sealing ring; 2. Test container; 21. Top plate; 211. Pressurization port; 22. Bottom plate; 221. Pressure outlet; 3. Cover plate; 31. Arc-shaped part; 32. Visible lens; 33. Thermal insulation coating; 4. Temperature sensor; 5. Pressure sensor; 61. Gas tank; 62. Air compressor; 63. Booster pump; 64. Starting ball valve; 65. Check valve; 66. Air pressure control valve; 67. Pressure relief valve; 7. Water bath; 81. Gas mass flow recorder; 82. Gas flow monitoring recorder; 83. Solenoid valve; 84. Signal control box; 85. Buffer tank; 9. Test sealing material. Detailed Implementation
[0035] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to specific embodiments. However, this should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention to the following embodiments; all technologies implemented based on the content of the present invention fall within the scope of the present invention.
[0036] Unless otherwise specified, the use of terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "center," "inner," and "outer" to indicate orientation or positional relationships in the description of specific embodiments of the present invention is based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship in which the product / equipment / device is typically placed during use. These terms are merely for the purpose of facilitating the description of the present invention or simplifying the description in specific embodiments, enabling those skilled in the art to quickly understand the solution, and do not indicate or imply that a particular device / component / element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific positional relationship. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention.
[0037] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "horizontal," "vertical," "suspended," and "parallel" does not imply that the corresponding device / component / element must be absolutely horizontal, vertical, suspended, or parallel, but rather that it can be slightly tilted or have a deviation. For example, "horizontal" merely means that its direction is more horizontal relative to "vertical," not that the structure must be completely horizontal, but that it can be slightly tilted. Alternatively, it can be simplified to mean that the corresponding device / component / element, when set in a "horizontal," "vertical," "suspended," or "parallel" direction, can have an error / deviation of ±10% relative to the corresponding direction, more preferably within ±8%, more preferably within ±6%, more preferably within ±5%, and more preferably within ±4%. As long as the corresponding device / component / element is within the error / deviation range, it can still achieve its function in the present invention.
[0038] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" in terminology is merely for distinguishing descriptions of identical or similar components and should not be interpreted as emphasizing or implying the relative importance of a particular component.
[0039] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, "several", "more than", and "a number of" represent at least two. The number can be any number, such as 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9, and can even exceed nine.
[0040] Furthermore, in the description of the technical solution of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified / limited / restricted, the terms "set up," "install," "connect," "link," "provided with," "laid out," and "arranged" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to common connection methods in the art, such as welding, riveting, bolting, and threaded connections. Such connections can be mechanical, electrical, or communication connections; they can be direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components.
[0041] Example 1 This embodiment provides a multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns.
[0042] like Figures 1 to 9 As shown, the multi-parameter testing device for the flexible sealing material of the gas storage cavern in this embodiment includes a test bench 1, which includes a test plate 11. The upper surface of the test plate 11 has a groove 111, and the bottom of the groove 111 has a simulated crack 112 that penetrates the test plate 11. A filling material 12 is detachably installed in the groove 111. The test sealing material 9 can be laid on the upper surface of the filling material 12 or in the groove 111. The pressure above the test plate 11 can be increased to a pressure greater than that below the test plate 11.
[0043] This invention simulates the tensile properties of a sealing material in conjunction with surrounding rock under applied / released loads by filling a pre-set groove 111 on the test plate 11 with a deformable material to adapt to different pressures. Here, the filling material 12 can be rubber pads with different elastic moduli to simulate the deformation of the surrounding rock under internal pressure in actual working conditions. Alternatively, at least two materials with different stiffnesses can be filled into the groove 111 to simulate the strength performance of the sealing material in conjunction with surrounding rock under applied / released loads, forming a misaligned structure. For example, the two filling materials 12 with different stiffnesses can be rubber and concrete pads to simulate the deformation of the surrounding rock under internal pressure. The uneven deformation caused by the pressure is corrected; alternatively, without the filling material 12, the test sealing material 9 can be directly applied to the groove 111 and covered on the simulated crack 112, which allows for testing of the permeation deformation of the test sealing material 9 in the simulated crack 112; the shape and size of the simulated crack 112 can also be selected, for example, the sealing material can be directly applied to the crack structure panel with different preset crack widths (straight, T-shaped, and cross-shaped) to simulate the permeability performance of the sealing material under different crack width structures in the surrounding rock, realizing the testing of the permeability, tensile properties, strength properties, and durability properties of the sealing layer material under the operating conditions of the underground gas storage facility; among which, Figure 5 The image shows a cross-shaped seam. Figure 6 The image shows a T-shaped seam. Figure 7 The image shows three straight seams.
[0044] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first device structure shown includes an annular pressure plate 13 and an annular bearing plate 14 on the test bench 1. The annular pressure plate 13 is disposed on the upper part of the test plate 11, and the test plate 11 and the annular pressure plate 13 are detachably connected by a buckle 15. The annular bearing plate 14 is disposed on the lower part of the test plate 11, and the simulated crack 112 communicates with the inner cavity of the annular bearing plate 14.
[0045] Here, the inner diameter of the annular pressure plate 13 is not less than the opening size of the groove 111 on the test plate 11. The annular pressure plate 13 can fix the four edges of the test sealing material 9 onto the test plate 11. Through the connection of the buckle 15, the annular pressure plate 13 can apply a pre-tightening force to the test sealing material 9, thereby pressing the test sealing material 9 onto the test plate 11. An annular sealing ring 16 can be provided on the outer side of the groove 111 on the test plate 11 to enhance the sealing performance between the annular pressure plate 13 and the test plate 11. The annular bearing plate 14 is located on the test plate 11. Below the test plate 11, the simulated crack 112 of the test plate 11 is connected to the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate 14. After the test plate 11 is pressurized, the pressure can penetrate through the test sealing material 9 and the filling material 12, and enter the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate 14 along the simulated crack 112. The annular pressure plate 14 and the test plate 11 can also be sealed by the annular sealing ring 16 to prevent the pressure entering the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate 14 from leaking between the annular pressure plate 14 and the test plate 11 as much as possible, so that the detected penetration pressure is as accurate as possible.
[0046] Optionally, such as Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first device structure shown has a test bench 1 set in a test container 2. A pressure port 211 is provided on the top plate 21 of the test container 2, and a pressure outlet 221 is provided on the bottom plate 22 of the test container 2. The pressure outlet 221 is connected to the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate 14.
[0047] Test container 2 provides a sealed pressurized space for test bench 1. Test bench 1 sits at the bottom of test container 2 and can be pressurized into the test container 2 through pressurization port 211 on top plate 21. The joint between annular pressure plate 14 and test plate 11 can be sealed by annular sealing ring 16, which can separate the inner cavity of annular pressure plate 14 from the space outside test bench 1 and inside test container 2. After pressurizing the test container 2, the space outside test bench 1 can form a high-pressure space, and the inner cavity of annular pressure plate 14 can form a low-pressure space. The osmotic pressure that permeates downward through test sealing material 9 and filling material 12 can enter the inner cavity of annular pressure plate 14 through simulated crack 112 and finally be discharged through pressure outlet 221 on bottom plate 22 of test container 2. The osmotic pressure can be detected by pressure sensor 5 set outside pressure outlet 221.
[0048] In such Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4In the first device structure shown, the sealing container includes a top plate 21 bearing pressure at the top, side plates connected by M16 high-strength bolts on both sides, and a bottom plate 22 connected by M12 high-strength bolts at the bottom. A test bench 1 is placed inside the sealing container. The test bench 1 includes, from top to bottom, an annular pressure plate 13, a test plate 11, and an annular pressure-bearing plate 14 at the bottom. A filling material 12 adaptable to pressure deformation and a flexible sealing material to be tested can be placed in the groove 111 of the test plate 11. The annular pressure plate 13 is connected and fixed to the test plate 11 by a stainless steel quick-release structure (i.e., snap-fit 15), providing initial pre-tightening force for the test sealing material 9 and preventing high-pressure gas from overflowing from the channel below the sealing material, affecting the test results and causing test failure. The groove 111 of the test plate 11 is filled with materials adaptable to different pressure deformations to simulate the tensile properties of the sealing material in conjunction with the surrounding rock under applied / released loads, including radial deformation and circumferential tensile deformation. Two different types of materials can also be filled into the groove 111 of the test plate 11. The stiffness material simulates the strength performance of the sealing material in the context of uneven deformation of the surrounding rock under applied / released loads, forming a misaligned structure. For example, two filling materials 12 with different stiffnesses can be rubber and concrete pads to simulate the misalignment formed by uneven deformation of the surrounding rock under internal pressure. The groove 111 of the test plate 11 can simulate the permeability of the sealing material under different crack widths in the surrounding rock by pre-setting crack structures of straight, T-shaped, and cross-shaped seams of different widths. The flexible sealing material is laid on the test plate 11, and the initial pre-tightening force is provided by a stainless steel quick-opening and quick-removing structure. The annular bearing plate 14 is welded inside the sealed container to bear high pressure loads, and the test plate 11 is connected and fixed to it by rotating the pre-tightening slot. In order to ensure the airtightness between the upper annular pressure plate 13, the test plate 11, and the annular bearing plate 14, an annular groove with a width of 7.5 mm and a depth of 5 mm can be pre-cut on the top of the panel and the pressure plate, and a corresponding rubber sealing ring can be placed to ensure the airtightness of the internal structure connection.
[0049] Optionally, such as Figure 2 In the second device structure shown, a cover plate 3 is detachably installed on the upper part of the test plate 11. A pressurization space is formed between the arc-shaped part 31 of the cover plate 3 and the test plate 11. The pressurization space is located above the groove 111.
[0050] Here, the test plate 11 can also be used directly as the bottom plate 22 of the sealed container. An arc-shaped cover plate 3 can be installed on the top of the test plate 11. The arc-shaped part 31 of the cover plate 3 and the test plate 11 form a pressure space. Pressurizing the pressure space and acting on the test sealing material 9 laid on the groove 111 can also realize the performance test of the sealing material.
[0051] Optionally, a pressure port 211 is provided on the cover plate 3, and the pressure port 211 is connected to the pressure space; a viewing lens 32 is installed on the cover plate 3; and a heat insulation coating 33 is applied to the inner surface of the arc-shaped part 31.
[0052] The test can be conducted by pressurizing the pressurized space above the test plate 11 through the pressurization port 211 on the cover plate 3. At the same time, the process of penetration and deformation of the test sealing material 9 on the test plate 11 can be observed through the viewing lens 32 installed on the cover plate 3. The pressurization process may be accompanied by the temperature rise in the pressurized space. The heat insulation coating 33 coated on the inner surface of the arc-shaped part 31 of the cover plate 3 can be used for heat insulation, which can reduce heat loss and keep the temperature in the pressurized space constant during the test, so that the temperature detection is as accurate as possible.
[0053] like Figure 2 The second device structure shown employs a two-piece stainless steel end cap interlocking structure (i.e., the upper cover plate 3 and the lower test plate 11), with the test sealing material 9 laid inside the device. High-pressure gas is introduced through the air inlet of the upper cover and gradually permeates through the test sealing material 9. The leakage rate can be accurately calculated by collecting the leaked gas. Furthermore, this device can systematically study the influence of different working conditions on the leakage rate of the sealing material by adjusting internal pressure parameters (covering different pressure ranges) and controlling ambient temperature (simulating different temperature working scenarios). Additionally, the device can simulate the working conditions of the sealing material with misalignment defects or cracks of different shapes on the test bench, studying the sealing characteristics of different materials and the differences in extrusion failure under different gap widths. Through testing and data analysis using this experimental device system, the variation law of the sealing performance of the sealing material with gap width and misalignment can be verified, and the caulking and shear failure mechanism of the sealing material can be studied, providing technical support for the material selection and design optimization of artificial gas storage caverns.
[0054] The relevant research results will not only fill the technical gap in the performance testing of sealing materials in the field of compressed air energy storage, but the research conclusions on the correlation data of operating conditions and leakage rates and the failure mechanism will also provide key technical guidance for the sealing structure design, material selection and engineering construction of compressed air energy storage projects.
[0055] In this embodiment, a pressure sensor 5 and a temperature sensor 4 are installed on the top plate 21 of the test container 2, or a pressure sensor 5 and a temperature sensor 4 are installed on the cover plate 3.
[0056] Specifically, when the test bench 1 is placed in the test container 2, the pressure sensor 5 and the temperature sensor 4 are installed on the top plate 21 of the test container 2; when the test plate 11 is covered with a cover plate 3, the pressure sensor 5 and the temperature sensor 4 are installed on the cover plate 3; the pressure sensor 5 and the temperature sensor 4 can extend through the top plate 21 or the cover plate 3 of the test container 2 into the pressurized space above the test plate 11 to detect the pressure and temperature parameters in the pressurized space.
[0057] In this embodiment, the filling material 12 includes a permeable material 121 and / or a non-permeable material 122.
[0058] Here, the permeable material 121 may include a microporous rubber pad, a layer of fine sand or gravel, etc., and the non-permeable material 122 may be made of rigid concrete, steel pad, fiberglass, etc. The filling material 12 in the groove 111 may be only the permeable material 121, or it may be both the permeable material 121 and the non-permeable material 122. For example, half of the groove 111 is filled with the permeable material 121 and the other half is filled with the non-permeable material 122. The permeable material 121 is mainly used to ensure that the amount of gas permeation of the flexible sealing material under internal pressure is transferred to the buffer tank below through the permeable material so that it can be collected and recorded by the gas flow monitoring recorder, thereby obtaining the permeability performance of the flexible sealing material. The non-permeable material 122 is mainly used to make the filling material produce different compression deformations to form a misalignment in the test, so as to realize the tensile performance of the flexible sealing material.
[0059] Example 2 This embodiment provides a multi-parameter testing system for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns.
[0060] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the multi-parameter testing system for the flexible sealing material of the gas storage cavity in this embodiment includes a pressurization unit, a heating unit, a control unit, and a multi-parameter testing device for the flexible sealing material of the gas storage cavity as in Embodiment 1; the pressurization unit is connected to the space above the test plate 11, and the control unit is connected to the pressurization unit and the heating unit.
[0061] In this embodiment, the pressurization unit includes an air source, an air compressor 62, a booster pump 63, and an air inlet pipe. The air source and the air compressor 62 are both connected to the booster pump 63, and the air inlet pipe is connected to the test device. The heating unit includes a water bath 7. Here, the air source can be an air tank 61.
[0062] The water bath 7 can use liquid heating media such as water or oil. By controlling the temperature of the liquid substance as an intermediate temperature transfer, the preset temperature inside the test can be precisely controlled, ensuring the accuracy of the performance test of the flexible sealing material under temperature control. The real results are used to improve the sealing material to form positive feedback. Finally, a flexible sealing material suitable for compressed air energy storage can be obtained through the test.
[0063] like Figure 8 The first experimental system structure shown is combined with Figure 1 and Figure 8 The control unit includes a gas mass flow recorder 81, a gas flow monitoring recorder 82, a solenoid valve 83, a pressure sensor 5, a temperature sensor 4, and a signal control box 84. The pressurization unit includes a booster pump 63, an air compressor 62, a gas tank 61, a one-way valve 65, a starting ball valve 64, and corresponding pipelines. The pressure sensor 5 and temperature sensor 4 are mounted on the top plate 21 and extend into the sealed container to monitor and record the pressure values of the high-pressure gas. The recorded values are transmitted to the pressure signal control box 84 via electrical signals. The gas mass flow recorder 81 is connected to the outlet 221 of the test device via pipelines to measure the permeation pressure through the test sealing material 9. The signal control box 84 transmits data via pre-set test parameters. The pressure value is used to control the constantness and change of the internal pressure load of the sealed container. When the pressure reaches the preset pressure value, the signal control box 84 will send a signal command to the booster pump 63 to close the start ball valve 64 on the booster pump 63 and send a stop operation command to the air compressor 62. When the pressure is lower than the preset pressure value, the signal control box 84 will send a start operation command to the booster pump 63 and the air compressor 62 to ensure that the internal pressure of the sealed container meets the test requirements. The booster pump, through the set air compression ratio, can simulate the high internal pressure environment of the air storage chamber under the power of the air compressor 62. The pressurization unit is connected to the pressurization port 211 of the sealed container through the pressure transmission pipe, and the pressurization unit is connected to the signal control box 84 through the signal control line.
[0064] The gas mass flow recorder 81 is connected to the pressure outlet 221 of the bottom plate 22 of the sealed container via a clamp and a pressure transmission tube. It is used to monitor and record the temperature, pressure, and volume of the gas permeating from the flexible sealing material in the test in real time, so as to realize the analysis and research of the material's airtightness, strength (deformation), and durability under the above-mentioned temperature and pressure changes. The gas flow monitoring recorder 82 and the solenoid valve 83 are connected to the pressure transmission pipe at the front end of the gas mass flow recorder 81 via a clamp. When the gas flow monitoring recorder 82 detects that the flow rate of the permeated gas exceeds the preset warning value of the test, the connected signal control box 84 will issue a closing command to the solenoid valve 83 to cut off the continuous leakage of the permeated gas, so as to protect the gas mass flow recorder 81 below. The signal control box 84 is connected to the solenoid valve 83 via a signal transmission line to realize the automatic control of the solenoid valve 83.
[0065] Temperature sensor 4 is installed on the top plate 21 of the sealed container to monitor and record the real-time temperature of the gas during the test. The collected values are transmitted to the constant temperature oil bath heating control box (i.e., water bath 7) via electrical signals. The constant temperature oil bath heating control box obtains the corresponding preset test temperature value of the external constant temperature oil bath based on the results of the pre-experiment, and is used to control the internal temperature of the sealed container to reach the required test temperature value. The constant temperature oil bath heating control box monitors the temperature of the heating oil bath through a thermometer. When the temperature of the test gas is detected to be lower than the preset temperature value, the constant temperature oil bath heating control box will issue a working command to start heating to control the internal temperature of the high-pressure test operation platform to meet the test requirements. The constant temperature oil bath heating control box realizes the change of the high-temperature internal environment of the gas storage chamber by automatically controlling the temperature of the oil bath arranged outside the test operation platform. The automatic temperature adjustment control device is connected to the sealed container through temperature signal transmission shielded wire and cable.
[0066] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 9 The second type of test system mainly consists of core components such as a water bath 7, a cover plate 3, bolts, an annular sealing ring 16, a viewing lens 32, an air inlet pipe, a pressure sensor 5, a heat insulation coating 33, a temperature sensor 4, test sealing material 9, filling material 12 (here, crushed stone and soil), a test plate 11, an air outlet pipe, a buffer tank 85, a pressure relief valve 67, a pressure control valve 66, and an air tank 61. Among these, the cover plate 3 and the test plate 11 are made of stainless steel; the temperature sensor 4 and the pressure sensor 5 have accuracies of ±0.1℃ and ±0.5kPa respectively, ensuring accurate data acquisition; and the viewing lens 32 uses high-temperature and high-pressure resistant optical glass, facilitating real-time observation of internal test phenomena.
[0067] The test operation procedure is as follows: First, fill the groove 111 of the test plate 11 with a filling material 12 (here, crushed stone soil) with good air permeability and a particle size larger than the air outlet to form a stable seepage medium; then, lay the test sealing material 9 on top of the filling material 12 to divide the inside of the sealed container into the upper high-pressure chamber and the lower low-pressure chamber.
[0068] This experimental setup possesses several core functions: First, it maintains the ambient temperature within the water bath 7 stably within the required experimental range by controlling the temperature. By sequentially opening the pressure relief valve 67 and the pressure control valve 66, gas from the gas tank 61 enters the upper high-pressure chamber through the inlet pipe. Under high pressure, the gas slowly permeates through the experimental sealing material 9, the filling material 12, and the outlet pipe, finally entering the gas collection chamber of the buffer tank 85. By measuring the gas flow rate and pressure within the chamber of the buffer tank 85 and combining this with the gas state equation, the gas leakage rate under specific temperature and internal pressure conditions can be calculated. Furthermore, by systematically changing the temperature within the water bath 7 and the internal pressure parameters of the pressure control valve 66, the variation of the gas leakage rate with temperature and pressure can be obtained.
[0069] Secondly, when there is no filler in the groove 111 of the test plate 11, under high internal pressure, the test sealing material 9 will bear tensile load because its four edges are fixed in the slots of the cover plate 3 and the test plate 11. Real-time monitoring through the visual lens 32 can accurately record the critical internal pressure value at which tensile failure occurs, providing a key theoretical basis for the structural strength design of the gas storage cavity.
[0070] Third, prefabricated blocks with different crack widths and misalignment sizes were placed in the grooves 111 of the test plate 11 to simulate the real environment of an actual gas storage facility during operation. Under internal pressure, the mechanical response of the test sealing material 9 under the influence of caulking failure and misalignment was studied to analyze whether shear failure occurred. Through a large number of working condition experiments, the failure modes of the sealing layer under different crack control methods were summarized, the failure mechanism was revealed, and targeted control technologies were proposed accordingly.
[0071] Based on the above research results, a theoretical and methodological system for sealing layer design suitable for underground caverns is constructed, thereby scientifically determining key parameters such as the type, specifications, grade, and thickness of sealing materials for high-pressure artificial gas storage facilities, and providing certain technical support for the construction of gas storage facilities.
[0072] This embodiment presents a multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns. Through modular design, it achieves multi-functional integration and can systematically conduct research on the airtightness, permeability, and tensile deformation of sealing materials.
[0073] In the permeability research phase, the groove 111 of the lower test plate 11 can be filled with well-permeable crushed stone soil. By filling the groove with well-permeable crushed stone soil, a medium environment can be constructed. Combined with pressure, temperature control and flow monitoring systems, it is possible to simulate different working conditions, that is, under different internal pressures and temperatures, the parameter changes of the sealing material during the gas permeation process, and analyze the factors affecting permeability.
[0074] During the tensile deformation test, the filler in the groove 111 of the test plate 11 is removed. By applying internal pressure and using a strain measuring device, the stress-strain data of the sealing material under stress is collected in real time to obtain key indicators of tensile performance.
[0075] To study the caulking failure mechanism, precast blocks with different crack widths and misalignments were selected in the groove 111 of the test plate 11. The caulking failure mechanism of the sealing material and whether shear failure would occur under the influence of misalignment were studied, and the entire failure process of the sealing material under complex stress conditions was fully recorded.
[0076] This device fills the gap in the systematic experimental research of existing energy storage sealing materials. Its research results can be directly used to guide the design, material selection and performance evaluation of compressed gas energy storage sealing structures, provide key experimental data support for the industry, and help promote technological progress in the field of compressed gas energy storage.
[0077] Example 3 This embodiment provides a test method for flexible sealing materials for gas storage caverns.
[0078] like Figures 1 to 9 As shown, the test method for the flexible sealing material of the gas storage cavern in this embodiment can use the multi-parameter test device for the flexible sealing material of the gas storage cavern as in Embodiment 1, or the multi-parameter test system for the flexible sealing material of the gas storage cavern as in Embodiment 2.
[0079] The test method for the flexible sealing material of the gas storage cavity in this embodiment includes the following steps: S1: A filling material 12 is placed in the groove 111, and a test sealing material 9 is laid on top of the filling material 12; or, if no filling material 12 is placed in the groove 111, the test sealing material 9 is directly laid in the groove 111 so that the test sealing material 9 covers the simulated crack 112. S2: Apply pressure to the top of the test plate 11 to the preset pressure, and heat the test bench 1 and the test sealing material 9 to the preset temperature; here, the preset pressure value can be 5MPa~10MPa.
[0080] S3: Maintain stable pressure above the test plate 11 and monitor pressure changes below the test plate 11; observe the morphological changes of the test sealing material 9 in the filling material 12 or simulated crack 112.
[0081] In summary, this invention provides a multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns. This invention can simulate the tensile properties of the sealing material in conjunction with the surrounding rock under applied / released loads by filling pre-set grooves on a test plate with deformable materials to adapt to different pressures, thus demonstrating the radial and circumferential tensile deformation of the sealing material in synergy with the surrounding rock. Alternatively, at least two materials with different stiffnesses can be filled in the grooves to simulate the strength performance of the sealing material in synergy with the surrounding rock under applied / released loads, forming a faulted structure. Furthermore, without filling materials, the test sealing material can be directly laid in the grooves and covered onto simulated cracks, enabling the testing of the sealing material's permeability deformation within the simulated cracks. The shape and size of the simulated cracks can also be selected; for example, the sealing material can be directly laid on a crack structure panel with pre-set widths of straight, T-shaped, and cross-shaped cracks to simulate the permeability performance of the sealing material under different crack width structures in the surrounding rock. This allows for the testing of the permeability, tensile properties, strength properties, and durability properties of the sealing layer material under the operational conditions of underground gas storage facilities.
[0082] Existing simulation tests on the performance parameters of flexible sealing materials in high-pressure gas storage chambers can only verify the permeability of the flexible sealing materials. The test results are limited and cannot fully simulate the stress environment of the flexible sealing materials under high pressure in the gas storage chamber. Furthermore, the existing simulation test devices for the performance parameters of flexible sealing materials in high-pressure gas storage chambers only fix the flexible sealing materials and the ring plate with bolts, without considering the leakage of pressurized gas from the bolt gaps and the bonding surface between the flexible seal and the ring plate during the pressurization process. This leakage affects the test results and leads to the failure of the permeability test of the flexible sealing materials. This invention can simulate the formation of a high-pressure gas storage chamber to conduct simulation tests on the radial deformation, fracture tension misalignment, and different crack widths and temperature control of flexible sealing materials under cyclic pressurization / depressurization operation conditions. It can monitor various performance parameters of flexible sealing materials applied to high-pressure gas storage chambers to verify the reliability of the flexible materials. The test finally tests the permeability, tensile properties, strength properties, and durability properties of the flexible sealing materials under different pressure, temperature, and complex operating conditions. The real results are used to improve the sealing materials to form positive feedback, and can ultimately be used to develop and manufacture flexible sealing materials suitable for compressed air energy storage.
[0083] Existing simulation test devices for the performance parameters of flexible sealing materials in high-pressure chambers mostly employ resistance heating for temperature control. However, due to the inherent nature of this heating method and principle, the resistance heating device continues to provide heat after reaching the preset temperature, causing the temperature to exceed the preset level. This temperature lag is difficult to control and is detrimental to experimental research. In contrast, this invention uses an oil bath constant-temperature heating control box. Through a self-developed heating control device, the preset internal temperature can be precisely controlled by controlling the temperature of the liquid substance as an intermediate temperature transfer medium, ensuring the accuracy of performance testing of flexible sealing materials under temperature regulation.
[0084] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns, characterized in that, The test bench (1) includes a test plate (11). The upper surface of the test plate (11) is provided with a groove (111). The bottom of the groove (111) is provided with a simulated crack (112) that penetrates the test plate (11). A filling material (12) is detachably installed in the groove (111). The test sealing material (9) can be applied to the upper surface of the filling material (12) or in the groove (111).
2. The multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test bench (1) also includes an annular pressure plate (13) and an annular bearing plate (14). The annular pressure plate (13) is located on the upper part of the test plate (11), and the test plate (11) and the annular pressure plate (13) are detachably connected by a buckle (15). The annular bearing plate (14) is located on the lower part of the test plate (11), and the simulated crack (112) communicates with the inner cavity of the annular bearing plate (14).
3. The multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns according to claim 2, characterized in that, The test bench (1) is set in the test container (2). The top plate (21) of the test container (2) is provided with a pressure port (211), and the bottom plate (22) of the test container (2) is provided with a pressure outlet (221). The pressure outlet (221) is connected to the inner cavity of the annular pressure plate (14).
4. The multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test plate (11) is detachably fitted with a cover plate (3), and a pressurization space is formed between the arc-shaped portion (31) of the cover plate (3) and the test plate (11), and the pressurization space is located above the groove (111).
5. The multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cover plate (3) is provided with a pressure port (211), which is connected to the pressure space; a viewing lens (32) is installed on the cover plate (3); the inner surface of the arc-shaped part (31) is coated with a heat insulation coating (33).
6. The multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns according to claim 3 or 5, characterized in that, A pressure sensor (5) and a temperature sensor (4) are installed on the top plate (21) of the test container (2), or a pressure sensor (5) and a temperature sensor (4) are installed on the cover plate (3).
7. The multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials of gas storage caverns according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The filling material (12) includes a permeable material (121) and / or a non-permeable material (122).
8. A multi-parameter testing system for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns, characterized in that, The device includes a pressurization unit, a heating unit, a control unit, and a multi-parameter testing device for the flexible sealing material of the gas storage cavity as described in any one of claims 1 to 7; the pressurization unit is connected to the space above the test plate (11), and the control unit is connected to the pressurization unit and the heating unit.
9. The multi-parameter testing system for flexible sealing materials in gas storage caverns according to claim 8, characterized in that, The pressurization unit includes an air source, an air compressor (62), a booster pump (63), and an air inlet pipe. The air source and the air compressor (62) are both connected to the booster pump (63), and the air inlet pipe is connected to the test device. The heating unit includes a water bath (7).
10. A test method for a flexible sealing material for a gas storage cavity, characterized in that, The test method employs a multi-parameter testing device for flexible sealing materials of gas storage caverns as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, or a multi-parameter testing system for flexible sealing materials of gas storage caverns as described in claim 8 or 9; the test method includes: S1: A filling material (12) is provided in the groove (111), and a test sealing material (9) is applied on the top of the filling material (12); or, if no filling material (12) is provided in the groove (111), the test sealing material (9) is applied directly in the groove (111) so that the test sealing material (9) covers the simulated crack (112); S2: Apply pressure to the top of the test plate (11) to a preset pressure, and heat the test bench (1) and the test sealing material (9) to a preset temperature; S3: Keep the pressure above the test plate (11) stable and monitor the pressure change below the test plate (11); observe the morphological changes of the test sealing material (9) in the filling material (12) or the simulated crack (112).