Hybrid tool assembly for pipe descaling

Abstract

Apparatus and methods are provided for descaling a pipe using a hybrid tool assembly. The hybrid tool assembly includes an assembly head body including a bottom surface connected to a circumferential surface. The bottom surface defines an acid jet opening, a water jet opening, a gas purge opening, and a laser opening. An acid jet subassembly is coupled in fluid communication with the acid jet opening and is configured to jet acid onto scale. A water jet subassembly is coupled in fluid communication with the water jet opening and is configured to jet water. A gas purge subassembly is coupled in fluid communication with the gas purge opening and is configured to purge gas. A laser subassembly is functionally coupled with the laser opening and is configured to generate a laser beam. The gas purge subassembly is configured to operate with at least one of the acid jet subassembly, the water jet subassembly, or the laser subassembly.

Description

[0001] Priority Statement This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 588,246, filed February 27, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to pipeline descaling. Background Technology

[0003] In the oil and gas industry, pipelines or outlet lines are used to transport fluids, such as hydrocarbons including oil, natural gas, or combinations thereof, between different locations. Typically, pipelines are made of metals, metal alloys, or similar materials capable of withstanding the mechanical and chemical forces of the fluids flowing through them. However, over time, operating conditions within the pipeline or the nature of the fluids flowing through it can lead to scaling. Scale is the formation of solids on the inner surface of the pipeline. Over time, these solids may extend into the internal volume of the pipeline and may impede the flow of fluids through it. Therefore, pipeline descaling is an important aspect of maintaining pipeline efficiency and integrity. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure describes methods, apparatus, systems, and techniques for descaling pipelines using hybrid tool assemblies.

[0005] Details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary pipeline system with exemplary tool components.

[0007] Figure 1B Schematic diagrams of an exemplary acid jetting sub-assembly and an exemplary water jetting sub-assembly are shown.

[0008] Figure 1C A schematic diagram of an exemplary gas purging subassembly is shown.

[0009] Figure 1D A schematic diagram of an exemplary laser sub-assembly is shown.

[0010] Figure 1E A schematic diagram of an exemplary rotating sub-component is shown.

[0011] Figures 2A to 2C An exemplary bottom surface of the component head is shown.

[0012] Figure 3 An exemplary component head with an elongated gas purging nozzle is shown.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of an exemplary method for descaling pipes.

[0014] It should be understood that the various exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0015] In the oil and gas industry, scale forms due to the precipitation of minerals and other solid deposits from fluids flowing through oil wells, pipelines, and production facilities. Scale can include calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, strontium sulfate, sodium chloride, or any mixture thereof. Scale formation can be influenced by a variety of factors, including pressure, temperature, the chemical composition of the fluid, and geological conditions. For example, as fluid flows upwards along an oil well, pressure and temperature decrease, calcite can form. Barite can form when barium ions in formation water combine with sulfate ions from oil or natural gas. Methods for removing scale include using explosives to break it up, especially for brittle scale. Introducing chemical inhibitors into the fluid flow is another method that inhibits scale formation by altering the crystal structure of the minerals responsible for scale formation.

[0016] This disclosure describes descaling of pipelines using a hybrid tool assembly. In the context of this disclosure, "hybrid" refers to a comprehensive method of combining multiple descaling technologies, including laser descaling, acid spraying, water spraying, and gas purging, within a single tool assembly. A hybrid tool assembly is a tool assembly comprising sub-assemblies for each of these descaling methods. In some aspects, the hybrid tool assembly includes a component head body with a bottom surface. The bottom surface defines acid spraying openings, water spraying openings, gas purging openings, and laser openings. The openings are endpoints of internal flow paths located at least partially within the component head body. The channels are grooves or conduits configured to guide various fluids through the component head body. An acid spraying sub-assembly is fluidly connected to the acid spraying opening. The acid spraying sub-assembly is configured to spray acid from the component head body onto the target scale through the acid spraying opening. A water spraying sub-assembly is fluidly connected to the water spraying opening and is configured to spray water from the component head body onto the target scale through the water spraying opening. A gas purging subassembly is fluidly connected to the gas purging opening and configured to purge gas from the assembly head through the gas purging opening. A laser subassembly is functionally connected to the laser opening and configured to generate a laser beam that passes through the laser opening and reaches the target scale. The gas purging subassembly is configured to operate in conjunction with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, or the laser subassembly to descale the pipeline.

[0017] The embodiments of this disclosure can provide one or more of the following technical advantages. For example, the techniques described herein integrate various descaling methods (e.g., acid jetting, water jetting, gas purging, and / or laser descaling) into a single component head for descaling pipes. These hybrid technologies provide a more efficient method for removing different types of scale deposits from the inner surfaces of pipes. The choice of descaling method can depend on the composition or nature of the scale. For example, acid can be used to remove calcium scale. Water jetting can flush large pieces of scale from pipes. Laser beams can melt or break up scale. By integrating multiple technologies, various types of scale can be descaled in a single operation using a single tool. These descaling technologies also address the risk of acid corrosion in pipes by simultaneously injecting water and acid during operation. Furthermore, gas purging is used to clear the path by removing chips and debris. This not only improves the efficiency of laser descaling by reducing energy waste absorbed by debris but also protects the laser sub-assembly from potential damage caused by chips and debris. In addition, laser descaling does not affect the integrity of the pipe because it is a non-contact method that selectively targets the scale while leaving the underlying pipe material largely unaffected. This hybrid descaling method reduces manpower requirements and shortens descaling operation time. Furthermore, the hybrid tool assembly can be enclosed, which is environmentally friendly.

[0018] Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an exemplary piping system 100 and an exemplary hybrid tool assembly 110 is shown. The oil well piping system 100 includes a pipe 102 (or outlet line) for transporting fluids, such as hydrocarbons including petroleum, natural gas, or combinations thereof, between different locations. The pipe 102 may be located above or below the Earth's surface. Typically, the pipe 102 may be made of metal, metal alloy, or similar materials capable of withstanding the mechanical and chemical effects of the fluid flowing through it. Due to the deposition of various substances present in the transported fluid, scale 104 may accumulate on the inner surface of the pipe 102. These substances may include minerals, salts, corrosion byproducts, organic matter, or other impurities carried by the fluid. Over time, these materials adhere to the inner surface of the pipe 102, forming a scale layer 104. Factors such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, and the composition of the transported fluid can affect the rate and composition of scale accumulation. The accumulation of scale 104 in the pipe 102 can have several adverse effects. For example, it may reduce the inner diameter of the pipe, leading to restricted flow, increased pressure drop, or even pipe blockage. In addition, scale 104 can create a rough surface, promoting corrosion and erosion of pipe materials and damaging their structural integrity over time.

[0019] The mixing tool assembly 110 described herein is configured to descale the conduit 102. The mixing tool assembly 110 includes an assembly head 120. The assembly head 120 includes a circumferential surface 106 and a bottom surface 108 connected to the circumferential surface 106. The bottom surface 108 defines at least one acid jet opening, at least one water jet opening, at least one gas purging opening, and at least one laser opening, as shown in... Figures 2A to 2C As described in further detail below. In some embodiments, the component head 120 may have a cylindrical shape or a truncated conical shape with a base surface 108. The circumferential surface 106 and the base surface 108 may be made of steel, aluminum, composite materials, titanium, or any other suitable material.

[0020] The mixing tool assembly 110 includes an acid spraying sub-assembly 150. Figure 1B A schematic diagram of an exemplary acid spray subassembly 150 and an exemplary water spray subassembly 160 is shown. The acid spray subassembly 150 is fluidly connected to the acid spray opening 202. The acid spray assembly 150 is configured to spray acid from the assembly head 120 onto the scale 104 through the acid spray opening 202. The acid can chemically descale the conduit 102 by dissolving the scale 104. In some embodiments, the acids used for descaling include hydrochloric acid (HCl), hydrofluoric acid (HF), acetic acid (CH3COOH), citric acid (C6H8O7), sulfamic acid (H3NSO3), phosphoric acid (H3PO4), or formic acid (HCOOH). Different types of scale may require specific acids for effective descaling. For example, HCl can be used to descale carbonate scale, such as calcium carbonate (limestone) or magnesium carbonate (dolomite). Chelating agents can remove thin layers of sulfate. HF can effectively remove silica scale, such as silica-based deposits.

[0021] In some embodiments, the acid injection subassembly 150 includes a pump 151 configured to pressurize and deliver acid to the conduit 102. The pump ensures that the acid is propelled at the desired pressure to effectively remove scale 104. Multiple lines or conduits 152 may be connected to acid injection openings 202 in the assembly head 120 to deliver acid from the pump 151 to the assembly head 120 and to eject acid from the assembly head 120 through the acid injection openings 202. The materials selected for the conduits or lines 152 used to deliver the acid are chosen based on their ability to withstand the corrosiveness of the delivered acid. For example, the conduit materials may include stainless steel, plastic, nickel alloys, etc. The acid injection subassembly 150 may also include a pressure gauge 153 configured to provide real-time monitoring of the pressure level within the acid injection subassembly 150 to ensure that the acid is injected at the desired pressure for effective scale removal. The acid may be stored in an acid container 154. The acid container 154 may be located in a designated area. Acid can be continuously delivered from its storage location to the component head 120 via a pipe or conduit 152, as shown in the figure.

[0022] The mixing tool assembly 110 also includes a water jet subassembly 160. The water jet subassembly 160 is fluidly connected to the water jet opening 204 and is configured to jet water from the assembly head 120 onto the target scale 104 through the water jet opening 204. The water jet can mechanically descale the conduit 102. For example, the water jet subassembly 160 generates a flow of water at extremely high pressure, such as 5,000 to 40,000 pounds per square inch (psi) (34,473,800 to 275,790,400 Pascals). This high pressure can dislodge and break up the hard scale 104 within the conduit 102. In some embodiments, the water jet chemically descales the conduit 102. For example, rock salt or table salt (sodium chloride) can be effectively removed using low-salinity water because it is readily soluble in water.

[0023] In some embodiments, the water jet subassembly 160 includes a high-pressure pump 161, a water supply connection, and a conduit or conduit 162. The high-pressure pump 161 is responsible for pressurizing water to the level required for effective descaling. The water supply connection connects the water jet subassembly 160 to a water source, allowing the water jet subassembly 160 to draw water from the water source. The conduit or conduit 162 is configured to deliver pressurized water to the assembly head 120. The conduit or conduit 162 connects to the water jet opening 204, allowing water to be jetted from the assembly head 120 through the water jet opening 204. Furthermore, a control valve 163 may be deployed in the water jet subassembly 160 to control the water flow and pressure as needed. Water may be stored in a water container 164. The water container 164 may be located within the assembly head 120 or in another designated area. In the latter case, water can be delivered to the assembly head 120 from its storage location via the conduit or conduit 162. In some embodiments, the acid jetting sub-assembly 150 and the water jetting sub-assembly 160 are at least partially located within the same housing 165. In some embodiments, fluids other than water and acid can be pumped into the assembly head in a similar manner for descaling purposes.

[0024] The hybrid tool assembly 110 also includes a gas purging subassembly 170. Figure 1CA schematic diagram of an exemplary gas purging subassembly 170 is shown. The gas purging subassembly 170 is fluidly connected to the gas purging opening 206 and is configured to purge gas from the assembly head 120 through the gas purging opening 206. The gas may be pressurized air or nitrogen. The pressurized gas can clean the path of water, acid, and / or laser beams by removing debris or chips from the target fouling area. In some embodiments, the gas purging subassembly 170 includes a compressor 171, a gas purging valve 172, a gas purging line or conduit 173, and a pressure regulator 174. The compressor 171 compresses the gas (e.g., air or nitrogen) to increase its pressure to a desired level. The gas purging valve 172 controls the gas flow rate through the subassembly. The gas purging line or conduit 173 is configured to deliver the purged gas from a gas source 175 to the assembly head 120. The end of the gas purging line 173 is connected to the gas purging opening 206 at the bottom surface 108 of the assembly head 120, allowing gas to be purged from the assembly head 120 through the gas purging opening 206. The gas purging line 173 can be configured to withstand the conditions and pressures associated with the purging process. The pressure regulator 174 can be configured to maintain a controlled and safe pressure level within the gas purging subassembly 170 and ensure that gas is discharged at the desired pressure. When the gas purging valve 172 is open, gas flows from the gas source 175 to the compressor 171 for compression. The pressurized gas then flows through the gas purging line 173 to the assembly head 120. The gas pressure can be controlled by the pressure regulator 174. Subsequently, the pressurized gas is directed through the gas purging opening 206 to a designated location to remove debris or chips from the conduit 102.

[0025] The hybrid tool assembly 110 also includes a laser subassembly 180. Figure 1D A schematic diagram of an exemplary laser sub-assembly 180 is shown. The laser sub-assembly 180 is functionally coupled to the laser opening 208 and configured to generate a laser beam 124 that passes through the laser opening 208 to reach the target scale 104. The laser beam 124 can thermally descale the conduit 102. The laser beam 124 can be precisely directed to specific areas where scale 104 has accumulated. The intense heat generated by the laser can dissolve, break down, or melt the scale 104, turning it into smaller particles or gas. These small pieces of scale 104 can be easily flushed out of the conduit 102 by water jetting. A high-power laser beam, such as one with a power greater than 2 kilowatts (kW), can be used. In some embodiments, the laser sub-assembly 180 includes a compact laser with a laser beam delivery system. In some embodiments, the laser sub-assembly 180 utilizes a laser diode to generate the laser beam 124.

[0026] In some embodiments, an aperture is positioned in the laser opening on the bottom surface 108 of the assembly head 120 to allow the laser beam 124 to pass through the bottom surface 108. In some embodiments, the laser subassembly 180 includes a laser source, focusing optics, a beam delivery system, and a control system. The laser source generates the laser beam 124. The focusing optics focus and shape the laser beam 124 to achieve a desired intensity and shape. The focused laser beam 124 is then directed toward the scale 104. As shown, the laser beam 124 is emitted toward the target scale 104 accumulated on the inner surface of the conduit 102. The scale 104 within the conduit 102 may be thick, significantly reducing the inner diameter of the conduit. Therefore, the laser beam 124 can be directed toward the side surface of the target scale 104 to effectively remove it.

[0027] In some embodiments, the laser beam 124 is selective for the target material. Different materials absorb laser energy differently based on their properties. The laser sub-assembly 180 can be configured to target a specific material (e.g., scale) while leaving other materials (e.g., pipe materials) unaffected. Therefore, the laser beam 124 allows for targeted descaling without damaging the piping infrastructure. In some embodiments, the laser beam 124 can be split into multiple arrays using a high-power beam splitter device. The high-power beam splitter can be configured to split the laser beam 124 into two or more beams to transmit the laser beam 124 over a larger area of ​​the scale 104. In some embodiments, a beam expander can be used in conjunction with the beam splitter. The beam expander is configured to increase the diameter of the laser beam 124 and change its shape, for example, from a spot shape to an elongated shape. In some embodiments, the hybrid tool assembly 110 includes an optical fiber cable configured to transmit energy from an energy source located on the Earth's surface to the laser sub-assembly 180. The energy can be electrical or optical energy.

[0028] In some embodiments, the hybrid tool assembly 110 includes a rotating subassembly 190. Figure 1E A schematic diagram of an exemplary rotatable subassembly 190 is shown. The rotatable subassembly 190 is configured to cause the assembly head 120 to move along an axis (e.g., along an axis). Figure 1EThe rotating sub-assembly may include a motor 192 connected to the assembly head 120 to power the rotation. In some embodiments, the rotating sub-assembly 190 is configured to operate simultaneously with at least one of the acid jetting sub-assembly 150, the water jetting sub-assembly 160, the gas purging sub-assembly 170, or the laser sub-assembly 180. In other words, the assembly head 120 rotates whenever any of the acid jetting, water jetting, gas purging, or laser descaling is in operation. The rotational motion generates centrifugal force, promoting the splashing of fluid (e.g., gas or water) onto the scale 104, improving the efficiency of the descaling process. Furthermore, the rotating assembly head 120 can convert the linear laser beam 124 into a circular laser beam. The circular laser beam 124 can cover a larger area of ​​the scale 104 and provide more uniform descaling treatment on the scale 104.

[0029] The gas purging sub-assembly 170 is configured to operate in conjunction with at least one of the acid jetting sub-assembly 150, the water jetting sub-assembly 160, or the laser sub-assembly 180 to descale the conduit 102. The gas purging sub-assembly 170 can operate simultaneously or sequentially with any other sub-assembly. In some embodiments, the gas purging sub-assembly 170 operates sequentially with the acid jetting sub-assembly 150 and the water jetting sub-assembly 160. The gas purging sub-assembly 170 may be activated first to remove chips and debris from the target scale 104. Subsequently, the acid jetting sub-assembly 150 and the water jetting sub-assembly 160 are activated to erode, dissolve, and / or flush out the target scale 104. In some embodiments, the gas purging sub-assembly 170 operates simultaneously or sequentially with the laser assembly. The gas purging sub-assembly 170 clears the path for the laser beam 124 by removing debris. The laser sub-assembly 180 emits a laser beam at the target scale 104 to break up or dissolve the scale 104.

[0030] In some embodiments, any two of the sub-assemblies can operate simultaneously. In some embodiments, the acid spraying sub-assembly 150 and the water spraying sub-assembly 160 operate simultaneously to reduce the acid concentration in the fluid mixture and mitigate the risk of pipe corrosion. In some embodiments, the laser sub-assembly 180 operates simultaneously with the acid spraying sub-assembly 150 and the water spraying sub-assembly 160. The laser beam 124 is used to thermally weaken or break up the scale 104. Simultaneously, the acid erodes the scale 104 into small fragments, and the water flushes the broken scale 104 out of the pipe 102. In some embodiments, when scale 104 clogs the internal space of the pipe 102, the laser beam 124 can first be used to create a path for the acid by at least partially penetrating or breaking up a portion of the scale 104. Subsequently, the acid spraying assembly is activated to spray acid onto the scale 104. Due to the prior laser treatment, the contact area for acid erosion is increased, thereby improving the efficiency of the descaling process.

[0031] The choice of descaling method (e.g., thermal, chemical, and / or mechanical methods) can depend on the composition and properties of the scale 104. In some embodiments, if the scale 104 comprises calcium carbonate (CaCO3), a combination of laser treatment, acid etching, and water jetting can be deployed for descaling. Acids can react with calcium carbonate to form soluble compounds, facilitating its removal. In some embodiments, if the scale 104 comprises acid-resistant iron sulfide deposits, the laser sub-assembly 180 and the water jetting sub-assembly 160 can be used to remove the scale. This customized approach ensures that an appropriate method is used for effective descaling based on the type of scale encountered.

[0032] In some embodiments, the hybrid tool assembly 110 includes a control system 122 functionally coupled to the acid jetting subassembly 150, the water jetting subassembly 160, the gas purging subassembly 170, the laser subassembly 180, and / or the rotary subassembly 190. The control system 122 may include a computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) storing computer instructions executable by one or more processors. The one or more processors may execute the stored computer instructions to perform the operations described in this disclosure. The control system 122 may be configured to manage and coordinate the sequence of operations performed by these subassemblies. For example, the control system 122 may manage power allocation to the individual subassemblies. This may include directing power to supply energy to each subassembly as needed. Thus, the control system may regulate the operation of these subassemblies based on a predetermined sequence of operations.

[0033] In some embodiments, the component head 120 includes a camera configured to visualize scale 104 within the pipe 102. The camera can help identify the volume and type of scale 104, thereby assisting in selecting a descaling method suitable for a specific scale type. Furthermore, by assessing the volume of scale 104 prior to operation, the camera enables the determination of the operating power required for the descaling process. This proactive approach mitigates the risk of incomplete scale removal, which could potentially lead to tools getting stuck in the scale 104.

[0034] In operation, the component head 120 can be inserted into a vertical pipe using a continuous tubing. For a horizontal pipe 102, the component head 120 can be deployed at the inlet or outlet of the pipe 102. In some embodiments, a robot or crawler is deployed to carry the component head 120 into the horizontal pipe 102. The robot or crawler may include tracks or wheels for navigation inside the pipe 102.

[0035] The movement of the robot or crawler can be remotely controlled by the control system 122. The robot or crawler may also include a camera to visualize the scale 104 inside the pipe 102. In some embodiments, to descale long horizontal pipes, an opening or door is formed in the middle portion of the pipe wall, into which the component head 120 can be inserted.

[0036] Figures 2A to 2C Various embodiments of the bottom surface 108 of the component head 120 are shown. For example... Figure 2A As shown, a plurality of acid jet openings 202 on the bottom surface 108 are arranged in a wavy pattern along a quasi-radial direction. As illustrated, the wavy pattern can be an elongated, non-linear shape with a wavy design. Similarly, water jet openings 204 on the bottom surface 108 can also be arranged in a similar wavy pattern parallel to the acid jet openings 202. Each acid jet opening 202 or water jet opening 204 can have a circular shape or other suitable shape. As described above, the different openings are at least partially located at the endpoints of internal flow paths within the component head body. The channels are grooves or conduits configured to guide various fluids through the component head body 120, such as… Figures 1B to 1C As shown.

[0037] In some embodiments, the acid jet opening includes at least one edge acid jet opening (e.g., 202a and / or 202b) adjacent to the edge of the bottom surface 108. In operation, refer to... Figure 1B The edge of the bottom surface 108 may be close to the most recently descaled exposed inner surface 148 of the conduit 102. The risk of acid splashing from the edge acid spray openings (e.g., 202a and / or 202b) onto these exposed inner surfaces 148 increases, potentially leading to corrosion and compromising the structural integrity of the conduit 102. To mitigate this risk, return to... Figure 2A At least one water jet opening (e.g., 204a and / or 204b) may be positioned between the edge of the bottom surface 108 and the edge acid jet opening (e.g., 202a and / or 202b). This configuration can reduce the acid concentration by promoting the mixing of acid and water, thereby reducing the likelihood of acid corrosion on the exposed inner surface 148.

[0038] Between the acid jet opening 202 and the water jet opening 204, a laser opening 208 can be positioned to allow the laser beam 124 to pass through, such as... Figure 2AAs shown. The laser beam 124 can be configured with an elongated shape having a wavy pattern similar to that of the acid jet opening 202 or the water jet opening 204. Furthermore, a plurality of gas purging openings 206 are arranged along the laser opening 208 to purge gas and clear debris or chips obstructing the path of the laser beam 124. The gas purging openings 206 can have a rectangular shape (as shown) or other suitable shapes.

[0039] Figure 2B Another example of the bottom surface 108 of the component head 120 is shown. As shown, the acid jet opening 202, the water jet opening 204, and the laser opening 208 may have linear or straight shapes along the diametrical or quasi-diametrical direction. The laser opening 208 may pass through the center of the bottom surface 108. One or more gas purge openings 206 may be arranged along one side of the laser opening 208. This arrangement can help simplify the design complexity of the mechanical connections between different fluid lines or conduits and their corresponding openings on the bottom surface 108 of the component head 120.

[0040] Figure 2C Another example of the bottom surface 108 of the component head 120 is shown. The acid jet opening 202 is arranged on the bottom surface 108 of the component head 120 along a first direction R1, while the water jet opening 204 is arranged along a second direction R2, and the laser opening 208 is arranged along a third direction R3. The directions R1, R2, and R3 can be radial directions passing through the center of the bottom surface 108. Figure 2A and Figure 2B In contrast to the example in the previous example, the directions R1, R2, and R3 can intersect each other. The gas purging opening 206 can be arranged in the region between any two types of openings, such as... Figure 2C As shown. This construction helps to better mix different fluids (such as acid and water) during descaling operations, thus contributing to more uniform descaling on scale 104.

[0041] Despite Figures 2A to 2C Not shown, but it should be understood that the bottom surface 108 can have any other suitable shape besides a circle. For example, the bottom surface 108 can have a square, rectangular, elliptical, or irregular shape. It should also be understood that the various openings can have any other suitable shape (e.g., square, rectangular, or irregular shape) and any other suitable arrangement.

[0042] In some embodiments, a check valve is attached to the acid injection port 202, the water injection port 204, and / or the gas purging port 206. The check valve is a one-way valve configured to allow fluid to flow in one direction, for example, from the mixing tool assembly 110 to the conduit 102, while preventing reverse flow or backflow. The check valve can protect the mixing tool assembly 110 from damage or contamination caused by backflow or pressure surges. The check valve may include a swing check valve, a lift check valve, and / or a ball check valve.

[0043] In some embodiments, one or more nozzles are mechanically attached to the acid injection opening 202, the water injection opening 204, or the gas purging opening 206 on the bottom surface 108 of the component head 120. The nozzles may be connected to corresponding conduits, pipes, or lines to control and direct the flow of acid, water, and / or gas into the conduit 102. In some embodiments, the nozzles are elongated and extend outward from the component head 120. Figure 3 An exemplary component head 120 with an elongated gas purging nozzle 302 is shown. In some cases, the elongated gas purging nozzle 302 can deliver a more concentrated and directional airflow to clear the path for lasers or other fluids by removing chips and debris. It also allows for better access to narrow, restricted, or hard-to-reach areas of fouling. Because the elongated gas purging nozzle 302 extends outward from the bottom surface 108, it can reduce interference between the gas and other fluids (e.g., acid or water) ejected from the bottom surface 108. It should be understood that other types of nozzles (e.g., water nozzles, acid nozzles) may also have a similar elongated shape.

[0044] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of an exemplary method for descaling pipe 102. In step 402, a mixing tool assembly 110 is formed. The mixing tool assembly 110 includes an assembly head 120, an acid jetting sub-assembly 150, a water jetting sub-assembly 160, a gas purging sub-assembly 170, a laser sub-assembly 180, and a rotating sub-assembly 190. As described above... Figures 1A to 3As described, the component head 120 includes a bottom surface 108. The bottom surface 108 defines an acid jet opening 202, a water jet opening 204, a gas purging opening 206, and a laser opening 208. The acid jet sub-assembly 150 is configured to jet acid from the component head 120 through the acid jet opening 202. The water jet sub-assembly 160 is configured to jet water from the component head 120 through the water jet opening 204. The gas purging sub-assembly 170 is configured to purge gas from the component head 120 through the gas purging opening 206. The laser sub-assembly 180 is configured to generate a laser beam 124 passing through the laser opening 208. The rotation sub-assembly 190 is configured to rotate the component head 120. As described above, the selection of the descaling method can depend on the composition or properties of the scale 104.

[0045] In step 404, the component head 120 is positioned inside the pipe 102. The component head 120 can be configured to move in and out of the pipe 102. The movement of the component head 120 can be achieved by an electric motor.

[0046] In step 406, the gas purging subassembly 170 is operated together with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly 150, the water jetting subassembly 160, the laser subassembly 180, or the rotation subassembly 190 to descale the conduit 102. The gas purging subassembly 170 can be configured to operate simultaneously or sequentially with any other subassembly. Any two of these subassemblies can be configured to operate simultaneously.

[0047] Implementation Certain aspects of the subject matter described herein can be implemented as a hybrid tool assembly for descaling pipelines. The hybrid tool assembly includes an assembly head, an acid jetting subassembly, a water jetting subassembly, a gas purging subassembly, and a laser subassembly. The assembly head includes a bottom surface defining an acid jetting opening, a water jetting opening, a gas purging opening, and a laser opening. The acid jetting subassembly is fluidly connected to the acid jetting opening and is configured to jet acid from the assembly head onto scale accumulated on the inner surface of the pipeline through the acid jetting opening. The water jetting subassembly is fluidly connected to the water jetting opening and is configured to jet water from the assembly head onto the scale through the water jetting opening. The gas purging subassembly is fluidly connected to the gas purging opening and is configured to purge gas from the assembly head through the gas purging opening. The laser subassembly is functionally connected to the laser opening and is configured to generate a laser beam that passes through the laser opening and reaches the scale. The gas purging subassembly is configured to operate together with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, or the laser subassembly to descale the pipeline.

[0048] An aspect that can be combined with any other aspect includes the following feature: at least two of the acid jetting sub-assembly, the water jetting sub-assembly, the gas purging sub-assembly, or the laser sub-assembly are configured to operate simultaneously.

[0049] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The gas purging subassembly is configured to operate simultaneously with the laser subassembly.

[0050] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The acid jetting sub-assembly is configured to operate simultaneously with the water jetting sub-assembly.

[0051] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature. The hybrid tool assembly includes a rotary sub-assembly configured to rotate the assembly head.

[0052] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The rotating sub-assembly is configured to operate simultaneously with at least one of the acid jetting sub-assembly, the water jetting sub-assembly, the gas purging sub-assembly, or the laser sub-assembly.

[0053] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The bottom surface of the component head body defines a plurality of acid injection openings. The plurality of acid injection openings include the acid injection openings themselves. The plurality of acid injection openings are arranged in a wavy or linear pattern on the bottom surface.

[0054] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following features: The plurality of acid jet openings include edge acid jet openings adjacent to the edge of the bottom surface. The water jet openings are positioned between the edge of the bottom surface and the edge acid jet openings.

[0055] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The bottom surface of the component head body defines a plurality of water jet openings. The plurality of water jet openings include the water jet openings themselves. The plurality of water jet openings are arranged in a wavy or linear pattern on the bottom surface.

[0056] One aspect that can be combined with any other aspect includes the following feature: The laser opening has an elongated shape.

[0057] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The gas includes pressurized nitrogen or air.

[0058] Certain aspects of the subject matter described herein can be implemented as a hybrid tool assembly for descaling pipelines. The hybrid tool assembly includes a component head, an acid spray sub-assembly, a water spray sub-assembly, a gas purging sub-assembly, a laser sub-assembly, and a rotating sub-assembly. The component head includes a bottom surface defining an acid spray opening, a water spray opening, a gas purging opening, and a laser opening. The acid spray sub-assembly is fluidly connected to the acid spray opening and is configured to spray acid from the component head onto scale accumulated on the inner surface of the pipeline through the acid spray opening. The water spray sub-assembly is fluidly connected to the water spray opening and is configured to spray water from the component head onto the scale through the water spray opening. The gas purging sub-assembly is fluidly connected to the gas purging opening and is configured to purge gas from the component head through the gas purging opening. The laser sub-assembly is functionally connected to the laser opening and is configured to generate a laser beam that passes through the laser opening and reaches the scale. The rotating sub-assembly is configured to rotate the component head in an axial direction.

[0059] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The gas purging subassembly is configured to operate simultaneously with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, or the laser subassembly.

[0060] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The gas purging subassembly is configured to operate sequentially with the laser subassembly.

[0061] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The bottom surface of the component head body defines a plurality of acid injection openings. The plurality of acid injection openings include the acid injection opening itself. The plurality of acid injection openings are arranged in a wavy or linear pattern along a first direction on the bottom surface.

[0062] One aspect, which can be combined with any other aspect, includes the following feature: The bottom surface of the component head body defines a plurality of water jet openings. The plurality of water jet openings include the water jet openings themselves. The plurality of water jet openings are arranged in a wavy or linear pattern along a second direction on the bottom surface.

[0063] An aspect that can be combined with any other aspect includes the following feature: The second direction intersects with the first direction.

[0064] Certain aspects of the subject matter described herein can be implemented as a method for descaling pipelines. The method includes forming a hybrid tool assembly comprising a tool head, an acid jetting sub-assembly, a water jetting sub-assembly, a gas purging sub-assembly, a laser sub-assembly, and a rotating sub-assembly. The tool head includes a bottom surface defining an acid jetting opening, a water jetting opening, a gas purging opening, and a laser opening. The acid jetting sub-assembly is configured to jet acid from the tool head through the acid jetting opening. The water jetting sub-assembly is configured to jet water from the tool head through the water jetting opening. The gas purging sub-assembly is configured to purge gas from the tool head through the gas purging opening. The laser sub-assembly is configured to generate a laser beam passing through the laser opening. The rotating sub-assembly is configured to rotate the tool head. The method further includes positioning the tool head inside the pipeline. The method further includes operating the gas purging subassembly together with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, the laser subassembly, or the rotating subassembly to descale the pipeline.

[0065] An aspect that can be combined with any other aspect includes the following feature. Operating the gas purging subassembly together with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, the laser subassembly, or the rotating subassembly to descale the pipeline includes: operating the gas purging subassembly and the laser subassembly simultaneously or sequentially.

[0066] An aspect that can be combined with any other aspect includes the following feature. Operating the gas purging subassembly together with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, the laser subassembly, or the rotating subassembly to descale the pipeline includes: operating the water jetting subassembly and the acid jetting subassembly simultaneously.

[0067] Therefore, specific embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims. In some cases, the actions recited in the claims may be performed in a different order and still achieve the desired result. Furthermore, the processes depicted in the drawings do not necessarily require the specific order or sequence shown to achieve the desired result. In some embodiments, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, aspects described with reference to any drawing or any embodiment may be combined with aspects described with reference to any other drawing or any other embodiment.

[0068] It should be understood that the articles "a," "an," and "the" in this disclosure are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements in the foregoing description. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that other elements may exist in addition to those listed. Furthermore, it should be understood that references to "an example" or "example" in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional examples that also include the described features. For example, any element described herein with respect to an example may be combined with any element of any other example described herein. Numerical values, percentages, ratios, or other values ​​recorded herein are intended to include that value, as well as other values ​​that are "about" or "approximately" covered by the examples of this disclosure as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, the values ​​should be interpreted broadly enough to cover values ​​that are at least close enough to perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. The values ​​include at least the variations expected in a suitable manufacturing or production process and may include values ​​within 5%, 1%, 0.1%, or 0.01% of the stated value.

[0069] Those skilled in the art will recognize from this disclosure that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the examples disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Equivalent constructions (including functional "means plus function" clauses) are intended to cover structures described herein as performing the described functions, including both structural equivalents operating in the same manner and equivalent structures providing the same function. The applicant expressly states that no claim invokes means plus function or other functional claims except those claims in which the word "for" appears with the relevant function. Every addition, deletion, and modification to the examples falling within the meaning and scope of the claims will be covered by the claims.

[0070] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" mean a quantity that is close to the stated quantity and still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. For example, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" may refer to a quantity that is less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of the stated quantity. Furthermore, it should be understood that any direction or frame of reference in the foregoing description is only relative direction or motion. For example, any references to "up" and "down" or "above" and "below" are only descriptions of the relative position or motion of the relevant elements.

Claims

1. A mixing tool assembly for descaling pipes, the mixing tool assembly comprising: The component head body includes a bottom surface, which defines an acid jet opening, a water jet opening, a gas purging opening, and a laser opening. An acid jetting subassembly, which is fluidly connected to the acid jetting opening and configured to jet acid from the assembly head onto scale accumulated on the inner surface of the pipe through the acid jetting opening; A water jet subassembly, which is fluidly connected to the water jet opening and configured to jet water from the assembly head onto the scale through the water jet opening; A gas purging subassembly, which is fluidly connected to the gas purging opening and configured to purge gas from the assembly head through the gas purging opening; as well as A laser sub-assembly, functionally coupled to the laser opening and configured to generate a laser beam that passes through the laser opening and reaches the scale. The gas purging sub-assembly is configured to operate together with at least one of the acid jetting sub-assembly, the water jetting sub-assembly, or the laser sub-assembly to descale the pipeline.

2. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least two of the acid jetting sub-assembly, the water jetting sub-assembly, the gas purging sub-assembly, or the laser sub-assembly are configured to operate simultaneously.

3. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas purging subassembly is configured to operate simultaneously with the laser subassembly.

4. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The acid jetting sub-assembly is configured to operate simultaneously with the water jetting sub-assembly.

5. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a rotatable sub-assembly configured to rotate the assembly head.

6. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The rotating subassembly is configured to operate simultaneously with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, the gas purging subassembly, or the laser subassembly.

7. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the component head defines a plurality of acid spray openings, the plurality of acid spray openings including the acid spray openings, the plurality of acid spray openings being arranged in a wavy or linear pattern on the bottom surface.

8. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The plurality of acid spray openings include edge acid spray openings adjacent to the edge of the bottom surface, and the water spray openings are positioned between the edge of the bottom surface and the edge acid spray openings.

9. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the component head defines a plurality of water jet openings, the plurality of water jet openings including the water jet openings, the plurality of water jet openings being arranged in a wavy or linear pattern on the bottom surface.

10. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The laser opening has an elongated shape.

11. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas includes pressurized nitrogen or air.

12. A mixing tool assembly for descaling pipes, the mixing tool assembly comprising: The component head body includes a bottom surface, which defines an acid jet opening, a water jet opening, a gas purging opening, and a laser opening. An acid jetting subassembly, which is fluidly connected to the acid jetting opening and configured to jet acid from the assembly head onto scale accumulated on the inner surface of the pipe through the acid jetting opening; A water jet subassembly, which is fluidly connected to the water jet opening and configured to jet water from the assembly head onto the scale through the water jet opening; A gas purging subassembly, which is fluidly connected to the gas purging opening and configured to purge gas from the assembly head through the gas purging opening; A laser sub-assembly, functionally coupled to the laser opening and configured to generate a laser beam that passes through the laser opening and reaches the scale. as well as A rotating subassembly configured to rotate the assembly head in an axial direction.

13. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The gas purging subassembly is configured to operate simultaneously with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, or the laser subassembly.

14. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The gas purging subassembly is configured to operate sequentially with the laser subassembly.

15. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the component head defines a plurality of acid spray openings, the plurality of acid spray openings including the acid spray openings, the plurality of acid spray openings being arranged in a wavy or linear pattern along a first direction on the bottom surface.

16. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the component head defines a plurality of water jet openings, the plurality of water jet openings including the water jet openings, the plurality of water jet openings being arranged in a wavy or linear pattern along a second direction on the bottom surface.

17. The hybrid tool assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that, The second direction intersects with the first direction.

18. A method for descaling a pipeline, the method comprising: A hybrid tool assembly is formed, comprising a tool head, an acid jetting sub-assembly, a water jetting sub-assembly, a gas purging sub-assembly, a laser sub-assembly, and a rotation sub-assembly. The tool head includes a bottom surface defining an acid jetting opening, a water jetting opening, a gas purging opening, and a laser opening. The acid jetting sub-assembly is configured to jet acid from the tool head through the acid jetting opening. The water jetting sub-assembly is configured to jet water from the tool head through the water jetting opening. The gas purging sub-assembly is configured to purge gas from the tool head through the gas purging opening. The laser sub-assembly is configured to generate a laser beam passing through the laser opening. The rotation sub-assembly is configured to rotate the tool head. Position the component head inside the pipe; as well as The gas purging subassembly is operated together with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, the laser subassembly, or the rotating subassembly to descale the pipeline.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, Operating the gas purging subassembly together with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, the laser subassembly, or the rotating subassembly to descale the pipeline includes operating the gas purging subassembly and the laser subassembly simultaneously or sequentially.

20. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, Operating the gas purging subassembly together with at least one of the acid jetting subassembly, the water jetting subassembly, the laser subassembly, or the rotating subassembly to descale the pipeline includes operating the water jetting subassembly and the acid jetting subassembly simultaneously.

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