Ball Joint Pipe Connection Vortex Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connections with ball joints are not adequately protected against abrasive materials, particularly when in a rotated position, leading to vortex formation and increased abrasive effects on the innermost shell part.
Innovation Solution
The inner lining surface of the pipe connection is designed to match the curvature of the outer surface of the innermost shell part, minimizing the gap and preventing vortex formation, while a flow guide with a cylindrical and spherically curved surface further protects the inner surface, and wear-resistant materials are used for the lining and flow guide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the gap between the lining and the innermost shell part is reduced to prevent vortices, then protection against abrasive materials is improved, but the flow area may be restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The lining covers only the specific portions of the innermost shell part that require protection against abrasive materials and vortex formation, rather than completely lining the entire flow path. The gap is minimized to the extent necessary to prevent vortices on the curved surfaces, while maintaining adequate flow area in straight sections where protection is less critical.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the lining follows the spherical curvature of the innermost shell part, then protection coverage is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lining is divided into multiple segments or sections that can be manufactured separately and then assembled to form the complete spherical coverage. This segmentation allows each piece to be fabricated using standard manufacturing processes, and the pieces are then joined to create the full conformal lining, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining protection coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe connection comprises a ball joint (1) having shell parts (3, 4) and pipe connection means (20, 21) at the ends of the shell parts (3, 4) which face away from each other and which are to be connected to a respective pipe section. The shell parts (3, 4) surround one another in a contacting manner and define a respective longitudinal centre line; they are rotatable in relation to one another between an aligned position, in which the longitudinal centre lines coincide, and a rotated position, in which the longitudinal centre lines form an angle with one another which differs from zero. The shell parts (3, 4) together enclose an axial passage which extends between the ends of the shell parts (3, 4). A sealing element (6) is provided between the outermost shell part (4) and the innermost shell part (3). A lining extends between the outermost shell part (4) and the corresponding pipe connection means (21). The inner lining surface (14) of the lining (13) has a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the outer surface (5) of the innermost shell part (3); furthermore, said inner lining surface (14) and said outer surface (5) lie entirely free in relation to one another so as to avoid turbulence and to ensure an unobstructed passage.