Band-Clamped Field Mount for Thermal and Vibration Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Field device mounts face challenges in maintaining secure mounting on fluid handling equipment due to variations in temperature and mechanical vibration, requiring multiple sizes of saddle clamps for different pipe diameters and being susceptible to thermal expansion/contraction.
Innovation Solution
A field device mount using a clamp foot, flexible banding, and inline tension-retaining features that accommodate various equipment sizes and materials, ensuring robust clamping force despite thermal changes and vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional saddle clamps are used for mounting field devices, then secure mounting can be achieved, but multiple sizes are required for different pipe diameters and the mounting is susceptible to thermal expansion/contraction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal banding system with adjustable tensioners that can accommodate various pipe diameters and materials (metal, plastic, insulated) using a single clamp design. The banding material can be adjusted in length and the tensioner mechanism adapts to different circumferences, eliminating the need for multiple pre-sized clamps while maintaining secure mounting across diverse fluid handling equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through adjustable tensioners that allow real-time modification of clamping force. This enables the same clamp structure to adapt to thermal expansion and contraction of pipes by permitting controlled movement while maintaining consistent mounting pressure, rather than being fixed in a rigid configuration
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid clamping structures are used, then stable mounting position is achieved, but the structure is susceptible to damage from thermal expansion and mechanical vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes flexible banding material wrapped around the fluid handling equipment to provide mounting stability. This flexible banding can accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of the pipe while maintaining consistent contact and clamping force. The flexibility allows the mounting to absorb mechanical vibrations without transmitting stress to the field device, preventing damage while preserving position stability
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioner mechanism incorporates spring elements or adjustable preload features that apply controlled clamping force before thermal or vibrational stresses occur. This pre-applied force creates a cushioning effect that absorbs subsequent thermal expansion and vibration forces, protecting the mounting from loosening or damage while maintaining stable positioning
3Manufacturing precision
If custom saddle clamps are manufactured for each pipe size, then precise fit is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into standardized components (clamp body, adjustable banding, tensioner mechanism) that can be manufactured independently using common processes. The banding portion is the only customized element, which is simply cut to appropriate length and installed, avoiding the need for complex custom-molded clamps for each pipe size while maintaining precise fit through the adjustable tensioning system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides adaptable mounting that maintains clamping force across temperature and diameter variations, reducing the need for multiple clamp sizes and minimizing environmental impact and installation risks.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing member is disposed to urge the tensioner bracket away from the clamp foot
Data Source
AI summary
A field device mount includes a union configured to couple to a field device. A clamp foot is coupled to the union and is configured to engage fluid handling equipment. A tensioner assembly is coupled to the clamp foot and includes a tensioner bracket. A biasing member is disposed to urge the tensioner bracket away from the clamp foot. A band is configured to pass around the fluid handling equipment and to couple to opposite sides of the tensioner bracket. A buckle is configured to provide clamping force to maintain tension in the band. A field device mount using inline tensioners or a v-bolt as well as a method of coupling a field device mount to fluid handling equipment are also provided.