Blast-Resistant Composite Enclosure for Mineral Extraction Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mineral extraction systems' pressure-containing devices are susceptible to degradation and failure during testing and use, posing risks from elevated pressures and potential debris dispersion.
Innovation Solution
A blast-resistant material, combining polymer and metallurgical components with improved energy absorption capabilities, is used to form enclosures or shields around pressure-containing components, absorbing and distributing forces to contain potential projectiles and debris, while being lightweight and cost-effective.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional enclosures are used to contain pressure-containing devices, then safety is provided, but weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials consisting of a polymer matrix and metallurgical components (such as steel wires, rebar, or metal mesh) embedded within the polymer. This composite structure provides enhanced strength and blast resistance while maintaining reduced weight compared to traditional solid concrete or metal enclosures. The polymer matrix distributes and absorbs blast forces, while the metallurgical components provide tensile strength and structural integrity.
2Reliability
If traditional enclosures are used to contain pressure-containing devices, then safety is provided, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The composite material combines cost-effective polymer materials with relatively inexpensive metallurgical components to create an enclosure that meets safety requirements. The polymer matrix can be poured or injected into forms, reducing labor costs compared to traditional concrete or metal construction. The metallurgical reinforcement can be standard rebar or wire mesh, avoiding the need for expensive specialty materials.
3Reliability
If pressure-containing devices are tested in the field, then operational verification is achieved, but degradation and failure risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by embedding the pressure-containing device within a blast-resistant enclosure before field testing or operation. The enclosure is designed to absorb and distribute blast forces, protecting the device from degradation and failure during high-stress events. This protective measure is in place before any potential harmful events occur, allowing safe operational verification in the field.
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 blast-resistant material effectively contains released pressure and debris, enhances safety, and reduces the weight and cost of enclosures, providing a safer and more efficient solution for mineral extraction systems.
Implementation Method 1
A blast-resistant material, combining polymer and metallurgical components with improved energy absorption capabilities, is used to form enclosures or shields around pressure-containing components, absorbing and distributing forces to contain potential projectiles and debris
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes an enclosure defining an inner volume comprising a blast-resistant material having a metallic layer, wherein the metallic layer has substantially zero elongation, and a polymer layer coupled to the metallic layer and a pressure containing component disposed within the inner volume of the enclosure.