Branch Pipe Liner Curing Feedback to Prevent Post-Cure Collapse
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in pipe renovation using cured-in-place-pipe (CIPP) methods lies in maintaining the shape and stability of branch liners during the curing process, particularly at joints and branches, where the resin may not cure as expected, leading to collapse after removal of the inflatable bladder.
Innovation Solution
A method involving controlled heating and cooling of the resin using temperature sensors and a control unit to ensure proper curing and prevent collapse, with a one-way pressure relief valve for safe removal of the inflatable bladder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the curing process is expedited with heat, then the curing time is reduced, but the branch piece may collapse if the resin has not cooled off properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements temperature monitoring during the curing process to provide feedback on the actual thermal state of the resin. This allows the system to adjust the curing timeline based on real-time temperature data, ensuring that the branch piece maintains structural stability while still achieving efficient curing. The monitoring prevents premature cooling or bladder removal that could cause collapse.
2Productivity
If the inflatable bladder is removed early to increase productivity, then the installation time is reduced, but the branch piece may collapse without proper support
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses temperature monitoring to provide feedback on the curing status of the resin, which determines the optimal time for bladder removal. This feedback mechanism ensures that the bladder remains in place long enough for the resin to achieve sufficient structural stability, preventing collapse while still allowing for efficient installation by removing the bladder as soon as safety conditions are met.
3Reliability
If overlapping of liners is increased to prevent leaks, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the complexity of installation at branches and junctions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lining process into separate stages: first installing and curing the branch piece independently using the inflatable bladder method, then installing the main liner through the cured branch piece. This segmentation allows each component to be installed and cured separately, simplifying the overall installation process while ensuring proper overlapping and sealing at the junction between the branch and main pipe.
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
This method allows for successful lining of complex pipe systems by maintaining resin curing conditions and ensuring the branch liner maintains its shape post-curing, enabling safe and efficient removal of the inflatable bladder without collapse.
Implementation Method 1
an air hose which supplies air to the bladder and pushes the branch piece against walls of the pipe system at the branch position by inflating the bladder
Implementation Method 2
excess pressure is maintained inside the liner until the epoxy resin cures to its shape conforming to the walls of the old pipe
Implementation Method 3
Sometimes the curing process has been expedited with heat
Data Source
AI summary
A method of lining a branch area in a pipeline using an inflatable bladder. The method includes steps of preparing a branch liner with resin and positioning the branch liner in a pipeline, inflating the bladder and running a flow of air and steam through the bladder while monitoring its temperature. After curing of the resin, temperature of the liner is monitored and the bladder is removed only after proper cooling of the liner.