Clamp Connector Leak Indication Ring for High-Pressure Gas Fittings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high-pressure gas distribution systems, particularly those using clamp connectors, face challenges in detecting gas leaks due to the design of the clamp connector, which makes it difficult to align the hubs properly and detect leaks effectively.
Innovation Solution
A gas leak indication system is introduced, comprising a ring with a flange and a flow opening, an extender, an indicator, and a cap. The system is designed to be in fluid communication, with the cap disengaging to expose the indicator when a predetermined gas flow is detected, facilitating leak detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a clamp connector design is used for high-pressure gas distribution, then the gas transport capability is improved, but the difficulty of detecting gas leaks increases due to the design making it difficult to align hubs properly and detect leaks effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp connector is segmented into multiple functional components: a ring component with seal channels, a flow detection system with extender and indicator, and a cap component. This segmentation allows the leak detection function to be separated from the primary gas transport function, enabling effective leak detection without compromising the clamp connector's gas transport capability
Solution Approach 2:
A flow detection system serves as an intermediary between the sealed gas transport system and the external environment. The system includes a flow opening that provides controlled access to detect leaks through the seal channels, allowing leak detection without compromising the integrity of the primary gas transport path
2Reliability
If the clamp connector hubs are designed for high-pressure sealing, then the sealing performance is improved, but the ease of aligning hubs during installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ring component is designed with pre-formed seal channels and a flow opening that guides the alignment process. The seal channels are预先 configured to receive seal rings, and the flow opening is positioned to facilitate proper hub alignment during installation, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures while maintaining high sealing performance
3Productivity
If the seal channels are completely sealed for high-pressure gas transport, then the gas transport efficiency is improved, but the ability to detect leaks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seal channels have different quality characteristics at different locations: the majority of the seal channels are completely sealed for efficient gas transport, while a specific local region includes a flow opening that provides controlled access for leak detection. This local differentiation allows the system to maintain high gas transport efficiency while enabling reliable leak detection through the designated flow opening
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 system effectively detects gas leaks in high-pressure gas distribution systems by exposing the indicator when a leak occurs, allowing for immediate identification of leak sources and reducing downtime and safety risks.
Implementation Method 1
As the leaking gas builds up pressure against the cap, the cap yields and pops off of the indicator
Implementation Method 2
the cap is held over the indicator at the flange via a friction fit
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations of a gas leak indication system may include a ring including a flange extending from an interior surface of the ring, the flange including two seal channels on either side of the flange, and the ring including a flow opening extending into a projection extending from an exterior surface of the ring; an extender threadedly coupled into a side opening in the projection, the extender including a flow opening therethrough; an indicator threadedly coupled onto the extender, the indicator including a flow channel extending therethrough; and a cap coupled over an end of the indicator by a friction fit.