Clamshell Closure Ring for Metal Drum Rim Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure systems for 55-gallon metal drums fail to maintain integrity during the Hypothetical Accidents Condition (HAC) 30-Ft. Drop Test, primarily due to deformation of the drum rim, which compromises the sealing and retention of the lid.
Innovation Solution
A clamshell ring closure system with a semi-circular design and additional radially inward and vertically downward flanges, which enhances the rim's strength and prevents lid separation by increasing the effective wall thickness and web thickness, and is constructed from heavier gauge metal to minimize deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional split-ring closure system is used, then the drum can be sealed and closed, but the closure fails to maintain integrity during the 30-foot CGOC drop test due to rim deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The closure ring is divided into two separate halves (semicircular sections) that are joined by bolts and lugs. This segmentation allows the closure system to better accommodate and distribute the stresses experienced during drop tests, preventing catastrophic failure while maintaining seal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure ring design incorporates a radially inward flange that extends into the drum interior, adding a dimensional element that provides additional structural support to the drum rim. This inward extension creates a reinforcement structure that resists deformation during impact events.
2Reliability
If the drum rim is strengthened to prevent deformation, then closure integrity improves, but the drum manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than strengthening the entire drum rim, the solution segments the reinforcement function into the two-halves closure ring design with bolted joints. This localized approach provides necessary strength where needed without requiring changes to the entire drum structure or manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure ring with its inward flange is designed in advance to provide pre-reinforcement to the drum rim area. The structure is prepared beforehand to resist deformation during drop tests, eliminating the need for post-manufacturing modifications to the drum itself.
3Reliability
If a more robust closure system is implemented, then drop test performance improves, but the installation time and tool requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The two-halves closure ring design with standardized bolted joints enables modular assembly that can be installed efficiently. The segmented structure allows for straightforward alignment and attachment using common tools, maintaining installation speed while achieving superior drop test performance.
Data Source
AI summary
Closure ring to retain a lid in contact with a metal drum in central C-section conforming to the contact area between a lid and the rim of a drum and further having a radially inwardly directed flange and a vertically downwardly directed flange attached to the opposite ends of the C-section. The additional flanges reinforce the top of the drum by reducing deformation when the drum is dropped and maintain the lid in contact with the drum. The invention is particularly valuable in transportation and storage of fissile material.