Coaxial Coupler Sealing for Accurate Level Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High and low energy systems, such as those with extreme temperatures and pressures, pose challenges for accurate and reliable interaction with instrumentation due to the risk of leakage and interference with process conditions, which can affect measurement accuracy and safety.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly with a coaxial hardline and ceramic components, including a fused seam seal and multiple gasket seals, is designed to securely connect instrumentation heads to high or low energy equipment, using a mineral insulated signal transmission cable to transmit RF signals while minimizing leakage and impedance mismatch, and featuring a dual seal system for enhanced reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protection against process conditions is implemented, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A coupler assembly acts as an intermediary device between the high/low energy system and the instrumentation. The coupler includes a process isolation barrier that physically separates the measurement environment from the instrumentation, allowing accurate measurements while protecting against extreme conditions. The barrier isolates the sensor from direct exposure to harsh process conditions while maintaining signal transmission capability.
2Reliability
If isolation of process conditions is implemented, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly serves as a mediator that enables isolation of process conditions while maintaining measurement accuracy. The design includes a barrier that isolates the sensor from extreme temperatures and pressures, yet allows the sensor to accurately measure process variables through the barrier structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler assembly is segmented into distinct functional zones: a process isolation barrier section, a signal transmission section, and a mounting section. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the barrier provides protection while the signal transmission section maintains measurement precision.
3Reliability
If fused seam seals are used, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fused seam seal acts as an intermediary sealing mechanism that joins the barrier to the coupler body. The design incorporates features that facilitate reliable fusion sealing, such as prepared bonding surfaces and alignment features, which maintain reliability while managing manufacturing precision requirements through proper joint design.
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 enables reliable and accurate level measurement in high and low energy systems by preventing leakage and reducing noise in signal reflections, ensuring precise monitoring of process conditions even under extreme conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The first seal section may include a fused seam between a sleeve of the coaxial hardline and the body of the coupler
Implementation Method 2
A gasket may be disposed between the bushing assembly and the body and may form at least a portion of a second seal section of the sealing system
Implementation Method 3
using a mineral insulated signal transmission cable to transmit RF signals
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods for interacting instrumentation with high and/or low energy systems are disclosed. In some illustrative embodiments, a sensor assembly for level measurement of high and/or low energy systems may comprise an instrumentation head to determine a level of media in a tank; a coupler including a body having a mounting end for connection to equipment of a high or low energy system and a receiving end for receiving connection of the instrumentation head, a coaxial hardline extending between the mounting and receiving ends and including a conduction tip arranged near the mounting end; and a sealing system including a first seal section disposed between the conduction tip and the receiving end of the body.