Composite Fluid Conduit for Robust Electromagnetic Flow Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid conduit systems for sensing properties of fluids in demanding environments, such as downhole conditions, face reliability issues due to entrained solids, contamination, high pressures, and temperatures, which impair measurement sensitivity and obstruct fluid flow.
Innovation Solution
A fluid conduit with a composite wall structure using polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and carbon fibers, embedding a steel cavity member to confine an electromagnetic field, and incorporating a Robinson oscillator for fluid property determination, with enhanced coupling arrangements to improve measurement sensitivity and robustness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a cavity member is embedded in the wall to confine electromagnetic field, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but the cavity member may be clogged or damaged by entrained solids and particulates
Solution Approach 1:
A protective layer is introduced as an intermediary between the cavity member and the fluid flow. This protective layer acts as a barrier that prevents entrained solids and particulates from directly contacting and potentially clogging or damaging the cavity member, while still allowing the electromagnetic field to extend through it for measurement purposes
Solution Approach 2:
The protective layer is designed as a sacrificial component that can be easily replaced if damaged. Rather than protecting the expensive and sensitive cavity member indefinitely, the system uses a simpler, more replaceable protective layer that absorbs the wear and damage from particulate exposure
2Measurement precision
If coupling elements are extended into the fluid to couple signals, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but the coupling elements may be damaged by high fluid pressures and temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The protective layer serves as an intermediary that shields the coupling elements from direct exposure to harsh fluid conditions. It allows signal coupling to occur while protecting the vulnerable coupling elements from damage by high pressures, temperatures, and particulates
3Measurement precision
If cavity member and coupling elements extend into the fluid, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but they obstruct fluid flow and block movement of particulates
Solution Approach 1:
The protective layer is implemented as a thin film that minimizes obstruction to fluid flow. This thin protective barrier allows fluid and entrained particulates to pass through with minimal resistance while still providing protection to the cavity member and coupling elements
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 enhances measurement sensitivity and robustness in demanding environments by minimizing electromagnetic field distortion and maintaining conduit integrity, allowing reliable fluid property determination and flow without obstruction.
Implementation Method 1
embedding a steel cavity member to confine an electromagnetic field
Implementation Method 2
Robinson oscillator sensor apparatus comprising a cavity member which contains a fluid and defines a resonant cavity for an electromagnetic field
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A fluid conduit (1200) comprises a wall (1202) defining a fluid flow path (1203). The wall (1202) comprises a composite material (1202a) formed of at least a matrix and one or more reinforcing elements embedded within the matrix. The fluid conduit (1200) comprises a sensor (1204) configured so as to measure a pressure of a fluid present in or flowing through the fluid flow path (1203). The fluid conduit (1200) may be configured for sensing a property of a fluid present in or flowing through the fluid conduit (1200), such as the pressure or the flow rate.