Composite Pipe End Connector With Metallic Stub Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Composite pipes used in oil and gas exploration face challenges in compatibility with existing infrastructure and in distributing connection loads, leading to potential failure at pipe ends due to high local loads and irregularities.
Innovation Solution
A pipe assembly comprising a composite pipe with a metallic pipe stub at each end, allowing for secure connection to conventional infrastructure using proven connectors, and a connection assembly with preloading to maintain seal integrity under service conditions, reducing load transfer and enhancing structural compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a composite pipe is used, then weight is reduced and fatigue resistance is improved, but compatibility with existing metallic infrastructure and connection methods becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe system is divided into two distinct segments: a composite pipe section providing weight reduction and fatigue resistance, and a separate metallic connector section providing infrastructure compatibility. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
A metallic pipe stub or connector acts as an intermediary element between the composite pipe and existing metallic infrastructure. This intermediary component bridges the material incompatibility gap, enabling the composite pipe to connect to conventional metallic infrastructure through proven connection methods such as welding, threading, or flanging.
2Device complexity
If a connector is directly attached to the composite pipe end, then connection is simplified, but high local loads and irregularities cause failure at the pipe end
Solution Approach 1:
The connection function is extracted from the composite pipe itself and placed into a separate metallic connector component. This removes the stress concentration and load application points from the composite pipe end, preventing failure while maintaining connection simplicity through the dedicated connector design.
Solution Approach 2:
The metallic pipe stub or connector serves as a cushioning element that absorbs and distributes connection loads before they reach the composite pipe. This pre-cushioning effect protects the composite pipe end from high local loads and irregularities that would otherwise cause failure.
3Strength
If an all steel structure is used, then connection strength is ensured, but weight increases and flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the entire pipe structure metallic to ensure connection strength, only the local connection region uses metallic material. The majority of the pipe structure uses lightweight composite material, achieving connection strength where needed while minimizing overall weight through selective material placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a composite construction combining metallic and composite materials in a single integrated structure. The metallic pipe stub provides strength for connections, while the composite pipe section provides weight reduction, creating a hybrid structure that optimizes both strength and weight characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe assembly (10) includes a composite pipe (12) having a composite material formed of at least a matrix material and a plurality of reinforcing elements embedded within the matrix material. The pipe assembly (10) further comprises a metallic pipe stub (14) secured to an end region of the composite pipe (12) and configured to support a connector (20) to permit the pipe assembly (10) to be secured to separate infrastructure.