Conical Flow Straightener Assembly for Low-Damage Pipe Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for installing a flow straightener in a fluid conveyance device require extensive cutting or flanged connections, which are time-consuming, costly, and can damage the system, while also necessitating regular maintenance due to potential chemical reactions and compromised structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A flow straightener with a conical-shaped center and tapered vanes extending from it, allowing for installation through a smaller opening, with leading tapered edges for maneuvering and flat trailing edges for anchoring, reducing damage and simplifying the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional installation methods (extensive cutting or flanged connections) are used to install a flow straightener, then the flow straightener can be installed in the fluid conveyance device, but the installation process is time-consuming, costly, and can damage the system
Solution Approach 1:
The flow straightener is divided into multiple modular sections that can be assembled together. Each section contains a specific number of vanes and can be independently installed, allowing the overall device to be installed in stages rather than requiring complete disassembly of the pipe system at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow straightener sections are designed to nest within each other or connect in a telescoping manner, where one section fits inside or alongside another. This nesting design allows the entire flow straightener assembly to be inserted through a relatively small opening in the pipe without requiring extensive cutting or flanged connections.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional installation methods are used, then the flow straightener can be installed, but regular maintenance is required due to potential chemical reactions and compromised structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The vanes are made from different materials depending on their specific function and exposure to the fluid. Critical vanes that contact the fluid directly are made from corrosion-resistant materials, while structural support elements may use different materials optimized for strength. This localized material selection maintains structural integrity while resisting chemical reactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow straightener employs composite construction where vanes are made from corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or specialized polymers, while the connecting elements and support structures use high-strength materials. This composite approach ensures both chemical resistance and structural integrity without requiring sacrificial protection or frequent maintenance.
3Measurement precision
If a flow straightener is installed to straighten liquid flow and reduce turbulence, then accurate flow meter readings are achieved, but the installation may result in damage to the fluid conveyance device or the flow straightener
Solution Approach 1:
The vanes are designed with curved, aerodynamic profiles rather than sharp edges or flat surfaces. The curved leading edges of the vanes smoothly guide the fluid flow, reducing turbulence and preventing cavitation or vortex formation that could damage the flow straightener or pipe walls during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation design includes protective features such as rounded corners, chamfered edges, and flexible sealing elements that prevent damage to the pipe during the installation process. The modular sections are designed to be inserted without requiring forceful hammering or excessive tightening, cushioning against potential damage before it can occur.
Data Source
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AI summary
An embodiment provides A flow straighten er, comprising; a conical-shaped portion having a first end and a second end substantially opposite the first end, wherein the first end has a bigger diameter than the second end; and a plurality of liquid directing vanes extending from the conical-shaped portion, wherein each of the plurality of liquid directing vanes are located at a different location on the conical-shaped portion and are oriented parallel to a longitudinal center axis of the conical-shaped portion; and wherein the plurality of liquid directing vanes extend from the conical-shaped portion such that the plurality of liquid directing vanes are located on either an upper half with respect to a horizontal centerline of an end the conical-shaped portion or a lower half with respect to the horizontal centerline of the conical-shaped portion; wherein each of the plurality of liquid directing vanes are shaped having a tapered tail located after the first end of the conical -shaped portion. Other aspects are described and claimed.