Core Sampling and Tapping Assembly for Pressurized Pipe Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining internal pipe geometries in pressurized pipes are inefficient and often require expensive equipment or multiple holes, leading to incomplete data and prolonged service interruptions during repairs.
Innovation Solution
A core sampling and tapping assembly that includes a nozzle, tapping mandrel, core cutter, and pilot bit, allowing for the collection of a core sample and subsequent secondary tap in a single location without depressurizing the pipe, using interchangeable components for flexible operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If expensive pipe imaging and gauging equipment is used to determine internal pipe geometries, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts a core sample from the pipe to directly obtain internal geometry information. By physically removing a cylindrical core sample through the tap hole, the internal diameter, wall thickness, and other geometric characteristics are revealed directly on the sample surface, eliminating the need for complex imaging equipment while providing precise measurements.
2Measurement precision
If multiple holes are drilled and tapped in the pipe to gather complete pipe characteristics data, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and pipe network downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple functions into a single tap hole operation. The core sampling apparatus simultaneously provides internal diameter measurement, wall thickness determination, and material identification all through one access point. This merged approach eliminates the need for multiple separate holes while gathering complete pipe characteristics data, significantly reducing pipe network downtime.
3Device complexity
If a single tap hole is used for both core sampling and secondary tap, then device complexity is reduced and repair costs decrease, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention nests the secondary tap operation within the core sampling location. The core sample is removed through the first tap hole, revealing the internal geometry, and then the secondary tap is precisely positioned using the core sample void as a reference. This nested approach allows both operations in a single location while maintaining the required precision through sequential positioning based on the same access point.
Data Source
AI summary
A core sampling and tapping assembly is disclosed that may be mounted to a cylindrical pipe. The assembly includes a nozzle having an interior portion extending between an open distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end sealed to an upper saddle member and the upper saddle member coupled to a lower saddle member to clamp the pipe in between. The assembly further includes a tapping mandrel including a mandrel plate, the tapping mandrel extending through the interior portion and a core cutter fixedly coupled to the mandrel plate. The assembly further includes a pilot bit coupled to the mandrel plate and disposed within an interior cavity of the core cutter. The tapping mandrel adjacently aligns the core cutter and the pilot bit with an outer surface of the pipe and subsequently rotates the pilot bit and core cutter to collect a core sample from the pipe.