Cryogenic Flexible Pipe End Fitting Thermal Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible pipes used for transporting cryogenic fluids face challenges in maintaining leak-proof sealing and thermal protection at the connecting end fittings, particularly due to the termination of thermal insulation layers which can lead to excessive cooling and potential rupture of the external sheath at crimping areas.
Innovation Solution
The connecting end fitting incorporates thermal insulation means, specifically an annular block made of composite insulating material with metal tie rods, interposed between the front and rear flanges to isolate and protect the crimping area of the external sheath from cold temperatures, ensuring effective thermal insulation and mechanical cohesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If thermal insulation layers are terminated at the level of end fittings, then the end fitting structure is simplified, but the external sheath at the crimping area is excessively cooled which may cause rupture
Solution Approach 1:
A thermal insulation block is introduced as an intermediary element between the front and rear parts of the end fitting. This block extends the thermal insulation function into the end fitting structure, preventing cold temperatures from reaching the crimping area of the external sheath while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal insulation block is positioned in advance within the end fitting structure to prevent excessive cooling before it can occur. By pre-establishing the thermal barrier at the crimping area, the external sheath is protected from temperature-induced rupture.
2Strength
If the external sheath is crimped at the rear end flange, then secure mechanical connection is achieved, but the crimping area is subjected to cold temperatures causing material embrittlement
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal insulation block serves as a thermal intermediary, positioned between the cold front part and the rear crimping area. It allows mechanical connection through the rear flange while blocking the transmission of cold temperatures to the crimped external sheath, preventing material embrittlement.
3Device complexity
If connecting elements directly join front and rear flanges, then structural simplicity is maintained, but thermal bridge causes excessive cooling of the external sheath
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal insulation block is positioned as an intermediary between the connecting elements and the rear flange, interrupting the thermal bridge pathway. This allows the connecting elements to maintain structural simplicity while the insulation block prevents excessive cooling of the external sheath at the crimping area.
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
This solution prevents excessive cooling of the external sheath, maintains leak-proof sealing, and withstands high thermal gradients and mechanical stresses, enhancing the reliability and durability of the flexible pipe connections.
Implementation Method 1
it comprises thermal insulation means interposed between the front end and rear end flanges, respectively, in order to isolate the rear part from the front part of the end fitting
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an end fitting (40) for connecting a flexible pipe for transporting a cryogenic fluid, comprising thermal insulation means (65) interposed between the cold part (41) of the connecting end fitting and the rear part (51) for crimping the end of a leak proof sealed external sheath (9) of said flexible pipe.