Cryogenic Line Pipe Non-Projecting Vacuum Adapter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing line pipes for deep-frozen media transport are cumbersome to evacuate due to projecting pumping connection pieces, making them difficult to lay in narrow ducts and time-consuming to reevacuate in case of leaks.
Innovation Solution
A non-projecting adapter is used for pumping, which is attached only when repumping is necessary, featuring a screw plug and gas lock mechanism that allows access to the annular space without increasing the outer diameter, enabling the line pipe to be drawn into narrow ducts and quickly reevacuated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pumping connection pieces are welded to the outer metal pipe for evacuation, then evacuation capability is provided, but the connection pieces project outwards causing obstruction in narrow ducts
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping connection capability is extracted from the permanent structure and made temporary through the adapter. The adapter can be attached only when evacuation is needed and removed afterward, separating the evacuation function from the continuous outer profile of the line pipe.
Solution Approach 2:
The pumping connection changes from static (permanent welded pieces) to dynamic (temporary attachable adapter). The adapter can be attached and detached as needed, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements.
2Productivity
If great lengths of line pipe are produced to reduce junction connections, then economic efficiency and flexibility improve, but evacuation becomes highly time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The long line pipe is functionally segmented into vacuum-sealed sections by the valves integrated into the adapter. Each section can be evacuated independently through its own pumping connection, allowing parallel evacuation processes that significantly reduce total evacuation time for long pipes.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as an intermediary device that provides pumping connections to the otherwise sealed long pipe. It mediates between the need for long continuous pipes (for efficiency) and the need for evacuation access (for maintenance), enabling both goals to be achieved.
3Shape
If the adapter is attached only when repumping is necessary, then the line pipe maintains a smooth profile for narrow ducts, but the adapter must be quickly attachable and detachable
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed with pre-configured connection elements (screws, sealing surfaces) that enable quick attachment and detachment without complex alignment or preparation. The threading and sealing features are predetermined, allowing rapid installation when needed.
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 design allows for efficient evacuation and reevacuation without obstructing narrow ducts and reduces the time required for repumping, ensuring the line pipe can be laid and reused effectively in constrained spaces.
Implementation Method 1
the annular gap being evacuated
Implementation Method 2
an insulation composed of these materials in combination with a high vacuum is designated in cryotechnics as superinsulation
Data Source
AI summary
A line pipe for the transport of deep-frozen media, consisting of at least two corrugated metal pipes (2, 4) arranged concentrically and at a distance from one another, an insulation layer (3) being arranged in the annular gap between the two metal pipes (2, 4), the annular gap being evacuated, and a closing valve (10) provided in the outer metal pipe (4) being connectable to a vacuum pump, the closing valve being welded, vacuum-tight, into a smooth-walled metal pipe (9) welded, vacuum-tight, to the exterior of the metal pipes (4). The valve body (10) of the closing valve projects into the interior of the smooth-walled metal pipe (9) and is flush with the outer surface area of the smooth-walled metal pipe (9).