Cryogenic Pipeline Flange Assembly With Double-Seal Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection assemblies for cryogenic fluid pipes, such as those used in aircraft systems, are bulky and impractical for installation in restricted spaces, requiring significant insertion length and space for dismantling, and lack effective leak detection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A flange connection assembly with grooves for O-ring positioning and a fluid expansion chamber equipped with a sensor for leak detection, allowing for a compact and watertight connection between pipe portions while enabling early detection of fluid leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a long insertion length of male end piece into female end piece is used to achieve watertight connection, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection assembly is segmented into multiple functional components: a first seal (O-ring) in a first groove for primary sealing, a second seal (O-ring) in a second groove for secondary sealing, and a fluid expansion chamber for leak detection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving reliable sealing without requiring excessive insertion length.
Solution Approach 2:
A fluid expansion chamber is introduced as an intermediary element between the two seals. This chamber contains an absorbent element and a detector, serving as a mediator that detects fluid leaks before they reach the external environment. The intermediary chamber enables early leak detection without compromising the primary sealing function.
2Ease of operation
If significant space around the pipeline is provided for dismantling operations, then the ease of operation is improved, but the area of stationary object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection assembly is designed as a modular, segmented structure with distinct components (first flange, second flange, seals, expansion chamber) that can be independently accessed and manipulated. This segmentation enables dismantling operations to be performed in a compact space, as each component can be removed sequentially without requiring large clearance zones.
3Measurement precision
If a detector for cryogenic fluid presence is added to the expansion chamber, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector is merged with the fluid expansion chamber, combining the leak detection function with the existing sealing structure. The detector is positioned within the expansion chamber to monitor for fluid presence, integrating multiple functions (sealing, leak containment, and detection) into a unified assembly without requiring separate independent systems.
4Reliability
If double sealing barrier with expansion chamber is implemented, then the reliability is improved, but the volume of moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid expansion chamber is nested within the connection assembly structure, with the absorbent element and detector contained within the chamber volume. The first and second seals are nested in concentric grooves, creating a compact layered sealing arrangement. This nesting approach maximizes functional density while minimizing the overall volume of the connection assembly.
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
The solution provides a space-saving, leak-detecting connection assembly that ensures a secure and compact connection, reducing the risk of fluid leakage and facilitating efficient installation and maintenance in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
the expansion chamber comprising an absorbent element
Implementation Method 2
a detector of the presence of said cryogenic fluid in the cryogenic fluid expansion chamber
Implementation Method 3
an outer wall, separated from the inner tube by one or more thermal insulation chambers placed under vacuum
Implementation Method 4
thermal insulation chambers placed under vacuum
Implementation Method 5
the expansion chamber for said cryogenic fluid arranged in one or near one of the first and the second connection flange
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a connection assembly (10) between two portions (10a, 10b) of a pipeline comprising an internal conduit (10i) for transporting a cryogenic fluid. The assembly (10) comprises two flanges (11a, 11b) respectively arranged at the ends of the pipeline portions (10a, 10b) and configured to be held in contact with each other by means of fastening means (11c, 11d, 11e, 11f). The contact area between the two flanges comprises at least two grooves (11g, 11i) for positioning sealing gaskets (17, 18) and at least one conduit (12) opening on one side between the two sealing gaskets (17, 18) and on the other side into an expansion chamber (13) for said cryogenic fluid arranged in or near one of the first flanges. (11a) and the second connecting flange (11b),the expansion chamber (13) comprising a detector (14) for the presence of said cryogenic fluid in the expansion chamber (13) or a housing (13') configured for the installation of such a detector (14). Advantageously, it is thus possible to make a space-saving connection of two portions of cryogenic fluid piping while having the ability to detect a leak before the fluid diffuses outside the piping.