Cryogenic Pipe Support Assembly for Controlled Thermal Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cryogenic fluids like liquid hydrogen require secure pipe supports that accommodate thermal expansion and contraction without inducing excessive loads or leaks, especially in aircraft applications where traditional rigid fixings can lead to damage and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A pipe support assembly with interlocking polymer supports that allow for controlled longitudinal movement of pipes, using a threshold force to prevent damage while accommodating thermal changes, and featuring a split design to adjust to diameter changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid fixed points are used to secure the pipe, then the pipe is securely supported and movement is constrained, but excessive loads are induced during thermal expansion and contraction, risking damage to welds, fasteners, and pipework
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe support assembly transitions from a static rigid fixing to a dynamic system that allows controlled longitudinal movement. The opening is configured to permit the pipe to move along its longitudinal axis during thermal expansion and contraction, while still providing secure support. This dynamic adaptation prevents excessive load buildup on fixed points while maintaining reliable pipe support throughout temperature cycles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pipe is allowed to move freely, then thermal expansion and contraction are accommodated, but the pipe may experience excessive movement or vibration leading to fatigue loading
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe support assembly applies different constraints to different degrees of freedom of pipe movement. It allows longitudinal movement (axial direction) to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, while simultaneously constraining radial and lateral movements to prevent excessive displacement and vibration. This localized differentiation of support characteristics achieves both thermal adaptation and stability.
3Strength
If traditional rigid brackets are welded or fastened to the pipe, then the pipe is securely fixed, but the fixed points constrain movement in all degrees of freedom, inducing excessive loads during temperature changes
Solution Approach 1:
The support system segments the constraints applied to the pipe, allowing movement in the longitudinal direction while maintaining fixation in radial and lateral directions. This selective segmentation of movement freedom enables the pipe to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction without compromising overall support strength or allowing uncontrolled movement.
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 secure pipe support that reduces the risk of leaks and damage by allowing controlled movement, maintaining contact and support across wide temperature ranges, thus minimizing maintenance and operational risks.
Implementation Method 1
Changes in temperature can cause thermal expansion and/or contraction of materials, and this can be a particularly significant issue when considering cryogenic applications
Implementation Method 2
A larger change in temperature will cause a larger change in dimensions. Therefore, cryogenic fluids will have a greater effect on thermal expansion and contraction of pipework than fuels such as kerosene
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe support assembly (114), suitable for supporting pipework handling cryogenic fluids, where the pipework passes through a fuel tank support. The pipe support assembly includes first and second pipe supports (116) each having male (119) and female (152) portions that interlock with male (119) and female (152) portions of the other pipe support (116). The pipe supports (116) have an internal surface (121) that contacts a section of the pipe outer surface (112). Each pipe support (116) has a split (140) which allows for a change in dimension of the internal surface (121) of the pipe support (116) contacting the pipe (110). This allows the pipe support assembly (114) to provide a consistent clamping force to the pipe (110) during thermal contraction or expansion. Longitudinal movement of the pipe (110) is permitted if the pipe (110) overcomes the frictional force between itself and the pipe support assembly (114).