Cylindrical Passageway Locking Verification via Pressure Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hot tapping operations, ensuring a secure closure of tubular members under pressure is critical to prevent the closure member from blowing out, posing a risk to operators, as existing methods lack a reliable verification process for the proper locking of the closure member.
Innovation Solution
A locking system utilizing a completion plug member with extendable locking rings or leaves that are verified to be in their expanded position within a cylindrical passageway using a method involving equalization piping, pressure gauges, and a tapping machine to ensure the closure member is properly locked before exposure to atmospheric pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a closure member is used to close an opening in a tubular member under pressure, then the closure function is achieved, but the risk of the closure member blowing out and injuring operators increases due to lack of verification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a verification system that provides feedback to confirm the closure member is properly locked. Pressure gauges monitor pressure equalization between the interior and exterior of the tubular member, and mechanical verification mechanisms confirm the locking rings or leaves are in their locked position, giving operators certain knowledge that the closure is secure before pressure is applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary verification actions before the closure member is exposed to pressure. The system checks that locking rings or leaves are properly positioned in the locked position, and pressure equalization is confirmed through gauges before atmospheric pressure is applied to the area above the closure member, preventing blowout incidents.
2Reliability
If locking rings or leaves are used to secure the plug member, then the locking function is achieved, but the difficulty of verifying the locked position increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual indicators that change or become visible to confirm the locked position. The system provides certain knowledge through observable verification that the locking rings or leaves are properly positioned, making the locked state detectable without complex instrumentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces difficult mechanical verification with pressure-based verification. Pressure gauges provide a simple, reliable indication of whether the closure member is properly locked by monitoring pressure equalization, substituting complex mechanical position detection with an easier pressure measurement system.
3Reliability
If pressure equalization is performed before closing the closure member, then safety is improved, but the time required for the closing operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs pressure equalization only to the extent necessary for safety verification. Pressure gauges monitor when equalization is sufficient to confirm proper locking, allowing the operation to proceed without unnecessary delays. The verification is done partially - just enough to confirm safety - rather than requiring complete pressure equalization or extended verification periods.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method according to this invention employs a set of valves, a series of pressure checks, and a physical stop for verifying the closing of a locking system of a cylindrical passageway. The method may also employ an equalization piping. The valves isolate a tapping machine, a pipeline, and the equalization piping from one another so that product cannot flow from one to the other. The valves are then opened as a series of pressure checks are performed. A completion plug is then lowered into the passageway until the plug comes to rest within the passageway and is oriented so that a locking ring of the plug is in a fully expanded position. The expanded position is then confirmed by raising the plug until its upward travel is restricted. The plug is then released and pressure above the plug is reduced to 0 psi gauge.