Dual Seal Pipe Isolation Tool Single Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipe isolation methods require multiple interventions and additional openings, increasing operation time and costs, and only one seal is effective against the isolated pressure despite providing two pressure-tested seals.
Innovation Solution
A double block isolation tool with a dual seal unit that can be inserted through a single opening, featuring bi-directional elastomeric compression seals capable of resisting full differential pressure, which can be actuated mechanically or by pressure, and includes anti-extrusion springs to prevent seal extrusion and explosive decompression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple openings are made in the pipe for isolation operations, then two pressure-tested seals can be provided, but operation time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sealing functions into a single intervention tool. The isolation tool integrates two seal elements (first and second seal elements) that can be deployed through one opening to create two separate sealed-off sections, eliminating the need for multiple separate interventions and openings while maintaining dual seal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation tool is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform multiple sealing operations through a single opening. It includes mechanisms for deploying multiple seal elements, pressure testing both seals, and isolating different pipe sections, all through one intervention point, making the tool universally applicable for various isolation scenarios.
2Reliability
If multiple openings are made in the pipe for isolation operations, then two pressure-tested seals can be provided, but additional planning and setup time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sealing functions into a single intervention tool. The isolation tool integrates two seal elements (first and second seal elements) that can be deployed through one opening to create two separate sealed-off sections, eliminating the need for multiple separate interventions and openings while maintaining dual seal integrity.
3Reliability
If uni-directional lip seals are used in stopples, then sealing can be provided, but only one seal is effective against isolated pressure despite two seals being pressure-tested
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by using bi-directional sealing elements instead of uni-directional lip seals. The first and second seal elements are designed to both resist and contain pressure effectively, with the second seal element specifically configured to contain pressure rather than just resist it, allowing both seals to be functional against the isolated pressure.
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 tool reduces operation time and costs by providing effective dual sealing through a single intervention, maintaining seal integrity even with irregular pipe surfaces and high pressures, and allows for pressure testing without additional openings.
Implementation Method 1
bi-directional elastomeric compression seals capable of resisting full differential pressure
Implementation Method 2
elastomeric seal elements adapted to be compliant to the pipe surface
Implementation Method 3
includes anti-extrusion springs to prevent seal extrusion and explosive decompression
Data Source
AI summary
An isolation tool for use in a pipe comprises a seal unit, the seal unit being mounted to a launching assembly. The seal unit is adapted for location in a section of pipe, the seal unit adapted to be inserted into the pipe via a single opening in the pipe wall. The seal unit comprises seal elements for engaging the pipe wall to isolate a section of pipe. The seal elements are initially retained in a retracted configuration. Hydraulic pressure is applied to a cylinder, a piston located in the cylinder being translated into the seal unit, causing compression of the seal elements.