Electro-fusion Pipe Coupling with Plastic Liner for Corrosion Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thin-walled metal pipes are difficult to connect reliably and efficiently due to internal corrosion and abrasion issues, which can shorten pipeline lifespan, and existing methods for repairing or constructing pipelines are costly and complex.
Innovation Solution
A pipe connection assembly comprising a metal tube with a plastic liner and an electro-fusion assembly, where a pipe coupling with a cylindrical design mechanically engages the metal tubes and uses an electro-fusion process to create a fluid-tight seal, and a clamp system secures the pipe to limit movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If thin-walled metal pipes are used to reduce material costs and facilitate handling, then material cost and ease of handling are improved, but connection reliability deteriorates due to internal corrosion and abrasion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining a metal pipe with a plastic liner inside it. The metal pipe provides structural strength and handling ease, while the plastic liner provides corrosion and abrasion resistance, thereby maintaining connection reliability without sacrificing material cost benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic liner acts as an intermediary between the fluid being transported and the metal pipe wall. This intermediary layer protects the metal pipe from direct contact with corrosive or abrasive fluids, preventing degradation and maintaining connection reliability over time.
2Ease of repair
If traditional pipeline repair methods involving inserting plastic liner through existing metal pipe are used, then pipeline repair is achieved, but construction complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pipeline system into separate components: metal pipe sections with integrated plastic liners and coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows for modular assembly and repair, where damaged sections can be replaced independently without requiring complex in-field liner insertion procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic liner is pre-installed within the metal pipe during manufacturing before the pipe is put into service. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex in-field liner insertion procedures during repair, significantly reducing construction complexity and cost while maintaining pipeline repair capability.
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 reliable, efficient, and cost-effective method for connecting and securing pipes, resisting corrosion and abrasion, while simplifying the pipeline construction and repair process by using mechanical engagement and electro-fusion for a durable seal.
Implementation Method 1
an electro-fusion process to create a fluid-tight seal
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for forming a pipe end for a pipe having an inner surface lined with a liner are provided, wherein the pipe is cut at an axial location to provide a first end having an initial inner diameter defined by an inner surface of the pipe; and a length of the pipe is expanded from the first end to form an upset, bell end where an inner diameter of the upset, bell end is larger than the initial diameter, thereby defining an annulus between the inner surface of the pipe and the liner. A clamp for limiting a pipe's movement during various operations is also provided.