Expansion-Gap Fluid Introducer for Low-Downtime Pipe Injection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for introducing non-process fluids into defined sections of a piping system require extensive downtime and are costly, as they necessitate disconnecting piping sections and installing temporary fluid introduction systems, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A fluid introducer with a separator body that fits within the expansion gap between piping sections, allowing for direct fluid introduction into one section while blocking fluid flow into the adjacent section, reducing the need for section disconnection and enabling quick reconnection of the piping system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If piping sections are disconnected to introduce non-process fluid, then fluid introduction is enabled, but process downtime increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A fluid introducer assembly acts as an intermediary device that fits into the expansion gap between connected piping sections. This mediator enables fluid introduction without requiring disconnection of the piping system, thus resolving the contradiction by providing fluid access while maintaining system connectivity and minimizing downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the radial dimension by fitting the fluid introducer into the expansion gap between piping sections. Instead of requiring axial disconnection, the solution operates in the radial space already present due to expansion joint clearance, thereby enabling fluid introduction without time-consuming disassembly.
2Ease of operation
If piping sections are disconnected for fluid introduction, then access is provided, but system complexity increases due to temporary systems
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid introducer assembly serves as a simplified intermediary device that replaces complex temporary fluid introduction systems. By fitting into the existing expansion gap and using the piping system's own structure, it eliminates the need for additional temporary components while providing the necessary access.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the piping system's existing expansion gap and structural features to accommodate the fluid introducer. The piping system itself provides the mounting space and structural support, eliminating the need for separate temporary support structures and reducing overall system complexity.
3Productivity
If separator body thickness is reduced to fit expansion gap, then installation is enabled without disconnection, but sealing reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing mechanism uses flexible elements such as O-rings and elastomeric seals that can conform to the separator body and piping surfaces. These flexible sealing components maintain reliable seals even with the reduced thickness of the separator body, allowing thin-walled construction without compromising sealing integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the sealing approach from relying on thick mechanical barriers to using controlled clearance and elastic deformation. By optimizing the clearance between the separator body and piping surfaces, and using materials with appropriate elastic properties, reliable sealing is achieved with minimal thickness.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a fluid introducer for a piping system that includes first and second piping sections. The fluid introducer provides a direct connection to the first piping section through a separator body configured to be positioned in an expansion gap between the first piping section and the second piping section such that a first end face of the separator body faces the first piping section and a second end face of the separator body faces the second piping section. The fluid introducer is configured to direct fluid from the fluid source through fluid introduction passaging into the first piping section and block the fluid from flowing into the second piping section.