Filter Extractor Tool for Modular Flow Skids
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for extracting filters from modular flow skids in the oil & gas industry are time-consuming and pose health and safety risks, as they require manual handling and the use of overhead cranes, leading to potential equipment damage and downtime.
Innovation Solution
A filter extractor tool with a first gutter fixed to a tool body, a pivotably connected second gutter, and a lifting device that extends and retracts a line through both gutters, allowing for mechanical extraction and cleaning of filters, reducing manual handling and crane usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual hook and overhead crane are used to extract filters, then the filter extraction can be performed, but health and safety risks increase and equipment damage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
A dedicated filter extraction tool serves as an intermediary device between the overhead crane and the filter. The tool includes a tool body with gutters that receive the filter, a lifting device with a line to mechanically extract the filter from the conduit, and a rotation device to orient the filter for debris removal. This intermediary tool eliminates direct manual handling and reduces safety risks associated with using overhead cranes directly on filters.
2Ease of operation
If manual handling is used for filter extraction, then the process can be performed, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter extraction tool enables self-service operation where the tool itself performs the extraction and cleaning functions without requiring continuous manual intervention. The lifting device automatically extracts the filter using the line, the rotation device automatically orients the filter, and the gutters automatically collect and remove debris. This automation significantly reduces the time required compared to manual handling methods.
3Force
If overhead crane is used for filter extraction, then the filter can be lifted, but equipment damage and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter extraction tool acts as a protective intermediary between the overhead crane and the filter. The tool body with its structured gutters and lifting device provides a controlled mechanism for force application, distributing the lifting load appropriately and preventing erratic movements that could damage the filter or surrounding equipment. This intermediary approach eliminates the harmful effects of direct crane-to-filter interaction.
4Productivity
If conventional extraction method is used, then the filter can be removed, but the process lacks automation and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The filter extraction tool implements self-service automation where the tool autonomously performs multiple functions: the lifting device automatically extracts the filter through coordinated line extension and retraction, the rotation device automatically orients the filter for optimal debris removal positioning, and the gutters automatically collect and evacuate debris. This automated system significantly improves productivity by eliminating time-consuming manual operations while maintaining precise control over the extraction process.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter extractor may include a first gutter fixed to a tool body and a second gutter being pivotably connected to the tool body. Additionally, a lifting device may be provided on the filter extractor. The lifting device is configured to extend and retract a line through the first gutter and the second gutter to extract a filter from a fluid conduit.