Flowline Restraint Using Knots to Prevent Ejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flowline restraint systems are expensive, complex, and time-consuming to install, posing safety risks due to the potential for high-pressure flowline segments to become projectiles upon joint failure.
Innovation Solution
A high tensile strength polymeric restraining line is used to secure adjacent flowline segments with half hitch knots and anchors, preventing uncontrolled ejection in case of a joint failure, with options for single or multiple lines and modular configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamps are used to secure flowline segments, then safety is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex reusable clamps with simple, inexpensive knots that can be quickly installed and are sufficient for the temporary flowline application. The knots use basic materials like rope or wire that are cheap and easy to obtain, eliminating the need for costly specialized clamping equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential restraining function from complex mechanical clamps and implements it through simple knot-tying techniques. By removing unnecessary components and mechanisms from the restraining system, the solution achieves safety with minimal complexity.
2Reliability
If clamps are used to secure flowline segments, then safety is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The knot-tying method is self-service in that it can be performed by any worker with basic knot-tying skills, eliminating the need for specialized training or equipment operation. The simple nature of the task allows rapid installation without requiring complex procedures or multiple steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of simple, disposable-like knots rather than permanent, complex clamps enables rapid installation. The knots can be quickly tied and adjusted on-site without requiring lengthy installation procedures, significantly reducing the time needed to secure flowline segments.
3Productivity
If simple restraining methods are used, then installation time is reduced, but reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple restraining knots along the flowline to create a cumulative restraining effect. By placing knots at regular intervals and anchoring them to the flowline or surrounding structures, the simple individual knots collectively provide sufficient restraint to prevent hazardous movement of flowline segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The restraining knots are installed in advance during flowline assembly, before any potential failure can occur. This preliminary restraint is built into the flowline configuration, ensuring that safety measures are already in place and functional when needed, without requiring complex real-time intervention systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for securing flowline segments in a flowline is disclosed. A high tensile strength restraining line is extended along the length of the flowline. At each joint between segments, the restraining line is knotted around the flowline on either one or both sides of the flowline joint. The knots secure each flowline segment such that in the case of a fail of a flowline joint, the disconnected flowline segments are maintained in place.