Fluid-Cooled Pipe Coupling Seal for High-Temperature Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid delivery systems face challenges in maintaining a fluid-tight seal at high temperatures due to seal degradation in metal couplings and structural integrity issues with polymeric pipe segments, while existing joining methods are either costly or difficult to disassemble.
Innovation Solution
A pipe apparatus with a mechanical coupling device that includes a fluid-cooled seal and a fluid guide device, allowing for quick coupling and decoupling of pipe segments, which maintains structural integrity and keeps the seal at an acceptable temperature through fluid circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If metal coupling devices with rubber seals are used to join pipe segments, then the coupling is inexpensive and easily disassembled, but the rubber seal degrades and fails in high temperature environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the seal by introducing a fluid cooling system. The seal is positioned within a cooling chamber where coolant flows to maintain the seal temperature below degradation thresholds even when the external environment is at high temperature, thus preserving seal integrity while maintaining the benefits of mechanical coupling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces coolant as an intermediary substance between the high-temperature environment and the rubber seal. The coolant absorbs heat and prevents it from reaching the seal, allowing the seal to operate in a thermally protected zone while the pipe segments operate in the high-temperature environment
2Temperature
If heat resistant polymeric pipe segments are used, then the pipe can withstand high temperature conditions, but the polymeric segments soften too much to maintain proper mechanical connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the polymeric pipe segments by introducing fluid cooling. The cooling channels within the pipe segments maintain their structural temperature below softening points, allowing them to retain mechanical strength and connection integrity while operating in high-temperature environments
3Reliability
If permanent joining techniques such as hot air welding or fusion welding are used, then structural integrity is maintained at high temperature, but the joining process is labor intensive and expensive, and disassembly is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coupling system into separate components: a mechanical coupling device with cooling chambers, coolant flow paths, and separable connections. This allows the joint to maintain structural integrity through controlled cooling rather than permanent bonding, enabling disassembly and maintenance while withstanding high temperatures
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 enables reliable, fast, and cost-effective connection and disconnection of pipe segments in high-temperature environments, ensuring a fluid-tight seal and structural integrity without damaging the system.
Implementation Method 1
The fluid guide device at least partially defines a fluid path extending from the circumferential gap through an area defined between the fluid guide device and the interior surface of the seal
Data Source
AI summary
Pipe apparatus can include a coupling device with a seal circumscribing a central axis. The seal further includes a first circumferential pocket at least partially defined by a first and second circumferential flange. A fluid guide device positioned at least partially within the first circumferential pocket includes a plurality of segments that are radially arranged to circumscribe the central axis. The fluid guide device at least partially defines a fluid path. Methods can include using the coupling device to couple a first end portion of a first pipe segment to a second end portion of a second pipe segment. Methods of using the pipe apparatus can include passing fluid through the fluid path to cool the seal.