Foam Generator Supply Line Pressurization Using a Buoyant Ball Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for pressurizing supply lines of foam generators in fire extinguishing systems require modifications that can lead to the risk of forgetting to reattach components, compromising the system's functionality during a fire.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a buoyant ball that seals against a restriction in the feed opening of the foam generator by filling the supply line with water, using a pressure pump to increase pressure, and then draining the line, allowing the ball to exit, thus pressurizing the line without modifying the generator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the foam generator is uncoupled from the supply line or a closure is arranged in the foam generator to enable pressurization, then the supply line can be pressurized to test pressure, but the risk increases that the closure will be forgotten to be reattached, compromising system functionality during a fire
Solution Approach 1:
A ball valve is introduced as an intermediary component that can be inserted into the supply line to close the feed opening of the foam generator during pressurization testing. This intermediary device enables the supply line to be sealed and pressurized without requiring permanent modifications or uncoupling of the foam generator, thereby maintaining system functionality while enabling safe pressurization testing
Solution Approach 2:
The ball valve is inserted into the supply line before pressurization testing begins. This preliminary action ensures that the feed opening is already closed and sealed before pressure is applied, preventing any risk of leakage or failure during the test while eliminating the need for post-testing reattachment operations
2Reliability
If modifications are made to the foam generator to enable pressurization testing, then the supply line can be pressurized, but the complexity of the device increases and the risk of operational errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ball valve is extracted as a separate, removable component from the foam generator itself. This allows the pressurization testing functionality to be separated from the foam generator's permanent structure, enabling testing capability without increasing the inherent complexity of the foam generator device. The ball valve can be independently handled, inserted, and removed without affecting the foam generator's design
3Reliability
If the supply line is filled with water using a pressure pump, then the ball is entrained to seal against the restriction, but the time required for filling and pressurization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ball valve utilizes buoyancy force as a counterweight to the water pressure. As water enters the supply line, the buoyant force on the ball valve automatically pushes it toward the feed opening to create a seal. This natural buoyant sealing mechanism eliminates the need for complex pressure-actuated sealing mechanisms, reducing system complexity while maintaining reliable seal effectiveness during pressurization
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
Enables quick and efficient pressurization of supply lines without altering the foam generator, ensuring the system remains functional during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
a ball (15) with a positive buoyancy is placed in the second end (6b) of the supply line (6)... the ball (15) is pressed upward through the supply line (6) toward the foam generator (4)... the ball (15) comes to lie against the restriction (10)
Implementation Method 2
bringing the water in the supply line (6) to a desired test pressure with the pressure pump (13)
Implementation Method 3
filling the supply line with water from the water supply, wherein the ball is entrained through the supply line by the water
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3A
Figure 3B~3C
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for pressurizing a supply line, which is coupled with a first end to the feed opening of a foam generator, which foam generator is arranged close to an upper side of a storage or transfer tank, wherein a restriction is provided in the feed opening of the foam generator and wherein the first end of the supply line lies higher than the second end of the supply line, which method comprises the steps of: - providing a water supply and a pressure pump; - providing a ball with a positive buoyancy; - placing the ball in the second end of the supply line; - connecting the water supply and pressure pump to the second end of the supply line; - filling the supply line with water from the water supply, wherein the ball is entrained through the supply line by the water and comes to lie sealingly against the restriction in the feed opening of the foam generator; - bringing the water in the supply line to a desired test pressure with the pressure pump; - draining the supply line via the second end after a desired testing time has passed, wherein the ball leaves the supply line along with the water.