Grease Trap Collector With Removable Bag for Spill-Free Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional grease trap systems in the oil and gas industry require labor-intensive multi-hour processes for cleaning, often leading to overfilling and spills, which result in safety hazards, environmental contamination, and conflicts between operators, due to the need for dismounting and welding operations.
Innovation Solution
A grease trap system with a collector and bag design that facilitates easy collection and removal of spent grease without moving parts, utilizing a bin with an obliquely extending base and outlet conduit for gravity-driven grease flow, and a removably engaged bag for efficient disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional grease trap systems are used, then grease collection is achieved, but cleaning requires labor-intensive multi-hour processes with dismounting and welding operations
Solution Approach 1:
The grease trap system is divided into separable components: a removable bag containing the grease collection chamber is detached from the main pump assembly. This segmentation allows the bag to be removed and replaced without dismounting the pump or performing welding operations, reducing cleaning time from multi-hours to minutes while maintaining effective grease collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The grease collection function is extracted into a separate removable bag that can be independently removed from the pump assembly. This extraction allows the grease trap to be cleaned by simply removing and replacing the bag, eliminating the need for complex disassembly and welding operations required by conventional integrated systems.
2Productivity
If conventional grease traps are not cleaned regularly, then operational time is saved, but spills occur causing safety hazards and environmental contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The system includes a level indicator that provides advance warning when the grease bag approaches full capacity. This preliminary indication allows operators to schedule bag replacement before overflow occurs, ensuring continuous operation without the risk of spills and contamination that would result from delayed maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The grease trap system is designed to be self-monitored through the level indicator, which automatically detects when the bag needs replacement without requiring manual inspection. This self-service capability ensures timely maintenance while maintaining operational continuity, preventing spills while minimizing disruption to productivity.
3Reliability
If welding operations are performed for trap removal and reinsertion, then proper installation is achieved, but safety risks and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The grease collection system is segmented into a removable bag that attaches to the pump assembly without permanent welding. The bag can be quickly connected and disconnected using simple mechanical interfaces, maintaining installation reliability while eliminating the complexity and safety risks of welding operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The grease bag is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component that does not require permanent installation. Each bag can be independently removed and replaced without affecting the pump assembly, eliminating the need for welding while ensuring reliable grease collection during each service interval.
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 system simplifies the cleaning process, reduces spills, enhances safety, and minimizes environmental impact by allowing for easy and efficient collection and disposal of spent grease, thereby preventing accidents and regulatory fines.
Implementation Method 1
The bin also includes a base extending obliquely and rearwardly from the front wall to the rear end. The outlet conduit extends outwardly from the front wall to facilitate a removal of the spent grease from the bin.
Data Source
AI summary
A grease trap system to collect spent grease from a machine includes a collector having a bin and an outlet conduit. The bin defines a chamber to receive the spent grease from the machine and has a front end, a rear end, a front wall arranged at the front end of the bin, and a base extending obliquely and rearwardly from the front wall to the rear end. The outlet conduit extends outwardly from the front wall to facilitate a removal of the spent grease from the bin.