Hydro-demolition Nozzle Assembly for Pipe Lining Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods are inefficient for quickly and effectively removing worn lining materials from pipe segments in pipeline applications, necessitating a system and method to rapidly and efficiently remove and replace or reuse these segments.
Innovation Solution
A hydro-demolition apparatus and method utilizing a support system, elongate boom, nozzle assembly, and rotation mechanism to deliver high-pressure fluid jets for cutting lining materials within cylindrical structures, allowing for efficient removal of lining materials by rotating and repositioning the nozzle assembly to create continuous, overlapping swaths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional methods are used to remove lining material from pipe segments, then the process is simpler, but the removal efficiency and speed are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle assembly is divided into multiple nozzles (first nozzle, second nozzle, third nozzle) arranged at different positions and angles, allowing simultaneous removal of lining material from different locations and layers, thereby increasing overall removal efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses high-pressure fluid delivery systems with conduits connected to each nozzle, utilizing hydraulic pressure to generate powerful jets that effectively remove tough lining materials like rubber and urethane layers from pipe interiors
Solution Approach 3:
The rotation mechanism enables dynamic positioning of the nozzle assembly, allowing it to rotate and target different sections of the pipe lining systematically, while the movable support structure allows longitudinal movement to cover the entire pipe length, making the removal process efficient and comprehensive
2Speed
If high-pressure fluid jets are used to cut lining material, then removal speed increases, but the requirement for fluid pressure and system capability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid delivery system is segmented into multiple independent conduits and nozzles, allowing pressure to be distributed and applied at multiple points simultaneously, which maintains high removal speed while distributing the pressure load across the system
Solution Approach 2:
Each nozzle is positioned and angled specifically to target different layers or sections of the lining material, concentrating the high-pressure fluid jet precisely where needed to maximize removal effectiveness while minimizing overall system pressure requirements
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 rapid and efficient removal of lining materials from pipe segments, extending their lifespan and facilitating reuse or remanufacturing by effectively fragmenting and removing worn lining materials with high-pressure fluid jets.
Implementation Method 1
Hydro-demolition—or hydraulic demolition—is a well known art practiced by forcing a liquid, typically water, through one or more nozzles at sufficiently high pressure to produce a jet stream that erodes or disintegrates the constituent material
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for removing material lining the inside surface of a cylindrical structure, the apparatus comprising: a support for supporting the structure in a horizontal orientation; an elongate horizontal boom for being inserted into the structure; a nozzle assembly connected to the boom member, the nozzle assembly comprising one or more nozzles wherein each nozzle is suitably spaced from the lining to deliver a jet of fluid under pressure to the lining; a conduit in fluid communication with the nozzle assembly suitable for delivering a flow of fluid to each nozzle under sufficient pressure to cut the lining material adjacent the nozzle; and a rotation mechanism cooperating with the support to passively enable the structure to being rotated while supported by the support or to actively impart rotation to the structure while supported by the support, wherein the rotation of the structure is about a central longitudinal axis of the structure.