In-Line Annular Pipe Sensor for 360-Degree Detection Without Flow Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe sensors in the oil and gas industry have limited detection ranges, requiring multiple sensors that weaken the pipe structure and interfere with fluid flow when placed in drill holes or constrict the pipe when placed inside.
Innovation Solution
A 360-degree annular sensor is positioned in-line between cylindrical pipes, using an annular electrode and conductor to detect characteristics such as corrosion and pressure, with optional inner sensors for additional measurements, isolated by non-metallic washers to maintain pipe integrity and fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are placed in drill holes in the pipe to expand detection coverage, then the range of detection is improved, but the structural strength of the pipe deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is segmented from the pipe structure itself. Instead of embedding multiple sensors in drill holes, a single annular sensor assembly is placed in-line between pipe sections, separating the detection function from the structural function and eliminating the need for structural modifications to the pipe.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary annular sensor assembly is introduced between pipe sections to perform detection. This intermediary device provides comprehensive 360-degree detection coverage without requiring modifications to the pipe structure, as it is positioned in the flow path rather than being embedded in the pipe wall.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are placed inside the pipe to expand detection coverage, then the range of detection is improved, but the fluid flow is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly uses an annular (ring-shaped) geometry that conforms to the cylindrical shape of the pipe. This curved, ring-shaped design allows the sensor to be positioned in-line with the flow without creating obstructions, enabling 360-degree detection coverage while maintaining uninterrupted fluid flow through the central opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular sensor assembly performs multiple detection functions simultaneously with a single device. It can detect various characteristics including corrosion, erosion, pressure, temperature, and flow rate across the entire 360-degree cross-section, eliminating the need for multiple separate sensors that would obstruct flow.
3Device complexity
If a single sensor is used to simplify the system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the detection coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly transitions from a point-based detection approach to a distributed annular detection geometry. By arranging sensing elements around the entire circumference of the pipe in an annular configuration, the system achieves 360-degree detection coverage with a single integrated assembly, adding spatial dimensionality without increasing the number of separate sensor units.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor, an assembly of the sensor with a pair of cylindrical pipes, and a method have dispose the sensor in-line with the pipes. The sensor has an annular electrode extending in a 360 degree range of detection of a first characteristic around a common longitudinal axis of the pair of pipes, which maximizes the range of detection of the first characteristic of the pipes. The annular electrode includes a conductor connecting the annular electrode to a measurement transmitter. The annular electrode detects the first characteristic and generates a first measurement signal corresponding to the first characteristic. The conductor conveys the first measurement signal to the measurement transmitter. The method implements the operation of the sensor.