In-Line Pipe Sampling for Corrosion Location and Representative Samples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sampling technologies face challenges in accurately and efficiently obtaining representative fluid and solid samples from hydrocarbon pipelines, particularly in ensuring compliance with regulations and identifying corrosion locations within pipes.
Innovation Solution
A sampling apparatus is designed to be disposed within a pipe, equipped with fluid sampling conduits, odometer wheels for distance measurement, elastomeric rings for material removal, and solid sampling subsystems, which includes capsules and valves for collecting and storing samples, along with an inertial sensor for self-location determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sampling methods are used to obtain fluid and solid samples from pipelines, then sampling can be performed, but the accuracy and representativeness of the samples is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling apparatus is divided into multiple independent functional modules: fluid sampling conduits for liquid/gas sampling, elastomeric rings for solid material collection, odometer wheels for position measurement, and inertial sensors for location determination. Each module operates independently to collect specific sample types, ensuring comprehensive and representative sampling without interference between functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling apparatus integrates multiple sampling capabilities into a single device that can simultaneously collect fluid samples through sampling conduits and solid material samples through elastomeric rings. The apparatus also performs position tracking via odometer wheels and inertial sensing, making it a multi-functional tool that replaces multiple separate sampling systems.
2Reliability
If sampling apparatus is disposed within the pipe to collect samples at various locations, then sample representativeness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines fluid sampling conduits, solid material collection rings, position measurement odometer wheels, and inertial sensors into a single integrated sampling apparatus. This merging of previously separate functions into one unified device reduces the number of separate installations needed while maintaining comprehensive sampling capabilities throughout the pipeline.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric rings are positioned to surround and contact the inner wall of the pipe, with solid sampling subsystems nested within the apparatus body. The odometer wheels are coupled to the body and can rotate while contacting the pipe wall, creating a nested configuration where sampling components are housed within the main apparatus structure.
3Reliability
If elastomeric rings are used to remove material from the inner wall of the pipe, then solid sample collection is improved, but the force required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric rings are made from elastic material that can change its mechanical properties based on operational conditions. The rings contact the pipe wall with controlled force, and their elastic nature allows them to conform to the pipe surface while removing solid material through abrasion or adhesion mechanisms inherent to elastomeric materials.
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 apparatus effectively collects fluid and solid samples at various locations within the pipe, determining its position and storing samples for analysis, thereby aiding in identifying corrosion and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Implementation Method 1
The odometer wheel is configured to measure a distance traveled by the apparatus within the pipe based on rotating while contacting an inner wall of the pipe
Implementation Method 2
The elastomeric ring is configured to contact the inner wall of the pipe and remove material disposed on the inner wall of the pipe as the apparatus travels through the pipe
Implementation Method 3
The apparatus includes an inertial sensor. The inertial sensor can include at least one of a gyroscope sensor, an inclinometer, or an x-y-z accelerometer
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a body and a fluid sampling conduit disposed within the body. The body is configured to be disposed within a pipe flowing a fluid. The fluid sampling conduit is configured to obtain a sample of the fluid flowing in the pipe. The apparatus includes an odometer wheel coupled to the body and an elastomeric ring surrounding at least a portion of the body. The elastomeric ring is configured to remove material disposed on an inner wall of the pipe as the apparatus travels through the pipe. The apparatus includes a solid sampling subsystem coupled to an external to the body. The solid sampling subsystem includes a capsule, an inlet valve, and a tubing. The inlet valve, when opened, allows at least a portion of the material removed from an inner wall of the pipe to flow through the tubing and into the capsule.