Internal Induction Pipe Heating for Uniform Weld Preheating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preheating workpieces, such as pipes, for welding often interfere with the welding process, fail to provide uniform heating, are labor-intensive, and consume excessive fuel, especially when using external heating devices like flames, which can introduce hydrogen and alter the workpiece surface.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a movable mechanical device with a heating device positioned inside the pipe or vessel, utilizing induction heating technology to heat the inside wall without physical interference, allowing for controlled and uniform preheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a heating device is positioned on the outside of the pipe to preheat the pipe, then the pipe can be preheated for welding, but the heating device physically interferes with the welding process
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of heating the pipe from the outside, the patent inverts the approach by positioning the heating device inside the pipe to heat the inner surface. This allows welding to proceed on the outer surface without interference from external heating equipment, while still achieving the necessary preheating effect for proper welding conditions
2Temperature
If a flame is directed toward the portion of the workpiece to be preheated, then preheating can be achieved, but the flame does not uniformly heat the workpiece and may induce hydrogen into the welded area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical flame-based heating system with an induction heating system that uses electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly within the workpiece. This substitution eliminates the uneven heating and hydrogen induction problems associated with flame heating, providing uniform and controlled preheating throughout the designated area
3Temperature
If external heating devices are used for preheating, then preheating can be achieved, but excessive fuel is consumed and the process is labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The induction heating system allows the workpiece itself to generate the heat required for preheating through electromagnetic induction. The workpiece acts as its own heating element, eliminating the need for external fuel sources and reducing energy consumption. This self-service approach also reduces labor requirements as the process can be automated and requires minimal manual intervention
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 high-quality, continuous, and consistent welds without altering the workpiece surface, is efficient, and reduces human intervention by providing uniform heating from within the pipe, thus improving welding outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing induction heating technology to heat the inside wall without physical interference
Data Source
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AI summary
A system, a device, and a method for heating an inside wall of a pipe or a vessel. In one example, a system is for heating an inside wall of a pipe, a vessel, or some combination thereof. The system includes a movable mechanical device (82) configured to be positioned at least partially within the pipe, the vessel, or some combination thereof. The movable mechanical device (82) is configured to be moved using control circuitry (88). The system also includes a heating device (16) coupled to the movable mechanical device (82) and configured to be positioned at least partially within the pipe, the vessel, or some combination thereof. The heating device (16) is also configured to heat the inside wall of the pipe, the vessel, or some combination thereof.