Laser-Defined Rupture Disc Reversal for Burst Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reverse-acting rupture discs face challenges in achieving narrow range burst pressure tolerances at low pressures and controlling the progression of reversal events to optimize opening characteristics and prevent fragmentation, especially in liquid opening situations where energy is lower than in gas-only pressure relief.
Innovation Solution
The use of laser-machining technology to form reversal initiation features with multiple lased areas of varying thickness and geometry on the concave face of the disc, allowing for precise control over the initiation and direction of disc reversal, and the creation of a line of weakness to guide the petal formation and prevent 'cup' shape formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If conventional reverse-buckling rupture discs are used for low pressure applications, then the disc can provide pressure relief at low differential pressures, but it is difficult to achieve narrow range burst pressure tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a localized weakened area through laser removal of material from the domed portion. This localized modification creates a specific region with reduced structural integrity that initiates reversal at a predetermined pressure, providing precise burst pressure control while maintaining the overall disc structure for low pressure applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-forming the domed portion with a specific geometry and then selectively removing material to create the weakened area before the disc is put into service. This pre-prepared configuration ensures that when overpressure occurs, the reversal initiates at the predetermined location and pressure, achieving narrow burst pressure tolerances.
2Reliability
If score lines or indentations are used as reversal initiation features, then reversal control is achieved, but the features may cause uncontrolled fragmentation or do not provide sufficient control over the direction of reversal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by creating an asymmetric weakened area through selective laser removal of material from specific regions of the domed portion. This asymmetric configuration controls the direction of reversal propagation, ensuring it proceeds in a predetermined manner across the dome while maintaining reliability and preventing uncontrolled fragmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses segmentation by dividing the domed portion into regions with different material thicknesses through selective laser removal. The weakened area is segmented from the rest of the dome structure, creating a controlled initiation zone that guides the reversal process while maintaining overall structural integrity for reliable operation.
3Manufacturing precision
If material is removed from the domed portion to create a weakened area, then burst pressure control is improved, but the disc structure is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by removing material only from specific regions of the domed portion to create the weakened area, while leaving the rest of the disc structure intact. This localized material removal provides precise burst pressure control without significantly compromising the overall structural integrity of the disc.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs partial action by selectively removing material from only the necessary regions to initiate reversal, rather than uniformly thinning the entire disc. This partial material removal achieves the required burst pressure control while minimizing the impact on overall disc strength and structural integrity.
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
This approach provides wide-range burst pressure control and optimizes opening characteristics by ensuring the disc engages the desired shape, improving flow values and preventing fragmentation, even in low-energy opening events.
Implementation Method 1
formed by laser removal of metal from the disc
Data Source
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AI summary
A reverse-acting rupture disc (10) having a laser-defined reversal initiation feature (16) is provided in the bulged section (12) of the disc. The reversal initiation feature comprises at least a first lased area (22) that has a reduced thickness relative to rest of the bulged section. A second lased area (24) may also be provided within the margins of the first lased area. The second lased area has a depth that is greater than the depth of the first lased area. A line of weakness (40) may be formed in the bulged section that functions to direct reversal of the bulged section toward a particular area of the disc.