Lever-Actuated Plug for Controlled Pipeline Pressure Relief
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure control systems in piping systems face issues with rapid plug release causing safety hazards and slurry jamming, requiring excessive force to free the plug, which can lead to dangerous situations during overpressure relief.
Innovation Solution
A pressure control apparatus with a tee-piece design featuring a plug and lever system that allows controlled movement of the plug between fully inserted and partially withdrawn positions, using a lever to manage pressure relief and prevention of sudden ejection, and transparent housing for safety observation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plug is anchored in a branch line to close the branch during normal flow, then pressure control is achieved, but rapid release of the plug causes safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is designed with a loop that allows it to transition dynamically between anchored and unanchored states. The lever system enables controlled movement of the plug from the closed position to an intermediate position, allowing gradual pressure relief rather than sudden release, thus maintaining reliability while eliminating safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate position for the plug is introduced between the fully closed and fully open states. This intermediate position allows controlled pressure relief by partially opening the branch line, enabling gradual decompression of the main line without sudden plug ejection, thereby resolving the contradiction between pressure control and safety.
2Productivity
If slurry is conveyed in the pipeline, then fluid transport is achieved, but the slurry can jam the plug in the branch
Solution Approach 1:
The plug design incorporates a loop structure that segments the plug body, allowing it to be manipulated by the lever system. This segmentation enables the plug to be moved to an intermediate position where it can be freed from slurry jamming more easily, while still maintaining its sealing function when anchored, thus preserving productivity while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic positioning capability allows the plug to be moved between anchored and unanchored states. When jamming occurs, the plug can be dynamically repositioned to the unanchored state where it can be freed with less force, preventing complete operational failure and maintaining ease of operation despite slurry conveyance.
3Ease of operation
If considerable force is applied to release a jammed plug, then the plug can be freed, but dangerous situations occur during overpressure relief
Solution Approach 1:
The lever system is designed to gradually move the plug from the anchored to the unanchored position before complete release. This preliminary action allows controlled force application and gradual pressure equalization, preventing sudden dangerous release while maintaining the ability to free jammed plugs safely.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic lever mechanism enables controlled, gradual movement of the plug rather than sudden forceful release. The lever system translates applied force into controlled plug movement, allowing operators to safely free jammed plugs while maintaining pressure control and avoiding dangerous situations.
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 safe and controlled pressure management in pipelines without interrupting flow, preventing sudden ejection of pressurized contents and facilitating easy removal or reinsertion of the plug for pressure relief or build-up, while allowing observation of internal processes without exposing personnel to hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a lever pivotally connected to the second wall and extending through the loop and the first opening in the first wall positions the plug to the first and second positions
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure control apparatus includes a main line section and a branch line operably joined to and extending from the main line section. A housing around the branch line has a first wall and a second wall opposed to the first wall, and a first opening is in the first wall. A plug is operably positioned in the branch line, and the plug has a first position that prevents fluid flow through the branch line and a second position that permits fluid flow through the branch line. A loop extends from the plug, and a lever pivotally connected to the second wall and extending through the loop and the first opening in the first wall positions the plug to the first and second positions.