Lined Pipe Electrofusion Joint with Collar Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe connection technologies fail to provide reliable and durable connections for lined pipes, especially in high-pressure and corrosive environments, where abrasion and corrosion are prevalent, leading to leakage and structural integrity issues.
Innovation Solution
The use of tubular liner sections made of fusible material, fused together with an electrofusion coupling and reinforced by a collar assembly, which provides radial backing and resistance to movement, creating a leak-proof and reinforced flow path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrofusion coupling is used to join liner sections, then the connection achieves leak-proof integrity and material continuity, but the coupling lacks sufficient radial and axial strength to withstand high-pressure environments
Solution Approach 1:
The solution combines electrofusion coupling (providing leak-proof integrity) with a collar assembly made of rigid material (providing mechanical strength). This composite structure integrates two different materials/functions: the electrofusion coupling ensures fluid tightness while the collar assembly provides the necessary radial and axial strength to withstand high-pressure environments exceeding 350 psi.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional segments: the electrofusion coupling segment handles sealing and material continuity, while the collar assembly segment handles mechanical loading and structural reinforcement. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromise.
2Reliability
If liner sections are fused together to create continuous lining, then the flow path becomes leak-proof and inert, but the joint structure becomes vulnerable to tension forces and pressure loads
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly acts as an intermediary element between the fused liner sections. It provides mechanical reinforcement to the joint area, distributing and resisting tension forces and pressure loads that would otherwise concentrate at the vulnerable electrofusion joint. The collar protects the continuous flow path from external mechanical stresses.
3Force
If hubs are used to connect pipes with internal structure engagement, then axial movement resistance is improved, but radial reinforcement and pressure containment are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The solution merges the hub connection system (providing axial movement resistance through internal structure engagement) with the collar assembly (providing radial reinforcement). This combination creates a comprehensive connection system that addresses both axial and radial strength requirements simultaneously.
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 solution achieves a leak-proof, inert fluid path with enhanced axial and radial strength, capable of withstanding significant pressures, including pressures exceeding 350 psi, and isolates tension forces from the joint, ensuring the integrity of the connection.
Implementation Method 1
The joint of the liner sections is fused using the electrofusion coupling
Implementation Method 2
The liner sections are formed of fusible material and are fused together forming a fused joint
Data Source
AI summary
A connection of two pipes each including a liner. Liner sections connected to the liners are sections joined together forming a joint of the liner sections. An electrofusion coupling may overlie the joint of the liner sections and be used to fuse the joint. A collar may be positioned to overlie the joint of the liner sections. A bushing may be positioned between the joint of the liner sections and the collar. Hubs may be connected to the ends of the pipes. The liner sections and hubs may include corresponding structure which resists movement of the liner sections away from the joint of the liner sections. A connection of two pipes each including a liner may be formed according to disclosed methods.