Membrane Joint Leak Detection Using Local Gas Flow Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leak detection methods for pressure boundary joints are inefficient, prone to false positives/negatives, require extensive pressurization, and fail to accurately identify leaking joints, posing safety risks and operational hazards.
Innovation Solution
A membrane-based leakage detection arrangement that forms an impermeable gas enclosure around the joint, using adjustable bands to create a sealed environment, and monitors gas flow rate changes with an electronic control unit to detect leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure monitoring methods are used to detect leakage, then the system can identify leakage, but it requires holding pressure for a long period and cannot locate which joints are leaking
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the pressure system into multiple segments by isolating individual joints using tape and injection molds. Each joint can be tested independently by introducing pressurized gas into the cavity between the tape and joint surface, allowing precise identification of which specific joint is leaking without requiring system-wide pressurization for extended periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary medium (pressurized gas through injection mold) between the tape seal and joint surface to detect leaks. This intermediary gas flow path allows detection of leakage at the joint interface without requiring the entire system to be pressurized, reducing test time while maintaining detection accuracy.
2Loss of time
If tracer gas and mass spectrometry are used for leak detection, then test periods can be shortened and leaking joints identified, but access to each joint is necessary and expensive tracer gas blending is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces expensive, reusable tracer gas systems with disposable tape seals and simple injection molds. The tape and mold are discarded after a single use, eliminating the need for costly tracer gas blending and complex mass spectrometry equipment while achieving the same leak detection objective.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the leak detection function from the complex tracer gas system and implements it through a simple localized test using everyday materials (tape and injection mold). This extraction simplifies the test system while maintaining the ability to identify leaking joints.
3Ease of operation
If tape is used to seal the gap between flanges, then access for leak detection is improved, but temporary leakage within the tape can lead to false positive indications
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses the tape as an intermediary sealing surface that creates a controlled cavity for gas injection. By introducing pressurized gas through the injection mold into this cavity, the system can distinguish between actual joint leaks and tape leakage, as the gas flow path is controlled and monitored.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention performs preliminary sealing with tape before the actual leak detection test. This preliminary action creates a controlled environment that prevents false positives by ensuring the tape itself is properly sealed before introducing the test gas, eliminating the reliability issue of temporary tape leakage.
4Measurement precision
If operators are positioned close to pressurized piping for leak detection, then direct observation of joints is possible, but personnel are exposed to risk of injury or death
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical approach of operators physically inspecting pressurized joints with a remote gas injection and detection system. The injection mold and gas delivery system allow leak detection to be performed from a safe distance, eliminating the need for operators to position themselves near pressurized piping.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces pressurized gas through an intermediary injection mold system that acts as a barrier between the operator and the pressurized joint. This intermediary mechanism allows the test gas to be introduced and leaks to be detected without requiring direct physical contact or close proximity to dangerous pressurized components.
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
Provides accurate, safe, and efficient leak detection by minimizing external sensor dependency, reducing personnel risk, and ensuring reliable joint integrity during operation.
Implementation Method 1
a membrane sheet for wrapping around the joint; at least a first adjustable band or strap for tightening around at least the first outer diameter to form a substantially impermeable gas seal between the membrane sheet and the first body
Implementation Method 2
either: i. a pump to generate a negative pressure or a positive pressure, or ii. a pressurised gas source and a flow adjustment valve
Implementation Method 3
a gas flow measuring arrangement for providing a signal indicative of gas flow rate; an electronic control unit for monitoring the signal indicative of gas flow rate
Data Source
AI summary
A leakage detection arrangement has a membrane sheet wrapping a pressure boundary joint. First and second adjustable bands tighten around the membrane sheet forming a gas enclosure around the joint. A gas flow arrangement enables gas flow into or out of the gas enclosure. Gas flow measuring arrangement signals indicate gas flow rate. An electronic control unit monitors the gas flow rate indicative signals and changes an output signal when the gas flow rate indicative signal varies beyond a predetermined amount. A leakage detection apparatus vacates or inflates the enclosure to a steady state pressure. Initial or baseline state can be recorded during steady state with pressure system depressurised. Pressure system can be pressurised and pressure and/or flow rate and/or other parameter(s) indicative of pressure or flow rate can be compared to the initial or baseline state. Any difference indicates leakage of the joint.