Modular Anode Collar Assembly for Variable-Diameter Pipelines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cathodic protection systems for flexible pipelines are limited by fixed anode collars, posing safety risks and requiring time-consuming adjustments for different pipe diameters, which are not easily adaptable and can lead to loose fittings during installation.
Innovation Solution
A universal cathodic protection system comprising a set of modular links with sacrificial anodes and a closure, allowing adjustable assembly around varying pipeline diameters without the need for additional filling or adaptation, ensuring electrical continuity and reducing installation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed external diameter anode collars are used, then the anode assembly structure is simple, but the adaptability to different pipeline diameters is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The anode collar is divided into multiple modular links that can be assembled in different quantities to match various pipeline external diameters. Each link contains an anode element, and the modular design allows flexible configuration without requiring different fixed-diameter collars for each pipeline size.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized link design with universal connection interfaces (such as threaded shafts and alignment features) enables the same link type to be used across different pipeline diameters by simply varying the number of links assembled, making the system universally applicable to multiple pipeline sizes.
2Ease of operation
If anode collars are made difficult to handle, then the assembly structure can be simplified, but the safety risks and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The links are pre-assembled into complete circumferential collars onshore before deployment to the PLSV vessel. This preliminary assembly reduces the complexity and time required for final installation on the vessel, as the pre-assembled units only need to be positioned and secured around the pipeline.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism incorporates adjustable and reversible features that allow for easy assembly and disassembly during installation and potential future maintenance, improving ease of operation without compromising structural integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If filler materials are used to adjust anode clearance, then the adaptability to different diameters is improved, but the reliability decreases and operating time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using filler materials to adjust clearance, the system segments the anode collar into modular links where the number and arrangement of links can be precisely configured to match the pipeline diameter, eliminating the need for unreliable filler adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of link quantity and configuration rather than relying on filler materials to adjust clearance. By varying the number of standardized links assembled, the collar can be precisely fitted to different pipeline diameters without requiring additional adjustment materials or procedures.
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 reliable cathodic protection for a wide range of pipeline diameters, reducing assembly time and safety risks by allowing modular assembly on board vessels, thus enhancing the integrity and efficiency of subsea systems.
Implementation Method 1
each link (21) has a sacrificial anode (210) to provide cathodic protection to the pipeline (10)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is applied in the technical field of subsea interconnection and relates to a universal cathodic protection system aimed at ensuring the integrity of pipelines and umbilicals applied in reuse projects, providing cathodic protection to these assemblies, commonly used in the oil and gas sector. Specifically, the present invention relates to a universal cathodic protection system comprising: a set of links surrounding a portion of a pipeline; and a closure; wherein links of the set of links are connected in sequence to each other to form an adjustable collar around the portion of the pipeline; wherein each link has a sacrificial anode to provide cathodic protection to the pipeline by means of electrical connection thereto; the closure being used to perform the locking and electrical continuity of the system around the pipeline by connecting to the two most extreme links of the set of links.