Modular Pipe Leak Enclosure for Live Pipeline Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pipelines often develop leaks due to deterioration or structural damage, requiring costly shutdowns for repair, and existing solutions lack modularity to accommodate varying pipe section lengths.
Innovation Solution
A modular enclosure system comprising interlocking enclosure portions with sealant grooves and a blocking member system, allowing for the repair and sealing of leaks without shutting down the pipeline, and enabling adaptation to different pipe section lengths by connecting multiple enclosures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional pipe repair method is used, then the leak can be sealed, but the pipeline must be shut down resulting in lost revenue and delayed delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure system is divided into multiple modular portions (first enclosure portion, second enclosure portion, third enclosure portion) that can be assembled in series to match different pipe section lengths. Each enclosure portion has standardized interfaces (flanges, bolts) allowing them to be connected like building blocks, enabling the system to adapt to various leak locations and pipe diameters without requiring a complete pipeline shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure system incorporates adjustable components including variable length void sections that can be configured to match different pipe section lengths, and adjustable sealant grooves that can accommodate varying gap sizes between enclosure portions and the pipe. This dynamic adjustability allows the same modular system to handle diverse repair scenarios while maintaining pipeline operation.
2Loss of time
If an enclosure is prepared in advance for pipe repair, then timely repair is possible, but the enclosure may not match the varying axial lengths of pipe sections needing repair
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure is segmented into multiple standardized portions that can be assembled in different combinations to match various pipe section lengths. Each portion has standardized dimensions and interfaces, allowing rapid configuration of the appropriate enclosure size based on the actual leak location and pipe diameter, eliminating the need to have pre-prepared enclosures of every possible size.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular enclosure portions are designed with universal interfaces and standardized features that allow them to serve multiple functions and be configured for different pipe sizes and lengths. The same basic enclosure portion design can be used across various applications by simply changing the number and arrangement of portions, providing versatility without requiring multiple specialized enclosure types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular enclosure system is used, then flexibility for different pipe lengths is achieved, but the system complexity increases with multiple enclosure portions and components
Solution Approach 1:
While the system is segmented into multiple portions for modularity, each portion is designed with standardized, simplified features including uniform flange configurations, consistent bolt patterns, and identical sealant groove designs. This standardization reduces the complexity of individual components and makes the assembly process more straightforward, offsetting the increased system-level complexity through component simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple enclosure portions are merged together using standardized connection interfaces (flanges and bolts) to create a unified enclosure structure. The modular design allows complex enclosures for long pipe sections to be built from simpler, repeated units, reducing the overall design complexity compared to creating a single custom-fitted enclosure for each pipe length.
4Reliability
If the pipeline is shut down for repair, then the leak can be addressed, but costly revenue loss and delivery delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure system is designed to be installed around the pipe while the pipeline remains in operation, allowing the product flow to continue uninterrupted through the pipe during the repair process. The modular portions can be assembled in place without requiring pipeline isolation or shutdown, maintaining continuous useful action of product transport while the leak is being sealed.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular enclosure portions can be pre-assembled and prepared on-site before being installed around the leaking pipe section. This preliminary preparation reduces installation time and allows for a quicker repair process, minimizing any potential disruption while maintaining pipeline operation throughout the procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular enclosure system and method for repair of one or more leaks in a pipe. The modular enclosure system including a first enclosure portion configured to be disposed in a mated configuration to create a first enclosure around the pipe. Each enclosure includes a first void section configured to enclose a pipe section of the pipe. Sealant grooves extend along enclosure faces of each enclosure to seal the modular enclosure system. Each enclosure includes a sealant control system having a plurality of blocking members and configured to selectively block sealant injected in the sealant grooves. Each of the blocking members are positionable between a blocking position configured to block sealant flow in at least one of the sealant grooves and a non-blocking position.