Monolithic Gas Line Pressure Testing Tool With Quick Connects

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current pressure testing procedures for natural gas lines are cumbersome, requiring multiple steps, the use of thread lubricants, and often necessitate the assembly of testing rigs on-site, especially for larger lines, which is time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A monolithically integrated pressure testing tool with quick connect fittings and a Schrader valve for air-tight connections, allowing 360-degree rotation of pressure gauges, and a kit that includes all necessary components for efficient testing of various line sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional pressure testing procedures are used with manual screwing and assembly of testing rigs, then pressure testing can be performed, but the testing time and material usage increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting timeVSAvoidtime spent on manual assembly and screwing

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate components (gauge, adapter, connection elements) into a single integrated pressure testing tool with a monolithic body. This merging eliminates the need for manual assembly and disassembly of multiple parts, directly reducing testing time and improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pressure testing tool is designed with universal adaptability to work with various line sizes and configurations through interchangeable adapters that attach to the monolithic body. This multi-functionality allows a single tool to replace multiple specialized tools, reducing the need for on-site assembly and improving efficiency across different testing scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional pressure testing procedures are used requiring on-site assembly of testing rigs, then testing can be adapted to different line sizes, but the complexity and time consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different line sizesVSAvoidcomplexity of on-site rig assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pressure testing tool incorporates a family of adapters designed to fit various line sizes and configurations. These adapters attach to the standardized monolithic body, providing universal adaptability without requiring complex on-site assembly. The tool can be configured for different applications by simply attaching the appropriate adapter.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The adapters are pre-designed and pre-configured to work with the monolithic tool body. The threading and connection mechanisms are prepared in advance during manufacturing, eliminating the need for on-site customization or complex assembly procedures. Users simply attach the pre-prepared adapter to the tool body for the desired line size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional pressure testing procedures are used with multiple components, then the tool can be customized, but the number of parts and material usage increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of tool manufacturingVSAvoidmaterial usage for multiple components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the gauge mounting, connection points, and structural support into a single monolithic body manufactured from one piece of material. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate components and their associated fasteners, seals, and connection elements, directly reducing material usage while simplifying the manufacturing process through single-piece fabrication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Significantly reduces testing time and material usage by eliminating the need for manual screwing and unscrewing of gauges and allows for versatile, efficient pressure testing across different line sizes and configurations.

Implementation Method 1

A monolithically integrated pressure testing tool with quick connect fittings and a Schrader valve for air-tight connections

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAir-tight connection:

Implementation Method 2

Local gas company requirements typically specify for pressurizing the system at 10 water column for 5 minutes. If the needle on the pressure gauge does not move within 5 minutes, the pressure test passes.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure measurement:

Implementation Method 3

A monolithically integrated pressure testing tool with quick connect fittings and a Schrader valve for air-tight connections, allowing 360-degree rotation of pressure gauges

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectQuick connect mechanism:

Implementation Method 4

allowing 360-degree rotation of pressure gauges

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotational movement:

Data Source

PatentUS20250271324A1Gas line and meter pressure testing tools and methods

Publication Date: 2025.08.28 STH TOOLS LTD

AI summary

The present invention involves a pressure testing tool for quick and efficient installation of gas service. The tool is a monolithically integrally formed chamber having an inflation portal, a rotatable connection portal with a plurality of internal and external threaded connection portions, and a rotatable meter section. With this single tool, the system may be attached, pressurized, and pressure monitored at the appropriate pressure with greater efficiency than prior combinations.