Multi-Annulus Pipe Segment With Venting to Protect Reinforcement Layers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Pipeline systems face challenges in maintaining tensile strength and hoop strength due to fluid permeation through the tubing layers, which can lead to corrosion and reduced integrity, especially when transporting corrosive fluids like hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a pipe segment design with multiple tubing annuli, including a venting tubing annulus to divert permeated fluids away from reinforcement layers, and the use of different solid materials for each annulus to enhance fluid isolation and reduce corrosion, along with barrier tape to further prevent fluid leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple layers of tubing are implemented to improve fluid isolation, then fluid isolation is improved, but fluid permeation through the layers can still occur and contact reinforcement materials, leading to corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
A venting tubing annulus is introduced as an intermediary component between the inner and outer barrier layers. This annulus provides a dedicated pathway for permeated fluid to travel without contacting the reinforcement materials, thereby mediating the harmful interaction between permeated fluid and reinforcement layers while maintaining the integrity of the multi-layer structure
Solution Approach 2:
The tubing structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: an inner barrier layer for primary fluid containment, a venting tubing annulus for fluid diversion, and an outer barrier layer for secondary containment. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally, with the venting annulus specifically designed to intercept and redirect permeated fluid away from corrosion-prone reinforcement materials
2Strength
If reinforcement layers with higher tensile strength materials are added, then tensile strength and hoop strength are improved, but the pipe segment becomes more susceptible to corrosion from permeated fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The venting tubing annulus serves as a protective intermediary that intercepts permeated fluid before it can reach the reinforcement layers. By providing an alternative pathway for fluid flow, it mediates between the pressure differential that drives permeation and the reinforcement materials that would be damaged by fluid contact, allowing high-strength materials to be used without increased corrosion risk
3Strength
If a continuous solid layer is used for reinforcement, then tensile strength is improved, but fluid can still permeate through barrier layers and corrode the reinforcement material
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing wall is segmented into functionally distinct layers with the venting tubing annulus positioned between the barrier layers and reinforcement materials. This segmentation creates a dedicated fluid diversion channel that physically separates permeated fluid from the continuous reinforcement structure, allowing the reinforcement layer to maintain its continuous solid form for optimal tensile strength while being protected from corrosion
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
This design effectively reduces fluid permeation into reinforcement layers, minimizing corrosion and enhancing the tensile and hoop strength of the pipe segment, thereby improving the overall integrity and durability of the pipeline system.
Implementation Method 1
facilitates venting fluid that permeates from the pipe bore through the tubing inner barrier layer out from the pipe segment before the fluid contacts the second solid material in the reinforcement tubing annulus
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for implementing a pipe segment that includes a tubing inner barrier layer that defines a pipe bore through the pipe segment, a venting tubing annulus implemented around the tubing inner barrier layer, in which the venting tubing annulus includes a first solid material implemented to define a venting fluid conduit, a tubing intermediate barrier layer implemented around the venting tubing annulus, a reinforcement tubing annulus implemented around the tubing intermediate barrier layer, and a tubing outer barrier layer implemented around the reinforcement tubing annulus. The reinforcement tubing annulus includes a second solid material that is different from the first solid material and is implemented to define a reinforcement fluid conduit. Additionally, the venting fluid conduit facilitates venting fluid that permeates from the pipe bore through the tubing inner barrier layer out from the pipe segment before the fluid contacts the second solid material in the reinforcement tubing annulus.