Nitrogen Tank Temperature Gauge for Accumulator Pressure Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea piston accumulators for blowout preventers lack reliable temperature monitoring, leading to potential failures due to pressure discrepancies caused by nitrogen temperature changes, which can result in downtime and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A temperature gauge, such as a digital sensor or analog thermometer, is integrated directly into the nitrogen tank to monitor and provide real-time temperature readings, accompanied by a relief valve to manage pressure fluctuations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If temperature monitoring is not implemented, then the system structure remains simple, but pressure discrepancies occur due to nitrogen temperature changes leading to potential failures
Solution Approach 1:
A temperature gauge is installed on the nitrogen tank to provide real-time temperature monitoring. This feedback mechanism allows operators to detect temperature changes that affect nitrogen pressure, enabling timely adjustments to maintain proper accumulator function and prevent failures due to pressure discrepancies.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex indirect monitoring methods with a direct mechanical temperature gauge installation. By threading the temperature gauge directly into the nitrogen tank, the system achieves reliable temperature measurement without requiring complex electronic sensing systems or additional intermediary devices.
2Reliability
If real-time temperature monitoring is implemented, then failures can be prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature gauge provides continuous real-time temperature data, enabling operators to monitor nitrogen temperature changes that directly affect pressure. This allows for early detection of conditions that could lead to failures, such as freezing during actuation or pressure buildup during charging, enabling preventive action before failures occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a simple, inexpensive temperature gauge rather than complex electronic monitoring systems. This straightforward mechanical or digital thermometer provides sufficient temperature information at low cost and simple installation, making the monitoring system affordable and easy to maintain without requiring sophisticated electronics or power sources.
3Measurement precision
If temperature gauge is installed, then accurate temperature data is provided, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature gauge is designed as a separate, self-contained unit that can be independently installed on the nitrogen tank. This modular approach extracts the measurement function from the main accumulator system, allowing the gauge to be installed, removed, or replaced without affecting the core accumulator components or requiring system disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature gauge installation uses a standard threaded connection that can be adapted to various nitrogen tank configurations. The gauge serves multiple purposes: monitoring temperature during charging, detecting freezing conditions during actuation, and providing data for pressure calculations, making it a versatile component that simplifies overall system monitoring despite the added installation step.
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
Enhances accumulator performance by providing accurate temperature data, preventing failures and reducing downtime through efficient pressure management.
Implementation Method 1
A temperature gauge, such as a digital sensor or analog thermometer, is integrated directly into the nitrogen tank to monitor and provide real-time temperature readings
Implementation Method 2
accompanied by a relief valve to manage pressure fluctuations
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature sensor system for a nitrogen tank with a subsea blowout preventer that monitors temperature of the nitrogen in the tank. It is also contemplated to remove rupture discs and utilize a relief valve, which may be assembled with the temperature sensor system.