Natural Gas Odorization Using Dual Bypass Valves and PLC Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current odorization techniques for natural gas are unreliable and inflexible, leading to unstable gas flow and potential safety issues due to changes in consumer demand, as they rely on a single solenoid valve that may remain open for extended periods or be closed for short durations, affecting odorant distribution and leak detection.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a bypass line with high-flow and low-flow control valves, monitored by a programmable logic controller, which adjusts valve openings based on gas flow rates and dwell times to maintain consistent odorant saturation levels, accommodating varying demand and temperature fluctuations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single solenoid valve is used to control bypass gas flow through the odorant tank, then the system structure is simple, but the gas flow becomes unstable when consumer demand changes significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The single solenoid valve is segmented into two separate solenoid valves (first and second solenoid valves) that operate independently to control bypass gas flow. This segmentation allows each valve to handle different flow conditions, improving overall flow stability while maintaining relatively simple system structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different valve configurations based on consumer demand conditions. The programmable logic controller monitors gas flow requirements and adjusts which solenoid valve(s) are active, enabling the system to adapt to varying demand conditions and maintain stable odorant saturation levels.
2Productivity
If the solenoid valve remains open for long periods during high demand, then gas flow rate increases, but odorant distribution becomes inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid valves operate in periodic cycles rather than remaining continuously open. The programmable logic controller opens and closes the valves at predetermined intervals, creating a periodic action that ensures consistent odorant distribution while maintaining adequate gas flow rates during high demand periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback control where the programmable logic controller monitors gas flow conditions and adjusts solenoid valve operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that odorant distribution remains consistent by adjusting valve timing and duration based on actual flow conditions and consumer demand.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the solenoid valve opens for very short periods during low demand, then gas flow stability is maintained, but odorant saturation levels become inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating parameters of the solenoid valves based on consumer demand conditions. During low demand periods, the programmable logic controller modifies valve opening duration and frequency to maintain accurate odorant saturation levels while preserving gas flow stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (valve opening time, frequency, and sequence) based on consumer demand conditions. This parameter adjustment allows the system to maintain accurate odorant saturation levels across varying flow conditions, whether demand is high or low.
4Ease of operation
If a single valve system is used, then the system is easy to operate, but it cannot accommodate seasonal changes in consumer demand
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple solenoid valves that can be independently controlled, allowing the system to accommodate varying demand conditions while maintaining ease of operation through automated control. The programmable logic controller manages the complexity, presenting a simple interface for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual solenoid valve system provides multi-functionality, capable of handling both high demand (winter) and low demand (summer) conditions with the same hardware configuration. This universal design allows the system to adapt to seasonal changes without requiring different equipment.
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
The system ensures stable and flexible odorization, maintaining accurate odorant levels and reducing false leak alarms by adjusting valve operations in response to changing gas flow and temperature, thereby enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
bypass gas absorbs relatively high concentrations of the odorant while in the tank
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a system and method for odorizing natural gas flowing through a distribution pipeline. The system includes a bypass line adjacent to a distribution pipeline, wherein bypass gas flows through the bypass line and an odorant tank connected to the bypass line, and into the distribution pipeline; a high-flow control valve and a low-flow control valve in the bypass line, wherein bypass gas flows through the odorant tank into the distribution pipeline when the high-flow control valve or the low-flow control valve is open; and a programmable logic controller connected to the high-flow and low flow control valve; wherein the programmable logic controller opens the high-flow or low-flow control valve for a predetermined dwell time proportional to an amount of bypass gas needed to odorize gas in the distribution pipeline each time that a preselected quantity of gas flows through the distribution pipeline.