Offset Pipe Clamp for Accurate Non-Invasive Fluid Temperature Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-invasive process fluid temperature estimation techniques face limitations when measuring high-temperature or corrosive fluids, and current clamps used for temperature sensing can cause inaccuracies due to heat transfer and lack of insulation, restricting their application.
Innovation Solution
A process fluid temperature estimation system with a sensor capsule and measurement circuitry that uses a heat transfer calculation to estimate temperature, employing a clamp with minimal surface contact and standoffs to reduce thermal interference and improve accuracy, and incorporating insulation to minimize external thermal impacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a thermowell is inserted into the process fluid flow, then accurate process fluid temperature measurement is achieved, but the system requires a threaded port or robust mechanical mount in the conduit and cannot handle very high temperatures or corrosive fluids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by measuring the external temperature of the conduit and using heat flow calculations to estimate the process fluid temperature. This mediator method (external temperature measurement + calculation) allows temperature estimation without direct contact with harsh process fluids, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement accuracy and adaptability to extreme environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical thermowell insertion system with a non-invasive external measurement system. Instead of mechanically inserting a sensor into the conduit (requiring ports and mounts), the system uses external temperature sensing combined with thermal calculations, eliminating the mechanical intrusion requirements and enabling use in high-temperature and corrosive environments
2Reliability
If a clamp with large surface contact is used for temperature sensing, then the sensor is securely mounted, but thermal stray effects increase and measurement accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a localized thermal path through the clamp material directly beneath the temperature sensor. The clamp is designed with specific thermal conductivity characteristics in the local region under the sensor, allowing heat to conduct preferentially through this localized path from the conduit surface to the sensor, thereby reducing thermal stray effects while maintaining secure mounting
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the thermal parameter (conductivity) of the clamp material and geometry to optimize measurement accuracy. By selecting materials and designs with appropriate thermal conductivity values, the system controls the amount of heat transfer through the clamp, reducing thermal stray effects that would otherwise degrade measurement precision while maintaining adequate mechanical attachment
3Reliability
If the clamp is placed directly on the conduit surface, then secure mounting is achieved, but external thermal impacts affect the measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary thermal management layer (insulation) between the clamp and the external environment. This intermediary layer blocks external thermal impacts from reaching the sensor and clamp assembly, allowing the clamp to remain securely mounted on the conduit while protecting the measurement system from external thermal interference
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
Enables accurate and non-invasive temperature measurement of process fluids across a wider range of conditions, including high-temperature and corrosive environments, by reducing thermal stray effects and enhancing measurement sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensitive element disposed therein configured to sense an external surface of a process pipe
Implementation Method 2
measurement circuitry coupled to the sensor capsule and configured to detect a characteristic of the at least one temperature sensitive element that varies with temperature
Implementation Method 3
employ a heat transfer calculation with the reference temperature and the sensor capsule temperature information to generate an estimated process temperature output
Data Source
AI summary
A process fluid temperature estimation system includes a sensor capsule having a temperature sensitive element disposed therein configured to sense an external surface of a process pipe. The process fluid temperature estimation system includes measurement circuitry coupled to the sensor capsule and configured to detect a characteristic of the at least one temperature sensitive element that varies with temperature and provide sensor capsule temperature information and a controller coupled to the measurement circuitry, the controller being configured to obtain a reference temperature and employ a heat transfer calculation with the reference temperature and the sensor capsule temperature information to generate an estimated process temperature output. The process fluid temperature estimation system includes a mounting assembly configured to mount the process fluid temperature estimation system to the external surface of the process pipe, wherein a portion of the mounting assembly is offset from the external surface of the process pipe.