Packing Section Insertion Cradle for Horizontal Column Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of large-diameter gas/liquid separation columns with long axial dimensions is challenging due to the need for significant push forces and the risk of casing deformation during horizontal insertion of packing sections, which complicates centering and positioning of the packing within the casing.
Innovation Solution
A device to assist installation, comprising a cradle and/or removable cone, is secured to the casing to facilitate horizontal insertion of packing sections by centering and supporting them, reducing friction and deformation risks, and allowing for easy pushing into the casing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the casing is positioned horizontally during insertion, then the assembly process can be performed in facilities with standard ceiling heights, but a considerable push force is required along the entire length of the casing and gravity no longer facilitates the movement of the packing section
Solution Approach 1:
A device to assist installation is introduced as an intermediary element between the packing section and the casing. This device includes support elements that engage with the packing section and a pushing mechanism that applies force through the device rather than directly to the packing section, reducing the required push force by distributing the load and providing mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation device is divided into functional segments: support elements that hold the packing section, a positioning mechanism that centers it, and a pushing mechanism that inserts it. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall complexity and force requirements.
2Force
If the casing is positioned vertically during insertion, then gravity facilitates the progression of the packing section within the casing, but tooling is required to raise the packing section over a long distance and a production site with greater ceiling height is needed
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of positioning the casing vertically to use gravity, the invention inverts the approach by positioning the casing horizontally and using a device to assist installation that provides the necessary support and pushing force. This inversion eliminates the need for complex vertical lifting tooling and high ceiling facilities.
3Ease of operation
If the casing is positioned horizontally, then the assembly process can be performed in standard facilities, but it is difficult to position and maintain the packing section facing the input opening upstream from pushing
Solution Approach 1:
The device to assist installation performs preliminary actions by supporting the packing section in the correct position facing the input opening before the pushing operation begins. The support elements and positioning mechanism ensure the packing section is properly aligned and held in place, eliminating the need for rapid positioning during the pushing operation.
4Ease of operation
If the casing is positioned horizontally, then standard ceiling heights are sufficient, but gravity tends to offset the packing section vertically from the input opening when released by its means of transport
Solution Approach 1:
The device to assist installation provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining support for the packing section throughout the positioning and pushing operations. The support elements prevent gravity from offsetting the packing section vertically, and the continuous support ensures stable positioning until the packing section is securely pushed into the casing.
Data Source
AI summary
A process for installing a section of packing in a casing by means of a device to assist installation of a section of packing, the casing comprising at least one tubular wall extending in a longitudinal direction (L) between two longitudinal ends, and an inner face of which participates in delimiting a receptacle for the section of packing, the casing being positioned horizontally during the process for installing the section of packing, the process comprising a step of fitting of the device to assist installation on the casing, during which the device to assist installation is secured in the vicinity of the input opening of the casing, a step of positioning of the section of packing relative to the device to assist installation and to the input opening, and at least one step of pushing during which the section of packing is pushed into the receptacle of the casing.