Parallel-Seat Valve Shutter Assembly for Hydraulic Proof Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for conducting hydraulic tests on installations with parallel seat valves are complex, require specialized skills, and involve risks due to the need for welding or cumbersome mechanical shutters, which are not easily adaptable to different valve sizes and configurations, and often fail to ensure perfect sealing.
Innovation Solution
A modular assembly comprising a shutter with adjustable parallel plates and a U-shaped inner tool for easy insertion and support, along with a false stem for sealing, which can be adapted to various valve sizes and configurations, ensuring secure sealing without the need for welding or extensive resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welded sealing devices are used to isolate the tank, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity and implementation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable plugs that are inserted into the valve to create a temporary seal for hydraulic testing. These plugs are designed for single-use, eliminating the need for complex welded sealing devices. After the test, the plugs are removed and discarded, avoiding long-term intervention and complex implementation while maintaining sealing reliability during the test period.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the sealing function from complex welded devices and concentrates it into simple, removable plugs that are inserted through the valve. This extraction allows the sealing function to be achieved with minimal intervention, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability during the testing process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If mechanical plugs are used to seal the pipe, then welding risks are reduced, but the requirement for long straight pipe sections and accessibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal plugs that can be inserted through the valve body and are compatible with various valve configurations. These plugs eliminate the need for long straight pipe sections and extensive accessibility requirements, as they are installed through the existing valve structure. This multi-functional approach reduces welding risks while maintaining ease of operation across different installation scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If parallel plate shutters with adjustable screws are used, then sealing adaptability is improved, but handling difficulty and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, disposable plugs that are inserted into the valve for sealing during hydraulic testing. These plugs eliminate the need for complex parallel plate shutters with adjustable screws. The plugs are designed for easy insertion and removal, improving handling ease and safety while maintaining sufficient sealing adaptability for the testing application.
4Reliability
If valve components are inspected and repaired to ensure sealing, then sealing reliability is improved, but intervention time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs plugs that are pre-designed and pre-fitted for insertion into the valve. These plugs create immediate sealing upon insertion, eliminating the need for time-consuming inspection and repair of valve components. The preliminary design of the plugs ensures they can be quickly installed and removed, reducing intervention time while maintaining sealing reliability during the hydraulic test.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to hydraulic proof-test apparatus comprising at least a valve (1) with parallel seats (102), and comprising: - a shut-off member (2) with parallel plates (20, 21) which are connected by connecting means for regulating their separation, to cause them to pass from a first position in which this separation is enough to allow the shut-off member (2) to be introduced into said valve (1) to a second position in which said separation is greater, this separation allowing them to be pressed firmly against said parallel seats (102); - a device (3) for inserting said shut-off member (2) into said valve (1) which comprises at least a U-shaped tool configured to be introduced into said valve (1), with its parallel arms forming guides, while its base forms a support for holding said shut-off member (2); - a "dummy stem" (4).