Integrated Pig Pumping Unit for Simultaneous Multi-Pipe Cleaning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pigging units require multiple workers and separate pumping units to clean multiple pipes simultaneously, occupying valuable space in oil refineries and inefficiently utilizing resources.

Innovation Solution

A single pumping unit with two engines driving four pumps, each connected to separate pumping circuits with variable flow control, allowing simultaneous operation of four passes with reduced manpower and equipment requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If separate pumping units are used to clean multiple pipes simultaneously, then the number of pipes that can be cleaned increases, but the space occupation and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of pipes cleaned simultaneouslyVSAvoidspace occupation in refinery

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple pumping circuits into a single integrated pumping unit. Multiple engines drive multiple pumps that are connected into separate pumping circuits, all housed within one unit. This merging allows the unit to clean multiple pipes simultaneously while occupying less space than multiple separate pumping units would require.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pumping unit is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple pipes concurrently. Each engine can drive multiple pumps, and each pump can be connected to separate pumping circuits, enabling the single unit to perform the function of multiple separate units while reducing overall equipment footprint.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If separate pumping units are used for each pipe, then each pipe can be cleaned independently, but the number of workers required increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of pipes cleaned simultaneouslyVSAvoidnumber of workers required

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple pumping circuits and their control functions into a single unit that can be operated by fewer workers. The integrated design allows one or two operators to manage multiple pumping circuits simultaneously, reducing the total number of workers needed compared to operating multiple separate pumping units.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If multiple pumping units are deployed, then more pipes can be cleaned at once, but the equipment complexity and resource utilization increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of pipes cleaned simultaneouslyVSAvoidnumber of pumping units required

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple pumping circuits into a single integrated unit with shared components and control systems. This consolidation reduces the total number of pumping units needed while maintaining the capability to clean multiple pipes simultaneously, thereby reducing equipment complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pumping unit is designed with universal capabilities to handle multiple pipes through multiple pumping circuits. Each engine can drive multiple pumps, and the system can be configured to clean different numbers of pipes based on operational needs, reducing the need for multiple specialized units.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9296025B2Pig pumping unit

Publication Date: 2016.03.29 SIVACOE LUISA ANNE

AI summary

A pumping unit is provided that allows at least four passes to be made simultaneously with a single pumping unit. A single engine is used to drive two pumps, each connected into separate pumping circuits. Fluid flow in each of the pumping circuits is controlled by respective flow control elements on the pumping circuits, as for example a variable flow valve. Two engines may thus be used to drive four pumps.