Pig Routing Insert Structure for Blocking Unwanted Cleaning Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for cleaning and unblocking fluid flow passages in machined block manifolds are inadequate as they lack mechanisms to prevent cleaning pigs from entering unwanted pipes, leading to potential damage and operational disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A pig routing insert is designed to be positioned at the intersection of perforated fluid flow holes in a machined block manifold, featuring a substantially unrestricted flow opening and partially restricted openings with pig blocking structures, allowing unobstructed fluid flow while preventing the passage of cleaning pigs into undesired paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pig blocking structures are installed in welded pipes, then pigs are prevented from entering unwanted pipes, but this installation method cannot be applied to machined block manifolds where holes are perforated into a solid body
Solution Approach 1:
The pig routing insert is divided into multiple components: a body with multiple openings, pig blocking structures that can be positioned within specific openings, and fastening mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to be adapted to different manifold configurations by selectively positioning blocking structures in different openings, making it versatile for various machined block manifold designs while maintaining relatively simple installation through modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The pig routing insert is designed as a universal component that can be applied to machined block manifolds with different hole configurations. The insert body with multiple openings can accommodate various pipe arrangements, and the pig blocking structures can be positioned in different openings to direct pigs along different routes, making the same basic design adaptable to multiple manifold configurations without requiring custom solutions for each specific arrangement
2Productivity
If cleaning pigs are used to clean fluid flow passages, then production interruption is reduced, but pigs may enter unwanted pipes or holes causing damage and operational disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The pig routing insert acts as an intermediary device installed at intersections within the machined block manifold. It mediates the path of cleaning pigs by providing guided openings and blocking structures that direct pigs along desired routes while preventing them from entering unwanted pipes or holes. This intermediary structure ensures that the cleaning process remains reliable and productive by controlling pig movement without requiring complete production shutdown
Solution Approach 2:
The pig routing insert utilizes the existing fluid flow passages and intersections within the machined block manifold itself to create the routing structure. Rather than requiring external piping or separate blocking systems, the insert leverages the manifold's own geometry and openings to guide pigs along appropriate paths, making the system self-contained and reducing the need for additional external components or complex installation procedures
3Reliability
If a pig routing insert is positioned at the intersection of holes in a machined block manifold, then pig passage is controlled, but the structure requires additional components and installation steps
Solution Approach 1:
The pig routing insert merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides structural support at the intersection, creates guided openings for pig passage, positions pig blocking structures, and incorporates fastening mechanisms. By combining these functions into one unified insert rather than separate components, the design achieves reliable pig passage control while minimizing the total number of parts and simplifying the installation process compared to using multiple separate elements
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a pig routing insert or drain used in various subsea systems comprising a block structure, for example, block manifolds, with a plurality of perforated fluid passages. The insert generally comprises a substantially unrestricted flow opening adapted to allow the substantially unrestricted fluid flow and the passage of a cleaning pig, and a partially restricted opening comprising at least one pig blocking structure, in which the partially restricted opening is adapted to allow the substantially unrestricted fluid flow through the partially restricted opening whilst blocking the passage of a cleaning pig through the partially restricted opening. Also disclosed is a new method for manufacturing and installing the pig routing insert or drain in a machined block manifold.