Pipe Access Port Seal With Removable Watertight Membrane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patches for accessing insulated pipes in the oil and gas industry are inadequate in maintaining insulation and protection from weather, as they leak and compromise the insulation material, and are difficult to remove for future maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A sealing apparatus comprising a base with a flexible metal element and a waterproof body, featuring a groove and annular ridge for secure engagement, designed to be installed around a metal sheath opening to provide a watertight seal and facilitate easy removal for future access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hole is cut in the sheet metal and insulation removed to provide access to the pipe, then maintenance and inspection can be performed, but the sheet metal patch installed after maintenance leaks when subjected to rain or melting snow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible waterproof membrane that conforms to the curved surface of the pipe and extends over the sheet metal patch. This flexible film creates a continuous waterproof barrier that prevents water infiltration while allowing the patch to be installed and removed for maintenance access.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution combines multiple materials: sheet metal for structural support, insulation material for thermal protection, and a flexible waterproof membrane for water protection. This composite approach ensures that each material performs its optimal function while working together to solve the waterproofing problem.
2Ease of operation
If the patch is removed for future maintenance, then access to the pipe can be obtained, but the screw holes increase in size and further increase the ability of water to enter the insulation
Solution Approach 1:
The solution separates the fastening function (screws through sheet metal) from the waterproofing function (flexible membrane). The membrane can be independently installed and removed without affecting the screw holes in the sheet metal, allowing multiple maintenance cycles without compromising waterproofing integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible waterproof membrane can be repeatedly installed and removed to allow maintenance access through the sheet metal patch without degrading its waterproofing capability, as the membrane itself is not damaged by removal and can be resealed effectively.
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
The apparatus effectively seals the opening, preventing water ingress and maintaining insulation integrity, while allowing for easy removal and reinstallation, thus addressing the issues of leakage and maintenance accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible waterproof body positionable within the inner passage, the body having a periphery therearound and a groove located within the periphery adapted to engage around the annular ridge
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for sealing an opening in a metal sheath surrounding an insulated pipe is provided, the apparatus including a base comprising an outer flange securable within the opening, and defining an inner passage therethrough, the base having an annular ridge extending into the inner passage; a flexible waterproof body positionable within the inner passage, the body having a periphery therearound and a groove located within the periphery adapted to engage around the annular ridge; and a flexible metal element within the base.