Pipe Coupling Mandrel Sleeve Crimping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Composite pipes used in oil and gas operations face challenges in maintaining structural integrity under high external and internal pressures, requiring a coupling system that can withstand aggressive chemicals and harsh conditions while ensuring equal or superior design ratings to the rest of the pipe.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling method involving a mandrel and an outer sleeve, where the mandrel is inserted into the pipe's inner diameter, and the sleeve is positioned concentrically around it, crimped to engage the pipe, and connected to the mandrel's outboard end, forming an annular space for secure attachment, which can withstand high loads and maintain pipe integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a coupling system is designed to withstand high external and internal pressures to maintain structural integrity, then the strength and reliability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into distinct functional components: a mandrel that inserts into the pipe interior, a coupling body that engages the pipe exterior, and a sealing mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall design and assembly process
Solution Approach 2:
The mandrel is nested within the coupling body, with the mandrel inserting through the pipe interior and the coupling body engaging the pipe exterior. This nested configuration allows the coupling system to maintain structural integrity under pressure while using a compact, integrated design that reduces overall complexity
2Reliability
If the coupling system uses a multi-component structure with mandrel and sleeve to ensure structural integrity, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into distinct functional components: a mandrel that inserts into the pipe interior, a coupling body that engages the pipe exterior, and a sealing mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using optimized processes, improving overall manufacturability while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The mandrel is pre-formed with the appropriate geometry and surface treatments to ensure proper engagement with the pipe interior and the coupling body. This preliminary preparation of components before assembly simplifies the manufacturing process and ensures reliable performance
3Reliability
If the pipe coupling uses a complex installation process to ensure proper engagement and structural integrity, then the reliability is improved, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mandrel and coupling body are pre-assembled or pre-positioned to ensure proper alignment and engagement geometry before installation on the pipe. This preliminary preparation eliminates complex alignment steps during installation, maintaining reliability while improving installation speed
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system incorporates features that allow for self-alignment and automatic engagement during installation, such as tapered surfaces or cam mechanisms that guide the components into proper position. This dynamic self-adjusting capability ensures reliable installation without requiring precise manual alignment, thereby improving productivity
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 coupling system effectively maintains the structural integrity of composite pipes under high pressure conditions, ensuring the coupled end meets or exceeds the pipe's design ratings, facilitating faster and cost-effective installation while withstanding aggressive chemicals and harsh operational environments.
Implementation Method 1
crimping over at least a portion of the length to engage the pipe between the sleeve and the mandrel
Data Source
AI summary
The coupling includes a mandrel and a coupling outer sleeve. In a method for installing the coupling on a pipe, the mandrel is inserted into the inner diameter of an end of pipe with an outboard end of the mandrel protruding from an end of the pipe. Then the outer sleeve is positioned over the pipe to form a length of substantially concentrically arranged, overlapping parts of the mandrel, the pipe and the sleeve. Then the sleeve is crimped over at least a portion of length, which engages the pipe between the sleeve and the mandrel. Either before or after sleeve is crimped over the pipe, the sleeve is connected to the outboard end of the mandrel.