Portable Radiographic Pipe Inspection for Fitting Gap Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Assessing the integrity of pipe connections, particularly between a pipe and a fitting, is challenging due to difficulties in determining proper fitment and potential gaps caused by vibration, temperature variations, and improper assembly, which can lead to reduced pressure ratings and fluid leaks.
Innovation Solution
A portable, handheld apparatus that encloses a radiation source and detector to inspect the connection without disassembly, using ionizing radiation to detect gaps and assess the connection's integrity by comparing radiation penetration through the pipe and fitting, with a safety system for radiation containment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If radiation source is placed close to the pipe (≤300mm) for portable inspection, then inspection portability and speed improve, but radiation safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation source is nested within a container that forms part of the inspection apparatus. The container can be positioned around the pipe fitting, enclosing the radiation source close to the inspection area while protecting surrounding personnel and equipment from radiation exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The container acts as an intermediary structure between the radiation source and the external environment. It provides radiation shielding while allowing the source to be positioned close to the pipe for effective inspection, thus mediating between the need for portability and radiation safety.
2Loss of time
If pipe fitting is inspected in-situ without disassembly, then inspection time and system downtime are reduced, but radiation containment and safety become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed to be movable and adaptable, allowing it to be positioned around existing pipe fittings in various configurations. This dynamic design enables the container to accommodate different fitting sizes and shapes without requiring disassembly, while maintaining radiation containment through flexible positioning and adjustable shielding.
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
Enables non-destructive, in-situ assessment of pipe and fitting connections, ensuring proper alignment and sealing, thereby maintaining pressure ratings and preventing leaks, without the need for disassembly or purging the system.
Implementation Method 1
using ionizing radiation to detect gaps and assess the connection's integrity by comparing radiation penetration through the pipe and fitting
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of inspecting a pipe, including the steps of providing a container comprising a first and a second portion, locating the container around a pipe when the container is in an open position and moving the container from the open to a closed position. In the closed position the container is located around the pipe and substantially encloses at least a portion of the pipe. Then passing radiation through the container and the at least a portion of the pipe. The distance between a source of the radiation and the at least a portion of the pipe being equal to or less than 300mm. There is also described an apparatus comprising a container comprising a first and a second portion. The container being moveable between an open and a closed position. In the open position the container is locatable around a pipe and in the closed position the container substantially encloses at least a portion of the pipe. In the closed position the distance between a source of radiation enclosed in the container and the at least a portion of the pipe is equal to or less than 300mm.