Thermally Insulated Pipe Junction Taper Angle Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermally insulated pipes for transporting fluids in wells face challenges in maintaining thermal efficiency and cost-effectiveness, particularly at pipe junctions, where heat transfer and manufacturing costs are concerns.
Innovation Solution
A thermally insulated pipe design featuring a male joinable end with a continuous inward taper in the outer pipe wall to meet the inner pipe wall, allowing for a screwed connection and a strong weld, which maintains thermal efficiency while reducing fabrication costs by optimizing the taper angle between 5 degrees and 20 degrees.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the outer pipe wall tapers at a steep angle to meet the inner pipe wall, then the weld strength is improved, but the material properties are modified excessively which endangers the integrity of the outer pipe wall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the taper angle of the outer pipe wall to fall within the specific range of 5 to 20 degrees. This parameter optimization ensures that the weld receives adequate penetration for strength while preventing excessive modification of material properties that would compromise the structural integrity of the outer pipe wall at the taper point.
2Reliability
If the outer pipe wall tapers at a shallow angle to preserve material properties, then the integrity of the outer pipe wall is maintained, but the weld strength is reduced due to poor penetration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by establishing a minimum taper angle of 5 degrees, which ensures sufficient weld penetration and strength. This lower bound of the parameter range prevents the taper from being too shallow, thereby guaranteeing adequate material removal and weld access while still maintaining structural integrity.
3Loss of energy
If the pipe sections are joined by welding, then the thermal efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by specifying a taper angle range of 5 to 20 degrees that optimizes the balance between thermal efficiency and manufacturing ease. This parameter optimization allows for effective thermal contact between pipe sections through welding while keeping the fabrication process manageable and cost-effective.
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 design provides a robust, thermally efficient, and cost-effective pipe junction that minimizes heat loss and fabrication expenses, ensuring the integrity of the pipe while allowing for efficient connection and disconnection of pipe sections.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal insulation layer provided between the outer pipe wall and the body portion of the inner pipe wall
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
In accordance with the present inventions there is provided a thermally insulated pipe (1) for transporting fluids, being connectable to at least one further pipe (12). The pipe (1) comprises an outer pipe wall (3) and an inner pipe wall (4) substantially parallel to the outer pipe wall and configured to contain a fluid within the pipe. The inner pipe wall (4) comprises a body portion (4a) and a connection portion (4b) extending therefrom, a thermal insulation layer (6) provided between the outer pipe wall (3) and the body portion (4a) of the inner pipe wall, and at least one male joinable end. The male joinable end comprises the connection portion of the inner pipe wall which terminates in a connection component (5) adapted to engage a connection component (5a) of a further pipe (12), and a transition region (7) where the outer pipe wall tapers continuously inwardly to meet the connection portion of the inner pipe wall.