Pipe Liner Coupler Seal With Pressure-Balancing Radial Barbs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe lining systems in oil and gas wells face issues with unreliable seals, particularly due to O-ring wear and breakage from repeated assembly and disassembly, and pressure imbalance leading to pipe lining deformation or implosion, as well as inconsistent installation and durability problems with existing collar seals.
Innovation Solution
A coupler with a 'V-cup' seal and a symmetrically placed 'no-go' ring at the longitudinal center, featuring a radial barb that flexes to equalize pressure and prevent implosion, and a conical section to maintain seal strength and durability, ensuring reliable and consistent sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If O-ring seals are used in collar seals for repeated assembly and disassembly, then initial sealing is achieved, but the seals wear down and break over time reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the sealing mechanism from elastic deformation (O-rings) to mechanical interlocking (radial barbs). The radial barbs feature a maximum diameter that is greater than the inner diameter of the lined pipe, creating a mechanical lock that prevents seal failure through wear. This parameter change from elastic to mechanical sealing resolves the contradiction between initial sealing effectiveness and long-term durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the vulnerable O-ring sealing component and replaces it with a more durable radial barb mechanism. By removing the O-ring and using the radial barb's maximum diameter feature to directly engage with the lined pipe inner diameter, the design eliminates the wear-prone element while maintaining sealing functionality.
2Reliability
If pressure outside the lining is trapped by seals, then sealing integrity is maintained, but pressure builds up causing pipe lining implosion or deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic pressure equalization feature through the radial barb design. The radial barb's maximum diameter allows it to flex or adjust under pressure differentials, creating a one-way valve effect that permits pressure relief while maintaining sealing integrity. This dynamic response resolves the contradiction between maintaining seal integrity and preventing pressure-induced deformation.
3Ease of operation
If collar seals are installed without precise positioning, then installation is faster, but inconsistent installation reduces sealing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-positioning mechanism where the radial barb's maximum diameter automatically locates and centers the collar seal within the lined pipe. The geometric constraint of the radial barb engaging with the lined pipe's inner diameter provides automatic alignment, eliminating the need for complex positioning procedures while ensuring consistent, precise installation every time.
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 solution provides a reliable, reusable, and pressure-balanced seal that prevents pipe lining implosion and extends the life of the system by reducing wear and breakage, ensuring consistent installation and maintaining seal integrity under varying pressures.
Implementation Method 1
a hollow radial barb, with a point having a maximum diameter and a hollow section, symmetrically disposed on the outer surface between each opposing open end and the ridge wherein the radial barbs extend outwardly from the outer surface and away from the ridge
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler for lined pipe joints in a lined pipe system. The coupler for a lined pipe system, having lined pipe section ends with an inner diameter. A substantially cylindrical hollow body includes an outer surface, an inner surface, two opposing open ends, and a longitudinal center between the two opposing open ends. A ridge extends radially outwardly from the outer surface at the longitudinal center. A hollow radial barb, with a point having a maximum diameter and a hollow section, is symmetrically disposed on the outer surface between each opposing open end and the ridge wherein the radial barbs extend outwardly from the outer surface and away from the ridge.