Pipe Repair Using Compression Straps and Composite Wraps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for repairing stress corrosion cracking in pipes are inadequate, as they either weaken the pipe, create hazardous conditions, or require costly and inconvenient shutdowns, and existing composite repairs lack permanence and are unsuitable for high temperatures or pressures.
Innovation Solution
A method involving compression straps with buckles to create a compressive restraining force, combined with a composite wrap material, which applies a corrosion-resistant coating and high compressive strength putty to inhibit crack propagation and enhance the structural integrity of the pipe without requiring shutdowns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drilling holes through the pipe at crack tips to terminate crack propagation, then crack propagation is mitigated, but the pipe creates temporary leakage and environmental hazards during repair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces compression straps as an intermediary device that applies compressive force to the pipe surface to close cracks without requiring drilling or penetration. The straps act as a mediator between the repair objective and the pipe structure, eliminating the need to create holes through the pipe wall while still achieving crack termination through mechanical compression and stress redistribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical drilling system with a compression-based system. Instead of using rotational drilling mechanics to create holes, the invention uses axial compression mechanics applied through straps to close cracks. This substitution eliminates the harmful effect of hole creation while maintaining the beneficial effect of crack termination through a different mechanical approach.
2Reliability
If grinding the cracked area to terminate crack propagation, then crack is removed, but wall thickness is reduced which weakens the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the material removal mechanical system (grinding) with a force application mechanical system (compression). Instead of removing material to eliminate cracks, the invention applies compressive forces to close and contain cracks while preserving the original wall thickness and structural integrity of the pipe.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the stress state parameter of the cracked area by applying compressive pre-stress through the straps. This parameter change transforms the tensile stress environment that promotes crack propagation into a compressive stress environment that closes cracks and prevents further propagation, thereby terminating crack growth without altering the physical dimensions or wall thickness of the pipe.
3Reliability
If using mechanical compression devices with heavy metal clamps to prevent crack propagation, then crack propagation is prevented, but the repair becomes very expensive with unfavorable economic conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible composite straps instead of heavy rigid metal clamps. These thin-film composite materials provide the necessary compressive force while being significantly lighter, easier to install, and more cost-effective than traditional heavy metal compression devices. The flexible nature of the straps allows them to conform to the pipe surface and maintain compression without requiring complex mechanical advantage systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials for the compression straps, which combine high strength-to-weight ratio with corrosion resistance and cost-effectiveness. These composite straps replace expensive heavy metal clamps while providing equivalent or superior performance in crack containment, thereby improving the economic feasibility of the repair operation.
4Ease of manufacture
If existing composite repairs are applied to damaged pipe sections, then repair is achieved, but the repair lacks permanence and is unsuitable for high temperatures or pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses temperature and pressure suitability by selecting and formulating composite materials with specific thermal and mechanical properties that match or exceed the original pipe's performance characteristics. The composite straps are engineered to maintain their compressive strength and dimensional stability across the full range of operating temperatures and pressures, ensuring the repair remains effective under all service conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses advanced composite materials that provide permanence and environmental resistance. These composites are specifically selected for their durability, resistance to degradation from temperature cycling and pressure fluctuations, and ability to maintain long-term compressive force. The composite system is designed to create a permanent repair that enhances rather than compromises the pipe's ability to withstand its operating environment.
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
This method effectively arrests crack propagation, extends the service life of pipes, and provides a permanent repair that can withstand various temperature and pressure conditions, ensuring safety and reducing economic impacts.
Implementation Method 1
compression straps with buckles to create a compressive restraining force
Implementation Method 2
composite wrap material, which applies a corrosion-resistant coating
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a pipe reinforcement structure and method for repairing or reinforcing a pipe, pipeline or other tubular member containing one or more cracks or joints on its outer circumferential surface comprising the steps of: identifying a pipe repair zone along a longitudinal section of the outer surface of the tubular member where cracks or joints are located; installing one or more compression straps around the outer circumferential surface of the tubular member in the pipe repair zone, the one or more compression straps comprising outer edges and being secured in place with a buckle; optionally applying a high compression putty over the edges of the straps and buckles and in the cracks; applying a corrosion resistant coating over the installed compression straps and tubular member surface in the pipe repair zone; and applying a composite wrap material over the applied corrosion resistant coating in the pipe repair zone.