Pipe Pressure Test Fitting With Wedge Seal and Dual Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pressure testing and cleanout fittings for pipelines are cumbersome, prone to leakage, and often require complex seals that weaken the fitting, making them unsuitable for repeated use and weight-bearing applications.
Innovation Solution
A combined pressure-testing and cleanout fitting with a T-shaped design featuring a recess with inclined walls, a dual valve assembly, and O-ring seals, allowing for easy insertion and removal of a pressure testing device and providing multiple flow options for controlled pressure relief and inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large opening is provided in the cleanout fitting for pressure testing, then the pressure testing function is improved, but the fitting strength is weakened causing deformation and leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the fitting into two separate functional components: a cleanout fitting for debris removal and a pressure test fitting for pressure testing. Each fitting has its own dedicated opening and sealing mechanism, eliminating the need for a large opening that would weaken the cleanout fitting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a gate valve as an intermediary component that controls fluid flow between the pressure test fitting and the pipeline. This allows pressure testing to be performed through a small, strengthened opening without requiring a large opening in the cleanout fitting, thus maintaining fitting strength while enabling pressure testing functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If plugs are introduced into the pipe interior via temporary openings for joint testing, then the testing capability is improved, but the complexity of sealing and closing openings increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gate valve is designed to be self-sealing through its wedge gate mechanism that automatically seals against the valve seat when closed. This eliminates the need for complex external sealing operations and manual plugging procedures, reducing sealing complexity while maintaining full testing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure test fitting with gate valve serves multiple functions: it enables pressure testing of pipeline joints, allows for draining of the pipeline, and provides a permanent access point for inspection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate temporary openings and plugging operations for each testing scenario.
3Adaptability or versatility
If inflatable bladders are inserted into cleanout fittings for pressure testing, then the pressure testing function is achieved, but the risk of breaking or cracking the fitting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the reusable but risky inflatable bladder with a disposable or replaceable O-ring seal that is compressed against a hard surface. This eliminates the risk of bladder over-inflation damaging the fitting, as the O-ring is designed to be replaced if damaged and cannot over-expand to crack the fitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the sealing mechanism from a flexible inflatable bladder that can over-expand to a compressed O-ring that is constrained by a hard sealing surface. This parameter change in the sealing approach eliminates the risk of over-inflation while maintaining the pressure testing function.
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 robust, leak-proof, and easy-to-maintain fitting that combines pressure testing and cleanout functions in a single assembly, reducing the need for multiple fittings and minimizing the risk of leakage and deformation, while allowing for efficient inspection and maintenance of pipelines.
Implementation Method 1
O-ring seals
Implementation Method 2
recess with inclined walls
Data Source
AI summary
A sealing device is provided for use with a fitting. The fitting has circular port and a flow path with a longitudinal axis. A circular port encircles a portion of the flow path opposite the port with the sealing device inserted into the port. The sealing device has a circular top with two opposing surfaces depending therefrom but inclined so the surfaces are closer at the top. A continuous sidewall joins the periphery of the two surfaces. The opposing surfaces are inclined and spaced apart further at the top than at an end opposite the top. A cylindrical hole through the opposing surfaces encircles the flow path during use.