Internal Pipe Wall Isolation for In-Flow Annular Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for performing operations on fluid flow pipelines, such as repair or maintenance, often require shutting down the fluid flow, which can disrupt hydrocarbon development, production, or transportation activities.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using an isolation tool with a first and second ring body, seal members, and an ejector device to create an annular workspace within the pipeline, allowing operations to be performed while fluids continue to flow, by forming seals and reducing pressure within the workspace.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pipe repair or maintenance operations are performed, then the pipe can be repaired or maintained, but the fluid flow must be stopped causing disruption to hydrocarbon activities
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation tool segments the pipeline into three zones: an upstream sealed zone, a downstream sealed zone, and an isolated annular workspace. The isolation sheet divides the pipe interior, creating a confined space where repairs can be performed independently from the flowing fluid, allowing maintenance operations without shutting down the entire pipeline.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation tool acts as an intermediary device inserted into the pipeline. It includes seal members that contact the pipe wall to create seals, and an isolation sheet that physically separates the work area from the fluid flow path. This intermediary structure enables repairs to be conducted in an isolated zone while fluid continues to flow through the tool's central bore.
2Reliability
If an isolation tool is inserted into the pipe to create a work space, then operations can be performed without stopping fluid flow, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation tool integrates multiple functions into a single device: it provides sealing through upstream and downstream seal members, creates an isolated workspace using the isolation sheet, enables fluid flow through its central bore, and supports various repair tools. This multi-functional design achieves pipeline isolation and continuous operation capability without requiring multiple separate equipment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation sheet is designed to be movable and expandable. It can be deployed radially outward to seal against the pipe wall and axially positioned to create the desired workspace volume. The dynamic nature of the isolation sheet allows it to adapt to different pipe diameters and work space requirements, reducing the need for multiple fixed-size isolation devices.
3Ease of operation
If pressure is reduced within the annular work space to perform operations, then work can be conducted safely, but additional equipment and time are required for pressure management
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation tool uses the pipeline's own flowing fluid to power the ejector device for pressure reduction. The fluid flowing through the tool's central bore provides the energy source needed to evacuate the annular workspace, eliminating the need for external power sources or complex pressure control systems. The system essentially uses the process fluid itself to create the safe working conditions.
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 operations like hot tapping or surface repairs to be conducted without interrupting fluid flow, maintaining pipeline activities and reducing operational downtime.
Implementation Method 1
An ejector device of the isolation tool can be used to remove the fluids within the annular work space and reduce the pressure within the annular work space
Data Source
AI summary
A method for isolating and performing work on a segment of a pipe includes delivering an isolation tool to a target location. A first seal member is actuated to form an annular seal around an outer surface of the isolation tool. A second ring body is moved away from a first ring body, elongating an isolation sheet that extends between the first ring body and the second ring body. The isolation sheet defines an annular work space between the outer diameter of the isolation sheet and the inner diameter of the pipe. A second seal member is actuated to form an annular seal around the outer surface of the isolation tool. A pressure within the annular work space is reduced by removing fluids within the annular work space with an ejector device. Work is performed within the annular work space with a tool assembly.