Composite Pipeline Flange Locking for Leak-Resistant Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a reliable method and apparatus to connect sections of composite pipelines, including both composite and non-composite pipelines, while also monitoring for potential leakage at the connection point.
Innovation Solution
A flange unit with an elongate tubular member, locking studs, and a slidable tubular part that creates a clamping force, along with an anti-vibration sleeve and leak detection monitoring, is used to connect composite pipelines, ensuring secure and leak-proof connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a connector is designed to withstand high pressure (2000 psi), then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple locking mechanisms and tubular parts
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional components: an elongate tubular member with locking apertures, locking studs for securing, and a separate second tubular part that applies clamping force. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall connection strength at 2000 psi.
Solution Approach 2:
The second tubular part is designed to slide axially with respect to the elongate tubular member, creating a dynamic locking mechanism. This sliding action forces the locking studs into the locking apertures and generates radial clamping force, providing both strength and adaptability without requiring overly complex static structures.
2Reliability
If locking studs are forced radially inwards to create clamping force, then the connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking apertures are pre-configured in the elongate tubular member with dimensions and positions optimized for receiving the locking studs. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the second tubular part slides axially to force the studs radially inwards, the connection achieves reliable clamping force without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances during assembly.
3Ease of operation
If a slidable second tubular part is used to create clamping force, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second tubular part is designed to slide axially and automatically generate the clamping force needed to secure the connection. As the tubular part moves axially, it forces the locking studs into the locking apertures and creates radial clamping force on the pipeline, allowing the connector to self-secure without requiring additional fastening operations or complex adjustment mechanisms.
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 secure, leak-resistant connection capable of withstanding high pressures and mitigating vibrations, while allowing for effective leak detection, thus ensuring the integrity and reliability of composite pipeline connections.
Implementation Method 1
the second tubular part is configured to slide axially with respect to the elongate tubular member by a predetermined distance, to force the at least two locking studs into the at least two locking apertures, and radially inwards, to create a clamping force
Implementation Method 2
The connector may further comprise an anti-vibration sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
A flange unit for use in connecting composite pipelines and a method of said flange unit installation. The flange unit comprising: a connector flange, an elongate tubular member extending from the connector flange, the elongate tubular member comprising at least two locking apertures, at least two locking studs, and a second tubular part configured to surround the elongate tubular member, wherein the second tubular part is configured to slide axially with respect to the elongate tubular member by a predetermined distance, to force the at least two locking studs into the at least two locking apertures, and radially inwards, to create a clamping force between the flange unit and a pipeline that the flange unit is to be installed upon.