Pipeline Liner Curing Test Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing pipeline liners require cutting out samples from installed liners, which is time-consuming and unreliable, and do not accurately replicate the in-line curing process.
Innovation Solution
A testing apparatus that simulates the curing process by applying UV light and pressure to a sample liner in a controlled manner, replicating the actual curing conditions experienced by the in-ground liner, allowing for onsite creation of cured sample liners that accurately represent the in-ground curing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sample liner is cut out from the installed pipeline for testing, then the liner can be tested to confirm it meets design characteristics, but the process becomes time-consuming and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating and testing sample liners before actual installation. The testing apparatus allows contractors to prepare cured sample liners in advance using the same UV light and pressure conditions that will be used for the actual pipeline rehabilitation, ensuring the liner meets design characteristics before deployment and eliminating the need for time-consuming post-installation sampling and testing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies copying by creating a test environment that replicates the actual curing conditions. The testing apparatus uses UV light assemblies and pressure application systems that copy the in-line curing process, allowing sample liners to be cured and tested under identical conditions to the actual installation, providing reliable results without removing material from the installed pipeline
2Measurement precision
If the curing process is tested on installed liners, then accurate measurement of curing parameters is possible, but the process requires removing actual liner pieces which is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating a test environment that replicates the actual curing conditions. The testing apparatus uses UV light assemblies and pressure application systems that copy the in-line curing process, allowing sample liners to be cured and tested under identical conditions to the actual installation, providing reliable results without removing material from the installed pipeline
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a testing apparatus that can be deployed at various stages - either before installation to pre-test liner samples or after installation to test cured samples by attaching the apparatus to the installed liner. This multi-functional approach maintains measurement precision while significantly improving productivity by eliminating the need to cut out and remove liner pieces
3Reliability
If sample liners are tested after installation, then the in-ground liner can be confirmed to meet design characteristics, but the testing process is unreliable and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating and testing sample liners before actual installation. The testing apparatus allows contractors to prepare cured sample liners in advance using the same UV light and pressure conditions that will be used for the actual pipeline rehabilitation, ensuring the liner meets design characteristics before deployment and eliminating the need for time-consuming post-installation sampling and testing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the testing process from the installation process. Instead of testing the installed liner as a whole, the system uses separate sample liners that can be tested independently in a controlled environment, simplifying the overall process and improving reliability by allowing focused testing of curing parameters without the complexity of in-situ testing
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 reliable and efficient confirmation of proper rehabilitation of pipelines by recreating the environmental and UV light characteristics of the in-ground liner, reducing the need for removing actual liner pieces and providing accurate measurements of curing parameters.
Implementation Method 1
such cured liners are commonly resin impregnated fiberglass and require the application of ultraviolet (UV) light to ensure full and proper curing in place within the pipeline
Implementation Method 2
the sample liner is exposed to pressure and UV light in a highly controlled manner allowing for replication of actual in-line curing processing
Data Source
AI summary
A testing apparatus for onsite creation of cured sample liners necessary for confirming proper rehabilitation of pipelines includes a testing box having a base with a plurality of upstanding side walls defining an open upper end of the testing box. The testing box also includes an electrical power control assembly and an ultraviolet light assembly. A liner support manifold is shaped and dimensioned for supporting a sample liner and for attachment to the open upper end of the testing box for exposing the sample liner to pressure and ultraviolet light. In practice, and with the sample liner secured to the liner support manifold and the liner support manifold secured to the testing box, the sample liner is exposed to pressure and UV light in a highly controlled manner allowing for replication of actual in-line curing processing.