Impermeable Liner for Pipeline Leak Containment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preventing pipeline leaks and environmental contamination are inadequate, as existing solutions do not effectively contain spills from pipelines, posing risks to the environment and public safety.
Innovation Solution
A secondary containment system comprising a flexible, impermeable liner coated with polymers such as polyurethane or polyurea, deployed along a trench to envelop the pipeline, with separating means and reservoirs to contain leaked fluids, preventing migration into the environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If inspection, surveillance, and monitoring equipment is used to detect pipeline leaks, then leak detection capability is improved, but the leaking fluid is still released into the environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secondary containment system as an intermediary between the pipeline and the environment. This containment system includes a liner or barrier that intercepts leaking fluid before it reaches the environment, effectively mediating the harmful interaction between the leaked fluid and the environment while preserving the pipeline's original function
Solution Approach 2:
The containment system is divided into multiple functional segments including a primary containment liner, collection mechanisms, and removal systems. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently - the liner contains the leak, collection mechanisms gather the fluid, and removal systems extract it for proper disposal or recycling
2Object-affected harmful factors
If secondary containment is implemented for storage containers, then environmental protection is improved, but no secondary containment exists for pipelines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal secondary containment system that can be applied to various pipeline configurations and locations. The containment liner can be installed around existing pipelines or integrated during new pipeline construction, making the solution adaptable to different scenarios including underground, above-ground, and穿越 (crossing) pipeline installations
3Strength
If the pipeline wall thickness is increased to prevent breaks, then pipeline strength is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a secondary containment system that acts as a pre-prepared protective barrier before leaks occur. This containment system provides a safety cushion that intercepts leaks before they cause environmental damage, allowing the pipeline itself to operate at optimal thickness without requiring excessive over-engineering for leak prevention
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 system effectively contains pipeline leaks, preventing environmental contamination by directing leaked fluids laterally within the liner, allowing for efficient collection and potential recycling, thereby reducing environmental impact and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
the liner prevents migration of the fluid into the trench by flowing the fluid laterally within the liner
Implementation Method 2
a flexible, impermeable liner comprising a coated substrate
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for containing a fluid leaked from a pipeline include a flexible, impermeable liner such as like those comprising a coated substrate (or other impermeable liner or material) and disposed to extend along a trench for enveloping the pipeline deployed therein; and separating means disposed between the pipeline and the containment liner for containing the fluid therein; wherein the liner prevents migration of the fluid into the trench of the pipeline or surrounding environment by flowing the fluid laterally within the containment liner, system also protects the steel pipe from corrosion caused by the environment, such as groundwater. Methods for deploying the above systems are provided.