Pipeline Packer Ring and Wedge Assembly for Pressure Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipeline pressure isolation systems lack an efficient mechanism to utilize pipeline pressure for gripping and sealing, which is essential for isolating pressure and verifying pipeline integrity, particularly in scenarios where traditional methods fail to effectively manage pressure differentials and extrusion gaps.
Innovation Solution
A pipeline pressure isolation system incorporating a multi-pressure head plug module with a packer support ring, ball joint assembly, and a hydrotesting module that utilizes pipeline fluid pressure to actuate a staggered gripping wedge mechanism and inflatable bellows to create a secure seal and test pipeline integrity, featuring a hydraulic cylinder to deploy secondary wedges and grip units with staggered tooth configurations for enhanced gripping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pressure isolation methods are used, then the system structure is simple, but the system fails to effectively utilize pipeline pressure for gripping and sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes the pipeline's own pressure to actuate the gripping and sealing mechanisms. The pipeline pressure differential automatically drives the packer support ring and wedge mechanism to engage with the pipe wall, eliminating the need for external actuation systems and making the system self-regulating based on operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs hydraulic principles by using pipeline fluid pressure to generate mechanical forces through the packer support ring and wedge mechanism. The pressure differential across the packer face converts fluid pressure into radial gripping force, enabling reliable sealing and engagement without mechanical actuators.
2Reliability
If pipeline pressure is used to generate gripping forces, then the gripping and sealing effectiveness is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the pressure isolation function into distinct modular components: the packer seal for sealing, the packer support ring for gripping, and the wedge mechanism for force transmission. Each component performs a specific function, allowing the complex pressure utilization to be achieved through simple, reliable individual elements working together.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using mechanical actuators to push the packer against the pipe wall, the system inverts the approach by allowing pipeline pressure to push the packer support ring outward against the pipe wall. The pressure that would normally be resisted is converted into the gripping force, reversing the traditional actuation direction.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a packer support ring is used to support the packer at extrusion gaps, then the packer stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and addresses the specific problem of extrusion gap instability by introducing a dedicated packer support ring component. This ring is specifically designed to bridge extrusion gaps and provide localized support where needed, rather than requiring complex support structures throughout the entire packer assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The packer support ring is constructed from composite materials combining rigid structural elements with flexible sealing surfaces. This allows the ring to maintain structural integrity for support functionality while accommodating the deformation and movement that occurs at extrusion gaps, providing both stability and adaptability.
4Force
If a staggered gripping wedge mechanism is used, then the gripping force is enhanced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge mechanism employs asymmetric staggered positioning of gripping elements around the circumference. This asymmetric arrangement creates mechanical advantage by distributing gripping forces unevenly to maximize engagement with the pipe wall, while the repeating staggered pattern keeps individual element manufacturing simple and standardized.
Solution Approach 2:
The staggered wedge mechanism incorporates cushioning elements and compliant materials at the gripping surfaces to accommodate variations in pipe surface conditions. This beforehand cushioning ensures reliable gripping force generation even when pipe geometry varies, while the cushioning elements use simple geometric forms that are easy to manufacture.
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 isolates pipeline segments, manages pressure differentials, and verifies pipeline integrity by leveraging pipeline pressure to generate gripping forces, reducing instability and accommodating various pipe diameters without specific tuning, while also enabling efficient hydrotesting and pressure adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
the pipeline fluid can apply a pipeline fluid differential pressure against the multi pressure section face
Implementation Method 2
a packer seal secured around a portion of the plug body
Implementation Method 3
a staggered gripping wedge mechanism and inflatable bellows to create a secure seal
Implementation Method 4
The first and second ball joint interior conduits are in fluid communication with the chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A packer ring and activation system for use in a pipeline pressure isolation system utilizing a packer, a packer support ring, a primary wedge, and a plurality of secondary wedges for use with a pipe engagement, sealing and testing system.