In-Line Pipeline Sampling for Representative Fluid and Wall Solids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in accurately sampling hydrocarbons within pipelines, particularly in obtaining representative fluid and solid samples to assess pipeline integrity and compliance with regulations.
Innovation Solution
The development of a sampling apparatus that includes a body disposed within a pipe, a fluid sampling conduit, an odometer wheel for distance measurement, an elastomeric ring for removing pipe wall material, and a solid sampling subsystem for collecting and storing samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sampling methods are used, then sampling can be performed, but the samples are not representative of the bulk fluid and pipeline conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical sampling methods with a piggy device that uses fluid dynamics and elastic deformation. The elastomeric ring expands under pressure to contact the pipe wall and collect solid particles, then contracts to release them into a collection chamber, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sampling mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and parameters of the sampling system by using an elastomeric ring that dynamically changes its volume and contact pressure with the pipe wall. The ring expands to collect particles and contracts to release them, allowing representative sampling of both fluid and solid phases at different pressure states.
2Reliability
If multiple sampling devices are deployed, then more comprehensive samples can be obtained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal sampling device that performs multiple functions: collecting fluid samples, collecting solid particles, measuring distance traveled, and monitoring pressure. The single piggy device replaces multiple separate sampling systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive sampling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges fluid sampling, solid particle collection, distance measurement, and pressure monitoring into a single integrated piggy device. The fluid sampling conduit, elastomeric ring, odometer wheel, and pressure sensor all work together in one unit, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices.
3Manufacturing precision
If the elastomeric ring continuously contacts the pipe wall, then material removal is effective, but the apparatus experiences increased friction and energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric ring operates through periodic expansion and contraction cycles. It expands to contact the pipe wall and collect material, then contracts to release the material into the collection chamber and reduce friction. This periodic action maintains effective material removal while minimizing continuous energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric ring dynamically adjusts its contact with the pipe wall by expanding and contracting in response to pressure changes and flow conditions. This dynamic behavior allows effective material collection when needed while reducing friction and energy consumption during transport phases.
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
This apparatus enables precise and representative sampling of fluids and solids within pipelines, allowing for accurate analysis of pipeline conditions, including corrosion detection and fluid composition analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomeric ring is configured to contact the inner wall of the pipe and remove material disposed on the inner wall of the pipe as the apparatus travels through the pipe
Implementation Method 2
The elastomeric ring is configured to contact the inner wall of the pipe and remove material disposed on the inner wall of the pipe
Implementation Method 3
The odometer wheel is configured to measure a distance traveled by the apparatus within the pipe based on rotating while contacting an inner wall of the pipe
Implementation Method 4
The fluid sampling conduit is configured to obtain a sample of the fluid flowing in the pipe
Implementation Method 5
a fluid sampling conduit disposed within the body. The fluid sampling conduit is configured to obtain a sample of the fluid flowing in the pipe
Implementation Method 6
When opened, the inlet valve is configured to allow at least a portion of material removed from the inner wall of the pipe by the elastomeric ring to flow through the tubing and into the capsule
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
An apparatus includes a body and a fluid sampling conduit disposed within the body. The body is configured to be disposed within a pipe flowing a fluid. The fluid sampling conduit is configured to obtain a sample of the fluid flowing in the pipe. The apparatus includes an odometer wheel coupled to the body and an elastomeric ring surrounding at least a portion of the body. The elastomeric ring is configured to remove material disposed on an inner wall of the pipe as the apparatus travels through the pipe. The apparatus includes a solid sampling subsystem coupled to an external to the body. The solid sampling subsystem includes a capsule, an inlet valve, and a tubing. The inlet valve, when opened, allows at least a portion of the material removed from an inner wall of the pipe to flow through the tubing and into the capsule.