Plug Removal Arm Mechanism for Safer Flow Skid Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for removing plugs from modular flow skids in the oil and gas industry are time-consuming, increase Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) risks, and can cause equipment damage due to manual handling and the use of overhead cranes.
Innovation Solution
A plug removal tool with a mounting bracket, swivel joints, and sliding arms that allows for rotational and translational movement to support and align a plug nut for safe and efficient removal from fluid conduits, reducing manual intervention and HSE risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual hooks and overhead cranes are used to remove plugs, then the plug can be removed from the fluid conduit, but the process increases HSE risks and can cause equipment damage
Solution Approach 1:
The plug removal tool is self-supporting with an integrated mount that attaches to the flow skid structure. The tool autonomously supports the plug weight through its rigid arm mechanism without requiring external cranes or manual handling, eliminating HSE risks associated with overhead cranes and manual hooks.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug removal tool acts as an intermediary device between the plug and the flow skid structure. It provides a controlled mechanical interface that safely transfers and supports the plug weight through its mount and rigid arm system, preventing direct manual handling and crane operations that cause HSE risks and equipment damage.
2Ease of operation
If manual methods are used to remove plugs, then the plug can be accessed, but the process is time-consuming and increases downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The plug removal tool is pre-mounted and positioned on the flow skid structure before plug removal is needed. The rigid arm is pre-configured to reach the plug location, allowing immediate plug access without time-consuming setup of external cranes or manual positioning equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool replaces the complex mechanical system of overhead cranes and manual hook operations with a simplified, pre-positioned mechanical arm system. This substitution eliminates the time required for crane setup, positioning, and operation while maintaining full plug accessibility.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid arm structure is used for plug support, then stable support is provided, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mount, rigid arm, and plug support functions are merged into a single integrated tool assembly. The mount attaches directly to the flow skid structure and the rigid arm extends from the mount to support the plug, combining multiple functions into one device without requiring separate support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid arm structure serves multiple functions: it provides stable plug support, positions the plug for removal, and interfaces with the mount for secure attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, maintaining simplicity while ensuring stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A plug removal tool may include a mount for attaching the plug removal tool to a structure and a plug nut. Additionally, the plug removal tool may include at least one rigid arm extending between the mount and the plug nut. Further, the at least one arm may have at least one translational degree of movement and at least one rotational degree of movement.