Push Plug Line Stop Branch Assembly for Pipeline Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline plugging methods require valves for fluid flow control, which can be unreliable or non-existent, necessitating alternative solutions for temporary shut-off during repairs or servicing.
Innovation Solution
A push plug and branch assembly with a flanged branch and cylindrical plug, featuring a bore with a shoulder and O-ring for sealing, and set screws for securement, designed for use with a tapping sleeve to effectively stop fluid flow without a functioning valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a valve is used for fluid flow control, then fluid flow can be shut off during pipeline repairs, but the valve may be broken or not fully functioning, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the flow control function from the valve system and implements it through a simpler plug-branch assembly mechanism. The plug, when inserted into the branch, directly blocks fluid flow without requiring valve components, thereby eliminating valve-related reliability issues while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug serves as a temporary, disposable flow control element that can be inserted and removed as needed. Unlike a valve that requires maintenance and may fail, the plug provides reliable temporary flow control for repair operations and can be replaced if necessary, offering a cost-effective solution for intermittent flow control needs.
2Reliability
If a plug is inserted into the branch to seal the opening, then fluid flow is stopped, but the plug needs to be securely retained in position
Solution Approach 1:
The branch is segmented into multiple functional zones with different diameter wall sections that create shoulders at specific positions. These shoulders act as mechanical stops to retain the plug, while the segmented structure also provides multiple sealing surfaces. This segmentation achieves reliable plug retention and sealing without requiring complex external retaining mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The branch structure itself provides the retention function through its segmented wall sections and shoulders. The plug is retained by the geometric features of the branch bore rather than requiring separate retaining components. The system uses its own structural elements to achieve both sealing and retention functions.
3Reliability
If multiple wall sections with different diameters are created in the bore, then the plug can be securely retained and sealed, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bore has different local qualities in terms of diameter along its length, with specific wall sections having different inside diameters. The first wall section has a larger diameter for plug insertion, the second wall section has a smaller diameter for retention, and the third wall section provides sealing. This local variation in dimensional quality achieves reliable plug retention and sealing while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard machining processes.
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
Provides a reliable and temporary seal within a pipeline, allowing for repairs or servicing by engaging the plug's lip with the bore's shoulder and securing it with set screws, ensuring effective fluid flow cessation.
Implementation Method 1
An O-ring (31) is disposed in the first groove (34) in the plug (10). The O-ring (31) is configured and arranged to provide a seal inside the bore (19) when the plug (10) is inserted into the bore (19) of the branch (13)
Data Source
AI summary
A push plug type line stop branch assembly for use with a tapping sleeve fitting on a pipe. The branch assembly has a bore defined therein for receive a plug. The inner walls of the branch assembly defining the bore are shaped in part to provide a shoulder for receiving a lip on the plug.