Segmented Pipe Sealing Device for Large Diameter Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe sealing solutions for industrial installations, particularly those with large diameters, face challenges such as complex implementation, requirement for specific human resources, significant material logistics, and risks during maintenance, especially during hydraulic tests, due to the need for cutting and welding, which complicates the process and poses safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A multi-element closure device with segmented assembly elements and non-slip pads that can be inserted through a manhole, allowing for assembly inside the pipe without cutting, and featuring an anti-extrusion system to prevent translation during pressure tests, ensuring secure sealing and easy handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding is used to seal pipes, then secure sealing is achieved, but implementation complexity and safety risks increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is divided into multiple modular segments that can be assembled inside the pipe without welding. Each segment can be independently installed and positioned, allowing complex sealing functionality to be achieved through simple mechanical assembly rather than complex welding procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device segments are designed to be nested within each other during installation through the manhole, with smaller components fitting inside larger ones. This nesting approach allows all necessary sealing components to be introduced through a small opening and then assembled in place, eliminating the need for external welding operations
2Reliability
If pipe cutting and welding is performed, then secure sealing is achieved, but intervention time and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is pre-assembled into a compact configuration that can be introduced through the existing manhole opening. The segments are prepared in advance with alignment features and connection mechanisms that enable rapid assembly inside the pipe, eliminating the time-consuming steps of pipe cutting, welding preparation, and post-weld inspection
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the closure device, the installation process is broken down into simple, rapid mechanical connection steps rather than requiring prolonged welding operations. Each segment can be quickly positioned and locked into place, significantly reducing total intervention time
3Ease of operation
If a stopper is inserted through the manhole, then pipe sealing is achieved, but the stopper cannot be held in position during pressure tests
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device incorporates movable segments that can dynamically adjust their position and orientation during assembly. The segments include movable locking elements and adjustable positioning features that allow the device to adapt to slight variations in pipe geometry and to securely lock into position once installed, ensuring stability during pressure tests
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented structure allows individual sections to be independently positioned and locked. Each segment can be adjusted to ensure proper alignment and secure engagement with the pipe wall, providing stable positioning that prevents movement during subsequent pressure testing operations
4Reliability
If existing shutter devices are used, then pipe isolation is achieved, but handling complexity increases for large diameter pipes
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the closure device into smaller segments, each segment becomes manageable in size and weight, allowing easy handling and assembly even in large diameter pipes. The segments can be introduced through the manhole one at a time and assembled in place, eliminating the handling difficulties associated with large monolithic shutters
Solution Approach 2:
The nested configuration allows all segments to be stored and transported in a compact form, and then sequentially assembled inside the pipe. This approach simplifies handling during installation, as workers only need to maneuver small individual segments rather than large complex shutter assemblies
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
Enables secure sealing of pipes with diameters greater than 1000 mm without cutting, simplifies installation and maintenance, reduces logistical needs, and eliminates risks associated with welding, while withstanding high pressures and allowing for easy handling and positioning in any pipe section.
Implementation Method 1
a system holding in position, which may for example comprise a plurality of non-slip pads (140; 340) mounted in translation in the main body to be deployed against the internal wall of the pipe (9)
Implementation Method 2
Each non-slip pad (140; 340) can be mounted on a compression means, in particular on a system of jacks (141; 341)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A plug for sealing and isolating a pipe (9) having an inner wall forming a substantially cylindrical cavity with a so-called first diameter, the plug comprising: a main body (110) having substantially the shape of a cylinder in order to allow the seal to be inserted into the cavity; sealing members (120) that project around the side wall of the cylinder (110) defining the shape of the main body, the main body (110) comprising a plurality of assembly elements forming the cylinder (110), the plug comprising a position-holding system comprising a plurality of non-slip pads (140; 340) and force-measurement elements (342).