Segmented Sleeve Snout for Precise Flexible Lance Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack an efficient method to precisely position flexible tube cleaning lances within a heat exchanger tube sheet without removing the domed cover, requiring frequent vessel entries and inadequate guidance for the lances.
Innovation Solution
A snout apparatus comprising a series of connected segments with tubular and collar elements, equipped with shoulder bolts and plastic liners, allows for precise guidance and positioning of flexible lances between a lance drive and positioner apparatus, minimizing vessel entries by enabling smooth passage and flexible movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a rigid guide structure is used to precisely position flexible lances, then positioning precision is improved, but the system cannot accommodate flexible movement and rotation of the lances
Solution Approach 1:
The guide structure is divided into multiple modular segments that can be connected in series. Each segment contains positioning features that work together to guide the flexible lances while allowing the segments themselves to flex and rotate relative to each other, thus maintaining precision while accommodating movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to adapt its configuration. The segmented design enables the guide to flex and rotate as needed, transforming from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adaptable system that maintains positioning precision while accommodating flexible lance movement.
2Ease of operation
If the domed cover is removed to access the heat exchanger tube sheet, then direct access for lance positioning is improved, but vessel entry frequency and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
A guide structure with extended reach is introduced as an intermediary component. This structure allows the flexible lances to be positioned at the tube sheet through the existing domed cover opening, eliminating the need to remove the cover while maintaining direct access capability for lance positioning.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single-piece rigid guide structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the structure cannot accommodate deflection and rotation needs
Solution Approach 1:
The guide structure is divided into multiple manufacturable segments that can be produced using standard fabrication processes. Each segment is designed with connection features that allow assembly into a complete guide structure capable of flexing and rotating, thus maintaining manufacturing simplicity while enabling adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A snout apparatus for guiding high pressure flexible lances between a lance drive apparatus and a flexible lance positioner apparatus includes one of a male tubular connector and a female tubular connector fitting adapted to fasten to a flexible lance drive apparatus, another one of a male and a female tubular connector fitting adapted to fasten to a flexible lance positioner, and a plurality of segments connected together in series so as to connect in series between the one and another connector fittings. Each segment may include a cylindrical tube portion sized to receive and pass therethrough flexible lances and a tubular collar portion connected to the tube portion. The collar portion has peripheral arcuate closed slots adjacent to and spaced around a distal end of the collar portion. Shoulder bolt fasteners are each fastened to a next segment tube portion and extend through one of the closed slots.