Self-Energizing Pipe Isolation Tool with Dual Seals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe isolation methods require multiple interventions, additional planning, and increased costs due to the need for double pressure-tested seals and complex setup procedures, especially when dealing with high-pressure applications.
Innovation Solution
A self-energizing isolation tool with dual compression seal elements and a seal unit that can be hydraulically or mechanically actuated, featuring a primary and secondary activation mechanism, allowing for bi-directional sealing and pressure testing, and utilizing a differential pressure to maintain seal integrity even in the event of primary activation failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional plug or line stop tools with uni-directional lip seals are used for pipe isolation, then sealing isolation can be provided, but additional openings and stopples are required for pressure testing, increasing device complexity and intervention time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single stopple device: the first stopple provides both the primary isolation seal and the pressure test seal, eliminating the need for separate second and third openings. The seal unit integrates dual seal elements that can simultaneously provide isolation and pressure testing capabilities, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal unit is designed with multi-functionality to perform both isolation sealing and pressure testing through a single device. The dual seal elements can operate in different modes: one seal provides isolation while the other allows pressure testing, enabling the same device to fulfill multiple functions that previously required separate interventions.
2Reliability
If conventional methods require two separate stopples for pressure testing, then both seals can be tested, but intervention time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary action by pre-configuring the seal unit with dual seal elements and integrated pressure testing capability before insertion. The device is prepared in advance to perform both isolation and pressure testing functions, eliminating the need for subsequent interventions to add additional stopples or openings for pressure testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single stopple device: the first stopple provides both the primary isolation seal and the pressure test seal, eliminating the need for separate second and third openings. The seal unit integrates dual seal elements that can simultaneously provide isolation and pressure testing capabilities, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Reliability
If uni-directional lip seal arrangement is used, then sealing is provided, but the second stopple seal orientation limits effectiveness against isolated pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by using seal elements that can effectively seal in both orientations, reversing the limitation of conventional uni-directional lip seals. The dual seal elements are designed to function regardless of pressure direction, allowing the first seal element to remain effective against isolated pressure while the second seal element provides pressure testing capability.
4Reliability
If multiple openings are cut into the pipe for isolation and pressure testing, then sealing and testing can be achieved, but pipe integrity and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single stopple device: the first stopple provides both the primary isolation seal and the pressure test seal, eliminating the need for separate second and third openings. The seal unit integrates dual seal elements that can simultaneously provide isolation and pressure testing capabilities, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
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 efficient and reliable isolation of pipe sections with dual seal capability, reducing setup time and costs by allowing bypass flow and pressure testing, while maintaining seal integrity across varying pressure conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The seal elements are self-energising on the seal unit experiencing a predetermined differential pressure
Implementation Method 2
The activation mechanism may be hydraulically or mechanically actuated
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
A method of isolating a section of pipe comprises locating a seal unit having two seal elements in a pipe via a penetration in the pipe, such as a branch or tee. The seal unit is then positioned in the pipe downstream of the penetration. The seal elements are activated using a primary activation mechanism to engage the pipe wall and then maintained in an activated condition using a secondary activation mechanism.