Self-Sealing Flange Assembly Using a Pressure-Activated Wedge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid leakage occurs between mechanically coupled flanges due to seal failure, corrosion, or degradation, leading to potential hazards and inefficiencies in fluid systems.
Innovation Solution
A self-sealing flange assembly comprising a wedge, first and second sealing elements, and a fastener, where the wedge slides to increase pressure in a defined void, forcing the flanges together to enhance sealing when leakage is detected, using a bolt and nut for mechanical coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a seal is used between flanges to prevent fluid leakage, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but the seal may fail due to corrosion, degradation, or improper installation, leading to leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects fluid leakage through pressure sensors and triggers the wedge mechanism to increase sealing force without external intervention. The flange system self-corrects the leakage problem by autonomously adjusting the sealing pressure based on real-time leak detection, eliminating the need for manual monitoring or adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
Pressure sensors continuously monitor for fluid leakage and provide feedback to the control system. When leakage is detected, the system responds by activating the wedge mechanism to increase sealing force. This closed-loop feedback ensures the sealing force is dynamically adjusted based on actual sealing conditions, maintaining reliable sealing despite variations in flange alignment or seal degradation.
2Strength
If flanges are mechanically coupled with fasteners to connect components, then structural strength is improved, but corrosion or degradation of fasteners may lead to connection failure
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system transitions from a static connection to a dynamic, adjustable connection. The wedge mechanism allows the fasteners to automatically increase their clamping force in response to detected leakage, adapting the connection strength to actual operating conditions. This dynamic adjustment compensates for fastener degradation or thermal expansion over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of leakage conditions through pressure sensors before significant connection failure occurs. By detecting early signs of leakage, the system can proactively increase sealing force through the wedge mechanism, preventing progression to complete connection failure and extending the service life of the fastener system.
3Device complexity
If traditional sealing methods are used, then the system structure remains simple, but leakage detection and response require manual intervention, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system automatically detects and responds to leakage conditions without requiring manual intervention. Pressure sensors continuously monitor for leaks, and the wedge mechanism autonomously adjusts sealing force when leakage is detected, eliminating the need for operators to manually inspect or adjust seals, thereby significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates pressure sensors that provide real-time feedback on sealing effectiveness. This feedback loop enables automatic adjustment of sealing force through the wedge mechanism, allowing the system to respond immediately to leakage conditions without waiting for manual detection, thus enhancing productivity while maintaining relatively simple overall system architecture.
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
The solution effectively reduces fluid leakage by increasing the sealing force between flanges, providing a secondary containment mechanism that visually indicates leaks and improves safety and environmental protection.
Implementation Method 1
The wedge slides toward the first sealing element and the second sealing element responsive to a pressure increase in the pressure void
Data Source
AI summary
A sealing assembly for flanges is described. The sealing assembly includes a wedge, a first sealing element, a second sealing element, and a fastener. The wedge has a first surface, a second surface, and a third surface. The first surface defines a pressure void with a first flange and a second flange. The first sealing element engages the second surface of the wedge and the first flange. The second sealing element engages the third surface of the wedge and the second flange. The fastener couples the first sealing element, the first flange, the second flange, and the second sealing element together. The wedge slides toward the sealing elements responsive to a pressure increase in the pressure void. The sealing elements force the flanges toward each other responsive to the wedge sliding toward the first sealing element and the second sealing element.