Spring-Bar Pipe Coupon Extraction for Pressurized Pipe Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe coupon extraction tools face difficulties in removing pipe coupons from pressurized pipes without causing leakage, especially when the pipe is buried or part of a permanent fluid distribution system.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupon extraction tool comprising a rod and a spring bar rotatably secured to the rod, with the spring bar's surface angled to engage with the pipe coupon, allowing for secure extraction without passing through the bore, and a handle for user grasping to facilitate removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pipe coupon is cut from a pressurized pipe using a special tool, then the pipe coupon can be removed, but fluid leakage occurs from the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion valve is installed in the pipe before the pipe coupon is cut, creating a sealed chamber that isolates the cut section. This preliminary installation of the valve assembly allows the pipe coupon to be removed from the isolated section without exposing the rest of the pressurized system, thereby preventing fluid leakage during the extraction process
2Ease of operation
If existing extraction tools are used to remove pipe coupons, then removal can be achieved, but the tools cannot operate in all conditions especially when pipes are buried
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction tool is designed with a universal interface that fits the standardized insertion valve assembly, allowing it to operate on pipes regardless of whether they are exposed or buried. The tool can be inserted through the valve mechanism and engage with pipe coupons in various orientations and locations, making it adaptable to different installation conditions including buried pipes where access is limited
3Force
If the spring bar passes through the bore of the pipe coupon, then extraction force can be applied, but the bore must be enlarged which complicates the process
Solution Approach 1:
The spring bar is designed to be flexible and resilient rather than rigid, allowing it to bend and flex as it engages with the pipe coupon bore. This dynamic design enables the spring bar to apply extraction force by elastically deforming and pushing against the bore walls without requiring the bore to be enlarged, as the flexible bar can conform to the existing bore dimensions while still generating sufficient extraction force
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 the safe and efficient removal of pipe coupons from pressurized systems by preventing leakage and accommodating various pipe diameters, ensuring the spring bar does not pass through the bore, thus maintaining system integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a spring bar defining a first end and a second end, the spring bar rotatably secured to the rod
Implementation Method 2
engaging a portion of the spring bar with an inner surface of the pipe coupon, the spring bar configured to stop against and not pass through the bore of the pipe coupon in an engaged position
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupon extraction tool includes: a rod defining a first end, a second end, and a central axis; and a spring bar defining a first end and a second end, the spring bar rotatably secured to the rod, a surface of the spring bar configured to be angled with respect to the central axis when the pipe coupon extraction tool is engaged with a pipe coupon.