Submerged Pipeline Density Measurement for Rapid Plug Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for inspecting submerged pipelines, such as the 'Discovery' tool by Tracerco, are complex, time-consuming, expensive, and require extensive subsea operations, making them inefficient for detecting plug formations in deep subsea environments.
Innovation Solution
A measurement apparatus comprising a radiation source and detector connected to a main frame, attachable to an ROV, which measures density and composition of submerged pipelines, allowing for efficient and cost-effective diagnostics of flow abnormalities by moving along the pipeline using traction rollers or crawlers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex subsea operations are used to inspect submerged pipelines, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical subsea operations with a radiation-based measurement system. A radiation source and detector are used to measure pipeline density and detect plug formations without requiring complex subsea intervention equipment or operations, thereby maintaining measurement precision while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces radiation as an intermediary medium to perform measurements through the pipeline wall and contents. This allows detection of plug formations and density variations without direct contact or complex mechanical interaction with the pipeline, simplifying the operational requirements while maintaining detection accuracy
2Measurement precision
If traditional inspection methods are used, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation source and detector can be moved continuously along the pipeline, enabling continuous measurement of pipeline sections. This continuous inspection capability dramatically increases productivity compared to traditional discrete inspection methods, while the radiation measurement technique maintains detection precision for plug formations
Solution Approach 2:
By using radiation transmission through the pipeline rather than mechanical inspection tools inside the pipeline, the system enables rapid external scanning of pipeline sections, significantly increasing inspection speed while maintaining the ability to detect density variations and plug formations with high precision
3Measurement precision
If extensive subsea operations are performed, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming mechanical subsea operations with rapid radiation-based measurements. The radiation source and detector can quickly scan pipeline sections from the outside, reducing inspection time while maintaining the ability to accurately detect plug formations and density variations
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous movement of the radiation measurement apparatus along the pipeline, allowing miles of pipeline to be inspected in a single day. This continuous operation dramatically reduces the total time required compared to traditional intermittent inspection methods, while maintaining detection precision
4Measurement precision
If complex inspection tools are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical inspection tools with a radiation measurement system that can be operated from the outside of the pipeline. This substitution simplifies operations by eliminating the need for complex subsea deployment and retrieval procedures, while maintaining the ability to accurately detect plug formations through radiation transmission measurements
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 rapid measurement of miles of pipeline in a single day, reducing downtime and operational costs while providing a reliable method for diagnosing plugs without disrupting pipeline operations.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation source and detector... measures density and composition of submerged pipelines
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and methods for measuring submerged surfaces. Embodiments include a measurement apparatus including a main frame, a source positioned outside a pipe and connected to the main frame, and a detector positioned outside the pipe at a location diametrically opposite the source and connected to the main frame. The source may transmit a first amount of radiation. The detector may receive a second amount of radiation, determine a composition of the pipe based on the first and second amounts of radiation, and send at least one measurement signal. A control canister positioned on the main frame or on a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) attached to the apparatus may receive the at least one measurement signal from the detector and convey the at least one measurement signal to software located topside.