Tank Plug Servicing Valve Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for servicing vacuum or positive pressure rated plugs in tanks expose the tank and its contents to external contaminants by altering the pressure within the tank, compromising the vacuum level or introducing atmospheric conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a valve assembly and adapter to maintain pressure within the tank during plug removal and installation, employing a plug displacement tool and valve member to create a sealed environment, allowing for servicing without exposing the tank contents to atmosphere.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the plug is removed from the tank by pressurizing the tank with nitrogen gas and pulling the plug in atmosphere, then the plug can be removed for servicing, but the tank and its contents are exposed to external contaminants and the vacuum level is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A valve assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the tank and the external environment. The valve assembly includes a valve body with a valve member that can be positioned to seal the tank port, preventing direct exposure of the tank interior to atmospheric contaminants during plug removal and installation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains the vacuum environment (inert atmosphere) within the tank by using the valve assembly to seal the tank port. This prevents atmospheric gases from entering the tank during servicing operations, thereby avoiding contamination of the tank contents while still allowing plug removal and installation.
2Ease of repair
If the pressure within the tank is altered to remove the plug, then the plug can be removed for servicing, but the integrity of the vacuum or positive pressure environment is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tank system into two separate zones: the main tank interior that maintains its vacuum or positive pressure environment, and a service cavity created by the valve assembly where the plug can be removed and serviced. The valve member acts as a barrier between these zones, allowing pressure to be maintained in the tank while enabling plug servicing in the isolated service cavity.
3Ease of repair
If current methods are used to service the plug, then the plug can be removed and serviced, but additional equipment and procedures are required to maintain pressure and prevent contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly serves multiple functions: it seals the tank port to maintain pressure, provides a interface for the displacement tool, and creates a controlled service cavity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment for each operation, thereby simplifying the overall servicing apparatus while maintaining pressure integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for servicing a tank and/or a plug includes a valve having a first port sealingly couplable onto a tank port surrounding the plug, a second port, and a valve member operable between an open position providing a pathway between the first and second ports, and a closed position providing a sealed barrier between the first and second ports. The apparatus further includes an adapter sealingly couplable to the second port, and a plug displacement tool couplable to the adapter for displacing the plug relative to the tank when the first port is coupled to the tank port, the adapter is coupled to the second port, and the valve member is in the open position.