Segmented Torsion-Resistant Pipe Coupling for Rotation Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Large diameter pipelines face challenges in assembly and maintenance due to abrasive and corrosive media, leading to accelerated wear and complex, hazardous rotation processes that require specialized equipment and result in fluid loss and reduced joint stability.
Innovation Solution
A torsion-resistant coupling design featuring rings and segments with engaging surfaces that prevent relative rotation between pipe elements, allowing for efficient rotation and alignment without disconnection, using adjustable fasteners to secure the segments and maintain a fluid-tight joint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If grooved joints are used to join pipe elements, then rotational alignment is eliminated and ease of operation is improved, but rotational resistance is reduced and pipe elements may slip during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into multiple segments (typically three) that can independently engage with the pipe elements. This segmentation allows the coupling to provide rotational resistance through the collective action of multiple keys while maintaining ease of operation through the modular design that accommodates grooved connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling employs asymmetric keys that are positioned at different angular locations around the coupling body. This asymmetric arrangement creates torsion resistance by distributing the rotational forces across multiple engagement points, preventing slippage while allowing the grooved joints to remain rotationally flexible.
2Ease of operation
If pipeline sections are rotated using specialized equipment, then pipe element rotation is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling design enables the pipeline section to rotate itself without requiring external specialized equipment. The torsion-resistant coupling maintains joint integrity during rotation, allowing the pipeline section to be rotated by simple lifting and repositioning operations while the coupling prevents individual pipe elements from slipping or rotating independently.
3Ease of operation
If pipe elements are disconnected for rotation, then individual element rotation is possible, but fluid loss and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is designed to maintain fluid-tight sealing before, during, and after rotation operations. The segments and keys are configured to preserve joint integrity throughout the rotation process, eliminating the need to disconnect pipe elements and thereby preventing fluid loss while still enabling rotation of the entire pipeline section.
4Ease of operation
If multiple sidebooms and slings are used for rotation, then large diameter pipelines can be rotated, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion-resistant coupling enables a simplified rotation process where the pipeline section can be rotated as a unified structure without requiring multiple sidebooms and slings. The coupling maintains joint stability during rotation, allowing the operation to be completed with minimal equipment and in a single continuous motion, significantly reducing the time and complexity of rotation operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling for joining first and second pipe elements in includes first and second rings attachable to pipe elements. Each ring defines a groove and a plurality of receiving surfaces adjacent to the groove. Segments are attachable end to end to surround a central space and the rings. Each segment includes keys projecting toward the central space for engagement with each groove of the rings. Each segment includes at least one action surface engageable with a receiving surface of the first and second ring. Engagement between the action surfaces and the receiving surfaces prevents rotation of the first and second pipe elements with respect to one another. A method of assembling the coupling is also disclosed.