UHMWP Lined Metallic Flange Plate for Corrosive Vessels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metal flange plates used in vessels for transporting or storing corrosive liquids face durability issues due to the deterioration of rubber coatings, especially under harsh conditions like transportation, where frequent attachment and detachment of piping components and exposure to chemicals like hydrochloric acid lead to costly and time-consuming repairs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a self-supporting, rigid lining made of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWP) mechanically affixed to the metal surfaces, providing a durable and chemically resistant barrier against corrosive liquids, allowing for the application of clamping forces and use of high-strength gaskets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rubber coating is applied to metal flange plates, then the contact surfaces are isolated from corrosive liquid, but the rubber coating deteriorates quickly under transportation conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters from rubber to rigid non-metallic materials (such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or other corrosion-resistant plastics) that maintain their structural integrity and chemical resistance properties under transportation conditions, eliminating the deterioration issues associated with rubber coatings
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure by mechanically affixing a rigid non-metallic lining material to the metal flange plate substrate, combining the strength and structural properties of metal with the corrosion resistance of rigid plastics, resulting in a durable composite component that withstands both chemical exposure and mechanical stress
2Reliability
If rubber coating is used on flange plates, then corrosion protection is provided, but repair becomes expensive and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid non-metallic lining is mechanically affixed to the metal flange plate during manufacturing, creating a pre-assembled protective component that eliminates the need for complex field repairs. The durable construction prevents deterioration, making repairs unnecessary during the service life of the component
3Reliability
If rubber coating is applied to flange plates, then isolation from corrosive liquid is achieved, but the rubber hardens and cracks when exposed to certain chemicals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the coating material from rubber to rigid non-metallic materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or other chemically inert plastics that do not undergo hardening or cracking reactions when exposed to corrosive chemicals like hydrochloric acid, maintaining structural stability throughout their service life
4Productivity
If frequent attachment and removal of piping components occurs, then loading and unloading operations are enabled, but the rubber coating deteriorates more rapidly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite structure combining metal flange plate with rigid non-metallic lining that is mechanically affixed through methods such as mechanical fasteners, interference fits, or bonding. This composite construction provides the durability needed to withstand repeated attachment and removal of piping components during loading and unloading operations without the deterioration issues associated with rubber coatings
Data Source
AI summary
A flange plate closure for accessing a containment vessel has a metal base plate, having an interior and an exterior surface, at least one vertical metal tube having an open end, a metal flange ring at said open end defining an upper planar surface, and a lining made of non-corrosive material. The lining is disposed in overlying relation to the interior surface of the base plate, the interior of the tube and the upper planar surface of the flange ring. The lining is rigid, and is mechanically affixed to the metal components. The lining is made of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene.