Universal Linestop Nozzle Design for Pressurized Pipe Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current linestop nozzle manufacturing is labor-intensive and expensive, requiring multiple nozzles for different pipe sizes due to varying outer diameters and the inability to accommodate both types of completion plugs, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle design featuring a cylindrical structure with multiple transition sections and a distal flange with through holes for pins, allowing for a single nozzle to accommodate both threaded and push-in completion plugs, manufactured using investment casting to reduce machining and welding, and equipped with gussets for winch attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple nozzles are manufactured for different pipe sizes and completion plug types, then compatibility with various pipes and plugs is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate both threaded completion plugs (via external threads on the nozzle body) and push-in completion plugs (via a receptacle with retaining rings). This multi-functional design allows a single nozzle model to serve multiple purposes across different completion plug types, eliminating the need to manufacture separate nozzles for each plug type while maintaining full compatibility.
2Strength
If traditional machining and welding methods are used to manufacture nozzles, then structural integrity is achieved, but labor intensity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical manufacturing processes (machining and welding) with investment casting. This casting process creates the nozzle as a single integrated piece with built-in features such as threads, receptacles, and reinforcement ribs, eliminating the need for subsequent machining operations and welding assemblies. The casting method maintains structural integrity while dramatically reducing labor intensity and manufacturing complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If nozzle size is varied for each pipe ID rather than OD, then manufacturing is simplified, but welding material seepage occurs between nozzle and saddle member
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle incorporates localized reinforcement ribs at the proximal end where it interfaces with the saddle member. These ribs create a stepped configuration that ensures proper fit and alignment between the nozzle and saddle member, preventing welding material from seeping between them. This local structural enhancement maintains manufacturing simplicity while solving the welding precision issue.
Data Source
AI summary
This patent document discloses an improved series of nozzles and completion plugs for use in installing linestops in pressurized pipes. The improved nozzles are capable of accommodating two different types of completion plugs, including a threaded completion plug and a push-in type completion plug that is held in place within the nozzle by pins that extend through a flange of the nozzle. Lower edges of the nozzles are designed to facilitate the welding of the nozzle to an upper clamp or upper saddle member. Specifically, the lower or proximal beveled edge includes an inner lip that acts as a dam to prevent seepage of welding material between the proximal edge of the nozzle and the upper saddle member during the welding of the former to the latter.