US20110132074A1 - Apparatus and Method for Testing Lengths of Pipe - Google Patents
Apparatus and Method for Testing Lengths of Pipe Download PDFInfo
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- US20110132074A1 US20110132074A1 US12/961,008 US96100810A US2011132074A1 US 20110132074 A1 US20110132074 A1 US 20110132074A1 US 96100810 A US96100810 A US 96100810A US 2011132074 A1 US2011132074 A1 US 2011132074A1
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- pipe
- mandrel
- sealing
- annular space
- sealing device
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01M—TESTING STATIC OR DYNAMIC BALANCE OF MACHINES OR STRUCTURES; TESTING OF STRUCTURES OR APPARATUS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G01M3/00—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures
- G01M3/02—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum
- G01M3/26—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors
- G01M3/28—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipes, cables or tubes; for pipe joints or seals; for valves ; for welds
- G01M3/2807—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipes, cables or tubes; for pipe joints or seals; for valves ; for welds for pipes
- G01M3/2815—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipes, cables or tubes; for pipe joints or seals; for valves ; for welds for pipes using pressure measurements
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for testing the integrity of pipes.
- the invention relates to an apparatus and method for pressure testing pipes.
- Pipes and other such conduits are commonly used in many applications for conveying fluid materials between locations.
- integrity tests In order to ensure safety, it is common to conduct integrity tests on pipes to identify any cracks or other such openings through which the fluid. being conveyed may leak. These cracks may result from defective welds on the pipe or from a defect in the tube manufacturing process.
- Pipe integrity testing is particularly important in situations where the pipe is used to convey flammable or toxic substances or when the pipe is conveying fluids under high pressure.
- the pipe to be tested may be formed of two or more segments that are welded together.
- the segments or sections of the pipe are first joined, typically by welding, on one apparatus and then moved to another apparatus for the testing step.
- this two step process results in increased equipment and time costs.
- the invention provides an apparatus and method for testing the integrity of a pipe.
- the present invention provides an apparatus for pressure testing a pipe, said pipe having a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening, the apparatus comprising:
- the invention provides a method method of pressure testing a pipe, the pipe having a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening, the method comprising:
- FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is a top view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is an end elevation of a first end of the apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is an end elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 1 through section A-A.
- FIG. 5 is a side elevation of the testing apparatus of FIG. 1 in combination with a pipe to be tested.
- FIG. 6 is a partial side elevation detail of FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the mandrel of the invention in combination with the mandrel.
- FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of the sealing ring of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 9 is a partial side view of the second sealing device of the invention.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the first sealing device.
- FIG. 11 is a side cross sectional view of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 13 is a side cross sectional view of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 14 is a side elevation of a testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 15 is a partial side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 14 illustrating the loading of a pipe segment.
- FIG. 16 a is a cross sectional elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 14 illustrating the pipe without the mandrel.
- FIG. 16 b is a cross sectional elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 14 illustrating the pipe and mandrel.
- FIG. 17 a is a partial side elevation of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 14 illustrating the loading of a pipe segment onto a mandrel including exterior skid pads.
- FIG. 17 b is a partial side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 17 b after loading of the pipe segments.
- FIG. 18 is a side elevation of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 14 illustrating a mandrel including exterior skid pads.
- FIG. 19 is a side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 18 with pipe segments loaded.
- FIG. 20 a is a partial side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 17 a illustrating the motor and gearbox for mandrel and pipe rotation.
- FIG. 20 b is a partial side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 20 b after loading of the pipe segments.
- FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 20 .
- the apparatus 10 of the invention includes a frame 12 having a pair of horizontal support members 14 and 16 arranged in a parallel and laterally spaced apart manner.
- the support members are connected by a base 18 and a support platform 20 , secured, respectively, to the bottoms and tops of the horizontal support members 14 and 16 .
- the frame 12 also includes a pair of vertical support members 21 and 22 .
- the support members 14 , 16 , 20 , and 22 may comprise, for example, structural “I” beams.
- the base 18 may include wheels (not shown) or other such means to facilitate movement or transportation of the apparatus.
- the testing apparatus 10 includes a generally cylindrical, and preferably hollow, mandrel 24 , which preferably has a length that is greater than the length of the pipe being tested.
- the mandrel is designed to be inserted into the lumen of the pipe being tested.
- the mandrel has a diameter that is slightly smaller than that of the pipe being tested and is at least 18′′ longer than the pipe length; however, persons skilled in the art will understand that other clearances are possible after considering the following description.
- the mandrel 24 is provided at a first end with a first sealing device 26 , which, in one embodiment, comprises a sealing plate, as described further below.
- the first sealing device 26 is permanently secured to the mandrel 24 by, for example, welding.
- the sealing device 26 may be releasably attached to the mandrel.
- the first sealing device 26 is braced against the vertical support members 21 and 22 and may, in one embodiment, be releasably attached thereto.
- the sealing device 26 can be provided in a slot provided by support members 21 and 22 and allowed to move in a limited vertical direction with respect to the support members. As will be apparent in view of the following description, such vertical motion serves to facilitate use of the apparatus.
- the support plate 20 is provided with a plurality of support rollers 28 arranged in pairs and designed to support the mandrel 24 .
- the support rollers are designed to support the bottom of the mandrel and are angled towards each other so as to prevent the generally cylindrical mandrel from rolling off of the support rollers 28 .
- the apparatus may also include a plurality of alignment rollers 30 , also arranged in pairs, to guide and align a pipe to be tested, as will be discussed further below.
- the alignment rollers are provided at the first end 14 of the mandrel to facilitate the sealing of one end of the pipe to be tested by the sealing device 26 .
- the apparatus includes six pairs of support rollers 28 and three pairs of alignment rollers 30 .
- the alignment rollers are provided in two orientations where two pairs of alignment rollers are provided adjacent pairs of support rollers, to guide and support an end of the pipe being tested, while one pair of alignment rollers is provided on opposite sides of the mandrel diameter to guide or align the pipe end. Further alignment rollers can be provided as necessary.
- the pipe to be tested is indicated at 32 .
- the pipe 32 is supported on a hoist or sling 34 or other similar mechanism.
- the sling simply comprises one or more belts 36 that are used to support the pipe, with the belts being connected to a raising and lowering mechanism, such as a crane. It will be understood that the purpose of the hoist or sling is to raise and/or support the pipe 32 and that various mechanisms can equally be used.
- the pipe 32 is brought into axial alignment with the mandrel 24 .
- the mandrel 24 is sized so as to be able to fit within the lumen of the pipe 32 .
- the mandrel is preferably fifty inches in diameter.
- the pipe 32 is urged over the mandrel 24 in the direction indicated by the arrow. This is further illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 .
- FIG. 5 As shown in FIG. 5 , as the pipe 32 is moved towards the mandrel 24 , the mandrel is slightly raised and the pipe 32 is slid between the mandrel and the support rollers 28 .
- the mandrel is provided with a plurality of skid pads 38 to facilitate the insertion of the mandrel 24 into the pipe 32 .
- Skid pads 38 may be made of any material that would serve to reduce the friction between the mandrel 24 and pipe 32 (i.e. a material having a low coefficient of friction) during the insertion step.
- such material may comprise a tetrafluorethlyene material, such as that marketed under the trade name Teflon®.
- the skid pads 38 may be provided with a wedge 40 to further facilitate the sliding of the pipe 32 between the mandrel 24 and the support rollers 28 .
- the pipe 32 and mandrel 24 are brought together until a first end of the pipe 32 contacts the first sealing device 26 .
- the first sealing device is preferably allowed some vertical clearance with respect to support members 21 and 22 of frame 12 .
- FIG. 7 illustrates the mandrel 24 of the invention after insertion into a pipe 32 to be tested.
- the sealing device 26 comprises a plate 42 that is of a larger diameter than the pipe 32 being tested.
- the plate 42 is provided with a circular groove 44 which is sized to be covered by a first end 46 of the pipe 32 .
- a resilient seal 48 such as an “O” ring, is provided within the groove 44 so as to form a seal with the first end 46 of the pipe 32 .
- the first sealing device includes a solid sealing plate, it will be understood that an annular disc, which is described further in relation to FIG. 10 , may also be used. Such a disc would also include the resilient seal 48 as described above.
- FIG. 7 also shows the second end of the pipe 32 , opposite to first end 46 .
- the mandrel 24 is sized to be longer than the pipe 32 being tested.
- This arrangement provides sufficient mandrel surface to secure a second sealing device 50 to the mandrel 24 and, subsequently, to the pipe 32 .
- the second sealing device 50 includes a sealing collar 52 , a compression plate 54 and a force applying ring 56 , each arranged in respective order from the second end of the pipe 32 extending axially away from the pipe 32 .
- the sealing collar 52 , compression plate 54 and force applying ring 56 are each generally annular bodies, each arranged in a co-axial manner over the mandrel 24 .
- sealing collar 52 comprises an annular ring having a first, pipe seal groove 58 and a second mandrel seal groove 60 .
- the pipe seal groove 58 is designed similarly to groove 44 described above, and is a generally circular groove that is sized to diameter of the second end of the pipe 32 .
- the pipe seal groove is provided with a resilient seal 62 , such as an “O” ring, and forms a seal with the second end of the pipe 32 when the two are forced together.
- the mandrel seal groove 60 as shown more clearly in FIG. 9 , comprises a bevelled edge on the sealing collar 52 .
- the mandrel seal groove 60 is provided on the inner diameter of the annular collar 52 and on the side opposite that adjacent the pipe 32 .
- a resilient seal 64 such as an “O” ring or other such material, is provided in mandrel seal groove 60 and serves to provide a seal between the collar and the outer circumference of the mandrel 24 . As shown in FIG. 9 , such seal is created by urging the compression plate 54 is urged towards the sealing ring 52 , whereby such urging causes deformation of the resilient seal 64 and tightening of the seal 64 around the circumference of the mandrel 24 .
- the force applying ring 56 is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced hydraulic rams or jacks 66 , which are commonly available.
- the jacks 66 serve to apply pressure to the compression plate 54 as will be discussed further below.
- the hydraulic jacks 66 of the invention can be replaced with various mechanical devices that provide the required force.
- the jacks 66 are provided on a surface of the force applying ring 56 facing the pipe 32 to be tested.
- a plurality of “jack stops” 68 are provided on the outer circumference of the mandrel 24 and serve to brace the force applying ring 56 .
- the stops 68 comprise bolts that are provided through circumferentially spaced openings 70 in the mandrel.
- the stops 68 may include threaded portions 72 that extend through openings 70 whereby the bolts are secured to the mandrel 24 with nuts 74 that cooperate with the threaded portions of the stops 68 .
- the stops 68 may comprise anchors that are inserted into openings 70 .
- the mandrel 24 may be provided with a number of series of openings 70 , each series being located in different axial positions along the mandrel, to accommodate various lengths of pipes 32 .
- the pipe 32 is first slid over the mandrel 24 and moved towards the first sealing device 26 .
- the first end of the pipe, adjacent the first sealing device 26 is brought into contact with the sealing plate 42 and, more specifically, the end of the pipe 32 is aligned to overly the seal 48 .
- the second sealing device 50 is slid over the mandrel's second end, opposite the first sealing device 26 .
- the second sealing device 50 is installed by first sliding the sealing ring 52 , followed by the compression ring 54 and finally by the force applying ring 56 .
- the sealing ring 52 is arranged so as to ensure that the resilient seal 62 contacts the end of the pipe 32 .
- the second sealing device 50 is moved towards the pipe and, finally, the stops 68 are provided on the mandrel at the appropriate series of openings 70 . It will be appreciated that, in one embodiment, some force may be applied to the second sealing device 50 prior to inserting the stops 68 so as to “pre-load” the apparatus.
- the hydraulic jacks 66 are activated.
- the jacks 66 serve to force the compression ring 54 and the sealing ring 52 axially towards the second end of the pipe 32 .
- the stops 68 prevent the force applying ring 56 from moving axially away from the pipe 32 . Therefore, as will be understood by persons skilled in the art, since the first end of the pipe 32 is forced towards the first sealing device 26 , which is secured to the mandrel 24 , the force applied by the jacks 66 results in each sealing device 26 and 50 to be forced against the respective ends of the pipe 32 .
- seals 48 , 60 and 62 Due to the presence of seals 48 , 60 and 62 , this, in turn, results in the formation of seals between: a) the first end of the pipe 32 and the first sealing device 26 ; b) the second end of the pipe and the second sealing device 50 ; and, c) the mandrel 24 and the second sealing device 50 .
- the result of these seals is the creation of an annular sealed space bounded by the outer surface of the mandrel 24 , the inner surface of the pipe 32 , and the first and second sealing device 26 and 50 . This annular space is partially shown at 76 in FIG. 9 .
- the integrity test on the pipe may be started.
- the test comprises filling the annular space 76 with a fluid, which is generally an incompressible fluid, and pressurizing such fluid while monitoring the pressure within the annular space 76 .
- a fluid which is generally an incompressible fluid
- FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of how such filling occurs, wherein like figures are indicated with the same reference numerals as above but with the letter “a” added for clarity.
- FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of the first sealing device at 26 a.
- the first sealing device comprises an annular disc 42 a instead of the plate 42 as previously described.
- the disc 42 a is provided with at least one opening 78 extending through the disc 42 a.
- a port 80 extends from the opening 78 and is in fluid communication, through opening 78 , into the annular space 76 that is created once the apparatus is assembled with a pipe to be tested.
- the port 80 is connected to a fluid filling source, not shown, using any known means, such as hoses and the like. It will be understood that any number of ports or openings can be provided on the sealing device 26 a. As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, having at least one fill port and one vent port will facilitate the filling and voiding of the annular space 76 . It will also be appreciated that it may be preferable to have one port vertically higher than the other so as to further facilitate filling and voiding of the annular space. The invention is not limited to any number or positions of the filling/venting ports. It will also be understood that although FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment wherein the first sealing device includes an annular disc, the port 80 can be provided on the plate 42 (of previous figures) as well.
- FIG. 11 illustrates a further embodiment of the filling/venting system wherein a port 82 is provided on the mandrel 24 .
- the port 82 provides an opening 84 into the annular space 76 which is created between the mandrel 24 and the pipe 32 and the sealing devices (only one of which is shown for the purposes of clarity).
- both ports 80 and 82 may be provided on the same apparatus.
- a pressure gauge is also provided on the apparatus so as to enable monitoring of the pressure within the annular space 76 .
- a further port 79 can be provided to which a pressure gauge 81 is permanently attached.
- the source of the pressurized fluid may be provided with a pressure gauge as known in the art. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that any means of monitoring the pressure in the annular space can be used in the invention.
- the apparatus of the present invention can be adapted to test pipes of any diameter or length.
- the apparatus can be used for pipe diameters greater than three inches and for pipe lengths of one foot to one hundred feet.
- the upper limit of the pipe length is not necessarily limited but, as will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, any larger length would render the apparatus of the invention very bulky and cumbersome.
- large lengths of pipe will require increased hoisting force due to the increased weight, making the testing process, although possible to conduct, difficult to manage.
- one of the advantages of the present invention lies in its ability to conduct a pipe test with a minimal amount of testing fluid.
- the mandrel should be sized to be close so that its diameter is close to that of the pipe being tested.
- the pipe being tested is fifty four inches in diameter
- the mandrel would preferably be fifty inches in diameter. It will be understood that any dimension would still allow the apparatus of the invention to be operable.
- the second sealing device 50 may be removeably attached to the frame 12 of the apparatus. This aspect is illustrated in FIG. 2 wherein the second sealing device 50 is shown as optionally attached to a swing arm 51 .
- the swing arm 51 is in turn attached to a base 53 that is rotatably attached to the frame 12 .
- the second sealing device 50 when the second sealing device 50 is needed, it can simply be swung into position and attached as described above.
- the second sealing device 50 can be provided separately and still secured as described above.
- first sealing device 26 or 26 a
- second sealing device 50 can be used on both ends of the pipe 32 being tested.
- the apparatus of the invention can also be arranged in any orientation, for example vertical, and be equally functional.
- the first sealing device 26 can form the base of the apparatus and the pipe 32 to be tested slid over the vertically extending mandrel. This type of vertical orientation may not be efficient for larger diameter pipes.
- FIG. 12 A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 12 wherein like elements are indicated with the suffix “b” for clarity.
- the pipe 32 b to be tested is not linear and includes a bend.
- Such pipes may comprise, for example, elbows, “T” pieces, “Y” pieces etc.
- the mandrel 24 b must also include a bend.
- the bend of the pipe 32 b is too acute to permit a like-shaped mandrel 24 b from being inserted there-through.
- the mandrel 24 b can be provided with first and second sealing device as described above.
- FIG. 12 the mandrel 24 b can be provided with first and second sealing device as described above.
- the mandrel 24 b is to be provided with two alike sealing devices 50 b and that each is of a similar construction as the second sealing device 50 described above. It will be understood that one of the sealing devices provided on the mandrel 24 b may be permanently affixed such as with first sealing device 26 and 26 a discussed above.
- the above description has focussed on a pipe 32 having a constant diameter.
- the section of pipe to be tested may have differing internal diameters at each end.
- the mandrel 24 used in the apparatus will be sized according to the minimum diameter of the pipe.
- the first and second sealing devices will, in turn, be sized according to the respective end of the pipe that they are to be associated with.
- FIG. 13 Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 13 wherein elements that are similar but not the same as those described above are identified with like reference numerals but with the letter “c” added for clarity.
- the mandrel 24 is provided with a permanently attached flange 88 .
- flange 88 may comprise a generally annular disc having a generally central opening through which, one end of the mandrel 24 can be inserted.
- the flange 88 may be attached to the mandrel 24 by means of welds 90 or other means as known in the art.
- the flange 88 includes at least a pair and preferably a plurality of bolt holes through which bolts 92 are extended.
- the first sealing device may comprise an annular disc, or plate, 42 c, which includes a complementary set of openings to accommodate the bolts 92 .
- Nuts 94 cooperating with the bolts 92 , are provided to secure and tighten the annular disc 42 c to the flange 88 .
- the bolts 92 may be permanently attached to the disc 42 c and/or the flange 88 , thereby requiring only one end of the bolt 92 to require nuts 94 .
- the mandrel 24 of the invention can be replaced as needed without replacing the first sealing device. It will be appreciated that this functionality allows the apparatus of the invention to be quickly adapted to any diameter of pipe 32 being tested.
- the vent/fill ports 80 and 82 are shown to be similar to those of FIG. 11 .
- FIGS. 14 to 21 Further aspects of the invention are illustrated in FIGS. 14 to 21 wherein an apparatus similar to that described above is adapted for testing a length of pipe comprised of various tubular sections that are connected together. As is known in the art, a common form of achieving such connections is by welding. In one aspect, as discussed further below, the apparatus is further adapted to assist the welding of the pipe sections so that the welding and testing step can be conducted sequentially and in a time efficient manner.
- FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate an aspect of the invention wherein a pipe 100 to be tested is comprised of five segments 102 , 104 , 106 , 108 and 110 .
- a pipe 100 can be formed of any number of segments and that such segment can be of any desired length.
- each segment can be twenty feet long, thereby resulting in a pipe having a length of one hundred feet. This is, of course, one example and numerous other combinations of number of segments and length of segments would be possible.
- each of the pipe segments are provided over a mandrel 112 .
- the mandrel 112 will be sized so as to have an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the pipe segments.
- the mandrel 112 may be provided as a single unit or may be comprised of multiple sections that are assembled together. The latter version would be preferred in order to render the mandrel adaptable for any size or length of pipe. That is, by having the mandrel formed with interchangeable sections, the overall length of the mandrel can be easily adjusted.
- FIG. 15 illustrates a seam 113 that is formed at the junction between two mandrel sections.
- Such seam can, for example, comprise a circumferential weld that connects two adjacent mandrel sections together. Although such welding is preferred, various other connection methods may be used. As will be apparent from the discussion herein, it is preferred that the seams between the mandrel sections be sealed so as to allow the testing procedure to be conducted.
- the seam 113 may include a resilient seal that forms the required seal between adjacent mandrel sections once the sections are forced together. As will be understood, the only requirement is that an annular space is created between the mandrel and the pipe whereby the pipe testing method can be conducted. Thus, various possible sealing methods may be employed for sealing the seams 113 between the mandrel sections.
- each mandrel section can optionally correspond with the length of each pipe segment. This allows the overall length of the mandrel to be easily matched to the length of the pipe 100 . However, as will be understood, there is no requirement in the manner in which the length of the mandrel is determined. Further, it will be understood that mandrel sections of different diameters can be used with the apparatus of the invention, thereby allowing various diameters of pipe segments to be accommodated.
- the mandrel 112 and, when loaded, the pipe 100 are supported on a frame 114 having a generally vertically oriented end portion or section 116 and a horizontal main portion or section 118 .
- the frame 114 shown in FIGS. 14 to 20 can be of any design to serve the purpose described herein.
- the vertical end portion 116 serves to support a first sealing device as discussed above.
- the horizontal portion 118 of the frame 114 serves to support the mandrel 112 and, when loaded, the pipe 100 .
- the frame can also be modular in design wherein the horizontal portion 118 of the frame 114 is comprised of one or more sections. As shown in FIG.
- the frame 114 can include five horizontal sections 121 , 122 , 123 , 124 , 125 . As with the sections of the mandrel 112 , this structural arrangement allows the frame 114 to include sections corresponding to the lengths of the pipe segments. In this way, once the number of pipe segments is decided upon, the length of the mandrel 112 and frame 114 can be easily determined by matching the numbers of the respective sections. However, it will be understood that this orientation is simply one embodiment and that there is no requirement that the mandrel or the frame need to be modular or that the lengths of their respective sections must be matched to the lengths of the pipe segments.
- the frame 114 can, in one embodiment, have a structure similar to that described above.
- the horizontal section 118 of the frame 114 may comprise opposed elongate and horizontally arranged structural members 126 and 128 connected to each other one or more of top and bottom plates.
- the horizontal section of the frame 114 includes both top and bottom plates 130 and 132 , respectively.
- the structural members 126 and 128 may comprise, in one aspect, “I” beams as are commonly known.
- the sections of the mandrel 112 are welded or otherwise sealingly connected together.
- the sections, 121 to 125 , of the frame 114 horizontal section 118 may be connected simply by using brackets 134 or any other similar apparatus.
- the brackets may comprise a flange that is bolted to adjacent sections of the structural members 126 and 128 . In another embodiment, such adjacent sections can be welded together.
- each of the support rollers 136 preferably includes a ball type roller 138 secured within a housing 140 , which, in turn, is connected to the upper portion of the horizontal section 118 of the frame 114 .
- the reason for preferably using ball type rollers is discussed below.
- the support rollers 136 are provided in sets of four and are angled so as to receive the curved surfaces of the mandrel 112 and pipe 100 . For example, as shown in FIGS.
- the set of four support rollers are arranged with the outer rollers being slightly larger in height than the two inner rollers. It will be understood that although FIGS. 16 a and 16 b illustrate the rollers as being present in sets of four, in some cases the set may only require two rollers. This would occur, for example, where tubes of small diameter are being tested. In other embodiments, the placement and height of the rollers can be made adjustable to accommodate various dimensions of the pipe and/or mandrel.
- each of the pipe sections is first generally coaxially aligned with the mandrel 112 by means of a hoist 34 similar to that described previously.
- the hoist 34 can comprise any type of equipment that serves to manoeuvre a pipe segment and to load such segment over the mandrel.
- the hoist may comprise or be connected to a crane or the like.
- the pipe segment is then slid over the mandrel 112 .
- the mandrel 112 is displaced off of the rollers 136 by the pipe segment 102 with the rollers 136 assisting with sliding the pipe segment 102 axially over the mandrel 112 .
- the outer surface of the mandrel 112 is preferably provided with a plurality of skid pads 142 to assist in passing the pipe segments there-over and to also assist in positioning the mandrel within the lumen of the pipe so as to prevent the bottom surface of the mandrel from resting on the pipe.
- the former function serves to minimise friction between the pipe and the mandrel surfaces as the two are moved with respect to each other.
- the skid pads 142 may preferably be made of a material with a low coefficient of friction. As discussed above, it is preferred to have the skid pads 142 either made from or coated with a tetrafluorethlyene material such as Teflon®.
- FIG. 17 a illustrates the use of skid pads 142 , it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that any other similar device may be used.
- the skid pads 142 may be replaced with wheels or rollers provided on the outer surface of the mandrel or any other similar device.
- the skid pads 142 may be replaced with ball type rollers contained within respective housings mounted on the mandrel surface.
- FIG. 17 a illustrates the use of skid pads 142 , it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that any other similar device may be used.
- the skid pads 142 may be replaced with wheels or rollers provided on the outer surface of the mandrel or any other similar device.
- the skid pads 142 may be replaced with ball type rollers contained within respective housings mounted on the mandrel surface.
- skid pads 142 may only be provided on the bottom surface of the mandrel 112 .
- FIG. 17 b illustrates the mandrel of FIG. 17 a after the pipe segments are loaded.
- the end of the pipe 100 is comprised of segments 108 and 110 .
- the support rollers 136 serve to support the mandrel 112 , when no pipe segment is loaded, and also the pipe 100 , after the pipe segments are loaded.
- FIG. 18 illustrates a complete mandrel 112 of the invention showing the preferred embodiments wherein skid pads 142 are provided on the exterior surface of the mandrel.
- FIG. 18 further illustrates the mounting of the first pipe segment 102 over the mandrel. As shown, the first segment 102 is aligned with the rear end 144 of the mandrel and slid over the entire length until it reaches the mandrel front end 146 .
- FIG. 19 illustrates the complete pipe 100 (including all segments 102 to 110 ) after loading on to the mandrel 112 . As discussed above, the pipe 100 is supported on the support rollers 136 .
- FIG. 16 a illustrates the pipe without the mandrel
- FIG. 16 b illustrates the mandrel and pipe combination.
- FIG. 16 b also illustrates the skid pads 142 that may be provided on the mandrel 112 .
- the mandrel 112 and skid pads 142 are sized so as to provide contact between the inner surface of the pipe 100 and the skid pads 142 .
- FIGS. 16 a and 16 b illustrate an embodiment of the invention wherein the support rollers 136 are of the ball-type.
- ball-type rollers offer various advantages in terms of manoeuvring the mandrel 112 and/or the pipe 100 since the rolling balls 138 allow for motion in various directions.
- the present invention is not limited to this type of support rollers and that various alternative support means can be used.
- the ball-type rollers may be replaced with wheels (not shown in the figures).
- Such wheels may be pivotally arranged in a manner similar to casters.
- the wheels may be aligned for rotation in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel.
- Such an arrangement would allow for a pipe 100 to be slid over the mandrel 112 but would generally not allow the pipe 100 to be rotated about its axis.
- this arrangement would also be functional with the invention.
- FIGS. 20 a , 20 b and 21 illustrate the front end 146 of the apparatus, which includes the generally vertical section 116 of the frame 114 .
- the end of the mandrel 112 adjacent to the front end 146 of the apparatus includes an end plate 148 .
- the end plate 148 is provided as a cover over the end of the mandrel and is provided with a diameter that is sufficient to also cover the opening of the pipe.
- the end plate 148 is preferably provided with a means for sealing the end of the pipe.
- the end plate 148 is provided with a generally circular groove (not shown in FIGS.
- the end plate 148 is permanently attached or otherwise secured to the end of the mandrel 112 .
- the end plate 148 can be secured to the vertical section 116 of the frame 114 in various ways.
- the plate 148 can be secured to upright structural members 150 and 152 of the frame.
- the end plate 148 is attached to a drive shaft 154 , which, in turn, is connected to a gear box 156 and an associated motor 158 .
- the gear box 156 and motor 158 are secured to the frame 114 .
- the frame 114 is provided with a platform 160 onto which the motor 158 and gear box 156 are secured by bolts or other such fasteners.
- a bearing 162 may be provided on the frame vertical section 116 to support the drive shaft.
- the drive shaft 154 is secured to the end plate 148 in such a manner that rotation of the drive shaft 154 (as a result of the motor and gear box), drives the rotation of the end plate 148 . Since the plate is, in this embodiment, secured to the mandrel, it will be understood that rotation of the plate 148 results in rotation of the mandrel 112 about its longitudinal axis.
- the rear end of the mandrel includes a second sealing device such as that described above.
- a second sealing device such as that described above.
- FIGS. 7 to 9 the examples illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9 .
- the first sealing device comprises the end plate 148 .
- the second sealing device imparts a compressive force on the opposite end of the pipe 100 thereby creating the required seals.
- the support rollers 136 allow the pipe to be circumferentially rolled there-over.
- the support rollers 136 are designed to roll in a direction parallel to the mandrel axis (for assisting in loading the pipe over the mandrel) and in a direction perpendicular to the mandrel axis (for assisting in the axial rotation of the pipe/mandrel combination).
- the skid pads 142 and/or mandrel 112 may be sized so as to correspond with the inner diameter of the pipe 100 so as to form a friction fit between the pipe and the skid pads. Since the pads 142 are secured to the mandrel, it will be understood that such arrangement serves to assist in the rotation of the pipe as the mandrel is rotated.
- FIG. 20 a illustrates the front end 146 of the apparatus and shows the mandrel 112 prior to loading of the pipe segments.
- FIGS. 20 b and 21 illustrate the apparatus after the pipe segments are loaded.
- the end plate 148 may be provided with a number of gripper or guide arms 164 for assisting in positioning and/or securing the pipe 100 .
- the securing of the pipe will assist in causing the pipe to be rotated as the mandrel is rotated.
- FIG. 20 a shows the guide arms 164 in an “open” or retracted position wherein the arms are adapted to receive a pipe segment.
- FIG. 20 b shows the guide arms 164 in a “closed” position wherein the pipe segment 102 is “gripped” and maintained in position. As shown more clearly in FIG.
- the guide arms 164 are secured to the rear face 166 of the end plate 148 , that is, the face located opposite to the mandrel 112 .
- the guide arms 164 are circumferentially spaced about the end plate 148 with the number of guide arms 164 being variable depending on, for example, the diameter of the pipe. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 20 a , 20 b and 21 , four guide arms 164 may be provided with each being spaced approximately 90° from each other along the circumference of the end plate 148 .
- the guide arms 164 include a base 168 that is secured to the rear face 166 of the end plate 148 .
- the arms 164 preferably include one or more hinges 170 to allow the arms to articulate.
- the arms 164 also include a bearing end 172 , which includes a bearing pad 174 .
- the bearing pad is adapted to contact the outer surface of the pipe 100 and may be formed from any material that would be apparent to persons skilled in the art.
- the bearing pads 174 may be formed of a rubber or rubber-like material to facilitate gripping of the pipe surface.
- the bearing pads are not limited to such material.
- the guide arms 164 are designed to be moveable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the arms 164 are retracted thereby allowing the pipe 100 to be engaged within the groove provided in the end plate 148 (as described above).
- the guide arms 164 may be adjusted to allow the pipe 100 to fit between the bearing pads 174 , thereby ensuring that the pipe 100 is received into the aforementioned groove.
- the guide arms 164 may be extended whereby the bearing pads 174 are forced against the outer surface of the pipe 100 . This allows the guide arms 164 to grip the outer surface of the pipe. This arrangement assists rotation of the pipe during rotation of the mandrel. It will be understood that although the guide arms 164 have been described in terms of two functions, namely positioning and anchoring of the pipe with respect to the end plate 148 of the mandrel 112 , such arms may serve one of such functions as needed. It will also be understood that the guide arms 164 may be omitted altogether.
- the pipe 100 is comprised of various segments, such segments must first be welded together to form a contiguous pipe. Such welds would then need to be tested for integrity before the pipe is put into use.
- the present invention allows the joining of the pipe segments and the testing of the formed pipe to be conducted in a time and cost efficient manner. The process for doing this involves first the mounting of the desired pipe segments over the mandrel 112 . As discussed above, this is accomplished by positioning and guiding each pipe segment over the mandrel 112 . Once the desired segments are arranged, the sealing devices are engaged so as to apply an axial compressive force upon the pipe 100 .
- the motor is engaged and the mandrel 112 , with pipe 100 mounted thereon, is rotated over the support rollers 138 .
- one or more manual or automated welding apparatuses are used to weld each seam between adjacent segments of the pipe 100 . Once all the seams are welded and a contiguous pipe 100 formed, the welds are allowed to cool.
- the testing phase may begin.
- the one or more ports provided on the sealing devices and/or the mandrel are used to fill the sealed annular space between the mandrel 112 and the pipe 100 with a pressurized fluid.
- the annular space is pressurized to a desired value and such pressure is then monitored for any drops. A pressure drop would signify a defect in one or more of the welds. In such case, the annular space is depressurized and the seams re-welded or checked.
- the ball-type support rollers 136 may be replaced with pivoting wheels or casters. Such an arrangement would still allow the pipe 100 to be rotated about its longitudinal axis.
- the ball-type support rollers are replaced with wheels that rotate in one direction, allowing the pipe 100 to be slid over the mandrel but not facilitating axial rotation of the pipe.
- the pipe 100 may be raised above such wheels and rotated by means of the motor as described above.
- the pipe may be maintained in position over the wheels (or even the support rollers 136 ) in which case the welding equipment may be rotated about the circumference of the pipe 100 at each segment joint.
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Abstract
An apparatus for pressure testing a pipe includes a frame supporting a mandrel, the mandrel being adapted for positioning within the pipe, and two sealing devices connected to the mandrel and adapted to seal opposite ends of the pipe to create an annular space between the mandrel, the pipe, and the sealing devices. The integrity of the pipe is tested by pressurizing the annular space and monitoring such pressure.
Description
- This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/966,737, filed Dec. 28, 2007, which is a Continuation in Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/469,548, filed Sep. 1, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,395,695, which is a Continuation of PCT application number PCT/CA2005/000319, filed Mar. 2, 2005, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional application No. 60/548,960, filed Mar. 2, 2004. The entire contents of all the aforementioned applications are incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for testing the integrity of pipes. In particular, the invention relates to an apparatus and method for pressure testing pipes.
- Pipes and other such conduits are commonly used in many applications for conveying fluid materials between locations. In order to ensure safety, it is common to conduct integrity tests on pipes to identify any cracks or other such openings through which the fluid. being conveyed may leak. These cracks may result from defective welds on the pipe or from a defect in the tube manufacturing process. Pipe integrity testing is particularly important in situations where the pipe is used to convey flammable or toxic substances or when the pipe is conveying fluids under high pressure.
- Various apparatus and methods are known in the art for testing pipes. In some of these known methods, a pipe section is simply filled with a typically incompressible fluid and pressurized while monitoring the pressure within the pipe. Any pressure drop is indicative of a leak in the pipe wall. Although effective, these known methods are inefficient since they require the entire volume of the pipe to be filled and pressurized, which is problematic when the pipe volume is large due to either a large diameter or a long length.
- The prior art provides various types of pipe testing devices such as those taught in the following U.S. patents: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,463,791; 6,131,441; and, 5,844,127 (all of which share a common inventor with the present invention). Although these devices have proven effective in conducting tests on sections of pipe, there exists a need for an apparatus that efficiently tests lengths of pipe. Such a device is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 4,067,228. This reference provides an apparatus having a mandrel for insertion within a pipe segment to create an annular space between the inner pipe wall and the outer surface of the mandrel. In order to conduct the integrity test, a small volume of fluid is injected in the annular space and pressurized. Although providing an efficient test method, the apparatus of this reference is quite complicated and difficult to move from one location to another. Further, this reference does not provide a means of testing curved sections of pipe.
- In some cases, the pipe to be tested may be formed of two or more segments that are welded together. In such cases, the segments or sections of the pipe are first joined, typically by welding, on one apparatus and then moved to another apparatus for the testing step. As will be understood, this two step process results in increased equipment and time costs.
- A need exists for a more efficient apparatus for testing the integrity of pipes.
- In one aspect, the invention provides an apparatus and method for testing the integrity of a pipe.
- Thus, in one aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for pressure testing a pipe, said pipe having a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening, the apparatus comprising:
-
- a frame having a first end and a second end;
- a mandrel having first and second ends and a length corresponding at least to the length of the pipe and an outer diameter less than the inner diameter of said pipe wherein, when in use, said mandrel is adapted to be received within the pipe to form a mandrel and pipe assembly;
- a first sealing means for sealing the first opening of the pipe;
- a second sealing means for sealing the second opening of the pipe, whereby, when in use, a generally annular space is created between said mandrel, said pipe, and said first and second sealing means; and,
- one or more ports for filling said annular space with a pressurizing fluid or for voiding said annular space of air or said fluid and a means for monitoring the pressure within said annular space.
- In a further aspect, the invention provides a method method of pressure testing a pipe, the pipe having a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening, the method comprising:
-
- providing a mandrel secured to a frame, the mandrel having a length of at least the length of the pipe;
- providing the pipe over the mandrel to form a generally annular space between the mandrel and the pipe;
- sealing the opposed ends of said annular space;
- filling said annular space with a pressurized fluid; and,
- testing the integrity of said pipe by monitoring the pressure formed within the annular space.
- These and other features of the preferred embodiments of the invention will become more apparent in the following detailed description in which reference is made to the appended drawings wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is a top view of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is an end elevation of a first end of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is an end elevation of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 through section A-A. -
FIG. 5 is a side elevation of the testing apparatus ofFIG. 1 in combination with a pipe to be tested. -
FIG. 6 is a partial side elevation detail ofFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the mandrel of the invention in combination with the mandrel. -
FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of the sealing ring ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 9 is a partial side view of the second sealing device of the invention. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the first sealing device. -
FIG. 11 is a side cross sectional view of another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 13 is a side cross sectional view of another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 14 is a side elevation of a testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 15 is a partial side elevation of the apparatus ofFIG. 14 illustrating the loading of a pipe segment. -
FIG. 16 a is a cross sectional elevation of the apparatus ofFIG. 14 illustrating the pipe without the mandrel. -
FIG. 16 b is a cross sectional elevation of the apparatus ofFIG. 14 illustrating the pipe and mandrel. -
FIG. 17 a is a partial side elevation of an embodiment of the apparatus ofFIG. 14 illustrating the loading of a pipe segment onto a mandrel including exterior skid pads. -
FIG. 17 b is a partial side elevation of the apparatus ofFIG. 17 b after loading of the pipe segments. -
FIG. 18 is a side elevation of an embodiment of the apparatus ofFIG. 14 illustrating a mandrel including exterior skid pads. -
FIG. 19 is a side elevation of the apparatus ofFIG. 18 with pipe segments loaded. -
FIG. 20 a is a partial side elevation of the apparatus ofFIG. 17 a illustrating the motor and gearbox for mandrel and pipe rotation. -
FIG. 20 b is a partial side elevation of the apparatus ofFIG. 20 b after loading of the pipe segments. -
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the apparatus ofFIG. 20 . - One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described. However, it will be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the invention to the disclosed embodiments and that various modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art.
- With reference to
FIGS. 1 to 4 , theapparatus 10 of the invention includes a frame 12 having a pair ofhorizontal support members base 18 and asupport platform 20, secured, respectively, to the bottoms and tops of thehorizontal support members vertical support members support members base 18 may include wheels (not shown) or other such means to facilitate movement or transportation of the apparatus. - The
testing apparatus 10 includes a generally cylindrical, and preferably hollow,mandrel 24, which preferably has a length that is greater than the length of the pipe being tested. In operation, as discussed below, the mandrel is designed to be inserted into the lumen of the pipe being tested. Preferably, the mandrel has a diameter that is slightly smaller than that of the pipe being tested and is at least 18″ longer than the pipe length; however, persons skilled in the art will understand that other clearances are possible after considering the following description. Themandrel 24 is provided at a first end with afirst sealing device 26, which, in one embodiment, comprises a sealing plate, as described further below. In one embodiment, thefirst sealing device 26 is permanently secured to themandrel 24 by, for example, welding. In another embodiment, as described further below, the sealingdevice 26 may be releasably attached to the mandrel. Thefirst sealing device 26 is braced against thevertical support members device 26 can be provided in a slot provided bysupport members - The
support plate 20 is provided with a plurality ofsupport rollers 28 arranged in pairs and designed to support themandrel 24. As noted inFIG. 4 , the support rollers are designed to support the bottom of the mandrel and are angled towards each other so as to prevent the generally cylindrical mandrel from rolling off of thesupport rollers 28. The apparatus may also include a plurality ofalignment rollers 30, also arranged in pairs, to guide and align a pipe to be tested, as will be discussed further below. Briefly, the alignment rollers are provided at thefirst end 14 of the mandrel to facilitate the sealing of one end of the pipe to be tested by the sealingdevice 26. It will be apparent that the number of alignment rollers needed will vary depending upon the specific dimensions of the apparatus and that the need number of support and alignment rollers will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. In the example shown inFIGS. 1 to 4 , the apparatus includes six pairs ofsupport rollers 28 and three pairs ofalignment rollers 30. In the example illustrated in the figures, the alignment rollers are provided in two orientations where two pairs of alignment rollers are provided adjacent pairs of support rollers, to guide and support an end of the pipe being tested, while one pair of alignment rollers is provided on opposite sides of the mandrel diameter to guide or align the pipe end. Further alignment rollers can be provided as necessary. - In
FIGS. 1 to 4 , the pipe to be tested is indicated at 32. As shown, thepipe 32 is supported on a hoist orsling 34 or other similar mechanism. In the example shown in the figures, the sling simply comprises one ormore belts 36 that are used to support the pipe, with the belts being connected to a raising and lowering mechanism, such as a crane. It will be understood that the purpose of the hoist or sling is to raise and/or support thepipe 32 and that various mechanisms can equally be used. - As shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2 , in use, thepipe 32 is brought into axial alignment with themandrel 24. As indicated above, themandrel 24 is sized so as to be able to fit within the lumen of thepipe 32. In one example, for a pipe that is fifty four inches in diameter, the mandrel is preferably fifty inches in diameter. Thepipe 32 is urged over themandrel 24 in the direction indicated by the arrow. This is further illustrated inFIGS. 5 and 6 . As shown inFIG. 5 , as thepipe 32 is moved towards themandrel 24, the mandrel is slightly raised and thepipe 32 is slid between the mandrel and thesupport rollers 28. In one embodiment, the mandrel is provided with a plurality ofskid pads 38 to facilitate the insertion of themandrel 24 into thepipe 32. Skidpads 38 may be made of any material that would serve to reduce the friction between themandrel 24 and pipe 32 (i.e. a material having a low coefficient of friction) during the insertion step. In one aspect, such material may comprise a tetrafluorethlyene material, such as that marketed under the trade name Teflon®. In a preferred embodiment, and as shown inFIG. 6 , theskid pads 38 may be provided with awedge 40 to further facilitate the sliding of thepipe 32 between themandrel 24 and thesupport rollers 28. - In the above discussion, reference has been made to the
pipe 32 being moved over themandrel 24. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that the same result can be achieved by sliding themandrel 24 into thepipe 32 while maintaining the latter in a relatively fixed position. Further, it is also possible for both the mandrel and pipe to be moved towards each other. - The
pipe 32 andmandrel 24 are brought together until a first end of thepipe 32 contacts thefirst sealing device 26. As mentioned above, the first sealing device is preferably allowed some vertical clearance with respect to supportmembers -
FIG. 7 illustrates themandrel 24 of the invention after insertion into apipe 32 to be tested. Also shown is thefirst sealing device 26 as described previously. As mentioned above, in one embodiment, the sealingdevice 26 comprises a plate 42 that is of a larger diameter than thepipe 32 being tested. The plate 42 is provided with a circular groove 44 which is sized to be covered by a first end 46 of thepipe 32. Aresilient seal 48, such as an “O” ring, is provided within the groove 44 so as to form a seal with the first end 46 of thepipe 32. It will be understood that the seal between the sealing plate 42 and the pipe end 46 will be formed upon forcing the plate and pipe together. This step is discussed further below. Although according to one embodiment of the invention, the first sealing device includes a solid sealing plate, it will be understood that an annular disc, which is described further in relation toFIG. 10 , may also be used. Such a disc would also include theresilient seal 48 as described above. -
FIG. 7 also shows the second end of thepipe 32, opposite to first end 46. As mentioned above, and as shown inFIG. 7 , in one embodiment, themandrel 24 is sized to be longer than thepipe 32 being tested. This arrangement provides sufficient mandrel surface to secure asecond sealing device 50 to themandrel 24 and, subsequently, to thepipe 32. Thesecond sealing device 50 includes a sealing collar 52, a compression plate 54 and a force applying ring 56, each arranged in respective order from the second end of thepipe 32 extending axially away from thepipe 32. The sealing collar 52, compression plate 54 and force applying ring 56 are each generally annular bodies, each arranged in a co-axial manner over themandrel 24. - As shown in
FIG. 7 and in more detail inFIGS. 8 and 9 , sealing collar 52 comprises an annular ring having a first,pipe seal groove 58 and a secondmandrel seal groove 60. Thepipe seal groove 58 is designed similarly to groove 44 described above, and is a generally circular groove that is sized to diameter of the second end of thepipe 32. The pipe seal groove is provided with a resilient seal 62, such as an “O” ring, and forms a seal with the second end of thepipe 32 when the two are forced together. Themandrel seal groove 60, as shown more clearly inFIG. 9 , comprises a bevelled edge on the sealing collar 52. Themandrel seal groove 60 is provided on the inner diameter of the annular collar 52 and on the side opposite that adjacent thepipe 32. A resilient seal 64, such as an “O” ring or other such material, is provided inmandrel seal groove 60 and serves to provide a seal between the collar and the outer circumference of themandrel 24. As shown inFIG. 9 , such seal is created by urging the compression plate 54 is urged towards the sealing ring 52, whereby such urging causes deformation of the resilient seal 64 and tightening of the seal 64 around the circumference of themandrel 24. - The various seals discussed above are achieved upon the urging of certain members together. As will now be described, all seals can be achieved by one urging step. Specifically, in one embodiment, and as shown In
FIGS. 8 and 9 , the force applying ring 56 is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced hydraulic rams orjacks 66, which are commonly available. Thejacks 66 serve to apply pressure to the compression plate 54 as will be discussed further below. Persons skilled in the art, having referenced the present disclosure, will recognize that thehydraulic jacks 66 of the invention can be replaced with various mechanical devices that provide the required force. Thejacks 66 are provided on a surface of the force applying ring 56 facing thepipe 32 to be tested. Finally, a plurality of “jack stops” 68 are provided on the outer circumference of themandrel 24 and serve to brace the force applying ring 56. In one embodiment, thestops 68 comprise bolts that are provided through circumferentially spacedopenings 70 in the mandrel. The stops 68 may include threadedportions 72 that extend throughopenings 70 whereby the bolts are secured to themandrel 24 with nuts 74 that cooperate with the threaded portions of thestops 68. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the art that various alternatives to the jack stops are possible as well as various other means of securing the stops to the mandrel. For example, in another embodiment, thestops 68 may comprise anchors that are inserted intoopenings 70. - As shown more clearly in
FIG. 9 , themandrel 24 may be provided with a number of series ofopenings 70, each series being located in different axial positions along the mandrel, to accommodate various lengths ofpipes 32. - In use, the
pipe 32 is first slid over themandrel 24 and moved towards thefirst sealing device 26. The first end of the pipe, adjacent thefirst sealing device 26, is brought into contact with the sealing plate 42 and, more specifically, the end of thepipe 32 is aligned to overly theseal 48. Following this, thesecond sealing device 50 is slid over the mandrel's second end, opposite thefirst sealing device 26. - The
second sealing device 50 is installed by first sliding the sealing ring 52, followed by the compression ring 54 and finally by the force applying ring 56. The sealing ring 52 is arranged so as to ensure that the resilient seal 62 contacts the end of thepipe 32. Thesecond sealing device 50 is moved towards the pipe and, finally, thestops 68 are provided on the mandrel at the appropriate series ofopenings 70. It will be appreciated that, in one embodiment, some force may be applied to thesecond sealing device 50 prior to inserting thestops 68 so as to “pre-load” the apparatus. Once thestops 68 are installed and, where necessary, secured to the mandrel, thehydraulic jacks 66 are activated. - The
jacks 66 serve to force the compression ring 54 and the sealing ring 52 axially towards the second end of thepipe 32. The stops 68 prevent the force applying ring 56 from moving axially away from thepipe 32. Therefore, as will be understood by persons skilled in the art, since the first end of thepipe 32 is forced towards thefirst sealing device 26, which is secured to themandrel 24, the force applied by thejacks 66 results in each sealingdevice pipe 32. Due to the presence ofseals pipe 32 and thefirst sealing device 26; b) the second end of the pipe and thesecond sealing device 50; and, c) themandrel 24 and thesecond sealing device 50. The result of these seals is the creation of an annular sealed space bounded by the outer surface of themandrel 24, the inner surface of thepipe 32, and the first andsecond sealing device FIG. 9 . - Once the sealed
annular space 76 is created by attaching the twosealing devices annular space 76 with a fluid, which is generally an incompressible fluid, and pressurizing such fluid while monitoring the pressure within theannular space 76. This method of testing will be understood by persons skilled in the art. - To fill the
annular space 76, the apparatus of the invention requires a means of filling and draining or venting the annular space.FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of how such filling occurs, wherein like figures are indicated with the same reference numerals as above but with the letter “a” added for clarity.FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of the first sealing device at 26 a. In this embodiment, the first sealing device comprises an annular disc 42 a instead of the plate 42 as previously described. The disc 42 a is provided with at least oneopening 78 extending through the disc 42 a. Aport 80 extends from theopening 78 and is in fluid communication, throughopening 78, into theannular space 76 that is created once the apparatus is assembled with a pipe to be tested. Theport 80 is connected to a fluid filling source, not shown, using any known means, such as hoses and the like. It will be understood that any number of ports or openings can be provided on the sealing device 26 a. As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, having at least one fill port and one vent port will facilitate the filling and voiding of theannular space 76. It will also be appreciated that it may be preferable to have one port vertically higher than the other so as to further facilitate filling and voiding of the annular space. The invention is not limited to any number or positions of the filling/venting ports. It will also be understood that althoughFIG. 10 depicts an embodiment wherein the first sealing device includes an annular disc, theport 80 can be provided on the plate 42 (of previous figures) as well. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a further embodiment of the filling/venting system wherein aport 82 is provided on themandrel 24. In this embodiment, theport 82 provides an opening 84 into theannular space 76 which is created between themandrel 24 and thepipe 32 and the sealing devices (only one of which is shown for the purposes of clarity). As shown inFIG. 11 , in another embodiment, bothports other port 82 to facilitate the filling and venting process. - As mentioned above, a pressure gauge, not shown, is also provided on the apparatus so as to enable monitoring of the pressure within the
annular space 76. In one embodiment, a further port 79 can be provided to which a pressure gauge 81 is permanently attached. In another embodiment, the source of the pressurized fluid may be provided with a pressure gauge as known in the art. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that any means of monitoring the pressure in the annular space can be used in the invention. - It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that the apparatus of the present invention can be adapted to test pipes of any diameter or length. For example, the apparatus can be used for pipe diameters greater than three inches and for pipe lengths of one foot to one hundred feet. The upper limit of the pipe length is not necessarily limited but, as will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, any larger length would render the apparatus of the invention very bulky and cumbersome. Furthermore, large lengths of pipe will require increased hoisting force due to the increased weight, making the testing process, although possible to conduct, difficult to manage. As described herein, one of the advantages of the present invention lies in its ability to conduct a pipe test with a minimal amount of testing fluid. Thus, to fully realize this advantage, persons skilled in the art will understand that the mandrel should be sized to be close so that its diameter is close to that of the pipe being tested. In one example, if the pipe being tested is fifty four inches in diameter, the mandrel would preferably be fifty inches in diameter. It will be understood that any dimension would still allow the apparatus of the invention to be operable.
- In one embodiment, the
second sealing device 50 may be removeably attached to the frame 12 of the apparatus. This aspect is illustrated inFIG. 2 wherein thesecond sealing device 50 is shown as optionally attached to a swing arm 51. The swing arm 51 is in turn attached to a base 53 that is rotatably attached to the frame 12. In this embodiment, when thesecond sealing device 50 is needed, it can simply be swung into position and attached as described above. Alternatively, thesecond sealing device 50 can be provided separately and still secured as described above. - In the above description, reference has been made to a first sealing device, 26 or 26 a, that is different in structure to the
second sealing device 50. However, it will be understood that thesecond sealing device 50 can be used on both ends of thepipe 32 being tested. - Further, the above description has referred to the apparatus of the invention as used in a generally horizontal orientation. However, it will be understood that the apparatus can also be arranged in any orientation, for example vertical, and be equally functional. For example, referring to
FIG. 1 , thefirst sealing device 26 can form the base of the apparatus and thepipe 32 to be tested slid over the vertically extending mandrel. This type of vertical orientation may not be efficient for larger diameter pipes. - A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in
FIG. 12 wherein like elements are indicated with the suffix “b” for clarity. InFIG. 12 , thepipe 32 b to be tested is not linear and includes a bend. Such pipes may comprise, for example, elbows, “T” pieces, “Y” pieces etc. In such case themandrel 24 b must also include a bend. It will be appreciated that in some cases, the bend of thepipe 32 b is too acute to permit a like-shapedmandrel 24 b from being inserted there-through. However, where such insertion is possible, as illustrated inFIG. 12 , themandrel 24 b can be provided with first and second sealing device as described above. In the embodiment ofFIG. 12 , it is noted that themandrel 24 b is to be provided with two alike sealing devices 50 b and that each is of a similar construction as thesecond sealing device 50 described above. It will be understood that one of the sealing devices provided on themandrel 24 b may be permanently affixed such as withfirst sealing device 26 and 26 a discussed above. - It will be understood that the above description has focussed on a
pipe 32 having a constant diameter. However, in some cases, the section of pipe to be tested may have differing internal diameters at each end. In such cases, themandrel 24 used in the apparatus will be sized according to the minimum diameter of the pipe. The first and second sealing devices will, in turn, be sized according to the respective end of the pipe that they are to be associated with. - Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in
FIG. 13 wherein elements that are similar but not the same as those described above are identified with like reference numerals but with the letter “c” added for clarity. In this embodiment themandrel 24 is provided with a permanently attachedflange 88. As known in the art,flange 88 may comprise a generally annular disc having a generally central opening through which, one end of themandrel 24 can be inserted. Theflange 88 may be attached to themandrel 24 by means ofwelds 90 or other means as known in the art. Theflange 88 includes at least a pair and preferably a plurality of bolt holes through whichbolts 92 are extended. The first sealing device may comprise an annular disc, or plate, 42 c, which includes a complementary set of openings to accommodate thebolts 92.Nuts 94, cooperating with thebolts 92, are provided to secure and tighten the annular disc 42 c to theflange 88. It will be understood that thebolts 92 may be permanently attached to the disc 42 c and/or theflange 88, thereby requiring only one end of thebolt 92 to require nuts 94. In this embodiment, themandrel 24 of the invention can be replaced as needed without replacing the first sealing device. It will be appreciated that this functionality allows the apparatus of the invention to be quickly adapted to any diameter ofpipe 32 being tested. In the embodiment ofFIG. 13 , the vent/fillports FIG. 11 . - Further aspects of the invention are illustrated in
FIGS. 14 to 21 wherein an apparatus similar to that described above is adapted for testing a length of pipe comprised of various tubular sections that are connected together. As is known in the art, a common form of achieving such connections is by welding. In one aspect, as discussed further below, the apparatus is further adapted to assist the welding of the pipe sections so that the welding and testing step can be conducted sequentially and in a time efficient manner. -
FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate an aspect of the invention wherein apipe 100 to be tested is comprised of fivesegments pipe 100 can be formed of any number of segments and that such segment can be of any desired length. For example, in one aspect, each segment can be twenty feet long, thereby resulting in a pipe having a length of one hundred feet. This is, of course, one example and numerous other combinations of number of segments and length of segments would be possible. - As illustrated in
FIG. 15 and in a manner similar to that described above, each of the pipe segments are provided over amandrel 112. To accommodate this, it will be understood that themandrel 112 will be sized so as to have an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the pipe segments. Further, themandrel 112 may be provided as a single unit or may be comprised of multiple sections that are assembled together. The latter version would be preferred in order to render the mandrel adaptable for any size or length of pipe. That is, by having the mandrel formed with interchangeable sections, the overall length of the mandrel can be easily adjusted. By way of example,FIG. 15 illustrates aseam 113 that is formed at the junction between two mandrel sections. Such seam can, for example, comprise a circumferential weld that connects two adjacent mandrel sections together. Although such welding is preferred, various other connection methods may be used. As will be apparent from the discussion herein, it is preferred that the seams between the mandrel sections be sealed so as to allow the testing procedure to be conducted. Thus, in one embodiment, theseam 113 may include a resilient seal that forms the required seal between adjacent mandrel sections once the sections are forced together. As will be understood, the only requirement is that an annular space is created between the mandrel and the pipe whereby the pipe testing method can be conducted. Thus, various possible sealing methods may be employed for sealing theseams 113 between the mandrel sections. - The length of each mandrel section can optionally correspond with the length of each pipe segment. This allows the overall length of the mandrel to be easily matched to the length of the
pipe 100. However, as will be understood, there is no requirement in the manner in which the length of the mandrel is determined. Further, it will be understood that mandrel sections of different diameters can be used with the apparatus of the invention, thereby allowing various diameters of pipe segments to be accommodated. - As with the apparatus described previously; the
mandrel 112 and, when loaded, thepipe 100 are supported on aframe 114 having a generally vertically oriented end portion orsection 116 and a horizontal main portion orsection 118. As with the frame discussed above, theframe 114 shown inFIGS. 14 to 20 can be of any design to serve the purpose described herein. Briefly, thevertical end portion 116 serves to support a first sealing device as discussed above. Thehorizontal portion 118 of theframe 114 serves to support themandrel 112 and, when loaded, thepipe 100. In order to accommodate various lengths of pipes and mandrels, the frame can also be modular in design wherein thehorizontal portion 118 of theframe 114 is comprised of one or more sections. As shown inFIG. 14 , in one embodiment theframe 114 can include fivehorizontal sections mandrel 112, this structural arrangement allows theframe 114 to include sections corresponding to the lengths of the pipe segments. In this way, once the number of pipe segments is decided upon, the length of themandrel 112 andframe 114 can be easily determined by matching the numbers of the respective sections. However, it will be understood that this orientation is simply one embodiment and that there is no requirement that the mandrel or the frame need to be modular or that the lengths of their respective sections must be matched to the lengths of the pipe segments. - The
frame 114 can, in one embodiment, have a structure similar to that described above. For example, as shown inFIGS. 14 to 16 , thehorizontal section 118 of theframe 114 may comprise opposed elongate and horizontally arrangedstructural members FIGS. 16 a and 16 b, the horizontal section of theframe 114 includes both top andbottom plates structural members frame 114 is depicted and described, various other structures or orientations may be used with the invention. - As discussed above, in a preferred embodiment, the sections of the
mandrel 112 are welded or otherwise sealingly connected together. However, the sections, 121 to 125, of theframe 114horizontal section 118 may be connected simply by usingbrackets 134 or any other similar apparatus. As shown inFIGS. 14 and 15 , the brackets may comprise a flange that is bolted to adjacent sections of thestructural members - As with the previously described embodiment, the
frame 114 supporting themandrel 112 andpipe 100 is provided with a plurality ofsupport rollers 136 substantially along the length of thehorizontal section 118. As shown inFIGS. 16 a and 16 b, each of thesupport rollers 136 preferably includes aball type roller 138 secured within ahousing 140, which, in turn, is connected to the upper portion of thehorizontal section 118 of theframe 114. The reason for preferably using ball type rollers is discussed below. As shown, in one preferred embodiment, thesupport rollers 136 are provided in sets of four and are angled so as to receive the curved surfaces of themandrel 112 andpipe 100. For example, as shown inFIGS. 16 a and 16 b, the set of four support rollers are arranged with the outer rollers being slightly larger in height than the two inner rollers. It will be understood that althoughFIGS. 16 a and 16 b illustrate the rollers as being present in sets of four, in some cases the set may only require two rollers. This would occur, for example, where tubes of small diameter are being tested. In other embodiments, the placement and height of the rollers can be made adjustable to accommodate various dimensions of the pipe and/or mandrel. - As shown in
FIG. 15 , each of the pipe sections, such assegment 102 as illustrated, is first generally coaxially aligned with themandrel 112 by means of a hoist 34 similar to that described previously. As will be understood by persons skilled in the art, the hoist 34 can comprise any type of equipment that serves to manoeuvre a pipe segment and to load such segment over the mandrel. For example, the hoist may comprise or be connected to a crane or the like. Once positioned as shown inFIG. 15 , the pipe segment is then slid over themandrel 112. During this process, themandrel 112 is displaced off of therollers 136 by thepipe segment 102 with therollers 136 assisting with sliding thepipe segment 102 axially over themandrel 112. - As shown in
FIG. 17 a, the outer surface of themandrel 112 is preferably provided with a plurality ofskid pads 142 to assist in passing the pipe segments there-over and to also assist in positioning the mandrel within the lumen of the pipe so as to prevent the bottom surface of the mandrel from resting on the pipe. The former function serves to minimise friction between the pipe and the mandrel surfaces as the two are moved with respect to each other. In this regard, theskid pads 142 may preferably be made of a material with a low coefficient of friction. As discussed above, it is preferred to have theskid pads 142 either made from or coated with a tetrafluorethlyene material such as Teflon®. With regard to the mandrel positioning function of theskid pads 142, as indicated herein, the testing procedure for thepipe 100 utilizes an annular space created between the mandrel and the pipe once the pipe is in position. As such, the mandrel would need to be raised so as to prevent continuous contact between the mandrel and the pipe surface. AlthoughFIG. 17 a illustrates the use ofskid pads 142, it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that any other similar device may be used. For example, theskid pads 142 may be replaced with wheels or rollers provided on the outer surface of the mandrel or any other similar device. For example, theskid pads 142 may be replaced with ball type rollers contained within respective housings mounted on the mandrel surface. In addition,FIG. 17 a illustrates the provision ofskid pads 142 over the entire surface of the mandrel. Such arrangement serves to guide the pipe during the insertion step: However, as discussed previously, the skid pads 142 (or equivalently functioning wheels or rollers etc.) may only be provided on the bottom surface of themandrel 112. -
FIG. 17 b illustrates the mandrel ofFIG. 17 a after the pipe segments are loaded. As shown, the end of thepipe 100 is comprised ofsegments FIGS. 17 a and 17 b, thesupport rollers 136 serve to support themandrel 112, when no pipe segment is loaded, and also thepipe 100, after the pipe segments are loaded. -
FIG. 18 illustrates acomplete mandrel 112 of the invention showing the preferred embodiments whereinskid pads 142 are provided on the exterior surface of the mandrel.FIG. 18 further illustrates the mounting of thefirst pipe segment 102 over the mandrel. As shown, thefirst segment 102 is aligned with the rear end 144 of the mandrel and slid over the entire length until it reaches the mandrelfront end 146.FIG. 19 illustrates the complete pipe 100 (including allsegments 102 to 110) after loading on to themandrel 112. As discussed above, thepipe 100 is supported on thesupport rollers 136. - Referring again to
FIGS. 16 a and 16 b, a segment of thepipe 100 is shown in cross section in the mounted position on thesupport rollers 136.FIG. 16 a illustrates the pipe without the mandrel whereasFIG. 16 b illustrates the mandrel and pipe combination.FIG. 16 b also illustrates theskid pads 142 that may be provided on themandrel 112. As shown, in one embodiment, themandrel 112 andskid pads 142 are sized so as to provide contact between the inner surface of thepipe 100 and theskid pads 142. As discussed above,FIGS. 16 a and 16 b illustrate an embodiment of the invention wherein thesupport rollers 136 are of the ball-type. As also discussed above, such ball-type rollers offer various advantages in terms of manoeuvring themandrel 112 and/or thepipe 100 since the rollingballs 138 allow for motion in various directions. However, it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to this type of support rollers and that various alternative support means can be used. For example, in one embodiment the ball-type rollers may be replaced with wheels (not shown in the figures). Such wheels may be pivotally arranged in a manner similar to casters. Alternatively, the wheels may be aligned for rotation in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel. Such an arrangement would allow for apipe 100 to be slid over themandrel 112 but would generally not allow thepipe 100 to be rotated about its axis. However, as discussed below, this arrangement would also be functional with the invention. -
FIGS. 20 a, 20 b and 21 illustrate thefront end 146 of the apparatus, which includes the generallyvertical section 116 of theframe 114. As shown and as described in accordance with previous embodiments, the end of themandrel 112 adjacent to thefront end 146 of the apparatus includes anend plate 148. Theend plate 148 is provided as a cover over the end of the mandrel and is provided with a diameter that is sufficient to also cover the opening of the pipe. Theend plate 148, as before, is preferably provided with a means for sealing the end of the pipe. In one embodiment, theend plate 148 is provided with a generally circular groove (not shown inFIGS. 20 a, 20 b and 21) that corresponds to the diameter of the pipe being tested and is adapted to receive the end of the pipe therein. The groove is provided with a resilient sealing material so as to form a seal between theplate 148 and the end of the pipe upon urging of the pipe into the groove. Such a sealing arrangement was described above in connection with the other figures contained herein and would be understood by persons skilled in the art. In one embodiment theend plate 148 is permanently attached or otherwise secured to the end of themandrel 112. - As with previously described embodiments, the
end plate 148 can be secured to thevertical section 116 of theframe 114 in various ways. For example, theplate 148 can be secured to uprightstructural members FIGS. 20 a, 20 b and 21 theend plate 148 is attached to adrive shaft 154, which, in turn, is connected to agear box 156 and an associatedmotor 158. Thegear box 156 andmotor 158 are secured to theframe 114. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 21 , theframe 114 is provided with aplatform 160 onto which themotor 158 andgear box 156 are secured by bolts or other such fasteners. A bearing 162 may be provided on the framevertical section 116 to support the drive shaft. Thedrive shaft 154 is secured to theend plate 148 in such a manner that rotation of the drive shaft 154 (as a result of the motor and gear box), drives the rotation of theend plate 148. Since the plate is, in this embodiment, secured to the mandrel, it will be understood that rotation of theplate 148 results in rotation of themandrel 112 about its longitudinal axis. - The rear end of the mandrel includes a second sealing device such as that described above. In this regard, reference is made to the examples illustrated in
FIGS. 7 to 9 . As discussed in reference to such figures, once the second sealing device is secured to thepipe 100 andmandrel 112, a sealed generally annular space is formed between themandrel 112, thepipe 100 and opposed sealing devices on the ends of the pipe. As discussed above, the first sealing device comprises theend plate 148. The second sealing device imparts a compressive force on the opposite end of thepipe 100 thereby creating the required seals. - Once the
pipe 100 is mounted on themandrel 112, rotation of the mandrel will thereby result in rotation of the pipe as well. In this regard, as shown inFIG. 16 , thesupport rollers 136 allow the pipe to be circumferentially rolled there-over. Thus, as will be understood, thesupport rollers 136 are designed to roll in a direction parallel to the mandrel axis (for assisting in loading the pipe over the mandrel) and in a direction perpendicular to the mandrel axis (for assisting in the axial rotation of the pipe/mandrel combination). - As indicated above, in one embodiment, the
skid pads 142 and/ormandrel 112 may be sized so as to correspond with the inner diameter of thepipe 100 so as to form a friction fit between the pipe and the skid pads. Since thepads 142 are secured to the mandrel, it will be understood that such arrangement serves to assist in the rotation of the pipe as the mandrel is rotated. -
FIG. 20 a illustrates thefront end 146 of the apparatus and shows themandrel 112 prior to loading of the pipe segments.FIGS. 20 b and 21 illustrate the apparatus after the pipe segments are loaded. - In one embodiment, as shown for example in
FIGS. 20 a, 20 b and 21, theend plate 148 may be provided with a number of gripper or guidearms 164 for assisting in positioning and/or securing thepipe 100. The securing of the pipe will assist in causing the pipe to be rotated as the mandrel is rotated.FIG. 20 a shows theguide arms 164 in an “open” or retracted position wherein the arms are adapted to receive a pipe segment.FIG. 20 b shows theguide arms 164 in a “closed” position wherein thepipe segment 102 is “gripped” and maintained in position. As shown more clearly inFIG. 21 , theguide arms 164 are secured to therear face 166 of theend plate 148, that is, the face located opposite to themandrel 112. Theguide arms 164 are circumferentially spaced about theend plate 148 with the number ofguide arms 164 being variable depending on, for example, the diameter of the pipe. In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 20 a, 20 b and 21, four guidearms 164 may be provided with each being spaced approximately 90° from each other along the circumference of theend plate 148. Theguide arms 164 include a base 168 that is secured to therear face 166 of theend plate 148. Thearms 164 preferably include one or more hinges 170 to allow the arms to articulate. Thearms 164 also include abearing end 172, which includes abearing pad 174. The bearing pad is adapted to contact the outer surface of thepipe 100 and may be formed from any material that would be apparent to persons skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the bearingpads 174 may be formed of a rubber or rubber-like material to facilitate gripping of the pipe surface. However, the bearing pads are not limited to such material. Theguide arms 164 are designed to be moveable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, thearms 164 are retracted thereby allowing thepipe 100 to be engaged within the groove provided in the end plate 148 (as described above). During this process, theguide arms 164 may be adjusted to allow thepipe 100 to fit between the bearingpads 174, thereby ensuring that thepipe 100 is received into the aforementioned groove. Once thepipe 100 is thus positioned, theguide arms 164 may be extended whereby the bearingpads 174 are forced against the outer surface of thepipe 100. This allows theguide arms 164 to grip the outer surface of the pipe. This arrangement assists rotation of the pipe during rotation of the mandrel. It will be understood that although theguide arms 164 have been described in terms of two functions, namely positioning and anchoring of the pipe with respect to theend plate 148 of themandrel 112, such arms may serve one of such functions as needed. It will also be understood that theguide arms 164 may be omitted altogether. - The purpose of rotating the mandrel will now be discussed. In view of the fact that the
pipe 100 according to this embodiment is comprised of various segments, such segments must first be welded together to form a contiguous pipe. Such welds would then need to be tested for integrity before the pipe is put into use. Thus, the present invention allows the joining of the pipe segments and the testing of the formed pipe to be conducted in a time and cost efficient manner. The process for doing this involves first the mounting of the desired pipe segments over themandrel 112. As discussed above, this is accomplished by positioning and guiding each pipe segment over themandrel 112. Once the desired segments are arranged, the sealing devices are engaged so as to apply an axial compressive force upon thepipe 100. at this time, the motor is engaged and themandrel 112, withpipe 100 mounted thereon, is rotated over thesupport rollers 138. As thepipe 100 is thus rotated, one or more manual or automated welding apparatuses are used to weld each seam between adjacent segments of thepipe 100. Once all the seams are welded and acontiguous pipe 100 formed, the welds are allowed to cool. - Once the welds are cooled, the testing phase may begin. At this point, the one or more ports provided on the sealing devices and/or the mandrel (shown, for example, in
FIGS. 10 , 11, 13) are used to fill the sealed annular space between themandrel 112 and thepipe 100 with a pressurized fluid. The annular space is pressurized to a desired value and such pressure is then monitored for any drops. A pressure drop would signify a defect in one or more of the welds. In such case, the annular space is depressurized and the seams re-welded or checked. - As discussed above, in one alternative embodiment, the ball-
type support rollers 136 may be replaced with pivoting wheels or casters. Such an arrangement would still allow thepipe 100 to be rotated about its longitudinal axis. However, in another embodiment described above, the ball-type support rollers are replaced with wheels that rotate in one direction, allowing thepipe 100 to be slid over the mandrel but not facilitating axial rotation of the pipe. In such case, thepipe 100 may be raised above such wheels and rotated by means of the motor as described above. However, in yet another embodiment, the pipe may be maintained in position over the wheels (or even the support rollers 136) in which case the welding equipment may be rotated about the circumference of thepipe 100 at each segment joint. Although such an arrangement may not be preferable in all cases, the invention will be understood to include same. - Although the invention has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as outlined in the claims appended hereto.
Claims (4)
1. An apparatus for pressure testing a pipe, said pipe having a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening, the apparatus comprising:
a frame having a first end and a second end;
a mandrel having first and second ends and a length corresponding at least to the length of the pipe and an outer diameter less than the inner diameter of said pipe wherein, when in use, said mandrel is adapted to be received within the pipe to form a mandrel and pipe assembly;
a first sealing means for sealing the first opening of the pipe;
a second sealing means for sealing the second opening of the pipe, whereby, when in use, a generally annular space is created between said mandrel, said pipe, and said first and second sealing means; and,
one or more ports for filling said annular space with a pressurizing fluid or for voiding said annular space of air or said fluid and a means for monitoring the pressure within said annular space.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said first sealing means comprises an end plate secured to the mandrel, said plate including a sealing means for forming a seal with the first end of the pipe.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the second sealing means comprises:
an annular sealing ring, coaxially provided over said mandrel adjacent the second end of said pipe, said sealing ring having an outer diameter greater than the diameter of said pipe;
said sealing ring including a first seal adapted to form a seal between said sealing ring and one of said pipe ends and a second seal adapted to form a seal between said sealing ring and the outer diameter of said mandrel; and,
a means for forcing said sealing ring towards said pipe.
4. A method of pressure testing a pipe, the pipe having a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening, the method comprising:
providing a mandrel secured to a frame, the mandrel having a length of at least the length of the pipe;
providing the pipe over the mandrel to form a generally annular space between the mandrel and the pipe;
sealing the opposed ends of said annular space;
filling said annular space with a pressurized fluid; and,
testing the integrity of said pipe by monitoring the pressure formed within the annular space.
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US12/961,008 US20110132074A1 (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2010-12-06 | Apparatus and Method for Testing Lengths of Pipe |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
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US54896004P | 2004-03-02 | 2004-03-02 | |
PCT/CA2005/000319 WO2005085790A1 (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2005-03-02 | Apparatus for testing lengths of pipe |
US11/469,548 US7395695B2 (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2006-09-01 | Apparatus for testing lengths of pipe |
US11/966,737 US7845211B2 (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2007-12-28 | Apparatus and method for forming and testing lengths of pipe |
US12/961,008 US20110132074A1 (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2010-12-06 | Apparatus and Method for Testing Lengths of Pipe |
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US11/966,737 Continuation US7845211B2 (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2007-12-28 | Apparatus and method for forming and testing lengths of pipe |
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US12/961,008 Abandoned US20110132074A1 (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2010-12-06 | Apparatus and Method for Testing Lengths of Pipe |
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EP (1) | EP2232225A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2011508225A (en) |
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CN103868665A (en) * | 2014-04-03 | 2014-06-18 | 北京星航机电装备有限公司 | Airtight detection method of high-pressure gas circuit in fuel system |
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GB2461954B (en) * | 2008-07-24 | 2010-08-04 | Technip France Sa | Method of spooling a bi-metallic pipe |
CN101829878B (en) * | 2010-04-29 | 2012-05-23 | 新疆威奥科技股份有限公司 | Pre-compaction lifting type roller frame |
JP2017508142A (en) * | 2014-02-04 | 2017-03-23 | エヌエスケイ アメリカズ インコーポレイテッド | Apparatus and method for inspecting steering column assembly with intermediate length supported |
AU2015413844B2 (en) * | 2015-11-02 | 2019-05-30 | Trinity Bay Equipment Holdings, LLC | Real time integrity monitoring of on-shore pipes |
CN109060257A (en) * | 2018-07-10 | 2018-12-21 | 湖北金牛管业有限公司 | Water test device is closed between a kind of PE wrapped tube and flared pipe fitting |
CN109916588A (en) * | 2019-04-18 | 2019-06-21 | 中国空气动力研究与发展中心超高速空气动力研究所 | A kind of wind-tunnel attaching nut support device |
CN110702396B (en) * | 2019-10-28 | 2021-08-20 | 中船黄埔文冲船舶有限公司 | Pressure test tool for fin stabilizer |
CN112025385A (en) * | 2020-09-09 | 2020-12-04 | 山东金诚联创管业股份有限公司 | Pipe fitting continuous machining lathe system |
CN113701964A (en) * | 2021-09-24 | 2021-11-26 | 天津平高智能电气有限公司 | Insulation sleeve sealing detection device for gas-filled cabinet |
CN114289416A (en) * | 2021-12-31 | 2022-04-08 | 安徽九州云箭航天技术有限公司 | Pipeline inner wall cleaning device |
CN114563134B (en) * | 2022-03-02 | 2023-02-07 | 中南大学 | Shield tunnel segment three-dimensional joint waterproof performance test device and test method |
CN118090085B (en) * | 2024-04-26 | 2024-07-09 | 常州神龙管业有限公司 | Automatic welding quality detection system for stainless steel pipes |
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WO2009082811A1 (en) | 2009-07-09 |
US20080163676A1 (en) | 2008-07-10 |
MX2010007167A (en) | 2010-09-27 |
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JP2011508225A (en) | 2011-03-10 |
CA2710649C (en) | 2016-05-17 |
CN101939629A (en) | 2011-01-05 |
BRPI0821480A2 (en) | 2018-05-29 |
EP2232225A1 (en) | 2010-09-29 |
AU2008342529A1 (en) | 2009-07-09 |
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Owner name: CAR-BER INVESTMENTS INC., CANADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CARSON, GLENN;REEL/FRAME:025457/0046 Effective date: 20080114 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
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