US20190368821A1 - Heat transfer apparatuses for oil and gas applications - Google Patents
Heat transfer apparatuses for oil and gas applications Download PDFInfo
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- US20190368821A1 US20190368821A1 US15/997,591 US201815997591A US2019368821A1 US 20190368821 A1 US20190368821 A1 US 20190368821A1 US 201815997591 A US201815997591 A US 201815997591A US 2019368821 A1 US2019368821 A1 US 2019368821A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- heat transfer
- fluid
- transfer apparatus
- tubular wall
- lumen
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D15/00—Heat-exchange apparatus with the intermediate heat-transfer medium in closed tubes passing into or through the conduit walls ; Heat-exchange apparatus employing intermediate heat-transfer medium or bodies
- F28D15/02—Heat-exchange apparatus with the intermediate heat-transfer medium in closed tubes passing into or through the conduit walls ; Heat-exchange apparatus employing intermediate heat-transfer medium or bodies in which the medium condenses and evaporates, e.g. heat pipes
- F28D15/0275—Arrangements for coupling heat-pipes together or with other structures, e.g. with base blocks; Heat pipe cores
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D1/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators
- F28D1/02—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid
- F28D1/04—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with tubular conduits
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D15/00—Heat-exchange apparatus with the intermediate heat-transfer medium in closed tubes passing into or through the conduit walls ; Heat-exchange apparatus employing intermediate heat-transfer medium or bodies
- F28D15/02—Heat-exchange apparatus with the intermediate heat-transfer medium in closed tubes passing into or through the conduit walls ; Heat-exchange apparatus employing intermediate heat-transfer medium or bodies in which the medium condenses and evaporates, e.g. heat pipes
- F28D15/04—Heat-exchange apparatus with the intermediate heat-transfer medium in closed tubes passing into or through the conduit walls ; Heat-exchange apparatus employing intermediate heat-transfer medium or bodies in which the medium condenses and evaporates, e.g. heat pipes with tubes having a capillary structure
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D7/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary tubular conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall
- F28D7/16—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary tubular conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits being arranged in parallel spaced relation
- F28D7/1607—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary tubular conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits being arranged in parallel spaced relation with particular pattern of flow of the heat exchange media, e.g. change of flow direction
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F1/00—Tubular elements; Assemblies of tubular elements
- F28F1/10—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses
- F28F1/42—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being both outside and inside the tubular element
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F1/00—Tubular elements; Assemblies of tubular elements
- F28F1/10—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses
- F28F1/42—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being both outside and inside the tubular element
- F28F1/424—Means comprising outside portions integral with inside portions
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D21/00—Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups F28D1/00 - F28D20/00
- F28D2021/0019—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for
- F28D2021/0059—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for for petrochemical plants
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
- F28F9/22—Arrangements for directing heat-exchange media into successive compartments, e.g. arrangements of guide plates
- F28F2009/222—Particular guide plates, baffles or deflectors, e.g. having particular orientation relative to an elongated casing or conduit
- F28F2009/224—Longitudinal partitions
Definitions
- This disclosure relates to heat transfer apparatuses for cooling fluid flowing through pipelines in oil and gas applications.
- Heat pipes are used for cooling flowing fluids in various applications (for example, such as electronics, oil and gas, space craft heat removal systems, solar systems, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems) that require heat dissipation for maintaining the mechanical integrity of surrounding system components.
- Heat pipes typically have a high thermal conductivity and can rely on changes between liquid and vapor phases of heat transfer fluids for operation.
- cooling a high temperature fluid flowing in oil and gas pipelines may be desirable for reducing the temperature to one that is safe for pipelines made of certain materials.
- Such cooling aspects can also affect associated manufacturing approaches, installation of cooling systems, and operational costs.
- An example heat transfer apparatus is provided as a pipe segment (for example, such as a pipe spool) that carries multiple pipe elements (for example, such as heat pipes).
- the pipe elements extend radially outward from a centerline of the pipe segment such that the pipe elements span a wall of the pipe segment. Therefore, a portion of each pipe element is disposed internal to the pipe segment and contacts a fluid flowing axially through the pipe segment, while a portion of each pipe element is disposed external to the pipe segment.
- the pipe elements are arranged in an axial array along the wall of the pipe segment and contain a working fluid.
- the working fluid absorbs heat from the fluid flowing through the pipe segment and releases heat through the pipe element to an external environment that surrounds the pipe segment.
- An internal flow obstruction is arranged coaxially with the pipe segment and diverts the fluid flowing axially through the pipe segment in a radially outward direction to maximize contact between the fluid and the pipe elements for improving an efficiency of the heat transfer between the fluid and the pipe elements.
- a heat transfer apparatus in one aspect, includes a tubular wall defining a lumen and multiple pipe elements arranged about a circumference of the tubular wall and passing through the tubular wall.
- the lumen is configured such that fluid flows through the lumen of the heat transfer apparatus.
- Each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes an interior portion located within the lumen of the tubular wall and configured to absorb heat from the fluid that flows through the lumen and includes an exterior portion located exterior to the tubular wall and configured to release at least a portion of the heat absorbed at the interior portion to an ambient environment.
- Embodiments may provide one or more of the following features.
- each pipe element of a subset of the multiple pipe elements is arranged in a circumferential row at a same axial position along the tubular wall.
- the multiple pipe elements include multiple circumferential rows of pipe elements arranged at different axial positions along the tubular wall.
- each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes a working fluid that evaporates upon absorbing heat from the fluid flowing through the lumen of the tubular wall along the interior portion of the pipe element and that condenses upon releasing heat along the exterior portion of the pipe element to the ambient environment.
- each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements is configured such that the working fluid flows in a gas phase from the interior portion to the exterior portion upon absorbing heat from the fluid flowing through the lumen of the tubular wall.
- each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements is configured such that the working fluid flows in a liquid phase from the exterior portion to the interior portion upon releasing heat to the ambient environment.
- each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements further includes a layer of material that facilitates flow of the fluid in the liquid phase via capillary action.
- each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes an adiabatic portion that spans the tubular wall between the interior and exterior portions.
- each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes multiple fins that facilitate heat transfer from the pipe element to the ambient environment.
- each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements extends in a radial direction with respect to a central axis of the tubular wall.
- the multiple pipe elements are configured such that an exit temperature of the fluid flowing out of the heat transfer apparatus is about 30° C. to about 70° C. cooler than an entry temperature of the fluid flowing into the heat transfer apparatus.
- the multiple pipe elements are made of one or more materials including coated carbon steel, copper, and alloys.
- the working fluid includes water, methanol, or acetone.
- the heat transfer apparatus further includes a flow obstruction arranged coaxially with the tubular wall.
- the flow obstruction is configured to divert fluid flowing through the heat transfer apparatus radially outward towards the multiple pipe elements.
- the lumen has a substantially annular cross-sectional shape.
- a cross-sectional area of the lumen is equal to a cross-sectional area of a flow line to which the heat transfer apparatus is installed.
- the flow obstruction has a smooth surface profile that prevents a pressure drop in the fluid as the fluid flows through the tubular wall.
- a fluid management system in another aspect, includes a heat transfer apparatus configured to be installed to a first fluid flow line, a second fluid flow line by which fluid flowing through the first fluid flow line can bypass the heat transfer apparatus, a third fluid flow line by which fluid can be drained from the heat transfer apparatus, and multiple valves by which fluid can be managed with respect to the heat transfer apparatus, the first fluid flow line, the second fluid flow line, and the third fluid flow line.
- the second fluid flow line is configured to be installed to the first fluid flow line in parallel with the heat transfer apparatus.
- the third fluid flow line is configured to be installed to the heat transfer apparatus.
- the heat transfer apparatus includes a tubular wall defining a lumen and multiple pipe elements arranged about a circumference of the tubular wall and passing through the tubular wall.
- Each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes an interior portion located within the lumen of the tubular wall and configured to absorb heat from the fluid that flows through the lumen and includes an exterior portion located exterior to the tubular wall and configured to release at least a portion of the heat absorbed at the interior portion to an ambient environment.
- a method of cooling a fluid flowing through a heat transfer apparatus includes flowing the fluid through a lumen of a tubular wall carrying multiple pipe elements arranged about a circumference of the tubular wall and passing through the tubular wall, absorbing heat from the fluid along interior portions of the multiple pipe elements that are located within the lumen as the fluid flows through the lumen, and releasing heat from exterior portions of the multiple pipe elements that are located exterior to the tubular wall as the fluid flows through the lumen.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example pipe segment used to transfer heat out of fluid flowing through a well flow line.
- FIG. 2 is front view of the pipe segment of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is front cross-sectional view of the pipe segment of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is side cross-sectional view of a central wall of the pipe segment of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of one of multiple example pipe elements carried by the central wall of the pipe segment of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is a graph showing an example temperature drop across the pipe segment of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of cooling a fluid flowing through the pipe segment of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an example fluid management system that includes the pipe segment of FIG. 1 .
- FIGS. 1-4 illustrate multiple views of a pipe segment 100 (for example, such as a pipe spool) that is designed to be installed in-line with a well flow line (for example, such as an oil, gas, or water well flow line) for cooling fluid that flows through the well flow line in various oil and gas applications.
- the pipe segment 100 includes a central wall 102 , multiple pipe elements 104 disposed across the central wall 102 , a flow diversion component 106 (for example, such as a flow obstruction), arranged coaxially with the central wall 102 , and rims 108 located at opposite ends 110 , 112 of the central wall 102 for installation of the pipe segment 100 to a well flow line.
- a flow diversion component 106 for example, such as a flow obstruction
- the central wall 102 is generally cylindrical in shape and defines multiple openings 114 through which the pipe elements 104 respectively pass.
- the central wall 102 and the flow diversion component 106 together define a lumen 118 .
- the lumen 118 is centered along a central axis 116 of the pipe segment 100 (for example, such as of the central wall 102 ) such that the lumen 118 has a generally annular cross-sectional shape, as provided by the coaxial arrangement of the flow diversion component 106 within the central wall 102 and accounting for minor deviations from the annular shape owing to extension of the pipe elements 104 into the lumen 118 .
- the flow diversion component 106 is a solid mass that serves as an obstruction to flow through the lumen 118 .
- the flow diversion component is radially symmetric with respect to the central axis 116 and extends the length of the central wall 102 .
- the flow diversion component 106 includes a central portion 120 of constant diameter and two rounded, generally semi-ellipsoidal shaped end portions 122 . Accordingly, the flow diversion component 106 has a general structure of a solid, closed pipe or tube. Fluid enters the lumen 118 at the first end 110 of the central wall 102 , flows in a direction 124 around the flow diversion component 106 upon encountering a first end portion 122 so that the fluid is cooled by the pipe elements 104 , and exits the lumen 118 at the second end 112 of the central wall 102 , as will be discussed in more detail below.
- the central wall 102 typically has an inner diameter of about 0.1 meters (m) to about 1.6 m, a wall thickness of about 0.2 millimeters (mm) to about 60 mm, and a length in a range of about 1 m to about 5 m.
- the central portion 120 of the flow diversion component 106 typically has a diameter of about 0.05 m to about 1.3 m.
- the rims 108 at the ends 110 , 112 of the central wall 102 are formed to interface with components (for example, such as flange ends or welded joints) of the well flow line for installation of the pipe segment 100 to the well flow line.
- the rims 108 typically have an outer diameter of about 30 mm to about 1,300 mm and an inner diameter that is about equal to the inner diameter of the central wall 102 .
- the central wall 102 , the rims 108 , and the flow diversion component 106 are made of one or more materials that are corrosion and erosion resistant and that can withstand fluid and ambient temperatures of up to about 120 degrees Centigrade (° C.), as well as a fluid pressure of up to about 20.7 megapascals (MPa).
- Example materials from which the central wall 102 , the rims 108 , and the flow diversion component 106 are typically made include carbon steel and stainless steel.
- the wall 102 , the rims 108 , and the component 106 may be made of the same one or more materials or from different materials.
- the pipe elements 104 are co-located with the openings 114 in the central wall 102 and are arranged in an array that surrounds and extends along a portion of the central axis 116 .
- the pipe elements 104 span the central wall 102 (for example, such as pass through the openings 114 ) and extend radially outward with respect to the central axis 116 . Therefore, a portion of each pipe element 104 is disposed internal to the central wall 102 and contacts the fluid flowing axially therethrough, while a portion of each pipe element 104 is disposed external to the central wall 102 and exposed to the ambient environment 14 .
- the pipe elements 104 are heat dissipating elements that are designed to transfer heat from a fluid of a relatively hot temperature flowing through the pipe segment 100 to an ambient environment 142 of a relatively cold temperature (for example, such as air) external to the pipe segment 100 .
- Each pipe element 104 includes a housing 126 containing a wick material 148 and a working fluid 128 (for example, such as a heat transfer fluid) that continuously flows within the housing 126 as fluid flows through the lumen 118 of the pipe segment 100 .
- the wick material 148 is a thin layer of material disposed along an inner surface of the housing 126 and facilitates fluid flow along the inner surface via capillary action.
- each pipe element 104 Spanning the central wall 102 with fluid flowing through the lumen 118 , each pipe element 104 includes an evaporator section 130 located within the lumen 118 , an adiabatic section 132 that passes through the central wall 102 , and a condenser section 134 located external to the central wall 102 . Each pipe element 104 also includes multiple fins 150 arranged along the condenser section 134 to facilitate heat transfer between the pipe element 104 and the ambient environment 142 .
- Heat carried by the fluid flowing through the lumen 118 of the central wall 102 is absorbed (denoted by the arrows 136 ) by the pipe element 104 along the evaporation section 130 , thereby causing the working fluid 128 (for example, such as in a liquid phase) flowing along the wick material 148 to evaporate (denoted by the arrows 138 ) and flow centrally in a gas phase (for example, such as a vapor phase, denoted by arrows 140 ) through the adiabatic section 132 towards the condenser section 134 due to a pressure difference in the fluid between the evaporator section 130 and the condenser section 134 .
- a gas phase for example, such as a vapor phase, denoted by arrows 140
- the ambient environment 142 external to the pipe element 104 absorbs heat (denoted by arrows 154 ) from the working fluid 128 through the wall of the pipe element 104 , thereby causing the working fluid 128 to condense (denoted by the arrows 144 ) to the liquid phase along the wick material 148 and flow back (denoted by the arrows 146 ) towards the evaporator section 138 .
- the cyclical process of heat transfer to and from the working fluid 128 continues as long as fluid (for example, such as at a relatively hot temperature with respect to that of the ambient environment 142 ) flows through the lumen 118 of the pipe segment 100 .
- fluid for example, such as at a relatively hot temperature with respect to that of the ambient environment 142
- the fluid flowing through the lumen 118 of the pipe segment 100 serves as a heat source to the pipe element 104
- the ambient environment 142 serves as a heat sink to the pipe element 104 .
- the temperature of fluid entering the pipe segment 100 at the first end 110 is typically in a range of about 55° C.
- the temperature of fluid exiting the pipe segment 100 at the second end 112 is typically in a range of about 30° C. to about 70° C.
- the housing 126 is a closed structure with rounded end regions and typically has a length of about 5 centimeters (cm) to about 60 cm, a diameter of about 0.2 cm to about 1.0 cm, and a wall thickness of about 0.1 cm to about 0.5 cm.
- the wick material 148 typically has a layer thickness of about 0.1 cm to about 0.5 cm, and the working fluid 128 typically has a volume (for example, such as in a fully liquid phase) of about 10 milliliters (mL) to about 100 mL.
- the material formulations of the housing 126 and the wick material 148 are compatible with each other and with the working fluid 128 to ensure efficient heat transfer at the pipe element 104 .
- the housing 126 is typically made of one or more materials including aluminum, copper, steel (for example, such as coated carbon steel), or metallic alloys (for example, such as nickel).
- the wick material 148 typically includes one or more materials, such as metal fibers, glass fibers, or sintered powders of metals (for example, such as copper).
- Example working fluids 128 include water, methanol, acetone, ammonia, R134a, and alkali metals (for example, such as potassium and sodium).
- the pipe elements 104 are respectively secured to the central wall 102 at the openings 114 via an interference or shrink fit, bolts and screws, or welding.
- the pipe elements 104 are distributed in an array that surrounds and extends along a portion of the central wall 102 .
- Each row of pipe elements 104 distributed about the circumference of the central wall 102 at a same axial position may be referred to as a stage 152 , such that the array includes multiple stages 152 distributed axially along the central wall 102 .
- a defined amount of heat is lost from the fluid flowing through the pipe segment 100 at each stage 152 and depends on the number of pipe elements 104 arranged in the stage 152 .
- the pipe segment 100 includes 10 to 50 pipe elements 104 per stage 152 that are spaced equidistantly apart about the circumference of the central wall 102 .
- the stages 152 are spaced about 2 cm to about 6 cm apart from one another.
- the pipe segment 100 includes a total of 5 to 500 stages 152 .
- a series of stages 152 arranged axially along the central wall 102 results in a desired total heat loss across the pipe segment 100 , as shown in the example graph 200 of FIG. 6 .
- the temperature of the fluid flowing through the lumen 118 is shown qualitatively and as dimensionless, and the number of stages 152 arranged axially along the pipe segment 100 is arbitrary.
- the temperature of the fluid flowing through the lumen 118 is inversely related to the number of stages 152 present within the pipe segment 100 . Accordingly, the heat lost from the fluid flowing through the lumen 118 is directly proportional to the number of stages 152 present within the pipe segment 100 .
- the pipe elements 104 are distributed about the circumference of the central wall 102 . Therefore, without the presence of the flow diversion component 106 , all of the fluid flowing through the lumen 118 would not have contact with the pipe elements 104 that is sufficient to achieve cooling. For example, fluid flowing past or in close proximity to the heat pipes 104 would be cooled, whereas fluid flowing in close proximity to the central axis 116 (for example, such as further away from the pipe elements 104 ) would not be cooled. Accordingly, the flow diversion component 106 is positioned coaxially with the central wall 102 in order to divert the fluid radially towards the pipe elements 104 . Such configuration maximizes contact between all of the fluid flowing through the lumen 118 and the pipe elements 104 to provide efficient cooling of the fluid.
- the end portion 122 of the flow diversion component 106 located at the entrance of the pipe segment 100 (for example, as well as the end portion 122 located at the exit of the pipe segment 100 ) provides a smooth surface profile that promotes a smooth, streamlined, laminar fluid flow to prevent a pressure drop across the pipe segment 100 and prevent turbulences within the lumen 118 that may otherwise occur as fluid would enter the lumen 118 along a non-smooth surface profile.
- the flow diversion component 106 is sized (for example, such as relative to the central wall 102 ) such that a total cross-sectional area of the annular lumen 118 (for example, such as along the central portion 120 of the flow diversion component 106 ) is equal (or about equal) to a cross-sectional area of the well flow line to which the pipe segment 100 is installed. Maintaining the cross-sectional area through which the fluid flows also prevents a pressure drop across the pipe segment 100 and maintains a flow rate at which the fluid is flowing through the pipe segment 100 . Fluid typically flows through the pipe segment 100 at a flow rate of about 0.9 liters per second (L/s) to about 10 L/s.
- L/s 0.9 liters per second
- a choke valve positioned upstream of the pipe segment 100 can be relaxed (for example, such as opened wider) to accommodate such pressure drop.
- non-metallic pipes that cannot tolerate such high entry fluid temperatures may be used downstream of the pipe segment 100 along the fluid flow path.
- Example materials from which the non-metallic pipes may be made include temperature-limited reinforced thermoplastic pipe (RTP) materials and reinforced thermal resin (RTR) materials.
- RTP temperature-limited reinforced thermoplastic pipe
- RTR reinforced thermal resin
- Such pipe selections can improve process safety.
- the non-metallic materials have a temperature limitation, such that the non-metallic materials fail if the flowing fluid has a temperature higher than the thermal capability of the pipe material.
- Such pipe selections can also quicken tie-in activities. For example, reducing the fluid flow temperature using the pipe segment 100 can allow non-metallic pipes to be used in a manner that is safe for high temperature applications.
- Non-metallic pipes can be constructed more easily and more quickly than can conventional carbon steel pipes, which improves the tie-in schedule of the wells by reducing the time, costs, and efforts. Such pipe selections can also reduce other costs associated with the use of metallic piping.
- the pipe segment 100 has a compact footprint and simple design that functions without a power source, functions without rotating or other moving equipment, and is easy to install and remove from a well flow line.
- Other advantages provided by the pipe segment 100 include a low environmental burden in that no toxic materials or radiation is used and in that the pipe segment 100 is a closed system, such that no fluids are disposed of to the ambient environment.
- the pipe segment 100 also has low manufacturing and operational costs.
- the design of the pipe segment 100 is also flexible in that the number of pipe elements 104 per stage 152 and the total number of stages 152 can be selected based on a desired heat transfer effect.
- FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 300 of cooling a fluid flowing through a heat transfer apparatus (for example, such as the pipe segment 100 ).
- fluid is flowed through a lumen (for example, such as the lumen 118 ) of a tubular wall (for example, such as the central wall 102 ) carrying multiple pipe elements (for example, such as the pipe elements 104 ) arranged about a circumference of the tubular wall and passing through the tubular wall ( 302 ).
- heat is absorbed from the fluid along interior portions (for example, such as the evaporator sections 130 ) of the multiple pipe elements that are located within the lumen as the fluid flows through the lumen ( 304 ).
- heat is released from exterior portions (for example, such as the condenser sections 134 ) of the multiple pipe elements that are located exterior to the tubular wall as the fluid flows through the lumen ( 306 ).
- FIG. 8 is a schematic drawing illustrating a fluid management system 400 in which the pipe segment 100 is installed to a well flow line 402 with multiple isolation valves for operation.
- An upstream portion 404 of the well flow line 402 delivers fluid to the pipe segment 100 through an entry valve 406
- the pipe segment 100 delivers fluid to a downstream portion 408 of the well flow line 402 through an exit valve 410 .
- a bypass line 412 can be installed to the well flow line 402 to direct fluid flow from the upstream portion 404 to the downstream portion 408 without passing through the pipe segment 100 for cooling.
- a bypass valve 414 can permit or prevent flow through the bypass line 412 .
- a drain line 416 can be installed to the pipe segment 100 in order to drain fluid from the pipe segment 100 to a drain receptacle 418 for maintenance of the pipe segment 100 .
- a drain valve 420 can permit or prevent flow through the drain line 412 .
- valves 406 and 410 are open, while valves 414 and 420 are closed.
- valves 406 and 410 are closed, while valves 414 and 420 are open.
- pipe segments and fluid management systems that are substantially similar in construction and function to the pipe segment 100 and the fluid management system 400 may include one or more different dimensions, sizes, shapes, arrangements, and materials.
- pipe segments that are otherwise substantially similar in construction and function to the pipe segment 100 may include pipe segments that are of a shape different from that of the pipe elements 104 .
- Example alternative shapes may include a non-circular cross-sectional shape (for example, such as an elliptical cross-sectional shape or another cross-sectional shape) that may enhance heat conduction from evaporator sections to condenser sections of the pipe elements and further heat release to an ambient environment without otherwise substantially affecting a behavior of the flow of fluid within a lumen of the pipe segment.
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Abstract
Description
- This disclosure relates to heat transfer apparatuses for cooling fluid flowing through pipelines in oil and gas applications.
- Heat pipes are used for cooling flowing fluids in various applications (for example, such as electronics, oil and gas, space craft heat removal systems, solar systems, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems) that require heat dissipation for maintaining the mechanical integrity of surrounding system components. Heat pipes typically have a high thermal conductivity and can rely on changes between liquid and vapor phases of heat transfer fluids for operation. In some examples, cooling a high temperature fluid flowing in oil and gas pipelines may be desirable for reducing the temperature to one that is safe for pipelines made of certain materials. Such cooling aspects can also affect associated manufacturing approaches, installation of cooling systems, and operational costs.
- This disclosure relates to heat transfer apparatuses used for cooling fluid flowing through pipelines in various oil and gas contexts. An example heat transfer apparatus is provided as a pipe segment (for example, such as a pipe spool) that carries multiple pipe elements (for example, such as heat pipes). The pipe elements extend radially outward from a centerline of the pipe segment such that the pipe elements span a wall of the pipe segment. Therefore, a portion of each pipe element is disposed internal to the pipe segment and contacts a fluid flowing axially through the pipe segment, while a portion of each pipe element is disposed external to the pipe segment. The pipe elements are arranged in an axial array along the wall of the pipe segment and contain a working fluid. The working fluid absorbs heat from the fluid flowing through the pipe segment and releases heat through the pipe element to an external environment that surrounds the pipe segment. An internal flow obstruction is arranged coaxially with the pipe segment and diverts the fluid flowing axially through the pipe segment in a radially outward direction to maximize contact between the fluid and the pipe elements for improving an efficiency of the heat transfer between the fluid and the pipe elements.
- In one aspect, a heat transfer apparatus includes a tubular wall defining a lumen and multiple pipe elements arranged about a circumference of the tubular wall and passing through the tubular wall. The lumen is configured such that fluid flows through the lumen of the heat transfer apparatus. Each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes an interior portion located within the lumen of the tubular wall and configured to absorb heat from the fluid that flows through the lumen and includes an exterior portion located exterior to the tubular wall and configured to release at least a portion of the heat absorbed at the interior portion to an ambient environment.
- Embodiments may provide one or more of the following features.
- In some embodiments, each pipe element of a subset of the multiple pipe elements is arranged in a circumferential row at a same axial position along the tubular wall.
- In some embodiments, the multiple pipe elements include multiple circumferential rows of pipe elements arranged at different axial positions along the tubular wall.
- In some embodiments, each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes a working fluid that evaporates upon absorbing heat from the fluid flowing through the lumen of the tubular wall along the interior portion of the pipe element and that condenses upon releasing heat along the exterior portion of the pipe element to the ambient environment.
- In some embodiments, each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements is configured such that the working fluid flows in a gas phase from the interior portion to the exterior portion upon absorbing heat from the fluid flowing through the lumen of the tubular wall.
- In some embodiments, each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements is configured such that the working fluid flows in a liquid phase from the exterior portion to the interior portion upon releasing heat to the ambient environment.
- In some embodiments, each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements further includes a layer of material that facilitates flow of the fluid in the liquid phase via capillary action.
- In some embodiments, each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes an adiabatic portion that spans the tubular wall between the interior and exterior portions.
- In some embodiments, each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes multiple fins that facilitate heat transfer from the pipe element to the ambient environment.
- In some embodiments, each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements extends in a radial direction with respect to a central axis of the tubular wall.
- In some embodiments, the multiple pipe elements are configured such that an exit temperature of the fluid flowing out of the heat transfer apparatus is about 30° C. to about 70° C. cooler than an entry temperature of the fluid flowing into the heat transfer apparatus.
- In some embodiments, the multiple pipe elements are made of one or more materials including coated carbon steel, copper, and alloys.
- In some embodiments, the working fluid includes water, methanol, or acetone.
- In some embodiments, the heat transfer apparatus further includes a flow obstruction arranged coaxially with the tubular wall.
- In some embodiments, the flow obstruction is configured to divert fluid flowing through the heat transfer apparatus radially outward towards the multiple pipe elements.
- In some embodiments, the lumen has a substantially annular cross-sectional shape.
- In some embodiments, a cross-sectional area of the lumen is equal to a cross-sectional area of a flow line to which the heat transfer apparatus is installed.
- In some embodiments, the flow obstruction has a smooth surface profile that prevents a pressure drop in the fluid as the fluid flows through the tubular wall.
- In another aspect, a fluid management system includes a heat transfer apparatus configured to be installed to a first fluid flow line, a second fluid flow line by which fluid flowing through the first fluid flow line can bypass the heat transfer apparatus, a third fluid flow line by which fluid can be drained from the heat transfer apparatus, and multiple valves by which fluid can be managed with respect to the heat transfer apparatus, the first fluid flow line, the second fluid flow line, and the third fluid flow line. The second fluid flow line is configured to be installed to the first fluid flow line in parallel with the heat transfer apparatus. The third fluid flow line is configured to be installed to the heat transfer apparatus. The heat transfer apparatus includes a tubular wall defining a lumen and multiple pipe elements arranged about a circumference of the tubular wall and passing through the tubular wall. The lumen is configured such that fluid flows through the lumen of the heat transfer apparatus. Each pipe element of the multiple pipe elements includes an interior portion located within the lumen of the tubular wall and configured to absorb heat from the fluid that flows through the lumen and includes an exterior portion located exterior to the tubular wall and configured to release at least a portion of the heat absorbed at the interior portion to an ambient environment.
- In another aspect, a method of cooling a fluid flowing through a heat transfer apparatus includes flowing the fluid through a lumen of a tubular wall carrying multiple pipe elements arranged about a circumference of the tubular wall and passing through the tubular wall, absorbing heat from the fluid along interior portions of the multiple pipe elements that are located within the lumen as the fluid flows through the lumen, and releasing heat from exterior portions of the multiple pipe elements that are located exterior to the tubular wall as the fluid flows through the lumen.
- The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and description. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the embodiments will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example pipe segment used to transfer heat out of fluid flowing through a well flow line. -
FIG. 2 is front view of the pipe segment ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is front cross-sectional view of the pipe segment ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is side cross-sectional view of a central wall of the pipe segment ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of one of multiple example pipe elements carried by the central wall of the pipe segment ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is a graph showing an example temperature drop across the pipe segment ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of cooling a fluid flowing through the pipe segment ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an example fluid management system that includes the pipe segment ofFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 1-4 illustrate multiple views of a pipe segment 100 (for example, such as a pipe spool) that is designed to be installed in-line with a well flow line (for example, such as an oil, gas, or water well flow line) for cooling fluid that flows through the well flow line in various oil and gas applications. Thepipe segment 100 includes acentral wall 102,multiple pipe elements 104 disposed across thecentral wall 102, a flow diversion component 106 (for example, such as a flow obstruction), arranged coaxially with thecentral wall 102, andrims 108 located atopposite ends central wall 102 for installation of thepipe segment 100 to a well flow line. - The
central wall 102 is generally cylindrical in shape and definesmultiple openings 114 through which thepipe elements 104 respectively pass. Thecentral wall 102 and theflow diversion component 106 together define alumen 118. Thelumen 118 is centered along acentral axis 116 of the pipe segment 100 (for example, such as of the central wall 102) such that thelumen 118 has a generally annular cross-sectional shape, as provided by the coaxial arrangement of theflow diversion component 106 within thecentral wall 102 and accounting for minor deviations from the annular shape owing to extension of thepipe elements 104 into thelumen 118. Theflow diversion component 106 is a solid mass that serves as an obstruction to flow through thelumen 118. The flow diversion component is radially symmetric with respect to thecentral axis 116 and extends the length of thecentral wall 102. Theflow diversion component 106 includes acentral portion 120 of constant diameter and two rounded, generally semi-ellipsoidal shapedend portions 122. Accordingly, theflow diversion component 106 has a general structure of a solid, closed pipe or tube. Fluid enters thelumen 118 at thefirst end 110 of thecentral wall 102, flows in adirection 124 around theflow diversion component 106 upon encountering afirst end portion 122 so that the fluid is cooled by thepipe elements 104, and exits thelumen 118 at thesecond end 112 of thecentral wall 102, as will be discussed in more detail below. - The
central wall 102 typically has an inner diameter of about 0.1 meters (m) to about 1.6 m, a wall thickness of about 0.2 millimeters (mm) to about 60 mm, and a length in a range of about 1 m to about 5 m. Thecentral portion 120 of theflow diversion component 106 typically has a diameter of about 0.05 m to about 1.3 m. Therims 108 at theends central wall 102 are formed to interface with components (for example, such as flange ends or welded joints) of the well flow line for installation of thepipe segment 100 to the well flow line. Therims 108 typically have an outer diameter of about 30 mm to about 1,300 mm and an inner diameter that is about equal to the inner diameter of thecentral wall 102. In some embodiments, thecentral wall 102, therims 108, and theflow diversion component 106 are made of one or more materials that are corrosion and erosion resistant and that can withstand fluid and ambient temperatures of up to about 120 degrees Centigrade (° C.), as well as a fluid pressure of up to about 20.7 megapascals (MPa). Example materials from which thecentral wall 102, therims 108, and theflow diversion component 106 are typically made include carbon steel and stainless steel. Thewall 102, therims 108, and thecomponent 106 may be made of the same one or more materials or from different materials. - Still referring to
FIGS. 1-4 , the pipe elements 104 (for example, such as heat pipes) are co-located with theopenings 114 in thecentral wall 102 and are arranged in an array that surrounds and extends along a portion of thecentral axis 116. Thepipe elements 104 span the central wall 102 (for example, such as pass through the openings 114) and extend radially outward with respect to thecentral axis 116. Therefore, a portion of eachpipe element 104 is disposed internal to thecentral wall 102 and contacts the fluid flowing axially therethrough, while a portion of eachpipe element 104 is disposed external to thecentral wall 102 and exposed to the ambient environment 14. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , thepipe elements 104 are heat dissipating elements that are designed to transfer heat from a fluid of a relatively hot temperature flowing through thepipe segment 100 to anambient environment 142 of a relatively cold temperature (for example, such as air) external to thepipe segment 100. Eachpipe element 104 includes ahousing 126 containing awick material 148 and a working fluid 128 (for example, such as a heat transfer fluid) that continuously flows within thehousing 126 as fluid flows through thelumen 118 of thepipe segment 100. Thewick material 148 is a thin layer of material disposed along an inner surface of thehousing 126 and facilitates fluid flow along the inner surface via capillary action. Spanning thecentral wall 102 with fluid flowing through thelumen 118, eachpipe element 104 includes anevaporator section 130 located within thelumen 118, anadiabatic section 132 that passes through thecentral wall 102, and acondenser section 134 located external to thecentral wall 102. Eachpipe element 104 also includesmultiple fins 150 arranged along thecondenser section 134 to facilitate heat transfer between thepipe element 104 and theambient environment 142. - Heat carried by the fluid flowing through the
lumen 118 of thecentral wall 102 is absorbed (denoted by the arrows 136) by thepipe element 104 along theevaporation section 130, thereby causing the working fluid 128 (for example, such as in a liquid phase) flowing along thewick material 148 to evaporate (denoted by the arrows 138) and flow centrally in a gas phase (for example, such as a vapor phase, denoted by arrows 140) through theadiabatic section 132 towards thecondenser section 134 due to a pressure difference in the fluid between theevaporator section 130 and thecondenser section 134. Once the workingfluid 128 reaches thecondenser section 134 in the gas phase, theambient environment 142 external to thepipe element 104 absorbs heat (denoted by arrows 154) from the workingfluid 128 through the wall of thepipe element 104, thereby causing the workingfluid 128 to condense (denoted by the arrows 144) to the liquid phase along thewick material 148 and flow back (denoted by the arrows 146) towards theevaporator section 138. - The cyclical process of heat transfer to and from the working
fluid 128 continues as long as fluid (for example, such as at a relatively hot temperature with respect to that of the ambient environment 142) flows through thelumen 118 of thepipe segment 100. In this manner, the fluid flowing through thelumen 118 of thepipe segment 100 serves as a heat source to thepipe element 104, while theambient environment 142 serves as a heat sink to thepipe element 104. Along theadiabatic section 132 of thepipe segment 104, heat is neither absorbed nor lost from the workingfluid 128. The temperature of fluid entering thepipe segment 100 at thefirst end 110 is typically in a range of about 55° C. to about 110° C., while the temperature of theambient environment 142 is typically in a range of about 5° C. to about 50° C. The temperature of fluid exiting thepipe segment 100 at thesecond end 112 is typically in a range of about 30° C. to about 70° C. - The
housing 126 is a closed structure with rounded end regions and typically has a length of about 5 centimeters (cm) to about 60 cm, a diameter of about 0.2 cm to about 1.0 cm, and a wall thickness of about 0.1 cm to about 0.5 cm. Thewick material 148 typically has a layer thickness of about 0.1 cm to about 0.5 cm, and the workingfluid 128 typically has a volume (for example, such as in a fully liquid phase) of about 10 milliliters (mL) to about 100 mL. The material formulations of thehousing 126 and thewick material 148 are compatible with each other and with the workingfluid 128 to ensure efficient heat transfer at thepipe element 104. For example, thehousing 126 is typically made of one or more materials including aluminum, copper, steel (for example, such as coated carbon steel), or metallic alloys (for example, such as nickel). Thewick material 148 typically includes one or more materials, such as metal fibers, glass fibers, or sintered powders of metals (for example, such as copper).Example working fluids 128 include water, methanol, acetone, ammonia, R134a, and alkali metals (for example, such as potassium and sodium). Thepipe elements 104 are respectively secured to thecentral wall 102 at theopenings 114 via an interference or shrink fit, bolts and screws, or welding. - Referring again to
FIG. 2 , thepipe elements 104 are distributed in an array that surrounds and extends along a portion of thecentral wall 102. Each row ofpipe elements 104 distributed about the circumference of thecentral wall 102 at a same axial position may be referred to as astage 152, such that the array includesmultiple stages 152 distributed axially along thecentral wall 102. A defined amount of heat is lost from the fluid flowing through thepipe segment 100 at eachstage 152 and depends on the number ofpipe elements 104 arranged in thestage 152. That is, the amount of heat lost increases as the number ofpipe elements 104 perstage 152 increases, while the amount of heat lost decreases as the number ofpipe elements 104 perstage 152 decreases, such that the heat lost at eachstage 152 is directly proportional to the number ofpipe elements 104 within eachstage 152. Accordingly, the number ofpipe elements 104 per stage can be optimized, and the total number ofstages 152 distributed along the axial direction can be optimized with respect to dimensions of thepipe segment 100. In some embodiments, thepipe segment 100 includes 10 to 50pipe elements 104 perstage 152 that are spaced equidistantly apart about the circumference of thecentral wall 102. In some embodiments, thestages 152 are spaced about 2 cm to about 6 cm apart from one another. In some embodiments, thepipe segment 100 includes a total of 5 to 500stages 152. - A series of
stages 152 arranged axially along thecentral wall 102 results in a desired total heat loss across thepipe segment 100, as shown in theexample graph 200 ofFIG. 6 . In theexample graph 200, the temperature of the fluid flowing through thelumen 118 is shown qualitatively and as dimensionless, and the number ofstages 152 arranged axially along thepipe segment 100 is arbitrary. As illustrated in thegraph 200, the temperature of the fluid flowing through thelumen 118 is inversely related to the number ofstages 152 present within thepipe segment 100. Accordingly, the heat lost from the fluid flowing through thelumen 118 is directly proportional to the number ofstages 152 present within thepipe segment 100. - Referring again to
FIG. 4 , thepipe elements 104 are distributed about the circumference of thecentral wall 102. Therefore, without the presence of theflow diversion component 106, all of the fluid flowing through thelumen 118 would not have contact with thepipe elements 104 that is sufficient to achieve cooling. For example, fluid flowing past or in close proximity to theheat pipes 104 would be cooled, whereas fluid flowing in close proximity to the central axis 116 (for example, such as further away from the pipe elements 104) would not be cooled. Accordingly, theflow diversion component 106 is positioned coaxially with thecentral wall 102 in order to divert the fluid radially towards thepipe elements 104. Such configuration maximizes contact between all of the fluid flowing through thelumen 118 and thepipe elements 104 to provide efficient cooling of the fluid. - Referring again to
FIG. 3 , theend portion 122 of theflow diversion component 106 located at the entrance of the pipe segment 100 (for example, as well as theend portion 122 located at the exit of the pipe segment 100) provides a smooth surface profile that promotes a smooth, streamlined, laminar fluid flow to prevent a pressure drop across thepipe segment 100 and prevent turbulences within thelumen 118 that may otherwise occur as fluid would enter thelumen 118 along a non-smooth surface profile. In some embodiments, theflow diversion component 106 is sized (for example, such as relative to the central wall 102) such that a total cross-sectional area of the annular lumen 118 (for example, such as along thecentral portion 120 of the flow diversion component 106) is equal (or about equal) to a cross-sectional area of the well flow line to which thepipe segment 100 is installed. Maintaining the cross-sectional area through which the fluid flows also prevents a pressure drop across thepipe segment 100 and maintains a flow rate at which the fluid is flowing through thepipe segment 100. Fluid typically flows through thepipe segment 100 at a flow rate of about 0.9 liters per second (L/s) to about 10 L/s. On a rare occasion at which a pressure drop may occur across thepipe segment 100, a choke valve positioned upstream of the pipe segment 100 (for example, such as positioned along the fluid flow path before the pipe segment 100) can be relaxed (for example, such as opened wider) to accommodate such pressure drop. - Owing to the reduced temperature of the fluid exiting the
pipe segment 100, non-metallic pipes that cannot tolerate such high entry fluid temperatures may be used downstream of thepipe segment 100 along the fluid flow path. Example materials from which the non-metallic pipes may be made include temperature-limited reinforced thermoplastic pipe (RTP) materials and reinforced thermal resin (RTR) materials. Such pipe selections can improve process safety. For example, the non-metallic materials have a temperature limitation, such that the non-metallic materials fail if the flowing fluid has a temperature higher than the thermal capability of the pipe material. Such pipe selections can also quicken tie-in activities. For example, reducing the fluid flow temperature using thepipe segment 100 can allow non-metallic pipes to be used in a manner that is safe for high temperature applications. Non-metallic pipes can be constructed more easily and more quickly than can conventional carbon steel pipes, which improves the tie-in schedule of the wells by reducing the time, costs, and efforts. Such pipe selections can also reduce other costs associated with the use of metallic piping. Furthermore, thepipe segment 100 has a compact footprint and simple design that functions without a power source, functions without rotating or other moving equipment, and is easy to install and remove from a well flow line. Other advantages provided by thepipe segment 100 include a low environmental burden in that no toxic materials or radiation is used and in that thepipe segment 100 is a closed system, such that no fluids are disposed of to the ambient environment. Thepipe segment 100 also has low manufacturing and operational costs. The design of thepipe segment 100 is also flexible in that the number ofpipe elements 104 perstage 152 and the total number ofstages 152 can be selected based on a desired heat transfer effect. -
FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating anexample method 300 of cooling a fluid flowing through a heat transfer apparatus (for example, such as the pipe segment 100). In some embodiments, fluid is flowed through a lumen (for example, such as the lumen 118) of a tubular wall (for example, such as the central wall 102) carrying multiple pipe elements (for example, such as the pipe elements 104) arranged about a circumference of the tubular wall and passing through the tubular wall (302). In some embodiments, heat is absorbed from the fluid along interior portions (for example, such as the evaporator sections 130) of the multiple pipe elements that are located within the lumen as the fluid flows through the lumen (304). In some embodiments, heat is released from exterior portions (for example, such as the condenser sections 134) of the multiple pipe elements that are located exterior to the tubular wall as the fluid flows through the lumen (306). -
FIG. 8 is a schematic drawing illustrating afluid management system 400 in which thepipe segment 100 is installed to awell flow line 402 with multiple isolation valves for operation. Anupstream portion 404 of thewell flow line 402 delivers fluid to thepipe segment 100 through anentry valve 406, and thepipe segment 100 delivers fluid to adownstream portion 408 of thewell flow line 402 through anexit valve 410. For operational and maintenance flexibility, abypass line 412 can be installed to thewell flow line 402 to direct fluid flow from theupstream portion 404 to thedownstream portion 408 without passing through thepipe segment 100 for cooling. Abypass valve 414 can permit or prevent flow through thebypass line 412. Additionally, adrain line 416 can be installed to thepipe segment 100 in order to drain fluid from thepipe segment 100 to adrain receptacle 418 for maintenance of thepipe segment 100. Adrain valve 420 can permit or prevent flow through thedrain line 412. During operation of thepipe segment 100,valves valves pipe segment 100 is to be removed from thefluid management system 400 for maintenance,valves valves - While the above-discussed
pipe segment 100 andfluid management system 400 have been described as including certain dimensions, sizes, shapes, arrangements and materials, in some embodiments, pipe segments and fluid management systems that are substantially similar in construction and function to thepipe segment 100 and thefluid management system 400 may include one or more different dimensions, sizes, shapes, arrangements, and materials. - For example, while the
pipe elements 104 are described and illustrated as having a generally tubular shape, in some embodiments, pipe segments that are otherwise substantially similar in construction and function to thepipe segment 100 may include pipe segments that are of a shape different from that of thepipe elements 104. Example alternative shapes may include a non-circular cross-sectional shape (for example, such as an elliptical cross-sectional shape or another cross-sectional shape) that may enhance heat conduction from evaporator sections to condenser sections of the pipe elements and further heat release to an ambient environment without otherwise substantially affecting a behavior of the flow of fluid within a lumen of the pipe segment. - Other embodiments are also within the scope of the following claims.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/997,591 US20190368821A1 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2018-06-04 | Heat transfer apparatuses for oil and gas applications |
PCT/US2019/032952 WO2019236270A1 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2019-05-17 | Heat transfer apparatuses for oil and gas applications |
EP19733217.4A EP3803249A1 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2019-05-17 | Heat transfer apparatuses for oil and gas applications |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/997,591 US20190368821A1 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2018-06-04 | Heat transfer apparatuses for oil and gas applications |
Publications (1)
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US20190368821A1 true US20190368821A1 (en) | 2019-12-05 |
Family
ID=67003633
Family Applications (1)
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US15/997,591 Abandoned US20190368821A1 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2018-06-04 | Heat transfer apparatuses for oil and gas applications |
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US (1) | US20190368821A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3803249A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2019236270A1 (en) |
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CN2362091Y (en) * | 1999-03-05 | 2000-02-02 | 王斌 | Heat pipe fin heat-exchanger |
DE102008053090A1 (en) * | 2008-10-24 | 2010-04-29 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Dynamoelectric machine |
-
2018
- 2018-06-04 US US15/997,591 patent/US20190368821A1/en not_active Abandoned
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- 2019-05-17 EP EP19733217.4A patent/EP3803249A1/en not_active Withdrawn
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EP3803249A1 (en) | 2021-04-14 |
WO2019236270A1 (en) | 2019-12-12 |
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