The present application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-164870 filed in Japan on Oct. 6, 2021 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-152654 filed in Japan on Sep. 26, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
The present invention relates to an estimation device, an estimation method, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium for a thickness of a deposit.
Typically, in an oil pipeline or a gas pipeline, due to the conditions such as temperature and pressure, a deposit such as hydrate, wax, asphaltene, or scale gets formed. That issue is handled by removing the deposit according to a method of inserting a pharmacological agent called an inhibitor that suppresses the generation of the deposit, or according to a method of passing a tool called a pig into the pipeline. However, in the present situation, since there are no means to measure the thickness of the formed deposit (hereinafter, referred to as “deposit thickness”), it has not been possible to optimally implement the measures such as using an inhibitor or a pig. Hence, there has been a demand for a technology that enables estimation of the deposit thickness inside a pipe.
As that kind of technologies, Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2019-133596, U. S. Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0059505, U.S. Pat. No. 8,960,305 mentioned below can be cited.
However, in the technologies mentioned above, it is difficult to accurately estimate the deposit thickness inside a pipe. That is because of the following issues faced in the technologies mentioned above. Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2019-133596 represents the technology for estimating the shape of the deposit using a plurality of temperature sensors installed on the circular pipe surface. However, in that technology, unless the temperature of the fluid inside and outside of the pipe can be accurately estimated or measured, it is not possible to accurately estimate the deposit shape. For example, if the estimated value of the fluid temperature inside and outside of the pipe is not correct; then, according to that technology, the shape of the deposit is estimated to have a greater thickness or a smaller thickness than the actual shape.
Moreover, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2019-133596, if the fluid temperature is provided on experiential grounds or based on the analysis of a flow simulator, then that temperature is likely to be significantly different than the actual temperature. In the case of estimating such a value based on the past estimation results, due to the fact that the temperature inside and outside of the pipe changes with time, the difference between the estimated value and the actual value goes on increasing with time.
U. S. Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0059505 represents a deposit monitoring technology in which the deposit is monitored by measuring the pipe surface temperature of an oil pipeline or a gas pipeline using an array temperature sensor. However, in that technology, unless the temperature of the fluid inside and outside of the pipe can be accurately estimated or measured, it is not possible to estimate the deposit shape with accuracy.
Furthermore, U.S. Pat. No. 8,960,305 represents a technology in which the temperature, the vibrations, the pressure, and the strain distribution in the pipe axis direction of a pipeline is measured using a distributed temperature sensor (DTS), and a model of the pipeline such as a flow assurance simulator is corrected to monitor the state of the entire pipeline. In that technology, since the fluid temperature inside the pipe cannot be accurately estimated, the deposit thickness cannot be estimated with accuracy. Hence, there has been a demand for an estimation device that enables accurate estimation of the deposit thickness inside a pipe.
One or more embodiments provide an improvement over conventional technologies by allowing accurate estimations to be made of deposit thickness inside a pipe. According to one or more embodiments, An estimation device includes, a first obtaining unit (a controller) that obtains first-type temperature data for a position corresponding to outside of a first-type position of a pipe in which a fluid flows, a second obtaining unit (the controller) that obtains second-type temperature data for a position corresponding to outside of a second-type position of the pipe at which condition related to heat transfer is different than condition at the first-type position; and an estimating unit (the controller) that based on the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data, calculates thermal resistance of a deposit formed on inner surface of the pipe, and estimates thickness of the deposit.
According to one or more embodiments, an estimation method includes, obtaining first-type temperature data for a position corresponding to outside of a first-type position of a pipe in which a fluid flows, obtaining second-type temperature data for a position corresponding to outside of a second-type position of the pipe at which condition related to heat transfer is different than condition at the first-type position, and estimating that includes calculating, based on the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data, thermal resistance of a deposit formed on inner surface of the pipe, and estimating thickness of the deposit.
According to an one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium stores therein estimation instructions that cause a computer to execute a process including, obtaining first-type temperature data for a position corresponding to outside of a first-type position of a pipe in which a fluid flows, obtaining second-type temperature data for a position corresponding to outside of a second-type position of the pipe at which condition related to heat transfer is different than condition at the first-type position, and estimating that includes calculating, based on the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data, thermal resistance of a deposit formed on inner surface of the pipe, and estimating thickness of the deposit.
Embodiments of an estimation device, an estimation method, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium according to the present invention is described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited by the embodiments described below.
The following explanation is given in the order of a configuration of an estimation system 100 according to one or more embodiments, a configuration of an estimation device 10, the flow of various operations, and specific examples of a pipe and a temperature sensor. That is followed by the explanation about the effects of one or more embodiments
Configuration of Estimation System 100
Explained below in detail with reference to
Exemplary Configuration of Entire System
The estimation system 100 includes the estimation device 10 and temperature sensors 40 (40A-1, 40A-2, 40B-1, and 40B-2). The estimation device 10 and the temperature sensor 40 are communicably connected to each other in a wired manner or a wireless manner via a predetermined communication network (not illustrated). Meanwhile, the estimation system 100 illustrated in
The temperature sensor 40A-1 is installed on the outer surface of a pipe 20 of an oil pipeline or a gas pipeline. The temperature sensor 40A-2 is installed on the outer surface of a heat insulation agent 30A that covers the pipe 20. The temperature sensor 40B-1 is installed on the outer surface of the pipe 20 of an oil pipeline or a gas pipeline. The temperature sensor 40B-2 is installed on the outer surface of a heat insulation agent 30B that covers the pipe 20 and that has a different thickness than the thickness of the heat insulation agent 30A. Meanwhile, a fluid 50 such as oil or a gas flows through the pipe 20. Moreover, a deposit 60 such as hydrate, wax, asphaltene, or scale gets formed on the inner surface of the pipe 20.
Operations Performed in Entire System
Regarding the system explained above, the following explanation is given about estimating the deposit thickness inside the pipe. Firstly, on the outside of a position of the pipe 20 at which the deposit 60 is formed on the inner surface (hereinafter, called a “first deposit formation position”), the estimation device 10 obtains the pipe surface temperature from the temperature sensor 40A-1 and obtains the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature from the temperature sensor 40A-2 (Step S1). Moreover, on the outside of a position of the pipe 20 at which the deposit 60 is formed on the inner surface and which is different than the first deposit formation position (hereinafter, called a “second deposit formation position”), the estimation device 10 obtains the pipe surface temperature from the temperature sensor 4 GB-1 and obtains the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature from the temperature sensor 40B-2 (Step S2).
The temperature sensors 40 (40A and 40B) are, for example, thermocouple sensors, or resistance temperature detectors, or DTSs, or thermography cameras. The temperature sensors 40A measure the pipe surface temperature and the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature at the first deposit formation position. The temperature sensors 40B measure the pipe surface temperature and the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature at the second deposit formation position. With reference to
Subsequently, using the temperature data obtained from the temperature sensors 40A and 40B, the estimation device 10 calculates the thermal resistance of the deposit 60 and then estimates the deposit thickness (Step S3). Regarding the details of the estimation operation for estimating the deposit thickness, the explanation is given later in [Flow of operations] (4. Flow of deposit thickness estimation operation). Moreover, using the temperature data obtained from the temperature sensors 40A and 40B, the estimation device 10 can also estimate the in-pipe fluid temperature. Regarding the details of the estimation operation for estimating the in-pipe fluid temperature, the explanation is given later in [Flow of operations] (5. Flow of in-pipe fluid temperature estimation operation).
As a result of performing the operations from Step S1 to Step S3 explained above, the thickness of the deposit formed inside the pipeline can be estimated in an inexpensive, non-invasive, and accurate manner without having to measure the fluid temperature inside the oil pipeline or the gas pipeline.
Configuration of estimation device 10 and other devices
Explained below with reference to
1. Configuration of Estimation Device 10
The estimation device 10 includes an input unit 11, an output unit 12, a communication unit 13, a memory unit 14, and a control unit 15. The input unit 11 controls the input of a variety of information to the estimation device 10. For example, the input unit 11 is implemented using a mouse or a keyboard, and receives input of the setting information with respect to the estimation device 10. The output unit 12 controls the output of a variety of information from the estimation device 10. For example, the output unit 12 is implemented using a display, and outputs the setting information stored in the estimation device 10.
The communication unit 13 controls the data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 13 communicates data with other devices via a network device (not illustrated). Moreover, the communication unit 13 can communicate data with the operator terminal (not illustrated).
The memory unit 14 is used to store a variety of information referred to by the control unit 15 while performing operations, and to store a variety of information obtained by the control unit 15 while performing operations. The memory unit 14 can be implemented using, for example, a semiconductor memory device such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory; or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disc. Meanwhile, in the example illustrated in
Herein, the memory unit 14 is used to store the information to be used in an estimation operation performed by an estimating unit 15c. For example, the memory unit 14 is used to store the following measured values and estimated values: thermal conductivity kp of the pipe; thermal conductivity ki (ki1, ki2) of the heat insulation agents; thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit; outer radius rpo of the pipe (i.e., the inner radius of the heat insulation agents); inner radius rpi of the pipe; and outer radius ri (ri1, ri2) of the heat insulation agents. Moreover, the memory unit 14 is used to store the following information: the thickness, the material, the shape, and the layer count of the heat insulation agents; the arrangement of the temperature sensors 40; the pipe-related information such as the structure of the pipe; a heat transfer coefficient houter1 of the pipe; a heat transfer coefficient houter2 of the heat insulation agents; the fluid velocity of the fluid inside the pipe; the surrounding temperature; and the present or absence of wind.
The control unit 15 controls the estimation device 10 in entirety. The control unit 15 includes a first obtaining unit 15a, a second obtaining unit 15b, and the estimating unit 15c. The control unit 15 can be implemented, for example, using an electronic circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU); or using an integrated circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).
First Obtaining Unit 15a
The first obtaining unit 15a obtains first-type temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of a first-type position of the pipe 20 through which the fluid 50 flows. The first-type temperature data represents one or more sets of temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of an arbitrary position of the pipe 20 through which the fluid 50 flows; and indicates the pipe surface temperature, the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature, the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agents, the air temperature, and the fluid temperature on the outside of the pipe.
Regarding the first-type position, for example, as the first-type temperature data, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains the temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20 at which the deposit 60 is formed on the inner surface of the pipe 20. Moreover, as the first-type temperature data, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains one or more sets of temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20 at which the pipe 20 is covered by a cladding. Furthermore, as the first-type temperature data, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains one or more sets of temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20 at which the pipe 20 is not covered by a cladding such as the heat insulation agents 30 (30A, 30A). Herein, the cladding represents a heat insulation agent, or a protective layer, or a cushioning material.
With reference to the example illustrated in
Regarding the obtained temperature data, for example, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains, as the first-type temperature, the temperature data of the pipe surface and the cladding surface on the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20. At that time, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains first-type pipe surface temperature representing the temperature of the outer surface at the first-type position of the pipe 20, and obtains first-type cladding surface temperature representing the temperature of the cladding surface that is on the outside of the pipe 20 in a radial direction from the first-type position. Moreover, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains, as the first-type temperature data, two sets of temperature data of the inside of the cladding that is on the outside of the pipe 20 in a radial direction from the first-type position. That is, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains the temperature data of a temperature T1(T5) representing the pipe surface temperature or the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agent 30 near the pipe surface, and obtains the temperature data of a temperature T3 representing the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature or the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agent 30 near the heat insulation agent surface. Moreover, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains, as the first-type temperature data, the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature on the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20. That is, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains the temperature data of a temperature T6 representing the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature. Moreover, as far as obtaining information other than the temperature data is concerned, the first obtaining unit 15a obtains first-type heat flux data that is used in calculating a heat movement amount Q1 from the fluid 50 toward the outside of the pipe 20 at the first-type position.
Second Obtaining Unit 15b
The second obtaining unit 15b obtains second-type temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of a second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the conditions regarding heat transfer are different than the conditions at the first-type position. The conditions regarding heat transfer indicate the conditions related to the amount of heat movement, such as the thermal resistance or the thermal conductivity of the heat insulation agents and the heat transfer coefficient of the pipe surface. That is, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains, as the second-type temperature data, one or more sets of temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the thermal resistance is different than the thermal resistance at the first-type position due to the difference in at least either the thickness, or the material, or the shape, or the layer count of the cladding.
Moreover, regarding the second-type position, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains, as the second-type temperature data, the temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the deposit 60 is formed. At that time, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains, as the second-type temperature data, the temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the deposit 60 is formed under the same conditions as the conditions at the first-type position. That is, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains, as the second-type temperature data, the temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the deposit 60 is formed that has the same thickness and the same type as the deposit 60 formed at the first-type position. Furthermore, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains, as the second-type temperature data, one or more sets of temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the pipe 20 is covered by a cladding such as the heat insulation agent 30. Alternatively, the second obtaining unit 15b can obtain, as the second-type temperature data, one or more sets of temperature data for the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the pipe 20 is not covered by a cladding such as the heat insulation agent 30.
With reference to the example illustrated in
Regarding the obtained temperature data, for example, as the second-type temperature data, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains the temperature data of the pipe surface and the cladding surface on the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20. At that time, as the second-type temperature data, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains second-type pipe surface temperature representing the temperature of the outer surface at the second-type position of the pipe 20, and obtains second-type cladding surface temperature representing the temperature of the cladding surface that is on the outside of the pipe 20 in a radial direction from the second-type position. Moreover, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains two sets of second-type temperature data of the inside of the cladding that is on the outside of the pipe 20 in a radial direction from the second-type position. That is, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains the temperature data of a temperature T2 representing the pipe surface temperature or the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agent 30 near the pipe surface, and obtains the temperature data of a temperature T4 representing the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature or the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agent 30 near the heat insulation agent surface. Moreover, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains, as the second-type temperature data, the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature on the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20. That is, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains the temperature data of the temperature T6 representing the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature. Moreover, as far as obtaining information other than the temperature data is concerned, the second obtaining unit 15b obtains second-type heat flux data that is used in calculating a heat movement amount Q2 from the fluid 50 toward the outside of the pipe 20 at the second-type position.
Estimating unit 15c The estimating unit 15c calculates, based on the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data, thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 formed on the inner surface of the pipe 20, and then estimates thickness S of the deposit 60. For example, the estimating unit 15c calculates temperature difference data by referring to the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data; calculates the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 based on the temperature difference data; and then estimates the thickness S of the deposit 60. Moreover, the estimating unit 15c calculates the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 using the temperature difference data, the thermal resistance of the fluid 50, the thermal resistance of the pipe 20, and the thermal resistance of the cladding such as the heat insulation agent 30; and then estimates the thickness S of the deposit 60. At that time, the estimating unit 15c calculates the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 using the temperature difference between the first-type pipe surface temperature and the first-type cladding surface temperature, the temperature difference between the second-type pipe surface temperature and the second-type cladding surface temperature, the temperature difference between the first-type pipe surface temperature and the second-type pipe surface temperature, the thermal resistance of the fluid 50, the thermal resistance of the pipe 20, and the thermal resistance of the cladding; and then estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 60. Moreover, the estimating unit 15c calculates the thermal resistance of the deposit 60 using the temperature difference between the two sets of first-type temperature data, the temperature difference between the two sets of second-type temperature data, the temperature difference between the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data selected from among the two sets of first-type temperature data and two sets of second-type temperature data based on the obtained positions, the thermal resistance of the fluid 50, the thermal resistance of the pipe 20, and the thermal resistance of the cladding; and then estimates the thickness of the deposit 60.
That is, the estimating unit 15c calculates the numerical value of the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 using: the temperatures T1(T5) and T3 representing the first-type temperature data; the temperatures T2 and T4 representing the second-type temperature data; the numerical values of T1-T3, T2-T4, and T2-T1 representing the sets of temperature difference data; the numerical value of Rinnht representing the thermal resistance of the fluid 50; the numerical value of Rpipe representing the thermal resistance of the pipe 20; and the numerical values of R1 and R2 representing the thermal resistances of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B. Then, the estimating unit 15c refers to the thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 60 as stored in the memory unit 14, and calculates the estimated value of the thickness δ of the deposit 60.
The estimating unit 15c calculates the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 using the air temperature or the fluid temperature on the outside of the pipe 20, or using the heat transfer coefficient of the surface of the cladding such as the heat insulation agents 30; and then estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 60. That is, the estimating unit 15c calculates the numerical value of the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 using the numerical value of the temperature T6 representing the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature, and using the heat transfer coefficients houter1 and houter2 of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B, respectively. Then, the estimating unit 15c refers to the thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 60 as stored in the memory unit 14, and calculates the estimated value of the thickness δ of the deposit 60.
The estimating unit 15c calculates the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 using the first-type temperature data, the second-type temperature data, the first-type heat flux data, and the second-type heat flux data; and then estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 60. That is, the estimating unit 15c calculates the numerical value of the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 using: the temperature T1(T5) representing the first-type temperature data; the temperature T2 representing the second-type temperature data; the numerical value of the heat movement amount Q1 obtained from the first-type heat flux data; and the numerical value of the heat movement amount Q2 obtained from the second-type heat flux data. Then, the estimating unit 15c refers to the thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 60 as stored in the memory unit 14, and calculates the estimated value of the thickness δ of the deposit 60.
With reference to the example illustrated in
Regarding the estimation of information other than the deposit thickness, the estimating unit 15c estimates the temperature of the fluid 50, which flows in the pipe 20, based on the temperature difference data. That is, using the numerical values of T1-T3, T2-T4, and T2-T1 representing the sets of temperature difference data, and using the numerical values of R1 and R2 representing the thermal resistances of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B, respectively; the estimating unit 15c calculates the estimated value of in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner. Meanwhile, under the condition that the deposit 60 is not formed inside the pipe 20, using the numerical values of T1-T3, T2-T4, and T2-T1 representing the sets of temperature difference data, using the numerical value of Rpipe representing the thermal resistance of the pipe 20, and using the numerical values of R1 and R2 representing the thermal resistances of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B, respectively; the estimating unit 15c can also calculate the estimated value of the thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 50.
2. Configuration of Temperature Sensors 40
Each of the temperature sensors 40 (40A-1, 40A-2, 40B-1, and 40B-2) includes function units such as a measuring unit (not illustrated) that measures the temperature, and a transceiving unit (not illustrated) that controls sending a variety of data to and receiving a variety of data from other devices.
Measuring Unit
The measuring unit of the temperature sensor 40A-1 obtains, from among the first-type temperature data, the temperature data of the pipe surface on the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20, the temperature data of the inside of the cladding, and the air temperature. That is, the measuring unit of the temperature sensor 40A-1 obtains the temperature T1 (T5) representing the pipe surface temperature or the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agent 30 near the pipe surface, and obtains the temperature data of the temperature T6 representing the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature. The measuring unit of the temperature sensor 40A-2 obtains, from among the first-type temperature data, the temperature data of the pipe surface on the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20, the temperature data of the inside of the cladding, and the air temperature. That is, the measuring unit of the temperature sensor 40A-2 obtains the temperature data of the temperature T3 representing the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature or the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agent 30 near the heat insulation agent surface, and obtains the temperature data of the temperature T6 representing the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature.
The measuring unit of the temperature sensor 40B-1 obtains, from among the second-type temperature data, the temperature data of the pipe surface on the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20, the temperature data of the inside of the cladding, and the air temperature. That is, the measuring unit of the temperature sensor 4 GB-1 obtains the temperature data of the temperature T2 representing the pipe surface temperature or the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agent 30 near the pipe surface, and obtains the temperature data of the temperature T6 representing the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature. The measuring unit of the temperature sensor 40B-2 obtains, from among the second-type temperature data, the temperature data of the cladding surface on the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20, the temperature data of the inside of the cladding, and the air temperature. That is, the measuring unit of the temperature sensor 4 GB-2 obtains the temperature data of the temperature T4 representing the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature or the temperature of the inside of the heat insulation agent 30 near the heat insulation agent surface, and obtains the temperature data of the temperature T6 representing the air temperature or the out-of-pipe fluid temperature.
Transceiving Unit
The transceiving unit of each temperature sensor 40 (40A-1, 40A-2, 40B-1, and 40B-2) sends the temperature data, which is measured by the corresponding measuring unit, to the estimation device 10. That is, the transceiving unit of the temperature sensors 40 send the temperature data of the measured temperatures T1 to T6 to the estimation device 10.
3. Configuration of Other Devices
A heat flux meter (not illustrated) is installed in each of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B. Moreover, the heat flux meter can also be installed on such surface of the pipe 20 on which the heat insulation agent is not provided. Each heat flux meter includes a measuring unit that measures the heat flux data, and a transceiving unit (not illustrated) that controls sending a variety of data to and receiving a variety of data from other devices. The measuring unit of each heat flux meter measures the heat flux data or the temperature data of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B and the portion of the pipe 20 not covered by a heat insulation agent. The transceiving unit of each heat flux meter sends the heat flux data or the temperature data, which is measured by the corresponding measuring unit, to the estimation device 10.
Flow of Various Operations
Explained below with reference to
1. Flow of Overall Operations
Explained below with reference to
Herein, the operations at Steps S101 and S102 can be performed simultaneously, or the operation at Step S101 can be performed after performing the operation at Step S102. In an identical manner, the operations at Steps S103 and S104 can be performed simultaneously, or the operation at Step S103 can be performed after performing the operation at Step S104. Moreover, either the operation at Step S103 or the operation at Step S104 can be skipped.
2. Flow of First-Type Obtaining Operation
Explained below with reference to
3. Flow of Second-Type Obtaining Operation
Explained below with reference to
4. Flow of Deposit Thickness Estimation Operation
Explained below with reference to
Deposit Thickness Estimation Method
Given below is the explanation of an example of the method for estimating the deposit thickness from the pipe surface temperature and the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature at the deposit formation positions at which the heat insulation agents have different thicknesses. Herein, when T1 represents the pipe surface temperature obtained by the first obtaining unit 15a, T3 represents the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature of the heat insulation agent 30A, T2 represents the pipe surface temperature obtained by the second obtaining unit 15b, and T4 represents the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature of the heat insulation agent 30B; the heat movement amounts Q1 and Q2 from the fluid 50 toward the outside of the pipe at the positions of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B, respectively, are expressed as given below by taking into account the movement of heat from the in-pipe fluid 50 to the pipe surface.
Herein, Tinner represents the in-pipe fluid temperature; Rdeposit represents the thermal resistance of the deposit 60; Rpipe represents the thermal resistance of the pipe 20; and Rinnht represents the thermal resistance attributed to the heat transfer of the fluid 50 inside the pipe. Moreover, by taking into account the movement of heat from the pipe surface to the heat insulation agent surface, regarding the heat movement amounts Q1 and Q2, relationships given below in Equation (3) and (4) are obtained.
Herein, R1 and R2 represent the thermal resistances of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B, respectively. From Equation (1) to Equation (4) given above, the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 can be calculated as given below in Equation (5).
In an identical manner, from Equation (1) to Equation (4) given above, the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner can be calculated as given below in Equation (6).
The thermal resistances R1 and R2 of the heat insulation agents 30A, respectively, can be calculated as given below in Equation (7) and Equation (8), respectively, using the following: the thermal conductivities ki1 and ki2 and outer radii ri1 and ri2 of the heat insulation agents 30A and 30B, respectively, as stored in the memory unit 14; the outer radius rpo of the pipe 20; and a length L in the pipe axis direction of the region taken into account for the movement of heat. Meanwhile, in Equation (7) and Equation (8), “ln” represents natural logarithm.
Meanwhile, the values of the thermal resistances R1 and R2 can be recorded in the memory unit 14. The thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 20 can be calculated as given below in Equation (9) using the inner radius rpi of the pipe 20 and the thermal conductivity kp inside the pipe 20. In Equation (9), “ln” represents natural logarithm.
Moreover, the thermal resistance Rinnht attributed to the heat transfer of the fluid 50 inside the pipe 20 can be calculated as given below in Equation (10) using the heat transfer coefficient hinner inside the pipe 20.
At that time, the deposit thickness δ and the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60 have the relationship as given below in Equation (11). The inner radius rpi of the pipe 20 corresponds to the outer radius of the deposit 60, and rpi-δ corresponds to the inner radius of the deposit 60. According to Equation (11) given below, greater the numerical value of the deposit thickness δ, the greater is the numerical value of the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60. In Equation (11), “ln” represents natural logarithm.
As explained above, using the thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 60 as stored in the memory unit 14, the thickness of the deposit 60 can be calculated from the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 60.
Flow of estimation operation Explained below with reference to
The estimating unit 15c performs the operations from Step S401 to Step S407, and then ends the deposit thickness estimation operation. Herein, the sequence and the execution timings of the input reception operations performed from Step S401 to Step S406 can be varied either dynamically or statically.
5. Flow of In-Pipe Fluid Temperature Estimation Operation
Explained below with reference to
The estimating unit 15c performs the operations from Step S501 to Step S504 explained above, and then ends the deposit thickness estimation operation. Herein, the sequence and the execution timings of the input reception operations performed from Step S501 to Step S503 can be varied either dynamically or statically.
Specific Examples of Pipe and Temperature Sensor
Explained below with reference
Explained below with reference to
Thus, the estimation device 10 can estimate the deposit thickness by measuring the pipe surface temperature and the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature for each type of heat insulation agent having a different thickness as illustrated in
Then, using the obtained temperature data of the temperatures T1 to T4, the stored thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 51, the stored thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 21, and the stored thermal resistances R1 and R2 of the heat insulation agents 31A and 31B, respectively; the estimation device 10 obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 61 according to Equation (5) given earlier. Subsequently, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 61, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 61. Moreover, using the temperature data of the temperatures T1 to T4 and the thermal resistances R1 and R2 of the heat insulation agents 31A and 31B, respectively; the estimation device 10 can estimate the temperature Tinner of the fluid 51 according to Equation (6) given earlier.
Explained below with reference to
As illustrated in
Then, in an identical manner to the specific example 1 explained earlier, using the temperature data of the temperatures T1 to T4, the stored thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 52, the stored thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 22, and the stored thermal resistances R1 and R2 of the heat insulation agent 32 and the other heat insulation agent, respectively; the estimation device 10 obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 62 according to Equation (5) given earlier. Subsequently, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 62, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 62. Moreover, using the temperature data of the temperatures T1 to T4 and the thermal resistances R1 and R2 of the heat insulation agent 32 and the other heat insulation agent, respectively; the estimation device 10 can estimate the temperature Tinner of the fluid 52 according to Equation (6) given earlier.
Explained below with reference to
Thus, the estimation device 10 can estimate the deposit thickness by measuring the temperature data of a plurality of points inside each heat insulation agent having a different thickness as illustrated in
Explained below with reference to
Thus, the estimation device 10 can estimate the deposit thickness by measuring the pipe surface temperature and the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature for each heat insulation agent made from a different material as illustrated in
The installation positions of the temperature sensors 44A can be set in between the two layers of heat insulation agents. Moreover, a heat insulation agent can have a multilayered structure of three or more layers. The layers can include a material such as plastic or a metal having high thermal conductivity, Moreover, a circuit board for temperature measurement or communication and a power source can also be included in the layers. Furthermore, the heat insulation agent can be partially or entirely covered by a container made of a metal, and the temperature sensors 44A can be installed inside that container.
With reference to
Then, using the obtained temperature data of the temperatures T1 to T4, the stored thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 54, the stored thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 24, the thermal resistance R1 of the heat insulation agents 34A in entirety, and the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 34B; the estimation device 10 obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 64 according to Equation (5) given earlier. Subsequently, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 64, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 64. Moreover, using the temperature data of the temperatures T1 to T4, the thermal resistance R1 of the heat insulation agents 34A in entirety, and the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 34B; the estimation device 10 can estimate the temperature Tinner of the fluid 54 according to Equation (6) given earlier.
Explained below with reference to
Thus, as illustrated in
Explained below with reference to
Thus, as illustrated in
Explained below with reference to
Thus, as illustrated in
Explained below with reference to
Thus, as illustrated in
Explained below with reference to
Thus, even if there is only a single heat insulation agent as illustrated in
Explained below with reference to
Deposit thickness estimation method Given below is the explanation of a method for estimating the deposit thickness according to one or more embodiments as implemented in the specific example 10. When T5 represents the pipe surface temperature obtained by the first obtaining unit 15a of the estimation device 10 from a position at which the heat insulation agent 310 is not present, when T2 represents the pipe surface temperature obtained by the second obtaining unit 15b, when T4 represents the heat-insulation-agent surface temperature of the heat insulation agent 310, and when T6 represents the air temperature around the pipe 210; the heat movement amount Q1 from the fluid 510 toward the outside of the pipe 210 at the position at which the heat insulation agent 310 is not present is expressed as given below in Equation (12) by taking into account the movement of heat from the in-pipe fluid 510 to the pipe surface and the movement of heat from the pipe surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 210.
Herein, Tinner represents the in-pipe fluid temperature of the fluid 510; Rdeposit represents the thermal resistance of the deposit 610; Rpipe represents the thermal resistance of the pipe 210; Rinnht represents the thermal resistance attributed to the heat transfer of the fluid 510 inside the pipe 210; and Routht1 represents the thermal resistance attributed to the heat transfer from the pipe surface toward the outside atmosphere of the pipe 210.
On the other hand, the heat movement amount Q2 from the in-pipe fluid 510 toward the outside of the pipe 210 at the position of the heat insulation agent 310 is expressed as given below in Equation (13) by taking into account the movement of heat from the in-pipe fluid 510 to the pipe surface and the movement of heat from the surface of the heat insulation agent 310 toward the outside atmosphere of the pipe 210.
Herein, R2 represents the thermal resistance of the heat insulation agent 310, and Routht2 represents the thermal resistance attributed to the heat transfer from the surface of the heat insulation agent 310 toward the outside atmosphere of the pipe 210.
The thermal resistance Routht1 can be calculated as given below in Equation (14) using the outer radius rpo of the pipe 210 and the heat transfer coefficient houter1 of the surface of the pipe 210.
The thermal resistance Routht2 can be calculated as given below in Equation (15) using the outer radius ri2 of the heat insulation agent 310 and the heat transfer coefficient houter2 of the surface of the heat insulation agent 310.
Moreover, from Equation (15) given above and the measured temperature, the thermal resistance Routht2 can be obtained as given below in Equation (16).
According to Equation (15) and Equation (16) given above, the heat transfer coefficient houter2 of the surface of the heat insulation agent 310 can be obtained from the measured temperature. Moreover, if the heat transfer coefficient houter1 of the surface of the pipe 210 is treated to be same as the heat transfer coefficient houter2 of the surface of the heat insulation agent 310, then the thermal resistance Routht1 can be obtained from Equation (14) given earlier.
Then, from Equation (12) given earlier, Equation (13) given earlier, and the obtained the thermal resistance Routht1; a relationship given below in Equation (17) is obtained for the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 610 and a relationship given below in Equation (18) is obtained for the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner of the fluid 510.
As explained above, the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 610 can be obtained from Equation (17), and the thickness δ of the deposit 610 can be calculated from Equation (11) using the thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 610 as stored in the memory unit 14. Moreover, the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner representing the temperature of the fluid 510 can be calculated from Equation (18) given above.
Estimation Operation
Thus, even if the heat insulation agent is placed only in some part as illustrated in
Subsequently, using the temperature data of the temperatures T2, T4, T5, and T6, the stored thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 510, the stored thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 210, the thermal resistance Routht1 attributed to the heat transfer from the pipe surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 210, and the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 310; the estimation device 10 obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 610 from Equation (17) given earlier. Then, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 610, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 610 from Equation (11) given above. Moreover, using the temperature data of the temperatures T2, T4, T5, and T6, the thermal resistance Routht1 attributed to the heat transfer from the pipe surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 210, and the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 310; the estimation device 10 can estimate the temperature Tinner of the fluid 510 from Equation (18) given earlier.
Explained below with reference to
Deposit thickness estimation method Given below is the explanation of a method for estimating the deposit thickness according to one or more embodiments as implemented in the specific example 11. When T5 represents the pipe surface temperature obtained by the first obtaining unit 15a of the estimation device 10 from a position at which the heat insulation agent 311 is not present, when T2 represents the pipe surface temperature obtained by the second obtaining unit 15b, and when T6 represents the air temperature around the pipe 211; the heat movement amount Q1 from the fluid 511 toward the outside of the pipe 211 at the position at which the heat insulation agent 311 is not present is expressed as given below in Equation (19) by taking into account the movement of heat from the in-pipe fluid 511 to the pipe surface and the movement of heat from the pipe surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 211.
Herein, Tinner represents the in-pipe fluid temperature of the fluid 511; Rdeposit represents the thermal resistance of the deposit 611; Rpipe represents the thermal resistance of the pipe 211; Rinnht represents the thermal resistance attributed to the heat transfer of the fluid 511 inside the pipe 211; and Routht1 represents the thermal resistance attributed to the heat transfer from the pipe surface toward the outside atmosphere of the pipe 211.
On the other hand, the heat movement amount Q2 from the in-pipe fluid 511 toward the outside of the pipe 211 at the position of the heat insulation agent 311 is expressed as given below in Equation (20) by taking into account the movement of heat from the in-pipe fluid 511 to the pipe surface and the movement of heat from the surface of the pipe 211 toward the outside atmosphere of the pipe 211.
Herein, R2 represents the thermal resistance of the heat insulation agent 311, and Routht2 represents the thermal resistance attributed to the heat transfer from the surface of the heat insulation agent 311 toward the outside atmosphere of the pipe 211.
At that time, from the strength of the wind on the outside of the pipe 211 and from the type of the fluid on the outside of the pipe (when the atmospheric air is absent, such as in the case of an under-water pipe), the heat transfer coefficient houter1 of the pipe surface and the heat transfer coefficient houter2 of the heat insulation agent surface are predicted. Herein, either the wind strength can be measured using an anemometer and the prediction can be accordingly performed; or, if the environment is such that the wind strength does not fluctuate significantly, the values of heat transfer coefficients can be set in advance. For example, in an almost windless environment, the setting can be done as houter1=houter2=5 W/m2K. Then, according to Equation (14) and Equation (15) given earlier, the thermal resistances Routh1 and Routht2 can be calculated from the heat transfer coefficients houter1 and houter2, respectively.
Subsequently, using the obtained thermal resistance, the measured temperature, Equation (19) given earlier, and Equation (20) given earlier; a relationship given below in Equation (21) is obtained for the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 611 and a relationship given below in Equation (22) is obtained for the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner of the fluid 511.
As explained above, as a result of using the thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 611 as stored in the memory unit 14, based on Equation (21) given above, the thickness of the deposit 611 can be calculated from the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 611. Moreover, the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner representing the temperature of the fluid 511 can be calculated from Equation (22) given above.
Estimation Operation
Thus, even if the heat insulation agent is placed only in some part as illustrated in
Subsequently, using the temperature data of the temperatures T2, T5, and T6, the stored thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 511, the stored thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 211, the thermal resistance Routht1 attributed to the heat transfer from the pipe surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 211, the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 311, and the thermal resistance Routht2 attributed to the heat transfer from the heat insulation agent surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 211; the estimation device 10 obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 611 from Equation (21) given earlier. Then, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 611, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 611. Moreover, using the temperature data of the temperatures T2, T5, and T6, the thermal resistance Routht1 attributed to the heat transfer from the pipe surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 211, the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 311, and the thermal resistance Routht2 attributed to the heat transfer from the heat insulation agent surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 211; the estimation device 10 can estimate the temperature Tinner of the fluid 511 from Equation (22) given earlier.
Explained below with reference to
Thus, even if the heat insulation agent is placed only in some part as illustrated in
Subsequently, using the temperature data of the temperatures T2, T4, and T5, the stored thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 512, the stored thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 212, the obtained thermal resistances Routht1 and Routht2, and the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 312; the estimation device 10 solves a system of equations from Equation (12) and Equation (13) given earlier, and obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 612 that is an unknown quantity, obtains the air temperature T6 around the pipe 212, and obtains the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner of the fluid 512. Then, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 612, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 612.
Explained below with reference to
Thus, as illustrated in
At that time, using the obtained thermal resistance, the measured temperature, Equation (21) given earlier in the specific example 11, and Equation (20) given earlier in the specific example 11; a relationship given below in Equation (23) is obtained for the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 613 and a relationship given below in Equation (24) is obtained for the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner of the fluid 513.
Subsequently, using the temperature data of the temperatures T1, T2, and T6, the stored thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 513, the stored thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 213, the thermal resistance R1 of the heat insulation agent 313A, the thermal resistance Routht1 attributed to the heat transfer from the heat insulation agent 313A surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 213, the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 313B, and the thermal resistance Routht2 attributed to the heat transfer from the heat insulation agent 313B surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 213; the estimation device 10 obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 613 according to Equation (23) given earlier. Then, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 613, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 613. Moreover, using the temperature data of the temperatures T1, T2, and T6, the thermal resistance R1 of the heat insulation agent 313A, the thermal resistance Routht1 attributed to the heat transfer from the heat insulation agent 313A surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 213, the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agent 313B, and the thermal resistance Routht2 attributed to the heat transfer from the heat insulation agent 313B surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 213; the estimation device 10 can also estimate the temperature Tinner of the fluid 513 from Equation (24) given above.
Explained below with reference to
Thus, as illustrated in
Subsequently, using the temperature data of the temperatures T1, T2, and T4, the stored thermal resistance Rinnht of the fluid 514, the stored thermal resistance Rpipe of the pipe 214, the obtained thermal resistances Routht1 and Routht2, the thermal resistance R1 of the heat insulation agents 314A, and the thermal resistance R2 of the heat insulation agents 314B; the estimation device 10 solves a system of equations from Equation (25) and Equation (26) given below, and obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit 614 that is an unknown quantity, obtains the air temperature T6 around the pipe 214, and obtains the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner of the fluid 514. Then, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit 614, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit 614.
Moreover, the heat movement amount Q1 from the fluid 514 toward the outside of the pipe 214 at the position of the heat insulation agent 314A is expressed as given below in Equation (27) by taking into account the movement of heat from the in-pipe fluid 514 to the pipe surface, the movement of heat from the pipe surface to the heat insulation agent surface, and the movement of heat from the heat insulation agent surface to the outside atmosphere of the pipe 214.
As a result of using Equation (27) given above, the unmeasured heat-insulation-agent surface temperature T3 of the heat insulation agent 314A can also be obtained.
Given below is the explanation of specific examples other than the specific examples 1 to 14 explained above. The following explanation is given in the order of a deposit thickness estimation device based on heat flux measurement; an in-pipe fluid velocity estimation operation; and a deposit thickness estimation operation performed when the heat insulation agents are positioned at a distance from each other.
Deposit Thickness Estimation Device Based on Heat Flux Measurement
Firstly, in a configuration in which two types of heat insulation agents having different thermal resistances are used, a heat flux meter is installed in each heat insulation agent, and the estimation device 10 measures the heat flux and the temperature of each heat insulation agent. Then, using the heat flux meter, the estimation device 10 can directly measure the heat movement amount Q1 given earlier in Equation (1) and the heat movement amount Q2 given earlier in Equation (2). Hence, the estimation device 10 solves a system of equations of Equation (1) and Equation (2), and obtains the thermal resistance Rdeposit of the deposit that is an unknown quantity and obtains the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner. Subsequently, using the stored thermal conductivity kdeposit of the deposit, the estimation device 10 estimates the thickness δ of the deposit.
Meanwhile, in a configuration in which the heat insulation agents are of a single type, the estimation device 10 installs a heat flux meter on the pipe surface not involving the heat insulation agents and installs a heat flux meter on the inside of the heat insulation agents. Hence, even when the pipe surface temperature not involving the heat insulation agents is used along with the heat flux or even when the pipe surface temperature on the inside of the heat insulation agents is used along with the heat flux, the estimation device 10 can estimate the deposit thickness in an identical sequence.
In-Pipe Fluid Velocity Estimation Operation
A sensor that estimates the internal fluid temperature from the measured temperature of the outside of the pipe is used in a plant. However, in such a measurement method, in order to estimate the internal fluid temperature, the impact of heat transfer between the fluid and the pipe needs to be estimated. In a fluid having low viscosity such as water, the impact of heat transfer is small. However, in a fluid having high viscosity such as oil, the impact of heat transfer increases. If the viscosity and the fluid velocity of the fluid is known, then it becomes possible to estimate the impact of heat transfer. However, if the fluid velocity of the fluid changes, then the impact of heat transfer also changes.
Thus, if the temperature on the inside and on the outside of each heat insulation agent having a different thickness is measured; then, using Equation (6) given earlier, even if the impact of heat transfer is not known, the estimation device 10 can estimate the fluid temperature by taking into account the impact of heat transfer. Meanwhile, if there is no deposit formation, then Equation (28) given below holds true as compared to Equation (5) given earlier.
As a result of using Equation (28) given above, the estimation device 10 can estimate the thermal resistance Rinnht attributed to the heat transfer of the fluid, and can accordingly estimate and output the in-pipe fluid velocity.
Deposit thickness estimation operation performed when heat insulation agents are positioned at a distance from each other
Even if two types of heat insulation agents having different thermal resistances are installed at a distance from each other, as long as there is no significant difference in the in-pipe fluid temperature and the deposit thickness at their installation positions, the estimation device 10 can estimate the deposit thickness δ and the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner in an identical manner to the specific example 1 explained earlier. Moreover, as long as there is no significant difference in the in-pipe fluid temperature and the deposit thickness at their installation positions, the estimation device 10 can estimate the deposit thickness δ and the in-pipe fluid temperature Tinner across different pipes too.
Firstly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, the first-type temperature data is obtained at the position corresponding to the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20 through which the fluid 50 flows; the second-type temperature data is obtained at the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the conditions related to heat transfer are different than the conditions at the first-type position; the thermal resistance of the deposit 60, which is formed on the inner surface of the pipe 20, is calculated based on the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data; and the thickness of the deposit 60 is estimated. Hence, in the present operations, the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated with accuracy.
Secondly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, as the first-type temperature data, the temperature data is obtained at the position corresponding to the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20 at which the deposit 60 is formed on the inner surface of the pipe 20; and, as the second-type temperature data, the temperature data is obtained at the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the deposit 60 is formed. Then, the temperature difference data is calculated using the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data; and the thermal resistance of the deposit 60 is calculated based on the temperature difference data. Moreover, the thickness of the deposit 60 is estimated. Furthermore, based on the temperature difference data, the temperature of the fluid 50 flowing in the pipe 20 is estimated. Hence, in the present operations, as a result of using the temperature difference data among a plurality of points, the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated with accuracy.
Thirdly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, as the first-type temperature data, one or more sets of temperature data are obtained at the position corresponding to the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20 at which the pipe 20 is covered by a cladding. Moreover, as the second-type temperature data, one or more sets of temperature data are obtained at the position corresponding to the outside of second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the thermal resistance of the cladding is different than the thermal resistance at the first-type position. Then, using the calculated temperature difference data, the thermal resistance of the fluid 50, the thermal resistance of the pipe 20, and the thermal resistance of the cladding; the thermal resistance of the deposit 60 is calculated and then the thickness of the deposit 60 is estimated. Hence, in the present operations, as a result of using the temperature difference data among a plurality of points of the heat insulation agents having different thermal resistances, the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated with accuracy.
Fourthly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, as the first-type temperature data, the first-type pipe surface temperature representing the temperature of the outer surface of the pipe 20 at the first-type position is obtained, and the first-type cladding surface temperature representing the temperature of the cladding surface in a radial direction of the first-type position is obtained. Moreover, as the second-type temperature data, the second-type pipe surface temperature representing the temperature of the outer surface of the pipe 20 at the second-type position is obtained, and the second-type cladding surface temperature representing the temperature of the cladding surface in a radial direction of the second-type position is obtained. Then, using the temperature difference between the first-type pipe surface temperature and the first-type cladding surface temperature, using the temperature difference between the second-type pipe surface temperature and the second-type cladding surface temperature, using the temperature difference between the first-type pipe surface temperature and the second-type pipe surface temperature, using the thermal resistance of the fluid 50, using the thermal resistance of the pipe 20, and using the thermal resistance of the cladding; the thermal resistance of the deposit 60 is calculated and then the thickness of the deposit 60 is estimated. Hence, in the present operations, as a result of using the temperature difference data in the heat transfer direction, the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated with accuracy.
Fifthly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, as the first-type temperature data, the temperature data is obtained on the inside of a plurality of claddings in the radial direction of the first-type position. Moreover, as the second-type temperature data, the temperature data is obtained on the inside of a plurality of claddings in the radial direction of the second-type position. Hence, in the present operations, it becomes possible to install a temperature sensor in advance in a heat insulation agent, and the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated in an accurate and efficient manner.
Sixthly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, as the first-type temperature data, one or more sets of temperature data are obtained at the position corresponding to the outside of the first-type position of the pipe 20 at which the pipe 20 is not covered by a cladding. Moreover, as the second-type temperature data, one or more sets of temperature data are obtained at the position corresponding to the outside of the second-type position of the pipe 20 at which the pipe 20 is covered by a cladding. Then, using the calculated temperature difference data, the thermal resistance of the fluid 50, the thermal resistance of the pipe 20, and the thermal resistance of the cladding; the thermal resistance of the deposit 60 is calculated and then the thickness of the deposit 60 is estimated. Hence, in the present operations, also in the pipe 20 in which a heat insulation agent is placed only in some part, the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated with accuracy.
Seventhly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, using the air temperature on the outside of the pipe, or using the fluid temperature, or using the heat transfer coefficient of the surface of the cladding; the thermal resistance of the deposit 60 is calculated and then the thickness of the deposit 60 is estimated. Hence, in the present operations, also in the pipe 20 in which a heat insulation agent is placed only in some part, the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated in an accurate and efficient manner.
Eighthly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, the first-type heat flux data is further obtained for use in calculating the amount of heat movement from the fluid 50 toward the outside of the pipe 20 at the first-type position. Moreover, the second-type heat flux data is further obtained for use in calculating the amount of heat movement from the fluid 50 toward the outside of the pipe 20 at the second-type position. Then, using the first-type temperature data, the second-type temperature data, the first-type heat flux data, and the second-type heat flux data; the thermal resistance of the deposit 60 is calculated and then the thickness of the deposit 60 is estimated. Hence, in the present operations, as a result of directly obtaining the amount of heat movement, the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated with accuracy.
Ninthly, in the operations performed according to one or more embodiments, in the pipe 20 meant for transmitting oil or a gas generated in a well, the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data is obtained. Then, based on the first-type temperature data and the second-type temperature data, the thickness of hydrate, wax, asphaltene, or scale is estimated. Hence, in the present operations, in an oil pipeline or a gas pipeline, the deposit thickness inside the pipe 20 can be estimated with accuracy.
The processing procedures, the control procedures, specific names, various data, and information including parameters described in embodiments or illustrated in the drawings can be changed as required unless otherwise specified.
The constituent elements of the device illustrated in the drawings are merely conceptual, and need not be physically configured as illustrated. The constituent elements, as a whole or in part, can be separated or integrated either functionally or physically based on various types of loads or use conditions.
The process functions implemented in the device are entirely or partially implemented by a CPU or by computer programs (instructions) that are analyzed and executed by a CPU, or are implemented as hardware by wired logic.
Hardware
Given below is the explanation of an exemplary hardware configuration example of the estimation device 10. Herein, the other devices too can have an identical hardware configuration.
the communication device 10a is a network interface card, and communicates with other servers. The HDD 10b is used to store a computer program meant for implementing the functions illustrated in
The processor 10d reads the computer program, which is meant for executing identical operations to the operations performed by the processing units illustrated in
In this way, the estimation device 10 reads and executes a computer program, and operates as an information processing device that implements various processing methods. Alternatively, the estimation device 10 can read the computer program from a recording medium using a medium reading device, and can execute the read computer program to implement functions identical to the functions according to one or more embodiments described above. Meanwhile, the computer program is not limited to be executed in the estimation device 10. Alternatively, for example, even when the computer program is executed by some other computer or some other server or when the computer program is executed in cooperation among devices, the present invention can still be implemented in an identical manner.
The computer program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. Alternatively, the computer program can be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), a magneto-optical (MO) disk, or a digital versatile disc (DVD). Then, a computer can read the computer program from the recording medium, and execute it.
One or more embodiments can estimate a deposit thickness inside a pipe with accuracy.
Although the disclosure has been described with respect to only a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art, having benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate that various other embodiments may be devised without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited only by the attached claims.
Number | Date | Country | Kind |
---|---|---|---|
2021-164870 | Oct 2021 | JP | national |
2022-152654 | Sep 2022 | JP | national |