Hot tap fluid blaster apparatus and method of using same
US6200068A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 6, 1998 |
| Grant date | Mar 13, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 6, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/612
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A apparatus and method of using the apparatus for removing a blockage in a subsea pipeline without retrieval of the pipeline to the surface. The apparatus components include a hot tap saddle, a drill assembly, a fluid blaster assembly and a support frame. The hot tap saddle component has a first portion and a second portion, with the first and second portions being configured to clampingly engage in a sealing relationship to the subsea pipeline. The first portion of the saddle includes a first and second opening with the first opening extending generally upwardly and configured for connecting to a drill assembly and the second opening being positioned generally at an angle to the first opening and configured for connecting to a fluid blaster assembly. The fluid blaster assembly including a nozzle, a hose and a high pressure pump with the fluid blaster assembly being contained within a pressure vessel. The fluid blaster assembly is configured for mounting to the second opening of the hot tap saddle component. The support frame assembly is configured for gripping and supporting the subsea pipeline on the sea floor while the fluid blaster assembly operates to remove a blockage in the …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.