Spray cleaner for interior surface of pipeline
US6206016A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 30, 1998 |
| Grant date | Mar 27, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 30, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB08B9/051
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
This application discloses an automated apparatus for cleaning the interior surface of a pipe. The device includes a vehicle which propels itself down the inside of the pipe. A cleaning system is fixed to the vehicle and uses arms to reach the walls of the pipe. At the end of each arm sits a spray nozzle assembly equipped with spray nozzles. The spray nozzle assembly rotates or oscillates to spray clean the pipe surface. The arms and spray nozzle assembly interchange with other such cleaning systems depending on the shape or type of pipe and the desired cleaning technique. The apparatus is tethered to a source of fluid under pressure and a power source both of which are located off-board the apparatus at a remote location. An operator supervises the device's operation, controlling the speed and direction of travel of the vehicle, the speed and direction of oscillation and rotation of the cleaning system, and the fluid pressure delivered by the spray nozzles.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.