Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
(OP)
I am new to this website as well as engineering. I have a specific question regarding inserting a sample probe in a relatively high pressure line.
We have a 400 psig line that was hot tapped and valved. We now have a retractable probe that will mount to the 1-1/2" full port valve. After connecting the probe assembly, the valve will be opened. Then, the packing nut will be loosened so that the probe can be forced down into the pipeline. THe probe is 3/4" S160 316SS.
1) Any recommendations as to how to calculate the force needed to insert the probe? I am thinking the force needed to overcome the packing on the probe will be greater than the axial force needed to push the pipe into the pipeline. Any advice?
2) Are any of you familiar with a device that would be mounted on the probe that would be used as a safety/inertion device? We are looking to make this a safe device. We do not want the probe shooting out after the packing nut is loosened. We do have an "end stop" on the probe, but don't really want to find out if it works!!!
Any help, advice, info, etc would be greatly appreciated.
We have a 400 psig line that was hot tapped and valved. We now have a retractable probe that will mount to the 1-1/2" full port valve. After connecting the probe assembly, the valve will be opened. Then, the packing nut will be loosened so that the probe can be forced down into the pipeline. THe probe is 3/4" S160 316SS.
1) Any recommendations as to how to calculate the force needed to insert the probe? I am thinking the force needed to overcome the packing on the probe will be greater than the axial force needed to push the pipe into the pipeline. Any advice?
2) Are any of you familiar with a device that would be mounted on the probe that would be used as a safety/inertion device? We are looking to make this a safe device. We do not want the probe shooting out after the packing nut is loosened. We do have an "end stop" on the probe, but don't really want to find out if it works!!!
Any help, advice, info, etc would be greatly appreciated.





RE: Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
m777182
RE: Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
Jiskoot, for example, provide a hydraulic jack for inserting and removing probes. Some others provide a hand wheel device and screw system.
Many of these devices are optional bolt on systems so are not required on a one per probe basis.
What does your probe manufacturer say?
There have been serious accidents, and even fatalities, with mis-operation when inserting or extracting devices into pressurised lines (though some are undoubtedly due to trying to hot tap non-hot tap devices) and whereas logic suggests to me that slackening packing nuts is not a good idea i would suggest you consult with the device manufacturer and ensure that ther is a proper safety and instruction manual available and understood.
JMW
www.ViscoAnalyser.com
RE: Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
I do not think that you will be manually inserting the probe by hand!
RE: Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
What happens when the probe breaks off during insertion?
Try the bypass idea!
RE: Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
For the 1.5" and 2" devices, the units we would use incorporate a jacking screw mechanism to assist in inserting the flow meter or probe into the stream.
What is the diameter of the packing? Since you are using a 1.5" valve, if the packing is 1.5" diameter the forces would be
0.75*0.75*3.14*400= 706#
The packing forces are small compared to the internal pressure on the probe, you can also test the packing forces before the valve is opened.
As jmw suggested, contact the manufacture for procedure and safety instructions.
Also prepare backup plans such as pipeline shutdown and projectile exclusion areas in case the worst happens.
Hydrae
RE: Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
We are in the midst of specifying two units and the company has been a pleasure to work with. I will update the forum as to how we like the units once installed and working. The units are in the $2000 price range which is not a bad price considering what you get.
Thanks again for all your advice!!!
RE: Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
John
RE: Analyzer Probe Insertion Device
JMW
www.ViscoAnalyser.com