GB2595338A

GB2595338A - Heat exchange apparatus, system and methid for pipes

Info

Publication number: GB2595338A
Application number: GB2103445.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Laing George; Moggach Keith; Cunningham Niall
Original assignee: IKM Testing UK Ltd
Current assignee: IKM Testing UK Ltd
Priority date: 2020-03-13
Filing date: 2021-03-12
Publication date: 2021-11-24
Anticipated expiration: 2041-03-12
Also published as: GB2595338B; GB2595338A8; GB202103445D0; GB202003712D0; BR102021004705A2

Abstract

A heat exchange apparatus 10 for transferring heat from or to a section of pipe ‘P’ so as to cool or heat a media contained in and/or transported through the pipe. The apparatus comprises an inlet 18 receiving a heat exchange medium that is communicated to a plurality of circumferentially arranged and spaced ducts 19 defining elongate channels (20, fig 6), and an outlet 22 receiving the heat exchange medium from the channels. The channels are isolated from each other and define a plurality of distinct flow passages for the heat exchange medium. The apparatus may comprise a plurality of hemispherical body portions 14, 16 secured together by a securing arrangement 34 and bolts 40 through bores 38. The securing arrangement may be a ratchet strap 36, tie or clamp that may pass through a guide arrangement (144, fig 10) defining slots or one or more lips (246, fig 17). The channels may be part cylindrical or tubular and the heat exchange medium may be a refrigerant, nitrogen or carbon dioxide gas, liquid nitrogen, water or steam. Uses include heating solidified hydrocarbons in the pipe in the oil and gas industry and freezing media in the pipe to permit repairs.

Description

HEAT EXCHANGE APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PIPES

FIELD

This relates to a heat exchange apparatus, system and method for transferring heat from or to a section of pipe suitable for transporting a liquid, gas and/or solid media. In particular, but not exclusively, this relates to a heat exchange apparatus, system and method for cooling or heating a section of a pipe suitable for transporting hydrocarbons and/or other fluids and/or solids used in the oil and gas industry.

BACKGROUND

Pipes are used in a vast array of applications in order to transfer fluid over distance. In the oil and/or gas industry, for example, sections of pipe form part of numerous components required to transport hydrocarbons to surface. By way of example, a typical oil and/or gas well has a wellhead onto which is mounted a flow control arrangement, known as a Christmas tree. The Christmas tree comprises a number of components which control fluid flow, such as valves, chokes and the like, and which include or are coupled to sections of pipe. In many cases, these components form a critical part of the safe operation of the well. Pipes, in the form of pipelines, are also used extensively to transport the hydrocarbons to downstream processing facilities.

In order to isolate a section of a pipe for maintenance or repair, it is necessary to temporarily prevent the flow of fluid through the pipe section. One such technique, known as pipe freezing, involves locating a hollow metal jacket, known as a pipe freeze jacket, around the pipe section and pumping liquid nitrogen from a tank or dewar into the jacket. The liquid nitrogen is typically transported from the tank or dewar to the jacket via a cryogenic hose. As it travels through the cryogenic hose, at least a portion of the liquid nitrogen evaporates into nitrogen gas. As the liquid nitrogen and/or nitrogen gas flows through the jacket, it rapidly cools the pipe with the result that any liquid present in the media flowing through the pipe freezes. This forms a temporary barrier to facilitate the repair and/or replacement of the section of pipe, associated component or the like.

There are, however, a number of drawbacks with conventional pipe freeze jackets For example, conventional pipe freeze jackets are constructed with two hemicylindrical body portions, with each of the body portions constructed as a double shell system having an inner shell through which the nitrogen passes and an outer shell. In order to insulate the inner shell of each body portion, the outer shell of each body portion is filled with polystyrene balls. However, this adds weight to the design and complexity to the manufacturing process. Also, the outer shell prevents access to the inner shell, in particular the welds used to construct the jacket, for inspection purposes. Failure of the welds may result in a loss of containment of the nitrogen, and represents a significant risk to personnel.

Moreover, the inner shell of each of the body portions includes baffles with the intention of guiding the flow of the nitrogen through the jacket. However, as nitrogen gas is able to flow over the baffles the velocity of the flow through the jacket is slowed, reducing the time taken to fill the jacket and reducing the efficiency of heat transfer, and resulting cooling effect.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a heat exchange apparatus, system and method for cooling or heating a section of a pipe suitable for transporting a liquid, gas and/or solid media ("transportable media"). In particular, but not exclusively, this relates to a heat exchange apparatus, system and method for cooling or heating a section of a pipe suitable for transporting hydrocarbons and/or other fluids and/or solids used in the oil and gas industry.

According to a first aspect, there is provided a heat exchange apparatus for transferring heat from or to a section of a pipe so as to cool or heat a transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe, the heat exchange apparatus comprising: an inlet arrangement configured to receive a heat exchange medium; a plurality of ducts forming elongate channels in communication with the inlet arrangement and configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the inlet arrangement, wherein the plurality of elongate channels are isolated from each other and define a plurality of distinct flow passages for the heat transfer medium from the inlet arrangement to the outlet arrangement; and an outlet arrangement configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the plurality of elongate channels and direct the heat exchange medium from the apparatus.

In use, the apparatus may be located around a section of pipe and a heat exchange medium may be inserted, e.g. pumped, into the apparatus via the inlet arrangement. The heat exchange medium passes from the inlet arrangement to the ducts forming the elongate channels before exiting the apparatus via the outlet arrangement.

Beneficially, the apparatus facilitates the flow of the transportable media, increasing the efficiency of heat transfer. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus reduces the complexity of manufacture compared to conventional pipe freeze jackets, obviating the requirement for a double skin arrangement found in conventional equipment. This in turn facilitates the ready inspection of the apparatus, in particular but not exclusively the welds used to construct the apparatus, reducing the risk to personnel.

The term transportable media will be understood to be any liquid, gas and/or solid material suitable for being transported through a pipe, including for example but not exclusively hydrocarbons and/or other fluids and/or solids used in the oil and gas industry.

The term pipe will be understood to include for example but not exclusively a section of a pipeline or a pipe coupled to and/or forming part of a component or tool such as a valve, choke or the like.

In some instances, the heat exchange medium is selected to absorb heat from the pipe and the transportable media as the heat exchange medium passes through the channels so as to cool the transportable media in the pipe.

In a particular example, the apparatus may be configured to freeze a liquid component of the transportable media, thereby forming a temporary solid plug preventing leakage of the transportable media and facilitating, for example, a repair or replacement operation to be carried out.

In other instances, the heat exchange medium is selected to transfer heat to the pipe and the transportable media as the heat exchange medium passes through the channels so as to heat the transportable media.

In a particular example, the apparatus may be configured to heat the transportable media to improve the mobility of asphaltenes, hydrates and/or wax present in the pipe, obviating or reducing the need for chemical additives.

Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may be configured to heat a chemical additive present in the pipe, such as a chelate.

Beneficially, this permits a temperature of the chemical additive, e.g. chelate, to be maintained that allows a high reaction rate to loosen and/or dissolve scale deposits in the pipe, for example The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of a fluid.

The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of a refrigerant.

The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of a gas. The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of nitrogen gas. The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of steam. The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of carbon dioxide gas.

The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of a liquid. The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of liquid nitrogen. The heat exchange medium may comprise or take the form of water.

The apparatus may comprise a body. The body may be configured for location around at least part of the circumference of the pipe. The body may be constructed from a metal or a metal alloy, such as steel.

In some instances, the body may take the form of a unitary construction. When the body takes the form of a unitary construction, the body may be part-cylindrical in shape. For example, the body may be c-shaped.

As described above, the heat exchange apparatus comprises an inlet arrangement, a plurality of duds forming elongate channels and an outlet arrangement. The body may define the inlet arrangement, ducts and outlet arrangement.

In other instances, the body may comprise a plurality of body portions, in particular but not exclusively two body portions. The body portions may be part-cylindrical in shape. In particular, but not exclusively, the body portions may be hemicylindrical or substantially hemi-cylindrical in shape.

In other instances, the body may comprise more than two body portions, for example three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten or more body portions. Each body portion may have an arced segment shape. Alternatively, each body portion may be a trapezoidal prism. The plurality of body portions may be arranged in a circumferential array. The plurality of body portions may collectively form a substantially cylindrical body. In use, the plurality of body portions may be circumferentially arranged around the pipe. In use, a selected number of body portions may be located around the circumference of the pipe. The apparatus may comprise an inventory of body portions from which the body portions chosen for location on a given pipe are selected. The inventory of body portions may comprise two or more body portions of the same or similar size and/or two or more body portions of different sizes. The number and/or size of the body portions chosen for location on the pipe may be selected e.g. according to the diameter of the pipe, the length of the pipe to be cooled or heated and/or according to the inventory of body portions.

The apparatus may comprise a plurality of rows of bodies Each row may comprise a plurality of body portions as described above. The rows may be arranged in a linear array. In use, the plurality of rows may be axially arranged and/or spaced along the pipe. The number of rows may be selected e.g. according to the length of the pipe to be cooled or heated and/or according to the inventory of body portions.

The apparatus may thus form a modular apparatus. This allows for ease of manufacturing of the body because standard body portions can be utilised for numerous different pipes rather than requiring a custom body for each pipe.

As described above, the heat exchange apparatus comprises an inlet arrangement, a plurality of ducts forming elongate channels and an outlet arrangement. The, or each, body portion may define an inlet arrangement, ducts and an outlet arrangement.

The apparatus may comprise or take the form of a pressure vessel. The body may comprise or take the form of a pressure vessel. Where the apparatus comprises a plurality of body portions the, or each, body portion may comprise or take the form a pressure vessel.

The apparatus may take the form of a jacket, sleeve or cuff for location on the pipe.

The inlet arrangement may comprise one or more inlet ports. The one or more inlet ports may be configured to receive the heat exchange medium. The apparatus may comprise a single inlet port. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of inlet ports.

Beneficially, the provision of a plurality of inlet ports increases the adaptability of the apparatus.

The inlet arrangement may comprise an inlet manifold. The inlet manifold may define a chamber which communicates with the one or more inlet port. The inlet manifold may communicate with the plurality of channels. The inlet manifold may communicate with a first end of each of the plurality of channels.

The outlet arrangement may comprise one or more outlet port. The one or more outlet ports may be configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the channels. The apparatus may comprise a single outlet port. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of outlet ports.

The outlet arrangement may comprise an outlet manifold. The outlet manifold may define a manifold chamber which communicates with the one or more outlet port. The outlet manifold may communicate with the plurality of channels. The outlet manifold may communicate with a second end of each of the plurality of channels.

The apparatus may comprise a valve arrangement. The valve arrangement may comprise one or more valve. The one or more valves may comprise or take the form of pressure relief valves (PRVs).

It will be understood that the apparatus may form a pressure vessel capable of holding the heat exchange medium at an elevated pressure above atmospheric pressure, and that the heat exchange medium may be potentially dangerous to personnel and/or other equipment in the event of a leak. Beneficially, the provision of one or more pressure relief valves permits pressure in the apparatus to be controlled, increasing the safety of the apparatus for personnel and nearby equipment.

The valve arrangement may comprise a single valve. Alternatively, the valve arrangement may comprise a plurality of valves. The valve, or valves, may be coupled to, may form part of, or may be operatively associated with the inlet arrangement and/or the outlet arrangement.

As described above, the apparatus comprises a plurality of ducts forming elongate channels. The ducts may be part-cylindrical in shape, in particular hemi-cylindrical or substantially hemi-cylindrical in shape. However, it will be understood that the ducts and the elongate channels formed by the ducts may be of any suitable shape. For example, the ducts may be tubular. Alternatively, the ducts may be part-rectangular, v-shaped or u-shaped in cross section.

The ducts and/or channels may be circumferentially arranged and/or spaced. The ducts and/or channels may be arranged in parallel.

Where the apparatus comprises a linear array of rows of body portions, the ducts may be connected by one or more conduits, for example hoses and/or fittings, extending between the axially spaced rows of body portions to connect the elongate channels. . The hoses may be flexible. The hoses may take the form of a braided flexible hose. The hoses may be formed of stainless steel. The fittings may be formed of stainless steel and/or brass. However, it will be understood that any suitable material may be used.

The apparatus may comprise one or more elongate spacer. Each spacer may be disposed between two of the ducts and/or channels. The width of the spacers, that is the dimension of the spacer which defines the spacing between the ducts and/or channels, may be minimised so as to increase the area of the pipe exposed to the ducts and/or channels and thus the heat exchange medium.

Where the heat exchange medium is selected to cool, e.g. freeze, the contents of the pipe, the reduction in size of the spacer beneficially facilitates more rapid cooling and thus reduced operational time and cost for an operator.

Where the heat exchange medium is selected to heat the contents of the pipe, the reduction in size of the spacer beneficially facilitates more rapid heating and thus reduced operational time and cost for an operator.

The apparatus may comprise a securement arrangement. The securement arrangement may be configured to secure the body portions around and/or along the pipe.

For example, the securement arrangement may comprise one or more strap, tie, clamp or other mechanical fastener.

The securement arrangement may comprise one or more ratchet strap. The securement arrangement may comprise a plurality of ratchet straps, in particular two ratchet straps. The securement arrangement may be disposed on the body portions.

The securement arrangement may be disposed on the inlet manifold and/or the outlet manifold.

Alternatively or additionally, the securement arrangement may comprise one or more bore for receiving a fastener. In particular, but not exclusively, the one or more bore may comprise or take the form of a slot.

The securement arrangement may comprise one or more fastener. The one or more fastener may be configured for location in the respective one or more bore. In particular, but not exclusively, the one or more fastener may comprise or take the form of a bolt, screw, pin or the like.

The apparatus may comprise a guide arrangement. The guide arrangement may be configured to retain the securement arrangement on the apparatus.

Beneficially, the guide arrangement may restrict movement of the securement arrangement, e.g. ratchet strap, assisting in securing the connection between the first body portion and the second body portion and/or reducing the risk of accidents occurring.

The guide arrangement may comprise or take the form of one or more lip. The lip or lips may extend radially from the body portions, in particular one or more of the inlet and/or outlet manifolds.

Alternatively or additionally, the guide arrangement may comprise or take the form of a slot. In use, the securement arrangement may be disposed through the slot, the slot retaining and positioning the securement arrangement on the apparatus. The slot may form, or form part of one or more of the body portions in particular one or more of the inlet and/or outlet manifolds.

As described above, the inlet arrangement is configured to receive the heat exchange medium. The apparatus may comprise, or may be coupled to, a heat exchange medium supply. The heat exchange medium supply may comprise or take the form of a tank, dewar or the like.

The heat exchange medium supply may comprise a fluid supply line arrangement. The fluid supply line arrangement may comprise one or more fluid supply lines. The fluid supply line or lines may comprise or take the form of hoses.

Where the heat exchange medium comprises nitrogen in liquid and/or gas form, the fluid supply line or lines may comprise or take the form of cryogenic hoses known in the art.

According to a second aspect, there is provided a heat exchange system comprising one or more heat exchange apparatus according to the first aspect.

The system may comprise a single heat exchange apparatus according to the first aspect.

Alternatively, the system may comprise a plurality of the heat exchange apparatus' according to the first aspect.

Where the system comprises a plurality of the heat exchange apparatus', two or more of the heat exchange apparatus' may be coupled to each other. For example, the outlet arrangement of a first of the heat exchange apparatus' may be coupled to an inlet arrangement of a second of the heat exchange apparatus'. The two or more heat exchange apparatus' may be directly coupled to each other. For example, one or more of the outlet ports of the first of the heat exchange apparatus' may define a male profile for location in a female profile defined by the inlet ports of the second of the heat exchange apparatus', or vice-versa.

Where the system comprises a plurality of the heat exchange apparatus', two or more of the heat exchange apparatus' may be indirectly coupled to each other, for example via an adapter, fluid conduit or the like. The fluid conduit may for example comprise a hose, in particular but not exclusively a cryogenic hose.

The system may comprise or take the form of a closed system. For example, the system may be configured to recirculate the heat exchange medium from the outlet arrangement back to the heat exchange medium supply and/or back to the inlet arrangement. The system may comprise a pump configured to pump the heat exchange medium from the heat exchange supply to the heat exchange apparatus. The system may comprise at least one of a compressor, a condenser and an expansion valve.

A third aspect relates to use of the heat exchange apparatus of the first aspect to transfer heat from or to a section of a pipe so as to cool or heat a transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe.

According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a heat exchange apparatus for transferring heat from or to a section of a pipe so as to cool or heat a transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe, the heat exchange apparatus comprising: a first body portion comprising: an inlet arrangement configured to receive a heat exchange medium; a plurality of ducts forming elongate channels in communication with the inlet arrangement and configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the inlet arrangement; and an outlet arrangement configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the plurality of elongate channels and direct the heat exchange medium from the apparatus; a second body portion comprising: an inlet arrangement configured to receive a heat exchange medium; a plurality of ducts forming elongate channels in communication with the inlet arrangement and configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the inlet arrangement; and an outlet arrangement configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the plurality of elongate channels and direct the heat exchange medium from the apparatus; a securement arrangement for securing the first body portion and the second body portion; and a guide arrangement for retaining the securement arrangement on the apparatus.

The guide arrangement may comprise or take the form of one or more lip. The lip may extend radially from the body portions. For example, the lip may form, or form part of one or more of the body portions, in particular one or more of the inlet and/or outlet manifolds.

Beneficially, the lip may restrict movement of the securement arrangement, e.g. ratchet strap, assisting in securing the connection between the first body portion and the second body portion and/or reducing the risk of accidents occurring.

Alternatively or additionally, the guide arrangement may comprise or take the form of a slot. In use, the securement arrangement may be disposed through the slot, the slot retaining and positioning the securement arrangement on the apparatus.

The slot may form, or form part of, one or more of the body portions, in particular one or more of the inlet and/or outlet manifolds.

The securement arrangement may be configured to secure the body portions around the pipe.

The securement arrangement may comprise one or more ratchet strap. The securement arrangement may comprise a plurality of ratchet straps, in particular two ratchet straps. The securement arrangement may be disposed on the body portions. The securement arrangement may be disposed on the inlet manifold and/or the outlet manifold.

The plurality of elongate channels may be isolated from each other and define a plurality of distinct flow passages for the heat transfer medium from the inlet arrangement to the outlet arrangement According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a heat exchange system comprising one or more heat exchange apparatus according to the fourth aspect.

The system may comprise a single heat exchange apparatus.

Alternatively, the system may comprise a plurality of the heat exchange apparatus' according to the fourth aspect.

A sixth aspect relates to use of the heat exchange apparatus of the fourth aspect to transfer heat from or to a section of a pipe so as to cool or heat a transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe.

The invention is defined by the appended claims. However, for the purposes of the present disclosure it will be understood that any of the features defined above or described below may be utilised in isolation or in combination. For example, features described above in relation to one of the above aspects or below in relation to the detailed description may be utilised in any other aspect, or together form a new aspect.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a front view of a heat exchange apparatus for transferring heat from or to a section of pipe; Figure 2 shows a front view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figure 1, with securement arrangement removed; Figure 3 shows a plan view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 shows a left side view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 5 shows a right side view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2, along section A-A shown in Figure 2; Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2, along section B-B shown in Figure 2; Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2, along section C-C shown in Figure 2; Figure 9 shows a perspective view of an alternative heat exchange apparatus for transferring heat from or to a section of pipe; Figure 10 shows a front view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figure 9; Figure 11 shows a front view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 9 and 10, with securement arrangement removed; Figure 12 shows a left side view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 9, 10 and 11; Figure 13 shows a right side view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 9, 10 and 11; Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 9, 10 and 11, along section A-A shown in Figure 10; Figure 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 9, 10 and 11, along section B-B shown in Figure 10; Figure 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 9, 10 and 11, along section C-C shown in Figure 10; Figure 17 shows a front view of an alternative heat exchange apparatus for transferring heat from or to a section of pipe; Figure 18 shows a front view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figure 17, with securement arrangement removed; Figure 19 shows a left side view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 17 and 18; Figure 20 shows a right side view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 17 and 18; Figure 21 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 17 and 18, along section A-A shown in Figure 18; Figure 22 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 17 and 18, along section B-B shown in Figure 18; Figure 23 shows a cross-sectional view of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figures 17 and 18, along section C-C shown in Figure 18; Figure 24 shows a heat exchange system comprising two heat exchange apparatus'; Figure 25 shows an alternative heat exchange system comprising two heat exchange apparatus'; Figure 26 shows part of the heat exchange apparatus shown in Figure 11, having an alternative securement arrangement; and Figure 27 shows a perspective view of an alternative body for a heat exchange apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring first to Figures 1 to 8 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown a heat exchange apparatus 10 for transferring heat from or to a section of pipe P so as to cool or heat a liquid, gas and/or solid media ("transportable media") contained in and/or transported through the pipe P. As shown most clearly in Figures 1 and 2, the apparatus 10 comprises a body, generally denoted 12, for location on the section of pipe P (shown in Figure 1). In the illustrated apparatus 10, the body 12 comprises two generally hemi-cylindrical body portions in the form of first body portion 14 and second body portion 16.

The first and second body portions 14, 16 each take the form a separate pressure vessel capable of holding the heat exchange medium at an elevated pressure above atmospheric pressure.

The apparatus 10 further comprises an inlet arrangement, generally denoted 18, a plurality of ducts 19 forming elongate channels 20 (shown in Figures 6, 7 and 8) in communication with the inlet arrangement 18, and an outlet arrangement, generally denoted 22, in communication with the channels 20.

In use, the apparatus 10 is located around the section of the pipe P and a heat exchange medium is inserted, e.g. pumped, into the apparatus 10 via the inlet arrangement 18. The heat exchange medium passes from the inlet arrangement 18 to the plurality of the elongate channels 20 before exiting the apparatus 10 via the outlet arrangement 22. In some instances, the heat exchange medium is selected to absorb heat from and thereby cool the pipe P and transportable media as it passes through the channels 20. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the heat exchange medium is nitrogen in liquid and/or gas form and the apparatus 10 is configured to freeze the liquid component of the transportable medium contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, thereby forming a temporary solid plug preventing leakage of fluid while a repair is carried out.

The heat exchange medium may alternatively be selected to transfer heat to and thereby heat the pipe P and the transportable media as it passes through the channels 20.

Beneficially, the apparatus 10 facilitates the flow of the transportable media, increasing the efficiency of heat transfer. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus 10 reduces the complexity of manufacture compared to conventional pipe freeze jackets, obviating the requirement for a double skin arrangement found in conventional equipment. This in turn facilitates the ready inspection of the apparatus 10, in particular but not exclusively the welds used to construct the apparatus 10, reducing the risk to personnel.

Each of the first and second body portions 14, 16 comprises an inlet arrangement 18 comprising an inlet port 24 and an inlet manifold 26 comprising an inlet manifold chamber 27 (shown in Figure 7). The inlet manifold 26 is interposed between, and provides communication of the heat transfer medium between, the one or more inlet port 24 and the channels 20 formed by the ducts 19.

Each of the first and second body portions 14, 16 comprises an outlet arrangement 22 comprising an outlet port 28 and an outlet manifold 30 comprising an outlet manifold chamber 31 (shown in Figure 8). The outlet manifold 30 is interposed between, and provides communication of the heat transfer medium between, the one or more outlet ports 28 and the channels 20 formed by the ducts 19.

In the illustrated apparatus 10, the elongate channels 20 are hemi-cylindrical in shape. However, it will be understood that the elongate channels 20 may be of any suitable shape such as tubular in shape, for example.

The channels 20 are circumferentially arranged and/or spaced on the first and second body portions 14, 16 using elongate spacers 32 (shown in Figure 3). Each spacer 32 is disposed between two of the channels 20.

Where the heat exchange medium is selected to cool, e.g. freeze, the liquid component of the transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, the reduction in size of the spacer 32 beneficially facilitates more rapid cooling and thus reduced operational time and cost for an operator.

Where the heat exchange medium is selected to heat the transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, the reduction in size of the spacer 32 beneficially facilitates more rapid heating and thus reduced operational time and cost for an operator.

As shown in Figure 1 of the accompanying drawings, the apparatus 10 comprises a securement arrangement, generally denoted 34, for securing the first and second body portions 14, 16 together. In the illustrated apparatus 10, the securement arrangement takes the form of ratchet straps 36.

The securement arrangement 34 further comprises a number of bores 38 for receiving fasteners, which in the illustrated apparatus 10 take the form of bolts 40.

The apparatus 10 further comprises a valve arrangement comprising one or more valve in the form of a pressure relief valve PRV 42.

Referring now to Figures 9 to 16 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown a heat exchange apparatus 110 for transferring heat from or to a section of pipe P so as to cool or heat a liquid, gas and/or solid media ("transportable media") contained in and/or transported through the pipe P. As shown most clearly in Figures 10 and 11, the apparatus 110 comprises a body, generally denoted 112, for location on the section of pipe P, the body 112 in the illustrated apparatus 110 comprising two generally hemi-cylindrical body portions in the form of first body portion 114 and second body portion 116.

The first and second body portions 114, 116 each take the form a separate pressure vessel capable of holding the heat exchange medium at an elevated pressure above atmospheric pressure.

The apparatus 110 further comprises an inlet arrangement, generally denoted 118, a plurality of ducts 119 (shown in Figures 14, 15 and 16) forming elongate channels 120 in communication with the inlet arrangement 118, and an outlet arrangement, generally denoted 122, in communication with the channels 120.

In use, the apparatus 110 is located around the section of the pipe P and a heat exchange medium is inserted, e.g. pumped, into the apparatus 110 via the inlet arrangement 118. The heat exchange medium passes from the inlet arrangement 118 to the plurality of the elongate channels 120 before exiting the apparatus 110 via the outlet arrangement 122. In some instances, the heat exchange medium is selected to absorb heat from and thereby cool the pipe P and transportable media as it passes through the channels 120. In the illustrated apparatus 110, the heat exchange medium is nitrogen in liquid and/or gas form and the apparatus 10 is configured to freeze the liquid component of the transportable medium contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, thereby forming a temporary solid plug preventing leakage of fluid while a repair is carried out.

The heat exchange medium may alternatively be selected to transfer heat to and thereby heat the pipe P and the transportable media as it passes through the channels 120.

Beneficially, the apparatus 110 facilitates the flow of the transportable media, increasing the efficiency of heat transfer. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus 110 reduces the complexity of manufacture compared to conventional pipe freeze jackets, obviating the requirement for a double skin arrangement found in conventional equipment. This in turn facilitates the ready inspection of the apparatus 110, in particular but not exclusively the welds used to construct the apparatus 10, reducing the risk to personnel.

The inlet arrangement 118 comprises inlet ports 124 formed or provided in each of the first and second body portions 114, 116 and an inlet manifold 126 comprising an inlet manifold chamber 127 (shown in Figure 15). The inlet manifold 126 is interposed between, and provides communication of the heat transfer medium between, the one or more inlet port 124 and the channels 120.

Beneficially, the provision of a plurality of inlet ports 124 in each of the first and second body portions 114, 116 increases the adaptability of the apparatus 110.

The outlet arrangement 122 comprises one or more outlet port 128 formed or provided in each of the first and second body portions 114, 116 and an outlet manifold 130 comprising an outlet manifold chamber 131 (shown in Figure 16). The outlet manifold 130 is interposed between, and provides communication of the heat transfer medium between, the one or more outlet ports 128 and the channels 120.

Beneficially, the provision of a plurality of outlet ports 128 in each of the first and second body portions 114, 116 increases the adaptability of the apparatus 110.

In the illustrated apparatus 110, the elongate channels 120 are hemi-cylindrical in shape. However, it will be understood that the elongate channels 120 may be of any suitable shape such as tubular in shape, for example.

The channels 120 are circumferentially arranged and/or spaced on the first and second body portions 114,116 using elongate spacers 132. Each spacer 132 is disposed between two of the channels 120. The width of the spacers 132, that is the dimension of the spacer 132 which defines the spacing between the channels 120, is minimised so as to increase the area of the pipe P exposed to the channels 120 and thus the heat exchange medium.

Where the heat exchange medium is selected to cool, e.g. freeze, the liquid component of the transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, the reduction in size of the spacer 132 beneficially facilitates more rapid cooling and thus reduced operational time and cost for an operator.

Where the heat exchange medium is selected to heat the transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, the reduction in size of the spacer 132 beneficially facilitates more rapid heating and thus reduced operational time and cost for an operator.

As shown in Figure 10 of the accompanying drawings, the apparatus 110 comprises a securement arrangement, generally denoted 134, for securing the first and second body portions 114, 116 together. In the illustrated apparatus 110, the securement arrangement takes the form of ratchet straps 136.

The securement arrangement 134 further comprises a number of bores 138 for receiving fasteners, which in the illustrated apparatus 110 take the form of bolts 140.

The apparatus 110 further comprises a valve arrangement comprising one or more valve in the form of a pressure relief valve PRV 142.

The apparatus 110 further comprises a guide arrangement for retaining the ratchet straps 136 on the apparatus 110. In the illustrated apparatus 110, the guide arrangement takes the form of slots 144. In use, the ratchet straps 136 are disposed through the slots 144, the slots 144 retaining and positioning the ratchet straps 136 on the apparatus 110.

Referring now to Figures 17 to 23 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown a heat exchange apparatus 210 for transferring heat from or to a section of pipe P so as to cool or heat a liquid, gas and/or solid media ("transportable media") contained in and/or transported through the pipe P. As shown most clearly in Figures 17, the apparatus 210 comprises a body, generally denoted 212, for location on the section of pipe P. the body 212 in the illustrated apparatus 210 comprising two generally hemi-cylindrical body portions in the form of first body portion 214 and second body portion 216.

The first and second body portions 214, 216 each take the form a separate pressure vessel capable of holding the heat exchange medium at an elevated pressure above atmospheric pressure.

The apparatus 210 further comprises an inlet arrangement, generally denoted 218, a plurality of ducts 219 (shown in Figures 21, 22 and 23) forming elongate channels 220 in communication with the inlet arrangement 218, and an outlet arrangement, generally denoted 222, in communication with the channels 220.

In use, the apparatus 210 is located around the section of the pipe P and a heat exchange medium is inserted, e.g. pumped, into the apparatus 210 via the inlet arrangement 218. The heat exchange medium passes from the inlet arrangement 218 to the plurality of the elongate channels 220 before exiting the apparatus 210 via the outlet arrangement 222. In some instances, the heat exchange medium is selected to absorb heat from and thereby cool the pipe P and transportable media as it passes through the channels 220. In the illustrated apparatus 210, the heat exchange medium is nitrogen in liquid and/or gas form and the apparatus 210 is configured to freeze the liquid component of the transportable medium contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, thereby forming a temporary solid plug preventing leakage of fluid while a repair is carried out.

The heat exchange medium may alternatively be selected to transfer heat to and thereby heat the pipe P and the transportable media as it passes through the channels 220.

Beneficially, the apparatus 210 facilitates the flow of the transportable media, increasing the efficiency of heat transfer. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus 210 reduces the complexity of manufacture compared to conventional pipe freeze jackets, obviating the requirement for a double skin arrangement found in conventional equipment. This in turn facilitates the ready inspection of the apparatus 210, in particular but not exclusively the welds used to construct the apparatus 210, reducing the risk to personnel.

The inlet arrangement 218 comprises inlet ports 224 formed or provided in each of the first and second body portions 214, 216 and an inlet manifold 226 comprising an inlet manifold chamber 227 (shown in Figure 22). The inlet manifold 226 is interposed between, and provides communication of the heat transfer medium between, the one or more inlet port 224 and the channels 220.

Beneficially, the provision of a plurality of inlet ports 224 in each of the first and second body portions 214, 216 increases the adaptability of the apparatus 210.

The outlet arrangement 222 comprises one or more outlet port 228 formed or provided in each of the first and second body portions 214, 216 and an outlet manifold 230 comprising an outlet manifold chamber 231 (shown in Figure 23). The outlet manifold 230 is interposed between, and provides communication of the heat transfer medium between, the one or more outlet ports 228 and the channels 220.

Beneficially, the provision of a plurality of outlet ports 228 in each of the first and second body portions 214, 216 increases the adaptability of the apparatus 210.

In the illustrated apparatus 210, the elongate channels 220 are hemi-cylindrical in shape. However, it will be understood that the elongate channels 220 may be of any suitable shape such as tubular in shape, for example.

The channels 220 are circumferentially arranged and/or spaced on the first and second body portions 214, 216 using elongate spacers 232. Each spacer 232 is disposed between two of the channels 220. The width of the spacers 232, that is the dimension of the spacer 232 which defines the spacing between the channels 220, is minimised so as to increase the area of the pipe P exposed to the channels 220 and thus the heat exchange medium.

Where the heat exchange medium is selected to cool, e.g. freeze, the liquid component of the transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, the reduction in size of the spacer 232 beneficially facilitates more rapid cooling and thus reduced operational time and cost for an operator.

Where the heat exchange medium is selected to heat the transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe P, the reduction in size of the spacer 232 beneficially facilitates more rapid heating and thus reduced operational time and cost for an operator.

As shown in Figure 17 of the accompanying drawings, the apparatus 210 comprises a securement arrangement, generally denoted 234, for securing the first and second body portions 214, 216 together. In the illustrated apparatus 210, the securement arrangement takes the form of straps 236.

The securement arrangement 234 further comprises a number of bores 238 for receiving fasteners, which in the illustrated apparatus 210 take the form of bolts 240.

The apparatus 210 further comprises a valve arrangement comprising one or more valve in the form of a pressure relief valve PRV 242.

The apparatus 210 further comprises a guide arrangement for retaining the straps 236 on the apparatus 210. In the illustrated apparatus 210, the guide arrangement takes the form of lips 246 extending radially from the inlet and outlet manifolds 226, 230. In use, the lips 246 retain and position the straps 236 on the apparatus 210.

Beneficially, the lips 236 restricts movement of the straps 236, assisting in securing the connection between the first body portion 114 and the second body portion 116 and/or reducing the risk of accidents occurring.

Referring now to Figure 24 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown an assembly 1000 comprising a plurality of heat exchange apparatus. In the illustrated assembly 1000, the assembly 1000 comprises two of the heat exchange apparatus 110. However, it will be recognised that the assembly 1000 may comprise one or more of the apparatus 10 or apparatus 210.

In the illustrated system 1000, the heat exchange apparatus' 110 are directly coupled to each other, the outlet ports 128 of the first of the heat exchange apparatus' 110 defining a male profile for location in a female profile defined by the inlet ports 124 of the second of the heat exchange apparatus' 110.

Referring now to Figure 25 of the accompanying drawings there is shown an alternative system 2000 to the system 1000. As shown in Figure 25, the system 2000 comprises two of the heat exchange apparatus' 110. The heat exchange apparatus' 110 are indirectly coupled to each other via fluid conduits 148, which in the illustrated system 2000 take the form of cryogenic hoses.

It will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

For example, the bores 38, 138, 238 of the securement arrangement 34, 134, 234 may alternatively take the form of slots 338, as shown in Figure 26 of the accompanying drawings.

The apparatus 10,110,210 may alternatively comprise a plurality of body portions 414a-414p as shown in Figure 27 of the accompanying drawings. Each body portion 414a-p is in the form of an arced cylinder segment. In a further alternative, each body portion may be in the form of a trapezoidal prism. The body portions 414a-414h are arranged in a circumferential array and collectively form a first row. The body portions 414i-414p are arranged in a circumferential array and collectively form a second row. In use, the body portions 414a-414p can be arranged circumferentially around a pipe (not shown). Figure 27 shows two rows of eight body portions 414a-414p. The rows of body portions 414a-p are connected via flexible hoses and fittings (not shown).

As described above, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

For example, in some applications the flow of the heat exchange medium through the apparatus may form a closed loop. For example, the outlet of one body portion may be coupled to the inlet of another body portion so that the heat exchange medium flows in a first direction through the first body portion and flows in another, e.g. opposite, direction through the other body portion.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A heat exchange apparatus for transferring heat from or to a section of a pipe so as to cool or heat a transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe, the heat exchange apparatus comprising: an inlet arrangement configured to receive a heat exchange medium; a plurality of ducts forming elongate channels in communication with the inlet arrangement and configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the inlet arrangement, wherein the plurality of elongate channels are isolated from each other and define a plurality of distinct flow passages for the heat transfer medium from the inlet arrangement to the outlet arrangement; and an outlet arrangement configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the plurality of elongate channels and direct the heat exchange medium from the apparatus.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of body portions.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the inlet arrangement comprises at least one of: one or more inlet ports; and an inlet manifold, the inlet manifold communicating with the one or more inlet port and the plurality of channels.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the inlet arrangement comprises a plurality of the inlet ports.
5. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the outlet arrangement comprises at least one of: one or more outlet ports; and an outlet manifold, the outlet manifold communicating with the one or more outlet port and the plurality of channels.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of the outlet ports.
7. The apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising a valve arrangement. 5
8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the valve arrangement comprises one or more pressure relief valves.
9. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the elongate channels is part-cylindrical in shape.
10. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the elongate channels is tubular in shape.
11. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the channels are circumferentially arranged.
12. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the channels are circumferentially spaced.
13. The apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising one or more elongate spacer, the spacer being disposed between two of the channels.
14. The apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising a securement arrangement.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the securement arrangement comprises at least one of: one a ratchet strap; one or more strap; one or more tie; one or more clamp; one or more mechanical fastener.
16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the securement arrangement comprises at least one of: a plurality of ratchet straps; a plurality of straps; a plurality of ties; a plurality of clamps, a plurality of mechanical fasteners.
17. The apparatus of claim 14, 15 or 16, comprising a guide arrangement for retaining the securement arrangement.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the guide arrangement comprises or takes the form of at least one of: one or more slot and one or more lip.
19. The apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising a fluid supply line arrangement comprising one or more fluid supply lines.
20. A heat exchange apparatus for transferring heat from or to a section of a pipe so as to cool or heat a transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe, the heat exchange apparatus comprising: a first body portion comprising: an inlet arrangement configured to receive a heat exchange medium; a plurality of ducts forming elongate channels in communication with the inlet arrangement and configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the inlet arrangement; and an outlet arrangement configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the plurality of elongate channels and direct the heat exchange medium from the apparatus; a second body portion comprising: an inlet arrangement configured to receive a heat exchange medium; a plurality of ducts forming elongate channels in communication with the inlet arrangement and configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the inlet arrangement; and an outlet arrangement configured to receive the heat exchange medium from the plurality of elongate channels and direct the heat exchange medium from the apparatus; a securement arrangement for securing the first body portion and the second body portion; and a guide arrangement for retaining the securement arrangement on the apparatus.
21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the securement arrangement comprises at least one of: one a ratchet strap; one or more strap; one or more tie; one or more clamp; one or more mechanical fastener.
22. The apparatus of claim 20 or 21, wherein the guide arrangement comprises or takes the form of at least one of: one or more slot; and one or more lip.
23. A heat exchange system comprising one or more heat exchange apparatus according to any preceding claim.
24. The system of claim 23, comprising a plurality of the heat exchange apparatus.
25. Use of the heat exchange apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19 or the heat exchange apparatus of claim 20 to 22 to transfer heat from or to a section of a pipe so as to cool or heat a transportable media contained in and/or transported through the pipe.