Detecting noise on flow controls
AssigneeDresser, Inc.
InventorHarold Randall Smart
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A monitor device that is configured for use on flow controls and like industrial devices. The embodiments may include a resonator that is sensitive to vibrations on the flow control. The resonator may generate a non-electrical signal, like pressure waves. This non-electrical signal can transit a conduit to a sensor that can convert the pressure waves into an electrical signal. On valve assemblies, a controller can process the electrical signal to detect potential health or maintenance issues. The controller may, in turn, generate an alert to prompt operators to perform maintenance on the flow control.
Claims20
A flow control, comprising:
- a closure member;
- a valve body forming a metal structure with flanged openings, the metal structure housing the closure member, and the flanged openings receiving conduit that directs material into the valve body;
- and
- a monitor device coupled directly to a wall of the metal structure in position to monitor flow through the valve body between the flanged openings, the monitor device configured to create pressure waves in response to disruptions in flow that occur in the valve body.
A flow control, comprising:
- signal processing hardware;
- a vibration sensor coupled with the signal processing hardware to exchange signals;
- a conduit coupled to the vibration sensor at a first end;
- a powerless device coupled to the conduit at a second end that generates a non-electrical signal;
- and
- a valve assembly comprising a valve body with flanged openings and a closure member disposed therein,
- wherein the powerless device attaches to a wall of the valve body in position to monitor flow through the valve body in between the flanged openings.
(canceled)
A valve assembly, comprising:
- a valve comprising a valve body with flanged openings, the valve body housing a closure member that moves relative to a seat to regulate flow through the valve body;
- a pneumatic actuator coupled with the closure member;
- a controller coupled with the actuator;
- and
- a monitor device coupled with the controller, the monitor device having a first part attached to a wall of the valve body in position to monitor flow through the valve body in between the flanged ends and configured to generate a non-electrical signal in response to disruptions in flow that occur in the valve body.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.